What is Scholar Phase?

YLA Scholar Schools focus on the Scholar phase of learning, as outlined in A Thomas Jefferson Education by Oliver Demille. This includes students who are ready to choose into their own education, who want to be there and are ready to do the work to gain their own education. Typically this begins between ages 12-14 but can happen sooner or much later.  Scholars at YLA Scholar Schools should be between ages 12-18, but each class will have a recommended age and/or appropriate scholar phase for the content of the class.  

There are several different levels of Scholar Phase beginning with Practice Scholar Phase and eventually ending with Depth and Mission Phase. Because YLA Scholar Schools focus on the firs 3 phases they are outlined below. You can read more about these in the TJED books or at TJED.org.

Practice Scholar (aproximately ages 12-14)

This is the time of life when children relearn everything they’ve been taught, but now as their own person, rather than as an extension of their parents. They are coming to the realization that they have a unique mission for their life, even though they do not yet know what that mission is. They are beginning to spend real time studying, their attention span is increasing, and they are learning to be more responsible. They “practice” scholar skills; reading, writing, group discussion, argumentation, critical thinking etc… Students in this phase often desire to be “studious” but still often oscillate back to love of learning and want to be free to “play” and remain young. 

Apprentice Scholar (approximaltey ages 14-16)

Apprentice scholars are taking the next step needed to move forward in their education. They realize that they truly do have something unique to offer the world, and have a greater desire to find out what that entails. They are more committed to, and have more self-initiative in, their studies. They can more easily inspire themselves, and begin to lead out more among their peers and siblings. They have a greater capacity to study for long hours, follow through with commitments and do the work required for real growth.

Self-Directed Scholar (approximatley ages 16+)

These scholars have experienced personal change from exposure to many classics, and are ready to have real impact in the world. These students begin to feel a strong pull in one direction of study, and realize that they want to sink deeper in this chosen subject. They are creating their own plans for their studies, and have solid self-discipline to follow through and answer to their own plans. They begin seeking a mentor outside the home, and are ready to make the full commitment needed for a full mentorial experience.