The work that the law does in education outside the classroom: part 1 – the law and student safety

Abstract

ABSTRACT A comprehensive national study investigated education outside the classroom (EOTC) in Aotearoa New Zealand and revealed the negative impact of safety legislation on EOTC. To understand the work the safety legislation does, we analysed data from a survey and interviews, and developed a framework of spheres of responsibilities: student safety; legislative requirements; staff competence; and paperwork. Findings show that health and safety legislation has reduced the amount of EOTC in many schools. There was strong evidence that educators cared for the learning and safety of students, and this generated anxiety for staff. This anxiety was further heightened by threats of personal legal liability. Instead of threats, some respondents felt that teachers’ commitment to student learning through EOTC should be celebrated. Other respondents strongly continued to support EOTC. The contribution of school culture, EOTC champions, effective systems and teacher education are seen as pivotal to reducing anxiety and sustaining EOTC.