Education Outside the Classroom

Education Outside the Classroom is an important aspect of South Otago High School and reflects the school's committment to extending education beyond the classroom. We offer a wide range of opportunities for students at all levels, which take advantage of the wonderful lanscapes in the Clutha and Southland regions.

Year 9

Year 9 day out at Greenpark Scout camp

This week, all Year 9’s and their teachers had a fantastic day out at Greenpark. Half of the students attended on Tuesday and the other half on Wednesday. The aim of the day was to allow students to mix in a positive environment that required team work, motivation, socialising and commitment to their team. The students were randomly allocated into 6 different groups for the day. Within these groups students had to work together in team building activities, they included: a fear factor competition, scavenger hunt, relay races and they finished the day with a fashion parade with models wearing the latest in newspaper design! Points were allocated throughout the day’s activities, with the winning team announced at the end of the day. Well done to all students involved for making the most of your day out, and to the teachers involved for creating some entertaining and fun activities for the day.

F Lindsay

Day trip rafting through the Taieri Gorge in November.

Year 10

Three day residential trip, based in the Tautuku Outdoor Centre, in the Catlins, held around March. Students have the opportunity to take part in a wide range of outdoor activities, including camping, abseiling and kayaking.

Outdoor trips to a variety of venues are also held towards the end of the year. Recent opportunities have included: horse riding, tramping, kayaking and camping, as well as Mr Douglas' famous mystery trip.

The Young New Zealander's Challenge.

Students have the opportunity to participate in this prestigious award from Year 10. It involves students taking part in four activities, including: one service, developing a new skill, taking part in a physical activity and completing a tramp. There are three levels of award, Bronze, Silver and Gold which students can complete by the time they have finished Year 13.

This is run in line with the British Duke of Edinburgh's Award, and achieving the Gold award is recognised by employers and universities as an excellent achievement.

Skiing

The school runs an annual ski trip to one of the Central Otago Ski fields and all students are encouraged to participate.

Year 12 Outdoor Education

Senior students can choose Outdoor Education as one of their six subject options, this involves a wide range of activities such as tramping, kayaking and snow caving.