Outdoor Education
Outdoor Education is an important part of a Southridge student’s experience, one that introduces another arena in which they learn about the privilege and responsibility they have to influence their community and the world. It’s also another expression of Southridge’s unique mix of lighthearted spirit and serious purpose.
In addition to the Grade 4 to 9 programs, a number of different trips are offered to Senior School students throughout the year. The excursions challenge them at different levels to help develop their outdoors skills. In the past, these trips, lasting one to three days, have included hiking, canoeing, cross-country skiing, alpine skiing, ocean-kayaking, and cycling. Opportunities vary each year depending on student interest.
Although the program varies by grade, the underlying philosophy remains the same. Students learn to appreciate and understand their natural environment through experience while developing the skills and attitudes required to both enjoy and excel in the outdoors. Developing leadership and bonding with other students are added benefits.
The program’s ultimate goal is to support students in acquiring knowledge, attitudes, and values that support their development as global, environmentally aware citizens, and responsible stewards of the planet.
Watch the video below to learn more about Outdoor Education.
Grades 4 and 5
In Grade 4, students are introduced to the camp experience with a day trip to Loon Lake in Meadowridge where they engage in small group outdoor activities, such as hiking and orienteering.
Grade 4 students participate in their first overnight camp experience with one night at Evans Lake in Squamish. They join Grade 5 students who spend two nights at Evans Lake. Students participate in a variety of outdoor activities and games that invite them to stretch themselves and appreciate the biodiversity of our forests and lakes.
Grade 6
Grade 6 students spend two nights at Loon Lake in Maple Ridge. This educational experience fosters leadership, cooperation, and interpersonal skills as students confront perceived limits of personal comfort. It also provides tangible opportunities for students to challenge themselves and build confidence while bonding with classmates and teachers.
Grade 7
Grade 7 students spend three nights at Camp Summit in Squamish Valley. The trip gives students the opportunity to experience fun and challenging outdoor activities that safely push them into the "growth zone". Students use their collaboration and leadership skills to engage in outdoor activities that require them to apply their communication, thinking, social and self-management skills.
Grades 8 and 9
For five days each fall all Grades 8 and 9 students travel to Strathcona Park Lodge Outdoor Education Centre on Vancouver Island where they are immersed in the outdoors. Various out trips are offered at Strathcona depending upon interest and ability, including hiking, canoeing, and ocean and river kayaking. In all of the activities, there are lots of opportunities for personal growth and team building.
