Field Trips at Our Lady of Fatima Academy
Learning beyond the classroom is an essential part of our academic program. Through thoughtfully chosen field trips, our students experience hands-on learning that connects directly to classroom curriculum, encourages curiosity, and fosters community. From local farms and science centers to historical landmarks and leadership retreats, our students explore the world around them in meaningful and exciting ways.
TK–2nd Grade: Wonder & Discovery
Our youngest learners enjoy field trips that spark curiosity and nurture a love for the natural world and community. These early experiences lay a foundation for environmental stewardship, creativity, and personal responsibility.
Highlights include:
- Tanaka Farms – A hands-on exploration of sustainable farming
- Centennial Farms– A working farm experience
- Santa Ana Zoo – Animal habitats and conservation
- The Ecology Center– Organic gardening and eco-living
- Newport Bay Conservancy – Coastal ecology and preservation
- Segerstrom Center for the Arts– Live theater experiences
- SC State Beach – Beach clean-up and science at the shore
- Eco-Hero, MARS, and Water Assemblies – Environmental awareness for all early grades
3rd–5th Grade: Exploration & Connection
As students grow, so does their curiosity and ability to connect classroom concepts with real-world applications. These experiences build historical awareness, community responsibility, and creative thinking.
Highlights include:
- Author Visits – Inspiring literacy and storytelling
- Casa Romantica Cultural Center – Art, culture, and California history
- Westwind Sailing – Ocean education and water safety
- Walk Through California– Immersive early state history
- Mission San Luis Rey – A living history tour
- Ocean Institute Overnight – Marine biology and STEM adventure
- South Coast Symphony Concert – Exposure to orchestral music
- Sacramento Trip – State government and civic engagement
- Eco-Hero and Marine Water Assemblies – Ongoing environmental education
- Catalina Marine Institute– Marine studies, California history and adventure
6th–8th Grade: Leadership & Lifelong Learning
Middle school students experience field trips that challenge their thinking, build faith and leadership, and prepare them for the broader world. From science camps to national tours, these opportunities expand their horizons academically, socially, and spiritually.
Highlights include:
- Pali Science Camp – A multi-day immersive science experience
- Bolsa Chica Conservancy – Coastal restoration and field science
- Walk Through Ancient Times – Dynamic history simulations
- SMCHS, JSerra, and Servite Leadership Retreats – Faith development and leadership building
- Jewish Federation Student to Student– Interfaith dialogue and education
- Bowers Museum – Cultural enrichment and historical exhibits
- DC/New York Trip – National landmarks, history, and civic pride
- West Coast National Parks Trip – National landmarks, history, and adventure
- Courthouse Tour – Newport Beach – Firsthand look at the justice system
- Disneyland Graduation Trip (8th Grade) – A fun celebration of their OLF journey