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Outdoor Education

RDS teachers are dedicated to incorporating outdoor education into our programming, with many opportunities for students to learn in natural settings in and outside of Toronto. These outdoor experiences provide extension to classroom learning as well as time for community connection. Examples of these experiences include:

  • Outdoor and Experiential Education Week: RDS students have the opportunity to join an annual Outdoor and Experiential Education Week. Our younger students take part in programming by ALIVE Outdoors, diving into hands-on learning in natural spaces around Toronto, such as parks, conservations, and the islands. Older Gryphons leave for Camp Hurontario, where they fill their days with canoeing, rock climbing, kayaking, ropes courses, archery, and community nights. Outdoor and Experiential Education Week programming differs by age group. 
  • Ravine Afternoons: Nordheimer Ravine at St. Clair West and Spadina Avenue is easily accessible by TTC. Our students visit the ravine for fun afternoons of nature play and community bonding.
  • Field Trips: Trips to natural spaces are often incorporated into our curriculum to promote hands-on learning, inquiry, and stewardship. One of our favourite traditions is the Salmon Hatchery Project, during which the Grade 3 class raises and releases salmon eggs in a cross-curricular study of life cycles, habitats, Indigenous knowledge, and history. Other spaces our students visit include Evergreen Brickworks, Black Creek Community Farm, Downsview Park, Tommy Thompson Park, and the Kortright Centre for Conservation.