Experiential Learning & Round Square

Year 11 Legal Studies

On Tuesday, 20 May, Year 11 Legal Studies, as part of the study of the Australian legal system and in the spirit of the Round Square Ideal of Democracy, got together to visit the Orange Council meeting. 

After a smorgasbord of pizzas at the Parkview Hotel, students were fortunate to observe our local elected members go through the democratic processes of discussing issues that concern the local community, listen to a member of the public with a submission, and observed the processes of passing notices of motion, seconding and inquiring into Council operations. 

Issues that were on the agenda included a proposed textiles recycling facility at the Ophir Road Recovery Centre, a review of the Council’s budget, and a proposal to install a mural dedicated to raising awareness for domestic violence. Whilst not all students were convinced that local government is in their future, they have a greater appreciation for the democratic process and how local communities are represented by their elected councillors. 

Thanks to Council for hosting us for the evening. 

Mr Ben Ronald

Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award 

Alice Commins (12) reflects on completing her Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award 

Completing the Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award has been an extremely enriching and rewarding experience.  Each section challenged me in many different ways and pushed me to grow as a person.

For my Skills component, I focused on reading – something I’ve always enjoyed – but I used this opportunity to broaden my horizons by exploring genres and authors outside my comfort zone. It taught me the value of curiosity and how much there is to learn through stories and perspectives I hadn’t previously considered.

My Physical Recreation involved both Water Polo and CrossFit. These helped me build resilience and strength, not only physically but mentally. Balancing both team and individual fitness made me appreciate the importance of discipline, teamwork, and setting personal goals.

In the Service section, I gave back through volunteering in Junior School wellbeing groups and my role as HQ Company Commander in Cadets. These experiences helped me develop my communication and leadership skills, and I thoroughly enjoyed supporting younger students.

The Adventurous Journey was completed during our Cadet Camp – an experience where I was able to apply practical skills, challenge my comfort zone, and learn the value of perseverance and teamwork in unfamiliar environments.

By far, the most impactful part of my Gold Award was the Residential Project – a service and cultural immersion tour through Vietnam and Cambodia. This experience changed my perspective on the world. Working on a community service project in a rural Cambodian village, engaging with locals, and learning about the region’s history had a profound effect on me. I also really enjoyed the day trip that was made to Ha Long Bay. I already can’t wait to return and contribute again through a similar volunteering initiative.

The Gold Award pushed me outside my comfort zone in the best way. It gave me lifelong memories and life-changing lessons, and I encourage anyone thinking about doing it to dive in – you’ll come out stronger, wiser, and more connected to the world around you.

LAST CHANCE -  Nepal Expedition 2026

Annapurna Trek, Culture & Community

Kinross Wolaroi School have partnered World Challenge to offer students a life-changing opportunity to explore Nepal in June 2026!

This three-week Leadership Expedition will focus on life skills, confidence, resilience and independence.

It’s an opportunity for students to challenge themselves with a hike in one of the most spectacular mountainous regions in the world, to get hands on and stay in a remote community and see everything Nepal has to offer.

Here’s the link with all the information you need: Kinross Wolaroi School | Nepal Expedition 2026

Luke O'Reilly from World Challenge hosted an information session for parents and students on Wednesday 14th May. The recording of this session (it is advised to watch it at 1.5x) can be found here

Nepal 2026 YouTube video

Please email Mr Liam Callaghan- lcallaghan@kws.nsw.edu.au if you have any questions.