Every year, Indigenous Grade 12 students from across VSB secondary schools come together for a special retreat. It’s a highlight for students and staff alike — a chance to connect, learn and celebrate before graduation. This year, about 40 students gathered at Cheakamus Centre on November 24 and 25 for two days of activities that built community and honoured Indigenous knowledge and traditions.

After being welcomed to the land, students jumped into team-building activities that set the tone for the retreat. Shared meals and group workshops followed, creating space for connection and conversation. From there, they moved through hands-on learning sessions.

Salmon Study – An exploration of the extraordinary life cycle of salmon in extensive onsite spawning and rearing habitat, including the Centre’s teaching hatchery. Students examined different life stages of salmon and their habitat and a few braved the chilly waters, donned hip waiters and got to work in the fish catch.

Nature Art Study – Students engaged with different ways that art and nature are integrated, through exploring various artists, finding art in nature or using their creativity and inspiration from their surroundings to create temporary natural works of art.

Forest Study: Indigenous Perspective – Drawing on First Nations teachings and local knowledge, students set out in the Centre’s extensive trail network. Through the lens of First Peoples, they learned about traditional medicines, food and resources. 

A variety of evening pastimes were also on hand to students, from a campfire with storytelling, movie watching, to games, beading and bingo. 

On the second day of the retreat, students spent time in the longhouse taking part in another series of workshops. Sessions included wool weaving and its many applications of this cultural practice, including how wool was collected. They also had an opportunity to gain hands on experience working wool looms. Bringing a little competitive spirit to the day, they also played traditional game, double ball- a test of both skill and strength!

With plenty of self-directed time, students also visited with the Centre’s farm animals. Time with the goats was special highlight for many. Students enjoyed the chance to make new friends and reconnect with old ones as they socialized together and took downtime to relax and recharge in a truly unique environment.  

The retreat offered students a chance to connect, learn and celebrate together in a setting that honours Indigenous knowledge and traditions. It was a meaningful way to mark their final year of secondary school and strengthen a sense of belonging as they prepare for graduation.