A Retreat in Marine Science: York House Students’ Immersive Learning along the Pacific Coast
By Julia Kassissieh
In October, ten Grade 11 and 12 students retreated from their classrooms and regular timetables, and set off on a journey to the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre along the rugged west coast of British Columbia. During this three-day expedition guided by expert scientist-educators, students immersed themselves completely in the world of marine science beyond the textbooks.
At Bamfield on Vancouver Island, students explored the vast diversity of invertebrate life through hands-on laboratories, investigated the complex ecosystems thriving beneath the docks, and assumed the roles of oceanographers while conducting research from a vessel.
“…we got to interact with and observe ocean life! I really liked seeing all the animals on Wizard Island and getting to learn more about invertebrates we dredged up. Also I haven't been on a boat that much before, so it was a new experience for me,” Denye ‘27, a Grade 11 student commented.
The program seamlessly integrated fieldwork with laboratory analysis. Students participated in excursions to collect plankton samples and subsequently examined them meticulously under microscopes. The process required students to forge a direct connection between real-world observation and scientific methodology, linking the vast marine environment to the microscopic organisms that form its foundation.
This interdisciplinary approach extended beyond scientific study to foster creativity and critical thinking. Students did not merely study a temperate rainforest; they hiked through its ecosystem. They did not just learn about bioluminescence; they observed the phenomenon from the research station docks. Through activities such as dredging operations and reflective evening workshops, students gathered data and were also encouraged to consider the broader implications of their findings beyond scientific analysis.
“It was so interesting to see the immense activity and movement that the plankton had, and how although you could technically see it with your naked eyes, if you really looked, you could see so many details under the microscope. It was also kind of the culmination of our time there, as we looked for the larval stages of several organisms that we interacted with earlier in the trip,” Jacey ‘26 reflected.
Through the school’s partnership with the Bamfield Marine Sciences Centre, students participate in experiential learning that transcends traditional science instruction. Students are given the opportunity to engage in authentic scientific inquiry, develop practical skills, and collaborate meaningfully with their peers, in real-world settings with subject-matter experts.
“This lab was at the end of our trip…it felt more like I was another member of an actual lab working together than a student on a school trip,” Jacey added.
This expedition serves as a powerful testament to York House School’s commitment to enrich education, as outlined in the Transformational Program pillar of our current “Spark” strategic plan. Oftentimes, the most impactful lessons occur beyond the traditional classroom setting. Anchored in our core curriculum, York House School is eager to go beyond our walls to inspire new passions, build confidence, and prepare students for future academic and personal success.
Top image courtesy of B. West.
