From Wednesday, 13 to Friday, 15 August, our Year 6 students travelled to Canberra for a three-day excursion that combined history, culture, sport and plenty of fun. The trip provided students with opportunities to deepen their understanding of Australia’s democratic system, explore national institutions and share memorable experiences with their peers.
Day 1 – Art, Sport and the Outdoors
We began with a morning departure from Redfield College, travelling south with a stop for morning tea before arriving in Canberra. Our first destination was the National Portrait Gallery, where students engaged in the Head Hunt! program and discovered the stories behind significant figures in Australia’s history. From there, we toured the Australian Institute of Sport, enjoying a guided tour and hands-on experiences at the interactive Sportex centre. The afternoon was spent at the National Arboretum, exploring the Discovery Garden and the iconic Pod Playground, before settling into Leumeah Lodge, our accommodation for the trip.
Day 2 – Science, Democracy, and Play
Our second day was packed with highlights. Students visited the National Film and Sound Archive, taking part in the Media and Me program, before heading to Questacon to enjoy the hands-on science exhibits. After lunch among the public artworks at Reconciliation Place, we spent the afternoon at Parliament House, where students explored both the Senate and House of Representatives, and participated in a program with the Parliamentary Education Office. The evening ended on a high with a visit to iPlay Belconnen, where laser tag, dodgem cars, and arcade games gave students a chance to unwind after a big day.
Day 3 – The Feast of the Assumption and Remembrance
Day three began very early, with the boys rising at 5:00am to prepare for Mass at St Christopher’s Cathedral in celebration of the Feast of the Assumption. This special occasion gave students the chance to participate in a significant liturgical celebration alongside the wider Canberra community. Following Mass, the groups undertook a driving tour of the Embassy and Lodge District and visited the National Electoral Education Centre, where they gained hands-on insights into how Australia’s democratic system operates. The excursion concluded at the Australian War Memorial, where the We Will Remember Them program provided a moving and reflective end to our journey.
This excursion gave our students the chance to connect classroom learning with real-world experiences, from art and science to democracy, faith and national heritage. It was also a time of personal growth: for some, staying away from home for the first time; for others, summoning the courage to take on the giant slide at Questacon or embrace new experiences alongside their peers. These challenges, both big and small, helped the boys grow in confidence, resilience, and independence.
It was a joy to see their enthusiasm and camaraderie shine through, creating memories that will stay with them long after the bus rolled back into Redfield.
Government Support
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion, the Government is contributing $30 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) program. This rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion and is deducted from the cost.
Ben Nolan, 6B Class Teacher
