Successful applicants to the Premier’s Spirit of Democracy Tour. From left: Year 10 student Grace Howlett, Newhaven College teacher Gemma van Cuylenburg, Year 12 student Chloe Goss and teacher Melanie Flower.
A group of Victorian school students will be able to channel their inner Greek philosopher and deepen their understanding of democracy when they embark on an immersive study tour backed by the state government.
Two of the 22 students selected to take part in this year’s study tour are from Newhaven College – Year 12 student Chloe Goss and Year 10 student Grace Howlett.
“I am very much looking forward to the upcoming Melbourne and Canberra tour,” said Grace.
“I'm excited to visit Parliament House in Canberra and take part in many engaging activities.”
Making the announcement, Education Minister Natalie Hutchins’ said the study tour was a great opportunity for students to develop a deep understanding of the origins and principles of democracy, as well as consider how they can create positive change in their communities.
“We want students to be challenged to think creatively and critically and to develop the skills they need to become leaders – and this tour will do exactly that, strengthening their own voices and leadership skills.”
The week-long study tour gives students the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of civics and citizenship, including the role ancient Greece has played in the origins of Australian democracy and, in turn, helped shape and influence our contemporary society.
The students will be chaperoned by four teachers on the tour and will be encouraged to share their insights and experience with their peers and wider school community upon returning.
Newhaven College teachers Gemma van Cuylenburg and Melanie Flower have been selected to participate in the tour.
The tour will take place in Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory from April 13 – 19, during the Term 1 holidays.
The Premier’s Spirit of Democracy program appeals to students with an interest in civics and citizenship, history, philosophy, legal studies and English – as well as those with a broad interest in developing leadership skills.
To be selected for the tour, students had to submit entries that responded to a statement exploring the ability of young people to drive change by drawing on the ideas of classical Greek thinkers and reformers, like Cleisthenes and Solon. Students submitted their entries in a range of formats – including an essay or creative writing piece, audio or video presentation, musical composition or artwork.
