Blog Archives

“A chance to drive yourself!” 

Swan Valley Anglican Community School recently celebrated an historic and important milestone by holding its first ever Confirmation Service. School Chaplain Father Toby Sherring prepared one staff member and two students for this significant Christian initiation, an integral part of the School’s Anglican Identity. The Right Reverend Kate Wilmot, Assistant Bishop of the Diocese of Perth, led the Eucharist. 

During the Sacramental Service, Bishop Kate explained that each of the confirmands was baptised into the Christian faith as infants or small children, and that Confirmation is the moment when they take on the responsibility for their Christian journey themselves.  

Bishop Kate added, “Although each one of them will continue to develop and grow as Christian believers, it is like achieving a driver’s licence. Instead of being driven by a parent or guardian, they are now driving their cars themselves.” 

Prayers at the Confirmation asked the Holy Spirit to come down upon the three candidates so that the gifts they have already and those they will discover can flow on into the Church and into the community. 

Principal Melissa Powell commented, “Confirmation is a sign of belonging to the wider Church. It is a symbol of growing in the Christian faith. It was such a joy to be part of such a significant event, which was shared with family, friends and colleagues. We are very hopeful that from now on, we will be able to hold a School Confirmation Service every year.” 

Term 1 at John Septimus Roe Anglican Community School (JSRACS) began with a new initiative: Prayer Spaces for every student from Year 2 through Year 12. Over three weeks, students visited the Chapel to engage with a series of carefully crafted prayer stations designed to invite personal reflection through touch, sight, and sound.

The spaces offered a gentle, inclusive, and age-appropriate environment for students to explore prayer and faith on their own terms. The stations tackled themes such as forgiveness, injustice, thankfulness, identity, and stillness—allowing students to wander, reflect, and listen to their own thoughts and feelings. This journey, described as a ‘mini pilgrimage,’ enabled each student to have a unique encounter—whether finding calm, raising questions, or simply taking time for stillness.

How Prayer Stations Came to Life at JSRACS

The launch of Prayer Spaces was a key project of JSRACS’s newly established Faith Formation team in 2025, bringing together Religious Studies, Service Learning, and Chaplaincy. Building on previous reflective practices—such as Year 8 mindfulness sessions at Wollaston Theological College and Year 12 modules on stillness and silence—the team designed a whole-school experience that combined expertise from curriculum and chaplaincy.

The project required significant planning and resources, from sourcing natural materials like pine cones and river stones to managing the logistics of scheduling hundreds of students through the Chapel without disrupting regular worship. Over three weeks, eight stations were offered to Year 5–12 students, with four activities adapted for Years 2–4.

Student Response and Future Plans

Feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive. A survey of 173 participants showed most found meaningful connection with one or more prayer stations, with the initiative earning a four-star rating overall. Staff noted the value of providing students with intentional spaces for rest and reflection amid a busy school day.

Looking ahead, JSRACS plans to integrate prayer stations into Chapel services, repeat the program for Years 5 and 7 in 2026, and introduce pop-up and outdoor prayer spaces, including themed reflections at Christmas and Easter.

This initiative reflects JSRACS’s commitment to nurturing the spiritual journeys of its students, offering space for individual growth and faith exploration. Prayer Spaces have quickly become a valued and lasting part of school life.

On 16 May, Peter Carnley Anglican Community School welcomed its Patron, The Reverend Dr Peter Carnley, for a day of connection, learning and reflection.

At the Calista Campus, Early Learning students greeted their guest with curious questions and imaginative guesses—ranging from explorer to author—before sketching his portrait in a joyful creative session.

At Wellard Campus, gifted Year 4–5 students explored Learner Strengths in a thought-provoking conversation, while Senior School students later gathered in the Grace Chapel for an engaging forum on leadership, faith, and legacy.

The Reverend Dr Carnley’s wisdom, humour, and humility left a lasting impact on all.

On 21 May, Frederick Irwin Anglican School (FIAS) celebrated the official Commissioning of its new Early Years and Administration Centre at the Halls Head Campus—a key step in the school’s growth.

The facility was officially opened by AngliSchools CEO The Reverend Peter Laurence OAM and blessed by the Bishop of Bunbury, The Right Reverend Ian Coutts. Their presence, along with members of School Council, AngliSchools representatives, and staff, highlighted the strong community and Anglican Identity that shapes FIAS.

Principal, Mrs Tracey Gray, said the centre reflects the passion and commitment of the entire school community. Head of Primary, Mrs Sue Kirke, noted the modern design fosters creativity and high-quality learning.

The event acknowledged the collaborative effort of all involved. As guests toured the new facility, it was clear this space will enrich student learning for years to come.