Outdoor Education

Grades 7-8

Outdoor Education is a compulsory part and a core element of an SJI International education, and it is compulsory for all students to participate in challenging Grade 7 and 8 Expeditions.

Students are expected to step out of their comfort zones, tackle challenges head-on, develop resilience, and learn to support others around them. Students gain confidence in their own abilities, discover innovative ways to overcome obstacles and see challenges as positive life experiences. 

Facilitated by experienced outdoor education leaders and outside providers, students will complete a holistic program to prepare them for their trips, establishing achievable and measurable goals and completing ongoing reflection which is crucial to the success of the program.

Grades 9-10

In Grade 9, students will participate in a more challenging outdoor education trip that has been carefully designed to satisfy the requirements stipulated by the National Youth Achievement Award. 

Attendance at this trip is compulsory, as it forms a vital component of the school-developed CASL program, allowing students to simultaneously meet the Bronze NYAA award requirements. Historically, over 90% of our cohort have received the Bronze NYAA Award. 

In Grade 10 students build on their experience from Grade 9 and take on more challenging outdoor experiences both locally and abroad. These may include longer hikes, canoeing/kayaking, and service learning opportunities with vulnerable communities.

Please note: Successful attainment of the Bronze award is also a prerequisite for students to complete the silver and gold awards which are voluntary and available to students in grades 10-12.

In Grades 9 and 10, students are supported by their tutors and an experienced and passionate team of enrichment leaders. Students are supported and encouraged to exercise greater independence and develop lifelong skills including navigation, camp craft, and first aid to prepare them for life outside of school and develop an appreciation for the natural world.