Te Kura o Tititea Mount Aspiring College (MAC) science teacher Sarah Graham loves an excuse to learn new ideas and skills.

She recently accomplished that and more at a New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) camp for teachers.

Sarah was one of around 30 educators who took part in the School to Skies/Seas teachers’ live-in camp hosted by the Royal New Zealand Navy and Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF).

The six-day camp, held at Devonport Naval Base and RNZAF Base Auckland, offers teachers of Years 5 to 13 students insight into the world of the NZDF.

“This has been the best week of professional development I have experienced,” Sarah said. 

“I am really excited to take what I learnt over the six days and share it with my students.”

During the camp participants were given hands-on experience in the maritime and aviation industries, designed to provide them with new educational tools and ideas, as well as demonstrate career opportunities for their students.

Sarah near the open ramp of a C-130J Hercules in flight, which she said was “amazing” to experience.

Sarah took part on a colleague’s recommendation.

“I have an interest in military aviation. I also love any excuse for an adventure and learning new skills,” she said.

“My brother is in the army reserves, my uncle is ex-army and I have cousins in the air force.”

She said she was impressed with the variety of choices for careers.

“There’s the opportunity to work in a number of different roles, and they have the ability to change trades, to pursue new pathways.

“You’re getting paid to train and study, and there are travel opportunities all around the world.”

During the camp the teachers visited HMNZS Aotearoa, the navy’s maritime sustainment vessel and largest-ever ship, and were taken for a flight in a C-130J Hercules.

“The Hercules flight was amazing and such a privilege. It was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.”

The days were long - 6am to 8pm - but it was worth it, Sarah said.

“I am very grateful for the access we have been afforded, and the behind-the-scenes views have been incredibly eye-opening,” she said.

PHOTO: NZDF