Leading Education Outside the Classroom

Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) is a powerful and integral part of learning in Aotearoa New Zealand. It enriches the curriculum, fosters personal and social development, and connects learners with the natural, cultural, and social environment around them. With these rich opportunities, however, comes a responsibility to ensure that every experience outside the classroom is underpinned by sound planning, robust systems, and a deep understanding of what safe, inclusive, and effective practice looks like today.

This one day course has been designed specifically for EOTC Coordinators and Senior Leaders responsible for overseeing EOTC in New Zealand schools. Grounded in current national guidance and expectations, it brings together examples of good practice, key principles from the EOTC Guidelines 2016, and critical learnings from school tragedies that have shaped the sector’s evolving approach to safety and risk management.

Participants will engage in guided self-review, explore case studies, and develop practical leadership strategies that align with the Health and Safety at Work Act, the expectations of the Ministry of Education, and the unique values of each school community. The course aims to build the confidence and capability of those leading EOTC, ensuring they are well-equipped to design and oversee high-quality, well-managed learning beyond the classroom.

Through this learning journey, we affirm our shared commitment to manaakitanga (care), kaitiakitanga (stewardship), and rangatiratanga (leadership), ensuring that EOTC experiences continue to inspire, challenge, and safeguard ākonga across Aotearoa.

Workshop Information:

• This is a 1-day workshop
• Time: 8:30 am - 3:30 pm
• Venue: TBA