Carp Ridge Learning Centre, a Green Educational Environment for Ecological Sustainability

Carp Ridge Learning Centre
print text-only version

Go directly to Carp Ridge Learning Centre website.

Our Learning Centre is situated on a 190 acre wooded area, and complements our on-site EcoWellness Centre. The secluded and natural space hosts educational, spiritual, and fitness programs for children, youth, and adult groups. Offering eco-friendly facilities that nurture and accommodate groups, the land also showcases responsible environmental care, nourishes a variety of groups, and hosts organizations to assist in their staff development and business objectives. We also exercise alternative methods in protecting our land which we highlight during tours.

NOTE: Contact and rental info is provided at right, or in greater detail at the Learning Centre website (click on Services).

Click here for a printable directions map.

The Learning Centre provides a tranquil country setting with quick access to the Ottawa metro area. It is located only 20 min. from Kanata and 35 min. northwest from downtown Ottawa. Just outside of Carp village, it is also near Highway 417, a major traffic artery from the Ottawa area and north through Arnprior. Nestled on the fringe of extensive woodlands, the cedar-clad building has easy access to walking trails, an outdoor eating area, as well as the CREWC grounds and Natural Health Clinic.

A large, one-room space is wheelchair accessible and accommodates 25-30 people comfortably. Lighting is balanced between sunny windows and full-spectrum bulbs. There are two separate washrooms with composting toilets, a small kitchen, large blackboard, and a number of audio-visual accessories available to course moderators.

Courses offered at the centre have included healing circles, drum-making, yoga, summer camps, organizational AGMs and group facilitations, permaculture, straw bale construction, solar energy, and New Medicine.

The Centre's History

The learning centre was formerly the Carp Ridge Community School, which operated as a private elementary facility from the fall of 1998 until summer of 2001. At that time it was temporarily closed due to the illness and subsequent passing of one of its founding members, Michael Willow. Originally designated as 'the schoolhouse' -- generously donated by John Sweetnam -- it now serves another educational purpose as general workshop and learning space.