Round Square Cluster Conference: Ashes to Action
Ivanhoe Grammar School recently hosted the Round Square Primary Years Cluster Conference, welcoming students from Ballarat Grammar School, Mentone Grammar, Woodleigh School, and The Hutchins School (Tasmania). The conference, titled Ashes to Action, focused on environmental learning through the lens of fire impact and recovery.
Held at Kinglake Forest Adventure Camp, the program was designed to deepen students’ understanding of environmentalism, one of the Round Square IDEALS, through inquiry, collaboration, and challenge. Students explored proactive and reactive strategies for caring for the environment, wildlife, and communities in fire-prone areas.
Highlights included:
- Learning from local Elder Ian Hunter about First Nations perspectives on caring for Country
- Engaging with CFA volunteer and Ivanhoe Grammar School teacher Andrew Hooganrad to understand real-world fire preparedness and response
- Leading group projects that addressed environmental challenges with creativity and empathy.
The conference provided a meaningful opportunity for 11 and 12-year-olds to connect across schools, work in mixed teams, and demonstrate leadership, problem-solving, and global thinking.
We would like to thank everyone involved, in particular the Year 11 students who led IDEALS workshops, guiding younger students throughout their projects.
