Service learning at Snowy Mountains Grammar School is a cornerstone of our educational approach. It connects classroom learning with meaningful action, empowering students to develop empathy, leadership and a strong sense of responsibility to their community and the wider world.
Across Kindergarten to Year 12, students participate in purposeful service-learning initiatives that reflect our mission and vision, while helping young people understand that learning is not only about academic achievement, but about contribution, character and care for others.
Our Service-Learning Initiatives
Throughout the year, SMGS students have been involved in a wide range of service-learning, philanthropy and community initiatives, including:
Civic and Emergency Service
- NSW State Emergency Service (SES) Youth Internship Program
Students undertook training in teamwork, first aid, flood rescue and land search, gaining first-hand experience in volunteering and civic responsibility.
Community Support
- Year 12 CAFS – Homelessness Support (Sydney)
Students supported people experiencing homelessness through One Meal, Wayside Chapel and Rough Edges Café.
- Year 7 Heat the Homeless Project
Collection of warm, waterproof jackets for Australians experiencing homelessness.
Student-Led Philanthropy and Fundraising
- Year 6 Lifeline Book Fair
A K–6 second-hand book fair supporting mental health services through Lifeline. - Year 7 Christmas Fundraiser for the Salvation Army
Including raffles, bake sales, Santa photos and festive activities. - Cascades House Walk-A-Thon for Wings4Kidz
Students completed over 1,000 laps, raising $1,511 to support free flights for seriously ill children in rural and regional Australia. - Playing It Forward with UNO
A student-led lunchtime activity supporting the Starlight Children’s Foundation.
Wellbeing and Mental Health
- Mowamba House Charity Event for Beyond Blue
A blue mufti day and wellbeing-focused activities promoting mental health awareness and raising $900 for Beyond Blue.
Creativity and Cultural Contribution
- Kiandra House Charity Film Festival
Student films themed Winter in Motion, raising funds for Disabled Wintersport Australia.
Regional and Global Citizenship
- Agriculture Students – Royal Flying Doctor Service BBQ
A community event supporting healthcare access for remote Australians. - Borneo International Service-Learning Tour
Students participated in marine conservation, orangutan conservation and cultural immersion experiences.
Key Themes and Impact Areas
Through these initiatives, several core themes underpin service learning at Snowy Mountains Grammar School:
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Students apply knowledge and skills in real-world contexts, developing confidence, responsibility and problem-solving abilities.
Service with Purpose
Students learn that meaningful impact comes from empathy, consistency and a genuine desire to help others.
Leadership, Voice and Agency
Many initiatives are student-led, empowering young people to take ownership, collaborate and lead with confidence.
Wellbeing, Belonging and Care
Service learning supports mental health, connection and a strong sense of belonging within the school community.
Local Roots, Global Citizenship
From regional partnerships to international service-learning, students develop an understanding of their role in both local communities and the wider world.
A Culture of Service and Impact
At Snowy Mountains Grammar School, service learning is embedded in our culture. Through purposeful action, students grow into compassionate, capable young people who understand the importance of contributing positively to society.
By engaging in service learning, our students develop the skills, values and mindset needed to lead with integrity, empathy and purpose, now and into the future.