Grade 7's Begin the Year Making Strong Bonds
By Sara Purdy
The Grade 7 students just came back from an unforgettable trip to Camp Mini-Yo-We to kick off the school year. Over three action-packed days, our students connected with nature, strengthened friendships, and stepped outside their comfort zones to learn valuable lessons in resilience, teamwork, and independence.
Our adventure began on Monday as students waved goodbye to their families and boarded the buses. When we arrived at camp, students were able to burn off some energy playing sports, swinging on the swings and taking in the beautiful scenery at camp. The afternoon immediately put their courage and teamwork to the test through teambuilding activities and dynamic activity rotations, including rock climbing, pedal go-karts, pickleball, high ropes, and the thrilling skyline zipline! Students learned to trust one another and cheer each other on as they conquered heights and obstacles. We wrapped up the day with a game of Capture the Flag, Mini- Yo-We Style and a campfire and s'mores.
Day 2 and 3 were filled with energy, growth, and teamwork. After a delicious breakfast, students dove into a full morning and afternoon of activities. They practiced communication, problem-solving, and leadership throughout, whether it was working though a teambuilding exercise, belaying a group member up the outdoor rock wall or cheering them on while students made their way through the high-ropes obstacle courses. Though mother nature was not on our side, we were impressed by students' eagerness and engagement; they didn’t let a little rain stop them from having fun! We capped off our second night with a chance to gather together to dance, sing and cheer on the Blue Jays!
Throughout the trip, students supported one another and were incredible representatives of the school. This experience helped our Grade 7 class build confidence, practice self-reliance away from home, and form a tighter bond as a cohort that will set a wonderful tone for the rest of the school year. Thank you to our teachers: Ms. Barbanchon, Mr. DeSanctis, Ms. Csibi, Mr. Johnson, Mr. Dermody, Mr. Calmels and Ms. Purdy for creating three wonderfully memorable days that we know students will look back on fondly.
Land Acknowledgment
The Country Day School wishes to recognize and acknowledge the land on which the school operates. Our nearest Indigenous Nations are now the Mississaugas of the Credit First Nation and the Chippewas of Georgina Island. The Dish with One Spoon Wampum covenant is often cited as an example of the shared responsibility for caring for these lands among the Huron-Wendat, Anishinaabe and Haudenosaunee peoples who would call these their traditional territories. CDS respects the relationship with these lands and recognizes that our connection to this land can be strengthened by our continued relationship with all First Nations, by acknowledging our shared responsibility to respect and care for the land and waters for future generations.
School Information
Junior, Middle and Senior Schools
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
13415 Dufferin Street, King, Ontario L7B 1K5
(905) 833-1220
communications@cds.on.ca
admissions@cds.on.ca
Founded in 1972, The Country Day School is a co-educational private school offering programs in JK-12 and located on 100 acres north of Toronto in King.
