Kora Programme

In 2019 the ‘More New Zealanders’ project explored options for how to “expand our reach” and how to make OB courses more accessible to all New Zealanders. One option considered in this process was partnering with schools to deliver courses to students locally.

At the end of 2019 OB partnered with Heretaunga College in Upper Hutt, Wellington to further develop this idea. In term 1 of 2020 we began running a programme working with year 11-13 students.The programme combines traditional Outward Bound philosophy and pedagogy with key concepts from the rich body of research regarding successful approaches to Outdoor Education/ EOTC within Aotearoa NZ school environments.The programme is delivered over regular weekly teaching sessions; anchored by involvement with local community activities and organisations. The programme links to relevant curriculum/ unit standard content and helps to support student learning in these areas.The programme was put on hold as NZ went into lockdown and is scheduled to re-start in term 3 2020. We are also exploring options for delivering a programme with year 9/10 students from the same school in Term 4.We have called this schools programme the 'Outward Bound Kora Programme' (Kora – to spark or ignite). Looking ahead we are gearing up to work with 4 schools in the Wellington region in 2021, and to expand within Wellington and to further regions in 2022/2023.

The Kora Programme is an experiential and adventurous journey that allows students to grow as individuals and work in teams to benefit their local community. Through authentic projects students learn about the reciprocal benefits of being actively engaged community members.

Siobhan Pike, Deputy Principal, Heretaunga

Rob Dunn
Research Development & Innovation Manager