Recently Year 8 took part in their annual camp at the YMCA Recreation Center in Anglesea. Students, teachers and support staff took part in a huge range of activities designed to build resilience, foster collaboration and learn about the natural environment.

A real highlight was time spent over at the beach learning to surf. Another highlight was groups learning to work together and canoe through the inlet. Students have also learned radio etiquette while completing an orienteering course and learning new skills like mountain bike riding and skateboarding. Others were challenged by conquering their fear on the giant swing.

When I wrote this article, students in 8B and 8F were behind me packing their hiking packs with tents and food to take with them on a hike and overnight camping trip. They were having to plan and organize themselves, supporting each other to make sure the weight of the packs were distributed fairly. The weather was a little ominous with a chance of rain, but spirits were high. It was a privilege to be able to see our students step up and challenge themselves.

Throughout the week all our year 8s faced obstacles, for some it was the physical nature of the camp, for others it was learning to work with new people, for a few it was coping with the week away from home. I’m sure each Year 8 student came home with a multitude of stories, with some scrapes and bruises, with some new friends and ultimately with an experience that united them and will become one of the most outstanding memories of high school.

A big “Thank You!” goes out to the staff and learning support officers who have come on this journey with our Year 8s. It is a big undertaking and we are so grateful.