This is our Mariners Apprenticeship for Grades 2–8. Looking for a different age?
Mariners Apprenticeship
Through our apprenticeships, expert Trackers Guides act as mentors to youth and teens learning in a small team of fellow Trackers. Kids share epic adventures while learning real Mariners skills:
Master the art of angling with various gear and tackle. Fish from the bay and local lakes. Cast your pots and nets for crabs and other marine species. Enhance your outdoor cooking skills to prepare a sumptuous Mariner's feast!
Gain hands-on experience traveling by boat along our waterways. Practice essential paddling and water safety skills. Learn outdoor survival crafts such as fire building and foraging for wild foods—ensuring you're prepared for any adventure.
Sharpen your navigation skills to traverse both on the water and overland. Learn to accurately chart courses in your local backcountry—both on trail and off. Develop essential expeditionary skills, becoming an adept Tracker able to adventure anywhere.
Our Mentors
This program is led by key program directors and our most experienced Trackers mentors. It also includes guest instruction from other skilled Trackers staff, including curriculum development from Molly and Tony Deis, Trackers' Founders. Core qualifications of all our educators include:
- Expertise in mentoring and Trackers skills.
- Low student-to-guide ratio facilitating personal, team-based learning.
- Background checked with First Aid & CPR certification.
- Trained in outdoor safety and the Trackers Earth curriculum.
Our Place
For Apprenticeships, we shuttle from our drop site to authentic wilderness locations, featuring local forests, farms, and fishing spots. Each site is unique, specifically chosen for the day's activity, bringing kids to incredible places where they can both learn and grow in the skills Trackers teaches.
Mentoring Programs
Guides mentor Apprentices in Trackers skills that foster teamwork, independence, and connection to the natural world. Our curriculum is tailored to each age group and adapts creatively to the interests of each team. Teams usually include four to eight Apprentices who are closest in age. If you would like friends placed together within the same grade range, please send a friend request.
How It Works
Apprenticeships meet one weekend a month from fall to spring for a total of 9 field days plus Graduation. To offer flexibility, we provide multiple schedule options.
Returning Apprentices can rejoin their group by choosing the schedule with their Fellowship name, while new Apprentices may join any available group in their age range.
Day Schedule
- 9:00–9:15 AM Drop-off
- 9:15 AM Journey to the Forest
- Field Site Outdoor Adventures
- 3:50 PM Our Journey Returns
- 3:50–4:00 PM Pick-up
Tuition
Reserve your spot with a $45 deposit (non-refundable). Remaining tuition is split into ten monthly payments of $134 starting August 31.
Sibling Discount: Enroll two or more siblings for 5% off monthly payments.
Need Financial Help? We offer scholarships ranging from 5% – 15%. Learn More or Apply.
Choose Your Schedule
9 Field Days 9:00 AM - 2:30 PM
+ Graduation May 8, 2027
First Year: Join any available Fellowship schedule in your age range.
Returning: Choose your Fellowship schedule to rejoin your group.
Grades 10-12: Check out our Trackers Leader-in-Training (LIT).
Make-Up Days: We understand plans change! Each Apprenticeship includes one make-up day per year. When space allows, your child can join another Fellowship. We also offer make-up days for weather-related postponements.
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