In a world where comfort and convenience are often just a click away, it can be easy to forget how important it is for young people to be challenged. Challenge is not something to be avoided; it is something to be embraced. Being challenged physically, emotionally, and socially plays a vital role in helping students grow into confident, resilient, and capable individuals.
We did this at Year 7 camp, where students were placed in new environments and asked to step outside their comfort zones. Activities such as high ropes, canoeing, zip lining, and team-building games were not just about fun and excitement—they were carefully designed opportunities for growth.
Physical challenges, like climbing high ropes or paddling a canoe, ask students to test their limits. These activities build strength, coordination, and endurance, but more importantly, they build self-belief. For many students, standing at the top of a climbing tower or launching from a zip line was daunting. Pushing through that fear and giving it a go fosters confidence and shows students that they are capable of more than they might think. We can often do people a disservice by making things too easy or convenient.
Emotional challenges are just as important. Camp places students in unfamiliar situations—away from home, routines, and comfort zones. Managing nerves, frustration or fear, helps students develop emotional resilience. Learning to regulate emotions, stay calm under pressure, and reflect on personal achievements are skills that carry far beyond camp and into everyday school life.
Social challenges are another key part of the experience. Team-building games and group activities require communication, cooperation, and trust. Students must listen to others, contribute ideas, support their peers, and sometimes take on leadership roles. These moments help strengthen friendships, build empathy, and develop the social skills needed to work effectively with others.
The Year 7 camp reminds us that challenge is not about pushing students to breaking point, but about supporting them as they stretch, grow, and succeed. When students are encouraged to try, fail, try again, and ultimately achieve, they gain skills and confidence that will support them throughout their schooling and beyond.
"Here is what I am commanding you to do. Be strong and brave. Do not be terrified. Do not lose hope. I am the LORD your God. I will be with you everywhere you go." Joshua 1:9
Growth doesn’t happen in comfort—it happens when we dare to take the next step.
Mr Ken Tosen
Stage 4 Coordinator
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