FAQs

Why do CELP?

  • To challenge yourself and meet new people
  • To learn in nature on a daily basis
  • To help the Earth by developing a sustainable lifestyle
  • To develop skills with food, camping and teaching

Won’t I miss my friends at school? What about extracurricular activities?

You can see your friends and participate in music and sports before and after school, and you will be making new friends in CELP.

Will I be behind in school?

CELP offers two compulsory credits and two elective credits so that you will be well prepared. All courses meet the same requirements as conventional school credits.

Do I need a lot of equipment?

You will need good rain gear and a three-season sleeping bag. Much of what you need, you probably already own (e.g. a wool sweater) or can borrow from others. We supply equipment such as tents, snowshoes and canoe paddles.

Do I have to be an athlete or a treehugger?

No CELP attracts all kinds of students. Some students apply because they enjoy outdoor activity, some because they are interested in teaching elementary students, some because they are interested in the environment, and others because they want a “non-traditional” educational setting. We will teach you all the skills you need to be successful in the program. You just need a good attitude and willingness to try new things.

What if I can’t afford the course fee?

No student is denied the opportunity to take CELP or Headwaters due to financial reasons. There is a fee for the semester which covers the wilderness trips, food, bussing, and materials for the semester. Please let us know if this is a concern- we want you to apply and have a bursary application process.