Oakleigh Grammar students have returned from the Round Square Footprints of Unity Conference in Perth with lasting memories, new friendships and a renewed sense of purpose.
The conference was centred on the theme of “What footprints do you want to leave?”, challenging students to reflect deeply on the impact they have on the world around them.
Student delegates further developed leadership and service skills through a range of physical, cultural and service-based activities.
Among the activities was a bushwalk and a rock-climbing wall which ended in a ‘leap of faith’ challenge.
These experiences highlighted the importance of overcoming fear and supporting one another in the face of adversity.
The program also included meaningful engagement with the local Indigenous culture of Perth, allowing students to appreciate Indigenous people’s connection to land and environmental stewardship.
A highlight for many was learning and performing ‘We Are Australian’ with Indigenous verses.
Service learning was at the heart of the conference, with students creating sandwiches for those in need and constructing possum boxes to protect local wildlife.
Delegates were intentionally separated into mixed-school groups for activities and while initially challenging, this led to unexpected connections across cultures.
The spirit of the conference was further enhanced by the leadership of Year 10 and 11 students from host schools Scotch College and Bunbury Cathedral Grammar School, who guided each activity group with maturity and enthusiasm.
Oakleigh Grammar said it is proud to be part Round Square and to be able to offer these experiences to its students, to further their development outside of school walls.
