Principal Anne Gawith said anti-domestic violence advocate Simone O'Brien spoke to the students on Friday.

She said the project was organised by year 12 VCAL students Chloe Kalms and Ashley Blundell.

“Simone shared her journey with all students from years 7 to 12 and all staff,” she said.

“She is 100 per cent committed to spreading the word about the need to tackle the scourge of family violence.

“She spends considerable time travelling around the country addressing groups from AFL footballers, big corporate powerhouses, politicians, community groups and students.”

Mrs Gawith said the room was silent throughout Mrs O’Brien’s presentation.

“All staff and students were clearly moved by Simone’s story,” she said.

“She delivered a powerful message on the need to speak up. ‘

“She further emphasised that real change can come if we teach our younger students to be respectful.”

Mrs Gawith said while Mrs O’Brien’s story was confronting, she focused on the positives and how she could now use her journey to work towards change.

“The school was very appreciative that Simone gave very generously of her time and she has offered to return for more smaller discussions with groups of interested students,” she said.