Over the past two weeks, our Year 9 students have taken part in one of our three ‘Into Adulthood’ camps at the Manjedal Activity Centre. Each camp involved a two-night stay and a series of challenges designed to help students navigate the transition from teenager to young adult.

Throughout the camps, students were pushed outside their comfort zones, taking on activities such as abseiling, mountain biking, long hikes and high ropes courses. Alongside these physical challenges, students participated in a range of reflection activities, encouraging them to consider their personal growth, responsibilities and the qualities needed as they move towards adulthood.

For some students, the experience also provided a first taste of camping. Learning to set up tents, gather firewood, collect water, prepare meals and clean up after themselves presented its own unique challenges. Living outdoors and working together as a group required resilience, cooperation, independence and a willingness to give things a go.

While the physical activities certainly tested our students, some of the most valuable lessons came from the everyday experiences of camp: supporting one another, taking responsibility, overcoming challenges and discovering what they are truly capable of achieving.

On behalf of all our Year 9 families, I would like to extend a huge thank you to Mr Sule Alagic for his tremendous work as camp coordinator, as well as all the PCAs and staff members who accompanied us across the three camps. Their time, commitment and enthusiasm helped make these experiences possible and provided our students with an opportunity to create memories and develop skills that will stay with them well beyond Year 9.

It has certainly been a fantastic opportunity for our students to challenge themselves, grow in confidence and take another important step towards adulthood.

Mr Adam Williamson
Head of Year 9