A journey of community and giving at Clarendon

The Nguyen family has been part of the Clarendon community for over 18 years. Tam and Han-Han’s children, Benjamin (2023), James (2025) and Joshua (Year 10) began their journey at Clarendon in the Early Learning Centre and have embraced every opportunity, whether through pursuing their interests in the co-curricular program or immersing themselves in experiences such as the Yuulong Residential Program.

Dr Han-Han Chung-Nguyen described discovering Clarendon as a ‘happy accident’ in 2008 when parking for work at their dental practice, Ballarat Dental Group. The convenient location and recommendations from colleagues soon led them to choose Clarendon as their school of choice and, throughout their journey, they have discovered it to be so much more than a school.

“We love so many aspects of Clarendon, but what stands out most is the sense of community,” said Han-Han. “Every moment and every opportunity our three boys have been able to enjoy has given them increased confidence to learn about themselves as well as how to meet and interact with new friends and teachers.”

They recall a moment from a Junior School assembly, hosted by then Head of Junior School, Chris Brown. When Benjamin was in Year 3 and James in Year 1, Mr Brown encouraged students to not only thank their teachers and peers, but also the cleaners and maintenance staff.

“It highlighted to us that Clarendon is not just about choosing your heart’s desire,” said Han-Han. “It’s about learning how to be a respectful human being, how to belong to a community, no matter how big or small your contribution is, and to demonstrate the values of an empathetic and compassionate person.”

Over many years, Tam and Han-Han have supported students through both the Scholarship and Building Funds.

“We both came from backgrounds in public education and understand it is not always feasible for some families to have the financial means to enter independent schools,” said Han-Han. “We have been able to benefit from such great support from Clarendon that we want to offer the same opportunity to other students and families.”

Their eldest son, Benjamin, is currently in his third year of a Bachelor of Dentistry at La Trobe University, while James is in his first year of the same course. Joshua recently performed in Clarendon’s Senior Play, Cinderella, and is enjoying the variety within his studies and musical co-curricular activities.

Thank you to all members of the Clarendon community who support our students, whether by enhancing our learning environments or by enabling students, who may not otherwise have the opportunity, to attend Clarendon. Your generosity ensures that every student can experience all that a Clarendon education provides.

If you would like more information about giving at Clarendon, click here, or to discuss how your support could create opportunities for current and future students, please contact Mardi Richardson at communityrelations@clarendon.vic.edu.au.

Pictured in order of slide appearance:

1. Benjamin during the 2023 Performing Arts Showcase
2. James in the 2025 Senior Musical, Hello, Dolly!
3. Joshua in the 2025 Years 7-9 Musical, Frozen JR.