A world of opportunity
HAILING from Ilfracombe in Western Queensland, the Spackman family chose Downlands for its educational excellence alongside its strong family and community culture.
Mother Pauline Spackman said with the family home over 1000km away, they wanted their children to attend the same school – sharing meals, routines, friends and teachers as well as supporting one another and cheering from the sidelines.
As a co-educational boarding school, Downlands was able to offer all that and more.
“When we first visited Downlands, what stood out to us was the level of maturity of the students – their genuine smiles, happy nature and their willingness to help visitors. That warm welcoming feeling at Downlands made us confident it was the right school for our family,” Mrs Spackman said.
The college has catered for the Spackman children’s diverse interests.
“Ben has an interest in agriculture and mathematics, Hugh is interested in sport and drama, and Summer loves to sing and enjoys animal husbandry,” Mrs Spackman said.
“Downlands can meet all of these needs and offer other opportunities which they had not previously considered.”
Year 11 student Ben Spackman has enjoyed the many opportunities at Downlands and considers himself lucky to attend the same school as his siblings.
Ben and brother Hugh, in Year 10, will tour South Africa in September as members of the college cricket and football teams, respectively.
Hugh has enjoyed both sporting and performing arts opportunities, including the recent college musical.
Summer Spackman, a Year 8 student, joined the Downlands community in September last year, and she loves the fact that her brothers are close by.
Downlands’ open day, 10am–2pm Sunday, May 20, is the perfect opportunity to experience the college.
Pre-register on the Downlands website or contact Merilyn on 07 4690 9500 to find out what Downlands can offer your family.