Mr Terrence McCorkell, Principal of the Warwick Christian College, was Guest Speaker at the Rose City-Warwick Probus Club meeting, held recently in the Dining Hall of the Slade Campus.
Mr McCorkell outlined the school’s plans for the move from the Canningvale site, to the Slade Campus, during the last two weeks of Term 4 this year. As the Christian College embarks on its Secondary program in 2013, beginning with Year 8, Slade will see new life. Present indications are that the School’s current enrolment of 54 students will increase to 85 students, (including Year 8) when the school moves to Slade.
The Christian College is run by a Christian Organisation (not a church), known as Christian Community Ministries, which provides non-denominational Independent Christian Schooling in eight Queensland locations. Warwick Christian College, founded in 2007, is part of that group. CCM encourages engagement of parents and community with the school; hence the Slade Campus will continue to be available to community groups.
In preparation for the arrival of the students, upgrading of the site is in full swing. Slade House, which will be the site of the School Administration, is receiving fresh paint to the roof and exterior painted surfaces, with refurbishment to portion of the interior. Electrical safety audits have been done and deficiencies attended to, while the Mayhew Building and Barnes House are receiving internal refurbishment to become classrooms. The school will use the Chapel, and renovation of the swimming pool will continue, to meet compliance regulations. It will be an asset for the school students. As the school is a Day School, the dormitories will continue to be available for community use, as will the Dining Hall and Slade Hall.
The Christian College ethos is one based on Christian belief, which becomes the motivation for students during their school life and fosters attitudes that will change the way they live their lives – “finding success in a life that counts” (Mr McCorkell).
The school’s attitude to discipline is one of self discipline, responding to kids’ behaviour in a way to provide guidance, thereby building a relationship between child and teacher.
The Canningvale site will continue to be used as the site of an ‘ungraded school’ for about 15-20 ‘at risk’ students who, for some reason, have ‘slipped through the cracks’ during their educational experience. The program will assist them to move towards future employment and a more meaningful life in general.
Members were most appreciative of Mr McCorkell’s address and his presence at the Breakfast, which preceded the meeting. The future of the iconic, historic Slade site seems assured, in good hands.
