Outdoor education has become a strength at Pekerau School.  Programmes have developed to the point where the whole school is involved in education outside the classroom, and more specifically outdoor experiences. Pekerau School aims to provide all students with a range of EOTC activities that provide challenge, skill development, and fun in a range of safe environments.  At Pekerau School we believe that our programmes, resources, and staff are providing opportunities for all students to meet the above aims in some way through our outdoor education experiences.  We hope that students enjoy their experiences and go on to develop interests of their own that will enhance and add value to the contributions they make to our community as adults.

Year 4 to 6 students are all involved in outdoor education camps on an annual basis. year 4 students begin their camping experience with a four day residential camp.  In recent years they have used Whakamaru as a venue, due to the variety, and suitability of available activities for this age group.  The camp is relatively close  to Te Awamutu and provides a fully catered experience.  Some of the activities include bush walking, kayaking, a confidence course, BMX and horse riding.

The year 5 and 6 students have trialed a variety of venues over recent years including Kiritehere, Pauanui and most recently Raglan and Pureora.  Camps usually rotate on a two year cycle with a catered, camp one year, followed by a year under canvas with students cooking for themselves in groups.  We aim to provide a challenge in a safe environment while providing the opportunity for students to develop both independence and co-operative group skills.

The Ministry of Education states that "outdoor education is a key area of learning in health and physical education curriculum" (page 7, Ministry of Education. Nov. 2003.  "Safety & EOTC" National Operations.  New Zealand).   As a part of this statement they suggest that EOTC has 10 basic aims including:

• Providing students with opportunities to learn outside the classroom across the curriculum.

• Promoting an appreciation of our national heritage.

• Increasing awareness and understanding of other cultural groups.

• Increasing understanding of the environment and conservation management.

• Providing opportunities for enjoyment, adventure, and a challenge.

• To enhance spiritual, physical, and mental well-being through experiences in a natural environment.

• To develop skills for movement with confidence and safety in a range of settings.

• To develop respect for themselves and others.

• To enable increasing responsibility for own development.

• To provide opportunities to develop in many diverse ways