In this workshop we will delve into how to make a personalised local curriculum for your school. We will explore how your local area and its resources can be used as a catalyst and inspiration for curriculum development. We will work with you to incorporate your cultural narrative including tangata whenua, European settlement, other cultural stories as well as geographical aspects. This creates a curriculum that is unique to your kura and community and encompasses the amazing opportunities and connections you have locally. You will work with Matt, Ngāi Tahu and previous principal and Bianca, Enviro Science Teacher, who have developed local curriculums in partnership with many schools in Aotearoa.
This workshop involves learning about traditional weaving, the tikanga and reasons for these, as well as exploring some hands-on weaving experiences. The workshop will also include appropriate karakia and waiata.
In pre-European times, the seas around Aotearoa were the main food source for most Māori. However, having recently arrived, the earliest Polynesian settlers were used to spearing fish in clear tropical waters. In Aotearoa, the murky seas must have been initially frustrating. Māori went on to develop the fishing hook beyond any other culture on the planet.
This session will look at examples of hooks, lures, traps, nets, and aquaculture, looking at design, manufacture, and functionality. It will also explore some of the tikanga and science around traditional Māori fish harvesting and enhancement methods. This content links to NZ Histories.
Explore the fascinating relationship between plants and their environment with Ruud Kleinpaste in his workshop, “How to Murder Your Plants More Slowly.” Perfect for schools with gardens or access to natural plant areas, this session dives into the challenges plants face from pests and diseases. Learn how these factors influence plant health and discover practical strategies to slow their impact. With Ruud’s signature wit and expertise, this workshop offers valuable insights for educators and students alike, fostering a deeper understanding of plant care and sustainable gardening practices.
Foster a deeper connection to nature and promote practical learning outside the classroom, while fostering an understanding of where food comes from and the importance of sustainability. This workshop will equip you with the tools and knowledge you need to guide your students in creating sustainable, hands on garden projects. Learn plan the layout of your space, how to select the right plants, and how to heal your soil life
Antarctica is a unique natural laboratory that helps us understand the Earth’s climate, ocean systems, and the impact of human activity. This remote and hostile environment directly affects Aotearoa. Demystify climate science and oceanography through engaging practical activities and see how scientists work and live in Antarctica. Let Antarctica inspire you and your students to take action to reduce climate change.
This workshop presents three hands-on volcano activities. No.1. Sand volcano model of Banks Peninsula. An exercise in volcanic reconstruction. Using geological and topographic parameters this activity builds and erodes the stages of activity of Banks Peninsula, showing how the landscape developed over geological time and how this is reflected in the landscape today. No. 2. Mentos volcano eruptions. Using the reactive properties of Mentos in diet cola this activity provides a structured approach to developing the theory of scientific testing, observations, recording and analysis, focusing on the simple changing of the volcano’s vent conditions (bottle cap). 3. Igneous rocks. Examination, description and classifications of igneous rock samples. Q and A on formation, processes, localities etc.
