Learning Naturally
Outdoor Education in the middle of Calgary
Inspire curiosity and environmental stewardship through hands-on, curriculum-connected learning experiences in Fish Creek Provincial Park.
What is Learning Naturally?
Learning Naturally is an outdoor education program that immerses students in the wonders of the natural world and the importance of environmental conservation. Through a day of self-guided exploration in Fish Creek Provincial Park, students get to experience science and environmental lessons where they make the most sense – in nature!
Our goal? Spark curiosity and build a lifelong appreciation for nature.
This initiative supports students by reducing barriers to nature‑based education in Fish Creek Provincial Park. The Learning Naturally program is fully sponsored by the Friends of Fish Creek Provincial Park Society for schools on the Equity Index.
The Friends work alongside Alberta Parks to offer a suite of field trip options for grades K – 6.
Who can participate?
If you are a Calgary Board of Education (CBE) or Calgary Catholic School District (CCSD) school listed on the school boards’ Equity Index, you are eligible for the Learning Naturally program!
This program ensures students can take part in meaningful outdoor learning experiences, regardless of access or financial barriers.
What if my school is not on an Equity Index?
You can book a program directly through Alberta Parks. Please note that booking through Alberta Parks means that your school is responsible for paying all program and bus fees.
If you would like to book a school program directly with Alberta Parks contact FP.FishcreekEducation@gov.ab.ca .
Why choose Learning Naturally?
- Hands-On Learning
- Experienced Environmental Educators
- Safe & Accessible
- Curriculum Connections
- Our activities align with Alberta Education outcomes and are developed by Alberta Parks.
Program Details
- Format: Half-day or full-day field trips.
- Group Size: Up to 60 students per booked fieldtrip day.
How do I book?
Learning Naturally will email your school administration with an invitation to apply. Your school administration will then forward the invitation to teachers and staff who may be interested.
There are three application rounds each school year, with one opportunity per program period.
| Program Period | When Your School Will Receive Their Application Invitation |
| Fall (September – December) | Early-June |
| Winter (January – March) | Early-November |
| Spring (April – June) | Early-February |
Due to high demand, not all schools who apply are guaranteed to receive a Learning Naturally program.
What if my application was unsuccessful and was not selected for a program?
If your application is unsuccessful, you are welcome to apply again during the next program period. There is no limit to how many times a school can apply.
Schools also have the option to book programs directly with Alberta Parks. Alberta Parks offers the same school programs on a first‑come, first‑served basis. Please note that when booking directly through Alberta Parks, schools are responsible for all regular program and bussing fees.
To book a school program directly with Alberta Parks, contact:
What teachers are saying about Learning Naturally:
Impact
- 2, 067 students participated in 2025.
- Teachers surveyed reported an enjoyable and engaging field trip for the students.
- 43+ schools connected with nature through Learning Naturally last year.