Chaplains’ Corner

Service Learning

Throughout the year, we have fostered valuable partnerships with local organisations, charities, and churches, offering practical Service-Learning opportunities for our students.

One such partnership is with the Salvation Army Northside Community Centre.

Every Wednesday, a group of Year 10 students, representing each House, supports the Salvos in their Nutritional food market.

The rising cost of living has left many individuals in our city in need of food assistance. The Salvos perform exceptional work, providing counselling, housing, financial aid, and a caring community for the disadvantaged and isolated.

Our students take pleasure in assembling nutritious food packs, incorporating donated fresh fruits and vegetables received through various food networks. They also participate in tasks such as sorting eggs, occasional cleaning, and setting up for the community market.

Reflecting on Acts 20:35, which states, “It is more blessed to give than to receive,” our students actively embrace the Salvos’ mission of caring for the marginalised in our city. Witnessing their eagerness to engage and hearing about the rewarding nature of this experience has been incredibly uplifting.

Steve Wright, Senior School Chaplain

The Welcome Place

This term, our Middle School has focused on Refugee Week, starting on June 18, as part of our Social Justice responsibilities and service-learning approach.

Chapel Services have highlighted the importance of Refugee Week, with students sharing their insights on why it is crucial to be aware of refugees’ plight and how we can support them in Geelong.

Our Year 6 Community Captains took the initiative to organise a food collection for ‘The Welcome Place,’ a local organisation dedicated to improving the lives of refugees and asylum seekers in Geelong and surrounding areas. Located at the Wesley Uniting Church on Yarra Street, The Welcome Place offers support and friendship, along with meals on Friday evenings, to those who have fled persecution and are awaiting refugee status or have temporary visas.

To assist this cause, our students gathered culturally appropriate groceries, which will be delivered to The Welcome Place at the end of term. I want to commend our compassionate young students for their efforts in organising this food collection and displaying care for those in need within our community.

Leanne Earl, Junior and Middle School Chaplain