Year 7 Exodus – Forming strong foundations through friendship The Outdoor Education Program at St Michael's is an integral part of the learning journey. Its emphasis is on personal growth through outdoor experiences, and each year level has a specific theme, which for Year 7 is ‘Friends and Foundation’. For many in the cohort, Year 7 Exodus was their first Outdoor Education experience. The aim was for students to build relationships, introduce a solid foundation of outdoor skills and develop a connection with the natural environment. "We were excited to see a full cohort get out on Exodus for the first time this year. After the lockdowns over 2020 and 2021, it is more important than ever for our students to get out and reconnect with the natural world and each other." – Mr Sam Roberts, Outdoor Education Coordinator On a Monday morning in March, Year 7 set off for a five-day adventure at Iluka Retreat on the Mornington Peninsula, approximately 100km south-east of Melbourne. The students spent five days with their House-based tutorial group, accompanied by representatives from St Michael’s and the Outdoor Education Group (OEG). Allowing the students to 28
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The Crest Issue 5 2021
form a strong connection with their House community is important, as those peers will be a key support network for students throughout their St Michael’s experience. Together, students bushwalked and hiked along the coast, and learnt new skills including stand-up paddle boarding, raft building, cooking and camping. "The Year 7 camp was such an amazing experience, from hiking 15km, to rafting, and sleeping in tents. The highlights for me were being able to do so many new things, meeting new people, becoming closer to friends, and showing House spirit." – Violet (7H) Throughout all the fun, students bonded in their House groups and were empowered to develop a sense of responsibility. “This camp helped us to learn very important survival and safety skills, and other new experiences. We had different jobs assigned when we got there, including leadership, cleaning up, and cooking.” – Violet (7H)
