Adventure Learning
Our Adventure Learning Programme (ALP) is a unique and significant component that truly sets Ōpoutere School apart from other mainstream educational establishments in New Zealand. Our vision is simple but powerful:
"Character development through adventure-based learning."
The ALP is built on six core values that guide everything we do. By focusing on these principles, we use specific curriculum content to challenge each student. This approach not only increases their self-awareness but also equips them with the skills to lead more engaging and rewarding lives.
Our Adventure Values
Adventure: We foster a lifelong passion for the outdoors, encouraging students to take responsibility for their learning and discover their full potential through physical challenges.
Environment: We promote a deep connection to our local environment, developing students into stewards of the earth who understand sustainable human-nature relationships.
Leadership: We provide opportunities for students to develop personal characteristics like responsibility, kindness, and justice, helping them discover their unique leadership strengths.
Service: We prepare students for life by fostering empathy and a sense of responsibility to others through community service activities.
Excellence: We set high expectations, encouraging all students to persevere, set aspirational goals, and achieve personal excellence, regardless of their individual circumstances.
Tikanga & Te Reo: We acknowledge the bicultural foundations of Aotearoa by weaving Māori perspectives and knowledge into our programme, enriching the learning process for everyone.
Adventure Learning Overview
Our ALP is structured around four term themes, or Ngā Kaupapa, which are integrated into each class's programme. Te Reo and Tikanga Māori are woven throughout as we learn about the local history and places we visit.
Term 1: Te Moana / The Ocean / Mana
Students participate in weekly water activities at the Wharekawa harbour. Juniors learn waka ama, while seniors learn kayaking. This term focuses on water safety, environmental studies, and building a sense of identity.
Term 2: Matariki / Māori New Year / Manaakitanga
This term is dedicated to bushcraft, leadership, Māori games, and service. We celebrate Matariki with a whole-school event, including a visit to a local river or mountain, a community hāngī, Kapa Haka performances, and traditional Māori games.
Term 3: Te Whakataetae / Adventure Racing / Whanaungatanga
Students train for and compete in an Adventure Race. They learn navigation using maps and compasses, mountain biking, trekking, and teamwork. Our senior students (Years 5-8) tackle a challenging 3-hour race, while our juniors (Years 2-4) compete in a shorter 2-hour race on foot.
Term 4: Te Haerenga / Expedition / Poutama
This term culminates in a student-led expedition. In small groups, students plan a day-long journey that can include trekking, mountain biking, and kayaking. They are responsible for their own planning, safety management, and navigation, with an adult acting as a safety backup. This experience builds on all the skills and knowledge gained throughout the year.
