Meet our team!

We are thrilled to introduce our dedicated House Leaders! Each leader brings their own unique vision, enthusiasm, and dedication to the role, ensuring every student feels valued and empowered to reach their full potential.

Mrs Karen Gordon

Ashburn House Leader

Karen Gordon believes being a House Leader is more than just a title; it’s an opportunity to build a strong sense of community and create an environment where every student feels valued and encouraged to participate. “It’s about leading by example and inspiring others to take pride in their House,” she says. Fostering inclusivity and strengthening connections across all year levels is what motivates Karen to lead confidentially in her role.

“I am so proud of the incredible spirit within Ashburn. It’s contagious and uplifting. We support each other wholeheartedly, and that camaraderie makes every event more exciting and rewarding."

Karen's priority for her House this year is to encourage greater participation in House events with the students and build a culture of strong teamwork and powerful school spirit. She understands that when students feel connected, they thrive, not just as individuals but as part of something bigger, so it is important to her to ensure our students feel and are connected.

“My main goal this year is to make sure every student feels a sense of belonging.” 

Karen is proud and takes ownership in her leader role by leading with example to students. “I actively participate in House activities and make sure to recognise and celebrate every contribution, no matter how big or small,” she says. To make sure students continue to be motivated, she encourages them to set personal goals for their involvement and make verbal commitments to engage in the events throughout the year. “This helps foster a sense of responsibility and teamwork, which is so important.”

Karen is especially proud of the incredible spirit within the Ashburn House. “It’s contagious and uplifting... we support each other wholeheartedly, and that camaraderie makes every event more exciting and rewarding.” said Karen. Looking ahead for 2025, Karen is excited for our much loved and enjoyed by all, Arts Day. “I love seeing our House come together, showcasing creativity and talent with so much enthusiasm.” 

Karen says Respect is the Clayfield College value that resonates with her most, “It underpins everything we do, respect for each other, for our teachers, and for the traditions of our school,” she said.

“When students embody respect, it creates a positive and supportive environment, shaping them into responsible and considerate individuals.”

Seeing students' growth and development is what inspires Karen the most when interacting daily with students and her fellow Pastoral Care teachers. “Seeing students grow in confidence, develop friendships, and step outside their comfort zones is truly fulfilling.” she says. 

Karen's advice for students in 2025 is to embrace the journey and be a great peer to their fellow students.

“Don’t put too much pressure on yourself, school is a journey, not a race. Enjoy the experience, embrace new opportunities, and find a balance between academics, extra-curricular activities, and social life. Most importantly, support one another and make the most of the friendships and experiences along the way.”

Karen's commitment to inclusivity, teamwork, and respect creates a supportive environment where every student feels valued and empowered to grow. With a focus on strengthening connections across year levels and cultivating school spirit, Karen's leadership continues to inspire students to embrace their potential and work together. 

Mrs Anita Wood

Gibson House Leader

Anita Woods is a dedicated and driven House Leader for the Gibson House. When the students of the House come together there is so much excitement and energy! Anita says being a House Leader is all about supporting an amazing team, the Pastoral Care teachers and House Captains who work together to create a fun, inclusive, and uplifting environment for students. “I love seeing our students thrive,” Anita shares. “Our goal is to make Gibson House a place where students have fun and feel celebrated.”

Anita loves to learn and get to know each student’s strengths.

“I love seeing our students thrive.  My priority is to get to know each student’s strengths and come alongside them to support and encourage them in ways that help them grow. 

 

There’s such a genuine energy among our students. They get involved, they lift each other up, and they bring their best to every challenge.” 

Encouragement is at the centre of how she leads, ensuring every student feels valued. With the help of fantastic House Captains, she has created a passionate House. “We have some incredible leaders and dedicated students who set great examples through their enthusiasm and involvement in House activities,” she says proudly. That enthusiasm is what makes Gibson House so special. 

“There’s such a genuine energy among our students. They get involved, they lift each other up, and they bring their best to every challenge.” 

'Let Your Light Shine', the Colleges' motto, holds special meaning for Anita. “I find it so encouraging. It shapes a culture where we support and build one another up,” she said. As a Christian, it also holds a personal significance, “To me, it means living my life in a way that helps others know God.”

Anita's passion for learning makes her inspired by the curiosity and potential of each student, always encouraging them to explore, grow, and get out of their comfort zones. 

“Ask questions. Give things a go. Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Find friends who support you. And most importantly, learn about yourself along the way!”

Through Anita's focus on getting to know each student’s strengths and supporting their growth, Anita fosters a culture of positivity and involvement. The genuine energy of Gibson House students, paired with Anita’s passion for learning and leadership, makes it a place where students feel empowered to step out of their comfort zones, explore their potential while supporting one another.

Mrs Saskia Greasley

Radcliffe House Leader

Being a House Leader for Radcliffe House is important to Saskia, as it allows her to be a guide for students. Saskia finds the greatest reward in her role as House Leader is seeing students form lasting friendships. 

“These relationships shape their school experience and often extend beyond graduation. It’s amazing to witness.” 

Her message to our students is simple: “Take each day as a chance to grow. Don’t be afraid of mistakes, stay true to your values, and always seek support when needed.” 

Saskia encourages her students to participate in teamwork, inclusivity and kindness with each other. She likes to instil in the students that the efforts they make matter and that the efforts are an essential part of the Radcliffe House community. Saskia is looking forward to seeing high participation by the students in her House. 

"This year, my main goals for Radcliffe House are to strengthen the sense of camaraderie and teamwork amongst students. This is something that Radcliffe House already does well, but I want to continue creating a culture where everyone participates and works together as a team. I’m also focused on fostering leadership skills in our senior students and finding new ways to engage students in activities with peers across a range of year levels."

The Radcliffe House has a very strong sense of unity which reflects on their motto, 'Individually unique, together complete'. "There's a genuine spirit of togetherness that runs through our students, and regardless of the event, they always get involved and try their best." says Saskia.

This year Saskia excited for their charity fundraiser for ReachOut. "I’m also looking forward to our fundraising initiative for ReachOut on the last day of Term One, which supports young people experiencing mental health challenges. This fundraiser not only raises awareness but also gives our students a meaningful opportunity to give back to the wider community. "

Saskia draws inspiration in her leadership work from the students and watching them make connections and form lifelong friendships. 

"What inspires me most is the opportunity to build rapport with the students and watching them form meaningful friendships with one another. I love seeing the connections they make and the sense of belonging that grows within the House. These friendships become an integral part of their school experience, often lasting beyond their time at school."

Through her focus on teamwork, inclusivity, and kindness, Saskia encourages her students to participate fully and embrace the strong spirit of unity within Radcliffe House.

Mrs Sofie Menzies

Campbell House Leader

From the moment Sofie Menzies stepped into her role as House Leader of Campbell House at Clayfield College, she knew it was about building a family, a place where every student and staff member felt 'known, valued, and understood.' Being a House Leader for Sofie is one of the most privileged and rewarding roles.

"I want to make a tangible and positive impact on the lives of my students, their families and staff by being a caring role model, leading by example, inspiring others to fulfil their potential, and working together to achieve common goals." 

This year Sofie has many plans for her House including helping the students become better versions of themselves. 

“As the year progresses, my goals for Campbell House are to continue our incredibly inclusive culture, develop confidence in my House members enabling them to let their individual lights shine."

Sofie says respect is the foundation of everything. "All of our College values are integral to living life in an authentic and balanced way! To me though, the value of respect is the connector of all others. Respect is essential for promoting a positive culture in any environment (from home to the workplace, classrooms to the playground!)," says Sofie.

"I firmly believe that respecting oneself and others is categorised by acting with courtesy and fairness, valuing diversity, being considerate and kind, acting professionally and with dignity. Respecting others leads to higher levels of commitment, as team members feel valued and understood."

The Campbell House is full of members who encourage and support each other to do their very best, to always participate where they can and to be persistent. "We acknowledge each other and celebrate all the wins – no matter how small! I love that my students feel comfortable to connect with our staff and each other to have a chat – regardless of their age.

"I feel the culture in our House is just beautiful and so inclusive. You can sense this atmosphere the moment you walk through the Chapel doors (our Whole House area). We are truly a friendly place of connection and belonging."

Sofie's message to students is to encourage them to do their best and believe in themselves. 

"As teachers, we will never give up on you. Look forward to the future with hope and faith, set goals and persist through life. Everything will work out."

Sofie’s leadership of Campbell House is grounded in her deep commitment to building a supportive, inclusive family where every member feels respected, valued, and understood. With a focus on helping students grow into confident, caring individuals, Sofie fosters an environment where respect and connection are at the heart of everything. 

Mr Tim Opstelten

Henderson House Leader

Tim Opstelten the House Leader of Henderson House, says the role is more than just a title, it’s about creating a culture where students feel truly at home. 

“Being a House Leader is about creating a unique House spirit where students feel connected and valued. It’s about guiding our Senior students, so they leave Henderson House better than they found it. 

Tim's vision for Henderson House is to create a stronger sense of unity and shared purpose. "To create a stronger sense of belonging within the House. Having the house engage in a shared vision of what it means to be in Henderson."

Tim inspires members of the Henderson House by connecting and understanding students personally, “Through listening and setting attainable expectations". Tim says he's House is unique in many ways, 

"We have such a wide range of personalities, hobbies, and backgrounds in our House. It’s those differences that make us stronger. Whether it’s during House meetings or fun competitions like our House Kahoot, we celebrate what makes each of us unique."

Tim loves to impact students' lives positively and create lasting memories with them, that will stay with the student beyond Clayfield College and when they graduate to continue their journey after school. 

"Making a difference in a student’s school life. When students that have graduated return and reminisce on stories where you have made a difference or share with you a memorable moment that will stay with them forever."

Excitement is brewing for upcoming events, particularly Arts Day. “Arts Day is high on the list! Henderson House came second in the dance section last year, and we’re determined to take it one step further this time. The energy, creativity, and teamwork make it a standout event for us.”

Tim’s commitment to Henderson House is more than just about leadership, it's about creating a lasting legacy of unity, belonging, and personal growth for every student. By fostering a strong House spirit and ensuring that each student feels valued, Tim inspires members of Henderson House to embrace their differences and work together toward shared goals.

Mrs Cheralyn Patterson

Youngman House Leader

Through Cheralyn Patterson's leadership, students are encouraged to embrace teamwork, kindness, and respect in every aspect of school life. Cheralyn believes that being a House Leader is an important role because it is about inspiring students to take pride in their House and support one another. 

"Being a House Leader means providing leadership, support, enthusiasm and motivation to students and staff within Youngman House. This involves encouraging House spirit and participation in all school events, reinforcing the importance of community, and promoting kindness, inclusion, and respect."

Cheralyn says building House identity and a sense of belonging amongst students in fun and engaging ways are key focuses for 2025. She will create challenges and games which will be driven by the House Captains to boost participation and encourage support amongst their House members. 

Every House stands out for its unique qualities, and Youngman House is no exception. With a culture rooted in enthusiasm and a commitment to fostering inclusivity, Youngman House shines brightly across all areas.

"We are a very enthusiastic House and enjoy all the Cultural, Academic and Sporting House Competitions. All students, across all year levels, participate in activities, with our Secondary and Primary House Captains running whole House events each Friday. 

At Clayfield College, our core values of Care, Integrity, Resilience, and Respect guide everything we do. Cheralyn holds Care as her favourite value because of the positive impact it has on our community and its members. 

My favourite value of the College is ‘Care.’ By showing care to students and staff, you create a supportive, inclusive, and inspiring environment where every student and staff member feels valued and important.

Under Cheralyn's leadership, Youngman House continues to thrive as a community built on enthusiasm and inclusivity.