Latest News

The XP Program offers students in Years 5 to 9 an exciting opportunity to explore, create, and collaborate like never before. This dynamic initiative is designed to foster cross-cohort connections, boost student engagement, and provide unique, school-developed electives that align with student interests and passions.

With a variety of activities on offer, students have eagerly embraced opportunities ranging from Rural Fire Service Cadets and Computer-Aided Design (CAD) to Pilates and the School Musical.

Just seven weeks in, there XP Program is already sparking curiousity, igniting new interests, and opening doors to new skills and friendships.

XP Facilitator, Mrs Laura Yeo, describes the program as an opportunity for students to discover new passions and skills in an engaging environment. “The XP Program is all about exploration, experimentation, and experience. Students are loving the chance to choose activities that excite them, making Monday afternoons a highlight of the school week.”

“Seven weeks in, and we’re already seeing the XP Program ignite passion and purpose in our students. It’s incredible to witness young minds opening up to new skills, fresh ideas, and possibilities they hadn’t considered before,” says Mrs Yeo.

Deputy Principal, Mrs Kelli Cato, shares her enthusiasm for the Program’s impact. “Calrossy is committed to providing enriching learning experiences that go beyond the classroom. The XP Program allows students to develop confidence, creativity, and a sense of belonging while exploring new skills and interests.”

What exactly is XP?

The XP Program stands for:

- eXPlore new knowledge

- eXPeriment with new skills

- Have new shared eXPeriences

- eXPand career options

- eXPress creativity and individuality

- Showcase newfound eXPertise.

By offering this broad selection of activities, students are encouraged to step outside their comfort zones, challenge themselves, and connect with peers across different year levels.

The XP Program was introduced to:

- Boost student engagement with learning

- Foster cross-cohort collaboration in the Middle Years (5-9)

- Empower students to pursue strengths and interests through choice

- Expand over time to involve more year groups and longer activity sessions

- Develop well-rounded individuals with skills for lifelong learning and personal growth.

What Are Students Doing This Term?

Here are just some of the XP Program activities currently running:

Sheep Team

Board and Card Games

Crash Course CAD

Colouring, Conversation and Community

Ceramics

Cattle Team

Fitness Pilates and Gym

On the Farm

Middle School Dance Ensemble

Calrossy Musical 2025

Outdoor Recreation

RFS Cadets

Robotics Club and Competition

Run Club

Stitch Masters

Multi-Sports

Swim Safety and Lifesaving

Creative Writing

XP Program Success at Tamworth Show

The XP Program is already producing incredible results, with students excelling at the recent Tamworth Show Junior Judging Competition. Thanks to expert-led training sessions on campus, where professionals taught students the art of judging meat sheep, fleeces, beef cattle, and dairy cattle, our students entered the competition with confidence and skill. Competing against over 200 students, Calrossy proudly secured 9 out of the 20 ribbons awarded, an outstanding achievement that reflects the depth of learning and preparation made possible through XP.

In individual categories, Annabelle Smith claimed 1st place in fleece judging, followed by Sophia Leedham (2nd), Amelia Mitchell (3rd), and Alexander Arndell (4th). Darcy Hall (2nd) and Nikita Crane (3rd) impressed in meat sheep judging, while Claudia Rutter (3rd) and Harvey Mayo (4th) placed in dairy judging. Ava Stevens rounded out the success with a 5th place finish in beef judging.

Calrossy also dominated the team competition, where junior judges had to present and justify their decisions on the day. The winning team, comprised of Angela Emery, Amy Gamble, Nelly Tink, and Dusty Cross, showcased their knowledge and confidence to secure first place.

Head of TAS, Barton Leach, highlights the XP Program’s impact on student success: “The incredible results achieved at the Tamworth Show reflect the depth of experience our students gain through XP. Having regular hands-on training at the farm has given them a level of confidence and expertise that truly sets them apart.”

Student Voice Shapes the XP Experience

Student preferences play a key role in shaping the XP Program. Participants select their top activity choices, ensuring the program remains student-driven. The school then structures the timetable to best accommodate demand, with some activities running for specific terms and others continuing throughout the year.

The students and parents agree.

“The XP outdoor program, PASS AND PDHPE pracs this year are really helping to engage our energetic and athletic loving son. Thank you so much for bringing joy to his day,” Year 9 parent.

“I love ceramics so much I want to do it all year” Tayla, Year 8

“Mondays are the best day ever, its RFS day” Sam, Year 8

As the Program continues to evolve, Calrossy is excited about the potential to expand XP to more year levels and extend session times, further enriching the student experience.

Calrossy’s XP Program exemplifies the school’s commitment to innovative, engaging, and holistic education. “XP is about more than just activities,” says Mrs. Cato. “It’s about enriching lives, fostering purpose, and helping students grow into confident, capable individuals ready to contribute to their communities.”

With students embracing this new journey of discovery and growth, the XP Program is set to become a defining feature of the Calrossy experience.

Stay tuned for more student stories and reflections as the XP adventure unfolds, including a look at our XP+ Program for Senior students.