Students in the Lower School are exposed to the wonder and diversity of the world around them through science and social studies activities. Science classes actively use the School's campus, focusing on nature study and season changes. Students also perform experiments that teach them about natural phenomena and the properties of substances. Design Technology projects give students hands-on experiences with designing and building working models of vehicles, bridges, etc. Social studies projects let students learn how customs, cultures and languages vary throughout the world and also show them ways in which people in all places and times are fundamentally the same.
Spanish classes provide students with exposure to foreign language and culture.
Groups are led by staff, parents, or other volunteers. Each year, the Lower School also focuses on particular themes for study. Past themes have included walls and bridges, flight, Latin America, Africa, the human body, ecology, North Carolina, fantasy realms, and wildlife. Each theme is integrated into the curriculum. Having the whole Lower School focus on a common theme provides many opportunities for sharing resources and experiences and for strengthening the community.