Years 5 and 6 Visit to Canberra
Earlier this term, the boys in Years 5 and 6 departed for their annual excursion to our nation’s capital. The purpose of this trip was to reinforce and enhance our inquiry into governmental systems by provoking student thinking and action related to this important inquiry. Visits to Parliament House and the Electoral Education Centre were central to the excursion. Throughout the experience, the boys were able to ask relevant and pertinent questions of the staff to gain a greater understanding of our system of government, its people and purpose.
During the three days, the boys explored QUESTACON, the Australian Institute of Sport, the CSIRO, The Australian War Memorial, The Royal Australian Mint and drove by various embassies and the Lodge. As has been our tradition, we participated in the daily ‘Last Post’ ceremony at the Australian War Memorial to honour those who fought for our sakes. Our school leaders placed a wreath on behalf of our school and all the boys represented our school well throughout the experience.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit their National Capital as part of their civics and citzenship education. To assist parents in meeting the cost of this excursion the Australian Government contributed funding of $20 per eligible student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) programme toward the travel expenses incurred. This contribution was paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.
Years 5 and 6 Teachers