BC Rockies Adventures - "School of Nature"

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    fairmonthotsprings.com

    The Columbia Valleys

    NEW 2,400 acre classroom...

    BC Rockies School of Nature

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    Introducing... BC Rockies School of Nature

    Table of Contents

    Introduction 3-7

    Bushcraft & Outdoor Skills 8-9

    Kayak Intro Programs 10

    Hiking Fun! 11

    Overnight Hiking Trips 16

    Overnight Kayaking Expeditions 17

    Trip Preparation & Accommodation 18

    Art & the Outdoors 19

    Seasonal Programs 20-21

    Evening Programs 22

    Book Your Classroom! 23-26

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    Our Goal

    To generate happiness and healthy lives by providing first and

    lifelong connections to the natural environment.

    Why is This Important to Us?

    Nature has always been an integral part of the culture at

    Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. For nearly a century, people

    have flocked to visit our resort and community with the

    motivation to disconnect from day-to-day life and reconnect

    to the natural environment.

    In 2007, Fairmont Hot Springs Resort began offering year-

    round interpretive programs and guided tours. Our goal was

    to create a more meaningful connection between our guests

    and the resorts natural surroundings. Since our beginning,

    we have successfully connected thousands of people; hotel guests, valley visitors, children from local

    schools, adults from large corporations and common-interest groups. Now we are a chief player in the

    field of experiential and educational vacations.

    When our team came together to discuss the movement of getting kids back outside and reconnectedto nature, we asked ourselves, How can we do more? We took one look around our resort property

    and realized our answer, Well bring kids here!

    Join us in our efforts to generate happiness and healthy lives. Open your classroom to the world of

    nature! Together, we can improve the lives of our children.

    Join Us in Our Quest to Get Kids Outside!

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    Guided Learning

    At BC Rockies School of Nature, we believe in guided learning as opposed to instructed learning. For

    most of our programs, we will give students the tools and guidance, but we will allow them to figure out

    exactly how to complete a task. We will encourage individuals to be thoughtful, learn from their

    mistakes, and to help others find their own way through positive support. Our team shares the belief

    that when children are given the opportunity to solve a task or complete a challenge with their own

    ideas, only then will they experience the true feeling of success and personal growth. This method of

    teaching also allows individuals to use different learning styles when solving a problem which we

    believe is important for nurturing each individual child. We ask that all visitors to our facility take onthis philosophy as their own and allow children to learn at their own pace and with their own ideas.

    Make it FUN!

    We incorporate a wide variety of exciting and interactive teaching techniques including drama,

    storytelling, music, hands-on games and activities. Our programs are educational, engaging and most

    importantly, FUN! We believe that creating a positive learning experience for a child, will promote that

    child to remember, enjoy and care about the places and species that they are learning about.

    A Little Uncomfortable

    We often encourage participants to step out of their comfort zone as it is a way to promote personal

    growth and positive relationships with peers. Creating situations that require individuals to push their

    envelope of comfort as a team, often promotes a supportive culture and creates opportunities for

    individual success.

    Do it Without HarmEnvironmental Stewardship

    Educating visitors about the environment is just as important

    as preserving and protecting the areas and animals we use for

    education. At BC Rockies School of Nature, we take every stepto avoid impacting an area or species negatively and use the

    highest form of leave no trace practices. While we would

    prefer that children do not touch creatures, we realize that is

    not realistic. Therefore, we teach children how to handle a

    number of species without harm.

    Our Philosophies

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    Our Team

    We certainly are a colourful bunch!

    Our team of educators include BC certified teachers,

    biologists and outdoor specialists. Each educator is

    carefully selected for their positive personalities, group

    leadership abilities, and knowledge of the great

    outdoors. It is important to us that children are learning

    from positive mentors, who help inspire understandingand appreciation of our natural environment.

    All instructors have CPR and first aid certification, as

    well as any other relevant credentials for the programs

    which they are in charge of.

    Senior Staff

    Jocelyn MacGregor Project Director & Head NaturalistWorking as a guide and nature interpreter for more than ten years in some ofthe most beautiful places found in Canada, Jocelyn has found her niche in the

    intricate landscape of the Columbia Valley. Jocelyn describes herself as an

    artist of science referring to her creative strategies in teaching hands-on

    environmental education. Jocelyns main goal is to encourage children and

    adults to appreciate and preserve Canadas natural environment. She believes

    this is best achieved through positive and memorable experiences in nature;

    which create curiosity and motivation to care. Jocelyn has a B.Sc. in biology

    and many other credentials and certifications to help her accomplish her goal.

    Kristen Idiens Project Coordinator & Curriculum Director

    Getting kids outdoors, physically active and nutritionally healthy are Kristens

    main passions in life (ok she also likes to travel and take on big adventures!).

    Kristen has worked all over the world; engaging children in Mongolia, Africa,

    and across Canada into healthy lifestyles. Kristen is a certified BC teacher, who

    prefers to work in a classroom without walls the great outdoors! She is

    passionate about helping teachers bring their classroom outside; to a safe,

    supportive and healthy environment.

    Mentors of Awesomeness!

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    Combine our activities to create the perfect program

    for you and your students.

    Choose from the following categories:

    Bushcraft & Outdoor Skills

    Hiking/Snowshoe Adventures

    Water Sports (Kayaking & Canoeing)Environmental Programs

    Arts & Traditional Crafts

    Overnight Trips

    Evening Explorations

    Winter & Seasonal Programs

    Our Programs

    All programs may becustomized to suiteyour classrooms ageand area of focus.

    Combine any of ourprograms to create yourperfect recipe ofeducational fun!

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    All programs listed below will take around 2.5 hoursto

    complete.

    Any program may be tailored to meet your groups age and

    specific area of interest.

    Snowshoeing will replace walks in winter.

    Survival SkillsSurvival skills were once well known to children across the world and we

    want to reskill them in this useful knowledge. Well take students through a

    real-life scenario of survival, where students will be required to make decisions to save themselves and the rest ofthe group. Students will learn about the 4 needs for survival, and how to attain each of these four needs without

    the use of modern tools and technology. Students will love traditional fire making, shelter building, and survival

    games!

    This program is tons of fun as a multi-day expedition.Where we learn how to

    make and use tools for hunting and gathering.

    Cooking in the Outdoors Traditional Methods of CookingThere was a time when cooking a meal always meant cooking with fire. Lets go

    back to a time before electronic and gas devices existed and prepare a

    delicious meal using nothing but the heat of a fire. While we wont be

    hunting for our food, we will talk about the history of hunting and gathering

    in the local area. During this program, we will bake apples in a pit fire,

    experiment with other methods of traditional cooking and then roast

    traditional bannock and marshmallows. Students will feel an intimate

    connection with their food and the natural environment through this hands-on

    experience.

    Low Ropes Course

    Students learn how to work as a team to complete a low ropes course whichoffers different obstacles and interesting strategies. As part of our Guided

    Instruction philosophy, students will have full control on how to complete the

    course; adults must hold back providing any advice, instruction and direction.

    This, we believe, promotes children to think as individuals and experience the

    deepest form of success.

    Bushcraft & Outdoor Skills

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    GeocachingGeocaching is Canadas fastest growing outdoor sport. Its also a great way to

    get the younger, technology-attached generation into the outdoors. Geocaching

    is like a digital scavenger hunt, where you use a GPS to locate hidden treasures.

    We offer geocache challenges for every age group, which range from very

    easy to more difficult. You will be surprised at how fast kids pick it up! Each of

    our geocaches have exercises associated with them, which help children learn

    about the Columbia Valleys local ecology.

    Bear AwareWhen spending time in the Rockies, you should know a thing or two about

    bears. Our main goal with this program is to ease fears about bears as these

    furry animals are not the scary creatures that some childrens books and the

    media portray them to be. But, just like we wear a seat belt in the car, we

    should practice safety strategies when enjoying the great outdoors. Your instructor will take students on a short

    walk, explain interesting facts about bears and bear habitat, point out bear signs and will allow students to

    handle real fur, claws, and teeth of black and grizzly bears.

    Animal TrackingLearn ancient techniques in animal tracking. Students will learn how to

    recognize signs that would be missed by the untrained eye, how to tell

    different tracks apart, and other signs that animals leave behind (scat and

    markings). Who knows what well find as there are new animals travelling in this

    area every day! This program is particularly fun in winter as more tracks are

    visible in the snow.

    Using a Field Guide in the Field

    Field Guides help us identify and study the incredible plants and animals around us. Get to know the best fieldguides for this area and the ins-and-outs for using these tools of identification. Well take a walk around the

    property to a number of different habitats, using field guides for birds, mammals, reptiles and amphibians, plants,

    and animal tracks.

    Intro to BirdingStudents have an opportunity to take part in a naturalists favourite sport;

    birding! Learn where to find certain bird species and key features used to

    identify who-is-who. We will also learn how to use a bird Field Guide and about

    the importance of volunteers in gathering information on bird populations.

    OrienteeringUsing a map is becoming a lost skill with todays technology, but you never know

    when you might have to use one. Students will learn simple orienteering skills

    while completing a team exercise to locate a treasure (and final team-building

    challenge) on resort property. This program is tons of fun and ideal for a group

    with lots of energy.

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    Perfect for grades 3 and above! Students can begin building their skills for a lifetime of kayaking!

    At BC Rockies School of Nature, we follow the school boards water sports rules and regulations in

    order to help teachers easily attain approval for bringing your classroom out on the water.

    We take great care in providing the safest environment possible when out on the water. Our guides

    have NLS or a combination of Swift Water Rescue and Wilderness First Aid (minimum 40hrs). We will

    provide all safety equipment, instruction, and fun!

    Intro to Kayaking

    Kayak Soccer (Gr 3+): Kids will have a blast learning to kayak with our fun instructors in the Learning

    Pond(a small pond in Spruce Grove Camp Ground that offers a controlled and calm environment for

    beginners). Well begin with a basic introduction to kayak strokes to get your students off to a great first

    start in kayaking. After our learning session, well practice our new

    skills during an exciting game of kayak soccer! 2 hrs.

    Lake Paddle (Gr 6+): Enjoy a morning, afternoon or full-day paddling

    along the shores of Lake Windermere or Columbia Lake.A perfect

    introduction to kayaking on lakes. 2.5hr or 4hr (with picnic lunch).

    River Paddle (Grades 9+): The perfect introduction to kayaking and

    paddling slow-moving water providing a scenic float trip throughRiverside Golf Course. This stretch of river offers an easy introduction

    with tons of scenery and wildlife-viewing galore. This tour may be

    combined with an additional program of your choice as we take a

    maximum of 12 participants per float. 2.5 hrs.

    KAYAK PROGRAMS

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    We offer a variety of options that range in difficulty from easy to strenuous. Each location offers

    spectacular views and exciting points of interest to teach students about the local ecology and

    geology along the way.

    Wildlife Exploration (Hollands Loop): Perfect for any age of students. Offers a tour througha forest heavily used by local wildlife. Students will view active owl cavities, learn about wildlife

    trees and forest edibles for humans.

    Nature Discover Park: Recommended for younger children (grades K-3), this short loop offersexciting play areas in an open forest. Games focus on forest ecology.

    Ski Hill Trek: For students (grades 6-12) looking for a longer and rewarding trek to spectacular

    views. A perfect place for a mountainside picnic.Waterfall Hike: A longer Hike (grades 8-12) that takes students to the top of the ski hill and

    beyond. Above the ski hill we will traverse along a cold water spring to the top of a canyon to

    play among a waterfall.

    Red Rock Lookout (difficult): For grades 8-12, provides a hike that will have students feeling

    proud of their accomplishment. This hike begins at Fairmont Hot Springs Resort, and ends at a

    spectacular view point of the valley for lunch or an over-night camp.

    What well talk about along the trail:

    Animal tracks & signsSurvival food in the forest

    Valley geology

    Forest Ecology

    Local history

    End with a Weenie Roast!

    Spend some quality time with each other around a bonfire, roasting weenies and marshmallows

    (additional $5.00 per person).

    Hikes & Snowshoeing

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    We have created an extensive list of curriculum-matched, environmental programs designed to ignite

    a curiosity, love and respect for the natural environment.

    All programs listed below will take around 2.5 hoursto complete.

    Any program may be tailored to meet your groups age and specific area of interest.

    Snowshoeing will replace walks in winter.

    All programs include a combination of presentation, games, and hands-on projects. Combine a

    curriculum programs with an adventure program for a full day or multi-days of fun!

    Preschool

    Presentations & Short Walks- Forest Critters Or Feathers & FurJoin us for a morning or an afternoon that offers an interactive presentation and short

    walk in the woods. Presentations touch on subjects suitable for children 4 yrs and

    younger. To help young children grasps the simple concepts we talk about, we have

    plenty of touch objects (furs, skulls, teeth, etc) and games to keep young minds

    excited and engaged.

    Kindergarten

    What do we have in Common: Plants, Animals and PeopleAll living creatures have many qualities in common. We all need clean air to breath,

    clean water to drink, healthy food to eat, somewhere warm to sleep and parents. Lets

    connect everyone together and learn how much we are all alike. Using touch objects,

    games and simple artistic exercises students will be inspired to respect themselves

    and all the similar creatures around them.

    Grade 1

    Needs of Living Things: The Need for TreesWe are all familiar with them; our giant neighbours that we call trees, but did you know that humans and other

    animals need trees to survive? Find out why trees are so important to people and other creatures of the forest.

    Through interactive stories and games, and a short walk (or snowshoe) through the

    forest; we will discover why trees are very important.

    Seasonal & Daily Changes:Bears of the 4 SeasonsBears are fascinating animals! They are perfectly adapted to each of Canadas four

    seasons. Explore the four different worlds that a bear experiences in the first year of

    its life. Children will have an opportunity to touch real bear fur, skulls, teeth, and

    claws. Students will also make their own den for the winter!

    Environmental Programs

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    Grade 2

    Populations: Weaving Life TogetherAll critters big and small depend on each other for survival. What happens when humans put pressure on certain

    species? Discover the connections between living things of the Columbia Valley through games and a short walk

    (or snowshoe) through the forest that focuses on human influence in our local

    forests.

    Air, Water, and Soil: Riparian HabitatsLets play in the mud and ponds! Through gentle net dipping and critter

    collection, well investigate the unique world where air, water and soil intersect

    to form a unique space that we call the Riparian zone. Riparian zones are

    among the most important to the natural world, and well find outwhy.

    Grade 3

    Traditional Skills (Spring/Fall): Edible & Medicinal Plants

    Identify, prepare and learn about the uses of some incredible plants found in ourown backyard. People have survived in this area for thousands of years by eating

    plants found in the forest, meadows, and valley bottoms. Students will collect

    and prepare a number of plants and plant parts just as people have done

    throughout our history.

    Traditional Skills (Winter): Explorer SurvivalHow did the areas first explorers survive the cold winters in the valley?

    Understand the challenges faced when spending many months in an unfamiliar

    and frozen landscape with hands-on projects. Students will build shelters, assist

    in making a fire, and learn about some traditional techniques for staying warm and preparing food. We strongly

    suggest tacking on a weenie & marshmallow roast for this program!

    Grade 4

    Food Chains: Lions and Lynx and Bears, Oh My!Cougars, wolves, bears, bob cats, lynx, and more! Learn about (and practice!)

    the unique ways each of these predators locates, hunts, and eats their prey.

    Children will learn about food chains and the importance of predators though

    hands-on projects and games in our new Nature & Discovery Park.

    Living Underwater: Creatures of the Underwater WorldEveryone loves a day of net dipping! Students will use actual field sampling

    techniques to find and examine organisms found in a wetland. Students will

    also learn about interesting adaptations for feeding, moving around, and

    avoiding being eaten. After we collect, identify and examine our specimens,

    students will draw and compare their favorite creatures and discuss their favourite adaptation. (Fall and spring

    only).

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    Grade 5

    Canadas Natural Resources: The Importance of FireWe are all familiar with Smokey the Bear telling us Only YOU can

    prevent forest fires! While fires can be damaging, to human

    communities, they are a natural process that is important for the

    ecological health of a forest. Learn about the history, importance, andconsequences of fire suppression in the local area. Of course well have

    to finish this program around a campfire roasting marshmallows!

    Environment Interconnectedness: Connecting With NatureEvery piece of the natural world is connected. However, humans often feel out of place or havent had a chance to

    connect on a deeper level. Through a number of interactive and reflection exercises, students will learn to find

    their place within nature. We will also discuss ideas such as, What happens when humans damage a natural

    habitat? andHow can we reduce our impact on our surroundings while continuing to enjoy natural spaces?

    Grade 6Recognizing the 5 Kingdoms in Nature: Field Work with ID Books and

    Cameras (or Drawing)Just like Canadas first explorers, youll enter the natural world, identifying and

    capturing (with a camera or pencil) the different creatures we see. We will identify

    and record different organisms found within each of the 5 Kingdoms (the ones we can

    see that is), then make an artistic collage with the pictures we have collected. Students

    are required to bring their own camera from home or they may draw their findings.

    Grade 7

    Population and Distribution: Intro to Studying Insect Populations in the FieldIf a child in your classroom has ever wondered what it would be like to be a real biologist, then they will be glad to

    have a first-hand experience! Well use actual insect collecting and measuring techniques, used by scientists in the

    real world. As a unit, we will use our findings to create a mini scientific study of the insects we find. Students will

    have a perfect introduction to life as a scientist. (Fall and Spring only).

    Human History: Traditional TechnologyThrough traditional crafting and collection of various resources found within the local environment, people thrived

    in this valley for thousands of years. Discover some historic and innovative technology which allowed local people

    to survive, create items for trade and develop a sustainable culture. Live a day in history with traditional crafts,

    tool making, and gathering of resources.

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    Grade 8

    Characteristics of Living Things: Be a Biologist for a DayWhat does being a biologist mean exactly? Well it can mean a number of different

    things, but at the heart of biology, is the importance of understanding the

    characteristics of living things. We will live a day as a biologist, spend time in thefield collecting our data and bring it into the lab to quantify. We will also

    combine our findings to create a miniature scientific study. This exercise provides

    a positive introduction to the importance of science, and can often motivate

    students to be more interested in science class.

    Glaciers and Tectonics: The Artists of the Mountains

    The Rocky Mountains are stunning! They are natural works of art that people

    travel from across the world to view and photograph. But have you ever

    wondered how exactly they came to form? Enjoy the thrilling tail of how the

    Rockies were built with hands-on experiments, team building exercises, and a

    walk to view some of the Valleys most impressive peaks.

    Grade 9-12

    We are happy to customize any of our programs to suit grades 9 to 12. With this age group, we strongly

    suggest that teachers extend your stay to an overnight or multi-day trip and combine with an

    adventure or team-building program. Students will then have the opportunity to grow as individuals

    and break barriers between each other while enduring new experiences and challenges as a team.

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    Our team values the importance of providing a positive first camping experience in order to encourage

    children to camp time and time again. Choose from a variety of camping locations (or stay in our hotel

    rooms!), each offering a safe, beautiful and inspiring location

    We provide all camping equipment apart from sleeping bags and sleeping pads. We make it easy to

    bring your students camping!

    Overnight HikesReally Easy Camp in the Nature Discover Park

    Just steps away from the resort offers a remote

    feeling in an open forest. Students can choose to sleep

    in tents, in the tipi, or in our survival shelter. Bonfire

    areas and benches make this area ideal for a no-fuss

    camping experience.

    EasyOwls Loop (1 hr)

    After a 1hr walk through a beautiful open forest, well

    camp out at a scenic view point that looks over the phenomenal Columbia Valley. This campsite is on

    resort property, just outside of our RV Park area.

    Moderate - Hike to the Ski Hill (1.5 hr)

    Fantastic Views, a beautiful location, and a perfect introduction to overnight hiking. Another perk? We

    have the option of spending the night in a tent, in the ski hill lodge, or both!

    Overnight & Multi-Day Hikes

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    An unforgettable experience!

    Our paddling trips are an experience of history, culture, and

    growth. Students will paddle the same waters paddled by the

    famous explorer David Thompson, while learning about the local

    wildlife and geology of the area.

    Each trip begins with an intro lesson on strokes and safety.

    When paddling canoes students will take turns in the stern and

    bow.

    Choose Kayaks or Canoes!

    Lake Paddle to Scouts Honour (2 hrs to Camp)

    Well paddle to an old Scouts Camp located on the waters edge

    of Columbia Lake. After setting up camp, an afternoon and

    evening of programs and play, well fall asleep to the soothing

    sounds of waves lapping the shore. Recommended for grades

    6+.

    Columbia River (1day, 2 day, 3day, 4 day or 5 day)

    The Columbia River offers many different options for over-night

    trips. It all depends on how far you want to go! The time

    allocated for each trip is the time spent paddling for the entire

    tripwell stop and camp along the way.

    1.5 Day (1 Night) Invermere to Radium (3.5hr) or

    Fairmont to Radium (5hr) (Grades 6+)

    2.5 Day or Longer (2 Night or longer) Beginning in

    Fairmont (Grades 9+)

    Overnight & Multi-Day Paddling

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    We begin with preparation in the classroom: Weve designed in-class Trip Prep Exercise that will

    teach students how to make the right choices when packing their bags. When students arrive to the

    School of Nature, well go over how to keep equipment (and ourselves) dry, stay warm and eat well

    balanced meals. After an over-night trip with our instructors, kids will want to camp with their family

    and friends to show off their new skills.

    Students are required to bring a sleeping bag, proper footwear and clothing. Weve got the rest

    covered. Sleeping bag rentals are available.

    Evenings will be filled with games, preparing dinner, traditional crafts, animal tracking, or a different

    program of your choice.

    Accommodations:

    TentsA great option for getting students out in the thick of the great

    outdoors. Our tents sleep 3-4 students and teachers can choose to

    have their own tent or share a double. When camping in tents, we

    take pride in maintaining a site that is not attractive to animals and

    comfortable for all participants.

    Survival Shelters (Grades 11+)The cream of the crop when it comes to camping! Children can build

    a single or double shelter to sleep in for the night. Well also bring

    tents along... just in case.

    Hotel RoomsThe resorts Juniper Lodge has been reserved for students only!

    Woohoo! This, of course, is our most luxurious accommodation

    option and provides a comfortable option for teachers that are too

    chicken to sleep in a tent (we understand). Children sleep 4-6 to a

    room and adults often get their very own room! Hotels rooms arean extra $20 per child.

    Trip Preparation & Accommodation

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    Solidify ideas and promoteself-expression

    Every child has the ability to create art.

    Not only is art fun, but it also allows

    children to develop life skills in

    communication, problem solving as well

    as social, emotional and fine motor skills.

    At BC Rockies School of Nature, we separate the notion of talent and creativity as creativity is all

    that is required to have a meaningful experience.

    The following may be added to any program:

    Pine Needle BowlsInspired by traditional basket weaving, this bowl can be used for collecting food in the forest or as a

    beautiful piece of art at home.

    Capture the Moment in Water ColourCapture any place, experience or idea with this easy and memorable program. Students may complete

    their masterpiece inside or outside. Typically, we take students into a quiet, natural space, where they

    sit and become inspired to create their individual masterpiece.

    Animal Tracks MouldsThis project is a great compliment to any of our guided hikes/snowshoe programs. We have track

    moulds of a variety of native BC species. After we make our mould, children have the chance to

    decorate them into something unique.

    Sound MapsStudents will tune into the sounds around them, while they listen and draw what they hear. This is a

    very creative project that encourages children to slow down and appreciate the little things in nature.

    Art & the Outdoors

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    The great outdoors is fun even in the snowiest conditions! We love our winter programs as it

    promotes children to get outdoors year-round.

    Our winter programs are usually a combination of outdoor, indoor and fire-related activities

    in order to keep kids warm and happy for the duration of their stay.

    Winter Survival Skillsspend some time at our Bushcraft & Campfire Cuiseine

    Centre to learn traditional skills of surviving the cold

    winter. Learn how to survive like Canadas first

    explorers did centuries ago. Learn how to cook over a

    fire using a tri-pod and cast-iron pots, build a lean-to,

    collect and prepare water, and stay warm. Then well

    enjoy marshmallows and hot chocolate! (You may also

    add a traditional cookout meal for an additional

    $10/child).

    Snowshoeing

    Snowshoeing is an excellent form of exercise thatpeople can participate in for their entire lives! We will

    take students on some of our local trails to study animal

    tracks and talk about how some local creatures survive

    the harsh winter (Trail choices may be found on pg 20).

    Snow School (Ski and Snowboard Lessons)Fairmont Hot Springs Resort offers the perfect location

    for beginner and novice skiers. Our friendly ski staff are

    always happy to take students out to show them theropes. Ski lessons range from beginner, intermediate

    and advanced. Visit fairmonthotsprings.com for more

    information on our ski hill. To book, contact our Ski

    School Director, Chris Veen, [email protected]

    250.345.6037.

    Winter Fun!

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    The following programs may be booked individually as a day program, or combined with an over-

    night trip (Pg. 31).

    Backcountry Astronomy

    Discover the brilliance of the night sky away from city lights. Enjoy a twinkling

    classroom while your instructor reveals fascinating objects, constellations,

    planets, as well as myths and legends associated with the night sky. Children will

    learn how to use binoculars to see objects unseen by the naked eye, and how to

    use a dark sky map to locate constellations. If weather does not work in our

    favour we will have an exciting and interactive indoor presentation andexperiments.

    Insect Exploration - Spring/Fall Only

    While were sleeping, the creatures of the night come alive! Well explore some

    of natures most fascinating critters with the use of our Super Awesome Insect

    Attractor! Then we will take a mini nature walk in the dark to listen to the

    sounds of the forest and meet some local creatures of the night.

    Cooking In the Outdoors A Traditional Cookout!

    There was a time when cooking a meal always meant cooking with fire. Lets go

    back to a time before electronic and gas devices existed and prepare a

    delicious meal using nothing but the heat of a fire. While we wont be hunting

    for our food, we will talk about the history of hunting and gathering in the local

    area. During this program, we will bake apples in a pit fire, experiment with

    other methods of traditional cooking and prepare a delicious healthy meal.

    Students will want to camp ever weekend after this delicious experience! Ask

    for a copy of our seasonal menu options. (Additional Cost of $10 per child for food if not booked as an over-night

    program).

    More Options:

    Campfire Fun and Marshmallow Roast (or bannok)

    Educational Movie Night& Discussion (poor weather option)Plays/Tallent Show (Excellent poor weather option)

    Evening Programs

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    Close your eyes and picture the fun: getting to know your students on a different level, watching them

    support each other through challenges, laughing, learning, and enjoying the benefits of being outside.

    Example 4.5 day (4 night) Program for Grade 7 Students (Fall Season)

    Day 1 Day 2 Day 3 Day 4 Day 5

    1:00pm: Arrive

    1:00pm: Ice Breaker

    Games

    1:30pm: Safety Talk

    1:45pm Divide into

    groups and meet

    your Instructor

    2:00pm: Team

    building Games &

    Area Tour

    5:00pm: Dinner

    (Lodge)

    6:30pm: Cooking in

    the Outdoors

    9:00pm: Sleep

    (Lodge)

    8:30 am: Breakfast

    9:30am: Kayak

    Soccer

    12:00pm: Lunch

    (Lodge)

    1:00pm: Intro to

    Studying Insect

    Populations in the

    Field)

    6:00pm: Dinner

    (Lodge)

    7:00pm: Campfire

    Games & Stories

    9:00pm: Sleep

    (Lodge)

    8:30am: Breakfast

    9:00am: Hike to Red

    Rock Camp Site

    12:00pm: Lunch

    1:00pm: Set Up Camp

    & Area Tour

    5:00pm: Meal Prep

    6:00pm: Dinner

    7:00pm: Campfire &

    Down Time

    7:30pm: Astronomy

    9:00pm: Sleep (Tents)

    8:30am: Breakfast

    9:00am: Edible Plants

    Walk

    12:00pm: Lunch

    1:00pm: Pack Up

    Camp

    2:00pm: Hike Back to

    Lodge

    6:00pm: Dinner

    (Lodge)

    7:00pm: Water

    Colour Art

    Experience

    Reflection

    9:00pm: Sleep

    (Lodge)

    8:30am: Breakfast

    9:00am: Pack

    12:00pm Lunch

    (Lodge)

    1:00pm: Departure

    Example 2.5 day (2 night) Kayak Program for Grade 12 Students

    Day 1 Day 2 Day 3

    1:00pm: Arrive

    1:00pm: Ice Breaker Games

    1:30pm: Safety Talk & Area Tour

    1:45pm Divide into groups and

    meet your Instructor

    2:00pm: Low Ropes Challenge

    5:00pm: Dinner

    6:30pm: Trip Prep Talk

    7:00pm: Pack for Trip

    9:00pm: Sleep in Lodge

    8:30 am: Breakfast

    9:30am: Kayak Intro and Kayak to

    Campsite

    12:00pm: Lakeside Lunch

    1:00pm: Set up camp

    2:00pm: Survival Skills

    5:00pm: Meal Prep

    6:00pm: Dinner

    7:00pm: Campfire Games & Stories

    9:00pm: Sleep (Tents)

    8:00am: Breakfast

    9:00am: Pack Camp

    10:00am: Kayak Back

    12:00pm Lakeside Lunch

    & Experience Reflection

    1:00pm: Back to Resort

    2:00pm: Departure

    Picture it!

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    Price includes the following:

    For overnight bookings: includes a morning, afternoon and evening program.

    For day bookings: includes a morning and afternoon program or afternoon and evening

    program.

    For day programs: includes a morning or afternoon or evening program.

    You may arrive as soon as 9:30am, and stay as late as 4:30pm (or add on an evening program

    and stay until 8:00pm). We usually reserve the last hour for swim time in the hot springs pools.

    Low student to instructor ratio: one instructor for every 10-12 students.

    Delicious meals and wholesome snacks (for over-night options).

    Entrance to our hot springs pools.Complimentary use of all sports equipment (volleyball, tennis and snowshoes).

    All gear required for our programs.

    High-speed wireless internet (teachers can stay on top of emails).

    Free coffee for all adults! (To keep up with the kids).

    *** We have a minimum charge of 20 students and a maximum of 32 students may be booked per

    visit.

    Day Visits Cost Per Class

    Day Visit $260

    Full Day $350

    Additional Costs (Optional) Cost Per Student

    Campfire Cookout (Chili & Banock) $8.00

    Weenie & Marshmallow Roast $5.00

    Depending on which programs you choose, students will either stay in a tent, tipi, or our Juniper Lodge. When

    staying in the Juniper Lodge, an instructor will be on-call for any emergencies; however, the groups supervisor will

    be In-charge for the night (from 8:00pm to 8:00am). When off-site, the groups instructor will be there at all times.

    Overnight Visits Cost Per Class

    1 day (1 night, 3 meals) $1,900

    2 day ( 2 night, 6 meals) $2,900

    4 day (4 night, 9 meals) $5,300

    Cost of Programs

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    Over-Night Programs - What to Bring?

    The following list consists of suggestions for what will make your trip (all participants) more comfortable and will

    leave you prepared for all occasions. This list is recommended regardless of season as the weather is

    unpredictable. Please make adjustments to the number of items you bring according to the duration of your stay.

    Keep in mind that everyone will carry their own gear (keep it lightweight). We recommend that you pack a small

    backpack in a larger backpack for short explorations. If should not be necessary to purchase new items to enjoyyour BCRA experience. We recommend borrowing, renting or purchasing second hand items that you do not

    already own.

    When possible, we recommend bringing clothing made from technical fibres rather than cotton. This is because

    cotton has poor wicking and drying properties and can keep you dangerously cold if it gets wet. We suggest marina

    wool, polyester and polypropylene. We also recommend that you plan to wear your items more than once (apart

    from underwear).

    Camping Items

    Large, comfortable backpack

    Small backpack for short excursions

    Sleeping bag and stuff sac (minimum -7 C

    synthetic fill is preferable)

    Sleeping pad (foam or inflatable)

    Flashlight (headlamp preferably) and batteries

    Unbreakable cup, bowl & spoon

    Other Essential Items

    1 litre water bottle (non breakable)

    Sun hat or ball cap, glasses and sun screen

    1 Garbage bag

    Bathing suit & Towel

    Your lunch for Day 1

    Running shoes or hiking shoes/boots

    1 extra pair of old running shoes, Teva-stylesandals or other sandals for water sports

    Toothbrush and paste

    Deodorant, lip balm

    Clothing

    Water Proof Jacket and Pants

    Warm Pajamas

    Wool Socks (for hiking and water sports)

    Underwear

    T-shirtsLong sleeve shirts

    Warm Sweater or Fleece

    Long pants

    Optional Items

    o Medications and vitamins

    (inform your instructor what it is

    and how to use it)

    o Camerao Money to buy souvenirs

    o Journal/Notebook

    o Pencil

    o

    Cold Weather Gear

    o Water resistant winter coat and

    snow pants

    o Insulated snow boots

    o Wool socks (at least 2 pairs)

    o Winter hat/wool toque

    o Scarf or face mask

    o Several pairs of mittens

    o Several layers of clothing (wool

    or other technical material).

    o Long underwear

    DO NOT BRING WITH YOU

    ! Cigarettes, matches, lighters

    ! Alcohol or drugs

    ! Knives, hatchets or weapons

    ! IPods, electronic devices

    ! Jewelry, valuables or anything

    that may be missed terribly if lost! Junk food or any food (unless

    otherwise organized)

    SEE YOU SOON!

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    o

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