The Australian Education Awards has selected Clayfield College as an Excellence Awardee for both the Best School Strategic Plan and Boarding School of the Year categories.
The Australian Education Awards, now in their eighth year, celebrate outstanding achievements across the country’s schools, principals, department heads, and teachers.
The awards ceremony will be a black-tie gala event held at the Star Event Centre in Sydney on Friday, 8 August 2025. This year, the awards span 29 categories, including Best Student Wellbeing Program and Australian School of the Year, highlighting the best in Australian education.
Strategic Planning Excellence
Clayfield College’s recognition for “Best School Strategic Plan” acknowledges the vision and leadership driving significant changes within the College. This includes its transition to a fully co-educational model from Pre-Prep to Year 12, which uses a “Parallel Learning” approach.
The College’s Strategic Intent, which outlines a “bold new era,” is being put into action through four main areas: focusing on innovative and personalised learning experiences; emphasising comprehensive pastoral care and a supportive community; encouraging broadened interests through extensive co-curricular programs and real-world opportunities; and aiming for long-term viability and responsible resource management.
Initiatives that have come from their strategic planning include the move to a fully co-educational school with the Parallel Learning model from 2023, the introduction of a new uniform, and the expansion of the eiPulse offering for student and staff mental health and wellbeing. The College has also revitalised its facilities, including a Blackbox Drama Space, Strength and Conditioning and Cardio Studios, an Administration Block, the Ida Kennedy Physical Education Centre, and the Carolyn Hauff Boarding House.
Additionally, Clayfield College has participated in events such as the Da Vinci Decathlon and the reimagined LUX 23 Exhibition, and offers PMSA Teacher Education Scholarships and a Christian Mission and Service Assistance Program.
Boarding Program Recognition
The Carolyn Hauff Boarding House at Clayfield College has also been named an Excellence Awardee in the “Boarding School of the Year” category at the 2025 Australian Education Awards. This award confirms the strength of their boarding program.
Key factors contributing to this honour include major improvements to the physical buildings, creating a better living space for boarders. There has also been a renewed focus on improving academic results and student success, which includes an extensive tutoring program that involves former students and experienced educators, providing individualised support.
The boarding house is known for its caring environment, ensuring boarders can progress academically and receive personal attention. It maintains a strong, connected culture, which was especially clear during difficult periods like the COVID-19 pandemic, when the boarding house remained open and continued to provide excellent support.
The boarding house is home to more than 75 students from rural Queensland, other Australian states, and overseas, bringing diverse cultural perspectives to the school community. Since 2023, the boarding program, which cares for students from Years 7 to 12, has begun welcoming both girls and boys. These awards together confirm Clayfield College’s strategic direction and the commitment of its staff and community to providing a high-quality educational experience.
Published Date 28-May-2025
