The Grade 9’s from Branksome Hall Asia explored Algonquin Park while on this amazing adventure. They worked together to build community and learn about each other through team initiatives, vertical playground, and fire building. The workshops led by faculty and ALIVE instructors allowed them to deepen their sense of self and cultivate a stronger understanding of how their individual gifts contribute to the larger community at home and abroad. It was a joy to see the students enjoy time together on their day trips out in Algonquin Park and show their skills and passions during the final campfire. 

The Grade 11 UCC students arrived to a gorgeous sunny, autumn day and they quickly embraced all the programs being offered. They are rotating through a half day paddling out-trip where they are cooking over a fire. They are tackling the the team tower and the delta duet high ropes elements, chatting about personal strengths and doing some reflective work out by the beaver dam on how to juggle their commitments and not get too out of balance in their daily lives. Connecting with nature can be very grounding, and the students are taking time to write  and share a few mindful moments together. We are off to a great start! We will add more photos tomorrow! 

From the moment the UCC Gr.10 students arrived at the program, their energy and enthusiasm to take advantage of all the program opportunities was palpable. The engagement and support these students displayed for one another as they took part in a variety of new activities was incredible to witness. Throughout the program, students spent time paddling out to explore the Torrence Barrens Preserve, strengthened their climbing skills with both the static course and climbing wall high ropes elements, as well as took time to reflect on how they show up for their community in a positive way. We wish you all the best of luck throughout the school year and look forward to working with you again in Gr.11! 

The Branksome Grade 10 and 11 Week Without Halls trip was full of positive energy, sunny days and spirited students. There was dancing, spoon carving and ember bowls, day trips out into Algonquin park, fajita cooking over a fire,  starry nights, air bands, and many courageous moments of accomplishment.  It was another epic time together, and we are so grateful for the energy that everyone brought to the experience.  Thank you to everyone who made it an amazing program. Keep well the road.

The Branksome Hall Gr.8 & 9 students and faculty took advantage of every opportunity offered during the program. Their engagement, joy, and care for one another was amazing to see. From the moment they arrived, their excitement and energy was palpable. From stepping out of their comfort zones and trying new activities to spending time around the campfire deepening their connections to one another to rallying behind their peers during the Branksome Hall Games, these students illustrated how supportive and united the Branksome Hall community is. Thanks so much for an amazing program and good luck with the remainder of your school year. Looking forward to working with you all in future years and seasons!

The Grade 7s had a wonderful week enjoying the beautiful property and everything that Cedar Ridge had to offer. From voyageur canoe trips to the high ropes course, everyone had a great time building community and strengthening connections. A fantastic campfire with amazing performances capped off the program during a sunset by the lake.

The students and leaders from SMLS had a wonderful week at Timberlane! They persevered through some rainy weather and were rewarded with beautiful days to close a fantastic trip. The SMLS house olympics were an amazing time with a three-point split between the houses! Each grade left the program with valuable takeaways and important learnings from their workshop as well as an even stronger sense of community. 

We are grateful to have had St. Anne’s School join St. Andrew’s College for the first time this year. Throughout the program, students from both schools explored their leadership and communication skills as well as the act of reflection. Thank you to everyone involved for making this a wonderful program. We wish the SAC and SAS students an amazing school year ahead!

This school truly illustrates the power of community. Thank you to all the students and faculty for such an amazing week amongst the trees. From the moment students arrived at the program, they took every opportunity offered to explore their inner potential, try new things, and strengthen connections with their peers and teachers. From giant swing, to day trip cookout lunches, to the KCS Adventure Race and everything in between, these students took the time to support one another and brought joy into every moment. We’re so grateful for our partnership with Kingsway College School and look forward to working together for years to come. Good luck throughout the rest of the school year! 

It was great to have the JICS students back during the fall season. Through participating in different outdoor activities, reflective debriefs and a canoe day trip in Algonquin Park this class came closer together as a community while celebrating everyone’s personal strengths. We hope that this experience stays with you throughout the year, and we will look forward to seeing you again soon.  Thank you to all the teachers who helped make this trip possible.

A huge shout out to the SMLS canoe trippers who took full advantage of a canoe trip experience.  There is nothing better than packing, portaging, paddling and setting up camp for multiple nights to help students deepen their confidence and recognize their ability to be resilient.  We hope this experience stays with you for a lifetime.

Nothing stops the positive attitude of SCS students.  Thank you for a wonderful week of signing in the rain, outdoor fun and personal reflection on friendship and thinking traps.  The SCS community is incredible. Keep up your positive energy and support of one another.