The Lakes College Reflections 2025

PRINCIPAL REPORT

NICOLE GREGORY

Celebrating 21 Years of Learning

This year we celebrated the 21st Anniversary of when The Lakes College was founded. As an organisation we have encountered many of the milestones of a child, adolescent and now at 21 years we have found our adult form, we hold the proverbial keys that open more development opportunities for our community. It might seem strange that we are celebrating our College; but while we are celebrating the physical growth of the buildings and wonderful infrastructure like our curriculum programs, technology, our pools, ovals, MPH, playgrounds and our new Performing Arts Precinct that is underway, we also recognise with gratitude that it is the people who have worked across the past 21 years that have made the College what it is today.

We are indebted to those people who dreamed the dream, those who chose to labour, nurture, and support TLC across 21 years and I extend on behalf of the College Board a great big thank you, to the staff, to our families, to the Uniting Church and others who continue to support our community. Thank you for your ongoing belief in the work we do here, growing educated young people of character who will one day take their place as adults in this world.

As we grow into our adult form as an organisation, we continue to ask for prayer for this community, for the daily work we do with young people, for our community of parents and carers; please pray that God will continue to bless His good inheritance, the hearts and minds of all who engage with our community, and especially our Lakes Learners.

Our Learners and Teachers

As many of you know, each year at TLC we have a theme, a call to action that brings the community together with a common purpose, to the benefit of us individually and collectively. Each year

our theme offers the TLC community an opportunity to look within, while growing skills and attributes that help us be both better learners and people.

2025, the year of getting ‘Better Connected’ commenced with seeking the wisdom of the great wise monkey Rafiki from the Disney movie Mufasa

Rafiki sings to his young pals Mufasa (the lion), Sarabi (his future wife) and Zazu (the parrot) reminding them of how much more can be achieved if they remain connected.

If you wanna go fast, go alone There’s the road, off you go; But if you wanna go far, we go together So good, so far, we go together!

As human beings we are ostensibly built for connection, to God, to each other, to the natural environment and to self. And so, 2025 became about ensuring we were carefully considering the connections we made. Acknowledging the Gospel writing of the Apostle John (15:1-5) the vine and the branches, we have learnt across the year that not all connections are positive or serve us well, so like the vine and the branches, when a branch isn’t healthy it needs to be carefully pruned and as such our community focussed on achieving the following goals:

•be Better Connected for both self and for others…

•be Better Connected to the present moment…

•make Better Connections for now and for later…

•be Better at Cultivating your Connections to ensure they are helpful and not harmful…

I continue to be inspired by our student leaders who boldly took on this theme embodying it within the leadership in every opportunity they could find:

“Being better connected has shown us that we don’t rise individually; we rise together. If one person goes ahead, we wait for others to catch up, helping and learning from each other along the way.” Anaya and Kevin (Year 6)

Our learners continue to do the College proud through their attention to learning habits and their continuous curiosity and desire for self-improvement, helping them achieve personal best. At TLC it is not the number of A’s that matters, it is a young person’s learning posture, their desire to keep on learning despite the challenges and failures that might come their way.

Thank you to the parents, carers and teachers who have partnered together to help our young people overcome obstacles to learning. And a big congratulations to all learners who have remained curious and connected this year, this will hold you in good stead in the future.

Beyond the classroom our learners continue to do the College proud, engaging in an amazing array of extra-curricular and co-curricular opportunities including, NISSA and BOSL Sport, Swimming, the Arts (Showcases, performances and competitions), Primary Musical, Debating, TLC Techfest, Kokoda, Culinary Club, Readers Cup, eSports, ICAS, International Chemistry Quiz, Science Days, Tournament of Minds, Push Up Challenge, House Heroics, Camps, and a whole lot more.

Our Vision - Light in the Heart

This year we have reached out beyond our fence line, more than ever before, sharing our learning and serving beyond community. I really wish to celebrate with you the work of our exceptional staff, notably, Mrs Teagan Dare (Director of Data Analytics & Digital Agency), Dr Natallia Godbold (Science & Technologies Teacher), Mr

Harry Ahrens (Head of House), Ms Sue Mayo (Aquatics Manager), Mrs Anna Doré (Deputy Principal – People & Culture) and Mr Mathew Stein (Deputy Principal – Curriculum, Professional Practice & Transformation) among others who have led the way in their respective areas taking the very important work we are doing here and sharing it with the greater educational community, through publications, leading workshops and speaking at event opportunities.

A special congratulations to Harry Ahrens for receiving an educational award, the ACEL Emerging Educational Leadership Award, for the work he is doing with the Sages and Seekers program, learners giving to the elderly while growing hearts for service.

“I feel truly honoured to receive the ACEL Queensland Emerging Educational Leadership Award. Working alongside our students every day and seeing them grow, find their confidence and embrace their potential is what inspires me most, and this recognition motivates me to keep supporting them in every way I can.” Harry Ahrens

Our Community

Sincere thanks to our TLCCA Executive for their incredible commitment to supporting the community with opportunities to engage in the life of the College along with the generous support of improvements that benefit our learners. This year TLCCA have supported the College in the purchasing of approximately $20,000 of resources. I would personally like to thank Kristina P, Erin R, Mike and Amy G for your commitment as the Executive of TLCCA. It has been a pleasure to work alongside you. To those who are stepping back please know you have left a legacy at TLC.

To Renee C and all parents and carers who volunteer in the Second Hand Uniform Shop, thank you for your gift of time, your effort supports both our parent community in accessing quality uniforms at reasonable prices while raising the funds that contribute to the work of the TLCCA. Thank you for all you do.

Our Future

This year The Lakes College Board released their new Strategic Horizon that brings into focus the College’s commitment to the future of learning and life at The Lakes College. Priority areas being addressed over the four-year life of this strategy include Learner agency (moving from learner voice to teacher/learner partnership), Digital agency (staff and students), strengthening of data informed teaching practices, strengthening parent partnerships to improve learner engagement, improved sustainability, stewarded roll out of the College Master Plan and streamlined Governance.

As I come to the end of my 5th year of leading this beautiful community, I look back at all we have achieved together for the sake of young people. I have deep gratitude for the investment of families, for our magnificent, caring staff who individually and collectively make this a special place to learn. To our leadership Executive, thank you for coming without ego and with your hearts ready to serve something bigger than yourselves. And finally, to the College Board, led by the Rev Dr Helen Dick, thank you for the time you freely give to support the ongoing vision of this place.

Our Graduates

To our graduating class of 2025, you have been an exceptional cohort. Engaged as learners and leaders of the College, revealing your commitment to culture through your interactions with the community and desire to promote both a House and TLC spirit. To our Senior Captains, Liv, Levi, Zara and Jade, thank you for leading the way in this community to intentionally better connect students across the year levels and sub-schools. May you all take the next steps into your future with confidence knowing you have what you need for the journey ahead.

To those families leaving TLC, we wish you well on the next chapter of your journey. Thank you for being part of our community, for the memories shared, and for the contributions you’ve made to our school.

We hope you can enjoy a time of rest and reconnection over the Christmas period. If you are travelling, we pray safe passage for you and your family and we look forward to continuing to better connect as a community in the coming year.

BOARD REPORT

REV DR HELEN DICK - BOARD CHAIR

After being appointed to the role of Board Chair in October 2024, I have been blessed to share in the journey of The Lakes College. In this role I have had the opportunity to closely observe the success of TLC students in academic and vocational subjects, sports, technology, debating, dance, music, cooking and gratifyingly, in service and understanding of others, as well. I have seen that as a Uniting Church school, nurturing faith and compassion is a central part of a TLC education. Students from whatever their background are encouraged to reflect on their faith and values and to find their own way in life to develop character and compassion for others. These broad-ranging offerings bear witness to the school’s inclusive and holistic understanding of education.

Acknowledgements

I would like to pay tribute to my colleagues on The Lakes College Board as we seek to support the mission and work of the College. These are exceptional people, with outstanding skills and a variety of careers who are committed to the development of the College. We focus on matters of strategy, financial oversight, policy review, compliance, and risk management, ensuring TLC educators have all they need, now and into the future to educate Lakes Learners.

Of course, on behalf of the Board I must pay singular tribute to the visionary leadership of the Principal, Nicole Gregory; and COO, Kate Hands; the diligent commitment of the Executive Team and Rev Tim McMenamin, Director of Mission; and indeed the expertise and work of all the TLC staff for their dedication and care to TLC students learning and wellbeing.

Special mention must also go to TLCCA and their outgoing President Kristina P, who contributes in so many ways to the life and wellbeing of the College; and to the families who are the heart of the TLC community.

Strategic Horizon

Our 2025 - 2028 Strategic Horizon, co-created by the College Board an d Executive, and driven by the College’s Mission and Vision, provides a framework for future growth and imp rovement in the coming years. It lays out our shared vision, goals, an d strategies to enhance student ou tcomes, it aligns the school's Vision an d Mission.

Master Plan

The Strategic Horizon is supported b y the Master Plan, which ensures th at the College has, and continues to have, facilities which support our edu cational programs.

Student numbers are projected to in crease again in 2026 and 2027. To support this ongoing growth, ou r Master Plan outlines facility development proposals for the next 25 years. These projects will create n ew, and develop existing learning sp aces, supporting and enhancing the q uality education TLC provides. This year:

• Stage 2 of the Aquatic Precinct has been completed. Our superb Learn to Swim Facility and shaded grandstand supports both our youngest and oldest students.

• Three new, purpose-built playgrounds for Prep, Junior Primary, and Upper Primary students. The imaginative elements of these areas are designed to stimulate creative and co-operative play.

• The Multi Purpose Hall infill development will be finished early in 2026 and will extend the educational opportunities of TLC students within the Arts and sports faculties.

• Car Park 1 (Main Admin) is being extended to relieve the pressure on traffic.

• Work is underway to refurbish the Science facilities and Primary Music in lower E and F Block.

ReconciliationFirst Peoples

The UCA has an ongoing commitment to Reconciliation and cultural understanding between the Church and First Peoples. The Lakes College launched its Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP) in February this year, outlining a vision for developing understanding, and a commitment to supporting and empowering community. I would like to acknowledge the new Indigenous mural near the Aquatic Precinct as part of our ongoing journey of listening and working together. In partnership with Rev Tim McMenamin, First Nations artists, Uncle Max Conlon and his brother Goma Conlon, led students in creating a compelling artwork which “serves as a lasting reminder of The Lakes College as a community where people from all walks of life come together, with Christ at the centre and reconciliation as a shared goal”. If you haven’t seen this work of art, I urge you to seek it out.

Foundation Day

The Lakes College celebrated its 21st Birthday this year, a highly symbolic milestone. I was proud to attend the Foundation Day ceremony and to hear the testimonies from current and past students, and staff telling of the positive impacts TLC has had on their lives and careers.

Finally, I would like to acknowledge those students and staff who will be leaving the College at the end of this year. I pray for every success in their ongoing journeys. May they take with them the learnings and growth they have acquired here at TLC and an awareness of the love of God expressed in the care, compassion and support we give and receive in community with others. As we celebrate individual and corporate growth over the last 21 years, I look forward with anticipation to both the challenges and celebrations of 2026 an d to the journeys God will lead us on in the years to come.

DIRECTOR OF MISSION REPORT

TIM MCMENAMIN

Lord, teach us your way, reveal to us your path, and enable us to thrive so that we might serve you. In Christ’s name, Amen.

2025 has been a brilliant year for Mission and Service here at The Lakes College. Our Mission and Service Team in Secondary and our Chapel Leaders in Primary have excelled in all they have built together. I am deeply grateful for the foundation that has been laid over the past few years, and for the growing profile of service across our College.

This year has been marked by extraordinary generosity and meaningful opportunities to serve.

Red Bag Appeal

Over the Christmas season, our community will once again support the Red Bag Appeal run by Wesley Mission. In 2024, we delivered 92 bags of resources and raised an additional $300 in cash donations, we are hoping to beat this record for 2025. I am thankful for our partnership with a College family whose North Lakes business also supports the appeal, and grateful to Storage King for their ongoing generosity in enabling this good work. Most importantly, I want to acknowledge our families who show such kindness in giving so much at this special time of year.

Stationery Aid

We have also continued our support of Stationery Aid, a local not-for-profit organisation that collects and rehomes preloved school items for struggling families across Queensland. This year, I had the privilege of handing over a cheque for $1,141 raised at TLC to

Stationery Aid’s founder, Alison Shutt. Both our sub-schools support this important initiative through fundraising, collection points, and attending events of support. In Term 4, our students will once again prepare support kits here on campus, packing school resources to bless families in need.

Redcliffe Breakfast Club

Mr Stanley has again led the charge into the Redcliffe Breakfast Club service. Open to students in Years 10 to 12, this voluntary program sees up to five students attend every other Tuesday to serve alongside staff. Together, they help prepare and serve a three-course meal, clean the space, and share conversation with some of our community’s most vulnerable. Redcliffe Breakfast Club serves 1,000 meals a month, distributes clothing and food, and provides a mobile service for those living on the streets. This continues to be one of the most humbling and impactful service opportunities for our students.

Palm Lakes Aged Care

This year we also began a new partnership with Palm Lakes Aged Care in Deception Bay. Each week, voluntary groups of students from Years 7 to 10 attend to engage residents in activities such as music therapy, games, and gardening. Interest has been overwhelming, with more than 80 students eager to be involved. Looking ahead, I am excited to celebrate Christmas with the residents through music, handmade cards, and small gifts—bringing joy and connection to our senior citizens in meaningful ways.

Harvest Cambodia Partnership

Our ongoing partnership with Harvest Cambodia and the Stepping Stones School has continued. Students have

raised funds through Spirit Days, House Heroics Days and similar events, while two teachers this year provided training for local staff and resources for students. The exchange between our two schools has been rich and inspiring, and I truly believe God has blessed every step of this journey.

Retreat Days

Retreat Days remain a treasured part of our spiritual life at TLC. Students from Years 6 to 12 set aside a day each year to deepen their connections with God and each other. These days bring rich conversations, new discoveries, laughter in games, and moments of stillness to explore personal identity and faith. A highlight this year was the Year 6 cohort beginning camp week with their retreat day, setting a meaningful tone for their adventure. Our Year 12s also marked their final retreat with deep gratitude for the journey.

Pendles

Of course, no reflection on the year would be complete without mentioning our best mate, Pendles. From classrooms to camps, playgrounds to assemblies, Pendles has brought joy, comfort, and a touch of mischief wherever he goes. He continues to grow through student-led training in Primary and, when not at school, enjoys camping with my wife and me— or simply being a dog, playing with his friend Wolf the German Shepherd. Pendles has truly had a stellar year, and we are so thankful for the role he plays in our community.

2025 has been another year of building and developing our mission and service footprint. God has blessed our endeavours and guided us along the way. As we continue to grow in our capacity to serve and shape hearts that are strong, I believe we will shine ever brighter as a Light in the Heart of Brisbane’s North.

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL REPORT

ANNA DORÉ | DEPUTY PRINCIPAL – PEOPLE & CULTURE

Thriving Together: A Year of Connection and Progress at TLC

“Coming together is a beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success.” Henry Ford

A timeless reminder that connection lays the foundation for growth, and su stained collaboration brings real ach ievement.

Together Across Sub-Schools

Being part of TLC is an incredibly rewarding experience. This year, th e energy across the campus has b een palpable, with a renewed focus on connection, culture, and collaboration. One of the most mean ingful developments has been th e growing unity between our Primary and Secondary sub-schools.

From House Heroics Days, where Secondary students served and delivered orders for our Primary students, to their support in our Primary events like the Musical, Und er 8’s Day, Prep Family Picnic and Multicultu ral Expo - collaboration h as truly been at the heart of our community. TLC Culinary Club b aked scones for Grandparents Day, while Tech Crew offered expertise across both sub-schools. Secondary students also assisted at the Prep to Year 2 Swimming Carn ival, our Junior Athletics Carn ivals, and gained classroom experience in Primary. Student leaders, including our Wellbeing Portfolio led by Sarah Petho, House Captains and Primary Leaders, have b een instrumental in strengthening th ese bonds. Primary students also

embraced House initiatives such as the Mascot Competition, House Sho wcase and seeing our Year 3 – 6 students attending the House Cup an nouncement, further weaving our community together.

House Spirit in Action

Our House system has undergone a vibrant transformation. The strengthened structure in Secondary o ver the last two years and renewed focus in Primary has sparked enthusiasm, with events such as Hou se Heroics Days, lunchtimes Hou se Games and House Academic competitions like House Trivia have b rought out a healthy competitive sp irit and deepened the bonds within each House.

Families as Partners

Parents and carers remain the cornerstone of our community, and th is year we’ve focused on creating more opportunities for them to engage with their children’s learning. Th rough our participation in the ISQ Parents Network PLUS program, we have developed a TLC Parent En gagement Strategy and have explored new ways to build stronger p artnerships. The research behind th is initiative reinforces what we see every day: when schools and families align, students thrive. This journey of collaboration will continue well into th e future.

A Culture of Care

The Lakes College is a place where d iversity is celebrated and belonging is nurtured. Our community reflects a rich mosaic of cultures, and we’ve embraced this through events and conversations that honour every

voice. Restorative practices have also played a key role in shaping ou r environment. By encouraging accountability and empathy, we’ve seen relationships flourish and a d eeper sense of connection take h old. The robust pastoral care p rogram delivered across the College su pports student wellbeing, builds social skills and positive relationships, an d assists with our anti-bullying cu lture.

Gratitude and Moving Forward

I sincerely acknowledge the u nwavering dedication of ou r incredible staff, whose p rofessionalism and generosity of spirit make all the difference. I am equ ally thankful for the support of ou r Principal, Nicole Gregory, and fellow Deputy Principal, Mathew Stein, together, this team makes it possible to lead with purpose, courage and heart.

The Lakes College continues to grow as a place of strength, support and sh ared purpose. It is a privilege to b e part of a community where every in dividual is encouraged to belong, b elieve and become.

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL REPORT

CURRICULUM, PROFESSIONAL PRACTICE & TRANSFORMATION

MATHEW STEIN

Constellation

“You are the light of the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden. Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead, they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house.”

(Matthew 5:14-16)

During the Valedictory Service, each group of graduating TLC Seniors takes part in the Ceremony of Light. It ’s a profoundly moving moment in th e Service, where students share th e light of their candles and go forth into the world. The students are reminded, “when you give away some of the light from a candle by lighting another person’s flame, there isn ’t any less light because you’ve given some away; there’s more”. The moment aptly captures the culture of The Lakes College community, a p oignant reminder that the light of Ch rist and the light of learning are gifts to share so that our world may sh ine more brightly.

In reflecting on the 2025 academic year, across the length and breadth of the College, it occurs to me that ou r students and our staff share their light – their sense of connection to p eople and places, their depth of ch aracter, their search to learn and

be knowledgeable and their spirit of curiosity – and in doing so make the light of our community burn brightly. Our community is a constellation – a collection of points of brilliant light that glow. While there are no doubt millions of points of light that define the 2025 year at TLC, what follows are some of the year’s brightest moments.

Horizons

Our first cohort of Maths and English Horizons, our signature extension programs, completed their external exams for Mathematical Methods and Literature. While every Year 11 student who undertook external exams did themselves proud, two Year 11 students are worthy of special mention – Chloe W and MJ S. These students earned the Subject Prize Award for Literature and Mathematical Methods, respectively, outscoring their Year 12 counterparts. The Horizons program has been in place for three years at The Lakes College, and it is wonderful to see the fruits of this program.

TLC Big Ideas

Now in its third year, TLC Big Ideas aims to highlight just some of the many ways that our staff enable students to generate knowledge, spark curiosity, build their sense of character and be better connected. Fittingly for 2025, 25 staff across the College shared their innovative practice with peers; topics included a reflection of the College’s AI journey, a design thinking project in technologies, daily reviews in mathematics, the Sages and Seekers program, the Health Sleepout, and

sp ort’s role in building character. This sh owcase of teaching and learning across the community energises ou r teaching practice and ensures ou r students receive an exceptional education.

Primary Years Maths Project

This year, a high tide mark in teaching and learning has been ou r engagement with an ISQ Mathematics Project with staff in Year 1 and Year 5. This project u tilised cognitive science to support teachers in embedding impactful, sh ort-cycle assessments that gauge u nderstanding and inform responsive teaching. Additionally, the project h as facilitated the development of a shared understanding among staff of cognitive science principles, fostering consistency in practice and increasing overall teacher confidence in evidence-based approaches.

Classroom Culture

In 2025, the Secondary School embed ded a consistent classroom cu lture across the community. Based on strong educational research, straightforward in nature and built around our values of being safe, b eing respectful, and being a learner,

the classroom culture guidelines ensure continuity of routines and expectations across every classroom, supporting staff to make the most of their lessons and providing students with the right kind of classroom environment to flourish.

TLC Staff Presenting

Many of our staff members presented at State or National conferences throughout 2025, underscoring the excellent work that takes place in our community, while also contributing to the profession and enhancing the College’s reputation as a centre for teaching and learning excellence. Anna Doré shared our outstanding work on parent and carer engagement at ISQ, Nicole Gregory presented on leading the schools of tomorrow at Queensland school leaders event, Teagan Dare shared her work on the AI Sandpit at ResearchEd’s Matter of Translation Conference, Nattalia Godbold presented her research into student voice and student partnership in both Melbourne and Brisbane at the National Education Summit, and Sue Mayo was the keynote speaker at the Aquatics Industry Conference on the Gold Coast. We are fortunate to have such talented individuals representing us in these

important platforms, showcasing the strength and professionalism of our community.

At TLC, our culture of teaching and learning distils the capabilities and dispositions our community holds dear: knowledge built deliberately, layer by layer; curiosity and inquiry prized; character tempered by leaning into challenge and discomfort; and authentic connections that grow across peers, staff, families, our local/ regional/global networks and First Nations peoples. These capabilities take different forms across our community, yet they remain in our DNA. The building blocks of all we do.

To the staff I am fortunate to work alongside each day, my sincere thanks for your hard work, professionalism, and unfailing dedication. To our families, thank you for your investment in our community, which enables us to care for and educate your children in partnership. And finally, to our students, thank you for your humour, hard work, joy, enthusiasm and determination to be your best. I cannot wait to do it all again in 2026. May we always be a town on a hill, a constellation of light in Brisbane’s North, and an expression of God’s inheritance on earth.

HEAD OF PRIMARY REPORT

KATERINA TILLEY

"Parental engagement includes parents' efforts to increase a child's enjoyment of learning and belief in its importance."

Australian Research Alliance for Children & Youth, via ACER

As the school year draws to a close, I find myself reflecting not only on the milestones we’ve reached in 2025, but also on my own journey as Head of Primary. In this second year, I’ve come to see leadership not as a role, but as a relationship—one that grows deeper with time, like a tree putting down stronger roots. This year, those roots have reached further into our community, drawing strength from the partnerships we’ve nurtured with families, students, and staff.

Our theme, Better Connected, has been more than a slogan—it’s been a guiding principle. It’s shaped how we teach, how we communicate, and how we celebrate the unique voices within our school.

Growing Together: Families as Partners

One of the most powerful lessons I’ve learned this year is that education flourishes when families and schools walk side by side. We’ve worked hard to make our communication more transparent and timely—term planners, fortnightly updates, and open invitations to classroom events have helped parents and carers feel informed and involved.

But true engagement goes beyond information—it’s about trust, collaboration, and shared purpose. Whether it was through curriculum learnings, parent-led workshops, or our vibrant Multicultural Expo, families have played an active role in shaping the learning experience.

A Year 3 student summed it up beautifully after the Expo:

"I didn’t know my friend’s family came from Mexico. Now I want to learn more about it. It made me feel proud of my own culture too."

These moments remind us that when parents share their stories, students gain a deeper understanding of themselves and others.

Teaching that Connects

At the heart of our school is a commitment to excellent teaching. This year, we continued to embed the Lakes Learner capabilities while strengthening our programs to align with Version 9 of the Australian Curriculum. This alignment has helped teachers and parents speak a common language about learning goals and expectations.

Mathematics was a particular focus in 2025. Several of our teachers participated in a Queensland-wide professional development initiative, exploring evidence-based strategies to

improve numeracy outcomes. These included clear instruction, regular practice, and frequent checks for understanding—approaches that not only benefit students in the classroom but also empower parents to support learning at home.

One parent shared:

"I used to feel unsure about helping with Maths homework. Now I understand how it’s taught and I feel more confident."

This kind of feedback affirms that when we invest in teacher learning, we’re also investing in family engagement.

Listening to Student Voice

If this year has affirmed anything, it’s that students notice more than we think—and they care deeply about their school community. Across the Primary School, we’ve continued to create meaningful opportunities for student voice to shape our decisions. From classroom conversations to leadership roles, students have shared ideas that reflect empathy, initiative, and a desire to make a difference.

One such idea came from a Year 5 student who said:

"Sometimes the little kids look lonely at lunch. I wish we could help them feel included."

We listened—and that simple, heartfelt observation became the seed for our Breaktime Buddies program. This initiative, led by our Year 5 and 6 students, has created a more connected and caring playground culture. Older students have taken on the role of mentors and friends, helping younger peers feel safe, seen, and supported during break times.

When students see their ideas come to life, they understand that their voices matter. And when they feel heard, they grow in confidence, compassion, and leadership.

Wellbeing: A Shared Responsibility

Academic success is only one part of the story. This year, our Academic Care Coordinators worked closely with families to support student wellbeing— through strength-based conversations, proactive interventions, and shared strategies.

Together, we’ve helped students navigate friendships, build resilience, and manage the complexities of a digital world. The consistency between home and school has given students a sense of safety and belonging.

"When my teacher and mum helped me together, it made me feel really happy,” said one Year 1 student.

That’s the power of partnership— it reassures children that they’re surrounded by people who care.

Celebrating Community

2025 was filled with joyful moments that brought us together—Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Grandparents’ Day, Book Week, and our end-ofyear celebrations. These events weren’t just calendar highlights; they were expressions of our character: belonging, believing, and becoming.

Each gathering reminded us that our school is more than a place of learning—it’s a community where every child is known, supported, and celebrated.

Looking Ahead

As we prepare to welcome a new year, I’m filled with gratitude—for our dedicated staff, our engaged families, and our remarkable students. In this second year as Head of Primary, I’ve

seen firsthand how deep connections lead to deep learning.

We are Better Connected—not just in theme, but in practice. And as we look to 2026, I’m excited to continue growing those connections, listening to student voices, and working hand in hand with families to help every child flourish.

Thank you for walking this journey with us.

HEAD OF SECONDARY REPORT

MADONNA POTTER

Adolescence: Student agency and Self-efficacy builds a Strong Foundation for the Future

Adolescence is often called a journey but at The Lakes College, it is more than that. It is a time of laying foundations, setting values, and preparing for a future that is both exciting and unknown. Since 2019, Secondary School students aged 15 to 18 have been participating in the Mission Australia Youth Survey, which has been personalised for our College. This rich data provides valuable insights into what matters most to our young people, their values, aspirations, and challenges and it reminds us that these years shape who they will become, not only in what they achieve but also in how they live out the College values of faith, hope, love, courage, community, and justice.

What Students Value Most

Across surveys conducted from 2019 to 2024, one truth has remained constant: our students care deeply about their relationships and education.

•In 2019, 47% of students rated family relationships as “extremely important,” and 38% placed friendships close behind. Study satisfaction and health were also high on the list. One Year 10 student reflected at the time, “What keeps me going at school are the people: family, friends, and teachers who support me.”

•In 2020, even as COVID-19 disrupted life, family remained the top value (40%) followed by friendships (30%) and mental health (34%). Many students openly recognised the importance of wellbeing: “It’s not just about grades; it’s about keeping healthy in your head and body.”

•By 2023 and 2024, relationships were still central, but there was a growing confidence in academic success. With nearly 100% of students committed to completing Year 12 and more than threequarters planning university pathways, education was seen as essential. As one Year 12 student put it in 2024, “Finishing school isn’t even a question, it’s the launchpad.”

At TLC, our pastoral care House model and program, and engaging, data-informed teaching and learning honours both these values, fostering strong relationships in and outside of the classroom while helping students achieve their academic goals.

Shifting Concerns Over Time

The adolescent years are also marked by challenges. Our student data across six years tells a powerful story of resilience and awareness:

•2019: Stress was the biggest issue, with 44% naming “coping with stress” as their top concern. School pressures and body image followed closely

•2020: Stress remained high (47.5%), but the weight of the pandemic shifted focus. School problems (39%) and body image (37%) were still significant, but national concerns turned towards COVID-19 (50%) and equity (41%).

•2023: Mental health rose sharply, with 32% listing it as a key personal concern. Coping with stress was still the number one challenge (37%). Nationally, financial worries (37%) and crime/safety (27%) topped student priorities. One Year 11 student commented, “It’s not just

assignments anymore, it’s worrying about how the world is changing.”

• 2024: Academic pressures remained (30% naming school or study problems), but for the first time, the cost of living became a major concern (28%). Nationally, 67% of students said cost of living was the issue Australia most needed to address, followed by climate change (27%). As one Senior student put it, “We want to focus on school, but it ’s hard not to think about how the future will look.”

This progression shows a generation deeply aware of both personal wellbeing and the broader economic and environmental realities of their time. TLC’s Find Your North Wellbeing program, which includes Wellbeing, Health and Physical Education in Years 7-9, our Year 7-12 Outdoor Education Program, and our partnerships with True Relationships, Eyes Open Social Media, Red Frogs, and Character Builders, to name a few, provide the knowledge and skills required to look after personal and community wellbeing.

Responding as a Community

TLC recognises these realities and responds with both compassion and strategy. Our ecosystem of wellbeing supports students as they face stress, mental health challenges, and personal doubts. By creating a connected community where each student feels a strong sense of belonging through the co-creation of their environments we can foster self-efficacy, we give students the confidence to believe: “I can get through this, and I can succeed.”

At the same time, TLC’s commitment to service learning gives students constructive ways to respond to the world they care about. From environmental projects aligned with our Sustainability Framework, such as Cans for Change recycling program, to initiatives that address equity and inclusion through our fortnightly student visits to Redcliffe Breakfast Club and the weekly Sages and Seekers program, where our students visit the Palm Lakes nursing home, students don’t just talk about justice, they live it.

As one Year 10 student shared during a service project in 2023: “It’s not just about grades or sports; it’s about knowing we can make a difference.”

A Story of Growth

What stands out across 2019–2024 is not only how consistently TLC students value relationships and education, but also how their awareness has grown. In 2019, concerns were centred around schoolwork and stress. By 2020, possibly fostered by the epidemic experience, equity and global health entered the conversation. By 2023 and 2024, financial pressures, climate change, and national issues dominated their focus.

This evolution demonstrates that adolescence at TLC is not just about personal development, but also about preparing to contribute to society. Through strong and relevant curriculum planning, engaging teaching and learning, wellbeing programs, and opportunities for service learning, our students are learning to carry faith, hope, love, courage, community, and justice into a changing world.

Looking Forward

Adolescence is a time of uncertainty, but it is also a time of hope. TLC students continue to show confidence in their future goals whether pursuing university, work, volunteer work, or travel. They do so knowing that they are supported by a community committed to their growth and success.

The journey from 2019 to 2024 reflects not only the challenges our students have faced, but also the resilience they have built, the values they have strengthened, and the aspirations they have clarified. Together as parents, carers, teachers, and peers we continue to walk alongside our young people as they lay the foundations for lives of meaning, service, and leadership. In this year’s edition of Reflections, we are heartened to introduce Head of Faculty articles that highlight how our curriculum

and wellbeing programs are responsive, engaging, and supportive of the concerns and needs of our students. Throughout these pages, you will also find examples of the diverse opportunities available at The Lakes College- opportunities that nurture skills, character, and confidence, and that ensure every student is supported within an inclusive and encouraging community as they navigate the important years of adolescence.

As we move through 2025 into 2026, TLC continues to build upon these strong foundations, ensuring that every student feels seen, supported, and equipped for the future. With continued participation in the Mission Australia Youth Survey and the expansion of student-led projects within our Find Your North and Service Learning programs, our young people are not only reflecting on their world but actively shaping it. The journey of adolescence at TLC remains one of growth, courage, and connection, and belonging. A journey w here every student i s encouraged to find purpose and flourish.

And perhaps it is best summed up by the words of a Year 12 graduate from 2024: “Adolescence isn’t easy, but here at TLC, it’s not something we go through alone. We’ve been given the foundation to step into the future with courage and hope.”

COLLEGE CAPTAIN REPORTS

LEVI & OLIVIA

As we are about to take the last few steps across the finish line of our schooling journey, it’s a privilege to reflect on the year 2025, a year filled with achievements, excitement, growth, and most of all, community and connections.

Olivia reflects on Camps, Spiritual Retreats, and Cross Connection

CAMPS AND SPIRITUAL RETREATS

The Seniors’ first day of school wasn’t the typical one, as we began by going on our final camp as a cohort to Alexandra Headland, this camp was the start of our ‘lasts’ as a cohort, and all the sentimental memories we already look back on with nostalgia. This camp allowed us to recognise the short, yet special year that lay before us, and helped position us all to go into our final year of high school with a mindset of gratitude and being present. We were able to acknowledge and appreciate the qualities we admire in one another, be vulnerable, strengthen our connections, and share moments of joy, laughter and friendship.

These are the kinds of experiences every cohort has the opportunity to experience on camps. Camps and Spiritual Retreats this year have provided the opportunity to learn teamwork, leadership, the importance of connections and friendships, and who we are and our characters as we journey through challenges. These learning opportunities beyond the classroom in 2025 have been a backbone of student's character development and have supported bonding between cohorts, creating a stronger, authentic, and united College.

CROSS CONNECTIONS

This year's theme of ‘Better Connected’ has been evidently lived out this year, not only through existing connections, but also new ones. A few of the Year 12 leaders were privileged enough to attend the Year 7 Camp in Term 1. In this time,

we were able to connect with the largest and newest group of students, and by bridging that connection between the oldest and youngest students, it created a cross connected environment throughout 2025. These cross connections are evident through the conversations across cohorts that are easily noticed when walking through the corridors, through Home Groups, lunch breaks, House events and even the smiles and waves passed across the oval as students nurture the range of connections formed this year. Walking through the TLC grounds, your heart can feel the love and connection that surrounds this space and that is created and attributed to each student, teacher and staff member.

to foster connections within year levels whilst also having a space to get ready for the day/week ahead.

In February we held our first fundraiser, Valentines Day Appeal. Raising money to support domestic violence victims and survivors. Our cohort came together, being led by the College Vice Captains – Jade S and Zara E and the Valentines Day committee to organise games, music, face painting, a photobooth and lolly bags. It was a time where we could spread the gift of love, celebrating the exciting start to the year.

SPORT CARNIVALS

There have been constant events, big and small, that have fostered and created the space for cross connects. These include Father's Day Breakfast, Under 8’s Day where many Secondary students volunteered, student-teacher mentoring, regular visits to the Preps by the Seniors, dance teams, sport teams, clubs and extra murals, creative arts ensembles, and volunteering at the Redcliffe Breakfast Club.

This year it became evident that cross connections have become a part of the culture here at TLC, and embedded into the TLC DNA.

Levi reflects on a few key events this year

HOME GROUPS & VALENTINES DAY

Home Groups have been a great place for Secondary students to connect with one another. Often having Home Group hangouts, combining different year levels. This provided us an opportunity

This year sport was more competitive then ever! Before school House sport driving students’ competitive spirit whilst also stacking up some House points. As well as morning sport, the three ultra carnivals took place. Swimming Carnival at the end of Term 4 last year was the first time the 2025 leaders really experienced their role, especially the House Captains. Athletics Carnival took place in Term 1, this was a chance for the entire Secondary School to have a break from schoolwork and have a great day out on the oval. Whether it was in social, or competitive events, the student participation was exceptional this year. Cross Country was at the end of Term 2. This year we had nearly every single student competing within the carnival. Sport is a way for us to connect as Houses, but also as a school and this year was a great example of this comradery.

HOUSE SHOWCASE

Showcase was fierce this year, with “together we are stronger” being the theme that drove the amazing

performances on Foundation Day. House Showcase is an opportunity for all students to step outside their comfort zone and to connect as a House. Dancing, singing and acting are not everyone’s favourite activity, however when it comes to Showcase, every student brings it! The judges had a tough decision to make with four different ideas to choose from and it was great having the cross connection of our subschools with Year 4 – 6 students coming to watch. Kumbarchu outlined the different aspects of Showcase, Kittabilla brought back the Wiggles, Nyani’s talent show, and finally Tabbil’s

mystery. After some debate, Tabbil took the win!

College Captain Role and Thank You’s

Having the opportunity to step into the role of College Captain and serve this community has been one of the biggest blessings and a journey we will forever be grateful for. Thank you to all the teachers and staff who have mentored us and supported our visions and initiatives this year, and to the school and students for the privilege of serving you as Captains - we couldn’t have led

PRIMARY CAPTAINS - ANAYA & KEVIN

Being Primary School Captains this year has been exciting and full of opportunities. At the start of the year, the ‘Better Connected’ meeting helped us set goals and think about what we wanted to achieve as leaders.

We have enjoyed being part of assemblies, helping plan them, and speaking at big events such as Open Day and volunteering at the Prep Picnic. It has been a privilege to represent our school in front of students, teachers, and families.

Another initiative we are proud of is Breaktime Buddies. This idea came from student interviews, and it has been a wonderful way to support younger students, make new friends, and help everyone feel included.

a better group. We have absolutely loved being involved in such a range of aspects in the school and the memories, lessons, skills, and connections that we have made in this role will stay with us beyond the TLC gates.

We are grateful for the time we have spent at TLC and the group of people we have experienced it with, and we are extremely hopeful and excited to hear about all the more to come at TLC ahead of 2025.

Signing out, Liv and Levi

Later in the year, we attended the International Women’s Day lunch. We learned about the history of women’s rights and heard from a guest speaker who inspired us by sharing stories of women working in fields like science and technology.

Kevin’s advice: “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” Always try, because there’s a chance to succeed.

Anaya’s message: “Nothing is impossible – it’s even in the word: I’m Possible.” Keep trying, and you’ll get there!

PRIMARY STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENTSLAILA & SHREEDUTT

This year, being Student Council Presidents has allowed us to make a positive impact while listening to and supporting our peers. Our Student Council meetings have been a chance to hear the ideas of younger students and bring their voices to life through initiatives that make a difference.

We have worked closely with the Environmental Monitors, Technology Monitors, and Class Captains, collaborating on projects that showcase student voice and creativity across the school. The Year 6 and Prep Buddy system has also been a highlight, allowing older students to support and guide the younger ones. Helping out at the Prep–2 Carnival gave us a chance to assist, encourage, and celebrate with our peers. Leadership responsibilities have included practical roles such as raising the flags, delivering orders as Café Couriers, and contributing to improvements in our playgrounds.

Shreedutt reminds us, “You can’t have a rainbow without a little rain.” Hard work always comes before achievement.

Laila quotes Confucius, saying, “Our greatest glory is not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall.” Laila tells us, “At my old school, I kept trying to make friends, and with support, I have now found a great group of friends and achieved success. We encourage all students to share ideas, take chances, and keep trying. You never know what you can achieve!”

DEPUTY HEAD OF PRIMARY - STUDENT WELLBEING

RACHEL JOHNS

Nurturing Growth

At the heart of our College is a commitment to supporting the social, emotional, and mental wellbeing of every student. We recognise that academic growth flourishes most when children feel safe, connected, and empowered to manage life’s challenges. To this end, our wellbeing initiatives are carefully designed to promote resilience, empathy, and healthy relationships both in and out of the classroom.

A cornerstone of our approach is the continuation of The Resilience Project, a nationally recognised program that teaches students practical strategies for building resilience, gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness. Our College has developed a tailor-made scope and sequence for this program, integrating it with school events and routines. Each fortnight, students engage with a specific theme, such as emotional regulation, growth mindset, or perseverance, which is reinforced through classroom activities, reflections, and discussions. By embedding these lessons across the school year, students develop a toolkit of strategies to manage stress, celebrate strengths, and support their peers.

Recognising the importance of strong home-school connections, we also provide opportunities for parents and carers to engage with our wellbeing initiatives. Through the Connected Parenting Webinar, parents gain insights into supporting their children’s emotional and social development, learning practical strategies to reinforce resilience and positive relationships at home. This partnership between school and family ensures consistency in teaching wellbeing skills and strengthens the broader school community.

Our Breaktime Buddies program, a new initiative for Year 6 students, empowers older students to take on a leadership role while supporting younger peers during unstructured times. Year 6 students receive training not only in conflict resolution, empathy, and communication but also in restorative practices, equipping them to deliver restorative conversations when conflicts arise. This means that students are guided to discuss issues openly, understand different perspectives, and collaboratively find solutions, fostering accountability and repairing relationships. Breaktime Buddies play an important role in creating a safe, inclusive environment where all students feel supported.

Beyond these initiatives, our College promotes wellbeing through mindful moments, outdoor learning, and collaborative group activities, encouraging students to develop strong relationships, practice teamwork, and cultivate self-awareness. Regular checkins and reflective practices ensure students can articulate their emotions, set personal goals, and celebrate successes, both big and small. Our wellbeing principles are embedded into our Outdoor Education Programs, where students experience challenges that build resilience, perseverance, and interpersonal skills in safe, engaging environments.

Our holistic approach to student wellbeing reflects our belief that emotional and social growth are just as important as academic achievement. By providing structured programs, fostering meaningful relationships, and encouraging self-reflection, The Lakes College equips students with the skills and confidence to navigate challenges, celebrate diversity, and contribute positively to their community.

Through these initiatives, Primary students not only develop resilience and emotional intelligence but also grow into compassionate, confident individuals prepared to thrive in all areas of life.

Breaktime Buddies

DEPUTY HEAD OF PRIMARY - LEARNING TRANSFORMATION

TARYN HIRST

Primary School: Where Learning Comes Alive

Primary School at The Lakes College is a time of discovery, growth, and joy in learning. This year, our community embraced the challenge of nurturing resilient, creative, and collaborative learners prepared to thrive in an everchanging world. Guided by our Lakes Learner Capabilities and enriched by Walker Learning in our Early Years, we placed student agency at the heart of classroom practice. From Prep to Year 6, children made decisions, explored interests, and collaborated with peers. Together with our staff and families, we celebrated countless moments of curiosity, independence, and achievement.

Our curriculum journey was strengthened through Version 9.0 of the Australian Curriculum. With student agency central, staff used evidence-driven practices, collecting and analysing learning data to ensure teaching was responsive and targeted. A highlight was focusing on the brain

science behind mathematics retrieval and retention. By embedding daily reviews into practice, we strengthened recall, built fluency, and enhanced longterm understanding. These strategies laid strong foundations for growth and innovation into the future.

Student achievement reflected these approaches. In English, opportunities such as the Year 4–6 Writing Competition and the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee fostered creativity and confidence, with 28 students progressing to the State Finals. Congratulations to Josie C, who won the Writing Competition. Academic excellence was also celebrated through ICAS, with High Distinctions awarded to Gurkaram S (Year 2, Science),

Rose A (Year 3, Spelling), Queena Z (Year 3, Writing), Stepan D (Year 4, Mathematics), Juwon H (Year 5, Mathematics) and Jack M (Year 6, English). In the Australian Mathematics Competition, Stepan D (Year 4) and Juwon H (Year 5) achieved High Distinctions, placing in the top 3% nationally. Collaboration shone in the Regional Tournament of Minds, where all three teams earned Honours Awards, and Year 6 students represented the College at the Moreton Bay Battle of the Brains Trivia Competition.

For our youngest learners, Under 8s Day brought Prep–Year 2 students and families together under the theme Unleashing Scientific Thinking Through Play. Children directed their own learning through exploration and hands-on experiments, while parents joined in and celebrated discoveries. We were also delighted to welcome Secondary students, who applied the Design Thinking process to create interactive Science experiences, alongside engaging Street Science demonstrations. Community groups, including the Firebirds and local Fire Department, added further excitement and enriched the day with real-world connections for our learners.

Innovation in digital and design learning was showcased through TLC TechFest, where Upper Primary students participated in the Spaghetti Bridge Building competition for the first time. Students applied scientific and mathematical thinking in inquiry-driven contexts. We also began integrating AI tools into learning, providing engaging, personalised experiences while teaching students to use a critical and responsible lens when approaching AI.

Holistic development remained a priority An expanded swimming program built confidence and water safety skills while partnerships with Queensland Rail, the Sandgate Men’s Shed, and Camp Quality provided authentic experiences that fostered empathy, resilience, wellbeing and social responsibility.

Successful learning hinges on readiness, curiosity, and engagement. Academic Care Coordinators led year-level teams to foster critical and creative thinkers, while the LIFT

space, under Ms Ella Martin, provided targeted early intervention, especially in the areas of oral language and EAL/D students. The combined dedication of staff, LIFT Assistants, the EAL/D team, and parent volunteers continues to strengthen the agency our students experience as learners, an agency foundational to their growth as Lakes Learners.

Reflecting on 2025, what stands out most is not only achievements in competitions, excursions, or assessments, but the daily growth in

confidence, character, and creativity. Our community’s dedication ensures that every child is known, supported, and inspired, and we celebrate the vital partnership between home and school.

The successes of this year reaffirm that resilience, curiosity, and integrity are not simply elements of our curriculum—they are the essence of being a Lakes Learner. With pride in all that has been accomplished and excitement for the opportunities ahead, we look forward to 2026 as another year of discovery, innovation, and growth for our students.

PREP

A Voyage to Remember: The Journey of Our 2025 Prep Shipmates.

On January 28, a new adventure began as 84 bright-eyed and eager young shipmates set sail on their learning journey through Prep. With backpacks on and curiosity brimming, our crew was ready to embark on their voyage to Prepland - a land full of wonder, discovery, and growth.

But as with any great expedition, the weather had other plans. Our departure was delayed, and our shipmates found themselves landlocked a little longer than expected. The grand vessel that would carry us, the magnificent playground ship TLC Voyager, was not yet ready to sail. Still, the spirit of adventure could not be dampened.

Learning, after all, waits for no student.

With our teachers as captains and classrooms our ports, we forged ahead. We explored new lands of literacy, numeracy, and friendship. We met new people, learned new routines, and began to understand the map of our new world.

Then, one glorious day, the tide turned. TLC Voyager was ready.

With sails metaphorically raised and imaginations ignited, our crew boarded the ship with joy and excitement. From that moment on, TLC Voyager became more than just a ship and a playground, it became a symbol of our journey. It carried us through countless adventures, from imaginative play to collaborative learning, from quiet reflection to joyful celebration.

As we explored all that Prepland had to offer, we discovered that learning isn’t confined to a classroom or a playground. It’s lifelong. It’s something that lives within each and every one of us. Our shipmates have grown in confidence, resilience, and curiosity. They’ve learned to navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and support one another - just like a true crew.

Now, as our voyage through Prep draws to a close, we look back with pride and forward with excitement. The journey has only just begun, and TLC Voyager will continue to inspire many more young adventurers in years to come.

To our 84 Prep shipmates: thank you for making this voyage unforgettable.

If you could sail back to your favourite island (moment) from this school year, where would you drop anchor?

•We’d go back to Book Week and dress up again (Elliott, Emmie, Belle)

•We’d love to go back to the farm and Lake Eden with all our friends (Amari, Luka, Andrew, Tayler)

•Dressing up, dancing and the snacks at the disco (Alex, Sophie)

•My first day of school with Mrs M and feeling happy (Isabelle, Cora)

•Celebrating 100 Days of Prep and The Little Mermaid performance (Teigan, Sarah, Riaan)

•Going to Chapel and praying. I love God (Juliette R)

•The Easter Hat Parade and showing mums and dads our cool hats (Macie)

• Having my lunch order delivered by Mrs J (Kiyaan)

Ahoy there, shipmate! What new treasure (learnings) did you discover on our adventure this year?

•Science Investigations, making snow and that not all bees make honey (Temana, Zizhi)

•How to be brave and make new friends (Dhruv, Grace, Hallie, Giulia)

• Being a Super Writer and earning my award (Noah)

•How to do beautiful handwriting (Willow, Eleanor, Charlotte)

•Designing Loom Bands and making my fingers strong (Cleo, Joanna)

•Learning Chinese and how to count and say hello in a different language (Connor, Xavier)

•I learned how to draw and colour creatively inside the lines (Divith)

•Counting to 20, making number sentences and that elephants are not light (Suhaan, Daniel, Jiaa, Emma, Anashe)

Every crew has a special skill! What was something you’re really proud of learning/doing this year?

•Learning to write super clever sentences (Harper, Addison, Annika)

•Reading tricky stories all by myself (Sylvie, Gurmastak, Ayaan, Ameya, Freya, Jade)

•We are resilient now! We bounce back (Lucas, Druthi, Chelsea).

•Saying hello, being kind and a super helper (Karamveer, Amelia F, Zachary)

•Learning cool maths like ‘doubles’ and ‘friends of ten’ (Lavinia, Samuel, Oscar, Vinnie)

•Learning more swim skills (Casper, Ishmeet, Kiyara)

•Being brave and doing The Lakes Lap (Akin)

Your ship is setting sail for new lands next year! What are you most excited to explore next year?

•Playing on the big 1-3 Playground every day and using the monkey bars (Ivy, Van, Ari, Jigar, Matthew)

•Reading trickier stories and writing exciting stories (Zee, Liam T, Madrid, Ffion, Leon, Mykaela)

•Learning more Maths and exploring new classrooms (Amelia S, Raiq, Shivansh, Pedram, Liam A, Juliette X)

•Meeting new teachers and exploring more Investigations (Vihaan, Maia, Veronica, Karanveer, Samara, Henry)

Bree Ingram, Felicia Marhofer, Hayley

McFee – Prep Teachers

Vicki Aujla, Tersia Joubert, Lorraine Kleinschmidt – Prep LIFT Assistants

YEAR 1

As we look back on the year, it is truly heartwarming to see how much our students have grown. Those nervous, wide-eyed children who first stepped into Year 1 have blossomed into confident, curious learners, ready and excited to take on their next adventure in learning.

When we chat with the students, they love to reflect on the many activities and events that made this year so special. From big occasions like Multicultural Expo and our excursion to the Caboolture Historical Village, where they discovered how life has changed over time, to school events such as the Fire Safety visit, Under 8’s Day, and the Primary School Disco, each experience created wonderful memories. Many students agreed that watching the bottle rockets soar during our science incursion and dressing up for the historical village were two of their absolute highlights.

Students also treasured the chance to share special moments with their parents and grandparents at school, while exploring new ideas through engaging Maths and Science incursions. They embraced the energy of Sports Carnivals and The Lakes Lap, showing determination, teamwork, and plenty of smiles along the way.

This year we also trialled the use of AI programs to make learning even more engaging. A favourite was Suno, a song-writing tool that sparked creativity and joy across our classroom. Two stand-out songs were Exploring

Our World, about natural, managed, and constructed features, and our House Pride anthem, which celebrated our Houses and mascots while even introducing some Auslan signs.

It has been an incredible year of growth, discovery, and laughter. We are so proud of all that our students have achieved and look forward to seeing them continue to shine. Wishing you all a joyful holiday season and a happy, safe 2026.

Chandelle Clarke, Lauren Germanotta, Suzanne Walker – Year 1 Teachers

YEAR 2

Growing Friendships and Big Adventures!

Year 2 has been full of exciting adventures, special celebrations, and lots of learning, all while growing strong friendships along the way! Our theme this year was Growing Friendships, and we’ve done just that. Whether we were helping each other on excursions, working together in class, or playing kindly in the playground, we’ve learned how to be good friends. We’ve grown in kindness, respect, and teamwork, just like little seeds growing into strong trees.

“On my very first day at TLC I made friends very quickly”. Diego

“I like making new friends in Year 2”. Chelsea

“My favourite memory in Year 2 was my friends because they play with me and cheer me up”. Harland

All Aboard the Ipswich Railway Museum!

At the end of our HaSS unit on transport over time, we visited the Ipswich Railway Museum! We climbed aboard old trains, learned how steam engines work, and even tried out some fun hands-on activities in the Science Centre area. It

was a day full of discovery and teamwork, and we loved pretending to be train drivers!

“Ipswich Railway Museum was the best because I liked the show where we saw what it was like before we had technology”. Leo

Exploring Nature at Bunyaville

One of our favourite adventures was going to Bunyaville Environmental Education Centre. We explored the bush, went on an earth walk, and even got to build shelters using a tarp and some poles! The Indigenous games were so much fun as well. It was a great way to work together and discover how the Indigenous people care for country.

“My favourite excursion was Bunyaville because we got to build tents and have lunch in them”. Jasper

Celebrating Our Families

We had some very special days to celebrate the amazing people in our lives:

Mother’s Day was filled with love and laughter as we made beautiful cards and shared stories about our mums. “I loved Mother’s Day because we got to have mum in school and do activities with her”. Ava

Father’s Day was just as fun, with games and crafts that showed how much we appreciate our dads. The students loved being able to have breakfast with their dad on the bottom oval. “I asked my dad if we should paint and he said sure! We tried to draw a sun, but it turned into an alien invasion!”. Claudia

On Grandparents Day, we welcomed our grandparents into the classroom, shared morning tea, and showed them what we’ve been learning. It was heartwarming to see generations come together!

Science Fun!

In the classroom, we became little scientists! We did exciting science experiments from making volcanoes erupt to making lava lamps and watching rockets fly up into the sky. We asked questions, made predictions, and had so much fun discovering how things work.

“My favourite special day was when Mr Hylton came and did a huge explosion on the grass.” Dora

“Mr Hylton showed us how liquid nitrogen worked”. Leslie

Year 2 has been a year to remember! We’ve explored, celebrated, experimented, and most importantly grown together. “My favourite memory is my friends; they are always there for me and are kind. When one of us is mad or upset, we drop everything and try to help cheer them up!” Lydia

Here's to more adventures and friendships ahead!

Clair Goodall, Gill Harris-Jones, Brooke Vucetic – Year 2 Teachers

YEAR 3

We asked our Year 3 students to tell us what they liked most about:

OUR TEACHERS...

Mrs Foster is kind, caring and as sweet as sugar. She also makes really sure we’re the best people we can be. Arianna, James D, Max, Adelaide

Mrs Foster is very kind; she is the best teacher on the planet. She is very friendly to everyone and she teaches Maths in a very fun way. Milton, James H, Wade

Miss Cook is friendly because she always includes others and is helpful because she is always helping us with our work. Timofay, Zoe, Gurleen, Vihaan

The thing we like best about Miss Cook is that she is a kind and caring teacher who helps us learn at our own pace. Rose, Artin, Annie, Ayaan

Miss Fabila is generous, helpful, humorous and organised. She’s the best teacher in the universe and her kindness is countless beyond others. Teddy, Queena, Alaina, Kabir, Bodhi

Miss Fabila is kind, caring, funny, gentle and creative. Dhruv, Senuka, Khivi, Tilly, Asti

OUR SUBJECTS...

Our favourite subject is Maths because we get to learn how to do multiplication and division. We also like HaSS because we get to learn about the past. Nelli, Alexa, Lily, Belle

Our favourite subject is Maths because we like division and using numbers. Adi, Myra, Carter, Annie

Our favourite subject is Maths because you can solve real word problems like addition, time and money. Isabella, Tatyana, Aaradhya, Preshy, Elliot

CAMP...

Our favourite part of camp was the movie because we got to bring our pillows and teddies to cuddle. Uday, Adisesh, Evelyn, Gabrielle

The food was yummy, in beach games our feet got to feel the sand, sleeping was fun. Imogen, Amaira, Viaan, Lachie

Our favourite part of camp was the food because it was amazingly delicious! Evie, Ike, Chase, Sabreen

Our favourite part of camp was overcoming our fears and trying new foods. Preshy, Aaradhya, Tatyana, Isabella, Eli

YEAR 3...

The best thing about Year 3 is always having lots of friends, learning to be resilient and the teachers because they are very sweet. Aria, Alex, Yuna, Brendan

The best thing about Year 3 is being able to use laptops almost every day! Aarman, William, Hannah, Samara

Our favourite part of Year 3 was spending time with our friends and teachers and going to camp. Tilly, Asti, Dhruv, Khivi, Senuka

SPECIALIST LESSONS...

We like PE because we can get more fit and healthy. Kai, Aurelia, Reuben, Tanvi

Art is our favourite specialist lesson because we get to make crafts and draw real life things. Ella, Liana, Gabby, Nimrit, Harrison

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS...

We get to have a musical instrument and learn how to play properly. We get to show everyone how we play in assembly. Charlotte, Ivy, Grace

It was fun learning instruments because the teachers kept us in time and helped us learn at our own pace. Enya, Gina, Richard, Hugo

We enjoyed taking on extra responsibility by having our own instrument to practise and look after. Chloe, Patrick, Nyra, Jonah, Kaira

CLASS LEADERS...

Our favourite part of being a Class Captain is having a sense of responsibility and leadership in multiple jobs like leading a line, doing speeches, handing donations to the office and helping hand out Café orders. Enya, Richard, Rose, Reuben

As Class Captains, we were able to maintain our class in a quiet balance and help our fellow peers. Bella, Shivaan, Queena, Dhruv

ENVIRONMENTAL MONITOR...

Our favourite thing about being Environmental Monitors is caring for the environment and teaching others to care for it. Viaan, Evelyn, Grace, Nelli

We loved being Environmental Monitors because we love caring for the environment and being a great leader. Myra, Vihaan, Artin, Gina

As Environmental Monitors we enjoyed going to special meetings with Miss Hirst, cleaning the environment and giving classmates sunscreen. Gabby, Ella, Nyra, Asti

TECHNOLOGY MONITOR...

The best thing about being a Technology Monitor is we learn more about technology and we can help people who are struggling to login and use laptops. Kai, Chase, Hugo, William

We liked being Technology Monitors because we got to be experts in technology and have a role in the classroom. Patrick, Preshy, Senuka, Elliot

Kayla Fabila, Tyla Farley-Cook, Nicole Foster – Year 3 Teachers

YEAR 4

Year 4 has been filled with many fun and incredible experiences this year. We have thoroughly enjoyed our time in Year 4.

In Term 1 we were supposed to embark on an amazing journey to PGL Kindilan Camp, unfortunately because of cyclone Alfred it was rescheduled to Term 2. Even though we had this sudden change, we still had an amazing experience at PGL Kindilan Camp. The activities were a blast! Aeroball had balls shooting like stars, in raft building most of them stayed afloat and on the flying fox, we flew. We stayed a whopping two nights and three days.

Early in the year, the author of Leo and Ralph, Peter Carnavas, came to visit our grade. He explained how to use our incredible and illuminating imagination. His illustrations were fantastic, and he taught us how to draw different animals and how to personalise them.

In Term 2, we were pleased to have the opportunity to go to the Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary. We got to see soft, smelly, and sweet kangaroos and wallabies, as well as fluffy koalas. We also watched the sheep dog show where the dogs were definitely the boss. Overall, we loved this experience and learned a lot about Biomes and food chains.

Multicultural Expo was like a painting full of colours and countries. From cookies to games, it was an incredibly special day. One of the highlights were that everyone came in traditional clothes to represent their cultures. There were many amazing people running the stalls so we could have an unforgettable day.

Throughout the year, we had several Gala Days filled with joy and sport. In the first semester, we had the choice of t-ball, touch football and basketball. In the second semester, we had the

choice of netball, AFL, and soccer. Gala Days are all about good sportsmanship. Even though we may have not won every game we still pushed through and had an enjoyable time.

Book Week was a day of creativity and laughter. The year’s theme was Book an Adventure where books can take you anywhere and everywhere. We celebrated the morning in the MPH because of a slight change and we saw amazing and creative costumes. From crayons to dragons, we had an amazing time dressing up and showing off our ‘beautiful’ costumes.

Overall, we loved the Year 4 experience and have made many fond memories that we will carry with us.

Written by Orlando B, Victoria L and Isabel L

Courtney Casella, Amelia Kruger, Storm Randall, Zozia Sen – Year 4 Teachers

YEAR 5

2025 was packed with adventures and hands-on learning! From dressing up as our favourite book characters to cheering each other on at camp, every moment strengthened our friendships and sense of teamwork. Whether sharing laughs during Book Week, experimenting with light at our Science incursion, or enjoying time together at special events, we discovered that learning is even better when we do it together. What an amazing year, we truly are better connected!

Queensland Museum & SparkLab Excursion

“Year 5 students went on an exciting excursion to the Queensland Museum, where SparkLab stole the show! We explored Science through hands-on activities like testing the age of our ears, spinning like ice skaters and playing with coloured shadows. We raced using pulleys and discovered what happens to objects in space using a vacuum chamber. SparkLab was a place of curiosity, creativity, and discovery. A highlight of our year that made Science come alive in the most memorable way!” - Abigayle S

Year 5 Camp

Camp is a wonderful time to create new memories, fulfill our hunger and experience what a great cohort our year level is. Year 5 were off on our next adventure! We were greeted with a nice meal of morning tea. One of our best memories was when one of our directors Sam (we called him Uncle Sam) started aura farming at lunch on the final day of camp. "The dorms were incredible.” - Aarvi

The dorms were spacious and gave us our own cabinets to store our stuff that was needed for the next day. “Everyone was positive, and they were all calm and connected to the environment.”Mrs Masson

One of the most memorable activities was the nature walk, exploring through the forest like a nature warrior - so exciting. "Mrs Jones’ team also known as the Temu Team were all amazed as they saw a little bunny rabbit hopping around. Our group named it Peter Rabbit.” - Franki, Jaime

Archery was amazing. One highlight of archery was aiming at a target and getting a bullseye makes you feel extremely accomplished. This amazing wonder was accomplished and brought to life by Mrs Jones and the rest of the Year 5 team so we would like to thank them greatly for their time and hard work. We speak for the whole grade by saying ‘thank you very much Mrs Jones, Mrs Masson and Miss Waters for creating an exciting camp, full of joy and marvellous adventures.” - Avindee W and Anvi V

Book Week

“Book Week was a fascinating opportunity for young explorers to face the wonderous diversity of the spectacular books which surround them. This year was a special burst of colour and variety in everyone’s costumes; we were filled with extraordinary adventures to embark on and cherish memories. This year’s theme, Book an adventure! You could bet that everyone would ace this theme to the overflowing brim, smiles spotted everywhere! The Book Parade was an opportunity for us to discuss our likes and preferences. There were a lot of Harry Potters, crayons, and even a Mona Lisa! Our heads were filled with ideas; seeing things from different universes, dimensions and stories put a wow on our faces. It was great!” - Alina R and Mishka B

Science – See the Light Incursion

“We had the best Science Incursion ever! Street Science came and taught us all about LIGHT! Fun fact: White reflects light, while black absorbs it. Tasmin guided us through four awesome stations. At the refraction station, we used lasers and prisms to bend light; it looked like disco lights! In the reflection station, we used mirrors to bounce light through a maze. At the absorption station, we made bracelets with UV-sensitive beads that changed colour under ultraviolet light. We even got to keep them! Finally, at the shadow station, we used blocks and figures to recreate shadow pictures. Tasmin reminded us never to shine lights in anyone’s eyes. It was such a fun and educational experience; we learnt so much about how light works!”

- Neehar D and Deana W

Sunell Jones, Kim Masson, Tiarna Waters – Year 5 Teachers

YEAR 6

As the Year 6 cohort prepares to take their next big step into Secondary School, we pause to reflect on the incredible journey they've made through Primary School. From learning to read and write in the early years to mastering fractions, persuasive writing, and science experiments in the later ones, each student has grown not only in knowledge but in confidence, resilience, and kindness. This article brings together the voices of our Year 6s. Each student has contributed a personal quote—some are thoughtful reflections on what they’ve learned, others are pieces of advice for younger students, and a few are simply expressions of their personal values. Enjoy a glimpse into the minds of our 2025 Primary School Graduates:

Aaliyah S: Everyone's special, so sprout high to the sky and show everyone what makes YOU special. Don't be scared to show your true self.

Aarav G: The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.

Aathira A: Choose what makes you happy, without happiness what's the point of life?

Alan A: Time isn't endless, always have fun.

Alex W: Great things come from hard work and perseverance.

Alexis J: The fridge is a perfect example of what's important is inside.

Alia A: Good friends are like stars. You don't always see them, but you know they're always there.

Amal W: You have to accomplish the small things before you tackle the big things.

Aman S: To accomplish something you need to practice. To get something you need to earn it.

Amber M: Your determination is the key that unlocks success.

Amy B: Friends are the family we choose for ourselves, just with more embarrassing stories.

Anaya D: Nothing is impossible. It is even in the word- ‘I'm possible’.

Annie X: You can't cross the sea by merely standing and staring at the water.

Arshit S: Loss is success in progress.

Arya K: Every ending is a new beginning.

Audrey H: Go into the world and do well. But more importantly, go into the world and do good.

Ava M: If you want to be happy, be.

Bhavjit U: Year 6 was a year that pushed me to my limits beyond my comfort zone.

Binh Tam G: Don’t be sad that it’s over, be happy that it happened.

Chantelle Q: When all hope seems lost, be the light to guide others to success.

Charlie K: True friends are never apart; maybe in distance but never in heart.

Cooper K: Doing your best at school is doing the best for your future.

Daniel T: Sometimes I pretend to be normal, but it gets boring, so I go back to being me.

Dheekshita B: In Primary, I learned that every small step matters because even the tallest trees start from little seeds.

Ekam S: You only live once so, make the most of it.

Ethan G: School isn’t just about answers—it’s where you learn to ask better questions.

Ethan N: Enjoy your years as well as your peers.

Ethan O: Nothing is impossible…except flying.

Finn S: Every big step takes little steps along the way.

Freddy W: Mama always said life is like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get.

Gabe G: Primary School builds the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth.

George S: Time you enjoy wasting is not wasted time. This is Primary School.

Georgia M: Laughing is the best medicine, but if you're laughing for no reason, you might need medicine.

Hanna M: The pool is bland, and the ocean is unique and salty. Most people are the pool so be the ocean.

Harry M: Keep your face always towards the sunshine and shadows will fall behind you.

Havish G: Primary is a really good experience. Never forget the fun times you had.

Heath N: Sometimes the easiest things are the hardest.

Helena B: Every champion was once a beginner who never gave up.

Hunter A: You have brains in your head, you have feet in your shoes, you can steer yourself in any direction you choose.

Irene C: The stars will shine as you move on, and the darkness behind you will disappear as you follow those shining lights.

Isobel P: Failure is an option, so don't choose that option.

Jack H: If you can’t run, then walk. If you can’t walk, then crawl but do whatever you can to keep moving forward.

Jack M: Everything seems impossible until it is done.

Jake J: Talent doesn't beat hard work if hard work doesn't beat talent.

Jax M: You win some, you lose some but always try.

Jessie G: Home is where the heart is and family is everything.

Jiu J: The way I see it, to get a rainbow you need to persevere through rain.

Joaquin G: Nothing lasts forever, so have fun while it lasts.

Josie C: Good chapters aren't possible, unless you turn the page.

Justin H: Friendship is the only cement that will ever hold the world together.

Kendal M: Although no one can go back and make a brand new start, anyone can start from now and make a brand new ending.

Kevin W: Do or do not, there is no try.

Krish B: You cannot have a positive life and a negative mind.

Krish G: Be the change you want to see in the world.

Lachlan C: Take all the opportunities that come your way, try your best, be kind and don't think you're not enough.

Laila H: Nothing gets easier, you just get better.

Lara C: Write it on your heart that every day is the best day of the year.

Lola A: Be yourself, because being someone else will get you nowhere.

Luke C: It is not the mountain we conquer but ourselves.

Matilda J: While diversity is the mix of unique individuals, inclusion is actively making those differences work.

Minay V Every accomplishment starts with you deciding to try!

Nayeli K: Leadership is not a badge, but a quality.

Nico V: Enjoy Primary School, because if you thought these years were hard, just wait for high school.

Odette J: Always be kind because you never know what anyone is going through.

Penelope A: Life is too short to waste any time, especially in Year 6.

Sierra H: Enjoy your life, because you can’t go back.

Phoebe S: Beware what you trust; sugar looks like salt.

Prabarmaan S: Be yourself; everyone else is already taken.

Riley B: If it seems impossible, then keep going until it's possible.

Louie Z: When you are in doubt, always look intelligent.

Samik K: Even when you have talent, a life without work goes nowhere.

Sarah D: There will never be a rainbow if you have a stormy mindset.

Serena B: I never knew the value of a moment, until it became a memory.

Seungjae S: A happy childhood has a long-lasting effect on the emotional stability of an adult.

Shahad A: Don't judge someone before you get to know them because you never know what they’re going through.

Shree J: The meaning of life is to give life meaning.

Sonny M: Respect is something that you earn, not what you start off with.

Sophie B: Be Mindful, Be Grateful, Be Positive, Be True, Be Kind. That's who a Lakes Learner is and that's who I am.

Tom B: Six years done, six more to go.

Vivaan S: Being happy doesn't mean that everything is going to be perfect, it just means that you are able to look beyond the imperfection.

Willa C: There is no elevator to success, you have to take the stairs.

Zayan S: Life is a candle, use it properly and wisely until it's done.

Ethan L: Enjoy the small things in life. When you look back, you will realise they were big things.

Nathanael B: Be grateful for the things you have.

Lockie A: Push yourself because no one will do it for you.

Selena Freshwater, Joanne Lovell, Mel Smith – Year 6 Teachers

KITTABILLA –HOUSE REPORT

Sarah Ha | Head of House

Kittabilla is in a rebuilding phase after years of House Cup victories. While we didn’t take home the win this year, the spirit within our House continues to grow stronger. It has been wonderful to see the increasing number of students participating in different events throughout the year and I hope to see this continue into next year

With a new war cry for the year, we were ready to take on the other Houses in the pool, on the track and on the stage. It was great to see students swimming and running competitively and then back up with another effort in the participation races. One of our highlights was placing second in House Showcase. This event saw everyone getting involved from the props crew to the dancers and actors. The theme for this year was “Stronger Together” and our Seniors created a performance which followed The Wiggles through their lives if they broke up, until they realised they were better and stronger

together. Many staff had a cameo and overall it was a well-rounded production.

Kittabilla was strong in House Sport competitions this year that saw students turning up on Thursday mornings before school to play Basketball, Touch and Football, with a lunch time Dodgeball competition. We took out the Touch competition with some close games and came second in Basketball and Football. So many Juniors and Seniors showed up each week to ensure we had a team and there is some remarkable talent in the House. We also had strong performances in other House competitions, including Chapel games, Maths Competition, Trivia, Spelling Bee and the Arts Competition.

A new initiative this year was Buddy Home Groups where a few times each term, a Junior and Senior Home Group would get together and play games or just socialise with a broader range of year levels. It has been pleasing to

watch all of the Home Group Captains stepping up and ensuring that these sessions are enjoyable by all and that there is always an activity ready to run. We have also tried to give the year levels in the House some time together to build stronger connections so that by the time they are in Year 12, they are a strong cohesive leadership group for Kittabilla.

Congratulations to the Kittabilla Seniors of 2025, you have led the House with passion and enthusiasm and have been excellent role models for the younger students. Thank you to our House Captains; Bella C and William M Their leadership and organisation has helped Kittabilla become full of House Spirit which our 2026 Captains can continue to nurture.

The support of the Home Group teachers has been greatly appreciated by all students and their daily care and concern for each student in their Home Group is outstanding. I’d like to thank Mr Guerrini, Mr Kòk, Mrs Thomas, Ms

Huang, Mrs Trudgen, Mrs Giffin, Mrs Saayman and Mr Shortus for their guidance in their Home Groups.

Thank you to all of our Kittabilla students in 2025 for turning up and having a go. Just like lions, your courage and commitment make us stronger together. It’s everyone’s participation and effort that helps us climb the House Cup ladder, and I have a good feeling about the year ahead.

Seungjae S & Amy B | Primary House Captains

Being a Primary School House Captain this year has been a fun, exciting and wonderful experience. We’ve enjoyed so many things like Athletics Carnival, Cross Country and more. One of our favourite moments was definitely Athletics Day, especially during the relays. Kittabilla didn’t stop cheering and shouting the whole time. Most of the time, we didn’t even know who

we were cheering for, but that didn’t matter. Everyone kept the energy up and made it so much fun to be there.

Another highlight was winning the Primary Writing Competition, which showed just how talented and creative our Kittabilla students are.

We couldn’t have stood up in front of big crowds without the support of our friends, so a big thank you to them. You gave us the confidence to lead with pride. GO KITTABILLA!

Primary Writing Comp Winner Josie C

KUMBARCHU –HOUSE REPORT

Madeleine Pearl | Head of House Kumbarchu has once again lived up to its reputation as a House full of spirit, grit, and determination. While the results on the scoreboard may not have always gone our way in 2025, what has been undeniable is the heart and persistence shown by our students and House Captains throughout the year

This year brought with it its share of challenges. In several House competitions, we found ourselves finishing outside the top placings, and in the House Showcase we came in fourth. Despite this result we gave our all, pouring energy, creativity and dedication into our performance.. Although disappointing, this moment reminded us of the resilience and character that Kumbarchu is built on. Rather than dampen our spirit, it has only deepened our resolve to come back stronger

A true highlight has been the tireless work of our House Captains, Maurice D and Ellie S. Their commitment to

rallying support, organising practices, and encouraging participation has been inspirational. Even when numbers were low in House Sport, our Captains worked hard to create opportunities for involvement, ensuring every student knew that their contribution mattered. Their leadership has planted the seeds of a culture where participation and effort are valued just as much as results.

Equally heartening has been the way Kumbarchu embraced our College theme of Better Connected. This has come to life through Year Level hangouts and Buddy Home Group sessions, where students of different ages have come together to build relationships, share in games, and create a sense of belonging across year levels. Watching our Home Group Captains collaborate to make these gatherings meaningful has been a genuine joy. The laughter, fun, and support evident in these moments showed that while trophies are wonderful, the true legacy of

Kumbarchu lies in the strength of our community.

As we look ahead, I see Kumbarchu stepping into an underdog role with pride. We may not be the House that claims every trophy, but we are the House that refuses to give up. We are the House that digs deep, grows stronger with every setback, and celebrates the effort as much as the outcome. Next year, our theme will be about embracing this underdog mentality; competing fiercely, supporting one another wholeheartedly, and showing the rest of the College what it means to never lose hope.

Thank you to our Captains, to every student who wore green with pride this year, and to the staff who supported us. The results may not yet reflect it, but Kumbarchu is building something special, and I am confident that our moment to rise is just around the corner.

Aaliyah S & George S | Primary

House Captains

Kumbarchu has had an incredible year, with victories, energy and House spirit shining through every event - from winning the Primary Swimming Carnival in Term 4 last year to dominating the Athletics cheer competition this year. Kumbarchu also achieved second place in the Primary Writing Competition, showing that our House excels not just in sport, but in creativity and academics too.

The Sports Carnivals are some of the most fun and exciting events during the school year. As House Captains of Kumbarchu, we really work on teamwork. School spirit brings everyone together to create one big

and thriving community. This fosters healthy competition between friends and peers, which makes these days so much fun.

We encourage everyone competing to try their best and to push themselves. Our highlight of the Athletics Carnival was Kumbarchu winning the cheer competition. We were loud, we were proud, we were one.

Cross Country is a test of endurance for all participants, as they work hard to try and break some PBs. This helps build a sense of resilience and sportsmanship. Cross Country resulted in several Kumbarchu Age Champions and high finishers across the year levels.

Kumbarchu also won the Primary Swimming Carnival in Term 4 last year, which contributed to the House Points tally for 2025, a fantastic way to start building momentum for the year.

The energy in Kumbarchu is amazing! It ’s fantastic to see everyone cheering on fellow students and creating an atmosphere of excitement and motivation for everyone, building Kumbarchus’ sense of pride and unity, building each students’ confidence to get involved, and creating an opportunity for them to shine.

NYANI –HOUSE REPORT

Harry Ahrens | Head of House

2025 has been nothing short of extraordinary for Nyani House. In a year defined by courage, effort, and unrelenting school spirit, Nyani students lived and breathed our House motto, “Get comfortable with being uncomfortable”, a powerful quote from endurance athlete Nedd Brockmann. This message became more than just a saying; it became a way of life for our House. Whether pushing through physical limits or stepping out of comfort zones in new and creative arenas, Nyani embraced every opportunity with passion and determination.

From the very first House event of the year, it was clear that Nyani was on a mission. Participation was more than encouraged, it became a culture. Our students made it their goal to be involved in every event, and that commitment paid off in incredible fashion. Nyani saw great success in each of the College’s major sporting carnivals, taking 1st place in the Swimming Carnival, Cross Country, and Athletics Carnival. These victories were not just about winning, but about showing up, cheering each other on, and giving every event their all.

But Nyani’s success extended far beyond the sporting field. The House’s all-round talent, perseverance, and willingness to take on any challenge saw us achieve 1st place in the Spelling Bee, Talent Show, the Christmas Red Bag Appeal, and

Environmental Clean Up Days. These results are a testament to the diverse skills and passions of our students, and the pride they take in representing their House in every sphere.

We also saw fantastic outcomes in other House competitions, with Nyani securing 2nd place in Dodgeball, Basketball, Touch Football, as well as the Art Competition. These efforts highlight the breadth of opportunities offered at the College, and more importantly, the incredible adaptability and commitment of our students.

The consistency of Nyani’s performance across such a wide range of events reflects more than talent, it reveals a House built on unity, effort, and heart. Every cheer, every contribution, and every courageous step outside a comfort zone helped build the legacy of 2025.

To every Nyanian, especially our House Captains, Benjamin B and Baylee K; thank you.Your hard work, focus, and drive have created something special this year. Whether you were diving into a pool, picking up a microphone, or simply showing up to support your peers, you have been part of something remarkable. The foundations you are laying now are building a legacy that will guide Nyani for years to come.

It is because of these efforts, Nyani proudly took home the House Cup in 2025 — the first time since 2016 — a testament to the spirit, commitment, and heart of every student in our House.

Helena B & Finn S | Primary House Captains

Nyani has had a brilliant year in the Primary School, with students showing enthusiasm, teamwork and a vibrant energy for their House. From the very first event of the year, it was clear our students were ready to get involved, support one another and represent Nyani with pride.

Throughout the year, Nyani took part in multiple House Heroics Days and Carnivals. Whether competing, helping, or cheering from the sidelines, they brought dynamic House spirit and encouragement to every event. Nyani also donated the most bags for the Christmas Red Bag Appeal at the end of last year for Primary, adding valuable points to the House Cup tally and showcasing their commitment beyond sport and competition.

Our Primary House Captains, Helena B and Finn S, have been outstanding leaders. Leading chants, supporting younger students and helping build a welcoming House culture. Helena shared, “It ’s been amazing to see everyone give things a go and feel proud to be part of Nyani. My favourite part was House Heroics Day, everyone was working together and having fun.” Finn added, “Nyani feels like a team. We’ve had fun, worked hard and always supported each other. I loved leading chants at sport carnivals and seeing everyone celebrate.” Nyani’s success this year has been about connection, confidence and community. We’re proud of every student who made 2025 amazing!

House Trivia Winners

TABBIL –HOUSE REPORT

Luke Fitzgerald | Acting Head of House

2025 has been an extraordinary year for Tabbil, marked by spirited participation, determination, and a strong sense of community. True to our values of Participation, Patience, and Perseverance, students have consistently shown what it means to come together as one united House, supporting each other through challenges and celebrating success as a team. Every member of Tabbil has played a part in making this year one to remember, demonstrating dedication not only in sport and academics, but also in creative and leadership opportunities.

At the heart of this success were our outstanding House Captains, Jessica R and Noa M. Both leaders approached their role with enthusiasm, organisation, and care, guiding Tabbil with maturity and passion. Under their leadership, our remarkable group of Year 12 students embraced their final year with energy and commitment, setting a powerful example for the rest of the House. They supported younger students, encouraged participation, and helped foster the kind of team spirit that made Tabbil such a strong community. Together, they embodied the spirit of Morty the Manta Ray: steady, strong, and always ready to rise to the occasion.

The year kicked off with a bang back in Term 4 of 2024, when Tabbil claimed victory in Dodgeball, the first sport of the 2025 calendar. That early win set the tone for what would be an incredible year of House sport. In Term 1, our momentum continued with a win in Football, and in Term 2,

we took out Basketball, completing a highly successful run across multiple sports. Beyond sport, our perseverance was also evident in academics, with Tabbil achieving second place in the Mathematics Competition, a testament to the focus and effort of our students.

One of the highlights of the year was the House Showcase, always one of the most anticipated parts of Foundation Day. This year, Tabbil’s performance was outstanding. With the creative theme of Cluedo, students transported the audience into the world of the classic board game, blending clever storytelling, humour, and impressive teamwork. The Year 12s, led by Jessica and Noa, worked closely with younger students to ensure the performance was polished and engaging. Their dedication and creativity paid off as Tabbil was crowned Showcase Champions for 2025, a well-deserved recognition of the effort and collaboration across the entire House.

Foundation Day concluded with the Lakes Lap, a P–12 relay event that embodies House spirit. Tabbil’s runners gave everything they had, and the support from the sideline was energetic and unwavering. Our victory in the Lakes Lap was the perfect ending to a day that showcased the unity, enthusiasm, and determination of our House.

Looking back, 2025 has been a year of achievement, growth, and memorable moments for Tabbil. Every student who wore blue contributed to our story of participation, patience, and perseverance.

Amal W & Matilda J | Primary House Captains

This year it has been incredible in Tabbil! The Primary House events were heaps of fun, giving us the chance to create some awesome memories with our friends. One of the biggest highlights was winning the Primary School Cross Country Shield, and we also proudly took home the Primary Athletics Shield! These amazing achievements were made possible thanks to the strong team spirit in Tabbil. So many students got involved, cheered from the tents, and gave it their best effort. We had lots of participation, some Age Champions, and a super positive attitude from everyone.

Another highlight was The Lakes Lap on Foundation Day, which was extra fun as we got to run alongside Secondary students in a combined event- and we came out on top! We also really enjoyed helping at the P-2 Carnivals. It was great fun encouraging the younger students, cheering them on, and being role models. We loved mentoring them and helping them feel confident and included.

A massive shoutout to everyone in Tabbil for showing commitment, determination, and resilience throughout the year. Your hard work and support made a huge difference. Even though our war cry was a bit tricky at first, everyone gave it a go and kept practising, which showed true Tabbil spirit.

Amal says, “It has been so much fun leading Tabbil this year. The extra responsibilities were all worth it!”

Matilda says, “Overall, it’s been an amazing year leading Tabbil to victory.”

Good luck to next year’s House Captains!

Double win - The Lakes Lap & House Showcase

Primary XCountry Winners

DEPUTY HEAD OF SECONDARY (7-9)

SKYE WALLDEN

2025: Working Towards new beginnings in Junior Secondary at TLC

On many, many, many occasions, I have been overheard telling anyone who cared to listen, that a Junior Secondary teacher is just like a regular teacher, but WAY cooler! And, when I say this, I do not set out to impugn the capabilities of anyone, but rather to signpost that those who teach Years 7-9 students have been sprinkled with fairy dust…they are special individuals who are NEVER bored or boring.

2025 has seen a few small changes to our Thriving Through Transition processes which will lay the foundation for more significant change for our 2026 Year 7 students, and I cannot wait! Whilst I cannot divulge too much, suffice to say it will involve deep, transferable and problem-based learning across the

Arts and Technologies faculties. WATCH THIS SPACE.

For our 2025 Year 7s, the year began with the launching of a new cross-curricular unit entitled “My story, Your story, OUR story” which saw collaboration between our English, FaVE and WHPE faculties. This led to additional avenues for our newcomers to become better connected to our people, the place and our TLC values. I look forward to seeing it go one step further in 2026, bringing Chinese and Humanities into the collaboration.

This year we also saw Year 7 students invited to Afternoons Against Procrastination to assist them in building micro-skills to support study and academic growth. Lots of homework and assignment work was completed with the support of TLC Alumni and members of our dedicated teaching staff. Most importantly however, this marks

the beginnings of equipping our youngest middle phase students with the skills that will see them thrive academically.

Our Year 8 students thoroughly enjoyed their camp on the Gold Coast, and it was wonderful watching them step up when they returned to school having forged new friendships and having pushed themselves out of their comfort zones. Another enjoyable experience for our Year 8’s has also been the Medieval Incursion where they could touch artifacts and try on armour, bringing history to life for them.

Our Year 9 students also enjoyed camp on the Gold Coast Hinterlands and some necessary incursions run by Eyes Open Social Media. Year 9 students are presenting as strong leaders in Junior Secondary, and I thank them for the way that they have supported Year 7 and 8 students this year. I wish them all the best as they embark on the beginning of Senior Secondary in 2026.

As I reflect back on Junior Secondary in 2025, it would be remiss of me to not personally acknowledge the care, guidance and mentoring that has been evident from our College Captains Olivia V and Levi K towards our Year 7 students in particular. From joining the Year 7 Camp at the start of the year, to interactions in House activities, to chatting in the playground, these experiences have enabled our Year 7’s to find their place without fear. Thank you, Olivia and Levi, Junior Secondary will miss you in 2026. We wish you all the best with life beyond TLC.

Social Media Workshops

Yr 7 Amazing Race

YEAR 7

The Year 7 cohort has had a tremendous start to their Secondary School journey. With boundless enthusiasm and energy, this group has quickly established themselves as a grade willing to take on challenges as they arise and get on with the task at hand. Learning to use lockers was probably their biggest challenge, and moving between classes and getting to lessons on time was another hurdle they tackled with determination. The Year 7 Camp held early in the year was a fantastic experience, helping students to build friendships, teamwork, and confidence as they began this new chapter together.

YEAR 8

The Year 8 cohort has had a wonderful year of growth and challenge as they have become fully immersed in Junior Secondary. Students have embraced opportunities to turn big ideas into real-life ventures in Business, contributed exciting displays to TLC TechFest, and engaged in new Service opportunities offered this year, including Sages and Seekers. Their enthusiasm, creativity, and willingness to take on new challenges have made 2025 a year of learning, collaboration, and achievement for Year 8.

YEAR 9

The Year 9 cohort has had an incredible year of curiosity, growth, and selfdiscovery – fitting for a group on the brink of entering Senior School. With additional responsibilities, the freedom to choose more electives, and opportunities to explore a variety of career paths, students have begun to find themselves during this pivotal year of change. From dancing the night away at the Social to participating in excursions and incursions, they have embraced every opportunity to learn and grow. Year 9 Camp wasn’t just about getting out into nature – it was a chance to challenge themselves and build essential character traits. These away-from-home experiences have nurtured independence, resilience, and self-confidence, helping our students develop into thoughtful, capable young adults ready for the next stage of their journey.

DEPUTY HEAD OF SECONDARY (10-12)

KRISTY MCNALLY (ACTING)

Paving the Pathway: Senior Secondary School in 2025

Where do we even start? What a year it has been in the Senior space. From Year 10 to Year 12, our students have tackled challenges, discovered strengths, and grown together as a community on the pathway to graduation. Along the way, they discovered that this journey is as much about growing together as it is about ticking off assessments.

Academics

While students navigated their normal classes, assessments, and exams, they also engaged in other academic pursuits. The Year 10 Debating team made it through to the QDU finals, and lunchtime trivia proved that random knowledge finally had a purpose. Various incursions took learning outside of the classroom. Students even learnt how to outsmart procrastination at Afternoons Against Procrastination (pizza may have helped as motivation!).

Mock Exam Blocks marked the first real taste of exams for the Year 11’s, allowing the students to experience formal exam conditions and finalise their Unit 2 studies. The same Mock Exam Block served the Year 12’s to familiarise themselves with the conditions they will encounter during the External Examinations.

ACE Sessions

The ACE program remained a cornerstone of the Year 11 and 12 week, providing opportunities to develop skills beyond the classroom. Workshops focused on study strategies, ATAR panel discussions, and personal growth, helping students tackle both current and future challenges. Students also engaged in study skills presentations from ATOMI and Elevate, attended a guest university lecture in Creative

Writing, and participated in subjectspecific tutoring and workshops.

Leadership

Leadership was more than a badge within Senior Secondary at TLC. From Home Group Captains and the Year 12 leadership team to volunteers at school events and sports carnivals, students led with action as much as words. Whether umpiring at NISSA, cheering on Prep to Year 2 athletes, or being involved in Year 7 Camp, our Seniors proved that leadership often shines in the quiet moments of service.

Student Agency

Being involved in the Senior Secondary School gave students more control over their learning. Teamtaught classes by teachers recreated the buzz of university lecture theatres, and older students explored flexible study arrangements that demanded maturity, self-discipline, and ownership of outcomes.

As the year winds down, it’s clear that the TLC Senior Secondary School isn’t just about exams, assessments, or ticking boxes. It’s about the small moments that propel us towards our

goals. From debating victories to trivia triumphs and late-night study sessions, our students have grown in ways that grades alone could never measure. Here’s to stepping into the next chapter with confidence, curiosity, and maybe a little leftover pizza for motivation. If this was what we were able to pack into 2025, we are even more excited to see what 2026 has in store!

Seniors at Year 7 Camp

YEAR 10

Leaning into Senior Schooling – Our Year 10 students have been involved in several key experiences this year, including Work Experience and SET Planning. Each of these provided opportunities for growth, independence, and reflection as students prepare for Year 11 and 12. They also took on the immersive twoweek Binga Camp, which allowed them to challenge themselves, build resilience, and strengthen teamwork. Together, these experiences have helped our Year 10s learn, mature, and step forward with confidence into the next stage of their schooling journey.

YEAR 11

The Leadership Process – The Lakes College Leaders for 2026

Our Year 11 students have embraced the leadership journey, and we look forward to seeing the incredible impact this cohort will have! The process began with the Find Your North program, continued through Year 11 Camp, and was further shaped by detailed applications, interviews, and speeches. Alongside this, students have tackled the pace of Year 11 study, completing two units of work in just three terms. With this combination of leadership development and academic achievement, our Year 11s are well prepared to step confidently into their Year 12 journey in Term 4.

YEAR 12

ATAR Estimates and Preparation for Externals – Our Year 12 students have tackled the final stretch of their Secondary School journey with focus, determination, and maturity. They received their ATAR estimates, discussed QCE progression, and set their QTAC preferences. Alongside this, students shared study strategies for Mocks and Externals, engaging in thoughtful and reflective conversations with teachers and mentors through the Pathways Program. They are well prepared and ready to hit the ground running as they strive toward life beyond the TLC gates.

As our Year 12 students prepare to graduate, we asked them to reflect on their journey in just one sentence:

“What are you most grateful for as you finish Year 12?”

Together, these words of gratitude capture the heart of the Class of 2025 and the memories they will carry with them beyond TLC.

Grace A: I'm grateful that calculators d on't judge me.

Reuben A: All the support and p eople that allowed me to find who I really am while encouraging me to be th e best version of myself.

Tayla A: My older sister, Brodey - I lo ve her so much <3

Harshan B: I am grateful for everyone that helped me throughout my sch ooling journey.

Emily B: I'm grateful for the good company, tea, and free supplies in th e art room.

Behta B: Studying and eating pizza with friends at weekly Afternoons Against Procrastination.

Benjamin B: The support of my family and mates.

Nhi C: Caffeine!

Lara C: I am grateful for all of the frien dships I have formed.

Rylan C: I am grateful for the lunch times full of banter and jokes with th e fellas.

Elliot C: The friends we made along the way.

Bella C: I’m grateful for the memories made!

Hudson D: Thankful for all the support I received throughout Year 12.

Rozelle D: I’m grateful that God gave me the insight to listen to my parents and to push myself to make the most of every opportunity which the school gave me.

Maurice D: Guidance from mentors and peers.

Hayden D: Thankful for all the support I received at TLC

Tasha D: Every little adventure with my friends :)

Amy E: Lots of fun memories!

Orison E: I’m most grateful for finishing Year 12 and the opportunities ahead.

Zara E: I'm grateful for the chance to leave something of myself behind.

Amelie G: The support from my family and friends.

Thomas G: School is finally done and I’m grateful for the chance to chase wh atever comes next - even if it’s flip ping burgers for a while.

Iris G: I am most grateful for the su pport of my friends and family, wh o encouraged me through the ch allenges of Year 12 and made the jou rney meaningful.

Jaiden H: Cheers for all the memories I've made with all of you!

Gauss H: Thankful for the teachers wh o helped me get through Year 12.

Sandra J : For the friends we made alon g the way.

Fraser K: Friends and teachers who h elped me grow and persevere th rough Year 12.

Aayan K: The friends we made along th e way.

Levi K: My Family!

Mariah K: I am grateful for my friends and all the memories we have made together

Baylee K: Grateful for the laughs shared, lessons learnt, and the people who made high school home.

Peter K: The friends we made along the way.

Rishika K: I'm grateful for the person below this quote.

Akshita K: I’m grateful for the person above me.

Catrin L: Grateful I can now calculate my procrastination rate per assignment.

Emily L: The support I've gotten from all my teachers leading up to assessments and exams.

Morgan L: My KIA Seltos and solitaire!

Luke M: The friends we made along the way.

William M: I’m grateful for the opportunities ahead and for all the people who helped me along the way.

Noa M: I’m grateful for my friends clutching up for me!

Rayan M: Thankful for all the support I received throughout Year 12.

Rose O: Grateful for the fire drills that got me out of class ;)

Jack O: Limp Bizkit and Def Leppard’s assistance with study ;)

Zac O: Grateful for the office iPads!

Maia P: Grateful for the fingers I can count on and the calculators that do the rest.

Anuki P: I’m grateful for my friends and family who supported me this year

Sarah P: I am most grateful for the friends that made me laugh too hard and the teachers who pretended not to hear it.

Gema P: I am grateful for the friends that made this year special.

Purnima P: I’m grateful for all the ‘do you understand this?’ moments that united us in confusion.

Miche P: I’m grateful my final sentence didn’t need trimming to meet the word count.

Jessica R: That Year 12 brought me more laughter than tears!

Ellie S: For every “study break” that turned into hours of gossip.

Charlette S: The NYT Games!

Aviraj S: Being in this cohort!

Ishaan S: Support from teachers and peers.

Lakshdeep S: I will forever be grateful for ChatGPT!

Manraj S S: I am grateful for the meat pies from the canteen!

Tejashwini S V: The moments that didn't ask to be remembered but will be anyway.

MJ S: The friends we made along the way.

Jade S: Being able to grow up together with such an amazing cohort, supported by all of our incredible teachers.

Stevie T: No more Maths!

Brooklyn U: Support from my peers & teachers!

Tanush V: The friends we made along the way.

Olivia V: I’m grateful for the people who I’ve shared the best lifelong memories with, and for the special relationships formed.

Cassandra W: That I can finally turn off the alarm that I constantly slept through!

Andrew W: I’m most grateful for the friendships that turned stressful days into stories worth laughing about.

Chloe W: For all the lessons learned, and all the things yet to come.

Vincy Y: Study classes and friends!

Queenie Z: I'm grateful to everyone who supported me on the way!

ENGLISH

EMILY MALONE | HEAD OF FACULTY

This year in English, our Lakes Learners have explored the power of language to connect, challenge, and inspire. Across all year levels, they have engaged with a rich variety of texts and tasks that have deepened their understanding of themselves and the world around them.

Our Year 7 students began their high school journey in an interdisciplinary unit Your Story, Our Story, crafting

personal Humans of TLC stories. These personal narratives – based on a College value – supported students’ transition into Secondary School, celebrating the diverse voices that make up our community. Through this process, students not only developed their writing skills but also learned the importance of empathy, identity, and belonging at TLC. Students also engaged in a TEDxYouth talk based on their favourite hobby, an analytical paragraph exam and a powerful sustainability unit to strengthen student persuasion.

In Year 8, students embraced the art of storytelling, writing imaginative short stories around the theme of Lost. This unit encouraged students to explore emotional depth, character development, and narrative structure, building confidence in their creative expression and voice. It was a joy to see students take risks with their ideas and experiment with language to evoke mood and meaning. Students also devised a monologue script, a Spotify Kids reel examining representations in pop music and worked towards developing their first

full analytical essay based on Coraline: The Graphic Novel (2002).

Our Year 9 students took a significant step forward in their academic development, writing their first analytical essays under exam conditions. They explored how songs and poems serve as powerful tools of social commentary. Through this experience, students sharpened their critical thinking and appreciation for the role of poetry and music in inspiring social change. Students also constructed a blog, performed a monologue and developed their own podcasts.

In the Senior years, students engaged in a range of enriching tasks designed to prepare them for their future pathways, including spoken tasks, online literary essays and narratives. To support their construction of their external examination style analytical essays, Senior students had the opportunity to view Shakespeare performances onsite.

Year 10 students were captivated by Shake & Stir’s dynamic performance of Romeo and Juliet, which brought Shakespeare’s timeless themes of love, conflict, and fate to life. Students in Year 10 Horizons, Year 11, and Year 12 experienced Macbeth brought to life by Grin and Tonic, followed by an insightful Q&A session with the cast. Not only do these live performances support their exam preparation, these experiences offer students a deeper appreciation of dramatic form and performance as an opportunity to engage with the text in context.

Throughout the year, students have encountered literature in many forms— novels, plays, poetry, film, and media— learning that English is not just about reading and writing but about truly understanding the human experience. Embracing the English language in its many forms, gives our learners the tools to empathise, to challenge and to connect. Thank you for your partnership in supporting our Lakes Learners to achieve success in English.

Grin & Tonic Performance

LANGUAGES

EMILY MALONE | HEAD OF FACULTY

As Head of Faculty (English), supporting the Languages staff, it has been a pleasure to work with Ms Tracy Huang and Mrs Laura Fong in fostering engagement in our Chinese language classrooms. Across all year levels, students have embraced the challenge of learning a new language and culture, developing not only their linguistic skills but also a deeper appreciation for global perspectives and intercultural understanding.

In Year 7, students began their Chinese studies with creativity and curiosity. In early Term 2, Year 7 students attended the Buddha Birth Day Festival at Chung Tian Temple. As a highlight on the TLC calendar, this excursion supported students’ inter-cultural understanding as all students in Year 7 study Chinese. Our Lakes Learners attended with a variety of other schools who also study Chinese. On the day, our students engaged in a variety of fun activities including diablo, meditation, calligraphy, tea ceremony, arts and crafts, and kung-fu. Year 7 students explored many topics including how to provide a self-introduction, family, colours, and pets, laying a solid foundation for future learning.

Year 8 students continued to build on their skills, working in pairs to complete their Semester 2 assessment focused on Chinese festivals and the comparison between Chinese and Western foods. Throughout the year, they also studied hobbies, personalities, and food customs, developing both vocabulary and cultural literacy.

Our Year 9 students have excelled in their Chinese studies, particularly in Semester 1 where they completed a formative multimodal project, selecting a Chinese city and describing its environment, weather, and appropriate clothing for each season. This project allowed students to apply their knowledge in a real-world context, integrating language with geography and cultural awareness. Topics covered this year included daily routines, school subjects, weather and seasons, and environmental descriptions.

In the Senior phase, our Year 11 students made impressive progress,

especially in handwritten Chinese—a new component of their Internal Assessment tasks. As the first cohort to be assessed on handwriting, they rose to the challenge with diligence and pride. Their studies spanned a wide range of topics including family, peers, education, travel, social customs, and Chinese influences around the world, allowing them to explore both personal and global themes through language.

Year 12 students continued this momentum, with all students achieving A-range results in their Internal Assessment tasks. As they prepare for their External Assessment, they are

refining their handwritten Chinese and reflecting on topics such as roles and relationships, connecting with peers, individual identity in society, end-of-school experiences, and future choices. Their work demonstrates not only linguistic proficiency but also thoughtful engagement with the complexities of life and culture.

Overall we are incredibly proud of our Lakes Learners in Chinese and look forward to seeing how they continue to grow as language learners and global citizens.

F a VE

LUKE STANLEY | HEAD OF FACULTY

Faith and Values Education (FaVE) at The Lakes College has experienced a year of dynamic growth and meaningful engagement throughout 2025. With a renewed focus on aligning our curriculum with the Lakes Learners capabilities, students have been invited into rich learning experiences that nurture both their spiritual development and personal identity.

This year, our FaVE program has intentionally explored the complexities of identity, relationships, and theological understanding through age-appropriate and thought-provoking units. Students have been encouraged to reflect deeply on who they are, how they relate to others, and what it means to be created in the Image of God. These themes have provided a strong foundation for discussions around self-worth, empathy, and purpose, helping students to see themselves and others through a lens of dignity and grace.

In the classroom, students have engaged in a variety of activities designed to foster critical thinking, personal reflection, and collaborative dialogue. From journaling and storytelling to group discussions and creative projects, learners have explored how faith and values shape their everyday choices and interactions. These experiences have not only deepened their understanding of Christian teachings but also empowered them to apply these values in real-world contexts.

Our FaVE teaching team have reported a noticeable increase in student engagement and maturity in how learners approach topics of faith, ethics, and community. Many students have demonstrated a growing ability to articulate their beliefs, ask meaningful questions, and show respect for diverse perspectives.

As we look ahead, Faith and Values Education at TLC will continue to evolve, with plans to further embed student voice, service learning, and interfaith understanding into future units. The 2025 school year has laid a strong foundation for this journey, affirming our commitment to nurturing thoughtful, compassionate, and spiritually grounded young people.

MATHEMATICS

CHRIS HOSNELL | HEAD OF FACULTY

The Mathematics Faculty has enjoyed an exciting and successful year, filled with competitions, innovative learning, and plenty of opportunities for our students to shine.

Curriculum Highlights

Across Years 7–10, students explored the full breadth of mathematical learning from number skills, algebra, geometry, trigonometry and measurement to statistics, probability, financial mathematics and algorithmic thinking. Senior students built on these foundations through:

•Mathematical Methods: Algebra, Functions and Graphs, Calculus and Statistics

•Specialist Mathematics: Vectors and Matrices, Real and Complex Numbers, Trigonometry, Statistics and Calculus

• General Mathematics: Number and Algebra, Measurement and Geometry, Statistics, Networks and Matrices

This year also featured a range of hands-on, creative projects designed to connect mathematical thinking with the real world:

• Year 7: Students engaged in problem-based learning, working in small, randomly selected groups to solve puzzles and apply skills such as percentages and decimals to everyday scenarios.

•Year 8: Students explored algebra and measurement through a

practical project designing a skateboard ramp, applying geometry and measurement calculations in creative contexts.

•Year 9: Students applied algebra and statistics in meaningful, student-driven projects. They designed surveys on topics relevant to teenage life and used digital tools to represent and analyse their findings.

• Year 10: Students developed statistical reasoning through a creative “GOAT” (Greatest of All Time) project, analysing data from their chosen field sport, music, history and more to make evidencebased arguments. The Year 10 Specialist Mathematics elective also extended learning beyond the core program, offering rich, abstract problem-solving challenges.

Competitions

In May, TLC entered Junior, Intermediate and Senior teams into the Narangba Valley Maths Tournament. Students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm:

“Participating in the Math competition was both challenging and rewarding. It pushed us to think critically, stay focused under pressure, and apply concepts in new and creative ways. Between relays and team challenges, we all had a blast!”

TLC students

All three teams did exceptionally well: the Junior team placed 2nd, the Intermediate team 4th, and the Senior team 2nd, earning TLC 2nd place overall.

Closer to home, our House Maths Competition brought lunchtimes to life, with classrooms buzzing as students collaborated in their House groups. Congratulations to Kittabilla, who claimed the 2025 title!

Maths Horizons

Our Maths Horizons program continues to inspire passionate problem-solvers. As Year 9 student Krishi K reflects:

“Maths Horizons: where the limit does not exist. Our classes have gone beyond traditional teaching methods— whether it was through creative activities like Math Squid Game or racing to solve questions first, learning has always felt more like a game than a chore. Our small, like-minded group has become a supportive team that has encouraged and challenged each other. In the end, it all just multiplies into unforgettable memories.”

Looking Ahead

This year, our Year 7 teaching team undertook a year-long professional development program focused on problem-based learning, cooperative tasks and engaging challenges. Their work has laid the foundation for our new Year 7 program launching in 2026, which will further strengthen mathematical thinking and collaboration.

The Mathematics Faculty is incredibly proud of the achievements of our students — whether in competitions, Horizons, or the classroom — and we look forward to an even bigger 2026.

House Maths Competition Narangba Valley Maths Tournament

HUMANITIES & BUSINESS

DAVID SGUALDINO & CORLEA SAAYMAN | HEADS OF FACULTY FOR 2025

As we close the chapter on another remarkable academic year, it’s a pleasure to reflect on the many successes achieved across the Humanities and Business Faculty. From thought-provoking inquiries to entrepreneurial ventures that brought theory to life, our students have demonstrated curiosity, creativity, and a commitment to understanding the world around them. 2025 has been a testament to the power of inquirybased learning and the relevance of Humanities and Business in shaping informed, engaged citizens.

In History, our Year 7 students began their Secondary studies by examining First Nations’ perspectives and connection to Country before exploring Ancient Egypt. In addition to developing their own historical inquiry into the significance of a selected pharaoh, students were visited by the Abbey Museum who provided a more hands-on opportunity for them to engage with Ancient Egyptian culture and namely, its practice of mummification.

Those sparked by such thoughtprovoking topics as to continue in senior explored enduring global issues and newly introduced topics that resonated with contemporary challenges. Year 12 students tackled the complexities of the Arab-Israeli conflict, engaging in nuanced discussions that highlighted the importance of historical context in understanding modern geopolitics. Meanwhile, Year 10 examined authoritarianism, a timely addition that sparked critical thinking about governance and political ideologies such as fascism. Year 11

students delved into The Troubles in Ireland, uncovering the layers of identity, conflict, and reconciliation that continue to influence the region today.

In Economics, students engaged with real-world issues gaining deeper insight into the relevance and appeal of the discipline. Exam topics such as market failure and the economics of gambling sparked lively thinking, demonstrating how economic theory can illuminate not just a phone screen and sports team, but everyday decisions and societal trends.

Geography students embraced hands-on learning this year through fieldwork and technology. Using tools such as ArcGIS, drones, and online surveys, they collected and analysed data in diverse environments. Year 11 students investigated ecological threats at Boondall Wetlands, assessing the impact of environmental conditions and human activity. Year 10 students studied coastal processes and erosion at Palm Beach where Cyclone Alfred certainly made waves this year. Our Year 9 students explored South Bank, evaluating its cultural significance and readiness for the 2032 Brisbane Olympic and Paralympic Games. Collectively, these experiences

not only built technical skills but also deepened students’ appreciation for the interconnectedness of people and place.

In Legal Studies, our Year 11 students explored the deeply personal and ethically complex topic of medical negligence. Their investigations revealed the human side of law and the importance of legal frameworks in protecting individuals and ensuring accountability.

Business students brought learning to life through excursions and enterprise. Year 10 students visited IKEA to investigate the marketing strategies of a mature business, while Senior students evaluated business diversification strategies. Our Year 8 and 9 students participated in the national $20 Boss program, using start-up capital to launch their own ventures and develop entrepreneurial thinking. The annual TLC Christmas Markets opened this up to all students to showcase their creativity, with profits being donated to charitable causes. Finally, our studentled entrepreneurship group, YouCo, built on last year’s success with Housethemed laptop skins by designing and producing House mascot plushie keyrings—an exciting project that taught students about design, prototyping, and manufacturing.

As we reflect on 2025, it’s clear our students have not only gained knowledge but also developed the skills and dispositions needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world.

The Humanities and Business Faculty at TLC continues to be a place where students are empowered to ask questions, think critically, embrace challenge, and shape our future. We look forward to building on this momentum in 2026.

Year 10 Geography Excursion

SCIENCE

DES HYLTON | HEAD OF FACULTY

At this year’s Under 8s Day, our College theme of Connectedness came to life as approximately 30 Year 7–9 students ran eight engaging Science stalls for the Junior School. From a States of Matter game and Mini Lava Lamps to Marshmallow Madness and Samson and his Electrifying Compadres, younger students were immersed in curriculum-linked activities that sparked curiosity and built joyful cross-campus connections. The event highlighted how Science can foster collaboration and inspire learning across our school community.

Year 7 students began their Science journey by earning their coveted Bunsen burner licences, demonstrating safe and confident use. This excitement flowed into their chemical science unit, where students engaged in co-inquiry to design their own methods for separating mixtures. They applied their

learning in a practical investigation, using Bunsen burners to evaporate solutions and reveal the solute, an exciting and empowering start to high school Science!

Year 8 students explored energy transformations by designing and building their own working kettles. Through constructing circuits and boiling water, they deepened their understanding of electrical and heat energy, as well as convection. This immersive project brought physics to life in a meaningful and memorable way.

In Year 9 Science, students developed innovative solutions to problems through the use of chemical science, involving considerable depth in creating and reacting with unique molecules. Their work reflected the concept of conservation of mass while also

utilising generative AI to develop and present their innovative solutions.

In Year 10 Science, students tackled the challenge: “Can you build a creatively unique crumple zone on a car that is backed by Science?” They designed and tested prototype crumple zones for their model carts, using data and peer review to refine their ideas. The project emphasised how Physics, particularly forces and motion, can be applied in creative ways to design safer, more effective solutions. For the Year 10 electives, the clear favourites this year were learning about infectious diseases (Biology), using titration analysis to determine the concentration of a solution (Chemistry), conducting experiments to determine the thermal equilibrium of different metals (Physics), and learning about mindfulness and the psychology of criminality (Psychology).

In Term 4, Senior Biology students ventured to Shelly Beach for a field study focused on coastal ecosystems. They conducted practical investigations, recording data on species distribution and environmental factors to better understand patterns within the intertidal zone. The day offered an invaluable opportunity to experience Biology in action, strengthening their skills in observation, analysis, and scientific inquiry.

The 2025 International Chemistry Quiz was a unique chemistry education initiative for students in Years 7–12, offering a dynamic and engaging exploration of chemistry beyond the classroom. Designed to inspire curiosity, it challenges students to apply their knowledge to real-world scenarios and it’s truly international, attracting participants from across Australia and around the globe. This

Scan this QR Code to watch the Student Created Elements Song Video

year, 22 TLC students took part. Congratulations to all participants, and a particular shout-out to Cynthia S, Jemayne N and Summer D for achieving Distinctions!

Senior Physics students visited QUT for an immersive Physics experience led by current university students. They explored data modelling using motion sensors, ramps, and springs, learning how to fit and test mathematical models. The day wrapped up with the Physics Observatory and a student life presentation, offering a glimpse into university life and the wonders of Physics across the solar system.

In November, some of our Senior Psychology students enjoyed a visit to The University of Queensland’s Integrated Pathology Learning Centre. They explored authentic human pathology specimens and took part in

engaging workshops on brain function, neurological disorders, and mental health. The experience gave students a unique opportunity to connect their classroom learning with the real-world study of brain structure and function in both health and disease.

This year’s Science program celebrated connection through authentic, handson learning experiences that extended well beyond the classroom and traditional assessments. From crosscampus collaborations to real-world investigations, students deepened their understanding while strengthening the growing bridge between our Junior and Secondary Schools.

2025 has been a year of discovery, innovation, and connection. From Junior School collaborations to Senior field studies, our students have embraced every challenge with curiosity and creativity. These experiences not only strengthened their scientific knowledge but also built confidence, teamwork, and a passion for exploring the world around them. We look forward to seeing how this spirit of inquiry continues to grow in the years ahead.

TECHNOLOGIES

EIMEAR GREANEY | HEAD OF FACULTY

This year has been an inspiring one for the Technologies Faculty, filled with creativity, innovation and handson learning. Across our classrooms, workshops and kitchens, students have embraced opportunities to explore, design, problem-solve and bring their ideas to life.

In Food Technologies and Food & Nutrition, students have grown their confidence in the kitchen, experimenting with flavours and refining their practical skills while building an understanding of nutrition and wellbeing. From everyday meals to inventive creations, the focus has been on equipping students with lifelong skills and an appreciation for the role food plays in culture and health. “I loved learning how to cook meals that I could make for my family at home” Year 9 student.

Our Industrial Arts students have been busy working with wood, acrylic and design processes to create projects that are both practical and personal, while Textiles students have designed and constructed pieces that combine creativity with technical skill. Both areas have highlighted persistence, craftsmanship and the value of learning by making.

The digital world has been thriving too. Creative Coding has given students space to bring their imagination to life through interactive games and storytelling, while Digital Innovation has challenged them to think critically about how technology can solve real-world problems. In Digital Solutions, our Senior students have tackled complex coding projects, web applications, and data-driven solutions, pushing their skills to professional levels. “Coding has shown me that even

if something doesn’t work the first time, you can always problem-solve and find a new way,” Year 11 student.

Engineering and STEM have offered exciting opportunities for collaboration and inquiry. From designing and testing prototypes to competing in challenges, students have shown determination, teamwork, and problem-solving in action. Highlights included representing TLC in the TELG Bridge Building competition and taking part in the Premier’s Coding Challenge, both of which gave students a chance to apply their skills in real-world and competitive contexts. “The bridge building challenge taught us how important it is to work as a team” Year 10 student.

Beyond the classroom, students engaged in rich learning experiences through excursions, including a trip

to SeaLife, where they explored data collection and marine science connections, and Aussie World, which provided a playful yet practical lens on engineering, design, and innovation. These excursions brought learning to life and deepened student understanding of how technologies shape the world around us.

A highlight of the year was TLC TechFest, our student-led celebration of learning. The event brought together students from across the faculty to showcase their projects in robotics, coding, engineering, food, and design. TechFest also welcomed families, industry guests, and the wider community, providing an

authentic platform for our students to present their ideas, innovations and achievements. It was a proud moment that captured the heart of Technologies at TLC showing collaboration, creativity and courage.

Across all of these diverse learning areas, our students have demonstrated the values of the Lakes Learner capabilities. We are proud of the growth, creativity and courage our students have shown in 2025. Technologies is a space where ideas come to life and this year has been no exception. We can’t wait to see what our students will imagine, design and create in 2026!

THE ARTS

WENDY JOHNSTON | HEAD OF FACULTY

Celebrating Creativity: The Arts at The Lakes College in 2025

In 2025, TLC continued to champion the Arts as a vital part of holistic education, nurturing confident, creative learners across Dance, Drama, Media Arts, Music, and Visual Art. From Year 7 through to Year 12, students explored artistic expression, developed technical skills, and connected deeply with their world through imaginative inquiry and performance.

Years 7–8: Building Foundations and Passion

In Years 7 and 8, students rotated through Arts subjects, gaining exposure to diverse disciplines. Dance explored storytelling and popular culture; Drama introduced improvisation and documentary theatre; Media Arts focused on silent film and music video production; Music celebrated global traditions and looping compositions; and Visual Art encouraged experimentation with Australian flora and fauna themes and pop art.

Students also had the opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom with excursions to GOMA and The Lovers production at QPAC as part of the Brisbane Festival, enriching their understanding of contemporary artistic practice.

Years 9-10: Preparation and Pathways

By Year 9, students selected Arts electives for deeper engagement. Dance students choreographed identity pieces and collaborated with younger peers. Drama explored Magical Realism and Greek Theatre. Media Arts students produced trailers and promotional portfolios. Music students composed rock and video game scores, as well as performed in rock bands. Visual Art students created story-driven wellness-inspired works and curated exhibitions.

Year 9 Media Arts students also enjoyed a Noosa Film Academy incursion, while Drama students attended live theatre experiences including Sister Act and The Complete Works of William Shakespeare

(Abridged) at QPAC. Dance students were inspired by Illume, performed by Bangarra Dance Theatre at QPAC, expanding their appreciation for diverse cultural expressions through movement.

Our Year 10 students refined their skills further, aligning with Senior pathways. Music students studied fusion and film music, composing and performing with increasing sophistication. Visual Arts students undertook inquirybased projects, developing bodies of work that reflected personal and contemporary themes.

Senior Years: Mastery and Meaning

In Years 11 and 12, students embraced the Arts as both creators and critical thinkers.

Drama students engaged with diverse theatrical styles—from Realism and Australian Gothic to Epic Theatre and contemporary performance. Through performance, dramatic concept development, and practiceled projects, they explored how

drama reflects and challenges human experience. The curriculum encouraged students to transform inherited texts and develop their own artistic voice.

In Music, students refined their musicianship through composition, performance, and musicology. They explored the ways music is designed and how music communicates cultural, political, social, and personal identity. Their learning was enriched by critical engagement with music from varied genres and eras, enabling them to cultivate and articulate their individual musical voice.

Visual Art students worked as both artists and audiences, exploring personal, cultural, and contemporary contexts. Using an inquiry model, they developed individualised responses through diverse media—2D, 3D, and time-based. Units such as Art as Lens, Art as Code, and Art as Alternate guided students in constructing meaning and challenging conventions. Year 11 Visual Art students also participated in an IA1 stimulus excursion to the Brisbane Museum and Brisbane City, directly informing their creative investigations. The culmination of their work was the annual Imagination Art Exhibition, showcasing folios of diverse and sophisticated artworks.

A Culture of Creative Endeavour

The Arts at The Lakes College are underpinned by the Lakes Learner capabilities—Knowledge, Connection, Curiosity, and Character. Students are empowered to take creative risks, collaborate meaningfully, and reflect deeply. Supported by passionate educators and a vibrant learning community, they flourish as artists, thinkers, and leaders.

As we celebrate the achievements of 2025, we acknowledge the transformative power of the Arts in shaping confident, compassionate individuals. With our new Performing Arts spaces opening in 2026, the opportunities for our Creative and Performing Artists will only continue to grow and inspire.

Hip Hop Workshop with Shane Dechavez

Yr 9 Noosa Film Academy Workshop

Scan this QR to see more of the Arts

WHPE

(WELLBEING, HEALTH & PHYSICAL EDUCATION)

AARON CLOHESY | HEAD OF FACULTY

Wellbeing, Health and Physical Education (WHPE) has been an exciting and enriching journey for students across all year levels in 2025. From building resilience and confidence through Wellbeing lessons, to developing lifelong health knowledge and exploring a wide range of sports and physical activities, WHPE has played a vital role in shaping not only our students’ skills but also their character. With opportunities that extend from the classroom to camps, carnivals, and real-world experiences, our WHPE program continues to inspire students to thrive physically, socially, and emotionally.

This year, our Year 7 students explored important topics to support their growth and wellbeing. In Wellbeing, they learned about the physical, social, and emotional changes of puberty. Health units focused on nutrition, where students reflected on their own eating habits, and harm minimisation, which included creating safety-themed infomercials. In Physical Education, students developed teamwork and skills through team games, Basketball, Netball, and the Term 4 Swimming program.

Year 8 students have looked at cyber safety which has included talks from Eyes Open Social Media that instill students with the skills necessary to thrive in this online world. In Health, students developed their own fitness programs after completing their own goal setting and fitness testing, they investigated the anatomy of movement and learnt about first aid. Students participated in a range of physical activities, however the highlight was the Year 8 Ballroom dance unit.

In Year 9 WHPE, students participated in a comprehensive program designed to support their physical, emotional, and social development. The Wellbeing units focused on mental health, where students learned strategies for managing stress and building resilience, and respectful relationships, which explored communication, empathy, and inclusivity. In Health, students undertook an action research project,

identifying and investigating a health concern of personal relevance, and proposing practical solutions. The Physical Education component included a diverse range of sports such as Swimming, AFL, Volleyball, European Handball, and Cricket, allowing students to develop teamwork, coordination, and fitness through engaging practical experiences.

This year, our Year 10 students explored key concepts in sport and movement through engaging practical and theoretical units. They developed skill acquisition through expert-led golf coaching, delivered by a professional from Pine Rivers Golf Club. As part of their assessment for Athletics, students created a biomechanical analysis folio of their chosen athletics event, applying scientific principles to evaluate and improve their performance in athletics. They developed their tactical awareness through game performance and video analysis of their badminton or pickleball games.

Our Senior PE students have undertaken a rich and diverse learning journey across Years 11 and 12. In Year 11, students explored skill acquisition and applied their learning by teaching Primary students, later comparing these experiences with teaching Year 8s to reflect on developmental learning traits. They completed an analysis of an athletics event and participated in a flag football practical unit. The year concluded with a focus on sport \ psychology, applied through strategic gameplay in Futsal.

In Year 12, students demonstrated advanced understanding through a series of in-depth investigations. They created folios analysing tactical awareness and strategy in Basketball, explored ethical dilemmas in sport, and conducted a detailed study of their physiological adaptations to training for Athletics. These units combined practical performance with critical thinking, preparing students for future studies and careers in sport, health, and education.

P.A.R.T.Y. Program

Senior Health "Sleepout"

Senior Health has been a highlight for us this year, offering not just engaging lessons but real-world knowledge that we’ll carry with us long after graduation. With a curriculum that’s both insightful and applicable, we found ourselves genuinely interested in the topics, motivated to tackle assessments, and supported by great scaffolding for exams. A huge shoutout goes to our passionate and dedicated teachers who make every class feel meaningful and fun.

One of the unique parts of our learning experience was starting each lesson with five minutes of journaling. We’d reflect on three things we were grateful for, write an affirmation, and respond to a journal prompt. It helped us reset, focus, and build a positive mindset— something we really valued throughout the year.

A standout experience was the sleepout, where we gained a deeper understanding of homelessness - despite the lights staying on and

making sleep a challenge! From playing line tag to vlogging the night, it was a bonding experience that brought us closer together. Other memorable moments included trying out alcohol goggles during the alcohol expo, hearing from Helen from Redcliffe Breakfast Club, and watching Love on the Spectrum to explore respectful relationships.

The year was packed with engaging activities like the P.A.R.T.Y. program, sticky note boards, poster-making, and lively class discussions. These moments didn’t just make learning fun—they helped us connect, reflect, and grow. Senior Health wasn’t just a subject; it was a journey of discovery, empathy, and connection.

Quotes from some of our Health students:

Fraser K "it was a great subject, everybody was nice"

Zac O "it was eye-opening to learn about homelessness - about what it's

really like for people who experience homelessness"

Baylee K "My Senior Health class gave me an experience I will never forget!"

Lara C "I enjoyed the interactive activities when learning about alcohol"

Maia P "The insight I have gained in Health has improved who I am and what I value as an individual"

Ellie S "I enjoyed every aspect of Health and it was SO much fun!"

Bella C "I'd highly recommend taking Health as a subject because it builds a su pportive classroom environment for me to develop my personal skills an d strengthen community action to help me and the TLC community FLOURISH"

Maurice D "I loved the environment th at Ms Parker brings to the classroom and the people in it are cool"

PATHWAYS

CLARA ALECKSON | HEAD OF PATHWAYS

"I cannot do everything, but I can do something. I must not fail to do the something that I can do." Helen Keller

Throughout 2025 students have embraced and engaged in a myriad of activities, experiences, programs, and qualifications to ensure they grow as learners and global citizens before leaving TLC. This year, students started apprenticeships, completed qualifications, attended experience days, were empowered by the Future Ready Expo, competed in World Scholars Cup, met with professionals, and immersed themselves in work experience.

The Pathways program at The Lakes College has continued to grow and develop over the course of 2025, with our first ever cohort of 18 students graduating with a Diploma of Business. Students begin their Diploma journey in Year 11, attending five lessons a week over two years. It is an empowering step for the College to witness such capable young adults attain a nationally recognised qualification whilst also achieving incredible results in their Year 12 studies. We are beyond proud of everyone who has been involved in attaining a Diploma in 2025.

It has been an extremely exciting and busy year, with new opportunities emerging both on and off campus. Throughout the year students have continued to surpass our expectations

and have gained a total of 57 certificate qualifications, studying both internally and through external organisations. Throughout 2025 students completed the following:

•QUT Start: JSB171 Justice and Society

•QUT Start: EUB112 Child & Adolescent Development and Learning

• Diploma of Business

• Certificate IV in Justice Studies

•Certificate IV in Real Estate Practice

•Certificate IV in Dance

•Certificate III in Sport & Recreation

•Certificate III in Health Services Assistance

•Certificate III in Retail

•Certificate III in Visual Arts

•Certificate III in Community Dance, Theatre and Events

•Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot)

• Certificate III in Dance

•Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance

•Certificate II in Electrotechnology

•Certificate II in Rural Operations

•Certificate II in Engineering Pathways

•Certificate II in Sport & Recreation

•Certificate II in Cookery

•Certificate II in Apparel, Fashion and Textiles

•Certificate II in Music

•Certificate II in Health Support Services

•Certificate I in Construction

In addition to students gaining qualifications, some additional highlights of the year include:

•72 students engaged in work experience across a variety of fields including, but not limited to, business, engineering, education, aviation, defence force, real estate, beauty, and law.

• 125 students attended experience days at varying Universities, for a variety of fields, exploring Creative Industries, Health, Engineering, Law and Design.

•The Future Ready Expo showcased 18 stalls to help Secondary students understand their external pathways’ options.

•6 students attended the Future Leaders Day at UQ to enhance their skillsets as student leaders and leaders beyond school.

•2 teams competed in the World Scholars Cup, and The Lakes College won both the Junior and Senior debating competitions.

•6 students engaged in short courses and trade tasters to further their knowledge and skillset.

All students have been respectful ambassadors for TLC in 2025. Thank you to the course coordinators, RTO establishments, TAFE, Red Frogs, Universities, and organisations that helped our programs and students thrive this year. We look forward to working in partnership with these and more organisations in 2026 as the program continues to develop and grow. A special thank you to the incredible staff who facilitate, and train our certificates run on campus, we could not have accomplished so much without their dedication and diligence.

STUDENTS & AI

TEAGAN DARE | DIRECTOR OF DIGITAL AGENCY & DATA ANALYTICS

When curiosity meets code

This year, students at The Lakes College have been discovering what it means to learn with artificial intelligence in ways that are playful, thoughtful, and uniquely their own. For our youngest learners, AI arrived through song. Year 1 students used Suno to compose an original piece about natural, managed, and constructed features, which they proudly performed on assembly using AUSLAN and their beautiful singing voices. Their joy as they sang something they had helped create was a powerful reminder that AI can ignite imagination rather than replace it. Across Primary, this same spirit of curiosity and creativity has flourished –through stories, problem-solving, and creative expression – proving that AI can enhance learning while keeping the human voice at the centre.

In Secondary, AI became a tool for curiosity and challenge. In English, students used AI-generated images to enhance the multimodal elements of their narratives, sparking deeper critical and emotional responses from readers. In Humanities, AI served as a conversation partner for research, prompting students to question bias, accuracy, and reliability while comparing its insights with established sources. Modern History students were

captivated by NotebookLM podcasts, which distilled content into engaging conversations and opened up new perspectives on the past. In Media Arts, students designed striking film posters using Microsoft Copilot, while Year 9 Science students partnered with Copilot, Perplexity, and CanvaAI to break down complex concepts, generate creative ideas, and prepare polished presentations on using chemical transformations to create a better world. In every subject, the real value lay not in the tools themselves but in the discussions, critical thinking, and collaboration they inspired.

To guide this learning, students drew on the AI Assessment Scale (AIAS), adapted from the research of Leon Furze. The scale encouraged them

to reflect on their use of AI in ways that were ethical and purposeful, challenging them to demonstrate how AI extended their thinking or opened up creative possibilities rather than acting as a shortcut.

What has stood out most this year is the spirit with which students embraced this new way of learning. They approached AI with curiosity and care, laughing at its mistakes, questioning its outputs, and celebrating the moments when their own ideas surpassed the machine. At TLC, AI has not been about replacing learning but strengthening it. Most importantly, it has shown that our students are ready to step into the future with imagination, integrity, and confidence.

LIFT

(LEARNING INTERVENTIONS FOR TRANSFORMATION)

At The Lakes College, we value the unique learning needs of every student and are committed to fostering an inclusive environment where each learner feels supported, empowered, and capable of achieving both academic and personal growth. The LIFT team works in close collaboration with classroom teachers to ensure students can access the curriculum, experience success, and build confidence in their abilities.

ELLA MARTIN | PRIMARY LIFT

What a remarkable year it has been for the Primary LIFT Team. Each day, we are reminded that learning looks different for every student and that diversity and individuality is precisely what makes education so beautiful. This year, the LIFT team was excited to see the addition of new reach programs, trial new assistive technologies, and explore the benefits of AI tools to continue to provide highquality, varied, and inclusive learning experiences for our students.

Excitedly, our Year 5 and 6 students, who demonstrated strength in mathematical problem-solving, once again represented our school in the APSMO International Maths Competition. Their impressive results, including many personal bests, reflected not only their growing skills but also their persistence and confidence. High-achieving students in Years 3 and 4, for the first time participated in the APSMO Maths Explorer program, an engaging initiative that expanded their mathematical thinking and fostered deeper learning. Similarly, students in Years 1 and 2 took part in Maths Quest, also for the first time, a program designed to enrich and challenge their understanding of mathematical concepts. These additional opportunities enabled students to apply their knowledge in varied and meaningful contexts, while also making sure Mathematics is a fun and rewarding experience.

Just as we have nurtured problemsolving and critical thinking through Mathematics, the LIFT team have also continued to invest in building strong foundational literacy skills. As author Margaret Fuller once said, “Today a reader, tomorrow a leader.” Understanding that oral language

development is a critical component of early literacy, we have prioritised scaffolded learning in this area in the Prep year. This has seen nearly onethird of our Prep students involved in the Language Lift Program to strengthen their oral language skills. This evidence-based initiative targets key areas of early literacy development including vocabulary, spoken grammar, story comprehension, and narrative production.

In addition to programs, the LIFT team has embraced innovative assistive technologies designed to support the diverse needs of our learners. Some students have trialled using the C-pen, a handheld reading device that scans words and reads them aloud, enabling students to engage more fully with learning activities when reading is not the learning target. The LIFT team is also exploring several AI tools for use in targeted support lessons. For example, Suno transforms lengthy information into catchy songs, making content more memorable and engaging, while Mizou provides personalised chats, quizzes, and information that adapt in real time to students’ understanding and areas for growth. With adult guidance and support, these tools will help some students access learning and participate with greater confidence

Beyond the classroom, the LIFT team has continued to provide consistent encouragement, guidance, and care, reminding students that learning is not just about results, but also about growth, resilience, and enjoying the journey along the way. Building strong connections is always a focus, with team members actively participating in a wide range of student experiences, including camps , Gala Days, excursions, incursions, and school events. These

shared experiences offered valuable opportunities to deepen relationships, foster trust, and better understand each student as a unique individual beyond the classroom. As Albert Einstein wisely said, “Everyone is a genius. But if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is not.” This sentiment reflects the heart of our approach, recognising and celebrating each student’s strengths and progress; however, they may present.

We are proud of the unique strengths and progress of every student and look forward to building on these in the year ahead.

JAYLENE MOORE & KRISTEL JOHNS | SECONDARY LIFT

Supporting Learners in Years 7–9

In Junior Secondary, identified students are invited to participate in our Individual Curriculum Support Program, which places a strong focus on developing core skills and building effective learning habits. These sessions not only strengthen confidence but also encourage greater independence in learning.

This year, the program introduced guided use of AI tools in lessons, helping students engage with new technologies in safe, purposeful, and effective ways. Students have been taught how to write prompts to access information, plan writing tasks, generate practice exam questions, summarise key ideas, and explore alternative approaches to problemsolving. Through this process, they

are learning to question, refine, and critically evaluate the information AI provides - valuable skills for their future learning and beyond.

Years 10–12: Extending and Supporting Success

The LIFT Program continues to play a vital role in supporting students across Upper Secondary, with tailored strategies developed in close collaboration with Heads of Faculty and classroom teachers. Support is highly individualised and may include in-class assistance, one-to-one sessions during study periods, or adjustments and guidance during exams. These approaches are designed to consolidate or extend student learning, while building confidence and ensuring meaningful progress.

Students also benefit from assistive technologies such as speech-to-text tools. In Year 11 Essential English, for example, students have used online speech programs that provide feedback on clarity, tone, and pace, helping them refine their presentations and gain greater confidence in public speaking.

The LIFT Program remains a cornerstone of our commitment to inclusive education, ensuring every learner is given the opportunity to succeed. By combining strong foundations, innovative tools, and personalised support, LIFT helps our students grow as confident, independent, and resilient Lakes Learners.

LIBRARY

THERESE STAFFORD | HEAD OF LIBRARY & RESEARCH

The excitement of books and stories continues to grow each year at The Lakes College. All Primary classes, Year 7 English, and research classes visit the Library regularly, and both Primary and Secondary students enjoy the Library as a welcoming space before school, at lunchtime, and after school.

Building Community Connections

This year, our Library worked to be better connected with our local community. We partnered with North Lakes Library to encourage our Year 1 students to become members and expand their love of reading. As part of this initiative, we hosted their “Story Dogs” program, where George the dog and his handler Andrea joined students for an engaging library lesson. Each child also received a membership form for Moreton Bay Libraries, further strengthening our community connections.

Author Visits and Writing Workshops

Collaborative curriculum planning brought exciting opportunities to many year levels. A highlight was Year 4’s study of Leo and Ralph by Peter Carnavas. The Library arranged for Peter to run workshops with each class, where students explored how books are created, how illustrations tell stories, and how authors develop ideas.

Author/Illustrator Remy Lai, worked with our Year 5 classes and explored how to portray emotions through illustrations and workshopped ideas on how to change features to demonstrate feelings. These rich experiences provided meaningful connections between classroom learning and the world of storytelling.

Book Fair – Quick Brown Fox Bookstore

In 2025, we launched a bespoke Book Fair with Quick Brown Fox Bookstore, held alongside our Grandparents and Special Friends’ Day celebrations. Families loved browsing titles, sharing reading interests, and receiving tailored book suggestions. Thanks to our community’s generosity, the fair raised $1,400 in commission credit, which is now being used to purchase new books for the Library.

Readers Cup Challenge

In Term 1, our Year 5 and 6 students competed in a school-based Readers Cup before representing TLC at the Brisbane North Regional Competition. After weeks of preparation, our Year 5 team placed 16th and Year 6 came 22nd out of 55 teams. A highlight was meeting author Anneliese Byrd, who MC’d the event and encouraged students.

We also hosted the Brisbane North Region Years 7 and 8 Readers Cup, with one TLC team competing. Our students embraced the challenge of recalling details from their set novels and enjoyed meeting author Pamela Rushby, who shared insights from her writing journey.

Years 5 and 6 Books in the competition were:

• Losing the Plot by Anneliese Byrd

• Spy Academy: The Peak by Jack Heath

• Leo and Ralph by Peter Carnavas

• The Kindness Project by Deborah Abela

• Ember and the Island of Lost Creatures by Jason Pamment

Years 7 and 8 Books in the competition were:

• Interned by Pamela Rushby

• Evenfall: The Golden Linnet by Alexander Armstrong

• Six Summers of Tash and Leopold by Danielle Binks

• The Apprentice Witnesser by Bren MacDibble

• Something Somewhere by Richard Yaxley

Book Week – Book an Adventure

This year’s Book Week theme, Book an Adventure, inspired creativity across the College. The celebrations included author workshops with Remy Lai, lunchtime activities, and the muchanticipated Book Character Parades. A new addition was the Diorama Competition, which saw 28 creative entries depicting favourite book scenes. So many were outstanding that we expanded the prize pool, awarding vouchers from Quick Brown Fox to multiple winners.

We are grateful to everyone who supported the Library in 2025. From exciting author visits and competitions to community partnerships and joyful celebrations, it has been a year full of stories and adventures. We look forward to “booking more adventures” with our community in 2026!

George from Story Dogs

OUTDOOR EDUCATION YEAR 3–6 CAMPS

BUILDING SKILLS BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

The Year 3–6 Outdoor Education Program offers students exciting opportunities to learn, grow, and challenge themselves in safe, supportive environments. Each year level embarks on a carefully tailored camp experience designed to complement their personal and social development.

For Year 3 students, the journey begins with their first camp away at Luther Heights. This experience helps students build independence, manage a night away from home, and apply essential safety skills in new environments. They are encouraged to take risks, try new activities, and develop resilience and perseverance. Teamwork, communication, relationship building,

conflict resolution, and socialemotional awareness are all key focus areas, supported by reflective practices and strategies for emotional regulation.

Year 4 students continue their growth at Kindilan with a two-night camp, reinforcing the skills introduced in Year 3 while tackling new challenges. Activities are designed to promote collaboration, problem-solving, and personal growth, allowing students to gain confidence in unfamiliar settings.

As students progress to Years 5 and 6, the program shifts toward leadership, peer relationships, and preparation for the transition to Secondary School. Year 5 students spend two nights at QCCC Brookfield,

exploring leadership opportunities, goal setting, and effective collaboration and communication. Year 6 students conclude the program with a two-night experience at Maroochy Waterfront Camp, celebrating the end of Primary School while strengthening empathy, conflict resolution, perseverance, and social-emotional awareness. Both camps offer ample opportunities for reflective practices and informed decision-making in engaging, outdoor settings.

Students leave each camp not only with practical skills but also with confidence, resilience, and friendships that last well beyond the school grounds.

YEAR 7–9 CAMPS

Year 7 Camp: Step Up & Embrace the Challenge

In Week 2 of Term 1, our Year 7s packed their bags (and maybe a few too many snacks) and headed off on their first big adventure together. The “Step Up and Embrace the Challenge” camp took place at Luther Heights on the Sunshine Coast from Tuesday 4 February to Friday 7 February. With 110 excited students, 12 teaching staff, three specialist staff, and eight energetic Year 12 leaders, it was always going to be an action-packed four days.

Heading to camp so early in the year felt a little daunting, especially for those who were brand new to the College. Nerves quickly turned into smiles. By the end of the bus ride there was laughter, and by the first night new friendships had already begun. As James from Year 7 summed it up: “It was amazing! I have so many memories from camp and made friendships that will last a lifetime.”

The big goal of camp was simple: build connections and create a sense of belonging. That is exactly what happened. Across 15 activity sessions, students were encouraged to try new things, step outside their comfort zones, and cheer each other on.

And the highlights? There were plenty. The flying fox had students soaring through the air, while the high ropes course gave everyone a reason to conquer their fears and their wobbly knees. Then came the escape room, where teamwork proved that two, three, or ten heads are definitely better than one. Of course, there were also beach games, full of sun, sand, and plenty of giggles. And the final night fashion show? Let us just say the runway was so good it could have been mistaken for Camp Couture Week!

On top of all that, the food was a winner. Butter chicken took out the title of “best dinner,” while the Smartie surprise ice cream cones were gone faster than you could say “save me one!”.

But more than the activities, camp was about growing in confidence, creating memories, and starting the Secondary journey with new friends by your

Our Year 7s truly stepped up, embraced the challenge, and made it an unforgettable start to the year.

A big thank you goes to all of the TLC staff and Year 12 leaders who made camp possible. Without them, we would probably still be stuck in the escape room!

Kristy McNally, Year 7 Camp Organiser

Year 8 Camp: Rollercoaster of Life

The Year 8 Camp at Big 4 Gold Coast Holiday Park was a memorable three days filled with laughter, teamwork, and moments of personal growth. With the focus on strengthening whole-cohort connections, students embraced the opportunity to step outside their usual friendship groups and engage with one another in new and meaningful ways.

From the very first session, students were challenged to step out of their comfort zones. Activities such as the camp pitch and the House war cry competition encouraged creativity, confidence, and school spirit. Tabbil House emerged victorious in the spirited war cries, but every House brought persistence, enthusiasm,

side.

and energy to the challenge. The afternoon Beat the Clock Tournament showcased teamwork and resilience, with students taking on activities such as bottle flip, grubber kicks and hip-hop dragons. The day concluded with “Big Ups,” a time for peers to recognise the positive contributions of others—a practice that set a wonderful tone of encouragement for the rest of camp.

Evenings provided a chance to slow down and connect on a deeper level. Through conversation circles and more “Big Ups,” students reflected on the importance of kindness, gratitude, and respect. By the second night, during the ever-popular quiz night, the cohort demonstrated how humour and teamwork can turn even a trivia session into a highlight.

Day 2 brought the vibrant side show alley. In small groups, students designed and ran carnival-style games, learning to collaborate, show initiative, and support one another’s ideas. The afternoon aqua activities at the pool, jumping pillow, and water slides gave students a chance to simply enjoy being together. It was heartening to see staff and external facilitators commend the cohort’s positive behaviour and enthusiasm throughout the day.

The final day’s park race challenge at Movie World was a standout. Working in mixed teams, students took on creative challenges across the park, demonstrating teamwork, courage, and camaraderie. Many pushed past fears on the rides, encouraged by their peers, and left with memories they will treasure for years to come.

Across all three days, what stood out most was the way the students grew—not only in confidence, but also in how they recognised and celebrated the strengths of those around them. Their willingness to connect, support, and cheer for each other highlighted the true purpose of our Outdoor Education Program. The Year 8 cohort represented TLC with maturity, energy, and joy, and they should be proud of their efforts.

Madeleine Pearl Year 8 Camp Organiser

Year 9 Camp: Adventure, Challenge & Growth

After Alfred threatened to cancel our Year 9 Camp, we finally set off on Tuesday 6 May to QCCC Tamborine for a three-night leadership camp in the beautiful surrounds of Mt Tamborine. It was wonderful to see our Year 9 students fully engaging and stepping outside their comfort zones.

The camp began with a focus on teamwork during the Kokoda trail on the Witches Falls hike through the National Park. On returning to camp, students immediately took on stretcher-carrying exercises, working together to safely transport their ‘injured’ teammates back to base.

With the cooler, clear days of Autumn, we enjoyed two campfires, providing opportunities for students to bond.

The first night featured a reflective conversation circle, while the second night included singing and dancing around the fire. A highlight for many was the Tree Top Challenge, where students faced the high ropes course. Special recognition goes to those who initially doubted themselves but pushed through to complete a section, surprising both themselves and their peers.

Throughout the camp, students participated in numerous teambuilding activities, problem-solving games, and collaborative challenges. These exercises helped them discover their own strengths and weaknesses, as well as those of their peers.

Each day concluded with “Big Ups”, where students celebrated and acknowledged each other’s efforts and achievements.

Back at school on Friday, the cohort reflected on their year-level theme over a pizza lunch: The Good Shepherd: Leading from the front, the middle, and the back. Students considered how they had demonstrated leadership during the camp and explored how these lessons could be applied in their everyday lives.

A heartfelt thank you goes to all staff and Character Builders who attended and ran the program. We hope the Year 9 students have embraced the messages and experiences from camp, carrying them forward into their daily lives.

Sarah Ha, Year 9 Camp Organiser

YEAR 10 CAMP

Mt Binga: Building Resilience, Independence and Community Spirit

For the month of August our students attended our Year 10 Camp experience at Mt Binga, providing an unforgettable experience for all involved. This provided students an opportunity to step beyond the comfort of everyday routines and immerse themselves in a program designed to challenge, inspire, and transform. The camp’s core philosophy centres on fostering resilience, independence, and a deeper understanding of the importance of community contribution, values that are at the core of The Lakes College.

Over the 14 day Mt Binga Camp, students were encouraged to take responsibility for themselves and others in meaningful, practical ways. From the moment they arrived, students were tasked with learning essential life skills. These included the distribution of food, preparing and cooking meals not just for themselves but also for their peers, as well as taking responsibility for cleaning their cabins and managing their own laundry. For many, this was their first real taste of self-sufficiency, and it offered invaluable lessons in organisation, cooperation, and accountability.

A central focus of Mt Binga is instilling the value of giving back. Students were actively involved in contributing to the camp community by participating in a variety of farm duties. These included milking cows, gardening, helping with farm maintenance and repairs, and caring for the animals. These tasks, while at times physically demanding, taught students the importance of hard work and community service. Many left with a newfound appreciation for what it means to

live a life that is not just for oneself, but in service of others.

One of the most memorable and rewarding elements of the camp was the three-day hike through the beautiful Bunya Mountains National Park. Equipped with only what they could carry on their backs, students faced the physical and mental challenge of navigating the wilderness together. It was a true test of endurance and teamwork. Mt Binga staff were deeply impressed by the determination, positive mindset, and camaraderie displayed by our students as they supported each other through this demanding experience.

This camp was not just about outdoor education; it was about personal growth. It was about discovering strengths that students did not know they had, building friendships grounded in shared challenge, and learning to contribute meaningfully to a community.

We would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all Year 10 families for their ongoing support. Your encouragement and trust were instrumental in making this transformative camp experience such a success. The growth in our students, evident in their independence, resilience, and sense of community, is a testament to the value of the Mt Binga experience.

Harry Ahrens, Year 10 Camp Organiser

YEAR 11 CAMP

At the beginning of Term 3, our Year 11 students embarked on a transformative leadership camp at Emu Gully Adventure Park, located in the rugged bushland of Helidon near Toowoomba. This unique experience marked a significant milestone in their journey toward becoming the Senior leaders of TLC, offering both challenge and inspiration in equal measure.

The Emu Gully program is renowned for its immersive and physically demanding activities, each designed to foster leadership, resilience, and teamwork. What sets this camp apart is its grounding in Australian military history, every challenge is based on real battles fought by Australian soldiers. These historical narratives provided a powerful backdrop for students to reflect on courage, sacrifice, and the importance of serving others.

Throughout the camp, students were placed in situations that required them to rely on one another, communicate effectively, and lead with integrity. Whether navigating obstacle courses, crossing muddy trenches, or working together to

solve complex team challenges, our students consistently rose to the occasion.

The camp also served as a catalyst for building stronger cohort connections. Students were encouraged to support one another, celebrate each other's successes, and learn from moments of struggle. This spirit of camaraderie and mutual respect was evident throughout the experience and will undoubtedly carry forward into their final year at TLC.

One of the most impactful aspects of the camp was the emphasis on servant leadership. Students were challenged to consider what it truly means to lead, not through authority or dominance, but through humility, empathy, and a commitment to the wellbeing of others.

As the Year 11 cohort continues their journey toward graduation, the lessons learned at Emu Gully will serve as a strong foundation for the leadership, service, and community spirit they will bring to TLC in 2026.

Luke

Stanley, Year 11 Camp Organiser

YEAR 12 CAMP

The 2025 school year began with a powerful and memorable experience for our Year 12 students, who embarked on an overnight retreat at the picturesque Alexandria Heads Conference Centre. This camp served as a vital opportunity for our Seniors to reconnect with one another, reflect on their journey so far, and prepare themselves mentally, emotionally, and spiritually for the challenges and responsibilities of their final year at TLC.

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Alexandria Headlands, the overnight camp offered a peaceful and inspiring environment for students to step away from the busyness of school life and re-centre themselves within their cohort.

Students participated in a range of activities designed to foster deeper connections, strengthen peer support networks, and build a sense of unity and purpose. From team-building exercises and group discussions to personal reflection sessions and shared meals, the camp created space for students to be vulnerable, authentic,

and supportive of one another. These moments helped to reinforce the importance of community and mutual encouragement as they step into their leadership roles within the College.

One of the key outcomes of the camp was the strengthening of cohort identity. Students were encouraged to consider what it means to be a Senior at TLC - not just in terms of academic expectations, but also in how they contribute to the culture, values, and wellbeing of the wider school community. Many students expressed a renewed sense of purpose and commitment to being positive role models and active participants in shaping the legacy of their graduating class.

Staff who attended the camp noted the maturity and enthusiasm with which students engaged in all aspects of the experience. It was a truly special way to begin the year, grounded in community, inspired by nature, and focused on growth.

Luke Stanley, Year 12 Camp Organiser

SPORT

ALEX BUTT – DIRECTOR OF SPORT & ACTIVITIES

Athletics

The 2025 Athletics Carnival at The Lakes College brought with it a wave of excitement, personal bests, and a stunning display of athletic talent across both Primary and Secondary schools. Students competed fiercely in a spirit of determination and sportsmanship, resulting in not only Age Champions and the fastest sprinters in the College, but also a staggering 32 new school records!

Fastest on the Track

The crown of the fastest 100m runners in the College went to four outstanding athletes who left the competition behind in thrilling sprints:

•Secondary School Fastest

100m: Cynthia S

•Secondary School Fastest 100m: Quinn W

•Primary School Fastest 100m: Ademide A

• Primary School Fastest 100m: Nathanael B

These sprinters not only took line honours but set the pace and spirit for the day, inspiring their peers and younger athletes.

Age Champions

Each age group across Primary and Secondary was hotly contested, with students showcasing their all-round athleticism across multiple events to earn the title of Age Champion. Congratulations to the following students:

Record-Breaking Achievements

One of the most exciting highlights of the 2025 carnival was the recordbreaking spree that saw 32 records shattered 17 in Secondary and 15 in Primary. The depth of talent on display this year was exceptional, with athletes pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.

Secondary Record Breakers

•James R (17): 100m, 200m

•Aaliyah B (14): 200m, Javelin, Long Jump

•William M (17): 400m, 1500m

• Rozelle D (Open): 400m

•Quinn W (14): Long Jump

•Jessica S (15): Long Jump

•Cynthia S (17): Triple Jump, Javelin

•Tristan E (17): Triple Jump

•Catrin L (17): Discus, Shot Put

•Laylah B (16): Javelin

•Aidan B (17): Shot Put

Primary Record Breakers

•Grace D (9): 200m, 400m

•Sophia M (10): 200m, 400m

• Zoe B (9): Shot Put

•Eli P (9): Shot Put

•Tilly V (8): 100m, 400m, 1500m, Discus

•Viaan D (8): Long Jump

•Leith M (10): 1500m

•Chase T (8): 400m, 1500m

• Timofay P (9): 400m

Special mention must go to Tilly V, who set an extraordinary four new records in a dominant display, and to Aaliyah B, who broke three Secondary records across track and field disciplines.

Prep – Year 2 Athletics Carnival

Our youngest athletes lit up the field at the Prep to Year 2 Athletics Carnival! With endless energy and smiles, students enjoyed a day of fun-filled, modified events including running races, long jump, high jump, discus, hurdles, shot put and even javelin. The carnival was all about participation, enjoyment and celebrating the spirit of sport, as our P-2 students gave their best effort and cheered each other on. It was a fantastic day of movement, laughter, and sporting excellence at TLC!

As the bar continues to rise year after year, the future of track and field at The Lakes College is bright. Congratulations to all competitors, record-breakers, and champions at the

Swimming

The 2025 results from our Swimming Carnival are taken from the Swimming Carnival held in November 2024. This ensures our Seniors can participate and also allows the event to be used as a selection process for students who will represent TLC at the Pine Rivers Districts trials in February the following year. This event also saw the very first use of our newly constructed grandstand. Our House chants tested the foundations of the build and the arena atmosphere created over the competing students was an amazing atmosphere for spectators and swimmers.

Champions of the Pool

The crown of the fastest 50m swimmers in the College went to four outstanding swimmers who powered through the water with incredible speed and determination:

•Secondary School Fastest: Zoe W

•Secondary School Fastest: Luke M

•Primary School Fastest: Merida C

• Primary School Fastest: Connor P

These swimmers not only touched the wall first but set the pace and spirit for the day, inspiring their peers and younger competitors.

Regional & State Swimming Representatives

A huge congratulations to our swimmers who qualified as Regional and State Swimming Representatives this year. Their dedication, hours of training, and determination in the pool have paid off, earning them the chance to compete at the next level.

•Sophia M

•Theo B

•Josh M

• Summer A

• David B

•Aaliyah B

•Josh M

•Luke M

•Jaxson R

• Zoe W

Prep – Year 2 Swimming Carnival

Our Prep to Year 2 students made a big splash at the P-2 Swimming Carnival, proudly demonstrating the skills and confidence they’ve developed through the TLC Swimming Program. In front of parents, carers and supporters, our youngest swimmers showed off their progress in the pool, from building water confidence to practicing stroke technique. The carnival was a celebration of learning, effort, and enjoyment, highlighting the fantastic achievements of our budding swimmers. A huge thank you to our Year 6 and Year 11 helpers for their support throughout the day.

Cross Country

This year’s Cross Country Carnival was one to remember, as students from across Primary and Secondary took on a brandnew course run entirely on The Lakes College grounds. With determination and school spirit on full display, students embraced the challenge of the fresh route and celebrated the joy of running together. A special highlight was the introduction of a new tradition a wholeschool student body lap in Secondary where every student united on the track, sharing in the excitement and community spirit of the day. The event was a fantastic celebration of participation, resilience and togetherness at TLC.

Regional & State Cross Country Achievements

Congratulations to our outstanding runners who have excelled at Regional and State levels this year!

• Harrison C

• William M

• Olivia V

Prep – Year 2 Cross Country Carnival

Our Prep to Year 2 students took on an exciting adventure at the Cross Country Carnival, running around the school oval and tackling a series of fun checkpoints along the way. From jumping and climbing to crawling and dodging balls, every challenge brought laughter, determination and plenty of smiles. The carnival was a wonderful celebration of movement, resilience and teamwork, as our youngest athletes embraced the course with boundless energy and enthusiasm.

Kumbarchu3rd

INTERHOUSE XCOUNTRY - Age Champions

8yrs & UTilly V Adi K

9yrs Grace D Henry S

10yrs Leith M Harry C

11yrs Aaliyah S Amal W

12yrs & O Matilda J Ethan T

12yrs Harlow B Kaden B

13yrs Jayda S Daham W

14yrs Chloe P Justin F

15yrs Anika S Levi R

16yrs Cynthia S Justin W

17yrs Rozelle D V Zac O

Kittabilla

NISSA

NISSA Primary

Throughout the year, students from Years 4 to 6 have proudly represented TLC in NISSA Gala Days, competing in seasonal sports including T-Ball, Touch Football, Basketball, Soccer, AFL, and Netball. These events offer more than just competition they encourage teamwork, skill development, and community spirit through a round-robin format that ensures all schools get plenty of game time and opportunity to shine.

In addition to Gala Days, our students also participate in the "Big Three" NISSA Carnivals: Swimming, Cross Country, and Athletics key events that showcase individual and team excellence across a wide range of disciplines. Congratulations to Primary NISSA Swimming team for taking out the Percentage Champions.

NISSA Secondary

The Secondary arm of NISSA continues to grow, with 2025 marking a new chapter through the introduction of Rugby 7s. The students participating in Rugby 7s have shown great interest and enjoyed the sport.

As well as Rugby 7s, Secondary students competed against other NISSA schools in Futsal, Netball, Touch Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Beach Volleyball and Football –all being very enjoyable competitions.

Secondary students also participated in the two NISSA Carnivals: Swimming and Cross Country.

Some notable results were achieved by TLC students in NISSA competitions:

• Division A Champions: Rugby 7 Senior Boys / Netball Junior Boys / Football Junior Boys / Basketball Junior Boys

• Division B Champions: Basketball Junior Boys / Football Senior Boys

Co-Curricular Sport

The co-curricular sports program offers students the chance to represent The Lakes College in competitive leagues held outside of regular school hours. Most of these competitions take place in the Brisbane Outer Schools League (BOSL), providing a great platform for students to develop their skills and enjoy interschool sport.

The sports offered each term in BOSL are:

• Term 1: Futsal

- Div 1 3rd Place Finish

• Term 2: Basketball

- Div 2 3rd Place Finish

• Term 3: Netball

- Div 2 3rd Place Finish

• Term 3: Volleyball

- Div 2 1st Place Finish

A special congratulations is to go to Mr Garry Williams and the Junior Girls who were crowned champions of the Division 2 Junior Girls Volleyball competition in Term 3 BOSL.

This program is perfect for students looking to stay active, compete at a higher level, and proudly represent their school.

Yr 7 & 8 BOSL Volleyball Winners

NISSA Basketball Yr 7 & 8

NISSA Track & Field Team

BOSL Boys Inter Team placed 3rd

Yr 7 & 8

Futsal U12 Boys North Brisbane School Futsal Titles

District Cross Country

Futsal U16 Boys North Brisbane School Futsal Titles

Futsal U13 Girls Runners Up North Brisbane School Futsal Titles

PERFORMING ARTS

KATRINA WELLINS | DIRECTOR OF PERFORMING ARTS

A Spectacular Year in Performing Arts

2025 has been a whirlwind of creativity, collaboration, and celebration for our Performing Arts department. From the very first notes played at the Secondary Music Camp in January, the year launched with energy and enthusiasm, setting the tone for what would become one of our most dynamic years yet.

Our talented ensembles proudly represented the school at the Queensland Youth Music Awards (QYMA), showcasing their musical excellence and teamwork. Meanwhile, Strike Theatre made waves with four festival appearances, earning well-deserved recognition for their compelling performances and ensemble strength.

The Dance Troupe dazzled across three Eisteddfods and a major concert, with 130 students participating—our largest group yet! This year also marked a milestone: the introduction of student choreography, giving dancers the chance to express their own creative voices on stage.

Another standout moment was the Secondary Jazz Orchestra’s tour to Mackay, where students attended the CQU Schools Jazz Festival. It was an amazing weekend of music-making, learning, and bonding—an experience we’ll never forget. We’re already counting down the days until our next tour!

In the Primary years, the Year 3 and 4 Immersion Concerts gave young musicians the unforgettable experience of performing on a professional stage, building confidence and inspiring future performers.

A true highlight of the year was our first-ever Music Gala Concert held at the Redcliffe Entertainment Centre. This landmark event brought together students, families, and staff in a celebration of musical talent and community spirit.

Students in Years 4–6 have brought their creativity and confidence to life through the Ignite Drama Extra-Curricular Team. Each week was filled with laughter, energy, and imagination as students explored dramatic features such as voice, movement, and character while learning to work as a team. They played, performed, and explored new ideas together, showing resilience by bouncing back from challenges and supporting one another. From improvisations to mini-performances, they demonstrated enthusiasm, courage, and a willingness to share ideas and take risks. Ignite Drama has been a wonderful space for students to express themselves, grow in confidence, and shine, while also providing a strong foundation for those who wish to continue their journey into Secondary with the STRIKE Drama Team, led by Clara Aleckson. You can read more about STRIKE further in this Reflections

As we look ahead to 2026, we are excited about the opening of our purpose built Performing Arts Precinct and we look forward to continued growth, innovation and even more opportunities to shine. Bravo to everyone who made this year unforgettable!

Primary School Musical

The 2025 Primary School Musical production of Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. was a spectacular celebration of talent, creativity, and collaboration at The Lakes College. In Week 2 of Term 3, students from Years 4 to 7 lit up the College Hall stage, which had been transformed into a dazzling undersea wonderland. With vibrant performances, breathtaking costumes, and heartfelt storytelling, the show transported audiences beneath the waves into a world of music and magic.

Rehearsals began early in Term 1, with students committing countless hours to developing their roles. Along the way, they discovered that performing is not only exciting and fun, but also challenging, and above all, deeply rewarding when their hard work came together on stage.

The production was proudly supported by a team of Secondary students whose leadership and encouragement helped shape the success of the show. Their backstage support and mentorship were invaluable to the younger performers.

Based on the beloved Disney animated film, The Little Mermaid Jr. follows the journey of Ariel, a curious young mermaid who dreams of life beyond the sea. With memorable songs

including Part of Your World, Under the Sea, and Poor Unfortunate Souls, the performance delighted audiences of all ages. From the graceful mersisters to the comedic seagulls and the villainous flair of Ursula, every student shone in their role, performing with enthusiasm, confidence, and heart.

Behind the scenes, the production was enriched by the incredible work of the creative team and staff. With guidance from Mrs Wellins, Miss Aleckson, and the Strike Theatre students, young performers developed their characters with flair. Mrs Trudgen and the Year 10 Dance choreography team brought the ocean’s rhythm to life through dynamic movement, while Miss Lee’s costume designs were a visual triumph, transforming the cast into a colourful underwater kingdom. The artistry of Primary Arts students, guided by Mrs Ayache and Miss Brown, gave the stage a magical finishing touch, with sea creature artwork, whimsical jellyfish, and vibrant decorations that added depth and wonder to the set.

Disney’s The Little Mermaid Jr. was more than just a performance, it was a joyful celebration of the Arts, a testament to the growth of our students, and a shining example of the power of teamwork. Congratulations to all involved for creating an unforgettable experience for our College community.

Katrina Wellins, Musical Director

SCAN THIS CODE TO SEE SOME OF THE LIVE ACTION

BEYOND TLC

At TLC, student life extends beyond the classroom, thanks to range of ExtraCurricular and Co-Curricular clubs that cater to a wide variety of interests. Whether you're a budding artist, an aspiring athlete, a tech enthusiast, or someone who just enjoys learning something new, there’s a club that fits everyone’s passion.

For students with a flair for creativity, our brand-new popular Art Class is a space to express imagination through drawing, painting, and mixed media. Students have painted with watercolours, drawn with markers, sculpted with wire and mixed it all up with pastels, acrylics, and collages.

Meanwhile, the Culinary Club gives food lovers the chance to get handson in the kitchen, experimenting with recipes and learning about nutrition, presentation, and cooking skills from TV Celebrity chef Ben Milbourne.

We offer a wide selection of athletic clubs for students who enjoy staying active. From team sports like Soccer and Basketball, which teach teamwork, to individual-focused activities like Tennis and Pickleball, there’s something

for every athlete. For students who want a mix of movement and mindfulness, Yoga & Mindfulness Club is a favourite, a joyful blend of fun, focus, and imagination – designed to support physical growth, emotional resilience, and social connection.

Our largest extra-curricular group, Chess Club sees strategic thinking and friendly competition against other likeminded students. In Coding Club, the program incorporated weekly game design challenges, with functions, algorithms, branching, variables, game logic, user experience and maths. For the younger students, Curious Minds explored how technology and science are shaping the world.

The Tech Club offered a broader exposure to technology and focused on something new each term, including

building wooden bridges while engaging in learning basic electronic circuits to force and motion concepts. For fans of strategy and adventure, another new club, Pokémon Club offered a place where students traded cards, battled, and shared their love for all things Pokémon.

These extra-curricular clubs allow students to explore their interests, develop new skills, and make friendships outside the classroom. Whether you’re trying something new or have a passion for something, there’s a club for everyone. On the following pages, you’ll find highlights from some of our Student Clubs. We are proud of the rich offerings at TLC, and these opportunities continue to grow each year.

Clare Glover, Sport Coordinator

A Year of Flavour and Creativity

Under the leadership of renowned MasterChef and restaurateur Ben Milb ourne, the TLC Culinary Club (TLCCC) has been more popular than ever in 2025, with a growing waitlist!

Each Thursday afternoon, our Cu linary Club gathers to create d elicious dishes using locally sourced p roduce, focusing on recipes that sp ark student interest. Beyond cooking for themselves, members p roudly contribute to College events. Th is year, they prepared and served canapés for the Principal’s Welcome Event in Term 1, baked and topped

o ver 500 scones with homemade strawberry jam and Chantilly cream for Grandparents’ Day, served o ver 100 guests at the Swim Club

Celeb ration Evening, and rose to their b iggest challenge yet in Term 3 – two Degu station Dinners that saw over 50 gu ests per night enjoy an incredible five-course menu.

On the menu:

•Seasonal vegetable velouté

•Kingfish carpaccio with a Mexican twist

•Duck with beets and smoked lentils

•Pork with parsnip and winter greens

•A decadent black forest dessert

Another highlight came when the Cu linary Club was featured on Ben’s TV Show, where students took on th e TLC Culinary Club MasterChef Compe tition. Presented with a mystery box, they discovered only a mirror inside – the challenge was to create a dish that was a true reflection of themselves.

With plenty of exciting challenges, lau ghter, and shared meals, Culinary Clu b has proven to be a fun, flavourful, and inspiring space for our b udding chefs to learn, connect, and sh ine.

STRIKE TLC THEATRE

4 Productions, 7 Festivals, 22 Students and 54 Awards!

"Empathy is at the heart of the actor's art" – Meryl Streep

Strike TLC Theatre excelled in 2025, competing on the South East QLD Drama Festival circuit at 7 festivals, with 4 productions; Fractured (C. Aleckson & O. Francis), School’d (C. Aleckson, O. Francis, and T. Duthie), Stuck (C. Aleckson and O. Francis), and Not Another Final Girl (E. Hamilton). Throughout 2025 the Strike team entertained, empowered, and engaged audiences with diverse production styles and techniques. Every student should be extremely proud of their performances on stage and their teamwork and drive off stage. It has been a phenomenal year in Strike at The Lakes College.

Premiers Cup (Fractured) – Murrumba Festival

Best Youth Play (Fractured) – KSP Festival

Best Short Play (Not Another Final Girl) – Murrumba Festival

Best Youth Play (Fractured) – Nanango Festival

Best Youth Play (Fractured) – Murrumba Festival

Best Short Play (Not Another Final Girl) – Ipswich Festival

Best Original Script (Fractured) – Murrumba Festival

Best Ensemble (School’d) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Best Director (Aleckson & Francis) – Dalby Festival

Best Short Play Director (Aleckson & Francis) – Ipswich Festival

Best Male Actor of the Festival (Levi K) – Beenleigh Festival

Best Supporting 10 Minute Male Actor (Zaid S) – Murrumba Festival

Best Female Youth Actor (Tasha D) – Murrumba Festival

Best Male Youth Actor (Levi K) – Murrumba Festival

Best Supporting Male Youth Actor (Zaid S) – Murrumba Festival

Best Youth Director (Aleckson & Francis) – Murrumba Festival

Best Youth Actor in a Female Role (Tasha D) – Beenleigh Festival

Best Supporting Female Youth Actor (Amiria D) – Murrumba Festival

Best 10 Minute Female Actor (Tasha D) – Murrumba Festival

Best Youth Comedy Male Actor (Zaid S) – KSP Festival

Best 10 Minute Female Actor (Tasha D) – KSP Festival

Best Youth Actor in a Male Role (Levi K) – Beenleigh Festival

Best 10 Minute Actor in a Female Role (Tasha D) – Ipswich Festival

Best Youth Director (Aleckson & Francis) – KSP Festival

Best Youth Female Actor (Tasha D) – KSP Festival

Best Youth Male actor (Levi K) – Nanango Festival

Best Male Youth Actor (Zaid S) – Dalby Festival

Best Youth Drama Male Actor (Levi K) – KSP Festival

Best Performance (Finch P) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Best Youth Female actor (Tasha D) – Nanango Festival

Best Youth Actor in a Male Role (Levi K) – Ipswich Festival

Best Female Youth Actor (Tasha D) – Dalby Festival

Best Youth Director (Aleckson & Francis) – Ipswich Festival

Most Promising Youth Performer (Zaid S) – Beenleigh Festival

Best Youth Supporting Actor in a Female Role (Cassie W) – Beenleigh Festival

Best Youth Supporting Short Play Actor in a Male Role (Zaid S) – Ipswich Festival

Best Youth Supporting Actor in a Female Role (Cassie W) – Nanango Festival

Best 10 Minute Supporting Actor in a Female Role (Jasmine B) – Ipswich Festival

Magic Moment on Stage (Fractured) – KSP Festival

Best Backstage (Strike) – KSP Festival

Best Design (Stuck) – Ipswich Festival

Second Best Play (Fractured) – Dalby Festival

Second Best Short Play (Not Another Final Girl) – Nanango Festival

Second Best Play (Fractured) – Beenleigh Festival

Second Best Short Play (Stuck) – Ipswich Festival

Second Best Play (School’d) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Second Best 10 Minute Play (Not Another Final Girl) – KSP Festival

Adjudicators Choice (Stuck) – Dalby Festival

Adjudicators Award for Writing (Aleckson & Francis) – Ipswich Festival

Certificate of Distinction for Acting (Levi K) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Certificate of Distinction for Acting (Tasha D) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Certificate of Distinction for Acting (Cassie W) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Certificate of Distinction for Acting (Ahaan B) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Excellence in Performance (Fractured) – Sunshine Coast Festival

Clara Aleckson, Strike Coordinator

Courage, Commitment, and Determination. Eight teams. 24 students. Countless kilometres. One unbreakable spirit.

Brisbane Challenge

Another year, another incredible wave of TLC students taking on the Brisbane Kokoda Challenge - and what a year it was! This time, 24 students lined up to conquer every distance on offer: the 18km, the 30km, and the epic 48km.

For four solid months, they trained hard in the mountains of the Sunshine Coast, pushing themselves through steep climbs and rough trails to prepare for the rugged D’Aguilar National Park course. Starting and finishing at the buzzing event village in Brookfield, tucked behind Mt Coot-tha, the atmosphere was electric.

At the start line, silence fell as we honoured the diggers of the original Kokoda campaign in Papua New Guinea. The haunting notes of the Last Post gave way to the iconic “True Blue,” and with that, our Kokodians charged into the hills, ready to face whatever the course threw at them.

And make no mistake - each track was a beast. Towering mountains, icy creek crossings, unforgiving terrain. No distance was “easy”, every kilometre had to be fought for.

Our 18km and 30km super stars carried everything they needed for the day on their backs, powering through fully self-supported. Meanwhile, our 48km teams had the luxury of meeting our Support Crew at Checkpoint 3, 23km in, for a well-earned refuel (yes, including a sausage sizzle!).

Of course, Kokoda is as unpredictable as it is tough. For some of our hikers, the day didn’t go as planned, and they had to make the heartbreaking call to retire. But that’s the Kokoda spiritsetbacks don’t stop them. Every single one of those students is already fired up for 2026, determined to return, tackle the mountains, and proudly earn those hard-won dog tags.

And the results? Absolutely outstanding.

•18km team stormed home in 6h 4m •30km team crossed the line in 6h 5m

• 48km challengers fought on for anywhere from 10h 38m to 14h 24m

The grit, teamwork, and courage these students showed was nothing short of inspiring. With 2026 already on

their minds, one thing is certain: our Kokodians are only getting stronger, and the best is yet to come.

Pinnacle Challenge

For the third year in a row, TLCKT took on the epic Kokoda Pinnacle Challengeand this time, we levelled up!

Not just one team, but TWO: our unstoppable student crew and a powerhouse team of long-time parent leaders and a past TLC student.

Over 10 tough weeks, they battled through three massive events:

•30km Sunshine Coast

•48km Brisbane

•96km Gold Coast

That’s 174 competitive kilometres - not even counting the endless training sessions.

But 2025 wasn’t just another year. It was something special.

At the Gold Coast Challenge, we lined up with 9 hikers carrying a jaw-dropping 42 years of Kokoda experience between us. Think about

that: 3 to 9 years each of turning up, digging deep, and pushing beyond limits. It’s extraordinary.

And behind every step was our legendary Support Crew. These family heroes chased us across the hinterland, camping in the cold, waiting through the night to refuel, re-gear, patch up and push us back out on track.

With a combined 19 years of crewing experience, they’re the quiet force that makes the impossible possible. We simply couldn’t do it without them.

The celebrations didn’t end at the finish line either, I had the huge honour of presenting 5-year medals to three of our team. Five years of commitment to TLCKT and the Kokoda Challenge: a milestone that deserves every cheer.

2025 raised the bar. Two teams, hundreds of kilometres, countless memories and a community spirit that just keeps getting stronger.

Thank you to our 2025 Kokoda Sponsors:

•AQUA Properties (Major)

•Kallangur Chiropractic (Major)

•Luxury Lifestyle Homes (Major)

•Moreton Bay City Pulse (Major)

•North Lakes & Surrounds Electrical (Gold)

Karen Ball, Kokoda Challenge Coordinator

DEBATING

The Lakes College Debating Team

This year, our Debating teams from Years 7-10 demonstrated tremendous growth, courage, and teamwork as they tackled the challenges of the Queensland Debating Union (QDU) competition.

Our journey began with training sessions held right here at school, but the real excitement came as we travelled across Brisbane, giving our students the chance to represent TLC in diverse and dynamic environments. For the first time ever, we proudly hosted two rounds on our campus, marking an exciting milestone and allowing our debaters to showcase their skills on home soil.

Each round was a valuable learning experience. Our students honed their ability to think critically under pressure, sharpened their speaking skills, and collaborated as part of a team. Beyond just speaking in front of an audience, they learnt to listen carefully, build on each other’s ideas, and approach challenges with confidence and creativity.

A standout moment was when five of our seven teams advanced to the Finals rounds, including 7.1, 7.2, 9.1, 9.2, and

10.1. Three of these teams – 7.1, 9.2, and 10.1 – progressed to Round 2 of the Finals, with team 10.1 making it to the top eight Year 10 teams in Brisbane for the Quarter Finals.

Whether winning rounds, narrowly missing a decision, or celebrating small personal milestones like delivering a first speech or standing confidently in front of a room full of people, our debaters embodied resilience and determination. Most importantly, they discovered that debating is more than a competition; it’s about building friendships, finding your voice, and gaining the confidence to share it.

This year’s topics pushed students to explore new perspectives and challenge their own thinking. Highlights included:

• Year 7: That we should ban animals in sport.

•Year 8: That toys, books, films, TV, and other media targeted towards a specific gender are harmful to children.

•Year 9: That national sporting leagues should only be played in their country of origin.

•Year 10: That military leaders should be directly elected by citizens.

A huge congratulation to all debaters:

7.1 Debaters

•Holly C

• Anh N

•Lynessa Y

• James E

• Jacques Pierre D

7.2 Debaters

•Rakhshitha K

•Zafir R

• Liam H

• Anna S

• Elise K

8.1 Debaters

• Emily M

• Shivika N

•Rithi B

• Gaatri V

8.2 Debaters

•Jemayne N

•Makyah H

•Clementine K

• Aayan U

•Jack W

9.1 Debaters

• Emily Z

• Zoe Z

• Anvita V

•Aahana A

9.2 Debaters

•Senuki P D

•Sashwinth K

• Fin A

• Florence D

10.1 Debaters

• Helene T

• Ngan N

• Grace E

•Amber P

Debate Mentors

•My Tam G

•Rozelle D

Teagan Dare, Clara Aleckson, Emily Malone – Debating Coaches

Sages and Seekers: A Heart for Service

Over the past two terms, The Lakes College has been privileged to engage deeply with Palm Lakes Aged Care in Deception Bay through our new service project, Sages and Seekers Students from Years 7 to 10 have become a life-giving presence among residents, the memory support unit, and aged care staff. This initiative has grown out of our College’s strong commitment to service learning, and it has quickly become a much-loved part of our community life.

Earlier this year, Mr Ahrens and I invited Senior School students to apply, and the response was overwhelming— over 80 students expressed interest.

Each term, small groups of 10 students

visit Palm Lakes weekly, rolling up their sleeves to share joy, companionship, and care with residents.

Our students have learned firsthand what it means to serve those who may be facing the challenges of end-of-life. Their role is simple yet profound: to be a life-giving friend in the time they share. Activities range from music, games, art, gardening, and conversation to simply sitting in stillness. Some of the most powerful moments come in quiet presence— holding the hand of a 98-year-old resident for an hour, playing balloon tennis far longer than planned because the laughter continues, or spending an entire visit with a resident unable

to respond, yet fully present in the connection. One lady, who had not left her room in 10 months, joined in recently with immense joy.

As we leave, our new friends gather at the door to wave goodbye, always asking us to return. It is the sweetest of human exchanges.

I thank Mr Ahrens for his passion and empathy, our students for their willingness to serve, and Palm Lakes’ Lifestyle Coordinator, Nadine, for welcoming us so warmly. Together, we are building a community of compassion, connection, and hope—a light in the heart of North Brisbane.

Tim McMenamin, Harry Ahrens –Sages & Seekers Coordinators

Donating blankets crocheted by one of our TLC staff, Janice

TLC AQUATIC PRECINCT: ONE YEAR ON

The Lakes Aquatic Precinct made history this year by delivering its entire swimming program on-site for the very first time—and what a year it’s been! Our philosophy: Swimming for smarter, stronger, healthier children.

From babies as young as three months to confident squad swimmers, every participant has benefited from a worldclass learn-to-swim experience led by our uniquely qualified TLC swim teachers and coaches.

This year’s school swimming program went far beyond mastering strokes. Students from Prep to Year 6 embraced water safety fundamentals, learning rescue techniques, deep-water survival, and even swimming fully clothed. The swim teachers used engaging demonstrations, showcasing serious safety lessons into empowering

moments, empowering every child to be a real-life superhero. Every child in the program developed deep-water confidence and independence—each one a remarkable success story.

We’re proud to announce TLC Swim Club’s promotion to Division 1 and celebrate our squad swimmers’ achievements at State and National levels, including the School Sport Australia Aquatic Games. The club also hosted its first swim carnival onsite, with more events scheduled— cementing our Precinct as a premier competition venue.

Our curriculum nurtures more than swimming—it builds confidence, supports motor and cognitive development, and fosters social connection. Students also prepared for the swimming carnival, refining strokes

like freestyle, backstroke, breaststroke, and butterfly, while learning the deeper lessons of water respect and personal boundaries.

The Precinct has grown rapidly, now operating six days a week, 50 weeks a year. New programs like Open Water Swimming, Bub and Me Aqua Fit, Adult Learn to Swim and holiday intensives, have expanded our offerings. Our learn to swim and squad programs continue to welcome all ages, with our high teaching standards remaining as a cornerstone of our success.

With a new car park and a thriving community, The Lakes Aquatic Precinct is not just a place to swim—it’s a place to grow, achieve, and belong. Here's to another year of making waves!

Mackenzie Speechley –Director of Aquatics

TLCCA

TLC COMMUNITY ASSOCIATION

Building Community, Supporting Students, Leaving a Legacy

As this chapter of the year comes to a close, I want to take a moment to reflect on what has been a truly incredible time for our TLC Commun ity Association (TLCCA).

Celebrating Achievements

This year, our parent community has once again shown just how powerful we are when we come together. From running our Mother’s Day and Father’s Day stalls, to keeping the community well-fed at the Prep-Year 3 Christmas Celebration, Picnic in the Park, Athletics Carn ivals, Harmony Day and Under 8’s Day, our volunteers have poured in countless h ours with generous h earts. Every event has been a reminder that wh en parents, carers, and staff work sid e by side, the results are nothing sh ort of remarkable.

A particular highlight has been the way we’ve been able to support the sch ool directly through meaningful fun ding projects. Across the year, the TLCCA has approved eight initiatives totalling $26,700:

•VEX Robotics Start Up Kit to spark innovation and STEM opportunities for our students.

•Dedicated washer/dryer combo for the sports department to better support our athletes.

•Storage cabinets for the visual arts department, creating a more functional, safe, and inspiring space.

•Upgrades to the Year 1 outdoor area, enriching the daily experiences of our youngest learners.

•Jumbo chess set and secure storage for students to enjoy at break times.

•House banners to promote House spirit and support across TLC.

• Prep playground equipment to complement the new playground space.

• Under 8’s Day picnic tables, now permanently placed in the Year 1 & 2 outdoor area.

Each of these projects reflects our commitment to supporting the wh ole student experience. Academic, creative, sporting, and social, while leaving a lasting legacy across our College.

Second Hand Uniform Shop – A Standout Success

The Second Hand Uniform Shop (SHUS) has continued to shine this year as

both a vital service and our main fundraiser. Under the great care and management of Renee C, the SHUS has gone from strength to strength, supported by a wonderful team of volunteers who keep the shop running smoothly. This year saw some muchneeded improvements, including new storage and slat wall installation, making the shop more functional and welcoming than ever

The impact has been extraordinary. Between November 2024 and August 2025, the SHUS:

•Saved TLC families an incredible $45,548 by providing access to quality second hand uniforms instead of brand new.

•Returned a total of $20,441 to families who commissioned the SHUS to sell their uniforms.

This is sustainability in action! Helping our community, saving families money, and ensuring uniforms get a second life. We are so proud of this achievement and grateful to Renee and her volunteer team for their commitment and care.

Grants and Community Partnerships

We also extend heartfelt thanks to our Treasurer, Mike, for his tireless work

behind the scenes applying for grants on behalf of the TLCCA. His dedication and persistence have borne real fruit this year, with the successful securing of City of Moreton Bay Council grants to support both our Picnic in the Park and Multicultural Expo celebrations.

We thank the Deputy Mayor Jodie Shipway and the City of Moreton Bay Council for their generous support of our school and wider community. These grants help us deliver events that celebrate connection, culture, and joy for our families.

Strengthening Connections

Behind the scenes, the TLCCA has worked hard to build stronger connections between parents, staff, and students. Monthly meetings have been a place not only for decisionmaking but also for collaboration, idea-sharing, and celebrating our shared wins. I am grateful to the many parents who came along, both in

person and online, adding their voices, perspectives, and energy.

Special thanks also go to Principal, Nicole Gregory and the leadership team and staff who have partnered with us throughout the year. Your openness and commitment to engaging with the parent community have been invaluable.

A Personal Note

On a personal note, at the time I am writing this article, this will be my final wrap-up as President of the TLCCA. After two fulfilling years in this role, I have made the decision to step down. I am genuinely grateful for the opportunities I have had to serve our school community, to meet so many dedicated parents and carers, and to contribute to projects that will benefit TLC students now and into the future.

The TLCCA is a volunteer-run organisation, and its strength lies in the hands of parents and carers who put their time, ideas, and talents forward. If you’ve ever thought about

getting involved, even in a small way, I encourage you to take that step. Your contribution, no matter the size, makes a lasting difference.

Looking Ahead

As the TLCCA continues to grow and evolve, I am excited to see where new leadership and fresh ideas will take us. The future is bright, and I know this community will continue to achieve wonderful things together Congratulations to the new TLCCA President, Rob L and Vice President Keira T.

Thank you to everyone who has supported, encouraged, and walked alongside me in this role, especially the wonderful TLCCA Executive Team:

•Vice President Erin R

• Treasurer Mike

•Secretary Amy G

• SHUS Manager Renee C

It has been an honour and a joy.

Kristina P, President, TLC Community Association

ALUMNI

WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

As The Lakes College continues to grow, so does our community of talented alumni. Throughout 2025, the College was lucky to host a number of past students back on campus for events, special celebrations, and learning opportunities for our current students.

At the start of the year, we welcomed back 2019 graduate, and past College Captain, Danielle E, to open our Prize Winners & Scholars Assembly. Danielle gifted our 2024 graduates and Secondary School students with valuable insight into what life looks like after graduation. She shared her journey from TLC to her current role as a successful nursing midwife, offering a glimpse into how she navigated university during the pandemic and was able to choose a meaningful career path. Her message encouraged students to pursue their passions with resilience and purpose, and her speech was a symbol of hope for all our students.

Later in Term 1, we were pleased to welcome back Emma H, a 2013 graduate and accomplished audio engineer. Emma generously volunteered her time to assist our AV Tech and Performing Arts Team in upgrading the AV system in the College Hall. Her expertise not only improved the functionality of the space but also provided valuable learning opportunities for current students. Emma’s involvement in our Easter Service, where she mentored students at the AV Desk, was another example of Alumni giving back and supporting the next generation of Lakes Learners.

Of course, our favourite day to spend with our Alumni is Foundation Day, which included a series of events that highlighted the achievements and contributions of our Alumni community. Central to the celebrations was the TLC Alumni of the Year announcement, recognising a graduate who continues to embody the values of the College in their personal and professional life. After a thorough

review of nominations, we were delighted to honour Opal F from the Class of 2019 as this year’s recipient. Opal’s journey from student leader to mental health advocate has been marked by courage, creativity, and a deep commitment to service. As Vice Captain and Arts Prefect during her time at TLC, she demonstrated leadership and compassion, qualities that have continued to define her work as an Occupational Therapist. Her half a decade of involvement in Strike Theatre here at TLC, mentoring of TLC students, and role in support services in the wider community, reflects the enduring influence of TLC’s values. Opal’s recognition as Alumni of the Year is a testament to her dedication and the positive impact she continues to make.

Foundation Day also featured the annual Alumni Vs TLC Football Match, which saw the Alumni Team secure their fourth consecutive victory. Coordinated and coached once again by 2021 Alumni, Lachlan A, the team showcased strong teamwork and enthusiasm. The match welcomed back many familiar faces along with new talent from the Class of 2024. The Alumni Team debuted their new jerseys, adding a fresh and unified look to their winning performance. While our TLC Team put up a strong challenge, the Alumni Team’s determination led them to another well-earned victory.

The Foundation Day celebrations continued into the evening with the Alumni Reunion held at The Fugitive Ferret. Alumni from various graduating years alongside their partners, parents, and children, gathered to reconnect, share stories, and enjoy a relaxed evening together

These moments of celebration alongside the messages, emails, updates, and pop-ins of many more Alumni across the year, are a powerful reminder of the strength of our Alumni network.

Courtney Brown, Alumni Engagement

Kayleigh W (2019)

Emma H (2013)

Kashmir K (2016)

2025 Alumni of the Year - Opal F

Tamika M (2023)

Danielle E (2019)

Elizabeth R (2022)

TLC Alumni Football Team

EVENTS

ABOVE LEFT: 2025 YEAR 6 LEADERS & YEAR 12

COMMISSIONING SERVICE – Our first event of the year was the introduction of our 2025 Year 6 Leaders, Year 12 Seniors, and this year’s theme: Better Connected. As our Primary School Captains, Primary Student Council Presidents, House Captains, Chapel Leaders, Music Leaders, Library Leaders, Engagement Leaders, Dance Captains, and Year 12 Cohort crossed the stage, receiving their badges, and confirming that they would lead with fairness and humility, the tone of the year was set. Rev Tim then blessed our new leaders, praying for another year of hope and prosperity here at TLC.

ABOVE RIGHT: SCHOLARS & 2024PRIZE WINNERS ASSEMBLY – It was a joy to have our 2024 Graduates return to TLC, sharing their academic success and all the excitement that comes with post-school life. We kicked off the morning with valuable insights and advice for our Secondary School students from a panel of our recent graduates, who all had very different learning journeys and experiences that led to their academic success. Our guest speaker, 2019 Alumni Danielle, gave our recent graduates a glimpse into what their future could hold. There was again lots to celebrate, with every student in our 2024 Year 12 cohort achieving their QCE, 13% achieving an ATAR of 95 or above, 36% achieving an ATAR of 90 and above, and awards going to 36 Alumni. We also had, for the first time, two current Year 12 students receive Subject Prizes alongside our Alumni, for their hard work completing and topping Year 12 subjects in Year 11. After announcing the Academic Awards, Subject Prize Awards, and four Magna Cum Laude Awards, we were thrilled to announce our 2024 VET Student of the Year, Isobella Q, our 2024 College Dux, Frankie H, and our 2024 ATAR Dux, Asvinth DH

ABOVE LEFT: PRINCIPAL’S WELCOME EVENT – Our Principal’s Welcome Event not only offered our new and existing families an opportunity to connect with TLC staff, Board Members, and each other, but also saw the launch of our 2025-2028 Strategic Horizon. The wine flowed thanks to our TLCCA Executive Team, a stream of scrumptious canapes were served by our TLC Culinary Club, and music drifted through the Hall thanks to a few of our music students.

ABOVE RIGHT: PREP FAMILY PICNIC – The Prep Family Picnic was an extremely exciting afternoon for our Prep families as we opened the brand new, and highly anticipated, Prep Playground! Our Preppies enjoyed an array of pirate and mermaid themed activities thanks to our amazing Prep Teachers and Year 12 Leaders, drawing inspiration from the pristine Pirate Ship Playground, whilst our Prep parents and carers took the opportunity to get to know each other over afternoon tea. While juice boxes and Zooper Doopers kept us cool, the warm summer afternoon shone brilliantly as our Prep students came together with their families to celebrate this new chapter in their lives.

ABOVE LEFT: OPEN MORNING – The College became a whirlwind of excitement as our TLC staff, students and carers, opened the gates to over 600 visitors. In addition to the tours led by our students, our Head of Primary and Head of Secondary hosted highly informative sessions on what future TLC families can expect in each stage of their child’s educational journey. Thanks to our dedicated staff and students, there were also activities around every corner for our guests to discover and interact with. Classroom doors were open with work and resources on full display, as well as; musical and dance performances; interactive science experiments, technology projects, and sport activations; a bustling marketplace set up by Business students; and a reptile encounter incursion. The Heads of House and House Captains also brought a competitive edge to the day, rallying families with the exciting prospect of being sorted into one of our four Houses, whilst also discussing our pastoral care system, running games, and handing out lollies to our younger visitors. Once again, Chef Marjorie and her team provided each guest with a personalised TLC ‘Smart Cookie’ that saw our visitors walking out with a smile on their face and a sweet treat in their hand.

ABO VE RIGHT: TLCCA PICNIC IN THE PARK – Continuing on from our bustling Open Day, our visitors were invited to join TLC families on the Lower Oval for an afternoon of fun in the sun. It was picture-perfect weather for a picnic, with our TLCCA hosting a sausage sizzle and filling the bellies of picnic goers, young and old, with snow cones and popcorn. Of course, we kept the kids busy on the giant inflatable obstacle course, water slide, and games of basketball, soccer and cricket. This event would not be possible without the hard work and dedication of our TLCCA and parent and carer volunteers, and we are incredibly thankful for their ongoing support of our community events.

ABOVE LEFT: MULTICULTURAL EXPO – This year saw our beloved Multicultural Expo be fittingly moved to Harmony Day, to truly celebrate our beautiful and diverse community. Our Expo featured performances across two stages and saw a record number of student-led stalls. Whether it be with cultural treats, performances, traditional games, Henna and face paint, unique experiences, or interactive displays, our Primary students were dazzled with information as they travelled around the world. Staff, students, and families all came dressed in their magnificent traditional outfits and clothing that represented their culture, creating a symphony of colour that highlighted all the unique people and stories that make up TLC. Thank you once again to all our families who continue to support this important event on our yearly calendar, we truly appreciate all that you do and bring to this special day.

ABOVE RIGHT: ANZAC REMEMBRANCE SERVICE – Our entire College gathered in the MPH in the first week of Term 2 to remember and honour the sacrifice of the Indigenous and non-indigenous Australian men and women during times of war, at our ANZAC Remembrance Service. The solemn event was opened by parent and Operations Officer of the 9th Battalion, Major Craig B, who used his opening address to remind us of the bravery and resilience of those who fought, and how we can continue to honour them by being brave and resilient every day. Our five student cadets showed great respect and professionalism throughout the service, as Year 12 student, Aayan K, commanded the Flag Party with pride, whilst Year 11 student, Dhruv G, took to the stage to explain the meaning of the ANZAC legacy to all our students. As always, each of our Primary Classes and House Captains thoughtfully created and laid wreaths, our combined Primary Choir and Secondary Vocal Ensemble sung a fitting rendition of the song ‘Lest We Forget’, and Year 10 student, Nate M bravely and effortlessly sounded The Last Post Bugle Call. It was wonderful to once again see our students get involved with, and lead, such an important event, as we honoured the ANZACs.

ABOVE LEFT: TLCCA MOTHERS’ DAY STALL – A heartfelt thank you to our incredible TLCCA volunteers who once again poured their energy into organising our beloved annual Mother’s Day Stall for our Primary students. From wrapping and decorating, to hosting the stall, their efforts gave our students a space to thoughtfully browse and select gifts for the special women in their lives. Some of the decisions were tough, but we know all our TLC mums would have woken up on Mothers’ Day to a special little gift to thank them for all they do. We’re so grateful for our dedicated TLCCA volunteers, led again by Narelle W, for creating these meaningful moments beyond the classroom.

ABOVE RIGHT: PREP – YEAR 6 MOTHERS’ DAY BREAKFAST – Our Primary students could not contain their excitement as they welcomed some special guests into their classrooms to celebrate Mothers’ Day. The morning was filled with pastries, polaroids, and special moments as our Primary students joined their mothers, grandmothers, sisters, aunties and special friends on the Primary Green for breakfast. They then visited classrooms for a morning of pampering, portraits, and performances. We love celebrating all the special women at TLC and hope the live music provided by our students, activities and games thanks to our Year 11 helpers, and opportunities to capture the morning’s memories in the photobooths, saw all our mothers walk out the gates with a smile, and most likely, some art and craft to commemorate the day. Thank you to all our Primary teachers for always hosting such fabulous activities, and a big thank you to all the families who purchased a breakfast, your support helped us to donate $203 to the Redcliffe Breakfast Club charity.

ABOVE LEFT: TLCCA SECONDARY MOTHERS’ DAY EVENING – The local bar & bistro, The Fugitive Ferret, was filled with every shade of pink as our TLC Community Association hosted our annual Secondary Mothers’ Day Evening. All the special women in our Secondary students’ lives were invited to join us for an evening of raffle prizes, canapes, and wine as we raised money for cancer research. The night was topped off with a sweet treat for each attendee including brownies and handwritten letters from their kids. Thank you TLCCA for your fundraising efforts and all your support.

ABOVE RIGHT: HOUSE HEROICS DAY – Our House Heroics Days returned in 2025 with fierce competition as our Secondary students put their sales and marketing skills to the test, battling it out to see which House could raise the most money. Both events were incredibly successful thanks to Deputy Principal Mrs Doré, our four Heads of House, and our eight hardworking House Captains.

ABOVE LEFT: UNDER 8’S DAY – It was all about the science of fun at Under 8s Day, with our youngest Lakes Learners getting their tiny hands into some big experiments. Our Prep-Year 2 students dove headfirst into a world of discovery - mixing, building, exploring, experimenting and playing their way through a jam-packed day of learning. A huge thank you to the incredible teachers, staff, parents, extra-curricular and community groups who helped us unleash scientific thinking through play.

ABOVE RIGHT: FUTURE READY EXPO – The Future Ready Expo was an exciting and informative event designed to help our Secondary students, especially those in Year 10, prepare for the next step in their education journey. With a wide range of exhibitors from universities, educational institutions, and even the defence force, the Expo gave students and families the opportunity to explore study and career pathways and gain valuable insights to support them to feel empowered to make informed and important decisions about their future.

ABOVE: GRANDPARENTS’ & SPECIAL FRIENDS’ DAY – The Primary classrooms were full of special visitors on the last day of Term 2, as our students welcomed their grandparents and special friends into their learning spaces, excitedly showcasing their work and daily school life. From portraits and games, building unique creations, and some quizzes, loved ones were given a rare insight into a day at TLC. We of course then finished off the morning with a scone filled morning tea thanks to our fantastic TLC Culinary Club who baked over 600 fresh scones to fill the tummies of the morning’s visitors.

ABOVE: SEMESTER 1 ACADEMIC AWARDS – The Semester 1 Academic Awards ceremonies were once again a fabulous celebration of the hard work and dedication of our Lakes Learners. At the Year 4-6 Awards Assembly, our College Captains addressed the Primary School, giving them some advice with ‘Liv & Levi’s Learning Lessons’ to help them as they continued their studies. The Vivaldi String Ensemble played a lively rendition of ‘Flight of the Furies’ and over 90 students were acknowledged with an Academic or Effort Award. Mrs Corlea Saayman opened the Year 7-12 Awards Assembly with a poignant address that compared the learning journey to a road trip, with all the important traffic signs you would see along the way, and how we can apply them to studying. Both Year 9 student, Finley A, and Year 12 Academic Captain, Aviraj S, also addressed the Secondary School sharing tips and insights into turning hard work into great results. Our Symphonic Winds performed ‘The Crystal Fountain’ beautifully, and we proudly announced our academic awardees in their Houses.

ABOVE: FOUNDATION DAY – Our entire College came together to celebrate TLC turning 21! Mrs Gregory welcomed everyone, discussing the milestones and historical significance of the 21st birthday, and we were treated to two upbeat performances including an a capella performance of ‘Nowhere Train’ by Secondary Vocal Ensemble and a funky instrumental of ‘Dance The Night Away’ from Paganini Strings. We acknowledged long serving staff members; Miss Aleckson, Mrs Ball, Ms Crane, Mrs Malherbe, Ms Martin, Ms Nelson, Mrs Siegfried, and Mr Stanley for 10 years of service; Mrs Harris-Jones, Mrs Kleinschmidt, and Mrs Levier for 15 years of service; and our first 20 years of service staff member, Mrs Kristel Johns who then shared some reflections and history of TLC. We announced the four recipients of the Foundation Award, as students who exemplify the values and ethos of TLC. Congratulations to Year 6 students Odette J & Nicolas V, and Year 11 students Newman M & Charlotte O. We also announced our second Alumni of the Year Award, which was presented to 2019 graduate Opal F. The celebrations continued throughout the day with the House Showcase, Lakes Lap relay race, which was taken out by Tabbil, and of course the most fitting thing you can have on a birthday – cupcakes.

– Our

HOUSE

ABOVE: ALUMNI VS TLC FOOTBALL GAME & ALUMNI REUNION – Our TLC Alumni took out their fourth straight victory in the annual Foundation Day Alumni vs TLC Football Match, with shout outs to Alumni Coach Lachlan A for coordinating the team and to all our new and returning Alumni who gave the staff a run for their money. The celebrations continued after the game as we were joined with over 40 Alumni and their families at The Fugitive Ferret Bar & Bistro, where old classmates spent the evening together, catching up over drinks and delicious food.

COMMISSIONING SERVICE –

ABOVE: TLCCA FATHERS’ DAY STALL – With over 600 presents organised, wrapped and sold, it was a busy day of trading for our TLCCA as they hosted the beloved Fathers’ Day Stall for the Primary students. Our students put in a lot of time and thought behind each gift selection, with sales being the highest our TLCCA have ever seen. A big shout out to parent Kellie B for her guidance and leadership of this event, along with all of the parents who volunteered to help.

ABOVE:

SHOWCASE

Secondary students sung, danced, performed, flipped, and dazzled us at the intensely competitive House Showcase. Kittabilla helped bring the Wiggles back together, Kumbarchu tried to find out the exact skills needed to win a Showcase, Nyani created an all-star band, and Tabbil played a winning round of Cluedo that saw them take home the Showcase Cup.

ABO VE: 2026 LEADERS’

Our College Leaders handed over the reigns as the freshly appointed Year 11 students were commissioned into their new roles as the 2026 College Leaders. Our newly elected College Captains, Vice Captains, Captains of Portfolio, and House Captains affirmed their intention to lead fairly and thoughtfully in front of the whole community before being blessed by Rev Tim and their loved ones.

ABO VE: PREP – YEAR 6 FATHERS’ DAY BREAKFAST – The sun shone on the Lower Oval as our Primary students and their fathers, grandfathers, uncles, brothers, and special friends joined us bright and early to celebrate Fathers’ Day. The breakfast items were quickly collected and devoured to ensure maximum time to enjoy a bit of play with so many different sport and games on offer. The vast choices included the inflatable soccer field, tennis thanks to Matchpoint Tennis, basketball thanks to the Brisbane Bullets, martial arts thanks to Matt Fiddes Martial Arts, and a huge variety of activities that were organised and hosted by our brand new 2026 leaders and many Year 11 helpers. College Captain Levi and his father Ian, performed for one final time, closing out a TLC tradition. Once every pastry had been consumed, our special visitors joined the students in their classrooms for some activities including scavenger hunts, paper plane throwing contests, games, and performances. Thanks to all those who purchased a breakfast, we donated $220 to the charity Stationery Aid.

– All

ABOVE: DIPLOMA OF BUSINESS GRADUATION – It was an incredibly special moment to acknowledge our first 18 students to graduate with a tertiary qualification in conjunction with their Year 12 studies. Thank you to our Head of Pathways, Clara Aleckson, for initiating this opportunity, and to Secondary Teacher, Corlea Saayman, for facilitating the program alongside Get Set Education, who supported our students throughout their journey. We also extend our thanks to Eric S for his beautiful piano solo, Ben Milbourne for his inspiring speech, and Noa and Catrin for their heartfelt Valedictory address sharing insights from their Diploma journey.

ABOVE: HOUSE CUP ASSEMBLY – As one of the most hotly anticipated assemblies of the year, it was no wonder that our Year 3-12 students came in eager to hear the news of which House had scored the most points in 2025. The 2026 House Captains took the time to thank and acknowledge the hard work of our outgoing House Captains and Captain of Sport. Four students who exemplify spirit, leadership, and support consistently throughout the year, were voted on by their House and announced as our 2025 House Spirit Awardees. Congratulations to Tayla A, Cooper M, Cynthia S and Jade S and a big thank you to the TLCCA for continuing to sponsor this annual award. And of course, the winning House was… Nyani!

IMAGINATION ART EXHIBITION

ABOVE: YEAR 7 – 9 SOCIAL – Our inaugural Year 7-9 TLC Social saw our students dance the night away with DJ Tegan as one of the College’s most successful fundraisers of the year. Thank you to Mr Stanley for organising the evening.

ABOVE: PRIMARY DISCO

our Primary students were invited to spend the early evening boogying under the disco ball as our Primary Disco made a grand return to TLC. Thank you to our Primary Leadership Team for putting on this super fun evening to close out Term 3.

ABOVE:

Sculptures, acrylics, mixed media, and every type of canvas used by our art students from Prep to Year 12 were on full display for both the TLC Community, and wider community at the Twilight Open, to enjoy at the Imagination Art Exhibition. The art brought so much joy to everyone who visited the Exhibition and was a true showcase of our Lakes Learner’s creativity and talent, and the hard work of our Arts Faculty staff members.

LEADERS

COLLEGE CAPTAINS & VICE CAPTAINS

PRIMARY SCHOOL CAPTAINS & STUDENT COUNCIL PRESIDENTS

HOUSE CAPTAINS (PRIMARY & SECONDARY)

MISSION & SERVICE LEADERS

PRIMARY CHAPEL LEADERS

PORTFOLIO CAPTAINS

PRIMARY DANCE CAPTAINS

PRIMARY LIBRARY LEADERS

PRIMARY ENGAGEMENT LEADERS

PRIMARY MUSIC LEADERS

ATHLETICS SQUAD – PRIMARY & SECONDARY SPORT

BASKETBALL SQUAD – PRIMARY SCHOOL

BASKETBALL SQUAD – SECONDARY SCHOOL

CROSS COUNTRY SQUAD – PRIMARY & SECONDARY

FUTSAL SQUAD – PRIMARY & SECONDARY

NETBALL SQUAD - SECONDARY SCHOOL

NISSA ATHLETICS SQUAD - PRIMARY SCHOOL

NISSA CROSS COUNTRY SQUAD - PRIMARY & SECONDARY

NISSA SWIMMING SQUAD - PRIMARY & SECONDARY

REP | DISTRICTS REPRESENTATIVES

REP | REGIONAL REPRESENTATIVES

REP | STATE & NATIONAL REPRESENTATIVES –NON SCHOOL

REP | STATE & NATIONAL SCHOOL SPORT REPRESENTATIVES

SWIMMING SQUAD – PRIMARY & SECONDARY

GIRLS

VOLLEYBALL SQUAD – JUNIOR

VOLLEYBALL SQUAD – OPEN BOYS

PERFORMING ARTS

CHAPEL BAND

GUITAR ORCHESTRA

JUNIOR CHOIR

PAGANINI STRINGS ENSEMBLE

PICCOLO STRINGS ENSEMBLE

PRIMARY CHOIR

PRIMARY CONCERT BAND

SECONDARY JAZZ ORCHESTRA

SECONDARY ROCK BAND

SECONDARY VOCAL ENSEMBLE

SINGING CLUB

SYMPHONIC

VIVALDI STRINGS

TLC KIAH DANCE TROUPE

TLC BOYS HIP HOP CREW

STRIKE THEATRE

TECH CREW

STUDENT CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

KOKODA

ROBOTICS TEAM

TLC CULINARY CLUB

TLC DEBATING TEAM

WORLD SCHOLARS CUP TEAM

TLC SPONSORSHIP

We pride ourselves on the longstanding, mutually beneficial partnerships we have developed with our broader community through this program. The generous support of sponsors help our young people to achieve their dreams, fulfill their passions, reach their potential and in some cases, make an impact to the lives of others. In return, sponsors gain exposure to the broader community of The Lakes College. Scan the QR Code to find out more.

AUTOGRAPHS & MESSAGES