The Year 12 Colour Run Dash!

Message from the Principal

Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,

One of the many highlights of the term so far was our House Day, a true celebration of community spirit at Kennedy Baptist College. The day brought students together across all year levels in their vertical homerooms, allowing for meaningful interactions and mentoring across age groups—an impactful reminder of the unity and care that defines our College.

The day began with a range of engaging activities, including the Arts Showcase, which highlighted the creativity and talent of our students. These performances added a unique and expressive element to the day, strengthening connections and fostering school pride. The Interhouse Cross Country, culminating in a colourful and joy-filled Colour Run, was a spectacular sight. It was heartening to see such enthusiasm, participation and encouragement on display as students cheered each other on in the spirit of friendly competition and mutual support.

I extend my sincere thanks to our dedicated House Coordinators: Mrs Manns and Mr Macauley, Mr Jordan and Mr McPharlin. Thank you also to our student House Captains; their leadership and energy were instrumental to the day's success. Our strong House system continues to be a cornerstone of Kennedy’s community life, promoting connection, identity and belonging across all year groups.

Junior Basketball SAS Finals: Showcasing Talent and Teamwork 

Our Junior Girls and Boys Basketball teams have also demonstrated exceptional talent and teamwork in reaching the SAS Semi-Finals. Their dedication and endurance have been evident throughout the season, culminating in strong performances that have led to these matches. This achievement highlights not only their skill but also their commitment to excellence and perseverance, key ideals we cherish at Kennedy Baptist College. Congratulations to the teams for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship.  

Reclaiming Recess and Lunch: A New Approach to Student Screen Time

Over recent years, laptops and personal devices have become integral to how we teach and learn across the College. They open doors to creativity, collaboration and a world of information.

At the same time, we have noticed a growing shift in how students spend their break times. Increasingly, recess and lunchtime are being spent on screens rather than in conversation, outdoor play, or physical activity. This observation has prompted meaningful reflection within our community about how we can best support student wellbeing in a digital age.

We are strengthening our approach to student wellbeing by introducing a new policy for device use during recess and lunchtime starting Term 3. This supports balance, connection and active engagement across the school day. You can find further details below.

We value our partnership with families and thank you for the role you play in reinforcing positive habits beyond the College. By working together, we will support our students in developing balance, strengthening connections and engaging fully in all aspects of College life.

Mr Mark Ashby
Principal

Recess and lunch are far more than just a pause in the school day, as they are essential to a child’s development.

• Physical wellbeing: Movement throughout the day supports fitness, boosts energy, and helps students return to class ready to learn.
• Social connection: Face-to-face interaction builds friendships, communication skills and empathy.
• Mental refresh: Time away from screens allows the brain to reset, improving focus, mood and overall wellbeing.

When students step away from devices, they gain valuable opportunities to recharge, connect and thrive.

What we are seeing

While many students continue to enjoy active and social break times, we are seeing an increase in device use for gaming, streaming, and browsing during these periods. Over time, this can unintentionally reduce opportunities for movement, limit social interaction, and contribute to extended daily screen exposure.

As a College committed to the holistic development of every student, we believe it is important to respond thoughtfully and proactively.

Our Goals

This change is not about restricting access to technology but about intentional use. The policy aims to:

• Reduce overall screen time across the school day
• Encourage physical activity and time outdoors
• Foster stronger social connections between students
• Support wellbeing and focus in the classroom

By clearly defining when and where devices can be used, we hope to help students develop positive digital habits that will benefit them beyond school. Staff will continue to support and promote a range of engaging options during these breaks, ensuring there is something for everyone.

Working Together

We understand that change can take time, and we appreciate the support of students and families as we implement this new approach. By working together, we can create a school environment that balances the benefits of technology with the equally important need for movement, connection, and rest.

This is an opportunity for our community to ensure that break times remain a vital, healthy, and enjoyable part of every student’s day.

I want to start with a reference that only those who are a bit more mature may appreciate. Fonzie, a character from the classic TV show “Happy Days,” had a tough-guy image that he struggled to maintain. In one episode, ‘The Fonz’ found it difficult to say the word ‘SORRY’ because he believed it would tarnish the carefully crafted character he always portrayed. This memory surfaced as I have been contemplating and advocating for the role of prayer in our College and community this term.

Saying “Let’s PRAY” is, in some ways, similar to saying “I’m sorry”; both can be hard to express because they may challenge our self-image. Acknowledging the need for prayer or an apology requires us to confront the fact that our thoughts, actions, and ideas may need to change. Both phrases can be unsettling as they reveal vulnerabilities we often work hard to protect.

As a husband and dad, I have become very familiar with saying “SORRY” and “LET'S PRAY.” In caring for my family, I have not always fully considered the outcomes of every decision I’ve made. Saying these two phrases is not always easy and can be the last thing I want to do, but there is no right way forward until I do. Admitting that I need both phrases can mean recognising that my growth is ongoing and that there is still room for improvement and vulnerability. I realise I need more than I currently have to become who I want and need to be.

Prayer can be described as reaching outside of ourselves to a provider because we recognise that we need more than we currently are to grow; we need God. During Term 2, our focus is to encourage the entire Kennedy Community to reach out to Him, who promises to give generously to all who ask. LET’S PRAY.

 James 1:5 “...you should ask God, who gives generously to all without finding fault, and it will be given to you.”  

Curriculum Report

Parent-Teacher interviews

Thank you to all parents who attended meetings with teachers. There were 720 parents booked to speak with 85 teachers, resulting in 3393 interviews. Feedback indicates that families found this time valuable and a positive experience.

We encourage all parents to continue keeping up to date with their child’s progress through SEQTA and to maintain ongoing conversations at home about learning.

Examinations

For students in Years 9–12, Term 2 is a busy academic period due to examinations. Beyond assessing subject knowledge, this time also provides an opportunity for students to reflect on their study habits and time management.

Supporting students to develop independence and self-awareness is important. We encourage parents to ask reflective questions and allow students to lead the thinking, rather than adding observations or solutions.

Some helpful questions include:

• Do you study each week for…?
• How much extra time did you study for…?
• How did you study (e.g. re-writing notes, practice problems)?
• What strategies worked well for you?
• What might you do differently next time?
• How can I best support you?

Parents may also gently prompt with:

• What was the most challenging part?
• What helped you stay organised?

Many students are already working consistently to consolidate their learning, review material and prepare for assessments. If this is your child, we strongly encourage you to acknowledge and praise their effort, regardless of the outcome.

Year 11 Course Changes

Some Year 11 students may be considering a change of course at this stage. Typically, students achieving below a C grade explore alternative options. Students can speak with Mr Jiow at recess or lunch, or during the examination period. Students have also been notified of this opportunity via SEQTA.

All course changes must be finalised prior to Friday 19 June.

Course selections for 2027

Students in Years 7–11 will soon begin selecting courses for 2027. These selections directly inform staffing, class structures and resource planning, making it essential that all students and families engage in the process.

Course information will be distributed to families and made available on the College website. Selections are completed electronically, with both the student and a parent required to approve final choices. A step-by-step video guide will also be provided.

Please ensure you are aware of all deadlines, as all year groups must complete the selection process by the end of the term.

Pastoral Care Report

ANZAC Assembly

Term 2 is well underway, starting with an Anzac service in our Assembly. Term 2 began with an Anzac Service in our first Assembly, led by our College Student Executive Team. It was a special moment to reflect on service and sacrifice and to acknowledge the students who received the prestigious College Colours Excellence Award. This award recognises student achievement and contribution across many aspects of College life. It is one of the highest individual honours at Kennedy Baptist College and we hope all our students will aspire to it. The criteria for the award included consideration of: 

• College Representation 
• Leadership Roles 
• Academic Standing 
• Attitude and Behaviour 

At the assembly, we also presented the award for the student who has achieved the Duke of Edinburgh Award. This award aligns with our College Values, emphasising voluntary service, physical recreation, organisational skills, and the pursuit of an ‘adventurous journey’. We are proud to announce that registrations for the Duke of Edinburgh Award are now open for Kennedy students. If your student is interested in registering for this award and achieving exceptional things alongside their education at Kennedy, please visit the Award's website, refer to this link. We hope to see many more students join this valuable international program and encourage them to speak with Ms Amanda Jean, our Award Leader, for more information.

House Day

In Week 3, we held a significant event in our pastoral care program, our House Day. This day was designed to strengthen students' sense of belonging through vertical interactions, allowing them to engage with students across different year levels. Students and staff participated in a range of activities and events that promoted communication, teamwork, and school culture. The day also included activities during an extended recess and a fantastic Arts Showcase, finishing with House representation in the Interhouse Cross Country and participation in a Colour Run. I want to thank the House coordinators for the time and effort they invested in planning such a significant event. We look forward to running more activities within our Vertical House structure throughout the year.

Click the links below to see some of the images from the day. Please note that the link to the images will expire at the end of June.

As we approach the exam period, I want to remind students that they are not alone.  Our dedicated Pastoral Care team, including Heads of Years and counsellors, remain available to provide the support you need. Don't hesitate to reach out if you need extra assistance.

Kennedy News

Matt Austin Spotlight

We’re excited to welcome Mr Austin to Kennedy Baptist College! With experience leading a team to the Hydrogen Grand Prix World Finals in Germany, he’s bringing his passion for STEM, innovation and hands-on engineering to our students. 

Read more about Mr Austin’s experience and vision for STEM at Kennedy in our latest staff spotlight.

Year 12 Fabric - Sensory Blankets

My Year 12 Children, Family and the Community class completed their sensational  sensory blankets part of a recent task to help others in our community. They are multi-purpose and can be used for a range of ages and abilities, including young children as a fidget tool, as well as people experiencing dementia as a calming tool. We plan to donate them once again to a nursing home for use in the memory support unit.  

Sensory or fidget blankets are therapeutic textiles with various attached items like ribbons, zippers, buttons and textures designed to provide tactile stimulation and engage the hands and minds. They assist by: 

• Reducing anxiety and restlessness 
• Providing a calming effect
• Improving fine motor skills  
• Stimulating cognitive function  
• Keeping hands busy and to alleviate tension  

• Providing sensory stimulations

I am so proud of the effort and perseverance the Year 12s displayed to plan, prepare and create these amazing sensory blankets. Well done!  

Ms Ann-Marie Frazier
Year 12 Children, Family and the Community Teacher

Sports Update📣

Interhouse Cross Country Carnival 

I would like to thank all the students who took part in our Interhouse Cross Country Carnival and congratulate them on their boldness and enthusiasm. Thank you to all the parents who came out to support and to the staff for their assistance. We had a great day of competition and House pride amongst the students and staff, many of whom joined in the 4km, much to the students' delight. 

Specialist Basketball 

On 14 May, both our Junior Girls and Junior Boys Basketball teams competed in the ACC Junior Championship semi-finals after successfully progressing from the qualification brackets. Both the ACC Junior Girls and Boys teams should be commended for their efforts. Although both teams fell short, they competed with great determination and fought hard until the final buzzer. Reaching the semi-final stage was an outstanding achievement with both teams representing Kennedy exceptionally well. 

Individual Sporting News 

Morgan Kingwell (Year 10) has again been selected in the WA Youth State Team for Sport Climbing WA. Morgan went to NSW this May to represent WA in the 2026 Youth National Championship. 

Billie McCracken (Year 10) has over several years competed at the state and national level in Sailing. Last year she represented Australia on the world stage and was the third placed female in the under 17 division of the 2025 Open Skiff World Championships in Nishinomiya, Japan. This year Billie was the 4th placed female on a national level in the RS Aero Australian Championships 2026, and was the 1st placed female in the RS Aero State Championships.  

Zack Bishop (Year 10) represented Kennedy in the U17 Boys competition at the All Schools Athletics in December, winning Silver in Triple Jump, qualifying him for All School in Melbourne, representing WA. Zack also competed in the State Relays in U18 Mens, winning Bronze with his team in the Swedish Relay, and in the State Athletic Championships winning Bronze in Long Jump, placing 4th in 100m and 5th in the 200m, achieving personal bests in all three events. His Bronze medal along with Silver at All Schools has qualified him for the 2026 Junior National Athletics Competition in Brisbane, representing WA in triple and long jump. 

A huge congratulations on these students' impressive achievements. If your child has reached a significant milestone you would love the school to acknowledge, please email their Head of Year with more information about their achievements. 

Mr Robert Ford
Head of Sport

College Notices

The 2026 Pedal Prix Season has begun!

Say hello to our 2026 Pedal Prix Kennedy Racing Team! 

After-school training for this year's pedal prix teams officially began in Term 2, with a large group of 25 students from Years 7 to 11. Stay tuned for more updates, including the date of their first race of the season.

2027 Production Update

After an extensive process of auditioning for Lead roles and Ensemble positions, the Production staff are thrilled to announce the cast and orchestra for our 2027 production of 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory'.

We thank all the students that spent time preparing lines and songs - the competition was fierce for many of the roles. We will commence rehearsals in Week 8 for lead roles only, then full rehearsals will commence on Wednesday 22 July. On Thursday 23 July, we will have a Parent information meeting from 5.00pm to 5.30pm in the Auditorium for all of the students involved.  

Upcoming Events:

The next newsletter will be published on:
Thursday 4 June 2026.