Growing up in Kamloops British Columbia the outdoors have always played a big role in shaping who I have become. Before becoming a teacher I spent my twenties guiding on rivers in the summers and teaching skiing and snowboarding in the winters. I had the opportunity to work for many different outdoor education programs as a technician and guide. I am so grateful to be in Squamish shaping this program to allow our youth to get out and learn in unique and diverse settings. The goal of this program is to give students the skills and confidence to make sound decisions in the backcountry and gain certifications to help them work in the outdoor industry if they choose to in the future.
Outdoor education is a group of students who all love to go on adventures and be outdoors. Members go on hikes, camping trips, and many other fun experiences. You build lifelong memories and learn valuable survival skills and teamwork. This club is for beginner hikers who want to try something new, or advanced hikers who love being outside with friends. Most students who take this class say that this was one of their favourite classes and have no regrets about taking it. You don't only learn about the outdoors but also about who you are and how you think critically and react in situations.
I am an exchange student from Japan who has come to Canada for three years. This program changed my stay in Canada as not only did I get to experiences the wilderness in Canada but as well make special bonds. The bonds I made on the trips were more valuable than anything I have experienced before.
My favourite moment in this program was waking up on the third morning at Elfin and there was a fresh snowfall all over the mountains. That moment had made all the rain and long hiking worth it. This was the highlight of high school for me as I created so many new friendships, although I wish I did not take it for granted and I enjoyed it more and took in the little moments, the memories and friendships i made will stay with me for life.
After graduating high school, I embarked on a life-changing journey, spending several months traveling the world. This experience was deeply influenced by my background in outdoor education, which played a significant role in shaping my decision to explore new places and cultures. Through outdoor education, I developed a strong appreciation for adventure, adaptability, and self-reliance—skills that proved invaluable during my travels.
The biggest lesson I learned this year in outdoor education was the importance of endurance and believing in myself. I came to understand that many of the limits I thought were stopping me weren’t physical barriers but rather mental ones. By learning to push past my doubts and perceived limitations, I discovered that I was capable of far more than I had ever imagined. Outdoor education taught me that true strength comes not just from physical ability, but from determination, resilience, and a willingness to challenge myself.
My experience while being in OE has been one of the best things I have ever done. It's helped lots with my confidence in the outdoors and taught me that I am capable of so many things. When on trips you not only create amazing memories but you learn how to build long-lasting relationships with your group. The things you learn in this program will help you with so many important things that will be useful for the rest of your life.
Outdoor Ed has given me a unique set of skills and experiences that I wouldn’t have gained anywhere else. While the lessons I’ve learned have been invaluable, the most meaningful part of this journey has been the memories made and the friendships formed along the way. The shared challenges, adventures, and moments of teamwork brought us closer together, creating bonds that will last far beyond the classroom.
This program pushed me out of my comfort zone and placed me in situations I never would have chosen for myself. At first, I felt uncertain and hesitant, but over time, I realized that stepping into the unknown was the key to personal growth. Each challenge I faced made me stronger, shaping the way I approach difficulties today. Instead of fearing obstacles, I now see them as opportunities to learn and improve. This experience has given me the confidence to take on challenges without hesitation, knowing that every struggle is a chance to grow.
Joining Outdoor Ed was one of the best decisions I've made. I am very thankful for the opportunities this program has given me. Throughout this program I grew very close to my peers, gaining many lifelong friends and memories. I learned an extensive amount about the outdoors and about myself. This program pushed me to limits I didn't know I was capable of reaching. The biggest lesson I learned was always to push yourself, as challenging as this program was; my peers were always there to help motivate me when I didn't think I was capable of finishing the hike. I ended up being amongst the group who hiked the most mountains in my year. I am very proud of how much I accomplished.
Outdoor education was one of the most valuable experiences of my life. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without this program. It changed the way I see the world, helping me approach challenges with a new perspective and making me stronger in every aspect of my life. After feeling lost for so long, I finally discovered who I am and what truly makes me happy. This program pushed me beyond my limits, showing me that I’m capable of more than I ever imagined. Having my best friends by my side, offering guidance and support, made the experience even more meaningful.
Outdoor Education has been one of my biggest learning experiences. It has not only taught me important safety skills and the proper technique when travelling outdoors, but also to appreciate what lies right in front of us. Each trip brought new challenges and experiences. I enjoyed every moment that we spent hiking, surfing,and kayaking as a group. Outdoor education gave me something to work for and to create a passion for. The views we were lucky enough to see were always worth it after a long day of hiking. If I could go back and do it all again I definitely would.