Senior School Bulletin

There is something special about seeing students come together around an activity they are passionate about. At the Senior Music Dinner and Sports Celebration Dinner, this was evident in the connections being made, the stories being shared and the pride in what our students have achieved.

At the Senior Music Dinner, the connections across year levels were lovely to see. Students were sharing their love of music, enjoying one another’s company and, in many cases, they had found their tribe. There is something special about finding people who share your interests, understand your passions and make you feel that you belong. There was something really special about seeing those connections take shape. 

The Sports Celebration Dinner was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the many achievements and stories that make Clayfield Sport so special. Hearing about the experiences behind those accomplishments gave a sense of the commitment, determination and effort involved. These are stories worth sharing, not simply because of what has been achieved, but because of what others might take from them. Someone else’s journey can spark an idea, build confidence, or encourage us to have a go ourselves.

It has made me think about leadership and the influence we have on those around us. We can sometimes associate leadership with a formal title or position, but it reaches much further than that. It can be seen in the example we set, the encouragement we offer and the way we approach something that matters to us. We don't need to be standing at the front of a group to have an impact. Sometimes, what others see us do or hear us say is enough to encourage them to take a step of their own.

Our Senior School is made up of students with different interests, strengths and ambitions. When they share what matters to them, celebrate one another’s achievements and make room for others to find their place, they contribute to a community where people feel connected and inspired. We may not always see the effect we have on others, but the way we show up, the example we set and the encouragement we give can make a difference. That, too, is leadership.

Staffing Updates

We are pleased to welcome to the Clayfield College community, Donna Latham. Most recently teaching in the United Kingdom, Ms Latham brings over 10 years of experience teaching Science, including in the senior phase of learning. She has strong expertise in curriculum leadership, data-informed improvement and furthering outcomes for diverse learners. We look forward to the expertise and enthusiasm that Donna will bring to our students.

The following staffing changes will take effect from Monday 26 October. 

Year 11 Philosophy and Reason

To support students as they transition into Unit 3 and Year 12 study, Mr Geoffrey Lamb will take over the Year 11 Philosophy and Reason class. Mr Lamb is our current Year 12 Philosophy and Reason teacher, and with the completion of Year 12 external examination preparation, he will begin working with the Year 11 students, continuing as their Philosophy and Reason teacher into Year 12.

Year 10B Economics and Legal Studies

Ms Asa Fennessey will take over the Year 10B Economics and Legal Studies class. Ms Fennessey has experience teaching both Economics and Legal Studies in the senior phase of learning. Ms Corpe and Ms Fennessey will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of learning.

Year 11B Biology 

Dr Steven Griffith will teach the Year 11B Biology Class and will continue as their teacher into Year 12. Dr Griffith is a highly experienced Biology teacher and is exceptionally well placed to support students as they prepare for the transition into Unit 3. 

Year 10B Science/Biology 

Dr Steven Griffith will teach the Year 10B Science/Biology Class. Dr Griffith is a highly experienced Science and Biology teacher and currently teaches the other Year 10 Science/Biology Class. 

Year 10A and 10B Physics/Chemistry 

Ms Donna Latham will take over both Year 10 Physics/Chemistry classes. Mr McIntosh and Ms Latham will work closely together to ensure a smooth transition and continuity of learning. 

Teacher Education Scholarship - Applications Are Closing Soon

Applications for the PMSA Teacher Education Scholarship (TES) are closing on Friday 23 October 2026.

The scholarship supports students who are planning to undertake studies in teaching or early childhood education. Valued at $2,000 per year for up to four years, the scholarship aims to encourage and support the next generation of educators, while fostering connections with PMSA schools throughout their studies and future careers.

Students in Year 12 who are interested in applying for the scholarship are invited to fill out an expression of interest form via the QR Code below. Applications close Friday 23 October 2026.

Illuminate Showcase

Congratulations and thank you to all students and staff involved in last week's Illuminate Showcase. The quality of learning, creativity and innovation on display was fantastic, and it was wonderful to see students sharing their passions and projects with such confidence and enthusiasm. Please see the Student Voice section of this newsletter for a more detailed reflection on this event.

Please refer to Photo Gallery for highlights.

Best Wishes to Our Year 12 Students

Next week marks a significant milestone for our Year 12 students as they commence their QCAA External Examinations.

Over the past few weeks, students have completed mock examinations, attended revision sessions, participated in holiday boot camps and, for many, undertaken additional trial examinations. These experiences have all been designed to support students as they prepare for this important stage of their academic journey.

Our message to students is to trust your preparation. Focus on what you can control, maintain your routines, look after your wellbeing and have confidence in the work you have put in throughout the year. 

Students are reminded to:

• reflect on the information shared in the presentation last week
• plan your journey to school allowing plenty of time before each exam
• familiarise yourselves of what to do should you be running late or are unwell and unable to attend an examination. Early communication is very helpful.

External examinations are an opportunity for students to demonstrate the knowledge, skills and understanding they have developed over many years of schooling. We are incredibly proud of the commitment and perseverance shown by our Year 12 cohort and wish every student the very best in the weeks ahead. Keep going. Stay focused. You've got this.

Looking Ahead to Block Examinations

Students in Years 7 to 10 will begin their Block Examination period in Week 6, while Year 11 students will start Block Examinations in Week 8.

Block examination timetables for Years 7 to 10 will be distributed this week, with Year 11 timetables to be shared during Week 5. Students should already be engaging in regular revision and are encouraged to use the release of exam timetables to refine and formalise their preparation plans.

Block examinations are an important opportunity for students to demonstrate their learning under examination conditions, while also developing valuable skills in organisation, time management and examination techniques.

Students are reminded of several important expectations during the examination period.

• Students are expected to attend all scheduled examinations and arrive on time.
• Students should bring the required equipment and ensure they are familiar with examination procedures.
• Mobile phones, smart watches and other communication devices are not permitted in examination rooms.
• Full school uniform is required during the examination period.

• Students should check examination timetables carefully and be aware of all examination dates and times.

   

For Years 7 to 9, examinations will take place in the morning, with students returning to their normal classes following the completion of examinations each day.

Year 10 students will participate in a formal examination block and are only required to attend school when they have scheduled examinations. Similarly, Year 11 students will attend school for their scheduled examination sessions during their block examination period.

While examinations are important, students should remember that effective preparation, a positive mindset and consistent effort remain the keys to success. We encourage students to use the coming weeks wisely, seek support from their teachers where needed and approach their examinations with confidence and determination. We wish all students every success as they continue their preparation in the weeks ahead.

Term 4 Mindbridge Tutoring

Students seeking additional academic support may wish to consider the on-campus tutoring program provided by MindBridge Education.

Tutoring sessions run on Thursdays from 3:30pm to 5:30pm in the Upper LRC, and continue through to Week 8.

The first session is free, with no obligation to continue. For further information and bookings, please visit the link below:

Questions can be directed to: hello@mindbridgeedu.com.au

2027 Student Leadership Announcement

Last week, we proudly announced our student leaders for 2027. Congratulations to all students who have been selected for formal leadership positions. These appointments recognise a sustained commitment to the values of the College and reflect the character, integrity and service demonstrated by these students thus far.

At Clayfield, however, leadership extends beyond badges and titles. Our philosophy is grounded in shared and servant leadership, underpinned by the belief that true leadership is demonstrated through everyday actions and the choices we make when no one is watching. As our Year 11 students embark upon their final year of schooling, we remind them that every member of the Senior Cohort is a leader within our community.

Leadership is not defined by a position alone, but by the willingness to embody the College values through academic endeavour, co-curricular involvement and respectful, positive interactions with peers and staff.

As we look ahead to 2027, we are excited to see how our Senior students will embrace the opportunity to lead and shape the culture of the College. 

House Excellence

• Week 1 - Pulse Check-Ins: Ashburn House
• Week 2 - Kindness and Inclusion: Henderson House

• Week 3 - Punctuality and Readiness: Radcliffe House

   

Upcoming Focus Behaviour:

• Week 4 - Responsible Use of Technology

   

Well done to all students for demonstrating these positive behaviours and contributing to a strong House spirit across the College.

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