Pine is excited to continue our partnership with Rose Avenue Junior Public School, bringing outdoor learning to students in Toronto’s St. James Town neighborhood. This school year, 300 students in grades 3-6 are joining us outside to explore, play, and learn together.
Students have been busy with hands-on activities like building shelters to withstand wind and water, following fresh animal tracks through the snow, and spotting wildlife up close. One group carefully traced a set of prints, piecing together clues until they finally saw the animal that left them. “Is that actually a coyote?!” one student asked in wonder. And the answer is yes! These moments of discovery are deepening their awareness, problem-solving skills and connection to the natural world.
The joy of being outside in all seasons has been felt by students, teachers, and families alike. As one teacher said after sliding down a snowbank with their class, “Pine in the winter is the best.” Another reflected on how the games helped students build knowledge about nature while also keeping them warm and happy, a perfect balance of learning and play. The impact extends beyond the school day, with many students bringing their families to the park to share in the fun.
A huge thank you to the Chawkers Foundation, the Tippet Foundation, the Catherine and Maxwell Meighen Foundation, and the Stait Family Fund for making these experiences possible. By providing consistent access to nature, we’re helping students develop new skills, grow their confidence, and build a deep relationship with nature that will support them for years to come. We can’t wait for the many adventures ahead!