St George Christian School Extranet

They look out to the wider world

BY EVA TEJSZERSKI St George & Sutherland Shire Leader 19 Mar, 2011

IT IS what happens outside school that inspires Joshua Lee and Jaala Kinmond to expand their vision.

Although the leaders of St George Christian School at Hurstville are focused on driving positive initiatives within the school community, they also place significant value on contributing to the outside world.

They say this ensures a better overall school spirit.

"Our main responsibility is to lead the prefect body," Joshua, 17, said.

"But because we go to a small Christian school, one of the values we uphold is a general care for the wider community, by trying to have an ethical standpoint on issues to aid whatever we can."

The "Beyond Ourselves" group consists of a small cluster of students who dedicate time and effort to different fund-raising activities.

Their latest project is raising money for the Christchurch earthquake victims.

"I think it shows we can have an impact in a wider sense — even being here at the school," Jaala said.

"Having an understanding about ethics from a young age can be helpful for you later in life," said Joshua.

An aspiring primary school teacher, Jaala, also 17, said her main target was building up relationships with the junior students.

"Our school isn't the biggest so it's a very friendly and supportive environment," she said.

"Especially when it comes to organising activities that don't relate directly to the school.

"I go to Moree as part of a youth group program during the holidays every year to help out in indigenous communities, and hang out with the students."