Secondary Bulletin

Staffing Update

Mr Paul Clarke, our Secondary Technologies Teacher, is moving on from Clayfield College. We are in the process of interviewing for his replacement. We will keep you informed as we move through the recruitment process. 

Peer Mentoring

Peer mentors have now reached out to their mentees, and many have already enjoyed their first mentoring sessions. However, we are aware that some students have not yet replied to emails from their peer mentors and therefore, students are encouraged to check for and reply to these emails to arrange a time to meet with their peer mentor for this very valuable support.

Illuminate Program

The Illuminate Program began in Week 2. This enrichment program, which occurs before school on Thursday mornings, is for invited students who have demonstrated exceptional ability and interest in their learning in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), HEAL (Humanities, English and English as an Additional Language) or CAL (Creative Arts and Languages). 

The Illuminate Program provides an opportunity for invited students to engage in experiential learning, extending their problem-solving ability and providing exciting and challenging projects to work on. The photos showcases the Creative Arts and Languages Program where students are extending their musicianship skills through a variety of music technology activities. 

Exam Block

End of Semester Exams for Years 7 to 9 and Block Exams for Years 10 to 12 begin in Week 6. Exams for Years 7 to 11 will begin on Monday 26 May. Year 12 will be in normal lessons on Monday 26 May and have a study day on Tuesday 27 May. Their exams begin on Wednesday 28 May. Exams for all students will conclude on Friday 31 May.

Exam schedules will be shared with students by the end of this week. Students should check these carefully to plan for their exams and to ensure they are aware of the start time for exams. Any student arriving late to an exam will not automatically be granted extra time. 

Years 7, 8 and 9 students are required to attend school for normal hours during the examination period. They will have exams in the morning and attend normal lessons once exams are completed each day.

Years 10, 11 and 12 students are only required at school for their exam sessions. If students have more than one exam session in any given day, they should stay on campus between exams. Normal rules regarding uniform, visiting shops etc during the exam period apply. Students in these year levels may study in the Learning Resource Centre during their exam block. Students should sign in and out of the College at reception when they are on campus during the exam period.

Tips for preparing for the examination period:

• Students should use the exam schedule provided later this week to plan their preparation for the exam block and update study plans if needed. Plans should include adequate and realistic time for other activities and responsibilities, social time and rest
• Students should prepare the equipment needed for their exams and should have this equipment in a clear plastic sleeve or zip lock bag. Equipment is checked as students enter their exam rooms
• Students should be aware that mobile phones, smart watches, fitness trackers and other BYOT devices with Bluetooth capabilities are not allowed in exam rooms. 

Carparking Reminder

We have recently received feedback about parking issues around Gregory Street and Bayview Terrace. To maintain good relationships with our neighbours and local businesses, please remember to park only in designated areas, ensure you are not blocking driveways, follow all signs and respect time limits.

Thank you for your continued cooperation as we aim to keep our whole community safe.

Delivery of Term 1 School Photos

Studio Kirby have advised that our Term 1 School Photos (Individual and Class/PC) are expected to be delivered to the College by end of Week 6 for distribution to students to take home.

Pymble Exchange

We are excited to welcome five students from Pymble Ladies’ College in Sydney, who will be with us at our College from Saturday 17 May to Wednesday 21 May. On Wednesday, five of our students will travel to Sydney for their own exchange experience, returning Sunday 25 May. Mrs Chez Patterson will accompany the group to Sydney, and we sincerely thank her for supporting this valuable opportunity. 

This long-standing program offers students a unique chance to experience life in another school community, develop new friendships, and broaden their learning. We look forward to an exciting and enriching week for all involved.

Uniform Reminders

Year 12 students are permitted to wear their College jersey with the Winter Uniform to and from the College. Students are not permitted to wear their jersey at formal events such as Assembly and Chapel Services.

Winter Uniform Reminder for Secondary Students

From Monday 19 May, we will begin the transition to the Winter Uniform. During this week, students may wear either the Summer or Winter Uniform. 

Please note that from Monday 26 May, all students are required to wear the full Winter Uniform.

As we transition to the cooler months, we remind our Secondary students (Years 7 to 12) of the importance of maintaining our uniform standards. 

Winter Uniform Requirements

Girls (Years 7 to12)

• Blazer: Compulsory and must be worn to and from school.
• Blouse with Tie: Long-sleeved white Winter shirt, neatly tucked in, worn with the Winter tie.
• Skirt or Pants: Navy skirt (covering the kneecap) or navy trousers.
• Tights/Socks: Navy tights or navy ankle socks (warmer weather), available from the Uniform Shop.
• Hat: Bottle green felt hat worn to and from school and outdoors.
• Shoes: Polished plain black leather shoes with black laces (no coloured laces, stitching, or metal eyelets).
• Optional: Knitted jumper or vest may be worn but must be covered by the blazer outside the College.

Boys (Years 7–12)

• Blazer: Compulsory and must be worn to and from school.
• Shirt with Tie: Long-sleeved white Winter shirt, neatly tucked in, with the school tie.
• Trousers: Navy trousers worn with a black belt.
• Socks: Navy striped crew socks, available from the Uniform Shop.
• Hat: Navy felt hat worn to and from school and outdoors.
• Shoes: Polished plain black leather shoes with black laces (no coloured laces, stitching, or metal eyelets).
• Optional: Knitted jumper or vest may be worn, but must be covered by the blazer outside the College.

Additional Reminders

• Hair must be tidy, in a conservative style. Long hair must be tied back if it touches the collar, using College-approved green accessories.
• Jewellery must be minimal – only plain small studs or sleepers (one in each earlobe) and a watch are permitted.
• Make-up, false eyelashes, and nail polish are not permitted.
• Students must maintain a neat and well-presented appearance at all times.
• No Gum is permitted at school.

We thank parents and carers for their continued support in upholding our uniform expectations. For any queries, please contact the Pastoral Care Team.

At the beginning of the year, I had the privilege of joining the Clayfield community and was honoured to attend the Year 12 Student Leadership Retreat. During a reflective activity, I asked the students the question, 'Why Clayfield College?” As we approach Week 5 of Term 2, a time when academic pressures intensify, it's an opportune moment to revisit what makes our community exceptional. 

The strength of our close-knit environment not only fosters personal growth but also supports academic achievement. In a community where teachers understand each students needs and where every opportunity is given for our students to feel seen, heard and valued, each student is empowered to perform their personal best. 

With Week 6 block exams right around the corner, I encourage both parents and students to reflect on the unique sense of belonging and support that makes our College a place where students thrive academically and personally.

Below is a glimpse into what our students say they appreciate the most about being part of our community:

• "People are kind."
• "Community, we’re small and close to each other." 
• "We’re tight." 
• "Connection to learning and to our Houses."
• "Lots of opportunities given to us."
• "Everyone is given a fair go." 
• "We have a big heart."
• "We have a lot of fun together." 
• "Our community is good." 
• "Teachers are helpful." 
• "Spirit, everybody supports each other because we all know each other." 
• "Commitment to sport and events" 
• "Even though we’re small everyone turns up." 
• "Routine as a Boarder really helps."

Date Claimers

Christian Mission, Service and Training Assistance Program

The Presbyterian and Methodist Schools Association (PMSA) is offering a limited number of opportunities for students currently in Years 10, 11 and 12 within Brisbane Boys’ College, Clayfield College, Somerville House and Sunshine Coast Grammar School to participate in the Christian Mission, Service and Training Assistance Program.

The purpose of the assistance program is to:

• Provide an opportunity for students to serve God and grow in their Christian faith through engagement in a Christian Mission, Service or Training opportunity.
• To inspire other students to be actively involved in Christian Mission, Service and Training.

Christian Mission and Service assistance packages will be available with a maximum value of $1250. 

Christian Training assistance packages will be available with a maximum value of $400.

For more information, please follow the link below.

Semester 1 Co-Curricular Photo Day

As previously advised, Semester 1 Co-Curricular Photo Day is occurring in Week 7 on Wednesday 4 June and Thursday 5 June. 

Please see attached Photo Schedule for Semester 1 Co-Curricular/Group Photos. 

• Parents/Students please check the schedule for photo time and uniform requirements. 
• Students must arrive promptly for the time noted in the schedule. 
• Students appearing in photos which requires a specific uniform (i.e. Sports/Music) to be worn, must have the correct uniform to appear within their photo on the day.  
• Students must be in full school uniform (Winter Uniform – Secondary with Blazer), including correct jewellery,  no make-up, neat hair and green ribbons. 
• Students who are not in correct uniform will not be included in the photo. 

The Clayfield Family Photo:  An email has been sent to Parents who are past Collegians requesting their child's/children’s attendance.  If you have not received this email and believe you should have, please contact Mrs Sarah Wyer 3262 0412 or swyer@clayfield.qld.edu.au. 

Co-curricular/Group Lists Years 7 to 12: photo schedule & group lists will be published in daily notices. 

Co-curricular/Group Lists Years 2 to 6: photo schedule & group lists printed for viewing in Primary Administration. 

House Chapel