At Donvale Primary School, we believe that some of the most powerful learning happens beyond the classroom. Our Camping Program is carefully designed to support students as they grow in confidence, independence and connection with others, while creating joyful, shared memories along the way.
Each experience is thoughtfully matched to students’ ages and stages, ensuring they feel safe, supported and excited as they take on new challenges.
Our camping journey begins gently for our youngest learners. Prep students are invited to come to school in their pyjamas for a special Prep Breakfast, creating a sense of fun, familiarity and belonging.
Students enjoy breakfast together, socialise with their peers and experience a relaxed start to the day before changing into their uniforms and continuing with regular school activities. This experience helps build confidence and independence in a warm, low-key way.
For students in Grades 1 and 2, we offer a Camp Activities Day held at school. This day captures the spirit of camping through outdoor games, team-building activities and shared experiences, all within the comfort of familiar surroundings.
Students practise working together, trying new activities and supporting one another — laying the foundations for future overnight camps.
Students in Grades 3 to 6 participate in a two-night camp, providing an exciting opportunity to build independence and resilience. Camps alternate between bush and beach environments, giving students a range of experiences in nature.
These camps allow students to:
strengthen friendships and teamwork
develop confidence away from home
try new activities and take healthy risks
connect with the natural environment
build independence in a supportive setting
Staff carefully plan and supervise each camp to ensure students feel safe, cared for and encouraged throughout their experience.
Our Camping Program plays an important role in students’ overall development.
Camps provide rich opportunities for students to collaborate, communicate and build strong relationships with peers outside the classroom.
Time away from home helps students learn to manage new situations, solve problems and develop confidence in themselves.
Outdoor experiences foster curiosity, respect for the environment and a deeper appreciation of the world around us.
Through camp activities, students practise decision-making, leadership, cooperation and perseverance — skills that support learning and wellbeing.
Camps are often among the most memorable experiences of primary school. Shared adventures help build a strong sense of belonging and school community.
At every stage, our Camping Program is underpinned by care, preparation and strong relationships. Staff know students well and ensure that each child feels supported, included and encouraged to participate at their own pace.
Our goal is for every student to return from their camp experience feeling proud, connected and confident.
