Snorkelling, kayaking and beach cricket were just some of the team-building activities residential staff at The University of Queensland’s Gatton Campus took part in during a six-day training program.
More than 200 new students are moving into accommodation on the Gatton Campus in time for Orientation Week (February 18-22).
The staff-training program, which took place from 10-15 February, aimed to ensure UQ Gatton Halls of Residence Residential Staff Team was trained to handle campus life.
UQ Gatton student David Innes will start his second year as one of 28 residential staff.
“Staff training at Straddie was useful and enjoyable,” Mr Innes said.
“We had beautiful weather with warm sunny days at the beach and we did some snorkeling and kayaking as well.
“It was great to get away with the new team to somewhere relaxing and fun as it gave us plenty of time to get to know each other and start going through some of the important aspects of being a staff member in the Halls.”
The Residential Staff are briefed in many aspects of their pastoral role within the Halls of Residence, including, conflict resolution, interpersonal skills, support services and referral techniques, handling emergencies, role modelling and event management.
“Our training is comprehensive and it prepares us for many emergency situations our communities may encounter as well as educating us in pastoral care,” Mr Innes said.
“We have a huge month ahead of us with more than 200 new residents joining us this year, but I look forward to seeing the Halls transformed yet again into a vibrant community with exciting events.”
Manager of Residential Programs Wayne Kollegger coordinated the residential staff-training program.
Three days of the training took place at Stradbroke Island and further sessions were held at the Gatton Campus.
New students have started this week with all remaining students returning on February 25.
Find out more information about living on campus at UQ Gatton.
Check out UQ Orientation Week here.
Media: Erin Pearl (07) 5460 1229, e.pearl@uq.edu.au
