J. Taylor, Deputy Principal Education Outside the Classroom, Tumuaki Tuarua - Akoranga ā-Hapori

Tēnei te aumihi nui ki a koutou,

As we move through another action-packed term at Rotorua Boys’ High School, it's incredible to reflect on the wealth of learning experiences that have taken place beyond the classroom. Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) continues to be a cornerstone of what we offer, providing opportunities for our young men to engage in meaningful, real-world learning that deepens their connections to each other, their environment, and their school community.

A true highlight this term was the successful completion of the Tāne Raukura Year 9 Camp at Waiotapu. This signature junior experience is far more than just a few days away—it is an essential part of shaping our young men into Raukura students. Through a combination of adventure, teamwork, and reflection, our students embraced the school’s core values while connecting with each other, their surroundings, and the staff and student leaders who supported them. The bonds forged and lessons learned during this camp will stay with them as they continue their journey at Rotorua Boys’ High School.

This camp is a significant commitment from the school, and its success is only possible due to the dedication and hard work of so many people behind the scenes. A huge thank you must go to our incredible staff, particularly those who spent time planning, leading, and guiding our students through this experience. We also acknowledge the efforts of our catering and transport teams, who ensured everything ran smoothly and our boys were well-fed and supported throughout.

A special mention must go to our whānau who support the camp kaupapa. It is through this strong partnership between home and school that our students can thrive.

Beyond the camp, our students have had the opportunity to take part in a variety of off-site learning experiences across different year levels and subject areas, including:

• Year 9 Jubilee Leadership Day – Mt Maunganui
  

• Choir Camp – Waiotapu
  

• Level 2 PE & Level 3 Geography – Crankworx
  

• Level 3 Tourism – Kuirau Park
  

• Level 1 Science – Utuhina Strea
  

• BOP Young Enterprise – Regional Business Events
  

• Waikato University Leadership Day
  

• Te Arawa Kaumātua Games – Community Service
  

• Level 2 Agriculture/Horticulture – Garden Visit
  

• Level 3 Police Studies – Noho experience
  

• Keebra State High School Cultural Exchange – Strengthening trans-Tasman relationships
  

• Shiba High School Cultural Exchange – Fostering global connections
  

• MITO Bus Tour – Career Pathways Event

These experiences reinforce the value of learning beyond the classroom, allowing our students to develop skills, knowledge, and perspectives that will serve them well in their futures.

As we look ahead, the challenge now is to carry this learning and positive energy forward—not just for the remainder of the year, but throughout the journey of every Raukura student. 

Wishing you all a safe Term 1 holiday break.

Ngā mihi

Jonathan Taylor