The year begins and ends with a 3-4 day overnight field trip to Camp-Mush-A-Mush or Tatamagouche Centre. There are many objectives met with this event. Students are able to bond, they do wilderness and survival training, games, sports, science, social studies, language arts, theatre, and especially, decorum. Students and staff do all the cooking, set-up, prep and clean-up themselves if the facility permits. A rota is created where everyone has a turn. The table is set formally everyday, and proper etiquette is practiced. The last night there is a celebratory formal event, where we dress for dinner and conclude with a dance or amateur hour performance.

Cape Breton Ninth Grade Field Trip

As part of the KVA developmental curriculum, ninth graders travel to Cape Breton Highlands National Park in the spring.  On the first day, the students hike 3 km into a scenic, wilderness campground called Fishing Cove.  They are briefed on wilderness safety and how to pick a tent site.  Dinner is prepared and enjoyed in the open air.  Before dark falls, they are able to explore the surrounding ocean front and river bed. On Day 2, campers are instructed on how to read and use topographical maps, compasses, and landmark navigation.  Local flora and fauna are identified from common features, tracks, and scat.  Primary and secondary succession are investigated and examples recognized.  Students are also taught camp craft such a proper use of Coleman stove and lantern, hygiene, and drinking water safety.  On Day 3, the students take down their campsite.   A very strong emphasis is placed on leaving no human footprint behind.  We proceed 3 km uphill to the car for a well deserved trip home.