PROGRAM INFORMATION

What Makes Us Different From Other Outdoor Programs?

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Vancouver Island, our outdoor education program offers an unparalleled journey through some of the most majestic, ecologically rich landscapes on the planet. Imagine your child embarking on a learning adventure across vibrant forests, and alongside rushing rivers under the rainforest tree canopy. Vancouver Island serves as a living classroom, teeming with endless opportunities for discovery, growth, and connection to the natural world.

Our program stands out with its unique blend of offerings tailored for children and youth across the island. It is designed to cater to a wide array of interests and learning outcomes, ensuring that every family finds the perfect match to ignite their child’s passion for the outdoors and conservation.

A common query from interested families is whether our curriculum aligns with the principles of a forest school. While we deeply respect and integrate the ethos of forest schooling, we employ a dynamic method that marries outdoor exploration with the Geo-Inquiry Process. This innovative approach not only positions students as citizen scientists but also deeply immerses them in the rich tapestry of local biodiversity. Through this lens, we nurture the development of global citizens who are knowledgeable, empathetic, and committed to making a positive impact on the world.

Our curriculum, specifically tailored for Grades 1 to 8, harmonizes with British Columbia’s educational standards, enriching students’ learning experiences with activities like:

• Shelter Building and Rope Work: Students learn the ins and outs of creating safe, natural shelters and mastering rope techniques, essential skills for any outdoor adventurer.
• Fire Building: Guided by safety and sustainability, participants master the art of building and managing fires, a skill that connects them with ancient practices and modern survival techniques.
• Plant Identification and Uses: Explorations into the plant kingdom teach students about the diverse uses of plants for food, medicine, and shelter.
• Acceptable Risk: Through carefully guided activities, students learn about risk-taking, understanding both its potential rewards and consequences.
• Orienteering: Equipped with maps and compasses, participants navigate through the natural landscape, honing their skills in direction-finding and geographical awareness.
• Archery: Focusing on precision, safety, and technique, archery sessions aim to enhance concentration, patience, and self-discipline.
• Nature Journaling and Data Interpretation: By recording observations and analyzing data, students develop a keen eye for detail and a deeper appreciation for the environment.
• Story Mapping: Integrating personal experiences with geographical knowledge, story mapping encourages creative expression and connection to place.
• Leadership and Communication: Through group activities and collaborative projects, participants build essential life skills, fostering adaptability, self-awareness, and effective communication.

Through hands-on experiences and practical skill-building, participants will forge a profound bond with nature, gaining not just knowledge but a heartfelt understanding and respect for the environment. Our program is more than just an outdoor adventure; it’s a transformative journey that equips young minds with the tools to thrive as conscientious stewards of the planet. Join us on this extraordinary voyage of discovery, learning, and personal growth on Vancouver Island, where every day is an invitation to wonder, explore, and connect with the great outdoors.