The Hillary Challenge adds adventure to Social Studies On-line
The second term will have an added adventure for students with the development of The Hillary Challenge, an on-line
social studies inquiry that will focus on our greatest living hero, Sir Edmund Hillary.
On May 29, 2003, 50 years ago, Sir Edmund, together with Sherpa Tenzing Norgay completed the first successful ascent of
the world's highest mountain, Mt Everest.
The Ministry of Education, Microsoft New Zealand and the Sir Edmund Hillary Trust are currently in full flight preparing
this exciting learning adventure for primary to secondary school students.
"Through their participation in The Hillary Challenge students will learn the skills and values that Sir Edmund Hillary
has demonstrated throughout his life - his teamwork, leadership, hard work, altruism and his lifelong love of
adventure," said Ministry of Education spokesperson, Alison Dow.
"It uses his adventures and humanitarian works to teach students about a significant world event by a New Zealander, and
what they can learn for their future from Sir Edmund's experiences," said Ms Dow.
The Hillary Challenge is part of a number of events and projects the Sir Edmund Hillary Trust has organised for the
celebrations.
The Trust was set up last year with help from the Government to honour Sir Edmund, celebrate this year's 50th
anniversary milestone, and raise funds for the continuation of his life's work.
The initiative has full support from Sir Edmund Hillary and Lady Hillary, who is one of the trustees on the Sir Edmund
Hillary Trust.
"I was pleased to learn the Ministry of Education and Microsoft have made this programme a part of the school curriculum
for 2003," said Sir Edmund.
"It will be great to see young New Zealanders learning about the ascent of Mt Everest in 1953, and the preparation,
commitment, teamwork and so many other qualities that are needed to achieve a common goal."
"I fully endorse this programme, and look forward to children growing through the learning experience," he said.
Ross Peat, Managing Director for Microsoft New Zealand says he believes the project will provide a fun and inspirational
learning experience for young New Zealanders.
"Our focus in education is to help young New Zealanders realise their potential and develop the skills they need to live
great lives. What better way to do this than to learn leadership and values from a truly inspirational New Zealander -
Sir Edmund Hillary."
UNITEC in collaboration with Microsoft is making the CD about Sir Edmund Hillary to support the social studies teaching
and learning units that are in development. These units will be placed on Social Studies Online, a Ministry of Education
funded website.