Years 5/6 students from St Joseph’s in Benalla, St John’s in Euroa and St Mary’s in Mansfield had the time of their lives playing football and netball at the Benalla Showgrounds.
FCJ College principal Joseph Mount said the event was part of the school’s strong relationship with the regional catholic education community.
“There’s been football and netball games right throughout the day,” he said.
“The FCJ students have volunteered to umpire for all the games and keep score.
“We’ve got ambassadors looking after each of the 5/6 students as well, and the staff from all the schools have all chipped in to make this a brilliant day.
“Students are learning a lot about each other through sport, through interactions and through acts of kindness.
“There’s a lot of students who haven't played these sports ever before, and so they’re learning from their peers, but also the older students too, in a really welcoming environment.”
Mr Mount said inter-school activities have huge importance to students’ eduction, and the day could not have happened without the dedication of FCJ College student engagement and activities officer Nick Pearson.
Mr Pearson said the day had taken some planning.
“It’s been a process for about three months now,” he said.
“It’s a big job, but it’s well and truly worth it when you see the kids enjoying themselves like they have today.
“It’s the best. We’re really grateful to turn around and see 100 kids kicking footies, playing netball, cheering, singing and having a good day. That’s what it’s about.”
Mr Mount said he’d like to thank everyone who made the day a success.
“Not just the staff and the students from the community, but we also had grandparents, friends and family coming down to support the day and just making it a really positive experience where the focus has been fun.”