Life Skills

Students from year 7 - 10 participate in one residential Life Skills trip every year. The major purpose of the trip is to develop the students’ life and social skills. Students have the opportunity to approach unfamiliar situations and uncertainty with courage and forethought and have the independence of spirit to explore new roles. Accompanying tutors and guides from UGGI , a leading company in outdoor activities, assess the students on commitment, cooperation, respect, independence and the speaking of English. Students are awarded points and a bowling afternoon is organized for students who have done exceptionally well. All students receive a Life Skills certificate. Feedback is given to students and senior staff regarding points and individual comments as regards the students during the trip.

Activities range from exploring underground cave systems in PETAR – Parque Estadual Turístico do Alto Ribeira – (year 7), hiking and rappelling in Itatiaia (year 8), hiking and canoeing in Saco do Mamanguá, Paraty (year 9) to rock climbing and rappelling in Pedra do Baú, Campos do Jordão. Prior to the trip students have an introductory session and organise tent, cooking and cleaning groups. The trip places an emphasis on a healthy diet and also on students living in an outdoor environment without the additions of electrical equipment.

Overall students return from the trip with a great sense of achievement as well as having had the opportunity to strengthen relationships within their tutor group. A display board is done with photos and reflections as well as a letter in the school’s newsletter to publicise the trip.