No images? Click here
Photo above: Head of Year 12, Miss Melissa Beale, addresses the Class of 2023 at their Graduation Ceremony.
Message from the Principal
Dear Parents/Guardians and Families,
It was wonderful to celebrate the formal graduation of our Year 12 Students last Friday evening. This was a formal occasion to acknowledge their achievement and hard work and it was great to share it with families in such a positive way as we reflected on their journey at Kennedy. Congratulations to our graduating students and we wish them the very best for their bright futures ahead.
A reminder that our last day this year, Tuesday December 5 will commence with a formal Awards Assembly to acknowledge the achievements of students in Years 7 to 10. This ceremony will commence at 8.30am and we look forward to everyone joining us for this special celebration of student success.
Staff Updates
Planning is well underway for next year, and a number of staffing changes have been confirmed that I would like to share. This includes several staff who will be leaving Kennedy after more than ten years of service. They have made invaluable contributions to the College and I would like to highlight their commitment and service to our community:
- Mr Rijk Batley (Humanities)
- Mr Greg Brookes (Grounds)
- Mrs Nicole Robbins (Mathematics)
There are several staff who will be finishing their time with us. We would like to thank each of these staff members for their integrity and willingness to always pursue excellence in themselves, our students, and our community:
- Miss Melissa Beale (Physical and Health Education)
- Ms Koren Bryan (Learning Support)
- Mr Joshua East (English)
- Mr Grant Douglas (Physical and Health Education)
- Mr Stephen Moore (Humanities)
- Miss Rachael Smyth (Science)
I would also like to announce that Ms Bernice Tan has successfully applied for the position of Head of English & Languages for 2024 and Ms Amanda Ash will be taking up the coordination of the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh Award. Mrs Liezl Breytenbach has been appointed the Head of Year 7 for next year. Mrs Breytenbach has been busy preparing the transition program for our new students and we look forward to her managing the pastoral care of our incoming students next year. This exciting program begins tomorrow with Orientation Day for the Year 7 students of 2024.
Mr Mark Ashby
Principal
Chaplain Chats
I want to title this, my penultimate newsletter article for the year, “The Symphony of Order”. I recently went to a symphony at the Perth Concert Hall. I was deeply moved, not only by Mozart's composing ability, but also by the complexity, order, and precision of over 30 musicians playing the thousands of notes in perfect timing together.
But if my concert visit was to hear the music of Mozart played by an unskilled group of chaotic musicians, then I wouldn’t have experienced the wonder of what was created by Mozart. It may have been so bad that I never wanted to experience a concert ever again! Mozart’s creation is still wonderful regardless of who plays it but if it is played poorly, then we know that it was the musicians and not the creator that delivered a poor performance.
In a way, the beauty and order of a symphony shows how we are called and designed to live. When we are playing our part of God’s image within us with skill and care, we move others to see Him. The opposite is also true: when we display the image in chaos and disorder some people never want to experience His creation again. At Kennedy, our mission is to display His image within our community. Our playing could always reflect His creation even better, but regardless of us, His creation is always wonderful.
Genesis 1:27 "So God created human beings in his image. In the image of God he created them. He created them male and female."
Year 7 Report
As Term 4 comes to an end, I have been reminiscing about the fresh faces, nerves, and big changes from the start of the year. To say the Year 7 students have been challenged this year is an understatement and the way that they have adapted to life at Kennedy is fantastic.
As students have navigated their way through their first year of Secondary school, I have loved seeing the kind and positive nature of the cohort shine through. Each student possesses something unique that adds to our diverse year group and enhances it. We are all learning along this journey together and I am excited to see what great things our students will achieve at Kennedy.
As we wrap up the year, students have enjoyed time together with a movie in the auditorium and a range of fun activities led by the student councillors. We also look forward to an informative presentation on the negative effects of vaping during Extended Form next week. It is important to begin these conversations around health early and I know that our students will listen attentively to this talk.
The focus shifts towards Christmas as we approach the end of 2023. I encourage all students and families to reflect on the meaning of Christmas and the joy that it can bring, knowing that the birth of Jesus is something to celebrate and be thankful for. I wish all students a wonderful Christmas and a restful break over Summer.
Year 8 Report
The Year 8 cohort at Kennedy have had a rich and diverse set of experiences throughout 2023! The variety of activities, ranging from an outdoor camp to cyber safety workshops, community service, a Bounce social event, sporting competitions and academic challenges, highlights the College’s holistic approach to education that aims to nurture students in various aspects of their lives.
The involvement of Student Councillors and House Captains in organising a Christmas-themed Extended Form class this week shows a great initiative from the students, promoting leadership and teamwork. Student leaders organised a combination of sports, festive activities like decorating reindeer biscuits, a Christmas theatre experience in the RASC, and engaging in chess or card games with staff reflects a well-rounded approach to celebrating the holiday season. A special thanks for Layla Britza, Ella Kienick, Jake Gurney, Alex Shin, Katie Flint, Alison Wong, Lincoln Thomas, Ruby Trezise and Danika Hinks for all their efforts in presenting a fun-filled Wednesday morning to over 200 students!
It is evident that the school is committed to providing a comprehensive and enriching environment for its students, fostering growth not only academically but also socially, emotionally, physically, and spiritually. Such a diverse range of experiences contributes to the overall development of the students, helping them build skills, form connection, and create lasting memories.
As the Year 8 students approach the end of the year, it is clear that they have been supported and guided through a series of meaningful and enjoyable experiences. This reflective approach to education bodes well for the continued success and development of the students at Kennedy.
Year 9 Report
It’s been an amazing year full of challenges but also some good times. Our focus for the year was the notion of, ‘who am I becoming?’. We addressed this through our Pastoral Care program with discussion groups, looking at how identity is formed and learning about ways to resolve conflict with friendship groups.
Another challenge that our Year 9s have got through this year was their first exams. There was a considerable difference from their first set of exams in Term 2 with those at the end of the year. Students were much better prepared and seemed calmer the second time around. As well as two sets of exams, we had two sets of socials with bowling and Flip Out. These were great opportunities to continue strengthening the relationships and friendships that have been developing within this cohort.
Our community service was with St Barts women’s service where we had the chance to chat with residents while enjoying a barbecue lunch. I have been amazed at the response from our students in getting involved with the St Bart’s Christmas hamper appeal. Each form has been collecting items to donate to women who those who have been affected by homelessness in Perth. I love the generous nature of our students and their families.
I know that some students have been tiring as we approach the end of the year, but I am hoping that we can all finish the year strong. While thinking about all the effort that each of us have put in this year, the following Bible verse came into my head: “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.” (Matthew 11:28). I love the assurance from Jesus that says he can grant you rest when you are tired and struggling. May all the students and families from the College have a restful and relaxing holiday break. I look forward to continuing the journey next year.
Year 10 Report
It was fantastic to see the Year 10 students having so much fun at the Year 10 social. The students looked amazing dressed in their Spring-themed attire. I’d like to thank the student councillors who helped set up the decorations at East Fremantle Yacht Club. It was great to have so many students pack the dance floor and, if they weren’t dancing, they were off having their photo taken at the photo booth, creating wonderful memories with their friends.
This week, our 11/7 Mentors participated in training that will help prepare them for their role as guides to the 2024 Year 7 students. The 11/7s learnt better how to communicate effectively and understand others, and how to problem solve. On Friday 24 November, the 11/7s will meet their younger peers for Orientation Day. I look forward to seeing the mentors build relationships with our new students.
Another important event on the calendar for our Year 10 students is Transition Day, which takes place on Wednesday 29 November. There will be three sessions from Period 1 to Recess. The first session is a Q&A with the Director of Studies, Mr Tim Jiow, the Head of Research and Study, Mrs Natasha Georgiou, and the Workplace/VET Coordinator, Mr Ernesto Ramirez. The other two sessions will be split into gender groups, with our Year 11 school counsellor Jess Plenty and our school chaplain Peter Chase discussing mental health and culture, and guest presenter Alison D’Vine discussing Year 11 expectations and protective behaviours for Upper School.
As we approach the end of term, I’d like to thank all the families of our Year 10 students for their support during this year. I wish you all a merry Christmas and best wishes for the new year.
Year 11 Report
Our Year 11s received their results in a fun farewell as we ate marshmallow snowmen and had snowball fights. This was an excellent way to end the year and say goodbye for the summer. Our Year 11s have now finished Year 11. Well done!
Looking ahead, a quick reminder that leavers jacket orders need to be placed by Friday 23 November. Initial information will also be coming out shortly for the 2024 Ball, so please look out for that. The Ball will be an excellent way to begin Year 12.
February 2023 simultaneously seems long ago and as close as yesterday. The Year 11 community has achieved so much and it was inspiring to witness so many recognised for their academic and service achievements at the Year 11 Award Assembly. There are so many students who have achieved great things this year and while I cannot name them all, I do congratulate them.
Having now received their course results, our Year 11s understand what needs to be done to achieve their goals for 2024. But before that, there’s a long summer holiday ahead. I hope that everyone finds time for rest and renewal, spends time with people they cherish and finds joy and hope in the Christmas message. Until next year, consider Psalm 121:5: “The Lord himself watches over you! The Lord stands beside you as your protective shade."
Year 12 Report
The bird has left the nest!! The Year 12s have now officially completed their secondary education, and Kennedy Baptist College and our staff are privileged to have journeyed with them over the past six years. While the last few weeks have been rather quiet at Kennedy without the Year 12s, many have been sitting their final exams for their ATAR courses. It was so nice to be able to chat with the students after their exams, and the relief that they felt post-examinations was evident. A huge congratulations to all who sat their exams, may you enjoy a little more freedom now that those weeks are behind you.
Last week’s Graduation Ceremony was a very memorable evening, and it was so lovely meeting the many parents, families, and friends that have supported the Year 12s through their time at secondary school. The night began with canapes and appetisers, followed by the ceremony where students were awarded Certificates of Graduation from Kennedy. In his Principal’s Address, Mr Ashby encouraged our graduates to continue the pursuit of their purpose, while Amie Hugo and Xavier Cureton, Head Girl and Head Boy thanked the College and their peers for the community that they have formed. Other highlights included the amazingly talented ATAR and General Music students who performed for us.
I then attempted to wrap up our graduate’s six years of education at Kennedy with a reminder of five small but important words: "no", "thank you", "sorry", "help", and "amen". As I mentioned time and time again, I really am so proud of each one of our Year 12s, both for who they are and what they have overcome. I wish each of our Year 12s the very best for their future.
Parents, you will be sent a link to the recording of the Graduation Ceremony via Direct message, along with a password for access. Group photographs taken prior to and after the ceremony will be sent directly to families who have made orders. For those who would like to order professional photographs that were taken of students receiving awards and certificates, these can be accessed via the below link:
Website: www.maverickphoto.com.au
Login ID: kennedy
Password: kbcgrad23
It is my hope that Kennedy Baptist College has been able to assist with growing your child. I am reminded of a Bible verse from Proverbs 22:6 “Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.”
Kennedy News
Movember Update
A host of Kennedy staff are growing mo's, or walking, running, and riding sixty kilometres over the course of November in an effort to support men's health. We're proud of our staff members' commitment to this cause and are looking forward to the results of their efforts.
The 'Stacheby's have raised over $1500 so far and need your help in reaching their target before the end of the month. Donate by clicking on the button below.
Cricket Corner
Cricket season is well underway, with our Year 7 to 10 Specialist Cricket students having played a number of interschool matches so far this term. Our Year 8 team is looking strong this year, with five wins out of six matches, while some of our teams have seen weather affect play, including our Year 10 team whose students are poised for more competition when summer continues next year.
Our Year 8 teams has just returned from their Cricket Camp after a few days of focusing on the sport and the further creation of good team culture.
Highlighting Year 12 Graduate's Sporting Success
Congratulations to two of our Year 12 Graduates, who have been achieving great things all year and are set up for further success next year.
Cerys Parnell (top) balanced her last year of school with exceptional goalkeeping in Roller Hockey, being awarded Most Valuable Keeper at a national tournament and then winning gold at the Asian Roller Skating Championships as a vital part of the Australian squad. Extraordinarily, Cerys kept the Japanese team goalless in the second half as the team came back from 3-0 down.
Harriet Ford (below) has also chased success in her sport and education, and has been awarded a scholarship to attend the University of Nebraska Omaha in the USA. Harriet has been a part of Kennedy's Specialist Basketball program and had a successful year at the sport as part of the Cockburn Cougars NBL1 Women's 2023 squad, with the team crowned the NBL1 West Champions in a competition one step below the National Basketball League.
These are just two of our graduates who have continuously achieved great things in sport this year and we look forward to seeing the success of our Alumni in the future, whether in academia or sport.
If your child has achieved a significant milestone that you would love to see the school acknowledge, please email their Head of Year about their achievements.
Coogee Classic Triathlon
Congratulations to each of our Year 9 and 10 students who participated in Kennedy's Coogee Classic Triathlon. The course, created and marked out by our fantastic Health and Physical Education staff, consists of a 900 metre swim, a 25 kilometre bike ride, and a 5 kilometre run.
Students enrolled in the Physical Fitness elective have been training all year and this event is a phenomenal way to test their hard work of improving aerobic fitness. Approximately 40 students competed with the following students doing exceptionally well to reach the podium:
Male results: Azri Maynard (1:37:23), Robbie Tilbury (1:42:42), Anddie Duan (1:43:08)
Female results: Brianna King (2:05:58), Lara Lane (2:08:17), Bronwyn Duck (2:17:26)
Thank you to the families who came down to support our students and for the hard work of our staff in preparing and managing this triathlon.
Recognition of Service to the ACC
The Associated and Catholic Colleges of WA (ACC) is an integral part of our Sport and Physical Education program and helps to run our Interschool sports carnivals as well as team competitions such as Netball and Soccer. They recently celebrated the service of several Kennedy Baptist College staff members and their commitment to interschool sport "played in the right spirit".
Congratulations to Miss Melissa Beale, Mrs Natalie Williams, and Mr Ross Macauley for achieving 10 years of service with the ACC. We especially congratulate Mr Scott Britza for an outstanding 20 years of service to ACC sport.
College Notices
2024 Booklists are Now Available
Booklists for 2024 subjects are now available for families to order. To determine what texts and equipment needs to be ordered, you will need to use your child’s 2024 timetable. Timetables will be available through SEQTA on or before Friday 8 December.
The ordering process is done online through Campion via the 'for parents' ordering link. All orders for textbooks must be completed online by Friday 15 December using "JWP2" as your code for free delivery.
Kennedy Insights: The Path to Clean Air and Healthy Lungs
Following on from last year’s Parent Seminar on vaping, Kennedy is holding a second discussion on this important health topic. We are privileged to welcome back speaker and researcher Azalene Williams, with their previous visit helping to open doors around the prevention of vaping.
We hope that you will join us for this event as we provide parents and guardians an overall picture of vaping, what to be aware of, and strategies to manage the issue.
This seminar will take place on Tuesday 28 November 5.30pm to 7.00pm.
Employment at Kennedy
There are several opportunities to join the Kennedy team. We are currently seeking a Mathematics Teacher as well as a Sports Coordinator/Health and Physical Education Teacher. These applications close on Sunday 26 November.
If you or somebody that you know is interested in working in our supportive and caring environment, please apply via our website.
Instrumental Music Enrolment
Families are reminded that all students who wish to take part in weekly music lessons in Term 1 of 2024 must be re-enrolled by Friday 26 January 2024. Please find out more information about this program here. For any further queries about the Instrumental Music or Ensemble program, please email our coordinator here.
Uniform Update
The Uniform Shop has introduced blank iron-on name labels to help keep better track of your student's clothing, with a sheet of 14 for $4. These are available from the Uniform Shop and QuickCliq.
Just in time for Summer, new girl's bather styles and swimming shorts, plus long-sleeved unisex rashies have arrived and are available in store.
We welcome the donation of pre-loved uniforms to help reduce waste and these can be dropped off at the Uniform Shop until the end of Term. These items will be made available through our second hand sales for the beginning of next year.
Orientation Day for incoming Year 7 students
We have a strong program to help students transition into high school and begin their life as part of the Kennedy community. Orientation Day is the first step for Year 7 students beginning in 2024 and this will take place on Friday 24 November from 8.30am to 12.30pm.
For general information about beginning at Kennedy Baptist College please click here.
For information that is specific to Year 7 students who will be starting in 2024, please click the link below.
Kennedy Racing Team 2024 - Expressions of Interest
Following another successful year of Pedal Prix racing, our team is gearing up for the new year with expressions of interest now open.
Students who participate in our team gain experience in repairing and engineering our trikes as well as competitive racing throughout the year. The team is open to all students as we try to field five different teams in 2024, including one all-girls team. The commitment from students is to 1-2 training sessions per week during Terms 1-3, plus three Sundays during the year.
Make sure to check out the WA Pedal Prix website to find out more. Families and students can express their interest by sending Mr Bradley Gunter a 'Direqt Message'. Students can also visit the foyer of the technologies building to look at the trikes that were raced this year.
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 4 Opening Hours
The Uniform Shop will be open in Term 4 from Monday - Thursday from 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 are continually available for 2023, please see below for more information.
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 5 December 2023.
