By JOLENE OGLE
IT WAS an eye-opening day for the Year 11 health students of Sunshine Beach State High School when they visited the Noosa Magistrates Court last Friday (30 October).
The visit to the court was part of the students’ health studies curriculum, where they learn about domestic violence and the process of applying for a domestic violence order, among other social and health issues.
Head of physical education, surfing and health Ms Janine Lahey said the visit took about six months to plan but was a very valuable experience for the students.
“It can be of some concern for students,” she said. “But it is a great opportunity for the students because the more you know the more you can be prepared to help others, or even in your own life. The students always come back with more questions.”
The students visited the Noosa Magistrates Court to take part in a mock hearing alongside domestic violence liaison officer Senior Constable Mark Jones and police prosecutor Melissa Campbell.
Year 11 Sunshine Beach State High School (SBSHS) student Jessie Smith said the visit to the courthouse was a bit daunting, but she learnt a lot about domestic violence.
“We learnt about domestic violence and how much of an impact it has,” she said.
“We also went into the holding cell. It was really scary. But the experience certainly changes the way you think about domestic violence. It’s something that’s so hidden. Unless you learn about it, you don’t know about it.”
Jessie said she now felt better equipped for identifying domestic violence in the future.
“We have learnt about the different types of domestic violence and how to look out for the signs,” she said. “I feel much better equipped for the future.”
