For over half a century, students in the North Vancouver School District (NVSD) have had the opportunity to learn, explore and connect with nature at Cheakamus Centre. Nestled in Brackendale, B.C., the centre is a 165-hectare environmental and Indigenous cultural learning hub that has welcomed generations of students for immersive outdoor learning.
Since its founding in 1969, Cheakamus Centre has offered transformative experiences through its programming. Thousands of students have spent nights in its cabins, explored surrounding trails and learned about local ecosystems through hands-on activities. Parents who once attended Cheakamus Centre as children often delight in seeing their own children participate in the same beloved traditions.
From bannock roasted over the longhouse fire as part of the Skw'une-was program–an overnight Indigenous cultural experience co-created with Skwxwú7mesh (Squamish) Elders–to volunteering as an outdoor school counsellor guiding younger students in field studies and activities focusing on wildlife habitat, forest and stream ecology.
Grade 12 Handsworth Secondary student Elizabeth B, whose counsellor name is Bambam, has made her mark on the centre. Elizabeth began attending outdoor school as a Grade 3 student at Cleveland Elementary. She has vivid memories of being handed a small salmon fry in a cup and walking through the forest to release her fry in the spawning channel, delighting alongside her friends as they named their fry and wished them well on their journey. When granted the opportunity to return to Cheakamus as a student counsellor, Elizabeth was all in. She speaks fondly of the role she now plays in creating memories for younger students, noting how “you see students learn and grow into awesome people as they develop their sense of curiosity, get into nature and step away from electronic devices.”
A welcoming space for newcomer families
While nostalgia draws many returning visitors, Cheakamus Centre is also a place of new beginnings. As North Vancouver continues to welcome families from across Canada and around the world, the centre has expanded its programming to ensure every student feels a sense of belonging.
Christelle C, known to campers as Moose, attended a French school in Mexico before moving to Canada, where she is currently a Grade 12 student at Carson Graham Secondary. Volunteering as a counsellor has allowed her to make connections with younger students and support them as they step out of their comfort zones. “For some students, being at outdoor school is their first time away from home. I get to be their support person and it is amazing to see them learn new things about themselves and become more confident.”
Through inclusive and culturally responsive programming, students of all backgrounds are encouraged to explore and learn. Indigenous cultural education is a cornerstone of Cheakamus, with authentic opportunities to engage in traditional Coast Salish knowledge and practices. The centre works closely with Indigenous educators and Knowledge Keepers to share stories, songs and teachings that foster cultural understanding and respect.
Get involved
On Sunday, May 4, 2025, Cheakamus Centre invites the entire community to attend the 56th annual open house and witness first-hand the magic of this special place. The open house will feature guided nature walks, educational displays and opportunities to meet the passionate educators who bring the centre to life. Families can explore the historic teaching longhouse, learn about the salmon hatchery and visit the farm animals who call Cheakamus Centre home.
Whether you’re a long-time North Vancouver resident reminiscing about past adventures or a new member of the community eager to discover the natural beauty of the Paradise Valley, the Cheakamus Centre open house offers something for everyone.
“I don’t think my NVSD career would be the same without Cheakamus Centre. You find out who you are. I can now say I have caught salmon with my bare hands, I have found peace in other people through our shared experiences and the staff. I love them!” says Elizabeth B.
Cheakamus Centre is looking for your help. If the centre holds a place in your heart–whether as a student, counsellor, teacher, parent, grandparent or community member–consider paying it forward. In a time of stretched funding and growing need, your contribution helps ensure that future generations have the same chance to unplug, step outside and build a love of the outdoors. Every gift, big or small, helps keep the magic alive.
For more information about the open house and how you can support Cheakamus Centre, please visit www.cheakamuscentre.ca.
