The Making of Men – Year 9 Program
The Making of Men program for all Year 9 students, is a year-long program that brings the boys together at a time when they are experiencing significant adolescent development, and ready to explore the range of new and exciting possibilities that life presents.
Over the course of the year, the program aligns the concepts and narratives explored in the School’s Health and Wellbeing (HW) curriculum, the Outdoor Education program at Kooringal (near Dwellingup) and the three week live-in experience.
The program involves the whole community (including parents and significant role models) ensuring the young men develop a strong sense of identity and belonging. Led by Chris Miles, Head of Year 9 On Queenslea Drive Program plus a talented team of educators, The Making of Men complements the existing holistic framework of Christ Church and its focus on building the inner man.
On Queenslea Drive Program (live-in experience)
The live-in experience, known as On Queenslea Drive (OQD) is conducted on campus to ensure there is no interruption to the academic program for the boys who attend classes during the school day. Before and after school, boys participate in sessions that introduce and develop life skills, explore spirituality and values, and where leadership and character begin to surface.
Over the three weeks, these themes are explored in different formats to engage different learning styles and to keep the program dynamic. Formats include circle discussions, movies, activities with female students, and meeting with Alumni and guest speakers.
While participating in the OQD experience, participants sleep in a purpose-built facility containing a reception space, bunk beds, lockers, showers and toilets, laundry and drying area, as well as accommodation for the program coordinator.
There are many advantages to having the boys live on campus. Individually and collectively they will:
- find a safe space to explore the concepts of the program and develop a strong sense of identity
- have an opportunity to talk about ideas and concepts not typically accessed in a classroom
- develop an understanding that they can act independently and be empowered in their decision making
- develop strong, healthy relationships
- have an opportunity to learn with their peers, and develop a special bond with their House group
- dedicate more time to key aspects of the program (no travel at the beginning and end of the day)
- experience eating, sleeping and working with a group to create a sense of community
- undergo skill and emotional development in the areas of consideration, compromise and care – related to developing empathy and stronger communication skills
- dedicate time to teamwork, developing skills that will assist them in working with others and understanding how groups function productively
- explore concepts and learn at a deeper level that we equate with understanding
