The Waterford Service-Learning Program is a vital part of this vision and permeates throughout the whole school curriculum, reflecting both our Aspiration Statement and College Strategic Improvement Plan. It reflects Catholic social teachings and has unique educational value in providing a transformative holistic educational experience which supports the students both within and outside of the classroom.
The Waterford Service-Learning Program also provides opportunities for all secondary students to become involved in a wide range of volunteer activities, catering for different age groups. It allows them to experience the joy of giving and sharing with others and provides a unique learning experience that goes beyond the classroom and school environment, where students can reflect upon their own values and beliefs and develop their character through the act of service. The opportunity and requirement to reflect and give meaning to their service experience are critical to the success of the program.
The integration of gospel values and those values demonstrated by the work of Blessed Edmund are the cornerstones of the Waterford Service-Learning Program at St Edward’s College. It is expected that all graduates from St Edward’s College will have demonstrated a willingness and ability to assist those in their community who are in need. It is important our students develop compassion and empathy for those less fortunate than themselves through active preparation, participation, and critical reflection. A gradual process has been designed to develop these values throughout the whole school.
The College has been conducting this mandatory Social Justice program for over 20 years. Each student in Years 8-11 is required to complete at least 15 hours of service for others, by the end of Term 3.
- Please ask your son to see Mr Rozario or his Religious Education teacher for more information.
- Please contact Mr Rozario if you have any questions about Waterford.
- Your son will have the program explained clearly to him in the next week by his Religious Education teacher.
- Opportunities to earn Waterford hours will be posted within the Daily Notices.
Term 1 Waterford Opportunities and Events
The list below are just some of the opportunities and events that students can partake in to receive Waterford hours. They are more than welcome to find their own volunteering, community service events to be involved in. It is important that if you are unsure about anything to contact Mr Rozario or ask your Religious Education teacher. Additionally, parental permission is required for all events.
- Clean up Australia Day, Sunday 15 March
- Donating Blood – Find a donor centre near you | Lifeblood
- Earth Hour, 25th March – Earth Hour 2023 – Earth Hour
- World Water Day, 22nd March – https://www.unwater.org/bethechange/
Throughout the year, students will reflect on their involvement in Waterford activities and events during Week 8 of each term within their Religious Education classes. It is imperative that students can connect the work they are doing outside of school to what they are learning within the classroom, and as such, explicit teaching and learning will be included to allow students to make these connections.
Benefits of Waterford and Service-Learning
Whilst the list of the benefits of the Waterford Service-Learning Program below does not encapsulate everything that students gain from completing their hours, it does provide a snapshot of the benefits to their development socially, morally, academically, and spiritually.
It is through service that we can all embody the Gospel values and live a life that has a positive impact on those around us.
It is with great excitement and enthusiasm that I am taking on the role of Leader of Justice, Peace, and Advocacy at the College and I look forward to working with the whole of the St Edward’s community in providing quality learning and formation experiences for our students.
Mr Alexander Rozario
Leader of Justice, Peace, and Advocacy
