Outstanding Outdoor Adventures

St Mark's Anglican Community School's Outdoor Adventure Studies team is set to make waves at the 2024 National Outdoor Education Conference (NOEC) from December 4-6 at Federation University Australia's Gippsland Campus. This year's event marks another milestone in the school's impressive track record of outdoor education excellence.

Two standout staff members are in the spotlight for their exceptional contributions:

• Nick Irwin, Head of Outdoor Education, is a finalist for the OEA Practitioner of the Year award. This nomination adds to his already impressive resume, which includes leading St Mark's to win the 2020 Outdoors WA Innovative Program of the Year Award.
• Will Brock is a finalist for the OEA Emerging Practitioner of the Year, recognizing his significant impact as a rising star in outdoor education.

In a notable change this year, all nominees for the Program of the Year Award have received an Exemplary Outdoor Education Program Award. St Mark's Adventure Studies Program proudly joins this elite group, further cementing its reputation for excellence.

This latest accolade builds upon St Mark's history of recognition in the field:

• Finalist in the 2021 Outdoor Education Australia Program of the Year
• Finalist in the 2020 Outdoors WA Outstanding Contribution to Outdoor Learning Award
• Top spot in the Innovative Program Award category at the Western Australian Outdoor Recreation Awards

St Mark's Outdoor Education program, which runs from Years 6 to 12, has consistently stood out for its innovative approach. The program integrates cross-curricular learning opportunities, including collaborations with Design & Technology, Home Economics, Science, and Humanities departments.

As Nick Irwin and Will Brock prepare to represent St Mark's at NOEC 2024, their dedication and passion for outdoor education continue to inspire both students and colleagues. Their efforts, along with the entire Outdoor Adventure Studies team, have played a crucial role in establishing St Mark's as a leader in outdoor education.

We wish Nick and Will the very best as they showcase St Mark's commitment to excellence in outdoor education on this national stage.