Youth Program Values & Expectations

In SPL programs, we welcome persons of all genders and identities. We strive for gender-neutrality in our approach. This includes gender-neutral restrooms and the use of preferred pronouns. While on outrips, we uphold gender-neutrality in our group tarp sleeping arrangement. In addition to safe spaces, we aim to create and maintain an open dialogue surrounding the lived experience of all LGBTQIA2S+ individuals. Our intake and feedback forms provide an opportunity for program participants to communicate how we can support them feeling safe and seen. 

We aim to make the outdoors an accessible space for all. We recognize the impact of social, cognitive, and physical barriers on individuals’ access to outdoor experiences. Our programs strive to facilitate the needs of individuals. We recognize there are limits to our capacity. We seek opportunities to collaborate with participants and their support networks to create a meaningful outdoor experience. 

We recognize a need for a culturally safe approach to programming.  Our approach includes intentional communication between parents, teachers, participants, and instructional staff to ensure individuals feel safe and seen. Our nature-based programming has the opportunity to allow youth to explore their identity and build meaningful connections.

 As we continue to learn and grow, SPL appreciates the contributions and teachings from our community. We strive to empower youth of all cultural backgrounds; and we welcome feedback that will support us in doing so. 

We acknowledge that Strathcona Park Lodge is situated on the traditional and unceded territories of  the We Wai Kai & We Wai Kum People, the K’omox People, and the Mowachaht/Muchalaht People. They have been the original stewards of this land since time immemorial. 

As guests and grateful visitors, our program participants have the privilege of learning and playing on the land.We strive to be a welcoming space for culturally diverse communities and BIPOC individuals. We aim to make outdoor experiences, personal growth and nature-based play accessible to all.  

While attending an SPL Program participants need to display appropriate behaviour. We ask that you abide by these policies in order to keep yourself, other participants, guests, and staff safe. 

• Be safety conscious and follow safety procedures outlined by instructors. 
• Be health conscious.
  • There is no possession or use of tobacco, nicotine, e-cigarettes, vaping devices, or smoking of any kind allowed on SPL programs. Possession or use of any of the above may lead to expulsion.
  • Products that cause impairment are not permitted on SPL programs. This includes alcohol, marijuana, cannabis products including THC and CBD, and the sharing or abuse of prescription or over-the-counter drugs, or other substances. SPL has a zero-tolerance policy on the use of alcohol and banned substances and their use or possession will lead to expulsion. 
  • SPL instructors may search youth participants’ backpacks if there is reasonable suspicion of alcohol or prohibited substance possession. Searches must be conducted respectfully and discreetly, ideally with another staff member present. Participants should be informed of the reason for the search. This policy aims to ensure a safe, alcohol and drug-free environment while respecting the privacy and dignity of all participants. 
• Harassment and Sexual Misconduct are not tolerated on SPL programs and may lead to expulsion. Show respect for others by employing respectful manners, language and appropriate humour. Examples of inappropriate behaviour include jokes and stereotypes based on sexual, racial, homophobic or religious content; and unwelcome sexual advances, attention, conversation, and non-consensual touch. If you think you witness or experience harassment or misconduct, speak to your SPL instructors or SPL management. Bring an attitude of openness, honesty, compassion and humour.
• Bring a learning attitude and approach, including cooperation with instructors and schedules.
• Show respect to the natural environment and show respect for all equipment and personal property, including SPL buildings and grounds.

If the Youth Programs Code of Conduct is not adhered to, then a participant may be expelled from  the program. Serious breaches such as the following may result in immediate dismissal. 

• Physical abuse, theft or non-accidental damage to SPL property/gear. 
• Endangering oneself or others by failure to abide by the safety guidelines given  by SPL instructors.
• Behaviour displaying insubordination or refusal to cooperate with instructors and schedules. 
• Behaviour that is unsafe, disrespects or disrupts the experience of fellow participants and SPL’s employees or guests. 
• The possession or use of alcohol, illicit drugs or other substances that cause impairment while in attendance of an SPL Youth Program. 
• Disrespect of the Youth Programs Code of Conduct. 
• Willful breaking of any civic, provincial or federal law
• Participants who are expelled are responsible for the associated costs and will not receive a refund.

Your time at SPL is an opportunity to connect with friends in new and meaningful ways, while exploring the natural world. We encourage you to leave your phone and devices at home or with your teacher/chaperone. There is no cell service and our office wifi password will not be shared with youth participants. Phones are not permitted to be used during SPL program time (unless otherwise authorized by the SPL instructor or Program Office Managers). If you’d like to take photos during your trip, please bring a digital or disposable camera. 

Drones are not allowed. Drone use detracts from the wilderness experience, disturbs wildlife, and can invade the privacy of other visitors. 

Breaches to the following may result in phones being confiscated for the remainder of the trip or expulsion from the program. 

• No phone use during program time.
• Participants will not use phones to watch movies, play games or listen to music. 
• Participants will not share sensitive or offensive material with other participants.