Year 9's Discovering Purpose
This term in the Year 9 Journey program, students explored the theme of purpose. Together we stepped into some of life’s biggest questions: What is the meaning of life? Where do I fit in? If life has meaning, does that shape my purpose?
The idea that “there must be more to this…” is something we encounter often, in songs, novels, films, and even in our own thoughts. It’s a deeply human reflection, pointing us toward a desire for meaning and direction. Throughout the term, students were encouraged to wrestle with these ideas and consider how they might shape the way we live each day.
These questions remind us that we are created with intention and purpose. The Bible encourages us to use our unique gifts in service of others: “Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others…” (1 Peter 4:10). This perspective encouraged students to reflect on how their individual strengths can be used meaningfully to serve and impact others in their everyday lives.
Rather than focusing solely on future careers, we looked deeper at our purpose. Instead of asking, “What job will I have one day?”, students were challenged to consider, “What will I contribute?”
We explored the idea that purpose is not just a distant goal, but something more like a compass; guiding everyday choices, attitudes, and actions. A compass doesn’t tell you exactly where you will end up, but it helps you move in the right direction. When students begin to see purpose in this way, it becomes something lived out daily, not something postponed for the future.
Kindness Campaign
To bring this learning to life, students participated in a Kindness Campaign. The aim was to experience the power of living with purpose by putting their unique strengths into action in the service of others.
Students first completed a strengths survey and, using their top strengths, worked in teams to design and deliver a meaningful campaign; something beyond themselves that would make a positive difference in the lives of others.
It has been inspiring to see the creativity and care demonstrated by our Year 9 cohort.
This week, some students used their strengths to connect with our Prep classes, reading stories, leading craft activities, and building relationships with younger students. The Preps were thoroughly engaged and delighted in learning from the 'big kids', while our Year 9 students showed patience, encouragement, and leadership.
Other students extended their campaign into the wider community by visiting Mercy Place Aged Care in Montrose. They thoughtfully organised a range of activities, including watercolour painting, bookmark making, and games. It was wonderful to witness the genuine conversations, laughter, and connection that developed between students and residents. A particularly special highlight was the opportunity to spend time with one of our past principals, Stewart Miller, who was present on the day. It was a lovely treat, and a real privilege for our students to hear from Stewart, as well as other residents, as they shared their stories and wisdom. These moments were mutually enriching, as both groups experienced connection, joy, and a sense of community.
Other groups demonstrated purpose through practical acts of service, creating care packages for members of the community, cooking meals for those in need, and dedicating time to cleaning and caring for the local environment. These acts reflected a growing awareness that purpose can be expressed through responsibility, compassion, and stewardship of the world around them.
Through these experiences, students began to see that purpose is not abstract or out of reach, it is found in small, intentional acts of kindness, in using their strengths to serve others, and in choosing to contribute positively to the world around them.
We are proud of the way our Year 9 students have embraced this journey and look forward to seeing how their growing sense of purpose continues to shape their actions throughout the year.
Kate Weekes
Secondary Teacher
