Term 4 has been an exceptionally busy and rewarding time for our Year 9 cohort with a wide range of activities and events that have kept students engaged, challenged and active in all areas of their learning.

As part of the Pastoral Program, our Year 9 students took part in a Wellbeing session with a guest speaker focusing on the topic of vaping.

The session aimed to:

• Provide accurate information about vaping and its health impacts.
• Explore the social influences and pressures that can affect decision-making.
• Encourage students to make informed, responsible choices about their health and wellbeing.

Students were also encouraged to reflect on their own values and choices and to talk with trusted adults – including their families – about what they learned. Parents and guardians are encouraged to continue this conversation at home.

Over two days in October, the entire year level ventured into the city as part of the BRIDGES to City program – an extension of the BRIDGES initiative. Students independently navigated their way to the city centre and participated in experiences such as the Intersection Empathy Walk, which explored the lives of those who are often overlooked or struggling within our community and a courtroom re-enactment at the Old Melbourne Gaol.

Our students were outstanding in both their conduct and the way they represented Kilbreda College, proudly wearing their uniforms – even when the weather wasn’t on their side! A few creative individuals discovered some very stylish (and practical!) ponchos from 7-Eleven, proving that function sometimes triumphs over fashion.

The Celebration of Learning Evening, held on Tuesday 28 October, was another highlight of the term. It was a wonderful opportunity to recognise and celebrate the growth, creativity and achievements of our Year 9 students. It was heart-warming to see so many parents, siblings and grandparents attend in support. The displays and projects showcased not only academic excellence, but also the Kilbreda values of commitment, community and a genuine love of learning.

During the evening, eligible students were also presented with their BRIDGES badge – a recognition of their dedication and achievement in the BRIDGES program, which encompasses volunteering, community service and academic pursuits.

As we approach the end of the academic year, focus now turns to the upcoming Semester 2 exam period. Students have received their exam timetables and are finalising their content in preparation for revision. Teachers will continue to guide and support students to ensure they are well-prepared and confident heading into their assessments. If students have any questions or concerns, they are encouraged to speak with their subject teachers.

Year 9 exams will be held from Tuesday 18 to Thursday 19 November. Further information has been published on both SIMON and the Year 9 Google Classroom.

We wish all students the very best as they complete this final chapter of the school year and look forward to welcoming them into the Headstart program, which begins on Monday 24 November.

Kylie Carroll

Acting Level Leader: Year 9

Duke of Edinburgh Camp

Student Reflections

Last week, our class set off on our Duke of Edinburgh camp, and it turned out to be an exciting and challenging experience! Over a few action-packed days, we tried new activities, spent time outdoors and pushed ourselves in ways we didn’t expect.

On the first day, we kicked things off with surfing at Norman Beach. Even though it wasn’t part of the usual Duke of Edinburgh schedule, we were all pretty stoked to try it out. For some of us, it was our first time surfing and watching the wipeouts was pretty entertaining. Afterwards, we made our own dinner on the Trangias, which was a fun part of the day. From pasta to rice dishes, it was interesting to see all the different meals everyone came up with. We then headed down to Squeaky Beach to watch the sunset which was a really nice way to end the first day.

On the second day we woke up bright and early. We packed all of our things into our packs and headed off to start our big hike! Luckily the sun was out and the skies were mostly blue, making the hike much more enjoyable. The hike was definitely challenging at times but we pushed through, taking breaks and enjoying the scenery along the way. The last stretch of the 17km hike was tough, but with a bit of friendly competition, we raced to the finish line (aka Derek). We were exhausted, but that final push to camp made all the effort feel worthwhile. After a much-needed rest, some of us decided to tackle Mt Oberon for a sunset view. Unfortunately, the sunset didn’t cooperate, but the view of the mountains we had hiked through earlier was still pretty cool.

On the final day, we packed up camp and set off on one last small walk before heading back to school. Looking back, it was definitely worth the sore legs and carrying those heavy packs. The camp really pushed us to try new things, work as a team and take care of ourselves in the great outdoors. All in all, this Duke of Edinburgh camp to Wilson’s Prom was an unforgettable experience, and hands down, the highlight of our D of E journey so far.

Matilda L and Abbey L

Year 9

Our camp was a memorable one for sure. Gabriella and I both went on Camp 1. We both feel so grateful for the amazing experience and teachers who encouraged us the whole way through.

On the first day, we arrived at Wilsons Prom where we first set up all the tents and unpacked. Then, we had lunch and got into our bathers for an exciting afternoon of surfing at Norman Bay. It was a great sunny afternoon and we all had a great time in the waves. When we got back, we got out the Trangias and cooked up our bolognese for dinner. Afterwards, we got back on the bus and took a short drive down to Whisky Bay for sunset. The view was absolutely beautiful and we had a great time taking pictures on our digital cameras.

The next day we got up and got ready for a big day ahead, full of hiking with our friends. After packing our bags that felt much bigger than the day before, we drove up to the start of the Oberon Bay loop. This was a 17km hike and was the most we have ever walked in one day. During the hike we had many short breaks (at McAllister Creek, Telegraph Junction, Oberon Bay, Norman Point and Tidal River) to have snacks and reapply sunscreen. At lunch time after crossing the river, sadly Ruby’s lunch got stolen by a crow, leaving her without lunch for the next day. After her sad loss we got ready again to finish our hike. The views were incredible and made the testing conditions rewarding. After the end of our hike, we all were all ready for bed, although it was only 3.00pm! We played card games including aggressive rounds of Taco, Cat, Goat, Cheese, Pizza. We then cooked up our dinners – some more eatable than others and got ready to go on a night-time hike to Mount Oberon. This 6km was steep and tiresome. With teachers like Ms Rogers encouraging us we all made it to the top to see an unbelievably breathtaking view. Being able to watch the sunset was a once in a lifetime experience especially with our friends.

On our final day, as much as we loved the experience, everyone was happy to be packing up the tents and thinking of the cozy beds we would be sleeping in that night. Before we fully left the Prom, we took one last walk along the boardwalk behind our campground. On the drive back we had a great time doing a singalong for most of the way home. We made one stop in Leongatha for lunch and then straight back to school. Overall, Duke of Edinburgh is an amazing experience and an opportunity of a lifetime.

Gabriella M and Claire W

Year 9