NewsBites - Term 2, Week 9, 2025

What an incredible term it has been! From start to finish, our students have achieved remarkable outcomes, both in and beyond the classroom. Even in just the past couple of weeks, numerous events and activities have highlighted their diverse talents. Whether competing in the GBC Finals, tackling the Kokoda Challenge, or performing at the Ipswich Dance Eisteddfod, our students not only delivered exceptional results but, more importantly, demonstrated courage, commitment, and a willingness to take positive risks in developing and sharing their God-given gifts.

A special congratulations to the many GBC teams who progressed to the recent finals, which were hosted here at the College. Well done to all students and coaches involved. An additional acknowledgement goes to the teams who won their respective finals and were crowned premiers for the term:

Junior Boys Cricket
Senior Boys Cricket
Intermediate Girls A Netball
Intermediate Girls B Netball
Intermediate Boys A Touch

Another powerful example of students sharing their gifts has been through this semester’s Projects. In recent weeks, students across the College have had the opportunity to present what they’ve learned through these initiatives. Whether organising events to raise awareness for important causes, running market stalls to support entrepreneurial ideas, engaging in acts of service, or designing creative solutions to real-world problems, these Projects have offered rich and authentic learning experiences. I encourage families to ask their children about the Project they participated in and how they approached solving their group’s driving question. I’m excited to see what challenges and opportunities our students tackle next semester.

While there are far too many accomplishments to list individually, what matters most are the quiet, everyday wins – those moments of growth, persistence, and personal breakthrough that often go unnoticed. Whether it’s a student mastering a new skill, stepping out of their comfort zone, or simply striving to improve – these moments of progress are just as worthy of recognition as our most visible accolades. They form the heart of awakening potential and being empowered as learners to grow, learn, and flourish as a student and as a person.

As we head into the holidays, let’s take a moment to celebrate these successes, both big and small. Thank you for the important role each family plays in supporting their child’s journey and for being part of a community that values encouragement, growth, and faith.

Wishing you all a safe and restful break. I look forward to all that Term 3 will bring.

Yours in Christ,
Tyson Kenny
Acting Principal

Enrol now for Years 5, 6 and 7 in 2027

Over the school holidays, we will begin processing enrolments for students commencing at Faith in 2027.

This means that families with children who are currently in Years 3, 4 or 5 should submit an application as soon as possible.

We have experienced a high level of interest in Faith's primary school - we strongly urge all families who have not yet applied to do so now to avoid missing a spot.

We will have three classes of Year 5 and three classes of Year 6 in 2027. We have already received enough applications to fill one Year 5 class and one Year 6 class.

Please find below some architect renderings of what the Years 5 and 6 space will look like.

If you have any questions regarding enrolments, please contact us at enrolment@faithlcs.qld.edu.au.

Bianca Coleborn
Director of Marketing

Faith Takes on the Kokoda Challenge

On Saturday 1 June, over 60 students and staff from the College took part in the Brisbane Kokoda Challenge, joining thousands of others on the day, and in doing so honouring the legacy of the Kokoda Spirit - endurance, courage, sacrifice, and mateship.

As a College community, we entered eight 18km teams, three 30km teams, and two 48km teams. This year was the first year that we have had 48km teams take part and we are particularly proud of their efforts in this gruelling event. Together, we raised an incredible $9,637 for the Kokoda Youth Foundation, which empowers young Australians through transformative leadership and mentoring programs.

We especially acknowledge those who went above and beyond with their fundraising efforts. Congratulations to the following individuals who each raised over $250 for the cause:

Annabelle Halyday – $902
Cooper Webber – $768
Toby Lindenmeyer – $524
Miss Molinaro – $468
Mrs Saal – $333
Ivy Mellon – $315
Peyton Heaslip – $308
Quadey Kluck – $290
Ellis Kluck – $260
Jacob Sippel - $665 worth of Chocolate sold
Mr Reid Dobson - $408

The camaraderie and effort shown across all teams was truly inspiring, with many students stepping out of their comfort zones to take part. I’m sure this will be an experience that both students and staff remember.

Each distance presented unique challenges, and we are proud of the determination shown by all teams. In the 18km event, the fastest Faith team was the Red Hot Chilli Steppers, finishing in 4 hours and 32 minutes. In the 30km event, the Plainland Pirates recorded our best time of 8 hours and 44 minutes. For the demanding 48km event, it was the Outstanding Ocelots who crossed the finish line first for Faith, completing the course in an impressive 10 hours and 32 minutes.

I would like to thank the Douglas and Sippel families for being involved as the support crew for our 48km teams. I would also like to thank the staff who were willing to lead the teams on the day and make this such a successful event. We are proud of every participant who embraced the Kokoda values and represented Faith with resilience, commitment, and courage.

Richard Miegel
Deputy Director of Communities and Culture

Uniform Shop Holiday Hours

The Uniform Shop will be open during the upcoming holidays on Thursday 10 July from 10am to 4pm. If an appointment is required, please contact the Uniform Shop or complete the Appointment Request Form on our website.

College Musical

Buy Your Musical Tickets Now!

Don't miss your chance to see this year's College Musical: High School Musical - On Stage!

We are so grateful to the following generous sponsors who are supporting this event:

If you would like to sponsor the College Musical, you can download the Sponsorship Proposal by clicking the below button.

Buy Tickets Musical Sponsorship

Student Reflections on Semester 1

As Semester 1 comes to a close, it’s the perfect moment to pause and reflect on just how much our students have experienced, achieved, and grown over the past two terms. From exciting excursions and creative classroom projects to personal breakthroughs and lasting friendships, this semester has been rich with learning both in and out of the classroom.

There’s been a strong focus on building relationships, trying new things, and growing as learners. Whether it was through hands-on tasks, buddy programs, performances, or community connections, students have embraced the opportunity to shine.

Pippa (Year 8) shared that her favourite memory was writing a personalised children’s book for her buddy at Peace Lutheran Primary School. “We used green screens and toys as the characters, it was so fun! I can’t wait to give the book to my buddy.”

Laura (Year 8) loved the experience of being Sharpay’s understudy in the school musical and connecting with students in older year levels. She also highlighted English as her favourite subject, saying, “Mr Maher has a funny sense of humour and made the subject more fun and enjoyable. I enjoyed being buddied up with a Year 1 student and learning about her interests to write a children’s book just for her.”

Amorie (Year 7) reflected on the final day with her intergenerational buddy. “We had food, played games, and presented our work. I felt really connected to my buddy and my friends that day.”

For Sienna, the highlights were her Math and Christian Studies classes. “Math is fun for me, and Christian Studies lets us be creative.”

Josie said her favourite memory was Year 7 Camp, where she, “made new friends and got to experience different things.”

As we look ahead to Semester 2, we encourage all students to continue embracing new challenges, setting goals, and getting involved. Every new term brings new chances to connect, create, and grow, so bring your best attitude, stay curious, and make it count!

Kate Manthey
Head of Wellbeing - Foundation 7

Exploration Phase Snapshot: A Big Term of Learning and Milestones

As Term 2 draws to a close, it’s a perfect time to pause and reflect on the many achievements, projects, and events that have shaped our term in the Exploration Phase.

Authentic Learning and Community Engagement
Several projects this term connected learning with the wider community. One standout was our “Powering the Future” team, who presented their microgrid proposals to the Lockyer Valley Regional Council. The poise and professionalism of the students guided by the leadership of Chris Harvey was outstanding.

Another powerful moment came through Jake Brookes' success in the Laidley RSL Sub-Branch Bursary competition. His moving and well-researched essay on Dallas ‘Dal’ John Ryan and the 11th Light Horse Regiment not only earned him the award but brought local history to life with respect and insight.

Creative Expression and School Spirit
It was a big term for FLC Dance, with our junior teams performing in their very first competition! Students delivered inspiring routines and were recognised with:
🌟Highly Commended – Grade 9 & Under Entertainment
🌟Highly Commended – Grade 9 & Under Lyrical
Their hard work, teamwork, and courage to perform on stage for the first time was a proud moment for our school community.

Meanwhile, this week’s Pre-Athletics Carnival brought great energy to the oval, with students giving their best in events like triple jump, javelin, 800m, and tug of war. The enthusiasm and sportsmanship on display was outstanding. These early events set the stage for the Interhouse Athletics Carnival early next term on Wednesday 23 July when house pride will be on full display!

Exploring Interests and Pathways
Our Subject Showcase in May gave families a valuable chance to explore the breadth of courses on offer for 2026. From Aeronautical Engineering to Mongol Empire history, the event helped spark curiosity and support meaningful subject selections. This was followed by the course straw polls and planning conversations that will guide our timetable in Term 3.

Creative Problem-Solving in Foundation Projects
Though not directly part of the Exploration Phase, our community has been inspired by the work of Foundation students during their Wednesday projects. Whether creating mosaic tiles, revamping healthy tuckshop recipes, or building a thriving garden, these students demonstrated collaboration, resilience and ingenuity: traits we value across all phases.

A Campus Milestone
We finished the term with a significant step forward for the College campus: the official opening of our brand-new administration building and the farewell to the original A-Block, which is now being demolished. This moment marks both an exciting future and a respectful nod to our school’s history.

Thank You and Holiday Wishes
To all students, families and staff—thank you for your hard work, care and contribution this term. As we head into the break, we encourage everyone to take time to rest and recharge. Holidays are a time to reconnect with what brings you joy, slow down, and prepare for the journey ahead.

We look forward to welcoming everyone back refreshed and ready for an exciting Semester 2.

Kind regards,

Josh Searchfield (& The Exploration Phase Team)
Head of Wellbeing - Exploration Phase

Rest, Reflect, Reignite: Graduate Phase Holiday Reflections

As the term draws to a close and the holidays begin, we want to extend our gratitude and encouragement to every student, family, and staff member connected to our Graduate Phase. These three weeks offer a powerful and timely opportunity: to pause, breathe, and prepare for what’s next.

For our Year 12s, Semester 2 is their final semester of high school. It brings with it major milestones - final assessments, external exams, retreat, formal, legacy projects, and the countdown to graduation. It’s a time to lead, to finish strong, and to shape the story they leave behind.

For our Year 11s, this next semester marks the official transition into Year 12. Many will step into leadership roles for the 2025–2026 season, and all will begin the most significant academic and personal chapter of their senior journey so far.

With all this ahead, these holidays are not just a break - they’re a chance to reset with intention.

🌿 Wellbeing First
Take time to:

Rest your body and mind
Spend time outdoors or with family and friends
Do things that spark joy and restore energy
Reflect on the term just gone - what filled your cup? What drained it?

📚 Smart Preparation
You don’t need to study all holidays - but small actions can make a big difference:

Clear your workspace and organise school materials
Set personal and academic goals for next term
Read or watch something that inspires you
Chat with family or mentors about your hopes for the term ahead

Whether you're preparing to graduate or preparing to lead, this moment matters. Now is the time to consider:

Who do I want to be next term?
What legacy do I want to build?
How can I lead through service, kindness, and consistency?

Let this break be one of balance and renewal - where you honour the need for rest while preparing your heart and mind for the challenges and celebrations to come.

We're proud of all that you’ve accomplished so far this year. Enjoy the break, and come back refreshed, refocused, and ready to lead.

Andrea Blakely & Emma Saal
Heads of Wellbeing – Graduate Phase

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