Last year, under the pre-dawn sky, a determined group of Year 9 students embarked on an unforgettable adventure, scaling the heights of Rutjupma, or Mt Sonder. As they ascended the summit, they were greeted by an extraordinary sight — a magnificent orange moon slowly setting against the horizon. As dawn broke, the students witnessed a breathtaking panorama, enjoying views of the vast landscape below them. This hike became a cherished memory from their multi-day trek along the iconic Larapinta Trail, illustrating the profound impact of experiential learning. Through their trek, they not only connected with the natural world, but they also forged new friendships and discovered strengths they didn’t know they had.
Whether it is completing a multi-day hike, kayaking the Whitsundays or communicating in a different language, Haileybury’s experiential programs are carefully structured to foster resilience and growth.
The Outdoor Experience program includes a range of in-School visits, excursions and camps, which are woven into the Junior School program. Out-of-School camps start in Year 3 and culminate in Explore and Expeditions in Year 9 which offers a choice of Australian and international experiences. A range of sporting opportunities and language tours are also offered in the senior years.
By creating learning opportunities in settings beyond the classroom, students are provided with a safe environment in which to overcome challenges, learn new skills and develop understandings from which can grow a profound sense of satisfaction and self-confidence.
As Jimmy recalls about his Year 9 Margaret River trip, “I surfed for the first time and went caving in Giants Cave — they were both fun and memorable experiences … By being a cleaner, chef, leader and navigator, I have developed practical skills that are useful across all of life.”
Diane Furusho, Deputy Principal – Student Wellbeing explains that students develop resilience and “learn that they can depend and rely on themselves to get through challenges which gives them a real sense of achievement.”
Throughout their trips and camps, students support one another through moments of problem solving, shared responsibilities such as navigation, cooking and cleaning, and embracing the challenge of being self-sufficient. Without the distractions of screens, they often reflect that they find themselves more attuned to their surroundings, more connected to others and more confident in their own abilities.
Jessica recalls about her Year 9 New Zealand trip, “All of these experiences brought our group closer together and created friendships from unlikely places.”
The sequential outdoor programs and trips help students to broaden their horizons and gain deeper understandings of themselves, each other and different cultures.
“Some of our programs require students to really depend on themselves. They have to cook, set up tents and go without the luxuries they are afforded with every day. It certainly makes them appreciate their lives and the joy that can also be had in doing something different,” explains Diane.