Trek
A pivotal moment
An immersive Year 9 experience
Trek is Korowa’s signature outdoor education experience, undertaken by students in Year 9. Over four immersive weeks, students journey through Australia’s natural landscapes by foot, bike and raft, stepping away from everyday routines to develop independence, resilience, teamwork and self-belief.
Trek is deliberately designed as a pivotal moment in a Korowa education, a time for students to challenge themselves, connect deeply with others and discover new strengths, supported throughout by experienced Korowa staff.
The Trek Experience
A journey of challenge, connection and growth
True stories
In 2024, Korowa celebrated 30 years of Trek. We invited Korovians from the past three decades to talk to current students, and reminisce on what this experience meant to them.
The impact Trek had on me...
... was absolutely profound. I went in thinking I knew stuff about life. I left with a new-found appreciation of how much I didn't know and how much I still could and would grow.
The impact Trek had on me...
Trek is an experience I will never forget. It changed me to my core and I am forever grateful for the program and the friendships I made.
The impact Trek had on me...
After languishing in lockdown for two years, my mental health and belief in myself was at an all-time low. Trek helped me successfully regain confidence in my abilities and ever since I've remembered that being myself is strong.
The impact Trek had on me...
Made me realise no mountain I hike, river I cross or challenge I face will ever be 'too hard'. It taught me courage, bravery and resilience, that I carry with me every single day.
The impact Trek had on me...
I never thought of myself as an 'outdoors' or 'fit' person until I went on trek. It changed the way I thought about myself for the better.
The impact Trek had on me...
The group that I was put into were not all close friends at the start. However by the end we were inseparable. My closest friends to this day are those from that group.
The impact Trek had on me...
Trek was the best experience that I have ever had. It had many impacts on me as a person but the main one would be that I am way more resilient and know I can achieve anything.
The impact Trek had on me...
It made me realise that I am stronger than I think, that I have to test my limits in order to succeed.
The impact Trek had on me...
...was I found a family away from home.
The impact Trek had on me...
Was to keep getting outdoors and enjoy nature. I didn't know how big this part of me was and how much I needed it in my life! Thanks to Trek.
The impact Trek had on me...
Experiencing the solo camping time was an amazing experience. I realised I had such strength, resilience and could survive in the bush on my own. I felt like I could take on anything!
Thoughtfully Designed
A turning point
For many students, Trek becomes a turning point, a time when they discover what they are capable of, form lasting connections and return with a deeper sense of confidence and perspective.
With more than 30 years of experience delivering Trek, Korowa continues to offer this program as a thoughtfully designed, well-supported and deeply meaningful part of the Year 9 journey.
What
What is Trek?
Trek is a structured, point-to-point journey undertaken in small groups. Across the four weeks, students progressively build skills in navigation, self-management and collaboration, supported by clear routines and expectations.
Students travel through varied environments and conditions, learning to adapt, problem-solve and support one another. Time is intentionally set aside for reflection, helping students make sense of their experiences and recognise their personal growth.
why
Why Trek?
At Korowa, learning is not confined to classrooms. Trek exists to give students the opportunity to learn through experience — to take responsibility, navigate challenge, and reflect on who they are becoming.
Through shared effort and time spent in nature, students develop confidence, perspective and a stronger sense of self. These qualities are difficult to teach through timetables alone, but they shape how students approach learning, relationships and leadership long after Trek is complete.
Benefits
What students gain
Students often return from Trek with a renewed sense of confidence and capability. The experience supports the development of:
- Resilience and adaptability
- Teamwork and leadership
- Self-confidence and independence
- Problem-solving and decision-making
- Empathy, perspective and connection to others
These skills continue to influence students throughout Senior School, strengthening their approach to learning, relationships and future challenges.
Preparation
Preparation, care & support
Trek is carefully prepared and supported. Students undertake preparation ahead of the journey, and throughout the experience they are guided by experienced Korowa staff who know them well.
Clear structures, routines and expectations are in place, alongside ongoing attention to student wellbeing. Support, reflection and encouragement are embedded throughout the journey, ensuring students feel challenged but never unsupported.
Choices
Is Trek right for every student?
Trek is a significant experience, and Korowa recognises that every student is different. While many students embrace the challenge of Trek, the School also offers Quest, an alternative immersive Year 9 program designed to meet different interests and needs.
Families are supported to make the choice that is right for their daughter, with care, understanding and respect for individual readiness and wellbeing.
Frequently asked questions
Why run a month-long immersive program in Year 9?
Year 9 is a pivotal stage of development, when students benefit enormously from experiences that build independence, perspective and self-belief. Trek is intentionally placed at this point to help students step beyond routine, take responsibility and develop confidence that supports their learning and wellbeing in the senior years.
How are students prepared for Trek?
Preparation is an important part of the experience. Students are guided through physical, practical and emotional preparation ahead of Trek, so they understand expectations, routines and how to work together as a group. This preparation helps students feel ready, supported and confident before the journey begins.
How is student wellbeing supported during Trek?
Student wellbeing is a priority throughout Trek. The program is led by experienced Korowa staff who know the students well, and clear structures, routines and expectations are in place. Time for reflection, rest and support is built into the experience, ensuring students feel challenged while always being cared for.
Is Trek compulsory for all Year 9 students?
Trek is one of Korowa’s immersive Year 9 experiences, but it is not the only option. Korowa also offers Quest, an alternative immersive program designed to meet different interests and needs. Families are supported to choose the experience that is the best fit for their daughter.
How does Trek benefit students after they return?
Students often return from Trek with increased confidence, resilience and a stronger sense of independence. These qualities positively influence how they approach learning, relationships and leadership in the senior years, helping them navigate future challenges with greater self-belief.
Book a tour to learn more about TREK at Korowa and discover how Year 9 students are supported to build confidence, resilience and independence.
