Unlike other gym classes offered to students, Outdoor Education doesn’t discriminate against snowy, frigid days. In fact, that’s just another opportunity to explore the outdoors. As the temperatures drop, students put on their snow pants, gloves, hats and boots to go cross country skiing, sledding, snowshoeing, camping and more. 

Students travel to camp Sagawau for a cross country skiing getaway.The skiing course consists of a practice hill that students try out before attempting to ski up a slightly steep hill. The rest of the course is simple and great for beginners. 

Survival skills and teamwork are just two of the many important skills taught. Building a campfire requires the participation of everyone since all are assigned a role in building, maintaining and putting out the fire. Other roles include cooking and carrying supplies. 

Senior Gwen Pasowicz enjoys outdoor ed and recommends trying out the class.

“I think it’s fun and it definitely challenges your thinking. You wouldn’t think that there would be all this to do in strange weather circumstances,” said Pasowicz.

Although the elective is fun and adventurous, there are some ups and downs. 

“We have a really good teacher that adapts things to us and helps us learn how to do different activities. The only downside is it’s a short class period so it’s hard to learn skills and practice them, so if you’re not naturally good at it, it can be challenging,” said Pasowicz. 

The opportunity to go on nature walks, rock climbing, kayaking, fishing and more can be a great asset in creating new interests and hobbies. If these activities spark your interest, then pursuing this elective is the right choice for you. Check out the Program of Studies pdf on the LHS website to find out about the requirements needed in order to take the class.