College SOARs with values

STUDENTS from Pakenham Secondary College are being taught the benefits of volunteer and community work.
Brian Clemens, the welfare officer at the college, says that it’s important for young people to feel connected and contribute to the community.
Year 9 and 10 music students visit McGregor Gardens Aged Care Services in Pakenham, performing songs for residents.
Students who go along enjoy learning from the residents at the aged care facility, as well as singing and performing for them.
Mr Clemens says the relationship between McGregor Gardens Aged Care Services and the college is important because it builds confidence and self-esteem in the students, as well as giving back to the community.
“It’s about teaching the students about the different groups within the community and promoting the college within the community,” Mr Clemens said.
The monthly visits to the aged care facility have been such a success that students will also be able to visit the Millhaven hostel this term.
Dan Doyle is the music teacher involved in the program.
“Students are asked to go, and they see it as an honorary thing. It is a way for them to gain valuable performing experience as well as setting up and packing down equipment,” Mr Doyle said.
The college’s SOAR values denote social responsibility, opportunities for all, achieving personal best and respect and relationships.
Mr Clemens says it is important to teach students to give back to their community.
“Supporting the elderly and promoting the college’s SOAR values within the community are the main aims of the program,” he explained.