Senior School Bulletin

With Clayfield’s Got Talent taking place at the end of this week for the Senior School, I have been thinking about the courage it takes to put yourself forward for an event like this. It is one thing to have a talent or an interest; it is another to be willing to share it with your peers, step onto a stage and put yourself out there. For some students, that will be an exciting opportunity. For others, simply having the confidence to take part will have required a great deal of thought and courage.

What I love about an event like this is that it reminds us that confidence doesn't look the same in everyone. We see it in students willing to step into the spotlight, but we also see it when students contribute an idea in class, try out for a team, join an ensemble, or give something another go after finding it difficult the first time. These moments may not attract an audience, but they matter just as much.

At Clayfield, our students have so many different ways to discover what they enjoy, what they are good at and where they might surprise themselves. Not every student will want to perform on stage, and not every student will be the first to volunteer. But I hope each feels there is room to try, to make mistakes, to have another go and to find their own way of taking part.

There is also something important in the way we respond when someone else has the courage to step forward. The encouragement of friends, the willingness to be an appreciative audience and the simple act of making someone feel supported can make all the difference. This is part of what makes these experiences meaningful; they are not just about the person taking the opportunity, but about the community around them.

To everyone preparing to take part in Clayfield’s Got Talent this week, I hope you enjoy the experience and take pride in having put yourselves forward. Whatever the outcome, getting up there and giving it a go is an achievement in itself.

Student Resources & Textbooks for 2027

Please refer to the notice published in your Year Level Hub on Lighthouse detailing the ordering process for 2027 Student Resources and Textbooks. 

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

People, Place and Philosophy

People, Place and Philosophy is one of our Year 10 electives in the HEAL department in which students do an introductory course in the basics of philosophical thinking, study urbanisation and megacities and do a Semester unit on Environmental Change and Management. 

One aspect of this is studying the impact of plastic in the oceans, and a second aspect is an in-depth investigation on managing the high volume of waste generated by ‘fast fashion’. This unit involves students travelling to the Brisbane Landfill site at Rochedale, where students spend a day touring the facility and learning about the impact of fast fashion on landfill facilities and the environment. Our current Year 10 students travelled to Rochedale in Week 3 and saw firsthand where items that are cheaply manufactured and worn only a few times end up. They also learnt about the lengthy process involved in breaking down textile waste, and how the water, dyes, and other chemicals that go into making fast fashion impact the environment. Many of our students were surprised to learn about the long-lasting impact that their purchases from Shein and Temu have on the people making the items as well as our natural environment when the items are discarded. 

Overall, this trip and the unit as a whole has served as an effective reminder of the natural and human resources that go into producing fast fashion items. One student made the very illuminating comment that an item they purchased was in transit via air for longer than the time they actually used the product. My thanks to Mrs Lisa Chadwick and Mrs Rebecca Geevarghese for accompanying the students and facilitating this valuable and relevant learning experience. 

The Power of Routine During Exam and Assessment Periods

As assessment deadlines and exams approach, many students begin to feel increased pressure. While revision strategies are important, one of the most effective ways to support academic success is often overlooked: maintaining healthy daily routines.

Research consistently shows that students learn and perform best when their wellbeing is supported through predictable habits. During busy assessment periods, routines provide stability, reduce stress and help young people stay physically and emotionally prepared to learn.

Sleep is one of the most important factors in academic success. Although some students may stay up late studying, adequate sleep supports memory, concentration, emotional regulation and problem-solving. Establishing a consistent bedtime and aiming for 8 to 10 hours of sleep each night can significantly enhance learning and performance.

Creating structure can also help reduce feelings of overwhelm. Developing a study plan, breaking larger tasks into manageable goals and planning ahead can make assessment demands feel more achievable. Students often benefit from regular study sessions with scheduled breaks rather than long periods of uninterrupted work.

Physical activity remains equally important during assessment periods. Exercise helps reduce stress, improve mood and boost concentration. Whether it is organised sport, a walk, a bike ride or time outdoors, movement provides an important balance to study.

Good nutrition and hydration also play a key role. Regular meals and drinking enough water throughout the day help maintain energy levels, concentration and overall wellbeing.

Finally, students should remain connected to family, friends, teachers and mentors. Strong relationships are among the most significant protective factors for young people and can provide encouragement, reassurance, and perspective during stressful times.

As a school community, we can remind students that success is not built on endless hours of study alone. Healthy routines, consistent effort,and a balanced approach to wellbeing provide the foundation for students to perform at their best and navigate challenges with confidence.

House Excellence

Congratulations to Henderson House, who earned this week's House Excellence point for demonstrating outstanding pride in wearing their College uniforms. Students consistently presented themselves to a high standard and represented the College with professionalism and respect.

Upcoming Focus Behaviours:

• Week 6: Prepared for Exams
• Week 7: Tidy Locker Rooms
• Week 8: Returning IT Equipment

Saint Kentigern College Exchange Program: Auckland, New Zealand

Current Year 9 students are invited to apply for the Year 10 Saint Kentigern College Exchange Program in 2027, an exciting opportunity to experience life in New Zealand while building independence, cultural understanding and lifelong friendships. 

Through this reciprocal home-stay exchange, students will attend classes, participate in co-curricular activities and immerse themselves in the vibrant community of Saint Kentigern College in Auckland. For many students, the program becomes a highlight of their secondary schooling, providing memorable experiences, personal growth and connections that extend well beyond the two-week visit.

Please contact Mr Walker – awalker@clayfield.qld.edu.au for further details.

Clayfield’s Got Talent

The stage is set for the Clayfield’s Got Talent Grand Final this Friday 6 November, with students from Years 6 to11 ready to showcase their talents as part of this exciting House competition. After a series of outstanding performances throughout the heats, finalists will compete for House points and the title of Clayfield’s Got Talent Champion. 

We wish all performers the very best and look forward to celebrating the creativity, confidence and talent of our students.

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