Year 7 Camp – Building Confidence, Connection and a Strong Start
The highlight of the week for our Year 7 students was undoubtedly camp, a much-anticipated milestone in the Year 7 journey and a wonderful way to begin high school life at Santa Maria College.
Set amongst the natural beauty of Nanga Bush Camp in Dwellingup, students stepped away from their everyday routines and into an experience filled with adventure, challenge and connection. To ensure every student had the opportunity to fully engage, the cohort attended in two groups across the week, coming together for a shared day midweek.
Stepping Outside Comfort Zones
From the moment they arrived, students were encouraged to embrace new experiences. Whether it was hiking into camp, building rafts, tackling low ropes, climbing walls or navigating through orienteering courses, each activity invited them to try something new and support one another along the way.
There were moments of hesitation, but even more moments of courage.
“When we were on our walk to our campsite, it felt really nice that we made it. I was nervous about coming, but once we got there, I felt so accomplished.” Josie
“Sleeping away from home was a challenge for me, but I overcame it by embracing and trying my best to enjoy the whole experience.” Ivy
Students also experienced both camping styles, spending one night under the stars in tents and another in the bunkhouse – striking a good balance between challenge and comfort.
Where Growth Really Happens
While the activities were engaging and fun, the real value of camp was in the learning behind them. Students worked together to problem-solve, communicate clearly and build trust, essential skills that will support them well beyond camp.
Importantly, camp created space for new friendships to form and for existing ones to strengthen, as students connected with peers outside their usual circles.
A Meaningful Start to Secondary School
Transitioning into Year 7 brings many changes, new routines, a larger campus and new faces. Camp plays an important role in easing this transition, giving students the chance to build confidence, resilience and a sense of belonging early in the year.
With time away from screens and immersed in nature, students were able to reset, reflect and simply enjoy being present with one another.
Looking Ahead
As the students returned, tired but proud of all they had achieved, it was clear camp had made a lasting impression. The stories shared, friendships formed and confidence gained have set a positive tone for the term ahead. This experience is just the beginning, and we look forward to seeing our Year 7 students continue to grow, support one another and embrace all that lies ahead.
- building resilience, dwellingup camp, Featured, Girls' Education, outdoor education, Santa Maria College, school camp perth, student friendships, studentwellbeing, Transition to high school, Year 7 Camp
Author: Santa Maria College
Santa Maria College is a vibrant girls school with a growing local presence and reputation. Our Mission is to educate young Mercy women who act with courage and compassion to enrich our world. Santa Maria College is located in Attadale in Western Australia, 16 km from the Perth CBD. We offer a Catholic education for girls in Years 5 – 12 and have 1300 students, including 152 boarders.
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