Year 10 Outdoor Education Leadership Program @ Tallong

The Year 10 Outdoor Education Leadership Program took place at the end of last year at the Tallong Campus, marking a significant chapter for 27 of our emerging leaders. Selected as role models for their resilience and compassion, these students embarked on a four-day immersive experience designed to equip them with the essential skills to support younger students during future Outdoor Education programs.

The students participated in a diverse range of activities that balanced technical outdoor skills with community service. They engaged in service projects to improve the campus, such as painting water tanks and clearing trails, before tackling the High Ropes and Low Ropes courses. Crucially, they moved beyond just participating; they learned how to instruct others, focusing on making sessions engaging, safe and fun for future groups.

Beyond the physical challenges of rock climbing at Badgerys Lookout and mountain biking, the program emphasised the internal fortitude required for leadership. Through sessions on ‘Above the line’ leadership and risk management, students explored values of GRIT, empathy and resilience. The experience culminated in an expedition and camping trip that reinforced the metaphor that leadership is often an ‘uphill battle’ a challenge to be met with perseverance every day.

The program concluded with a Celebration Lunch, providing a moment for the group to reflect on the lessons learned and their personal growth. Congratulations to all the students for setting such high standards and for their outstanding commitment to becoming supportive leaders for our community.

Christopher Walker
Coordinator of Outdoor Education and Experiential Learning