Reflections in Australia

I learned so much about wildlife and conservation while snorkeling in the Great Barrier Reef. It was incredible to spend time learning about the biodiversity and having fun with my peers from school. My favorite part was snorkeling off a pontoon on the Great Barrier Reef and seeing giant clams and turtles. It was an experience I'll remember for the rest of my life.

— Megan '25

As part of this year’s Global Programs offerings, a group of 11th and 12th grade students spent ten days exploring two distinct regions of Australia: Melbourne and Cairns. The trip combined hands-on learning, cultural exploration, and opportunities to engage with Australia’s unique environment.

The group began their journey in Melbourne, where they explored the city, spent a day working on a local farm, and visited Phillip Island to observe the famous Little Penguins and learn about local conservation efforts. Before leaving Victoria, they also rode the Puffing Billy Railway, the world’s oldest surviving steam locomotive, through the scenic Dandenong Ranges.

The second half of the trip took place in Cairns, on Australia’s northern coast. Highlights there included snorkeling at the Great Barrier Reef—an up-close look at one of the world’s most diverse marine ecosystems—and taking the SkyRail through the rainforest to the town of Kuranda.

This Global Programs experience gave students the chance to see two very different sides of Australia and to learn through travel, connection, and exploration.

After spending two weeks in Australia and learning about sustainable agriculture, the importance of protecting biodiversity, and the history and traditions of the aboriginal peoples, I am excited to return to PRS with the knowledge I have gained, and tell my friends all about the crocodiles we saw fight in their natural habitat, which had to be my favorite part.

—Luca '26