In Term 3, Class 8 embarked on their first high school outdoor education camp in Dwellingup. The camp provided a wonderful opportunity for students to step outside the classroom and explore new challenges in nature while strengthening teamwork and resilience.

The group was fortunate to enjoy beautiful warm days with clear skies and no rain, making the outdoor activities especially enjoyable. In contrast, the nights were very cold, adding an extra layer of challenge as students worked together to stay warm and comfortable at camp.

The camp activities began with a hike through the Dwellingup bushland, where students experienced the peace of the forest and learned about the local area. From there, they tackled the high ropes course at Treetops Adventure, an activity that pushed them out of their comfort zone, encouraging trust, courage, and perseverance.

Mountain biking proved to be a real highlight. Students completed a challenging skills course that included balancing over thin wooden bridges and even riding across a seesaw. The time trial through the course brought plenty of laughter and friendly competition — especially from the staff, who may have enjoyed it even more than the students! Afterward, the group headed out on two bike rides through the Dwellingup trails, where they could put their new skills into practice while exploring the bush.

The canoeing session was equally memorable. Students spent the morning learning essential paddling and steering skills, which they then put into practice by crossing not one but two rapids. There were plenty of capsizes, splashes, and laughs along the way, making it a challenge that everyone embraced with enthusiasm.

A highlight of camp life was that students cooked all of their dinners for the week, taking turns to prepare meals and enjoying the chance to serve their peers. This gave them a sense of independence, teamwork, and pride in contributing to the group.

In the evenings, the students engaged in camp games and activities, building strong friendships and creating lasting memories — though you may not want to ask them “What does Grannie like?” or “Who is the man on the moon?” unless you’re ready for some mental pain…

The camp was not only about outdoor skills, but also about building confidence, independence, and connection as a class. Class 8 returned home tired but proud, having embraced the challenges and opportunities of their first outdoor education experience.