Outdoor and Environmental Studies students would have been paddling down the Murray River this term, until the latest round of remote learning put their plans on hold.
Instead, teacher Emila Moss has encouraged students to seek adventure closer to home and film their outdoor endeavours.
Year 12 student, Henry John, has a passion for cycling, so it was only natural he would fill his spare moments during remote learning by getting out on two wheels.
“It’s good to utilise my break to go bike riding,” he says. “I’m sitting at a computer screen all day during remote learning, so it’s great to get outdoors.”
On week days, Henry rides a local dirt trail near his home, but on weekends he takes on Mount Alexander, riding to and from Harcourt—a journey of 28 kilometres that’s mostly a steep climb.
“Going outdoors is not just about getting fit, keeping healthy and staying motivated during these challenging times,” he says, “it’s about going on an adventure, experiencing the greatness that Central Victoria has to offer.”
Outdoor and Environmental Studies has taken Henry and his classmates on some great adventures, including hiking in Wilsons Promontory and mountain biking on the trails at Spring Gully. It’s also made them a tight knit group.
“I really miss being on campus and seeing my mates, many that I’ve been with since Year 7,” Henry says. “And I miss being in the workshop in my Woodwork and VET Automotive classes which I’m looking forward to getting back into.”
Beyond Year 12, Henry is hoping to gain employment in the Railway industry, either in a customer service role or as a Track worker.
“I’m considering options such as further Education at railway institutions like Training Ahead Australia in Melbourne,” he says. “But I’m also open to employment opportunities in Bendigo in customer service roles… work that doesn’t involve sitting at a computer all day long like I am during remote learning.”
And in the meantime, there’s sure to be many more outdoor adventures and cycling miles to keep him active.
