A Week of Possibility, Passion and Purpose

In every corner of the College this past week, there has been a tangible sense of momentum – of students leaning into opportunity, community and the kind of learning that shapes not only futures, but hearts and minds.

At our annual Pathways Expo, students and their families engaged in meaningful conversations about what lies ahead – exploring subject selections, vocational options and post-school pathways. The genuine curiosity and thoughtful dialogue on display were a testament to the partnership we share with families and the importance of preparing each young person to walk confidently towards their future with clarity and purpose.

Another moment of deep pride this week was witnessing ten remarkable Year 11 students step forward as candidates for the role of 2026 College Captains. Each of these young people – Elizabeth Jones, Abbey Tomlinson, Cleo Ruthven, Chloe Veneris, Lily Mealor, Leila Timms, Indira Alappatt, Rhiannán Marie-Jeanne, Eloise Holborn, and Ella Kerambrun – has contributed richly to the life of the College since Year 7, and now stand as confident, capable and compassionate leaders, ready to represent the voices of their peers and committed to shaping a school community where all feel safe, seen and celebrated. It was a joy to hear their thoughtful reflections on the leaders who have inspired them and the values that fuel their desire to serve. We extend heartfelt thanks to their peers, families and staff whose belief and encouragement have helped shape their leadership journeys. We also thank our current College Captains, Amelia Presnell and Charlotte Maclean, for graciously hosting the assembly, and commend Sue Grima, Jane Delahunty and Kirby Campbell for their thoughtful leadership in bringing this important moment to life.

On Tuesday, our Year 11 and 12 Italian students brought insight and conviction to the Model United Nations Conference, where they represented foreign nations in a global dialogue on ecological justice. These students stepped beyond their comfort zones to embody diplomatic perspectives, explore complex environmental issues, and articulate informed solutions. We thank Mr Wayne Murrill and Mrs Lucia Barbera for their outstanding leadership and guidance, which enabled our students to flourish in this unique and powerful forum.

Our thanks also go to Jessica Jhoomun and Georgia Bell of Year 10, who represented Kilbreda College at the Kildare Ministries Net Zero Conference this week. Their passionate advocacy for sustainability and justice reflects a generation determined to create change. We are deeply grateful for the ongoing leadership of our Sustainability Leaders, Dr Sarah Avitabile and Ms Emily Aherne, who continue to guide this vital work in our school community with wisdom and purpose.

The joy was palpable on Wednesday as we welcomed primary school students into the College to preview our upcoming production of 42nd Street. The energy, colour and anticipation surrounding this musical event has been building for months – a shining example of what can be achieved when creativity, teamwork, and perseverance align. We commend our student performers and backstage crew for their extraordinary commitment and artistry. Special thanks go to our visionary directors Cara Mitchell, Kara-Lee Rabbetts and Nicole Everett, and our dedicated support team Dominic Shepsis, Matthew Graham and Julie Clark, whose passion and belief in our students have brought this production to life. We look forward with great anticipation to the opening performances, knowing they will be a true celebration of our students’ talent and teamwork.

Yesterday, World Friendship Day offered a moment to reflect on the quiet power of kindness and connection. Our Year 12 student leaders, in collaboration with our Library staff, created a beautiful celebration that reminded us all that at the heart of our Kilbreda community is a spirit of welcome, inclusion and authentic friendship – gifts that shape lives long after the final school bell rings.

As we look ahead to Thursday 7 August, we prepare to gather in gratitude for the 121st Anniversary Mass of our College. This is a moment to honour our rich Brigidine heritage, to celebrate the vibrant diversity of our current community, and to recommit ourselves to our shared mission – to go always one pace beyond, and to do so together.

Let us continue to walk gently, lead bravely, and learn deeply – as individuals, as a community, and as part of something much greater than ourselves.

A Moment for Stillness and Gratitude

Prayer of Gratitude and Hope

Loving and ever-present God,
In the stillness of this moment, we pause to give thanks –
for the richness of our week,
for the voices of young people who speak with courage and conviction,
and for the quiet acts of kindness that so often go unseen but never unnoticed.

We thank you for the conversations that help shape futures,
for the deep sense of belonging that grows within community,
and for the beauty that emerges when creativity and commitment come together.

Bless our students who seek justice for creation,
our leaders who lift others up,
and all in our College who bring their whole selves to this shared journey.

May we continue to walk gently with one another,
always attentive to your presence in our midst.

As we approach our 121st anniversary,
may we honour our past with reverence,
celebrate our present with joy,
and step into the future with open hearts –
always one pace beyond, always together.

Amen.

In Our Prayers

We were deeply saddened to learn of the recent passing of Mr Tim Noonan, former Principal of St Patrick’s Primary School. A visionary and compassionate leader, Mr Noonan touched the lives of many – including a number of our current students and families. We give thanks for his life and leadership, and we hold his family and the St Patrick’s school community in our hearts and prayers during this time of loss.

We also keep in our prayers Van Nguyen, valued member of our Canteen team, and her family following the passing of her mother, and Michael Pulsford, member of our Maintenance team, on the passing of his mother. May they feel the gentle comfort of our thoughts and support in the days ahead.

Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord,
And let perpetual light shine upon them.
May they rest in peace.
Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal