GRACE

My name is Grace Muddle, and I graduated from St Philip's Christian College, Gosford, in 2022. I attended SPCC G for all of secondary school and loved my time at the College. I had so many teachers make a significant impact on my life that I was inspired to follow in their footsteps and become a teacher myself. I am currently studying for my Bachelor of Secondary Education, majoring in Food Technology. I am partnered with the St Philip’s Teaching School, which is an apprentice-based program where you work in a school, at the same time as completing your degree. Recently, I married my high school sweetheart Samuel, who I met at SPCC G.

I'm currently studying for a Bachelor of Secondary Education through the St Philip's Teaching School. I am majoring in Food Technology and minoring in Geography. As part of the program, I work at St Philip’s Christian College, Gosford, two days a week.

I was at SPCC from Year 9 to Year 12.

My best memory at St Philip's was the Lismore Mission Trip. In 2022, myself, a bunch of other students and a few teachers went up to Lismore to help with flood relief. This was an eye-opening experience that not only allowed us to serve a community in need but also brought us closer together as a group. The resilience of the people we met and the bonds we formed during that trip are something I'll never forget. I remember a particular moment on the trip where we met this lovely lady who had just lost her home and business. We talked to her about the goodness of God and gave her a Bible. She felt deeply touched by our gift, and despite everything she had lost, she expressed a renewed sense of hope and faith. That moment showed me the power of compassion and the impact of sharing God's love in times of hardship.

A staff member who particularly impacted me was Jules Hassall. Jules, my year advisor in Year 12 and today, is now my mentor, teaching me all there is to know about TAS. In Year 12, I struggled with a loss, Jules continued to be so kind to me and continued to lift me up, even if she didn't know it.

When I left school, I wanted to go into education because I felt a strong calling to make a difference in the lives of young people, just as my teachers had done for me. I was passionate about creating a positive learning environment where students could grow, not just academically, but personally and spiritually as well. My experiences at school inspired me to pursue a career where I could help shape the next generation and contribute to their development in meaningful ways. I juggled with many different questions about my future, like what year group did I want to train, subject and even schools. Luckily for me, the teaching school has allowed me to be in both a primary classroom and high school, allowing me to experience different age groups.

The best piece of advice I ever received was to trust in God's plan, even when things don't make sense. It reminded me that everything happens for a reason, and that God's timing is perfect, even if it's different from what I had in mind. This advice has helped me stay grounded and hopeful through life's ups and downs.

The thing I wish I had done but never got around to was getting more involved in extracurricular activities. Looking back, I realise how much I missed out on opportunities to learn new skills, make more friends, and create lasting memories outside of the classroom. If I could go back to school, I would have joined more clubs and participated in more school events.

A piece of advice I would give students leaving school is to stay true to your values and passions, even when the path ahead seems uncertain. Life after school can be full of unexpected twists and turns, but if you keep your faith strong and follow what truly matters to you, you'll find your way. Remember that it's okay to take your time, explore different opportunities, and learn from every experience. Trust that God has a plan for you, and don't be afraid to step out of your comfort zone to discover it.

SAMUEL

My name is Samuel Hodson, and I graduated from SPCC Gosford in 2022. I attended SPCC Gosford for 8 years, and thoroughly enjoyed my time there. I am currently studying a bachelor’s of Secondary Education at Alphacrucis University College and am partnered with the St Philip’s Teaching School as I work two days a week at Belmont Christian College as a teaching assistant. I also recently married my amazing wife, and high-school sweetheart, Grace. I loved my time at St Philips Gosford so greatly that one day, I want to come back as a teacher and give back to the community that gave so much to me as a student.

I'm currently studying for a Bachelor of Secondary Education through the St Philip's Teaching School. I am in my second year of the program and am currently working at Belmont Christian College for two days a week as part of the program. I also work at Saints Academy Gosford, which has been a blessing as it has allowed me to stay connected and give back to the SPCC Gosford community.

I was at SPCC Gosford from 2015-2022.

At school, I found a nurturing environment that allowed me to grow not only academically but spiritually as well. Throughout my eight years at SPCC Gosford, I made strong Christian friends who encouraged me to grow in my faith. At SPCC Gosford, I had the opportunity to serve in many capacities, with the role of College Captain being one opportunity I was blessed to serve in.

My best memory of SPCC was my graduation. One of my favourite parts about that day was looking towards my year group as I delivered the captain's address and seeing how unified we were. Graduation was difficult, as I had grown very close with so many people over my eight years at SPCC Gosford. However, it was still my best memory because, thanks to the amazing teachers at SPCC Gosford, I knew that everybody in my year had been prepared to go into 'the world' and find careers that could be used to glorify God. It was a perfectly bitter-sweet moment, which is why it is my best memory at SPCC Gosford.

A staff member who particularly impacted me was Jim Wright. Jim inspired me to use the gifts that God has given me to glorify God. Through his Chemistry lessons, Jim taught me to see the world through a Biblical lens, always pushing deeper into learning more about God's creation. He also encouraged me to use my gifts to steward God's creation, building His kingdom.

The biggest influence in my life is my father-in-law, Peter Muddle. As a professional influence, as I have journeyed through my Bachelor of Secondary Education, Pete has encouraged me to take the challenge of understanding and applying Christ-centred education to my work. As a father-in-law, Pete has demonstrated what a Christian husband looks like.

My greatest achievement since I graduated was getting married to the love of my life and my high school sweetheart, Grace, in September of 2024.