Our international students have been busy this term, as we have taken the journey of learning far beyond the confines of the traditional classroom. The majority of our students have been here for less than a year, so we have had a wonderful time introducing them to some of the uniquely Christchurch experiences.

From kayaking down the Avon, feeding the eels at Willowbank, and taking in the sights and smells of the A&P Show, our international students now have a broader and deeper understanding of life in Canterbury.

We joined in with other students from Christchurch High Schools for some outdoor activities at Living Springs (including rifle shooting, archery, and rock climbing). The Discover Christchurch Challenge had around 60 international students from various schools racing to follow clues and solve puzzles through the city centre, ending with an ice cream at the Margaret Mahy playground.

From T-shirt designing to gingerbread house making, Adrenalin Forest and Godley Head Walkway, the boundless possibilities that lie outside the classroom walls and the transformative impact they have on the educational journey have been so valuable.

Early on in November, one of our senior international students participated in a trial flight experience with Canterbury Aviation Academy. This was an exciting and pivotal step towards Perry pursuing a career in aviation. The trial flight allowed Perry to experience the thrill of flying firsthand. He had the chance to sit in the pilot's seat, handle the controls, and get a feel for what it's like to operate an aircraft under the guidance of an instructor. This confidence-building experience has reconfirmed Perry’s passion for flying and he is looking to study towards gaining his commercial pilot’s licence.

The Year 10 international students embarked on an exciting adventure by attending school camp at Wainui on Banks Peninsula. Participating in camp was a fantastic way to learn new skills, bond with classmates, and enjoy the outdoors. For all our international students, this was their first school camping experience. Students participated in activities such as: team building, outdoor activities, walking through farmland and partaking in adrenalin instructor-led activities. Whether it's developing life skills, forming friendships, or simply enjoying the great outdoors, the benefits of camp extend far beyond the duration of the programme, leaving a lasting impact on all of the international team.