Stop the Government taking away Outdoor Education

Outdoor Education gives young people opportunities they can’t always get in a classroom. It builds resilience, confidence, leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. It keeps students engaged in school, especially those who struggle in traditional settings, and connects them with Aotearoa’s unique environment, culture, and outdoor heritage. These are life skills that benefit every student, no matter their future pathway.

But the Ministry of Education has indicated that Outdoor Education will not be on the new subject list of senior subjects. This means it won’t be recognised as a general subject and will have no Ministry-developed curriculum, assessments, or resources. Instead, it would be reduced to a narrow vocational option, controlled by a national skills body that has not yet been established. Schools would lose the flexibility to design courses that reflect their local environment and community, and some may stop offering Outdoor Education altogether.

Losing recognition at this level strips Outdoor Education of its academic value, limits what schools can offer, and removes a subject that not only supports careers in tourism, recreation, and conservation but also grows the confidence and well-being of our young people.

The NCEA proposed changes are open for submissions until the 15th September, so we are working to a short deadline.

Please sign this petition so we can make sure Outdoor Education remains a valued subject that changes lives and strengthens our future.