‘Back Creek’ Scotsburn

In the mid 1990’s Christian College was expanding in enrolments. The need to develop character and leadership and an understanding of the rural lifestyle in Year 9 led to the concept of a residential experience on a farm.

With a lease and later purchase of a 400 acre working dairy farm at Scotsburn, near Ballarat, the concept became reality as 8 student accommodation units, a large kitchen, dining room, lounge and classroom were built, overlooking the dam and "framed" by the adjacent natural bushland.

Dedicated teachers took up the challenge to combine school work with farm work as well as being available day and night for the students. Farm managers and farm workers were also prepared to allow the students to work alongside them to grasp the skills and demands of working a farm, regardless of the weather.

The ‘Back Creek’ experience has enabled many students to master new skills and develop interests that continue long after the time at the farm has concluded. Both students and parents have recognized many ways in which the farm experience has developed character and brought a real sense of responsibility, compassion and co-operation – all invaluable in adult life.