Nature-Based Education Intern
Camel’s Hump Farm & Nature School is seeking motivated, curious, and compassionate interns to support our nature-based preschool and early childhood education programs. Located on a historic working farm with direct access to a 135-acre nature preserve, our internship offers immersive, hands-on experience in outdoor, play-based learning.
This internship is ideal for students pursuing Early Childhood Education, Child Development, Psychology, Environmental Studies, Education Studies, or Social Work, as well as students interested in alternative education models.
Intern Responsibilities
Interns will gain experience in both classroom and outdoor learning environments, including:
- Assisting lead teachers during preschool programming
- Supporting child-led, play-based learning activities
- Facilitating exploration, creativity, and problem-solving in natural settings
- Encouraging social and emotional development through cooperative play
- Helping prepare and organize materials for preschool and summer camp programs
- Assisting with nature walks, garden activities, and farm-based lessons
- Supporting inclusive learning for children of all abilities
- Observing and reflecting on developmentally appropriate teaching practices
- Supporting daily classroom and program operations
Our Educational Philosophy
Camel’s Hump Farm & Nature School emphasizes learning through play, creativity, and direct engagement with nature. Our mission is to provide the highest quality early childhood care while fostering environmental awareness and curiosity.
Core values include:
- Discovery, adventure, and creativity
- Hands-on, experiential learning
- Social-emotional development
- Individualized attention
- Risk-managed outdoor exploration
Our curriculum is informed by research demonstrating that nature-based education strengthens children’s concentration, creativity, observation skills, and problem-solving abilities. Programs are designed in collaboration with Audubon.
Intern Qualifications
- Current enrollment in a college or university program preferred
- Interest in early childhood education or environmental learning
- Comfort working outdoors in varying weather conditions
- Strong communication and teamwork skills
- Enthusiasm, patience, and reliability
- No prior teaching experience required (training and mentorship provided)
What Interns Gain
- Hands-on experience in a nature-based preschool setting
- Direct mentorship from experienced educators
- Professional development in outdoor and experiential education
- Internship credit or service-learning hours (as applicable)
- Skills in classroom support, child development observation, and curriculum facilitation
- Experience working in a nonprofit, community-focused organization