Christian Service Learning

Christian Service Learning provides students with the opportunity “to develop and learn through thoughtfully organised service that: (a) is based on the Gospel imperative; (b) meets the real needs of the community; and (c) includes structured time for students to reflect on the service experience” (CECWA, 2006, p. 2). 

Christian Service Learning in Catholic schools enables students to grow from a Catholic faith perspective as people of service and justice. The Catholic school challenges students to grow in their understanding that faith is not just a personal response to God’s love but a communal response to love one another as Jesus has taught in order ‘to make the world a better place for all.’ (Mandate, 24).  

What is Expected?

YEAR 7

In Year 7, Religious Education (RE) Teachers will highlight the importance of our College mission, vision and traditions and how following Christ necessitates our serving others.

In Year 7, service will be directed and monitored by the RE Teacher during Term 2- Term 4. Students will work with the RE teacher who will model and provide an experience of Service. Students need to record hours completed on their digitally provided log sheet, and submit this prior to the conclusion of Term 3.

Students will work with their RE Teacher to complete Christian Service together. In Term 4, students will be required to complete a reflection on what they gained and experienced while completing service. This is to be submitted by Week 6, Term 4. They will complete a minimum of 10 hours of service.

YEAR 8

In Year 8, RE Teachers will highlight the importance of our Core Values and traditions and how following Christ necessitates our serving others. Students will discuss and decide on what could be service at the College and in the wider community. Classes will discuss their planned action and monitor at regular intervals as to how they are going. Teachers may offer advice, encouragement and assistance as necessary, however, it is expected that the students undertake all necessary arrangements. Some examples might be, church activities, visiting and assisting an elderly person, Improving the environment through gardening, picking up litter, unpaid babysitting, collecting for charity, coaching or assisting in sporting teams.

In Year 8 their service will be directed and monitored by the RE Teacher during Term 1- Term 3. Students need to record hours completed on their digitally provided log sheet, and submit this prior to the conclusion of Term 3. In Term 4, students will be required to complete a reflection on what they gained and experienced while completing service. This is to be submitted by Week 6, Term 4. They must complete a minimum of 15 hours of service.

YEAR 9

In Year 9, RE Teachers will highlight the importance of our Core Values and traditions and how following Christ necessitates our serving others. Students will discuss and decide on what could be service in the College and in the wider community. Classes will discuss their planned action and monitor at regular intervals as to how they are going. Teachers may offer advice, encouragement and assistance as necessary, however, it is expected that the students undertake all necessary arrangements. Some examples might include Church activities, visiting and assisting an elderly person improving the environment through gardening, picking up litter, unpaid babysitting, collecting for charity, coaching or assisting in sporting teams.

In Year 9 their service will be directed and monitored by the RE Teacher during Term 1- Term 3. Students need to record hours completed on their digitally provided log sheet, and submit this prior to the conclusion of Term 3. In Term 4, students will be required to complete a reflection on what they gained and experienced while completing service. This is to be submitted by Week 6, Term 4. They are to complete a minimum of 20 Hours of service.