We are…
A playful, self-directed education community for homeschooled learners in Knoxville, TN.
A place to work and play while we foster innovation, collaboration, personal growth, and a love of learning.
Keep reading for more information about our programs and contact us if you have any questions!
Big Tree is a a liberating environment where learners choose activities and experiences to design their own learning path.
We believe that the deepest learning comes from education that is adapted to the unique needs, passions, and learning styles of each child.
Our program empowers learners to take charge of their own path, becoming self-directed and confident contributors to society.
Big Tree is not a school. Our main ALC program is two days a week, which supplements your existing homeschooling path. The Clubhouse is our once-a-week hangout for tweens and teens. We are an intentional community of families committed to creativity, innovation, critical thinking, and enjoying life together.
Every day at Big Tree we embrace the joy of learning, ignite our curiosity, and explore endless possibilities.
If that speaks to you as well, you can:
- Read more about us and about our programs.
- Use these resources to learn more about self-directed learning and playful learning.
- Check out our Frequently Asked Questions.
- Contact us with any questions you have.
- And when you’re ready, we’d love for you to JOIN US!
Community & Friendship
Children ages 5 – 13 (11+ in The Clubhouse) work and play together, learning from one another, sharing leadership roles, building friendships, and practicing kindness, compassion, and cooperation.
Self-Directed Play
Big Tree is based on the proven value of freely chosen, open play. Each learner manages their time, chooses their projects and activities, and guides the direction of their own learning, with our helpful facilitators who offer support, materials, and resources.
Respect & Inclusiveness
We help everyone feel heard, supported, and empowered to express their ideas. We promote consent-based interactions and freedom from discrimination. We focus on empathy and relationship repair in our conflict-resolution process.
Collaborative Learning
Facilitators, learners, and parents work together within our flexible framework to meet the needs of each individual learner as well as the needs of our overall community. Everyone works together to help everyone feel supported and meet their goals.
“Play is important for learning 21st century skills, such as problem solving, collaboration, and creativity.”
“Children learn as they play. Most importantly, in play children learn how to learn.”
O. Fred Donaldson, Ph.D., play researcher