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Thetford Outdoor Program

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The mission of the Thetford Outdoor Program is to ignite academic curiosity and foster environmental stewardship through outdoor exploration, recreation, and project-based, experiential learning.

The Thetford Outdoor Program (TOP) launched in 2014 with the generous support of the Woodbury Foundation. TOP builds on TA’s long commitment to experiential and outdoor learning, and uses TA’s vast natural resources and the diverse ecosystems of the Upper Valley as a living laboratory and outdoor classroom. TOP offers students wide-ranging opportunities to learn, grow, and lead outside the classroom.

  • Academics: Outdoor and place-based learning is an important part of TA’s curriculum and is embedded into most academic disciplines. For students interested in an immersive outdoor learning experience, TA offers a half-day multidisciplinary Environmental Studies and Outdoor Education class for students in grades 10-12.
  • Sustainable agriculture: TA’s thriving school garden is another opportunity for students to get involved in TOP, providing an entryway into sustainable food systems and regenerative agriculture practices. With two hoop houses and TA’s greenhouse for winter warmth, the garden is a year-round hub of student activity.
  • Outdoor recreation and leadership: Students interested in adventure-based outdoor recreation can plug into TOP’s Outing Club for weekend hikes, rock climbing, or camp-outs during the school year or join one of several TOP Summer Leadership opportunities in the summer for a multi-day adventure in the outdoors.

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our VALUES

Excellence

We set high expectations. We challenge all members of the school community to reach their highest potential.

Commitment

We value initiative, courage and dedication. We take personal responsibility for the goals we set and work hard to achieve them.

Cooperation

We work and learn together. We see teachers as coaches, students as team members, families as partners, and learning as practice and action.

Caring

We provide individuals with personalized support and guidance. We care about each other and the larger community.

Diversity

We respect differences among people. We welcome the contribution of varied perspectives to a rich and flexible school culture.