Outdoor Education in the Toronto District School Board

Outdoor Education in the TDSB

Outdoor Education offers students curriculum based, “beyond the indoor classroom” learning experiences. The aim of these experiences is to awaken students to their connection to the built and natural world around them. Whether in an urban or rural setting, students are “learning by doing”. Outdoor Education provides the direct experience that brings learning to life and inspires a sense of wonder.

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In the Toronto District School Board, Outdoor Education is an integral part of each student’s elementary years. To ensure that these opportunities are available to all students, the TDSB operates and staffs five Day Centres and five Overnight Centres.

Operated under the auspices of the Program Department (Science, Environmental and Ecological Studies Cluster), these facilities and staff provide exemplary programming for over 90,000 TDSB students (and 3500 staff) each year.

The TDSB’s Day Centres provide highly motivating and innovative, curriculum connected Outdoor/Urban Education programs for students throughout their K to 8* years. Spread across the City in locales that range from the natural to the built environment, programs utilize the unique resources available to each site. Day Centres serve neighbouring Families of Schools minimizing travel and leaving more time for experiential learning! ‘Rich and full’ captures the essence of day centre programming! Learn more about our Day Centres.

** the grades served by each Day Centre vary



Every student between grades 5 and 7** has the opportunity to benefit from a stay at one of the TDSB’s Overnight Centres. "Intense" best describes the programs which emphasize team work, self-discipline and personal growth through curriculum enhancing outdoor activities. Situated in some of the most spectacular parts of the province, the breathtaking settings cultivate unique learning communities where students, teachers and Outdoor Education staff collaborate for success. The result: lessons and learning that continue to shape students - and teachers - long after the visit ends. Learn more about our Overnight Centres.

** the grade in which students visit an Overnight Centre varies from school to school


Some Outdoor Education Centres also offer:

  • Weekend Programs emphasizing Leadership and Personal Growth;
  • Special Programs aimed at various TDSB student groups including those in Secondary Schools;
  • Summer Camps (open to both TDSB and non-TDSB students).

T.O.E.S.

Innovative Programmes and Futuristic Schools
140 Borough Drive, Toronto, M1P 4N6

T - 416-396-2174

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