Education Outside the Classroom
Education in the real world
Education outside of the classroom (EOTC) is an important aspect of a large number of subject courses here at Burnside High School.
EOTC can be on a local, regional, national or international scale. Our students are invited to participate because it offers a broader, more dynamic learning experience. While classrooms provide structured learning, education beyond this formal setting enhances, complements and allows a real-world application.
Activities, field trips, overnight stays and even national and international trips can vary significantly depending on the subject area taken. However, the hands-on experience, outdoor learning and the ability to directly engage with students in this forum is hard to replicate in the traditional classroom.We have a dedicated and talented team of subject specialist teachers and support staff to guide the education of our ākonga.
Why EOTC?
Outside the classroom learning can foster valuable skills like communication, problem-solving, teamwork, leadership, and adaptability. These are often best learned through interactions and experiences in less structured environments.
Learning outside of school also encourages students to take ownership of their education. Whether it’s through visiting museums, participating in community projects, or simply exploring new areas of interest, students have the freedom to follow their curiosity.
Outside education provides opportunities for exposure to different cultures, perspectives, and social dynamics. Traveling, for instance, opens students’ eyes to global issues, diversity, and different ways of life that are often less understood in the classroom environment.
Opportunities we offer
We also hope that the opportunities for education outside of the classroom foster a mindset of lifelong learning and help students grow in both knowledge and character.
Some of the opportunities that we offer here at Burnside are:
- Sea Kayaking
- Aōraki / Mt Cook excursions
- Overnight stays in Banks Peninsula and Akaroa
- Day trips to our law courts, convention centre and Tūranga Library and other significant locations in Christchurch.
- Marae visits
- Sporting trips
- Cultural exchanges
