The Grade 5 Camp Experience

For Grade 5 students, camp is far more than just a few days away from home. Camp provides students with the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom, strengthen friendships and step outside of their comfort zones. Through a combination of hands-on learning, outdoor adventure and shared experiences, students are encouraged to challenge themselves, work collaboratively and grow in confidence. 

Throughout this year’s camp, students connected their learning to real-world experiences while embracing a range of adventures designed to build confidence, resilience and teamwork. A powerful visit to Port Arthur brought to life their Unit of Inquiry, A nation's identity is shaped and influenced by the past, before students stepped outside their comfort zones at Blue Lagoon, tackling challenges such as rock climbing, the Giant Swing and surfing lessons.

One of the most rewarding aspects for us as staff was observing the growth in our students across the three days. Whether it was encouraging a peer during surfing, showing curiosity during our Port Arthur visit or simply taking responsibility for themselves and others, students consistently demonstrated maturity and care. Small moments often had the greatest impact - students supporting classmates who felt nervous, trying something for the first time or celebrating each other’s successes. These experiences highlighted the value of learning beyond the classroom and the importance of connection, reflection and shared challenge in developing confident and capable young people.

Students reflected positively on the camp experience and identified many highlights from the trip.

Angus Castle shared, “I loved getting to learn outside the classroom and do something I really enjoy. Surfing was a highlight for me, but I also liked helping others and encouraging my friends to keep trying even when it was challenging.”

Ellie Dent reflected, “My favourite part was spending time with everyone and being together as a grade. Camp helped me become more independent and made me feel more confident trying new things.”

For many students, the Port Arthur experience was particularly meaningful as it connected directly to our Unit of Inquiry, Where We Are in Place and Time.

Ivy Fieldwick explained, “It was really interesting learning about the history at Port Arthur because it made our classroom learning feel real. I liked hearing the stories and imagining what life would have been like back then.”

Wally Taylor shared, “I enjoyed being in cabins with my friends and getting to know other people better. Camp taught me that teamwork and encouraging others makes everything more fun.”

Upon returning from camp, we noticed significant growth in students’ confidence, relationships and independence. Students returned with a stronger sense of connection to their peers and demonstrated increased resilience and maturity within the classroom environment. Experiences such as camp provide students with authentic opportunities to challenge themselves, strengthen interpersonal skills and create lasting memories alongside their peers.

Camp remains an incredibly valuable part of the Grade 5 experience because it allows students to learn in ways that cannot always be replicated within the classroom. The growth seen across the three days serves as a reminder that some of the most meaningful learning happens when students are encouraged to take risks, support one another and experience the world beyond school together.

Mrs Annabel Loone, Grade 5 Teacher