Over the holiday break, the 2025 Philippines Immersion group returned home, marking the end of a transformative journey of faith, service, and connection. For the students and staff involved, the experience offered not just cultural insight, but profound personal growth and reflection.
Oliver W (Year 10) described the Immersion as “educational, reflective, and utterly unforgettable.” Through daily encounters and service opportunities, Oliver found the trip helped shape his understanding of values such as belonging, purpose, unity and camaraderie.
The trip gave us a clear perspective into the resilience of culture and faith.
He reflected on how these values were evident in the lives of the Filipino people, who welcomed the group with warmth and generosity. “We found so much meaning in their hospitality and faith,” he said. “And within our group, we grew close - learning not just from others, but from one another.”
The notion of belonging and purpose became clear to us - they are more connected than we ever realised.
The students visited schools, orphanages, retirement communities, church groups, and scholars, sharing meals and moments of faith. These encounters allowed them to move beyond initial culture shock, developing a deeper empathy and appreciation for shared humanity.
Blake L (Year 12), who returned for his second Immersion, found the experience even more impactful. “It’s probably one of the most unforgettable and eye-opening experiences of my life,” he said. Reconnecting with familiar faces and forming new friendships, Blake left with a deeper appreciation for cultural diversity and a renewed sense of identity.
I left with a better understanding of who I am and a stronger appreciation for different cultures.
He was particularly moved by the work of local parishes and organisations addressing poverty through education, social support, and feeding programs. Blake spoke about the He Cares Mission, which runs a weekly feeding program for over 200 disadvantaged children and their families. “It doesn’t just meet immediate needs,” he shared. “It creates community, spreads compassion, and shows people they are not alone.”
By promoting education and compassion, these programs help break the cycle of poverty and build a brighter future.
Staff who accompanied the group felt privileged to witness the students’ growth first-hand. They observed students stepping far beyond their comfort zones, embracing the unfamiliar, and responding with open hearts and minds.
The College is incredibly proud of the way students represented John Paul College - with humility, curiosity, and compassion - and looks forward to seeing the impact of this experience echo throughout the College community in the months to come.