Earlier this month, our Years 4–6 students enjoyed a fantastic day at the Primary Interhouse Swimming Carnival. With exceptional weather setting the scene, every student got involved by participating in at least one event.

It was wonderful to see such strong displays of sportsmanship, house spirit, and a positive, can-do attitude throughout the day.

We were also grateful for the support of our secondary student volunteers, whose contributions helped ensure the smooth running of the event alongside our dedicated staff.

The winners of the carnival were announced at the most recent Primary Assembly. Congratulations to all of our award recipients on an impressive achievement!

You may have seen this familiar face out and about on our Primary campus and thought, ‘Who is that?’

At the end of last year, we announced that our Head of Primary, Mrs Michelle Cockrell, would be stepping into a new role as Dean of Primary Enrichment at the start of 2026.

We are thrilled to welcome Mr Michael Gaudin as the new Head of Primary at Ellenbrook Christian College. With over 22 years of experience in education, Mr Gaudin brings a wealth of knowledge, a passion for student development, and a heart for Christian schooling.

Born in Randfontein, South Africa, the youngest of three brothers, Mr Gaudin grew up on a farm before moving to the small town of Excelsior. He later attended school in Bloemfontein and studied at the University of the Free State. After completing a degree in Human Movement Sciences and a Postgraduate Certificate in Education, he spent two years in England supporting semi-professional football players with training and rehabilitation while gaining valuable teaching experience.

Since 2003, Mr Gaudin has taught across a variety of settings and loves working with children, supporting teachers, and engaging with families. “No two days are ever the same,” he says of his career. A lifelong Christian, he grew up in a faith-filled home and credits both family and teachers for shaping his spiritual journey.

Mr Gaudin and his wife, Inge, have three daughters—Ilke, Klara, and Giselle—and their pets: Snowy the Golden Retriever, Pebbles the rabbit, and Mango the budgie. Outside school, he enjoys golf, camping, flyfishing, beach devotion, and Rugby Union. He also loves challenging himself—once completing a 110-metre bridge swing at Victoria Falls!

A verse that guides him is Matthew 6:34: “Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.” Mr Gaudin is excited to lead ECC’s Primary community, helping students thrive academically, socially, and spiritually.

Earlier this week, our Year 7s headed off on a three-day, action-packed adventure at Ern Halliday Recreational Camp.

Excitement was high as students and staff departed early on Monday morning, ready to embrace all that camp had in store. Over the three days, students participated in a wide range of activities, including rope climbing, archery, orienteering, and various team-building challenges. These experiences encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones, build confidence, and work together in new and exciting ways.

Evenings at camp were just as memorable, filled with fun group challenges, shared laughter, and meaningful Bible devotions led by teachers, providing time for reflection and spiritual growth.

Year 7 Camp is always a highlight of the year, offering students the opportunity to try new things, form new friendships, and strengthen existing ones. It was wonderful to see so many students embracing the experience and making lasting memories together.

Last week, our school celebrated Harmony Day, recognising the many cultural backgrounds that make up our ECC community. Students from all year groups were encouraged to dress in their cultural attire or wear orange, the official colour of Harmony Day. It was a vibrant sight, with so many cultures beautifully represented across the campus.

In Primary, students gathered in the morning for a time of praise and worship led by Mr Williams. This was followed by each year group showcasing their cultural attire and Harmony Day outfits. Throughout the day, students also participated in classroom activities that highlighted and celebrated different cultural experiences.

We are so blessed to have students and staff from such a diverse range of backgrounds, all coming together as one community.

Our Year 10 Dance and Music students recently had the exciting opportunity to attend a live performance of Guttered by Restless Dance Theatre at iPlay in Hillarys—an experience that proved both thought-provoking and highly engaging.

Guttered is a contemporary dance work that explores themes of resilience, identity, and human connection. Our students embraced every aspect of the experience. They participated enthusiastically in the immersive sections of the performance, demonstrating openness, curiosity, and a genuine willingness to step outside their comfort zones. It was fantastic to see them so engaged and willing to be part of the artistic process, contributing to the show’s vibrant atmosphere.

Following the performance, students participated in a Q&A session with the director/choreographer and the performers. They demonstrated impressive critical thinking and reflection, asking insightful and meaningful questions that revealed a deep engagement with the choreographic intent and themes of the work. Their ability to articulate their thoughts and respond thoughtfully highlighted both their growing understanding of contemporary dance and their capacity to engage with professional practice.

Equally commendable was the way our students conducted themselves throughout the excursion. They were respectful, attentive, and represented the College with pride—receiving positive feedback for their behaviour and attitude.

A sincere thank you to Miss Cymer, Mrs Whitehead, and Mrs Cymer for their support and supervision throughout the excursion. Their contribution ensured the evening ran smoothly and helped make this valuable experience possible for our students.

Overall, this excursion was a valuable and memorable learning experience, offering students the chance to connect classroom learning with professional performance.