Lucy Dalleywater, Director of Activities
At the heart of the Jamieson Program lies a commitment to fostering connections, resilience, and personal growth. Designed to support students’ emotional and physical wellbeing, the program offers broad experiences that challenge and inspire, helping individuals to develop character and confidence. Through a series of immersive camps, students in Years 7–12 gained invaluable lived experiences, deepening their understanding of themselves and the world around them. Here is an insight into the transformative journeys undertaken by students in 2025.
Year 7: Nature and Connection
For their first camp at Frensham, Year 7 was based at Bonnie Vale at the Royal National Park. Each night, girls camped within the grounds and, during the day, participated in activities including bushwalking, canoeing and stand-up paddle boarding. The camp allowed girls to build connections with their peers, develop an enthusiasm for outdoor education, and explore the natural environment.
Year 8: Adventure and Discovery
The Year 8 Camp, in collaboration with Southbound Adventures, was based at Mount Keira and Easts Beach. Over several days, students camped in tents each night and engaged in dynamic outdoor activities such as bushwalking, hiking, surfing, and stand-up paddleboarding. This experience strengthened peer connections while encouraging students to step outside their comfort zones, explore new environments, and discover the possibilities of how they could be their best selves.
Year 9: Endurance and Exploration
Set in the stunning Morton National Park, the Year 9 Camp offered an exciting challenge, combining canoeing and bushwalking. Each night, students camped at different sites, progressively making their way through the natural landscape. As part of the Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Practice Journey, students developed essential expedition skills, including waterproofing and loading canoes, navigation, and hiking techniques. This adventure not only strengthened friendships but also fostered self-reliance and resilience as students pushed their personal boundaries.
Year 10: Leadership and Challenge
The Year 10 Camp took place in Bungonia National Park, where students embarked on an exploration of both land and caves. This experience, which counted toward the Silver Duke of Edinburgh Practice Journey, required teamwork and perseverance as students navigated challenging terrain, carried expedition backpacks, and explored the Shoalhaven River. Through support, communication, and collaboration, students developed a deep sense of responsibility for themselves and their peers, gaining valuable leadership skills along the way.
Year 11: Leadership in Action
In 2025, the Year 11 Leadership Camp took place on-site at Frensham, incorporating a blend of internal and external learning experiences. Students stayed in Linden Turner House, immersing themselves in leadership training, career development, and character education sessions led by Frensham Executive, Senior Staff, and alumni. Specialist organisation Burn Bright guided students through interactive sessions designed to enhance their ability to lead themselves and others. Additionally, students participated in The Urban Challenge in Sydney, followed by strategic leadership reflections and team bonding activities, including bowling and dining together in Mittagong.
Year 12: Preparation for the Future
The Year 12 Study Camp, also hosted on-site at Frensham, provided students with the space to set their intentions for their final year. Staying in Bryant-McCarthy House, they took part in a series of sessions facilitated by Frensham Executive, Senior Staff, and expert external providers. The camp included visits to the Australian National University and the University of Canberra, offering insights into post-school pathways. The final day featured a trip to Sydney, where students explored either the Art Gallery of NSW or the State Library of NSW, reinforcing the connection between academic excellence and cultural enrichment.
Reflection and Growth
Each camp in the Jamieson Program was designed to provide students with opportunities for self-discovery, connection, and personal development. Through shared experiences, students not only gained outdoor and leadership skills but also cultivated resilience, independence, and a strong sense of community. As students reflected on their journeys, they left each camp with a renewed sense of confidence and purpose, ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities ahead.