Photo above: Our Junior Girls performed well in their Grand Final last week.

Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,

It has been wonderful to witness our Upper School students demonstrating both dedication and resilience during their semester examinations. Although this period can be stressful, our students have shown remarkable engagement in their revision and preparation. We know that this hard work will be reflected in their results. Similarly, we anticipate that Year 9 and 10 students will see rewarding outcomes as they review their examination results next week.

ACC Interschool Cross Country

Our Interschool Cross Country team were exceptional today at Perry Lakes, reflecting Kennedy's commitment to determination and teamwork. Competing with thousands of students, our athletes made us proud with their hard work and results. Among some great efforts, I wish to highlight the result of Saxon (Year 8) who finished eighth in his category and those of our Year 7 girls, including Lilliana and Zara who both came in the top 25 of their category. Click here to view the full results of our students from today.

This impressive achievement is a testament to the dedication of our students and the Physical Education Staff, who have invested significant effort into early morning training sessions. Their commitment and hard work truly embody the spirit and values of Kennedy Baptist College.

ACC Girls Championship Grand Final

Our Junior Girls Basketball team also demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork in the ACC Grand Final, finishing as runners-up. Their dedication and competitive spirit were evident throughout the season, culminating in a strong performance in the final match. Against some great individual players, the Junior Girls were able to band together and excel as a team. Congratulations to the entire group for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship.

Mr Mark Ashby
Principal

Chaplain Chats

I referenced this question asked of Jesus two thousand years ago in my last newsletter. Throughout history, truth has been written about more than any other subject and, in our modern day, the hunger for truth is as strong as it’s always been. Yet finding truth is as challenging as it’s always been.

In the classroom, an everyday focus is to both teach the truth and to have students tell you the truth to show that they have learnt it. We might also work to discover truth when there’s been an issue at school. In this instance, we can ask several students about what happened and still experience challenges in finding the truth. We ask knowing that there is only one truth but even when we are given honest answers, our students can only report from their perspective, circling the one and only truth of what happened.

I believe that there is always only one truth. I know that there can be many lies, many parts of the truth, and many omissions of what is true, but there is only ever one complete, absolute truth. I also know that the full truth has a weight to it. I have seen its power, both in the ways that it can cause anxiety when covered up but also when it sets people free.

When Pontius Pilate asked “What is truth?”, it was in response to Jesus saying that anyone who wants find the Truth would listen to His voice. Jesus was letting us know that He is committed to bringing us to the Truth. He wants us to come to the end of anxiety and fear by listening to Him. In Jesus’ famous sermon on the mountain, He told us, “Ask, and it will be given you. Seek, and you will find. Knock, and it will be opened for you”. Matthew 7:7

Year 7 Report

Term 2 saw the birth of Kennedy’s inaugural Year 7 Form Cup – an initiative by the Year 7 councillors. The purpose of Form Cup is to enhance relationships within Forms and to build Form spirit through a variety of fun, competitive activities. The ‘Chant Off’ provided Forms with the first opportunity to get points on the scoreboard, with students presenting as a team. The next Form Cup event takes place on the morning of Wednesday 5 June. Students are permitted to wear their sports uniform to school until recess to enable them to play dodgeball and build Jenga towers with confidence.

During a recent Extended Form, our Year 7s were entertained by our Music Tutors and Year 12 ATAR Music students who played a variety of instruments in styles ranging from music theatre to heavy rock and jazz. Some brave Year 7s even played percussion alongside our Year 12 students in a 12-bar blues piece. Students enjoyed the fabulous lineup to promote the music program and opportunities in ensembles at Kennedy.

Important upcoming events include Photo Day on Tuesday 11 June where students are required to wear full winter uniform on the day and a Year 7 Social on Thursday 13 June where up to sixty Year 7 students can join in Laser Tag on the oval after school. More information and sign-up details will be emailed to families. Our first chance at Community Service will occur on Tuesday 18 June. On occasions like this, students will welcome and host Lakeside Seniors, serve morning tea and engage with Seniors informally. The inter-generational interaction will provide students with a different perspective while developing their interpersonal skills.

Students are reminded to respect and include others, and to be kind – through their actions and their words. Words have power. Therefore, we are encouraged to use our words to heal, not to hurt; to build up, not to break down. Students are required to THINK before they speak and ask if their words are: True, Helpful, Inspirational, Necessary, and Kind.

Ephesians 4:29 "Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen."

Year 8 Report

Year 8 students have had an engaging series of activities that will leave a lasting positive impact on the cohort. We were privileged to have a special talk from Christine Self who addressed the crucial topic of body image and the influence of social media on today’s youth. The talk was both eye-opening and empowering, shedding light on how social media can shape our perceptions and self-esteem. Christine shared practical advice on how to navigate these pressures, encouraging us to embrace our true selves and foster a positive image of ourselves.

Throughout this term, I have wanted the Year 8s to focus on teamwork. As a year group, we participated in a series of team-building exercises organised by Nations Church’s youth group. These activities were designed to enhance our communication, cooperation, and leadership skills. Through various challenges and games, we learnt the importance of working together, trusting one another, and valuing each team member's unique strengths. It was not only a fun and interactive experience but also an opportunity to build stronger bonds with our peers.

Finally, I would like to re-address some of the College standards regarding uniform and arriving to class on time. Sports uniforms are permitted when a student has a pass, and they must have this pass on them to avoid receiving a demerit. Click here for a useful guide to help answer any questions you or your child has regarding uniform

Punctuality makes a significant impact on all students’ learning experience and affects our efforts to create a safe and welcoming class environment for all. If a student is late, lessons can be delayed, and topics may be missed. This can result in students struggling to gain a proper understanding of the required content.

As we approach the end of term, I thank you for partnering with us as we improve on all aspects of our Year 8’s education at the College.

Year 9 Report

As the school year nears its halfway point, Year 9 students have recently completed a significant milestone in their academic journey: their first round of formal examinations. This period has been marked by hard work, dedication, and a collective sigh of relief as students reflect on their achievements and experiences.

Kennedy recognises that these exams not only test our students’ knowledge but are an opportunity for personal growth and resilience. The experience of preparing for and sitting exams helps students develop life skills such as time management, critical thinking, and stress management. These skills will benefit them in their current academic pursuits and in their future endeavours.

As exam results are confirmed in the coming weeks and Semester 1 reports are completed, students’ focus will shift to reflection. Reflective practices are vital to ensure the learning journey continues and students gain the skills for success in their future studies. As part of Kennedy’s commitment to this journey, teachers will review exam performances with students to identify strengths and areas for improvement.

Congratulations to all Year 9 students on your hardwork and perseverance to successfully complete your first exam experience. An extra special mention and thank you for the support of families during this time.

Year 10 Report

It’s a great feeling ticking off another set of exams and the vibe amongst the Year 10s this week was a feeling of relief. Now we have the nervous wait for results as they come back. Students will hopefully get the results they deserve after the effort they put in and, overall, the Year 10s seemed more prepared and focused before these exams, which is very pleasing. Over the next few weeks, Year 10 students will have the opportunity to look at subject selection for Year 11. The students that I have spoken to are looking forward to having a bit more control over their options for Upper School and I’m excited for the opportunities these choices will offer.

Our first official chance for Community Service is right around the corner, after delays this week due to the weather. This Term, we will be partnering with the City of Cockburn to plant trees in Bibra Lake. Students will be involved with digging, planting and putting guards around trees. We will also see the result of this action by checking out the area that my Year 10 group from 2018 were able to plant, which now are above head height.

This opportunity will allow students to complete the ‘service’ element that is needed for the Kennedy Colours. The Year 10s can apply for this great award of the College, shown by a coloured striped badge that is sewed onto blazers, later this year. Keep a look out for more information on Kennedy Colours in the coming months as we ask students to consider further opportunities for service and leadership in our community.

Year 11 Report

Many of our Year 11 students have recently attempted the first set of their ATAR exams and will be looking forward to receiving their results. Some students will achieve outstanding results and will be proud of their achievements. However, there will also be students whose results fall below expectations.

Exam results do not define our students, but it is important that students reflect carefully on their results and discuss these with family members. Students who are not passing ATAR courses and who have not passed their exams are strongly encouraged to change to General courses. This change is in the best interest of the student and opens up a range of alternate pathways to work and further study. If you are unsure whether your son or daughter should consider changing courses, please do not hesitate to contact me.

Recently, slam poet and hip-hop artist Marksman Lloyd presented to our cohort about the importance of speaking up, particularly if students are being bullied, dealing with peer pressure, or struggling with anxiety. Thankfully, today people are encouraged to speak up and there are support networks available to help students deal with issues at hand. As your child’s Head of Year, I am here to help. We also have a fantastic Year 11 school counsellor, Jess Plenty, who is available to talk to students.

Matthew 7:7 “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you.”

Year 12 Report

The Year 12 area of the Campus has remained quiet while our students have tackled their examinations over the past two weeks. Students that I have spoken to have seemed calm and focused in their individual preparation, while also being engaged in collaborative study and supportive of each other. Our General students similarly completed their ‘Extenally Set Tasks’ (ESTs) earlier in the Term and are also to be commended on the attitude they exhibited, understanding the purpose of the ESTs and adapting to the requirements of various courses.

Along with studying and tests, the last few weeks brought opportunities for fun and community. Kennedy House Day provided opportunities for our senior students to engage with those from other years and helped to get some out of their comfort zones, particularly in group dances. The House Captains were enthusiastic in all of the activities, and it was great to see many others follow their lead.

Cross Country was a tremendously fun way to finish this action-packed day. Congratulations to the Year 12 Cross Country Champions Kate (Harrier) and Jamie (Falcon). Along with their Form Teachers, our Year 12 closed the carnival with a final “Colour Dash”. An amazing way to celebrate their last school cross country, the smiles were wide and the laughs many as they got covered in a blizzard of colour powder.

As the last regular academic week coincided with Mother’s Day, our Extended Form involved crafting a gift for either their Mum or another significant female in their life. Mother’s Day is a prompt to recognise the consistent, reliable support from maternal figures, support that only becomes more valuable towards the end of Secondary School. Year 12s again channelled their enthusiasm to join in, living out Proverbs 31:31 “Honour her for all that her hands have done, and let her works bring her praise at the city gate."

Kennedy News

Year 12 Outdoor Education Seatrek

With the power of the wind, and the occasional burst of motors, Year 12 Outdoor Education students left our shores for a few days to sail down the Swan River, with some even going out onto the ocean. These Seatrek Expeditions take place at Kennedy each year with the help of the Department of Transport and has our students plan a voyage around weather conditions and pack their vessels with three days of supplies, setting out from the Marine Education Boatshed, for a camping trip like no other.

Students pilot the ships as a team, using the correct radio procedures throughout the trip, hopping between beaches for each day’s rest and taking “anchor watch” shifts to monitor the boats overnight. This is an exciting way to put their Recreational Skipper’s Ticket attained in Year 11 into action and give students a taste of what they are capable of doing independently with their skills outside of school.

Looking Back on 30 Years of Growth

We sat down with Winthrop Baptist College Foundation student Rosie Bryant and her father, Board Member Reverend Philip Bryant, to discuss how Winthrop and Somerville developed out of a single classroom block in Murdoch bush land and grew to form one of the leading co-educational schools in Perth, Kennedy Baptist College.

We look forward to welcoming Philip and Rosie to our 30 Year Celebrations on Saturday 17 August. If you are a past student or staff member of Winthrop, Somerville or Kennedy and are also interested in attending this event, follow this link to RSVP.

College Notices

Join the Open Day Team!

Term 3: Kennedy Insight

Thank you to everyone who was able to make it to last week's Kennedy Insight. Our next Parent Forum will be held on Thursday 15 August with a focus on cybersafety.

Save the date and look out for more information about this important community event.

Student Names on Uniform Items

Lost uniform blazers continue to be handed into Student Services for student collection. Many of these uniforms do not have name labels on them and this makes it incredibly difficult to find their owners. Student Services currently have a number of blazers and sports jackets without names on them, and a sports bag with mouth-guard and boys winter uniform inside.

Please double check that all items of your students' uniform have name labels, including student backpacks, sports jackets, and water bottles.

The Uniform Shop has blank iron-on name labels available to help keep better track of your student's clothing, with a sheet of 14 for just $4. These are available both from the Uniform Shop and QuickCliq.

The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 13 June 2024.