Welcome to the Religious Education Department at Westside Secondary School!
Meet Our Team
We are dedicated to providing a comprehensive and engaging religious education that fosters understanding, respect, and critical thinking among our students.
Subject Lead: Mr. Darren Torres
Ms. Gabriella Celecia
Ms. Carolina Harris-Meyners
Ms. Mikka Park
Ms. Emma Gomila
Mrs. Ruth Fortuna
Mr. Kian Hansen
Our team is committed to delivering high-quality education and supporting our students in their academic and personal growth.
Our Vision
Our vision is to inspire and nurture a community of compassionate, informed, and open-minded individuals who are equipped to engage thoughtfully with the diverse religious and cultural landscapes of our world. We strive to cultivate an environment where students can explore their own beliefs, respect the beliefs of others, and develop a sense of responsibility towards the global community.
Educational Activities and Trips
At Westside, we believe that learning extends beyond the classroom. Our department organizes various educational trips to enrich our students' understanding of different faiths and cultures:
Local Places of Worship
Students have the opportunity to visit local places of worship, including churches, mosques, synagogues, and temples. These visits provide firsthand experience and foster a deeper understanding of various religious practices and beliefs.
Pilgrimage to Lourdes
We offer an annual pilgrimage to Lourdes, a significant spiritual journey that allows students to experience the profound sense of community and faith shared by pilgrims from around the world.
Community Engagement
We are proud of our initiatives that encourage students to engage with and contribute to the wider community:
'Acts of Kindness' Initiative: This program encourages students to partner up with Fr. Charlie to learn about the Christmas Food Hamper project and write over 400 messages of hope for the people receiving them.
Christmas Fair: Organized by the Religious Education Department, our annual Christmas Fair is a whole school event aimed at raising funds for charity. It brings together students, staff, and the local community for a week of fun, celebration, and giving.