William Clarke College

BRYSON BUILDING OPENING // William Clarke College marked a significant milestone in its 38-year history yesterday when we officially opened The Bryson Building, an innovative new learning and community hub named in honour of our founding Headmaster, Mr Philip Bryson.

While the building represents an exciting investment in the future, the occasion was also an opportunity to reflect on the legacy that helped shape the College from its humble beginnings. Mr Bryson was renowned for taking the time to stop, listen and genuinely care for students and staff, fostering a culture where people felt valued, known and connected.

More than 100 guests gathered for this special event, including members of the Bryson family, College Council, staff and former staff, and invited guests, including representatives from Rohrig and PMDL, and Dr Michelle Byrne, Mayor of the Hills Shire Council. We extend a special thank you to Mr David Jennings and the staff team who worked tirelessly to bring this significant project to life.

Following the official ribbon-cutting ceremony, guests enjoyed a special tour of the new facility and a wonderful morning tea as they celebrated this important chapter in the College’s journey. We give thanks for God’s faithfulness and pray that The Bryson Building will be a place where academic growth, belonging and Christ-centred relationships flourish for generations to come.

CHRIST-CENTRED COMMUNITY // Last week, staff and partners gathered across a number of sessions to hear from Christian writer, minister and social commentator Stephen McAlpine, who helped us consider what a Christ-centred community looks like in practice.

Stephen challenged us to reflect on our vision of human flourishing: What does it truly look like? How can we be a place of character and purpose formation? How do we cultivate “thick” community that authentically reflects the teaching of Jesus? And how might our values be caught, not just taught?

We were delighted to conclude the day gathering with like-minded schools and churches, exploring partnership opportunities to see Jesus known and loved across our region.

WORLD CLASS THINKERS // Thousands of students from around the world. Countless innovative ideas. One unforgettable week of learning, problem solving and proudly representing Australia and William Clarke College on the global stage. What an experience!

Following an incredible week at the Future Problem Solving International Conference World Finals in Indiana, USA, we are delighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our students. Congratulations to Matilda S (Year 12), who placed 3rd in Senior Storytelling; our Community Problem Solving team of Mila A, Hasini C, Hayley K and Sylvia T (Year 7), who received the Excellence in Project Management Award; and our Junior Global Issues Problem Solving team of Yadev N, Emma S, Kenzie V and Micah W, whose Action Plan Presentation placed 5th in the world.

While these results are remarkable, what stood out most was the way our students, staff and families supported one another throughout the week. From cheering at events and celebrating successes to offering encouragement when it mattered most, they demonstrated the character, humility and servant-hearted care for others that encapsulates our Christ-centred community. A special mention must also go to Matilda, who not only helped coach the younger students, but did so with a generosity of spirit, kindness and maturity that made her an exceptional role model for those around her.

STAFF VS STUDENTS MATCH // Competitive spirits were in no short supply this week as students and staff faced off in a fiercely contested Basketball showdown that had plenty of hustle, heart and healthy competition. With relentless defensive pressure, physical play, strong teamwork and no shortage of determination, both teams left everything on the court. Even our Head of College laced up his sneakers and joined the action, while Mrs Sarah Du from Enrolments proudly represented the staff team as the sole female player on the court.

The staff held the lead for much of the game but, buoyed by enthusiastic Year 12 supporters and a sea of handmade posters, the students mounted a late comeback to secure a narrow 22-19 victory. While the students may have claimed the bragging rights this time around, the real highlight was the camaraderie, connection and wonderful sense of community on display, as staff and students enjoyed the fun and friendly rivalry that makes this such a much-loved College tradition.

VISUAL ARTS EXHIBITIONS // Held in conjunction with the Subject Selection Evenings last week, parents were invited to experience both our Year 8, and our Years 9 and 10 Visual Arts Exhibitions in the Branwhite Centre.

The exhibitions provided a valuable opportunity for families to witness the creativity of our students, showcasing a diverse and impressive collection of artworks across a range of mediums. From detailed drawings and paintings to beautiful sculptures, each work reflected the skill, imagination and dedication of our young artists.

The exhibition highlighted the depth of talent within our Visual Arts program and celebrated the creativity that is nurtured throughout these formative years of learning.

SUBJECT SELECTION // Last week, students and families came together for our Subject Selection Evenings, with dedicated staff on hand to guide students in making informed, confident choices for their future study.

Year 8 students were introduced to the Years 9 and 10 Xplore Program. With over 50 electives on offer - including Criminology, Vehicles and Automotive, Musical Theatre, Architectural Design and more - students were encouraged to explore their passions and interests.

Similarly, our Year 10 students and their parents gained valuable insight into subject options for Years 11 and 12, with staff helping them consider the pathways that will shape their senior years and beyond.

These evenings play an important role in empowering students to make informed decisions as they continue their journey as Extraordinary Learners.

SYDNEY PRAYER BREAKFAST // When Christians gather to pray, they are doing something both simple and profound: acknowledging their dependence on God and entrusting the future to His care.

At the Sydney Prayer Breakfast held last week, five Year 12 students and staff members joined Christians from across Sydney to pray for our city, encourage one another in faith, and seek God’s wisdom, guidance and blessing on our communities. Held at the ICC Sydney, the annual gathering drew thousands of attendees and featured keynote speaker, Tim Kirk, Chief Winemaker of Clonakilla, alongside worship led by Commons Worship. As a respected vintner, theologian and Christian leader, Tim shared insights from a life shaped by faith, family and vocation, providing much food for thought for those during a powerful morning of prayer, reflection and unity.

We are grateful for opportunities such as these that encourage our students to deepen their faith, engage thoughtfully with the world around them and be reminded of the hope we have in Christ.

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/