Students building trust across lines

Students from public, independent and faith-based schools across the Wentworth electorate gathered in mid-November for the area’s first Student-Led Social Cohesion Roundtable, convened by independent MP Allegra Spender.

The forum, held in partnership with the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies (JBD) and Together for Humanity, allowed students to discuss belonging, inclusion and respect in their school communities.

Spender said the event built on school leader forums she hosted in 2024 and 2025, where principals and educators emphasised the importance of centring student voices in lasting change.

“What was clear was a growing need to equip our students with the tools to navigate difference in respectful ways, even as social media algorithms push us toward division,” Spender said.

Students spoke candidly about pressures they face at school and online, and reflected on the impact of global events, especially since October 7.