Reaching New Heights: WAB’s Rock-Climbing Wall in Action

This year, High School Physical and Health Education (PHE) and WAB Wild introduced a new Individual Pursuits Unit, combining rock climbing and swimming to challenge students both physically and mentally. The program focuses on muscular endurance, self-confidence, and risk assessment, with students alternating between the two activities. While girls work on the climbing wall, improving grip strength and problem-solving, boys take to the pool to build stamina and refine their swimming skills—then they switch.
 
Hadleigh Crysell, Head of High School PHE, explained: "We started the Individual Pursuits Unit to complement the aquatic units. With the indoor climbing wall now available, it made sense to include it in our curriculum and offer students a new physical and mental challenge."

Since its introduction, teachers have noticed growth in students' confidence and problem-solving skills, particularly when it comes to selecting routes while climbing. The challenge of finding the best path encourages critical thinking and perseverance.

Stephen Boyko, WAB’s Wild Outdoor Education Program Coordinator, connected the program to the IB Learner Profile: "Risk-taking is an attribute in the IB learner profile, and this program gives students the opportunity to take risks in a controlled environment. This program presents an opportunity for students to take risks in a controlled environment. For some students, particularly those without prior experience, the perceived risk can be significant, and the fear of heights is very real." He added, "It's wonderful to see them rise to the challenge and push themselves. The sense of accomplishment they feel when they reach the top of a route for the first time is truly incredible."
 
The program also emphasizes teamwork, as students learn to support each other in both activities. Through collaboration, they build communication and leadership skills that go beyond the PE classroom.
 
Looking ahead, the PHE and WAB Wild teams are planning to introduce more advanced climbing techniques, including belaying, where students manage safety ropes for their peers. Eventually, they aim to introduce lead climbing, which would give students more responsibility and independence in the activity.

Grade 10 student Luzia reflected, "For me, the best part is working with others. When we try to tackle a challenging route, my classmates are always willing to offer suggestions and support each other. It's really nice to collaborate and learn how to work together to find solutions to the tough spots."