The annual Year 12 History Class study tour to Canberra took place during Semester break and consisted of visits to some of Australia’s greatest landmarks such as the High Court, Old and New Parliament House, the Australian War Memorial, the National Museum of Australia and the Royal Australian Mint. The tour’s primary aim was to promote knowledge and understanding of Australia’s democratic heritage and traditions, its political and legal institutions and the shared values of freedom, tolerance, respect and responsibility. As many members of the class had never been to Canberra before, they were keen to visit our nation’s capital and to learn more.

The group was particularly excited to visit the Australian War Memorial. Here they learnt much about the experiences of ADF personnel in past conflicts and the sacrifices they made in the name of freedom. Some students successfully located the names of relatives on the Honour Roll which surrounds the Pool of Remembrance. At day’s end, they also participated in a moving special wreath laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

The class valued the chance to visit and learn more about the role of the High Court, where some of the most important and influential decisions in Australia’s history have been made. Their re-creation of Gough Whitlam’s dismissal at Old Parliament House was memorable, as was the chance to have a behind-the-scenes look at Australia’s Federal governmental system during our visit to Parliament House. By the end of the week, the students came away with a much deeper understanding and appreciation of Australia’s political and legal systems.

Endeavour College acknowledges the generous financial support of the Federal Government through the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate (PACER) scheme. This program recognises the importance for students to be able to visit our capital in order to experience Australia’s rich cultural and democratic history.

Overall, the Year 12 History Study tour to Canberra was enriching, informative and fun. All who participated in the tour were able to grasp something of the magnitude of Australia’s development as a free nation.

David Thiele

History Learning Leader