Students at Heritage have the opportunity to challenge themselves physically and spiritually and to develop relationships between staff, parents and themselves through our Outdoor Education program. At Heritage, we recognise the importance of students spending time in the outdoors and experiencing the amazing creation of our God.
Stage Four
In Stage Four, students attend a multi-day adventure-based camp in Year 7 and Year 8. These camps are aimed at fostering relationships as students develop in the early years of Senior School. Students learn survival skills such as shelter building, lighting campfires and basic navigation. They experience adventure activities such as orienterring, high ropes courses, and bushwalking. Through these programs, students build resilience, maturity, self-esteem and develop a connection with the outdoors.
Stage Five
In Stage Five, Outdoor Education is integrated through the Duke of Edinburgh Award. Every student in Year 9 is enrolled into the Bronze Award to begin their Duke of Edinburgh Journey. The Duke of Edinburgh comprises of 4 sections; physical recreation, skills, voluntary service and two adventurous journeys (camps), each designed to develop each student in a wholistic way. Each adventurous journey is designed to present situations to the students to extend them through challenging activities such as camping, kayaking, mountain biking, snorkeling, abseiling and bushwalking. The outdoor education program continues with an increasing emphasis on skill development and interdependence. Students work collaboratively to solve practical needs of nutrition, shelter, safety and first aid and navigation, as well as toward building meaningful relationships with their peers. After completing the Bronze Award, students in Year 10 are encouraged to continue and complete the Silver Award.
Stage Six
In Stage Six, Outdoor Education continues to build on the skills developed, giving students more independence and leadership opportunities. Students are encouraged to pursue their Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award. Achieving this level is very prestigious and demonstrates an extensive level of commitment and dedication from the student. This can open opportunities for students later in life, including bonus ATAR points when applying to certain universities. A highlight of Year 11 has been the week-long snow trip. Students learn to ski or snowboard and, within groups, are responsible for looking after themselves for the week.
