Leadership is one of our core values, and all of our programs include leadership elements. Due to our low student-to-staff ratios and ‘group model,’ students will receive a high level of individual attention, and will also be counted on to make contributions to their groups. Team-building games and daily debriefs will get students to think critically about their role within their group.

 

While leadership is an implicit part of all of our programs, we appreciate that some of our clients wish to make it an explicit focus. For that reason, we have developed a proprietary outdoor leadership program, with different tiers for different age groups and ability levels. The program is not unlike the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award, though without the high costs and paperwork requirements. 

The natural classrooms that we use in our outdoor leadership programs provide unique opportunities for students to learn and grow as individuals and as members of a community. The program develops the leadership potential of students by fostering their self-awareness, exposing them to new environments and challenges, and compelling them to take initiative and take responsibility. 

 

On these programs, the theme is one or more modes of human-powered transportation, such as hiking, cycling, or kayaking. Under our instructions, students are expected to demonstrate technical proficiency in one of these areas by the end of the program. Further, they will receive guidance in planning expeditions, risk management, wilderness survival, and environmental integration. Throughout the trip, students will face challenges and be called upon to make decisions. At the end of the program, they will receive a certificate of completion and a small prize for their efforts.