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PRINCIPAL’S & DEPUTY PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
As the 2025 school year concludes, We are proud to celebrate the achievements of our Clare High School community. This year has brought growth, innovation, and shared success, all made possible by our students, staff, families, and community partners. Thank you for your commitment and partnership.
Clare High School students have shown strong academic performance and personal development this year. NAPLAN results were particularly strong in Year 7, with significant growth noted for our Year 9 cohort. Through our involvement with the PAT Adaptive trial, we have further advanced our use of data for tailored classroom support in numeracy and reading, resulting in meaningful improvement for many students.
Our Middle School flourished in 2025 with a continued focus on real-world STEM and Global Perspectives projects. In Years 7 and 8, hands-on programs such as Water Watch helped students develop scientific, relational, and critical thinking skills in authentic learning contexts.
Our approach to senior learning and pathways continues to evolve. We’ve moved away from ATAR as the sole measure of success and embraced new opportunities in VET courses, prescribed subject combinations, and a direct partnership pathway with Flinders University. The SACE renewal process has further embedded student agency in learning design and new course offerings are under development for 2025–27.
Sport continues to be a source of pride at Clare High School. The Year 8/9 Girls Netball team secured the Mid-North District Championship, and our Open Boys’ Cricket team finished in the top four statewide. Students from Years 7 to 10 participated in Knockout Football and Cricket competitions, and our annual athletics and swimming carnivals saw strong participation and enthusiasm across houses. Thank you to all staff, coaches, and volunteers who have empowered our students to reach their personal best.
This year, our school engaged with the latest initiatives within the South Australian Curriculum. Staff and students actively participated in exploring contemporary subject offerings and contributed to discussions shaping state curriculum renewal. We are mindful of aligning our learning programs with the priorities arising from the new curriculum, and look forward to expanding opportunities for authentic and student-led learning experiences.
Considerable progress has been made in our infrastructure and grounds. The COLA netting installation will take place over the holidays, ready for use in Term 1, 2026. Development has commenced on our STEM playground, the bush garden and yarning circle continue to grow, and we are excited to partner with Kindness for Kids to establish a STEM/native garden early next year. These additions will foster contemporary and inclusive outdoor learning experiences.
The Governing Council played a pivotal role in strengthening our school’s direction throughout 2025. Their efforts—from supporting the annual Show BBQ to guiding the Strategic Plan for 2025–27—have greatly enhanced our community engagement and long-term vision. Their partnership and leadership are both valued and deeply appreciated.
Staff Farewells
We extend our gratitude to several valued staff members departing or taking leave at the end of 2025:
- Katie Liebelt (Assistant Principal): Thank you for your leadership and vision; all the best in your new role with ACHPER.
- Ben Seymon: We appreciate your commitment to Technology—wishing you the best at Thebarton Senior College.
- Kim Maynard: Thank you for your dedication; congratulations and best wishes as you undertake the B1 Year Level Leader role at Urrbrae Agricultural High School.
- Ashleigh Hill: Thank you for your passionate efforts—enjoy your year’s leave.
- Karen Slattery: Thank you for your service and guidance; may your year’s leave be rewarding.
- Lingjing Kong: We wish you well as you return to Adelaide for family—thank you for your invaluable support.
- Clay Reid: Thank you for your contributions and we wish you all the best during your leave in Term 1.
- Rosemary Goode: Thank you for coming out of retirement to support Home Economics this semester. Your expertise has made a significant difference.
- Rebecca Brak, Bruce Birch, Felicity Mudge (Classroom Support SSOs), Stacey Hitch (Student Services), and Josh Lines (Pastoral Care Worker/Youth Worker): Thank you for your crucial work supporting our students each day.
Looking Ahead to 2026
In 2026, Clare High School embarks on a revitalised leadership structure, continuing our commitment to excellence and innovation:
- Principal: Natasha Dunn
- Deputy Principal: Kylie Alozie
- Business Leader: Elise O’Neill
- Wellbeing Leader: Mandy Knight
- Inclusion Leader: Bek Holland
- Year 7–9 & Middle School Pedagogy Leader: Kristy McCarthy
- Year 10–12 & Pathways Leader: Chloe Frkic
- STEM Leader: Justin Lodge
- Global Perspectives Leader: Alicia Hoddle
- Healthy Lifestyles Leader: John Stevens
- Creative Industries Leader: Dan Bradley
We warmly welcome Chloe Frkic, John Stevens, and Emma Fernee (Dance) to our team.
Guided by the Department for Education’s focus on effective learners and strategic awareness, we will continue to nurture creative, curious lifelong learners—equipping our students with the resilience and skills to thrive, even in the face of the unknown.
Thank you for your trust, partnership, and hard work throughout 2025. We wish everyone a safe, restful break and look forward to an inspiring and successful 2026.
Natasha Dunn, CHS Principal & Kylie Alozie, CHS Deputy Principal
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ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL’S REPORT
As CHS Assistant Principal I have once again felt privileged to be able to work with our dedicated leaders, staff and parents who consistently go above and beyond to ensure all students have access to extensive curricular and extra-curricular opportunities and to support the wellbeing of all of our students. Highlights for 2025 include:
Teaching and Learning – As Teaching and Learning Leader I am fortunate to work with a dedicated and passionate group of Curriculum leaders who oversee their specialist learning areas and teaching teams; Justin Lodge (STEM), Kristy Lewis (HPE), Dan Bradley (Arts), Kale Jameson (Technologies), Alicia Hoddle (Global Perspectives) and Bek Holland (Inclusion). Our key focus on Whole Staff and Curriculum Area Professional Development in SA Curriculum, SACE Renewal, Restorative Practices and catering for Neurodivergent students ensures continuous improvement in curriculum innovation and teacher pedagogy.
Student Support – Student Support is key to our work at Clare High. In 2025 our CHS Team Around the Child leadership team included Year Level Coordinators (Kristy McCarthy, Kim Maynard, Jacob Hayes), our Wellbeing Coordinator Mandy Knight, Learning Support Coordinator Bek Holland, and our Senior Leaders. This team worked incredibly hard to ensure Academic, Behaviour and Wellbeing support for all of our CHS students, working in partnership with parents and external support services.
Students in Need – Through our CHS Students in Need Program we were able to seek donations once again from families and community donors to provide all of our CHS students with access to school supplies, computers, uniform and extracurricular opportunities.
Community BBQ – Our CHS Community Connection BBQ initiative continued in 2025 to provide all our CHS students with access to a free lunch each Friday. This initiative allows our students in need to access food security without being different to their peers! A huge thank you to our incredible community of families, sponsors and businesses who make this all possible. Thanks to Josh, his student helpers and Catie (APEX) for their support each week.
Positive Behaviour for Learning – Our PBL matrix was a guiding focus with our students being recognised for demonstrating positive behaviour each day related to our school values of Respect, Inclusion and Growth. Students were recognised through individual PBL points, Roll Class awards each week and a pizza party for the leading Roll Class for their Year Level each semester.
Inclusion – We continued to focus on ensuring that our School Value of Inclusion is alive and well at Clare High School each day. This year we have had some special events to support Inclusion:
Inclusion Leader: Congratulations to Ieisha Gribble who was acknowledged as our inaugural student Inclusion Leader. Ieisha has been a key role model for students throughout her time at Clare High.
Wear It Purple Day: We held our annual Wear It Purple day with the raising of our Inclusion Flag.
Acknowledgement to Country and Uniform Annotation Workshop: We held a day with our Aboriginal students and Mel Agius, our Aboriginal Artist who developed our Clare High School uniform design. In this workshop Mel worked with the students to annotate the meaning behind the design and then worked with our students to develop our new CHS Acknowledgement to Country.
Yarning Circle and Bush Garden Opening: On June 30th we held a special Assembly with community members, staff and students to open our Yarning Circle and Bush Garden, with the unpacking of our uniform design by Mel Aguis and the initial sharing of the new Acknowledgement to Country. A huge thank you to our working group of Andy Lee, Muriel Rix, Phil Parslow, Lesley Squires, Mel Aguis, Heidi Hodge, Ieisha Gribble and Alice McMurray.
Year 7-9 Aboriginal Artist Workshops: In Term 3 and 4 our Year 7-9 and Special Options students undertook half day workshops with Mel and Violet Buckskin to deepen their understanding in this space. A huge thank you!
As always the highlight for me is working with the amazing students, staff, staff and student Leadership teams, Student Action groups, Parents and our Senior Leadership team with Natasha Dunn, Kylie Alozie, Elise O’Neill and Lauren Davies. As I take up the ACHPER (Australian Council for Health and PE Research) Professional Learning Officer role in 2026 I leave Clare High after an amazing 21 years filled with pride for our beautiful school and my cup full of memories of the highs and resilience building moments, of wonderful students, staff and families who all strived to achieve our motto of ‘Seek your Worthy Goal’.
Katie Liebelt, CHS Assistant Principal
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JUNIOR SECONDARY REPORT (YR 7/8)
2025 has been a significant year for Junior Secondary. Our Year 7 team consisted of three Roll Classes, led by Rhiannon Mickan (P82), Rebekah Holland (P83), and Kevin Rimmer (P84). The Year 8 Roll Classes were overseen by Justin Lodge (P79), Emilie Hooper (P80), and Pat Connell (P82), with a total of 148 students in Junior Secondary.
This year, we introduced a Year 7 and 12 Buddy Program with Kim Maynard, aiming to foster connections between the cohorts. The year began with a staggered start, allowing Year 7 and 12 students to meet and discuss their hopes and concerns. The program included assemblies, dance competitions, “Rimmerball” challenges, Easter Egg hunts, Bashball competitions, and culminated in students presenting High School Values Certificates. The Buddy Program successfully built strong relationships, and we plan to further enhance it in the coming years.
Sport was a highlight, beginning with the Swimming Carnival in Week 2, giving our Year 7s their first taste of school spirit. Outstanding swimmers included Maeve Allen, Percy Maher, Zoe Pink, and Liam Schulz. Several went on to represent Clare High at Lower North, with Percy Maher receiving the 13 and Under Runner Up Age Champion Medal.
The Athletics Carnival saw enthusiastic participation, with costumes adding to the fun. Junior Secondary medallists included Harper McCormack, Zavier Becker, Elise Wilson, and Harley Lawry. At Lower North, Zavier Becker became the 13 and Under Male Champion.
In Term 1, Year 7 students attended Port Vincent Aquatics Camp, engaging in a range of water activities and building new friendships. Accommodation was at the old Port Vincent Primary School.
Term 2 featured the Year 8 Camp in Adelaide, where students enjoyed bowling, laser tag, a quiz night, tours of Adelaide Gaol and the Space Centre, a movie visit, and the Tree Climb adventure. The camp was a memorable experience for all.
Term 3 saw students participate in Jump Rope for Heart and STEM projects designing bridges, while Terms 2–4 included camps, knockout sports, Aboriginal STEM Congress, Friday BBQs, video conferences, and excursions.
Significant changes were made to enhance the Junior Secondary area, including moving Mrs McCarthy’s office, relocating the Reflection Room, establishing a reset/regulation space, and starting installation of the new playground. New teachers joined, fostering positive relationships.
The year concluded with final assignments, transition activities, and a range of end-of-year events, notably the Beach Day at Wallaroo and Golf Day.
The Junior Secondary cohort of 2025 have continued to demonstrate resilience and willingness to have a go. Once again students have supported each other and showed determination to do their best.
The major highlight for me has been seeing the growth in all of the students and witnessing the friendships that have been forged throughout the year. It has been an absolute pleasure to watch our Year 7 and 8’s grow and thrive throughout 2025.
I look forward to leading out the new 7/8/9 Coordinator Role next year and am ecstatic that I get to continue following this great group of students as they grow throughout next year.
Kristy McCarthy, Junior Secondary Coordinator
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MIDDLE SECONDARY REPORT (YR 9/10)
We have had two Year 9 Roll Classes – M5 with Ms Hooper and M6 with Mr O’Neill and Mr Seymon. Our Year 9 students enjoyed participating in the Beyond the Swing Program focused on mental health and resilience with Tamie Durdin, a golf professional. This four-term program was supported and initiated by our previous Principal Sharryn Daly and supported by the Clare Golf Club, Kade MacDonald Foundation and Tim Grigg.
Our Year 9 students have participated in the Rite Journey Program which develops and fosters personal growth, emotional intelligence, and a sense of community as students transition into young adulthood. Our students undertook seven steps that form a contemporary rite of passage throughout the year – The Calling, The Departure, The Following, The Challenges, The Abyss, The Return and The Homecoming. A highlight was our 3-day Abyss Camp where students undertook their personal solo night. Our Rite Journey team led Clare High’s first ever Return and Homecoming Ceremony. It was a special night enjoyed by students, parent/carers, staff, parent and mentors, with individual responses from each of the students and their parents and mentors to the group remind us why these programs are so impactful.
In Year 10 we have had 3 Roll Classes – M21 with Mr Cashel, M20 with Mr McDonald and M12 with Mr Hayes. Our Year 10 students highlight was attending our Year 10 Camp with a focus on Personal Leadership, Mental Health and Group Dynamics. For the first 24 hours our students enjoyed the AFL Max Live In Camp focused on Leadership and Mental Health the Year 10’s shared their learning across the 4 quarters – Energy, Purpose, Connect and Perform. We then headed to Flinders University for student workshops – Lights, Camera, Action, Science of Flavour and Rollercoaster Construction. Following afternoon activities at West Beach Caravan Park we finished the night at the movies. On the final day of the camp students participated in the Beyond the Boardroom activities throughout the city.
Another highlight was 2 groups of our Year 10 students completing the Youth Opportunities Personal Leadership Program. It was a privilege to listen to their individual speeches around Personal Growth at their graduations.
Ms Katie Liebelt, Assistant Principal and Middle Secondary Coordinator
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SENIOR SECONDARY (YR 11/12) & VET PATHWAYS REPORT
What a significant year 2025 has been! It has been a period of profound success,
challenge, and immense growth, and the entire Senior Secondary team is incredibly
proud of both our Year 11 and Year 12 students. It is a true privilege to reflect on 2025
with such great pride in their achievements. Our corridors and classrooms have been
buzzing throughout the year with dedication, commitment, and drive, proving that
passion and hard work truly pay off in the senior years.
The Graduating Class of 2025
Firstly, I would like to offer my deepest congratulations and acknowledgment to the
Graduating Class of 2025. They have done a fantastic job navigating the complexities
of Year 12 and the many challenges and highs that have presented themselves over
the year. As I write this report, our final results have yet to be released. When they are, I
wish to remind our Year 12s that results do not define your worth or your potential. If
you achieve the results you aimed for, celebrate with great pride! If your score is not
what you expected, know that there are always many viable and exciting pathways to
reach your long-term dream and goals. Your resilience and character, demonstrated
throughout this final year, are your most valuable assets moving forward. We wish you
all the very best as you step into your next adventures.
The Year 11 Cohort
To our Year 11s, congratulations on a successful year! You continue to impress us with
your enthusiasm, inclusive nature, and commitment to your learning. This year has
presented its challenges, but you have approached and navigated these obstacles
with maturity, and that deserves to be highly commended. I look forward to seeing
you step up as our Year 12 leaders next year, and I have every confidence that you will
embrace all the opportunities and responsibilities that Year 12 will offer.
VET Program: A Cornerstone of Careers
As the Senior Secondary and VET Coordinator, I must highlight the critical role of our
Vocational Education Pathway (VET) program. VET continues to be a cornerstone of our
senior school, providing students with invaluable, job-ready skills and real-world
experience. We celebrate the many students who have thrived in their courses,
achieved successful work placements, and excelled in their traineeships and
apprenticeships this year! Our VET students have truly done an incredible job.
We are excited to continue this fantastic trajectory next year, with many new students
signed up to a variety of different Certificate II, Certificate III, and School-Based
Apprenticeship (SBA) courses. I would like to acknowledge and thank Michael Scarman
who has been an integral part of the VET team and has continued to support Clare High
School’s VET program with a level of professionalism and commitment that exceeds all
expectations.
Staff Acknowledgments
No success is achieved alone, and I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge
the dedication of the staff who support our senior students daily.
Roll Class Team: Thank you to our Roll Class team who have done a wonderful job
guiding, mentoring, and preparing both our Year 11 and Year 12 students for success:
Year 11: Shannon Upton, Karen Slattery, Dan Bradley, Caroline Gill, Ben Seymon,
Chelsea Mifsud
Year 12: Bree Mensforth, John Duivestein, and Kale Jameson
Farewell to Kim Maynard:
On behalf of the Senior Secondary team, I would also like to acknowledge Kim Maynard
who has been a consistent source of support, encouragement, and growth for our
students over these many past years as our former Year 11/12 and VET Coordinator. Kim
was instrumental in creating a culture of success within our Senior Secondary space.
She worked diligently to provide opportunities for our students and tirelessly promoted
our VET program. Notably, Kim’s exemplary work with our Careers Expo and Immersion
Day is a significant legacy she leaves behind. We are incredibly grateful for all that Kim
has done and wish her every success on her next adventure.
Looking Ahead to 2026
Finally, it has been a pleasure to step into the Acting role for the Year 11/12 and VET
Coordinator this year. I am incredibly grateful to be able to work with a staff that
champions our students and genuinely wants the best for them. I am also incredibly
lucky to lead such a fantastic and capable group of young people.
Next year, we warmly welcome our new Year Level Coordinator (and VET Coordinator),
Mrs. Chloe Frkic. Chloe is an exceptional leader who I know will do a great job here at
Clare High School.
I wish you all the best and look forward to continuing to work with our students in 2026!
Jacob Hayes, Senior Secondary and VET Pathways Coordinator
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ENGLISH & HUMANITIES REPORT
This year, the English and Humanities faculties began their amalgamation journey, with the introduction of Global Perspectives at Year 7. This has been a successful undertaking with some amazing work being done by teachers and students to develop literacy skills whilst investigating some of the issues faced by people globally. Next year, this will be rolled out to Year 8, with planning already begun to ensure that the course builds on what has been learned this year.
We have been fortunate this year to have our students involved in some fabulous learning experiences outside of school, beginning with the Year 12 trip to see the play, Housework, produced by the State Theatre Company.
In March the Holocaust Museum visited us, allowing students to learn about this horrific time in history, what world conditions led to this occurring, and speaking directly with Holocaust survivor, Andrew Steiner.
Year 7s visited Parliament House in August, meeting with our local member, Penny Pratt, touring the Parliament building and being involved in some role plays in the Chamber. This experience really brought democracy to life and gave students a broader perspective on where, and how, our State Government works.
Also in August, eight Year 10 students attended the Active Citizenship Convention, learning about the importance of democracy and the need to take an interest in issues that affect all of us. These students worked with others to solve problems and had the chance to speak with celebrities, politicians, journalists and sportspeople about some of the roles they play in our society.
In Term 4, the Global Perspectives staff underwent introductory training on the Brightpath platform, which will be introduced across Years 7 and 8 next year. This platform will provide continuity of learning, as it is used by many of our feeder schools. It will also enable us to differentiate for various learning needs and allow us to track students’ writing progress. The feedback given will enable students to also track their learning and set their own learning goals. We look forward to seeing the impact of this work.
2026 will see some changes to our English/Humanities faculty, with Mrs Karen Slattery taking some well-earned leave and Ms Rhiannon Mickhan heading off to a new school. Karen has led our English faculty for over ten years and will be missed by staff and students. Rhi has been with us for the past two years, and her creativity and enthusiasm will also be missed. It has been a privilege working with these great teachers, and I wish them every happiness for the coming year.
It has been a busy year, with staff focused on developing questioning techniques with students, and increasing student agency in learning by offering open-ended tasks, setting personal learning goals, and fostering awareness of metacognitive processes. Learning more about the South Australian Curriculum and implementing changes has also given us much food for thought as we navigate our way into the future.
Thank you to everyone for your commitment to this. I look forward to another productive year in 2026.
Alicia Hoddle, English & Humanities Coordinator
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STEM, MATHS, SCIENCE & AGRICULTURAL STUDIES REPORT
At the beginning of 2025, our maths, science, STEM and agriculture staff team was so full, teachers had to take on subjects outside of their specialisation. This is an unheard-of phenomenon, with usually the reverse situation being true.
As the leader of this staff group, I was excited and looking forward to a year where staffing was not a daily concern. At the same time, I had more to think about in my role, moving from a coordinator of just mathematics, to also managing science and agriculture (though, being honest, the ag. team very much managed themselves!). Change is as good as a holiday, they say, but not when that change brings an increased workload!
I’m grateful for the support of our STEM lead teacher, Ryan O’Neill, for making sure that STEM-based activities and events were organised and ran smoothly. Kell Parkinson moved out of her role as lab technician, and we gained an excellent replacement in Donna Edwards. The second half of the year saw our staffing change, due to teachers taking leave and our new recruit, Chelsea Mifsud joining us while still completing her university studies. We farewelled Sarah Devescovi, for maternity leave, with congratulations on the safe arrival of baby Hunter.
Our Science, maths and ag team across 2025 was:
Phil Bryant, Clay Reid, John Duivestein, Caroline Gill, Belinda Stringer, Ryan O’Neill, Emilie Hooper, Ashleigh Hill, Justin Lodge, Lingjing Kong, Shannon Upton, Pat Connell, Sarah Devescovi (semester 1) and Chelsea Mifsud (term 4), and our lab technicians: Kell Parkinson, Vicki Couch and Donna Edwards.
I sincerely thank all of these staff members for their service this year.
Throughout the year, beyond the classroom teaching, these staff have organised extra-curricular events and activities to give students opportunities to learn and do more than just their subject learning. Opportunities this year included the Aurora Mission, Grape Harvesting, Adelaide University Rover Challenge, Mars Challenge, Women in Engineering, Year 8 Camp university experience, AVISTA/AROSE seminar, Australian Sharemarket Game, Australian Mathematics Competition, Western Creek Line Revegetation, CSIRO Meet a Scientist, National Science Week and the Kadina and Adelaide Shows.
Student involvement in these activities has also netted the school some recognition and prizes, with $1000 being won by the STEM Club students involved in the Adelaide University Rover Challenge. Plenty of awards were brought home by our Agricultural Show teams, a year 7 group displayed their work in front of other schools and professionals within the space industry, at the Space Discovery Centre and another year 7 group reached 7th place in the Launchbox competition.
Justin Lodge, Mathematics and Sciences Coordinator
Stage 1 Biology: Transmission of pathogens activity (to see how easily pathogens can be passed)
Yr7 STEM Space Excursion to Hamilton Secondary College:
Yr 7 Stem Challenge:
Yr 7 STEM Excursions – Gleeson Wetlands and Hutt River
Stage 1 Biology Sheep Kidney Dissection:
Adelaide University Rover Challenge:
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INCLUSIVE EDUCATION REPORT – SPECIAL OPTIONS LEARNING SPACE
What a wonderful year it has been in our Special Options Learning Space! As we reflect on the past term, it is evident that our students have demonstrated immense growth, resilience, and enthusiasm across a variety of learning activities and community engagements.
Our dedicated educators—teachers and School Services Officers (SSOs)—continue to go above and beyond to provide meaningful opportunities for every student. Their passion and commitment create a vibrant environment where each individual can thrive. We extend heartfelt gratitude to them for enabling and supporting our students’ journeys, both academically and personally.
One of our major highlights this term was the thriving Enterprise Education Program. Students took the initiative to grow and nurture plants and create a wonderful array of homemade crafts, which they later sold to our community. This project not only enhanced their entrepreneurial skills but also built confidence, teamwork, and communication—all while having a lot of fun!
Our focus on establishing and maintaining community connections has also played a pivotal role this year. Students actively participated in community outings including visits to local playgrounds, the library, café experiences, and a memorable excursion to Booborowie. These experiences have enabled our students to develop life skills in real-world settings, reinforcing the importance of respect, inclusion, and positive community relationships. Our work excursions to Pikes and participation in the Bocce tournament further facilitated meaningful engagement and learning beyond the classroom.
Term activities were wide-ranging and engaging. Students particularly enjoyed swimming lessons—an weekly favourite. These lessons support physical development and water safety while encouraging peer support and self-confidence.
Activities Week was another standout, packed with games, painting, craft, movies, and the fun-filled swimming trip to Wallaroo. These shared experiences foster a sense of belonging and highlight our core school values of growth, respect, and inclusion.
A special moment of celebration was our annual Awards Night, where we recognised the outstanding achievements of our students. Congratulations to Blayden and Bradley for their effort and success throughout the year. Their accomplishments are testament to hard work, persistence, and the supportive network around them. Congratulations to Blayden, Jemima and Joey on your graduation and completing year 12.
In closing, we would like to thank everyone who contributed to making this term such a positive and rewarding experience for our students—families, carers, staff, and our wider community. Your ongoing encouragement and involvement are deeply appreciated.
We are immensely proud of all our students and the success they have achieved this year. We look forward to building on these successes in the coming year, continuing to nurture a culture of inclusion, respect, and growth. Wishing all students and their families a safe and restful break!
Rebekah Holland, Inclusive Education Coordinator
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HEALTH & PE REPORT
2025 was a highly successful year for Health and Physical Education (HPE) at Clare High School, marked by strong achievements and high levels of engagement from students, staff, and parents.
The HPE faculty covered a wide range of year levels and programs:
- Year 7: Kristy McCarthy, Kevin Rimmer, Katie Liebelt
- Year 8: Steve McDonald, Kevin Rimmer, Pat Connell, Kristy McCarthy
- Year 9: Kevin Rimmer, Ryan O’Neill
- Year 10: AFL (Kevin Rimmer, Brodie Murphy), Netball (Kristy McCarthy), General HPE (Kevin Rimmer, Steve McDonald)
- Stage 1 HPE: Ryan O’Neill, Kevin Rimmer
- Stage 2 HPE/Sport Studies: Katie Liebelt
- Outdoor Education: Steve McDonald (Stage 1), Kylie Alozie (Stage 2)
The year began energetically with the Swimming Carnival in Week 1. Students enthusiastically participated, and the event ran smoothly. Buoyed by its success, we look forward to trialling a twilight carnival next year.
Week 7 saw the vibrant, well-attended Athletics Carnival, where school spirit and competitiveness were on full display. For the first time in six years, Clare High won the Overall Lower North Championship, with the girls taking home the Championship Shield and the boys coming second. Zavier Becker and Coby Bigg were standout individual champions. The team also placed third at the Adelaide Athletics Carnival.
A significant addition this year was the inclusion of Netball in the Year 10 program. The class of 22 girls benefited from skill development and a Level 0 coaching course delivered by Rian Nelson from the SANFL. The students organised the first-ever Lower North Zone boys’ Netball Carnival, successfully managing all aspects—from coaching and umpiring to event planning and feedback. This event was a highlight and is expected to continue.
As part of coaching studies, students attended an Adelaide Crows training session, gaining valuable insights into elite sport. Meeting player Isaac Rankin was a memorable experience.
Stage 1 HPE included a new 50km team run around the school. This thoroughly engaged the whole school community, and staff also took part. Stage 2 HPE students used the Riesling Trail and completed the Pitchi Ritchi marathon, with many students continuing to improve their running and fitness outside class.
Knockout Sports teams in netball, football, cricket, volleyball, and basketball again achieved good results, reaching multiple State Finals. While there were no outright wins, the level of competition and participation was commendable.
The faculty celebrated outstanding individual achievements:
- Ava White qualified for the State Under 15 South Australian Swimming Team after multiple trials and competitions.
- Harper McCormack (Year 7) represented SA in the State Under 12 Female AFLW team, performing strongly at a national carnival in Queensland.
- The faculty also delivered the Henley High Exchange and the Clare High School Interschool Gymkhana. This year’s Gymkhana saw 70 riders from over 20 schools and raised valuable funds for future events.
Our Olympic Changemaker winner was Zoe Pawelski, recognised for her consistent representation of Clare High in all Lower North Athletics and Swimming teams, as well as all school Knockout competitions. Zoe’s commitment and drive set a wonderful example for her peers.
Congratulations to all HPE staff and students for their hard work and dedication throughout 2025. We look forward to building on this success in 2026, under the leadership of our new HPE leader, Mr John Stevens.
Kristy McCarthy, HPE Coordinator
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PRACTICAL TECHNOLOGIES REPORT
This year has been an outstanding one for the Practical Technology learning area, marked by innovation, creativity, and excellence across all disciplines. Our Year 12 students produced exceptional major projects, demonstrating high levels of craftsmanship, problem-solving, and attention to detail. The quality of these products reflected not only their technical skills but also their ability to integrate design principles with functionality, setting a benchmark for future cohorts.
Technology integration continued to be a key focus, with students making extensive use of advanced tools such as the CNC router and CAD software. These resources enabled learners to bring complex designs to life with precision and efficiency, fostering industry-relevant skills that will serve them well beyond school. The incorporation of digital design processes into practical tasks has significantly enhanced both the learning experience and the quality of outcomes. A special thank you goes to Mr Murphy and Mr Seymon for their invaluable guidance and support in facilitating the integration of advanced tools and digital design processes. Their expertise and commitment have greatly contributed to the success of our students’ projects.
In Home Economics, our catering nights were a resounding success, showcasing students’ culinary expertise and professionalism. These events provided authentic, real-world experiences where students planned, prepared, and delivered high-quality menus to guests, earning praise for both presentation and service. The evenings highlighted the collaborative spirit and dedication of our students and staff, reinforcing the value of hands-on learning. A heartfelt thank you goes to Ms Hooper for her exceptional leadership in organising and guiding the catering nights. I also extend my gratitude to Mrs McCarthy, Mrs Gill, and Mrs Goode for their ongoing support of Home Economics classes at the school. Their commitment and enthusiasm were instrumental in creating such memorable experiences for our students.
Overall, the year has been defined by creativity, technological advancement, and practical achievement. The commitment of students and staff to excellence ensures that Practical Technology remains a vibrant and future-focused learning area.
Kale Jameson, Practical Technologies Coordinator
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TERM 1, 2026 IMPORTANT DATES
- Monday 26 January – Australia Day Public Holiday
- Tuesday 27 January – Years 7 & 12 First Day of Term
- Tuesday 27 January – Year 12 Retreat @ The Vale, Watervale
- Wednesday 28 January – Years 8-11 & Disability Unit, First Day of Term
- Thursday 29 January – Meet the Teacher Evening, 6pm
- Wednesday 4 February – Student Free Day
- Wednesday 4 February – Parent BBQ & Restorative Practices Session, 6:30pm
- Thursday 26 February – School Photo Day
To stay up to date with the latest key dates and events, visit our School Calendar
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WISHING YOU A MERRY CHRISTMAS AND A SAFE HOLIDAY BREAK
We would like to take this opportunity to wish all of our students, families, and staff a joyful and relaxing festive holiday break.
May this time be filled with rest, connection, and meaningful moments with loved ones. We thank you for your continued support of our school community and look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready in 2026.
Stay safe and enjoy the break!
Warmest regards,
The Clare High School Team