In September, twenty students from Arcadia Public School embarked on a memorable three-day, two-night history camp in Sydney. Over the course of the trip, the students immersed themselves in a variety of historical experiences that brought the city’s past to life.
Our first stop was the remarkable Hyde Park Barracks, located opposite Hyde Park. The students were captivated by the fascinating stories shared by our guide. A standout moment for many was the opportunity to climb into the hammocks—replicas of the beds used by convicts who once lived there. The discovery that some artefacts had been found in rats’ nests sparked lively curiosity among the group.
Next, the students visited the Police and Justice Museum, where they learned about the infamous bushrangers of New South Wales and even participated in a historical trial, deepening their understanding of law and order in colonial Australia. At the Botanic Gardens, they explored the site of NSW’s first farm and gained insight into how Aboriginal people utilised the natural resources along the banks of what is now Sydney Harbour.
A photo stop at the iconic Sydney Opera House allowed everyone to capture a classic view of the city. The students then delved into archaeology at The Big Dig, uncovering foundations and artefacts from this significant site. A walking tour of The Rocks further enriched their knowledge of Sydney’s early history, with its cobblestone streets steeped in stories from the past.
Crossing the Sydney Harbour Bridge offered a breathtaking new perspective of the stunning cityscape. The final highlight of the trip was a walking tour through Chinatown, including a visit to the Chinese Gardens of Friendship. Here, the students learned about Chinese culture and experienced a vibrant side of Sydney often overlooked.
Both students and teachers thoroughly enjoyed playing the role of tourists in their own city, witnessing firsthand the rich tapestry of Aboriginal and British history that shapes Sydney today. The teachers were immensely proud of the students’ engagement, curiosity, and the kindness they showed throughout the journey.
Looking ahead, the students are already excited about their next adventure—a trip to Canberra planned for 2026. Arcadia Public School is currently accepting enrolments for Term 4 and 2026.
Prospective families are warmly invited to contact the school for more information; phone 9653-1207.
PROUD PRINCIPAL OF ARCADIA PUBLIC SCHOOL BELINDA REEDMAN
