Outdoor learning is an integral part of the curriculum at St. Joseph School. Given the freedom to explore, children are able to problem solve and interact in a way that supports the new BC Curriculum core competencies of communication, thinking, personal growth and social skills. Based on a Know-Do-Understand model of learning, outdoor settings allow for hands-on interaction with the natural world. Students are keen to play, explore and learn while growing in independence and teamwork skills. 

St. Joseph School has a strong partnership with The Clubhouse Farm program in Ellison. Their outdoor classroom and season-specific programming connects children to the land and gives them the opportunity to see how things change, grow and evolve.

The St. Joseph Outdoor Academy Program is supported by current research which shows the many positive health, social and learning benefits associated with children being given access to nature. It is designed to engage, challenge and prepare students in a whole new way.

The St. Joseph Outdoor Academy Program is expanding and we need YOU to help make that happen! Our goal is to increase farm visits for all students:

• Kindergarten - once per week

• Grade 1 - twice per month

• Grades 2&3 - once per month

• Grades 4-7 - once per term

Become a Friends of the Farm Sponsor and help us continue to deliver this cutting edge program to all St. Joseph Students! Thank you to our St. Joseph PSG for being a Lead Sponsor and donating $5000!