“Immersing ourselves in the wilderness allows us to disconnect from technology and reconnect with ourselves, nature, and each other. Camping in the wilderness provides us with the space to reset our nervous system and to envision what it may have been like to live as our Ancestors once did.” - J. Chan
Camping Trips
At 7th Fire Junior High and 7th Fire Secondary, our programming integrates Land-based learning into the curriculum. A key aspect of this approach occurs in September and June, when all students participate in overnight hiking and canoe trips with their classes. These unique and challenging experiences allow students to disconnect from technology and reconnect with themselves, each other, and the Land. Highlights of these trips include fishing, storytelling, and late-night singing bowl sessions. Additionally, students learn essential life skills such as dressing appropriately, cooking, and cleaning up after themselves. These skills provide lasting benefits and create unforgettable memories.
Check out some of our Past Camping Trips
““When we paddle a canoe we paddle the old highways - we connect to the ancient roots of this Land.” ”
2023-24 Camping Facts
1500+ Pushups
23 Nights in the Wilderness
500+ km Hiked
1450+ Meals Cooked
50+ Campfire Stories
1000+ km Paddled
100+ Tents Constructed
200k+ Paddle Strokes
16 Camping Trips
10,000+ Dishes Washed
213 Campers
1000+ Pieces of Garbage Picked Up
100+ Fish Caught
And 10,000+ Lessons Learned
Mr. Chan is the Land-based lead and coordinator of all overnight programming. He is a qualified Wilderness First Responder and has his Bronze Cross certification in swimming. Additionally, Mr. Chan is a Canoe Tripping Instructor Trainer.
Mr. Chan’s teaching philosophy takes a philosophical approach to life and living and an understanding of global worldviews and culture. His teaching style is grounded in wellness, mindfulness, and movement-based practices that provide students with the tools to support their mental, emotional, physical, and spiritual well-being.
He strive to provide an environment whenever possible where learners can be outside the "traditional" classroom and learn from the Land. Overnight camping trips are one way that he provides these experiential learning environments for his students.
