West Coast N.E.S.T. helps people find courses and transformative learning experiences with over 40 community organizations, businesses, and individuals on the west coast of Vancouver Island, BC, from Hesquiaht in the north to Ucluelet in the south. Our region is one of the last great natural environments on the planet, a place that’s often called the ultimate learning centre.

Convened through the Clayoquot Biosphere Trust, we are a collective of organizations, cultures, and communities on the west coast of Canada, committed to sharing knowledge, building a stronger understanding together, and strengthening our foundation for the future—for resilient, sustainable communities.

Learning as it could be, as most of us wish it would be.

Our objective is to present the people, places, and transformative learning opportunities that make our region such an amazing place to be.

We do this with an emphasis on outdoor education and place-based learning experiences that celebrate curiosity, encourage dialogue, and spark meaningful connections. We help people find opportunities to research or study, to explore new ways of learning through one-on-one experiences in a spectacular setting, and to have their own personal a-ha moment.

Courses and programs available for:

• University Field School • Outdoor School • Family Friendly • Ecology & Wildlife • Indigenous Culture • Certificate Courses • Professional Development • Personal Development