The Year 9 students travelled to Lake Perseverance north of Toowoomba late last term for their annual camp. It was a great experience based around team work and the great outdoors. Students were assigned to cabins for the two nights and participated in a number of activities during the days. Abseiling and Orienteering were highlights with the instructor giving well-deserved praise for the efforts of those who had existing talents but also those who faced personal battles especially when coming down a 6-meter rock face.

On the second night we held our retreat which was a great opportunity for students to reflect on the way their lives are changing. It gave them time to think about the gifts they have been given that are going to shape the men and women they will become.

The camping experience also gave these young people an insight into the skills and strategies needed to function as a group. Discussions focused on the importance of using communication techniques that brought out the best in others. The idea that our words have lasting effects and immediate impacts on the group dynamic moving forward was reinforced constantly in both positive and negative episodes. The outcome of effective and supportive relationships is one we are continuing to explore as we move through Term 4.

The camp experience always allows teachers to see students at their best and this camp was no different. The Year 9’s were a great bunch to take away and they had the opportunity to work with each other in ways that will strengthen their unity into the future.