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SCHOOLS’
CONVENTIONS PROGRAM
The Schools’ Conventions Program (Students Making A Difference) began as the Schools’ Constitutional Conventions Program, an initiative of the Constitutional Centenary Foundation. It was designed to raise public awareness about the Australian Constitution in the years leading up to the Centenary of Federation in 2001. The popularity of the program resulted in its continuation beyond the Centenary of Federation.
Programs at the state level are aimed mainly at year 11 students, although some
schools encourage students in earlier years, particularly year 10, to attend.
Students are addressed by guest speakers, often a Member of Parliament or other
expert on constitutional matters, who raise issues for the students to consider.
Students can ask questions from the floor, before moving off into small discussion
groups. The groups share the results of their discussions, then conduct a mock
referendum on the issue. Participants in the Regional Conventions are then eligible
to apply to attend the State Constitutional Convention.
The
State Constitutional Conventions are held each year at the Parliament of Victoria.
The main proceedings take place in the Legislative Assembly Chamber in Parliament
House.
Students who participate in the State Convention have the opportunity to apply
to attend the National Convention for the following year.
Proceedings of the State Conventions are available for download:
Further enquiries and information:
Rod Espie, Education & Community Engagement Officer on (03) 9651 8624 Fax (03) 9651 8317
YMCA Youth Parliament 9459 9022
Department of Education & Training website: http://www.sofweb.vic.edu.au/sose/civics/scc.htm
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