top of page
Tiny Ones Summer (4).png

Explorers Forest

Forest Adventurers and Trailblazers are outdoor learning programs rooted in Forest School principles and a deep respect for childhood. Taking place entirely outdoors, these programs provide children with regular opportunities to connect with nature, build practical skills, develop confidence, and learn through direct experience.

Group sizes are intentionally kept small, allowing Forest School practitioners to build meaningful relationships with each child and support their individual interests, strengths, and growth. Children are encouraged to follow their curiosity, explore the natural world, take appropriate risks, and become capable, independent learners.

As an enrichment program rather than a traditional school, Explorers offers a flexible and responsive approach to learning. Our days follow a natural rhythm shaped by the seasons, the environment, and the interests of the children. This makes the program an excellent fit for homeschooling families or those looking to complement a traditional school experience with meaningful time outdoors.

What Children May Experience in Our Forest School

Time in nature allows learning to unfold naturally. Rather than following planned activities, children are supported as they explore, discover, and engage with the environment in their own way.

Across the seasons, children may spend their time:

  • exploring the land and noticing seasonal changes

  • building shelters, dens, and temporary structures

  • climbing, balancing, running, and developing physical confidence

  • engaging with natural materials such as sticks, stones, mud, and water

  • telling stories, role-playing, and creating imaginative worlds

  • observing plants, insects, birds, and wildlife

  • gathering around fire for shared moments of connection and reflection

  • using simple tools for meaningful, real-world purposes (where appropriate)

  • forming friendships and learning to work alongside others

These experiences are not fixed or pre-planned—they emerge through time, trust, and the interests of the children. Each day is shaped by the group, the land, and the season.

In this way, children develop skills, confidence, and a sense of belonging through lived experience rather than instruction

More than just time outdoors, Forest Adventurers and Trailblazers offer children the opportunity to develop a lasting relationship with nature, grow in confidence and resilience, and experience the joy of belonging to a supportive outdoor community.

We aim to create a diverse and inclusive group and welcome both returning and new families to join us on the journey.

PXL_20251124_164650858.PORTRAIT.jpg

For ages 4 -10

Monday and or Wednesday

9 AM–3 PM 

$60/session

25 or 50 session

September to June

100% Outdoors 

All Weather

PXL_20250312_164707080.PORTRAIT.jpg

Trailblazers

For ages 9–13 

Tuesdays 

9 AM–3 PM 

$60/session

25 session

September to June

100% Outdoors 

All Weather

PXL_20250909_152913406.jpg

Frequently asked questions?

Where is this located?

These programs are offered at Explorers' Forest at #6 Bergheim Road. Families are required to provide transportation to and from school.

Why is there an application process?
Our application process helps ensure that families fully understand the commitment involved in our program and that Explorers Forest School is the right fit for both children and caregivers. As a fully outdoor program, participation requires access to appropriate outdoor clothing and footwear, as well as the ability to provide packed lunches and snacks each day.

This process allows us to build a supportive, prepared community so children can thrive comfortably and confidently in all seasons.

Can I sign up for single days?
We ask families to commit to the full year. Our programs are designed to build strong relationships, consistency, and a sense of community among children and families.

If you’re unsure whether the program is the right fit, we recommend starting with one of our summer camps. These offer a wonderful opportunity to experience our philosophy, environment, and approach before committing to the school year.

What is the difference between the two groups?

Forest Explorers is a Forest School program for younger children. The focus is on play, exploration, sensory experiences, and building confidence in nature through time outdoors.

Trailblazers is for older children who are ready for extended time on the land and more complex experiences. This group naturally supports growing independence, collaboration, problem-solving, and leadership through shared outdoor experiences.

Each group follows the same Forest School philosophy, with experiences shaped by the children, the land, and the seasons.

HOW CAN IT BE 100% OUTDOORS?

Our aim is to be outside for the full day, our goal is 100% outdoors, but  we are AWARE that we live in Saskatchewan so we are flexible and reasonable. In saying that we do believe “there is no such thing as bad weather only poor clothing selections” so children will need to come dressed for the weather. We will go inside, we have an office trailer with a woodstove, to warm up, dry off and gather as the children need to.  Being outside in all kinds of weather builds resiliency and grit but we know we live in Saskatchewan so during the cold months we break up outside time with indoor snacks, lunches and stories.

 

We will go INSIDE for:

  • Temperature is colder than -25 C

  • Winds speed higher than 35 kph

  • Electrical storm

  • Heavy rain with lighting

We follows safety procedures to ensure a successful outdoor experience: Risk assessment/Safety and Health procedures/Emergency procedures
Programs are canceled when the buses are not running or at -45 C.

WHAT DOES THE CALENDDAR LOOK LIKE?

Here is a draft for the the 2026-27 school year.

 “We don’t just play in nature—we learn, build, discover, and grow in it.”- Shelley Bettker

bottom of page