Published on: 7 February 2014





Boys from Pre-Primary to Year 12 gathered in the Gymnasium Precinct this morning for a special assembly to commemorate the School’s foundation and 104th birthday. Prior to the assembly, an official party lit the Torch of Learning at a service held at Christ Church Claremont.

Father Peter Boyland, rector of Christ Church parish, and Assistant Chaplain Canon Richard Pengelley led the rededication service along with Headmaster Garth Wynne, Head of Senior School Roger Bayly, Head of Preparatory School Richard Wright, School Chaplain Canon Frank Sheehan, School Captain Charlie Moorman, Prep School Captain Samuel Gelavis, and Prep and Senior School House Captains.

Father Boyland said it was our duty and joy to remember with gratitude the School’s founder and rector of Christ Church Claremont, the Reverend William Joseph McClemans, along with all its benefactors. After prayers of the thanksgiving and dedication, the torch was lit and carried by Charlie and Samuel, who led the procession across to the School.

The assembly opened with a Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony performed by WA’s longest serving Aboriginal academic and the Elder in Residence at Curtin University, Simon Forrest, who was born and raised in Wajuk country (Perth).

Charlie reminded students of how lucky they were to be part of the Christ Church community and culture, of the boys that had gone before them, and of making the most of every experience at this great school. The Senior School Jazz Combo provided a musical highlight, performing Stormy Monday. 

Mr Wynne said marking the School’s foundation and birthday in a special assembly such as this, offered a rare and wonderful opportunity for the whole school, Senior and Preparatory, teaching and support staff to come together.

The Torch of Learning was created in the School’s centenary year as a symbol of the motto ‘God is our Leader, Learning is our Light’.