This award winning, board authorized program is the only one of its kind operating in British Columbia.  The VWP introduces the students to technical skills, safety and decision making, and knowledge of the natural world that can provide the basic skills from which interested individuals may pursue further recreation, education and potentially a career in the rapidly expanding field of wilderness management and outdoor recreation. The physical challenges of adventure activities, along with meal planning, preparation and discussions about nutrition all help students earn a respect for awareness of health and physical fitness in an outdoor environment.  Students gain leadership and group skills as they work together, problem solve, and communicate effectively to safely confront physical challenges and potentially adverse conditions. The VWP follows the curriculum guidelines for grades nine and ten, and integrates classroom studies with self-propelled wilderness activities to provide opportunities to learn skills, attitudes and knowledge which:

1.  Enable students to gain self-confidence in their ability to face challenges in various aspects of their lives;

2.  Enhance interest in learning and desire to pursue further education

3.  Help students to make decisions and evaluations which will increase their ability to travel safely in the wilderness;

Develop an appreciation for the natural world.

The VWP provides challenges for students who have a keen interest in the outdoors and are capable of achieving high academic standards.  Academic curriculum is integrated with wilderness studies as much as possible. Classroom studies involve students in a variety of experiences that range from cooperative, higher order thinking, hands-on projects to textbook questions and answers.  Outdoor activities include backpacking, mountain biking, canoeing and kayaking, ski touring, winter camping, and rock climbing. Students spend approximately 60% of school time in classrooms and 40% in the field.  This also includes six four day out trips per year