Huge congratulations go out to our dynamic Grade 8s who dreamt of an overnight student trip and worked together for weeks on end to make their project come true. In the context of their REAL classes (Real Excellence and Attitude for Life) taught by Mrs. Pietrobon and Miss Yu, these young women have been taking part in meaningful discussions about practical topics such as emotional intelligence, assertive communication, teamwork, leadership, friendship, and happiness. Wanting to put these values into practice in the form of a significant common project, they expressed interest in an overnight trip and, with their teachers’ encouragement, led the adventure. The Grade 8s put their energies into budgeting, fundraising, determining the destination, choosing the activities, making packing lists, and preparing the meals together, with each person agreeing to bring ingredients and their own dishware and cutlery for Saturday’s brunch and lunch. The girls organized a bake sale and raised over $300 on the evening of the Hawthorn Exhibition on January 30th. Their determination and commitment throughout the trip planning were awesome! Incredibly, they were able to keep the trip cost to $25/student, including a two-hour lift ticket, dinner on Friday, accommodation and transportation. Wow!
Leaving after school on Friday, February 21st, eight students accompanied by Mrs. Pietrobon and Miss Yu went on the Optional Grade 8 Overnight Tubing Trip to The ROC (Recreational Outdoor Campus), a ski resort in Keswick, Ontario on Lake Simcoe. ‘Nestled in the enchanting winter wonderland of Georgina, Ontario… the ROC is a quintessential winter destination, where families and friends gather to create cherished moments and embrace the full beauty of the Canadian winter.’
The group drove up north to The ROC to arrive in time for tubing from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, followed by dinner in the chalet. Tables had been reserved for them in the dining area since they were celebrating Lucia’s birthday.
After the meal, they drove to their overnight accommodation, a house in North York that was generously lent to the group for their excursion. They sang happy birthday to Lucia and shared a birthday cake with her.
That night they told stories as a group. On Saturday, the students prepared brunch together – pancakes, scrambled eggs, and grilled cheese on bagels and toast. They went for a snowy nature walk in Earl Bales Park.
The girls climbed and slid down hills, and laughed a lot, especially when they saw one another buried in snow. They made a light afternoon meal before cleaning up and being picked up.
Originally this was supposed to be a trip only for the grade 8s but the Grade 9s who take science with them were also invited. Well done to our Grade 8 participants Elia, Elaina, Maria Paula, Aimilia, and Lucia and to our Grade 9s who attended, Amani, Eden, and Grace. You’ve shown such a zestful and positive attitude for life throughout your trip. Wonderful!