From the Principal
It would be remiss of me to not start today’s e-news with a big shout out to the Matilda’s for their fantastic win over Canada over the weekend, moving them through to the round of 16 in the World Cup. What an inspirational demonstration of resilience and team spirit to overcome the loss to Nigeria and come back so well against the current Olympic champions.
Three of our Kardinia students had a special experience at the game being flag bearers for the Australian team in recognition of their work as referees with Football Victoria. I thought it was fantastic to honour the unsung work of referees. Without them we would not be able to have sport and, yet, far too often, instead of being recognised or appreciated for the roles they take on they are abused by players and spectators. I admire anyone who is willing to referee or umpire sport and congratulate these three girls for their skills and tenacity in undertaking these very important roles.
I am also very excited to share with our College Community that after starting the journey three years ago we have just been awarded accreditation with the Council of International Schools after the final Team Evaluation visit which occurred in May. This recognition demonstrates that Kardinia International College has met the rigorous standards across 9 domains including:
- Purpose and Direction
- Governance
- Curriculum
- Teaching and Learning
- Wellbeing
- Staffing
- Premises, facilities and technology
- Community and home partnerships
- Homestay
The information provided for us in the CIS team visit report will prove valuable in giving us a blueprint for school improvement. The next step is to work with smaller groups to unpack the report and determine priorities. Once we have been able to examine the report in detail, I will share with the College Community the key commendations and recommendations and the actions we plan to take to act on those recommendations as part of continuous school improvement.
Thank you to everyone who was involved in any way in the 18-month self-study and school visit. It really was a community effort.
From the Acting Head of Senior School
I know that there’s been a lot of excitement in the College community and across Australia about the FIFA Women’s World Cup. At Kardina International College we have particular reason to celebrate, as three of our outstanding students had the opportunity of a lifetime on Monday night. College Captain Emma Borschmann (Year 12), Georgia Borschmann (Year 12) and Giselle Spezza (Year 9) were selected as flag bearers for the Matildas.
Their selection for this role is testament to their dedication and passion for soccer, in particular, for their efforts as referees for Football Victoria. Giselle told me that being part of the game and on the pitch, up close to the players, was an unforgettable experience.
Their participation in the FIFA Women’s World Cup highlights just how far embracing opportunities and pursuing passions can take you. Congratulations to Emma, Georgia and Giselle.
We proudly share the experiences of our students within school but also love to know the great things that happen for them more broadly in the community and beyond, so I encourage families to pass on photos and accomplishments for us to celebrate.
From the Head of Junior School
Year 1 Assembly
It was wonderful to attend the Year 1 Assembly on Monday. The students performed beautifully and shared some of the learning they’ve been doing about homes around the world. We also learned some new indigenous words and heard a lovely song sung by all students and supported by Mrs Moore on banjo.
Plastic Recycling
This week I learned all about the different types of plastics and how they can be recycled. Year 4 students have been working hard with Mr Byrne to collect bottle tops and recycle them into new products. Using a special machine, the plastic is heated up and molded into different shapes.
Buddies
One of my favourite programs in the school is our buddy program. All students look forward to meeting and learning with their buddies, which extends to the playground where they often spend time playing together. Our Year 6 students are currently supporting their FY buddies to create books about natural events for their unit of inquiry on how the world works.
Grove Action
Thank you to the parent volunteers who helped out at the Grove again this week. Working side by side with the students, parents helped to improve soil conditions for trees in the orchard.
Year 5 students have also been busy working on their businesses this week. Don’t forget to collect your loose change for this week’s Grove stall.
Multicultural Weeks have arrived!
The International Council Students are excited to present two weeks of multicultural food, performances and activities!
Please see below for the schedule of events. Don't forget Cultural Dress Day - Friday 18 August. Find something to wear that represents your culture (traditional clothing, colours of your flag, sports jersey, etc). and remember to bring along a gold coin donation!
Please remember to bring cash for options listed above (please note 'card' means credit card, not KIC student card).
The Asylum Seeker Resource Centre (ASRC) is an Australian human rights organisation providing support to people seeking asylum. Cultural day aims to support the ASRC and celebrate our school's culture.
College Production
Kardinia International College presents their 2023 production 'The Addams Family'.
Our enthusiastic senior students will showcase their vocal, dancing and acting talents on stage at the Katsumata Centre for four performances. Be entertained by your favourite Addams Family characters in this twisted tale as Wednesday falls in love. Accompanied by a live musical performance featuring many of our top instrumental students, and supported by an amazing student crew, our students cannot wait to share their show with you!
Katsumata Centre, Kardinia International College Thursday 10 August 7pm, Friday 11 August 7pm, Saturday 12 August 2pm & 7pm Click here for tickets to The Addams Family Production. Please note, if you wish to purchase accessible seating, please email us at j.connors@kardinia.vic.edu.au so that we can assist you. For further information, please contact the Producer- Kate Birley at k.birley@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Co-curricular News
On Friday the 28th of July it was National Tree Planting Day. Earthcore invited people down to help us reach our goal of planting 50 trees in 50 minutes. We were so happy to see so many people turn up and enjoy some great weather for once, down at the senior school Bush Tucker Gardens and plant some indigenous plants. We ended up with 40 students joining us including Earthcore members, Year 6 Planeteer committee members and other interested senior school students. We all had a great time listening to music, enjoying the weather, and ended up planting 55 trees! These indigenous bush tucker plants will attract native wildlife such as birds, bees or other larger native animals which is super important for maintain healthy ecosystems in our environment. Bush tucker also connects us to the ancient knowledge of the First Australians, showing us how to care for Country and appreciate the sacredness and extensive uses of native plants in their culture.
Thankyou to everyone who came down to help, it was a great way to spend our Friday Lunch.
Zara Marten and Lucy Blersch
Sports News
Congratulations to Angus Tippett – All-Australian Football Team
Last week, Angus Tippett attended the School Sports Australia National Australian Football Championships in Ballarat. Angus was Co-Captain of the Vic White team. His team came 4th overall but in very unexpected, exciting news he was selected in the All-Australian team at the conclusion of the championships. There were 9 Victorians, 6 West Australians, 3 from South Australia and Queensland, 2 from NSW and 1 boy each from the ACT and Tasmania. This honour puts Angus in the top 25 U15 boys in the country. Angus is No 29 in the centre of the All-Australian Team photo (below).
Huge congratulations on this wonderful achievement Angus!
KICking Goals Fitness Squad RESUMES every Wednesday, Term 3. This is a free co-curricula offering open to all Senior School KIC students.
- Are you currently playing a sport, but want to give yourself an edge?
- Do you want to make a change to your lifestyle this year?
- Do you want to feel better, be stronger, get fitter?
- Do you want to improve your mental health?
- Are you looking to put yourself outside of your comfort zone?
- Do you want to cultivate a positive attitude and mindset?
The Kardinia Health and Physical Education department are continuing to team up this term to help you achieve your health, wellbeing and fitness goals.
What: a variety of fitness workouts designed around fun and participation designed for any fitness level.
When: Every Wednesday afternoon from 3:30 – 4:30pm.
Where: Weights room
Please wear suitable gym clothing.
Ms Doyle
Geelong YMCA Judo Tournament
On Sunday 30 July, the Geelong YMCA held a tournament at which I am proud and pleased to report that Kardinia had 19 people compete, which meant that we had the biggest team on the day. While the results are listed below, the two most important aspects of the day for me were the tremendous fighting spirit I saw everyone display during their bouts, and the smiles on the faces of the kids as they sat at the side of the mat chatting with their friends. For the kids, winning and losing was not the most important thing either; the donuts were easily the most important item for them!
Overall I was very pleased with everyone’s efforts, but I would like to make a special mention of Jamie Growden, who had not one but three very tough opponents to face. All three are in the State Team and fought earlier in the year at the National Championships. Jamie put in a very gutsy performance and gained some invaluable experience from skillful adversaries.
In the u/9 competition, Kardinia were represented by: Zoe Ip (Silver), Angus Tysoe (Bronze), Georgia Tysoe (Bronze), Luke Branchflower, Frankie Pianta (Gold) and Eli Gao.
The u/12 Team included: Jamie Growden, Mitch Murison (Bronze), Aiden Leonard, William Battle and Henry Collis (Silver).
The u/15 & u/18 Team included: Jamie Battle, Noah Harding (Silver), Jesse Newton (Bronze), Marlee Keirl (Silver), Alina Murad (Silver), James Duonis (Bronze), Ciara Molloy (Bronze) and Ellie Shanahan (Gold).
Congratulations to all of our competitors! The next event for the judo club will be the club grading on September 9th.
KIC Taiko (Japanese Drumming) club is back on for Term 3!
Taiko Club is back again this term starting Week 3! It will happen every Wednesday, from 15:30 – 16:00pm in P4 in the music room. No experience or music skill required. If you are Grade 4 or above and interested in this, please contact Mr. Ota (y.ota@kardinia.vic.edu.au
). Only a couple of spots left so be quick. First in, first gets.
Library News
Over the next 5 weeks I will be sharing all of the books shortlisted in the CBCA Book of the Year awards which will culminate in Week 6 with the winners announcement.
We will be sharing these books with students, particularly at the Junior School, so that they have a deeper understanding of the books before Book Week.
Older Readers (13-18 Years)
"The Greatest Thing", Sarah Winifred Searle Published by Allen & Unwin
This gorgeous graphic novel depicts a semi-biographical retelling of the creator’s own journey in high school, dealing with sexuality, gender, eating disorders and body image, mental health and self-harm. While it sounds overwhelming and dark, it somehow maintains a sense of joy throughout, with the engaging art style leavening the themes that underpin the story. The characters leap off the page and the book somehow manages to be both entirely realistic while still dealing with big issues with sensitivity and hope.
Younger Readers (7-12 Years)
"The Raven's Song", Zana Fraillon & Bren MacDibble Published by Allen & Unwin
A stunning novel set in both the near and distant futures linked by the ancient motifs of the raven, the land and bog bodies preservation being the theme that ties everything together but never overshadows the characters’ emotional journeys: Phoenix’s loss and world in pieces, and Shel’s discovery challenging everything she ever knew. Masterfully written and engaging, each object, action and word choice is purposeful. Pandemics, climate change and conservation, are the backdrop for this story, told in a way that never intrudes on the reader’s journey and desire to explore the world. It provides parallels between our own reality and the resulting in an engaging and thought-provoking read.
Picture Book (0-8 Years)
"Lionel & Me", Corinne Fenton (text), Tracie Grimwood (illustrations) Published by New Frontier Publishing
The theme of the younger/new addition to the family is highly relatable to the age level of this audience, adding the themes of an animal protagonist/antagonist and animal angst. The title and imprint pages cleverly set up the conflict and tension before the narrative begins. Narrated by the dog Maverick, the language is simple and clear, with lovely pauses and bold words for directed emphasis and expression. Many young children may be able to identify with Maverick’s emotions, allowing them tor self-reflect and connect. Whilst this book is about a pet dog learning to accept a new puppy into the household, it would also provide a very useful tool in supporting discussions about a new family member, and the mixed feelings that come with this. The narrative arch is well-sustained and draws the reader in, leading to a perfectly pitched and delightfully surprising resolution. The pencil and watercolour illustrations are beautiful, full of movement, and perfectly convey the mood and emotions.
From the Archives
Early Productions - Part 6
ALADDIN
Disney’s ‘Aladdin Jnr’ was chosen as the musical production for 2007 with the notion that a production of a show with heritage and set in the Middle East seemed timely. Tom Russell as Aladdin and Tamzen Hayes as Jasmine gave exceptional performances with Julian Ferguson as a highly entertaining Genie and Francis Macindoe as Jafar. This year’s production once more involved a broad range of staff and students from across the College. The set design and costumes were colourful and the overall show oozed pizzazz and magical vibrancy. The production was held in the Ford Theatre GPAC 6-8 September 2007.
ROYAL HUNT OF THE SUN
Please be advised that the following content may not fully reflect current cultural appropriateness standards. This concerns a College Production of the play ‘Royal Hunt of the Sun” from 2008, and we acknowledge that cultural awareness has significantly evolved over the last 15 years. We encourage individuals to engage in ongoing learning and growth regarding cultural sensitivity and respect.
‘Royal Hunt of the Sun’ in 2008 featured not only students but staff as well. Set in Spain in the sixteenth century, the plot is based around the choice between power and friendship. With a small rag-tag band of soldiers, Francisco Pizarro enters the Inca Empire and captures its leader, Atahualpa. Pizarro promises to free him in return for a golden ransom, but later finds himself conflicted between his desire to conquer and his friendship for his captive. The production was held in the College SPA and for the first time, staff played lead roles.
Credits:
Dowie, P & Russell, F. Kardinia International College- Celebrating Twenty Years- 1996 to 2015. “College Productions” J. Russell
The next article features ‘Early Productions Part 7’
Fiona Russell - Archivist
Community Engagement and Foundation News
THE CCC PARENT ‘SPRING FLING’- TICKETS ON SALE!
This year’s ‘Spring Fling’ event, hosted by KIC’s CCC (College Community Council), will be held at The Pier on Saturday 14th October and will include a two-course meal, live music and a silent auction.
This special event is for parents and staff, so add it to your calendar and book your table. Tickets are now on sale! https://events.humanitix.com/spring-fling-2023-kic-community-college-council
The CCC are still welcoming donations for the silent auction. This event is a fabulous opportunity to promote your business to the KIC Community and have your product or services seen. Please email ccc@kardinia.vic.edu.au if you are interested and include your business name, product or service, including a short description of the donation along with its monetary value.
WHERE ARE THEY NOW
Emily Bhatia (Self) - Class of 2008. The Kardinians recently caught up with alumna Emily Bhatia and asked her to share her journey since graduation. “I studied Public Health (Honours) at La Trobe University and went on to start a PhD (my teachers won’t believe the PhD part…). I realised I loved the project management element of doing a PhD (and thought the rest of it was extremely boring) so I transitioned into project management as a career. I was fortunate to get a job at the Victorian Health Building Authority (VHBA) in High Value High Risk Projects and started working on the New Footscray Hospital Project. I got married a couple of years ago and recently had a year off after having a baby girl - Maeve - who is now 13 months old (she’s the best). I am now back at work 4 days/week as the Transaction Manager for the New Melton Hospital Project. I absolutely love it and feel very grateful that VHBA is so supportive of - among other things - women and parents returning to work (hello work from home days!). Here’s a photo of my little family, and I include our two dogs because they will have you believe they are in fact our children too.”
THE KARDINIANS FOOTY TIPPING - ROUND 20 BONUS PRIZE
The final bonus prize for the season, for the leader after Round 20, was awarded to Jake Gunjaca! Congratulations Jake!
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
Congratulations to staff member Gillian Armstead, demonstrating her community spirit in raising funds for the RSPCA. Gillian has baked an array of delicious muffins, to encourage donations amongst staff. Anyone in the Kardinia community who would also be interested in donating to this RSPCA Fundraiser can log onto: https://www.rspcacupcakeday.com.au/fundra.../gillianarmstead
Any donations would be very much appreciated by the RSPCA.
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement & Foundation Coordinator
School TV - Neurodiversity
Neurodiversity in children and adolescents is a concept celebrating the natural variation in how young minds work. It acknowledges that neurological differences, such as ADHD, autism, dyslexia, and giftedness, are not disabilities but unique aspects of human cognition. Embracing neurodiversity fosters acceptance, empathy, and inclusivity in society. Parents play a pivotal role in supporting their neurodiverse child by understanding their specific needs, advocating for appropriate educational accommodations, and seeking professional guidance when necessary. By appreciating and nurturing their child's strengths, parents can help them thrive and unlock their full potential, leading to a more compassionate and understanding future for all.
Click here to watch this episode: https://kardinia.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/neurodiversity
