Year 9 Creativity Camp

Some years ago, the national curriculum’s mandate was to embed more creative and critical thinking into 21st century learning.  By taking our students to an outdoor ‘classroom’ at Ross River, we intended to provide a programme that fostered creativity and transformed our students’ understanding and engagement with the world without mod cons and technology, even for a short while. 

This year was another successful Creativity Camp. We held six workshops that students rotated through, and they included: 

‘Drama in the Desert’, ‘Dance and Movement’, ‘Ukulele’, ‘Pretty Poetry’, ‘Woolly Weaving’ and ‘Comedy’. 

We slept in swags under the stars, enjoyed chats around the campfire, plenty of footy kicking, and a range of (very competitive!) card games during down time. 

On Thursday night, we were entertained by some pretty crazy skits, and again students showed their amazing ability to turn their hand to creative and collaborative thinking. 

Here are some of the student reflections:

“I learnt to try new things”

“Weaving was relaxing and enjoyable”

“I learnt that I can play ukulele well”

“I was able to get out of my comfort zone”

“The little things can be the best things”

“I learnt that you don’t need internet to survive!”

“There are many ways to be creative, not just art”

“I realised people I haven’t talked to are really fun”

“I learnt how to be more creative and hang out with different people”

“I learnt how I can actually be a morning person!”

“I liked sitting on the hill and quietly drawing”

“I have learnt that everyone is creative in different ways”

Thanks to all the students who gave everything a go, and to the staff who gave their time, energy and expertise during the camp. It was truly a wonderful experience.

Sue Herbert

Camp Coordinator