Grow and Connect at Macquarie College - Your Child's Wellbeing
- Sep 25, 2018
- 2 min read
A school works best when it feels like a village. People know each other, they take the time to have all those small conversations that hold a group together and they share a mutual sense of connection.
However, schools are under pressure from the increasingly complex and fast paced nature of life in the 21st Century. In recognition of changing cultural norms it is important to put in place structures that facilitate individual relationships, resulting in a community that grows together. Macquarie College has recently implemented a strategic wellbeing model that allows students, teachers, parents and friends to understand the College’s direction in terms of four key areas; meaning, discovery, growth and connection.
These components of Macquarie College’s Wellbeing Model speak to the need for balance, purpose and relationship in our lives. Outdoor Education is one way in which staff and students explore the potential for growth and connection. By getting off campus and exploring both wild and urban locations students in Years 5 through to Year 12 are able to step out of their usual routines and interact with each other in creative ways in order to solve problems and experience growth. Year 9 students take part in the Invictus Wellbeing Program which provides them with the opportunity to backpack through parts of Kosciusko National Park. The resilience and self reliance that comes from wilderness trekking provides transferable confidence that can enhance a student’s sense of agency and capacity when learning in the classroom.
The College’s Outdoor Education Program culminates in a Year 12 service trip to Vanuatu. Students fundraise throughout the year and spend time in a small rural village helping with construction and community building projects.
Closer to home, on-campus events such as the biennial Spring Fair allows Macquarie College to welcome the wider Lake Macquarie and Newcastle community into an experience of College life. This year families and visitors alike have an opportunity to experience local art, food, games, rides, entertainment and a range of stalls.
An event such as the Spring Fair encourages the growth and connection of a school village that builds memories together.
Spring Fair Schedule
You're invited to enjoy all the fun of the Fair! Bring a rug and catch up with friends over morning tea or a picnic lunch on the Oval, 10am - 3pm. All welcome!
10am - 12pm & 1pm - 3pm - Creative & Performing Arts and NMA Music Program
10am - 2pm - Megamania Amusements & Rides + Pennies Ponies & Animals
10am - 3pm - Mini Miracles Plaster & Colouring in Competition + Classroom Stalls + Community Stall Holders
11am & 1pm - Campus Tours (Junior & Senior Schools) with College Registrar
11am & 1pm - Design & Technology Department Computer Numerical Control Machinery Displays
11.45am & 1.45pm - Campus Tours (Pre-School) with Pre-School Director
12pm - Live Auction
Look for Hunter Water’s Hydration Station at this year’s event. Don’t forget to bring your own bottle #BYOB on the day.
182-222 Lake Road, Wallsend NSW 2287
