From meaningful reflections and musical performances to colourful fundraising and spirited House competitions, Founders’ Day was a vibrant celebration of the people, values and traditions that make Peter Carnley Anglican Community School unique.
Students, staff, families and special guests gathered on Friday 19 June to mark Founders’ Day, a much loved tradition that celebrated the School's heritage, community and shared values.
The day commenced with a special service in the Keith Lindbeck Centre, bringing together members of the School community to reflect on the journey of the School and the vision that continued to guide its future. The Right Reverend David Bassett led the service, while School Patron The Most Reverend Dr Peter Carnley AC, Chair of School Council Mr Philip Goldsworthy and Councillor Matt Rowse joined the celebrations as honoured guests. Our Principal, Ms Felicity House spoke about the role Dr Carnley played in the creation of AngliSchools and his representation of the new AngliSchools values: Fire, Inclusion, Respect and Excellence.
An important moment of the service was the recognition of the 2027 Scholarship recipients. The presentation acknowledged students whose achievements and commitment reflected the values that sit at the heart of the School community. Founders’ Day also provided an opportunity to recognise the dedication and commitment of our staff through the annual Staff Service Awards. Several staff members were honoured for their long-standing contribution to the Peter Carnley Anglican Community School Community, with milestones of up to 15 years of service celebrated. Their unwavering commitment, passion and care have played a significant role in shaping the experiences of our students and strengthening the vibrant community we enjoy today.
Music played a significant role throughout the morning, with performances from the Senior Concert Band, the Peter Carnley Children's Choir and the Senior School Choir adding warmth and celebration to the occasion. Their performances were enjoyed by the many parents, family members and friends who attended and shared in the Founders’ Day celebrations.
Following the service, students took part in one of the day's most anticipated traditions, the Buddy Activities. Students from Junior and Senior year levels joined together across a range of locations around the Campus, participating in games and activities based around the theme of ‘Belonging’. The day encouraged collaboration, connection and friendship and provided valuable opportunities for students of different ages to spend time together and strengthen relationships across the School.
The afternoon brought excitement and colour to the Junior School, with students gathering on the oval for the annual Colour Run. The event raised funds for new playground equipment at All Saints School in Samoa and was met with tremendous support from students, staff and families. Spectators lined the oval as participants ran through bursts of vibrant colour, creating a memorable atmosphere filled with laughter and excitement.
The Junior School community is estimated to have raised around $6,000 through the initiative, demonstrating the generosity and commitment to service that remain important aspects of School life.
Meanwhile, Senior School students channelled their energy into the Founders’ Day House competition. Representing their Houses with pride, students competed enthusiastically in a series of activities that highlighted teamwork, determination and school spirit. The event also provided a fitting conclusion to Spirit Week, during which students had celebrated their House Patrons and embraced a week of friendly competition particularly in the inaugural Founders’ Day House Relay.
Founders’ Day once again provided an opportunity to honour the traditions of the past while celebrating the vibrant community that exists today. From the reflections shared during the morning service to the friendships strengthened through buddy activities, the generosity shown through the Colour Run and the excitement of the House competitions, the day captured the values of connection, service and belonging that continue to define the School.
It was a memorable occasion that left students, staff and families with a renewed sense of pride in their School community and the future they are building together.