Our Study Thinking Extension Programme (STEP) goes beyond traditional academics to give students skills that increase both confidence and independence. Students learn to navigate unpredictability and build capability by understanding that life is not linear.

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Introduced in 1993, STEP’s primary purpose is to develop character, resilience and holistic personal growth through experiential learning.

This ground-breaking initiative three decades ago, has remained a cornerstone of a Mercedes College education. One that is part of a range of activities and pursuits, that help to deliver a grounded and well-rounded education to our students.

It is a compulsory single-semester subject for Year 9 students, and an elective option in Year 10.

Designed to support adolescents through non-academic themes, there is no grading or formal assessment, with impact measured through student reflection.

Student learning practical maintenance skills during applied learning activity
Student swinging across water using a rope during outdoor education activity
Student repairing fabric with needle and thread during practical skills activity
Students learning vehicle maintenance and safety skills beside a training car
Students assembling components during hands-on practical learning session
Students presenting prepared food during hands-on hospitality learning
Students preparing food at workstations during a hospitality training lesson
Students working together to prepare ingredients and build dishes
Student resting inside cave during guided school adventure activity
Students wearing helmets looking through cave tunnel during outdoor education activity
Student racing go-kart during supervised outdoor or recreational learning activity

Hands-on, physically active STEP sessions explore themes including:

  • Human relationships
  • Physical, mental and social wellbeing
  • Service and responsibility
  • Practical life skills
  • Discipline, resilience and psychology

Students learn to navigate unpredictability and build capability by understanding that life is not linear.

They are encouraged to become comfortable, being uncomfortable.

Learning occurs outside of traditional classroom structures, with lessons taking place in locations as varied as kitchens, cars, and caves.

The jewel of the programme is a transformative week-long trek to the Mimili community of the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands, immersing students in Anangu culture and their concept of ‘Ngapartji Ngapartji’ – the two-way giving and care for one another. To learn more click here.

STEP provides opportunities to build independence, resilience and character. We have always focussed on this aspect of learning, as we have recognised that a good education is not just about what happens in the classroom, or the grades you receive. It’s about working with students in ‘real-life’ situations to teach them how to prepare for the unpredictable, and how to navigate life in a relatable and practical way.

Student navigating climbing holds on an indoor rock climbing wall