Last year we entered a week-long engagement with the EPro8 Challenge, a homegrown New Zealand innovation for learners in Years 5-8 that sits at the intersection of engineering, science, and mathematics. This enriching programme is specially designed to cultivate key skills such as ingenuity, teamwork, resilience, and an enduring passion for maths and science.

The EPro8 Challenge resonates strongly with the REAL learning approach and IRESPECT values that form the cornerstone of education at Green School New Zealand. Beyond simply honing mathematical and engineering acumen, our learners delve into collaborative problem-solving. They are encouraged to articulate their thought processes, actively listen to the ideas of others, and exercise creativity to find innovative solutions to each challenge. Complementing these technical skills, we also place a significant emphasis on nurturing emotional wellbeing and resilience, ensuring our learners are well-equipped to face any challenge.

Over the course of the week, the learning experience was holistic and cross-disciplinary, incorporating health and physical education, literacy activities, and hands-on science experiments. Green School staff were instrumental in enriching the experience, providing guidance and inspiration, stimulating critical thinking, and facilitating meaningful learning interactions. This initiative afforded our educators a unique opportunity to connect with students across diverse learning environments, spotlighting the multifaceted talents of our young learners.

We were thrilled to host a Family Challenge Evening, aimed at fostering community spirit while fundraising for additional EPro8 kits. Families enthusiastically participated, crafting unique team names and chants, and competing for our eco-friendly trophy. A heartfelt congratulations to 'Falcon 9' for clinching the top prize!

We look forward to future opportunities for holistic growth and community engagement as we continue to empower our learners to excel in both the academic and social realms.