Year 11 Retreat

During the last two days of Term 1, Year 11 embarked on the annual Retreat in which we developed leadership skills, explored new ways to de-stress, and built relationships with our peers. 

We began with a leadership course on Thursday morning, led by the wonderful Meg Durham. We discussed different forms of leadership, the ways we have been affected by them, and how we can apply this knowledge to our own leadership. We built our confidence by sharing our thoughts and ideas in front of the group and supported each other in our exploration.

This was followed by a yoga session, in which we were able to relax and breath. This was a perfect end to the term, as we were able to release all of our previous stressors and focus on our wellbeing, something we were able to bring with us into the holidays.

In art therapy, we explored our creativity and imagination. Each canvas was as special and unique as its creator and really showcased our different personalities. There were landscapes, portraits, and abstract artwork; with some teachers even joining the fun! The relaxed, no-pressure environment really allowed us to experiment without fear of making mistakes and it resulted in some really beautiful artwork that has been displayed around our Year Level Centre for everyone to admire.

The following day, the year level took Puffing Billy to Lilydale Lake, where we bonded with our tutor groups. We each brought something sweet to share with the group and had a fantastic time exploring the gorgeous scenery. We were able to forge relationships with our peers that will last for two years of VCE and perhaps even further into the future. 

Olivia
Year 11

Year 12 Retreat

In the last week of Term 1, all Year 12 students, embarked on a wonderful journey to Lorne for our Year 12 Retreat! It was two fantastic and exciting days filled with fun activities and being able to learn more about the local environment and to work together in our Tutor groups.

During the two days, we participated in three scheduled activities: surfing, a nature walk and Live Wire park as well as a whole year level rock pool ramble. On the first day, we all arrived at school bright and early to get on the bus, arriving in Lorne at 9.30am. My group’s first activity was surfing, and it was so much fun. The waves were insane and so many people stood up on their surf boards. The instructors were fantastic and being out in the water was exhilarating.

The nature walk was next, and we had a guide telling us everything about the local environment and history of the area. Though we didn’t make it to Erskine Falls, the walk was still amazing, the scenery and nature around us was fabulous and being able to immerse ourselves in it was spectacular.

On our first night in Lorne, we all dressed up in various costumes and participated in a fun trivia night. It was such a blast answering questions in five different categories and everyone was enjoying themselves as we all laughed and sang our hearts out. 

Some of the early risers headed down to the pier to watch the sunrise on the final morning before we participated in the final activity. This morning we explored the Super Circuit at Live Wire Park. After a safety briefing, we were able to explore the ropes courses and challenge ourselves on the different courses available. Many students completed activities they never thought possible.

The trip was so exciting and such a great experience, and I was so happy to be able spend time doing all these activities with my peers. Thank you to the School, the Tutors, and my fellow students for providing the opportunities to create some special memories of our final year at school together.

Sienna
Year 12