Activities
Every school year, international students in Saanich have the opportunity to participate in activities and trips organized by the Saanich International Student Program (SISP). While participation is not required, these activities and trips are strongly encouraged, as they provide students with the chance to explore different parts of British Columbia and Canada, experience local culture, and build lasting friendships with fellow international students.
Registration for SISP activities and trips can be completed through your school-based International Program Assistant or online for trips offered by our partner, Discover Canada Tours.
Please find a PDF version of the SISP Activities and Trips schedule HERE.
The SISP New Student Orientation is a two-day event designed to help new international students successfully transition into their schools and communities. During orientation, students will participate in a variety of activities, including presentations, school tours, games, and assessments. In addition, students will also have the opportunity to explore beautiful downtown Victoria and experience some of the local attractions outside of their schools. Orientation is a great way to meet other international students, make new friends, and begin building a supportive social network.
Important: New students, be sure to bring your study permit to the orientation! You will receive their Semester 1 class schedules on the second day of the orientation.
A slideshow and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our YouTube Channel.
Departing from Victoria’s Inner Harbour, this exciting whale-watching adventure takes students through the Strait of Juan de Fuca in search of orcas, humpback whales, and other marine wildlife. During the three-hour tour, knowledgeable marine naturalists will share fascinating facts about the animals and ecosystems of the region while students enjoy the spectacular coastal scenery.
Be sure to bring a packed lunch, sunglasses, a warm jacket, and a camera to capture the experience!
Videos and the slideshows showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our Instagram page.
There will be two Tofino Surfing and Bear Watching trips during the school year, and this is the first one!
This exciting three-day, two-night adventure gives students the opportunity to experience one of British Columbia’s most iconic coastal destinations. Tofino is world-renowned for its pristine beaches, excellent year-round surfing conditions, and stunning Pacific Northwest scenery. During the trip, students will participate in a half-day surfing lesson and a half-day bear-watching tour, exploring the inlets and islands surrounding Tofino while learning about the region’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.
Students will also have plenty of free time to relax on the sandy beaches, explore the area, and enjoy the jacuzzi at the vibrant Hotel Zed. The trip includes one pizza dinner and one sandwich lunch.
Slideshows and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our YouTube Channel.
Each November, SISP takes students on an exciting overnight trip to Vancouver, highlighted by an NHL hockey game featuring the Vancouver Canucks. This popular trip offers students the opportunity to experience the energy of professional hockey while exploring some of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions.
Students will visit the spectacular Capilano Suspension Bridge and the vibrant Shipyards District, where they can enjoy stunning views of the downtown Vancouver skyline. The itinerary also includes the immersive FlyOver Canada experience, a driving tour through Stanley Park, and free time for shopping at Pacific Centre Mall in the heart of downtown Vancouver.
Slideshows and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our YouTube Channel..
The Christmas Dance is a cherished annual SISP tradition that brings together international students from Claremont, Parkland, and Stelly's Secondary Schools for an evening of festive Canadian holiday celebrations.
The event offers students the opportunity to enjoy a delicious pizza dinner, dance the night away on a lively dance floor, and create lasting memories with friends from across the program. A special highlight of the evening is the chance to have photos taken with the one and only Santa Claus!
Slideshows and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our YouTube Channel..
Students interested in skiing and snowboarding have the opportunity to join this exciting 3-day, 2-night trip to Whistler, British Columbia. As a co-host of the 2010 Winter Olympic Games, Whistler is renowned as one of the largest and most celebrated ski and snowboarding destinations in North America.
This trip is open to students of all skill levels, from beginners to experienced skiers and snowboarders. Ski or snowboard equipment rentals and lift tickets are included in the trip cost. To ensure a safe and enjoyable experience, all participants are required to take lessons with certified Whistler Blackcomb instructors during their time on the slopes.
In addition to skiing and snowboarding, students will have the opportunity to explore the vibrant Whistler Village, featuring a variety of restaurants, cafés, and unique shops in a beautiful mountain setting.
Slideshows and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our Instragram page.
Mount Washington Alpine Resort is located in the beautiful Comox Valley on Vancouver Island, approximately a three-hour drive from Saanich. This exciting 2-day, 1-night trip offers students another opportunity to enjoy both snow tubing and skiing or snowboarding in one of the most spectacular coastal alpine settings in North America.
Mount Washington is known for its stunning views of the Strait of Georgia and the British Columbia mainland in the distance. Both full-year students and new students arriving for Semester 2 are welcome to participate.
More pictures and videos can be found on our Instragram
SISP students will have the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to travel to the Yukon and experience the breathtaking beauty of the Northern Lights, also known as the Aurora Borealis. This unforgettable adventure offers students the chance to witness one of nature's most spectacular displays while exploring Canada's northern wilderness.
Students will stay in a unique and comfortable lodge where they can relax in a hot tub while watching for the Northern Lights overhead. For those seeking an additional adventure, an optional half-day dog sledding excursion is available for an extra fee.
The Trip Includes:
Round-trip flights / Two nights of accommodation / Winter clothing package (boots, snow pants, parka, gloves, and balaclava) / Aurora Borealis viewing opportunities / Guided snowshoeing or tobogganing activities. etc.
More pictures and videos can be found on our Instragram
Join us on an unforgettable spring adventure to Montreal and Quebec City! Experience the beauty of Canada's French-speaking culture as colorful flowers bloom and historic streets come alive. Explore the cobblestone streets of Old Quebec, discover the vibrant neighborhoods of Montreal, enjoy delicious local cuisine, and visit some of Canada's most iconic landmarks.
This exciting round-trip adventure includes return airfare and a 3-night stay in Quebec Province. Whether it's your first time visiting Eastern Canada or you're looking to explore a new part of the country, this spring getaway offers the perfect opportunity to make new friends, experience the unique blend of European charm and modern Canadian culture, and create unforgettable memories.
The SISP trip to the Canadian Rocky Mountains is an amazing opportunity for SISP students to explore Interior, Kootenay and Rocky Mountain regions of British Columbia. For students who enjoy roadtrips, this bus trip will take you through the diverse landscapes that BC has to offer, all the way into the province of Alberta and through the Rocky Mountains. The trip highlight is visiting the beautiful town of Banff, Alberta. Students will go up the Banff Gondola, where they will enjoy panaormic views of the gorgeous mountain ranges. Another highlight of the trip is visiting world famous Lake Louise, Alberta. If Lake Louise is still frozen, students will have the chance to walk on the lake. Skiing/snow tubing at Lake Louise and an Ice Walk at Johnston Canyon will be optional activities for an extra fee.
The Trip Includes:
Coach bus transportation / Experienced tour guide (2 per 50 students) / Three nights hotel accommodation - one night in Sicamous, two nights in Banff / Three breakfasts and 1 pizza dinner / Ticket to the Banff Gondola / Visit to Lake Louise / Ferry to and from Vancouver
More pictures and videos can be found on our Instragram
This is the second Tofino trip in this school year.
This exciting three-day, two-night adventure gives students the opportunity to experience one of British Columbia’s most iconic coastal destinations. Tofino is world-renowned for its pristine beaches, excellent year-round surfing conditions, and stunning Pacific Northwest scenery. During the trip, students will participate in a half-day surfing lesson and a half-day bear-watching tour, exploring the inlets and islands surrounding Tofino while learning about the region’s unique wildlife and ecosystems.
Students will also have plenty of free time to relax on the sandy beaches, explore the area, and enjoy the jacuzzi at the vibrant Hotel Zed. The trip includes one pizza dinner and one sandwich lunch.
Slideshows and short videos showcasing SISP student activities can be viewed on our YouTube Channel.
The school year wraps up with a SISP farewell dance and BBQ for students and staff. Students will enjoy a BBQ provided by staff and a dance floor where a professional DJ will play songs requested by students.
Videos of SISP student activities can be found on our Instagram.