A real outdoor learning moment from the New Roots photo collection

CAPS-aligned experiential learning · Grades R–12

Bring the curriculum to life.

Nature-based school days and camps where learners investigate, build, reflect and return with evidence.

Plan a school programme See the grade pathway ↓
R–12One clear pathway
1 · 3 · 5Day and camp formats
8Core sessions per grade
EvidenceEvery learner returns with it

Learning by doing

Not a generic outing.

We match the programme to the grade, the school’s current topics, the venue and the evidence teachers want learners to produce.

The grade pathway

One journey. Thirteen stages.

Foundation PhaseGrades R–3
R

My World

Notice, belong and explore safely.

1

Discover

What is alive around me?

2

Connect

See how living things depend on one another.

3

Systems

Explore what changes when one part moves.

Intermediate PhaseGrades 4–6
4

Nature Investigators

Observe, question and record evidence.

5

Ecosystems

Understand relationships within ecosystems.

6

Sustainability Lab

Audit how people use shared resources.

Senior PhaseGrades 7–9
7

Ecology & Self

Investigate where we fit within living systems.

8

Systems & Resources

Analyse balance, limits and consequences.

9

Blueprint Year

Map strengths, interests and future choices.

FET PhaseGrades 10–12
10

Living Systems

Apply scientific inquiry to environmental questions.

11

Human Impact

Examine pressure, sustainability and responsibility.

12

Roots to Future

Turn capability into a practical next step.

The learning cycle

Experience becomes evidence.

  1. 01Arrive
  2. 02Connect
  3. 03Explore
  4. 04Learn
  5. 05Challenge
  6. 06Reflect
  7. 07Create
  8. 08Contribute
  9. 09Return

Choose a format

Built around your timetable.

01

School day

Three to four focused sessions with field investigation, reflection and learner evidence.

03

Three-day camp

All eight grade sessions, with age-appropriate evening reflection and shared responsibility.

05

Five-day residential

All core sessions plus an extended project, action task, independent study and showcase.

Young people learning together outdoors

What returns to school

Visible learning.

  • Field journals and investigation sheets
  • Maps, models, diagrams or prototypes
  • Reflection and team decision records
  • A project, presentation or exhibition
  • One practical transfer action
See programme details

Clear academic position

CAPS-aligned, school-connected.

New Roots translates relevant knowledge and skills into practical, nature-based learning. The school remains responsible for formal CAPS delivery and assessment, and we confirm current topics and term planning before the programme.

Start with your grade

Tell us what your learners are studying.

We’ll shape the experience around your grade, current topics, group size, access needs and preferred duration.

Plan your school programme