Many young people are spending less time outdoors, leading to a growing disconnect from the natural world. While educators recognize the value of outdoor learning, barriers like limited time, resources, and confidence can make it difficult to bring students outside in meaningful ways.
The Canadian Rockies Outdoor Learning Centre is addressing this through a curriculum-linked program that integrates outdoor, hands-on learning into the school year. Working alongside classroom teachers, dedicated educators co-plan and deliver experiences that connect subjects like science, math, and social studies to real-world environments. Students learn on school grounds, in local landscapes, and through partnerships with community experts and Knowledge Keepers.
Each year, more than 900 students take part in the program. From early lessons on stewardship to hands-on projects like habitat restoration and community clean-ups, students are actively engaging with the land and seeing the impact of their actions firsthand.
