Grammar to host global student conference

IN a world contending with division and disruption, more than 160 people from across Australia and overseas will gather at Ballarat Grammar next week to explore the importance of democracy.

Students from the other side of the globe and interstate are attending the Round Square Middle School Conference with the theme You’re the Voice.

Taking place from Tuesday 7 to Sunday 12 April the conference will bring together 110 year 8 delegates, 30 staff and 25 student leaders from 17 schools.

Alongside strong representation from Tasmania, Queensland, Western Australia, New South Wales and Victoria, students are travelling from India, Bangladesh and Romania to take part.

Democracy is one of the core pillars of Round Square, an international community of 280-plus schools in 50

countries that collaborate on education around international understanding, environmental stewardship, adventure, leadership and service.

Students will examine what it means to have a voice in governance and why respectful dialogue, participation and civic responsibility are essential to healthy communities.

Ballarat Grammar headmaster Adam Heath said the city’s democratic legacy made it a natural host.

“Ballarat has played a defining role in Australia’s democratic story,” Mr Heath said.

“This conference gives young people the opportunity to reflect on that history while developing the confidence and skills to engage thoughtfully in their own communities.

“In a world that feels more divided, supporting young people to develop the skills and dispositions for respectful conversation is more important than ever.”

He said the event reinforces Ballarat’s continuing role as a place of civic learning and highlights the importance of empowering the next generation to lead with empathy, courage and conviction.

As part of the program, delegates will also undertake a service initiative, preparing 2000 sandwiches for Eat Up to support children experiencing food insecurity.