Senior School Bulletin

Some of the most meaningful moments in a school day are often the quiet ones. Amid lively classrooms, music rehearsals in the performance rooms, sporting practice on the ovals, and moments of reflection in the chapel, there are small pauses where students take a breath, reset, and gather themselves before moving on with their day at Clayfield College.

Over the past week, I have been reminded how valuable these moments can be. Our students balance a wide range of commitments - learning in the classroom, co-curricular activities, friendships, and the expectations that come with the Senior years. In the middle of that momentum, it can be easy to move from one task to the next without taking time to pause.

Yet even a brief moment to step outside between lessons, stretch, or take a few calm breaths before heading into a rehearsal can make a real difference. These small habits can help restore focus, lift our mood, and allow us to return to our work with renewed clarity. Looking after our wellbeing is an important part of thriving in the Senior School. When students take time to check in with themselves, they are often better equipped to manage challenges, maintain perspective, and bring their best energy to their learning and to those around them.

At Clayfield College, we value not only achievement but also the habits that support balance, resilience, and spiritual reflection. Taking time to recharge is not stepping away from the work ahead; rather, it helps ensure we can approach it with clarity and purpose. This week, I encourage each student to take five or ten minutes to pause and check in with themselves. Consider what helps you reset and feel ready to move forward again.

Families might continue the conversation at home by asking, “What is one small thing you did this week to look after your wellbeing?” Often it is the simplest habits that make the greatest difference over time.

Block Exams for Years 10 to 12

Term 1 Block Exams for Years 10 to 12 will begin next Tuesday; 17 March, and continue through to the following; Monday 23 March. Students received the exam block timetables last week and we hope all students are preparing carefully to ensure they enter each exam with confidence.

Along with the timetable, students were emailed important information outlining procedures and expectations during the block exam period. It is essential that all students read this information carefully. The document outlines what students should do if they are late or unable to attend an exam, as well as a reminder of the requirement to sign in and out in Reception before and after exams so that all students on campus are accounted for. Understanding and following these procedures helps ensure a smooth and safe exam period for all. Best wishes to all Years 10 to 12 students for the upcoming exam block period.

Congratulations to our Year 7 and Year 9 Students

This week also marked the beginning of NAPLAN for our Year 7 and Year 9 cohorts, as testing commenced on Wednesday. We are pleased testing was not affected for us as it was for many other students around the country and would like to congratulate all students for the outstanding way they have approached these assessments so far. Their behaviour, attitude and engagement have been exemplary, and we are incredibly proud of the engaged and focused manner in which they have participated in this national testing program.

House Excellence

This week’s focus behaviour was No Chewing Gum, reinforcing expectations around presentation and respect for our shared spaces. The winner of this week’s House Excellence Point is Radcliffe House, who presented an engaging performance at assembly to raise awareness of this rule.

House Excellence Tally:

• Radcliffe – 3 points

• Youngman – 1 point

   

House Spirit Photo Competition Tally:

• Ashburn – 1 point
• Radcliffe – 1 point
• Henderson – 1 point

Well done to all Houses for continuing to show enthusiasm, creativity and pride in House spirit across the College. Next week's focus behaviour is ‘Hats’ (naming hats and wearing hats). 

Kilvington Grammar Exchange

Years 8 to 9 Students | Kilvington Grammar School, Melbourne | 9 to 15 August

Expressions of interest are now open for the Kilvington Grammar Exchange. This program offers Years 8 to 9 students the opportunity to take part in a Parallel Learning exchange with Kilvington Grammar in Melbourne.

Kilvington students will first visit Clayfield College, creating opportunities for shared learning experiences and meaningful connections within our school community. Clayfield students will then travel to Melbourne, where they will be immersed in Kilvington’s vibrant school environment and participate in school life alongside their exchange partners.

This program is application based. For further information, please contact Mr Walker at awalker@clayfield.qld.edu.au.

Central Australia Service Trip

Discover the Red Centre’s dramatic and untamed landscapes on this cultural immersion and trek learning journey, exploring sections of the Larapinta Trail, the wonders of Kings Canyon, and the sacred sites of Uluru and Kata Tjuta. You’ll be immersed in one of the world’s most ancient landscapes through a combined cultural immersion, service program, and on-Country trekking experience, more information below. 

Who: Years 7 to 10

Where: Central Australia

When: 19 to 28 September 2026

Harmony Day

Week 9 Tuesday 24 March | 10:30 to12:50PM | PE Centre | Prep to 12 

Clayfield College will celebrate Harmony Day, recognising Australian identity and the many cultures that make up our College community. The day is an opportunity to reflect on inclusivity, respect and belonging, and to celebrate the diversity that enriches our school. Students who are interested in processing under their nation/region please submit relevant information via the link below.

When I Grow Up Fundraiser

Youngman House – Cancer Fundraiser

Some of you will remember The Big Chop from 2024. This year we’re planning on running a similar event. 30 students and staff donated their ponytails in 2024, raising $5k for child cancer research, and we hope that this year will be just as successful. 

As mentioned in Assembly, on 9 October (Term 4), any students and staff will have the opportunity to donate a minimum of 20cm of their hair which will be turned into wigs for cancer and alopecia patients OR shave their hair to raise funds for the Leukemia Foundation. 

Clayfield’s Chop will run in conjunction with World Mental Health Day and Youngman’s fundraising event, Crazy Sock & Hair Day, with all proceeds going towards the Kids Cancer Project or The World’s Greatest Shave. 

If you can't donate your hair but would love to show your support, please donate to our campaign page, in which all funds go towards the two foundations. There will be more details to come out later once we have an estimation on how many people are planning to participate. If you have any questions feel free to email or come find Ema, Isabelle, Mimi, Bella, or Hayley (Year 12). 

If you are interested in donating or shaving your hair, please fill out the form linked below:

We hope to see many of you involved and remember there's time still time to grow your hair before October, so mark your calendars and get growing!

A Message from your Pastoral Care Team

As we move into the exam block period, it’s important for students to look after their wellbeing as much as their academic preparation. Managing stress in healthy, proactive ways can make a significant difference to both performance and overall mental health. Below are some practical strategies to support students during this busy time:

• Create a study schedule: Access to study plan templates are available by your Head of Year. Using a structured plan can help you manage your time effectively and reduce feelings of overwhelm.

   

• Prioritise sleep: Adequate rest supports memory, focus, and clear thinking. Avoid the temptation to sacrifice sleep for extra study hours.

   

• Nourish the body: The brain needs fuel to perform its best, much like an athlete. 

   

• Exercise regularly: Going on a quick walk or run can boost your mood, provide you with a break, and reset the mind.

   

• Practice mindfulness: A few minutes of mindfulness can assist with stress management, improved focus, and emotional regulation. 

   

• Stay hydrated: Adding a few extra glasses of water can have a positive effect on cognition, stabilise your emotions, and even assist with challenging emotions. 

   

• Maintain social connections: Socialise in person and limit phone use during exam block to reduce distractions. Consider going for a walk and quizzing your friend!

   

• Avoid last minute cramming: Developing knowledge and skills is a marathon not a sprint. 

   

• Positive self-talk: Use positive affirmations to boost your confidence. 

   

• Ask for help: Reach out to your teachers, Head of Year, or College Counsellor should you need support during this time. We are all here to help. 

   

Best of luck to those in the Senior School who will be sitting exams next week! It’s easy to get caught up in the rhythm of constant studying but taking care of your mental health is an essential part of academic success. 

Support Our Year 11 Service‑Learning Project: Donation Drive

This term, our Year 11 cohort has embarked on a meaningful service‑learning initiative to support the work of Dress for Success Brisbane, a non‑profit organisation dedicated to helping unemployed and underemployed women and men achieve economic independence. Through access to professional attire, development tools and employment programs, Dress for Success Brisbane empowers individuals to enter, or re‑enter, the workforce with dignity and confidence. As part of this project, our students are coordinating a Workwear Donation Drive and we warmly invite our parent community to contribute.

How You Can Help?

We are seeking donations of good‑quality workplace attire suitable for interviews or office environments. This includes clothing for both women and men, such as:

• Professional shirts and blouses

• Blazers, jackets, and coats

• Work‑appropriate dresses, skirts, and trousers

• Accessories (e.g., belts, ties, handbags, scarves)

   

Please note:

• No children’s clothing 

• No shoes

• Items should be in good condition - no rips, stains, holes, or excessive wear

   

Your contributions will directly support individuals in Brisbane who are working toward employment stability and greater independence.

Donation Details:

• Where: Donation box located in Reception

• When: Open Monday to Friday in Week 9

• What to do: Simply drop off your garments during these times, no need for packaging or sorting

• Reminder: Donated clothing will not be returned

   

This initiative not only supports a meaningful community cause but also allows our Year 11 students to learn about social responsibility, empathy, and the power of collective action. We appreciate your generosity and your partnership in assisting us to bring this project to life, if you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to reach out to Ms Kirton.

Thank you, 

Year 11 Students