At Peter Carnley Anglican Community School (PCACS), students experience Service Learning through a wide range of initiatives, and are given meaningful opportunities to serve others, develop leadership skills and make a tangible difference in their local community.
In support of Homelessness Week 2025, the Youth Making a Difference (YMAD) students and Anglicare Ambassadors led Operation Op Shop during Term 3. This event encouraged the entire School community to reflect on the value of op shops, ethical giving, and sustainable clothing practices. Students from Year 2 to Year 12 were invited to participate in a special Op Shop Dress Up Day, showcasing creative second-hand outfits. Adding to the day’s atmosphere, the Anglicare Ambassadors prepared hearty soups, which were served alongside rolls, in the style of a traditional soup kitchen. Students were invited to ‘pay what your heart feels,’ with all proceeds from the day donated to the Anglicare Street Connect Bus, which works with marginalised young people in public spaces, helping them access support and make positive life changes.
The Anglicare Sleep Out offers students the opportunity to experience and understand homelessness firsthand. PCACS students spent a night outdoors to gain perspective on the challenges faced by thousands of Western Australians who are experiencing homeless. The event not only raises awareness but also vital funds for Anglicare WA’s Street Connect, which supports vulnerable young people facing issues such as family breakdown, domestic violence and mental illness. The PCACS community raised over $12,800 for the cause.
Throughout the year, the PCACS community has shown generosity through its Sock Drive and Food Drive initiatives. The Sock Drive collects brand-new ankle and crew socks in teen and adult sizes for Thread Together, a charity that provides quality clothing to those in need. The Food Drive gathers pantry staples for Y-Shac, Anglicare WA’s youth accommodation and support service in Rockingham. These donations help ensure young people have access to essential food supplies.
The YMAD students spent several afternoons cooking, packaging and freezing around 120 meals for Y-Shac in Rockingham and Spearwood. This hands-on initiative demonstrates the heart of Service Learning using time, care and kindness to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
The school community ends the year with the Anglicare Christmas Appeal, which includes a Christmas Hamper Raffle, generous donations from Roger Cook MLA and contributions of stationery from the PCACS community. The funds raised are used to fill backpacks with essential school supplies for students in need as they prepare for the 2026 school year.
A favourite feature of campus life, Carnley’s Cuppas provides delicious hot and cold beverages before school, at recess and lunch. Operated entirely by students, this initiative offers real world experience in customer service, teamwork and hospitality. Each year, ten Year 9 students are selected and trained as baristas, committing to one shift per week throughout their schooling. Students completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award may undertake two shifts to count towards their service hours. Carnley’s Cuppas also supports special events throughout the year, with the funds raised contributing to community projects and school initiatives.
Whether through dressing up, cooking meals, serving coffee or sleeping out for a cause, PCACS students are learning that even small acts of service can make a big difference.
