In 2008 we we’re very excited to offer our first wilderness survival apprentice education program. Todd is an exemplary individual and made the apprenticeship program a resounding success.
Thank you, Todd!!
In 2009 we are happy to offer this unique outdoor wilderness program again for anyone wanting to study and learn wilderness survival skills and nature awareness in a long term primitive living environment.
The six week wilderness survival apprentice - instructor program delivers the fundamental and advanced concepts of wilderness survival. The apprentice program is one-on-one with Mark, and an occasional guest instructor. Each day is filled with study, camp chores, (Yes we have chores.) and dirt time.
The survival apprentice curriculum is based on our four circle camps starting with First Circle Camp. All students begin with the sacred four of survival: shelter, water, fire food. These fundamentals will serve you in the wilderness or in any survival scenario.
The four circle camps build on these fundamentals focusing on nature awareness in the
Second Circle Camp. Nature awareness envelops tracking, silent movement, wide angle vision,
and a host of other awareness techniques you will develop and use throughout your life.
Apprentices are introduced to orienteering using primitive indigenous skills. We teach you what works and why and what doesn't depending on your geographical location. Most individuals encounter the need to read a road map and hone their navigational skills, however; most do not use topographical maps. This is a valuable resource when trekking in the wilderness. Using a compass, GPS and maps are part of your apprenticeship studies.
In addition to all the wonderful wilderness survival skills you absorb; you learn the fundamentals of running a camp on a day to day basis. As Todd will confirm this is no 'walk in the park'. Todd's first major challenge was skinning and preparing a wild edible. A challenge he met with mostly enthusiasm with just a touch squeamishness. Todd went on to master using Dutch ovens and pit cooking. Todd's Dutch oven cornbread...outstanding!!
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How's the fare.... Todd? |
"I don't even know where to begin.,,,, the beautiful wonders of
nature, aspects of survival and the harmony that can be achieved
with everything using the right mindset and actions." Todd M.
Becoming a Lifesong Wilderness Survival Apprentice-Instructor is full of challenge and rewards. At Lifesong we function as a team supporting, encouraging and helping each other in fulfilling the needs of our camp participants.
The wilderness survival apprentice-instructor program is a 6 week commitment.
For 2009 we are offering four apprentice programs in each of the four seasons:
Winter - January 18 through February 28, 2009
Spring - April 19 through May 30, 2009
Summer - June 14 through July 25, 2009
Fall - August 9 through September 13, 2009
You may sign up for one season of study or all four.
Course instruction is 4 days a week allowing each apprentice two days for introspection, study and practice. These two days you will spend predominately alone to reflect and absorb the surplus information you receive each week. One day off a week is provided for personal time.
Apprentice-Instructor camp is held at both our wilderness camp locations in northern California near MT Shasta. Winter and Spring camps are held at low camp. Summer and Fall camps follow at high camp.
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Low camp. |
Housing: Apprentices will be provided with primitive camping amenities. Cooking pots and utensils, with clean up area are provided. A private primitive grooming and restroom facility is available. (This means under a tree and on a log.) During favorable weather solar showers are provided. Winter bathing will necessitate heating water, or our personal favorite, a refreshing snow rub down. Winter apprentice’s will have a wood heated shelter to share for study, crafts, and social activity’s.
All apprentices are required to bring a tent, sleeping bag and pad. A list for other camp items will be forwarded to you after you have been accepted and registered for the program. This will identify seasonal items such as recommended clothing and footwear, etc.
Food: Apprentice’s will be provided with bulk foods, i.e. rice, grains, beans, seeds, nuts, fruits and vegetables. We will provide instruction on preparation of foods, but the apprentice will learn to create and cook their own meals.
Apprentices will be responsible for any
additional food and special dietary needs.
If you want chips and salsa or M&M's you are
on your own!
Prior camping or experience in the outdoors not required. This is a once in a lifetime experience!
Read Registration Policies before purchasing Camp
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Purchase Apprentice-Instructor Program by Check here
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