Indigenous School Camp Experiences

We run a structured series of camps and activities designed to support scholarship students through their secondary schooling (Years 7–12).  These experiences are part of Yalari's broader support model — helping students settle into boarding life, build confidence, develop leadership, and prepare for what comes next.

• Year 7–8: Orientation Camp:

  Our Orientation Camp supports new scholarship students as they enter boarding school life. Students:

  • Build friendships with peers across schools
  • Learn about Yalari’s values and expectations
  • Develop resilience and independence skills
  • Strengthen their sense of identity and belonging

  From day one, this camp builds confidence and community — setting students up for the years ahead.

• Year 9: Central Australia Camps:
  Students attend gender-specific week-long camps in Central Australia. These immersive experiences focus on:

  • Strengthening cultural identity
  • Deepening peer relationships
  • Developing teamwork and leadership skills
  • Building resilience through shared challenges

  These camps mark a turning point — deepening each student's growth and cultural connection.

• Year 10: Pay It Forward Program:
  Students work collaboratively to raise funds to support another Yalari scholarship student.

  This initiative develops:

  • Initiative and problem-solving
  • Team collaboration
  • Financial awareness
  • A culture of giving back

  It reinforces the principle that success carries responsibility.

• Year 11: Pathways Camp:
  Hosted at Bond University, this weekend camp introduces students to post-school possibilities. Activities include:

  • University exposure and campus immersion
  • Career roundtables with professionals
  • Skills workshops
  • Goal-setting sessions

   Students leave with a clearer picture of what their future could look like.

• Year 12: Transition Workshops:
  In partnership with corporate supporters, our Year 12 workshops focus on:

  • Resume writing
  • Interview skills
  • Career pathway planning
  • University and vocational applications
  • Professional confidence

  Students graduate with the practical tools and confidence to take their next step.

• Year 12 Graduation:
  Our students are formally recognised at Parliament House in Canberra, followed by a celebratory experience. This milestone:

  • Honours achievement
  • Reinforces pride and accomplishment
  • Marks the beginning of their alumni journey

The Camps and Activities Program is integrated into our holistic support model, which surrounds students with opportunities beyond academics. The program is designed to:

• Help students adjust to boarding school life
• Build leadership, teamwork, self-confidence, and social skills
• Promote cultural connection and peer networks
• Support planning for post-school pathways (education, work)

This program works alongside Yalari's broader support model — including the Thrive Wellbeing Program and Aspire Academic Program — helping Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander scholars thrive academically, socially, and emotionally throughout their secondary education.