A number of our student leaders represented the College at the Edmund Rice International Global Schools Zoom Meet on 13 May. The Theme of the Meet was ERI Youth Voices for Justice. The forum was led by Br. Tino, an Argentinian Brother who is part of ERI.
Being a part of the ERI Global East Youth Ambassadors Meeting was an eye opening experience. Seeing the change that fellow Edmund Rice schools around the world have achieved was truly inspiring. This should be a call to action for our Parade community. To get involved with our fundraisers, help out with Brekky Van and to create a lasting change for those who are underprivileged. We as a collective want to continue to advocate and create lasting change, but we need your help!
Year 11 Shevan Fernando T05
To be a part of the ERI Global East Youth Ambassadors Meeting was an amazing opportunity. The meeting, lead by Br Tino, was a great chance to meet with schools across the globe and share initiatives and ideas. It was uplifting to see the change other schools like us are making towards human rights and justice. We as a group want to continue advocating and make changes in our community.
Year 10 Tex Borg T08
At our recent College Assembly, we proudly inducted our student leaders from Years 7 to 11 for 2026. Surrounded by staff, students and families, our newly appointed leaders officially accepted their badges and the responsibility of representing our College community with pride, integrity and service.
As a College, we recognise the important role student leadership plays in fostering a positive and inclusive school culture. Throughout the year, these students will lead by example, support College initiatives and encourage others to become actively involved in school life.
We congratulate all our student leaders and look forward to seeing the positive contribution they will make to our community throughout the year.
Year 9 Billy Sapountzis L18
I applied for a student leadership role because I’ve loved this house since day one and wanted to make it special. I want to make sure everyone else has a great time here too. I am an open ear for your ideas, and I have the determination to get things done. My main goal is to get everyone involved so we have the best spirit in the school, no matter if we win or lose.
I applied for the role of Year 11 Student Leader to give back to the Parade community that has supported my growth since Year 7, and to ensure every student feels a true sense of belonging. As a hardworking student and active Community Action volunteer, I offer a leadership style rooted in empathy, organisation, and consistent service. This year, I hope to bridge the gap between year levels, advocate for student voices, and inspire my peers to bring the 'Parade Spirit' to life through active dedication to both our studies and our community.
Year 11 Raphael Glow B09
This term, five of the Year 11 Touchstones classes commenced their three week Community Action Volunteering Program, which saw them contribute to the community in a variety of meaningful ways through service, support and hands-on volunteering opportunities. Some students were active in community organisations and charities such as Big Group Hug and the Vinnies Op Shops, some spent some time in local Aged Care facilities, and others worked hard in the Waterford Garden. Some students completed recycling projects and campaign which you will see advertised over the next few weeks.
I have received such positive feedback about our students' engagement whilst volunteering and I congratulate these Year 11s on their willingness to make a positive impact to others and the environment.
l had the opportunity to volunteer with Big Group Hug in their Thomastown warehouse and give back to the community in a meaningful way. From the moment we arrived, we were warmly welcomed by the regular volunteers, who introduced themselves and showed us around the organisation’s different workspaces. We were taken through the various areas where care packages are prepared for individuals and families in need, and we were encouraged to get involved and assist wherever we could.
Throughout our time there, we not only helped assemble packages, but also got the chance to speak with a few volunteers and learn more about the organisation’s impact within the community. Although we did not directly witness the outcomes of our efforts, it was clear that every small contribution plays an important role in supporting those experiencing struggle. The experience highlighted how even simple acts of kindness can make a genuine difference.
We felt incredibly grateful for the opportunity and for the kindness and care shown to us by the volunteers. The experience gave us a greater appreciation of the importance of community support and reminded us of how much work is still needed to help those in need.
Year 11 Matthew Fittipaldi L06
Our first week at Vinnies has been amazing; the people were very friendly. We spent some time sorting out donations of books and pricing stock. It was an eye-opening experience as l never actually understood the commitment people have for the community until today, can't wait to go next week and do my part.
Year 11 Ashen Nawagamuwage N06
My Touchstones volunteering project is a sustainability collection.
I have researched the impact of the dental care waste on our environment.
Every day, lots of oral care products are thrown away around the world. Toothbrushes, toothpaste tubes, and electric toothbrush heads are often made from mixed plastics that can take hundreds of years to break down in landfill. By learning how to recycle these products properly, we can help reduce waste and protect the environment.
Many people are surprised to learn that oral care products can be recycled. I am encouraging all Parade families to bring in their dental waste; items such as manual toothbrushes, electric toothbrush heads, empty toothpaste tubes, floss picks, and mouthwash bottles.
These can be dropped off at Main Reception or to the Community Action Centre.
Year 11 Jye Chesser N05
As winter approaches, many rough sleepers in our community are struggling with no access warm clothing and safe shelter. To help those in need, we are once again running a winter coat/clothing/blankets/doona collection drive, in partnership with Vinnies.
We are putting the call out to all in our community to look through your wardrobes and see if there is any good condition winter clothing/blankets etc that are too small or not being used. Drop these off at either the Main Reception or the Community Action Centre.
Do your part to keep people warm this winter!
Year 11s Thisath Dissanyake L02 and Daniel Tan T08
Reducing Tech Waste: Small Actions, Big Impact
As technology continues to play an increasingly important role in education, it is easy for e-waste to build up in schools. Old chargers, unused devices, broken headphones, outdated batteries, and unnecessary printing all contribute to environmental waste and rising costs.
At Parade College, we have an opportunity to lead by example and demonstrate responsible stewardship of our resources. By making a few simple changes in our daily habits, staff can help reduce tech waste and create a more sustainable school environment.
Ways We Can Help- Recycle Responsibly
Batteries, cables, ink cartridges, and old electronics should never be placed in general waste bins. Bring your tech waste into Parade -we have designated e-waste recycling points. Drop off at Main Reception or the Community Action Centre.
Year 11 Zach Elia H08
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