February, 2025

Year 12 student and College Prefect Tatenda Mataranyika is one of only 12 South Australian students to be invited to attend the prestigious annual National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC) in Canberra in March. 

This opportunity comes after Tatenda’s participation at the South Australian Constitutional Convention last year, where she demonstrated exceptional understanding and engagement with Australia’s political and legal systems. Tatenda’s selection is a testament to her strong analytical skills, passion for politics, and commitment to learning. 

The NSCC is the peak event of its type that explores the Australian Constitution for senior school students. Tatenda will travel to the national capital to join 120 Year 11 and Year 12 students from around Australia at the three-day convention where participates will discuss and debate constitutional issues and consider topics designed to increase their understanding of the Australian Constitution and system of government.

During the NSCC, participants will explore this year’s topic: ‘Revisiting Section 51ii and 90 to Reimagine Australia’s Fiscal Federalism, does the Constitution allow us to maintain national proprieties while embracing new regional economic possibilities?’ Students will hear from experts, debate the main issues relating to the topic and vote in a mock referendum. 

The program also includes a Prime Minister’s Reception at Parliament House, a meeting with the Governor-General at Government House, and a dinner at the National Press Club of Australia. Participants will also visit important civic institutions in Canberra such as the Museum of Australian Democracy and Parliament House as well as attend Question Time in the House of Representatives.

"I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to attend the national school’s constitutional convention and I’m really looking forward to working with other students from different parts of Australia as well as the possibility of making some new and lasting friendships.” said Tatenda. 

“The SA event was an amazing experience, and I would recommend it to anyone who has an interest in legal studies or politics."

“I’m working towards a career in law and or politics as I would like to venture into international relations and eventually, administrative law.” 

The program is funded by the Australian Government Department of Education (DOE), coordinated by National Curriculum Services (NCS) and supported by the education departments from all states and territories. All costs associated with flights, accommodation and catering for participants are covered by the DOE. 

The Trinity College Lion Dance Troupe recently delighted guests with a special performance at the Shanghai Soiree Dinner in the Adelaide Convention Centre on behalf of the Australian Asian Chamber of Commerce (AACCI).

In addition to celebrating the Chinese New Year, the dinner was an invaluable occasion for local businesses, industry leaders, government representatives, diverse chamber of commerce groups and other stakeholders to connect, exchange ideas, and explore the exciting initiatives that AACCI shared on the night.  

After the performance the students had the opportunity to meet and shake hands with honoured guests Zoe Bettison MP Minister for Tourism and Multicultural Affairs (SA) as well as His Excellency Li Dong the Consul General of Republic of China. Both dignitaries also took time to visit the green room to speak to the student's parents. 

The 2025 College Captains and Prefects were officially inducted at a Commencement Service held in the Hewitson Theatre on Thursday 30 January.

Captains Dalton Stedall and Erin Doudle as well as Vice Captains Oliver Gibbens-O’Hara and Brianna Jefferson were congratulated and welcomed by all those in attendance as they pledged to lead with integrity, responsibility and commitment.

Additional congratulations were also extended to the 2025 Prefects Abiei Ater, Bethany Atherton, Ayden Baker, Khushi Bavanam, Macey Birch, Tabitha Clark, Lily Clezy, Rashika Dahal, Liam Davey, Georgia Dexter, Jessica Du Randt, Alex Grant, Brianna Jackson, Tafara Manzou, Tatenda Mataranykia, Adriana Merenda, Enrique O’Leary-Chen, Owen Richardson, Giselle Rutayisire, Evan Staker, Tayla Thomas, Bella Yandle and Amaya Zerk. 

A highlight of the service was the presentation of blazers and badges to the Captains and Prefects that symbolise the significant leadership roles they will hold throughout the year. This was followed by an address from the new College Captains that reflected their passion for the school and their vision for the year ahead. 

The captains encouraged their peers to strive for excellence, support one another and embody the values of our school community. The ceremony was further enriched by fantastic student musical performances that showcased the incredible talent within our school. These performances not only highlighted the skill and dedication of our students but also added a vibrant energy to the service, setting an uplifting tone for the year ahead.

As these new leaders embark on their roles, we encourage everyone in the Trinity College community to continue supporting students in their journey. Their success will be shaped by the partnership between home and school, and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will have on our school community throughout 2025.