Global Programs 2024-2025

Committed to actively widening our worldview

We are pleased to offer a number of Global Program opportunities for Senior School students at Stratford Hall. Based on each year’s family and student interests, we strive to have each student experience at least one program during their time at Stratford Hall.

At Stratford Hall, we recognize that global citizenship is a foundational piece in student development and education. To be global citizens, students understand various social, cultural, political, environmental and economic contexts within their own and international communities. Students become aware of their decisions and actions and how they will have an impact on others journeys and the planet. This is accomplished through carefully curated experiences through the Global Programs and these travels and lifelong experiences, Stratford Hall aims to instill global citizenship among all students. These offerings will mostly run March 2025 during the March break. The Ontario university tour will run October or November of 2024, while the summer Yukon trip will run either July or August of 2025.

After a highly successful relaunch of Global Programs, Stratford Hall is thrilled to unveil the offerings for the 2024 - 2025 school year. This guide aims to provide families and students with a detailed exploration of the diverse opportunities available across different grade levels, destinations, and prospective trips.

At the heart of our mission at Stratford Hall is the ambition for full student engagement in our Global Programs. We aspire to achieve 100% participation from our student body in at least one of these transformative experiences. Each program has been thoughtfully

07 | Grade 6 - 7 | Haida Gwaii (British Columbia)

11 | Grade 8 - 9 | Singapore & Malaysia

15 | Grade 10 - 12 | South Africa

19 | Grade 10 - 12 | Peru

22 | Grade 11 - 12 | Ontario Universities & Alumni Tour

23 | Grade 7 & 10 | CAIS Student Leadership Opportunities

In the early stages of the Middle Years Programme (MYP), our Grade 6 & 7 students are at the threshold of a transformative journey. Our aim is to nurture resilience and broaden their horizons by immersing students in unfamiliar yet enriching environments. Through our thematic visits focused on exploring the diverse cultural tapestry of Canada, students will delve into the vibrant fabric of Indigenous cultures across the country. This experience is curated to take them on a captivating journey away from home, venturing into lesser explored corners of our nation. It is not just about exploring new locations but also about introducing them to new experiences, fostering independence, and laying the foundation for a lifetime of embracing the unfamiliar with confidence and curiosity.

Grade 6 - 7 | Haida Gwaii (British Columbia)

The Haida Gwaii program invites students to the heartland of the Haida Nation, an archipelago rich in biodiversity and cultural heritage. With roots dating back 13,000 years, this land embodies the sacred history of the Haida people, who maintain sovereignty through the Council of the Haida Nation. Students engage directly with Indigenous interpreters and elders, immersing themselves in Haida traditions and values. Known as “Islands of the People,” Haida Gwaii offers a unique blend of remarkable biodiversity and Indigenous culture, often likened to the Galápagos of the North. The program integrates themes of biodiversity, sustainable development, and ecotourism, guiding students through experiences like exploring the ancient village of K’uuna Llnagaay, hiking Mount Raymond, and visiting the Haida Heritage Centre. The journey includes stays at a secluded Float Lodge, allowing students to connect intimately with the land and its stories, fostering a profound understanding of environmental stewardship and cultural appreciation.

Tour Operator: Insight Global Education

Duration: 8 days

Cost: $5,000 - $6,000

Focused Outcomes

• Cultural Understanding: Engage in immersive, place-based learning with Indigenous nation representatives, fostering deep appreciation for cultural diversity and meeting social studies and intercultural understanding criteria.

• Environmental Awareness: Develop understanding of biodiversity and ecosystems, fulfilling science and environmental studies, aligned with exploring the area’s unique environment and Indigenous teachings.

• Inquiry Skills Development: Cultivate independence and self-regulation through Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills, honed during interactions with Indigenous leaders, nurturing critical thinking and inquiry abilities.

• Community Engagement: Foster global citizenship through community interactions, nurturing a sense of responsibility and respect for Indigenous cultures and environments.

• Personal Growth: Encourage personal growth by navigating a new environment, promoting independence and self-regulation skills while fostering an appreciation for cultural and environmental diversity.

In the progressive trajectory of the Middle Years Programme (MYP), our Grade 8 & 9 students find themselves poised for significant growth. For those who have yet to engage in our Global Programs, this marks an opportune starting point. Our focus for this international experience extends beyong North America to explore cultures and environments that are different from our own. Our steadfast focus remains on fostering resilience and expanding horizons through immersion in unexplored realms. Tailored thematic visits aim to deepen their understanding of global perspectives, emphasizing the rich tapestry of cultures within and beyond our borders. This carefully crafted experience offers an immersive foray into diverse cultural landscapes, introducing students to lesser-explored facets of our world, be it within North America or beyond. Beyond geographical exploration, these journeys nurture independence, reinforcing the foundation of Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. It is a deliberate endeavor to encourage their confident engagement with unfamiliar territories, promoting an enduring curiosity for global understanding and embracing the unfamiliar with adaptability and conviction.

Grade 8 - 9 | Singapore & Malaysia

To start the trip our students will travel to Singapore and partake in an IB MYP summit in Singapore, uniting with UWC South East Asia (UWCSEA) and a local school. This cultural hub with diverse nationalities offers connections and unique experiences, setting the stage for global learners. After this short visit, they will travel to Tioman Island in Malaysia

Nestled amidst one of the globe’s most remarkable marine biodiversity hotspots, Tioman Island offers students an immersive educational journey. Guided by seasoned biologists, students delve into the island’s diverse ecosystems and wildlife, gaining hands-on experience in coastal and ecological processes. This exploration heightens their environmental consciousness while unveiling endemic species like the soft-shelled turtle and the Tioman walking catfish, exclusive to this paradise. Tioman becomes an educational haven, aligning seamlessly with academic requisites while fostering students’ reverence for the natural world.

Located off Malaysia’s east coast, Tioman is easily accessible, a mere half-day coach and ferry ride from Singapore. Our preferred lodging at Melina Beach Resort, featuring a private beach, the resort sits at the nexus of rainforest and coral reef ecosystems. Here, students explore the richness of life in two distinct habitats, a unique opportunity not readily found elsewhere. Moreover, access to environmental initiatives such as the Ocean Conservancy’s international beach clean-up and the Juara Turtle Project enriches students’ engagement, amplifying their understanding and commitment to environmental stewardship.

Tour Operator: EcoFieldTrips (Malaysia)

Duration: 9 days

Cost: $4,500 - $5,500

Focused Outcomes

• Cultural Engagement: Encourage students to communicate openly and embrace diverse perspectives within the MYP program, fostering intercultural understanding and social skills development.

• Environmental Studies: Engage in hands-on environmental projects (Ocean Conservancy’s beach clean-up, Juara Turtle Project) to cultivate research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills, addressing real-world environmental challenges.

• Interdisciplinary Learning: Seamlessly integrate global experiences, emphasizing biodiversity education and cultural appreciation, fostering students’ abilities to make connections across diverse subjects.

• Global Citizenship: Promote global citizenship by encouraging respectful interactions with individuals from diverse backgrounds, nurturing empathy and a sense of responsibility toward global communities.

• Community Engagement: Active participation in community projects instills ethical decision-making and social responsibility, empowering students to contribute meaningfully to local and global initiatives.

As Grade 10-12 students transition from the Middle Years Programme (MYP) to the Diploma Programme (DP), they approach a pivotal stage in their educational journey. This juncture offers unparalleled opportunities for those yet to engage in our Global Programs, which delve into diverse cultures and environments, nurturing service leadership globally. These experiences, integral to their high school endeavors, foster cross-cultural competency and critical self-reflection, shaping a deeper understanding of the world.

In these culminating international engagements, students epitomize service leadership, embodying values of global citizenship and environmental stewardship. Contributing meaningfully to communities abroad, they acquire crucial skills, such as intercultural communication, adaptability, and problem-solving, inherent in our educational ethos.

Embracing diverse perspectives instills an enduring curiosity for the unfamiliar, fostering a lifelong passion for global engagement and fortifying their readiness for the challenges ahead.

Grade 10 - 12 | South Africa

Embark on a transformative journey in South Africa, immersing yourselves in the local community while contributing to our impactful long-term projects. This unique opportunity allows your child to engage firsthand with local families, supporting and working alongside them.

Volunteers will assist in vital construction projects at educational facilities, aiding centres that cater to children from low-income families. Through hands-on work, students will enhance the infrastructure and learning environments, partnering with institutions like township educare centres. This might involve renovations, basic maintenance, or adding vibrant artwork to brighten spaces.

GVI has a longstanding presence in Gordon’s Bay’s informal community, collaborating with institutions like Ikhayalethemba Village Care Centre, Nceduluntu Educare Centre, Nceduluntu Grade R, and ACJ Primary School since 2008. This immersive experience extends beyond service, offering a glimpse of Cape Town’s breathtaking landscapes dominated by Table Mountain, Lions Head, and the natural wonders that define this vibrant city. This journey promises an unforgettable blend of community engagement, hands-on service, and awe-inspiring natural beauty, shaping your child’s global perspective and fostering invaluable life skills.

Tour Operator: Global Vision International

Duration: 10 days

Cost: $5,500 - $6,500

Focused Outcomes

• Communication Enhancement and Language Proficiency: Enhance local English proficiency, nurturing students’ communication skills to reduce dropout rates and improve academic engagement in primary schools. Develops effective communication and language proficiency, fostering better interaction and learning (ATL).

• Research and Self-Management Skills: Raise awareness and educate youth on public health issues, improving access to resources. Develops research and self-management skills (ATL) for informed decision-making and self-directed learning.

• Social Skills and Empathy: Promote gender equality through education and training, fostering empathy and social skills (ATL) for understanding diverse perspectives and advocating for inclusivity.

• Organizational and Problem-Solving Skills: Empower local women through knowledge and skills training, assisting in their education or employment paths. Develops organizational and problem-solving skills (ATL) for personal and professional growth.

• Collaboration and Capacity Building: Increase in-country capacity through skills development training for partners, fostering collaboration and transferable skills (ATL) to support sustainable community initiatives.

Grade 10 - 12 | Peru

Embark on an enriching journey through Peru’s cultural tapestry, traversing from Lima to the ancient wonders of Machu Picchu. Experience the heart of the Sacred Valley, engaging closely with local communities dedicated to preserving their history, art, and cherished heritage. Delve into the captivating remnants of the Inca Empire, exploring archaeological sites echoing their enduring cultural legacies.

Amidst the majestic vistas of the Andes, this expedition extends beyond sightseeing. Students will embark to Cuzco and engage meaningfully for two days within a local community, actively contributing to initiatives promoting economic sustainability, enhancing local agriculture, and fostering educational access. Witnessing breathtaking landscapes is intertwined with hands-on involvement, allowing your child to be part of projects shaping the community’s future. This immersive experience in Peru is not a tourist trip—it is a transformative journey offering firsthand cultural insights and a chance to actively participate in sustainable community endeavors. It’s an opportunity for your child to gain a deeper understanding of global perspectives while contributing positively to a vibrant, distant community.

Tour Operator: Education First

Duration: 10 days

Cost: $6,000 - $7,000

Focused Outcomes

• Cultural Appreciation and Understanding: Develop cultural empathy and appreciation through immersion in Peru’s heritage, fostering intercultural communication (ATL) and adaptability.

• Community Engagement and Collaboration: Actively contribute to local community projects, nurturing teamwork, collaboration (ATL), and problem-solving skills applicable in real-life scenarios.

• Sustainable Development Awareness: Gain insights into sustainable initiatives, fostering critical thinking (ATL) regarding economic sustainability, agriculture, and education, promoting responsible global citizenship.

• Practical Application of Learning: Apply classroom knowledge to real-world contexts, enhancing application and synthesis (ATL) of academic concepts in practical, community-based projects.

• Global Perspectives and Resilience: Develop resilience and openness to diverse perspectives, promoting globalmindedness and adaptability (ATL) in a culturally rich and unfamiliar environment.

Grade 11 - 12 | Ontario Universities & Alumni Tour

Tour Operator: Stratford Hall - Post-Secondary Counsellors

Duration: 5 days

Cost: $4,000 - $5,000

Focused Outcomes

• Networking and Relationship Building: Cultivate meaningful connections with Stratford Hall alumni, fostering networking skills and the ability to build professional relationships—an essential skill for future career endeavors.

• Communication and Interpersonal Skills: Engage in dialogue with alumni, practicing effective communication and interpersonal skills to articulate career aspirations, seek advice, and gain insights into post-secondary experiences and pathways.

• Professional Development and Mentoring: Benefit from mentorship opportunities provided by alumni, gaining valuable guidance and advice to navigate the transition from high school to post-secondary education and beyond.

• Exploration of Academic Opportunities: Gain insights into the diverse course offerings and academic programs available at each university, fostering research and exploration skills essential for informed decision-making regarding future academic pursuits.

Grade 7 & 10 | CAIS Student Leadership Opportunities

Duration: 5 days *fluctuates based on location.

Cost: $2,700 - $3,700 (based on price in 2023 - 2024)

The Canadian Accredited Independent Schools (CAIS) Student Leadership Conferences are a wonderful opportunity for students to forge connections and build relationships with independent school students from across the country. The goal of these Conferences is to develop student leadership competencies and capacities to, ultimately, have a further positive impact leading in their school community. It is an action-packed conference designed, organized and led by students for students.

CAIS offers two Conferences each year. The Middle School Student Leadership Conference is open to Grade 7 students to apply. The Senior School Student Leadership Conference is open to Grade 10 students to apply.

In 2023, the Middle School Conference was hosted in Winnipeg, Manitoba by St. John’s-Ravenscourt School, Gray Academy of Jewish Education, and Balmoral Hall. While the Senior School Conference was hosted by Bishop’s College School, Sheerbrooke, QC.

Summer 2025 Opportunities

Summer opportunities provide students with invaluable experiences beyond the traditional school year, allowing them to explore interests, develop skills, and broaden horizons in a more relaxed and immersive environment. These programs offer a chance to apply classroom learning to real-world contexts, fostering practical skills and enhancing understanding across subjects. Furthermore, students gain exposure to diverse peers, cultures, and experiences, fostering empathy, adaptability, and cross-cultural communication skills essential in today’s interconnected world.

Grade 10 - 12 | Yukon

Embark on an extraordinary journey through the stunning landscapes of the Yukon on our immersive outdoor canoe expedition. In partnership with Fireside Adventures, we offer this exclusive experience for students aiming to fulfill the practice and qualifying journeys for the Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award.

Participants will face the challenge of long day paddles, covering up to 400 km from Whitehorse to Dawson City. Throughout the journey, students will hone outdoor and leadership skills while immersing themselves in Indigenous perspectives and principles of learning. Moreover, they will foster meaningful community connections and peer relationships.

This physically demanding adventure promises invaluable experiences as students navigate the pristine waters and breathtaking scenery of the Yukon. Beyond the thrill of the journey, completing the adventurous journey component ensures progress toward their Duke of Edinburgh Award, a testament to their dedication, resilience, and outdoor prowess.

Tour Operator: Fireside Adventures

Duration: 10 days

Cost: $3,500 - $4,500

Focused Outcomes

• Develop leadership skills through practical application, fostering decision-making, communication, and teamwork in challenging outdoor environments.

• Cultivate self-management skills by navigating physical challenges and maintaining resilience, perseverance, and adaptability throughout the expedition.

• Enhance planning and organization abilities by preparing for and executing long day paddles covering up to 400 km, promoting effective time management and logistical coordination.

• Foster critical thinking skills by analyzing and solving problems encountered during the journey, encouraging creativity and innovative approaches to overcome obstacles.

• Strengthen social skills by building meaningful community connections and peer relationships, fostering collaboration, empathy, and effective communication in a team setting.

Are Global Programs mandatory for each student? While each of these programs have great experiential learning outcomes to help holistic learning, they are not mandatory.

What are the costs associated with these programs? We have included projected pricings that our vendors can offer us. Prices we have negotiated are fair market pricing and have been currently quoted for 24 students per trip. Current listed prices are approximations received from providers; prices will be finalized based on number of participants. The pricing includes all meals, travel insurance, air fare, programming costs, gratuities, travel bag, and travel sweater.

When will these trips happen? Mostof these trips have been tentatively scheduled to occur in March 2025 during the March Break. March break trips will return to allow for at least two days prior to the start of classes to allow students to rest and reset. The exceptions include the Ontario university tour in October or November 2024, and the Yukon trip in July or August 2025. Minimal disruptions to the class schedule have been planned.

What if I’ve paid a deposit and would no longer like to participate? There will be a clear deadline set in October 2024 of the last date to receive a partial refund of the deposit. After that point in time, we will have made financial commitments to our vendors.

When is the due date to sign up? We will be opening interest forms immediately, and financial deposit commitments will be collected in June 2024.

Summary Table of Offerings

Haida Gwaii (British Columbia)

Singapore & Malaysia

South Africa

Peru

Ontario Universities & Alumni Tour

CAIS Student Leadership Opportunities

Yukon

$5,000 - $6,000 $4,500 - $5,500 $5,500 - $6,500

- $7,000

- $5,000

- $3,700