Students from across the Diocese of Ballarat have come together in recent weeks for the Student Agency – Schools that Listen forums, a key initiative placing student voice at the centre of school improvement.
Held in Ballarat, Warrnambool, Horsham and Robinvale, the forums brought together children and young people from Catholic schools to share what matters most in their learning and school experience, and to explore a central question: What makes a great school for all?
The forums are part of DOBCEL’s broader Student Agency – Schools that Listen initiative, which is grounded in the belief that students are active partners in shaping meaningful and engaging learning environments.
Delivered in collaboration with Dr Penelope Jean Stiles, and supported by Dave Runge, the initiative draws on contemporary research and practice in student voice, leadership and school improvement.
Across each location, students and school staff engaged in a dynamic learn, share, do approach. They worked in mixed-age groups through hands-on, creative activities designed to build relationships, strengthen networks and develop skills. Students are now taking these ideas back to their schools – sharing their learning with peers and putting their ideas into action within their own contexts.
The April forums marked the first in-person gatherings for the program, following a series of online workshops involving students, teachers and parents. Together, these experiences are building momentum for a more connected and student-informed approach to education across the Diocese.
The Ballarat forum, hosted at Damascus College, was featured on WIN News, highlighting the strength of student voice and engagement across the region.
DOBCEL acknowledges the leadership and contribution of staff supporting the initiative, including Julia Petrov, Monique Ryan and the wider team, whose work behind the scenes has been integral to its success.
As the Student Agency – Schools that Listen program continues, these forums represent an important step in strengthening student voice across the Diocese – ensuring that the perspectives of young people help shape the future of their schools and communities.