There’s something truly magical about sea kayaking—especially in a place as stunning as Nootka Sound. Unlike lake paddling, ocean travel brings its own rhythm and challenges, requiring an understanding of tides, currents, and weather patterns. The movement of the tides, the richness of marine life, and the salty air create a powerful connection to the natural world. Along the way, we encountered seals and porpoises gliding through the water, thousands of bright sea stars clinging to rocks, and bald eagles soaring overhead—reminders that the Pacific coast is alive in every direction.

Each day involved real-world problem-solving, whether it was coordinating to lift heavy, gear-loaded kayaks, setting up beach campsites, or collecting driftwood for evening fires. This journey wasn’t just about paddling—it was about working together, resilience, and expanding our environmental awareness.  Nootka Sound provided not just a physical journey but a meaningful opportunity for personal growth, collaboration, and a deeper understanding of coastal ecosystems. On top of all the learning and new experiences, we had many hilarious laughs together. We even adopted a sweet potato we were supposed to eat for dinner one night as our mascot. You will see “Samson the Sweet Potato” in some of our photos. Thanks for sharing in our journey.

Thank you to The Rosedale Day School Gr.1&2 students and teachers for such an incredible week of programming. We spent the week exploring a variety of local green spaces such as Evergreen Brick Works, Toronto Island, and Riverwood Conservancy. The main goal of the week was to get curious about the natural world around us, deepening our understanding of the urban wilderness we call home, here in Toronto. No matter what the setting or activity, these students engaged in the program with an open mind, eager to learn and strengthen their connections both to the natural environment and each other. We wish you all the best as you polish off the school year. Looking forward to working with you next year. Have a safe and enjoyable summer!

Congratulations to the HTS Gr.8 students for completing their first-ever canoe trip! Spending time amongst the trees and lakes of Algonquin, alongside your peers and teachers, is the perfect setting to deepen your connections to both the natural environment and your school community. This group should feel so proud of themselves for everything they accomplished. We wish you all the best throughout the school year and look forward to working with you in the future!

The Grade 6 students from Old Trail School in Ohio deepened and expanded their worldviews while they explored Toronto. Highlights included learning about the culture and history of Kensington Market, seeing the Members of Provincial Parliament sitting in the legislature, touring the Royal Ontario Museum, taking a memorable Bollywood dance lesson, and learning about local Indigenous history and the meromictic lake at Crawford Lake Conservation Area. The curiosity, empathy, and engagement that the students demonstrated was incredible to see and the connections to many areas of their school curriculum solidified their learning in and out of the classroom. 

Thanks so much to the JICS Gr.6 students and faculty for an amazing week amongst the trees. As the program theme for these Gr.6’s was transition, we couldn’t have had a better setting as the spring in Algonquin Park was in full blossom. From high ropes to exploring the flourishing wetlands, paddling the voyageur canoe to hiking the forested trails, these students took full advantage of every opportunity the program offered. Part of the program was learning from the seasonal changes of nature, using that as the backdrop to the change and transition these students are all about to embark on as they shift from JICS to other schools and the next chapter in their lives. We’re so grateful for the shared experience and look forward to crossing paths with you all in the future. 

These last few days with the Grade 7 and 8 students from Trinity College School were truly enjoyable. They bounded off their buses with enthusiasm, joy and an eagerness to embrace every opportunity provided to them. Spring is always a time of growth for nature, and it was also a time of growth for the entire group. These last few days offered them an opportunity to deepen connections with their peers, time to challenge their assumptions of what they are capable of, and time to have fun. Huge shout-outs to the TCS teachers and the parents of these students. Their manners were exceptional. They were kind and supportive of each other and were clearly grateful for this opportunity, which makes our job very enjoyable. Best wishes to everyone and thanks for the memories.

Thank you to the HSC Gr.4 & M9 students and faculty for an amazing program. The overall focus of the program was for students to deepen their understanding of how to be a good friend. Whether the students were out on a nature hike, climbing the high ropes elements, or aiming for the bullseye in archery, these students truly illustrated how to bring the values that make up the foundation of a good friendship into practice. We wish you all the best throughout the rest of the school year and can’t wait to see you again in Grade 5!  

This week was filled with awe, enthusiasm, connection, vulnerability, and laughter. Thanks so much to the Royal St. George’s College Gr.11 Students and faculty for an amazing experience out on Vancouver Island. From mountain biking through dense forest trails, pushing themselves to reach an awe-inspiring lookout while hiking, overcoming the puzzle of climbing to the top of the rock wall, and paddling amidst the mountains, these students took every opportunity the program offered. Between the action, students spent time deepening their connections to one another, reflecting on how they want to be known during their Gr.12 year, and soaking in the view. The energy, care, and empathy these students expressed throughout the week was amazing to witness. Wishing you all the best throughout the remainder of the school year and looking forward to crossing paths with you all in the future!