Brisbane Grammar School’s commitment to holistic education extends well beyond the classroom. Located on the shores of Lake Moogerah, just over an hour southwest of Brisbane, the School’s purpose-built Outdoor Education Centre, Pepperina Hill, provides students with powerful opportunities to develop resilience, teamwork, and a deep respect for the natural world.
Outdoor Education begins in Year 5, with boys progressively building independence, confidence and practical skills each year. Activities such as high ropes courses, rock climbing, kayaking, hiking, and camping are carefully sequenced to support students as they move towards greater autonomy. By Year 10, students are equipped to plan and undertake self-sufficient camping expeditions.
Throughout my years at BGS, the camp has given me a different experience. If you push past the uncontrollable factors, you can see what camp is really about - building resilience, connecting with the land, and taking a break from stressful school life to have fun with your mates. As I look back on my time at Pepperina Hill, I don’t remember the negatives. I only remember the lessons I learnt and the fun I had.
- Milo Pocock (Year 10)
The program is led by a team of specialist Outdoor Education educators who design structured lesson plans focused on developing leadership, problem-solving, collaboration, and community living.
A strong emphasis is placed on environmental stewardship and cultural understanding. Through the generous permission of the Ugarapul people, the Traditional Owners of the land, students are invited to engage with traditional stories and lore that deepen their appreciation of Indigenous culture and Australia’s natural heritage.
Brisbane Grammar School’s Outdoor Education program fosters personal growth, connection, and a lasting respect for Country, shaping well-rounded young men ready to contribute meaningfully to their communities.
The integration of First Nations culture and traditions into the Outdoor Education program helped me appreciate Australia’s history and better understand that way of life overall. The Outdoor Education program provided me with memories I’ll cherish in the future.
- Lachlan Lee (Year 10)
