Rock climbing experience inspires students to continue learning
Posted on October 19, 2023
Senior ESOL Immersion students recently had the opportunity to experience rock climbing. For many, it was a first-time experience, but not one they will forget.
During their day at Vertical Adventures, an indoor rock climbing gym, they listened to owner and founder Darrin Worsfold’s inspiring story, from school drop out to successful entrepreneur. Darrin has been an avid climber for more than 25 years and is a registered instructor with the New Zealand Outdoor Instructors Association (NZOIA).
He shared his perspective on a successful life: never stop learning and never give up. The students admired Darrin’s mind-blowing collection of Lego Star Wars models which he puts on display in support of Starship Hospital.
Upon returning to the classroom, the students were tasked with writing a sentence to sum up their impressions and experience of the day.
Some students recalled Darrin’s message, writing:
It made me realise I can’t give up halfway and I must be persistent. I must never stop learning.
Others wrote about helping and getting to know each other better:
We did rock climbing together and this activity improved our friendship.
I felt so afraid and nervous because of the height of the wall and teachers encouraged me.
When I felt nervous to continue to climb, some schoolmates encouraged me. It made me feel so warm.
Students also commented on the feeling of personal achievement:
I felt proud of myself when I reached the top, which I had never done before.
I am afraid of heights so when I climbed up the wall, I could not believe it.
This trip was a gift for my bravery.
When I reached the top, I felt so delighted.
One student finished her note by writing:
I wanted to do climbing but I hadn’t had the chance to do it. The school gave me that chance.