Background
Showing Outdoor Learning at Thornton and Nayook
Rubicon Outdoor School works with Victorian government secondary schools to run curriculum-linked programs at Thornton and Nayook. Qualified educators plan each program around the visiting school and its students.
We made a 4-minute 27-second promotional video showing the activities, the teaching behind them and what students learn.
The challenge
Show What Students Learn Outdoors
High ropes, caving and river activities look exciting on screen, but they could easily make the film feel like an ad for a school camp.
Rubicon needed schools, students and families to see why each activity was part of the program. The video had to show communication, decision-making, teamwork, leadership and independence, then connect both campuses in one film.
The action
Let Students and Educators Explain the Program
Educators explain how each program is planned with the visiting school and linked to classroom work. Students describe the activities and say what they found difficult, useful or new.
We placed those interviews beside the activities they described. When someone talks about collaboration or trying something unfamiliar, viewers see it happening.
The people running and taking part in the programs explain them directly. See more of our education video production work.
The action
Film Each Skill as Students Used It
We filmed navigation, campcraft, caving, high ropes and river activities. Wide and aerial shots show Thornton and Nayook, while closer shots follow students through each task.
Each shot supports a specific interview point. Maps and walkie-talkies show group decisions. Tent assembly shows practical skills. High ropes and caving show students managing a challenge and helping one another.
Both campuses teach challenge, teamwork and reflection, so the footage fits together without making them feel like separate programs.
The result
A Practical Introduction for Schools and Families
The finished film answers three questions schools and families are likely to ask: What is Rubicon? How does it connect with classroom learning? What will students actually do?
Students are clearly enjoying themselves, but the video also shows the purpose of each activity. Rubicon can use it on its website, in presentations and in conversations with schools considering a visit.
Planning a School Promotional Video?
See how our education video production process works, or talk to us about what your school needs to explain.
Ryan Spanger is the founder and managing director of Dream Engine, a Melbourne video production company established in 2002. Over the past two decades, he’s produced hundreds of videos for businesses, government departments, universities and healthcare organisations across Australia. Ryan specialises in helping organisations explain complex ideas through clear, engaging video content, with particular experience in corporate communications, training and education.
