From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
Welcome to the first e-news of 2025. If first impressions are anything to go by, 2025 is going to be a great year.
Many of our staff have already been working for several weeks in preparation for our students returning to the campus. Our College Executive engaged in three days of professional learning and strategic planning sessions in the middle of January and all our staff engaged in various professional learning sessions last week.
Our grounds and maintenance team have been busy bringing our beautiful College grounds and environment into shape and there have been many major building upgrades and refurbishments that have been undertaken on top of the regular maintenance scheduled over the summer. Some are fully completed, and others are works in progress but will not impact on the smooth running of the College. The school has not lay idle over the break, but all this has been undertaken to provide our students with a great environment in which to learn and thrive in the coming year.
As we do each year, we have welcomed many new families to the College Community this year. I was delighted to hear that one initiative by our College Community Council to help create new community connections, the K-12 Parent Coffee morning last Friday, was attended by over 150 parents. I would like to send a huge thank you to our College Community Council for organising this event. Watch out for future events they have planned this year.
I was not able to attend the coffee morning as I was heading to the airport for an early morning flight to Japan. I am currently undertaking an evaluation visit to a school in Tokyo with the Council of International Schools and am also taking the opportunity of being in Japan to visit our sister school Gotemba Nishi High School on Friday. I look forward to sharing some stories about my visit when I return next week.
I take this opportunity to wish all our families all the absolute best for 2025 and I hope that we have much to celebrate together throughout the year.
From the Acting Head of Junior School - Izabella Haby
Welcome to the 2025 school year
On Friday 31 January all students K3 and FY to Year 6 commenced the 2025 school year. K4 commenced on Monday 3 February. Students, staff, families were eager and excited to see each other and the playgrounds and rooms were filled with laughter and conversations. 2025 promises to be another year full of opportunities and growth.
It was wonderful to see many families at the Morning Tea. There was a sense of community and excitement around the year ahead. Thank you to those families who were able to attend. A special thank you to Fiona Russell, the CCC, Sam Nevin and her team for preparing such a beautiful morning.
We were unable to meet as a whole school for an assembly last week however I prepared a PowerPoint for the students to watch within their rooms. I reminded the students of the values that bind us together: wisdom, respect and friendship.
Wisdom is what we aim for in our learning journey. It’s not just about knowing things; it’s about using what we learn to make good choices and understand the world better. Wisdom helps us handle problems, enjoy our successes, and keep growing as people.
Respect is the base of our community. It means being kind, understanding, and thoughtful to each other. Whether we’re in the learning group room, on the playground, or at home, respect helps us create a happy and supportive place where everyone feels important and listened to.
Friendship is the heart of our school. Making new friends and strengthening old ones makes our lives better and helps us grow. Let’s help each other feel included, reach out to those who might feel lonely, and build strong, lasting friendships that will support us through the ups and downs of the school year.
I also shared a short extract from the book - The Wonder of Winsome: by Kath Murdoch and illustrated by Sharyn Madder.
It tells the story of Winsome - a child full of curiosity, who asks questions daily. Once she begins school, her curiosity starts to fade until, one day, her teacher notices something…and Winsome’s days at school begin to change. I reminded the students to use the power of curiosity and ask questions to inspire each other when learning new things.
Thank you to all families for ensuring our week back at school went very smoothly and to the teachers for being well prepared and eager to begin the learning journey.
Information Evenings
Tonight (Wednesday) we look forward to welcoming our Grove parents for the first of our Information Evenings this week. Tomorrow (Thursday) we will host an evening for all other families. Please refer to previous correspondence for all the details.
A message from the KIC Connect Committee:
The KIC Connect Committee, composed of volunteer Junior School parents, regularly collaborates with Junior School leaders. KIC Connect aims to create a network that strengthens the Junior School's connection with families and fosters connections among families. By promoting inclusion, facilitating beneficial partnerships, and nurturing a strong sense of community, KIC Connect ensures that families feel known, valued, and heard. New families are most welcome to reach out and connect with this group.
The committee primarily communicates through email and Facebook, focusing on timely, and easily accessible information sharing. Each year level has its own page, managed by parent representatives, where parents can post questions and seek help for specific issues. Please reach out if you are interested in joining this group or if you have any further questions. More information will be shared on KIC Online - (Schoolbox) - Junior School-Community.
A message from the KIC Taiko Club:
Taiko = Japanese drum. The club is starting Wednesday 6 February 3.30pm – 4.00pm in P16 Music Room (portable behind SPA). Existing and new members are all welcome to join from Year 4.
Please contact Mr. Yoshi Ota (y.ota@kardinia.vic.edu.au) if you would like to join. We practice every Wednesday in Term One, aiming to perform at the Founders' Day Assembly in Week Two, Term Two.
Enrolment Withdrawal
If you are thinking of withdrawing your child, as per the College's terms and conditions a terms notice is required. Please contact the Marketing and Admissions Department via email: marketing@kardinia.vic.edu.au to lodge the request in writing.
A Note from the Medical Centre
Parents/Carers, please remember to provide updated student Medical Action Plans and any student medication to the Medical Centre (Senior School) or the Medical Room (Junior School).
Please be aware that students are not permitted to transport medications from home (with the exception of asthma puffers & adrenaline pens – i.e. Epi Pens).
We kindly ask that parents/carers check that medical action plans are up to date, and that medication is checked, in date and correctly labelled.
For further information, please refer to the College’s Medication Administration Policy.
Welcome Gotemba-Nishi High School Students
A very special welcome to our first group of exchange students for 2025! From left, Himari, Koto, Yui and Chiyuki. And their homestay families, from left, Angus, David, Rhiannon & Maurizio and Carol.
Himari, Koto and Chiyuki will be joining us for Term 1, while Yui will spend the full 2025 academic year at the College.
Please say hello if you see them around the campus!
Co-Curricular News
Welcome to Co-Curricular 2025 ! The Co-Curricular program has always been and remains an important part of the Kardinia culture, playing a vital role in the development of the whole student, supporting their sense of self and purpose. It allows all students, no matter what their interests or backgrounds, an opportunity to get involved in something that will help develop their Social, Personal, Intercultural, Critical/Creative and Ethical (SPICE) skills and attributes. Being involved in Co-Curricular activities also supports the positive and respectful relationships we all benefit from, enriching the time of all members of the College Community.
We are creating an ever-changing greater diversity in the activities we offer. We hope that in doing so that the value it adds to our College community will continue to grow. Check out the latest offerings and activities at the link below. Click to expand the category of interest to reveal what activities are available (Ignore the "closed" tag). To join an activity simply contact the staff member listed. ☺️
Representing Kardinia in Non-College Events Process
There are sometimes opportunities where students can represent the College in an activity or at a level that the College cannot offer. They chose to engage in these activities with the support of their families. Whilst the College is not involved in these activities, we still love to share the amazing things that our students get involved in and help celebrate their achievements. We appreciate the dedication and effort required plus the benefits it brings to the development of our students.
A formal process has now been developed that is aimed to improve how we manage expectations, improve related safety aspects plus increasing the visibility of student achievement outside the College. If your child would like to represent the College in an event beyond the College’s scope, we ask that you seek the approval of the College first.
Please complete the "Students Representing Kardinia in No-College Events" Form and forward it to the Co-Curricular Co-ordinator, Nicole Holton n.holton01@kardinia.vic.edu.au to begin this process.
Kardinia Hockey
As we bid farewell to Gillian Armstead, who retired at the end of 2024, we acknowledge her incredible leadership and dedication to the Kardinia Hockey Program. Over 25 years, Gillian has built a thriving program, fostering not only skilled players but also resilient and confident individuals. We also acknowledge and thank Kane Maloney for his valuable contributions to the program, particularly in recent years. While the Kardinia Hockey Program will conclude at the end of the current summer season, we are excited that Gillian and Kane will continue their passion through their involvement in the junior program at Corio Hockey Club. This provides a fantastic opportunity for our students to transition into a well-established club, continuing their hockey journey alongside their peers. We sincerely thank Gillian and Kane for their lasting impact and look forward to seeing our students thrive in this new environment. For more information about how to get involved in Hockey at Corio please contact Gillian at gillian.armstead@hockeygeelong.asn.au.
Richard Marles Award for Leadership
Congratulations to Avah W, Year 7 who was a finalist in the Geelong Young Leader Award 2025. Avah was the recipient of the Richard Marles Award for Leadership at the end of Year 6, which is a teacher nominated award presented at the Year 6 graduation.
Congratulations Avah, for being a fantastic representative of the College.
Sport News
A big congratulations to students Ruby B, Bianca C, Raphael R and alumni Tallulah R who took part in the Rip View Swim Classic in Point Lonsdale over the Summer break.
Bianca placed 1st, and Ruby 3rd, in the female 13-15 years category of the Groyne to Groyne (600m) while Tallulah (Class of 2024) won the open female category in the same event. Raphael came 3rd in the Junior Section (12-16 years) of the 1.4km swim in the same competition. Congratulations everyone!
Summer M (Year 10) has had a successful season in the ocean this summer so far.
A particular highlight, in tough conditions Summer won the U15 Board Race at the Manly Shaw and Partners Manly Surf Open which is part of the World Ocean Series (photos below).
In addition to this Summer has raced in the following local events.
Open Water State Championships – 14yo 5km – 1st
Jim Wall Classic – U15 Iron 1st, U15 Board 1st and U15 Surf 1st
Rock2Ramp 1.2km swim U17 – 1st
Danger 1000 swim 12-14yo – 1st
Pier2Pub u17 – 2nd (photo below) as well as qualifying to swim in the Open Female Super Fish category – 10th
Congratulations Summer!
Alumnus Tanner (Class of 2024) will be joining the Baseball team at Centralia College, Washington in 2025! Wishing you all the best in the US Tanner, and congratulations!
Outdoor Education and Experiential Learning
Safer Internet Day 2025 - Tuesday, 11 February 2025
Safer Internet Day is a global initiative aimed at promoting safer and more responsible use of technology, especially among children and young people. In 2025, the event continues to advocate for positive online experiences under the theme "Together for a better internet."
Schools, families, and organisations are encouraged to engage in activities and discussions that foster digital safety and respect.
Key areas of focus include:
- Online Safety Education: Encouraging critical thinking and responsible online behaviour.
- Cyberbullying Prevention: Promoting kindness and empathy in digital interactions.
- Data Privacy Awareness: Teaching individuals how to protect their personal information online.
Local events, webinars, and classroom resources provided by organisations like the eSafety Commissioner will support participants in building safer and more inclusive online environments.
To get involved or learn more, visit the eSafety Commissioner website or join the conversation using #SaferInternetDay.
Library Services News
Year 7 Library Orientation: A Fun and Engaging Start!
Our Year 7 students recently embarked on an exciting introduction to the school library, setting them up for success in their reading and research journeys. They learned how to borrow both physical books and e-books, gaining valuable skills to support their studies.
A highlight of the session was the Scavenger Hunt Challenge, where students explored the library while earning an extra raffle ticket for our Big Prize Draw. Thanks to our generous suppliers (listed below), the draw featured fantastic prizes, including books, tech toys, and stationery.
To make them feel even more welcome, each student received a Welcome Pack filled with stationery and other goodies to help them settle into their new learning space.
We’re thrilled to see our newest senior school students embracing the library and can’t wait to support them throughout the year!
Overdue Books
There are still quite a number of overdue items from Term 4 2024. Could families please assist in locating these at home? Students have been emailed a link with a list of outstanding items. The cost for any items not returned by Tuesday 11th of February will be charged to school accounts.
Thank you for your assistance.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
Term 1 Parent Coffee Morning: Building Community Connections
It was wonderful to see so many parents welcoming new faces and reconnecting with familiar ones at the Term 1 Parent Coffee Morning on Friday. The atmosphere was filled with warmth and enthusiasm as parents gathered to support their children and the school community.
This event provided a fantastic opportunity for parents to build new friendships and strengthen existing ones. Conversations flowed easily over coffee and pastries, with parents sharing stories, experiences, and laughter. It was heartening to witness the genuine connections being formed, reflecting the strong sense of community that our school prides itself on.
Such gatherings are essential in fostering a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and included. By coming together, parents not only support their own children but also contribute to the overall well-being of the school community.
Thank you to everyone who attended and made the morning so special. Let's continue to nurture these connections and support each other throughout the year. Here's to a fantastic Term 1 and beyond!
K-12 Parent ‘Mingle at Mary’s’
We are excited to invite all K-12 parents to our first social evening, 'Mingle at Mary's'! This event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with other parents and enjoy a relaxed evening together. We look forward to seeing you there and making this a memorable night for everyone.
Date: Thursday 20 February
Venue: Meet Me at Mary's
Time: 6:30pm-9:30pm
Cost: $20 per person (Includes entry and nibblies)
Drinks: At bar prices.
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/kardinia-ccc-parent-mingle
Hosted by the College Community Council (CCC)
The Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day
Kardinia International College, in partnership with the Kardinians, are excited to invite you to the inaugural 2025 Foundation Golf Day, proudly sponsored by McHarry's Buslines. The event will be held at 13th Beach Golf Links on Thursday, 17 April 2025.
This community event provides an opportunity to become community champions and be directly involved in supporting deserving students to attend Kardinia International College through our Scholarship Fund.
Consisting of an Ambrose style game (Teams of 4), a clubhouse lunch, on-course competitions, raffles, silent auctions, partner activities, and plenty of community spirit, this event promises a day full of fun and engagement.
Sponsorship packages are available, offering a unique chance for businesses and individuals to contribute to this noble cause while gaining visibility within the community. Individual tickets are now on sale!
For further information, contact the Community Engagement & Foundation Coordinator, Fiona Russell, at f.russell@kardinia.vic.edu.au.
Join us for a day of golf, camaraderie, and community support!
Tickets and Sponsorship Packages can be purchased via the following link: https://events.humanitix.com/2025-golf-day
Calling for Silent Auction Donations
As part of the event, we will be hosting a Silent Auction to raise funds for our Foundation's Scholarship initiatives. We are reaching out to our generous community to ask for donations of items or services that can be auctioned. Your contributions will make a significant impact and help us continue our work in supporting those in need.
Whether it's a product from your business, a gift voucher, or a unique experience, every donation counts and is greatly appreciated. Your support will not only help us raise funds but also showcase the incredible generosity and spirit of our community.
To donate, please head to Silent Auction Donations
We would also love to hear from any professional auctioneers in our community, who would be willing to host the major live raffle during the lunch. Please contact Fiona Russell at: f.russell@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support.
Morongo Reunion
The next Morongo High Tea Reunion will be held on Sunday 30 March 2025 between 2pm- 4:30pm. This annual event is held in Morongo House and includes a social gathering with afternoon refreshments, as well as a tour of the College.
Tickets are available at: https://events.humanitix.com/2025-morongo-high-tea-reunion
Please share this upcoming event with other former Morongo students. Please contact Fiona Russell for further information.
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement & Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Then and Now
As renovations and upgrades continue around the college, this week we see the completion of the Senior School staff room. The new space offers a well-designed layout, providing expanded areas for that much-needed caffeine fix, a more aesthetically pleasing environment, and plenty of natural light to boost the overall ambiance.
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
Wellbeing Hub News
Happy Families Webinar Series 2025
We’re excited to let the school community know of a series of webinars happening across the year, in conjunction with Dr Justin Coulson of ‘Happy Families’.
Over the past decade, Dr Justin Coulson has helped innumerable families with his nine books about raising children, his hundreds of media appearances. Dr Justin earned his PhD in Psychology from the University of Wollongong and is now one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts.
Dr Justin is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9’s Parental Guidance, the founder of happyfamilies.com.au. With his wife, Kylie, Dr Justin co-hosts Australia’s number one parenting podcast, The Happy Families Podcast.
So, add these dates to your calendar!
Term 1 - Wednesday 12 March “Emotional Regulation: A heart-centered approach to supporting your child”.
Term 2 - Wednesday 18 June “Carrots and Sticks: Better ways to build boundaries with your kids”.
Term 3 - Wednesday 20 August “Anxious: Helping your child navigate a world of worry”.
Term 4 - Wednesday 6 November “Entitled: Raising responsible, respectful kids”.
More information to come, including how to sign up for the first seminar!
For more information and resources from the Wellbeing Hub, click here.
School TV - Friendship & Belonging
It is not always easy for children and teenagers to always know how to manage friendships. Learning how to make new friends and keep them involves a number of skills every young person needs to understand and develop. For some these skills will come very naturally, allowing them to easily move between different friendship groups, sharing their experiences and opening up to new people. For others, this can be much harder to navigate. Belonging to a group that is like-minded with similar interests is highly beneficial to a child’s wellbeing. Friendships are full of ups and downs and it is better for kids to learn how to manage and build their own friendships, even though as an adult carer you may be tempted to interfere.
Click here to watch this episode: https://kardinia.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/friendship-belonging
Community
Rotary Youth Leadership Awards
City of Greater Geelong Regional Parenting Program Calendar
Geelong Youth Choir
