Tartu Nature House Hobby School
The Tartu Nature House Hobby School is a place where curiosity grows into knowledge and learning becomes an exciting journey of discovery. In our extracurricular classes, children and young people can explore nature, experiment, craft, create, and learn to better understand the world around them.
We offer nature- and environment-related extracurricular education for preschoolers and students in grades 1–12. We learn in classrooms, labs, and workshops, as well as outdoors—where nature is closest to us.
Discover your extracurricular activity!
School Year: 2026/2027
For: preschoolers and students in grades 1–12
Tuition: 36 € per month
Location: Tartu Nature House, Lille 10, Tartu. Some clubs also take place elsewhere.
Find the right club for you
Our extracurricular school brings together the natural sciences, practical skills, and creativity. Whether you’re fascinated by animals, plants, insects, technology, art, or adventure—you’re sure to find an activity that’s just right for you here.
Nature and Science
We explore the lives of animals and plants, examine exciting discoveries under a microscope, and learn about rocks, birds, insects, and the connections that exist in nature.
The selection includes, for example, clubs for animal lovers, naturalists, plant enthusiasts, and those interested in ornithology and zoology.
Technology and Environmental Conservation
We experiment, build, and explore how things work. We learn to use tools, think creatively, and give new life to existing materials.
The selection includes, for example, woodworking, technology and recycling, and eco-friendly design clubs.
Creativity and Discovery
We create art, craft, play, go on hikes, and draw inspiration from nature. Learning takes place through hands-on activities and shared discoveries.
The selection includes, for example, the Animal Club, the Crafters and Masters Club, Nature in Art, and Nature Explorers.
Why attend Tartu Nature House’s after-school program?
- We learn through experience. We experiment, explore, observe, create, and discover for ourselves.
- Nature is our learning environment. We use the Nature House lab, animal room, workshops, park, and other natural learning spaces.
- We make new friends. In the clubs, children and teens with similar interests come together.
- We develop practical skills. We learn cooperation, independent thinking, problem-solving, and creativity.
- We participate in exciting activities. In addition to club sessions, we organize hikes, camps, field trips, contests, and projects whenever possible.
- We care about nature. We learn to appreciate biodiversity and make environmentally friendly choices.
How do I join the after-school program?
Joining an extracurricular club starts with choosing the right activity. Before registering, we recommend reviewing the club’s description, age group, and schedule.
1. Choose an activity
Browse the descriptions of all clubs and find an activity that suits your child’s age and interests.
2. Check the schedule
Find out when the club sessions take place and where they are held. You’ll also find the instructors’ names in the schedule.
3. Register for a club
Registration for extracurricular classes takes place through the City of Tartu’s ARNO system. You’ll find detailed steps and requirements in the registration guide.
Classes and Important Information for Parents
Extracurricular classes take place once or twice a week according to the schedule. Activities for younger children are more play-based, while older students can explore their areas of interest in greater depth and develop practical skills.
Tuition, academic organization, student ID cards, and other important information for parents are explained in more detail on the Academic Affairs page.
Academic Organization and Tuition →
The Stuudium platform is used to track the activities of the hobby groups. There you will find, for example, club diaries and information regarding students’ studies.
Log in to Tartu Nature House’s Stuudium →
Our Hobby School and Teachers
The history of the Tartu Nature House hobby school dates back to 1953, when the Tartu City Young Naturalists’ Station was founded. Today, it has grown into a multifaceted hobby school focused on nature, science, technology, and creativity.
Our goal is to support the well-rounded development of children and young people and to nurture individuals who are observant of, curious about, and committed to preserving nature.
Learn more about the school’s history and values →
In the extracurricular clubs, students are guided by teachers and instructors who are experts in their fields. You can find their contact information and the clubs they lead on the teachers’ page.
News and Announcements from the After-School Program
There’s always something exciting happening in the day-to-day life of the hobby school! We share information about events, camps, field trips, registration, student achievements, and other important activities.
You can find the latest updates and photos of our activities on the hobby school’s bulletin board.
Stay up to date on what’s happening at the hobby school
Check out the school’s news, announcements, and social media posts.
Extracurricular School Documents
The documents governing the hobby school’s operations and learning are publicly available. It’s a good idea to review them before registering for a hobby class.
- Hobby School Bylaws
- Hobby School Rules and Regulations
- Curricula for Interest Groups
- General Terms and Conditions of the Study Agreement
View the hobby school’s documents →
Director of Studies at the Hobby School: Pille-Riin Pärnsalu
Email: pilleriin.parnsalu@tartuloodusmaja.ee
Phone: +372 5625 3402
Location: Lille 10, Tartu