Education Outside the Classroom

All EOTC activities include appropriate planning, organisation and consent requirements. Though there may be elements of risk involved, these are considered carefully and appropriate plans are put in place to minimise these for any particular activity.

Prior to any EOTC activity, approval must be sought from the Principal, and then all relevant organisation and preparation documentation completed.

Why?

We believe that encouraging a range of EOTC experiences at all levels:

• Enriches learning through a variety of well- designed experiences connecting to the learning at school

• Increases students’ knowledge, understanding and appreciation of the school area, local district and other familiar and unfamiliar places

• Develop students skills in observation, recording and organisation promote awareness and responsibility of the environment

• Assist with social development and self confidence in situations that the school environment alone cannot offer

• Help students develop an attitude of responsibility, particularly towards their own safety and that of others

• Provide students with opportunities to work together as a group

• Provide experiences for students that encourage awareness of the values and philosophies of the tangata whenua, and with other cultures within the school community

• Encourage students to challenge themselves and take risks in a safe risk taking environment

How?

At Albany Primary School there are policies and procedures that align to National Guidelines (these can be found via the staff site and on School Docs), set up to guide the planning and implementation of all EOTC activities (including camp). These are designed to promote thorough pre planning that will result in safe and effective events that are centred in great learning for the children.

Consideration is given to children with behavioural or learning Special needs and provisions are set in place prior to the event. These are also checked by the SENCO (Special Education Needs Coordinator) as appropriate. EOTC organisation takes into account inclusive practice and teachers are encouraged to use multiple lenses to ascertain all levels of access for all learners. Students with specific physical needs that may affect their involvement and enjoyment, are identified in advance and catered for directly through staff support.

All school health and safety policies apply to EOTC activities. All appropriate resources, documentation and processes are stored and accessible through the schools digital system.