Program Information
Information for Participants and Teachers
Coming to a River Valley program? Here is information on what to expect, what to wear, what to bring, and cancellations.
Our Staff
As program instructors, River Valley Programs staff members are dedicated to providing an enjoyable program experience for the group, with an emphasis on safety and risk management. All staff members are First Aid and CPR certified, and meet or exceed industry standards for instructor certification and training.
Our Equipment
We will provide all equipment for all activities. Participants are welcome to bring their own helmets for biking programs. We ask that participants do not bring their own bikes. All equipment will be checked by our staff to ensure it is safe to use in our programs. Please let us know if we can provide any adapted equipment for participants with special needs.
What to Wear
Winter clothing
- Dress in layers: a base layer that will wick moisture away from the skin, a mid layer that will provide insulation, and a waterproof outer layer to keep you dry.
- Base and mid layers should be made of a synthetic wicking fabric or wool, which are fabrics that will pull moisture away from the skin. Cotton fabrics are a poor choice.
- Warm socks, mitts and toques are a must!
- Wear warmer clothing for low-energy programs such as Outdoor Skills, and less warm, more breathable clothing for high-energy programs such as Cross Country Skiing.
Summer clothing
- Be ready for the weather! Bring rain gear if needed, or a hat and sunscreen if it is sunny.
- Always bring a water bottle.
- Bring a backpack for small personal items.
- For all water sport activities, wear clothing, including shoes, that can get wet.
What to Expect
For Teachers
Communication
A few days before the date of the program, you will be contacted by a member of the River Valley Programs staff confirming the details of your upcoming program. Please let them know if there have been any changes to your program, particularly the times or the group numbers.
Planning
Please ensure that all school permission forms are completed prior to the day of the program, and that your planned travel time allows your group to arrive on time. Remember to call and book your bus!
Preparedness
Group supervisors are responsible for ensuring that their participants are dressed appropriately and prepared to be outside.
Supervision
It is expected that the teacher/group supervisor will maintain responsibility for the discipline and control of their group, and that they participate fully in all aspects the program.
Ratios
In addition to the River Valley Programs staff leading the program, we recommend a 1:15 teacher to student ratio for grades 4-12 and a 1:5 teacher to student ratio for grades K-3.
For ParticipantsCommunication
A few days before the date of the program, you will be contacted by a member of the River Valley Programs staff confirming the details of your upcoming program.
Preparedness
Be ready to be outside! Dress for the weather and the type of activity you will be doing.
Ratios
Most of our public programs have a minimum ratio of 1 instructor: 10 students. Certain activities such as kayaking will have a lower number of students, based on industry standards.
Cancellations
Programs run rain or shine. If you require a cancellation, please call 780-496-2983. Cancellations within 4-30 days' notice are subject to a fee of 50% of the program cost. Programs cancelled with less than 3 days' (72 hours) notice will be charged the full program fee.
Should River Valley Programs cancel your program due to weather, every effort will be made to reschedule within the same school year or a refund will be issued.
River Valley Programs reserves the right to cancel a program at any time.
For More Information
River Valley Programs - Outdoor Pursuits
City of Edmonton
Circle Square
11808 St Albert Trail
Edmonton AB T5L 4G4
| Telephone |
School, Group, or Badge Programs 780-496-2983
Public Programs In Edmonton: 311 Outside Edmonton: 780-442-5311 780-496-2981 |
|---|---|
| Fax | 780-496-2955 |
| CMS.OutdoorPrograms@edmonton.ca |
