EVENT SUMMARIES BY ANNALISE SPURGE, HEAD OF CGS CENTRE FOR GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP. ACT CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTION

This year, CGS students once again had the privilege of attending the ACT Constitutional Convention, coordinated by the ACT Legislative Assembly. The all-day event, held at the National Archives of Australia, encouraged students to consider the intricacies of the Australian Constitution and the process of reform. The day included multiple sessions covering the history of the Constitution, case studies of constitutional crises, and an exercise where we participated in a mock referendum.

‘The first session of the day was on the history of the Australian Constitution by a lecturer from the ANU. I found this particularly memorable because it gave me an appreciation for the nature of our country and its history and a new lens through which to consider today's political landscape. The day as a whole was an excellent opportunity to learn about the underpinning laws of Australia, their origins and their application to issues in Australian society. It was also fantastic to have the opportunity to discuss these with like-minded Year 11 students across the ACT.’ – Christopher Taudevin, Year 11

Semester 2 brought two remarkable Insight speakers to Canberra Grammar School, offering students valuable lessons and inspiration.

In Term 3, we welcomed Ashleigh Webb, who recently achieved the extraordinary feat of swimming the English Channel. Organised by School Captain Will Newnham as part of the 2024 captains’ mental health initiative, Ashleigh’s presentation highlighted the importance of resilience, support, and open dialogue about mental health.

‘It was interesting to hear how resilient and positive she has been in her life despite experiencing loss and facing mental health issues of her own. We were particularly inspired by her English Channel swim of 33 kilometres, in which she failed her first attempt due to severe damage in her rib area. However, two months later, she completed the swim, showing great courage despite adversity.’ – Will Newnham, Year 12

In Term 4, Dr Carmen Robledo, a diplomat with the Mexican Foreign Service, shared insights from her international career, including representing Mexico at the United Nations. Dr Robledo also conducted a Masterclass for Year 11 Global Politics students, providing practical advice on careers in International Relations and a deeper understanding of global diplomacy.

‘Dr Robledo’s Masterclass offered a clear view of what could be achieved with the knowledge we’re gaining in Global Politics. Her insights into diplomacy, navigating international relations, and even tackling IB oral assessments were invaluable. It gave us a glimpse into the mind of someone who intimately knows so many nations and languages.’ – Cara Dalliston, Year 11

These inspiring talks enrich our students’ understanding of perseverance, global issues, and the pathways available to make meaningful contributions in their future endeavours.