Applications open for premier’s spirit of democracy tour

Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas is encouraging Macedon school students to open their minds and channel their inner Greek philosopher for the chance to embark on an immersive study tour and deepen their understanding of democracy.

Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins announced applications for the 2022-23 Premier’s Spirit of Democracy study tour are now open to secondary school students currently in Years 9 to 11.

The competition gives 22 students from government, Catholic and independent schools the opportunity to develop a greater understanding of civics and citizenship, including the role ancient Greece has played on the origins of Australian democracy and, in turn, helped shape and influence contemporary society.

Students will be encouraged to share their experiences and new perspectives with their peers and wider school community upon their return.

The Premier’s Spirit of Democracy program maintains strong links to learning outcomes from the Victorian senior secondary curriculum and will appeal to students with an interest in civics and citizenship, history, philosophy, legal studies and English – as well as those with a broad interest in developing leadership skills.

The week-long study tour will take place in Victoria and the Australian Capital Territory from 13 to 19 April 2023, during Term 1 holidays.

To enter, students must respond to a statement exploring the ability of young people to drive change by drawing on the ideas of classical Greek thinkers and reformers, such as Cleisthenes and Solon.

Students can submit their entries in a range of formats, including an essay or creative writing piece, audio or video presentation, musical composition or artwork. Applications close on Sunday 16 October.

For more details or to enter, visit go.vic.gov.au/36jjQZ

Quotes attributable to Member for Macedon, Mary-Anne Thomas
"This is a fantastic opportunity for local students to learn about history and leadership and understand how we can connect to the past by relating to modern politics and philosophy in order to drive real change."

Quotes attributable to Minister for Education Natalie Hutchins
"The Premier’s Spirit of Democracy study tour is an amazing opportunity for young critical thinkers to learn about the origins of Australian democracy and consider how young Victorians can contribute to positive change in our society."

"I encourage all eligible secondary students with an interest in civics and citizenship, history or philosophy to apply for this opportunity to deepen their knowledge of democracy and strengthen their own voices and leadership skills."