During these first few weeks at school, Horizon has been a chance for us to explore learning in a different way than inside the classroom. Instead of focusing on our core subjects, we have been learning about financial literacy, researching skills, planning our future pathways and more. Developing knowledge on interest and opening our own (fake) bank accounts has given us insight into future responsibilities, while also helping us gain skills in saving and managing money. Throughout Horizon we have also been given the opportunity to explore future jobs that interest us and explore what paths will take us there. This has encouraged the class to start thinking seriously about our future.
Every Thursday, the Horizon students step away from regular classroom learning to build independence, strengthen connections and develop resilience through our Trail Days. In the first few weeks of term, we visited Heidelberg’s main street to help prepare us for our upcoming City Experience. This gave us the opportunity to practise navigating public spaces and working together as a group. Soon after, we headed into the city for the first time, travelling by train to Melbourne Central. From there, we walked to RMIT University to gain insight into what our future pathways might look like. We took part in an engaging activity that led us across to explore the campus, and everyone embraced the challenge.
The following Thursday, we returned to the city, this time splitting into classes. 9A got off the train at Flagstaff to tour the Magistrates' Court of Victoria. In small groups, we explored the court and learned more about how the justice system operates. Afterwards, 9A visited The Big Issue, where we completed a task that challenged us to think about social issues beyond our own experiences. Meanwhile, 9B continued on to the Old Melbourne Gaol for a guided tour, learning about its history and the stories connected to it. Both groups later reunited at Melbourne Central to enjoy lunch together and share what we had discovered. Each Trail Day has helped us grow in confidence, awareness and independence, preparing us for even bigger experiences ahead.
By Kuzi M (9A) and Vivienne G (9A)
