COEO NEWS
OWLS 2019!
The Ontario Wilderness Leadership Symposium (aka OWLS) is an annual event organized to support the development of emerging wilderness trip leaders in Ontario. This low-cost, three-day symposium offers attendees opportunities for relevant leadership and skills-based training, a chance to network with others employed in this unique field and explore a variety of potential avenues for future career development. Young adults, with experience leading wilderness trips and residing in Ontario, are encouraged to apply to participate in this annual professional development event.
Registration is now open!
Registration is now open for OWLS ’19. The OWLS Planning Team is expecting that there will once again be a lot of interest in this event. The event is limited to 40 participants, and so it is important that you register online ASAP. Once registered, please complete and return the supplementary information form found here.
***FOR MORE INFORMATION, PLEASE VISIT THE OWLS WEBPAGE.
Dynamic Horizons: A Research and Conceptual Summary of Outdoor Education
OTHER OEE & RELATED NEWS
Book of the Month:
Is your daily run starting to drag you down? Has running become a chore rather than the delight it once was? Then The Happy Runner is the answer for you.
Authors David and Megan Roche believe that you can’t reach your running potential without consistency and joyful daily adventures that lead to long-term health and happiness. Guided by their personal experiences and coaching expertise, they point out the mental and emotional factors that will help you learn exactly how to become a happy runner and achieve your personal best.
For more details click here
Use code B053 to receive 40% off regular price. Be sure to sign up to receive our e-newsletter to stay informed, click here to sign up! Offer expires 3/31/2019
A review of Outdoor Education Programs in English Secondary Schools in Ontario:
Do you teach outdoor education at the secondary school level in an English-speaking public school board in Ontario? Do you work with a private or board run outdoor education centre that serves Ontario secondary students? Are you passionate about advancing outdoor education programs in the province?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, we need your help! COEO has partnered with UBC and M.Ed student Chris Shibley (Limestone District SB) on a study looking at the state of Outdoor Education in Ontario Secondary Schools. The study, titled “A review of Outdoor Education Programs in English Public Secondary Schools in Ontario” is a continuation of COEO’s 1979, 86 and 92 publication “Catalogue of Programs and Personnel Sites and Services in Outdoor Education in Ontario”.
The study will look at different Outdoor Education programs (Integrated Curriculum Programs, stand alone PAD courses, SHSM offerings, Private and Board led OE centres) and opportunities being offered across the province. The goal of this study is to share information about programs operating across the province, and facilitate the sharing of ideas, resources and support between Outdoor Educators.
We are looking for teachers, administrators and instructors from all 34 public, English school boards in the province, as well as anyone involved with privately operated Outdoor Ed centres used by high schools in the province.
Results of this study will be made available publicly, and to our members in Spring 2019.
If you, or someone you know, is interested or fits the criteria mentioned above, please click the link below to fill out the 5 minute questionnaire, or contact a member of the Research Team below.
https://ubc.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_bx9UWYj57s4B7A9
If you have any questions about the study please contact a member of the research team.
Principal Investigator: LeAnne Petherick – leanne.petherick@ubc.ca – 604 818 6970
Co-Investigator: Chris Shibley – chris.shibley@alumni.ubc.ca – 613 583 1328
National Climate Change Survey
Researchers, Dr. Ellen Field and Associate Professor Paul Berger, from Lakehead University, in collaboration with Learning for a Sustainable Future and with support from SSHRC, are undertaking a national survey to gain an understanding of current levels of knowledge and perceptions of climate change and to assess the education system’s role in addressing climate change education.
This survey is targeting the general public, parents of K-12 students, students ages 12 -18, teachers, administrators, teacher educators, and other interested educators across the country.
Responses are sought from diverse perspectives; whether you feel strongly or are indifferent about climate change and the role of education, your opinions are important!
National and Provincial/Territorial results will be shared with Ministries of Education, Teacher Federations, Faculties of Education, and other education stakeholder groups across Canada.
Please contribute here: www.bit.ly/lsfclimatesurvey
Survey details:
- survey will take approximately 15-20 minutes
- survey is available in both English and French
- this research study has been reviewed and approved by the Lakehead University Research Ethics Board
- all survey responses are anonymous
- respondents can enter to win 1 of 5 HP Sprocket smartphone photo printers!
If you have any questions about the survey please contact Dr. Ellen Field, Principal Investigator (efield@lakeheadu.ca) or Pamela Schwartzberg, President and CEO of LSF (pam@LSF-LST.ca)
Citizen Science Research Study!
Nisbet Research Lab, Department of Psychology, Trent University
Tell us what it’s like to be a citizen scientist!
We’re researchers interested in citizen science activities and would like to hear from you. Click here to learn more and help us by completing a brief survey. Participants who complete this study will be entered in a draw for a $100 gift card (Amazon, MEC, or REI; $CDN or $US depending on region). There will be a draw every six months and participants can only win once.
OTIP Teaching Awards:
The Ontario Teachers Insurance Plan (OTIP) and the Ontario Teachers’ Federation (OTF) are proud sponsors of the OTIP Teaching Awards.
For many years, these awards have recognized the excellence of our teachers in publicly funded education. There are three categories of awards: elementary school teacher, secondary school teacher and beginning teacher in the first five years of teaching. A teacher may be nominated by anyone – professional colleagues, students, parents, or the general public.
Nominations are now open for the 2019 awards. The deadline for receipt of nominations is March 31, 2019. Further information is provided on the attached PDF and is also available at www.teachingawards.ca. If you have any questions, please contact Jason Healey at OTF: Jason.healey@otffeo.on.ca.
otip teaching awards 2019 – english
OEE P.D. OPPORTUNITIES
Adventureworks Training:
Low Ropes Facilitator (Level 1)
March 25-26, 2019
Canterbury Hills, Ancaster
Assistant High Ropes Instructor ( Level 1)
March 25-29, 2019
Canterbury Hills, Ancaster
Ropes Course Instructor (Level 2)
March 25-29, 2019
Canterbury Hills, Ancaster
Refresh & Recert (Level 2)
March 28-29, 2019
Canterbury Hills, Ancaster
For more information and to register, go to www.adventureworks.org
Lakehead University Summer Outdoor Experiential Education AQ Course – Registration is now open!
Visit the Lakehead University website for more information and to register for this course.
Fatality Prevention Workshop for Outdoor Educators
Join Dr. Andrew Brookes (visiting professor from La Trobe University, Australia) as he leads us through a case based workshop that explores strategies of prevention of fatalities in outdoor programming. Outdoor educators and industry professionals will be collaborating to discover the important reasons why fatalities really occur in outdoor programs as well as gain the tools and knowledge to implement fatality prevention within respective programming. This one day workshop will be held on Friday, March 22nd in the new Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation and Engineering building at Laurentian Campus. Some pre-cursory reading will be required. Lunch will be provided. A great chance to network with industry leaders from across the province.
Click here to visit the workshop website for further information and to register.
Paddle Canada Certification Program, Leaders of the Day
Nationally recognized certifications delivered by expert wilderness Instructors
Paddle Canada Advanced Level Canoe Tripping + Introduction to Lake Skills Combo.*This is the current level of certification required by O.P.H.E.A. to take students on canoe expeditions
When: August 18th to 23rd 2019 in the Algonquin Interior
Our promise….Mind-blowing adventures, patient instruction and Transformative Experiences. Have you made promises of your own for 2019? Let us help you keep them! Say YES to embracing new adventures in your Life!
http://www.leadersoftheday.com/skills-certifications/advanced-canoe-tripping-tandem-and-solo/
Guide Star Training Program: 4 Great Certifications in just 8 days!
When: August 18th to 25th 2019 in the Algonquin Interior
- Paddle Canada Advanced Canoe Tripping
- Paddle Canada Introduction to Lake Skills
- Wilderness and Survival Skills Program
- Back-country Navigation Level 1
This program is perfect for those looking for a full spectrum immersion experience in the Canadian wilderness. Our small class size ensures that you get lots of one-on-one mentoring. You do not need to be a Pro to apply! In fact we have had many students over the years who weren’t even looking for the certs but for the adventure itself. Don’t miss your chance to take part in this amazing training adventure!
http://www.leadersoftheday.com/skills-certifications/guide-star-certification-program/
Green Teacher Webinars
Wed. Mar 6, 7:30-8:30 pm EST
Mindfulness is inherently connected to children’s creative nature play. This also applies, by extension, to adults who facilitate and/or join children in their imaginative explorations within a natural setting. During this interactive webinar, we invite you to watch and learn or actively join the discussion by sharing your ideas, experiences, and insights about this topic. Dave will kick-start the discussion by outlining the benefits for both children and adults of being mindful and sharing time in nature.
with Liza Barney
Wed. Mar. 27, 7:30-8:30 pm EST
Birds can be found in our backyards, schoolyards, local parks and communities, offering an exciting and accessible connection to nature all year long. Participating in citizen science is a fun way to help students get to know their local birds, and contribute to real-world science. This webinar will introduce entry-level, student-friendly Citizen Science programs for all ages and experiences, including Project FeederWatch, Great Backyard Bird Count, Schoolyard Bird Blitz, Project NestWatch and the Christmas Bird Count for Kids.
Secrets to Snagging Great Science Partners
with Megan Edgar
Wed. Apr. 10, 7:30-8:30 pm EST
In this webinar, Megan will help you understand how to cultivate and grow relationships with community members who can enrich classroom learning experiences. She will help you determine what type of partnership is right for your students, how to grow partnerships into long-term research projects, and how to tie field experiences to required curriculum. This webinar will help you learn how to take your students into the real world of science and conservation where they can practice science process skills in an authentic setting and meet inspiring people from their home community.
UPCOMING CONFERENCES
EECOM Conference 2019
May 10-12, 2019, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
The theme of the EECOM Conference in 2019 is “Action on Climate Change Through Education,” making this the first national environmental education conference with a focus on climate change education. Our aim is to increase action on climate change through education by bringing together educators, students, policy makers, researchers, and community members to discuss and collaborate on this important and timely topic.
Four concurrent session strands will focus on (1) PreK-12 Education, (2) Higher Education, (3) Community Education, (4) and Indigenous Education. Presentations and contributions on a wide range of other environmental education and land-based topics are also welcomed. We are excited to bring a mix of presentation styles and formats, which will support participants of all backgrounds and learning styles. There will be keynote plenaries, panel discussions, hands-on workshops, place-based field trips, pre-conference field trips, leadership seminars, and more.
OSEE Ecolinks Conference 2019
May 16, 2019, High Park Nature Centre, Toronto, Ontario
Ecolinks is not your typical conference. Instead of sitting in a darkened room watching a PowerPoint presentation, the day is packed with hands-on, classroom-ready activities for teaching Ontario curriculum through an environmental lens. Not only is the day a lot of fun, you’ll return to your school with new activities and skills for teaching environmental education.
At Ecolinks 2019, learn how to integrate STEAM education into your teaching practice. Get tips and tricks from the pros through hands-on workshops.
This year we are excited to have five themes for the conference:
1) Inquiry-based learning
2) Makerspaces and loose parts play
3) Exploring food systems through environmental education
4) Indigenous perspectives & environmental education
5) Environmental justice
For more information, visit www.osee.ca.
Please click here to register for Ecolinks 2019!
Interpretation Canada, 2019 National Conference
Sept 9-12, Winnipeg, Manitoba
Interpretation Canada is excited for our 2019 National Conference, Unpacking Dialogue, at the Canadian Museum for Human Rights in Winnipeg in September. We recently opened our call for session proposals and I am hoping that you would be able to share this with your members who may be interested in joining us.
From September 9 to 12, we will be joined by interpreters from coast to coast to coast to explore incorporating dialogue into our practice. We will unpack what it means to use dialogic interpretation, explore various tools and techniques, and uncover what it means to create a safe space for open discussions.
We are seeking proposals from interpreters, academics, museum professionals, tourism operators, and others who can help us delve into dialogue. Facilitators using dialogice and participatory interpretation will be given extra consideration. Round tables and panel discussions welcome.
Save the date to join us in Winnipeg in September. Conference details and our Call for Sessions are available on our website. Please submit proposals by March 17, 2019. https://interpretationcanada. ca/page-18083
JOB POSTINGS
Education Program Director, Earth Rangers
The Education Program Director will be responsible for evaluating a recent pilot study and transitioning it into an ongoing program that is to be made widely available to schools across Canada. The position is also responsible for the annual development of the pre and post assembly lessons.
Key Responsibilities include:
- Evaluate the existing Clubs Program pilot, make adjustments as needed and prepare for full national launch in September 2019
- Recruit and manage any required staff and/or consultants
- Lead the development of all program materials such as educational and curriculum linked materials, website content for educators, marketing pieces, and an e-newsletter
- Monitor program’s progress and report regularly on results
- Manage the program’s budget
- Develop and implement a marketing and communications plan to promote the program to teachers
- Work with President to establish long term goals for the Program
- Explore partnership opportunities with other relevant organizations working in schools
- Lead, manage and grow our newly established Teacher Advisory Committee
- Develop and evaluate the pre and post assembly lessons annually
- Act as a resource to the Membership Team by reviewing and providing advice for the development of their home-based Missions.
To view the posting, and to apply, Click Here: Education Program Director
Assistant Camp Director, Camp Couchiching
Camp Couchiching is looking for an Assistant Camp Director! This full-time permanent position will ideally start in March.
Camp Couchiching is an independent charity operating near Orillia, Ontario, Canada since 1946. This position would take the lead on our Outdoor Education Centre operation in May, June, September and October and during that time we will host over 4,000 participants largely through school programs. During the Summer, this role takes on a Programming lead for our Day & Overnight Camps.
We pride ourselves on our reputation of friendliness and expect these qualities from all our staff members/operations. We are proud to be accredited by the Ontario Camps Association.
This position reports to our Camp Director, Oona Ashmore, to provide excellent experiences for everyone who attend our Camp.
To view the posting, and to apply, Click Here: Assistant Director Posting
Field Station Program and Development Manager, Harrison Lewis Coastal Discovery Centre
The candidate will, under the direction of a designated member of the Board, develop activities, events, and public offerings, either independently or in collaboration with instructors or facilitators for the coming 2019 season; manage bookings and reservations; seek funding opportunities and write proposals; develop advertising; manage the HLC website; maintain an engaging and robust social media presence and oversee the operation of the facility, which would include but not be limited to, housekeeping and maintenance.
To view the posting, and to apply, Click Here: Program & Development Manager
Multiple positions, The Canadian Ecology Centre
For all spring/summer positions, please submit your cover letter and resume by email to laura@canadianecology.ca,
Only successful candidates will be contacted for an interview. Some positions may be pending based on approval from the Canada Summer Jobs funding program (to be eligible, candidates must be under the age of 30).
Outdoor Education Specialist (May/June & July/August) – FRENCH speaking required for May/June contracts: Outdoor Education Specialists will plan and facilitate programs related to environmental education, nature awareness, outdoor technology (GPS), and wilderness skills, to elementary and high school groups for day and overnight trips for May/June. In July/August they will plan and facilitate outdoor recreational and social activities for summer camp high school students. The ideal candidate will be available days and evenings throughout the week and weekends, with some overnight stays required, and will have experience with outdoor/environmental education. Room and board available as per contract.
For youth in post-secondary or graduates starting at $15.00/hr.
Day Camp Coordinator (July/August):The youth camp coordinator will be responsible for planning and running our four day camps (which are run out of the North Bay/Mattawa Conservation Authority building on Janey Avenue in North Bay), as well as our 6-day overnight camp run at the Canadian Ecology Centre. The ideal candidate will have previous Day Camp experience, experience in planning and delivering educational/camp-based programs, good group and time management skills, as well as a good understanding of environmental science and outdoor skills.
For youth in post-secondary or graduates. 6-8 week contract. 1 position available at $15.50/hr.
Day Camp Counselors (July/August): Day camp counselors will report to the day camp coordinator, helping to facilitate daily camp activities and routines. The ideal candidate will be available for all 5 camps (4 day camp weeks/1 overnight week), plus a training week, and has experience with day and overnight camps either having attended them, or previous experience as a counselor.
For youth in high school, post-secondary, or graduates. 6 week contract. 2 positions available, starting at $14.00/hr.
Client/Front Desk Services Representative (June-August): As a main point of contact for all our clients and visitors, the Client Services Representative will provide information about the facility and local area, answer client inquiries, and take reservations for accommodations and programs at the CEC. The ideal candidate will be available for weekdays and evenings as well as weekends, have experience with tourism and hospitality, and possess strong computer, organizational and problem solving skills.
For youth in high school, post secondary, or graduates. Positions start at $14.50/hr.
Health and Wellness Coordinator (July/August) – 6 week contract: The Health and Wellness Coordinator will be responsible for providing support during our 2-week Residential High School Credit Courses. This would include assisting with medication administration, assistance in medical situations, mental health and guidance support, providing care to students and taking them to the hospital if required and communicating with parents regarding any students’ health situation.
For youth or recent graduates starting at $16.00/hr.
Summer 2-Week Credit Course Teachers Contract:The Canadian Ecology Centre will be hiring OCT qualified teachers, for our summer credit courses in July/August 2019. Courses are team-taught with two teachers in each class. Please see our website for our course offerings. https://www.
Co-op and Student Teacher Positions: The Canadian Ecology Centre provides opportunities for co-op placements as well as student teacher placements throughout the year. Contact us to inquire about availability!
Instructor, Lake Simcoe Region Conservation Authority
Working with LSRCA’s team of educators, the primary role of the Instructor is the delivery of outreach education programs to school and community groups at venues throughout the Lake Simcoe watershed. This position reports directly to the Outreach Coordinator.
To view the entire posting, and for application information, click here: 2019-Job_Ad-Instructor_Apr to Jun_ORE
Sessional Instructor/Summer Program Director – Outdoor Education, University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus
The Department of Social Sciences at the University of Alberta’s Augustana Campus invites applications for the following full-time term position in Outdoor Education.
Duties include:
Teach 20 credits in Physical Education/Outdoor Education/Physical Activity classes as determined in consultation with the Chair of Social Sciences; Planning, developing, implementing and managing summer outdoor education programs; Responsibilities are subject to the authority of the Chair of Social Sciences, to meet the instructional needs of the department.
The successful candidate(s) will be expected to hold a minimum of a Master’s degree in Physical Education or a related field and to have the appropriate certifications and experience to support leading wilderness expeditions, will have strong organizational, interpersonal, and communication skills and will preferably have recent experience in university teaching at the undergraduate level.
Multiple positions, Camp Kintail
Camp Kintail is hiring a Garden Director, Waterfront team member, Challenge Course Coordinator, Outdoor living skills staff and Outdoor Adventure Director. Check out their website to view all postings and to apply!
Lead Animator, Nature Play program, Evergreen
The Lead Animator will supervise and deliver educational, inspiring, nature based play programs and activities for children and families at Gzowski and Kingsdale Parks in Kitchener, Ontario. The individual will work with a team of Play Animators to develop content for weekly programs for drop-in families, visiting schools, camps, and community groups.
To view the posting and to apply Click Here
Pine River Institute, multiple positions
Pine River Institute is an innovative co-ed residential treatment program for teens struggling with addictive behaviours. We are a family-centered program comprised of 4 phases: Wilderness (Outdoor Leadership Experience), Residential, Transition, and Aftercare. Our campus is situated on 200 acres in the Niagara Escarpment near Shelburne, Ontario
The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication and positive role modeling skills, combined with a work style that embodies creativity and initiative.
Canoe Trip Leader and Paddling instructor, Canadian Canoe Museum
We are looking for two energetic individuals who are certified paddling instructors and experienced tripping guides to lead our popular day camps and backcountry trips.
As a Canoe Museum Paddling Instructor, you are responsible for designing and facilitating a safe, engaging, and camper-focused program plan based on the ORCKA skills and best experiential education practices. Working as a team, you will inspire participants to become more self-confident, resilient, and skilled, providing enthusiastic, informative, hands-on learning opportunities. As part of the Canoe Museum team you are responsible for accomplishing shared responsibilities, organizing program logistics, and regularly inspecting the inventory of all waterfront equipment.
To view the full posting and to apply Click Here
Instructor/Residential Care Worker, Wendigo Lake Expeditions
Instructors/Residential Care Workers for Project DARE & REACH Residential Adventure Therapy Programs provide direct service programming including delivery of the intensive therapeutic and behaviour management program; facilitating adventure activities ranging from games/initiatives, low and high ropes courses and other challenge activities; leading wilderness expeditions; supporting the school program; and facilitating life skills programming including cooking and daily chores routines.
Instructors are paid a variable per diem based on work experience, services provided, and level of responsibility. A typical annual income ranges from $40,000-$50,000 plus benefits including an extended health care plan. Work schedules vary per program, but average 15 days per month. If you are well-qualified, enjoy the challenge of working with youth who have very challenging behaviours, and would like to work as a member of a motivated team of exceptional people within a culture of support and feedback, send a cover letter and resume to: jobs@wendigolake.com
Outdoor Wilderness Therapy Coach, Emergo Recovery
Emergo Recovery is seeking a passionate professional with strong leadership training, outdoor education and recreation background and/or fitness background. A professional who can show a commitment to positively impacting people utilizing your years education and formal professional experiences.
All candidates must be minimum twenty-five (25) years of age (due to insurance regulations). Must posses a valid drivers license, have a clean drivers abstract, agree to mandatory drug testing for all team members, and be tobacco free.
MUST be willing and able to work weekends.
Position is available immediately. This position can be full or part time and is a one (1) year contract (independent contractor) position. Compensation ranges from $18 – $25/hr, depending on skills, experience, and education. Local candidates only need apply, no relocation (residential property is near Alliston, ON).
Please submit both a cover letter and your C.V. by email only. In your cover letter, please highlight what skills you bring that make you an asset – and why do you love the outdoors.
Please view the Emergo website for more info: emergorecovery.com
Teachers, Educators, Counsellors, The Boundless School
Our mission is to go to the ends of the earth to help teens achieve academic and social outcomes beyond their wildest dreams. We are quite relentless in insisting people be good to each other. The result is an exquisite learning environment where kids don’t want to leave. In the Fall and Winter, we deliver an adventure-based boarding school for struggling teens.
For more information or to apply, please click here.
ONTARIO CAMPS ASSOCIATION – JOB BOARD
The OCA Job Board is always an excellent place to find job postings in the field of outdoor education. Check out their website, as many full-time positions at outdoor centres and camps are now being advertised.
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Twitter https://twitter.com/COEOoutdoors @COEOoutdoors
ABOUT THIS ELECTRONIC NEWSLETTER
For consistency, the COEO electronic newsletter is now published on the first of each month. Anyone having an item of interest to outdoor & experiential educators and desiring publication in this newsletter needs to submit it to newsletter@coeo.org at least two days before the publication date.
The newsletter is generally organized according to the following headings: COEO News, Other OEE & Related News, P.D. Opportunities, Opportunities for Students, Resources, Job Postings. If your organization wishes to post information (e.g., notice of upcoming events, etc), it needs to be an organizational member of COEO.
If you would like to be removed from COEO’s eNewsletter mailing list, please send an email to newsletter@coeo.org and ask to be unsubscribed.