Leading up to the Ottawa trip, the grade eights were highly anticipating their grad trip, lovingly planned out by Mrs. Vant Erve. On the day of the trip, the students lined up with their three supervising teachers, unsure of what they should expect. After a few hours of driving, Ed, our beloved bus driver, pulled into the En Route, and students had their first taste of freedom, choosing their own lunch. Once the students were finished, the bus was back on the road, the next destination being the Supreme Court of Canada in Ottawa. There, the grade eights met a tour guide who led them through a basic lesson of the judicial system and the history of the parliament. A few students were even chosen to enact a mock trial where a fake crime scenario was acted out.
After learning about the Canadian court system, the students were driven to the Canadian Science and Technology Museum. The students saw many displays of science development and achievements over the years, with many hands-on activities that kept them entertained. Later that night, the grade eights had dinner and enjoyed a murder-mystery show – tension was high as the students tried to solve the case! The first event-filled day came to an end at the hotel.
The next morning the students arose early for their morning breakfast. After a scrumptious meal, they headed to Escapade Huskimo where the students participated in a day of dogsledding, tobogganing, and snowshoeing. Each of the activities were exhilarating in their own way.
Traveling to Downtown Ottawa, the students participated in a walking tour through the different areas in Ottawa and did some sightseeing. After a yummy pizza dinner, the grade eights were driven to LaserMaxx. The students had a thrilling experience and the competition was high. Finally the students headed back to the inn, where they had one final rest before returning home.
The next day the students arose for yet another wonderful breakfast. Finally to end off their stay in Ottawa, the students had a tour of the Canadian War Museum. They learned a lot about Canadian history and they were astonished by the artifacts from previous wars adding to their knowledge taught to them in history class.
Sadly, after departing from the museum, the students entered the bus one last time, heading for home. The bus ride home was melancholy, as the grade eights reflected on their time in Ottawa. It was clear that the students wished their trip lasted a few more days. Finally arriving at school, the grade eights were dropped off and headed home with their parents. What a wild ride! Well done to all the grade eights for their outstanding behaviour and conduct on the trip!