As part of the GRFS High School Summer School Program, our Grade 9 students enjoyed an exciting and memorable educational trip to the Toronto Islands and downtown Toronto.
The journey began with a bus and train ride from Kitchener to Toronto, followed by a ferry trip across the waterfront to the islands. Throughout the day, students explored new places, enjoyed outdoor activities, strengthened friendships, and created meaningful memories together.
Toronto Trip Highlights
- Travelling from Kitchener to Toronto by bus and train
- Ferry ride to the Toronto Islands
- Biking and outdoor activities
- Chairlift experience
- Visit to the petting zoo
- Ice cream and beautiful Toronto skyline views
- Souvenir shopping for magnets and keychains
- Popeyes picnic by the waterfront
- Visit to the CN Tower area
- Exploring the Toronto Railway Museum
Learning Beyond the Classroom
The Grade 9 Toronto Islands trip offered a wonderful balance of recreation, experiential learning, exploration, and community connection. Students experienced Toronto’s waterfront, public transportation system, cultural landmarks, and shared public spaces while enjoying quality time with their peers and mentors.
Travelling through the city helped students develop practical skills, including navigating public transportation, managing a full day of activities, making independent choices, and learning how major urban spaces connect people and communities. From the ferry crossing and island bike ride to the CN Tower area and Toronto Railway Museum, every stop offered a new perspective.
At GRFS, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom. Experiences like this help young people build confidence, develop independence, discover new interests, and strengthen their sense of friendship and belonging. They also give students opportunities to connect classroom learning with real places, transportation systems, cultural landmarks, nature, and community life.
We sincerely thank our mentors, volunteers, program staff, and everyone who helped make this trip safe, enjoyable, educational, and memorable for our students. We are also grateful to our Grade 9 students for bringing their curiosity, enthusiasm, and positive energy throughout the day.