This week, our Year 9 STRIVE students immersed themselves in exploring some of the key issues facing the Rockingham community and learning about the organisations working to support local people.
On Tuesday, students visited the City of Rockingham, where they learned about local challenges including FOGO implementation, vacant buildings, vandalism, homelessness and anti-social behaviour. The visit encouraged students to consider the role they can play in creating positive change within their community.
Students also spent time at the Rockingham Youth Centre, where they participated in activities and gained an understanding of the programs and support available to local young people. Reflecting on the visit, Charice Huang shared that students “were introduced to the events they hold weekly and during the holidays and the support they offer to teenagers and young adults. We discussed the social, transportation and education barriers of young people in our community and learned the importance of having a community.”
Later in the week, students welcomed guest speakers from PCYC and Liliah Haven. Through discussions and interactive activities, students explored the realities of homelessness, the challenges faced by vulnerable members of the community and the importance of support networks for young people.
Georgia Lockyer reflected on the experience, saying, “As a cohort, we were informed on everything that they do to support the local community and everything that goes into supporting different groups of people, particularly the youth and the homeless. It was overall an engaging and eye-opening experience for all the Year 9 students involved.”
These experiences challenged students to look beyond themselves, deepen their understanding of local issues and consider how they can contribute to a stronger, more connected Rockingham community.
