William Clarke College

A DAY IN PREP // The foundations for a love of learning are often built in the smallest moments. In the Preparatory School at William Clarke College, some of the most important learning happens through exploration, play and discovery.

From tending the vegetable garden and creating imaginative worlds through play to sharing stories in the reading corner or enjoying a tea party with friends, our Prep students are developing confidence, curiosity and a growing sense of independence in a joyful and nurturing environment. It’s no wonder our Preppies love coming to school, with each day bringing new opportunities to learn, create and engage with the world around them, including through specialist lessons in Music, Drama, Library and PE.

Set within a caring Christian environment, our two-day and three-day programs provide opportunities for children to explore, create, build friendships and grow through a balance of play and purposeful learning. Designed to support a confident transition into Kindergarten, every child is known, valued and loved as they begin their educational journey with us.

To find out more about our Preparatory School offerings, visit www.wcc.nsw.edu.au

RUNNING FOR CHANGE // In just under two weeks, Mr Sam Bramman, a William Clarke College alumni and valued member of our staff, will begin an extraordinary journey from Kellyville to Canberra. He will be running hundreds of kilometres to raise awareness about the dangers of nitrous oxide addiction and advocate for stronger laws to protect young people. But behind every kilometre is a story of redemption, resilience and hope.

Sadly, Mr Bramman knows firsthand the devastating impact of nitrous oxide abuse, having lived through the very dangers he now warns others about. Today, through his No2Nangs initiative, he is using his experience to help others make safer choices and to remind those who are struggling that there is always a way forward.

Grounded in faith, strengthened by family and supported by his community, Mr Bramman’s message is simple: your past does not define your future. To help support his campaign, come cheer him on as he heads off on this remarkable journey on Tuesday 23 June at 6:00am from the Centenary of Anzac Reserve, Kellyville. To read more about Mr Bramman’s story and the hope that now drives his mission to help others, please click on the link below:

https://www.wcc.nsw.edu.au/news/running-for-change/

HSC MUSIC // “Next to the word of God, the noble art of music is the greatest treasure in the world. It controls our hearts, minds and spirits.” – Martin Luther, 1483-1546

Our Year 12 musicians shared that noble gift with the College community yesterday at the HSC Music Performance Night, an important milestone for these students as they continue refining their repertoires in preparation for the upcoming HSC.

From Rachmaninoff and Chopin to Abba, Benson Boone and Lake Street Dive, 14 students took to the stage to showcase their passion, dedication and musical talent after months of preparation. Whether performing on flute, guitar, piano, saxophone or trumpet, or through the beauty of voice, each moving performance reflected the commitment and artistry of these young musicians.

It was wonderful to see The Space filled with family, friends, staff and students celebrating their achievements. We also thank our dedicated Music staff and accompanists whose encouragement, expertise and support help make evenings like these possible.

CAREERS EXPO // One of the great strengths of our College community is the willingness of people to share their time, wisdom and experience with the next generation. This generosity was on full display at our recent Careers Expo, where students from Years 10-12 heard firsthand from professionals working in law, ministry, community services and protective services about the pathways, challenges and opportunities within their fields. Through honest conversations and thoughtful questions, students gained valuable insight into careers dedicated to supporting, protecting and caring for people and communities.

Events like these are a powerful reminder of what is possible when a community invests in its young people. We are deeply thankful to everyone who played a part in the afternoon, helping our students broaden their horizons, consider new possibilities and take another step towards a purposeful future.

GRADE OF ORIGIN 3 // The third instalment of our Grade of Origin clash delivered another thrilling chapter, with Year 12 emerging victorious in Wednesday’s Football match, in a dramatic penalty shootout to seal both the match and the series.

Nortad A scored first, giving Year 11 an early advantage. It didn’t take long for Year 12 to respond, as Sonny S levelled the score. With both teams showcasing impressive skill and determination, the match remained even until the final penalty decider. Holding their nerve under pressure, Year 12 edged ahead to claim a nail-biting 5-4 victory!

The true highlight was the incredible sense of community. From the energy on the sidelines to the intensity on the field, students rallied behind their teams in a powerful display of school spirit - a reminder of why Grade of Origin continues to be a highlight of the College calendar.

CHAMPION PROBLEM SOLVERS // This weekend, a team of 10 outstanding students from Years 6-12 will head to Indiana, USA, to compete at the Future Problem Solving International Conference World Finals.

Commencing on 10 June, this prestigious global event brings together thousands of young innovators, all united by a passion for critical, creative and future-focused thinking. Our students will take to the world stage, proudly representing both Australia and William Clarke College.

As they prepare to tackle complex global challenges alongside the brightest minds from around the world, we couldn’t be more proud of their dedication and achievement.

Drop your messages of support below and join us in cheering them on - we can’t wait to see all they accomplish!

RECONCILIATION WEEK // To mark National Reconciliation Week, students from Prep to Year 12 explored this year’s theme, All In for Reconciliation.

Each student created a tile reflecting what reconciliation means to them - capturing ideas of unity, respect, and understanding. These pieces will come together as one collaborative artwork, symbolising the strength of many voices united.

As a Christ-centred community, we are reminded that Jesus is the ultimate reconciler, showing us how to love and forgive. We love to see our students’ creativity and growing understanding of and respect for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

TRIVIA NIGHT // Save the date! The annual William Clarke College Trivia Night returns on Saturday 22 August, where the laughs and brain-bending will be enjoyed from our brand-new Bryson Building Rooftop!

Gather your team and get ready for a fun-filled evening because this year is going to be BIG! Think bold colours, big hair and iconic outfits because we are heading back to the 80s! Time to raid the costume box and dress to impress.

All funds raised will support our new Community Care Fund, helping those in our college community experiencing illness and/or crisis. Tickets on sale soon!

ONLINE SAFETY DAYS // We know the online space can be challenging for parents to keep up with, which is why our partnership with ySafe is so valuable.

Last week, ySafe facilitated engaging and practical sessions with our Primary students, equipping them with strategies to approach online spaces with confidence and care. Students explored cyber safety, digital relationships, digital footprints and responsible technology use.

They return on 2 June for Secondary sessions, including a parent seminar. Secondary parents are encouraged to register via Connect as we continue strengthening a shared approach to digital wellbeing.