Senior School Bulletin

As the term progresses, many students across our Senior School are beginning to navigate periods of increased challenge, whether through assessment preparation, co-curricular commitments, or the everyday balance of school life. During these times, mindset can have a significant influence on how students’ approach both challenge and growth.

Over recent weeks, I have been encouraged by the way students continue to approach new experiences with resilience, openness and a willingness to keep trying. Whether working through a difficult concept in class, preparing for performances and sporting fixtures, or supporting one another through busy periods, students are often building confidence through persistence rather than immediate success.

A positive mindset does not mean that challenges always feel easy. More often, it involves focusing on what can be controlled: effort, attitude, preparation and the choices made each day. When students approach situations with curiosity and perspective, they are better able to learn from setbacks and recognise growth over time.

I have also noticed the important role peers play in shaping this mindset within our community. A word of encouragement, shared reassurance before assessment, or simply knowing others are working through similar challenges can make a meaningful difference. These moments continue to strengthen the sense of connection and support across our Senior School.

At Clayfield College, we encourage students to approach challenge with both confidence and curiosity. This week, I invite each student to reflect on one area where a positive mindset may help them move forward, and to share this goal or idea with someone they trust.

Families might continue this conversation at home by asking, “What is something you are finding challenging at the moment?” and “How might your mindset influence the way you approach it?” These reflections help students to recognise the connection between mindset, resilience and personal growth. 

Block Exams - Week 6

A reminder that our Term 2 Exams for Years 7 to 12 are next week. Exam timetables were shared with students last week, and all students should now be aware of the timing and conditions of their exams.

For students accessing AARA varied seating adjustments for these exams, room information will be shared by the end of this week. 

Students are reminded that block exams are formal assessment and must be approached with the same level of preparation and care as any summative assessment task.

It is important that students revisit the information attached to the timetable email outlining exam procedures. 

This includes important expectations such as:

• Arriving in good time so exams can begin promptly
• Understanding that lateness does not guarantee additional time
• Knowing what to do if you are unable to attend an exam, including contacting the school and, for students in Years 10 to 12, providing a medical certificate on return
• Bringing only approved equipment in a clear plastic sleeve or bag
• Ensuring mobile phones and smart devices are not brought into exam rooms
• Entering and leaving exam rooms silently and following all supervisor instructions

• Remaining in the exam room for the full duration unless given permission to leave.

   

Years 10 to 12 students should also remember that they are required to attend school only for their scheduled exam sessions. If they have multiple sessions in one day, they must remain on campus until their final exam is completed. Those wishing to study between sessions should use designated study areas.

As previously communicated, students must sign in and out before and after each exam so that we can accurately account for all students on site.

Preparation for Exams

The days leading up to block exams are an important opportunity for students to consolidate their learning. Consistent revision, practising past questions and seeking support from teachers where needed will all contribute.

Preparation is not just about revision of content knowledge. It also includes organising materials, understanding exam procedures and having a calm and focused approach to each exam.

We encourage all students to make the most of the time remaining and to approach next week with confidence and a positive mindset.

Debating

Congratulations to our Debating Teams who have all won at least one of their debates this season. Special congratulations to Year 7 who won all of their debates. However, with some debating rounds still to go, other teams have the potential to achieve the same! Well done to all debaters for giving their time, effort and energy to Debating. We are very proud of you all.

Da Vinci Decathlon

Congratulations to the Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 Teams who entered the da Vinci Decathlon. The da Vinci Decathlon is an engaging academic competition that challenges students across ten diverse disciplines, including mathematics, science, engineering, art and poetry, code breaking, and more. Designed to celebrate the spirit of Leonardo da Vinci, it encourages curiosity, teamwork, and a love of learning.

We are incredibly proud of the students who represented the College this week. Their dedication, collaboration, and willingness to tackle complex challenges across such a broad range of subjects is a testament to their commitment and enthusiasm. 

Chess Club

There is no Chess Club in Week 6 due to exams.

House Excellence

This week students focused on wearing the Winter Uniform with pride. The winning House was Campbell House. Well done to all members for their commitment and positive representation of our school. Keep it up next week.

Next week our focus will be on keeping locker rooms tidy. Ensure all belongings are organised and spaces are left clean.

Arts Day 

We are busy finalising an exciting program of workshops for Arts Day, which will include a wide variety of creative and engaging experiences such as visual art, dance, musical theatre, drama skills, stage combat, Spanish cooking, yoga and drumming.

During Week 7, students will have the opportunity to register for their preferred workshop. We look forward to a vibrant and inspiring day celebrating the arts.

Duke of Edinburgh – Adventurous Journey

Students are invited to take part in a five-day Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey through the pristine Noosa Everglades from 19–23 September. This immersive paddling expedition offers a unique opportunity to explore the 'River of Mirrors' while developing canoeing skills and camping under the stars in one of only two everglade systems in the world.

Throughout the journey students will build key capabilities by taking on peer leadership roles working collaboratively to overcome challenges and strengthening their outdoor survival and navigation skills. The experience also provides meaningful connections to the natural environment and the cultural heritage of the Gubbi Gubbi/Kabi Kabi people. This program combines physical challenge outdoor education and environmental awareness and is ideal for students working towards their Duke of Edinburgh Award.

An information evening will be held on Thursday 11 June at 5.30pm in The Chapel. 

To express interest in this Duke of Edinburgh Adventurous Journey or to register your attendance at the information evening please complete the form below.

Queensland Preliminary Competition Achievement

On 16 May, two of our Year 7 and 8 students competed in the 19th  'Chinese Bridge' Chinese Proficiency Competition (Queensland Preliminary) held at Griffith University, South Bank.

The competition involved three challenging components:

1. A three-minute speech presented in Chinese,
2. A cultural performance relevant to Chinese culture
3. A Chinese knowledge quiz covering Chinese history and geography.

Our Year 8 student, Sari Weyer, and Year 7 student, Michaela Prasad, competed in the same division as students from Years 9, 10, 11, and 12, with both students rising to the occasion and earning Merit Awards for their impressive performances. 

Sari and Michaela have worked incredibly hard since the beginning of the year and have shown remarkable dedication and commitment throughout their preparation. Competing against students aged 17 and 18 is a significant achievement, particularly considering Michaela is only 11 years old and Sari is 12 years old.

Both students performed exceptionally well across all aspects of the competition and represented the school with confidence and determination. We congratulate them on their achievements and commend them for their hard work and perseverance.

Year 12 Wellbeing: Red Frogs Party Safe Program

On Wednesday 13 May, our Year 12 cohort participated in the Red Frogs Party Safe Program, an engaging and highly relevant session designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate social environments safely and responsibly.

As many of our students are approaching, or have already reached, 18 years of age, this program comes at a critical time. Through a combination of real-life stories, interactive activities and honest discussions, Jason from Red Frogs challenged common perceptions around alcohol and party culture, while empowering students to make informed, positive choices.

The session explored a range of important topics including peer pressure, consent, mental health and strategies for avoiding risky situations. Students were encouraged to think not only about their own safety, but also about how they can look out for their friends and contribute to a culture of care and responsibility. Red Frogs’ experience as first responders at events such as Schoolies Week added authenticity and impact, reinforcing the real-world consequences of unsafe behaviours while offering practical strategies to manage them. 

Programs like this are a vital component of our wellbeing framework. They complement our academic focus by supporting students to develop resilience, self-awareness and sound decision-making skills as they prepare for life beyond school. Importantly, they also reinforce the partnership between school and home in guiding young people through this significant stage of independence.

We encourage families to continue these conversations at home. Open dialogue about expectations, boundaries and safety can make a meaningful difference in helping students apply what they have learned. We thank Red Frogs for their ongoing support and for delivering such an impactful program for our Year 12 students.