Today’s blog comes from Nicole Benn and Annalise Twomey, senior park interpreters at Pinery Provincial Park.
Cicadas are singing, Monarchs are migrating, and students and teachers are preparing!
Back to school season is upon us, but returning to class does not mean exploring Ontario Parks is over. We can still build memories in our parks by learning with students of all ages at Pinery Provincial Park.
We — Nicole and Annalise — are senior park interpreters in the Discovery Program at Pinery. We explore unique and biodiverse ecosystems with students every day, and host inquiry-based and experiential programs where students learn science, geography, the arts and more.
Teachers, parents, and students: we would love to see you in our park, in your classroom, or online through our web-conferencing platform!
Programs available
We deliver programming using our “Eco-Immersion” model, where teachers can book one or all of the following program types.
Pinery exploration: Join us in the park for an authentic, place-based, and dynamic program. This may be a guided hike, a park stewardship activity, getting active or exploring a topic of your choice with a Park Interpreter!
Naturalist in the classroom: We can visit your classroom to share our knowledge about park ecosystems, species and phenomena using artifacts, stories, videos and more! We may even prepare for or reflect on your in-park visit.
Nature-gone-digital: No matter how far away you are, we want to connect with you online. Classes can get an up-close look at the park and discuss a wide range of topics with park staff, all from the convenience of the classroom. We can even remotely link to park staff in the field to visit ecosystems in the park!
This back-to-school season, provide students the opportunity to connect with nature and have a unique learning experience.
Students will engage all five senses, learn about the natural world, and see their grade-based curriculum come to life. We would love to share the stunning and dynamic Ontario landscape with you and your class.
We are just an email away!
Connect with us
A Pinery interpreter is waiting to connect with you to organize a one-of-a-kind experience for your class.
You can find more information about Pinery’s Outdoor Education Program here or email us to start your journey.
Please Note: Park programs are currently free of charge. Entering the park has associated costs including a Daily Vehicle permit ($62.50 per school bus) and any facility or equipment rentals, if desired.
Connect with other parks offering Discovery School Programs
Discovery Rangers are available at numerous locations across the province to deliver school programs in our parks, in your classroom or schoolyard, and via videoconference.
Designed to enrich and extend the K-12 Ontario Science and Social Studies Curricula, our school programs provide first-hand experiences that promote inquiry, problem solving, active learning, and responsible citizenship by connecting students directly with Ontario’s natural and cultural heritage.
To inquire about Discovery School Programs available in your community email us.