Beyond the Classroom: The Lasting Value of Educational Experiences – A Junior School Perspective
When reflecting on the opportunities provided to our Junior School students this term, it’s worth considering the many experiences that extend beyond the classroom and the student’s desk.
At The McDonald College, we believe that learning is not confined to four walls. Participation in excursions, workshops, and cultural experiences offers students the chance to connect theory to practice, develop critical thinking, and create memories that last a lifetime.
Educational research consistently shows that hands-on, experiential learning leads to deeper understanding and greater engagement. A 2024 systematic review in the IOSR Journal of Research & Method in Education found that hands-on activities improve academic performance, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. A 2021 Harvard study also demonstrated that students learn more effectively when they actively participate in their learning, rather than passively receive information.
Already this year, our students have had the privilege of visiting some of Australia’s most significant institutions. At Questacon in Canberra, our Year 5 and Year 6 students explored over 200 interactive exhibits, sparking curiosity and a passion for science and technology. The Australian War Memorial offered a powerful, reflective experience, helping students understand Australia’s history and the sacrifices made for our nation. Guided tours and hands-on programs brought history to life, fostering empathy and national pride. At Parliament House, students stepped into the heart of Australian democracy, participating in role-plays and guided tours that deepened their understanding of civics and citizenship.
Learning outside the classroom also means engaging with the arts and literature. Excursions to the Sydney Opera House allowed students to experience world-class performances and workshops, igniting creativity and broadening cultural horizons. Participation in the Sydney Writers’ Festival connected students with celebrated authors and illustrators, inspiring a love of reading and storytelling. Leadership workshops and music performances further enriched our students’ educational journeys.
We are deeply grateful to our parents and carers who support and endorse these learning opportunities. Research from UNESCO and the Annie E. Casey Foundation highlights that parental involvement is a key factor in student success. Family discussions during travel—whether by car, public transport, or even overseas—help children understand distance, time, and the connections between places. Parents who encourage visits to museums, galleries, and learning centres demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning and set a powerful example for their children.
Many adults recall their most significant school excursions as formative experiences: standing in silence at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, witnessing the vastness of the Snowy Mountains Scheme, or hearing the Sydney Symphony at the Opera House. These moments embed knowledge and empathy in ways that classroom lessons alone cannot.
There are times when families must weigh up the value of missing a training session or after-hours class in favour of an experience that allows students to engage with topics and concepts in a new, tangible way—seeing and feeling what they’ve studied come to life.
We encourage every student and family to embrace the learning opportunities offered beyond the classroom. These experiences foster curiosity, resilience, and a sense of connection to our community and nation. By participating fully, students not only enhance their academic achievement but also gain the confidence and perspective to thrive in a complex world.
Peter Slattery
Director of Junior School
