Learning Programs
Philly ALC offers flexible pathways — from part-time programs to a full-time school — so every family can find the right fit.
Philly ALC School (Full Time)
Philly ALC School is the heart of our community — a full-time, five-day-a-week program where children and youth immerse themselves in self-directed learning. Instead of following a preset curriculum, students co-create their days with facilitators and peers, blending play, projects, and exploration into a meaningful rhythm.
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What makes Philly ALC School unique is that it draws on the best of all our programs. A full-time student might spend one day climbing trees at Roots at Awbury, another day building imaginative worlds at Roots at Hawthorne, another working on a personal project in Workshop, another exploring the city’s museums and parks, and Fridays gathering at Natural Creativity. The city, the natural world, and our community spaces all become classrooms.
Families choose Philly ALC School when they want a daily community that is flexible, multi-age, and supportive, where children not only learn, but also learn how to learn — practicing autonomy, collaboration, and reflection every day.
Roots
Imaginative play and Discovery
Roots programs are the entry point for many families — a chance for younger children to explore independence through play, nature, and imagination. Some families choose Roots as a stand-alone part-time program, while others combine it with Philly ALC School for a full-time rhythm.
Workshop
Projects, Mentors, Reflection
Workshop is where older youth practice taking full ownership of their learning through projects and mentorship. It can stand alone as a part-time program, or be woven into a full-time School experience, where projects connect with outdoor play, city explorations, and Drop-In Fridays.
Drop-In Fridays
Join the community,
one Friday at a time
Drop-In Fridays at Natural Creativity in Germantown are the most flexible way to experience Philly ALC. Families use them to try out self-directed learning, add an extra day of community, or as part of their child’s full-time School membership. For many, Fridays are the doorway into our community.
Online/ Hybrid
Stay connected to learning from anywhere
Hybrid and virtual options allow families to stay connected to our facilitators and community when full-time, in-person attendance isn’t possible. Some families blend Hybrid with part-time or full-time School, while others use it as a stepping stone toward joining in person.
the Commons
Co-working for teens and adults
While your child is with one of our programs, you’re welcome to stay and work in the commons—our shared parent workspace and community hub. It’s a place for parents to connect, cowork, and be part of the same culture of curiosity and community their kids are experiencing.
Our Locations
Main Campus - Hawthorne
Find us Monday through Friday at our main building in the Hawthorne section of South Philly - 756 S 11th St.