Second language training in the wild
January 21, 2026 - 2Lt Brady Potter, Canadian Forces Base Edmonton Public Affairs
In a predominantly anglophone community, finding ways to practise French can be difficult.
On a beautiful summer day last August, a group of Canadian Armed Forces students studying French at Canadian Forces Base Edmonton were given a creative opportunity to engage in second language training in a real‑world and practical setting.
On Aug. 27, 2025, the language school at the Official Language Centre (OLC) embarked on a field trip to Elk Island National Park east of Edmonton to develop a more comprehensive understanding of French in a real‑time learning environment.
During the field trip, students engaged with their second language training in nature while walking along trails at the park. After a long morning of hiking, the group made a brief stop for lunch, enjoying the shade after persevering through the afternoon heat. Finally, after returning to their starting point, students piled into the Astotin Theatre to give a presentation in French to their classmates about what they had learned about the park. Some of the topics discussed in the presentations included vegetation, wildlife, lakes and park regulations.
For many students, such as Second Lieutenant Paul Nicholson, the field trip added significantly to their routine experience at the language school.
“Our French class trip to Elk Island was an unforgettable experience,” he said. “From the moment we got there, the air was filled with energy and excitement.”
2Lt Nicholson praised the professionalism of the teachers and how they helped make the trip a memorable excursion. He emphasized their willingness to help all the students, fostering an encouraging environment for them.
“The teachers and staff played a big role in making the day so special,” Nicholson said. “Their positive energy created a supportive environment where everyone felt included and motivated to participate.”
2Lt Nicholson’s favourite part of the field trip was the camaraderie that developed between the students.
“One of the best parts of the trip was the way it brought everyone closer,” he said. “Even with our limited vocabulary, there was plenty of laughter, patience and encouragement, which made speaking in French much more fun and comfortable.”
Martin Duval, the Division Co‑ordinator of Official Languages, also emphasised the importance of practical opportunities for less regimented language education in students. While he mentioned not every outing is as exciting as the trip to Elk Island National Park, he said the school tries to develop at least one experience outside of the classroom per module of their curriculum for students to participate in.
“Because we are in a primarily anglophone community, we must be creative and look for places for the students to go where they can practise,” Duval said. “The Elk Island trip provided an opportunity for students to practise in their second language what they’ve learned so far in real life settings.”
Duval mentioned the language school has three year‑long courses currently running. The course for beginners has 28 students, which are split between four classes. The intermediate class has two students, and the advanced class has three students. Each of these students is attending these classes to further their career progression, either because their occupation requires a specific language profile, like 2Lt Nicholson, who recently switched into the public affairs branch; or because they are aspiring towards higher ranks with mandatory official language requirements.
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The field trip allowed the students to engage with their professor in nature and practise their second language in an environment outside the classroom setting.
Photos by 2Lt Brady Potter, Canadian Forces Base Edmonton Public Affairs
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The Elk Island National Park scenery explored by the students on this warm summer afternoon last August.
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A student enjoys his unique learning opportunity at Elk Island National Park.
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Following a morning of hiking around Elk Island National Park, the students gave presentations in their second language about what they learned.
“We also teach English as well, but we currently don’t have any courses running,” Duval added.
In addition to the language school, Duval also mentioned many other services provided by the OLC. Some of these include translation services, ensuring compliance with the Official Languages Act, government profile testing services, online courses, and a physical resource centre available to those wishing to improve in either official language.
“If people want any information, they can always reach us here at the OLC, or at your respective base,” Duval said. “There are people appointed to working positions to help with your official languages needs, and they’ll point you in the right direction for whatever you need.”