Living near the West Coast of British Columbia offers us opportunities to study marine life. Although we live relatively close to the ocean, the chances of seeing a blue whale are scarce. The rate of extinction and the environmental hazards these animals face make them especially rare. Current whaling practices have lead these whales to near extinction. 

How many of us will actually get to see the world’s largest mammal: a blue whale up close? The Vancouver Aquarium only has beluga whales in captivity, which environmentalists oppose.  To house a blue whale in captivity would require an extraordinary facility and an incredible means of feeding and caring for this gentle giant.  Wouldn’t it be fun and exciting to spend a week up close with a life-size 26m long blue whale?  Learning about this majestic creature deepens our awareness of marine life, the importance of caring for the environment and ultimately generating awe and excitement about the Earth’s most fascinating creatures.

The Big Blue Whale Camp is an exciting thematic summer day camp, which incorporates many outcomes from across the curriculum at all grade levels.  The purpose of the week long camp is to teach students about the blue whale.  What makes this camp so incredible is the life-size inflatable blue whale. Students will create using plastic garbage bags.  Students will be able to go inside the inflatable whale to experience for themselves the magnificence of the largest mammal on Earth.

Environmental awareness is a growing concern for all global citizens.  Taking care to recycle, reduce pollution and to care for endangered species are all “hot topics” and critical issues in government and in education.  The Big Blue Whale Camp brings these concerns to the students in an engaging and meaningful way, encouraging them to take active roles in making a positive difference in the protection of our planet.