Ulverstone Campus Principal 

At Leighland Christian School, we believe that education is not only about academic excellence but also about nurturing hearts that reflect Christ’s love. One of the ways students can share God's love is through service; giving of their time, talents, and compassion to help others. Service can take many forms: helping a classmate who is struggling, volunteering in the community, writing encouraging notes, or participating in school-led outreach initiatives. Our recent production, School of Rock, provided many opportunities for students to volunteer their time and get involved, whether that was in the backstage crew, front of house, or helping and encouraging others in their roles. Our students volunteer their time to lead Personal Interest Groups (PIGs), Bible studies, Revive, Awaken, and help others through the Student Wellbeing Advisory Group, mentoring participants in LEGO League, and coaching players in sporting  teams. These acts of kindness, whether big or small, teach students empathy, responsibility, and the joy of putting others before themselves. When students serve, they grow in character and develop a deeper understanding of what it means to live in community and to share God's love. Research and experience show that students who engage in service are more confident, resilient, and connected to their communities. They learn that their actions matter and that they can make a difference. Service also fosters gratitude and helps students appreciate the blessings in their own lives.

Operation Christmas Child: A Global Opportunity to Give

One beautiful way our students can serve is by participating in Operation Christmas Child, a project of Samaritan’s Purse. Each year, students fill shoeboxes with toys, school supplies, hygiene items, and heartfelt notes for children in need around the world. These simple gifts open doors to hope and joy, often becoming the first tangible expression of love a child has ever received. Through this initiative, students not only learn about global poverty and compassion but also experience the joy of giving. It’s a hands-on way to live out Jesus’ call to “love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31). There are many ways to get involved; donate items the students can pack in boxes, pack and donate a box yourself, pray for the children who receive a box, or donate the cost of freight for a box. Information about what can be included in a shoe box can be found at:

https://occ.samaritanspurse.org.au/home/pack-a-shoebox/what-goes-in-my-shoebox/

Let us continue to inspire our students to serve with open hearts, knowing that in doing so, they reflect the light of Christ to a world in need.

Katrina McNab

Ulverstone Campus Principal