Parramatta Marist High School students embark on inaugural Fiji immersion

During the recent school holidays, a group of Year 10 and 11 students from Parramatta Marist High School, Sydney, embarked on the school's inaugural immersion to Fiji, where they experienced firsthand the global Marist mission through encounters with local communities, schools and ministries.

Parramatta Marist student Dimiriti

The group was welcomed by the Marist Brothers' community in Suva and quickly immersed in the daily rhythm of community life, joining the Brothers for meals, prayer, reflection and meaningful conversations that offered a deeper insight into a lifelong vocation of service.

A central focus of the immersion was the partnership with the Marist Champagnat Institute (MCI), St Marcellin Primary School and the Marcellin Angels Kindergarten, where the students became active participants in school life. They shadowed local students, attended assemblies, participated in classroom learning and experienced the daily routines of Fijian education alongside their newly formed buddies.

At Marist Champagnat Institute Fiji

Through sport, conversation, learning and laughter, cultural differences became opportunities for connection, reminding students that the Marist family extends far beyond national borders.

One of the most significant aspects of the immersion came through time spent with local families. Students were welcomed into homes for meals and conversations, experiencing the renowned warmth and hospitality of the Fijian people.

Perhaps the most striking lesson came not from organised activities but from the everyday culture of the school itself. Students observed the immense pride that MCI students took in their school, demonstrated through the care they showed for their Institute. At the conclusion of each school day, classrooms and grounds were cleaned collectively by the students with enthusiasm and purpose.

Mrs Erin Smith (right), Year 11 Coordinator

Beyond the school communities, the immersion introduced students to the rich cultural heritage of Fiji. Visits to local museums, markets and parishes provided valuable context for understanding the nation's history, traditions and vibrant identity, while participation in Sunday Mass at Raiwaqa Parish further strengthened the shared faith that unites Marists across the world.

Each evening concluded with prayer, journaling and group reflection. These moments encouraged students to process their experiences, recognise the impact of the relationships they had formed and consider how the lessons of the immersion might shape their own lives back home.

Mrs Erin Smith, Year 11 Coordinator and one of the staff members accompanying the students, reflected on the experience, stating:

Participating in the Inaugural Fiji Immersion was a deeply rewarding experience, both professionally and personally. Visiting Marist schools and engaging with students, teachers and local communities provided valuable insight into the Marist mission in a different cultural context. I was particularly struck by the genuine warmth, generosity and hospitality shown by everyone we met. Despite having so little in material items, the Fijian people welcomed us with open hearts, kindness and joy, leaving a lasting impression. The experience reinforced the importance of relationships, service and the Marist values that unite our schools across the world

The Fiji Immersion reflects Parramatta Marist High School's commitment to forming young men who are not only academically capable, but compassionate, globally aware and committed to making a difference. It is an experience that develops empathy, broadens perspectives and inspires students to become servant leaders within their own communities.

Parramatta Marist students Jose and Jayden with students in Fiji

As the group returned to Australia, they brought home far more than memories. They returned with a renewed appreciation for the universal Marist mission, lasting friendships and a deeper understanding that our shared humanity transcends geography, culture and circumstance.

In the spirit of Saint Marcellin Champagnat, the immersion served as a powerful reminder that to be Marist is to walk alongside others with humility, compassion and hope, wherever in the world that journey leads.

Note: This article has been reproduced with minor edits. It was originally published on Parramatta Marist High School Sydney's social media page and was written by Anthony Baaini, School Archivist.