Outdoor Learning Fund Update - Your Heartfelt Giving is Making a Difference!

Because of you, the $80,000 Outdoor Learning Fund goal has been met through the Trailblazer Trek and other giving! Thank you.

Your gift is more than a donation—it’s an investment in children who will learn, grow, and experience God’s love through new hands-on, faith-filled learning experiences outside. Here are some of the ways students are already benefiting at Nanaimo Christian School. 

Elementary School

The new outdoor learning space behind the school gym is a huge hit! Students have been busy planting winter vegetables and tending to the gardens with a dedicated group of parent volunteers. Garden Club has become a highlight of the week (Wednesdays at noon), as students are thrilled to dig in and learn.

Throughout September and October, every student got a chance to be a part of the action. Kindergarteners have learned how to compost, Grade 1/2s planted bulbs, and Grade 3-5s planted garlic. An exciting partnership with Buckerfield's Nanaimo is also taking shape and we are so excited to watch our students grow right alongside the gardens, with countless hands-on learning opportunities built into the curriculum throughout the year!

Middle School 

You're making it possible for middle schoolers to engage more deeply with the outdoors while building real-world skills in storytelling, technology, and problem-solving. 

This year Middle school students are using new GoPro cameras to film their outdoor experiences, with a focus on outdoor survival. When a student builds a shelter or uses a skill they have learned in class, they will film themselves demonstrating the steps and explaining their rationale. In ADST (Applied Design, Skills, and Technologies) classes, students will learn how to edit these videos using iPads also purchased through the Outdoor Learning Fund.

Recently, students have been out in the field using iPads loaded with digital mushroom guides to identify and learn about different fungi species.

It's so exciting that students now have access to the tools they need to document and reflect on their learning in meaningful ways. 

High School

Thanks to you and other generous givers, high school is also adding some really cool learning tools! The first batch of new cameras has arrived and our Photography 10 class has been out and about with them. A new telescope is on order.

Not only will our new weather station enrich our high school science program, but it will also serve our community with real-time access to weather data on campus. The new equipment has been mounted to the roof of the school and parents and students can use a QR code or link to check temperature and rainfall data.

We're also working with MEC to get a discounted rate on outdoor education backpacking sets (tents, sleeping bags, headlamps, cookstoves)! This and our new two-way radios and other outdoor adventure gear are a much-needed boost for Active Living and Outdoor Ed classes. 

Your generosity is changing kids’ lives today and helping prepare them to impact the world tomorrow. Students are so excited to be outside and shine in our community thanks to you!