Senior School Bulletin

“How are you?” It is such a familiar question that we can sometimes ask it without really stopping to hear the answer. Yet, when we take the time to genuinely listen, that simple question can become an important way of letting someone know that they are seen, heard and cared for.

This has been on my mind recently as I have watched our students navigate the many layers of friendship and relationships that are part of Senior School life. These experiences are not always easy. Friendships can change, misunderstandings can occur and sometimes knowing what to say or do next can be difficult. Learning to talk openly, listen with empathy and seek support when we need it are important parts of growing up.

Our Opus 3 concert last week offered a wonderful reminder of what can happen when people listen to one another and work together. With our Senior School music and vocal ensembles coming together, the result was absolutely spectacular. Beyond the music itself, I loved seeing our students share something they had worked hard to create together. Each voice and instrument had its own part to play, but it was the way they listened and responded to one another that made the whole performance so powerful.

As our students move through the Senior School, I hope they learn that wellbeing is not something we navigate alone. Sometimes we need to speak, sometimes we need to listen and sometimes we simply need someone beside us. Perhaps this week, we might all pause before asking “How are you?” and make sure we are ready to listen to the answer.

Staffing Update

We are pleased to share that Ms Georgia Corpe will commence in the role of Acting Dean of Wellbeing and Safeguarding, at the start of next week.

Many students and families will know Ms Corpe through her work as Head of Year 12 and the strong relationships she has built across the Senior School. We are grateful for the enthusiasm and support shown as she steps into this important leadership role and know she will continue to make a positive impact on the wellbeing of our students and broader College community.

Arrangements for the Acting Head of Year 12 position are currently being finalised and will be communicated to Year 12 students and families shortly.

Care@Clayfield Recap

Last week we welcomed Dr Michael Carr-Gregg to Clayfield College for a Care@Clayfield parent event. This session focused on the rising social, emotional and digital pressures affecting young people's wellbeing and ways of teaching wellbeing in 2026. 

Please see below for slides from the presentation.

Semester 2 Co-curricular Photos

Term 4, Week 1 - Wednesday 7 October 

Further information and the photography schedule will be provided to families shortly. 

Photography sessions will take place concurrently across the College, with: 

• Junior School co-curricular groups photographed in the Assembly Hall 

• Senior School co-curricular groups photographed in the PE Centre 

   

To help ensure all students are photographed with their groups, families are asked to note the date in their calendars now. Further details regarding timings, uniform requirements and participating groups will be communicated closer to the event.  

Teacher Education Scholarship Applications Open

Applications for the PMSA Teacher Education Scholarship (TES) are now open.

The scholarship supports senior 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.

Staffing Update

As was shared in an earlier Collective, our Head of STEM, Mr Brett Steeples, finished at the College on Thursday 13 August. We are currently undertaking a rigorous recruitment process to appoint a new Head of STEM. 

In the interim:

• Mr Travis McIntosh will act in the role of Head of Science Tmcintosh@clayfield.qld.edu.au
• Ms Sarah Zambelli will act in the role of Head of Mathematics szambelli@clayfield.qld.edu.au
• Mr Jacques Stemmet will act in the role of Head of Technologies jstemmet@clayfield.qld.edu.au

September Holidays Year 12 Study Bootcamp

Monday 21 September to Thursday 24 September

Tutors from MindBridge Education will be available each day from 9:00am to 12:30pm in the Upper LRC to help students with questions or queries. If you are interested in availing of this opportunity, please follow the link below to pick the subject/s you would like assistance with and the session/s you will attend.

All QCE subjects offered at Clayfield College will be covered however, based on the data students provide us, priority will be given to subjects that the cohort indicates are highest areas of need.

Reminder that all students are required to sign in on arrival and must leave the College campus at 12.30pm.

Final Preparation for Block Examinations

The upcoming Block Examination period is approaching for our senior students, with Year 12 examinations commencing in Weeks 8 and 9, followed by Year 11 examinations in Weeks 9 and 10. 

Examination timetables were shared with students earlier this week, providing a valuable opportunity to plan and organise the final stages of preparation.

As students move into the final weeks before their exams, they are encouraged to focus on consolidating their knowledge, revisiting key concepts, completing practice questions and seeking clarification on any areas of uncertainty. Small, regular revision sessions are often more effective than last-minute cramming and can help build both confidence and understanding.

Students are encouraged to review their examination timetable carefully and use it to plan their revision priorities. They should ensure they know the date, time and location of each examination and are familiar with the procedures that apply during the examination period.

Some important reminders include:

• Arrive with plenty of time before each examination begins
• Bring only approved equipment, organised in a clear plastic sleeve or zip-lock bag
• Do not bring mobile phones, smart watches or other electronic devices into examination rooms
• Wear full school uniform when attending examinations
• Follow all instructions provided by examination supervisors

• If illness prevents attendance at an examination, contact the College as soon as possible and ensure the required documentation is provided.

   

Block examinations are an important part of the senior learning journey. They provide students with an opportunity to demonstrate what they know and can do, while also developing valuable skills that will support future assessment and the external examinations. 

We wish all Year 11 and 12 students every success as they complete their final preparation for block examinations.

Academic Captains' Revision Resources

Later this week, our Academic Captains will share a collection of revision resources, websites and study tools designed to support students as they prepare for upcoming assessments and examinations.

The resource list has been compiled to provide students with a variety of revision approaches, recognising that different learners benefit from different strategies. We encourage students and families to explore the resources together and consider which tools best suit the student's learning style, study habits and academic goals.

Families should note that many of the websites included offer both free and paid features. Students are not expected to purchase subscriptions or premium services to prepare effectively for their assessments. In addition, some websites may contain advertising or links to external content. As always, students should exercise good judgement online and remain focused on the educational content provided.

We are grateful to our Academic Captains for their initiative in sharing these resources with the wider student community. Their work reflects a collaborative culture of support and we hope students find the resources helpful as they prepare for a upcoming assessment.

Updated Tutorial Schedule

Students are encouraged to review the updated tutorial schedule available below and consider which sessions may best support their learning throughout the term.

Gratitude, Growth and New Beginnings

As we move through seasons of change, we often find ourselves standing at the intersection of endings and new beginnings. Whether it is the completion of a term, the conclusion of a significant chapter, the graduation of students or simply the turning of a page in our personal lives, change invites both reflection and hope.

One of the most powerful ways to navigate these transitions is through the practice of gratitude. Gratitude is much more than saying thank you. It is the intentional act of noticing what is good, meaningful and life-giving, even amidst challenge and uncertainty. Research in the field of positive psychology consistently shows that practising gratitude can enhance wellbeing, improve relationships, strengthen resilience and increase overall life satisfaction. Studies also suggest that regularly reflecting on what we are thankful for can help rewire our brains to notice positives more readily, supporting improved mental and emotional health.

During times of transition, gratitude serves as a bridge between what has been and what is yet to come. It allows us to honour the experiences, relationships and lessons that have shaped our journey while creating space for anticipation and possibility.

As we reflect on recent months, there is much to celebrate. Moments of learning, acts of kindness, milestones achieved, challenges overcome and the countless everyday interactions that build a strong and caring community all deserve recognition. Gratitude encourages us to pause long enough to acknowledge these moments and the people who make them possible.

At the same time, new beginnings invite us to look forward with curiosity and optimism. Change can sometimes feel uncomfortable because it asks us to step into the unknown. Yet wellbeing science reminds us that growth often occurs just beyond our comfort zone. When we approach new opportunities with a mindset of gratitude, we are more likely to embrace change as a chance to learn, connect and flourish.

As I prepare to depart the College, gratitude feels especially meaningful. I am deeply thankful for the privilege of being part of such a dedicated community. To my colleagues, thank you for your unwavering commitment to our shared purpose and for the care, professionalism and encouragement you provide every day. The impact of your work is often measured not only in outcomes, but in the many moments of support, guidance and connection that help young people feel seen, valued and capable of success.

I would also like to acknowledge those staff who will be giving their time and energy to support our recent camps. Thank you to the staff who attended the Year 9 Camp at Mt Tamborine and the Year 10 Camp at Emu Gully. These experiences provide invaluable opportunities for students to develop independence, resilience, teamwork and confidence, and are only possible because of your willingness to go above and beyond in service of our students.

Most importantly, to our students, thank you for the energy and curiosity, you bring each day. You are, and always will be, the heart of this community. 

A simple gratitude practice can make a meaningful difference. Consider taking a few moments each day to reflect on three things that went well, someone who made a positive impact or an opportunity that helped you grow. These small reflections can have a cumulative effect, building greater positivity and resilience over time.

As I acknowledge both endings and new beginnings, I do so with genuine appreciation for the experiences, relationships and learning that have shaped my time at the College. While I look forward to the opportunities ahead, I leave with great respect for the Clayfield College community. Thank you for the many conversations, shared successes and moments of growth that have made this chapter both rewarding and memorable. I wish every member of the College community all the very best for the years ahead.

Reflect upon your present blessings, of which every person has many, not on your past misfortunes, of which all people have some. - Charles Dickens

House Spirit Excellence

Our Focus Behaviours continue to play an important role in fostering a positive and respectful College culture. Congratulations to Campbell House for winning Expect Respect in Week 6.

Upcoming Focus Behaviours:

• Week 7: Wearing of hats, particularly during lunch breaks
• Week 8: Book Week participation

• Week 9: Pulse Check-In

   

Well done to all students for continuing to uphold our College expectations and demonstrating pride in their learning and daily conduct.

Duke of Edinburgh

Adventurous Journey Update

A reminder to all students participating in the Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey that a planning meeting will be held on Wednesday 26 August at 4:00pm in Room 17. Students will have the opportunity to meet Kris from Kanu Kapers as well as their Somerville House counterparts as final preparations begin for the upcoming Noosa Everglades canoe expedition in September.

Cambridge Scholars’ Prorgramme

The Cambridge Scholars’ Programme was an outstanding experience that combined academic learning with personal growth and cultural exploration. Students enjoyed engaging courses, formed international friendships and gained valuable independence and confidence. Overall, participants highly valued the programme and would all strongly recommend it to future students. 

Congratulations to the following students:

• Sopha Beavis
• Isabel Bowtell
• Stella Gamble
• Aston Hall
• Maegan Stoddart
• Sofia Tam
• Amelie Wang
• Samuel Wilden
• Ella Wilson

Crazy Hair and Sock Day Youngman House Fundraiser

Friday 9 October 2026

Kilvington Grammar School Exchange

This year marked the launch of an exciting new student exchange with Kilvington Grammar School in Melbourne, a school that closely mirrors Clayfield College through its shared commitment to a parallel-learning model.

The inaugural exchange involved four students who experienced life in each other’s school communities, with one visiting student hosted in our Boarding House and others welcomed into local family homes. During their time in Brisbane, our guests explored the College and enjoyed the highlights of our vibrant city, taking CityCat ferry rides and bonding over a fun lunchtime of tenpin bowling and pizza. The Kilvington students were particularly impressed by our College’s academic rigour and high standard of uniform pride.

In Melbourne, our Clayfield students were immersed in campus life and lessons at Kilvington Grammar School before venturing out to explore the inner city via public transport. A major highlight was a friendly head-to-head challenge in an escape room, where our students narrowly escaped "The Black Queen" first, much to the delight of both teams!

While our students enjoyed many unique local experiences, they also gained a deep appreciation for the shared values and culture of our two schools. We look forward to building on this successful partnership and welcoming even more participants in future exchanges.

The exchange also provided a valuable professional connection for accompanying teaching staff, who shared insights, explored operational practices and identified new opportunities to enhance learning at both schools.

Please refer to Week 6 Photo Gallery for highlights.

Learning Through Service in Year 7

Service Learning is much more than simply volunteering; it is an opportunity for students to develop empathy, responsibility and a deeper understanding of their place within the community. By combining meaningful service with reflection and personal growth, students learn that even small acts of kindness can make a significant difference in the lives of others.

Already this year, Year 7 students at Clayfield have embraced opportunities to use their time and skills to support others less fortunate. One such initiative saw a group of 18 students volunteer to participate in The Smith Family's Student 2 Student Reading Program. Each week, these students dedicate up to two 20-minute sessions to support younger students in developing their reading skills and confidence.

Before beginning the program, all volunteers completed training to prepare them for their role and to become familiar with the technology required. Last week, the group came together to reflect on their experiences, discussing both the rewards and challenges they had encountered along the way.

Students spoke positively about the relationships they had built with their reading partners and enjoyed sharing conversations about school, hobbies and daily life. Many commented on how valuable the initial training had been in preparing them for each session. There was a strong sense of pride as students shared the progress of their younger readers. One volunteer proudly reported that their reading partner can now read up to six books during a session and has improved their reading level by more than ten levels since beginning the program.

While challenges such as language barriers and occasional WiFi connectivity issues arose, these experiences provided valuable lessons in patience, adaptability and problem-solving. Students recognised that helping their reading partners develop not only reading fluency but also their confidence in English was particularly rewarding.

The spirit of service continues to grow within the Year 7 cohort. All students have recently embarked on the Bridge Award, a precursor to the internationally recognised Duke of Edinburgh's Award. As part of this journey, every Year 7 student is supporting the charity Stationery Aid. Through the collection, sorting, cleaning and bundling of felt-tip pens students are helping provide resources to children who may otherwise go without these essential learning tools.

The experiences our Year 7 students have embraced this year demonstrate that service is not simply about helping others; it is about learning, growing and recognising the positive impact each of us can have when we choose to make a difference.

Please refer to the Week 6 Photo Gallery for highlights.

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