IGNITE once again brought the College to life with three dynamic days of creativity, service, leadership and celebration for our Years 7 to 10 students. As the final program of the school year, IGNITE provides students with hands-on learning experiences beyond the classroom, encouraging teamwork and personal growth.
A Week of Service and Creativity
The program began on Thursday with students rotating through a rich program of activities, including Christmas card design, festive decoration making, cooking for the Community 4 Compassion initiative, and fast-fashion upcycling workshops.
Our Year 9 cohort spent the day preparing for their service visit to Aveo Retirement Village. They created cards, supported by our Primary students, and later visited the residents for an afternoon of conversation, storytelling and a much-loved Sip and Paint session. Year 9 students Rhys W and Samuel W reflected that “sharing stories and laughing reminded us how rewarding simple acts of kindness can be".
Debating Takes Centre Stage
Friday’s highlight was the Interhouse Debating Competition, with sharp arguments and clever rebuttals that kept the Assembly Hall buzzing. Gibson House claimed the win, with Luca G, Evelyn W and Xavier H progressing to the much-anticipated teachers-versus-students debate.
The impromptu exchange of wit between students and teachers, featuring Mr Tim O’Rourke, Ms Tanya Mathias and Ms Sian Graham, had the audience cheering throughout. As Rhys and Samuel shared, “there was terrific debating talent on display, and we congratulate everyone involved for their house spirit”.
Celebration Day with Milpera State School
On Monday, IGNITE concluded with a joyful Celebration Day, welcoming 60 visiting students from Milpera State School for a cultural exchange. Together, students enjoyed morning tea, team-building games, ball sports, drama workshops, the Great Clayfield Race, and collaborative activities designed to build confidence and celebrate new friendships.
The day was vibrant, making it an uplifting end to 2026.
A Memorable Finish
IGNITE continues to embody the College’s commitment to personal excellence, wellbeing and community engagement. Our students embraced every moment, discovering new interests, strengthening friendships and celebrating the end of the academic year with enthusiasm.
Rhys and Samuel summed up the experience with gratitude:
“Ignite was such a great way to relax after a busy exam block. We are very much looking forward to seeing what’s in store for Ignite next year".
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