Find his voice

Looking back over our nine years at Trinity, we can hardly believe the journey our son has taken. When Mathew first joined, he was a boy often misunderstood. At primary school he had been labelled “disruptive” and, despite his love of music, was left out of the choir.

We remember touring Trinity with little hope of a place. The school was full, and we expected nothing more than a look around. Yet even that first visit felt different. Staff listened to our concerns, met Mathew properly, and encouraged him to share his interests. Soon after, we were invited back for a formal interview for the following year.

He sat down with the Head of Junior School, who spoke with him not only about academics but also his love of singing and football. The message was clear: Trinity valued boys who embraced all aspects of school life. After completing the enrolment process and with a vacancy opening, Mathew was offered a place in Year 4. That moment was transformative—for the first time, our son was recognised for his strengths rather than his struggles.
“Trinity saw something in Mathew that others hadn’t. Instead of focusing on his challenges, they recognised his potential.”
That shift gave Mathew what he needed most: purpose, confidence and belief in himself.

Music quickly became the heartbeat of his Trinity years. After a suggestion from the Music Department, we applied for and Mathew was awarded a scholarship to sing at St Paul’s Cathedral. Under the guidance of Philip Nicholls, he received world-class training and developed a lifelong love of music. Sitting in the pews, listening to our son sing before thousands at the Cathedral’s Christmas services, was profoundly moving—moments we will cherish forever. Those experiences didn’t just build his voice; they gave him resilience, focus and the ability to express himself with confidence.

Trinity also offered opportunities beyond the classroom that shaped his character in ways we could never have imagined. The One Arm Point Program, first billeting a student at home and later travelling to the remote Aboriginal community, gave Mathew a deep appreciation of different cultures and perspectives. It opened his eyes and heart in a way only real-world experiences can.

As parents, it was inspiring to watch our son step outside his comfort zone and grow in empathy and understanding.

Sport was another cornerstone of his growth. From footy in Junior School to rowing at national championships, Trinity gave Mathew the chance to test himself, work in teams and build friendships that will last a lifetime. One of our proudest moments was his appointment as Captain of Boats in Year 12. The role demanded responsibility and leadership, and it was remarkable to see him rise to the challenge.

“Watching him lead his peers with humility and strength showed us just how far he had come.”

What has stood out most is the way Trinity takes the time to see the whole boy, not just the grades or behaviour. Teachers such as Miss Hill and Mr Botha looked beyond the surface, encouraging Mathew to channel his energy into achievement. Their patience, understanding and belief in him made all the difference.

For us as parents, Trinity has been more than a school—it has been a community. From concerts at the Cathedral to Saturday sport and regattas, to the friendships we’ve built with other families, the support and encouragement we’ve felt has been invaluable. Parenting doesn’t come with a handbook, and there were times we questioned ourselves. Bu

t Trinity became our village.
“It takes a community to raise a child, and Trinity has been that community for us.”

Now, as Mathew prepares to graduate, we feel an overwhelming mix of pride, gratitude and a touch of sadness. We’ve seen him grow in confidence, discover passions that will last a lifetime, and step into leadership with strength and humility. Most importantly, he leaves Trinity with belief in himself and a strong foundation for whatever comes next.

“Trinity has been so much more than a school—it has been a place where our son was truly seen, understood and supported.”

As we watch Mathew take his next steps beyond the school gates, we know that the values instilled in him—truth, service, courage and community—will continue to guide his life. For that, we will always be deeply thankful.