Sowing the Seeds of Change Today for a Brighter Tomorrow
Friday 28 June 2024
We are proud of our vibrant social responsibility culture, which supports and empowers our students to make a tangible difference, both locally and globally.
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As parents and educators, we aspire to provide our children not just with an exceptional education but with the tools to become compassionate, socially responsible citizens of the world.”
At St Leonard’s College, we believe in nurturing not only academic excellence but also a sense of duty towards our communities and the planet we call home. Through a vibrant culture of social responsibility, we empower our students to make a tangible difference, both locally and globally.
A World of Opportunities: Engaging in Social Action
At St Leonard’s, students are not merely spectators in the realm of social responsibility – they are active participants in shaping a brighter future. From local community projects to global initiatives, our students engage in an array of social action endeavours.
Whether it’s volunteering for Lennie’s Van, raising awareness and funding for environmental issues through The Amiel Society, being a part of the Interact Rotary group or advocating for social justice causes, every student has the opportunity to make a meaningful impact.
Beyond the Classroom: Sustainability in Action
Sustainability is not just a concept taught at St Leonard’s – it’s a deep commitment to our shared future. Our campus serves as an evolving living laboratory for environmental stewardship, where students learn by doing. The dedication of our young people is strongly reflected in their remarkable achievements. From conducting comprehensive College sustainability assessments to implementing coffee cup recycling initiatives, and even establishing a vegetable garden for Lennie’s Van, our students are steadfast in their commitment to effecting positive change.
This year, students from our Gardening and Sustainability cocurricular group crafted Leonora, a scarecrow made from reused and recycled materials. We entered her into the Melbourne International Flower and Garden Show’s Sustainable Scarecrow School Competition, highlighting the importance of recycling and inspiring our community.
Despite not winning a top spot, we are proud of our students for their enthusiasm and passion towards making our world a better place. Leonora now does a fabulous job of deterring ravens from the College’s new veggie gardens.
A Community of Changemakers: Collaborative Partnerships
At the heart of our commitment to social responsibility lies the power of collaboration. Through partnerships with local organisations and community groups, students gain valuable insights into pressing social and environmental issues. Whether it’s working alongside seasoned activists or engaging in service-learning projects such as through our Year 9 CUE Program, the Big Experience or the Year 4 PYP Exhibition, these partnerships provide students with real-world opportunities to effect meaningful change. Moreover, through collaborative efforts with the Social Action Council, our students continue to secure funds for targeted community projects, addressing pressing needs with ingenuity and compassion. Through these hands-on experiences, they develop a deep understanding of their role in preserving our planet for future generations and creating change for the greater good.
Inspiring Leadership: Student-Led Initiatives
Perhaps most inspiring is the leadership demonstrated by our students. Through student-led clubs and initiatives, they take the reins in driving social action and sustainability efforts. From organising charity drives to spearheading recycling programs from the primary years, our students demonstrate a remarkable sense of initiative and empathy. These experiences not only instil a sense of pride and accomplishment but also lay the foundation for a lifetime of responsible citizenship.
A Transformative Journey: Shaping Future Leaders
At St Leonard’s, social responsibility is a transformative journey that shapes the very essence of who our students are becoming. Through meaningful experiences both inside and outside the classroom, we empower them to embrace their role as agents of positive change in an ever-evolving world. Together, we are creating a community of compassionate, socially conscious individuals who will leave a lasting impact on society, creating a brighter, greener future for all.
*Previously published in the June 2024 edition of Network, the magazine of the St Leonard’s College community.