Journeys of Discovery

The Guildford Horizons USA tour has come to an inspiring close after two unforgettable weeks of learning and adventure. Led by Mr Guest and Miss Duncan, students were welcomed by host families at St Paul’s School in Maryland and immersed themselves in American school life, culture and sport.

During their stay, students joined assemblies, attended classes, trained with teams and spent weekends living as part of their host families. They experienced the rhythm of U.S. life and discovered what makes the St Paul’s community so distinctive.

“The energy and inclusivity of St Paul’s was remarkable,” said Mr Guest. “Our students were mentioned by name and welcomed in straight away. It’s an experience that connects so strongly with what we value at Guildford Grammar.”

The final leg of the trip took the group to New York City, where they explored the 9/11 Memorial, walked across the Brooklyn Bridge and took in the skyline from the Top of the Rock. They celebrated a student’s 16th birthday in Times Square, wandered through Central Park and enjoyed the buzz of a city that never slows down.

Each day revealed something new — culture, history, independence — and gave students a lasting sense of connection to the world around them.

The 2025 Guildford Horizons Canberra Tour brought together a week of learning, discovery and creativity for our Year 6 students and staff. The program offered a rich mix of experiences, from Parliament House and the Australian War Memorial to Questacon, the Royal Australian Mint and the Canberra Glassworks.

Learning Through Experience

Students explored how laws are made and decisions are shaped during a guided session at Parliament House, followed by a special meeting with The Hon Madeleine King MP, Minister for Resources, who shared her insights on leadership and public service.

Visits to the High Court, Government House and the Museum of Australian Democracy deepened their understanding of civic life, while the School Wreath Laying Ceremony at the Australian War Memorial provided a moment of reflection and gratitude for those who served.

The tour balanced learning with creativity and connection — cycling around Lake Burley Griffin, exploring the Mr Squiggle and Friends exhibition and designing glass artworks at the Canberra Glassworks. Students returned home with new knowledge, lasting friendships and a deeper appreciation for Australia’s history and democracy.

The 2025 Guildford Horizons Kokoda expedition closed out the holiday program with a powerful journey of resilience and remembrance. Students and staff trekked more than 96 kilometres through the Owen Stanley Ranges in Papua New Guinea, following in the footsteps of Australian soldiers who displayed courage, mateship, endurance and sacrifice — the same values that underpin Guildford Grit.

Over nine demanding days, the group crossed steep ridges, dense jungle and fast-flowing rivers under tropical heat and humidity. Each step demanded perseverance and teamwork, echoing the hardships faced by those who fought there in 1942 under the leadership of Brigadier Arnold Potts, a distinguished Old Guildfordian.

Mr Zaurs said the journey was “a powerful opportunity for deep, rich learning” and praised the leadership and strength shown by Mr Peter Allen and staff and students throughout the expedition.

Mr Allen reflected on “the privilege of trekking with 18 wonderful students and two amazing staff”, describing them as “incredible ambassadors of Guildford Grammar School.”

The trek tested every participant physically and mentally, leaving each with a renewed sense of gratitude, pride and purpose — a true expression of Guildford Grit.