Camps & Retreats

St Augustine's has a well-developed camping program which is an integral component of wellbeing and pastoral care at the College. 

The Years 7, 8 and 10 annual camps ensure students participate in outdoor education and experiences that enhance self-knowledge, self-confidence and self-esteem. Camps foster collaboration and teamwork encouraging the boys to take on more personal responsibility and leadership roles. An appreciation of nature and environmental values is also encouraged and nurtured. The junior camps allow students and teachers to develop their relationships in a pastoral setting outside of the familiarity of the classroom and provide the opportunity for students to push themselves in a safe, well supervised, fun environment.

Our Year 9 students attend a four-day camp to a working cattle station. The camp is designed to engage and challenge the boys, creating opportunities to develop resilience, foster relationships and connections. The camp offers a range of outdoor activities with a hands-on station experience. The Year 9 wellbeing program is based on the Rites of Passage journey, which recognises this year as a critical time in the students' lives as they transition from childhood to adulthood. The emphasis is on honouring each student’s individual strength and unique characteristics.  

In Years 11 and 12, retreats offer the Men of Saints a chance to foster their spiritual growth and to set personal goals. At St Augustine’s we see the value of investing time and effort to discuss life issues away from the classroom.  The senior students are challenged to think more deeply about themselves in a relaxed and safe environment. In a busy world the rest, relaxation and refocusing offered during retreats allow seniors to reset their goals and to see their classmates in a new and respectful way. Their personal journey to manhood is acknowledged, and they have time to share with others. Retreats are a highly anticipated event on the College calendar.

The boarders have frequent opportunity for weekend camps and trips away. The College has developed a well-resourced camp store which includes canoes, boats, cooking and camping equipment and associated vehicles and supplies. 
 
Heads of year work with staff to plan and implement camp and retreat programs at each year level and in the boarding residences.  All year levels participate in camps and retreats over the school year.