Such rigours have been replaced with fun things such as canoeing, bike riding and other sports as the students take to the school’s activities week with alacrity.

Sports co-ordinator Sarah Rae said the activities were a sure fire way to get students to attend until the end of term.

“We introduced the program to get them excited about coming to school,” she said.

“They love it. It’s a great time of year for them to enjoy friendship groups and build on relationships developed during the year.”

Students from years 6 to 11 participate in the week.

Yesterday it was mountain biking before a spot of Christmas cooking today.