From the Elementary School Associate Principal: How Field Trips Bring Learning to Life

Field trip days at Meadowridge School are full of anticipation and excitement for our elementary students, who arrive with an extra spring in their step, eager for the adventures ahead.

These days are filled with new experiences and end with students returning happy, tired, and bursting with stories to share. Beyond the fun, each field trip is a carefully planned curricular engagement tied directly to the PYP Program of Inquiry, connecting classroom learning to the real world.

In early October, our Kindergarten students visited Taves Apple Barn. From hayrides and corn mazes to picking the perfect pumpkin, they explored Fall activities aligned with their “How the World Works” unit. Building on their classroom learning, the field trip allowed students to expand their knowledge about apples through an expert-led presentation and a fresh apple cider taste test. Field trips like this often inspire action; for instance, students may add apples to their weekly grocery lists or bring home books about apples from the library.

Grade 2 students also had an adventure connected to their “How the World Works” unit, with a day at Stanley Park. Along with learning about Canada’s provinces and territories through their FlyOver Canada experience, students explored a local destination and gained insights into how living near the ocean influences recreational activities. Back in the classroom, they asked about the activities people enjoy in other provinces—Do different parts of Canada have seaside walks? What are winter activities like in northern Canada? This unit helps students build and apply research skills to answer these questions and deepen their understanding.

As the year unfolds, so will our students’ field trip adventures. Visits to Science World, The Honeybee Farm, the fish hatchery, and Chinatown, among others, will give our students opportunities to inquire, make connections, and solidify their understanding of their studies.

To further support your child’s learning from these enriching experiences, here are some questions to ask after their next field trip:

  • How does your field trip connect to your learning in class?
  • What did you learn that surprised you today?
  • Was there a speaker or presenter? What exciting thing did they share?
  • How did you show you were (a thinker/principled/caring) on today’s trip?
  • What new questions do you have about what you learned? How might you find the answers?

These conversations not only help your child process their experience, but they also encourage active engagement in their learning journey.


Written by:
Ms. Stephanie Kinneard,

Elementary School Associate Principal