Secondary Bulletin

“Every child is a potential musician, and it is our duty as educators to help them unlock their musical potential.” Zoltan Kodaly

Clayfield College has a proud tradition of offering all students the opportunity to be involved in music making either within the classroom setting or co-curricular music program. Private tuition on a variety of orchestral string, brass, woodwind, percussion, piano, and voice is available to students to ensure individualised lessons are tailored so students can maximise their potential. Clayfield offers a wide variety of ensembles including string ensembles, bands, choirs, and chamber groups at beginner, intermediate, and advanced levels—there is a place for everyone!

Research has demonstrated that learning an instrument can be incredibly beneficial for many reasons. It’s not just about playing music - it can have a positive impact on your brain, emotions, and even your social life. Here are a few key reasons why it’s so important:

1. Cognitive Benefits: Playing an instrument helps improve brain function. It can enhance memory, focus, and even increase IQ. It engages multiple areas of the brain, strengthening skills like problem-solving and multitasking.

    

2. Emotional Expression: Music allows people to express emotions in a way that words sometimes can’t. Playing an instrument can be a therapeutic outlet, reducing stress and helping with emotional regulation.

    

3. Discipline and Patience: Learning an instrument takes time, effort, and perseverance. It teaches you how to set goals, work through challenges, and enjoy the process of improvement.

    

4. Creativity: Playing an instrument encourages creativity. Whether you’re interpreting someone else’s piece or composing your own, it allows you to tap into your imagination!

    

5. Social Connections: Music often brings people together. Whether you’re playing in a band, string ensemble, or performing in a choir, it can help create strong social bonds across year levels and foster collaboration.

    

6. Cultural Appreciation: Learning different styles of music can broaden your appreciation for various cultures, historical contexts, and musical traditions.

It is never too late to start learning!

All rehearsals for instrumental ensembles and choirs have commenced this week. Please see the rehearsal schedule in The Arts Bulletin of the Collective.

If you have any questions regarding private lessons or ensemble rehearsals, please do not hesitate to contact music@clayfield.qld.edu.au.

Secondary School Tutorials

Please use the link to access the Secondary School Tutorial Schedule for Term 1.

This year, our College Captains have chosen an inspiring theme: 'Let Your Light Come Alive in 2025.' Our College's guiding theme for 2025, 'Be fearless. Let's illuminate the sky,' resonates deeply with this and ties back to our College motto, 'Let your light shine.' 

In line with our Strategic Pillar, Learning from Experiences, we are looking forward to the following upcoming events:

Interhouse Swimming Championships

Our annual Interhouse Swimming Championships are set for today (Thursday 6 February). We look forward to this fantastic opportunity to showcase House spirit, friendly competition, and teamwork. We can't wait to see everyone participate, support their House, and enjoy the day!

Foundation Day

A significant day in the history of Clayfield College, Foundation Day is a moment to reflect on our traditions and celebrate our journey. Houses will be involved in celebrations and games throughout the day on Monday 10 February. 

Duke of Edinburgh Information Evening 

Date: Thursday 13 February

Time: 6:00pm to 7:00pm

Location: Clayfield College Chapel

The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award is an incredible opportunity for students aged 14 to 24 to embark on a journey of self-discovery, resilience, and community service. The Award is offered at Bronze, Silver, and Gold levels, allowing students to tailor their experience to their interests and personal goals.

This year, we are thrilled to offer two Adventurous Journeys:

• Kayaking Expedition in April
• Sailing Expedition in September

We will have a representative from the Duke of Edinburgh program as well as Blue Peter (our sailing provider) available to outline the award structure, itinerary, and answer any questions. We invite all interested students and parents to attend this session and learn more about this rewarding program.

'Pal’entine’s Day – Henderson House

On Friday 14 February, Henderson House will be hosting ‘Pal’entine’s Day’ in support of MS Queensland. MS Queensland is a not-for-profit organisation dedicated to empowering researchers in their mission to treat, prevent, and cure Multiple Sclerosis (MS), as well as supporting those in our community affected by this disease.

MS is a chronic neurological condition that affects over 25,000 Australians, and through our contributions, we hope to make a positive impact. To show your support, students can wear red accessories on the day. Additionally, there will be a bake sale during lunch for secondary students. We encourage everyone to participate and help raise awareness for this important cause. Thank you in advance for your generosity

Please see the link below for more information about MS Australia.

All students are invited to wear a red accessory on 'Pal’entine’s Day. Please note, students do not need to bring a gold coin donation for this day. If you would like to donate online, however, please follow the link below.

There will also be a bake sale for Secondary students at morning tea and lunch in the Middle Years Courtyard.

At Clayfield College, we believe that raising a child is a collective effort. We aim to work closely with parents to nurture the academic, emotional, and social development of all students within our community to ensure that they feel seen, heard, and valued. Partnering with us ensures that we have a clear understanding of each child's needs and can provide the best support possible.

As we move into Week 3 of Term 1, I would like to draw your attention to the following important points:

Uniform Slips

Heads of Year (HoY) will be issuing uniform slips to students on an 'as needed' basis if there is a legitimate reason for being out of the College uniform. If your child has concerns regarding the uniform, please direct them to their HoY, available in Room 20, to discuss. For health-related uniform requests, please email the HoY on behalf of your child so this can be addressed accordingly.

Special Provisions

In the past, some students have had special provisions regarding transport, departure times, and bags out of lockers. Please be advised that special provisions are reviewed annually. Previous permissions do not automatically carry over to the following year. We ask that parents email requests directly to the HoY at the commencement of each year to seek a review.

Phones

Students are reminded of the College's phone policy:

• Years 7 to 9: Students must hand their phones in at Main Reception daily between 8:00am and 8:20am.
• Years 10 to 12: Students are required to have their phones off and in their lockers.

If a student is caught with a phone:

1. In the first instance, the student will be required to hand the phone in at Room 20 (HoY Office) and collect it at 3:10pm.
2. In the second instance, parents will be required to attend the College to collect the phone. The student will then be required to hand the phone in at Main Reception daily for the remainder of the Term.

Year 12 Leadership Retreat 

In other news, it was lovely to work with the Year 12 students at their Leadership Retreat last Friday. Under the stewardship of Head of Year, Ms Georgia Corpe, and in collaboration with guest speaker Ben Russell, the students were afforded the opportunity to consider what they would like to achieve throughout 2025 and how they plan to do this. Special thanks to the College Captains for their exemplary work in leading the cohort discussions; the House Captains in preparing the House Boards; and the staff who supervised.

I look forward to joining Year 7 for the day and their camp in Week 4. 

Secondary School Tutorials

Please use the link to access the Secondary School Tutorial Schedule for Term 1.

Pre-Prep to 12 School Photos

Studio Kirby: How to Order Guide 

St John Youth Program for 2025

St John's is excited to announce the launch of a pilot program for 2025, offering 20 exclusive spots for interested students. The weekly program, designed to provide enriching educational experiences, will begin in February and take place at the Nundah campus. Expressions of interest are now open, so if you're looking for an exceptional learning experience for your child in 2025, we encourage you to apply soon before the spots fill up!

Library Lovers' Day

Join us for Library Lovers' Day on Friday 14 February, at the Upper Learning Resource Centre for Years 7 to 12. We invite students to participate before school, during breaks, and after school to enjoy all the activities on offer!