Get to Know Us
About Our SchoolSince 2009, we’ve existed to enrich the lives of youth and adults through a connection with nature
On Being on Unceded Land
We recognize and honour that we are on unceded and stolen Native land. This includes the territories of the Musqueam, Selilwitulh (Tsleil-Waututh), Skwxwú7mesh Úxwumixw (Squamish), Kwitwetlem, Stó:lo, Qayqayt, Katzie, and Kwantlen nations. By acknowledging this, and acknowledging the privilege that those of us who are settlers have on this land, we wish to take steps to stop the further perpetuation of colonization of people and the land.
At Soaring Eagle Nature School (SENS), we recognize that the work of nature connection is built upon stolen Native land, as well as the stolen labour of Indigenous, Black and People of Colour. We recognize that systemic injustice exists and that we have a responsibility to work toward reparations and equity in resources and nature-based programming.
We are aware of how deeply ingrained colonization and imperialism is in our everyday existence. We strive to create a workplace that is anti-oppressive, queer affirming, non-patriarchal, and diverse in culture as well as individual background. As mentors/people we need to be continually working on decolonizing ourselves and forming solid, deeply rooted and nourishing, wholesome relationships with each other and with all beings on this land.
Our Philosophy
Curiosity-led and student-driven
To support full self-expression in every child, we find the experience of being in nature provides children with the skills, tools, and space they need to develop their natural gifts. Using a passion and curiosity based approach, our teaching is guided by the children. As the mentors get to know them, learning is shaped around these interests, and children are led into deep self-discovery and reverence for nature.
Our Curriculum
Guided by the natural world
Following the cycles and patterns found in nature, mentors have a sense of direction and orientation for designing and facilitating learning experiences that coincide with the natural learning and development journey, along with natural energy cycles found within a day and within each season.
Nature-Based Games
Nature-based games are a physical, mental, and emotional opportunity to feel loose and playful in our self-expression and nourish our imagination.
Edible & Medicinal Plants
Cultivating plants for tea, food, and medicines creates a connection to the landscape through pattern recognition, intuition, and appreciation.
Mammals & Wildlife Tracking
Tracking animals is a window into wildlife that demands whole-brain intelligence and concentration.
Bird Language & Bird ID
Tuning in with a heightened awareness to the vocalizations of birds offers rich information about life on the landscape.
Forest Ecology
Noticing elements of nature and their interconnectedness develops our understanding of ecological principles and our role in effecting positive change.
Survival Skills
Learning and practicing survival skills help relate to nature and develop connections to place in the oldest, most fundamental way.
Nature-Based Crafts
Using our hands to make crafts and tools challenges our focus and creates space for creativity.
Songs & Storytelling
Sharing songs and stories is an ancient tradition and form of sharing knowledge that knits a society together.
Our People
Nature Mentors
We call ourselves mentors because we see who our students are and what captures their interest and curiosity before providing them with opportunities and experiences to grow more fully into their gifts. We believe that, in time, mentoring uncovers the creativity and power that lies within each individual.