Celebrating Connection and Joy at Margaret Jurd College

The Shortland Campus of Margaret Jurd College (MJC) came alive with colour, laughter, and festive cheer during Easter Funday Friday, held on Friday 11 April 2025 to mark the end of Term One and welcome the Easter holidays.

Margaret Jurd College is a Special School, playing an integral role in the mission of the Uniting Church. The College currently supports young people in Years 10 to 12 who require intensive support in a specialised setting due to disability, trauma, and disrupted education. With a vision to expand from Year 7 through to Vocational Education and Training (VET), MJC is committed to delivering tailored programs that foster wellbeing, personal growth, and educational re-engagement in a safe, inclusive, and purpose-built environment.

Easter Funday Friday, thoughtfully organised by Student Learning Support Officer Amanda, offered staff and students an opportunity to come together, unwind, and share a day that was all about connection and a change of pace.

Right from the start, the campus was buzzing with energy—full of colour, laughter, and a strong sense of togetherness. Students and staff jumped into a day designed to bring people together, have some fun, and enjoy something a little different.

A variety of activities ensured there was something for everyone. The photobooth proved a popular attraction, with students enthusiastically donning bunny ears and playful props to capture the excitement of the day. The scent of hot cross buns filled the air, adding a warm, traditional touch to the morning, while the temporary tattoo station was a hit, with students proudly showing off their colourful designs.

The egg and spoon race drew a supportive crowd, with participants balancing eggs and laughter in equal measure. This light-hearted competition was soon followed by the classic tug-o-war, where students and staff tested their teamwork and strength in spirited matches. Following the morning's activities, a pizza lunch was provided, offering a welcome moment of rest and a chance for everyone to enjoy a meal together.

A series of raffles added an element of anticipation and excitement, with lucky winners taking home a variety of Easter-themed prizes. The generosity and good humour on display further reinforced the supportive and inclusive atmosphere these events aim to create.

The highlight of the day was undoubtedly the Colour Run, where students raced through clouds of coloured powder, transforming the campus into a canvas of joy. It was a vivid reminder of the power of inclusive events to uplift, energise, and unite.

Of course, no Easter celebration would be complete without an egg hunt, and the event concluded with just that. The Easter Bunny made a cheerful appearance, delighting attendees and officially launching the search for chocolate eggs, golden tickets, and other hidden surprises placed around the campus grounds.

As students departed for the Easter break, it was clear that Easter Funday Friday was more than a celebration—it was a meaningful expression of the College’s commitment to building a safe, inclusive, and connected learning community. Events like this reflect MJC’s belief that learning happens not only in the classroom, but through meaningful interactions and support for one another.