GNS is Springing into Outdoor Education

February 12, 2021

Academics

GNS

Glenlyon Norfolk School is fortunate to be surrounded by accessible trails, beaches and mountains, and the school has a long history of offering opportunities for students to make the most of our unique region. Beginning with Nature School in Junior Kindergarten, Kindergarten and Grade 1, our students are truly encouraged to extend their learning by exploring the natural world. After a short pause, we are committed to making an investment in a renewed vision for our Outdoor Education (OE) program for students at all grade levels. The first step of this renewal is underway as we are excited to announce we are currently in the process of hiring a Director of Outdoor Education!

In the meantime, there are plans to support short-term Outdoor Education activities in the Spring. All of these activities will be planned with COVID-19 restrictions in place, which means no overnight activities and students will be divided into Learning Groups.

“We are excited about the opportunities ahead of us for Outdoor Education at the school,” said Mr. Cole Carlson, Deputy Head of School. “We have short term plans, but we also have a longer-term vision, and the Director of Outdoor Education will be somebody coming in with experience to help lead that. We are confident we will be able to deliver the program that our families want.”

In the Spring, Senior School students will have access to after school programs for hiking (from late February to March 14) and kayaking (from April 12 to May 20). More information on the programs to come.

For our Middle School, students in Grades 6, 7 and 8 will be able to get out on the water for kayaking and canoeing during school hours from April to June. Mr. Damon Henry will be in touch soon with more information.

At the Junior School, Grades 3 to 5 will be offered an after school kayaking program from April 13 to May 20. As well, Junior Kindergarten to Grade 5 students will all have the chance at some point to travel by Voyageur Canoe during the day to Mary Todd/Jimmy Chicken Island. Mr. Gavin Bowers will send more information as soon as possible.

We are delighted to be able to offer these options to our families and look forward to sharing more long-term plans with you soon.