Service Learning ... you learn while you serve.

In 2008 senior students at Ulmarra Public School initiated a Service Learning Project. Through the project, students  developed an awareness of social groups outside their own peer group. This resulted in a heightened understanding of, and interaction with, the broader community.  

Students "buddied up" with local retirement village residents visiting them for interviews twice a term.  They asked the residents questions on a particular area of social change - toys, transport, communications, school, entertainment, household chores and appliances, local history etc.  Residents enjoyed reminiscing and students loved all the stories about the "olden days". Students took photos and notes to add to their interview findings. Information was documented using Photostory3 software and students produced  a short film in DVD format. These DVDs were presented to residents at a special screening of the films at the retirement village. The experience was a very moving one for all concerned with a strong bond being forged between school students and residents.