Program Overview
The Environmental Leaders of Tomorrow (ELT) program is an innovative environmental learning experience aimed at developing the next generation of environmental leaders in our communities.
ELT is structured around three distinct phases, each carefully crafted to build knowledge, foster appreciation for the natural world, and develop environmental leadership skills:
Phase 1 – Virtual Classroom Visit: The journey begins with an interactive virtual classroom session. Here, students are introduced to fundamental environmental concepts, setting the stage for deeper exploration. This phase is designed to spark curiosity and lay a solid foundation for the hands-on experiences that follow.
Phase 2 – Outdoor Education Experience: The heart of the ELT program is a three-day, two-night stay at one of our premier outdoor education centres: Albion Hills Field Centre, Lake St. George Field Centre, or Claremont Nature Centre. During this immersive experience, students engage in a variety of activities that bring environmental science to life. From exploring diverse ecosystems to participating in sustainability projects, students gain a firsthand understanding of the natural world and the pressing environmental issues we face today.
Phase 3 – In-Person Follow-Up: The final phase of the program is an in-person follow-up session. This visit reinforces the lessons learned during the previous phases and celebrates the environmental actions students have taken since their outdoor adventure. It’s a time for reflection, sharing, and planning future initiatives, ensuring that the impact of the program extends well beyond the initial experience.
Eligibility Criteria for Program Participation
We are excited to offer limited spaces for classes that meet the following criteria:
High-Priority Schools: Classes must be from high-priority schools in urban communities that face financial barriers, preventing access to similar programs.
Grade 6 or 7 Students: Students in Grade 6 or 7 who have not previously participated in this program are eligible.
Class Size: Each class should consist of approximately 30 students and no more than 40 students. Exceptions can be made for schools with multiple grade six or seven classes, allowing for more than one trip.
Commitment: To ensure a positive, enriching and impactful experience for everyone involved, we encourage students and teachers/administrators to fully engage in all program activities including in-class learning, games and learning activities at the outdoor centre and the development and completion of an environmental action project back at the school.
Program Cost
$25/student (HST included)
As a means of demonstrating their personal investment in the learning experience, we ask that participating students contribute a nominal student fee of $25 towards their participation in the program. This contribution covers all programming, meals and accommodations while at the outdoor centre.
Bus Subsidy
$500/class (HST excluded)
Toronto and Region Conservation Authority (TRCA) offers a bus subsidy to classes participating in ELT to help cover the cost of transportation to and from the outdoor education centre.
If your class meets the criteria above and you are interested in participating, please contact Amy.Thurston@trca.ca to learn more.