Outdoor education schools

Outdoor Education schools are Victorian government schools that deliver curriculum-aligned learning as part of an off-site program, with overnight accommodation and meals provided. Students participate in structured classes that use the natural environment as an extension of the classroom. All learning is planned and taught by qualified teachers.

Outdoor Education schools are registered with the Victorian Registration and Qualifications Authority and follow Department of Education policies, including Child Safe Standards and Duty of Care.

Outdoor Education schools include:

• Rubicon Outdoor School, including Nayook and Thornton campuses
• Outdoor School, including Bogong and 15 Mile Creek campuses
• Somers School Camp, including Somers and Woorabinda campuses
• Blackwood Special Schools Outdoor Education Centre
• School for Student Leadership, including Gnurad-Gundidj, Snowy River, Alpine School, and Don Valley campuses.

Purpose of Outdoor Education schools

Outdoor Education schools give students the opportunity to ‘learn by doing,’ with knowledge and skills developed through concrete experiences, reflection, and applying learning in the natural environment. Each program is place-based, with learning opportunities connected to the local landscape, history, culture, and community.

Through hands-on activities, students can:

• build confidence, independence, and resilience
• strengthen teamwork, leadership, and communication skills
• improve wellbeing through movement and time outdoors
• develop curiosity, problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• deepen their understanding of the environment and Victoria’s First Peoples’ connection to Country.

Activities are designed to complement learning at students’ home schools and can become some of the most memorable parts of a student’s education.

What students learn

Outdoor Education schools deliver programs that cover several areas, including:

• Learning areas: Health and Physical Education, Science, Humanities (Geography and History)
• Capabilities: Personal and Social, Critical and Creative Thinking, Ethical, Intercultural
• Cross curriculum priorities: Sustainability, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Histories and Cultures.

Some schools also offer VCE Outdoor and Environmental Studies and VET Outdoor Recreation.

Programs are delivered during the day and often into the evening.

What to expect when attending

During their stay at an Outdoor Education school, students will take part in a range of activities, including:

• place-based learning in bush, coastal, alpine or river environments
• adventure activities such as ropes courses, climbing, bike riding or water-based learning
• team-building and problem-solving challenges
• daily living activities, routines, and shared responsibilities.

Each Outdoor Education school offers different activities depending on their location and the time of year. For example, snow-related activities are only offered in winter by the Outdoor School and Rubicon.

Students will usually stay in shared accommodation with gender-specific bathroom facilities.

All activities are supervised. Wet-weather plans are always in place, so learning can continue.

Safety, wellbeing, and support

Student safety and wellbeing are the highest priority at Outdoor Education schools:

• All activities follow Department of Education policies and national standards where required.
• All staff are qualified, highly trained and experienced in delivering outdoor education programs.
• Outdoor Education schools provide all specialist equipment required and have clear safety policies and procedures in place for each activity.
• Visiting teachers from students’ home schools may attend in order to support continuity of care.
• Families will receive clear information and give informed consent before students attend an Outdoor Education school.

Students are encouraged to speak to staff if they feel unsure, nervous, or uncomfortable. Feeling this way is natural, especially when being away from home and also when undertaking new and sometimes challenging activities.

Supporting all students

Outdoor Education schools offer inclusive educational experiences. All students are supported to fully participate, learn, develop, and succeed as part of the programs offered. This includes students from diverse social, cultural, community and family backgrounds, as well as students with different characteristics and beliefs.

Supports can include:

• adapted activities
• additional wellbeing support
• dietary and medical provisions
• flexibility with equipment or clothing.

Families are encouraged to share any needs or concerns before the program. Pre-visits or meetings can also often be arranged.

Preparing for the experience

For students

• Come with an open mind and be willing to try new things.
• Pack appropriate clothing so the weather doesn’t stop you learning.
• Remember it’s okay to feel nervous
• Staff are there to help

For parents and carers

• Talk with your child about what a typical day may look like
• Involve them in packing and preparation
• Reassure them that support is always available
• Attend parent briefings, where they are offered
• Read all information and consent forms carefully

Packing and equipment

Each Outdoor Education school provides a detailed packing list through the home school. These lists are designed to help students stay safe, comfortable, and focused on learning.

Contact during the stay

Developing independence is an important part of an outdoor education experience, so non-urgent contact is not encouraged. However:

• each Outdoor Education school has a 24-hour emergency contact number
• staff on expeditions will remain in communication with their Outdoor Education school
• some longer programs include visitor days.

Contact information is available on each Outdoor Education school’s website. See below for links.

Accommodation and facilities

All Outdoor Education schools provide:

• shared accommodation with gender-specific bathroom facilities
• dining rooms and nutritious meals
• classrooms and outdoor learning spaces
• access to specialised adventure facilities such as ropes courses, bike trails, and water areas.

Facilities are designed to be safe, inclusive, and supportive, with staff supervising at all times.