Who we are
Art and Nature at the Heart of Learning
At Lee Moor Academy, our approach is deeply inspired by the Reggio Emilia philosophy, where art and nature play a central role in early childhood education. We view children as capable, curious individuals who express themselves in many different ways- what Reggio educators call the “hundred languages of children.” Through drawing, painting, sculpting, building, literacy, science, and math, creative expression becomes more than just a product. It becomes a meaningful process of thinking, exploring, and communicating ideas.
We believe that the natural world is a powerful teacher, offering endless opportunities for exploration, creativity, and connection. Whether observing the changing seasons, collecting fallen leaves, or painting with natural materials, children engage in hands-on experiences that deepen their understanding of the world and themselves.
Our learning environments, both indoor and outdoor, are thoughtfully designed as a “third teacher,” fostering curiosity, independence, and collaboration. In these spaces, children are encouraged to express themselves artistically, interact with natural materials, and form meaningful relationships with their surroundings.
By weaving together the beauty of nature and the expressive power of the arts, we create a nurturing and inclusive space where creativity, critical thinking, and joyful discovery thrive.
A Vision Rooted in Experience
Lee Moor Academy was founded by an early childhood educator with a lifelong passion for both the arts and education.
The founder’s journey began at a fine arts high school, where an early love for creativity and visual expression took root. This passion deepened through university, where they earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in both Fine Arts and English Literature. With a strong academic foundation in both the arts and language, they cultivated a unique perspective on how creativity and communication shape a child’s development.
In Canada, the founder completed a Diploma in Early Childhood Education and Infant Toddler care, and holds certifications in both areas. Over the years, they have worked as a teacher, manager, and principal in a wide range of early learning settings in both Canada and South Korea. This diverse and hands-on experience has allowed them to support countless children and families, building learning communities rooted in warmth, respect, and trust.
As a certified educator, the founder places strong emphasis on early literacy, thoughtfully weaving it together with visual arts to create joyful, engaging, and open-ended learning experiences. They believe in honoring each child’s unique rhythm and voice, and in designing carefully prepared environments that support inquiry, creativity, and meaningful connection.
Lee Moor Academy was born from this vision: a place where children thrive through creativity, nature, and nurturing relationships. Inspired by early experiences in art education and a deep belief in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, the founder designed Lee Moor Academy as a space where learning is not only joyful but intentional, emerging from each child’s interests and guided by the educator’s thoughtful observations and responsiveness. Every aspect of the academy reflects this vision, where children are seen as capable, curious, and active participants in their own unique learning journey.