On Friday 19 June, 52 students participated in the Lighthouse Foundation Sleepout, an experience that brought an element of our definition of wellbeing, doing good, to life through reflection, empathy, and action.

What began as a week of anticipation became an evening of connection and understanding, as students stepped outside their comfort zones to gain a deeper appreciation of the challenges faced by young people experiencing homelessness. 

The initiative commenced on Thursday afternoon, with an additional 12 students joining the 52 Sleepout participants for a cooking activity. Together, they prepared meals and decorated containers to donate to the Lighthouse Foundation. On Friday morning, members of our Social Service team and Student Representative Council helped set up the event, bringing together weeks of thoughtful planning.

Throughout the evening, students were encouraged to reflect on what it means to go without the basic needs many of us take for granted through activities based on Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs. As they worked through securing shelter, accessing clean water, medical assistance, food, belonging, and security, students considered the reality that access to these essentials is not a privilege, but a fundamental human right.

More than simply raising awareness, the Sleepout challenged students to act with purpose. The evening was supported by a number of Senior School staff and members of the Alumni community. Through engaging discussions and activities, students explored how doing good requires more than intention. It asks us to notice, understand, and respond thoughtfully to the needs of others.

Students embraced this challenge with compassion and curiosity, engaging with guest speaker Jo Stanley from the Lighthouse Foundation, who shared insights into youth homelessness and the positive impact individuals and communities can have through their actions.

The Sleepout also reinforced the importance of community. Through conversation, participation, and support for the Lighthouse Foundation, students connected their actions to a broader commitment to justice, equity, and care for others.

We are incredibly proud of the empathy and maturity demonstrated by our students and grateful to the families and community members who supported this meaningful initiative. Together, we continue to show that every step taken towards doing good, whether through raising awareness or taking action, can make a genuine difference.

Ms Karlie Payne
Director of Student Wellbeing