Conservation

Biodiversity & Conservation

Study Tour Certificate

Nature & Wildlife, Culture & People, History & Archaeology

Description

Enter the mysterious world of nature, meet your plant and animal friends, and discover the hidden secrets of the natural world! However, some of these friends are facing an unprecedented crisis—their populations are rapidly declining, and they are even on the brink of extinction!

Species extinction has always been a part of Earth’s natural history. Of the 4 billion species that have ever existed, 99% are now gone. In other words, most species have already gone extinct. But when people ask about extinction, they are usually referring to recent history, especially the number of species lost since the Industrial Revolution. This type of extinction is often driven by human activity and its impacts.

What is threatening the wildlife? Let’s step into nature, begin our investigation, and find the answers together! Research shows that since 1500, 900 species have gone extinct, including 85 mammals, 159 birds, 35 amphibians, and 80 fish.

Now is the time to take action! Greenfield Forest School invites you—young conservation “medics”—to help save these precious natural friends.

You will be divided into five investigative teams, each responsible for researching the threats your “patients” face in a specific area of survival. You will read literature, conduct fieldwork, analyze data, and apply various scientific research skills to solve the mysteries. Additionally, you’ll need to strengthen your ability to share, discuss, and present your findings, learning through play and playing through learning!

Ultimately, you will design a unique “treatment plan” for your patients and present it before an expert panel to earn your YES! Conservation Hospital diploma. Join us to explore the wonders of nature, save our planet, and become part of YES! Conservation Hospital!

Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival in Auckland – Begin the Magical Journey

Arrive in Auckland, check into a 4-star hotel, and relax to prepare for the adventure ahead. The fresh air and vast natural scenery of New Zealand will provide a refreshing start to your journey.

Day 2: Exploring Auckland – The First Encounter with the Wildlife

Visit the aquarium, where you’ll meet your “patient”; then head to the summit of Mount Eden to marvel at nature’s majesty.

Study Theme: New Zealand’s Unique Ecosystem

Day 3: The Wonders of Nature – A Lost Garden

Explore the Auckland Museum to understand New Zealand’s unique place in the global ecosystem; ascend the Sky Tower for sweeping views of the City of Sails.

Study Theme: How Urban Development Affects the Wildlife

Day 4: From Bush to Beach – The Threat of Climate Change

Journey through ancient rainforests and stroll along mysterious beaches; visit the Kauri Cathedral to hear the stories of ancient trees. In the afternoon, arrive at the unique West Coast black sand beaches to investigate the role of the food chain in conservation.

Study Theme: The Impact of Climate Change

Day 5: Hidden Auckland – Meeting the Scientists

In the morning, visit the Marine Research Centre at the University of Auckland for a face-to-face discussion with scientists. Learn about the efforts made in treating your “patient” and explore unsolved challenges or any topics of interest. In the afternoon, hold a consultation for your patient and complete the final project of the study tour, preparing for tomorrow’s presentation and graduation trip.

Study Theme: Final Report – Reflection and Outlook

Day 6: A Relaxing Sail – Presentation and Graduation Ceremony

Set sail to a wind-swept island and witness its transformation from a deforested farm to a world-renowned ecological reserve. Celebrate the outcomes and insights gained from your study tour.

Study Theme: Graduation Ceremony

CREDIT: The Greenfield Forest School in New Zealand

Days 7 and Onward: Graduation Trip – Continue Your New Zealand Experience

We offer free consultations.

Note: This sample itinerary focuses on marine conservation. It can be customised based on the season, students’ interests, and starting locations.

Course Outline

Students will transform into members of a wildlife conservation medical team, facing the daunting challenge of protecting endangered species. They will learn how to navigate the delicate balance of ecosystems, managing competing factors and devising effective “treatment” plans. Through this process, students will gain a deep understanding of the importance of biodiversity, grasp the core values of species conservation, and acquire the skills to evaluate and prioritize various aspects of conservation work. This study program will foster critical thinking and decision-making in environmental protection, laying a solid foundation for sustainable development in the future.

Objectives

Understanding the Importance of Biodiversity: Students will explore the vital role of biodiversity in ecosystems and recognize the necessity of protecting endangered species.
Mastering the Delicate Balance of Ecosystems: Students will learn how to identify and analyze interactions within ecosystems and their impact on species survival.
Developing Skills in Assessment and Prioritization: Students will be able to effectively assess and prioritize conservation efforts, formulating comprehensive protection strategies.
Enhancing Teamwork and Problem-Solving Skills: Through collaboration, students will work together to create “treatment” plans, improving communication and complex problem-solving abilities.

Disciplines Covered

Biology, Ecology, Environmental Science, Geography, Sociology

Course Modules: Please refer to the “Itinerary” for daily study themes.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this study program, participants will achieve the following:

Knowledge Mastery: Students will be able to explain the definition of biodiversity, its significance in ecosystems, the necessity of species conservation, and the interactions within ecosystems.
Skills Application: Students will apply ecological principles to analyze ecosystems, assess conservation priorities, and develop appropriate conservation measures and plans.
Practical Competence: In the simulated medical team activities, students will effectively collaborate to solve real-world problems, creating viable “treatment” plans for endangered species.
Critical Thinking: Students will analyze the pros and cons of different conservation strategies, develop critical insights, and propose improvements.

This program emphasizes the integration of knowledge, skills, and practical experience, preparing students for future roles in environmental conservation.

The study tour programme can be tailored to client requests, including nearby tours.