Nine Oasis Academy students recently returned from the trip of a lifetime after spending 12 days exploring Australia and New Zealand as part of the school's student travel program.
The educational journey, coordinated by Oasis Academy middle school teacher Tami McNeill, provided students with the opportunity to experience new cultures, historical landmarks, and natural wonders while learning far beyond the walls of the classroom. This is the third trip McNeill has coordinated for the school.
The students began in New Zealand, where they immersed themselves in Māori culture. The group visited traditional Māori villages and participated in a hangi feast, a traditional Māori dinner cooked using heated rocks buried in the ground. Students also enjoyed a unique duck tour aboard a vehicle that operates as both a truck and a boat, traveling through geothermal areas while learning stories and legends of the ancient Māori people.
Additional highlights in New Zealand included hiking through Redwoods Whakarewarewa Forest and visiting the Agridome, where students learned about the country's agricultural industry and watched a live sheep show.
The group then traveled to Australia, beginning in Sydney. There, students toured the iconic Sydney Opera House, participated in a whale-watching excursion, and visited the Hyde Park Barracks Museum. The museum provided insight into Australia's early colonial history and the European prisoners who were transported there.
In Cairns, students experienced one of the world's greatest natural wonders when they snorkeled on the Great Barrier Reef alongside a marine biologist. The experience gave students a firsthand look at the reef's diverse ecosystem and marine life.
Students also traveled to Kuranda, where they learned about Aboriginal culture and traditions, including how to throw boomerangs. The trip also included opportunities to interact with some of Australia's most famous animals. Students fed kangaroos and posed for photos with koalas, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
"Travel provides students with opportunities to gain a deeper understanding of history, culture, and the natural world," said McNeill. "These experiences help students develop confidence, independence, and a broader perspective of the world around them."
The Australia and New Zealand tour is part of Oasis Academy's commitment to providing students with meaningful educational experiences that extend beyond the classroom.
Looking ahead, McNeill is already planning the next international educational experience. In 2028, students will have the opportunity to participate in a World War II and Western Front tour through England, France, and Germany. The trip will allow students to visit significant historical sites and gain a deeper understanding of the events that shaped modern history. Trips are open to all students in grades 7-12. Students younger than grade 7 may travel but must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
Families interested in learning more about Oasis Academy's student travel program are encouraged to contact Mrs. McNeill at [email protected].
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