Embedding Service Learning into Education

At Oxley College Junior School, we believe in the power of service learning to make a positive impact on our local, national, and international communities. Our vision is for students to engage in meaningful service opportunities that align with the Round Square IDEALS of Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership, and Service.

Throughout their time in the Junior School, students participate in various service learning programs that foster a sense of responsibility, empathy, and leadership. Here are some of the key programs:

Pre K: Pals and Pioneers Program

In the planning phase, this program involves weekly visits from Pepperfields Lifestyle residents to Pre K. Each resident is paired with a Pre K buddy to share fun and interactive experiences. This program emphasises the IDEALS of Service and Democracy.

Kindergarten: Kindy Kindness Clouds Program

Kindergarten students complete a weekly task to help out at home, in consultation with their parents. This task is not a chore or a paid job but a way to contribute to their household. The program highlights the IDEALS of Service and Democracy.

Year 1: Environmental Warriors Program

Year 1 students engage in gardening activities such as weeding, mulching, and cleaning up within the school community. This helps improve the campus and local area, aligning with the IDEALS of Service and Environmentalism.

Year 2: Harbison Aged Care Program (Grandfriends)

Year 2 students participate in a fortnightly intergenerational program with Harbison residents, who visit the classrooms to interact with the students. This program supports the IDEALS of Service and Democracy.

Year 3: Families In Need (Pop In) Program

Students in Year 3 fundraise, purchase, and donate toys and items for families in need in the Southern Highlands. The program includes a Gold Coin Class Competition, with the school purchasing items to donate. It emphasises the IDEALS of Service and Leadership.

Year 4: Red Cross and Dhungung Share Program

Year 4 students bring in non-perishable items to support Aboriginal families in need in the Southern Highlands. This program runs each semester and aligns with the IDEALS of Service and Leadership.

Year 5: Solar Buddies

Families donate towards purchasing light kits, which Year 5 students assemble and distribute to international communities in need. Donations can be made through the SolarBuddy Illuminate Futures initiative. This program highlights the IDEALS of Service and Internationalism.

Year 6: Honour Our Fallen Program

Year 6 students participate in the Honour Our Fallen initiative, ensuring a flag is erected on graves or memorial plaques each Anzac Day to honor those who have served their country. Students also research a local war veteran. This program supports the IDEALS of Service, Democracy, and Leadership.

We encourage all students to invest their energy in supporting causes or charities they value and feel connected to. This could involve organising activities such as sausage sizzles, raffles, or competitions to donate proceeds, time, or skills to their chosen charity.

By embedding service learning into our programs, Oxley College Junior School aims to nurture compassionate, responsible, and active global citizens.

Kind regards

Peter Ayling
Deputy Head Junior School