At Sacred Heart College, our commitment to values-based education extends far beyond traditional classroom boundaries. By actively engaging with our local community, we empower students to transform core virtues like empathy and compassion into meaningful action. Central to this mission are our intergenerational Outreach initiatives, which connect our young learners with aged care residents across the region to foster mutual learning, understanding and personal growth.
The iGEN learning program is designed to give students an enriched, engaging and highly valuable experience, in partnership with Mercy Health Rice Village Aged Care, Catherine McAuley College Bendigo and the Australian Catholic University. The program aims to challenge perspectives on personal growth, dismantle age-related stereotypes and connect education with real-world vocations. The program brings together students and residents from aged care on a regular basis to engage in mutually beneficial activities, projects and events, fostering purpose, helpfulness, motivation and fulfilment.
The Mecwacare Outreach opportunity is designed specifically for Year 8 students, as part of their 'See Me. Know Me.' classes. This tailored program encourages students to step beyond the classroom and build meaningful intergenerational connections with local aged care residents. Through shared activities and open dialogue, students learn the importance of seeing past age or physical capability to appreciate each resident's individual history, character and humanity. It serves as an invaluable practical application of the curriculum, instilling core values of empathy, active listening and social responsibility early in their secondary education.
Through these immersive partnerships, our students experience firsthand the profound impact of community connection. Whether collaborating on projects through the iGEN program or developing lifelong listening skills in the 'See Me. Know Me.' classes, our young people gain insights that no textbook can replicate. These initiatives not only enrich the lives of the residents we visit, but also shape our students into empathetic, socially responsible global citizens, who value every individual's unique story and humanity.
We take immense pride in our students' enthusiastic participation in these valuable intergenerational programs.
