Becoming Community-Minded Global Citizens

Taking meaningful action to uplift others – this is a core part of the GESS education and this November students demonstrated this principle in multiple ways.

Fundraising for Love, Nils

Our primary school teacher, Mr Scott Holland, led a fundraising campaign in support of Love, Nils, an organisation that supports children battling cancer. From casual day contributions to bake sales and cheering Mr Holland on as he ran short marathons to raise funds, the school community rallied together, raising a significant total of over $20,000.

Laos Winter Clothes Donation Drive

Ahead of their enrichment trip to Laos, students organised a Winter Clothes Donation Drive, demonstrating both agency and global awareness. Their goal was to collect essential clothing for economically disadvantaged communities in a Laotian village, helping families stay warm and safe through the season. This initiative encouraged students to think beyond borders and recognise their responsibility to be global citizens.

Annual Giving Tree Initiative

Not every child has a present to open this festive season. Recognising this, GESS students ran the Giving Tree initiative, which has become a beloved community service tradition in our school. In collaboration with partner organisations, students collated wish lists from beneficiaries and encouraged their peers at GESS to fulfil a wish by purchasing a gift. The student-led committee then sorted the donations and worked closely with partner organisations to ensure every item reached its intended recipient.

Beyond the funds and material items collected, through these initiatives students experienced firsthand what it means to be community-minded, service-oriented and act with empathy to make a positive impact. These values will guide them to be effective changemakers in the future. 

View the highlights from the initiative in our video here.