Introduction

This booklet will introduce you to the broad range of sporting, cultural and recreational co-curricular activities which Barker offers its Senior School students.

The experience inside the classroom is only one part of a Barker education. Co-curricular activities deepen the school experience for all our students and from the arts to the sporting field, students are encouraged to challenge themselves and uncover their talents. Through co-curricular activities, you are able to develop and expand your existing interests and capabilities and, at the same time experience new and different activities which, you might not otherwise have the opportunity to pursue. It is worth noting that for Senior School students at Barker, participation in Sport is compulsory through to Year 12. Our Secondary School students also take part in compulsory Outdoor Education Camps. At Barker we place a high value on Outdoor Education and on the opportunities that a carefully planned and graded Outdoor Education experience can provide for the personal, spiritual and social development of our students. In this unfamiliar environment, students connect with the natural world while building leadership and teamwork skills. All other co-curricular activities are voluntary, but once a commitment has been made to participate in an activity, you are expected to honour that commitment and fulfil all the requirements of participation and attendance. You should carefully consider the demands on your time that each activity may impose. Remember, too, that some of the most rewarding experiences you can have at school stem from activities that may in fact be quite demanding. In Year 10 and Year 11, especially, you should extend yourself as far as you can, both academically and in your co-curricular program. You will get more out of Barker, the more you are prepared to share in all that Barker has to offer you! We understand that you may feel attracted by more co-curricular activities than you can possibly accommodate in your school week and, inevitably, choices need to be made from time to time. Your Head of House or the Deans of the Senior School can assist you with planning your program to maximise your experience at Barker. Your initial choice should be guided by what you think you will enjoy, as well as by the opportunity to develop new skills and experiences. Allow yourself to be challenged and enjoy the benefits. I hope you find this booklet informative and helpful as you make your choices of cocurricular activities for your Senior School years at Barker. Our prayers and support go with you in the exciting years to come.

Phillip Heath AM Head of Barker College