Pastoral Camp Reflections

Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,

The Study/health and well-being camp went for approximately 5 days starting on Friday the 2nd of April. The camp’s purpose was to invigorate students, both spiritually and mentally, for the year of study to come. The camp consisted of 6 hours of study time spread throughout the day, to prepare years 10 to 12 students for their VCE exams. Most subjects were covered during these camps including subjects such as VCE: Biology, Chemistry, Maths Methods, Specialist maths, Physics, Psychology, English, Business, and so on.

What was iconic about this camp was the presence of previous graduates of the school that had come back to support students in any way they could. After each prayer, either a mentor or a teacher would give a short speech, to refresh students in their spirituality and faith. It is essential for students to work on both their studies and their spiritual sides to make them successful in this world and the next. Students gained a sense of brotherhood in this camp and always called each to prayer and do good deeds. Some of the students also fasted a day of Shaban in preparation for the month of Ramadan.

Of course, there was not just study, but also fun! There were many activities to do during activity time. Students could choose from canoeing, table tennis, soccer, archery, volleyball, basketball, flying fox and many ropes courses found throughout the camp. It vital for young men to have strong bodies to go with their strong minds thus gaining balance in their mind, body, and soul. Every day they would rush out at activity time to go to their favourite activity and have fun between study sessions.

We enjoyed the camp, and we are hoping that the next camp will be as fun and productive as this one if not then more.