Issoudun XVII begins

Our Issoudun program has commenced, with one group enjoying their time together at Hartzer Park in Bowral, NSW and the other two groups here at Bentleigh participating in a range of incursions and excursions as part of the Je Suis and Nous Sommes components of the program. 

Here are some of the highlights from the first two weeks of the program. 

Exploring Canberra's history

Issoudun Hartzer Group 1 spent three days on an educational tour of our National Capital, Canberra. Group 1 was given the opportunity to participate in a variety of educational programs with a focus on their inquiry project question “How does Canberra tell the stories of Australians?”. These are some of their thoughts and reflections.

"I learnt about the architectural design behind Canberra. I liked learning the real history and how Marian Mahoney Griffin was the real designer of Canberra, despite her husband getting all the credit. What I enjoyed the most about Canberra was the stories at the war memorial as it was eye opening." - Amber

"I learnt how the House of Representatives and Senate pass laws. I also enjoyed the War Memorial as I found it really interesting." - Ruby M

"I liked the War Memorial and learning about all the soldiers and the nurses stories from the war. It was very interesting. I also enjoyed the Botanic Gardens, it was so cool to see all the animals at night." - Kate

"I enjoyed the architecture in Parliament House and how lots of the designs had different meanings. The big pillars as you enter Parliament House and colours used represented eucalyptus trees." - Lucy C

"I learned about the structure and function of Parliament, and where it all happens. I enjoyed the War Memorial and placed a poppy on the Wall of Honour. I was looking for my pop’s dad’s name on the roll of honour." - Emily L

"I enjoyed the National Gallery because it was quite interesting. I found Vincent Namatjira’s work very fascinating. I liked how it told the story of his grandfather Albert Namatjira and other aboriginal Australians. My favourite place was probably the botanical gardens as I love being around nature." - Emily G

"I enjoyed the War Memorial. I enjoyed learning about different soldiers and women who fought in the war, and learning about how aboriginal soldiers fought in the war despite discrimination." - Amelie

The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit the national capital as part of their Civics and Citizenship education. To assist families in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding of $45 per student under the Parliament and Civics Education Rebate program towards those costs. The rebate is paid directly to the school upon completion of the excursion.