Very early in the morning on Monday 1 July, 85 excited Year 6 students and 11 brave staff members met at the airport to head to Sydney and Canberra on their six night, seven day adventure. This was truly the trip of a lifetime where memories were made, friendships were forged and learning was consolidated. Over the course of the trip, students were given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy.

Throughout the seven days, the students and staff embarked on many adventures. We visited the iconic Bondi Beach and enjoyed a special lunch on the grass there. In the evening, we walked across the Sydney Harbour Bridge and enjoyed the beautiful lights of Sydney. Students were able to have an historical walk through the Rocks before taking a cruise around Sydney Harbour and exploring Taronga Zoo.

In Canberra, we had a very special visit to Parliament House. Parliament was sitting and students were able to hear politicians speak of their memories of the late Bob Hawke. We had a surprise visit from our Federal Member, Hon. Ian Goodenough MP, who graciously took time to speak to our students and answer their questions.

We also visited the Australian War Memorial, the Museum of Democracy (Old Parliament House), the Australian Institute of Sport, the National Gallery and Questacon during our time in Canberra.

Students were extremely excited to have a day at Selwyn Snow Resort and played for hours in the snow building snowmen, toboganning, having snow fights and laughing endlessly!

The Year 6 students were an absolute credit to Lake Joondalup Baptist College and their families. At many of the places that we visited, the staff and public commented on how well behaved the students were.

Although students learn a great deal on this trip and it links to the Year 6 curriculum closely, there are other benefits to this kind of trip. As a staff, we were able to see the growth in students personally. It has truly fostered a sense of independence, confidence and learning amongst the Year 6 cohort.

Thank you to the Australian Government who 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 tour, the Australian Government is contributing funding of $310 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs (this is paid directly to the school and taken from the cost parents pay). We greatly appreciate the sponsorship and the opportunity to learn more about this great nation.

Thank you, also, to the staff members who went above and beyond in their care of the students on this trip.

We are already looking forward to next year!

Amber Thornhill

Tour Organiser