It was an event catered especially for the students for the sole purpose of learning the value of respect from men who demonstrate respect.  

It was a practical day where small groups of upper primary aged boys were able to learn a range of skills that gave them not only an understanding of what respect means but the tools and ability to exercise it.

Acting Glen Innes Public School (GIPS) principal Judi Toms said the day was enjoyed by students from GIPS, as well as Red Range Public School and Emmaville Central School senior boys.

“It was extremely well received by the boys but also by the community members,” she said.

“It was a different approach for our senior boys,

“The message was respect for ourselves and for others.”

“As a community of schools it also assists with the transition to high school.”

The schools were extremely fortunate to have local people who were only too willing to put aside their busy schedules to help out. 

These included Rick and Sophia Ott, who taught the boys fire safety, and Scott Keelan, who bought along a smoke house and explained home fire safety.

Ken Barker worked with the boys to teach team building and communication through various physical activities.

Andrew and Casey McIntyre brought along working dogs, which demonstrated how showing respect to animals teaches them to respect their owners and how respecting others also helps us learn to respect ourselves.

Rick Hutchinson also explained respect with the help of his horse Merlot. In his session, Rick taught the that mistakes are all part of the learning process.

Paul Brumby showed the boys the Djembe drums, which originate from West Africa.

The field trip offered a different approach to learning through showing musical appreciation, emotional and social literacy.

The schools enjoyed a day packed with education and physical activities with an endless supply of fruit.

A sausage sizzle was held for lunch donated by Woolworths, Glen Innes.