Shining Lights Week 9, Term 2, 22/6/2023

What’s love got to do with it?

What do a famous football player, a political staffer and an Australian of the Year have in common?  

They all highlight the need for better education about consent - to prevent the perpetration of crimes and to support victims with knowledge of their legal rights.

With the change to NSW consent laws in June 2022, it is vital that young people especially, understand that consent is “a free and voluntary agreement that should not be presumed.” Some might say that it’s a matter of common sense…unfortunately, you only need to look around to see that people don’t always follow common sense: 

From posting photos without consent to sharing “nudes”.

From giving wedgies to establish the pecking order to becoming “handsy” after drinking alcohol. 

From covering “the bases” within a relationship to reinforcing stereotypes within relationships (as portrayed as much in Hollywood blockbusters as in porn).

These are increasingly common at an increasingly younger age.

Consent Labs is a Sydney-based organisation that facilitates a platform for young people to learn how to navigate consent respectfully. Run by young people, for young people, they worked with our Year 8-12 students to promote Human Dignity, Self-Reflection, and Empathy.  These core values align with the three foundational perspectives of our College’s Pastoral Care Framework: 

• Theology (Being the Light of Christ)
• Philosophy (Living the Good Life)
• Psychology (Understanding motivations and behaviours) 

To strengthen this connection, Year 9 and 10 students participated in their annual Retreat experience, considering different types of loving relationships (family, friends, partners, humanity) and love of self as one “made in the image of God”.  Students were invited to consider how and why Jesus calls us to “Love our enemies” and to meditate on the type of person that they wish to be.

“Be kind and compassionate to one another” (Ephesians 4:32)

K - 6 Annual Athletics Carnival

The Primary Athletics Day was a fun filled day coordinated by the wonderful Megan Herganhan, supported by her team of PE Staff and Secondary helpers. Our day started with our Primary House Captains leading their houses in their War Cries-with Monaroo coming out on top. The students proudly displayed their house colours and had a warm up dance lead by Mrs Herganhan before the first race of the day began.

The students began their day with long distance running then they broke off into an array of fun-filled sports activities that cater to the varying interests and abilities of our students. From relay races to, long jump, high jump, shot put, discus, hurdles, parachute and other novelty activities. The Primary Athletics day offered an opportunity for every child to actively participate and showcase their unique skills. The carnival promoting physical activity, fostering a love for sports, and encouraging students to embrace an active lifestyle.  

Competition plays a vital role in Athletics Day, allowing our students to develop their competitive spirit in a friendly and supportive environment. Through a series of age-appropriate events, students had the chance to challenge themselves and compete against their peers. We emphasize the importance of fair play, good sportsmanship, and celebrating the achievements of every participant, ensuring a positive experience for all. For those students in year 2-6 the Athletics Carnival also allows for the selection of students to participate in the Southern Region Athletics Carnival. 

Above all, Primary Athletics Day was a celebration of joy and school spirit. These days are where Lumen Christi shines and where a true sense of community is built with the atmosphere filled with cheers and laughter. Parents, teachers, and fellow students came together to create an environment that uplifted and motivated our young athletes. The Athletics Carnival was a fantastic day that promoted physical fitness and fun, while also nurturing a love for sports and healthy competition. Congratulations to all the students for trying their best, it was a fantastic carnival. A huge thanks to Megan Hergenhan and all the PE staff.