Outdoor education is a methodology that provides a full spectrum, cross curricular experience. Essex Region Conservation believes that the students of today are the environmental stewards of tomorrow. We offer hands-on Outdoor Education programs at several conservation areas in the form of field trips. We also offer a variety of Nature Near You experiences delivered outdoors at your school. All of our Education Programs are tailored to fit each grade level (K-12) and meet the Ontario Curriculum for Science, Social Studies, History, Geography, and more!
To book an education program, please use the form below to provide information.
You can also contact education@erca.org or call Kris Ives, Curator/Education Coordinator 519-981-0126 Jessica Rose, Environmental Educator 519-791-6952
Education Programs
Frequently Asked Questions
In Person Conservation Area Field Trips
Two hours of ERCA Education Team led programming during a 3 hour on-site experience.
Sample Schedule*:
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10:00am - 10:15am - Arrival
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10:15am - 11:15am - Program Part 1
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11:15am - 11:45am - Nutrition Break
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11:45am - 12:45pm - Program Part 2
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12:45pm - 1:00pm - Prepare for Departure
Please note:
*The above times are just examples; we are highly flexible. Once you've contacted your bussing company, you can let our Education Team know your arrival and departure times and your preferred itinerary.
Fees
$225 per group
We can accommodate up to 30 participants in one group. We recommend filling the bus with 60 students and conducting the program with two groups. This also includes all staff and up to 6 adult chaperones.
Virtual Field Trips
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Email education@erca.org for details
Programs We Offer
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Offered at the John R. Park Homestead
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Program sub-themes are curriculum connected per-grade (ex. Plants for Pioneers, Simple Machines, Early Technologies, etc.)
Nature Near You
Specialist High School Major (SHSM)
Educator Professional Development for Teachers
Early Settlers
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Available May and June at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area
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Program sub-themes available per grade are curriculum connected
Wetlands Lifecycles
Maple Syrup / Sirop D'erable
Wetlands Lifecycles
- Available February 19 - March 31, 2025
- Available May and June at Hillman Marsh Conservation Area
- Program sub-themes available per grade are curriculum connected
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Harvest Traditions and Celebrations
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Available September and October at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area
Marvelous Migration
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Available September and October at Holiday Beach Conservation Area
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Program sub-themes available per grade are curriculum connected
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Available December through February at the John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area
Wildlife in Winter
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Available November 27 - December 19, 2024 John R. Park Homestead Conservation Area
Holiday Traditions and Celebrations
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Outdoor Explorer Programs for Homeschoolers are back! Our 2024 schedule includes six 2-hour curriculum-connected programs focusing on the natural and cultural heritage of our region.
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Wildlife in Winter - January 21, 2025
