As we approach the final weeks of the school year, the College is alive with energy and purpose. Across every corner of Kilbreda, there is a palpable sense of momentum as students finalise assessment tasks, prepare for exams, and look ahead to new beginnings.

Our Year 7 students are experiencing the familiar mixture of excitement and quiet nerves as they anticipate the Headstart period and their transition to Year 8. They are growing beautifully into their role as young leaders of their own learning, and we look forward to supporting them through this important step.

Our Year 8 students are adding their own vibrancy to Kilbreda as they put the finishing touches on their Dance Battle routines, an event that always showcases creativity, courage and sheer joy. Meanwhile, our Year 9 students, having returned from their Duke of Edinburgh adventures, are settling back into study routines and preparing diligently for their upcoming exams. Their resilience and teamwork continue to shine.

Our Year 10 students are balancing excitement for their upcoming Social with a commendable commitment to finishing the year strongly. Our Year 11 students, many of whom have now completed their Unit 3 & 4 exams, are demonstrating admirable focus as they turn their attention to consolidating their learning in these final weeks.

Behind the scenes, our teaching staff are engaged in the thoughtful, attentive work of providing feedback, supporting revision and planning for the Headstart program. Their dedication ensures that every student is set up for success as they take their next step.

As a leadership team, our gaze is turning toward 2026 as we continue laying the foundations for another year of deep learning, strong relationships and future-focused growth. One of the great joys of recent weeks has been meeting with the Class Captains from each year level. Their insights into the strengths of Kilbreda, and their thoughtful ideas for our future, have been both rich and inspiring. Their voices truly reflect the spirit of strength and kindliness that guides our community.

On Remembrance Day, it was deeply moving to gather as a whole school to pause, pray and remember. This important moment in our nation’s history invites us to honour the courage and sacrifice of those who have served and to reflect on the responsibility we share in shaping a more peaceful world. Despite the rain, our Kilbreda Chorale represented the College with immense pride, singing the National Anthem beautifully at the Mentone RSL Remembrance Day service.

We also celebrate the outstanding achievements of our athletes who represented Kilbreda with distinction at the Victorian All Schools Track and Field Championships: Jacinta C, Indianna N, Emily G and Teagan S.  A special congratulations to Jacinta, who won bronze in the Under 18 800m, and to Emily, who secured bronze in the Under 17 Shot Put. We are so proud of their determination and commitment to doing their best.

I also wish to acknowledge the wonderful initiative of Ava S, Madeleine J, Lucy S and Sarah B from 7.71, who recently ran a cake stall to raise funds for sustainability initiatives within the College. Their creativity, generosity and commitment to making a difference embody the very best of Kilbreda.

The Auditorium was filled with excitement yesterday as we announced our 2026 College Production: The Addams Family. We cannot wait to see the creativity and talent this production will bring to life.

In the coming days, we look forward to welcoming our 2026 Year 7 students and their families to our Becoming a Kilbreda Girl Information Night.

We are also eagerly anticipating our Music Christmas Concert, one of the most joyful traditions in our calendar. Our ensembles, choirs and instrumental students have been rehearsing with great enthusiasm, preparing a program that promises to delight audiences and capture both the festive spirit of Christmas and the creative energy that is so characteristic of Kilbreda. It is more than a performance; it is an expression of collaboration, courage and joy, and we look forward to gathering as a community to celebrate the season through the artistry of our wonderful students.

As we move toward the end of the year, I offer my heartfelt thanks to our students for their hard work and dedication, to our staff for walking so faithfully alongside them and to our parents and carers for the trust, partnership and faith you place in us each day. Together, we continue to nurture a community where every learner is known, challenged, and supported to flourish.

With warmest regards and every blessing,

Stephanie

A Prayer for Our Community

Loving God,

As we move toward the end of this school year, we give thanks for the learning, growth and grace that have shaped our days.  Bless our students with calm hearts and steady minds as they prepare for exams and new beginnings. Strengthen our staff as they continue to guide, encourage and accompany each young person with wisdom and kindness. And bless our families, whose trust and partnership sustain our community.

May we continue to walk in strength and kindliness, seeking peace, acting with courage,
and embracing the hope that lights our way.

Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Principal