Somerset College Profile May 17, 2023 by admin Somerset College: Empowering Students to Create Positive Change Volunteering is a powerful way to create a positive impact and make a difference in the lives of others. Somerset College stands as a shining example, offering a multitude of volunteering opportunities that empower students to become compassionate and socially responsible individuals. At Somerset College, students are encouraged to go beyond academic achievements and embrace the transformative experience of giving back to the community. In this blog, we will delve into the diverse range of volunteering initiatives available at Somerset College, exploring the benefits of volunteering for students, the community, and the school itself. VGC: What types of volunteering opportunities are available at your school? Somerset: At Somerset College, there are several volunteering opportunities available for students to engage in community service. Two such events include Clean Up Australia Day and the Homeless Sleepout Campaign. Both of these events help to raise awareness either of the environment or those in our community doing it tough. The Sleepout is always well attended. Students are either involved directly through the raising of funds and serving of meals or indirectly through our Meals That Make a Difference programme. There really is something for everyone and we always encourage students to initiate their own activities through interest groups. We have three over-subscribed service trips each year. These involved close links to our academic curriculum: we visit Quoll Headquarters, the Myall Creek National Commemoration and attend B Trips to Wakka Wakka Country. The last two trips allow students to build their empathy for indigenous culture and history. A recent favourite has been lending a hand to the participants at the Disabled Surfers Association – the DSA meet once a month over the summer. Our entire school community, rallies behind the annual Christmas Appeal helping to spread holiday cheer to disadvantaged individuals and families across the GC. Furthermore, students have the opportunity to serve as members of service-related committees such as Sustainable Spartans, Tech Services Crew, IMPACT Committee, and Functions Committee. Through these committees, students can actively promote sustainability, provide technical support at Musicals and House Plays, make a positive impact within the school community, and assist in organizing various college functions. What are the benefits of volunteering for your students? Volunteering allows students to experience the joy of making a difference in the lives of those in need, providing a sense of fulfilment and purpose. Students also have the opportunity to network and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for community service. How does volunteering at your school benefit the community and the school itself? By getting involved in community service, students develop a deeper connection with their college, the curriculum and our community. This sense of belonging promotes a positive school culture where students feel empowered and motivated to create positive change. Why should students get involved in volunteering? Or what would you tell someone who is thinking of doing it? The reason why we participate in service activities in the senior school and possibly even outside of school is that it gives adolescents opportunities that they might not necessarily do with their families. A Somerset Education isn’t just about academics, sport and culture but is rounded off with learning how to serve others. Learning to put others first and to put ourselves in the shoes of the elderly or the less abled, teaches us so many lessons. In fact, some of our best lessons are those learnt when we serve others. Whilst it is nice to receive gratitude from others while doing service, it does transform you into a better, kinder human being. Ultimately, volunteering offers a chance to be part of something larger than oneself and positively impact the world. As the saying goes “Happiness Comes from Serving Others”, the feeling of helping others is extremely heart-warming and it will always end with a smile on your face even when you can’t help it. https://volunteeringgc.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Service_Learning_at_Somerset_College.mp4 It’s great to see students embracing volunteering and that by participating they know they are making a real impact in the lives of those in need but also learn the values of empathy, compassion, and social responsibility. If you would like to know more about youth volunteering visit our website and to read more about Somerset you can visit their website here.
