The importance of service in the community is central to TAS and has been since our first students arrived in 1894. Service is a cornerstone of our commitment to character development and builds essential qualities including leadership, empathy, integrity, and global awareness.
As a School, we are proud of our history of service and actively seek to immerse our students in the power of selflessly giving time and investing care into the needs of others. Our Service program aligns with our Outdoor Education program, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, and our commitments as a Round Square member school.
DEVELOPING CHARACTER THROUGH SERVICE
Our service programs develop age-appropriate skills and qualities:
Middle School (Years 6-8) students build connections across diverse groups, learn to listen actively and support others, take initiative in service projects, advocate for issues that matter, demonstrate integrity in their actions, and connect local actions to global impact.
Senior School (Years 9-12) students lead with empathy and sustained commitment, mentor younger students, demonstrate cultural sensitivity, advocate for systemic change, inspire others to action, model ethical leadership, and take responsibility for contributing to both local and international communities.
Serve from the start
Students are introduced to the school's philosophy of service from Middle School onwards through meaningful activities encouraged by academic staff and led by student leaders. While local community support is a focus, our 20-year relationship with St Christopher's Orphanage in Fiji is particularly special.
Our deep connection with St Christopher’s Orphanage
Year 8 students nominate for a 10-day service trip to Fiji, working at the orphanage to assist the Anglican Sisters of the Community of the Sacred Name. Students repair buildings, paint, create vegetable gardens, and engage with their Fijian 'buddies'. This enriching experience develops global awareness and empathy through authentic cross-cultural service.
Service through the Outdoor Education Program
The mandatory nature of Cadets in Years 8-10 reflects the value TAS places on service, with students learning the importance of serving a greater purpose. Our close association with armed forces and national service is a tradition of which we are particularly proud.
From Year 11, students join Surf Lifesaving, Rural Fire Service, or Local Community Service, developing ethical leadership and community commitment with the intent that students continue volunteering after completing their schooling.
Student leaders - leading to serve
Our Prefects and Student Representative Council work each year to raise funds for causes they identify as most important. This commitment and student empowerment ensures high engagement and develops leadership through authentic opportunities to make a difference.
Service - one of the Round Square IDEALS
As one of the Round Square IDEALS, Service to others is an important element of our character curriculum. Service at TAS builds empathy, understanding, and compassion, enabling students to make a difference in the world. Students and staff engage in valuable work for disadvantaged communities through domestic and overseas projects organised by Round Square.
Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme
TAS was one of the first schools in Australia to adopt Duke of Ed, making service a core component of Bronze, Silver, and Gold awards. Students extend themselves through local initiatives such as weekly cooking sessions for the Armidale Community Refuge Centre and international service projects through Round Square.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SERVICE
Our service programs directly support our commitment to character development, strong community engagement, and our vision of being a trusted regional leader in character-based education. Through service, we develop graduates who are Capable, Kind, and Confident; truly Connected, Committed, and Courageous.