Canberra Camp

Year 6 Canberra Camp 2022

The Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER)

Students from our school have recently undertaken an education tour of the national capital. Students were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy. 

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their civics and citizenship education and to assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion, the Australian government contributed funding of $45 per student under the Parliament and civics education rebate program. 

DAY 1

On Monday, May 30th, sixty-six Year 6 students arrived at school bright and early, excited to begin our journey to the Nation’s Capital.

Our bus trip included major stops at Yea, Holbrook and Gundagai. To keep ourselves amused, we watched movies and enjoyed the scenery of 2 states and 1 territory. We all felt safe as our bus drivers Jason and Leo were very experienced.

Arriving at our accommodation, we were quick to find our cabins and head to the dining room for a delicious meal of burgers, chips and salad.

DAY 2

Tuesday saw an early start as we had a full day of adventure. Our first stop was Government House, where we learnt about all the roles and responsibilities of the Governor General. Next, one group went to the Royal Australian Mint and the other group went to the National Archives. After a quick lunch we learnt about democracy and how our electoral system works at the old Parliament House. 

DAY 3

After one of the coldest nights in Canberra... or should it be now called 'Can brrrrrrr a" we rose to another yummy brekkie and we were off again!! This time to Parliament House. Unfortunately, not one politician from either side could be seen - they were all at Government House. We saw the House of Representatives followed by a visit to the Senate. We  participated in a role play Senate session to pass a bill and make it law. A quick lunch and off to a trip around the embassies then to the National Archives and The Royal Australian Mint. We did a visit to Mount Ainslie where we marvelled at the view of Canberra and experienced snow!

DAY 4 

This was our last day and what a jam packed day it was! We went to the Australian Institute of Sport to experience a variety of interactive games. After this, we went to the Australian War Memorial to view and listen to stories of Australia's involvement in various theatres of war. Finally - Questacon - a science extravaganza which involved an earthquake simulator, lightning strike and other sciency stuff.

DAY 5 

A trip back through three states including a stop at Holbrook to visit the submarine, take some pictures, refresh ourselves and get ready to see our families. This has been a trip we will never forget.