Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,

It was a privilege to attend the Governor's Prayer Breakfast alongside our Year 12 Student Executive team. This annual event brings together leaders from across Western Australia to reflect on service, leadership and the values that unite our communities.

The breakfast gave our student leaders the opportunity to hear inspiring stories of faith, resilience, and community impact, while representing our College with maturity and pride. I was delighted to share this experience with them and commend them for the thoughtful way they engaged with the event.

We are grateful for opportunities such as these that encourage our students to grow as compassionate and servant-hearted leaders.

Something exciting is brewing

As part of our Community Engagement Strategy, we are excited to introduce a Pop-Up café for parents, carers and family members.

Open from 7.30am to 9.00am in the Lower Foyer of the Auditorium, the café will offer barista-made coffee and a small range of delicious treats, including freshly baked muffins and other Beedawong favourites, available for purchase each morning.

Whether you’re stopping by for a quick takeaway coffee or taking a moment to connect with other community members after drop-off, we would love to welcome you.

For added convenience, designated parking will be available for café visitors across the Auditorium drop-off zone.

We look forward to welcoming you to the café in Term 4.

Mr Mark Ashby
Principal

Have you ever received something you did not deserve, a gift given simply because someone chose to give it? Perhaps it was an unexpected opportunity, an act of kindness, or forgiveness when you least expected it. 

Romans 5:15 reminds us: 

"But the gift of God's undeserved grace was very different from Adam's sin. That one sin brought death to many others. Yet in an even greater way, Jesus Christ alone brought God's gift of undeserved grace to many people." 

That experience reminded me of God's grace. Just as I was welcomed and blessed without deserving it, God freely offers us His grace through Jesus Christ. We cannot earn or achieve it ourselves. It is a gift given freely out of His great love for us. 

Sponsoring a child reflects that same spirit of grace. It is about more than financial support. It is an opportunity to invest in a child's education, wellbeing and future, while helping bring hope to families and communities across Cambodia. While Kennedy partners specifically with Centre 4, many children across Transform Cambodia's five centres are still waiting for sponsors. 

Sponsor a Child - Transform Cambodia 

If you are considering sponsoring a child, applying for a future Cambodia Mission Tour, or simply wanting to learn more, I would love to share my experiences and answer any questions. Sponsorship creates opportunities for children and families, while also becoming a rewarding and meaningful journey for sponsors. 

Our key Pastoral Care goal for Year 7 is to foster Belonging. Feeling that we belong is something we all value and each of us plays an important role in creating a community where everyone feels welcomed, included and respected.

A key part of belonging is how we treat one another each day. The choices we make, especially how we speak to and about others, can significantly impact those around us. As we are reminded in Matthew 7:12:

“So in everything, do to others what you would have them do to you.”

This verse encourages us to reflect on our actions and attitudes. What makes you feel like you belong? Do we sometimes exclude others because they are different from us? Our differences should be celebrated. If we were all the same, the world would be a very dull place. A strong community values diversity and recognises that everyone has something unique to contribute.

We also encourage our students to be upstanders, not bystanders. Standing up for others, showing kindness and including those who may feel left out are simple but powerful ways to strengthen our community. The choices we make and the attitudes we display affect not only our own learning but also the wellbeing and success of those around us.

To our students, staff and wider College community, I encourage us all to continue treating one another with respect, compassion and understanding.

As the weather begins to warm, we are starting to look forward to our upcoming camp. This will be a fantastic opportunity for students to strengthen existing relationships, build new friendships and further develop their sense of belonging within our Year 7 community.

We also recently completed our second community service event with Lakeside Seniors. The focus of this session was ‘careers’ and ‘future aspirations.’ It was wonderful to see the meaningful conversations and to witness our students demonstrating genuine compassion, respect, and active listening. Our Year 7 students represented the College exceptionally well and should be proud of the positive impression they made on members of the wider community.

The beginning of spring has heralded an abundance of activity for Year 8, with our Community Service initiatives partnering with St Patrick’s Community Support Centre. Our Market Day and Sausage Sizzle gave students wonderful opportunities to serve others while working together as a cohort. 

As these events draw to a close, several people deserve acknowledgement and thanks. 

Firstly, thank you to our amazing Year 8 Homeroom teachers. During Homeroom and Pastoral Care time, they have worked alongside students to refine ideas, solve problems, organise logistics and encourage the cohort in their endeavours. We greatly appreciate their willingness to invest time and energy in supporting our students, and these events would not be possible without their commitment. 

Thank you also to our parents and families for your generous support. From helping source supplies to sending students to school with a wonderfully weird and wacky assortment of items to sell, your partnership played a significant role in these events' success. It is always encouraging to see our College community come together in support of a common purpose. 

Finally, and most importantly, thank you to the Year 8 students themselves. While the amount raised is significant and will undoubtedly make a positive difference, my appreciation extends far beyond the final total. What stood out most was the spirit in which the students approached the task. Across the week, they created an incredible atmosphere, demonstrated initiative and creativity, and engaged enthusiastically with their peers, staff and the wider College community. 

The joy and generosity our students displayed reminded me of the words in 2 Corinthians 9:7: "Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver." 

Students gave their time, effort and enthusiasm willingly, and in doing so demonstrated the values we seek to cultivate in our young people. 

As we move towards the conclusion of Term 3, it is also an important time to refocus on our shared expectations. Kennedy Baptist College is committed to providing a positive learning environment where students can achieve and thrive. We believe that every student deserves a safe, respectful and caring community. We continually encourage students to: 

• Develop respectful relationships with all members of the College community. 
• Take responsibility for their own behaviour and respond appropriately to others' behaviour. 
• Engage positively in their learning and make the most of the opportunities available to them. 
• Demonstrate pride in themselves and the College by wearing the College uniform. 

We expect our students to wear their uniform well, engage actively in lessons and interact positively with one another. These expectations are not simply about rules; they foster a community where every student feels valued, supported, and able to succeed. 

The partnership between home and school remains one of the most important influences on student growth, and I am grateful for the way our Year 8 families continue to work alongside us. As we approach the final weeks of the term, I encourage students to finish strong, stay focused on their learning, and continue contributing positively to the vibrant Year 8 community. 

Term 3 is coming to a close quickly. As we reflect on the many blessings of the year so far, we are reminded to thank God: “Give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; his love endures forever.” Psalm 107:1.

One highlight of the term was the Year 9 Public Speaking Competition. Students demonstrated courage, preparation, and thoughtful communication as they spoke on a range of topics. Congratulations to all students who participated and represented themselves so well. 

The 2027 Student Leadership elections are coming up. Being a Student Councillor or House Captain gives you the opportunity to develop skills, contribute positively, and act as a link between students and staff. Sometimes leadership begins simply by being willing to put your hand up and serve others. We wish all nominees well as they prepare their speeches to share their ideas with staff and students. 

In Term 4, students will participate in our Community Outreach & Service Program happening on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 October. This program provides meaningful opportunities for students to serve others while developing a range of skills. This year, students will partner with five outstanding organisations through experiences such as supporting senior residents at St Ives, preparing meals for people experiencing homelessness through Uniting Food Rescue, learning about community recreation and service at Lakeside Recreation Centre, assisting at the Spanish Club of WA through service and cultural activities, and delivering basketball workshops to primary school students in partnership with the Cockburn Cougars Basketball Association. We encourage parents and guardians to discuss with their child the importance of being a blessing to others through acts of service. These experiences often leave a lasting impact on both those serving and those being served. 

A group of Year 9 students will be travelling to Canberra and Sydney during the upcoming holidays. This promises to be an exciting and memorable experience, offering opportunities for learning, independence, and connection with their peers. We wish all travelling students a safe and enjoyable tour. 

As the holidays approach, I hope all families can enjoy a well-earned break. In a world filled with busy schedules and constant digital distractions, I encourage families to make time for one another. Put individual screens aside, enjoy shared activities, have meaningful conversations and create memories together. Thank you for your partnership with classroom teachers, Homeroom teachers and me throughout the term. We wish you a restful holiday break and look forward to all that Term 4 will bring.

It has been a busy term for our Year 10 students, and I'm so proud of how the cohort has continued to grow. I have spoken a lot this year about how we are all on the same journey towards graduation. Not everyone will become close friends, and that's okay. What matters is learning to respect each other and understanding the role we all play in creating a positive cohort.

In Week 5, the Year 10 cohort participated in ‘Good Vibes Week’, a positive mental health week that became a definite highlight of the Term through activities, games and building a stronger community. The message was simple: students are responsible for the culture they create. The way they speak to, support, and include others directly shapes the experience of everyone around them.

That idea extended beyond the school gates through our Community Service activities at Bibra Lake and North Lake, where we partnered with Clean Up Australia. Students spent time collecting rubbish, giving back to the local community and, just as importantly, spending time together outside the classroom.

In Week 7, we held our second round of conversations with the boys and girls, exploring ways we can continue strengthening Year 10. These discussions will be followed by workshops in Week 9 with Man Up WA and We Are W/M, focusing on self-awareness, relationships and personal growth.

There is also plenty ahead to look forward to, with leadership transitions for Student Councillors and House Captains taking place over the coming month, as well as our Twilight Social next term. More information about both will be shared soon.

With all that’s been happening this term, I am confident every student will have taken something valuable from these opportunities. It remains a privilege to be Head of Year for this cohort, and I am proud of the people they are becoming.

Our Year 11 students have enjoyed several opportunities to strengthen their connections with one another this term. During Homeroom sessions, students took part in a variety of simple but meaningful activities designed to foster positive relationships, inclusivity, and enjoyment. Board games, dance activities, indoor sports and "walk and talk" sessions encouraged students to put aside their devices and engage in valuable face-to-face interactions with their peers. 

Community Service

Following our recent Community Service initiative, Year 11 students proudly presented 835 pairs of socks and $2,243.30 to Melanie from St Patrick’s Community Support Centre. It is wonderful to see Kennedy partner with St Pat's to support members of our community experiencing hardship. We are grateful for the generosity shown by our students and families, whose contributions will help make a meaningful difference in the lives of others. 

Year 11 River Cruise

A highlight of the term was the much-anticipated Year 11 River Cruise aboard the Captain Cook Cruises flagship vessel. Around 200 students enjoyed a fantastic evening on the water, with perfect weather setting the scene for a night of dancing, good food and catching up with friends. Students looked spectacular, embracing the opportunity to dress up and celebrate together outside the school setting. Special awards were presented to those who fully embraced the spirit of the night:

Glow Up Award – Tor Gill
Disco Inferno – Emily and Sarah Wilson
Social Butterfly Award – Owen Cammack
Life of the Party Award – Ivan Lee

Events like these are an important part of the Year 11 experience, providing students with opportunities to build friendships, celebrate milestones and create lasting memories as they move closer to their final year of schooling. 

Spring Fling!

Last Friday night, we had an amazing time aboard the Crystal Swan (the floating glass cube on the Swan River). The Spring Fling continues to be one of the most exciting and fun social events on the Kennedy calendar, celebrating the Class of 2026 with one last night all together. Students wore amazing costumes and outfits. They ranged from characters from the movie Rio, the Smurfs, the emotions from Inside Out, a flight crew from Top Gun, Neo from The Matrix and many other outstanding costumes. We welcomed DJ Stevo back for the last time, as he had the dance floor pumping for the whole night. I want to thank the staff and students for an amazing night and for creating some epic memories that will last a lifetime.

Events Coming Up

Over the last couple of weeks of term, the Year 12s will engage with influential guest speakers and events to finish their time here at Kennedy. Red Frogs will come to talk to the cohort about Leavers and how to stay safe later this year, wherever they go. We also have Jade and Tristan Lewis coming to talk to the boys and girls separately about current issues within the year group, challenges to come and looking after themselves in the future. We will then have the final celebration before exams, where Year 12s can dress up throughout Week 10 of Term 3 and celebrate the end of their time at High School.

Amid the fun and significant events, we still expect students to lock in and finish their courses and assessments to the best of their ability. Over the last few weeks, I've been spending time with the Year 12s to remind them they are still the leaders of the school for the next few weeks, and that their uniform and behaviour standards around the College should reflect that. Thank you for your ongoing support as we navigate these last weeks of the Year 12s' high school journey. I'll continue to pray for our students and the success of these upcoming events.

Kennedy News

Father's Day Breakfast

Thank you to all the fathers and father figures who joined us for our annual Father’s Day Breakfast last week! The event provided an excellent opportunity for our Kennedy community to connect and share the joys and challenges of fatherhood.

This year, we had the privilege of hearing from Anthony Palmieri, who has served in pastoral ministry for over 25 years and currently serves as Lead Pastor (Gospel & Witness) at Riverview Church. He is also a former Senior Pastor at Lakeside Baptist Church and a fellow Kennedy parent.

He emphasised three main points for parents: continue showing up for your kids; keep encouraging and passing on courage; and let them go to release them well.

We appreciate everyone who attended the morning, and a big thank you to the Beedawong staff for putting on an amazing breakfast, and all staff and students who helped support throughout the day. We hope everyone enjoyed the experience!

Year 9 and 10 Photography Excursions

At the end of August, our Year 9 and 10 Photography students ventured outside the classroom to take photos at Perth Zoo and Kings Park!

The Year 10s put their developing skills to the test as they tried to photograph a variety of animals at Perth Zoo, using long lenses and a creative eye to best capture the subject. The Year 9s then made the most of the sunny weather and scenery at Kings Park, taking images of the park's vast natural landscape for two upcoming assessments: flora photographs and a promotional brochure.

YOH Fest 2026

On Thursday 27 August, 44 Drama students in Years 10 and 11 proudly represented the College at the Youth on Health Festival (YOH Fest). We entered three group dramas exploring the theme of 'Health is Wealth', including the effects of Artificial Intelligence on the environment, making life decisions, and what makes a healthy life in the quiz show 'Healthy Assets'.

We had two entries in the duologue section of the festival, and the students won a number of awards, including 'Best Health Message'. We are so proud of the bravery and excellent behaviour of the students involved. The YOH Fest organisers commented that they always love the days Kennedy comes because the students bring such a wonderful attitude, kindness and enthusiasm. Thank you to the students for your hard work in Drama and parents for your support and attendance as a wonderful audience.

Ms Amanda Jean
Drama Teacher

Year 7 to 12 Pastoral Care Journey: Introducing Kennedy Baptist College's Renewed Pastoral Care Framework

How do we intentionally support students from Year 7 through to Year 12? Our newly refreshed Pastoral Care Journey provides a clear, biblically grounded framework that guides every student's growth in faith, respect and culture. Discover how this renewed approach is helping students thrive at Kennedy Baptist College.

College Notices

These illnesses are highly contagious and can spread quickly throughout the school community. If your child has symptoms such as a fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, vomiting, or diarrhea, please keep them at home until they are well enough to return and are no longer considered contagious. Your cooperation helps protect the health and wellbeing of all students and staff, particularly those who may be more vulnerable to illness.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support in keeping our school community healthy.

Kim Lewis, RN
School Nurse

Term 4 Uniform Shop Opening Hours

Term 4 opening hours are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 8.00am to 4.15pm (closed 12.30-1.00pm), commencing Monday 12 October, with additional Wednesday’s Week 1 and 2.

As a reminder, Term 4 uniform requirements are as follows:

• Boys - College shorts with short-sleeved shirt tucked in.
• Girls - Dress (hem length at the knees) OR blouse with shorts.
• All - Hat for sports, during Recess and Lunch if in the sun.

ACC Interschool Athletics - Tuesday 15 September

Kennedy will be competing in the 2026 Interschool Athletics Carnival on Tuesday 15 September!

This year, Kennedy have advanced to Division 'C' in the Associated & Catholic Colleges (ACC) Athletics Carnival held at the WA Athletics Stadium. Participating students have been hard at work all this term training for the Carnival. We wish them all the best for next week and appreciate their dedication and hard work in preparation to representing the College.

The College remains committed to providing transport options that support our community. However, to ensure the service is financially sustainable, we need to see stronger uptake from families who would benefit from the route. Without sufficient usage, we may need to reconsider whether the service can continue in the future.

If your family is located along the Coogee route and you have not yet explored this option, we encourage you to consider using the service. Increased patronage will help us demonstrate the ongoing need for the route and support its continuation.

For information about stops, timing and registration, please contact the College or visit the College website.

Upcoming Events

Acknowledgement of Country
We acknowledge today's First Nations people, the Whadjuk people of the Noongar nation, as the custodians of this land, and as we continue to learn to live together on these ancient lands, we pay our respects to their Elders, past and present. We pray that God will unite us all in a knowledge of His Son, in whom all things were created, in heaven and on earth, whether visible or invisible – for all things have been created through Him and for Him.

The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 24 September 2026