WACE Outdoor Education case studies
WACE Outdoor Education · Put your knowledge to work in context.
WACE Outdoor Education is a Western Australian senior secondary course that combines practical outdoor activity with academic study of risk, leadership, environment and society. It suits students who enjoy bushwalking, paddling, roping, camping or navigation and who want their outdoor interests to count towards secondary graduation and, for many, an ATAR pathway. Assessment blends school-based coursework, practical performance and investigation work with externally set written and practical examinations, so candidates need both hands-on competence and the ability to explain their decisions in writing. The content spans safe practice and first aid, leadership and group facilitation, ecology and minimal-impact travel, expedition planning and reflection, cultural and Indigenous connections to place, health and wellbeing outdoors, and access, policy and careers. The WACE Outdoor Education case studies are 5 cases and about 3,341 words.
1The Cold Snap on the Ridge Traverse
A Year 11 group of 14 students and 2 teachers is on day 3 of a 5-day ridge traverse. Forecast was 8°C with light wind, but a front arrived early: temperature is now 3°C, wind 45 km/h, steady rain, visibility 30 m.
770 words, about 4 min2The Campsite That Wasn't Allowed
A school outdoor education class of 22 students plans a 2-night camp in a national park. The teacher has booked a group campsite, but on arrival a ranger says the booking was for a different site 6 km away and the current site is closed for rehabilitation.
704 words, about 4 min3The Conflict at the Abseil Site
A group of 16 students is at a crag for an abseil session. The teacher has set up two ropes and briefed the group.
653 words, about 3 min4The Cultural Site on the Trail
A group of 18 students is walking a coastal trail that passes through a site significant to the local Aboriginal community. There are engraved markings on rocks and a midden.
619 words, about 3 min5The Heat, the Hill and the Water
A group of 20 students is on a day hike in summer. Forecast maximum is 38°C.
595 words, about 3 min