As part of their Service Learning program, our Year 8 students have been busy sewing plush 'hearts of love' to gift to Reception students across the St Peters and St John's campuses. This beautiful initiative brings together creativity, compassion and community connection—capturing the true spirit of Service Learning at Concordia College.

Each soft, colourful heart is lovingly handmade by a Year 8 student. Once completed, the hearts are passed on to Reception families, who are invited to 'fill' them with love, hugs and kisses before returning them to their child. The idea is simple yet incredibly meaningful: during the day, when young children may feel a little wobbly or miss home, they can reach into their pocket, hold their heart tightly, and be reminded that they are loved, supported and held in their parents’ thoughts.

For our Year 8 students, this project has been both purposeful and practical. Many discovered previously hidden talents for sewing. Students developed patience, perseverance, teamwork and the joy that comes from creating something with genuine emotional impact. This simple gesture demonstrates how powerful small acts of kindness can be in strengthening our community.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 8 students for embracing this project with enthusiasm, care and creativity. Their handmade hearts truly carry love in every stitch.

Hajnalka Molloy
Learning Resources Manager