Outdoor Education

OUTDOOR EDUCATION

Welcome to DSBN Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education gives students opportunities to learn through experience, discovery, and hands-on exploration.

Whether at one of DSBN’s two outdoor campuses, in school yards, or through community partnerships, students take part in engaging outdoor experiences that bring curriculum to life in meaningful and memorable ways.

From exploring forests and trails, to working through challenges and inquiry-based activities, students develop environmental awareness, and deepen their connection to the world around them.

DSBN Outdoor Education Campuses

At the DSBN, we believe some of the most meaningful learning happens outside the classroom through curiosity, adventure, and connection with the natural world. Our two Outdoor Education Campuses provide Kindergarten to Grade 12 students with engaging, inquiry- and experience-based learning opportunities that bring curriculum to life. Through hands-on experiences such as low ropes team-building challenges, geocaching, animal habitat and food web investigations, art in nature, outdoor survival skills, environmental exploration, orienteering, and snowshoeing, students are encouraged to play, explore, and discover. These outdoor learning experiences help build confidence, strengthen teamwork and leadership skills, support student well-being, and foster a deeper appreciation and understanding of the environment.

DSBN Outdoor Education logo with the tagline “Play. Explore. Discover.”
Exterior view of the Adventure Campus building in winter, with snow on the ground and the Adventure Campus sign visible on the front entrance.

Adventure Campus

Located along the boundary of Short Hills Provincial Park in Fonthill, the Adventure Campus offers a dynamic natural setting for outdoor and environmental education.

Students are encouraged to explore their surroundings, follow their curiosity, and connect with nature through active, inquiry-based experiences and adventurous outdoor play.

(905) 892-5719
2984 Holland Road, Fonthill

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Exterior entrance of the Living Campus building, surrounded by trees and flowering plants.

Living Campus

Located within the Niagara Peninsula Conservation Area’s Woodend Conservation Area, the Living Campus offers a remarkable outdoor learning environment. With sweeping views of Lake Ontario and the Niagara Escarpment – part of a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve – it is also home to the Bruce Trail, Canada’s oldest and longest footpath.

The Living Campus provides unique opportunities for students to explore, investigate, and connect with the natural world through hands-on education experiences.

(905) 688-6125
1 Taylor Road, Niagara-on-the-Lake

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Community Partnerships

DSBN Outdoor Education is strengthened through partnerships that expand learning opportunities and deepen students’ connection to the local environment.
Working alongside community and environmental partners, students take part in authentic experiences such as: 

  • learn-to-fish programs
  • tent camping experiences
  • day trips to local forested and natural areas

These experiences are connected to curriculum and support students in applying their learning in real-world outdoor settings.

Whether exploring natural spaces or working with community partners, students build understanding through hands-on, engaging experiences. This approach helps students see learning as active, connected, and part of everyday life. 

Outdoor Education for All

DSBN is committed to creating inclusive outdoor education experiences where all students can participate, explore, and feel a sense of belonging.

Our campuses include accessible trails and learning spaces, and we work to provide accommodations and supports that help students fully engage in outdoor programming. We believe every student should have opportunities to connect with nature, build confidence, and experience the benefits of learning outdoors.

Through thoughtful planning and flexible programming, we strive to ensure outdoor education is welcoming, accessible, and meaningful for all learners.

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