Religious Education News
In our Curriculum…
SOCIAL JUSTICE WEEK – EMPATHY IN ACTION
In Week 7, MSCW celebrated Social Justice Week under the theme Empathy in Action, inviting staff and students to reflect on what it means to walk in someone else’s shoes. Through a series of whole-school initiatives, our community came together to reflect, serve and make a difference.
A stunning whole-school footprint mural became the centrepiece of the week, with students contributing artwork that symbolised compassion, understanding and their commitment to empathy. Tutor groups engaged in reflective activities that challenged students to consider how their everyday choices such as their words, actions and attitudes, can either build up or break down the dignity of others.
Beyond the classroom, students put empathy into practice through acts of service. Donations continued in support of the St Vincent de Paul Winter Appeal, offering warmth and hope to those facing hardship. Students also gathered at lunch to write heartfelt letters to residents at a local nursing home, spreading kindness and connection across generations. Social Justice Week was a powerful reminder that empathy is not just a feeling, but a choice to act with love, courage and care.
Well done to our Social Justice co-Captains Billie and Valentina for organising a wonderful and powerful week.
MSCW Winter Sleep Out
Last Friday, our staff and students gathered not just to sleep out, but to step in. Under St Vincent De Paul’s 2025 theme, “No One Chooses to Be Homeless,” the Winter Sleepout invited students to confront the realities of homelessness with empathy, action and reflection. During the afternoon, students packed snack and toiletry packs for our local St Vincent’s Support Centre. After a simple supper of noodles, students then watched The Pursuit of Happyness, a film that powerfully portrays the resilience of a father navigating homelessness while striving to build a better life for his son. The story stirred deep conversations about perseverance, systemic barriers and the human face behind the statistics. Later, students participated in a scenario-based empathy activity, imagining a day in the life of someone experiencing homelessness. From navigating public transport without money to seeking shelter or accessing services, they grappled with tough decisions and unexpected obstacles. This immersive experience helped shift perspectives from judgment to understanding. Students reflected on the privileges they often take for granted and the importance of seeing each person’s story with compassion. Many left with a renewed commitment to advocacy, service, and kindness.
Thank you to all of the wonderful staff who helped with supervision, as well as those that braved the cold and stayed overnight!
