No images? Click here
Message from the Principal
Dear Parents and Families,
Term 1 is passing very quickly and it is pleasing to see our students’ enthusiasm as they embrace the many opportunities made available to
them. We will continue to provide our students with chances to excel throughout the year.
Strategic Planning
Kennedy has a very clear strategic plan in place to ensure that these opportunities are not only developed by the College but are maximised. This plan includes four priorities that have driven our preparations for 2025. This includes:
- To enhance the quality of the teaching and learning agenda through the mechanism of innovation using evidence-based best practice.
- To invest in the wellbeing of students and staff through proactive intervention.
- To create a connected community, forging and building upon meaningful relationships within the College and throughout the wider community to further our Christian mission.
- To ensure sustainability across all aspects of the College so that Kennedy is well positioned for the future.
These strategic priorities will be a focus for this year and will drive the allocation of physical, human and financial resources.
Parents and Friends Association
The Parents & Friends Association held their Annual General Meeting last week and appointed the following members to the important office bearer positions of:
- President: Rene Puizina
- Vice President: Tracy Beasley
- Secretary: Allison Norman
- Treasurer: Rebecca Flint
- Facebook Coordinator: Yvette Bowyer
- Newsletter Coordinator: Kate Gill
- Sausage Sizzle Coordinator: Glenn Elliott and Glenn Beauchamp
Congratulations on these appointments. We thank you for volunteering to be involved in the leadership of the Association and committing your time to represent parents at the College. We also thank the general members of the Association for their commitment.
In recent times, the Association has worked hard to donate funds for our new shade sails and headsets. I look forward to seeing the P&F help our community this year.
Easter Services
Kennedy Baptist College is a Christian faith-based College committed to providing the best possible educational services. As Easter quickly approaches, our upcoming services allow us the opportunity to reflect on this faith foundation.
Our Easter services remain a compulsory event for all students and I invite each of our parents and families to join us as we engage together as a community and contemplate the Gospel message of Easter. This year, our services will be a collaboration with Nations Church Myaree Campus and we look forward to the wonderful presentations that will be given by our talented students as well as the message brought to us by Alumni member Pastor Shannon Hopper.
Our P&F will be selling sausage sizzles before services for families or students needing dinner between 5.00pm to 6.00pm. Supper will be provided after each service to help provide a great time for families and staff to interact in a social setting. We look forward to meeting with you on these special evenings for Kennedy and hope as many parents as possible can join us. Students must meet in their Form classes no later than 5.30pm for our 6.00pm start in the College Auditorium. The details for the services are:
- Monday April 7 - Harrier and Falcon Families
- Tuesday April 8 - Kestrel and Osprey Families
Mr Mark Ashby
Principal
Chaplain Chats
I would like to talk about two important and powerful words: Conviction and Guilt. Both these words appear in the Bible and at first glance might appear to be similar words, but actually carry two very different meanings. Most people, regardless of whether they read the Bible, perceive these words as religious and often negative. Clarifying the meaning of these two words is crucial to how we operate at Kennedy and how families and parenting shape children’s development.
Guilt is rightly understood by most to be a negative feeling or thought process. Guilt can be defined as an unrelenting focus on faults, failure and mistakes common to all. Guilt offers no recovery and no relief. Guilt has no pathway to resolution, repair or learning. Guilt calls out the person’s actions in a consistently negative way. When supporting individuals with mental health challenges, guilt is mostly recognised as a contributor to depression, anxiety, obsessive-compulsive behaviours, low self-worth and relationship struggles driven by fear of rejection. Unfortunately, many in our Kennedy community are too familiar with guilt lingering in our lives and personalities, constantly reminding us of our shortcomings.
In contrast, Conviction differs greatly from Guilt. Conviction is a healthy, but challenging force that meets us in our failures and mistakes, constantly reminding us that we should-and can – do better.
The Bible teaches that God, through His Spirit, works through conviction. This reveals that conviction stems from God’s Fatherly love for us and guiding us towards something much better. Conviction comes from the motive of hope.
At Kennedy, and in within our community, our goal is to raise young adults who understand they are designed for greater things and have the strength to raise above failure. Conviction seeks to restore and empower us to become who we are meant to be.
Year 7 Report
It is hard to believe we’re already halfway through Term 1. I'm delighted to report that our Year 7 cohort has settled in seamlessly, despite coming together from over 60 different feeder schools. It’s impressive to see how quickly they have adapted to their new schooling environment, including the complexity of navigating fenced off areas as our exciting new building is underway.
Last week, when we came together to participate in the Interhouse Swimming Carnival, it was great to witness the strong camaraderie and vibrant House spirit. The energy and enthusiasm from everyone made the event even more memorable and enjoyable, and it was great to see some of our Year 7s participate with enthusiasm.
Thrive, Form class and Extended Form sessions have been bustling with meaningful discussions on a range of important topics, including expectations at Kennedy, respectful relationships, online safety, and leadership. I would like to encourage you again to attend the upcoming Kennedy Insights event, which will provide valuable information and guidance on how we can partner to support your child's Kennedy journey.
In the coming weeks, we will be holding student leadership talks, giving our Year 7 students the opportunity to nominate for positions such as House Captain or Student Councillor. I encourage you to have a conversation with your child about the nomination process and to reflect on the leadership qualities they possess. Whether students wish to apply for a leadership role or not, we hope to foster leadership traits within their classes, at home, and with their peers.
Thank you for your ongoing support as we work together to create a positive and enriching experience for all our students.
Year 8 Report
As the term progresses, I want to congratulate all Year 8 students on settling well into their new routine. Adjusting to new teachers, classroom dynamics, and expectations takes effort, and it has been encouraging to see students navigating these changes with confidence. A special thank you to everyone for maintaining their enthusiasm and social connections despite the disruption caused by construction. It may take extra effort to build the sense of community we want to enhance throughout the year, but I have no doubt that this cohort is up to the challenge.
Well done to the many students who have embraced College activities, showing dedication and school spirit. A special mention goes to the cast and crew of Annie, the Musical! for their incredible commitment, resilience, and talent. It was a fabulous production, and those involved should be proud of their efforts in bringing such a fantastic performance to life!
With Year 8 Camp happening next week, Jade Lewis' recent talk on respectful relationships was incredibly timely. She spoke about the importance of respect, boundaries, and fostering a positive culture within our school community. Students were encouraged to reflect on what they value in friendships and to recognise the difference between healthy and unhealthy relationships. They were reminded that each of them has the power to be a positive influence and to contribute to meaningful change in their circles.
Camp is the next big event on our calendar, and it promises to be an exciting experience. Camps play a vital role in growing self-esteem as students step outside their comfort zones in a supportive and friendly environment. With trained instructors guiding them, students will engage in activities that challenge them while fostering a sense of accomplishment and self-worth. Camp is a wonderful opportunity to build resilience, develop new skills, and strengthen trust in decision-making. I encourage all Year 8s to embrace this experience with an open mind and a willingness to grow.
I look forward to seeing the friendships and community continue to flourish in the weeks ahead! With the prayerful support of Year 8 Form teachers, I am confident that Term 1is a great start to a year that will be positive and formative for every Year 8 student.
I would like to encourage parents and students with the following Bible verse. Philippians 4:13 NIV, I can do all this through him who gives me strength.
Year 9 Report
It has been wonderful to see the progress our Year 9 students are making. Whether in classroom, on the sports field, or in their friendship groups, their dedication and enthusiasm shine through every day, reflectingthe core values of our College community.
Last week, we had the privilege of welcoming a guest speaker, Jade Lewis from Yellow Ribbon Second Chances who spoke about respectful relationships. This session was a fantastic reminder of the importance of treating one another with kindness, understanding, and respect. We encourage all students to continue reflecting on these values in their daily interactions. There is a parent session on Thursday 13 March where Jade will address and have open discussion with parents, providing guidance and information. If you wish to attend this free session, please click here.
A key aspect of respect is ensuring that everyone feels safe and comfortable. I would like to remind our Year 9s that physical contact—whether playful or otherwise—is not appropriate at the College. Our College environment is built on care and consideration and that means looking out for one another and choosing kindness in all situations.
That said, I am, however, incredibly proud of the Year 9 cohort and I can see and recognise their growth. The exceptional group of young adults is made up of unique and caring individuals, and they constantly bring out the best in one another. Let’s continue striving for excellence together!
Year 10 Report
Our House Captains and Student Councillors have been doing a fantastic job stepping into leadership roles and running various student-led activities during Extended Form. These sessions have allowed students to connect and unwind, with options like dodgeball, basketball, board and card games, Bible study, and small worship groups. It’s been great to see our councillors and hours captains grow as leaders, and their peers supporting their efforts by getting involved and making the most of these opportunities. Their enthusiasm and commitment to creating meaningful experiences are helping to build a strong sense of community in our Year 10 cohort.
This Wednesday during Extended Form, our Year 10 students heard from guest speaker Jade Lewis, founder of Jade Lewis and Friends Inc., a nonprofit organization, and Yellow Ribbon Second Chances. Jade spoke about respectful relationships, sharing her personal journey through past struggles with substance abuse, crime, and violence. Some students may have found parts of her story confronting and College Psychologist, Jessica Plenty, is available for support if needed.
Students have been making the most of the opportunities at Kennedy, from their studies to extracurricular activities like the Annie Production and SAS Sport. It’s important for Year 10s to find a healthy balance—eating well, staying hydrated, getting enough sleep, and taking time to relax with friends and family. Keeping this balance will help them stay refreshed and motivated. After all, high school is a marathon, not a sprint!
I would like to encourage families with the following Bible verse. "He makes me lie down in green pastures, he leads me beside still waters, he restores my soul." Psalm 23:2-3.
Year 11 Report
It’s been a great start to Term 1, and the Year 11s are well under way with their courses of study.
Last week families were invited to a study guide seminar run by the Research and Study Centre. Students received some practical tips from our librarians on how to effectively study for their exams this year. I’ve noticed that many students have commented on the intensity of work from lower school to upper school courses. We do our best to prepare them, but I know it can at times be a shock to the system. If your child would like some more support in this area, please contact me. I would love to organise some more sessions for support from the Research and Study Centre.
Another exciting event on the calendar is our Year 11 Camp. Students have enjoyed picking their activities for camp and the thought of getting away to Busselton for three days builds the excitement for a great camp. I am working through all the logistics. Parents will need to provide permission and update medical records ready for our departure. I am praying for a memorable, safe and beneficial camp for each student and I am looking forward to this time away with a great cohort.
On another note, with so many things on the To Do list, I have been inspired by my favourite Bible verse in a new way again, “Do not be anxious about anything, but in every situation, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, present your requests to God. And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus. “Philippians 4:6-7. I pray that this verse gives you the same comfort as it did for me in the last week, and may it remind you to lean on God through busy and challenging times.
Year 12 Report
The Year 12 Ball at Fraser’s Kings Park was spectacular! Dressed in stunning gowns and sharp suits, students celebrated with laughter and joy. The dance floor was lively, showcasing the unity and spirited fun of our Year 12 cohort. It was a memorable night that highlighted friendship and support. Click here for some photos from the ball.
Our students focus on their academic work with the Ball now behind us. The first assignments have been submitted, assessments are underway, and the journey through Year 12 is truly beginning. As they navigate their final year, our dedicated staff supports them at every step and is committed to guiding them toward their WACE graduation and ATAR exams.
Last week, students participated in a Tertiary Advisory Session, gaining valuable insights into their future study and career options. Looking ahead, we are excited to host the Mentor Lunch where Year 12s can connect with their mentor teachers in a relaxed setting. This event provides an excellent chance for students to seek advice, share their aspirations, and strengthen their support network as they prepare for the journey ahead.
As our Year 12s take on this significant year, we are reminded of the powerful words in Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD.” May they move forward with confidence, knowing they are supported, encouraged, and guided towards a bright and purposeful future.
Kennedy News
Annie: Production - Remarkable Showcase of Talent
The recent production ‘Annie the Musical’ was a remarkable showcase of talent, creativity, and collaboration between students and staff. Both students and staff expressed immense pride in the quality of the performance, highlighting the dedication and teamwork that went into the production.
For students, it was an opportunity to showcase their skills in acting, singing, and choreography. The cast members noted the valuable experience gained from working together, rehearsing, and pushing their limits in a professional setting. Many shared how the production process helped them grow both artistically and personally. Read the full blog post along with some student comments.
Year 11 Fundraiser - Cupcakes for Capes 4 Kids
On Friday 7 March the Year 11 Children, Family, and the Community class sold a selection of delicious cupcakes that they made and decorated at the College. The gourmet cupcakes included Cookies and Cream, Biscoff, Red Velvet, Chocolate Smartie surprise, Easter Egg and Funfetti Sprinkle.
All the funds raised will be used to purchase colourful materials to make Superhero Capes for sick children in Australian hospitals. We are teaming up with Capes4Kids Australia in this worthwhile cause, to make a child’s hospital stay and treatment a little more bearable. Stay tuned for the next update once all capes have been made and are ready for delivery.
Partnership with Transform Cambodia
We are proud of our ongoing partnership with Transform Cambodia, an organization dedicated to supporting children in need. At Transform, we seek out and rescue the most vulnerable and neglected street children of Phnom Penh. We rescue and protect them from the many injustices of poverty, providing education, clothing, food, and championing their futures. We restore their dignity and hand them the keys to a life of unlimited potential.
Currently, there are 30 children waiting to be sponsored. If you’re interested in making a difference in a child's life, we encourage you to find out more and consider sponsoring a child. To learn more and sign up, please visit: Transform Cambodia Sponsorship and select Kennedy Baptist College.
Arts Update: Perspectives in Performance
On Monday 10 March, 17 Year 10-12 Music and Dance students and four Arts staff attended the 'Perspectives in Performance' event at His Majesty's Theatre.
We were inspired by the soaring music items, entertained by the drama monologues and uplifted with the dance performances. All of the students enjoyed seeing the high standard achieved by the Year 12 Performing Arts students (2024 cohort) from across WA at this professionally produced event in the heart of the city.
The event both challenged our staff and students to reach greater heights in performance as they prepare for the external WACE exams held in late September for our Year 12 ATAR students.
College Notices
Kennedy Insights: Today
We are privileged to have Jade Lewis from Yellow Ribbon Second Chances tonight, Thursday 13 March at 5.30pm. (Doors open from 5pm). Jade will deliver a factual and powerful presentation that educates parents and their child/ren about setting boundaries, consent, harassment and sexting, the law, and what you can do to help your teen build respectful relationships. *This is an adult-only event. RSVP here
Easter Service Volunteering with the P&F
Our P&F will be selling sausage sizzles before services between 5pm-6pm for families or students needing dinner. Supper will be provided after each service to help provide a great time for families and staff to interact in a social setting.
The P&F is asking volunteers to lend a hand with the sausage sizzles. Please see the slots and information for volunteering here.
Stay tuned for a P&F Connect newsletter that will be coming soon.
Secondary Assistance Scheme
The WA Government, through the Department of Education, provides financial support to eligible parents through the Secondary Assistance Scheme (SAS).
The aim of the scheme is to assist low-income families with secondary school costs. For more information please read here and please download the form or speak with one of our reception staff. *Applications close on Friday 11 April 2025.
Absentees
Parents and guardians are asked to notify the College before 9.00am on the morning of absence via the absentee form on the Kennedy App under Parent Lounge, or by phoning the College absentee line (08 6188 0698). For any other student matters or information, please feel free to email Student Services or stop by to talk to one of our staff.
Uniform Shop – Term 1 2025 Opening Hours
During Term 1 of 2025, the Uniform Shop will be open Monday to Thursday 8.00am to 3.45pm.
* Closed on Fridays.
* Closed for lunch 12.30 to 1.00pm.
For more information, please email our Uniform Shop Manager.
Beedawong Cafeteria Menu
There are delicious items available in the Cafeteria such as fruit salad, sushi and freshly baked muffins and chocolate croissants each day! There are also some great online lunch options such as Butter Chicken & rice, baguettes & wraps to order via our online ordering system at www.quickcliq.com.au.
See the link for menu.
Volunteering Opportunities
We value the support of
our volunteers who contribute to the College community!
Volunteer opportunities for 2025 will be made available in Term 1. These opportunities will include assisting at the Swimming Carnival, P&F Assocation and book covering.
Student Withdrawal
It is a condition of enrolment that at least 10 school weeks’ notice (not including scheduled school holidays) of a student’s withdrawal is given in writing to the Registrar at registrar@kennedy.wa.edu.au. In the event that such notice is not given, a 10 week withdrawal fee will apply per student.
We are always looking to improve our College and take care of our community. Will you please tell us how we are doing and review us on Google? Submit your review here.
The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 27 March 2025
