Photo above: Annual Music Night. 

Dear Parents,

As we approach the end of Term 2, I would like to congratulate all students on their hard work and thank them for contributing to all aspects of the life of the College. Whilst Kennedy offers many opportunities for students, it has been very pleasing to see so many embrace the extra-curricular activities that have been made available to them. So far this semester has included:

• A very successful study tour in the last holidays to New York, Washington and Orlando where students experienced amazing opportunities across all Learning Areas.
• A range of Interschool sport competitions including the SAS program.
• It was fantastic to see so many students audition for the Arts Cup. This is an important component of the House competition and it was very impressive to see everyone treat our competitors with great respect and support.
• Cross Country was another great event and it wonderful to see so many students attempting to do their best on the run. Our Interschool team represented the College with excellence and produced some outstanding results.
• Ongoing academic tutoring for all students with additional support for the examinations.
• Numerous Arts based performances and excursions.
• Next week, 28 Year 10 students will spend the first week of the holidays skiing in Queenstown and then touring New Zealand.
• These holidays, 33 Year 11 students will travel to Cambodia with 3 staff members to work in a school in Phnom Penh.

These are just some of the components of our extra-curricular life. It is this wide range of activities that make Kennedy a vibrant and dynamic organisation and so pleasing to see families welcome and accept the opportunities available. On behalf of the Kennedy Staff, I wish everyone a safe and relaxing semester break.

Mr Mark Ashby
Principal

In a world that is ‘selfie’ obsessed, the mirror that we use to gauge our value is important. For many it is the external mirror of public perception, for example: the number of ‘likes’ on a social media post; academic results; compliments received; accolades given by peers, etcetera.

When we rely on these subjective external sources for our sense of well-being, issues can arise when we do not receive a positive response; or we do not do as well as expected; the friendship group changes; or what we do is ignored. It is here where our second mirror kicks in.

The second mirror is internal: our own self-talk. That ongoing conversation that we have with ourselves. In an age where we are told that a person cannot truly be who they are without first accepting themselves, this mirror of internal dialogue would seem far healthier. The issue though is that while we have between 20,000 – 50,000 thoughts every day, 98% of what we think is negative and no matter how much external approval we receive, our overwhelmingly negative self-talk can sabotage any positive outcomes while magnifying any negative results.

So, I offer you one other mirror, and that is Scripture. Held up like a selfie stick, it is an objective, unchanging, external source that provides a true image of who we are, which works in conjunction with the Holy Spirit, so that there is an internal renewing of our thoughts (Romans 12.2); we learn the reason we have value (Genesis 1:27); and the extent of that value (John 3.16). The ultimate outcome of this partnership between God and His word is that we become part of the equation so that we are changed, from one degree of glory to another (2 Corinthians 3.18).

If you would like to discuss this further, please feel free to contact me. pburgess@kennedy.wa.edu.au

I hope you enjoy the break. 

June marks the middle of the academic year and a time for students to reflect on their application and achievement so far in 2017. A student who has made every effort to understand the concepts presented in class through regular revision, homework and study can be pleased with their grade. The result would be the best that the student could achieve. Although some changes may need to be made to class levels or revision techniques the student (and parent) will not wonder about ‘what ifs’. Every student can use the change of semester as an opportunity to set new goals, make a plan and take new actions.

A new book Release your inner drive: everything you need to know to get good at stuff (2017) by Bradley Busch and Edward Watson, who coach Olympic athletes and English premiership footballers, shares effective ways of revising, goal-setting and handling stress for parents, teachers and children. An article in the UK Mail shared some information from the book. The following pointers are a further summary of Busch and Watson’s tips:

• Space out revision
  Research has consistently demonstrated that 'little and often' is far more effective than 'a lot all at once'. The best things parents can do is to provide structure and agree on mini-deadlines so as to help the students believe the task is manageable and achievable.
   
• Ditch the highlighters
  Despite being arguably the most popular revision weapon of choice, there is little evidence that highlighting helps improve memory. The biggest mistake students do with highlighters is to over-use them, with too many different colours and too much content highlighted results in little being remembered.
   
• Utilise the testing effect
  The 'Testing Effect' describes how having to answer a question improves your memory. This can take the form of quizzes, multiple choice tests, past papers or simply answering a question about what you've learnt round the dinner table. This is one of the best ways to learn.
   
• Silence is golden
  Studies have shown that people who revise listening to music recall less than those who revised in quiet environments. This is because music can be distracting. If the songs students listen to get 'stuck in their head', it is unlikely that their revision will as well.
   
• Get them some fresh air every day
  In a fascinating study, students who took a break outside in a field, park or forest, compared to an urban environment, performed 20 per cent better on their return to work.
   
• React well to their setbacks
  Recent research suggests that how parents react when their child makes a mistake plays a huge role in their child's mindset. If parents can react to setbacks positively and as an opportunity for learning, instead of negatively judging them, your child is much more likely to develop a growth mindset.
   
• Praise the right things
  Focus more on effort, process and strategies: your child will learn the key skills needed to become resilient learners. Phrases such as 'you must have worked really hard on that' or 'you did really well to stick with it' are good starting points.
   
• Sleep their way to success
  Sleep can be a powerful weapon during revision time, as a regular night's sleep will help improve your child's memory, concentration, ability to handle stress, creativity, decision making and immune system. You can help your child gain these benefits by avoiding common sleep mistakes such as irregular bedtimes, late night use of electronics and staying up all night doing last minute cramming.

Click here to see article.

Semester reports will be available on SEQTA before the end of Term 2. Students in Year 10 and 11 need to submit their course selection sheet for 2018 on or before Tuesday 27 June.

It has been my pleasure have spent the latter part of this Term as Acting Deputy of Pastoral Care whilst Mr Wendell Pether has been on leave.

Mrs Laura Degois, our current Head of Year 11, will be taking maternity leave at the end of this term. She has done an amazing job working with our Year 11 students over the year and we wish her all the best for this exciting time ahead. Miss Nicole Foxton, a current Head of House, will be stepping into this role.

Two tours will be taking place during the term break. A team is travelling to Cambodia with Transform Cambodia, a group who work with some of the poorest children in the world, to improve health, provide education and leadership skills. Another group is heading to New Zealand for some skiing and snowboarding fun, together with some touring through the magnificent scenery and experiencing some of the unique New Zealand culture.

Our Student Executive are currently leading the councillors in working on a gratitude initiative to thank their teachers for the hard work and care they provide to Kennedy students. I am sure the staff will be very appreciative of their kind gestures.

During Term 3, we will conduct elections for 2018 Student Councillors and House Captains. These are important roles at Kennedy Baptist College and provide an excellent opportunity for students to develop skills in leadership, serve and impact the life of our College.

I would like to thank all of our Student Councillors and House Captains for their hard work and dedication throughout this term. Have a wonderful break.

Assembly this week celebrated the many highlights of Term 2. Mr Ashby mentioned the Arts Cup, the trip to America, the House and Interschool Cross Country, where Kennedy student Luke Shaw (Year 10) achieved the fastest time on the day. There have also been the recent exams and Mr Ashby asked students to review their performance and to set goals for the future.

In conclusion to the Harry Potter 20th Year celebrations organised by our Research and Study Centre team, Mrs Yurisich spoke about the Harry Potter series which are the highest selling books of all time. Mrs Yurisich also congratulated Year 7 student Christine Gee who won the best Harry Potter essay competition. Several readings from the Harry Potter series were presented by members of staff, followed by a rendition of the movie theme by flautist Kayleigh Hawke (Year 10).  In a burst of colour and energy the Year 9 Drama students dressed in Slytherin, Gryffindor, Hufflepuff and Ravenclaw robes entered the Auditorium to play a lively game of Quidditch on stage. The performance was enhanced by images projected on our cyclorama screen, which is a new addition to the Auditorium and will contribute an added dimension to College performances.

The House point’s competition is always very popular and House Captain Heidi Conti (Year 7) announced the following totals for Terms 1 and 2:

Stirling - 1,450
Forrest - 1,250
Eyre - 1,200
King - 1,100

Four student representatives were then drawn to play the chocolate clinker game which gave them the opportunity to win the major House prize, a Giant Mountain Bike. We would like to thank The Bicycle Entrepreneur in Myaree for generously donating this prize. Congratulations to Tarun De Silva (Year 7) who was the lucky prizewinner.

Mr Ashby then gave the Devotion in which he reminded students that Harry Potter is total fantasy whereas the Bible contains true events and God invites us to follow him in all parts of our lives. The Assembly concluded with prayers from Chaplain Pauline Burgess, who asked students to keep in their prayers the staff and students going on the Transform Cambodia trip and the tour to New Zealand in the coming holidays.

Please click here for more photos.

Ms Sandra Doick
Public Relations

The annual Music Night was a great occasion which showcased the talented music students here at the College. It was fantastic to hear and see the variety of performances from the students with some special items from the music tutors and Mr Chan and Mrs Vandepeer's duo, Chandepeer.

Thank you to all the parents and friends for coming and supporting the students and we look forward to seeing you next year.

For more photos please click here​

Mr Daniel Chan
Music Teacher

This week three inspired Kennedy radio stars, Taylah Robson (Year 10), Ben Moore (Year 10) and Elizabeth Bryant (Year 7) headed for the 98five Sonshine FM studios in Como to record voiceovers promoting our upcoming Open Day on Saturday 26 August. After a tour of the station the intense studio recording was on! Assisted by Mike from Sonshine FM they soon had three recordings “in the can”. Congratulations to Taylah who only needed one take! Well done also to Ben and Elizabeth who sounded amazing.

98.5 Sonshine FM is a Christian radio station that provides easy listening radio, presenting positive values and therefore aligns with the Kennedy Baptist College values. You will be able to listen to the voiceovers on Sonshine FM from 12 August; the broadcast times are below.

• 12 August - 18 August from 6.00am to 9.00am
• 14 August - 18 August from 3.00pm to 6.00pm
• 21 August - 25 August from 6.00pm to 9.00am and 3.00pm to 6.00pm

Ms Sandra Doick
Public Relations

Photo above: Staff versus student Quidditch match.

The Research and Study Centre, as part of its support for the love of literature, is celebrating the milestone of 20 years since Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone was first published, on 26 June 1997.  A number of events have been organised for the last two weeks of Term 2 and we hope the students enjoy them and are able to take part.
​
On Monday, the staff versus student Quidditch match took place on the oval in perfect weather. The staff just winning 110 to 90 points. An essay competition in which students could select from a range of topics was held. The winning entry was written by Christine Gee on the topic of Voldemort, inherently evil or the case of a broken childhood? On Tuesday, in conjunction with the free dress day, students and staff were encouraged to come dressed in their best Harry Potter themed dress up. It was lots of fun.

At this week’s Assembly, the Arts Department embraced the Harry Potter theme with a dance and drama presentation along with a musical item. This was greatly appreciated. Still to come are lunchtime activities including finding the Horcruxes and Kahoot quizzes. Also, next week after school, we will be viewing Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone which is rated PG.

Mrs Alison Hanham
Library Teacher

Supreme Court of Western Australia

On Wednesday 14 June, the Kennedy Baptist College Mock Trial team competed in their final round of the Mock trial competition at the Supreme Court of Western Australia.

After school, the team did some last minute preparation at the offices of a Law firm in the CBD. This was where Margaret, our lawyer coach, helped our Barristers and Witnesses with their last minute preparations.

Despite only just finishing their Semester One exams, the Kennedy students performed exceptionally well against Shenton College. The case was a criminal case where the defendant was accused of stalking an Australian athlete, and involved stealing her cat. Although Kennedy did not win, the night was an educational and enjoyable experience for all those involved.

Congratulations to the Year 11 and 12 Politics and Law students who partisipated in the Mock Trail.

Mr Manuel Ilchuk
Politics and Law

SAS Sport Update

SAS Sport has seen some amazing and exciting games during Semester One. Thank you to each student who participated and showed commitment throughout the season.

Congratulations to the following teams who finished in the top two positions and will progress to their respective grand finals in Week 10 or Week 1 of next term. Girls Badminton, AFL, Netball A & B, Boys Soccer, Girls Soccer and Boys Volleyball B. We wish them all the best in their games.

Congratulations to Mr Pether, Mr Lafontaine-Roberts and the AFL team who went through to the School Sport ‘Jakovich Cup’. These boys played an incredible game defeating Wanneroo Secondary College 7.4 (46) to 5.5 (35) on Wednesday afternoon 14 June. It was a long journey to Wanneroo Showgrounds but a worthwhile journey. Outstanding efforts from Aaron Meadowcroft, Eric Botha, Jayden Burn, Brayden Forrest and Nathan George contributed to this huge win.

This talented team progressed to the preliminary finals and played Churchlands Wednesday 21 June. The boys put up an almighty fight but went down to Churchlands 1.2 (8) to 7.4 (46). There were great efforts shown from all the boys but highlight efforts from Tom Weston, Aaron Meadowcroft, Brayden Forrest, Nathan George and Reid Hinton.

Miss Jessica Kennedy
Health & Physical Education Teacher/Sports Coordinator

Term 2 concludes for students on Thursday 29 June 2017. Term 3 will commence on Tuesday 18 July 2017 at 8.15am.

The Administration office will re-open on Monday 10 July. We hope that you have a restful and safe semester break.

Kobe Austin

Congratulations to Kobe Austin who has been selected to represent WA in the 2017 AFL 12s Team. This team will be competing at the School Sports Australia National Championships in Darwin, NT from 11 to 19 August 2017. Kennedy is proud of Kobe's achievement!

Ryan Hockey

Congratulations to Ryan Hockey who will be representing his country once again. This talented young lacrosse player is currently touring Japan in transit to Korea for the U/23 ASPAC tournament. Congratulations Ryan on your selection into this team and best wishes for the upcoming tournament.

Next P&F Meetings

• The next General P&F Meeting is in the first week of Term 3 on Tuesday 18 July at 7.00pm in the Staff Lounge. Everyone is welcome to attend.
   
• Jamming with the P&F - Saturday 29 July. We are getting together to make jam for Open Day. (Further details will be announced closer to the time.) Please show your interest, as spaces are limited, by e-mailing the P&F at pandfkennedybaptistcollege@gmail.com

Volunteer Committee for College Open Day

The Kennedy Baptist College Open Day is on Saturday 26 August from 10.00am to 2.00pm. Planning is well underway by the P&F for our various stalls and activities that will run on the day. It is a good opportunity for current and future College families to come and see what has been happening at the College in recent months. 

We will give more information in Term 3 on how you can be involved, we would love some volunteers to help in the following areas: 

• Saving clean glass jars to donate
  Please do not bring them to the school yet – but we will be asking for jars for jam, lemon curd, chutneys etc.  Please remove all the labels, and keep an eye out for when we need them.
   
• Donating old Kennedy Uniforms
  Uniforms ready for the bin? We will need them for the P&F Jamming session.
   
• Donations of items for raffle hampers
  More details will be given next term, but we will be asking for items that tie in with the theme for each year group – eg garden and barbeques or gourmet or health and beauty.
   
• Volunteering for Open Day
  We will need helpers both in the lead up for preparations and on the day. Please give this some thought. Further details will be published in the Newsletter in Term 3.

Email the P&F on pandfkennedybaptistcollege@gmail.com for information, expressions of interest or offers of help for these positions. 

Year 7 and 8 Parent Social

The recent Year 7 and 8 Parent Social gathering was a great success with 33 parents attending. All of those who attended agreed it was great to have the opportunity to meet others from the Kennedy Baptist College community and are keen to participate in future events.