83 Year 6 students and 12 staff journeyed across to Sydney and Canberra recently. The students had a wonderful time touring Darling Harbour and visiting Taronga Zoo while in Sydney. In Canberra, we had the privilege of seeing learning come to life while visiting places such as Parliament House, the Museum of Australian Democracy (Old Parliament) and the Australian War Memorial. Many snow balls were thrown in our time at the snow and the teachers showed their incredible tobogganing skills racing the students down the hill.

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government contributed funding to our school in the amount of $510 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion. We are exceptionally grateful to our Government for their generosity in this.

We are incredibly proud of the growth that we witnessed in our students. It is a huge feat for these young students to spend a week on the other side of the country without their families. These remarkable young people were outstanding examples of the very best of LJBC. Many staff and volunteers at the places we visited comment on the students’ manners, engagement and positive behaviour. What an amazing trip!

A special thank you to the outstanding team of staff who went on the trip.