On Tuesday and Wednesday this week the year 12 & 13 Outdoor Education class went on their first camp of the year. For about 75% of the class this was the first time they had been on a tramp and stayed in a hut. The class is combined with other students from Tawa and Kapiti College, and Te Kura Māori o Porirua, which adds richness, more diversity and a chance to connect with other students outside Mana College. The group walked the Orongorongo track in Remutaka Forest Park and stayed in Turere Lodge. 

The purpose of the camp was to 'connect'. That is for students to connect with each other, the staff and the environment around them. There were river crossings, swimming, joint meals, korero and laughter, lots of time in the bush engaging different senses and some tired, weary but happy bodies by the end of the trip. 

This was a great trip with great people and has set our class up well for the remainder of the year.