Memorable EOTC Experiences Across the PYP Upper Years 2025. Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC) provides students with opportunities to explore, learn, and grow beyond the traditional classroom setting. Last week, students from years 3 to 6 embarked on incredible journeys that fostered teamwork, resilience, and curiosity.
Year 3: A First Camping Experience to Remember
Year 3 students embarked on their first Camping EOTC with enthusiasm and bravery. Their adventure began at Taroko Sports, where they embraced thrilling challenges that tested their risk-taking skills. Back at school, they worked together to set up their tents, prepare their own meals—choosing between pizza or chicken burgers—and gathered around a campfire to roast marshmallows. After spending the night outdoors on the football pitch, the students continued their team-building exercises with a fun-filled day of pool parties and community park games. Their journey was a shining example of open-mindedness, kindness, and perseverance.
Year 4: Hands-On Learning and STEM Challenges
Year 4 students immersed themselves in an action-packed EOTC experience designed to promote collaboration and personal growth. Their adventure began with Party Day, featuring bowling, laser tag, trampolining, and other engaging activities. Many embraced the spirit of risk-taking by attempting ice skating, go-karting, or archery for the first time. In the evening, students became young chefs, crafting their own pizzas or chicken burgers before setting up tents on the school soccer field. The night was filled with marshmallow roasting and games under the stars. The following day introduced a STEM-focused raft-building challenge, where teams designed and tested their creations in the swimming pool, strengthening their problem-solving abilities. An outdoor lunch, ice cream treats, and a vibrant pool party marked the conclusion of an unforgettable learning experience.
Year 5: Exploring Nature and Agriculture
Year 5 students traveled to the breathtaking Foping Nature Reserve in the Qinling Mountains for an immersive outdoor adventure. They explored agriculture and fishing firsthand at a rice park, learning to farm and catching slippery fish with their bare hands—an exciting challenge! Artistic students expressed their creativity through stone and pillow painting, while animal enthusiasts marveled at the rare panda bears in Panda Valley. A hike through West Mountain Park rounded out their journey, allowing them to appreciate nature while strengthening friendships. Their return to school was filled with smiles and shared stories of adventure.
Year 6: Bonding Through Nature and Exploration
Year 6 students spent their EOTC at You Ran Shan (Leisure Mountain), engaging in a variety of outdoor activities that reinforced teamwork and environmental awareness. They participated in sports, practiced plant propagation, caught tadpoles and frogs, and explored small-scale farming. At the petting zoo, they interacted with animals, fostering a deeper appreciation for nature. A night time bonfire, complete with karaoke and stargazing, provided the perfect setting for reflection and celebration. The experience was a wonderful way to strengthen friendships and create lasting memories as the school year comes to a close.
EOTC continues to be a transformative experience at Hanova, allowing students to build confidence, develop new skills, and connect with their peers in meaningful ways. Whether camping or staying in hotels, exploring or problem-solving, each student embraced the spirit of learning beyond the classroom, making this year's EOTC an unforgettable adventure.
