Message from the Principal

Dear Parents and Families, 

Let's talk about June 8! Some people view the Bible as merely a collection of laws and rules. In Term 2, we have been examining the single law in the Bible that has the potential to change humanity as we know it. This all-powerful commandment is to "Love God with all your heart, and love others as you love yourself." Jesus stated that by adhering to this one law, we would fulfil all the requirements of the Bible. 

Despite the immense benefits this law would bring to our lives and the community around us, we often struggle to keep it. Most people genuinely want to love others and God without fail, but our self-centeredness often gets in the way. We all understand the consequences when the love for others is overshadowed by selfishness. The strength to uphold this one law does not reside within us; it must come from a source beyond human nature.

This brings us to June 8, last Sunday, the day when hope and power came from outside! Every year, the 50th day after Easter is called Pentecost. Pentecost is the day, 50 days after Jesus died on the cross for every self-focused life, when power from outside came to people. This power is God Himself, His Holy Spirit, coming to live within open hearts. This single source of power enables you and me to keep the one all-powerful commandment, to love God and love others. In all the Bible we only see the true design of humanity break out on Pentecost. The Book of Acts chapter 2 describes heaven on earth, a community full of ‘oneness’, ‘glad hearts’ and ‘selflessness’. Oh, if we all had the power to live this way, but with an open heart you can!

‘But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;’ Acts 1:8

As we pass the halfway point of the term, it’s been wonderful to reflect on how far our Year 7 cohort has come. What began as a group of students from over 60 different primary schools has quickly grown into a connected and supportive community. This transformation was clearly on display during our first community service event welcoming the Lakeside Seniors to Kennedy.

The morning was a fantastic opportunity for our students to serve with purpose. Whether greeting guests, helping them to their seats, serving food, or making cups of tea and coffee, the students approached each task with care and enthusiasm. I was especially proud of the maturity and respect they showed throughout the event. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and laughter as our guests passed on wisdom that left a lasting impression, by sharing stories, old photographs, and reflections of their younger years.

In extended form time, our students have been engaging in a range of meaningful experiences. A recent focus was music, when Kennedy tutors presented their different instruments and had the students explore the different genres of music, from contemporary to jazz, to classical. We heard from a variety of instruments, including percussion and bass and even cello, sparking curiosity and inspiring many students to consider joining Kennedy’s vibrant Instrumental Music program.

We also enjoyed “Pancakes with Pete”, a special opportunity to come together as a community and be served by our Chaplain and Counsellor. It was a simple yet meaningful moment of connection and care.

We have also discussed integrity and what it means to do the right thing, even when no one is watching and how this value shapes the kind of people we are becoming. These moments of reflection and discussion are integral to students forming the values that will guide them well beyond their school years.

It has been a positive and fulfilling start to the year, and we are looking forward to more learning, laughter, and more opportunities to grow together.

At Kennedy we are proud of students’ daily choices that reflect integrity and character. Choosing to be honest, kind and inclusive is a powerful way to live out Kennedy’s values. Christians celebrated Pentecost last Sunday as a reminder that we are not alone in this journey because God gives us His Holy Spirit to guide and strengthen us. Galatians 5:22-23 reminds us that, with the Holy Spirit’s help, we can bear good fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. When teachers and parents/guardians work together, students learn better to make wise and respectful choices.

As we move through the term, it is important to encourage students to maintain a healthy balance of nurturing the mind, body and spirit. Whether it's staying focused in class, managing time after school, or prioritising rest and friendships, doing one’s best in all areas takes commitment. The past two weeks the students have been participating in the Year 8 Form Cup in our extended form times. The activities.  We had a lot of fun playing games such as The Golden Child, Capture the Flag and Rob the Nest, creating an ideal opportunity to be active whilst building community amongst peers.

It was a joy to celebrate student achievement at yesterday’s assembly, recognising students who have shown dedication on the sport field. We look forward to the upcoming Year 8 Public Speaking Competition on Wednesday 18 June. Students will have a chance to showcase confidence and use their voice with purpose. Parents, grandparents and guardians of participants are warmly invited to attend this special occasion.

We are proud of our students as they continue to grow in character and courage.

Our Year 9 students have shown commendable diligence and focus over the past few weeks, especially in the lead-up to their first exam period. It has been encouraging to see the level of preparation, effort and resilience demonstrated across the cohort. While some students may not have received the results they hoped for, we want to emphasise that the true value lies in the learning process. This experience will serve them well as they continue to build strong academic habits and confidence in themselves.

We are now turning our attention to something a little more exciting: our much-anticipated Year 9 Social at Bounce! This event will be a well-deserved chance for students to relax, connect, and celebrate the end of a busy term together.

Looking ahead, the upcoming three-week holiday is a fantastic opportunity to reset and refresh to prepare for the final stretch of the year with renewed energy. As always, we continue to encourage our students to be kind in all they do. Being kind to others, kind to themselves, and kind in their words and actions.

We are proud of how our Year 9s are growing in both character and capability, and we look forward to the term ahead with optimism.

As we move through the second half of Term 2, our Year 10 students have reached a significant milestone: completing their Semester 1 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 some students may not receive results that align with their expectations. It is essential 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 which are essential foundations for Years 11 and 12.

In addition to exams, students are now engaged in conversations with College Executive Leaders as part of the subject selection process for Year 11. These meetings focus on reviewing current academic progress, exploring subject preferences and aligning course selections with future pathways and potential career interests. We 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.

As part of the Year 10 Health Education program, students are currently working through the requirements to prepare for their Learner Driver Permit Test. Students will participate in an Extended Form workshop in Week 8, delivered by Happiness Co in partnership with RAC WA. This upcoming workshop aims to support their wellbeing while exploring the influence of peer pressure, particularly in relation to young driver behaviour.

The workshop will encourage students to reflect on their emotions and self-esteem, helping them make connections between mental health, peer influence and the choices they make behind the wheel. Delivered by experienced presenters, the program is part of Happiness Co’s wider mission to build self-awareness and resilience in young people. By equipping students with tools to better understand themselves and others, the workshop aims to foster thoughtful, safe and responsible decision-making.

We are proud of the way our Year 10 students have approached the term so far and look forward to the continued growth and development of this cohort as they prepare for senior school.

It has been a strange time of year for me walking around the College with no Year 11 students on campus. I have realised how much I enjoy having them around and catching up with the students regularly throughout the day and in classes. As the exam break finishes, I look forward to having the students back and I am praying that those who completed exams and assessments are content knowing they gave their best efforts. For the general students, I am hoping they were able to reflect and relax a little bit knowing that we will be ‘switching on’ again on their return.

The end of Semester One is an ideal time to review the progress of each student’s results and plan for the remainder of the year, as well as prepare for Year 12. I will be available to discuss the results with students and explore options for progression moving forward. If you have any concerns or questions regarding subject changes, please don’t hesitate to contact me and I will endeavour to help or put you in touch with someone who can assist. Please note that there is a very limited window for subject changes for this year. The next opportunity will be at the end of Year 11.

On the last day of Term 2, I have the privilege of joining the students on the Cambodia tour, the majority of whom are Year 11s. Students will be teaching at the Transform Cambodia centre, which Kennedy is involved with, while enjoying the sights of Phnom Penh and Siem Reap. It will be a great experience and an excellent opportunity for our students to go and serve others. For the rest of our year group, I am in the final stages of organising our community service project for 2025 with Clean up Australia, which each Year 11 will have the opportunity to be involved with in Terms 3 and 4.

Please join me in continuing to pray for our students as they return from exam break and for the exciting opportunities coming up

Our Year 12 ATAR students recently undertook their examinations. It is essential that students carefully review their results and establish clear academic goals for the remainder of the year. For many, these results will be a testament to their dedication and hard work. For others, the outcomes may not align with their expectations; in such cases, students are encouraged to identify areas for improvement and implement strategies to enhance future performance.

Additionally, our Year 12 General students have completed their Externally Set Tasks (ESTs) earlier in the term and should also take time to reflect on their results. With a growing number of students enrolling in General courses, competition in these fields continues to increase and employers are increasingly considering academic performance when selecting candidates for apprenticeships. Regardless of whether students are pursuing ATAR or General pathways, all should strive for excellence and approach their assessments with diligence and determination.

Later in the term, our College will commemorate NAIDOC Week. This year’s theme, The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy, serves as an opportunity to reflect on the remarkable achievements of the past while looking forward to a promising future. The week will be a time to celebrate the resilience of young Indigenous leaders, recognize the vision of their communities, and honor the enduring legacy of their ancestors.

Kennedy News

ACC Interschool Cross Country

The Associated and Catholic Colleges (ACC) Interschool Cross Country event was a memorable day of growth for our students. They not only competed alongside thousands of peers but also proudly represented the College, showcasing their exceptional talent, dedication, and teamwork. With a maximum of six participants in each category, our students stood out among 79 competing schools. 

We are incredibly proud of our athletes! Tate Jahn achieved an impressive sixth place in his category, while Issy Gerhard, Layne Britza, Zara Lilly and Kyan Whyte all demonstrated outstanding performance by finishing in the Top 25 in their races. Their success was made possible by the unwavering support of their teammates and our dedicated staff. It was heartwarming to witness the celebration at the finish line, as both classmates and senior students came together to embrace their achievements! 

Authority Developed Workplace Learning

Over the Semester One Exam weeks, some of our Year 11 and 12 students in general pathways chose to complete the Authority Developed Workplace Learning (ADWPL) program. The participants complete at least 55 hours of work placement, as well as the ADWPL logbook journal which is equivalent to 1 WACE unit.

Students completed their placements in a variety of workplaces. A few of these included a very competitive program with WesTrac in their heavy machinery department, completed by Yiannis Kerr. This opened an opportunity for Yiannis to apply for WesTrac’s apprenticeship program next year. Harry Spurling was the first work experience student at Venture Smart, a specialised electrical company dealing with public infrastructure, such as street lamps and traffic lights. Zoe Black continued to expand her practical knowledge of library and information services at the Melville Civic Square Public Library.

Other students also completed placements at daycare centres, auto mechanics, hair salons, building and construction firms and primary schools. 

The ADWPL is open to Year 11 and 12 General pathway students and is usually completed during the Semester One or Two exam study break. If you are interested in participating or would like to hear more, please see Mr Ernesto Ramirez.

STEM Activation Excursion

Last week, 17 Kennedy students attended a STEM Activation Day held at Murdoch University. As a part of this day, the students participated in many exciting activities, workshops and talks, including watching the Hydrogen Grand Prix Pro WA Finals. The race showcased hydrogen-powered remote-control cars designed by students from 15 different schools.

It was a high-energy celebration of innovation, teamwork and the future of energy. We look forward to hearing more about their experience and more opportunities for our students to experience, learn and connect. 

College Notices

Flexischools

A reminder to all parents / guardians to download the Fexischools App and register online. Flexischools is an online canteen management system that will be replacing  Quickcliq in Term 3. 

Please be aware that Monday 16 June is the last day that you are able to add money to your student SmartRider card or Quickcliq account. 

For any questions regarding downloading the app, setting up your account and submitting online lunch orders, please check your emails and SEQTA Direct Messages. 

Get Involved in Open Day!

As a valued member of our College Community, we invite you to play an essential role in making this day a resounding success. The P&F Association have set up a sign-up page on SignUp.com, where you can find detailed information about the event and sign up for the various opportunities available. Here are some ways you can get involved:

Every contribution is highly appreciated, and it will help us create a vibrant and engaging event. 

P&F Next Meeting

Please be advised that the next P&F meeting has had a change of date and will be held on Tuesday 22 July. 

We also want to thank everybody who was involved with and attended the P&F Movie fundraiser this week! To those who couldn’t make it to the movie night and buy a pizza, see the flyer below for another opportunity to contribute and take advantage of an offer from Woodpeckers Pizza.

We hope you had a great time and had the chance to enjoy the Kennedy community. 

Upcoming event

Come along to our annual Music Night held on Thursday 19 June!

The night will be an exciting evening of diverse music ensembles and solo performances, centering on a theme of 'Around the world'. Our talented music staff (and some other surprise Kennedy staff) will be involved in supporting our talented students in putting together an entertaining evening of performances. Tickets are $5 (free for children under 10) and can be purchased through the button below. 

Please come and support our students from Years 7 to 12 as we showcase our ensembles and senior music students, with a variety of music including contemporary bands, orchestra and vocal group performances, and some of our instrumental groups.  

The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 26 June 2025