The Skw'une-was program is an overnight Indigenous cultural learning experience developed together with Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Elders. In the Skwxwú7mesh language, Skw'une-was means 'together' and reflects the traditional teachings of sharing, respect, and seasonality. These foundational teachings support a deeply rooted respect for the natural world on which this award-winning program is based.

Working together in traditional family groups including Plant Gatherers, Wood and Cedar Bark Workers, Wool Weavers, and Hunters/Fishers, students along with their teacher(s), support staff, and parent elders are immersed in the daily life of a traditional Ch'iyáḵmesh village. From receiving a ceremonial longhouse name to cooking over hot rocks and sleeping in a Coast Salish longhouse, the learning experience is powerful and lasting for students and adults alike

Connecting to Curriculum

The Skw'une-was program is designed to meet a range of curricular connections for students and is aligned with the First People's Principles of Learning.

Program objectives include:

• Enhancing students' understanding of, and respect for, First Nations culture in general, and the pre-contact longhouse culture of the Sḵwx̱wú7mesh people, in particular.
• Providing an immersive indigenous cultural learning experience based on students and adults living communally and participating in traditional daily activities of the Coast Salish people.
• Promoting greater understanding and awareness of the beliefs and traditional values of the Coast Salish culture in relation to sharing, the seasons, and respect for others and the environment.