Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Families, 

You can sense it around the College, we have reached the very peak season of the school year. At most other times of year, deadlines are a bit ‘elastic’. In the middle of the year, it feels like we have a bit of wiggle room, but at this point, deadlines become a solid barrier. Personally, as a Chaplain, this period is very busy, as I prepare for the new year while trying to finish 2025 strong. As a College, we have said farewell to one-third of the students as the Year 11s and 12s have finished, and our peer mentors are getting ready to welcome all the new Year 7s for 2026.

The highlight of the moment is the training of the new student leaders. We run our emerging Year 11/7 Mentors through a two-day training program aimed at developing our young people into positive role models, empathetic listeners, and servant leaders. Helping our students develop an understanding of themselves and how to lead is probably one of the most enjoyable facets of being a Chaplain.

Over the two days, we expose our Year 10 students to the mature idea that everyone leads in some way. For many of our students, we open a door to their future selves that they have never considered. We teach them that leadership is never neutral, and that all leaders can be either a positive or a negative influence. We help them discover their strengths, understand who they are, and learn how to grow into better versions of themselves. This journey for our student leaders is to equip them to look beyond themselves and see the bigger picture, that guiding and leading are human skills that every person can develop. We hope that they are influenced to become better students, and grow to be outstanding employees, managers, partners and maybe one day in the future, parents.

As we welcome the new 2026 Year 7 cohort soon, it is a wonderful reminder of how far we’ve come as a cohort.

The high school journey can often feel daunting because of the many unknowns. For some, the start of the year meant coming to a school where you knew no one and making new friends. For others, the challenges were different, such as navigating the campus or remembering their timetable. Whatever your challenge has been, it’s a testament to how far you’ve come. From a group of many, we’ve built friendships, sometimes lost them, and learned along the way. This is all part of growing. 

I encourage you to reflect with your families on your accomplishments throughout the year, as well as the moments that could have gone better. Ask yourselves: 

• Do you need to use the diary more effectively? 
• Should you take advantage of the after-school tutoring sessions? 
• Could your study space be more organised—or do you even have one? 

The effort you invest now may not bring immediate rewards, but it will pay off in the years ahead. 

As we close the year, we look forward to the summer break. Whether you’re staying in Perth or travelling, I hope you return safe and refreshed, ready for another exciting year filled with challenges and opportunities for growth. Year 8 will bring new experiences that help us grow in faith, integrity, boldness, and service. 

As Term 4 comes to an end, I’ve been reflecting on the journey our Year 8s have taken throughout 2025. Although I have only stepped into the Acting Head of Year role for this final term, it has been an absolute privilege to work with this cohort and to see firsthand how much they have grown across the year under the leadership of Mrs Liezl Breytenbach. I know she is looking forward to returning from long service leave and continuing that work with them next year. 

Year 8 is a unique stage—one filled with figuring out friendships, personal boundaries, changing interests, and even yourself. Throughout the year, students have been testing their strengths, learning from challenges, and shaping a clearer sense of who they are becoming. Even just in this term, I have seen their maturity, confidence, and sense of community continue to evolve. 

Looking ahead to next year, our students can expect a few exciting changes. The introduction of a six-period day and a later start time will be welcome news for many (especially those who treasure every extra minute of sleep). With new routines, new subjects, potential new friendships, and getting taller - Year 9, 2026 will offer plenty of opportunities for students to challenge themselves in fresh ways. 

I want to thank both students and parents for your support while I stepped into this acting role for Term 4. It has been a pleasure working with you, and I’m grateful for the warm welcome and partnership. I know Mrs Breytenbach will appreciate returning to such a positive and engaged group of students. 

As the year draws to a close, I invite all Year 8 students to reflect on something meaningful they learned about themselves in 2025. Whether it’s a new skill, a newfound resilience, or an insight into how they work or relate to others, these reflections help shape the path ahead. I encourage them to carry that learning into 2026 and set a personal challenge for the year to come. 

Thank you again for a wonderful end to the year. I want to encourage all students to take a real break, and I wish all our Year 8 families a safe, restful, and joyful holiday.  I look forward to seeing everyone back at Kennedy next year. 

As we approach the end of Term 4, our Year 9 students have now completed their exams and can take a well-earned breath. Exam results, whether encouraging or challenging, provide valuable insights into your learning, and I encourage every student to view their results as an opportunity to learn, refine their approach, and set themselves up for a strong start to 2026. Growth comes from reflection, and I am confident our Year 9s have the maturity to use this experience well.

This time of year, is also a reminder of the importance of kindness, forgiveness and unity. Our year group has been through so much together, and the way students continue to support one another is a testament to the special bond. I encourage all students to finish the year well, uphold our standards, and remain connected as a strong and compassionate cohort.

We are very much looking forward to celebrating the end of the year with our excursion to Perth Aqua Park in the final week of Term 4, as well as our last school assembly of the year, where we will recognise the academic achievements of 2025. These moments will be a wonderful way to celebrate one another and close out the year together.

I wish every family a joyful, safe and hope-filled Christmas. I have been deeply moved by our incredible Year 9 students from my time as their Head of Year. Each one has made an impact on my life, and I will truly miss every single student.

Congratulations to all our Year 10 students on successfully completing their final examinations as Middle School students. This is an important milestone, and I am incredibly proud of the hard work, resilience and commitment they have shown throughout the year.

As we look ahead to 2026, our students will step into Senior School and begin their selected ATAR or General pathways. These choices reflect their developing career interests, subject passions and individual strengths.

I am also pleased to share that the 11/7 Mentor Training Program commenced on Wednesday 26 November carrying on to Thursday. Over the two days, participating students will undertake leadership and communication training in preparation for welcoming our future Year 7 cohort at the upcoming Orientation Day on Friday 28 November. This program continues to be a wonderful opportunity for students to grow in confidence, responsibility, and service at Kennedy.

Next week, all Year 10 students will take part in the Senior School Induction. This important program is designed to support them as they transition from Middle School to Senior School. Throughout the day, students will rotate through a series of workshops where staff will deliver key information and provide guidance on the academic expectations, social changes, and personal growth opportunities they may encounter. This ensures they are well-prepared for the next stage of their college journey.

As we approach the end of the year, I want to acknowledge how proud I am of the journey our Year 10 students have taken from their early days in Year 7 to the confident and capable young people they are today. I am genuinely excited to see them continue to grow and excel in 2026.

“May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace as you trust in him, so that you may overflow with hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.” Romans 15:13.

The college year has officially finished for the Year 11 students, after an intense two weeks for our ATAR students as they completed their exams. The students and I had a final farewell on Monday 24 November, when most of the students returned to the college to receive feedback, finalise marks and get their grades before they headed off for the extended holiday break. It was a great day to reflect on all the effort and work that the students have put in this year. During lunch, we had a celebratory Barbecue with the year group enjoying a sausage sizzle, cold drink and icy pole to finish off the year. We gave out some prizes and really enjoyed each other’s company for the final lunch of the year.

As the students finish up this year, I am reminded of one of my favourite bible verses, Matthew 11:28. Jesus is speaking and he says, “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” As we have completed our penultimate year, I am sure our students are feeling weary, and I hope they can look to the God who promises rest and take comfort in Him.

With a big year ahead, I pray that the Year 11s can rest up, relax and enjoy their time off, returning with renewed strength and purpose to finish off their High School journey. I look forward to seeing you all next year, ready to go.

On Friday 21 November, the Year 12 cohort marked a momentous milestone with their final school event—the Graduation Ceremony. The evening began with Steve’s Photography capturing portraits of students and their families, followed by elegant canapés in the Lower Foyer, thoughtfully prepared by our exceptional Beedawong staff. It was a pleasure to reconnect with so many families throughout the night.

The ceremony commenced at 7.00pm and provided a fitting opportunity to honour every Year 12 student, celebrate their achievements, and present awards to those who demonstrated outstanding academic excellence during their final year. The Year 12 band delivered two impressive performances, much to the delight of the audience. A particular highlight was the staff band’s moving rendition of The Blessing, which was received with great enthusiasm.

For me personally, the night held profound significance. It offered a chance to bid a heartfelt farewell to the graduating class and to express just how deeply I care for them, and what a privilege it has been to serve as their Head of Year. Getting to know each student and partnering with their families has been an experience I will always cherish.

I am confident that the education provided at Kennedy Baptist College has equipped our Year 12 students with strong values and a steadfast moral compass.

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old he will not depart from it.” - Proverbs 22:6.

Kennedy News

Class of 2025 Graduation Ceremony!

Thank you to all the family and friends of our Graduating class of 2025 who joined us for their Graduation Ceremony last Friday night.

It was a wonderful evening to acknowledge our Year 12 students with their achievements, reflect on their journey at Kennedy and say a final goodbye.

Acclaimed Author, Craig Silvey, visits Kennedy

Last Tuesday afternoon, the Research and Study Centre had the privilege of hosting acclaimed local author Craig Silvey. This special event was made possible thanks to the RASC winning a coveted Golden Ticket, granting us the opportunity to welcome Craig during his busy national tour promoting his latest book, Runt and the Diabolical Dognapping.

Craig captivated our Year 7 and 8 students with stories about his writing journey, the creative process behind writing his acclaimed novels and what it’s like to adapt a book into a film. Students were thrilled to engage with Craig, asking thoughtful questions through a panel of three student representatives. Many also took the chance to purchase books or bring their own copies to have them personally signed.

This inspiring session not only celebrated literature but also encouraged our students to explore their own creativity and storytelling. A huge thank you to Craig Silvey for sharing his time and insights with our College community!

Ms Natasha Georgiou
Head of Research and Study

2025 Kennedy Chess Classic Tournament

The 2025 Kennedy Chess Classic tournament kicked off in Term 3 with a "Round of 16" in our new 'double elimination' format, resulting in two pools of 8 players fighting for a place in the final rounds. The finals in each group were decided by 'best of three’ rapid games, two of which went to blitz tiebreakers.

Friendly rivals James Murray and Janak Pokhrel, both in Year 11, met in the “First 8 Final”, with James winning the match after a shaky start. Janak’s loss forced him into a match with Thomas Curren, Year 7, for a second chance to make it to the final. Thomas, our youngest ever finalist, fought valiantly, winning the first game before capitulating.

In the Grand Final, James won the first game before going down 2-1 in Janak’s favour. Congratulations to Janak, our new Chess Champion for 2025. Janak won the trophy and a $50 gift voucher. Congratulations also to runners-up James and Thomas who each received valuable chess.com subscriptions.

Mr Steven Dennis
Science Teacher

2025 Open Water Swim Championship

Coogee Beach was buzzing on Friday 21 November as 9 Kennedy students joined more than 540 students from 40 schools to take part in the 3rd Annual Secondary Schools Open Water Swimming Championships! 

Year 7 students; Harrison Morton, Morrie Goodsell and Liam Steele along with Tiger Duan (Year 9), Kaiyo Tan (Year 10), Christian Watson (Year 10), Noah Read (Year 11), and Harry Rosman (Year 12) joined together to compete in the Junior Swimmers, Senior Swimmers and the Open Water Swim teams. 

The sun was shining, and the crowd was full of energy as they swam with enthusiasm, fuelled with competition, leading 4 of our students to come home with medals! Congratulations to the following students on their impressive achievements:

• Kaiyo Tan won Gold in 250m
• Harry Morton won Bronze in 500m
• Harry Rosman won Bronze in 1km
• Harlan Jahn won Bronze in 250m

College Notices

2026 Tuition Fees

As we prepare for the 2026 academic year, our College Board and Leadership Team have carefully reviewed the tuition structure to ensure it remains aligned with our strategic goals and with the rising costs of delivering exceptional education. We remain committed to maintaining affordability while sustaining the highest standards of teaching, facilities, and student support that define Kennedy Baptist College.

We understand the financial pressures many families are facing due to the increasing cost of living in Western Australia. In response, we have taken a measured approach to adjusting tuition fees for the coming year.

Please note that the sibling discount will stay the same. Eligible families can apply for the Secondary Assistance Scheme until the last day of Term 1, 2 April 2026.

Uniform Shop Early Closure

Please be aware that the Uniform Shop will be closing early on Tuesday 9 December at 1:45pm, to be reopened in the New Year. 

The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 11 December 2025