29 January 2026
School camp sets Year 9 students up for water safety success
Each year, Lake Joondalup Baptist College’s Year 9 school camp gives students the opportunity to step outside the classroom and develop lifesaving skills they can carry with them long after graduation.
For the seventh year in a row, Royal Life Saving WA trainers joined students in WA’s South West to deliver a water safety and leadership program that challenged students to work together and build confidence around the water. Over four days in November, approximately 130 students took part in sessions at Potters Gorge and Honeymoon Pool near Collie, rotating between locations to experience different waterways and conditions.
While the water was cool, enthusiasm stayed high with everyone keen to get involved and give each activity a go. Trainers Issy Franzoni and Cathie Calleja praised the students for their focus, positive attitude and willingness to work together.
“It's always heart-warming for us to see,” said Cathie, “in just a short session, some students finding strengths in themselves, finding their voice and becoming part of a team."
The program combined land-based learning with hands-on water activities. On land, students learned practical first aid skills, including the 5 B’s, bandaging cuts and creating slings. They also explored how to assess aquatic emergencies by recognising different swimmer types, understanding rescue priorities and making safe decisions without putting themselves at risk.
Once in the water, students applied these concepts through a range of activities designed to build confidence and awareness. Kayaking and paddleboard relays were clear favourites, while rescue tube races, rope throws and tow rescues allowed students to get wet and put their new skills to the test.
Royal Life Saving WA trainer and Lake Joondalup Baptist College’s long-time camp coordinator Sallie Watson said the program continues to have a meaningful impact. “We are giving the students skills to be water confident.”
This water safety education is more important than ever. National research shows the risk of drowning rises sharply for teenagers, increasing 13 times between the ages of 10 and 20 years. More than 40% of 15-year-olds cannot swim 50 metres, and with many teenagers withdrawing from formal swimming lessons these young people are at lifelong increased risk.
Teachers also saw the value of the program, with one staff member saying, “In Australia, water safety is essential, so it’s great to be able to include this as part of our camp.”
By the end of the camp, students had not only learnt new lifesaving skills but had stepped outside their comfort zones to work together as a team in and around the water. By supporting water safety education through high school, Lake Joondalup Baptist College is helping equip students with skills they can bring with them into adulthood.
We thank Lake Joondalup Baptist College for their ongoing partnership with Royal Life Saving WA and their commitment to water safety. This program has been delivered by Royal Life Saving WA as part of the Inland Communities Water Safety Program with the support of the Royal Life Saving Society Australia and the Australian Government.
