As part of the Year 10 Outdoor Education course students investigate a range of conservation and environmental issues, look at tourism and how this impacts coastal regions, along with a host of historical considerations relating to First Nations people and the past 200 years. The jewel in the crown of this unit is a two-day surf camp to Queenscliff and the surf coast, which occurred on 2-3 March.
Students participated in an investigation of sea life within Port Phillip Bay and snorkelling, followed by surfing and sea kayak sessions on the second day.
This was a wonderful opportunity for students to live out the practical aspects of the course and for some students to have experiences they may not otherwise have.
Thanks to the staff who attended and made this camp happen and a huge congratulations to the students. The organisations we work with to deliver the programs are always complimentary about the enthusiasm, participation and manners of our students.
Here are some student reflections of the camp:
On Surf Camp the best thing that we did was the marine biology cruise. We went out on a boat in Port Phillip Bay and we skimmed the ocean to get seaweed to see all the creatures that hide out in the seaweed. We found seahorses, sea stars and so many other little things. We also went to Chinaman's Hut and Pope's Eye and learnt about the animals that live there.
— Hannah Biggin (Year 10 Aqua)
My highlight of the camp was snorkelling. We were able to get really close to all the wildlife such as the seals, mantarays and fish. I also enjoyed it because I got to learn how to dive when snorkelling.
— Zeke Dewhurst-Sibley (Year 10 Silver)
Easily surfing was the highlight. I’ve never been surfing before so it was a great experience for a beginner. The waves were easy, and it wasn’t too windy so it was great for a day out. I also really enjoyed kayaking. Snorkelling was really fun, too.
— Riley George
(Year 10 Red)
My favourite activity was surfing; it was so much fun doing it for the first time because it went so fast. I would do it a thousand times because it is so much fun. I got one good wave and did a switch, which was a goal.
— Khushal Naran (Year 10 Blue)
Camp was so much fun. I really enjoyed getting to know people because I am new. It was a little nerve-wracking but people were so lovely and it was so nice getting to know all the teachers more. A highlight was definitely snorkelling with the seals but surfing was my favourite. The atmosphere of catching a wave with all the instructors cheering you on was the best.
— Coco Owen (Year 10 Red)
