The Outdoor Education Course is based around learning through practical experience combined with written assessments.  Students will experience a wide range of outdoor activities and leadership opportunities with a focus on developing their personal and social skills. The Outdoor Education courses are designed as a progression from foundation skills at Level One, to more advanced physical demands at Level Three.

The course covers: 

• Perform a physical activity in an applied setting: skiing/snowboarding (internal 4 credits)

• Analyse the application of risk management strategies to a challenging outdoor activity: abseil, rock climbing mountain biking, tramping (internal 3 credits)

• Consistently demonstrate social responsibility through applying a social responsibility model in physical activity: sailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, raft making (internal 3 credits)

• Examine the implementation and outcome(s) of a physical activity event or opportunity: tramping expedition (internal 3 credits)

• Analyse group processes in physical activity: adventure based learning, overnight camp, navigation, rogaining (internal 3 credits)

Outdoor Education sets students up for a range of higher education courses and careers.  It is available as a UE counting course in Year 13.  Outdoor Education is an ideal choice for students who enjoy working with others and learning through practical experiences.  

Studying Outdoor Education can lead to a wide array of career opportunities. Some potential paths include:

• Outdoor Education Instructor

• Environmental Educator

• Adventure Guide or Instructor

• Park Ranger

• Conservation Officer

• Ecotourism Operator

• Recreation Manager

• Wilderness Therapist

• Outdoor Program Coordinator

• Environmental Scientist

An open mind and a willingness to be involved.  An interest in the outdoors, reasonable fitness and a commitment to be involved in practical sessions every Thursday beyond normal school hours. With just one hour of classroom instruction each week, students are expected to self-manage their workload to complete homework and assessment tasks on time.

The cost of Outdoor Education will be approximately $350, plus the snow programme.  The cost covers all instruction, equipment and transport in Term One, Two and Four.

In Term Three, the Snow Programme cost covers all instruction, equipment and transport - approximately $259 for a Cardrona season pass, $500 for eight three hour lessons and $200 for transport. Some students may also require season gear hire at $80 for eight days hire.

The course fee of $350 must be paid in full by the end of Week 4 Term 1. Failure to do so will require students to opt into a different course.

The snow sports costs are to be paid by the end of Term 2.