Orewa College Year 13 Classics students took part in an experiential history trip on Monday 18 August.

Year 13 students soaked up history with togas, training, and traditional food

Year 13 Classics students from Orewa College brought the ancient world to life with a full day of immersive learning outside the classroom.

Dressed in togas, the group took part in a Roman-themed day at Parakai Springs designed to deepen their understanding of ancient history. From mock gladiator training to a traditional Roman feast, the experience gave ākonga a chance to step into the world they've been studying.

Many students are preparing essays on the Roman Colosseum, so a session at "gladiator school" helped bring the topic to life, complete with cut-and-thrust pool noodle battles, inspired by the writings of second-century physician Galen. Others, studying the Baths of Lepcis Magna, soaked up the learning with dips in Parakai’s hot pools.

Photo credit: Paul Tucker