Stage 3 Canberra Excursion

Last week, Stage 3 went on their overnight excursion to Canberra, staying overnight between 9-10 June. A great adventure was had by all and the children represented St Bernadette’s with pride at all times.

During the course of the two days many different venues were visited, all with tremendous educational value. Aside from this, all venues were a hit with the children and will be remembered for many years to come.

The trip was action packed and ran to a tight schedule. Here are some of the highlights!

DAY 1
In Parliament House, the children were treated to fantastic role-plays which helped them to learn about our houses of government.

At the Australian War Memorial they were given time to reflect in the Shrine of Remembrance. They also were taken on a tour by knowledgeable guides who gave them a deep insight into our military past and present.

We were extremely fortunate to see many elite athletes in training at the Australian Institute of Sport. We were amazed by the acrobatic skills of our gymnasts and looked in awe at the sheer height of our volleyball under 19’s. We were very impressed by the fitness and strengths of the athletes in the training room. Finally, we saw a real life Olympic Champion training in the pool; Alicia Coutts!

After all of this excitement the children were treated to a delicious dinner of lasagne, salad and bread rolls. A game of trivia followed this and then off to bed we went.

DAY 2
Breakfast was a huge selection of scrambled eggs, bacon, hash browns, toast, cereal, juice and baked beans. Yes, baked beans before a 4 hour bus ride!

Day two was just as action packed, starting Old Parliament House, where our children took part in the democratic process by voting for their favourite fruit. Please don’t be mistaken - this isn’t a thinly veiled swipe at our political leaders, it really was fruit. Through the preferential system, apples were the winner on the day. In the Museum of Democracy the children saw the old House of Representatives and Senate. Our guide gave many valuable insights about the history Australian Democracy.

Following a quick lunch break, our final destination before returning home was Questacon. This brilliant and interactive science exhibit lived up to all expectations. The children were thrilled by the lightning machine, horrified by the animatronic spider and defied gravity on the Free Fall.

Now for the final journey home, with the much anticipated stop at McDonalds. After many burgers, nuggets, fries, sundaes and cookies, we departed for Dundas Valley. What a trip!

The children of St Bernadette’s were a true credit to the school, conducting themselves in a dignified and respectful manner at all times. We are very proud of them all.