Focus On

Building Community Through Conversation

At the heart of being a Community Builder is the commitment to creating a supportive and caring environment where everyone feels they belong. Community Builders foster strong relationships, promote unity through humility and selflessness, and engage with others in ways that reflect God’s desire for a connected and loving world. But how do we equip students to actively live out this role?

For some, starting a conversation comes naturally. For others, small talk can feel uncomfortable and awkward. Recognising that communication is a vital part of building community, our Year 11 VCE VM Personal Development Skills class has engaged in a series of purposeful activities designed to help students grow in confidence and competence when it comes to verbal interaction.

The class began by learning a helpful mnemonic—a memory aid—filled with conversation starters that could be used in a variety of settings. By practicing these over several sessions, students became more familiar and comfortable with the process of initiating and maintaining a conversation.

One highlight of this unit was an activity modelled after a speed-dating format. Students rotated through brief conversations with each of their classmates, using their newly learned conversation skills. What began as a structured exercise quickly turned into meaningful and enjoyable exchanges.

The results were encouraging. Students reported feeling a deeper connection to their peers, discovering common interests and shared experiences. This low-pressure environment allowed relationships to develop naturally, building a greater sense of unity within the class.

These activities go beyond simply teaching students how to talk. They help form young people who are prepared to live out their faith by building inclusive and respectful communities—inside and outside the classroom. At our school, we aim to engage the head, heart, and hands in all aspects of learning. These communication-focused tasks engage students intellectually, emotionally, and practically, empowering them to become active disciples in their daily lives.

By giving students the tools and confidence to build relationships, we’re helping them become the kind of Community Builders who uplift others, foster belonging, and reflect the love of Christ in their everyday interactions.

Suzanne de Pyle

Year 8 Coordinator & Secondary Teacher