Middle School Report

by Mr Michael Busscher, Director of the Middle School 

Between March 1 and March 5, we conducted our Queenscliff and Anglesea Camps with everything being completed in the single week for the first time. We were blessed with excellent weather and perfect conditions for each of our activities. Each camp has started with a very clear journey in mind, of some challenge, as the boys made their initial entrance to the camp and life was to be changed from the normal day spent at school. This all forms a basis for our work undertaking “The Rite Journey Program.” The boys have developed stronger teamwork as they have, in many cases, needed to support each other as they undertook activities they found challenging and out of their comfort zone. Staff have been heavily involved in every activity and right beside the boys as we continue to establish stronger relationships and be part of your sons’ journey through the Middle School. Each day exercise groups, canoeing, hiking challenges, initiative activities, sleeping out in a tent and surfing have been the organised activities but the incidental conversations between boys and staff are equally priceless. Understandably, everyone will have had a fantastic time, and they will return home considerably tired, yet all the better prepared for the next stages of our young men’s journey. I must thank the Middle School Team, the Camp Wyuna and Anglesea Valley Lodge staff and most importantly the boys themselves who have behaved impeccably, following all instructions and giving nothing short of their best every day.

The Middle School Community Service Program will also be starting for the first time for our Wednesday groups this week; with our boys heading out into the Ballarat Community offering their services. Quite possibly, some students don’t realise how important volunteers are to the country and to many organisations. We need for our students to understand that community service is a vital investment in our community and the people who live in it.

Our Middle School students, whilst conducting community service will be provided with the opportunity to try different kinds of work and work environments that they otherwise would likely not be exposed to at such a young age.

The experiences that they gain will also further their resume. A lot of the personal development benefits such as leadership skills and the ability to collaborate with a team, are things that translate well to many future jobs and workplaces.

While completing their community service projects, students develop real-world skills that will help them succeed in the Middle School and beyond. Our students will get the opportunity to develop their skills in the following areas: Leadership, Problem-solving, Collaboration with others, Time Management and Communication.

Mr Michael Busscher

Director of Middle School