Health & Physical Education 

Spotlight - Outdoor Education 

This term has been filled with exciting opportunities for our students to step outside the classroom and put their learning into practice. From snowy alpine adventures and mountain biking to bushwalking and indoor rock climbing, students have embraced new challenges, developed practical skills and worked collaboratively with their peers.

Year 12 Snow Camp – Mount Buller

Our Year 12 students headed to Mount Buller for an exciting two-night snow camp. Students participated in beginner lessons in snowboarding and/or skiing, giving them the opportunity to learn new skills, challenge themselves and experience the unique alpine environment.

The camp also provided students with the opportunity to explore key knowledge that relates directly to their Unit 4 Logbook SAC. Students were able to connect their classroom learning with real-world experiences in an authentic outdoor setting. An important part of the experience was developing students' understanding of Indigenous custodianship of alpine areas. Students explored the role of Traditional Owners and the importance of caring for alpine environments, including the protection of local flora and fauna. They also learnt about native species such as the Leadbeater's possum and New Holland mouse.

The two-night camp was a fantastic opportunity for students to build confidence, resilience and independence while developing practical skills and a deeper appreciation of the alpine environment.

Year 10 Phillip Island Cycle

Ms Sommers and Mr Buckland's Year 10 classes took to their bikes for an exciting cycling experience around Phillip Island and Churchill Island.

The Year 10 Phillip Island Cycle provided students with the opportunity to demonstrate their practical competence on a mountain bike and apply the skills and knowledge they had developed throughout their cycling unit. Students put their mountain-biking skills into practice, including trail reading, interpreting contour lines and understanding bike-care components learnt during the term.

The excursion also provided a fantastic opportunity for students to learn about the history, animals and natural environment of Phillip Island and Churchill Island. Students were able to combine physical activity with hands-on learning as they explored the area on their bikes.

It was a great day of developing cycling skills, building fitness and discovering more about the history and environment of the local area.

Year 9 Mount Cannibal Walk

Mr Buckland's Year 9 students travelled to Mount Cannibal Flora and Fauna Reserve for a 2.3-kilometre day bushwalk loop to the summit of Mount Cannibal.

Students completed the walk carrying their hiking backpacks and made their way through the natural environment, passing giant granite boulders and stringybark trees along the way.

The excursion gave students the opportunity to put their mapping and orientation skills into practice in an authentic outdoor setting. Skills learnt in the classroom were applied to a real-world environment as students navigated the trail and explored the surrounding landscape.

The walk also provided an opportunity for students to learn more about the history and natural environment of Mount Cannibal, connecting their practical experience with their classroom learning. Students returned to school during lunchtime and then continued with their regular learning for the day. The experience was a great opportunity for students to develop their confidence, navigation skills and appreciation of the outdoors.

Year 10 Indoor Rock Climbing

Ms Sommer's Year 10 class took on a different kind of challenge with an exciting indoor rock-climbing experience. Students had loads of fun as they challenged themselves, tried new things and stepped outside their comfort zones. The session encouraged students to work collaboratively, communicate with one another and support their classmates as they tackled different climbing challenges. There were plenty of opportunities for students to develop confidence, persistence and problem-solving skills while enjoying a fun and active experience. It was fantastic to see students encouraging each other and having a go at something new.

Warburton–Lilydale Rail Trail Bike Ride

Mr Buckland and Ms McGregor's class also took part in a cycling experience along the Warburton–Lilydale Rail Trail.

The purpose of this experience was to give students the opportunity to develop their cycling skills, personal fitness and safe decision-making in an authentic outdoor environment. Students applied responsible cycling practices while riding along the rail trail, demonstrating effective bike handling, awareness of shared-trail etiquette and risk-management strategies.

The rail trail provided a safe and accessible environment, with gentle gradients and varied natural landscapes. Students were able to build their confidence and endurance while developing their ability to ride safely and responsibly in an outdoor setting.

Beyond the physical benefits, the experience also highlighted the social and mental benefits of lifelong outdoor activity. Students worked together, supported one another and enjoyed the opportunity to experience the natural environment from a different perspective.

A Term of Adventure and Learning

Across all of these experiences, our students have demonstrated resilience, teamwork, curiosity and a willingness to challenge themselves. These activities have allowed students to take their learning beyond the classroom and apply important knowledge and skills in authentic environments.

Whether skiing down the slopes of Mount Buller, navigating a bushwalking trail, climbing an indoor wall or riding through the beautiful Victorian countryside, students have shown that some of the most valuable learning experiences can happen when we step outside the classroom.

A huge thank you to all of the staff who planned, organised and supported these experiences, and well done to all of our students for getting involved, trying new things and making the most of these fantastic opportunities!

Molly Reimers - Trainee

Riley Boland 

Learning Leader – Health and PE