Dave van beek

dave@manzanitaschool.org

Dave acts as Manzanita School’s Expedition Coordinator for the 3rd-8th Grades, as well as the Parent and Alumni Expeditions. He grew up in a remote, rural area of New Zealand. Early in life, he learned about the power of nature and the thrill of adventurous exploring. He would disappear regularly into the rainforest that abutted the family farm with his Grandfather, learning about nature from both scientific and Indigenous points of view. Dave spent 20+ years guiding clients from around the world on remote wilderness adventures in New Zealand, as well as instructing at Outward Bound New Zealand, helping people of all ages and walks of life connect with nature, themselves, and each other. For Dave, there's nothing better than being present when students truly light up from an experience in nature, particularly when discovering a deeper meaning, connection, or curiosity with the natural world, themselves, and those around them. Outside of school hours, Dave enjoys sharing adventurous and connective time in the wilderness (the deeper and longer the better) and cooking at home with his wife, Gina, while enjoying good music and a nice drink.

Educational Background: Dave has received a Bachelor’s degree as well as qualifications in education, science, agriculture, outdoor instructing and wilderness medicine.

Joined: 2015 (Year Two)