Courage at Star of the Sea College, Brighton

The theme of Courage resonates with human experience. It is intriguing as what might require courage from one person is simply done by another.

It is tradition and practice at Star that the student voice directs the development of annual theme. Therefore, the school leaders were given the challenge to develop a statement and create an inspirational symbol to represent the theme of courage. They explored understandings of courage, drawing on parts of the Presentation charism and the Living Justice : Living Peace philosophy. This process was a valuable experience and included a courage seminar provided by Wellsprings for Women. Following this seminar, the leaders created the statement for 2023 - "Ignite Courage - Create Change". The leaders then presented their thinking and understanding of the theme to all staff.

In our celebrations of 140 Years of Presentation Education, we looked back to the bravery and stealth of  Star of the Sea's humble beginnings in Gardenvale and the community's journey throughout the 14 decades. Throughout the year we explored dimensions of the "Ignite Courage - Create Change" statement through prayer and liturgy, within RE and other curriculum areas, through social justice, sustainability and environment initiatives. The Years 7-12 Reflection Day drew threads together as students considered the challenges of volunteering. The Year 8s considered the courage needed to step outside their comfort zone while the Year 7s spoke with Moira Kelly AO about the courage she has encountered in others and how inspired she has been by ordinary people doing extraordinary things. The Year 10s worked with a range of First Nations People in domains of culture such as Indigenous art, dance, yarning and research into strong indigenous women. 

A strong message of the gospel is the call to bring justice where it is needed, to give voice to those who are powerless and silent. Courage is often required to help the marginalised in our community. Star students generously volunteer and raise money and awareness for asylum seekers, the homeless and for those involved in slavery. 

Courage comes in a variety of colours and textures of thread.  Courage might be seen in the strength of a warrior or the quiet determination of the seed stretching through the soil.

“Courage doesn't always roar. Sometimes it is the quiet voice at the end of the day saying, 'I will try again tomorrow. ”

Social Justice - 'Art for Justice'

This year during Star of The Sea's annual Art Show, the Social Justice team challenged the students to create a piece of art that represents a social justice issue, challenge or action. 

Students created individual pieces of artwork to sell. The Art Captains created a large feature piece that was raffled off (along with vouchers from Republica St Kilda).

This was a wonderful way to raise awareness of Social Justice issues in our community, as well as raising much needed funds for BASP.