Service Learning

Wear it Purple Day

Purple was the order of the day on Friday 29 August as our school community came together to celebrate Wear It Purple Day – a national initiative that promotes inclusion, belonging, and acceptance for all young people.

It was wonderful to see our campus transformed with splashes of purple everywhere – from socks and shoelaces to hoodies, ribbons, and wristbands. Both staff and students embraced the spirit of the day, proudly showing their support and reminding us that everyone deserves the right to feel safe, respected, and celebrated.

This year’s Wear It Purple Day was a true reflection of our St George’s values. The enthusiasm of our students and the encouragement from staff created a strong sense of community and affirmation that Everyone Matters at St George’s.

A special thank you goes to our staff, who not only wore purple but also modelled what it means to lead with empathy and support. Their visible commitment sent a powerful message to our students that they are valued for who they are.

We are proud to stand together as a school that champions diversity, celebrates individuality, and creates a safe and welcoming environment for all.

Thank you to everyone who participated and made Wear It Purple Day such a success!

Sleep Out in the CBD

In a first for the 441 Murray St Campus, our school held a Sleep Out in the City  – or more accurately on the Level 2 Courtyard 31 Year 7–9 students, 13 Year 10 Anglicare Ambassadors, and seven Year 12 Leaders bravely stepping into an experience that shone a light on the harsh realities of homelessness in Western Australia.

The evening began with a powerful talk from a guest speaker from St Bart’s, who shared insights into what homelessness looks like for young people and the daily challenges they face. This was followed by a thought-provoking “Take a Step” activity, led by five of our Year 10 Ambassadors, which demonstrated how different backgrounds and circumstances can significantly impact a person’s opportunities in life.

Later, three ambassadors coordinated a simulation game with the support of their peers. Year 7–9 students worked to collect stamps on an activity card, only to be turned away at many stations, lose their cards, or be forced to start over. The frustrations felt by the students provided a small glimpse into the barriers faced by those experiencing homelessness.

Meanwhile, our Year 12 Leaders were in the kitchen with Miss Olivia Andrew and Mr Conrad Sloan, preparing a hearty vegetable soup.

 This meal was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone, and we extend a huge thank you to our Year 12s, Miss Andrew, and Mr Sloan for their time and effort in making dinner a highlight of the evening.

After dinner, another group of ambassadors ran a Skittles activity, once again reinforcing the realities of inequality and disadvantage. The night concluded with students preparing their cardboard beds along the terrace, braving the cold and facing the interruptions of city noise, car alarms, barking dogs, and even being moved on during the night. These challenges offered just a taste of what life on the streets is like for so many vulnerable young people on a daily basis.

The following morning, students shared a simple breakfast of porridge before heading home – tired, but with a new perspective of how blessed they are.

I could not be prouder of every student who took part and embraced the challenge with empathy and resilience. A very special thank you must also go to the staff who generously gave up their Friday night to support the program: Mr Tom Dempers, Mr Ken Maddess, Father Gift, Mrs Yvonne Wiese, Miss Olivia Andrew – this event would not have been possible without all your support.

Miss Sadie Yoxall

Camp & Service‑Learning Coordinator