Grade 8 Trip to Ottawa

On our first day, we visited the extraordinary National Gallery of Canada. During the tour of the gallery we saw a wide variety of art work. There were many works by Vincent Van Gogh, the Group of Seven and Pablo Picasso, among other amazing artistic creations. Later that evening, we went to a hockey game between the Ottawa Senators and the Buffalo Sabres. It was a very intense and exciting game! Sadly, the Senators lost to the Sabres, 3-2.

On the second day, we crossed the border into Quebec and visited the Laflèche Caves and went snowshoeing. Snowshoeing through the wilderness was definitely a great workout and a lot of fun too. We climbed many hills and saw breathtaking views of the surrounding forest and landscape. Also, we explored the Laflèche Caves. There were many fascinating creatures in the caves, such as bats! We also saw an underground water hole and were able to climb a 20-meter vertical staircase up the cave! We then traveled to Byward Market where we were given free time to go shopping and the option to try beaver tails!

Next, we travelled to the Canadian War Museum, a brilliant masterpiece featuring a collection of unique artifacts. It was created as a memorial to the men and women who have served in the military. The building even has morse code, fashioned by larger and smaller windows which reads, “Lest we forget”. Some of the Grade 8s even had the privilege to talk to some veterans who served in different wars across the world. That night we had the dance! Everyone had a terrific time.

The following day, we travelled to the Parliament Buildings of Canada. At the Parliament we saw beautiful architecture and learned about the history of the buildings. While there, we also visited the Peace Tower and the Memorial Chamber. It was inspiring to see all of the parts of the Canadian government. Afterwards, we went to the Rideau Canal to go skating. This was an absolutely amazing experience – for many of the group it was the first time on the canal. Even though “only” a 4-km stretch of the canal was open, everyone got lots of fresh air and exercise. Later that night, we went on the Ghosts and Gallows Haunted Walk and Jail tour at the old Carleton County Jail. This was a very spooky and exhilarating tour. We saw where people were held prisoner in jail cells and the gallows used when capital punishment was still part of the Canadian criminal code. They say that ghosts haunt the building (now a hostel) to this day.

The final day of the trip, we travelled to Quebec for dogsledding. We had a remarkable time riding on a solo dog sled, speeding through the open fields and snowy trails. Sadly, after enjoying so many amazing experiences in such a short time, we had to say goodbye to Ottawa. This trip will remain a memory that we will treasure as a highlight of our time in the Middle School.