What happens when students step outside their comfort zones and discover they can do something they once thought impossible?
In the latest episode of Voices of Learning, host Magdalen Gray sits down with Maddy Gangaiah, AISB’s Director of Outdoor Education, to explore the value of experiential learning and how time spent outdoors can help young people develop confidence, resilience, independence and leadership.
Drawing on more than 28 years of experience in experiential education, Maddy shares stories of students overcoming challenges, discovering new abilities and learning through direct experience and reflection.
The conversation also introduces AISB X, our outdoor education program, which offers students opportunities to explore, challenge themselves and develop practical life skills through outdoor activities and expeditions.
Key Themes & Questions Covered in This Episode
- Learning Through Experience: What makes an experience a meaningful learning opportunity, and why is reflection so important?
- From “I Cannot” to “I Can”: How can overcoming challenges help students develop confidence, perseverance and resilience?
- Nature in a Digital World: Why is spending time outdoors increasingly important as technology becomes a bigger part of everyday life?
- Challenge by Choice: How can giving students ownership of their challenges encourage independence and personal growth?
- Beyond the Classroom: How does AISB X create opportunities for students to develop leadership, communication and decision-making skills?
- Practical Ideas for Parents: How can families encourage curiosity, outdoor exploration and screen-free experiences in everyday life?
Listen to the Conversation
From a child's first rock-climbing experience to simple ways of exploring nature together as a family, this episode offers fresh perspectives on how learning through experience can prepare young people for challenges beyond school.
🎧 Listen to the latest episode of Voices of Learning on YouTube, Spotify or Apple Podcast.