Spotlight on Religious Education 

At Mount Alvernia College, our Religious Education department embodies the spirit of Saint Francis of Assisi by celebrating uniqueness and respecting the differences of every student. In today's world, where diversity is imperative, our Religious Education program has emerged as a beacon of inclusivity and understanding this year. 

Religious Education at Mount Alvernia College goes beyond the transmission of dogma and doctrine. It's a vibrant, living experience that encourages students to explore, question, and appreciate the rich tapestry of faiths and beliefs in our world. We recognize that each student comes to us with their own background, beliefs, and perspectives. By acknowledging and valuing these differences, we create a space for meaningful dialogue and growth. Our juniors have been working towards understanding how rituals and care for the community allow for the rich differences in individuals be cared for and celebrated.

The Year 7s in particular are showing how the Common Good can be achieved by helping those who are marginalised in our community through their studies about homelessness. 

A cornerstone of our approach is the promotion of dialogue. Our students engage in discussions that transcend the boundaries of their faith traditions, gaining a deeper understanding of the beliefs and practices of others. This dialogue fosters empathy and respect for diverse perspectives, helping our students become more open-minded individuals. The Year 8s and 9s have engaged in group-work to develop their understanding of shared experiences and encounters with God. 

In the Senior Space, our year 10s and 11s are working towards understanding the ethics around integral ecology and the call to understand inter-faith experiences. At Mount Alvernia College, we encourage students to be curious and engaged, using the example of Saint Francis to motivate their learning. This year has provided a wonderful opportunity for our students to use their uniqueness and differences to enhance their connections and promote empathetic and meaningful learning experiences. Celebrating our differences is how we discover the beauty of our shared humanity.

Finally, we wish our Year 12s good luck for their Study of Religion external exam. We hope that they feel calm and certain of themselves as they reach the conclusion of their religious studies at the College.