On Wednesday, 6 September 2023, four students from Year 4 and six students from Year 5 embarked on a remarkable journey at the IPSHA Social Justice Expo held at The King's School. There, they witnessed captivating presentations on student empowerment and school-driven change, setting the stage for their own impactful showcase. The Year 5 students proudly shared our school's inspiring work in Intumbane, a testament to St Peter’s commitment to creating a better world.
Can you share your thoughts on the IPSHA Social Justice Expo and what it was all about?
Elizabeth: There were a lot of different students from different schools there, all trying to make a difference, whether in their own school or somewhere else. It was about spreading justice and making a positive impact.
Alyssa: The Social Justice Expo showed us how individuals can inspire, help others, and make change. It challenged us to think differently.
Imogen: The Social Justice Expo was about showcasing what each school is passionate about and how they support causes. We discussed our progress in fundraising and why it's important.
Rhythm: It was really good to hear all the different ways schools are helping a variety of needs. I didn’t expect so many schools actively creating solutions for problems locally and around the world.
How was the day different from what you expected?
Evie: It was awesome to see different perspectives and personal connections.
Oliver: More schools attended, and we participated in challenges. It was great to see so many people caring.
Alyssa: It was more interactive, with many stalls actively making a difference.
What role did St. Peter’s play in the Expo?
Imogen: St. Peter's went to the Expo to share our passion for supporting Intumbane. We set up stalls to educate and encourage others to support this cause.
Ryan: We talked about Intumbane, a school in South Africa, and what it means to us.
Ella: We’ve been able to supply equipment for sport or learning, including books to help them have a fun and exciting school experience.
Harlem: We got to tell others how St. Peter’s is making a huge difference to Intumabne and allowing them to have access to water through a well we funded.
Can you describe some of the other causes Schools were supporting at the Expo?
Ryan: Some were acting externally and cleaning public places like the beach, and others were investing in their own community by engaging with lonely kids in the playground.
Rhythm: A school had a display all about Leading Ladies who were changing the world and using them as mentors and examples of what we can do. It was a real challenge to us all.
Evie: Some schools displayed how they visited remote schools in Australia and provided books, and helped establish safe practices.
Oliver: I saw a stall that cooked food for the homeless and provided meals to them.
What did you learn from attending the Expo?
Elizabeth: Finding your passion and acting on it is essential. Many people supporting various charities can make a substantial impact on our world.
Evie: We need to give back to our communities.
Harlem: One of the schools donate a small box of gifts to children in other countries who are living in poverty. In December they collect and send these things across the world to bring joy to others.
Ryan: Always choose kindness, that is how it spreads. It is contagious and small acts make huge changes.
After attending the Expo, what advice or message do you have for St. Peter’s students?
Elizabeth: Everyone needs to use their blessings to help others. All people making a difference is crucial; we all need to commit and be united.
Imogen: Show the world who you are, and don't be afraid. Small actions can lead to significant change.
Ella: It is important to give and not keep all your things for yourself, but to share.
The ten students who represented St. Peter’s are presenting their inspired learning to Mrs McDonnell and Mrs Hadfield to discuss how we can continue to grow our Social Justice practices in the school and build on the foundations we have already laid
