Taking learning outdoors begins with one essential priority: safety. Creating a culture of safe and meaningful outdoor learning requires more than enthusiastic teachers—it depends on strong collaboration between educators and administrators. This session explores how school leaders can support outdoor learning by developing clear risk management processes, fostering shared responsibility, and building staff confidence to take learning beyond the classroom walls.
Drawing on industry practices from the Outdoor Council of Canada and the Association of Canadian Mountain Guides (ACMG), participants will examine tried-and-true approaches to trip planning, documentation, communication, and decision-making that strengthen safety while reducing unnecessary barriers to outdoor learning.
Takeaways from this session include:
An introduction to risk management terminology for outdoor learning
Pre-trip conversation starters for outdoor school teams
Exploration of technology that can streamline pre-trip planning and communication
Ready-to-use templates for field excursions, from local outdoor learning experiences to more remote and wilderness-based adventures
By the end of the session, school leaders will leave with practical strategies and tools to create a shared community of practice with supportive systems that enable staff to confidently and safely provide meaningful outdoor learning opportunities for students.
