| ACADEMY DESCRIPTION |
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| Information | Earthquest (EQ) is in partnership with the SD22 online school vLearn. Earthquest is a program of adventure in excellence that empowers participants intellectually, physically, socially, spiritually, and morally within a learning environment that values caring, sharing, compassion, responsibility, accountability, individuality, and creativity. This program has been running since 1981. Students will participate in Earthquest expeditions while taking the semester of school through online learning. During this time, students will participate in 9-10 weeks of EQ expeditions spread throughout the semester while completing online coursework. EQ, gives you an entire semester of travel, adventure and independence. The EQ expeditions provide you opportunities to participate in the things you’ve dreamed and heard about doing.
Earthquest Academy Information VIDEO
Highlights: Earthquest has been recognized on several occasions as a leading program in the education field. Not only has this program served as a model for programs at an international level, but it has also remained to be one of the most innovative, reputable, and accredited programs offered to youth. Awards include:
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| Academy Goals | Earthquest Outdoor School is more than just an outdoor adventure. Earthquest is about meeting challenges. It’s about dealing with the unexpected. It’s about discovering your potential. It’s about finding your voice. It’s about feeling comfortable in your own skin. It’s a holistic workout for the mind, body, and spirit. We give the student an opportunity by opening the door to new experiences, friends, environments, and skills. In return, learning goes beyond what is expected and continues to grow throughout adulthood as Earthquest enables students to fully succeed in a variety of academic, athletic, and social environments. |
| Academy Grades | Grade 11, Grade 12 |
| Academy Location | vLearn - 2301 Fulton Rd Coldstream Ranch Various Expeditions Locations |
| Academy Schedule | Semester 2 | Block A/B/C/D Flexible schedule with students working independently at a location of their choice (our learning centers, home, etc.) And also exploring and learning in the field. |
| Coaches Credentials | Barrie has a Masters in Education and Moe has a Bachelor of Education. Both Moe and Barrie are also certified Mountain and Sea kayak guides. In addition; Earthquest employs past graduates certified as ACMG guides and white water guides and outfitters. |
| Academic Credits | Grade 11/12
The academy courses are supported through our online school vLearn. |
| Student On-boarding | All students will undergo an initial onboarding procedure to cover health and safety considerations in the beginning of the academy program. Academy mentors will do regular site visits to support onboarding procedures. |
| Parent Communication | Parents will receive communication on student progress following the regular district reporting schedule. Please contact the vLearn office for any additional inquiries. There will be also be a mandatory parents meeting. |
| Insurance Coverage | Earthquest carries its own liability insurance. Parents' signature for expedient waiver forms and student health history is required. |
| STUDENT REGISTRATION & SELECTION PROCESS |
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| Information | Maximum 36 students Minimum 16 students
Program Information Session: Date: January 14, 2026 Time: 6:00pm to 7:00pm Location: Fulton Secondary (2301 Fulton Rd, Vernon, BC) See attached flyer for full information: SD22 Academy Information Night 2026.27 |
| Selection Process | Applicants are selected based on a variety of attributes. We are looking for kids who are trustworthy and responsible, work hard, are physically fit, have good attendance, great attitudes, and want to try something new. |
| Link to Expression of Interest | Expression of Interest Form for the 2026/27 school year (2026.27 EOI opens January 14, 2026). Expressions of Interest are due March 27th. Any expressions received after this date will be waitlisted and admitted as space permits. As needed, the Teacher/Coach of the academy will contact you upon receiving this expression of interest to follow up with any further registration information, required parent(s)/guardian signatures and to answer any questions you may have. Please note that the completion of this form signifies your interest in the Academy but does not guarantee your acceptance. |
| FEES |
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| Information | $4,900.00 - $5100.00 (subject to board approval) Includes all trips, equipment, transportation, camping fees, parks fees, ferry fees, courses, helicopters, hostels, etc.
Breakdown of Fees  |
| Financial Hardship | Based on an individual bases according to need. A payment plan will be established with individual families. |
| TRANSPORTATION |
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| Information | All forms of transportation during the program are provided and covered through fees. |
| CONTACT INFO |
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| Information | Barrie Reid Earthquest Academy Contact Email: earthquest@telus.net Phone: 250-545-7806
Corinne McWhinney Principal of vLearn, Career Programs & Academies Email: cmcwhinney@sd22.bc.ca Phone: 250-542-0249
International Students should contact our International Department for full details on SD22 Secondary School Admissions and possible Academy participation. |