Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,

As we continue our journey through the Bible, we see that the Book of Psalms is a collection of prayers that explore many different themes. They show us that prayer is honest and real, expressing the full range of human emotion and reminding us that we can bring everything to God. 

We will soon be reflecting on Psalm 22 in our Monday Devotion series, a Psalm that reveals a God who understands suffering. As I look ahead to Psalm 22, I am reminded of a game of Pictionary we played at CONNECT late last year. Students were asked to draw different passages from the Bible for their teams to guess - some creative, some hilarious, and some quite challenging. One, however, stood out: the shortest verse in the Bible, John 11:35 - “Jesus wept.” 

This sparked a great question from a Year 7 student: “But why did Jesus weep?” 

In classic Chaplain style, I returned the question: “Why do you think Jesus wept?” Through conversation and reflection, he realised that Jesus was fully human, experiencing real emotions. Though perfect, He grieved the loss of His dear friend, and so, He wept. This moment comes from the story of Lazarus’ death. Mary and Martha are grieving, surrounded by others in sorrow. Jesus then arrives, and yet knowing He is about to raise Lazarus to life, He still weeps. 

These two simple words reveal something profound. Jesus wept because He saw the pain of a broken world. Death, grief and suffering were never part of God’s original design. At Lazarus’ tomb, Jesus confronts not only the loss of a friend but the reality of a world that is not as it should be. Jesus also wept because He loved. He did not dismiss the grief around Him or rush past it; He stepped into it, sharing in their sorrow. 

For us, this matters deeply. We follow a Saviour who understands our struggles and draws near in our pain. Whether facing challenges at school, in friendships, or at home, we are not alone. 

However, the story doesn’t end there. Moments after He weeps, Jesus calls Lazarus out of the tomb. Grief is real, but it does not have the final word. Where there is sorrow, there is also hope. 

Respect is a core value we continue to develop within our Year 7 cohort. Respect begins with self - taking pride in personal choices, behaviour and effort. It extends to classmates through kindness, inclusion and treating others with dignity. Respect for teachers is demonstrated through positive engagement, listening and a commitment to learning. At home, respect for parents and caregivers is shown through responsibility and communication. Even our uniform reflects respect, as wearing it correctly shows pride in both self and our College.

These actions all contribute to our Pastoral Care goal of Belonging. When students show respect in these areas, they help create a safe, inclusive environment where everyone feels valued and connected.

Recently during Pastoral Care Time students participated in split sessions focused on personal growth. The boys engaged with Man Up, focusing on what it means to be a respectful young man, while the girls explored the importance of self-respect and personal identity with guest speaker, Christina Self of Red Ginger Wellness. Both sessions were highly valuable and provided meaningful opportunities for reflection.

Students were also entertained by performances from our Music Tutors, alongside current students, showcasing the range of musical opportunities available at Kennedy. The demonstration was thoroughly enjoyed by all and highlighted the many pathways students can explore in their College journey.

A big congratulations to our talented Year 7 students who have been selected for the ensemble cast of the 2027 Production of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'. We also recognise the efforts of those who recently represented the College with boldness and sportsmanship at the Interschool Cross Country.

Looking ahead, students will begin their first Community Service event next week, partnering with Lakeside Seniors. Through this connection, students will engage with members of the senior community, developing understanding, empathy and a strong sense of belonging while gaining valuable life experiences.

Curious, creative and full of energy, our Year 8 students have been diving into a wide range of topics during Pastoral Care Time with their Homeroom teachers. As we reach the halfway point of this term, students have continued to rotate through a variety of focus areas. Activities have included a range of theoretical and practical lessons including looking at love languages, how to sew on a button, working out a budget, spotting fake news and clickbait, using geometrical patterns as well as mental focus activities.

We have been incredibly fortunate by the way our Homeroom teachers have engaged students, tailoring topics that reflect their own passions while intentionally building the capacity of our Year 8s to connect, care for one another, and grow in empathy and understanding. It has been wonderful to see relationships deepen and confidence increase across the cohort. 

This week, we have been fortunate to team up with the RASC, who facilitated another session focused on effective study skills and strategies. These sessions are designed to equip students with practical tools and habits that will support their academic growth now and into the future. I encourage families to engage with these ideas at home as we partner to support each student’s success. 

As I move around the cohort, I am continually reminded of where our students began at the start of the year. The growth we have seen academically, socially, and physically has been significant and pleasing to witness. With winter now upon us, a reminder that the full winter uniform is required. Many of our students have excelled in their physical growth, so please take a moment to ensure uniforms fit comfortably and correctly. 

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to guide and encourage our Year 8 students through this important season of development. 

Our Year 9 students recently completed an important milestone in their learning journey, their first formal examinations at Kennedy. We are proud of the effort, perseverance, and commitment shown by students during this time. As results will be released in the coming weeks, we encourage families to remember that our primary focus for Year 9 is Identity. Exam results are one part of a much bigger picture. Each student is growing, learning and discovering who they are, both academically and personally. 

The Bible reminds us to keep going, do good, and not lose heart: “Let us not become weary in doing good, for at the proper time we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” - Galatians 6:9 (NIV). This is a powerful encouragement for our students as they recognise that growth takes time and persistence. We ask parents and guardians to support and reassure their children as they process their results, to celebrate effort, encourage resilience, and remind them of their worth beyond results. 

Another Year 9 goal focuses on developing self-reflection. Students are encouraged to think honestly about their learning habits leading up to exams. This includes reflecting on their engagement in class, whether they asked for and accepted help, consistency with homework, and how effectively they prepared through study plans and revision. Reflection provides valuable insight into what worked well and what could be improved, equipping students with the tools to approach future assessments and exams with greater confidence and intention.

Year 9 Social at Bounce 

On a more social note, we are looking forward to the upcoming Year 9 Social at Bounce Inc on Friday 12 June. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to connect, unwind, and enjoy time together after a busy academic period. If you have not yet done so, please ensure you accept and provide permission for your child to attend as soon as possible. 

Thank you for your partnership with classroom teachers, Homeroom teachers, and myself. It is a privilege to walk alongside our students as they grow in learning, character, and a deeper understanding of who they are. 

As we move through the second half of Term 2, our Year 10 students have reached an important milestone: the completion of their Semester One exams. This period brings with it a mix of emotions, with many students now breathing a sigh of relief.

Exams can be a stressful experience and for some students, results may not have aligned with their expectations, while external factors can also play a role. It is important to remember that these assessments are not only about grades but also about preparing students for the academic demands of senior school. Exams offer a valuable opportunity to develop positive study habits, time-management skills, and resilience that are essential foundations for Years 11 and 12. I am proud of the growth mindset I have witnessed through many interactions with students in the lead-up to and after exams, which has demonstrated their willingness and determination to perform at their best.

Year 10 for Year 11 Subject Selection

In addition to exams, students will soon engage in conversations with College Executive Leaders as part of the Year 11 subject selection process. These meetings focus on reviewing current academic progress, exploring subject preferences and aligning course selections with future pathways and potential career interests. I encourage families to take an active role in these discussions by reviewing subject choices together and ensuring they align with your child’s strengths and aspirations.

Pastoral Care Time

During recent Pastoral Care Time, students also had the opportunity to participate in meaningful sessions focused on personal development and wellbeing. Isaiah Lewis worked with the boys, delivering an authentic and engaging presentation on identity, encouraging them to reflect on who they are, the values they hold, and the kind of young men they aspire to become. His message centred on making positive choices and understanding the impact of their actions on themselves and others. Similarly, Christina Self facilitated a session with students around self-respect, guiding them to consider the importance of setting personal boundaries, valuing themselves, and building healthy relationships. Both sessions were well received and provided valuable moments of reflection, reinforcing the importance of character, confidence, and respect as students continue to mature.

Read more about Isaiah Lewis' time at Kennedy and our partnership with Lakeside here.

I am proud of the way our Year 10 students have approached the term so far and the young people they are becoming. I look forward to supporting their continued growth and development as they prepare for senior school.

Congratulations to all Year 11 students on completing your very first ATAR examination period. This is an important milestone in your senior school journey and a fantastic achievement that reflects your commitment, preparation, and perseverance throughout Semester One.

For many students, these examinations brought a mixture of nerves, challenge and accomplishment. We encourage students to take time to celebrate the effort they invested into their ATAR studies. It is important to remember that examination results do not define your worth or future success. Senior school is a learning journey and setbacks can provide valuable opportunities for growth, reflection, and resilience. If results are not what you had hoped for, remember that support is available and there are always strategies that can help improve confidence, study habits, and wellbeing moving forward.

Students seeking support during times of disappointment, stress or uncertainty are encouraged to reach out to me as Head of Year, College Counsellors or access the following Australian wellbeing resources:

• Headspace – Youth mental health support and wellbeing resources
• ReachOut Australia – Practical advice for stress, resilience, and study support
• Kids Helpline – Free confidential counselling for young people

We would also like to recognise and congratulate students who have been participating in TAFE courses, Workplace Learning, and Work Experience opportunities this term. Thank you for making the most of your time away from the College campus to pursue potential study and career pathways beyond school. These experiences provide valuable insight into future industries, workplaces, and personal interests. We commend your maturity and initiative in exploring these opportunities.

A verse of encouragement in Philippians 3:13-14, "But one thing I do: Forgetting what is behind and straining toward what is ahead, I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus."

Save the Date for the Year 11 River Cruise! Happening on the evening of Wednesday 9 September.

We have reached the halfway point of Year 12, with a great feeling of relief that the Semester One exams are nearly over. For our general pathway students, the intense ESTs before the break have also been completed. I hope students stay positive as they receive their results and prepare for the end of their final year. As students look at their grades and reflect on their efforts so far, I'd like to encourage them to continue to pursue their best effort to finish the year. Subjects will continue to challenge our students in Term 3, and the pressure will continue to build. If you have concerns over results and performance, please don't hesitate to contact your students’ teacher to see what can be done to improve their grades. Alternatively, please feel free to contact me, as I have a range of different support strategies that we can put in place. 

Our demerit count in the year group has unfortunately spiked at the end of Semester One. Students seemed to regress to some blase behaviour regarding our behavioural and uniform standards. I have spoken to the year group and reminded the students that this year does not need the added stress of high demerit counts and I will be following up with students once they return from the break. We will continue to uphold our standards until the last day and appreciate your continued support in encouraging your students to finish the year strong, in line with our expectations around lateness, uniform standards, and behaviour around the College.

As the possibilities of the future fill Year 12s minds, I would like to pass on one of my favourite Bible verses as a guide. Proverbs 3:5-6 says, "Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight." I will continue to uphold the year group in prayer as we enter their final chapter at Kennedy.

Kennedy News

ACC Interschool Cross Country

Our students showcased an impressive performance at the ACC Interschool Cross Country, competing against 80 schools with determination and pride. The Under 13 girls finished in 4th place, while Kyan Whyte achieved an outstanding 5th place with a time of 00:13:36.78, along with Top 25 finishes for both Milla Jacoby and Lucy Myhill. It was a fantastic team effort all around!

For full results and other achievements, click here.

To see more photos from the day, see the link below. Please be aware that this link will expire on Sunday 2 August 2026. 

Year 10 into Year 11: Supporting Your Child’s Next Step

Thank you to all the families who attended our recent Year 10 Information Evening and Pathways Expo. It was wonderful to see so many parents and students engaging together—asking questions, exploring options, and beginning important conversations about the future.

As students prepare to move into Year 11, subject selection can feel like a significant decision. And while it does shape the next stage of their education, it’s important to remember that this is not about having everything figured out—it’s about taking the next step with clarity and confidence.

Hear from our Career Development Coordinator as she shares practical advice and faith-centred encouragement for families navigating Year 10 subject choices.

College Notices

Upcoming Event

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 18 June 2026