Last week, our Year 9s embarked on a three-day adventure at Lane Poole Reserve near Dwellingup. They participated in a range of hands-on activities, including raft-building, mountain biking, hiking, and treetop challenges. Students worked together, encouraged one another, and created many memories along the way.

They also embraced the whole camping experience by pitching their tents and cooking their own meals on the Trangia. For many, it was a chance to step outside their comfort zone, build confidence and enjoy the outdoors in a whole new way.

For students completing the Duke of Edinburgh’s program, the camp also helped them meet the requirements for the International Award in the Adventurous Journey category, a significant achievement.

At the end of last month, our Year 11s took part in the annual Headstart Program—a six-day experience designed to gently ease them into the challenges and excitement of their final year of schooling. The week was filled with meaningful moments, new experiences, and ample opportunities for students to build confidence as they look ahead to Year 12.

On campus, students participated in practical workshops, including first-aid training, and an engaging, thought-provoking presentation by volunteer nurses from Royal Perth Hospital. Their message on safe driving and the risks of alcohol and substance use was delivered with honesty and care, and our students responded with maturity and genuine interest.

Headstart also encouraged students to look beyond themselves and contribute to the broader community. Many spent time volunteering with the Salvation Army and Pines Aged Care, where they offered practical help, listened to stories, and connected with people in meaningful ways. These experiences often become the ones students remember most.

The group also enjoyed a day exploring the rich history of Fremantle Prison, gaining insight into one of Western Australia’s most iconic landmarks.

To wrap up the program, students spent time simply having fun and enjoying each other’s company with visits to Bounce and Hillary’s Boat Harbour—a joyful way to finish the week and celebrate everything they had learned and achieved.

We are incredibly proud of how our Year 11s embraced Headstart this year. Their enthusiasm, kindness, and willingness to step out of their comfort zones made the program truly special. We look forward to seeing them carry this positive energy into Year 12.

Throughout 2025, several of our students took part in Authority-Developed Workplace Learning during the school holidays, gaining hands-on experience across a wide range of industries. These placements gave students the chance to develop new skills, build confidence, and gain a fundamental understanding of what it’s like to work in their chosen fields.

We extend our sincere thanks to the organisations that generously offered their time and support, including HDD Solutions, Laird Pipe & Casing Solutions, Ellenbrook Life Balance Chiropractic and Health, and the Christian Impact Centre. Your guidance and willingness to mentor our students provided invaluable learning experiences and genuine insight into the world of work.

Special congratulations to Tyson P., who made an exceptional impression during his placement—so much so that his host company has offered him an apprenticeship position after Year 12. This is an incredible achievement and a true reflection of Tyson’s dedication, enthusiasm, and commitment. We wish him every success as he begins this exciting new chapter.

Alongside these placements, three Year 10 students and one Year 11 student were selected to attend the Defence Work Experience Day at Irwin Barracks, themed “A Day in the Life of a Soldier.” Held on 23 October 2025, the event provided students with valuable insight into life in the Australian Defence Force. Highlights included meeting Defence personnel, seeing firearms up close, and exploring military vehicles.

All students thoroughly enjoyed the experience and highly recommend the program to others considering a career in Defence.

We are incredibly proud of every student who participated in Workplace Learning this year, and we are deeply grateful to our community partners for their continued generosity and support.

To learn more about Workplace Learning at ECC, please contact our VET Support Officer, Mrs Tanya Camacho, at tanya.camacho@ellenbrook.wa.edu.au.

Last week, our Primary school held its Interhouse Athletics Carnival. Our students gave it their all across a range of events, including Turbo Javelin, Relay Race, Shot Put, Tee-Ball Throw, Long Jump, Noughts and Crosses and Distance Running. The atmosphere was full of excitement and, despite the temperamental weather, our students showed fantastic enthusiasm and sportsmanship—a big thank you to our Parents in Partnership for organising the sausage sizzle and coffee cart.

We are incredibly proud of all our students, and we look forward to announcing the event winners and the overall house champion soon.

Last week, we held one of the year’s most anticipated events — the ECC Talent Show. Excitement filled the College Gymnasium as students, parents, and friends gathered to cheer on a fantastic lineup of performers.

Our wonderful Year 11 MCs, Mickayla A, Zac M, and Sonia N, kept the energy high throughout the night. On the judging panel were Mr Doug Lake (Head of Secondary), Mrs Michelle Cockrell (Head of Primary), Miss Tiana Garbin (WAAPA Jazz 2nd Year Student and Drummer for Contemporary Bands Teenage Veritgo and Lefty) and Mr Adam Corning (Warrant Officer Class 2, Fromer Band Sargent Master), who had the challenging task of choosing winners from such an impressive field of acts.

The show featured an incredible variety of performances, including singing, dancing, monologues, and instrumental pieces. We’re so proud of every student who auditioned and performed — it’s clear that Ellenbrook Christian College is full of amazing talent.

After much deliberation, the judges announced the winners:

• 3rd place: Ruramai M, for her heartfelt rendition of Bob Marley’s “Redemption Song,” dedicated to her parents.
• 2nd place: Lyric B, for her moving monologue “Shoulder Back and Smile.”
• 1st place: Jenwin M, for her breathtaking performances — singing Adele’s “All I Ask” and performing a self-choreographed dance to “4 Minutes” by Justin Timberlake and Madonna.

The night was a tremendous success, thanks to the hard work of staff and the leadership of Mrs Tamara Cymer (Dean of Arts and Technologies). Her passion for the arts continues to make them a highlight of College life.

Last week, we held a final farewell for our Year 12 graduating class of 2025. Excitement was in the air at the start of the night as our Year 12s welcomed their friends and family to enjoy canapes and light refreshments. Thank you to our Year 11s for showing excellent hospitality as they served the canapes and refreshments on the night.

Guests were then ushered into the College Gymnasium as the official ceremony commenced. In attendance were some extra special guests presenting special awards to our Year 12 recipients, including Michelle Maynard MLA (on behalf of Rita Saffioti), Cr Evia Aringo (City of Swan), Dr Thelmo Person (SCEA Board member) and Ellenbrook Lions Club representative.

A few Year 12 students, alongside Mrs Michelle Ford, performed a heartfelt item. Congratulations to all our award recipients and to our graduating Year 12 class. We can’t express how proud we are of all of you. You have shown great determination and perseverance, and we pray that you do well in your final examinations and all your future endeavours.

Last week, we had the joy of celebrating our wonderful Grandparents with a very special Grandparents’ Day assembly, hosted by our talented Year 1.1 class, led by Mrs Lorna Allen. The students shared their favourite things about their Grandparents and performed a series of heartfelt songs that brought smiles (and a few happy tears) to the audience. It was a beautiful reminder of the special bond between Grandparents and Grandchildren, and the important role they play in our school community.

Meanwhile, our ELC families enjoyed a fun-filled morning together, with a range of engaging activity stations set up to encourage creativity, laughter and connection. From crafts to games, it was lovely to see children and Grandparents sharing precious moments and making lasting memories together.

We are so thankful to all our Grandparents and special guests who joined us for this memorable day, and to our staff and students who helped make the celebrations so meaningful.

We would like to congratulate all our Primary students who have recently received merit certificates. These awards recognise students who have demonstrated consistent effort, positive attitudes, and a commitment to their learning. Whether through academic progress, kindness towards others, or perseverance in the face of challenges, each recipient has demonstrated qualities that reflect our college values.

Our Year 5 students have returned from an unforgettable camp adventure at Point Peron, four days filled with laughter, teamwork and personal growth. From the moment they arrived, students embraced every challenge and opportunity to connect, learn and have fun together.

Sharing cabins gave students a chance to practise cooperation and independence as they took responsibility for their belongings, helped one another and learned what it means to live in a community. The camp began with team-building games that set the tone for the week, encouraging friendship, courage and plenty of smiles.

Throughout the week, students tackled a variety of exciting activities, including kayaking, rope climbing, archery, and obstacle courses that tested their balance and endurance. A highlight was the raft-building challenge, where teamwork and problem-solving came to life as students constructed and raced their own creations across the water. The scavenger hunt was another favourite, as groups worked together to solve clues and explore the beautiful coastal surroundings.

Evenings were a time for reflection and connection, with group devotions and fun games that helped students unwind and share highlights from their day. These moments created a real sense of togetherness and gratitude for God’s creation and the friendships formed throughout camp.

By the final day, students were tired but proud, having grown in confidence, resilience and faith. We’re incredibly proud of our Year 5s for their positive attitude, teamwork and enthusiasm. It’s a week they’ll remember fondly for years to come!

Last week, our Primary School Choir took a short walk to The Pines retirement village to share the gift of music with the residents. Students from Year 1 to Year 6 were buzzing with excitement as they prepared for the performance.

The afternoon began with vocal warm-ups led by the wonderful Miss Saxby, followed by an opening prayer from Mr Bradstreet. The choir then delighted the audience with a beautiful repertoire of songs they had been learning throughout the year — from timeless classics by Fleetwood Mac, Stevie Wonder, and Ben E. King to uplifting worship songs that filled the room with joy.

It was a heartwarming afternoon of music, connection, and giving back to the Ellenbrook community.