Year 9 “Challenging Me” Camp

Year 9 Students Step Outside Their Comfort Zones in “Challenging Me” Camp

Peninsula Grammar’s Year 9 students recently returned from an unforgettable ten-day camp, part of the school’s unique “Challenging Me” program. This innovative initiative bridges the crucial transition from Middle School to Senior School, focusing on personal growth, resilience, and teamwork. The camp, a cornerstone of the program, offered a break from traditional classrooms and encouraged students to step into a world of adventure and self-discovery.

The experience began at Wootton Lodge, where students engaged in a variety of activities designed to push their boundaries. Whether paddling down the Mitchell River, navigating the orienteering challenge, riding the mountain bike course, scaling steep trails, or conquering leaps of faith, students faced obstacles that required creativity and collaboration. Each day brought opportunities to try something new, fostering a sense of achievement as they moved beyond their comfort zones.

Evenings at the lodge were a time for reflection and connection. Gathered around campfires, students shared their experiences of the day, supported one another, and bonded through laughter and stories. It was these small, shared moments that built camaraderie and strengthened friendships, forming the foundation for a close-knit community.

The second half of the camp included an immersive wilderness expedition in Gippsland. Here, students faced the raw beauty and challenges of nature, adapting to an off-grid environment and developing a deeper appreciation for the outdoors. The trek through rugged terrain demanded perseverance, problem-solving, and mutual support, with students continuously encouraging one another to reach the final destination.

By the end of the ten days, every participant had grown in their own way.

The “Challenging Me” program’s emphasis on stepping outside personal limits was reflected in the students’ newfound confidence and resilience. They returned not only with a sense of accomplishment but also with a better understanding of their capabilities and strengths.

The Year 9 Camp symbolises what makes the “Challenging Me” program such an integral part of the Peninsula Grammar experience. It places students in real-life situations that challenge them physically, emotionally, and socially, while providing support to help them succeed. This distinctive approach ensures students are not just prepared for Senior School, but also for life beyond school.

For the Year 9 cohort, the camp marked a defining and transformative milestone in their educational journey, with lessons they’ll carry long into their future.

Share: