Junior School Report
Year 9 City Experience
On Monday 20 October until Friday 24 October, our Year 9 students embarked on their much-anticipated City Experience.
The day began with our eager students making their way into the city, where we met at Federation Square. Despite the weather, spirits were high, and everyone was excited for the week ahead.
Our first stop was the Australian Sports Museum, where students tested their skills on the sports simulators and explored the exhibits showcasing some of Australia’s most celebrated athletes.
After the museum visit, students enjoyed some time exploring the city before heading to Hardrock Climbing in the CBD.
Here, they faced a series of challenging climbs, with many conquering their fears and giving every wall their best effort.
Tuesday brought a welcome burst of sunshine, which was perfect for the busy day ahead. After meeting again at Federation Square, students set off in their travel groups toward Melbourne Museum. Some took on the tram system, while others powered through the walk. At the museum, students learned about biodiversity and explored the new Biome exhibition.
From there, we travelled to East Imperial Chinese Restaurant, where both students and staff enjoyed a delicious banquet lunch.
With full bellies, we continued to the Melbourne Aquarium, marvelling at the incredible marine life, including penguins that had recently laid eggs.
Tired but excited, we made our way to the Melbourne Zoo for the overnight Zoo Snooze. Having the zoo entirely to ourselves was an unforgettable experience.
After dinner, we joined a night tour where we spotted nocturnal animals in action and even enjoyed a ride on the carousel before lights out.
Wednesday began early, very early for some, to the sound of The Lion King soundtrack playing at full volume. After breakfast, we enjoyed a guided tour where we met Gabby and Malu, the orangutans, and learned about Malu’s cheeky habit of escaping his enclosure.
Despite the rain, students enthusiastically took part in a scavenger hunt before heading back to SSC for a well-earned BBQ lunch.
Thursday’s adventure began with a check-in at Federation Square before visiting ArtVo, an interactive art gallery specialising in optical illusions. The students had a fantastic time posing for creative photos within the artwork.
Afterwards, they enjoyed some free time to explore the city before visiting the Shrine of Remembrance.
During the tour, we reflected on the courage and sacrifice of Australians who have served our country, and several students shared touching family stories about their own relatives’ service.
Friday, our final day, began at Escape Hunt, where students tested their problem-solving skills in a series of challenging escape rooms. Impressively, no one was left behind!
Afterwards, students made their way to the Melbourne Star Ferris Wheel, instead of the Skyline Ferris wheel (I believe that was my fault). By now though, they were experts at navigating the city and soon made their way to the correct location.
From the top, they enjoyed spectacular views across Melbourne to end a truly memorable week.
All in all, the Year 9 City Experience was a huge success. Our students represented SSC with pride, positivity, and enthusiasm throughout the week.
A huge thank you to all the staff who joined us, Mr Ridgway, Mrs Allan, Mr Firman, Mr Wardle, Ms McColl, Ms Kim, and Miss Kenneally and, of course, to our wonderful Year 9 students, who made the experience so enjoyable and rewarding for everyone involved.
Mrs Sarah Gerrard
Year 9 Coordinator