The Adventure of a Lifetime

Graduating from high school is exciting, but it can also leave you wondering, “What’s next?” Whether you’re thinking about taking a gap year to explore, learn, or gain work experience, the right decision can shape your future in incredible ways.

Whistler Adventure School (WAS) offers a unique opportunity to combine outdoor adventure with career-building education in one of the most breathtaking places on Earth. Here’s how WAS can make your gap year unforgettable and valuable.

Outdoor Education: Learn by Doing

Why It Matters

Experiential learning brings education to life, taking you out of traditional classrooms and into real-world scenarios where you develop practical, hands-on skills. For those passionate about nature and outdoor adventures, this approach is ideal for building a meaningful career while exploring new experiences.

“You don’t learn to walk by following rules. You learn by doing, and by falling over.”
— Richard Branson

Program Highlights

• Wilderness First Responder Certification: Learn to manage emergency situations in remote outdoor environments, equipping yourself with lifesaving skills critical for adventure tourism.
• Mountain Biking Skills: Master technical and guiding skills in mountain biking, one of Whistler’s most popular outdoor activities.
• Climbing Basics: Get introduced to rock climbing, learning foundational techniques and safety protocols to enjoy and teach this sport responsibly.
• Backcountry Navigation and Leadership: Gain the ability to guide groups through challenging terrains, focusing on risk management, map reading, and leadership in remote areas.

How WAS Can Help

The Adventure Tourism Summer Program at WAS immerses you in the outdoor tourism industry, combining skill-building with the thrill of exploration.

• Program Certifications: Graduates earn a Wilderness First Responder certification and a diploma, making them highly employable in entry-level outdoor guiding roles or recreation tourism businesses.
• Flexible Study Options: Choose between full-year or accelerated formats to fit your schedule, ensuring a balance between education and adventure.
• Career and Life Benefits:
  • Learn essential outdoor leadership and technical skills.
  • Work directly in Whistler, a globally recognized adventure tourism hub.
  • Enhance your resume with practical experience and globally respected certifications.

Many students complement the Adventure Tourism Summer Program with additional options like Bike Guide Training or Ski/Snowboard Guide Training to further expand their skills.

Moving Away: Finding Independence

Why It Matters

Moving away—whether to another part of Canada or abroad—teaches independence, resilience, and adaptability. It’s a chance to step out of your comfort zone and discover who you really are.

Options for High School Students

• Relocate to a place with a thriving young adult community to meet new friends and network.
• Experience an internationally renowned destination like Whistler, where many visitors take time to unwind, explore, and meet others in similar life transitions.

How WAS Can Help

• Supportive Community: WAS connects students with a global network of peers and professionals. A shared Facebook group allows you to meet others and discover local resources.
• Advisors and Resources: WAS advisors assist with finding housing, managing schedules, and balancing work with study.
• Local Initiatives: Organizations like Zero Ceiling and Whistler Community Services support students and residents alike, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Experiencing New Sports and Adventures

Why It Matters

Trying new sports during your gap year can spark lifelong passions and open doors to unexpected career paths. It’s an excellent way to stay active and fully immerse yourself in the local adventure culture.

Options for High School Graduates

• Dive into mountain biking, skiing, or snowboarding, all available in Whistler’s world-class facilities.
• Volunteer with outdoor organizations to combine fun with skill-building while gaining practical experience in the adventure tourism industry.
• Explore programs like Bike Guide Training or Trail Mechanics to get a taste of guiding and technical roles.

How WAS Can Help

• Bike Guide Training Program: Develop guiding and technical skills in mountain biking while exploring Whistler’s globally renowned trails. Learn about risk management, safety protocols, and client care to prepare for guiding roles.
• Adventure Tourism Winter Program: Gain expertise in guiding, avalanche safety, and backcountry navigation for winter sports.

Whistler is not just a beautiful destination—it’s Canada’s hub for adventure tourism, offering unparalleled opportunities to:

• Build connections with like-minded peers and industry leaders.
• Gain experience in an environment built for adventure.
• Transition seamlessly into outdoor tourism jobs or use your skills globally.

Surround Yourself with People Making Their Dreams Happen

Why It Matters

Your environment shapes your mindset. Being around ambitious, creative, and adventurous people inspires you to dream big and work hard to achieve your goals.

Options for High School Students

• Join a community of peers actively pursuing exciting careers.
• Network with professionals in your fields of interest to find mentors and opportunities.

How WAS Can Help

WAS attracts a global community of adventurers, innovators, and leaders. By joining, you’ll gain access to:

• A network of peers and instructors passionate about the outdoors.
• Career-focused programs that set you up for success.

Opportunities to volunteer with events, such as those offered through Tourism Whistler, where you can meet like-minded individuals.

Make Your Gap Year Matter

A gap year is more than just a break—it’s an opportunity to grow, learn, and build a future you’re excited about. At Whistler Adventure School, you can combine hands-on education, thrilling adventures, and a supportive community to make the most of this unique time in your life.

Ready to start your journey?

Contact us today to explore our programs and take the first step toward an unforgettable year at Whistler Adventure School.

Contact Information

• In Europe: Martina Pospisilova – WhatsApp: +1-778-382-7635 | Email: martina@whistleradventureschool.com
• In Latin America: Virginia Arenas Palau – WhatsApp: +52 1 55 9417 0393 | Email: virginia@whistleradventureschool.com

Anywhere else: Shelley Quinn – WhatsApp: +1 (604) 935-2130 | Email: shelley@whistleradventureschool.com