One of the most meaningful outcomes of our mobile phone policy in the Middle School is the way it gives students the freedom to simply play. With screens out of the picture, something essential begins to return. The school grounds come alive with energy, students playing sport, chasing one another, inventing games, sharing stories and laughing without hesitation. Whether they’re joining CRASH, the Environment Club, SRC or catching up with friends in the shade of the trees, one thing is clear: our students are reclaiming something precious. In a world that often rushes them to grow up, they are experiencing what childhood is meant to be – joyful, social and spontaneous.
This culture of play has been further energised by Mr John Kosch, Head of Middle School Steele, who recently launched the Middle School Lunchtime League. Each Wednesday, the campus buzzes with energy as students gather for friendly, spirited competition. Last week’s girls’ 3-on-3 basketball tournament was a perfect example. Not only did it showcase the players’ skills, but it also drew an enthusiastic crowd of supporters, creating a vibrant sense of community centred on fun and connection. These playful moments aren’t a break from learning, they are a meaningful and essential part of it.
In 'The Anxious Generation', author Jonathan Haidt reminds us: ‘When children lose free play and spend more time online, they miss out on key developmental experiences. They grow up more anxious, more fragile, and less connected.’
This belief was powerfully reinforced during our recent trip to Robinson River, a remote Aboriginal community more than 1100 kilometres southeast of Darwin. After three days on the road, 24 (extremely lucky) Year 9 students stepped off the bus – dusty, weary, but ready for connection. Within moments, they were laughing, running and playing with the local children. Cultural and social differences faded into the background. Play became the common ground, no need for words, just movement, joy and shared experience. It reminded us that play is truly universal.
Over the course of five unforgettable days, friendships flourished through play, sport, river adventures, storytelling and creativity. The river became more than just a place to cool off, it was a shared space for connection and discovery. Students skimmed stones, waded through the shallows, explored the bush and laughed together, learning from one another in every moment. At Mount Lubba Lubba, a site rich in cultural meaning, the ‘Rob Mob’ took the lead, guiding our Carey students with pride, care and an open-hearted generosity that left a lasting impression.
As First Nations educator Tyson Yunkaporta reminds us, ‘Knowledge is not just stored in our heads; it’s stored in our land, our relationships, our stories and our play.’
Even during the quieter times, play carried on, whether on the swings, in the playground, or out on the oval. When it came time to say goodbye, tears were shared, hugs embraced and heartfelt farewells exchanged by all. At Carey, we recognise that play is much more than just fun; it is the foundation where confidence grows and wellbeing is fostered. Ensuring there is always space for play in our students’ lives is something we must continue to prioritise.
Harry Dendle
Deputy Head of Middle School – Student Wellbeing
