Last month, several of our Secondary student leaders had the privilege of attending the inaugural SCEA Lighthouse Day, a special gathering of current and emerging Christian student leaders from across all SCEA schools. It was a joy-filled day of connection, where students built new friendships, spent time in prayer for their schools, engaged in heartfelt praise and worship, listened to inspiring keynote speakers, and explored practical ways to share the gospel within their own school communities.

This initiative was organised by Mr Zachary MacLachlan (Dean of Christian Living at Swan Christian College).

The day was a wonderful success, with students returning encouraged, uplifted, and full of purpose, reminded of their important role as leaders and their calling as followers of Christ.

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.

Last week, our Secondary School gathered for the annual Swimming Carnival, enjoying fantastic weather and plenty of healthy house competition. Students competed across a range of events, earning valuable points for their houses and giving their all in the pool.

It was great to see strong participation throughout the day, with students stepping up in both competitive and novelty races. The cheering from the sidelines added to the atmosphere, as houses proudly supported their teammates.

Thank you to our staff for their organisation and to all students who represented their houses with enthusiasm and good sportsmanship.

The results for the winning houses and the individual champions will be announced at the Secondary Assembly on 4 March. We look forward to recognising our students’ achievements then.

Please join us in welcoming these new staff members into the ECC community. Stay tuned for next month’s newsletter, where we’ll profile more new staff.

On Friday, 30 January, our Year 12 students joined the Northshore Christian Grammar School Year 12 cohort for the much-anticipated annual Year 12 Ball, held at the beautiful Mulberry Estate in the Swan Valley.

Our students made a showstopping entrance, arriving in style and proudly showcasing their glamorous outfits. Students were warmly welcomed by ECC Principal Mrs Michelle Schouten and NCGS Principal Mr Stuart Chisholm before stepping into an evening to remember.

The dance floor quickly came alive as students and staff celebrated together. From timeless favourites like YMCA to the ever-popular Nutbush, the music kept the energy high and the smiles wide.

The evening concluded with the announcement of the Beau and Belle of the Ball, along with the ‘Life of the Party’ award. Congratulations to Skyla E., who was named Life of the Party, Zac M. as Beau of the Ball, and Ruramai M. as Belle of the Ball.

Overall, the night was a wonderful success and a meaningful way to mark the beginning of an important and exciting year for our Year 12 cohort.

Earlier this term, our Primary School gathered for its first assembly of 2026, and what a joyful way to begin the year. The atmosphere was full of excitement as students reconnected with classmates, swapped holiday stories and settled back into school life.

A highlight of the morning was the announcement of our full Primary Student Leadership Team, who were officially presented with their badges. Each of these students has consistently demonstrated integrity, initiative and a heart to serve, qualities that make them outstanding representatives of our College. We are incredibly proud of them and look forward to seeing the positive influence they will have as they lead by example.

We were also privileged to hear from our 2026 Year 12 Head Boy, Jack J., and Head Girl, Sonia N., who shared thoughtful encouragement and practical advice for our young leaders and those aspiring to leadership in the future.

The assembly concluded with our Chaplain, Mr Timothy Ballantyne, who prayed over the Primary Student Leadership Team and reminded students of the call of the Great Commission, encouraging them to lead with faith, purpose and a heart for others.