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International Summer School
 
Photo by Christine Bennet

International Summer School

Christine Bennet —

The programme began straight after Senior Prize Giving with a 4-day Greenstone tramp generously run again by Dr Thompson and Tip. The students all enjoyed the experience even though our unseasonably wet November meant they saw more than their fair share of rain!

Once back in Dunedin the programme continued with some in-school and out-of-school activities. Again, the wet weather meant some activities, such as stand-up paddle boarding and a visit to the Wakaama Marae, had to be cancelled but we’ll try again next year! 

We did go out on the harbour on the Monarch and visited Penguin Place where we saw Yellow-Eyed and Little Blue penguins as well as fur seals. We also saw nesting Royal Albatross from the boat.

Another highlight was a trip to Orokonui eco-sanctury and Moeraki Boulders. The students also visited Toitu Settlers Museum where they got to dress as early settlers and experience life on a sailing ship. That was followed by a visit to the Chinese Garden. 

Other activities included a street art tour and a visit to the Art Gallery as well as ice skating, swimming at Moana Pool and gaming at Megazone. 

In-school activities included baking muffins for host families and decorating the boxes to put them in as well as making static images and writing inspired by a visit to the Botanic Gardens and, finally, making pendants in the Wood Technology room. 

We would like to thank the teachers who generously gave their time to provide an activity for the students.

Summer School finished with a farewell pizza lunch where students were presented with their tramping certificates by Dr Thompson.