Dux from Mildura rates her time at Ballarat Clarendon

Former rural boarder Olivia Putland explains how Clarendon helped her excel in more than just academics.

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ASK STUDENTS about life at Ballarat Clarendon College, and they happily reel off experiences that are positive, vibrant and fun.

Last year’s school captain and co-dux, Olivia Putland from Mildura, recalls her time in the girls boarding house with enthusiasm.

“Being a part of the Clarendon girls boarding house was so much more than having a place to sleep,” Olivia said. “From first walking through the doors you become a proud member of a longstanding community and opportunity comes knocking down your door.

“Primarily, becoming a boarder gave me the opportunity to access a world-class education. The passion, dedication and knowledge of teachers, tutors and staff was unlike anything I’d ever known. For me, it was the chance to excel.

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“Achieving a 99.9 ATAR and pursuing my dream of studying medicine was something unimaginable before I moved to Clarendon. But my boarding experience was so much more than just this number.

“Sport has always been close to my heart and becoming a boarder enabled me to broaden my horizons. There is a culture of participation and inclusion. While still playing netball, I was also able to try rowing and cricket. Aside from sport, boarding enabled me to become more involved in the community.”

She said the boarding house helped her gain independence and courage, while being supported and nurtured.

“For me, it was perhaps the best stepping stone to university I could have asked for,” she said.

Boarding staff at Clarendon aim to foster independence in a safe and caring community of about 150 boarders. The boarding team focuses on students’ individual needs and supports their aspirations.