Guest Speakers
Black Dog Institute
Anjali from the Black Dog Institute came to Plenty River College to do a presentation on Mental Fitness. She engaged with the students to discuss the importance about positive relationships and building social connections. Additionally, students learned how to recognise the signs a person is feeling isolated and engagement strategies to support them.
Police Talk
Wendy from the Mill Park Police Station visited PRC to speak to our kids about the definitions of different crimes and the types of acts that could get people into trouble with the law. There was a focus on violence and assaults, as well as the action police would take towards youth offenders. Wendy also discussed bystander behaviour and the effects of bullying. Students were able to ask questions and have some of their queries clarified.
Les Twentyman Foundation
On the 23rd of May, Chris Lacey, Program Manager of the Les Twenty Foundation came to present to the students. Chris gave some background on Les Twentyman and his legacy, and showed a video explaining Les’ motivations and some testimonies of people he has helped. Chris gave some background about his own journey as a youth worker and discussed the different avenues to becoming a youth worker. Chris detailed the services that the Les Twentyman Foundation provides, including community basketball, outreach support, case management, support with school supplies and employment pathways.
Indigenous Cultural awareness incursion - Josh Wanganeen
Renowned educator and advocate Josh Wanganeen visited our campus to lead a literacy incursion focused on Indigenous cultural awareness. The session was an enriching experience for both students and staff, broadening our understanding of the cultural heritage of the land we inhabit. This also helped students with their studies for their literacy work on The Rabbit Proof Fence.
Josh Wanganeen, a respected figure in Indigenous education, brought a wealth of knowledge and passion to the incursion. His engaging presentation centered on the significance of acknowledging and respecting the traditional custodians of the land, specifically within the Melbourne area. Through interactive activities and discussions, Josh taught us the traditional Indigenous words for various localities, fostering a deeper connection to our surroundings.
One of the most enlightening parts of the session was learning about the historical and cultural context of Melbourne and the lands we live on. Josh provided insights into the customs, languages, and stories of the Indigenous peoples, enriching our collective understanding and appreciation for their enduring legacy. This knowledge not only enhanced our literacy skills but also deepened our respect for Indigenous cultures and their contributions to our shared history.
The session was highly informative and left a lasting impression on everyone involved. Students and staff alike were captivated by Josh's storytelling and his ability to convey complex cultural concepts in an accessible and engaging manner. We all walked away with a greater appreciation for the importance of cultural awareness and the role it plays in fostering a more inclusive and respectful community.
The event underscored the importance of integrating cultural awareness into our educational programs and daily lives.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to Josh Wanganeen for his time and dedication to this important cause. His visit has undoubtedly enriched our community and inspired us to continue exploring and celebrating the diverse cultural landscape of Melbourne and beyond.
As we move forward, we are committed to incorporating the lessons learned from this incursion into our curriculum and school culture. By doing so, we hope to honour the rich cultural heritage of the land we live on and promote a deeper understanding and respect for Indigenous cultures among our students and staff.
