Polar Promise: Sustainability Report (2019)

Pirurvik Preschool The Pirurvik Preschool opened its doors in January 2016 and offers an Early Childhood Education (ECE) program for children ages two- and-a-half to four years old in Pond Inlet. The program is child centered, based on the Inuit and believe that by expanding our sphere to include those who live in the North as essential partners in the development of our expedition narrative, we will be able to build a better Quark Expeditions, ensure social and economic benefits for communities, and provide a greater experience for our guests. Community engagement is about evolving together by working in collaboration with each other. One way that Quark Expeditions supports the communities we visit is by donating a portion of the proceeds from the charity auctions held on each expedition. This year, we are excited to direct generous donations from our guests to support the following community projects. Supporting Community Projects Communities have played a key role in Quark Expeditions’ experiences throughout our history in the polar industry. As our industry and environments change, it is important that we support each other and work through challenges together. We recognize the benefits of teamwork

Qaujimajatuqangit (IQ) principles, and enriched through the use of Montessori materials, with a goal to provide a culturally relevant learning experience. Pirurvik is guided by the IQ principal Pilimmaksarniq, which is a traditional practice of allowing children to learn at their own pace. Children follow their own natural curiosity by choosing topics of interest to them. The learning materials are hands-on resources and allow for self-directed development with teachers acting as facilitators by providing appropriate support. Students are motivated to learn based on their individual interest in each activity. This experiential approach to learning creates a classroom of engaged and happy children. Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit embraces all aspects of traditional Inuit culture, including values, world- view, language, social organization, knowledge, life skills, perceptions and expectations. Pirurvik aims to change the lives of children throughout Nunavut by developing innovative and comprehensive ECE programs that are rooted in traditional child-rearing practices, and that are responsive to the needs of each community.

To learn more about Pirurvik Preschool visit pirurvikpreschool.com

43 | For more information, contact Quark Expeditions at Sustainability@QuarkExpeditions.com

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