A message from the Principal

Year 5/6 Camp

As I write this from camp on Wednesday lunchtime, I can’t help but reflect on what an incredible experience this has been for our Year 5 and 6 students—and for me personally. Taking the time out of school this week to be here has been a privilege, allowing me to work closely with our oldest students and see first hand the way they interact, support each other, and demonstrate the kindness, manners, and humour that make our SKiPPS community so special.

We had a fantastic first day, starting with an action-packed visit to Sovereign Hill, where students immersed themselves in the story of the Gold Rush. They learned about the discovery of gold, the rush to the diggings, and the struggles of miners dealing with the unfair license system. The story of the Eureka Stockade and its role in shaping Australian democracy sparked some great discussions. Of course, the highlights included panning for gold, exploring a real underground mine, and wandering through the bustling main street, stepping into the shoes of those who lived through this fascinating time.

After settling into camp and enjoying a well-earned dinner, we returned to Sovereign Hill for the spectacular Aura evening show. This immersive experience brought history to life, blending the story of gold with the deep and important Indigenous history of the Wadawurrung people. Sitting among students from other Melbourne schools, it was clear that the standard of behaviour we see (and expect) at SKiPPS is something special and not universal across all schools!

Throughout the day, our students received wonderful compliments from Sovereign Hill staff, camp staff, and even members of the public—something that made me incredibly proud.

Now, as we dive into our adventure activities, the beautiful autumn weather has made every challenge all the more enjoyable. Students have taken on canoeing (which, for many, turned into an unexpected but refreshing swim in the dam!), braved the giant swing, and soared through the air on the tandem zipline. Watching them push their limits, encourage their peers, and celebrate each other’s achievements has been a true highlight of the week.

At a time when the ABC has reported that many schools are cutting back or stopping school camps altogether, I am so pleased that we continue to offer such a strong camp program for our students from Year 3 onwards. Camps are about so much more than just adventure—they build independence, resilience, friendships, and unforgettable memories. Seeing our students embrace these experiences reinforces just how valuable they are.

With a few more days of adventure ahead, I look forward to sharing more updates. In the meantime, enjoy these photos of our students in action!

Neil Scott

Principal