OUR PHILOSOPHY
Holistic education does not separate work from play, nor education from life. Holism in education is a composite experience involving all that is available in both the natural and human environment. Perceptions are changed, confidence is built, bodies are strengthened and a basic sense of integration with nature is experienced. Activities, though often demanding, take place in an informal atmosphere. Participants are given the opportunity to realize and extend their physical abilities and experience some of the excitement of "living on the edge."

Outdoor education at Strathcona retains the magic of nature and traditional ways of learning. The forest is never reduced to systems, specimens or sawbucks. Programs incorporate older wisdoms: native uses of plants, the beauties of the bog, making fire in the wind and rain and doing more with less.

Basic to Strathcona's philosophy is generosity of spirit. This is revealed in the instructors' desire to share their skills and knowledge with students and the warmth and friendliness extended by lodge personnel.

BRINGING TOGETHER THE INDOOR AND OUTDOOR CLASSROOMS
A program at Strathcona can complement the classroom curriculum. Studies in science, geography, literature and other subjects can take place before, during and after a trip to Strathcona. Compiling photographic and written journals and completing exercises during a program can extend outdoor learning back into the classroom.

YOUR TRIP OBJECTIVES
Teachers and trip organizers are encouraged to speak with Strathcona's Program Managers to establish objectives for their program. For some groups, particularly at the beginning of the school term when students and teachers may not know each other very well, social goals may be the primary focus. For others, climbing one of Strathcona Provincial Park's many peaks or overcoming fear of moving water may be the goal.

Students can work on proficiency in one or more outdoor pursuits, such as rock climbing or kayaking. Being in a pristine wilderness area can be an opportunity to let students develop feelings for, and an understanding of the environment. Focusing on group dynamics, closure at the end of the year and French Immersion programming are other options.

EXPEDITIONS
The Out-trip is at the heart of a Strathcona program. During the out-trip, students can practice the skills they have learned throughout the week, whether paddling a canoe down Upper Campbell and Buttle Lakes or co-operating to set up the group shelter. Out-trips can be a simple day outing or an expedition lasting a week or more. Instruction in minimum impact camping, natural history, navigation, outdoor cooking and many other skills take place during the expedition.

TEACHER/CHAPERONE ROLES
Teachers and supervising adults are encouraged to take part in the programs alongside the students. They should be present during all activities to assist the instructor if required. We ask that the adults take a step back at times to allow students to solve a problem or to make decisions during their program.

Teachers and supervisors are responsible for the students when they are not with their Instructor; i.e. during mealtimes, before and after programmed activities, and during the night while at the Lodge.

The Strathcona Instructor is responsible for teaching, safety and discipline during the programs activity sessions. The Instructor will ask adults for assistance in difficult situations as required. As well, adults are expected to lead by example and act as responsible seconds on the out-trip and during lessons. Teachers are asked to complete an evaluation of Strathcona at the end of their program.