30 January 2026

As I sit at my desk, I can hear the beautiful sound of children singing in the Chapel. It fills the campus with a warmth that is hard to describe; a gentle reminder of how precious childhood is, and how powerful it is when young voices join together in fellowship, happiness, and shared connection. How fortunate we are to be part of a school day that values these moments as deeply as we do.

In the past week, I have had the opportunity to watch some of our early-season cricket matches and swimming galas. Well done to both our children and our staff for representing us so proudly. Although it is still early in the term, the central themes of teamwork, coaching mentorship, sportsmanship, grit, and striving for personal bests are already clearly evident. These are the foundations on which real character is built, and it is uplifting to see them reflected so strongly.

I would like to thank all members of our parent community for supporting the Grade 5 and 6 High School Presentation and the PA Parent Welcome Evening last week. It was wonderful to connect with so many of you. A meaningful reminder that our community is something truly special.

“When we come together, we become part of something bigger than ourselves.”

This week, our staff team took the opportunity for collective professional development. I am genuinely proud to be part of a group of teachers who understand that learning never stops and that to do the very best for the children and for the school, we must continue to grow, reflect, and refine our practice.

Our Grade 1 Parent Workshop was a wonderful session, held on Tuesday, and attended by enthusiastic and committed parents eager to support their children’s reading and spelling journey. The session offered valuable insights into the Time2Read programme, as well as how skills are reinforced and consolidated through our carefully designed Grade 1 homework programme. Mrs. Fly and Mrs. Shewan’s passion and love for the children were evident throughout, shared with humour and delightful stories about tackling the trickier aspects of the English language. It was an inspiring and practical workshop that reflects Clifton’s commitment to nurturing confident, curious, and capable children within our caring and supportive parent community. 

To read more about what our boarders have been up to, click on the Inside the Dorm newsletter. 

Finally, a heartfelt thank you to Mr Matt Botha for coming in to speak to our Junior Primary staff and children about his extraordinary row across the Atlantic with his team. Matt wove his story perfectly into our theme of goal orientation. His message was inspiring, emotional, and deeply motivating. We are incredibly proud of his, and his team’s, remarkable achievement.

Wishing you all a week filled with connection, joy, and the small moments that remind us why community matters.