ENABLING CONFIDENT FUTURES
Term 1:
Two days
Early February
REGIONAL Retreat
Year 9 begins with two days at a local retreat.
Students reconnect after the summer break, bonding through a series of problem-solving and team-building exercises.
The Year 9 Experience is explained in detail, and students are supported to identify challenges that they may face throughout the year while working through strategies to overcome these trials.
Term 2: One week, early May
URBAN Melbourne Experience
This is an experiential week where students explore Melbourne through a range of activities and excursions. Self-led activities assist students to learn about city life, how to function in the metropolitan environment, and how to effectively use public transport. They are encouraged to collaborate with their peers, and show initiative and leadership during the week.
Aligning with The College value of compassion, the students will attend several sessions designed to open their eyes to cultural diversity. In previous years, these sessions have been ‘life-changing’ for some students. Activities include a detailed talk with a gambler, visiting a Jewish synagogue and making food for SecondBite, which feeds hundreds of homeless people each day. Students also have optional activities, where they can pursue their interests.
The overarching goal for the Urban Experience is to get students imagining life in Melbourne for a future world of work or study.
Term 3: 19 Days, September
INTERNATIONAL
Vietnam Service and Cultural Program
This 19-day adventure will provide opportunities for cultural immersion, service projects, and individual and group growth. The program will show the breadth of Vietnam and provide many opportunities for global engagement. Students will:
• Experience the historical and cultural highlights in and around Hanoi.
• Travel to the ethnic minority villages around Hang Kia, with deep valleys, thickly forested mountains and a variety of remote groups.
• Participate in service learning in Noi Ba, working with the local community to improve conditions at the village school.
• Trek through remote hamlets and hill tribe villages, experiencing first-hand the conditions of rural Vietnam.
• Explore Ninh Binh, one of the most spectacular settings in SouthEast Asia, by foot, cycle and barge.
• Spend a night at UNESCO World Heritage listed Ha Long Bay, before flying to the old Imperial city of Hue.
• Discover picturesque Hoi An before finishing in Ho Chi Minh city and the Mekong Delta.
Throughout their time in Vietnam, students will learn about all aspects of Vietnamese culture, and will help a remote community in need. This will be the culminating challenge of the Year 9 Experience and will lead to great personal growth.
Student Testimonial
Participating in the Year 9 program was an unforgettable experience. During our 19-day tour, we immersed ourselves in the vibrant culture and history of Vietnam, from the bustling cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to the serene village of Na Bai, Son La.
One of the highlights was our service learning program in Na Bai. We helped the local community by installing an underground water tank, which involved digging a hole, laying concrete footings and bricks. It was hard work, but knowing we made a real difference was incredibly rewarding. The villagers were always happy to see us and eager.
Exploring the beautiful landscapes, cycling and kayaking, and discovering treasures in crowded markets were just a few of the many adventures we had. We also enjoyed trying new foods, spending time with friends, and getting to know our teachers better. The experience taught us valuable lessons in leadership, resilience, and independence.
Overall, this journey was filled with fun, laughter, and meaningful connections. It was an amazing opportunity to learn and grow, and I will cherish these memories forever.