CLONTARF MISSION STATEMENT

Term 1 Highlights at Newcastle Clontarf Academy

As Term 1 wraps up, it's been a busy and exciting start to 2025 for the Newcastle Clontarf Academy. Our students have been involved in a variety of activities designed to support their personal growth, career development, and community engagement. Here’s a look at some of the key events and achievements from the term.

Year 7 Induction Camp
To kick off their Clontarf journey, 12 Year 7 boys headed to the beautiful Forster-Tuncurry for their induction camp. It was a fantastic opportunity for the boys to bond with each other, learn about the Clontarf Foundation, and start building connections that will last throughout their time at the academy.

Inverell Touch Footy Carnival
Our Year 9 and 10 boys were invited to take part in the annual Inverell Touch Footy Carnival, hosted by the Inverell Warriors. The event was a great chance for the boys to show their skills, represent the academy, and be part of an exciting community sporting event.

Regional Employment/Leadership Camp
One of the big highlights of the term was the regional Employment and Leadership Camp, which was a huge success for our Newcastle boys. The camp featured a leadership activity through GlenRock Lagoon, where students worked as a team to navigate a bush walk and complete the challenge in under an hour. It was also a key opportunity for career development, with one boy securing two weeks of work experience in Term 2 and three others offered traineeships and job interviews with our local Clontarf partners.

Senior League Carnival
Our Year 12 boy was selected to represent the Newcastle Academy at the Senior League Carnival in Dubbo. It was a proud moment for the academy, and even more special with our Operations Officer, Joshua Miles, acting as Head Coach for the Hunter Miners team. The carnival was a fantastic experience for the boys and gave them the chance to represent the academy on a regional level.

Worksite and Academy Room Visits
We were lucky to link up with two of our local Clontarf partners, Svitzer and ProTech, for worksite visits this term. The boys found these visits really insightful as they learned about different industries and the opportunities available to them in the workforce. These partnerships continue to play a vital role in shaping the students' career pathways.

Write It Right Program
Our Year 8 students got involved in the Write It Right program, funded by Port Waratah Coal Services. This program took the boys out on country to learn about the Worimi and Awabakal peoples' culture, allowing them to connect with their heritage and spark important conversations about their family history. It’s a program that not only deepens their cultural understanding but also helps strengthen their identity.

Celebrating International Women’s Day
We marked International Women’s Day by celebrating the women who inspire and support us in the Newcastle High School community. It was a chance for the boys to reflect on the importance of gender equality and show appreciation for the incredible women who support them everyday at school.

World’s Greatest Shave
A big shout-out to one of our students who raised over $2,500 for the World’s Greatest Shave event. He shaved his head to support those affected by leukemia, and eight other boys got involved by helping run food stalls and even MCing the event. It was a heartwarming display of community spirit and support for a worthy cause.

Clean Up Australia Day
The Newcastle Clontarf Academy also participated in Clean Up Australia Day, teaming up with the Hunter River and Irrawang Academies for a beach clean-up at Stockton Beach. The boys took pride in helping to keep their local environment clean, making a positive impact on the land and waterways for the entire Newcastle community.

NSW South Coast Camp
In Term 2, we’re heading to the stunning NSW South Coast for an exciting camp. This will be a great chance for the boys to enjoy some time away from their usual routine, take part in team-building activities, and continue developing their leadership skills in a fun and supportive environment.

Rough Diamonds Camp
The Rough Diamond Camp is a special program designed for boys who may be facing challenges with attendance or behaviour. This camp offers a supportive environment where we can focus on personal growth and development.

Over a couple of days, the boys will have the opportunity to reflect on the expectations of both the Clontarf Foundation and their school. Through engaging activities and open discussions, they’ll work on understanding how to better align their actions with these expectations, helping them unlock their full potential.

BIG DAY OUT: Semester 2 Reward Camp in Sydney
For those who’ve worked hard and shown outstanding progress throughout the semester, we’ve got the BIG DAY OUT in Sydney. This reward camp is all about celebrating the boys’ achievements and having a great time in one of Australia’s most iconic cities. Expect fun activities, exploration, and plenty of memorable moments!

Clontarf National Staff PD on the Sunshine Coast QLD
In addition to the student-focused events, the Clontarf National Staff Professional Development (PD) will be held on the Sunshine Coast. This event will allow our staff to share ideas, learn new strategies, and continue improving the support they provide to our students across the country.

NSW Parliament House Tour
Our students will also have the opportunity to visit the NSW Parliament House for a special tour. This visit will give them a behind-the-scenes look at how government works and provide valuable insights into leadership, citizenship, and community involvement. It’s a fantastic opportunity to learn about the political process and see democracy in action.

Yancoal Worksite Visit and Academy Presentation
We’re also planning a visit to the Yancoal worksite, where students will get an inside look at the mining industry. This visit will help the boys understand the career opportunities available in the sector and provide a chance to connect with local industry leaders. There will also be an academy presentation, where students can learn more about how they can get involved in the workforce.

Newcastle Cup
The Newcastle Cup is another exciting event on the sporting calendar. Our boys will have the chance to compete, show off their skills, and represent the Newcastle Clontarf Academy in a fun and competitive setting. It’s a great opportunity to get involved in local sport and push themselves in a team environment.

Junior Rugby League Carnival
Our students will also be participating in the Junior Rugby League Carnival, where they’ll have the chance to showcase their talent and teamwork on the field. This carnival is a fantastic way for the boys to get involved in rugby league, develop their skills, and have fun in a supportive, competitive atmosphere.

Newcastle Clontarf Academy Staff

Than-Uel Whaleboat
Interim Director
Mobile: 0488 307 135
Email: thanuel.whaleboat1@det.nsw.edu.au

Joshua Miles
Operations Officer
Mobile: 0474 497 268
Email: joshua.miles8@schoolsnsw.onmicrosoft.com

For any queries or more information, please feel free to contact our friendly staff.