Mawarra Public School named orienteering champions

The Elderslie school was named champion at the Sydney South West Primary School Orienteering Championships in Camden yesterday.

Orienteering is a competitive activity where participants have to find their way across a course using a map and compass.

More than 300 students from schools across Macarthur and surrounding areas took part in the competition at the Camden Bicentennial Equestrian Park.

Students worked in groups to figure out the course.

Mawarra principal Paul Mallia said it was the sixth time that his students had won the regional championships.

"We are lucky to have children who are sporty and good at maths and using maps," he said.

"Our students turn up to these events and want to continue that strong tradition [of winning]."

Mr Mallia said Mawarra students prepared for the event under the guidance of teacher Sharon Kynaston.

"The students had a couple of afternoons in the lead-up where they were taught basic orienteering knowledge," he said.

"Sharon also set up a mini orienteering course at our school.

"The students absolutely love it."

The Southern Highlands Orienteers group helped organise Tuesday's event.