Growth and Development through Study Tours

The Year 6 Canberra Study Tour allows students’ time to grow and develop independence and long lasting friendships while away from home. It is one activity that the students’ will remember and treasure well into their adult lives.

The Canberra Study Tour is an important aspect of the Year 6 curriculum. Learning more about the development of Australia as a nation, from Federation to present day. Students learn and understand the importance and significance of Australia’s British heritage, the Westminster system, and other models that influenced the development of Australia’s system of government as we know it today. Students receive firsthand experience from a diverse range of national cultural institutions and attractions. All these provide educational programs that can immerse students in hands on learning activities, interactive displays and role plays in the areas of Civics and Citizenship, Science, History, Geography, Culture and Art.

The Year 6 Study Tour to the nation’s capital is exciting, educational and a journey into the home of the Australian story. It is also an important aspect into gaining independence as the students fly interstate for four days and three nights.

Parliament House gave students a chance to observe where Australia’s leaders enact laws and policies that affect our nation. It is the home of Australia’s Parliament and the meeting place of our nation. The visit to this beautifully architecturally designed building offers a unique experience for students to appreciate architecture, the stunning art collection and the beautiful landscaped gardens. Students get to experience and learn more about what actually happens in Parliament House through role play. The students’ undertook a role play that involved them in ‘passing a bill’ through parliament. This allowed them to see exactly how this is done and what is actually involved in the passing of laws. Students visited the Senate and the House of Representative Chambers and view historic documents such as the 1297 Magna Carta.

The High Court is one of Canberra’s major tourist attractions and is situated in the Parliamentary Zone. The building is a unique structure, constructed mainly of concrete and glass. Students’ visited the three courtrooms and learnt about the history, role and operation of each court.

The Museum of Democracy offers students’ decades of politics as passion echoes through the corridors, making it one of Australia’s most memorable heritage attractions. Students’ experience an atmosphere of history, they can revisit dramatic events and enjoy the 1920s architecture and fine design. The Museum offers an exciting program of exhibitions and engaging activities which explain how the building, its spaces, and objects connect us with Australian democracy. Learning about our past and present Prime Ministers at School, the students’ knowledge was enhanced through an interesting learning experience enabling them to learn more about these important, and respected people in our government system.

awm

The Australian War Memorial is Australia’s national memorial to the members of its armed forces and supporting organisations who have died or participated in wars involving the Commonwealth of Australia. The Australian War Memorial combines a shrine, a world-class museum, and an extensive archive of memories. The Memorial’s purpose is to commemorate the sacrifice of those Australians who have died in war. Its mission is to assist Australians to remember, interpret and understand the Australian experience of war and its enduring impact on Australian society. The War Memorial models compassion for our students’ as they pass through the Hall of Honour, showing empathy and offering poppies to fallen, or unknown soldiers, who fought for our country.

The Royal Australian Mint enriched the students’ with the history of Australian currency. Learning about how coins are made and discovering interesting facts about the history of coins in Australia. They saw how they are designed and the intricate process involved in making coins. Observing the factory with the robots, Penny and Titan who help with the lifting of extremely heavy barrels containing unmarked coins was most interesting. The highlight was the gift shop that gave students’ the opportunity to make a commemorative $1 coin.

Included in the itinerary are some recreational activities, as it is important in helping to keep students’ focused and allow them time to recharge and to take their mind off feeling home sick. Questacon is a fantastic institution with many interesting hands on and interactive exhibits. Cockington Green is another ‘let your hair down’ experience venturing into the delightful and fascinating display of meticulously crafted miniature buildings set within beautifully landscaped gardens. The much loved steam train ride around the garden allows for seeing the things they may have missed. Bowling was another much loved evening activity that was enjoyed by everyone and exhausted the students allowing for an excellent night of sleep.

The Year 6 Canberra Study Tour allows students’ time to grow and develop independence and long lasting friendships while away from home. It is one activity that the students’ will remember and treasure well into their adult lives.

Mrs Mary Karvounaris

Year 6 Teacher

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