Trip to Calgary & Banff for Grades 6-9 Students

Our grade 6-9 students at Iqra Islamic School in Winnipeg, Manitoba, had an awesome time on a 4-day science excursion to Alberta! This was a big trip—60 students, with 30 boys and 30 girls, climbed onto a bus and headed to places like Calgary, Banff, Lake Minnewanka, Lake Louise, and more. It was all about learning science, enjoying nature, and practicing what they’ve studied in Islamic Studies. They came back tired but happy, with so many cool things to share!

The adventure started with a bus ride from Winnipeg to Alberta. The students were buzzing with excitement to visit new spots. In Calgary, they went to science centers where they did experiments and checked out displays about space, animals, and how stuff works. Then, in Banff, Lake Minnewanka, and Lake Louise, they saw tall mountains, sparkling lakes, and trees everywhere. It was the perfect way to mix science with nature, and they couldn’t get enough of it. For some, it was their first time in such beautiful places, and it made them see how amazing Allah’s (SWT) creation is.

Following Islamic rules, the boys and girls stayed in separate houses. The 30 boys had their own house with male chaperones, and the 30 girls stayed in another house with female chaperones. This kept things respectful and easy for everyone, just like at school. The chaperones made sure the students were safe and having fun. Even with so many kids, they all got along like one big team.

On the trip, the students didn’t just focus on science—they lived out their Islamic Studies lessons too. Since they were away from home, they prayed like travelers, making their prayers shorter as the Qur’an teaches. They looked out for each other, shared snacks, and helped when someone needed a hand—simple habits we teach at Iqra. They also took time to stare at the mountains and lakes, talking about how Allah (SWT) made everything so wonderful. The Qur’an says to look at nature and think about Him, and that’s what they did.

The 4 days were full of action and discovery. One day, they might be making projects in a science workshop, and the next, they’d be walking near Lake Louise, amazed by the bright blue water. The boys and girls tried fun things, like touching fossils or watching a mini rocket blast off in a demo. They also had time to play games and eat together. It was a great way to make friends and enjoy being out of the classroom.

At Iqra, we think learning should be exciting and real—not just something from a book. This trip showed our grade 6-9 students how science and Islam go together. They saw Allah’s (SWT) signs all around them and practiced being kind and responsible. The chaperones said the kids were fantastic—always polite and ready to learn more. Even after 4 busy days, they didn’t want to leave!

We’re so proud of our 60 students for making this trip so special. A huge thank you to the male and female chaperones who kept everything going smoothly, and to the parents who cheered us on. This excursion was an awesome way for our grade 6-9 students to learn, have fun, and feel closer to Allah (SWT). We can’t wait to plan our next big trip—where should we take them next?