Schoolies

School leavers week

Schoolies Week. Photo credit: Copyright Bernie Bradley

Schoolies

Depending on your outlook, ‘Schoolies’ (aka School Leavers Week or simply ‘Leavers’) is either the Eldorado of partying, or something to avoid with a very large barge pole. Here’s why.

You know what it was like when you left school? Well, Australians have turned that day of celebration and goodbyes into a week-long holiday.

It happens at the end of November or the beginning of December, at the end of high school exams.

It’s a rite of passage best symbolised by running down to the beach and diving into the ocean wearing full school uniform. There are Schoolie destinations in most states but Queensland’s Gold Coast – particularly Surfers Paradise – is the favourite destination, attracting tens of thousands of Leavers every year.

If you want to be a part of it you’ll find plenty of websites and forums advertising dates and events.

If you’d rather avoid it (things can get pretty rowdy and there are safety concerns every year) check the dates and locations and go somewhere/do something else.

Incidentally, if you’re past school-leaving age and you want to join in you will instantly be known as a ‘Toolie’ or ‘Droolie’. Anyone younger is a ‘Foolie’ or ‘Pre-Schoolie’.