Outdoor Education
Every program is linked to the Ontario Curriculum and our Stewardship Framework. Teachers can select up to 3 programs from different areas or concentrate in a specific area. We will tailor-design a program to fit a unit of classroom study or to modify existing programs to emphasize an area of learning of learning that you want to focus on.
Curriculum-Linked Programs for Grades K-12
We believe that inspired learning comes from inspired teaching. We do this by providing engaging, educational programs which feature hands-on activities, drama, storytelling and active games. Our educators, many teacher-trained, share a lifetime commitment to excellence in education in the outdoors. They combine a wide range of knowledge and experience in natural & environmental science, Canadian history, outdoor living skills, and adventure learning. They are continually upgrading their skills by attending workshops, conferences and courses.
Over 60 Programs in the following Subject Areas
- Environmental Science
- Environmental Arts
- Canadian History & Social Studies
- Adventure & Leadership
- Health & Physical Education
Every program is linked to the Ontario Curriculum and our Stewardship Framework. Teachers can select up to 3 programs from different areas or concentrate in a specific area. We will tailor-design a program to fit a unit of classroom study or to modify existing programs to emphasize an area of learning that you want to focus on. Students benefit from a low student to instructor ratio (approx. one instructor to twelve students) which allows our instructors to provide them with the special attention they need to excel in outdoor learning.
Program List
Select a subject tab to view list of programs. Feel free to contact us about modifying programs to suit older or younger students.
Legend: F = Fall, W = Winter, S = Spring
| Environmental Arts | Seasons | Curriculum Links by Grade |
|---|---|---|
| Nature Arts and Crafts | F,W,S | Suitable for All Grades |
| Nature Music | F,W,S | Suitable for Grades K to 4 |
| Nature Sculpting | F,W,S | Suitable for All Grades |
| Sensorama | F,W,S | Best suited for Grades K to 4 |
| Canadian History & Social Studies | Seasons | Curriculum Links |
|---|---|---|
| Adventures of a Coureur Du Bois | F,W,S | Grades 5, 6, and 9 to 12 |
| First Nations and Traditional Ecological Knowledge | F,W,S | Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, and 9 to 12 |
| Fur Trade Program (2½ day program) |
F,W,S | Grades 5, 6, and 9 to 12 |
| Traditional Skills & Games | F,W,S | Grades 5, 6, and 9 to 12 |
| Adventure & Leadership | Seasons | Curriculum Links |
|---|---|---|
| Character Education & Leadership (2 1/2 day program) |
F,W,S | Grades 5 to 12 |
| Climbing Wall | F,S | Grades 3 to 12 |
| Co-operative Games | F,W,S | All Grades |
| High Ropes | F,S | Grades 4 to 12 |
| Initiative Tasks | F,W,S | Grades 3 to 12 |
| Trust Activities and Low Ropes | F,W,S | Grades 4 to 12 |
| Physical Education & Recreation | Seasons | Curriculum Links |
|---|---|---|
| Single A – Archery | F,S | Grades 3 to 12 |
| Double A – Archery and Atlatl | F,S | Grades 6 to 12 |
| Triple A – Archery, Atlatl and Axe Throwing | F,S | Grades 9 to 12 |
| Canoeing or Voyageur Canoeing | F,S | Grades 3 to 12 |
| Cross Country Skiing | W | Grades 3 to 12 |
| Lost in the Woods | F,W,S | Grades 2 to 12 |
| Maps and Mapping | F,W,S | Grades 2 to 12 |
| Quest for Fire | F,W,S | Grades 5 to 12 |
| Snowshoeing | W | All Grades |
| Orienteering | F,W,S | Grades 4 to 12 |
| Geo Caching & GPS Mapping | F,W,S | All Grades |
Testimonials
"The importance of learning about environmental sustainability cannot be overstated. In today's rapidly changing world, equipping our students with the knowledge and skills to address environmental challenges is crucial. This program not only educated them about the significance of preserving our natural resources but also empowered them to take action within their communities.
Overall, the experiential learning provided by Camp Kawartha has been an invaluable asset to our students' education. It has inspired a new generation of environmentally conscious individuals, ready to lead and advocate for a sustainable future. We are immensely grateful for this partnership and the lasting impact it has made on our students' lives. I have been an advocate for the importance of Camp Kawarthas programs over the last decade and the importance in our school board and we look forward to our continued partnership."
- Melissa Morris, Experiential Learning, Science and Math Consultant, Kawartha Pine Ridge District School Board
"We have been coming back for 15 years! We love Camp Kawartha! Kids love it too! Staff are experienced and nice. All the activities are great. Free time is fun for our teens who play volleyball, basketball, and soccer…together! Long live CK!" -Ecole secondaire Saint-Joseph
"I had the opportunity to see first-hand how the outdoor programs benefited some of our most marginalized students. The excitement and full-on participation in, for example, the wetlands study by these students was so great to see. When their guardians heard the stories, they were overcome with joy." -Dundas Junior P.S.
"Our grade 8 grad trip was fantastic! The knowledgeable and supportive staff allowed students to go out of their comfort zones and have a memorable trip!" -St. Mary CES, Campbellford
"This is a great experience for both staff and students. The staff (CK) are amazing with the students and so very knowledgeable! Thanks for an awesome experience." - St. Jacinta Marto CES
"After coming to Camp Kawartha with our school for nearly 15 years, we are always amazed at the high calibre of instructors, programming, and overall camp facilities. From delicious and locally sourced food, to engaging outdoor activities, Camp Kawartha truly has it all." - Voice Integrative School
"As teachers, we saw such positive growth in our students over our three days here. I have been their teacher for eight months, but I have seen the most personal development, new friendships, and kids coming out of their shells this week than ever before. Students were engaged in programming and got to experience so many new things. Thank you CK for refreshing our staff and inspiring our kids!" -Keith Wightman P.S.
"We had a wonderful experience at Camp Kawartha. All the staff were incredible, the food was awesome, and the facility was spotless!" -St. Michael CES
"Very friendly, supportive staff. All program activities were very well planned and executed. Staff also enforced positive re-enforcement behaviour strategies (i.e., Helped school staff with positive behaviour management tactics). Loved our time." -Alexander Guir/Gladstone P.S
"Over the past few days our students had the chance to experience nature and learn incredible team building skills! Thank you Camp Kawartha!" -Corpus Christi