An experience to remember

In July, seven intrepid Year 10 students from Newhaven College travelled to Sri Lanka with Infuse Travel, accompanied by College teacher David Prideaux, for an unforgettable two-week experience.

A highlight of the trip was the opportunity to contribute to a local community. Students travelled to a small village where they worked alongside local people to help build the foundations of a family home.

Despite the heat and challenging conditions, they worked together to dig foundations and structural holes.

The College said completing the project and meeting the family they had helped was a deeply rewarding experience, giving students a greater appreciation of the opportunities and resources they have at home.

The trip also provided a range of cultural and outdoor experiences. Students explored fishing villages, lagoons, markets, temples and historic sites, while experiencing traditional food and local customs. Adventure activities included hiking in the mountains, white-water rafting, visiting the famous Nine Arch Bridge and exploring the coast.

Wildlife encounters were another highlight. During a safari, students saw elephants, crocodiles, water buffalo, deer and many other species.

They also visited an elephant transit home and a turtle conservation centre, where they witnessed newly hatched turtles making their way towards the ocean.

Other experiences included beach clean-ups, cooking classes, fabric dyeing, kite-making and playing cricket with local children.

Students also enjoyed cultural performances, local markets, karaoke, games and plenty of laughter along the way.

For Mackenzie Marr, Georgie Sanders, Emma Sorensen, Stephen Spencer, Jayden Stephenson, Bede Prideaux and Alayna Williams, the Sri Lanka Service Trip created lasting memories.

Mackenzie Marr's comments say it all: "As we returned home, we reflected on the friendships we had strengthened, the resilience we had developed and the appreciation we had gained for a different culture and way of life. Our Sri Lankan adventure with Infuse was an experience we will never forget, leaving us with lifelong memories, valuable lessons and a greater understanding of the world around us."

The annual service trip is just one of the incredible extra-curricular offerings at Newhaven College.

To learn more, the next College Tour is on Wednesday October 14 at 9.30am and the annual Open Day will be held on Saturday March 13, 2027.

Register via the College website, and contact Admissions for any further enquiries admissions@newhavencol.vic.edu.au