2006 School Magazine

MarraPatta

Outdoor Education is about personal challenge. Students are challenged to make connections with their environment and each other, to develop independence and interdependence, to begin and to complete journeys of personal and group learning. As they progress through their camp experiences many skills are gained and precious memories accumulate.

The Year 8 Connections programme fosters a problem-solving approach from clues and riddles to map and compass. Kate Austin (8W) reported, “Our problem-solving approach was: Understanding, Share Ideas, Plan, Action, Celebrate – USPAC.” Interdependence, the Year 9 programme, encourages students to engage interdependently and to reflect on their personal attributes in achieving this important skill for life. An entire group of determined and supportive Year 9B students made Marrapatta history when they made it to the top of “Killer Hill”. Year 10 Journeys offer significant challenges from high ropes to the Noosa River/Walk. Many students elect to ride the entire 75 kilometres of the Brooyar Bike Journey which is a fantastic goal and achievement. A group of committed Year 12 students led by Elizabeth Moule (12G) and Leanne Singer (12M) designed their own camp programme of contribution to the environment, from tree-planting to art for the dormitories. Their “lasting footprints” represent the essence of their successful Marrapatta experiences over five years as they felt inspired to return to the Centre some of what they felt they had personally gained. Marrapatta —MemorialOutdoor EducationCentre

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Mr James McIntosh Director, Marrapatta

20 06

32

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Br isbane Gir ls Grammar School

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