The school’s religious education coordinator Antoinette Woods said there was a lot of excitement being in school at night…in pyjamas.

“Students were keen to share their dream house with inclusions such as helipads and a bumper car room but were challenged when shown an image of a young family living out of a car,” she said. 

They were surprised to hear that in NSW, 3,632 people experiencing homelessness are under 12. That is almost 25% of all people who are experiencing homeless in NSW.

Another activity had the students take on an identity and step forward or back depending on their situation in relation to education, income, housing, health and ability to communicate in English.

Much to one student’s disappointment, she stepped back so much she ended up outside the classroom.

Neil Ffrench from St Vincent De Paul and Mick Brosnan from the Social Justice Advocates of Sapphire Coast inspired the students by describing some of the local initiatives that provide safety, support and basic necessities to those in need.

“It definitely struck a chord with some of the kids, the teachers did a great job of educating them on this somewhat sensitive subject,” Mr Brosnan said. 

Mr Bronsan said he is always impressed with the lengths the school goes to in order to support the local community which included a recent donation of over 30 swags to the Social Justice Advocates of Sapphire Coast.

“I brought some of the swags in with me for the kids to have a try and to see what people on the streets can be sleeping in,” he said.

Students were encouraged to get involved with the College’s Mini Vinnies group and support charitable initiatives such as the Annual Book Swap and Vinnie’s Christmas Hampers.

Students in Year 10 also have the opportunity to share a meal and serve others at Pearl’s Place in Pambula.

The school thanks the staff and parents who sacrificed one good night’s sleep, enabling this opportunity for the students to develop empathy and compassion.