growing capable, curious learners
Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) at Matarau School is a vital part of our curriculum, enriching learning through real-world experiences. Nestled in a unique rural setting, we harness our local environment, from native bush and nearby streams to farms and community hubs; to create authentic, hands-on opportunities for our tamariki. These experiences help deepen understanding across the curriculum and strengthen connections with our whenua and whānau.
We also provide regular opportunities to explore beyond our local area, with well-planned trips to Auckland. These visits include cultural experiences, museum learning, science centres, and team-based adventures that broaden horizons and build confidence in unfamiliar settings. Our EOTC programme is designed to grow capable, curious learners who see learning as something that happens everywhere.
Our Ngahere
Every week, our junior classes embark on an exciting journey to our local ngahere to explore the beauty and wonders of nature. This experience not only allows them to connect with the environment but also encourages their curiosity and love for the outdoors.
During our nature visits, we encourage the children to explore the bush with their senses. They touch the rough bark of trees, feel the softness of moss, and observe the different shapes and colours of leaves. We teach them to look closely for signs of wildlife, such as insects or nests hidden in the branches. This hands-on exploration allows them to learn about biodiversity and the importance of preserving our natural environment.
As we explore, we also discuss the importance of conservation. We teach the children that the ngahere is a precious resource that needs to be protected. They learn simple ways to help, like not littering, respecting wildlife habitats, and understanding why trees are vital for our air and climate.
Getting along with each other is an important part of these visits. We emphasise teamwork and respect for one another. Tamariki are encouraged to work together, whether they are building a fort out of sticks or sharing their findings. Learning to cooperate and communicate effectively is essential for their social development. These skills will benefit them not only in the ngahere but also in their everyday lives.
Perceptual Motor Skills Programme (PMP)
The Perceptual Motor Skills Programme (PMP) is designed to help children develop essential skills that are crucial for their overall growth and learning. It includes a variety of fun and engaging activities that incorporate locomotion, eye/hand coordination, fitness, spatial awareness, and balance. The development of listening skills and instruction following also occurs.
The programme is particularly beneficial for students at a junior school level, as it lays a strong foundation for future physical and cognitive development.
Favourite activities include;
- Skipping
- Wobble boards
- The Dizzy Giddy and
- Balance Beam
School Camps
Year 3-4
Our Year 3 and 4 students head to Marsden Bay for a fun and active beach camp every second year. Over three days and two nights, they take part in a range of outdoor activities including kayaking, fishing, beach exploration, team building challenges, and night games.
The camp also features favourites like the flying fox, zorb balls, waterslide, and evenings spent around the campfire.
Year 5-6
Our Year 5 and 6 students have camp every second year at Lonsdale Park, where activities include team building challenges, surfing, beach exploration, adventure course and games.
Sports
Students participate in a wide variety of sports through our EOTC. Our school proudly takes part in all events organised by the Whangarei Primary Schools Sports Association (WPSSA), allowing students to compete against their peers, improve their skills, and foster teamwork.
Our sports teams also participate in interschool competitions against a range of schools across Northland.
Water Safety
Our solar-heated school swimming pool sees our classes involved in swimming in Terms 1 and 4.
Students learn crucial water safety skills and basic aquatic skills.
Annual school trips to the Ruakaka Surf Lifesaving extend these lessons with skills to keep safe in the surf.
School swimming sports are held each year in Term 1, and students are involved in zone and regional swimming competitions.
Class Trips
At Matarau School, class trips are a vital part of our learning journey.
These experiences take learning beyond the classroom, providing hands-on opportunities that connect students with nature, culture, and community. Whether exploring our local area or engaging in service projects, these trips build confidence, teamwork, resilience, and long-lasting memories.
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