Oakville Students Explore Canada’s Rich History on Quebec Adventure

For a group of students from Oakville School, learning about Canada went beyond textbooks this year; it involved walking through historic streets, standing under majestic waterfalls, and getting an up-close look at the nation’s capital.

A recent week-long journey to Montreal, Quebec City, and Ottawa allowed Grade 6 to 8 students to immerse themselves in Canada’s history, culture, and diversity firsthand. School principal Mark Sokolowski notes that this is a vital part of their educational experience.

“We try to offer a trip every three years so that every student who goes through Oakville has the opportunity to attend at some point,” Sokolowski explains. “It gives families time to plan, and it gives students something really meaningful to look forward to.”

Oakville students take in the historic charm of Quebec City as they walk through its cobblestone streets and centuries-old architecture. Submitted Photo/Mark Sokolowski

Learning beyond the classroom

The trip had been planned for several years and was led by teacher Tricia Sawchuk after the previous organizer retired. Preparations began long before with fundraising efforts helping many families participate.

During seven days, students explored some of Canada’s most iconic spots, starting in Montreal. There, they experienced the city’s lively arts scene with a visit to Café Graffiti, toured the Formula 1 track, and enjoyed stunning views from La Grande Roue-a giant Ferris wheel overlooking the city skyline.

They also visited landmarks like Mount Royal and Notre Dame Basilica, rode the subway, and checked out museums showcasing both archaeology and local history.

Students show off hats they created during a visit to Café Graffiti in Montreal, part of a hands-on experience exploring the city’s arts scene. Submitted Photo/Mark Sokolowski Related stories:

From historic Quebec City to the nation’s capital

The group then moved on to Quebec City where cobblestone streets and ancient buildings brought Canada’s early history alive. Students explored both upper and lower towns, visited a military base along with a war museum, and took part in a reenactment at Plains of Abraham.

A highlight for many was visiting Montmorency Falls where students wandered around and rode gondolas alongside rushing water. The day concluded with an authentic sugar shack experience filled with food, music, and dancing.

In Ottawa, students continued their exploration of Canada’s past as well as its present. Their itinerary included stops at the National Gallery, Canadian War Museum, and Holocaust Memorial. They also toured Parliament Hill where they learned about how laws are made-bringing their civics lessons into real life.

Students gather at the Ottawa sign during a stop in the nation’s capital where they explored Canada’s government and national landmarks. Submitted Photo/Mark Sokolowski

A trip to remember

For Grade 8 student Lane, this adventure was both thrilling and enlightening.

“It was definitely worth it. Just meeting new people and experiencing new stuff; it was really cool.”

Lane mentions that Montreal was his favorite destination because of its diversity and vibrant atmosphere.

“You’ll go from these big basilicas to Chinatown to a massive skyscraper. It’s just such an interesting place.”

This trip also marked first-time travel for some students-especially those who had never been to Quebec before.

Sokolowski emphasizes that’s exactly what this trip aims for: opening doors while broadening perspectives.

“You get to see how Canada formed in places like Old Montreal and Quebec City; then when you’re in Ottawa you understand how our government functions today. It’s about learning but also having fun-and I think we achieved both.”

Now that students have returned home carrying fresh memories along with deeper insights into their country, the trip stands as an enduring reminder of how impactful hands-on learning can be beyond just traveling itself.

Students explorethe streetsof Quebec Cityimm immersingthemselvesinthehistoryandcultureofoneof Canada’so oldest cities. Submitted Photo /Mark Sokolowsk
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