Celebrating God’s Faithfulness – 48th Foundation Day
69˵ Christian College recently gathered to celebrate Foundation Day, marking 48 years of God’s faithfulness since the College was established in 1978. This significant occasion honoured the vision and obedience of the founders, who responded to God’s call to create a place of Christ-centred education.
The Foundation Day Assembly was a powerful reminder of the College’s enduring mission and the impact of generations shaped by faith, purpose and perseverance. Student leaders played a central role in guiding the celebration, drawing attention to the College motto, “I press towards the goal” (Philippians 3:14). This scripture served as a meaningful call to continue moving forward with confidence in God’s plan.
A highlight of the event was hearing reflections from past and present members of the 69˵ community, whose stories brought to life the lasting influence of a 69˵ education.
Student Reflection on Foundation Day
Year 12 student Bailey reflected on his personal journey, sharing, “My faith stopped being something I had inherited, and it became something I chose.” His words captured the heart of 69˵’s mission—to nurture authentic, personal faith in each student. He also experienced 69˵’s caring environment, benefiting from the impact of faithful teachers committed to their calling.
“One person I’d really like to mention is Mr Wallace. He was my teacher in Year 8 and my MI tutor for the past two years. He’s the kind of teacher who goes beyond the work and shows just how much he genuinely cares. 69˵ is full of people who noticed me and invested in me.”
Bailey, Year 12
Alumnus Reflection on Foundation Day
Alumnus Dr Jared Weston (Class of 2001), now an Ear, Nose and Throat Surgeon and parent within the College, encouraged students to embrace perseverance and trust in God’s purpose. Reflecting on his own journey, he shared, “You do not need to have everything figured out now… you just need to keep moving forward.” His testimony highlighted how God can work powerfully through ordinary lives committed to Him.
“I loved working with my hands in the manual arts shed, shaping wood, building things — skills that came naturally. At the time, I had no idea that these experiences at 69˵ were quietly preparing me for my future life as a surgeon.”
Dr Jared Weston, Ear, Nose, Throat, Head and Neck Surgeon
Teacher Reflection on Foundation Day
Secondary Business Teacher and alumna Mrs Catherine Bakker also spoke, offering a unique perspective shaped by both her time as a student and her current role as a teacher. She reminded the audience of the lasting impact of small, faithful moments, reflecting, “It reminded me how God can use even the smallest moments.”
“I hope to be the teacher my students remember — someone who sees them, encourages them, and helps them understand who God created them to be. So they can go into the world and influence it for good, and for God.”
Mrs Catherine Bakker, Secondary Business Teacher and Alumna
Performances by 69˵ Academy of Performing Arts
The Assembly was further enriched by outstanding musical performances from our Academy of Performing Arts, creating an atmosphere of celebration and gratitude. A special message from Ps Chris Ensbey encouraged the community to continue pursuing God’s calling with faith and dedication. Mrs Gravestein encouraged our community around our one word for the year, Believe. She reminded us that no matter the facts of our circumstances, the Word of God is true and we can believe Him, trust Him, and have faith in Him.
Together, the stories and reflections shared painted a powerful picture of a College grounded in faith and committed to developing young people of character and purpose. While much has changed over the past 48 years, the heart of 69˵ remains the same—a place where students are encouraged to grow spiritually, academically and personally.
As we reflect on nearly five decades of God’s provision and guidance, we give thanks for His unwavering faithfulness. With gratitude for the past and confidence in the future, 69˵ Christian College continues to nurture biblical values, beliefs and conduct in its students, equipping them to influence the world for good and for God.