Envisioning Experiential Learning at Wilson Bay Farm

Exploration and planning for our third campus, Wilson Bay Farm, has continued across a number of areas in recent months, building on the early groundwork already shared. One of these areas is the development of the curriculum, where work is now underway to consider how learning at the Farm could take shape over time.

The initial work has drawn on contributions from staff, parents and alumni, and input from industry and subject-matter experts. This has been supported by a structured research project, helping to bring greater clarity to the opportunities and considerations involved in designing learning for a rural and coastal campus.

At the heart of this work is the vision for learning at Wilson Bay Farm: to cultivate character, capability and care. This will be realised through values-led, experiential learning shaped by the land, sea and community, with students engaging in real-world contexts that foster responsibility and reflection.

Following the period of consultation and initial planning, a set of curriculum design principles has been identified to guide the design of learning at the Farm. These principles outline an approach to developing character, leadership and wellbeing through service, teamwork, responsibility and reflection. They also recognise the role of purposeful challenge and strong pastoral care in nurturing resilience, independence, and collaboration.

Learning at the Farm is also being explored as integrated and grounded in real-world contexts. Early thinking considers how areas such as sustainability, science, primary industries, technology and enterprise could be incorporated through authentic, experience-based approaches.

Initial planning has also looked at how learning at the Farm may develop over time. This includes a staged pathway from Years 4 to 13, with students returning at different points in their school years. Learning would build progressively, with younger students focusing on curiosity and foundational skills, and older students taking on increasing levels of responsibility, leadership, and contribution.

Another key area of focus is how the Farm environment may influence learning. The land, coastal setting, and wider community are being considered as important contributors to how students engage with ideas and experiences, helping them develop an understanding of the relationship between people and their surroundings. 

Building on this, planning has also explored how different parts of the Farm may support learning in practice. Several areas have been identified as potential “learning zones”, including the farm and garden, bush, stream and coastal environments. These areas provide opportunities for students to take part in practical activities such as stock management, planting, restoration and outdoor exploration.

As work in this area continues in 2026, the focus remains on refining these ideas and ensuring alignment with learning across our schools. The intention is to take a measured, thoughtful approach so that the curriculum reflects the vision for Wilson Bay Farm and supports meaningful learning for our students on-site.