From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
It is great to be back in school this week after a whirlwind visit to Japan last week.
I first spent time with a colleague from the Council of International Schools (CIS) undertaking a pre-evaluation of a small elementary school in Tokyo. It was so interesting to see a school operating out of a high rise building and how they made it work so well. It also made me really appreciate the wonderful outdoor spaces and environment that our students get to enjoy every day.
At the end of the week, I took the opportunity of being in Japan to visit our sister school, Gotemba Nishi High School. I was greeted so warmly by all the staff and students, and it made me realise just how much the community at Gotemba loves all things Kardinia and the strong connection that we have.
It is really a unique and special bond that we have between our two schools and given it is at the heart of our very foundation, it is one that we should always treasure and nurture.
Learning a dance with the Gotemba students.
Playing a game with the Gotemba students.
Some of the Year 11 students with myself and Takahiro Katsumata (Principal, Gotemba Nishi).
With some of the Gotemba students who have been on exchange to Kardinia and were full of praise for the wonderful experiences they had at our school.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
We have had a busy start to the year in the Senior School. Thank you so much to all the Heads of House and staff who took our 250 Year 7s on their Orientation Camps last week. There were some very tired students on Friday afternoon, but students who have already made some really strong connections that they will maintain throughout their time in the Senior School.
Congratulations to Year 12 student Cookie Robinson, who has been selected to perform her VCE Music Contemporary Performance piece ‘Attendance Record’ by Sadie Leigh in Top Class Music 2025 at the Melbourne Recital Centre.
Top Class is an annual concert series presented by the Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) showcasing outstanding performances by VCE and VCE VET students from schools across the state.
This year, 183 top performing students were considered by expert panels for Top Class Music and Sound, and only 48 students were selected to perform. Selected performers exemplify the skill and creativity that can be achieved within the VCE curriculum.
Top Class Music takes place on Wednesday 19 March at 10:00am and 2:30pm, and Top Class Music and Sound takes place on Thursday 20 March at 10:00am and 2:30pm at Melbourne Recital Centre – 31 Sturt St, Southbank.
Tickets are now available via the Melbourne Recital Centre.
From the Acting Head of Junior School - Izabella Haby
Swimming Trials
Congratulations to all Upper Primary students who participated in the swimming trials today. Thank you to Mr Russell, the Upper Primary staff, parent volunteers and the GAC team for hosting such a well-run event.
The Junior School Information Evening and Building Community
Thank you to all families who attended the Information Evenings last week. It was wonderful to see parents and teachers interacting across both campuses. I do hope that families have made new connections with other families and staff. These events are always so successful because of teamwork. Thank you to all staff who presented so professionally. Thank you, Rachelle Gibson and Sam Nevin, for organising lovely drinks and nibbles at the Grove, the Upper Primary Centre and at Highview. Thank you to Aisha Kristiansen and Mark Byrne for supporting parents with KIC Online questions and to Tess Dorris and the maintenance staff for their organisation and of course to our parents who were able to join us. The recording of my presentation can be found on KIC Online (Schoolbox) Junior School Page for those families who were not present at the Information session on Thursday.
KIC Connect Meeting
On Tuesday we had our first KIC Connect meeting. Thank you to the parents who were able to join us at 2.30 pm in the Conference Room. Please note that you are most welcome to join the group. Please connect as shared below.
Sharing from Year 6:
In Year 6, students have been inquiring into the plight of migrants throughout history as part of the Where We Are in Place and Time Unit of Inquiry.
As an initial provocation, students were provided with 'loose parts' to explore their understanding of the word 'migration'. They were instructed to use the parts to explain their understanding of this word. Many students chose to discuss animal migrations, drawing on prior knowledge from units of inquiry of the past.
Another portion of students represented human migrations, some inspired by our class novel 'We Are Wolves' set during World War II. Students clearly explained their thinking using their creative representations using the loose parts. Some reasons for migration were identified, such as climate change, war, danger and changing seasons. Students listened attentively to one another and asked thoughtful questions to clarify their understanding of each other's representations. What a wonderful start to the year and their learning journey!
Founders’ Day 2025
Information has been sent to all Junior School families relating to our Founders’ Day trip to Adventure Park. If you did not receive this information, please contact Rachelle or Karyn at the Junior School Reception. Last week, a group of leaders visited the park to ensure the day’s events will run smoothly on 27 February.
Founders’ Day is a very important day for our college where we stop to reflect on our founders, Mr and Mrs Katsumata. The celebration day, in February is a day full of fun and laughter where students connect with other year levels whilst experiencing enjoyable rides and water activities. In Term Two, we acknowledge our founders with a more formal assembly and further reflect on their vision for our college.
Some reminders:
Glass drink bottles: We ask that parents ensure students not to bring glass bottles to school. We have had several bottles being broken on the concrete and this can be dangerous when glass is shattered into many pieces. Thank you for your assistance with this matter.
Play equipment: The play equipment in the Upper Primary and Lower Primary areas are specifically designed for students of those age groups. To ensure everyone's safety, we kindly ask that very young children do not climb on this equipment, particularly without parent supervision and when the Junior School students are playing on the equipment as it may lead to injuries. We appreciate your cooperation and understanding.
The OSHC group (Outside School Hours Care): To help families start the year with confidence, we’re running a Virtual Information Session to introduce new families to our programs, including the activities we offer, the benefits for children and parents, and how OSHC can fit seamlessly into their family’s routine.
Below are some key highlights and resources that families might find valuable:
Virtual Information Sessions: This session will guide parents through our programs, activities, and how we prioritise their child’s safety and wellbeing.
- Date: Tuesday, 18 February 2025
- Time: 7:00pm - 8:00pm AEDT
- Kindness Week (17 – 21 February): Activities fostering compassion and community.
- The Big Art Competition (28 February – 28 March): Encouraging young artists to showcase their creativity.
- Building Children’s Resilience webinar (4 March): A free session with Maggie Dent for parents.
International Council Leads Lunar New Year Celebration
The International Council, a student-led initiative in the Senior School, is dedicated to promoting international mindedness within our community.
Last Friday, the Council organised a spectacular Lunar New Year celebration, immersing students in the rich traditions of this important festival. The event featured a captivating traditional opera performance, an interactive fortune symbol workshop, and a selection of delicious Asian snacks. These cultural experiences provided students with a deeper appreciation of Lunar New Year and its significance, fostering a spirit of inclusivity and global awareness within the school.
Sport News
Cricket
Over the summer break, Lily A (Year 9) was selected to represent the Geelong Girls Cricket League in the U/14 carnival against other Victorian regions.
The tournament lasted a week and was played in Hamilton against the Ballarat, Bendigo, Warrnambool, Colac, Grampians, and Wimmera regions. Lily performed well, and Geelong won the final. Congratulations Lily!
Surf Life Saving
Yesterday there were a group 28 students who attended a Life Saving Victoria carnival in Torquay. A valiant effort by all students, whether it was their first time competing in some of the events, or a seasoned performer. The day saw students perform exceptionally in events including surf swim, board race, wade, aqua cameron, sprint, flags and relays. Kardinia International College finished the day in third place overall. Thank you to Jackson Peacock, Kim Byrne and Tom Cannavan for organising and supporting the students on the day.
Outdoor Education and Experiential Learning
Senior School Run Club!
"KIC Run Club is a wonderful way for students and teachers to run together, improve their fitness, and form a community where we’re all equals – no matter our fitness level or experience! It was formed out of a love of running, but also a desire for a community where runners (and non-runners) can share wisdom, learn together, and support and encourage each other’s goals.” - Charlotte N, (Year 12) Founder
Feel free to email Charlotte if you would like to join in, the group departs from the COLA on Wednesdays at 1pm!
School of Rock - The Musical
Four talented KIC students have been cast in Geelong Lyric Theatre Society's upcoming production of School of Rock the Musical!
Set to hit the stage at Geelong Arts Centre from May 23 to June 1, this high-energy musical is an electrifying adaptation of the iconic movie.
Novalie M (Year 6) takes on the role of Katie, the bass guitarist
Charlton K (Year 7) transforms into Billy, the band's stylist
Olivia M (Year 7) shines as backup singer, Shonelle
Daniel L (Year 8) has been cast as Mason, the band's tech expert
You might remember these four students from their lead roles in KIC's 2024 productions of Shrek Jnr and Oliver!
Get your tickets on the Geelong Arts Centre website: https://geelongartscentre.org.au/whats-on/all-events/school-of-rock-presented-by-geelong-lyric-theatre-society Don't miss the chance to support these students as they rock the stage in this unmissable production!
Future Pathways and Education News
Year 12 Future Creation, Mirai Sozo 未来創造 excursion to Deakin University Tuesday 4 February 2025.
Our dedicated team of Future Pathways Advisors Joe Madunic, Manfred Pohlenz and Clare Outerbridge planned a day for our year 12 students to learn, grow, think, plan, research and begin to make plans for Future Pathway options.
A day to spend with peers and fellow 2025 Year 12 Students. Time to explore the campus facilities and opportunities beyond Kardinia.
The Future Pathways and Education team at Kardinia International College planned this day with students in mind. Our hope for students is that this day allows them an opportunity to learn and be inspired to make their own pathway plans and set goals for their year ahead.
Students were fortunate to be in the company of Woon Ooi who shared many of his life learnings, his career journey, leaning into opportunities, a 'say yes' philosophy and approach to life.
Hannah Bereznicki delighted our students with neuroscience brain hacks for study and tips to support the learning process.
Dr Casey Delmara gave the most wonderful insight for our students to be the owner of their mindset. Many strategies to help both hacking mental health and decision-making capabilities.
Students were able to choose from a variety of elective workshops to attend, varying from Arts, Engineering, Future Pathways, Education, Design, Information Technology and Food and Mood Centre.
Time is important for year 12 students, time to learn, time to research opportunities, time to reflect on personal strengths, interests and hobbies, time to plan pathway options. The purpose of this excursion was to all students' time to begin this process in a supportive and encouraging environment.
Future Creation Student Program Booklet
Future pathways & education at Kardinia International College during Year 12:
Staff Office Location: Senior Study Hall. Student meeting location: H10 Study Hall H Block.
Red text = Kardinia International College offerings and programs.
Blue text = suggested student and family activities to help with research & decision making.
How to book a Future Pathways Advisor appointment during your spare periods:
Kardinia Future Pathways Advisor Booking Link – KIConline – Careers – Booking Link. Book during spare periods, lunchtime or before school. Afterschool appointments can be made via email.
All students at KIC are required to have a Future Pathways Meeting. Ideally this should take place during Term 1 or early term 2. Booking your appointment sooner rather than later will help you to manage your studies and assessments but also to get your future pathways plans researched and set yourself goals to achieve.
Most students will need 2 – 3 individual appointments throughout the year. One initial consultation to discuss your interests, ideas and skill sets and begin researching your options. A follow-up appointment once you have refined your options and a third or fourth appointment might be required to support you with applications, resumes, scholarships, interviews etc.
Our best advice is to book your first appointment today to start the process 😊
Mrs Kloe Woods - Head of Future Pathways and Education
Community Engagement and Foundation News
K-12 Parent ‘Mingle at Mary’s’
A reminder to all K-12 parents that 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’, 66 Pakington Street, Geelong West.
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)
Tickets now available for 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.
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, non-golfer activities, and plenty of community spirit, this event promises a day full of fun and engagement.
Date: Thursday 17 April
Venue: 13th Beach Golf Links, 1732 Barwon Heads Road, Barwon Heads.
Time: 7:00am-3:00pm
Cost: $150 per person (Includes Entry, Ambrose Competition and Lunch); Non-Golfers $30 per person (Includes Entry and Lunch)
Drinks: At bar prices.
Tickets: https://events.humanitix.com/2025-golf-day
Hosted by the Kardinia Community Foundation
Sponsorship packages are also available, offering a unique chance for businesses and individuals to contribute to this noble cause while gaining visibility within the community.
For further information, contact the Community Engagement & Foundation Coordinator, Fiona Russell, at foundation@kardinia.vic.edu.au.
Join us for a day of golf, camaraderie, and community support!
Calling for Silent Auction Donations
As part of this Foundation 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 https://forms.office.com/r/jFiDxSgVgk
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: foundation@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Thank you in advance for your generosity and support.
International Women’s Day Breakfast
The 2025 International Women's Day Breakfast is hosted by Kardinia Community Foundation.
International Women’s Day is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. The annual IWD Breakfast enables us to celebrate and support fairness, equality and inclusion in our community through awareness, education and fundraising.
Parents, alumni, staff, and VCE and IB students are invited to attend this event.
Date: Friday 7 March
Venue: College Hall, Kardinia International College
Time: 7:00am-8:30am
Tickets: Adults (parents, alumni & staff) $20; Students (VCE & IB) $15
https://events.humanitix.com/2025-international-women-s-day-25jyat86
Tickets include a delicious breakfast smorgasbord!
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.
Date: Sunday 30 March
Venue: Morongo House, Kardinia International College
Time: 2:00pm-4:30pm
Cost: $20 per person
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
The original Junior School building, well known to both Kardinians and Morongo Old Collegians, was built in 1952 as the ‘War Memorial New Preparatory School’. The building was described as ‘…modern and attractive with excellent facilities for work, lunch and play.’ (Morongo- The First Fifty Years).
When Kardinia International College opened in 1996, the building was refreshed and the continued minor upgrades over the last two decades have provided suitable learning spaces for our younger students.
As buildings, renovations and upgrades continue around the college, the former Junior School building is currently undergoing a creative transformation to emerge as an Arts Precinct for the Senior School.
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
School TV - Respectful Relationships
Initiating conversations about respectful relationships with children is crucial for their emotional and social development. By addressing topics like kindness, empathy, and communication, parents create a foundation for healthy interactions. These discussions promote awareness of boundaries, consent, and mutual understanding, fostering a safe environment where children can thrive. Teaching respect from an early age equips kids with essential skills to navigate friendships and romantic relationships, building a future based on empathy and equality. Open dialogues about respect empower children to recognise and value their own feelings and those of others, cultivating a positive and harmonious approach to all relationships.
Click here to watch this episode: https://kardinia.vic.schooltv.me/newsletter/respectful-relationships
Community
Bell Park Dragons
Geelong Beekeepers Club
