The Year 7 students travelled to Serpentine Adventure Centre for two days of challenge and excitement. Luckily, the weather cooled down substantially which made the camp more enjoyable. The students worked in six groups divided according to Houses with their respective Head of House. This was the first opportunity students from both Year 7 Connect groups worked together; it was an ideal opportunity for the students to share experiences with their peers.

Students engaged in pool activities, low ropes, Chaplains Challenge, Escape Room, Laser Corp, multisport games and an evening of activities which were 'Challenge by Choice'. The focus of the camp was to build relationships through shared experiences. All the students worked collaboratively and so became responsible to each other for either the success or failure of the activity. This was extremely important in teaching our Year 7s to have the courage to try new things and the resilience to take ownership of difficulties and not see this as weakness. It is all about the growth through trying new things. The camp was a tremendous success in this regard.

While students were challenged, they met these challenges and came through them. Students embraced each challenge put before them with enthusiasm and returned to school on Friday afternoon tired but more confident in new situations. Students were also armed with the knowledge that they have the ability to work together to solve problems and overcome difficulties – a lesson that will benefit them in years to come.

The Year 7s made an outstanding start to their Secondary Education journey and should be proud of what they achieved. Staff who accompanied the students did a fantastic job facilitating the experience, their support and the way they worked with the students was commendable.

Helen Del Frate

Dean of Students