Fulfilling Lives SIMON FINNIGAN, DIRECTOR OF EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING
The College’s Year 10 Fulfilling Lives Program is an innovative and transformative initiative that has garnered much attention over the years for its positive impact on students’ personal development and well-rounded education. The Fulfilling Lives program represents a holistic approach to education, going beyond traditional academic subjects to foster character development, critical thinking, and a deep sense of cultural understanding and social responsibility. Each Year 10 student participates in a multi-day immersive experience that embraces both culture and service - either locally or internationally, depending on their preference. This year’s trip destinations included: Cambodia, Fiji, Lilla – Central Australia, Local Connections, Top End – Northern Territory, Lizard
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Island – Queensland, Vietnam and New Zealand Many of these locations are remote, most with a way of life very different to our own. A wide array of learning opportunities are encountered, enabling students to not only come to understand the culture, history and geography of an area but in some cases the socio-political influences that have shaped the nation. But Fulfilling Lives is a lot more than a cultural exchange. One of the program’s standout qualities is its focus on community
service. Throughout their trip, students engage in tasks such as building, planting, painting, concreting and other activities alongside local residents to assist with community-driven projects. This hands-on approach to learning instils empathy, compassion, and a sense of purpose in students, shaping them into responsible global citizens. It also enables both visitor and host to see, hear and experience their differences but also to embrace their commonalities as citizens of the world, the latter far outweighing the former. At the core of the Fulfilling Lives program is a commitment to nurturing well-rounded individuals
