Free School Programs

Learn through interactive education programs at Downsview Park's EcoCentre.

Elementary and high school groups are invited to take part in Downsview Park’s FREE curriculum-based programs that focus on sustainability.

Downsview Park's Free School Programs are proudly sponsored by TD Friends of the Environment Foundation.

Education in the Park

Designed to support Ontario's Ministry of Education Curriculum Guidelines, Downsview Park's free school programs include interactive lessons, memorable crafts, and fun activities both inside and outside Downsview Park's certified EcoCentre.

All school programs are half-day workshops, with the opportunity to combine a morning and afternoon session. Programs may support schools working towards EcoSchools certification.

Eligibility

Who can book a program?
Teachers and home schooling associations.

Programs

Click on a program below to jump to a description of the program.

Butterfly Landing

JK & SK
(May - June)
Learn about the lifecycle of butterflies and check out butterfly habitats in the Urban Forest.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Sports

Grades JK - 9
(Year-round)
Enjoy a healthy dose of physical activity at Downsview Park's Sports Centre, led by Park staff.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Park in Fall

Grades 1 - 3
(Sept - Dec)
Enjoy a nature walk through the heart of the Urban Forest and learn how local plants and animals adapt to seasonal changes.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Park in Winter

Grades 1 - 3
(Jan - March)
Learn about winter habitats and how (local) wild animals spend the coldest months of the year.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Sap to Syrup

Grades 1 - 4
(March)
Help collect sap from sugar maple trees and learn about the maple syrup-making process. 

Park in Spring

Grades 1 - 3
(April - June)
Learn about natural habitats and observe the interdependence of plants and animals in the Urban Forest.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Waste Not, Want Not

Grades 1 - 4
(Year-round)
Learn how to use resources more effectively while reducing the amount of waste generated.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Food in the Park

Grades 1 - 4
(June)
Get your hands dirty in Downsview Park's Teaching Garden and learn about growing food locally.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Water World

Grade 2
(Year-round)
Learn about the Earth's water cycle and the importance of water conservation.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Tree City

Grade 3 and up
(Fall, Spring)
Investigate the important role that trees play in an urban environment and get your hands dirty planting in the Urban Forest.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.

Urban Biodiversity

Grades 4 - 8
(Year-round)
Learn the importance of biodiversity and explore the Park to discover some of the local plants and animals that thrive in Toronto.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

Junior Park Explorers

Grades 4 - 6
(Fall, Spring)
Connect with nature while exploring Downsview Park's new lake, forest, gardens, meadows and hills. Learn about the rich history of the site and its ongoing transformation. This program is based entirely outdoors! 

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

Air, Energy & Conservation

Grade 5
(Year-round)
Learn about air pollution and energy conservation, and see renewable energy technology in action.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

Compass Navigation

Grade 5 - 9
(Year-round)
Learn how to use a compass and navigate through interactive activities.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

Flight in the Park

Grade 6
(Year-round)
Explore the science of flight—both in nature and in industry. Observe the flight of birds in Downsview Park and learn about the Park's rich aviation history.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

Stewardship

Grades 7 & 8
(Winter & Spring)
Receive an in-class sustainability workshop (in winter) followed by a visit to Downsview Park to plant trees (in spring).

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form. 

The Urban Forest

Grade 9 (Geography)
(Fall, Spring)
Learn about the important role that trees play in an urban setting and participate in stewardship activities.

To request a booking for this program, complete our online request form.