Year 7 Camps at Roonka

A purpose-built outdoor experience designed to help students step up, connect with others, and thrive

South Australian Premier Peter Malinauskas announced a major initiative focused on increasing access to school camps for students across South Australia.

The initiative supports Year 7 public school students to attend a school camp, recognising the important role outdoor learning experiences play in helping young people build confidence, strengthen friendships and develop resilience during the transition into high school.

At Woodhouse Adventure Park and Roonka River Adventure Park, we have worked with schools across South Australia for decades to deliver meaningful camp experiences that support connection, personal growth and leadership development.

Watch the announcement here.

Why Schools Choose Roonka

For schools seeking a camp experience that offers space, connection and meaningful outdoor learning, Roonka River Adventure Park provides a unique setting on the banks of the Murray River.

Located near Blanchetown in the Riverland, just an hour and 40 minutes from Adelaide,  Roonka offers a safe, immersive environment where students can step away from the everyday, build relationships and grow in confidence through shared experiences in nature.

Drawing on the expertise and proven success of our sister property, Woodhouse Adventure Park, our team understands how to deliver camps that balance wellbeing, challenge and curriculum-aligned outcomes.

Schools choose Roonka because we offer:

  • A unique Murray River setting that encourages connection, reflection and outdoor exploration

  • Curated 2-night / 3-day camp programs designed around key student outcomes

  • Opportunities to build confidence, independence, resilience and teamwork

  • Comfortable group accommodation and camping options within a spacious natural environment

  • Experienced staff supported by the systems and expertise of Woodhouse Adventure Park

  • A safe, well-managed camp environment tailored to school group needs

At Roonka, a school camp is more than just time away from the classroom – it’s an opportunity for students to disconnect from distractions, strengthen friendships and develop the confidence and independence they need to thrive.

The right camp at the right time

Year 7 camps can support very different outcomes depending on when they occur during the school year.

Some schools use camps early in the year to support connection and belonging, while others use them later to build leadership, support wellbeing or celebrate the year’s journey. Understanding these different stages can help schools design a camp experience that delivers the greatest benefit for their students.

Term 1:
Connection & Belonging

At the beginning of the year, camps can help students settle into their new school environment and build strong foundations within their cohort.

Outcomes may include:

  • Building friendships and class cohesion
  • Establishing positive relationships with teachers
  • Creating a sense of belonging within the new school community
  • Supporting the transition from primary to secondary school

Term 2:
Confidence & Capability

By Term 2, many schools look for a camp that encourages students to challenge themselves and grow in confidence.

Outcomes may include:

  • Building personal confidence and resilience
  • Encouraging students to step outside their comfort zone
  • Identifying emerging leaders
  • Strengthening collaboration and problem-solving skills
  • Re-engaging students who may be struggling socially or academically

Term 3:
Reset & Re-engagement

A mid-year camp can provide an opportunity to reset group dynamics and support student wellbeing.

Outcomes may include:

  • Re-energising students after mid-year fatigue
  • Resetting group dynamics where challenges have emerged
  • Strengthening peer support networks
  • Promoting wellbeing and mental resilience
  • Providing space for reflection and perspective outside the classroom

Term 4:
Reflection & Celebration

Later in the year, camps can become an opportunity to celebrate how far the cohort has come.

Outcomes may include:

  • Celebrating the Year 7 journey
  • Reflecting on personal growth and achievements
  • Consolidating friendships before moving into Year 8
  • Finishing the year with a shared positive experience

Why Year 7 Camps Matter

✔ Build friendships and class cohesion

✔ Support the transition into high school

✔ Develop confidence and resilience

✔ Strengthen teamwork and leadership skills

Planning Your Year 7 Camp?
Our team can help you design a camp that supports connection, confidence and wellbeing for your new cohort.

Check availability or start planning today.