In 2019 Bullsbrook College is broadening their student leadership team as part of their ongoing commitment to provide more opportunities for student voices to be heard.
An important component of this plan is providing the student leadership team with exposure to strong role models within the community, which they had the opportunity to enjoy recently with a trip to Parliament House with Swan Hills MLA Jessica Shaw.
Bullsbrook College principal Bernadette Jones explains, “Having compassionate and talented role models is important when encouraging young people to stand up and speak up for change. Peer group pressure often causes students to feel uncomfortable about stepping forward into such roles. It can also cause individuals to feel unsafe in standing up for the things they believe in. We are working hard to encourage student voices to be heard and respected.”
Ms Shaw had previously visited Bullsbrook College and enjoyed lunch and a vibrant meeting with the student leadership group.
“Jessica’s ability to mentor and encourage this group was very obvious at this event,” said Mrs Jones.
Students Savannah Auguste, Georgia Scholz, Krystal Meakins, Taylor Johnstone, Megan Coles, Samantha Reid, Lachlan Lindsay and Heath Clarke along with Mrs Jones and teacher Trevor Hazelden enjoyed lunch in the grand surroundings of the Parliament House dining room before gaining a behind-the-scenes insight into the workings of our state political system.
“We went on a tour of Parliament and then headed into the public gallery for Question Time. It turned out to be the last Question Time for the Leader of the Opposition, Mr Mike Nahan, MLA for Riverton who appeared on ABC later that evening announcing his resignation as the Opposition Leader,” said student Krystal Meakins.
“We noticed the heavy media presence of radio, television and newspaper journalists and camera crews and saw some familiar faces—normally seen on our TV screens. It was a fabulous day for all,” said student Samantha Reid.
Jessica Shaw, who cites meeting with the young people of her electorate as one of the highlights of her job, had high praise for the Bullsbrook College students.
“We’re working together on leadership and civics, coming up with ideas to make our local community a better place. I’m just loving it! Such amazing young people – talented, full of energy and so passionate about our local area! Keep up the great work, guys!” she said.
