Middle School

Year 10 Night of Homelessness: Building Awareness and Empathy

On Thursday, 23 June, our Year 10 cohort actively engaged in a significant annual event: the Night of Homelessness. This overnight event was not just a mere activity but a powerful tool that our students used to gain a profound understanding of homelessness, fostering empathy and social responsibility. The goals on the night were as follows:

1. Raise Awareness: The Night of Homelessness is designed to educate students about homelessness's causes, challenges, and realities. Students understood the complex nationwide social issue through the night's discussions and presentations.
2. Develop Empathy: By immersing themselves in this event, students underwent a transformative experience, gaining a glimpse into the daily discomfort and uncertainty many homeless individuals face. This profound experience aims to cultivate empathy and compassion, encouraging students to view homelessness through a more personal and humanising lens.
3. Encourage Social Responsibility: The event was about raising awareness, developing empathy, and inspiring students to think about tangible ways they can contribute to positive change in their communities. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or other forms of civic engagement, we hope to motivate students to take action and support those in need.

During the evening, our students demonstrated their generosity and compassion by donating blankets, sleeping bags, and noodle cups to organisations supporting the disadvantaged. These contributions, which we are immensely grateful for, will undoubtedly provide much-needed comfort and sustenance to those in need, making a significant difference in their lives. A huge thank you to Mr Matt Taylor and Ms Rachael Leighton for the organisation behind the scenes and to Mr Brett Earl for supplying all involved with delicious soup that was served by the Year 12 leadership team. Thank you to the staff who supported the night and the students for their commitment to the evening’s schedule.

Year 10 Business Commerce: City of Ballarat Business Day Out Guest Speakers

On Wednesday 29 May, students from the Business Commerce classes were fortunate enough to be invited to attend the City of Ballarat Business Day Out Guest Speakers at the Wendouree Performing Arts Centre. The guest speakers were from the Good Citizens Eyewear business, Australia’s most awarded sustainable eyewear company. This Sydney based family business, known for their innovative approach, are inventors of the 100 per cent recycled and repairable eyewear made from one plastic bottle. 

This inspirational talk by father and son informed students of the challenges and how they came about with this small business idea, which has gained momentum over the years. Harry, the son, was only 13 years old and was able to present to the entire audience with confidence and pride. It was a testament to the idea that you can lead from any age. The pair provided good advice to future entrepreneurs about being honest, sharing your vulnerability, and sharing your struggles as business owners. The final message from the presenters to our students was: ‘Do not underestimate what you are capable of doing’.

Year 9 Loreto and St Patrick’s Social - 6 June

Official dance lessons have concluded in preparation for the official Social Dance event on Thursday, 6 June. I thank all the supervising staff who have helped each week with roll marking and general supervision, even partnering with some of our young men while they learned the dances!  I believe St Patrick’s College may have more male participants than in previous years, which is a testament to the event. 

A friendly reminder that all students must have a ticket (from Try Booking) printed in preparation for the night. On the evening, parents or carers must drop off and collect their young person from the door of the Cathedral Hall. Students will not be dismissed unless there is a parent present. We look forward to a great, enjoyable night with laughter and joy!