The benefits of attending Camp
Mr Andrew Holmes | holmesa@mbbc.qld.edu.au
Events over the last few weeks have reminded me that you do not just attend MBBC, but there is sense of belonging that fosters positive relationships, which helps the boys grow in confidence and become the best version of themselves.
Last week the College held the Academic Excellence and Scholars’ Assembly to celebrate and acknowledge the Academic and Co-Curricular achievements of our students and the Scholars from the Class of 2020. It was a pleasure to welcome back our Old Boys and celebrate their outstanding achievements. Congratulations to Benjamin Tran who was awarded the College Dux, with a remarkable ATAR score of 99.90.
The large number of students who received awards during this special Assembly spoke volumes about their diligent attitude towards their studies and co-curricular activities at the College. It clearly highlighted their determination, drive and commitment to work hard to achieve their goals.
During my address, I referred to Dr. Angela Duckworth, a psychologist and professor at the University of Pennsylvania, who has spent years studying people, trying to understand what it is that makes high achievers so successful. In her book, Grit, she showed that the most successful people were not those who had the highest IQ scores, the best degrees, the most expensive education or the most advanced social intelligence. What led them to be successful was what Duckworth called grit, or perseverance. To put it simply, they worked hard.
There is no doubt the boys have shown grit and perseverance to achieve academic success. However, the boys have also taken advantage of the abundance of creative, exciting and engaging opportunities for them to reach their potential. From mountain biking to basketball, the Music camp to guitar ensemble and Tech Ninjas to Robotics, it is obvious that we have a rich diverse range of activities that will allow the boys the opportunity to pursue their interest and flourish. Research is clear in showing that it is those students who become involved in diverse co-curricular activities at school who enjoy the best academic outcomes.
The Interhouse Swimming Championships proved a great success, with plenty of energy, excellent rates of participation and great sportsmanship shown throughout the day. Many congratulations to Nicholls House who were crowned House Champions. I was delighted to see so many boys entering so many events throughout the day and challenging themselves.
The Primary Camps provided an opportunity for our boys to engage in activities that extended them outside of their comfort zone, build trust and develop their leadership skills. In visiting the Year 6 Camp at Emu Gully, I was impressed by the boys’ attitude, determination, and a genuine desire to take risks. As the boys embarked on various challenging activities, I was delighted with their commitment to the College Values of Teamwork, Care, Character and Engagement and focussing on the theme of ‘putting other people first’.
Emu Gully Adventure Education Group offers a variety of activities which allowed the opportunity for the boys to make friends, learn new skills and grow as a person. I would like to share with you some of the benefits of students attending camp:
- Develops lifelong skills of problem solving, critical thinking, creativity, communication and leadership.
- Promotes independence.
- Creates a sense of purpose and belonging.
- Teaches Values: Teamwork, Character, Care and Engagement.
- Develops resilience and perseverance.
- Develops a self-awareness of strengths and weaknesses.
- Encourages a connection with nature.
- Fosters personal growth and builds self-esteem.
- Supports healthy living.
- Nurtures friendships and teaches the boys to respect differences.
Moreton Bay Boys’ College offers a comprehensive Camp Programme and I have every confidence that as the boys embrace the opportunities available to them, they will develop the skills to help them become lifelong learners and make a positive impact on the world around them.