Published on: 17 April 2015




Year 6 Christ Church boys, recently on their annual Canberra tour, have been praised for their depth of knowledge and understanding of Australia’s democratic system of Government and the history behind the development of our country. 

One hundred and eighteen Preparatory schoolboys and staff recently spent four days immersing themselves in Australia’s democratic processes, government and law. 

“It was clear the boys were excited about their knowledge of Australia’s parliamentary system and the key sites they visited,” said Maria Hodges, Director of Pastoral Care, Planning and Co-curricular. 

“All the boys engaged in programs and exhibitions with great interest and were regularly commended on their understanding of Australia’s heritage, the values that underpin our democracy and the rights and responsibilities of our citizens.” 

The tour, which supports the ‘Inquiry and Initiative’ Phase of Learning in Years 5 and 6, included visits to Government House, the Australian Institute of Sport, the Australian Royal Mint, the Museum of Australian Democracy, the High Court, Parliament House, the National Film and Sound Archive, the National Gallery and Questacon. 

Additions to the 2015 itinerary included a tour of Cockington Green Gardens, a miniature world of local and international buildings, and a visit to The National Archives, where the boys saw the original Constitution of Australia.

A highlight was having the privilege to participate in the Last Post ceremony at the Australian War Memorial. The Year 6 boys formed a guard of honour while students Leo Brown and Christian Wong laid a wreath to honour those who sacrificed their lives in war.