Many families are caught between two very real concerns.
We do not believe families should have to choose.
Young people need strong academic foundations — and the ability to think independently, adapt to uncertainty, take responsibility and act in the real world.
Education should not simply prepare a student to pass the next test.
It should help them become someone who can navigate what comes next.
At YES!, education begin with three questions.
THE PURPOSE
Education is ultimately about judgment.
Every young person makes choices.
What to learn. What to pursue. What to ignore. What to persist with. What kind of person to become.
Even following a checklist is a choice.
Our role is not to make those choices for them, but to help them develop the capacity to make informed, independent and responsible decisions — and to learn from the consequences.
THE BEGINNING
THE PROOF
Sometimes, the plan changes. The learning doesn't.
Cyclone Vaianu struck Auckland. Rising riverwaters near the camp made it impossible for campers to head down to the river as planned to discover the world's only freshwater luminescent limpet (latia). The real world rarely runs according to your design.
Extreme weather prompted the kids to ask a new question: What does climate change mean for the limpet? Within days, several drafts of a climate model were completed, analysing the climate impacts on limpet's survival from multiple angles—economic, legal, geographic, biological, ecological, cultural, and health.
For homework, after tackling a difficult Science Fair topic, decided to dive deeper into the climate policies and technologies mentioned at camp: Could "sponge cities" genuinely help Auckland?
At the science fair, explained the hypothesis, findings, limitations, and further research spaces of her project to the judges.
Won second place in the Environmental Science / Planet Earth and Beyond category for Years 7 and 8 at the Science Fair.
To help young people become capable, curious and self-directed Architects of their future.
Learn through curiosity, observation, enquiry and real experience.
We mentor young people to turn what they know into meaningful action and real-world impact.
Develop through challenge, responsibility, service and contribution.
Who Does A YES! Young Person Become?
FUTURE is not a programme. It is the kind of young person we aim to cultivate.
A young person with curiosity, agency, resilience, systems thinking and a genuine connection with the real world.
Find your Spark
Undertake Sovereignty
Tackle Meta-learning
Unmask Systems Thinking
Reinforce Resilience
Explore the Real-world
The Future Charter is not a checklist of skills. It is a set of capabilities that help young people develop judgment.
One Purpose. Six Capabilities.
The Engine
Every journey needs a source of energy.
A young person's Spark is the curiosity, interest and sense of purpose that makes them want to move.
We don't believe every young person needs to know exactly what they want to become.
They need opportunities to discover what makes them want to learn, explore and create.
The Steering Wheel
Power without direction is not progress.
The steering wheel represents Sovereignty - the ability to take ownership of your choices, your learning, your commitments and ultimately your direction.
Young people need to gradually move from:
"What should I do?"
to:
"What do I choose to do - and why?"
The Aerodynamics
A high-performance car does not arrive at its final form in a single design.
Its shape evolves through observation, testing, data, feedback and refinement - constantly searching for a better solution.
That is Meta-Learning.
It is not simply learning more.
It is learning how to learn better.
Young people need to become capable of questioning their own methods, learning from feedback, adapting their approach and continuously improving.
Every iteration can reveal a better way forward.
The Aerodynamics
A high-performance machine is not a collection of independent parts.
The wheels, suspension, chassis and other systems must work together.
Likewise, the most important problems in the real world rarely belong to a single subject.
Science connects with society.
Technology connects with nature.
Economics connects withe environment.
Ideas connect with consequences.
Systems thinking helps young people see the relationships that are hidden when knowledge is kept inside separate subjects.
Don't just see the parts. See the system.
The Air Intakes
The environment around a high-performance machine is not always favourable.
Air creates resistance. Heat creates pressure. Conditions changes.
But engineering does not simply try to eliminate every challenge.
It learns to work with the environment - and sometimes turn it into an advantage.
That is the kind of resilience we want young people to develop.
Not simply:
"How do I survive difficulty?"
But:
"What can I learn from it? How can I adapt? How can I use this experience to become stronger?"
Resilience is not the absence of adversity.
It is the ability to transform adversity into capability.
The Tyre-Road Contact
Ultimately, all the engineering in the world means nothing if the car cannot connect with the road.
This is where knowledge meets reality.
Young people need opportunities to take what they know beyond the classroom - to test ideas, solve real problems, work with others, serve their communities, make decisions, experience consequences and create something that matters.
Knowledge becomes capability when it meets the real world.
From Participant to Architect
We support young people to become Architects — independent thinkers who can understand complexity, make wise decisions, take responsibility for their choices, and shape what comes next.
Not simply prepared for the future. Prepared to shape it.
Together, they create something greater than any one component alone:
You Can See It in Their Stories
Some of our former participants have gone on to universities including:
But their university destinations are not the most interesting part.
The real story is what happened before they got there.
University was a destination.
The journey was the education.
Everywhere.
We don't believe meaningful learning belongs in one building.
The difference is not where we go.
It is what happens there.
Learning matters when something changes because you were there.
Not Another Activity. A Different Way of Growing.
YES! is not built around collecting more activities, certificates or achievements.
We create opportunities for young people to develop through real experience, meaningful challenge and long-term continuity.
Families choose YES! because they are looking for:
We Do Not Educate Young People Alone.
A young person grows within a wider relationship between:
We do not see parents as customers who hand over a child.
We see families as partners in the journey.
As young people mature:
We guide less. They own more.
What happens when a question is given time to grow?
A young person rarely discovers their direction all at once.
Sometimes it begins with something very small — a place, a species, a question, a moment of wonder.
Then comes another experience.
Another question. A new challenge. A chance to try something real.
Over time, curiosity can become commitment.
Commitment can become contribution.
This is what a YES! journey can look like.
The World Is Part of the Classroom
We work with schools, organisations, researchers, community groups and other partners to create authentic learning environments.
These can become the starting point for meaningful learning.
We don't just run programmes. We design learning environments.
We believe education should help young people build a life worth living - not simply a résumé worth submitting.
And eventually:
What Will I Choose to Build?
Thank you for applying.
YES! Scholars reviews every application carefully.
If we feel there may be a good fit, we will invite you and your family for a conversation.
If not, you will still hear back from us — with respect.
We’re here to help — whether you’re a student, a parent, a school, or part of a community group. Our programmes range from Youth Education to Community Impact. Book a free 30-minute consultation and discover how we can support you.
Effective Date: 1 October 2025 (Version 1.1)
These Terms & Conditions are effective from the above date and apply to all participants enrolling on or after this date. Greenfield reserves the right to update these Terms from time to time, with updated versions published on the Greenfield website. Continued participation in Greenfield programmes constitutes acceptance of the most current version.
1.1 These Terms and Conditions (“Agreement”) govern participation in Youth Education and Community Impact provided by The Greenfield Limited (hereinafter referred to as “Greenfield”).
1.2 Greenfield operates three main business streams:
1.3 This Agreement applies only to Youth Education and Community Initiatives. All Consulting Services (for example: international student experience, supporting local communities, and other professional services provided to personnel and organisations) are provided under a separate Service Agreement or similar contract between Greenfield and the client.
1.4 By registering for a Greenfield programme, service, or activity, a binding contract is formed between Greenfield and the participant (or, where the participant is under 18 years of age, the parent(s) or caregiver(s) of that participant).
2.1 “Participant” means any individual registered for services provided under Greenfield’s Youth Education and Community Initiatives.
2.2 “Services” include, but are not limited to:
2.3 “Staff Member” includes but is not limited to camp leaders, award coordinators, award leaders, mentors, tutors, and guides.
3.1 Participants (and, where applicable, their parents or caregivers) agree to pay all applicable fees and charges in full prior to the commencement of the programme, unless otherwise agreed in writing.
3.2 YES! Future
3.3 DofE
3.4 Community Events and Activities
3.5 Online Courses
3.6 All fees are stated in New Zealand dollars (NZD) and include GST, unless otherwise specified.
4.1 Requests for refunds must be made in writing. Greenfield will process such requests in accordance with New Zealand consumer law and the refund rules of the relevant programme.
4.2 Non-refundable fees include (but are not limited to):
4.3 YES! Future
4.4 DofE
4.5 Community Projects, Events and Activities
4.6 Online Courses
4.7 Justifiable reasons for refund consideration include:
4.8 Cancellations by Greenfield
4.9 Force Majeure
4.10 Refund Processing Requirements
To process any approved refund, the requester must provide the exact same bank account details used for the original payment, including:
4.10.1 Banking and Transaction Fees
All banking, international transfer fees, currency conversion charges, or administrative processing costs incurred during the refund process will be deducted from the total refundable amount. This includes:
4.10.2 Timeframe
Refunds will be processed after all required information has been provided and any involved third party has officially accepted and updated the relevant details (if applicable). We aim to issue all refunds within 5–10 business days of this confirmation. Actual processing times may vary depending on bank procedures.
5.1 Participants must conduct themselves in a respectful and responsible manner at all times.
5.2 Participants are required to:
5.3 Greenfield reserves the right to remove a participant from any activity if their behaviour is unsafe, disruptive, unlawful, or in breach of this Agreement. In such cases, no refund will be provided.
5.4 Parents or caregivers remain ultimately responsible for ensuring the compliance of participants under 18 years of age.
6.1 Greenfield takes all reasonable steps to provide a safe environment for participants.
6.2 Participants (and parents/caregivers, where applicable) acknowledge that outdoor, community, and experiential activities carry inherent risks. Participation is undertaken at the participant’s own risk, to the extent permitted by law.
6.3 Participants are responsible for equipping themselves with appropriate and suitable gear for outdoor activities. This includes ensuring that clothing, footwear, and personal items are fit for purpose and in good condition.
6.4 Participants may choose to hire Greenfield outdoor gear, including but not limited to tents, cooking sets, and camping accessories (“Hired Equipment”).
6.4.1 Scope: This section applies to all outdoor gear and equipment hired from Greenfield, including but not limited to tents, cooking sets, backpacks, and camping accessories (“Hired Equipment”).
6.4.2 Booking and Bond
6.4.2.1 Hire bookings are confirmed only upon payment of the applicable hire fee and, where required, a refundable bond.
6.4.2.2 The bond amount (if applicable) will be stated at the time of booking and refunded following satisfactory inspection upon return.
6.4.2.3 Greenfield reserves the right to deduct from the bond any reasonable costs associated with repair, cleaning, or replacement due to damage, loss, or failure to comply with these conditions.
6.4.3 Condition and Use of Equipment
6.4.3.1 The Hirer acknowledges that all equipment is provided in good working order and suitable for ordinary use.
6.4.3.2 The Hirer is responsible for ensuring that all items are used safely and appropriately, following any provided instructions or guidelines.
6.4.3.3 Equipment must not be altered, marked, or modified in any way.
6.4.4 Cleaning and Return
6.4.4.1 All hired equipment must be returned clean, dry, and in good condition by the agreed return date and time.
6.4.4.2 The Tent Cleaning Guide (available at https://thegreenfield.org/register/all-about-tent/) must be followed.
6.4.4.3 Additional cleaning fees may be charged if the tent or equipment is returned wet, dirty, or with odour.
6.4.4.4 Equipment not returned by the due date may incur additional daily hire fees.
6.4.5 Loss or Damage
6.4.5.1 The Hirer is fully responsible for any loss, theft, or damage (excluding normal wear and tear) occurring during the hire period.
6.4.5.2 In the event of damage or loss, Greenfield may charge the cost of repair or replacement, less any applicable bond.
6.4.5.3 The Hirer must notify Greenfield immediately of any loss, damage, or malfunction.
6.4.6 Liability and Risk
6.4.6.1 All equipment hire is undertaken at the Hirer’s own risk. Greenfield shall not be liable for injury, damage, or loss arising from misuse, improper assembly, or weather-related incidents.
6.4.6.2 The Hirer agrees to take reasonable care of all hired equipment and to use it only for its intended purpose.
6.4.6.3 Nothing in this clause limits rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993.
6.4.7 Cancellation and Refunds
6.4.7.1 Hire cancellations made more than 7 days before the start date may be refunded less a 10% administration fee.
6.4.7.2 Cancellations made within 7 days of the start date are non-refundable unless justified by exceptional circumstances (see clause 4.7).
6.4.7.3 If Greenfield cancels the hire due to equipment unavailability or safety concerns, a full refund will be issued.
6.4.8 Acceptance of Terms: By booking any outdoor gear hire, the Hirer acknowledges that they have read, understood, and agreed to these Terms and Conditions, including the Outdoor Gear Hire section.
7.1 All participants are responsible for arranging their own insurance (e.g., health, travel, property) if desired. International participants are strongly advised to hold valid medical and travel insurance.
7.2 Greenfield is a drug-free and smoke-free environment. The possession or use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco products is prohibited during activities. Breach of this rule may result in immediate removal at the participant’s (or parent’s) expense.
7.3 To the maximum extent permitted by New Zealand law, Greenfield shall not be liable for any injury, loss, or damage suffered by participants, except where caused by Greenfield’s proven negligence.
7.4 Nothing in this Agreement limits rights under the Consumer Guarantees Act 1993, the Fair Trading Act 1986, or other applicable New Zealand laws.
8.1 All programme content, course materials, handouts, guides, videos, recordings, and other resources provided by Greenfield (in print, digital, or any other format) are the intellectual property of The Greenfield Limited unless otherwise stated.
8.2 Such materials are provided for the personal educational use of participants only. They may not be copied, distributed, reproduced, adapted, or shared with third parties without Greenfield’s prior written consent.
8.3 Breach of this clause may result in immediate termination of participation rights, and Greenfield reserves the right to pursue legal remedies where necessary.
9.1 Greenfield collects, stores, and manages participant information in accordance with the Privacy Act 2020.
9.2 Personal information will be used only for administration, safety management, and programme delivery, unless further consent is obtained.
10.1 This Agreement does not apply to Greenfield’s Consulting Services, which may include:
11.1 This Agreement is governed by the laws of New Zealand.
11.2 Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the New Zealand courts.
To ensure the safety, dignity, and rights of children and young people engaged in Greenfield programmes.
Applies to all staff, volunteers, contractors, and visiting adults working with participants under the age of 18.
This policy is reviewed annually and after any child protection-related concern or incident.
Approved by Nigel Zhang, Chief Education Officer, on 1st July 2023.
To ensure the health, safety, and well-being of all participants, staff, and the community by clearly outlining Greenfield’s expectations regarding drug and alcohol use.
This policy applies to all employees, contractors, volunteers, and visiting facilitators engaged in any Greenfield programme.
This policy is reviewed annually or following any incident where substance use is suspected or confirmed.
Approved by Nigel Zhang, Chief Education Officer, on 1st July 2023.
At Greenfield, we do not eliminate all risks, but we embrace the idea of “acceptable risk” as an essential ingredient in real learning. For example, allowing ākonga to plan their own hiking route fosters independence, while the presence of a trained leader/supervisor ensures safety in navigating uneven terrain.
We define “acceptable risk” as a managed risk where the benefits of learning and growth outweigh the potential harm, provided appropriate controls are in place. This principle is openly communicated with whānau (families) through our consent forms, meetings, and pre-trip information packs.
Our philosophy also incorporates the concept of kaitiakitanga, guardianship and care for our environment, acknowledging our responsibility to act respectfully on land with cultural significance, particularly in areas connected to local iwi.
We help people:
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