THE YEAR 6 CAMP ENGAGED BOYS IN AUTHENTIC EXPERIENCES OF SERVICE , LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNITY , INCLUDING SURVIVOR-THEMED ACTIVITIES ON THE COWES BEACHFRONT
boys with many complex tasks , requiring them to apply persistence , problem-solving skills and artful reflection . Working collaboratively with peers , boys applied critical thinking and creativity skills as they solved a series of puzzles intertwined among many physical activities . Adding to the idea of challenge was an hour-long bike ride and an introduction to lawn bowls conducted by volunteers from the Phillip Island Bowls Club .
The boys ’ ability to work together and draw on the strengths of one another , throughout these experiences , was a highlight , and evidence that experiences of challenge enhance the formation of character .
Arguably the most powerful and humbling experience of our Year 6 Camp came through our partnership with the Man Cave . In recognising that a shared understanding of character education works best when it ’ s deliberate , targeted and intentional , students were presented with a series of workshops that focused on tools for fostering healthy masculinity and positive mental health .
The first concept presented to the boys introduced them to the ‘ iceberg theory ’. This analogy referenced the notion that , as young men , communication plays a vital role in fostering positive wellbeing in self and others . Our boys were challenged with the idea that , as men , we can be comfortable engaging in safe conversation that sits at the top of an iceberg . Much of what is shared with others above the iceberg is relatively small talk , easy to bring up but lacking in meaning or purpose .
Through sharing their stories of resilience and persistence , facilitators helped students recognise the power of courageous conversation , and focused on tapping into those challenging topics that sit at the bottom of the iceberg and below the surface . Drawing on courage , vulnerability and a sense of humility , boys attempted to ‘ take off the mask ’; a reference used to describe our ability to be our true selves .
The six-hour intensive workshop provided by the Man Cave presented students and staff with many humbling experiences of vulnerability and acceptance . Our shared campfire experience acted as the perfect tool for reflection , providing students , staff and facilitators with the opportunity to share ‘ shout outs ’ to those individuals who modelled the essence of what it means to be a strong , courageous and healthy male in today ’ s society . Laying the foundations for the work conducted with the Man Cave was a shared belief that the building of character is deeply relational and ingrained in human connection .
To culminate our camp experience , students and staff engaged in a picturesque 8.5km hike around the Cape Woolamai nature reserve . A focus on relationships and appreciation of the beauty and goodness that exists within Mother Nature laid the foundations for our two-and-a-half-hour circuit . Students took much joy from opportunities to scan for wildlife while taking in the breathtaking views of the Phillip Island coastline . Although unbeknown to some , conversations between boys thrived and flourished along our journey , fostering a more profound sense of relationship and connection between peers .
As our hike came to a close , it was difficult not to feel a deep understanding of gratitude for how our Year 6 boys had ‘ shown up ’ across the camp experience . A willingness to ‘ lean in ’ and be present acted as valuable learning experiences for all boys , as they strove to understand the role of vulnerability and courage in leading themselves and serving others .
Although a camp experience focused on the holistic development of all boys remains in its infancy , the future remains bright as we recognise the need to develop young men who aspire to live a good life informed by moral code , and focused on a perspective that life isn ' t about me , nor you , but simply us .
LUKE DAFFY – YEAR 6 COORDINATOR AND CLASSROOM TEACHER www . scotch . vic . edu . au Great Scot 25