What do you know about our endemic Canterbury butterflies? This workshop will take you on a crash course on our local butterflies and to provide you with the know-how to create habitats, identify and scientifically pin our gorgeous Lepidoptera. Learn how to get your students involved in the B5 Project and become kaitiaki of their school grounds and the wider community. Connect with butterfly experts both in Canterbury and nationally to help protect our taonga species.
Learn how easy it is to use nature to support curriculum learning and well-being in your school green-spaces. In this experience, you’ll learn how to use nature as your classroom and co-teacher to integrate almost all curriculum areas and support wellbeing (yours and your learners). You’ll walk away with the knowledge, skills, confidence and a resource kit so you can start immediately. Our focus will be on integrating literacy, science, social science and supporting hauora through nature connection, plant identification and uses and seasonal wisdom – we’ll connect, make and create with and in nature.
At-risk youth face unique challenges that can impact their educational success, well-being, and future opportunities. This workshop will explore key concerns within the education and youth support sectors, focusing on strategies to enhance engagement and well-being for at-risk youth.
Educational Psychologist Kiera will share insights on innovative interventions that foster resilience, motivation, and long-term success.
Some key areas she will cover include:
Increasing motivation to engage in the learning process – strategies to make learning more meaningful and relevant for disengaged youth. Supporting the impact of co-existing mental health challenges on learning – practical approaches to address anxiety, trauma, and other mental health concerns that affect academic success. Building strong relationships and trust – the role of mentorship and positive adult connections in fostering a sense of belonging and stability. Kiera is currently working as an Educational Psychologist on the Sunshine Coast, Australia, and will return to NZ specifically for this conference – and to see mum and dad!
In this workshop you will learn how to engage students in the learning of science in real-world contexts relevant to our learners. The team-based, student-centred approach with opportunities for creativity, innovation, and the use of higher-order thinking. There are numerous examples: Sport Science “How does physics impact your chosen sport or recreation?’ “How does the human body adapt to perform at a higher level?”’. “ How does a formula one team/rowing team etc try to ensure a podium finish?’ Snorkelling “The protection of New Zealand’s many unique species is very important for the worlds Biodiversity. Why is this and how are we doing? Kayaking “Why should we try and help restore the Mangroves on the New Island?”
An engaging outdoor workshop, run by bug nerd Sarah C, where students will discover the incredible variety of insects living in their environment. Participants will learn about the vital roles these creatures play in maintaining ecological balance and gain hands-on experience identifying and observing them in their natural habitats. Through interactive activities, discussions, and exploration, students will develop a deeper appreciation for these often-overlooked heroes of nature.
