Year 6 Excursion
St Francis Xavier’s Primary School
Year 6 Canberra Excursion
Last week, our Year 6 students travelled 10 hours by bus to Canberra for a week of discovery in Australia’s capital. Accompanied by Mrs Hatton, Mr Rottger, Mrs Conroy and Mrs Quirk, they explored many of the city’s landmarks.
Visits included the National Museum of Australia, National Film and Sound Archive, Royal Australian Mint, National Arboretum and Old Parliament House. At the Australian War Memorial, students toured the Tomb of the Unknown Australian Soldier and Roll of Honour. They also admired the world-famous Blue Poles at the National Gallery of Australia and learnt about Australia’s voting system at the Australian Electoral Commission, holding their own election with apples voted the favourite fruit!
At Parliament House, students watched the House of Representatives in action before taking part in a mock debate about allowing more time for sport at school. They stepped into roles including the Speaker, Prime Minister, government and opposition. A highlight was meeting our Federal Member, Jamie Chaffey, his wife Judy and his team.
The much-anticipated visit to Questacon did not disappoint, with the Giant Drop and earthquake simulator proving firm favourites! Students also enjoyed the pool and waterslide at the Aquatic Centre and tested their sporting skills at the Australian Institute of Sport.
Evenings were filled with mini golf, movie night, a fiercely contested soccer match and trivia. Stargazing offered another memorable experience, with students spotting Saturn through telescopes!
Thank you to the staff who organised and accompanied the excursion, helping make it a memorable week for our students.
Thank you to the Australian Government who recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding to our school in the amount of $135.00 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.
Each year, our P & F Association also supports our Year 6 students by contributing funds towards their excursion. We sincerely thank the P & F Association for their ongoing generosity.
