Term 3 saw our Service Learning YMAD team grow, with several new members.
The term began with preparations for our much anticipated Op Shop Day, and most Wednesday afternoons were spent in Moortang Mia sorting through donated clothing. These donations, generously provided by our school community and collected daily from the yellow bins at Reception, filled the space with rails of preloved treasures.
Op Shop Day was a huge success! We offered a wide variety of clothing items, all priced under $5 and sales ran throughout the week leading up to the event. The highlight was seeing the whole school dressed in their op shop finds on the day itself. Assembly that morning was filled with laughter as several staff members strutted down the catwalk in the Keith Lindbeck Centre, showing off their thrifted outfits. The lunchtime fashion parade added even more fun, with Larna on the microphone and our Junior School Service Captains assisting Ms House in selecting the winners.
In the week leading up to the event, Senior School Service Learners and I spent an afternoon in the canteen preparing for our Soup Kitchen. The menu featured delicious pumpkin soup and chicken noodle soup.
A special mention goes to Lily, our Service Captain, whose enthusiasm and leadership were key to the day’s success. She promoted the event tirelessly speaking at assemblies, chapel services, and to Junior School Staff and Students. Posters around the School ensured everyone was well informed.
PCACS Students spent a night outdoors for the Anglicare Sleep Out which allowed them to gain perspective on the challenges faced by thousands of Western Australians who are homeless over 9,000 each night, including around 3,500 people under the age of 24. All funds raised from the Sleepout, Soup Kitchen and Op Shop were donated to the Anglicare Street Connect Bus, supporting homeless youth in Perth.
Throughout the remainder of Term 3 and into Term 4, YMAD students continued their service work helping with R U OK? Day, distributing toiletries and treats to staff bathrooms, creating posters for upcoming activities, planning Christmas raffle prizes, and beginning preparations for the Christmas Backpack Appeal.
Another opportunity for students to serve our School community is through our Carnley’s Cuppas Coffee Van. The chilly winter mornings saw our baristas working at full speed, serving hot chocolates and coffees to eager customers. It’s wonderful to see their confidence and skills grow each year. Many students now use Kiddies Cuppas Cards, making transactions quick and convenient.
In early Term 4, twelve new Year 9 baristas began their training with Five Senses Coffee staff on site. Under the mentorship of our Senior Baristas, these enthusiastic students will continue to develop their skills throughout the term.
Unfortunately, as our new baristas begin their journey, we also farewell our Year 12 Baristas. Their exceptional coffee, friendly service and infectious humour have made a lasting impression. They will all be missed dearly.
A heartfelt thank you to all our baristas, Anglicare Ambassadors and every student who has been part of YMAD this year. It is a true privilege to work alongside such passionate and generous young people.
Mrs Hunt
Service Learning Coordinator and Duke of Edinburgh Coordinator