‘Back Creek’ Scotsburn

The residential Rural Studies programme is a unique experience for Year 9 students. ‘Back Creek’ is a viable commercial dairy farm of over 400 acres near Ballarat.
Girls and boys go to the farm in separate groups of 20 to 25 students and reside at the Scotsburn Campus for 5 weeks.

The students are actively involved in farm duties – milking cows, rearing calves, feeding poultry, market gardening – as well as hosting farm visits by Kinder and Prep students. Academic studies of English, Mathematics, Environmental Science and Christian Education are applied to real-life situations at ‘Back Creek.’ Small business skills are learnt in the sale of fresh fruit and vegetables that are surplus to the catering requirements at ‘Back Creek’.

During their stay students develop a real sense of responsibility and  the meaning of a good work ethic. They often learn  by experience the importance of co-operation, teamwork, patience and compassion as they resolve difficulties and master the challenges of independent living away from home.  

At the farm the students are housed in groups of 4 in shared motel style accommodation with attached ensuites. They are responsible for cleaning their rooms,  laundry and catering for the group as well as sharing the tasks associated with living in community.

Since its introduction in 1997 over 1000 students have experienced the joys and challenges at the farm – many of whom have noted it as one of the highlights of their educational journey.