There are many unique programs, groups and activities that make the Middle School such a fun and vibrant place to be. Perhaps the most profound and impactful group in the Middle School are the SRC (Student Representative Council). The SRC consists of three representatives from each House across the three year levels. Often Houses have more representatives, depending on the level of interest. Usually, the numbers hover around 30 students, led by their ever-present and motivated leader, Rev. Scott Bramley.
The SRC is purely volunteer-based and consists of students who genuinely want to make a positive difference to the Middle School community. I have chosen to highlight some of the initiatives that the SRC have focussed on this year, as I believe their selflessness in helping our Carey community is something that we should all aspire to and be proud of.
Throughout the year, the SRC have raised money and awareness for a number of outside causes and agencies. They will often respond as the need arises. The Tonga Volcano and Tsunami appeal is a prime example. After this catastrophic event occurred, the SRC rallied the Middle School community together in response. A very popular coastal photography competition was organised, as was a Hawaiian Shirt casual clothes day. We learnt about the plight of the people in assembly, we explored their response to the issue, and we raised much needed funds and awareness in the process. Over $1000.00 was dedicated to the people of Tonga.
There have been a variety of local, regional and international causes and initiatives that the SRC has dedicated time and energy towards. In a local sense, they look after us, the Carey Middle School community. They ensure our immediate facilities are appropriate and cater for our cohort. An example of this would be the all-purpose table tennis tables that were built and are now utilised daily. These have been an absolute hit. Other examples include the care for our natural and built environment, both inside and out. The SRC, along with the Middle School Leaders, purchased rubbish pincers/tongs and high-vis vests in preparation for a rubbish blitz. This sustainable movement began with a few students picking up rubbish at lunch and recess. It has now grown in an exponential fashion to include at least 10 students each day, including our leaders, showing the way by voluntarily making our grounds look beautiful. Our Carey environment has never looked better and the volunteer nature of this activity seems to be inspiring others to get involved.
Other initiatives the SRC have raised money and awareness for are our World Vision Sponsor Children in Uganda, the Baptcare Toy Appeal, NAIDOC Week, JMB Foundation, MND, Pride Plus and Minus 18, Girls in Sport, Bomber Command with the Kew RSL, Remembrance Day and the Salvation Army Appeal and Recycled Sports gear. I am sure there are many other causes too. Recently the SRC have responded to the Victorian Flood Crisis, and an initiative to raise money and awareness for people impacted by the floods is under way.
In every sense, the SRC stands for what is right and just at Carey. The students who volunteer generously give their heart and soul to make others’ lives better. Their fearless leader (Rev. Bramley) leads with passion and empathy. He shows a genuine care for his SRC volunteers. He knows the secret – helping others leads to a healthy and more content life at Carey and beyond. Congratulations to all SRC members! We hope to have even more members next year.
Harry Dendle
Deputy Head of Middle School – Student Wellbeing
