Middle School

Year 7 Lake Dewar Camp

Article by Will Young, Year 7 Leader

Our Year 7 students recently headed off to Lake Dewar for an action-packed few days filled with adventure, teamwork, laughter and opportunities to make lasting memories! Camp is always a highlight of the Year 7 experience, providing students with the chance to step outside their comfort zones, develop independence and strengthen the friendships that have continued to grow throughout the year. Away from the usual classroom environment, students were encouraged to challenge themselves, support one another and embrace everything camp had to offer.

There was certainly no shortage of activities to keep everyone busy! Students took to the water for kayaking and paddle boarding, tested their skills with bike riding and enjoyed the excitement of jumping off the jetty. They also experienced the fun of camping, including sleeping in tents, preparing meals using Trangias and making damper. Each activity provided a different challenge, with students having plenty of opportunities to develop resilience, problem-solving skills and confidence as they tried new things.

One of the most rewarding aspects of camp was seeing students encourage one another and celebrate each other's achievements. Whether it was having a go at an activity they initially felt nervous about, helping a friend overcome a challenge or working together as a team, there were countless examples of students demonstrating kindness, perseverance and a willingness to give things a go. These moments are what make camp so valuable and reflect the importance of learning beyond the classroom.

Of course, camp wouldn't be complete without plenty of laughs, shared stories and opportunities to connect with friends. From spending time together in cabins and tents to participating in group challenges and evening activities, students had the chance to build new friendships and strengthen existing ones. The evening activities were a great way to bring everyone together, creating plenty of memorable moments and friendly competition along the way!

Camp also provided a valuable opportunity for students to develop greater independence and responsibility. Managing their belongings, working together to keep their spaces organised, following routines and contributing to group activities all helped students build important life skills. While some aspects presented challenges, these experiences encouraged students to adapt, persevere and learn from one another.

A huge thank you goes to our Year 7 Home Group Teachers and staff who gave up their time, energy and enthusiasm to ensure the camp ran smoothly and that every student was supported throughout the experience. We would also like to extend a special thank you to our parent volunteers. Their willingness to take time out of their own busy schedules made a significant difference and helped provide our students with such a memorable experience.

Our Lake Dewar camp was a wonderful reminder that some of the most meaningful learning happens outside the classroom. We are incredibly proud of the way our Year 7 students embraced the experience, supported their peers and challenged themselves throughout the week.We hope our students returned home with a few tired legs, plenty of stories to tell and memories that will stay with them for years to come!

PE Week 

Students in Year 8 PE have welcomed instructors from Halls Taekwondo as they took part in a personal safety incursion. Students learnt basic self-defence skills and enjoyed the change of pace from traditional team sports. The incursion is also coinciding with upcoming Health and PE Week activities.