North Vancouver School District
the natural place to learn©
Outdoor School Program (Grades 4-6)

Since 1969, the Outdoor School (ODS) Program at Cheakamus Centre has provided experiential environmental learning programs to thousands of students from North Vancouver and beyond.

This flagship program for grade 4 and 6 students includes field studies, youth leadership opportunities, outdoor recreation, and other direct experiences in nature intended to instill in learners a sense of respect and appreciation for the natural world. In addition, through cabin-living and participating in daily chores, students learn skills and strategies to create and maintain healthy relationships, recognize and appreciate diversity, and make positive contributions to their community and environment.

Kids in waders.jpg
Credit: Double Exposure Photography

Connecting to Curriculum

The ODS program is designed to support and enhance curriculum outcomes. Exploring the senses provides the conceptual focus for students in their first Outdoor School program in grade 4. In grade 6, a focus on systems provides the conceptual framework that ties together the different field studies that students experience during their four-day program. More information on the Outdoor School Program's curricular connections can be found on the NVSD44 Curriculum Hub.