In a remarkable educational initiative, students at the Alpine School in Dinner Plain, Australia, have begun their unique winter experience designed to foster leadership and personal growth. This program, part of the School for Student Leadership, offers 45 students from various government schools across Victoria the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature for approximately nine weeks, all at a fraction of the cost of similar programs.
As snow began to blanket the area, principal Russell Shem and teachers ensured students felt safe and comfortable. “It was scary at first,” reflected Olivia Louwdijk, a 14-year-old from Bass Coast College. “But it was super cool.” For many, this experience marks a pivotal moment in their educational journey.
Celebrating its 25th anniversary, the Alpine School has successfully guided over 720 students each year through lessons in leadership, self-awareness, and community connection. Students at the Alpine campus engage in a variety of activities including snow camping, skiing, and mountain biking, all while being disconnected from social media and phones. This immersive approach encourages them to take on responsibilities such as cooking, cleaning, and laundry.
For some students, like Seth Buckland from Cann River School, this is their first encounter with snow. “It was soft – the snow – it was really cool to stand on,” he said, describing the sensation of sinking into the fresh snow. The program emphasizes experiential learning, which principal Shem believes is essential for the development of 14-year-olds navigating the complexities of adolescence.
The cost of attending the Alpine School is significantly lower than other elite programs, such as Timbertop, which charges $22,125 per term. In contrast, the Alpine School requires parents to pay only $800, making it accessible to a wider range of families. Shem highlighted this affordability, stating, “It’s about an opportunity unlike anything else, but it doesn’t cost them anywhere near what it would [elsewhere].”
Students often report transformative experiences during their time at the school. Mitch Herbert, also 14 and from Orbost Community College, described an unforgettable moment spent in a blizzard: “We were already out there, the option was to hike back or stay the night. It was something everyone wanted to experience.”
The Alpine School’s educational philosophy extends beyond traditional classroom learning. Brendan Pfanner, principal of the School for Student Leadership, explained, “We can do three times the learning they’d get in a normal school each day.” This hands-on approach fosters teamwork and understanding among students from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their social skills and cultural awareness.
Despite the challenges posed by the harsh weather, students thrive in this environment. Ryan Baird from Bass Coast College remarked on the personal growth he experienced: “My parents said on visiting weekends, ‘damn, is this my kid?’ It was really good to hear.” Similarly, Stella Oxner from Castlemaine Secondary College expressed confidence in the program’s impact: “We will all go back as better people.”
As the Alpine School continues to attract interest from students looking for an enriching educational experience, Shem remains dedicated to fostering a supportive and impactful environment. The school’s successful model has prompted discussions about expanding its reach, with Pfanner noting strong demand for additional campuses.
With its unique approach to education and commitment to fostering leadership skills, the Alpine School stands out as a beacon of opportunity for young students in Victoria, paving the way for their future success.
