Crossroads

Last term year 11 participated in a cross roads program with the aim of developing and enhancing our knowledge regarding health issues, safety, and wellbeing amongst young people. On the first day, we travelled by bus to a go karting facility in Minto. We were divided into groups of 13 and sent to complete four separate activities relating to safe driving practice. A very popular activity amongst the group was the go karting in which we were able to race around a fast track in our own vehicle. Those on their L’s were keen to test their driving skills in a high-performance kart on the track. For the rest of the day we went into a purpose facility which enabled us to experience over steer in the car - also known as drifting. Most of us found it challenging and it created opportunities for many laughs. For the remainder of the day we worked on road safety – watching a useful car handling video with trivia questions at the end to test our knowledge. In the next station, we worked in small teams attempting to build plastic cup pyramids, and draw a picture by holding a pen attached to 5 separate pieces of string. This encouraged us to communicate, co-operate and use problem solving skills to successfully complete the activity. The final station consisted of fundamental car maintenance - where some of us were put to the test of changing a tyre and identifying certain car parts. Overall there was an opportunity for bonding, team work, leadership and the chance to take away skills/ develop a better understanding of safe driving and car maintenance.

The second day was hosted primarily by the PDHPE department at school and centred on lifestyle risks for adolescence and how to manage real life situations that teenagers are confronted with. We engaged in a number of interactive activities surrounding the topics of drug use, mental health, sexual education and nutrition which tested our knowledge and skills. The program was relevant to our teenage context as it broadened our understanding of how to respond to complex situations at parties, how to keep ourselves mentally and physically healthy, and it offered the opportunity to develop lifelong healthy habits. At the end of the day, we were treated with a delicious barbecue provided by the teachers.

In turn, the first day off site provided a lot of excitement and group interaction followed by the second day which provided important and timely information for year 11. Our year group were able to take away relevant safe driving skills and knowledge, and enhance our general understanding of health and safe practices for everyday life through activities taught in a collaborative and engaging manner. 

Ashley