Outdoor Education
From early years through to Year 11, our camp program is intentionally designed to foster personal growth, deepen relationships, and encourage students to reflect on who God created them to be.
Immersed in the beauty of nature, students are invited to disconnect from devices, embrace simplicity, and discover their God-given purpose through moments of challenge, silence, and reflection.
Camp Program Overview
Our Outdoor Education journey begins in Primary School and continues through to Secondary, with each stage offering age-appropriate challenges and opportunities for growth:
Primary School Camps
- P–2 Campout (College Grounds): A joyful overnight experience for students and parents featuring dinner, a movie under the stars, tent camping, and breakfast—fostering community and connection.
- Year 3 – Galston Gorge (CRU Camp): A 3-day, 2-night camp focused on outdoor challenges, team-building, and gospel-centred reflections led by trained Christian staff.
- Year 4 – Blue Mountains (CCC Camps): Nature-based adventures and leadership challenges that build resilience and deepen friendships.
- Year 5 – Lake Macquarie (CRU Camp): A 4-day, 3-night camp with water and land-based activities, Christian devotions, and a nurturing environment.
- Year 6 – Canberra & Greenhills Centre: A blend of educational visits to national institutions and faith-based sessions that prepare students for Secondary School.
Secondary School Camps
Our Secondary Camp Program follows a structured progression from Year 7 to Year 12, designed to challenge students physically, emotionally, and spiritually. Each camp builds on the last, with increasing levels of independence and adventure:
- Year 7 – Lake Macquarie (CRU): A gentle introduction to Secondary camps with cabin and tent-based experiences including canoeing, sailing, and rock climbing.
- Year 8 – Glenworth Valley (Southbound): A tent-based camp featuring mountain biking, canoeing, and cultural learning on Darug land.
- Year 9 – Colo River (Camp Somerset): The first of two journey-style camps, offering hiking, abseiling, and self-sufficiency in meal prep and navigation.
- Year 10 – Various Locations (Southbound): A choice-based adventure with activities like paddleboarding, biking, and hiking—culminating the compulsory outdoor education journey.
- Year 11 – City Mission or Gold Duke of Edinburgh award camp: Students choose between a service-focused urban mission or completing their Gold Adventurous Journey.
- Year 12 – College Campus: A reflective program focused on transitioning to HSC study, strengthening peer support and preparing for the year ahead.
Camps are held during two dedicated “Camp Weeks” each year (Term 1 Week 9 and Term 4 Week 3), ensuring minimal disruption to academic learning while maximising personal development.
Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award
William Clarke College strongly supports student participation in the globally recognised Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. This program empowers young people to explore their potential and achieve personal success through service, skill development, physical activity and adventure.
The College offers students the opportunity to complete all aspects of the Award in house including the Bronze, Silver and Gold Adventurous Journeys, as well as the Gold Residential Project.
A Lifelong Impact
Outdoor Education at William Clarke College is more than just time away from the classroom—it’s a journey of discovery, purpose, and growth that shapes students for life.
