Service Learning Week
Inspiring others to take actionYear 9 Service Learning Week provided students with the opportunity to learn, act and reflect while engaging with real social and environmental issues across Melbourne and beyond.
Throughout the week, students demonstrated the BGS values of passion, respect, accountability and integrity as they stepped outside their comfort zones, connected with community organisations and contributed to meaningful causes.
Across four streams, students embraced new experiences despite a week of rain, wind and sunshine.
The Phillip Island (Millowl) stream explored Indigenous perspectives through learning on Country with Steve Parker. The Human Melbourne stream partnered with organisations including Impact for Women, Our Village, CareNet, and Asylum Seeker and Refugee Centre through hands-on service activities.
The Environment stream worked at Yalukit Willam Nature Reserve, helping improve biodiversity through propagation and planting, while the Sustainability stream investigated sustainable architecture, textile waste, food waste and recycling.
Bayley Arts students also collaborated with artist-in-residence Noni Drew to create a community mural at the local charity.
A highlight for many students was seeing the difference their contributions could make. An impact report from The Social Education Group estimated that the program generated the equivalent of $87,131 in community benefit through volunteering, donated resources and support services.
The week concluded with the Expo, where students shared their learning with families and inspired others to take action.
Lindsey McCormac
Head of Service Learning
