Grade 11 Snowshoe Expedition

Grade 11 Snowshoe Expedition

The Grade 11 Snowshoe expedition, developed together with our outdoor education partner, Canyons, extends students' skills and knowledge of expeditions and leadership, facilitating inquiry into the statement: Living and learning in communities require initiative, action and application of leadership. The mountains of Minakami, Gunma provide a picturesque and challenging setting for students to explore expeditions in a snow environment with winter camping. In small groups, students use the time at Canyons Minakami Base to prepare for their adventurous journey. The overnight snow expedition entails travelling with packs and sleeping in tents as well as the snow caves that the students design and build.The 3 day and 2 night traverse entails travelling with packs and sleeping in tents as well as the snow caves that the students build. With expert leadership from the mountain guides at Canyons, students are instructed on the use of snowshoes, appropriate clothing, cooking and camping in cold conditions. The area of Minakami has been chosen due to its lower risk of avalanches. Weather and snow conditions are constantly monitored in order to assess these risks. Reflection activities allow the students to solidify the learning of key concepts and transfer these to school and family life.

Note: The cost of this expedition is covered in the school tuition.