Welcoming the Diversity Homework Club to campus

Clarendon and the Ballarat Regional Multicultural Council (BRMC) have shared a partnership spanning more than six years. This year, Clarendon was pleased to begin hosting the Friday afternoon Diversity Homework Club at the Sturt Street campus, accommodating growing participation and creating more opportunities for Clarendon students to be involved as tutors.

The Diversity Homework Club provides an opportunity for local students from a range of backgrounds to come together and work collaboratively on their schoolwork, supported by senior students and tutors. It also enables Clarendon students to put their leadership skills into practice while building meaningful, supportive relationships with students beyond the school community.

“As a school in Ballarat for Ballarat, we want to have a positive impact in our local community,” said Community Service Coordinator, Daniel Nelson. “Over the years, many of our students have benefited from being tutors, while also supporting the learning of others. The BRMC council is incredibly supportive of our students, so we were thrilled to contribute by hosting the Friday program.”

Year 12 students Keerthi and Ellen are current tutors, with Keerthi participating for the past three years and Ellen volunteering for the past six months.

“As a tutor, I help primary school students practise foundational numeracy, writing and science skills,” said Keerthi. “We also run activities that foster an inclusive and supportive environment, such as public speaking about students’ cultures, helping them build confidence, develop social skills and feel comfortable expressing themselves.”

Reflecting on their experience, both Keerthi and Ellen highlighted the communication skills they have developed, particularly when working with younger students, as well as the reward of seeing students grow in confidence and ability.

“I’ve learned that it’s okay not to be good at something when you first start, but perseverance goes a long way,” said Ellen. “I’ve developed teaching skills and an understanding that different students require different approaches. Most importantly, I aim to show students that learning can be fun.”

“In my role, I hope to instil values of participation and having a go, curiosity and asking questions when students are unsure and the importance of being part of a community and supporting your peers,” said Keerthi.

Thank you to the BRMC and the Diversity Homework Club Program Coordinators, Anusha and Olabisi, for working alongside Clarendon students to cultivate a community of young people who value growth and a sense of community.

Learn more about the Diversity Homework Club and hear from Community Service Coordinator, Daniel Nelson, and Year 12 student, Ellen, below.