~ A new project launching to foster children's "life skills" through nature experiences ~
Grow Up Academy (Location: Hamamatsu, Shizuoka / Representative Director: Shoya Shimazawa) has established "Hamamatsu Nature Club" on April 17, 2026, as a new initiative to nurture children's independence, collaboration, and spirit of challenge through nature experiences.
Background
In recent years, opportunities for children to engage with nature have been declining. Due to digitalization and lifestyle changes, outdoor and group activities have decreased, and opportunities to develop independent thinking and the ability to collaborate with others are being lost.
Grow Up Academy has supported children's growth in the fields of education and sports. Through this work, we strongly felt the need to provide more fundamental growth opportunities, which led to the launch of this project.
We also believe that engaging with nature not only supports children's growth but also sparks awareness of the charms of the nature and community around them, fostering a lasting attachment to the town where they live.
Project Overview
"Hamamatsu Nature Club" leverages the rich natural environment of the Hamamatsu area to provide children with real hands-on experiences. Rather than mere leisure, it offers educational programs designed around the principles of "thinking, challenging, and cooperating."
By paying attention to the nature close to home, the living creatures children encounter there, and the changes of the seasons, we also aim to help them understand their local area more deeply and cultivate the feeling of wanting to cherish their hometown.
Main Activities
- Nature experiences in mountains, rivers, and the sea
- Seasonal outdoor events
- Team building programs
- Survival and life skills experiences
- Learning programs utilizing local resources
We create opportunities for children to engage proactively and act on their own initiative.
Vision
- The ability to think and act independently (Initiative)
- The ability to overcome challenges together with teammates (Collaboration)
- The courage to take on new challenges (Challenge)
- A heart that cherishes nature and community
Representative's Comment
Nature is full of challenges without a single correct answer. We believe that experiences in such an environment are what lead to genuine, fundamental growth in children. As Grow Up Academy, we will leverage the educational expertise we have cultivated to offer children "opportunities that can change their lives."
Organization Overview
- Name
- Grow Up Academy (General Incorporated Association)
- Location
- Hamamatsu, Shizuoka
- Representative
- Shoya Shimazawa
- Business
- Human resource development and community revitalization through sports and cultural education, and more
Contact
Grow Up Academy (General Incorporated Association)
Email: guainfo.2020@gmail.com
Contact Form: https://grow-up-academy.com/contact.php