Senior School Bulletin

As we reach the end of Term 2, there is value in taking a moment to pause and reflect. In a busy Senior School environment, it can be easy to focus on what comes next without recognising how much has been experienced and achieved along the way.

Over the course of this term, I have been fortunate to witness many moments that reflect the character of our Senior School community. I have seen students encourage one another through challenges, celebrate successes together, and show kindness in ways that often go unnoticed. These moments remind us that growth is not only measured by outcomes, but also by the way we support one another and contribute to our community.

As I reflect on my first semester at Clayfield College, I am grateful for the opportunity to have spent time getting to know our students and our community. Over the past months, I have seen students embrace challenges, contribute to the life of our Senior School and support one another in ways both big and small. It is often the everyday moments that stand out most: friends walking and talking together across our campus, checking in on one another after a difficult day, sharing a laugh or offering support when it is needed. These interactions help create the strong sense of connection that is such an important part of our Senior School.

As students begin a well-earned break, I encourage them to take time to reflect on what they are most proud of from this term. Growth is not always measured by results alone. Often, it is found in the experiences we embrace, the relationships we build and the person we become along the way.

Staffing Update

Kelsey Lahey will commence parental leave at the end of this term. We extend our warmest wishes to Kelsey and her family during this special time.

We look forward to welcoming a College Counsellor during her leave, with further details to be shared in the Welcome to Term 3 communication on Thursday 9 July 2026.

Reporting and End of Term 

Progressive reports for students in Years 7 to 11 will be available from Friday 19 June. In addition, end of semester reports will be released next week. These reports provide an important opportunity for students and families to reflect on progress, recognise areas of strength and identify next steps for continued growth.

As we approach the mid semester break, all students are commended for their efforts throughout the term. It has been a busy and productive period of learning, and the commitment shown by students has been very pleasing.

The break offers a valuable opportunity to pause, reflect and reset. We encourage students to take time to rest, enjoy time with family and friends, and return next term ready to engage with their learning. Maintaining balance and wellbeing is an important part of sustained success.

We thank families for their continued support and wish everyone a safe and restful break.

Mindbridge Tutoring Term 3

We are pleased to share that the on-campus tutoring provided by Mindbridge Education at Clayfield College will continue and is now open for Term 3 enrolments. 

Tutoring is delivered by Mindbridge Education in small group sessions, with a ratio of approximately one tutor to four or five students. Sessions are led by 99+ ATAR tutors and high performing university students, ensuring that students benefit from both strong subject knowledge and relatable academic experience. Support is available across Mathematics, Science, English and a range of senior subjects.

New students are offered their first session free, providing a valuable opportunity to experience the program before committing.

To secure a place, please access the enrolment form here: https://mindbridgeedu.com.au/clayfield-college

For further information, please contact info@mindbridgeedu.com.au.

Book Week Short Story Writing Competition

By Academic Captains, Megan Groundwater and Ema Costello

In conjunction with Book Week next term, we are pleased to launch a school short story writing competition for students in Years 3 to 12.

Theme: A Light in the Dark

Due date: Friday 24 July - Week 2 of Term 3 

Students are encouraged to engage creatively with the theme, either through a direct interpretation or a more metaphorical approach. Previously written short stories may be submitted, provided they connect clearly to the theme.

Entry requirements:

• One entry per student
• All genres are welcome
• Entries must not exceed the specified word limit

• Further details about submission will be shared next term

   

Word limits by Year Level:

• Years 3 to 4: 500 words maximum
• Years 5 to 6: 500 words maximum
• Years 7 to 8: 700 words maximum
• Years 9 to 10: 800 words maximum
• Years 11 to 12: 1000 words maximum

We encourage students to begin planning and drafting their entries over the upcoming break, so they are well prepared to submit early next term. We look forward to celebrating the creativity of our students, with winners and runners up announced on Assembly and in the Collective.

Arts Day – A Celebration of Creativity and Community

Arts Day 2026 was a vibrant and memorable celebration of creativity, collaboration and school spirit, bringing our entire community together under the theme “Be Strong, Strive for the Stars.” 

The morning began with House choir rehearsals leading into the highly anticipated House Choral Competition, where students performed with energy and cohesion in front of our guest adjudicator, Christina Mairs. 

Each House brought its own unique interpretation to their chosen piece, demonstrating not only musical ability but also teamwork and commitment. Congratulations to Campbell House, whose outstanding performance of “Man in the Mirror” earned them first place and set a high standard for the day. 

Following morning tea, the focus shifted to a diverse range of creative workshops, allowing students to explore new skills and interests beyond the traditional classroom.

Offerings such as stage combat, musical theatre, robotics, visual arts, zumba and fondant cake decorating highlighted the breadth of artistic experiences available. 

The afternoon built towards the exciting House Dance Competition, with students rehearsing in their House groups before taking to the stage in costume. Following the advice from guest adjudicator Chloe Ernst, an accomplished dancer and educator, performances were energetic, creative and full of personality. Each House embraced the theme in their own way, showcasing storytelling, choreography and enthusiasm. 

A highlight of the afternoon was the Staff Dance, which brought laughter and cheers from the audience and reinforced the strong sense of community that defines our college. It was a wonderful reminder that Arts Day is as much about participation and joy as it is about performance. 

Congratulations to Youngman House, whose dynamic and polished routine secured the overall win in the House Dance Competition. Their performance embodied the spirit of the day, combining creativity, teamwork and confidence to “strive for the stars.”

Our overall winning House will be announced at our next assembly. Arts Day 2026 was a true celebration of talent, courage and connection. It provided students with the opportunity to step outside their comfort zones, express themselves and support one another. The energy, enthusiasm and pride displayed throughout the day were a testament to the strength of our community and the importance of the arts in shaping well-rounded, confident individuals.

House Excellence

This week’s House Excellence point for participation in Arts Day was awarded to Radcliffe House for their outstanding enthusiasm. Well done to all members for embracing the day with energy and positivity.

House Spirit Photo Competition: Arts Day

It was fantastic to see so many students embracing Arts Day with energy and creativity through our House Spirit photos.

The winning photo was awarded to Gibson House - well done on capturing the spirit of the day so brilliantly!

Locker Update

From the beginning of Term 3, all Senior students will move into allocated levels within the locker room building, creating a more unified and practical environment for our students to thrive.

Students have been asked to fully empty their lockers by the end of term in preparation for reallocation for the start of Term 3.

Duke of Edinburgh – Adventurous Journey Opportunity

Students interested in completing their Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey are encouraged to register their interest for the upcoming canoe expedition in the Noosa Everglades this September. 

This multi-day paddling experience provides a unique opportunity to develop resilience, teamwork and independence while exploring one of Australia’s most stunning natural environments.

The Duke of Edinburgh Award is a globally recognised program that supports students in building skills across service, physical recreation, adventurous journeys and personal development. This canoe trip will contribute to the Adventurous Journey component, with students developing navigation, outdoor survival skills and leadership while working collaboratively with their peers.

We are also excited to share that our Year 7 students will begin the Bridge Program in Semester 2 as an introduction to the Duke of Edinburgh Award. This program is designed to build confidence, teamwork and foundational outdoor skills, preparing students for future participation in the Award.

For further information or to express interest, please email Ms Greig at rgreig@clayfield.qld.edu.au.

European Music Tour Farewell

We farewelled our European Music Tour students at their concert on Saturday 13 June in the Assembly Hall, where parents and friends gathered to support and celebrate them before their departure. The performance was a wonderful showcase of their talent, dedication and preparation for the journey ahead.

We wish all students a safe, enriching and memorable tour and look forward to hearing about their experiences.

Kilvington Grammar Exchange

We are pleased to share that four students from Year 8 and 9 have been selected to participate in our exchange program with Kilvington Grammar School this August. We look forward to this exciting opportunity and to visiting the school in Melbourne, building connections and experiencing a new learning environment.

Winter Holiday Programs 

Explore the Winter Holiday Programs section of this newsletter to discover and register for a range of activities designed to keep students engaged, active and having fun over the holiday break.