Our Upper Elementary students had an amazing overnight experience at Red Gate Farm in Ashfield, MA. The week was filled with meaningful work, collaboration, and unforgettable moments. Each day began bright and early, with students caring for the farm—feeding animals, loading logs into the heater, and preparing a hearty breakfast such as pancakes and eggs. Afterward, they would break into small groups to take on a variety of projects, from planting seeds and trimming raspberry bushes to tapping trees for sap. At the end of each work session, the group came together to share appreciation for one another’s efforts, reinforcing a strong sense of community.
Afternoons brought a balance of reflection and exploration. Following lunch, students enjoyed outdoor games and electives, which included time with the farm animals, learning new crafts such as wool felting, building campfires in the woods, or baking desserts for the evening meal. They hiked through the woods with goat companions, Wallace and Gromit, reaching the mountaintop to ring the gong, share lunch, and play together before heading back down. Mornings have included yoga and group games, followed by hands-on work like tending animals, clearing vines for new planting, brushing and walking oxen, tapping sap, and even spinning wool into yarn for a future art installation.
Nights often ended around the campfire with s’mores and stories or a visit to the frog pond. Each evening, students reflected in their journals, capturing the growth, connection, and joy of their experience.
They returned home with not only stories and souvenirs, but also a deeper appreciation for nature, community, and the rewards of meaningful work!
