Base Camp

Kids ages 8 to 11

What is Base Camp?

Base Camp is designed for students ages 8–11 and builds upon the foundational learning of the younger years. In this stage, students begin to grow in writing, grammar, and communication skills while continuing to learn within a Christ-centered, classical framework.

The Grammar portion will take place in the morning during our Approach program. While the IEW portion will occur at the end of the day.

Kids ages 8 to 9

Base Camp 1

Base Camp 1 is designed for students ages 8–9 and builds upon the foundational learning of the younger years. In this stage, students grow in writing, grammar, and communication within a Christ-centered, classical framework. Our 3rd–4th grade class offers a gentle introduction, focusing on building a strong foundation in basic grammar and IEW writing without overwhelming students.

Writing focus: Students use a lower-level IEW curriculum to develop structure, style, and confidence in writing through step-by-step instruction.

Grammar development: Using Claritas grammar resources, students grow in their understanding of sentence structure and language mechanics. We will just go through the Unit 1 and 2 Grammar Workbook.

Capstone experience: Students participate in a Prominent Person project, developing research, writing, and presentation skills.

Our goal: We equip students to communicate clearly and confidently while continuing to build a strong academic and Biblical foundation in an age-appropriate mnanner.

Kids ages 10 to 11

Base Camp 2

Base Camp 2 is designed for students ages 10–11. Our 5th–6th grade class takes a more in-depth approach, building on foundational skills with a greater level of rigor and pace. Students grow in their understanding of grammar and writing, participate in four book clubs throughout the year to practice the five canons of rhetoric, and are well-equipped for the transition into Summit. Both classes meet at the same time.

Writing focus: Students use the IEW curriculum to develop structure, style, and confidence in writing through step-by-step instruction.

Grammar development: Using Claritas grammar resources, students grow in their understanding of sentence structure and language mechanics. We will go through Unit 1, 2, and 3 workbooks.

Capstone experience: Students participate in a Prominent Person project, developing research, writing, and presentation skills.

Our goal: We equip students to communicate clearly and confidently while continuing to build a strong academic and Biblical foundation.

Still have questions?

Frequently Asked Questions

These are a few questions that we have answered before that could help answer some of yours!

Where and when will you be meeting?

We plan to meet weekly on Tuesdays at a church in the Rogersville, South Springfield, or Ozark area (facility pending). Our 28-week program runs 8:45AM–12:15PM (under 8), until 3PM (ages 8+), and 3:30PM (7th grade+).

What curriculum are you using for Approach and Base Camp?

In Approach, we will use Claritas Cycle 3 for the 2026–2027 school year. Students will participate in weekly memory work, along with hands-on science using the Claritas curriculum. Our science focus will be Chemistry, which intentionally aligns with and reinforces the weekly memory work.

In Base Camp, we will use the Claritas Fundamental Grammar Guide along with the Cycle 3 Grammar Workbooks. Students are grouped by age to ensure appropriate pacing and depth.

3rd–4th grade: Units 1–2, providing a strong introduction to grammar concepts

5th–6th grade: Units 1–3, offering a more in-depth study of grammar

Will you be using IEW?

Yes! Our Base Camp classes are split into two groups, each using an IEW curriculum tailored to their age. Both groups will participate in a Prominent Person event in February 2027.

Do you collect any fees or tuition?

We do not charge tuition. There is a $100 supply fee and a $100 facility fee per student, plus an additional $50 supply fee for Base Camp students.

What other activities do you plan to do as a community?

We host a variety of community events throughout the year, including Family Nights, Mom Nights, field trips, and Merchant Day.

Each upper level also participates in a capstone event:

Base Camp: Prominent Person presentation

Summit A (7th grade): Science Fair

Summit B (8th grade): Mock Trial

What role do we play as parents?

Since we do not charge tuition, we ask for something more valuable—your time. It takes many hands to make our community day run smoothly, and we encourage moms (and dads!) to serve in roles that use their God-given gifts, whether teaching, assisting, caring for younger students, or helping with setup and cleanup.

How are you different from other popular classical communities?

At Prepare The Way, our Approach program integrates memory work, presentations, fine arts, hands-on science, and intentional review time. In Base Camp, students focus on grammar and writing using IEW, building strong communication skills. We use Claritas curriculum across both programs, providing a cohesive and structured foundation. We also prioritize a scholé rhythm, allowing time for restful learning and curiosity. In our Summit program, learning is led by multiple moms, each teaching within their strengths, rather than one teacher leading the full day.