Empowering
Students

Social-emotional learning experts providing the space young people need to navigate the pathways to their future.

Transitioning young people into healthy adults for 20+ years

At AdventureWorks WA, we design and deliver programs that create and support a contemporary rite of passage experience for students across Australia. Our custom social and emotional learning (SEL) programs and wellbeing activities are designed to create space for students to discover who they are, build confidence, and become resilient adults.

By empowering teachers, schools, and families to work together, our SEL experts guide young people through the challenges of growing up, helping them find their path and achieve their full potential.

Talk to our SEL experts

Our approach to
social-emotional learning

We believe in the power of the outdoors to create space for learning and growth. Our programs are grounded in evidence-based frameworks and tailored to meet the unique needs of each school and community. We involve teachers and parents in every aspect of our programs to create a cohesive support network that ensures the success of our SEL initiatives. Here are some of the frameworks we use:

Positive Psychology
VIA Character Strengths
Social & Emotional Learning
Multiple Intelligences Theory
Experiential Learning
Rite of Passage
Growth Mindset

Our mission & values

At AdventureWorks WA, we believe in the potential of every young person. Our mission is to create spaces where they can discover who they are, understand their strengths, and develop the confidence to face life’s challenges. We achieve this by connecting individuals with nature, fostering deep personal growth, and building resilient communities. Here are the core values that drive us:

Courage: We empower students to step out of their comfort zones, embracing challenges that build resilience and foster personal growth. Courage is at the heart of every adventure we undertake.

Passion: Driven by our love for the outdoors and education, our passionate team inspires students to discover their potential and pursue their dreams with enthusiasm and determination.

Connection: Building meaningful connections is central to our programs. We foster strong relationships between students, teachers, and families, creating a supportive community where everyone thrives.

Impact: We are committed to making a lasting, positive impact. Our programs equip young people with essential life skills, preparing them to contribute to their communities and the world.

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A whole-school approach to social-emotional learning

For Students:

Our Into Adulthood 12-Month Program supports students’ social and emotional development through a comprehensive curriculum. We also offer in-school workshops and camps that focus on self-discovery, confidence-building, and resilience. These programs help students develop vital life skills like emotional regulation, relationship building, and responsible decision-making.

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For Teachers:

We provide teachers with the tools and training they need to support their students’ social and emotional growth. Our SEL curriculum development and training programs include workshops and ongoing resources that equip teachers with effective SEL strategies, helping them create a supportive learning environment.

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For Parents:

Parents play a crucial role in our SEL programs. We offer parent and child camps that strengthen family bonds and Parent Retreats that focus on supporting children’s emotional and social development. Additionally, we provide workshops, webinars, and resources to help parents actively participate in their children’s growth, shaping a cohesive support system that reinforces the lessons learned in our programs.

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Who we serve

We know it takes a whole village, and we’re committed to having a positive impact at every level.

Whether it’s supporting families, working alongside schools or sporting clubs, or training the next group of amazing adults, we’re building communities of connected, resilient, and capable individuals.

When we all practice and model positive wellbeing, we create home, school, and work environments where we can all thrive.

Young People

We help young people discover who they are and what matters to them, boosting confidence, resilience, and a sense of purpose, so they feel understood, connected, and excited about their future.

Parents & Families

We support families in guiding their children, encouraging open conversations, and providing tools to help young people grow into responsible adults. Strong family support is essential for healthy development.

Schools

We create engaging and inspiring environments for students and support teachers to feel purposeful and balanced in their roles through our integrated and enriching SEL programs.

Workplaces & Communities

We help communities show young people they matter, building empathy, understanding, and a shared sense of purpose that strengthens the entire community.

Hear what our previous clients have to say!

I’ve learnt a lot about strengths I have and the strengths that I could improve to be a better person. ... learnt to express myself and open up a little more. I’ve learnt about the kind of person I want to be.

– Year 9 student

"I have shared stuff that I have never told anyone before. I didn’t realise that other people feel the same ... way. I feel like I have people who will be there for me now."

– Year 9 student

"I have learned a lot about strengths I have and the strengths I could improve to be a better person. ... learned to express myself and open up a little more. I’ve learned about the kind of person that I want to be."

– Year 10 student

"My son is still talking about the camp (and his facilitator) 2 days later and mentioning the new friendships he ... has made with other year 9’s different to himself. So, I just want to extend my thanks to you, for including such a great opportunity in the year 9 program. Well done, I hope this is something that continues for future year 9 students."

– Year 9 Parent

"My son connected with his facilitator and has really taken on the suggestions/discussed possibilities for personal growth. Some of these ... were – not judging people too quickly, having confidence to try new things, speaking up and engaging with others."

– Year 9 Parent

"As discussed earlier in the year, my son was hesitant and reluctant to attend. However, the camp itself provided my ... son with an opportunity to learn and grow, open his mind to a different way of thinking and try an activity that he was a little hesitant to initially try (high ropes). He said that his facilitator was encouraging and inspiring."

– Year 9 Parent

"AdventureWorks’ professionalism and collaborative nature have seen us work together to develop a model that works especially for our College ... and our context. What initially began as a program for Year 9 students is now developing over several year groups to create a cohesive and continuous program. Adventure Works’ programs are practical and experiential, allowing students to learn and develop through discussion, real life experiences and reflection. Their facilitators are very well trained, and adept at talking to young people at their own level. They create atmospheres and environments that are safe and comfortable for students – both physically and emotionally. One of their biggest assets is their willingness to evaluate and discuss openly the process and programs they implement – they are constantly looking for ways to further improve and develop what are already amazing programs."

– Head of Year 9 , Sacred Heart

"Fabulous Experience, very positive for the children. They were trying new things and experiencing support from others."...

– Year 6 Teacher

"Reid and the team of facilitators were fantastic in running a seamless camp experience for our school. They were all ... professional, high energy and kind."

– Year 6 Teacher

"To say she loved it would be an understatement. She loved every bit of it and importantly, she made new ... friends and became closer to old friends. She also said that she thought this camp has “made her a better person” and as a parent, I can not ask more than that - so hats off to you and the organizers of the camp and in particular to your facilitators, who she can not speak highly enough about."

– Year 7 Parent

"A fantastic experience for the students to get out in nature, try new things and take risks under the supervision ... of incredible camp facilitators."

– Year 9 Teacher

"Adventure Works never fails to provide an engaging and fun learning experience. Our Year 6 students had a ball during ... their camp and the energy and support from the facilitators made their week!"

– Year 6 Teacher

"The facilitators were friendly, highly skilled in both activities and dealing with children and professional. The activities will be remembered ... fondly by both staff and children."

– Year 9 Teacher

"Adventure works provided our Year 9 girls with a very eye opening experience which allowed them to share personal stories ... and thoughts, bringing them closer together and understanding each others pasts."

– Year 9 Teacher

"Always a pleasure to work with a team of individuals who so obviously care about the holistic development of my ... students as much as I do."

– Year 11 Coordinator

"An experience worthy of the word ‘challenge’. Our students were encouraged to dig deep to achieve their goals. The facilitators ... worked well with our staff to ensure goals were me. AdventureWorks are a key tool to our experiential learning for our young people. Scottie and Mary understand the challenge that young people face."

– Year 9 teacher

"AdventureWorks did a wonderful job at cultivating an atmosphere of challenge, risk, and safe learning. Overall, this camp helped teach ... life skills of responsibility, respect and communication while sticking to the core root of having fun in everything we did."

– Year 9 teacher

"AdventureWorks provided a safe and supportive environment for our students, which allowed them to push their boundaries and learn from ... their experiences. Our students grew in confidence and developed resiliency over the course of the program and are better prepared to overcome future challenges because of this experience."

– Year 9 Teacher

"I love the "live the challenge" motto of AW - this is important for young people. Most of our students ... have expressed how they had no idea they could ride, walk (hike) or kayak so far!! They swapped "scar" stories, embraced challenges with great safety, support, encouragement and training. Just love what you are doing for this generation of kids. By reconnecting with nature and each other, they are discovering so much about themselves."

– Year 9 Teacher

"I have learned that I could open up to the boys in my group and that it is okay to ... show emotion."

– Year 10 student

"We got to challenge ourselves and encourage our friends."...

– Year 9 student

"I learnt a lot about the people around me through conversation and we admired nature."...

– Year 9 student

Meet our leaders

We believe that great programs need great people. Our staff are passionate, skilled, and dedicated to making a positive impact on young people’s lives. Each team member brings a unique set of skills and experiences that enrich our programs and support our mission.

Scottie Wood

Director, Program Delivery and Design

Meet Scottie, our adventurous leader and company director at AdventureWorks WA. With over 25 years of experience as an outdoor specialist, Scottie has a deep passion for guiding young people on their journey to becoming healthy, confident adults. His extensive background includes delivering transformational leadership programs to international armed forces, emergency services, corporate clients, and Indigenous communities.

For the past 15 years, Scottie has focused on empowering young people to define and create the future they desire, helping them discover who they want to become as they transition into adulthood.

When he's not leading in the great outdoors, you'll find Scottie enjoying life on his avocado farm, cruising on his motorbike, or exploring the water on his boat. His commitment to both his work and his passions embodies the spirit of AdventureWorks, making a lasting impact on everyone he meets.

Scottie Wood

Wanted to be a Firefighter

Meet Scottie, our adventurous leader and company director at AdventureWorks WA. With over 25 years of experience as an outdoor specialist, Scottie has a deep passion for guiding young people on their journey to becoming healthy, confident adults. His extensive background includes delivering transformational leadership programs to international armed forces, emergency services, corporate clients, and Indigenous communities.

For the past 15 years, Scottie has focused on empowering young people to define and create the future they desire, helping them discover who they want to become as they transition into adulthood.

When he's not leading in the great outdoors, you'll find Scottie enjoying life on his avocado farm, cruising on his motorbike, or exploring the water on his boat. His commitment to both his work and his passions embodies the spirit of AdventureWorks, making a lasting impact on everyone he meets.

Mary Wood

Director, Business and Corporate Services

Meet Mary, our inspiring Director at AdventureWorks. With a deep passion for empowering young people to become confident, capable adults, Mary plays a vital role in supporting our corporate team at HQ. She works closely with clients to build, nurture, and expand their relationships with AW, ensuring that every program we create truly connects, engages, and inspires.

Inspired by her father’s belief that she could achieve anything, Mary is dedicated to helping others see the same potential within themselves. She collaborates with parents and teachers to provide the tools and confidence needed to support the next generation.

A decade ago, Mary relocated with her family to the South West of WA, where the natural beauty and strong community have only deepened her love for the outdoors. When she is not at work, you’ll find Mary ocean swimming, working in her veggie garden or spending time in nature.

Mary Wood

Wanted to be an Archaeologist

Meet Mary, our inspiring Director at AdventureWorks. With a deep passion for empowering young people to become confident, capable adults, Mary plays a vital role in supporting our corporate team at HQ. She works closely with clients to build, nurture, and expand their relationships with AW, ensuring that every program we create truly connects, engages, and inspires.

Inspired by her father’s belief that she could achieve anything, Mary is dedicated to helping others see the same potential within themselves. She collaborates with parents and teachers to provide the tools and confidence needed to support the next generation.

A decade ago, Mary relocated with her family to the South West of WA, where the natural beauty and strong community have only deepened her love for the outdoors. When she is not at work, you’ll find Mary ocean swimming, working in her veggie garden or spending time in nature.

Meet our team

Reid Fagan

Program Coordinator

Reid Fagan

Wanted to be outside

Andi Bartle

Operations and Logistics Coordinator

Andi Bartle

Wanted to drive a Harley around town giving rides to people like my dad

Alex Davies

Project Coordinator/School Liaison

Alex Davies

Wanted to be a Popstar

Stefan Reeves

Program Coordinator

Stefan Reeves

Wanted to be a pro golfer and play on the PGA Tour

Ani Haeussler

Finance/HR

Ani Haeussler

Wanted to be a flight attendant, so I can travel around the world

Tim Wood

Marketing & Social Media

Tim Wood

Wanted to be Rockstar

Narla

Wellbeing Officer

Narla

Wanted to be a good girl

Our social-emotional learning facilitators

With diverse backgrounds in teaching, health, fitness and wellbeing, coaching, facilitation, and outdoor education, our facilitators all share a passion for and commitment to helping young people connect with themselves and find meaning and purpose in a complex and changing world.

They’re committed to personal development, striving to be the best they can be, and inspiring that drive in others. Committed to ongoing training, they excel in camps, expeditions, and our Into Adulthood Programs, making a lasting, positive impact on young lives.

Taya Johnson

Facilitator

Taya Johnson

Wanted to be in an American high school movie

David Hall

Facilitator

David Hall

Wanted to be a police officer

Diego Negre

Facilitator

Diego Negre

Wanted to be a Firefighter

Annie Maskell

Facilitator

Annie Maskell

Wanted to be a Vet

Our SEL program design principles

We don’t leave our program design to chance. We’ve used a combination of rigorous research and our 20+ years’ experience to develop AW’s 9 Design Principles, which underpin 100% of our program design.

RISK & CHALLENGE

Know the limits. Love the limits.

We understand that the road to adulthood is tricky. Because of this, others shy away. Not us. With over 20 years’ experience in the game, we understand the power of the outdoor environment, and how far we push on the outside to create positive change on the inside.

How we do it

AW believes in stretching young people to push past their perceptions of risk and their own capability in a supportive, fun environment. We regularly use healthy risk and challenge to help young people see their capabilities, challenging them to push further than they think is possible. We’re disrupting the status quo and working to normalise and celebrate healthy risk-taking. Learning from challenge is essential to growth and reaching potential.

QUIET & REFLECTION

More Space. Less Pace.

We’re the antithesis of daily life, detaching people physically and mentally and bringing them together in shared solitude. We return to a space offered by nature, where people have time to think and space to get to know who they are and who they can become.

How we do it

AW programs provide regular opportunities for stillness and calm. We’re building the capacity of our young people to sit alone and feel capable of self-reflection in that space. We facilitate regular opportunities for a full body and mind check in, allowing young people to process and reflect on experiences both individually and together, and helping to build emotional awareness and self-reflection skills.

SKILLS & SERVICE

Life skills, not camping tools.

Our work isn’t done when you leave. Helping people realise their potential is the first step on their path to achieving it. We work with the school curriculum and alongside the communities surrounding young people to ensure development of these skills continue.

How we do it

AW develops all programs with the goal of building skills and capabilities that are transferable to every area of a young person’s life. We work with young people to identify their strengths and then support them to link those strengths with how they can serve the wider community. We believe in empowering young people to take their place in their community, building their sense of purpose and belonging, which in turn builds resilience to challenge.

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION

Creating quality conversations.

We create capacity for real conversations. We listen and are listened to. When people are truly heard, understanding can be reached, frustrations can crumble, and resentments can be resolved. This shared understanding develops deeper connections and stronger relationships.

How we do it

AW celebrates the richness that comes with diverse experience and supports young people to connect with each other through conversation and story. We believe that story has the power to unite and connect, and that this building of connection can break down barriers where they may have existed before.

What parents and children will learn through our camps

DISCOVERY THROUGH SUCCESS & FAILURE

Great stuff happens in hard places.

We believe that the best things happen when things get tough. In these moments, we’re forced into an uncomfortable place which helps us realise how strong and resilient we truly are. This place is where the growth happens.

How we do it

AW is committed to embracing and honouring failure for the growth that it brings. We know that success looks different for everyone, and we encourage our clients to acknowledge and honour theirs – whatever shape they take. Our programs create a safe environment to explore what success and failure look like for each of us.

CONNECTION TO SELF

Every young person has potential.

Every young person has the potential to be brilliant. Sometimes it’s clear, and sometimes you need help to find it. When you realise this potential, you can become the best version of yourself.

How we do it

Every AW program is designed with the student as the focus, with the goal to increase everyone’s self efficacy and awareness. We give young people ownership of their experience by creating an environment built on equity. We support students to identify and connect with their strengths, passions, and gifts, building confidence and intrinsic motivation.

CONNECTION TO NATURE

Growth flourishes in the outdoors.

Just like the growth that surrounds us, success in nature occurs through organic balance of the right ingredients. We take these ingredients – light, space, quiet, and challenge – and use them to create an environment ripe for self-discovery.

How we do it

AW uses profound nature to create separation from the shackles of daily life. We leverage this disconnection from routine and technology to increase and deepen connection in the cohort, both amongst students and adults.

CONNECTION TO COMMUNITY

Strong young people create healthy communities.

We recognise the collective power of whole people. By fostering growth in the next generation, we build confidence, uncover potential leaders, grow greater networks, and develop healthier communities.

How we do it

AW believes in creating clear pathways for young people to use what they learn in our programs to contribute to building healthy communities. We help our students understand that they’re part of something greater than just themselves and build on this, challenging them to consider their place within their community.

INNOVATION & CREATIVITY

Embrace change.

We believe in a mindset open to change. This culture of change flows through our organisation and is present in every engagement we have, enabling successful outcomes for ourselves and the people we work with.

How we do it

AW uses profound nature to create separation from the shackles of daily life. We leverage this disconnection from routine and technology to increase and deepen connection in the cohort, both amongst students and adults.