Welcome to the Canadian Centre for Nature-Based Education!
Across Canada’s vast and diverse landscapes, nature is more than just a backdrop — it’s a teacher. From the changing seasons to the quiet strength of our forests and the resilience of northern winds, nature offers powerful lessons that inspire curiosity, build skills, and connect us all.
At the Canadian Centre for Nature-based Education, we believe that transformative, hands-on learning experiences in nature can spark a lasting conservation ethic — one that leads to real action and deep care for the land we all share.
Whether you’re an educator, a community leader, or simply passionate about nature, you’ve come to the right place to explore, discover, and learn!
Explore Additional Opportunities for Nature-Based Education Across Canada
Discover our growing network of nature-based education providers across the country. This interactive map highlights community assets—from local programs and outdoor classrooms to regional organizations and national partners—supporting learning in, about, and through nature. Use this map to find and connect with additional resources near you!
About Us
At the Canadian Centre for Nature-Based Education, we are passionate about fostering a conservation ethic through education. We believe that meaningful, transformative experiences in nature are the key to inspiring real conservation action. Whether you're an educator, a community leader, or someone seeking to deepen your connection to the natural world, we're here to help you find the tools, resources, and opportunities you need to make that connection.
We operate with a no wrong doors approach—meaning no matter where you start, we’ll guide you to the right resources and connect you with the people who can best support your learning journey.
What We Do
Formal Education
Formal education is structured learning that happens in schools and other recognized institutions.
Formal education is structured learning that happens in schools and other recognized institutions.
Systems & Structures
National Education Framework
Colleges & Universities
Provincial/Territorial Ministries
School Districts
People & Capacity
Teacher Training
Online Learning Libraries
Activity Guides
Empowering Action
Citizen Science
School Habitat Projects
Scholarships
Nonformal Education
Non-formal education is learning that happens outside the formal school system through workshops, short courses, clubs and programs.
Non-formal education is learning that happens outside the formal school system through workshops, short courses, clubs and programs.
Systems & Structures
National Education Framework
Youth-serving Organizations
Cultural & Natural Heritage Sites
Coalitions
People & Capacity
Career Development
Skills Training
Facilitator Toolkits
Empowering Action
Citizen Science
Community Action Projects
Service Learning
Informal Education
Informal education happens through everyday interactions with family, at work, within communities, and through personal experiences.
Informal education happens through everyday interactions with family, at work, within communities, and through personal experiences.
Systems & Structures
National Education Framework
Outdoor Recreation & Nature Play Groups
Public Libraries
People & Capacity
Self-directed Courses
Webinars
Factsheets & Resources
Empowering Action
Citizen Science
Family Action Projects
Backyard Habitat Initiatives
- Advocacy for Nature-Based Education (NbE): We work to raise awareness and support for nature-based education as a vital tool for fostering environmental stewardship and lasting change.
- Resources and Training: We provide accessible materials, expert-led training, and resources to help individuals and communities create their own transformative experiences in nature—whether through outdoor education, immersive learning, or nature connection practices.
- Conservation Action: We support and promote experiential learning opportunities that empower individuals to actively participate in conservation efforts, turning knowledge into action through direct engagement with nature.
How We Do It
Education is a lifelong journey that spans formal, nonformal, and informal settings. Whether in classrooms, community workshops, or everyday interactions with the world, learning never stops.
We work to meet people where they are, honoring their unique learning journeys, and empowering them to connect to nature at their own pace. This holistic approach ensures that education is accessible, inclusive, and adaptable—because learning is as dynamic as life itself!
Issue Briefs
Explore our issue briefs highlighting key trends, challenges, and opportunities shaping the future of Nature-based Education. We invite your to use them to spark discussion, inform decision-making, and inspire action.
