Christian Service Learning (CSL) animates the Bunbury Catholic College Vision of “Our students will become confident and compassionate young adults, inspired by the teachings of Jesus, to make a difference in a changing world”. It is a program that is intentional in planning and experiential, developmental and ‘student-centred’ in methodology.
Through CSL experiences, our hope is that students find their voice, take action, and make an impact on social issues in their local communities.
As a Marist school via the characteristics they learn:
In the way of Mary - Work without reward or favour.
Love of work - Devoting your whole-self to the act of service.
Simplicity - People appreciate simple acts of kindness and compassion.
Presence - Being there for others and listening to them is an act of compassion and kindness.
Family spirit - Care and respect for those who are vulnerable in our community.
Using a developmental approach, students from year seven to twelve may be involved with community groups such as:
- Surfing for the Disabled;
- Red Cross;
- St Vincent De Paul Society;
- Caritas;
- BCC Assist (cooking meals to help those in need);
- St Patrick’s Christmas Lunch;
- and St Patrick’s Christmas Fair.
In 2021, BCC formed new partnerships with Volunteer South West and Milligan. These are ‘not-for-profit’ organisations that offer opportunities for volunteering in your local community.
Our CSL program launches annually on Ash Wednesday. This facilitates opportunities to serve others during Lent.
The minimum CSL hours are:
- Years 7 & 8: 5 hours home-based service, 5 hours community-based service, or 10 hours community-based service.
- Year 9: 10 hours community-based service.
- Year 10-12: 20 hours community-based service.
