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High School Program
Experience the profound biodiversity and cultural depth of Haida Gwaii, an archipelago steeped in 10,000 years of Haida heritage. Students are invited to delve into the outdoor wonders and engage with local Indigenous leaders for a transformative journey.
The 150 islands that make up the Haida Gwaii region off the northern Pacific coast, form the heartland of the Haida Nation. Haida peoples have inhabited this land for 13,000 years and make up approximately half of today’s population. This land is deeply rich in biodiversity and a sacred place for the Haida people. They are able to continue to exercise their sovereignty over their islands through their acting government, the Council of the Haida Nation. Our Haida Gwaii program allows students to engage directly with Indigenous interpreters and elders to learn first hand the way of the Haida people.
Haida Gwaii, meaning “Islands of the People” is an archipelago of over 150 islands with an incredible history surrounding the culture of the Haida People who first inhabited these islands over 10,000 years ago. Often referred to as “The Galápagos of the North,” Haida Gwaii unveils remarkable levels of biodiversity and rich Indigenous culture. Students will have the opportunity to explore the outdoors and experience Haida culture, all while learning from local Indigenous leaders and changemakers.
At Insight, our program itineraries are as unique as your students. All our program itineraries are customized with teacher chaperones to ensure that it meets the needs of your students.
With the support of a variety of local vendors and NGO’s, we promise that your students will get an authentic, local experience.
All our trips include:
Want to take your students outside the classroom? Review our program locations and suggested themes.
Connect with one of our High School Educators who will help custom design your program.
With our assistance, submit required paperwork and details to your Administration and School Board.
Announce the trip to your students! (We’ll provide all the materials you need).
Invite us to your school to host a Student & Parent Info Night! We will be there to answer questions and support student sign-up!
Travel to Sandspit, Haida Gwaii
Embark on a boat excursion to tour the village of Skedans or Ḵ’uuna Llnagaay, in the Haida language. Home to 26 to 30 longhouses at its height, today the poles that remain give you a sense of the former grandeur of the village.
Visit Hlk’yah GawG̱a, also known as Windy Bay. Hlk’yah GawG̱a was an important site during Haida protests against logging on Lyell Island. During 1985, the Haida took a stand on the logging road at Sedgwick Bay, this protest ultimately led to the protection of the area and the creation of Gwaii Haanas National Park Reserve and Haida Heritage Site.
Visit the bay fishing weir or Jedway Bay Cannery to learn about the evidence of early and late mining activity as well as fish processing of abalone and salmon in the early part of the century.
Pack up camp and head onwards for a travel day back to Sandspit.
Visit Haida Heritage Centre, a magnificent showcase of the Haida Peoples culture and way of life, highlighting the traditions of all fourteen Haida Clans. Then visit the Village of Tlell, home to a variety of local artisans. Conclude your day with an authentic meal with Roberta Olson and settle into your accommodations at Hiellen Longhouse.
We take students out of the classroom and challenge them to learn about how the world really works in different places, delivering truly unique study abroad and student travel opportunities.