At the heart of every great school is a strong, positive culture, and at the heart of that culture are its students. More than rules, structures, or even programs, it is the everyday choices of individuals that shape the spirit of our school. And it’s been deeply encouraging to see so many students stepping up to lead with kindness, responsibility, and faith.

I want to celebrate those who have taken initiative, not just in formal leadership roles, but in quiet, consistent acts of integrity and service. Whether it’s welcoming a new student, helping clean up after an event without being asked, speaking up when something isn’t right, or offering prayer and encouragement to a peer, these are the moments that define who we are.

There are a number of initiatives currently running or being planned by students:

Cru – Tuesday lunchtimes, where our Year 12 students lead Bible studies

Chocky Tuesdays – Running fortnightly on Wednesday mornings, Year 12 students are offering hot chocolate and the chance to connect with students of all ages

Push Up Challenge – For mental health, being run by Year 11 students

SRC – This is a new initiative for students to be involved in leadership in the school. It is run by Year 12 students and open to all students from Year 7 – Year 11

Jump Rope for Heart – Coming soon. This is being organised by a Year 11 student.

Our school is called to be a place where Christ is honoured in every interaction, and where students grow not only academically but spiritually and morally. That vision doesn't rest only in the hands of teachers or leaders, it belongs to every student. Students have the power to set the tone for their year group, to make GPCC a place where people feel safe, respected, and inspired to be their best.

The Simpson Prize – A History opportunity for Year 9 and 10 students

The Simpson Prize is a national competition for Year 9 and 10 students which focuses on the service of Australians in World War One and World War Two. It is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education and run by the History Techers’ Association of Australia.

To enter the Simpson Prize students must respond to an essay question using the Simpson Prize Australian War Memorial Source Selection and their own research.

The 16 winners and runners-up, two from each state and territory, travel to Canberra to participate in a 3-day study program in early 2026. The 8 winners will travel to an overseas destination for an extensive commemorative study tour culminating in Anzac Day ceremonies at that location.

Submissions for the 2026 Simpson Prize are due on Wednesday 5 November 2025.

More information can be found at: https://www.simpsonprize.org/

If your child is interested in entering, please encourage them to see Ms Walls in the HSIE/Social Science Staffroom in H Block.