From the Principal
One of the many things I love about working in a school is that there is always such a variety of activities going on at any one time. This week has been no exception.
Our International Weeks are underway starting with Spanish Day on Monday with the Churros van on site and Paella being served at Centrepoint Café. The GISSA Intermediate Boys’ Soccer championships were held on the oval yesterday and saw our boys finish as champions with a 2-0 win over Christian College. The Intermediate Girls compete tomorrow and the Senior Boys and Girls next week.
In the Katsumata Centre the final rehearsals for our College Production of the Addams Family are in full swing and it is looking like it is going to be spectacular (tickets are still available). In the Junior School the Year 6 students are hard at work on their PYP Exhibition and wonderful artifacts are popping up all over the place.
In Highview, other things have been popping out as the students get to marvel at chickens hatching in the incubator.
I also had the privilege of working with four teams of Kardinia students at the Inaugural Geelong Round of the World Scholar’s Cup over the last two days. Students from Geelong High and Matthew Flinders Girls High School joined in the fun. The founder of the World Scholar’s Cup explains it in this way: “the World Scholar’s Cup may look like a competition but isn’t one at all. It’s a celebration of learning. It brings together many subjects, because before we can begin to specialise, we need to see the big picture. It challenges teams to work together, because there’s nothing harder or more inspiring than knowing that someone else depends on you. And it deals with serious global issues without taking itself too seriously, because I’m convinced that before we can fall in love with learning, we have to find the fun in learning.”
Our students certainly had great fun being challenged in their thinking and took steps out of their comfort zone in a supportive and inclusive atmosphere. It was great to be a part of something we hope to continue to host each year.
From the Acting Head of Senior School
Last week our Social Justice Committee (Interact) completed the handover from the 2023 to 2024 Leadership team. This group is just one of many of the co-curricular options for students at Kardinia, and which involves students from Years 7-12. The Social Justice Committee focuses on young people making positive change in the world through community and international engagement. This year the Social Justice Committee have raised funds for the Turkish earthquake relief, Leukaemia Foundation, through the World’s Greatest Shave, and the MND Big Freeze, amongst others.
Thank-you to the 2023 Leadership Team for all their efforts over the past year: Charli Collins (President), Nikita Ginoski (Vice President) Scarlett McManus (Secretary), Nicole Bauza (Treasurer).
Congratulations to the 2024 Leadership Team: Tom Fawcett (President), Fadilah Mahmood (Vice President), Ezann Tan (Secretary), Bec Black (Treasurer).
I’ve been fortunate enough to see a number of rehearsals of ‘The Addams Family’, including last night’s final dress rehearsal. The show is looking spectacular is it’s so wonderful to see not just the performers on stage, but also the orchestra and the crew working seamlessly together. Every one of the students (and staff) involved has worked tirelessly towards putting on this show and it is excellent. Tickets are still available from: https://events.humanitix.com/the-addams-family-kic-production-2023?_ga=2.2591088.1942281464.1689155429-146068318.1687226892
From the Head of Junior School
Parent Workshops
A reminder that a Junior School Maths Parent Workshop will be held tomorrow, Thursday 10 August at 6.30pm in the Junior School Conference Room (right next to the JS reception desk).
It was terrific to see so many families attend the English Parent Workshops that were held last term. An idea that came out of the workshops was that parents would find it helpful to have a glossary of commonly used terms that are used when students are learning about words and phonics. We have created a basic glossary of some commonly used terms (used from Foundation to Year 6) that may be helpful. It is by no means exhaustive and doesn’t include spelling rules or details that are taught as part of our curriculum. It is important to remember that your role at home is to support students to practice the skills they are learning AT school and develop an enjoyment for reading, by reading to and with your child. This glossary will be posted on your child’s Seesaw Blog this week, we hope you find it helpful.
You can also find the Partnership Reading Packs that were handed out at the Reading Parent Workshops on KIC Online under Junior School Information.
https://kiconline.kardinia.vic.edu.au/d2l/le/content/8885/viewContent/1081500/View?ou=8885
Look out for an upcoming Reading Workshop for Highview Parents. This will be advertised to parents soon.
A Report from Y4 Student, Novalie
On Thursday, I gave a talk to Year 3 students about three actions I did when I was in hospital.
- Bee Brave Cards: In the hospital, everyone knew I loved drawing, so they asked me to make Mother's Day cards. I made 12 cards which sold out quickly. For Father’s Day I made 100 cards and raised money for a cancer charity.
- Therapy Dogs: Before COVID, therapy dogs used to roam the hospital, but they never came back. I sent a video to the CEO requesting their return. As a result, two therapy dogs are now back, and they roam the hospital once again.
- Pencil Case Drive: In the hospital I felt bored, so when I got out, I organised a pencil case drive. People could purchase a pencil case and fill it with art supplies, which I then delivered to children in the hospital. I started this initiative when I was just 5 years old.
College Production - Performance Week Has Arrived!
Kardinia International College presents their 2023 production 'The Addams Family'.
Our enthusiastic senior students are set to showcase their vocal, dancing and acting talents on stage at the Katsumata Centre over 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
Multicultural Weeks
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). **Please note, food vans are currently available to senior school students only.
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.
Careers News
GFLOI, GLAM & WoW Programs 2023
It was wonderful to see a total of 19 Year 9 & 10 Kardinia International College students participate in these programs in 2023.
Geelong Future Leaders of Industry and Girls Leading Advanced Manufacturing (GFLOI & GLAM) are immersion programs introducing Years 9 and 10 students to the exciting world of advanced manufacturing and encouraging them to consider a professional pathway or trade with a focus on advanced technology, design, engineering and innovative manufacturing, while raising the profile of advanced manufacturing as an important career pathway in the Geelong region.
The programs, allow students to experience pathways and career options in the manufacturing, engineering and STEM trades sectors via industry tours and presentations, provide job readiness and leadership skills training, and introduce students to a number of role-models including scientists, engineers and senior management of some of our region’s most important and advanced manufacturers.
‘GLAM is an amazing opportunity that allowed me to experience what a career could look like in Manufacturing/Engineering. I really enjoyed when employees of different companies talked about how they got to the position where they are today. It showed me how there are many options available to get to one place.’ Sofia Motika – 2023 GLAM participant
The World of Work program (WoW) provides meaningful immersion experiences in trending and growing industries in the region for senior secondary students. It promotes pathway programs to inspire and engage young people in employment opportunities and the world of work. This year’s focus was to explore jobs in Health and Community Services.
The program’s aim is to inspire young people in the Geelong region to explore entry-level jobs in Health and Community Services, and to gain an understanding of:
- essential employability skills needed.
- pathways to obtaining employment in this sector.
With rapid growth and skills shortages predicted, the Health and Community Service sector is a priority growth industry in our region. The top employing occupations in this industry are predicted to be:
- Nurses, Aged and Disability Carers, Child Carers, Nursing Support and Personal Care Workers & Receptionists.
2023 KIC Participants
GFLOI & GLAM | Silas Kanellos, Felix O’Shannassy, Imogen McDonald & Sofia Motika |
WoW | Zayma Ashraf, Jade Bushell, Stuti Chatterji, Adaeze Ikeh, Amelia Jennings, Taya Kennedy, Daisy Kray- Baw, Aurelia Mason, Namatai Mazani, Darcie McCormick, Scarlett Sulistyo, Amanda Xu & Elliot Thomson |
I would encourage all Year 9 and 10 students (especially girls) to apply for one of these programs in 2024.
The Careers Team.
Sports News
Geelong Mountain Bike Club
Round 3 of the Alpinestars Vic Schools mountain bike race series was held on Sunday 6th of August at the You Yangs. 200 competitors from schools around the state competed in 6 age groups.
Two Kardinia students made the podium! Stella Goldstraw – Under 15 Girls – 3rd place and Luis Goldstraw – Under 17 Boys – 2nd place.
You can find out more about the race series here: https://www.auscycling.org.au/page/mountain-bike-schools-stateterritory-series
For any students interested in mountain bike racing, Geelong Mountain Bike Club’s next junior race (up to under 15) is held on Sunday 13th of August https://entryboss.cc/calendar/gmbc
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)
"Neverlanders" Tom Taylor (text), Jon Sommariva (illustrations).
A beautifully presented work, with dark, funny, insightful writing supported by dynamic and powerful images. The story is well-paced, chronicling the journey of a contemporary “found family” tale embedded within the metatextuality of a fantastical Peter Pan narrative. Readers of all ages will appreciate the clever, action-oriented storyline and gloriously rich illustrations, while discerning readers will unpack the hints of the adults’ destruction of the world, parental failure, gun violence and domestic violence to add a more serious dimension to the fantasy plot. The characters are believable, and thematic elements of belonging and forgiveness are presented authentically and skillfully. A stunning book with a potent message wrapped up in a ripping good yarn package.
Younger Readers (7-12 Years)
"Runt", Craig Silvey
The plot and characters are presented simply, yet they are complex, strong, witty, and evoke a reflection on life’s meaning, purpose and what is truly important. This book is about the struggles of country life but also about community and how it rallies around a girl and her dog. Annie’s attempts to fix everything are good natured and her eventual realization that not everything needs to be fixed is heartfelt and well earned. The use of language and humorously named villains have the reader cheering for Annie and Runt’s success. This delightful story of human spirit, family love and communal support is perfect for the Younger Readers age group. The beautiful hardcover, dust jacket, endpapers and delightful illustrations make this an instant favourite.
Picture Book (0-8 Years)
"Market Day", Carrie Gallasch (text), Hannah Sommerville (illustrations).
Market Day narrates the story of a little girl that arrives at a market with one coin she can spend in any way. Several themes are explored, including community, generosity, the power of music, kindness, transience and appreciation. The evocative, detailed digital illustrations depict a bustling produce market and invite further investigation on each read. The language is simple as the girl narrates, yet also, at times, quite beautiful, matching the mood of the outing. It is punctuated by metaphor, analogy, alliteration and an interesting range of verbs. A busker is seen intermittently, and he turns out to be the girl’s most interesting and worthwhile encounter at the market.
Get Ready for Book Week!
Co-Curricular News
Model UN Competition
Last Monday the 31st of July six Year 10’s, Lachlan, Nicholas, Ella, Sarita, Edith and I were given the opportunity to travel to Clonard College to compete and represent Kardinia in the UN Youth Security Council. There were 16 teams of two, formed by other Geelong regional schools each representing a different country in the UN. The Kardinian teams represented Ecuador, Germany and Vietnam. Throughout the day we had to discuss resolutions and debate whether or not our assigned country would benefit from those given. To try to negotiate with our fellow country delegates to agree with changes or amendments. It was such an amazing opportunity to be able to discuss and spend the day with people from other schools, to be immersed in such a realistic re-enactment of the UN Council and to be challenged to acquire new skills. It was a unique and interactive setting, and we were assessed on our negotiation and diplomacy skills. A huge thank you to everyone involved especially Mr Donnelly for organising and supporting us throughout the day. It was a fantastic experience and we all enjoyed being UN delegates for the day. Emilia Considine, Year 10.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
The CCC Parent 'Spring Fling" - Tickets now on sale!
Tickets are now on sale for this year’s ‘Spring Fling’ event, hosted by KIC’s CCC (College Community Council). This event will be held at the Pier on Saturday 14th October and will include a two-course meal, live music and a silent auction. Start organising your table and book your tickets. This special event is for parents and staff and will be a fabulous night!
Tickets available at: https://events.humanitix.com/spring-fling-2023-kic-community-college-council
Where are they now?
Patrick Mahar - Class of 2003.
Associate Professor Patrick Mahar OAM. MBBS (Hons) LLB (Hons) GDLP MBA MDerm GAICD FACLM FACD
Associate Professor Mahar is a doctor specialising in dermatology with experience and education in business, law and medicine. Over the course of his career, he has been heavily involved with burns, inflammatory skin diseases and medicolegal matters. Although not currently practicing law, he is admitted as a lawyer with the Supreme Court of Victoria. He has been a director of a number of for-profit as well as non-for-profit companies. In 2014, at age 27, he was awarded a Medal of the Order of Australia for services to burns research and patient safety. He is currently the medical director of the Skin Health Institute, which employs over 80 dermatologists and plastic surgeons in Melbourne. His proudest achievement, however, is developing and initiating a laser-based burns service for paediatric burns patients with severe scars at the Royal Children’s Hospital Melbourne- an undertaking which took years in the making. In his own words, ‘Kardinia, in its value of academic achievement, if that’s what you were about, was a place to thrive at the end of your adolescence. But I still can’t catch a basketball. But in all honesty, no school could teach me that.’
The Kardinians are proud of the achievements of our alumni! We look forward to catching up with the Class of 2003 at their Reunion on Friday 20 October.
Alumni Reunions
Tickets for the alumni reunions will be released this month. Please ensure that your profile details (Email, mobile and peer year) are correct on The Kardinians. Log onto: https://kardinians.com/
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement & Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Early Productions - Part 7
Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat
2011 was another exciting year for College musicals as ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat’ was presented by the Junior School’s Year four, five and six students in their inaugural musical production in the Katsumata Centre. The rehearsals ran for six months and culminated in a show that truly embodied the spirit of Kardinia. Not only Junior School students, but Senior School students, parents, teaching staff, instrumental staff and maintenance staff from all areas of the College worked around the clock to produce a musical of such a high calibre. Two of the many highlights of ‘Joseph’ were the cameo performances by Mr Goodfellow as the father figure, Jacob, and the Head of Junior School, Ms Helen Staindl, as the heavenly angel. As this universal story states, ‘any dream will do’ – and with this production Mr Goodfellow had realised another of his extraordinary visions.
Grease
‘Grease’ was the word in 2012 and, under Mr Ian Campbell’s direction, the cast and crew ‘shaped up’ to present this incredibly popular 1950s rock ‘n’ roll classic: bobby socks, slicked back hair – the whole jive. The cast loved it, the crew loved it, and the audience could not sit still – or stop singing along.
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 8’
Fiona Russell - Archivist
School TV - Sextortion
‘Sextortion’ has been an issue for over a decade, with many adults falling victim to this type of online crime. It is a form of blackmail where someone threatens to share intimate images of you unless you give in to their demands. Organised criminal gangs across Eastern Europe, Russia, and Africa connect to their victims via social media, chat apps, instant messaging platforms and online games. More recently though there has been a higher rate of adolescent males falling victim, that is not to say that young females are not also targeted.
Since the beginning of 2022, there has been a 400% increase in this type of crime being reported to police in Australia alone. However, these figures are being replicated in most western countries. Having an understanding of how your young person can fall victim to such an offender may help to protect them from engaging or conceding to their demands. It is vitally important for parents and carers to be aware of this serious issue and to start having an age-appropriate conversation as early as possible. Be aware that even with an online account set to private, random people can still message your child. Emphasise to your young person the importance of only engaging online with people they actually know, not someone they think they might know.
Most importantly, keep the lines of communication open between you and your child. Young people who fall victim to these offenders will feel distressed and blame themselves. Let them know that no matter what, they can come to you and ask for help, and that there is nothing so bad that they cannot come to you. Managing devices can be difficult especially with older teens, but it is important to weigh up the risks and the dangers. Sadly, even good kids who never make a poor decision elsewhere in their life, can and do make poor choices online. The information presented in this report is intended to alert and not alarm parents and caregivers of this potential issue.
Further information and resources relating to this topic can be accessed via the following websites:
Click here to watch this episode: https://kardinia.vic.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-sextortion
