Student voice

STUDENT

VOICE

KATE MCMICHAEL

YEAR 9

Throughout my many years at Toorak I have felt as though I can do anything I put my mind to. A memory that is particularly vivid for me was during Year 8 Camp. We had just come out of lockdown and we were finally able to go on a camp after 2 years of online learning. Although I was nervous when I got there, the nerves melted away as the week went on and we shared some amazing experiences together. We went on many hikes and did many amazing activities, and even though at times we struggled on the hikes, reaching the peak and seeing the mountains was tremendously rewarding. After that hike I had never felt so strong and empowered. This was a lesson I will carry with me forever, through hard work comes great reward.

AMELIE DILLON

YEAR 6

To me, empowerment means trying new things and by doing that it gives me more confidence knowing that I really can do it and I don’t need to question or doubt myself. I have grown and expanded my interests since starting at Toorak. At my previous school I thought I only liked certain things, but because I’ve had the opportunity to try so many new things I have now developed new interests including the Duke of Edinburgh Scheme, public speaking, Serenata Choir, Benedetti Strings as well as playing the violin. Empowerment means encouraging other people to embrace every opportunity that is on offer. It is also speaking up for yourself and supporting others to do the same.