On Friday August 15, Year 6-8 students from Cornish College, Billanook College, Penleigh and Essendon Grammar School (PEGS), Wesley College and Aitken College, came together at Wesley Place for a powerful day of reflection, connection and discussions.
The event “Resilience and Hope: sustaining our environment through action”, was hosted by the Synod for its associated schools network. Part of a series of inter-school events, the day aimed to spark leadership, creativity and passion for justice.
Key outcomes
Through roleplays, simulations and pitch activities, students collaborated and explored big questions about our environment and the role they can play in shaping change.
A strong 90% students mentioned feeling satisfied with their experience, highlighting new learnings and connections formed as standout takeaways. Message such as “small actions can make a big difference” and “age is not a barrier to change” resonated deeply. In their own words:
- “My favourite part of the day was the interactive activities because we learned and had fun. We learnt that a small action can make a big change”  —Wesley College student
- “My highlight of the day was the pitches, because we all contributed and it provided enjoyment to be writing while competing against other schools. Greatness isn’t in a specific pace, it is always there, you just need to find it”— Aitken College student
- “The global warming simulation activity was my favourite part. It really taught us how crucial our environment is, to many communities and lives” — Cornish College student
Memorable moments
- Setting the stage:
Rev Salesis Faupula, Moderator of the Synod of Victoria and Tasmania, opened with a reflection on family and connections. He encouraged students listen deeply, learn from one another and form engage with their peers, connections that could extend beyond the event.
Rev Salesi Faupula shared a powerful message
- Leading for change:
Kano from Third Culture Australia started with an engaging workshop on Leading for collective impact, sharing that leadership is not only about the first leader, but also the courage of the first follower. Jessica Morthorpe followed with a keynote on climate anxiety, affirming that climate emotions are valid and encouraging students to discover their unique gifts, skills and passions to make a difference in their own way. - Climate resilience:
The Australian Youth Climate Coalition (AYCC) led the section on Climate Resilience, introducing to students the links between climate change and social justice. Through a roleplay game, took the students into a fictional world of Gymea. Students stepped into the shoes of characters with diverse experiences, developing empathy and understanding how climate change impacts in different communities at different levels.
AYCC facilitators introduced the roleplay game.
- Ideas into action:
Allie Ladd, Area Manager of Uniting Opshops, shared about Opshop and their impact on reducing fashion waste. Inspired by its work, students worked together to identify environmental challenges in their own school communities, and brainstorm creative solutions. The day ended with an exciting pitch competition, where each school showcase their ideas in a fun and creative style.
Capturing the day
The room was full with smiles, energy and plenty of laughter. By the end of the day, these young leaders left feeling even more capable, hopeful, and ready to put resilience into practice as they turn their ideas into action.
