St. Kateri Outdoor Learning Centre is redefining education by extending learning beyond the traditional classroom. This innovative centre champions a unique approach that seamlessly blends outdoor education, experiential learning, and deeply rooted Indigenous perspectives, fundamentally changing how students interact with their curriculum, their community, and the natural world.

Experiential Learning in Action

The centre’s core philosophy revolves around ‘Learning by Doing,’ where students actively experience concepts rather than simply being told about them. Activities include invigorating hikes exploring local ecosystems, practical navigation exercises, in-depth environmental studies, and exhilarating snowshoeing adventures.

These activities aren’t isolated; they are carefully designed to illuminate concepts across multiple subject areas – science, social studies, physical education, and more – providing real-world context and solidifying understanding. The program complements, rather than replaces, traditional learning, meticulously aligning with the Ontario curriculum.

Inclusive Education & Student Well-being

St. Kateri caters to diverse learning styles, offering alternative pathways for students who may struggle in traditional settings. Immersing themselves in the outdoors encourages critical thinking, collaboration, and practical application of knowledge.

The centre prioritizes overall well-being, recognizing that time in nature promotes physical activity, reduces stress, and cultivates a stronger sense of balance and connection to the environment and oneself.

Indigenous Knowledge & Environmental Stewardship

A key strength of St. Kateri is its thoughtful integration of Indigenous knowledge, culture, and perspectives. Supported by a dedicated Cultural Resource Worker, Elders, and Knowledge Keepers, students engage in respectful and meaningful learning grounded in local Indigenous teachings.

Collaborative Learning & Cultural Enrichment

The Cultural Resource Worker collaborates with classroom teachers to enrich learning experiences, sharing Indigenous perspectives on the land and environment, guiding activities, and fostering understanding of diverse ways of knowing. This approach cultivates appreciation for community, culture, and respectful relationships.

St. Kateri fosters environmental stewardship by encouraging students to understand their interconnectedness with the natural world, instilling a sense of responsibility and inspiring a commitment to protecting it.

Registration is available through Holy Cross Catholic School and Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School in Elliot Lake, with transportation provided from Holy Cross. Students outside the zone are responsible for their own transportation to Holy Cross.