The OL Crest

Crests have been used for hundreds of years as pictorial representations of value and tradition.  We share in the rich heritage of the Canadian outdoor leaders who have come before us setting standards of integrity, discipline and excellence. Our crest represents this proud heritage and symbolizes our own individual program values and traditions.

The single pine tree stands for the outdoors and the special concern we have for our natural environment.  The oil lamp is the “lamp of learning” which represents excellence in education.  The ice axe and paddle symbolize technical skills and the compass represents direction and leadership.  The cross that forms the framework of the crest, is the symbol that reminds us of Christ, our passion for ministry and the spiritual elements that provide the framework for all we do here. The crest is placed on a shield representing the responsibility, protection and vigilance an outdoor leader has for those they lead. The colors red and white represent Canada, and our nation’s history of excellence in Outdoor Leadership. Our Latin motto, “Extra muros experientia docet”, roughly translates in English to read, “Outside these walls experience is our teacher”.