Building Resilience
Outdoor Education in Years 2–4
Students begin their Outdoor Education journey through immersive, hands-on experiences that nurture curiosity, confidence and a love for the natural world. Each stage of the program is designed to gently increase students’ comfort in nature, introduce essential outdoor skills and foster new friendships through collaborative play and adventure.
Students are introduced to the magic of Outdoor Education right here on our Del Monte campus. With guidance from Tallong Campus staff and support from Year 10 Outdoor Education Leaders, children engage in fun, low-pressure activities that spark imagination and build foundational skills.
Highlights:
- Nature play and cooperative group games
- Introduction to basic map reading and camping equipment
- Team-building activities like scavenger hunts and low ropes
- Optional overnight stay at school.
This first experience helps students build confidence, make new friends and feel ready for future adventures at Tallong, our Outdoor Education Campus in regional NSW!
Students travel to our Tallong Campus for their first overnight stay, beginning a deeper connection to the outdoors and to each other. The program gently introduces adventure and exploration through new skills and challenges.
Highlights:
- Bushwalking, mountain biking and shelter building
- Campcraft and introductory navigation skills
- Group challenges that develop resilience and teamwork
Students leave with lasting memories and a sense of accomplishment from their first overnight experience at their home away from home.
In Year 4, students return to Tallong for a longer stay with increased physical challenges and leadership development. They take greater responsibility for their learning and are encouraged to step outside their comfort zone.
Highlights:
- High ropes, abseiling and enhanced mountain biking
- Orienteering and scavenger hunts using map and compass
- Campcraft and environmental exploration
- Group games fostering collaboration.
These experiences prepare students for their next chapter, whether that’s at Gioia House or new schools, by building resilience, friendships and a strong sense of self.
This is a unique optional program for girls and boys in Years 3 and 4. Over two years, the students work hard towards earning the following badges:
- Badge of Skill: developing outdoor and survival skills
- Badge of Prayer: deepening connection with nature
- Badge of Service: contributing to the community, including a First Aid course
Each badge represents a unique aspect of their learning journey. Activities take place at school and at specialised locations.
At Tallong students work towards their final milestone, the St Dominic the Adventurer Badge. This badge symbolises the culmination of their commitment, teamwork and enthusiasm throughout the program.
The program at Tallong is packed with adventure and hands-on learning. Students tackle the High Ropes course, construct a catapult using their outdoor skills and even learn how to build a fire. The experience concludes with a meaningful award ceremony, honouring each student’s achievements in the presence of their family.
