Earlier this month, 57 Newhaven College Year 10 students travelled to Howqua (near Mansfield) for a five-day wilderness trek through iconic Victorian alpine areas including Sheepyard Flat, Fry’s Hut, Tunnel Bend, Tobacco Flat and Running Creek.

In partnership with The Outdoor Education Group, the College said the hike was designed to present a significant personal challenge, slow the pace of life, remove the distraction of social media, and focus on the development of community.

“As well as developing lightweight camping skills, students had the opportunity to foster a positive understanding of themselves and others, recognise their own strengths and those of others through the lens of personal challenges,” a College spokesperson said.

“They learnt to identify their character strengths and the positive effect they experience when they use them, and how to develop a growth mindset and build resilience.”

The hike is a new undertaking for all Year 10 students at the College.

“Whilst some found the trek challenging, the overwhelming feedback was that it was an invaluable experience.

“Resilience, teamwork, leadership skills and the appreciation of our natural world are just some of the benefits our Year 10 students gained.”