A $10,000 State Government grant will send Years 5 and 6 students from St Mary’s of the Angels Catholic School at Guyra to Canberra in 2023, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall, left, Parent Representative Amber McFarlane, Teachers Krystle Cox (yellow shirt), Jenna Campbell (blue top), Basil the wellbeing dog, Zoe Nugent (black jumper), and students.
Wednesday, 8 June 2022
YEARS 5 and 6 students from St Mary’s of the Angels Catholic School at Guyra will be treated to the trip-of-a-lifetime when they visit nation’s capital next year, with Northern Tablelands MP Adam Marshall today announcing a $10,000 State Government grant to ensure the entire cohort attends the excursion, after a difficult four-year period.
Mr Marshall said it was important for democracy that all school children were given the opportunity to tour Parliament House and sites important to our national identity like the Australian War Memorial.
“When asked what we remember about our time at primary school, for me it was the Year 6 excursion to Canberra,” Mr Marshall said.
“Unfortunately, due to the drought, bushfires and COVID-19 restrictions this rite of passage has been denied to many of our local primary school leaders.
“To remove any financial barriers which may limit student attendance on next year’s excursion, St Mary’s will use this grant to subsidise the cost of transport, accommodation and experiences throughout the week.
“For many children their school trip may be the only time they ever visit Canberra and I’m pleased the State Government has been able to help give the children of Guyra this important life experience.”
St Mary’s of the Angels P&C President Amber McFarlane said the trip would have a particular focus on building student’s resilience, relationships, and communication skills.
“As parents, we are excited about what next year’s trip to Canberra will mean for the social and emotional development of our children,” Mrs McFarlane said.
“The last four years of drought, bushfires and COVID-19 have meant that many children in Guyra have not had an opportunity to travel and experience life outside of their local area
“Alongside visiting the iconic sites, students will participate in a range of workshops aimed at developing their confidence, public speaking skills, social wellbeing and personal relationships.
“This positive change of scenery will be beneficial to our pupils who have missed out on much throughout their schooling. We thank Adam and the State Government for making the trip affordable so that nobody misses out.”