Newcastle Grammar School (NGS) has held its annual Thrive program, a key initiative designed to support Year 7 students as they transition into Secondary school.
Held at the start of each year, “Thrive” provides students with an engaging and dynamic introduction to the secondary campus and structure, ensuring they feel welcomed, connected, and confident in their new learning environment.
With a focus on fostering friendships, building resilience, and developing essential skills, the program helps Year 7s adapt to new routines, expectations, and challenges. Through a combination of campus tours, orientation tasks, team-building activities and outdoor experiences, students establish strong relationships with their peers and teachers, laying the foundation for a successful year ahead.
A highlight of the Thrive program is the Raw Challenge, a high-energy outdoor obstacle course at Doyalson on the Central Coast. This exciting and unforgettable experience encourages students to push their limits, work collaboratively, and embrace challenges with a positive mindset. The Challenge is designed to develop key life skills such as:
- Self-confidence – encouraging students to believe in their abilities.
- Problem-solving – navigating challenges and overcoming obstacles.
- Balance and coordination – building physical and mental resilience.
- Communication – learning to work effectively as a team.
- Endurance – developing perseverance and determination.
- Teamwork – strengthening connections with classmates.
“The Raw Challenge embodies our commitment to the development of, collaboration skills, confidence and personal growth,” said Chris Ferry, Director of Curriculum & Assessment.
“By stepping outside their comfort zones and tackling obstacles together, students develop a sense of achievement, camaraderie, and a growth mindset that will serve them well throughout their schooling.”
“The RAW Challenge was so much fun, and we had to use teamwork to get each other over all the obstacles and to the end” – Year 7 student
The Thrive program is a key component of Newcastle Grammar School’s mission to provide an outstanding holistic education that not only emphasises academic excellence but also fosters character development, cultivates curious and creative minds and inspires students to become compassionate and responsible global citizens. Through this initiative, the School encourages students to embrace the RISE values of Respect, Integrity, Service, and Excellence—while adapting to the new academic and social environment of Secondary at NGS.
For more information on the outstanding opportunities offered to students at NGS, please click here
