F.A.Q.
 
Adventure * Leadership * Individuality * Values * Empowerment
 
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS… & ANSWERS
 
 
Q: What time does the bus leave SMCS, & what time do we return?
 
A:   Prior to the Grade 9 trip, students will register for the new school year at 8:30 a.m.  The bus for the trip will leave the school at 9:00 following registration.  School uniform is not required.
  
RETURN TIMES:
The Grade 9 trip will return to SMCS by approximately 4:30pm on Friday September 10th.
 
 
Q:  What if my son has allergies or special dietary requirements?
 
A:  Fill out all allergies & medication on the health form. We will do everything we can to meet all dietary requirements. 
 
Q:  What is the purpose of these outdoor experiences?
 
A:  Experiential Education is based on the philosophy that we learn best by doing.  By utilizing adventure activities, individuals are asked to put aside preconceived notions of their abilities & develop new competencies & confidences.
 
Experiential Education teaches valuable life skills such as goal setting, communication, decision making, trust building, conflict resolution & leadership.
Our mission is to encourage personal growth through cooperation, team work & positive leadership.
 
Q:  Who is in charge? What is the staff: student ratio?  What are the staff’s qualifications?
 
A:  The ALIVE Outdoors staff team consists of outdoor education professionals, teachers & guides that have extensive experience working with groups of all ages. All staff are fully qualified in First Aid & CPR. The ALIVE team is fun, enthusiastic, & fully committed to ensuring that each individual experiences success & positive self-growth.  Every trip has a designated medical attendant at the base camp.   All instructors carry a first aid kit with them at all times. There is one staff (either an SMCS teacher, or an Outdoor Educator) for every 10 students. On canoe trips there are 2 staff for every 7-9 students. Each cabin has a Sr. Student as their leader, & this leader sleeps in the cabin with the kids.
 
Q:  How far to the nearest hospital should an emergency arise?
 
A:    From Wanakita (grade 9), it’s approximately 12 minutes to the Haliburton Hospital. 
 
Q:  Where is my son going to be while he is away? 
 
A:   The Grade 9 trip is in Haliburton @ YMCA Wanakita Outdoor Centre.  In an emergency you can reach us at: 1.800.387.5081 ext 236 or 237
  
Q:  Does it matter what type of bag you pack in?
 
A:  Ideally you will pack in something that is easy to carry. You will be walking from the bus to your cabin. (NO SUITCASES if you can avoid it!) 
 
Q:  Should you pack…. Food? Walkmans? MP3 players? Cell phones?
 
A:  NO!  PLEASE DO NOT pack any of these items. You will have plenty of food, & an evening snack. Food draws animals into the cabins. ONLY BRING A NUT FREE BAGGED LUNCH FOR THE FIRST DAY!  All electronic devices distract from the meaning of removing ourselves from our regular, busy lives. Cell phones DO NOT WORK at most of the camps due to lack of reception. No matter the location, we do not encourage calling home.
 
Q:  What happens if your child is caught with non-prescription drugs, alcohol, cigarettes, knives, or if they are caught causing disruptive behaviour?
 
A:  Parents will be called, & asked to come & pick up their son immediately. 
 
Q:  Are we outside rain or shine?
 
A:  Yes. Regardless of the weather, we will be outside.
 
Q:  Do you need a sleeping bag?
 
A:  YES!!  If you don’t have a sleeping bag… bring a bottom sheet for the mattress, & some blankets.  Also be SURE you pack a flashlight!  
  
 
Should you have other questions, please feel free to call Jalynn Bosley at:
ALIVE Outdoors Inc.  
416.429.8082 or EMAIL:  info@aliveoutdoors.com
Close Window