Overnight Winter Adventure an A+

Written by admin on 01 March 2011

Photos courtesy MHS Teacher Gord Martin

Emilio Knee and Kevin Gauthier peek out from their quinzee

MANITOUWADGE, ON – Last Tuesday, February 22^nd, senior students in Manitouwadge High School’s (MHS) SHSM (Specialist High Skills Major) Environment Program (Northern Studies) were seen hiking through town on snowshoes, complete with backpacks, as they travelled to Gaug Lake for an overnight adventure in learning and survival. The overnight excursion supported their introductory unit on staying safe and comfortable in the outdoors, allowing them an opportunity to test their skills in a winter environment.

Students planned to sleep in quinzee snow shelters which they undertook building as they arrived on site following their two hour hike. Most were successful in this endeavor though one group related in their blogging afterwards how their quinzee had not come together quite as planned so they created a trench which they tarped “[it] kept us just as warm” explained Elaine Milks . A heated wall tent and snowmobile were also on site in case of any problems during the trip, the first came in very handy as a place for the students to dry wet clothing.

Food preparations had been done in class by the grade 12 students in consultation with their teacher, Gord Martin, prior to the trip. The food, tent and and other necessary supplies, were brought to the camp location by the teacher and students with snowmobiles, a few days prior; this had also provided an opportunity to dig a fire pit and ensure they had cut wood.

The SHSM Environment Program has a focus on resource management, outdoor recreation , environmental awareness and community involvement designed to inspire students to achieve their full potential by providing unique opportunities to apply new knowledge in ways not possible within a traditional classroom. Students gain knowledge, leadership skills and industry recognized certifications and training through intensive hands on learning experiences. The students involved in this outing certainly returned which much learning gained, not only in respect to the skills they acquired but also in regards to group dynamics, the importance of team work, and an appreciation for the beauty in our own back yard. The recurring response from the students’ reports was that the trip was a positive experience which the majority would be glad to participate in again.