Education – Rewards are worth it

In an era focused heavily on dedicated daily instruction in reading, writing, and mathematics, getting students outside the classroom remains just as vital. In fact, 96 per cent of school leaders and coordinators consider EOTC (Education Outside the Classroom) to be extremely or very important to student learning. While fundamental literacy and numeracy skills are undeniably essential to a quality education, contextual and real-world learning must remain an integral component of the curriculum.

Applying classroom concepts outdoors is key to embedding knowledge for future learning and deeper understanding. Hands-on, authentic learning experiences help students explore environmental concepts in their local spaces – a priority now more relevant than ever. Many schools still run camps, fun days, museum trips and outdoor activities that help students build strong relationships, personal confidence and resilience outside the home. These experiences encourage students to become self-managing critical thinkers who actively engage in opportunities they might not otherwise encounter in daily life.

For example, consider an orienteering activity: students must apply mapping, compass navigation, directional awareness and measurement to design a course for their peers. This clearly demonstrates core math and literacy skills in action.

Behind these meaningful experiences lies extensive planning, administration, and logistics – all managed alongside regular classroom teaching. Schools are fortunate to have dedicated staff willing to invest the time and energy required to offer students opportunities beyond textbooks and school grounds. New legislative requirements, combined with this additional workload, can make organising such events increasingly challenging. Nevertheless, contextual learning rich with challenge and practical application remains vital. Providing opportunities for students to unplug from devices, step into nature and learn hands-on is more essential than ever.

Schools increasingly embrace programmes like the Duke of Edinburgh Award and the William Pike Challenge to extend learning and cultivate students’ broader learning. Recently, I joined our Year 7 and 8 students on an overnight tramp to a hut in Tongariro. The students carried their own provisions and cooked their own meals. The following morning, they experienced the absolute thrill of tramping back out with fresh snow underfoot and flurries swirling through the air. Like so many rich opportunities schools provide, this unforgettable experience will stay with them for a lifetime.

These moments empower students to tackle daunting challenges and achieve goals they might never have imagined possible. Without dedicated staff and parent volunteers, these moments would never happen.
For families, financing school camps can certainly feel challenging. To help manage costs, consider setting up a gradual payment plan with your school a year in advance. Above all, don’t let your child’s initial nerves keep them from discovering their true potential, deepening friendships and creating lifelong memories along the way.
Whatever the reason that may stop your child from attending these events, communicate with your school to ensure your child gets the very best-rounded education they can.