Spirit of Clayfield

Overview

The Spirit of Clayfield Awards recognise members of our College family - staff, students, Old Collegians and community members, for embodying our College values and inspiring others to let their light shine. Each year, these awards are presented at our Foundation Day Assembly. 

This week, we are celebrating and recognising our Spirit of Clayfield Award Winners in the Community category. 

Overall Winner - Steve Wilkins

Steve Wilkins has made a lasting contribution to Clayfield through many years of dedicated service across leadership, community engagement, and hands‑on support. As a valued member of both the Clayfield College Advisory Council and the Clayfield College Foundation, he has played a key role in shaping the College’s long‑term direction. His guidance has strengthened philanthropic initiatives and ensured decisions consistently reflect what is best for students. Steve’s leadership is grounded in humility, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the wellbeing of the entire College community.

Beyond his formal responsibilities, Steve has been an active and approachable presence as a parent of three Clayfield students. His involvement with the Parents & Friends Association reflects his willingness to contribute wherever needed - whether assisting at events, supporting fundraisers, or quietly taking on practical tasks behind the scenes. His reliability, generosity, and collaborative spirit have eased workloads and enriched the experience of families, staff, and volunteers alike.

What sets Steve apart is the spirit in which he serves. Whether offering strategic insight or flipping sausages at a barbecue, he brings kindness, thoughtfulness, and a focus on the greater good. His steady influence has strengthened community connections and inspired others to give back.

Finalist - Beatrice Peters

For the past eight years as a devoted parent, Beatrice has been deeply engaged in the life of the Junior School, supporting her daughters, Lucy and Zoe, while fostering a welcoming and inclusive environment for all families. Her dedication is evident through her service on the P&F Committee, including leadership roles as President and Secretary of the Primary Support Group (now Friends of Junior), as well as her role as class parent coordinator for both daughters’ year groups.

Beatrice has contributed tirelessly to numerous College events, including Mother’s and Father’s Day Stalls, Opus Concert BBQs, On the Green events, Speech Nights, and Giving Day campaigns. She was also instrumental in establishing the inaugural School Fun Run, raising over $13,500 and creating a lasting community celebration. Her calm, approachable nature ensures all families feel supported and valued, and her organisational skill and generosity have left a lasting impact on staff and students alike.

Through her consistent care, integrity, resilience, and respect, Beatrice has modelled the values of Clayfield College, inspiring others and leaving a positive, enduring legacy. Her contribution reflects the true essence of the Spirit of Clayfield, encouraging the community to shine together.

Finalist - John Searle

Since moving into the Boarding House in 2020, John has taken on a wide-ranging and vital role, supporting staff, boarders, and families with unwavering commitment. He is the on-call after-hours maintenance person, attending to electrical, plumbing, security, and even pet care duties, ensuring the Boarding House runs smoothly at all times.

John’s greatest contribution shines at the end of every holiday, when he prepares the Boarding House for the arrival of students and their families. With meticulous care, he mows, whipper-snips, blower-vacs, and washes all areas, creating a welcoming and safe environment for students to return each term.

John does all of this voluntarily and with love, driven by his dedication to Clayfield College, the Boarding community, and his support of his wife, Director of Boarding, Kathryn Searle. His quiet, practical service ensures the Boarding House is not just functional but warm, safe, and inviting.

Through his generosity, reliability, and selfless commitment, John exemplifies the true spirit of service and community, leaving a lasting and positive mark on Clayfield College and all who reside in the Boarding House.