We're Here to Support Outdoor Learning in the TDSB!

 

Button to Book a Visit

 

The Toronto Outdoor Education Schools are here to support teachers taking advantage of outdoor spaces and the lower risk of transmission of COVID-19 that these areas afford. It is time to reconsider the schoolground and local greenspaces as an extension of the classroom, which allows for physical distancing to happen more naturally, and as a powerful approach to build creative, analytical, social and physical skills – all tied to the curriculum.

We are here to support, with visits virtually and in-person, answering questions about outdoor learning, in-service for educators and resources to assist.

To book an in-person or virtual trip, or to discuss in-service opportunities, please complete this Intake Form. 

For questions contact Michelle Blackie (905-452-0505) or Lori Yez (416-919-2969). 

Supporting Virtual and In-person Excursions

Outdoor Education Specialists are ready to come to your schoolyards and local greenspaces to deliver curriculum connected outdoor programming.  For a list of these programs, please click here.  For virtual school, we can offer an interactive visit with an outdoor specialist. This curriculum connected lesson would provide the opportunity for students to learn, ask questions, and engage in a different environment. This is a team teaching opportunity to support virtual learning and could include multiple short visits with provocations, challenges and follow up. Alternatively a virtual hike could be tailored to a topic you are teaching and allow for students to ask questions along the way.  Click Here for the list of virtual programs that are available. 

Resources to Support Outdoor Learning

TOES staff are available as a resource to support educators in fostering outdoor learning in local spaces and to assist in bringing outdoor learning to the virtual classroom. Services include consultation via email and office hours, virtual and in person in-service, multimedia libraries and learning resources. To access our resources and to see scheduled services and hours, visit our Resources for Teachers section.