Courage at Marian College Sunshine West

Through the lens of Living Justice Living Peace, the theme of Courage has become a lived out value and skill for all students at Marian College Sunshine West.

Learning with Wonder

Our Year 7 students embarked on an exciting new journey as they transition into secondary school by participating in their first school camp. This gave them an opportunity to build relationships with new peers and teachers. Camp was a great way for them to broaden their social circle, learn with wonder and discover new perspectives. Attending camp can also be challenging as it invites students to step outside their comfort zone and try new experiences. They learnt that it was ok to feel a bit apprehensive. It takes courage to take on new challenges, but doing so helps them to grow and develop new skills. 

Leading with Courage

Courage was celebrated on International Women’s Day where our senior students were joined by Madison Connors, a proud Aboriginal woman, creative director and founder of Yarli Creative. 

As a ten year old growing up in Shepparton, Madison loved to sit with her aunty and watch while her aunty painted colourful pieces. After moving to Melbourne, Madison further developed her love of art by creating her own style of storytelling through symbolic Aboriginal art forms. In 2020, she set up a business to sell her art. Although not confident she had the skills and knowledge to do this. Yarli Creative has since flourished into a successful brand. 

Madison presented the senior students with a challenging concept of courage. Courage is an important trait that is essential for our growth. It requires a willingness to take risks, to stand up for what is right and to face our fears. These are the lessons she learnt along her journey to becoming a spokesperson for Aboriginal health, a successful business women and a mother of two beautiful children. Madison emphasised that having a community of family and friends behind her made these challenges easier. She has a supportive network of women in a range of fields whom she regularly connects with. They offer encouragement, advice and support which has enabled Madison to never give up on her pursuits. Her personal experiences and perspectives brought valuable insights to our senior students at a time when they too have embarked on a courageous year of study. 

Living with Compassion

Students from Year 9 / 10 Our Planet Earth, visited the Marine Discovery Centre in Queenscliff. They enjoyed a hands-on experience with marine animals followed by a courageous boat trip out into the bay. Experiencing the environment outside the classroom emphasised that the stewardship of the ocean and its inhabitants are important responsibilities that we all share. As caretakers of this planet, we must value this ecosystem. By loving marine life with compassion, we can work towards a more sustainable future.