Off-Site Learning Experiences

Field Trips

At the Niitsitapi Learning Centre, learning extends beyond the classroom. Thanks to the generosity of our community partners and funders, students have opportunities throughout the year to participate in meaningful off-site learning experiences that enhance classroom learning and support student growth.

A signed consent form is required for all field trips unless its a walking field trip. Students cannot participate without completed consent, and verbal consent by phone cannot be accepted. Please ensure all forms are returned by the specified deadline.

Walking Field Trips

Some learning experiences take place within walking distance of the school, such as visits to local parks, community spaces, or neighbourhood learning sites. These trips do not require a separate consent form.

Families will receive information about local walking destinations and any potential risks associated with these activities. Teachers will provide at least 48 hours' notice before a walking field trip, and all Calgary Board of Education supervision requirements will be followed.

Preschool Transportation

For the safety of our youngest learners, children who require a car seat or booster seat for regular transportation must also use an appropriate car seat or booster seat when participating in field trips.

Helping Your Child Be Ready for an Off-Site Activity

To help ensure a successful learning experience, please:

  • Arrive at school on time, as departure schedules often have limited flexibility.
  • Dress for the weather and activity, including comfortable clothing and appropriate footwear.
  • Bring a labelled water bottle.
  • Bring any additional healthy snacks your child may need. The school will provide snacks and lunch for students during the trip, when applicable.
  • Discuss expected behaviour and safety guidelines with your child before the trip.

We appreciate your support in helping students participate safely and fully in these valuable learning experiences.

​Off-Site Activities at the CBE

At the CBE, we call “field trips” off-site activities. Off-site activities are learning experiences that​ occur away from the school site and are organized and supervised by the CBE. All off-site activities must adhere to our Administrative Regulation 3027 – Off-Site Activities. Off-site activities enable students to participate in quality learning experiences that are:

  • Supporting educational outcomes
  • Relevant, flexible, and accessible
  • Connected to the Alberta Programs of Study and learning outcomes, Guide to Education and CBE Results statements

An off-site activity usually originates with the classroom teacher (called the teacher-in-charge) who makes a proposal to his or her principal. Once the activity is approved (based on learning impact and safety), the teacher will provide information to parents regarding the off-site activity including potential risks that are unique to the activity.

Preparing Your Child for an Off-Site Activity

  • Read all of the information sent home with your child from the teacher
  • After reviewing information, if you want your child to participate in the off-site activity sign the Acknowledgement of Risk Form​ and any other documents provided by the teacher
  • A parent meeting is required for all overnight off-site activities, and may be held for other off-site activities
  • Talk to your child about the activity – where they will go, what they will do and what they will be learning about
  • The consent of the parent, guardian, or volunteer must be obtained before the student may participate in an off-site activity

Volunteering for an Off-Site Activity

If you want to volunteer for an off-site activity, you can find more information on the Volunteer page (in the Get Involved section of our website).​​