A Ruby Island Adventure with Local Teachers and Natur-ED

We’re lucky here at WAI to be part of Natur-ED, a collective of community organisations. Te Kākano, Grow Wānaka, Southern Lakes Sanctuary, WAI Wānaka and Enviroschools are all working together to help educators and young people connect with nature.

After coming together in 2022 following an NZAEE conference, Natur-ED has been collaborating on professional learning days for teachers and outdoor field trips with local students. Two long-term goals of the group include:

1. Integrating local environmental and sustainability themes into curriculum learning

2. Working together to increase efficiencies for teachers and expand our impact by sharing resources and efforts

“The most valuable part of these sessions is connecting with other people and getting inspiration from you (Natur-Ed team) for things we can take back to the classroom.” – local teacher.

All aboard the Ruby Island Express!

Last month, we headed out on one of our biggest adventures yet – a trip to Ruby Island with 11 teachers. To kick things off, we were treated to a scenic boat ride with Tim from Lake Wānaka Cruises, who generously taxied us over free of charge. Thank you, Tim!

Once on the island, we slowed down, soaked in its beauty, and took time to connect. Markus, a teacher and member of the Ruby Island Management Group, shared stories about the island, including its party-filled past and famous dance floor.

“Keep doing what you have been offering. It has all been very good. I’ve been to quite a few places I haven’t been before or didn’t know much about. So that new knowledge is great.” – Teacher from the trip.

Some inspired teachers from Mountainside Educare and Te Kura o Take Kārara connected on Ruby Island, making plans to put weta houses along Mt Iron and meet up from opposite ends.

“It’s great to connect to others who are passionate about this stuff.”

The trip also gave us (Natur-ED) an opportunity to show teachers how they can bring students on nature-based field trips like this with ease. As the end of 2024 fast approaches, we look forward to re-connecting with teachers and students in 2025, continuing to build momentum together.

To learn more about Natur-ED, click here.