Beyond Classrooms Kingston
Beyond Classrooms Kingston (BCK) is an innovative, curriculum-oriented “Inquiry Learning” program that moves an entire class into a community space—like an art gallery, museum, or City Hall—for a full week. BCK is not just a field trip; it is a specialized pedagogical model.
Have questions about Beyond Classrooms? Reach out to our program coordinator:
The Catalyst
This “Take Over a Community Site” week serves as the spark for a year of inquiry and “slowed-down” learning.
The Experience
Students move beyond the four walls of a school to interact deeply with artifacts, experts, and local heritage.
The Outcome
Students build critical thinking, literacy, and sketching skills while becoming active, engaged citizens.
Our Philosophy:
Beyond Classrooms is based on the “Open Minds” concept. It is designed to help students “slow down” their learning. Rather than a whirlwind tour, students spend five days in one location, allowing for deep observation and meaningful journaling.
The Process:
Preparation
Teachers work with us to align the week with their specific year-long teaching goals.
Immersion
A week-long “takeover” where the site becomes the primary classroom.
Inquiry
Students use sketching and journaling to document their questions and discoveries.
“The artifacts here make me proud to be free in Canada. They made me more interested in every soldier’s past and story.”
Get Involved!
Volunteer Opportunities:
We are looking for dedicated community members to support this program.
Roles: Assist students with journaling, provide extra supervision during site walks, or share expertise as a guest speaker.
Support Beyond Classrooms:
Our program relies on the generosity of the community to keep it accessible to local schools. You can learn more and contribute by visiting our donate page: