Honouring Our Past, Shaping Our Future

It is with a deep sense of gratitude and humility that I step into the role of Principal of Kilbreda College. This is a community with a story I have long admired – one shaped by the bold vision and deep compassion of our Brigidine founders, whose courage to cross boundaries and meet the needs of their time continues to inspire us today. I feel privileged to walk in the footsteps of those who have led before me, and to serve alongside staff, students and families who are so deeply committed to learning, faith and community. My promise is to honour our past while courageously shaping a future in which every young person is empowered to shine their golden thread and to step into the world with both Strength and Kindliness.

As I begin this new chapter, my commitment is clear: to build a community that responds to the needs of our time with courage and compassion, to create space for each person’s gifts to be seen and celebrated, and to attract and retain exceptional educators whose expertise and care inspire our students to thrive. I look forward to partnering closely with you – as your daughter’s first and most enduring educators – to prepare her not only for the world she will enter, but also to shape the world she will lead.

Our vision for the future is unapologetically future-focused and human-centred. We will equip our students with the skills, knowledge and dispositions to navigate a rapidly changing world – embracing curiosity, creativity, collaboration and ethical leadership. We will remain anchored in the values that have always defined us: courage, compassion, hope, hospitality, justice and wonder. It is this balance – between timeless principles and innovative practice – that will keep Kilbreda both grounded and future-ready.

A highlight of this term was our 121st anniversary Mass – a wonderful celebration of who we are and the rich diversity that shapes our College. It was a joy to see our students and staff gather alongside many Brigidine Sisters whose presence continues to inspire us. Together, we celebrated the cultural threads that make up our community, from students wearing traditional dress to the music, readings and prayers offered. We also offered the Mass for the repose of the soul of Sister Angela Ryan – a Past Pupil of Distinction inductee, past pupil, past Principal, and an inspirational leader across the Archdiocese of Melbourne. Her legacy of faith, service and leadership remains deeply woven into the heart of Kilbreda.

This term, our production of 42nd Street brought these values to life on stage. Over 10 dazzling performances, our students delivered a Broadway-worthy show – all the glitz, glamour and magic we could have dreamed of. Yet what will stay with me long after the lights fade is the courage, tenacity and sheer determination they brought to every moment. Before each performance, the cast gathered in a circle, looking one another in the eye and declaring: “You are enough. You are unbelievably enough. Now get out there and put on an amazing show.” Those words spoke to something far beyond the stage – to courage, belonging and a belief in one another.

To our Year 11 and Year 12 students, many of whom performed in their final Kilbreda production – thank you. You have been extraordinary. Your performances were of the highest calibre, but it is the way you have led that sets you apart. For six years, you have given richly to our Performing Arts program, balancing VCE commitments with the demands of rehearsals and performances. You leave us as accomplished graduates who own the stage – journeying from wide-eyed performers in Matilda to confident leaders who model excellence, teamwork, and generosity of spirit.

In my recent address at our Term 3 Assembly, I reflected on findings from the 2024 Mission Australia Youth Survey, in which over 17,000 young Australians shared their hopes, concerns and challenges. Nationally, young people named school and study pressures, personal relationships, and mental health as their most significant concerns. These are issues that shape confidence, affect wellbeing, and influence a young person’s sense of belonging.

Here at Kilbreda, we are addressing these challenges by strengthening connection, fostering student voice, and ensuring that every student knows they are seen, valued and believed in. Our assembly was a living example of this – entirely student-led and filled with moments that showcased agency, creativity and leadership. We celebrated excellence in learning, listened to inspiring musical performances, and heard firsthand accounts from the Central Australia Trip, the Year 10 Indigenous Immersion Experience, and our Project Net Zero team. We acknowledged debating achievements, recognised the passion of our student leaders in areas from sustainability to social justice, and celebrated the camaraderie of our sports teams.

Our approach is simple but powerful: when young people are given meaningful opportunities to lead, create and contribute, they build the confidence and resilience they need to thrive. The Sisterhood that defines Kilbreda – a culture of trust, joy and walking together – is one of our strongest protections against the challenges named in the survey.

Beyond the assembly, our Term 3 highlights have been many. We have celebrated the achievements of our netballers and volleyballers, who have represented the College with skill and distinction. We look forward with anticipation to Book Week, and preparations are well underway for Brigidine Day – a cherished tradition that connects us to our founding story while calling us to respond with courage and compassion to the needs of today.

Thank you for the trust you place in us. Together, we will continue to ensure that Kilbreda remains a place where every student is known, valued and inspired to step into the future with courage and hope. Our story is still being written – and I am excited for what we will create together.

With gratitude and anticipation,

Stephanie Smyth

In our Thoughts and Prayers

We hold our Business Manager, Chris Shelly, and his family in our thoughts and prayers following the recent passing of his much-loved mother. We pray that Chris and his family may find comfort in the love and support of those around them, and strength in the treasured memories they hold dear. May his mother rest in the gentle peace of God’s eternal embrace.

Prayer

Loving God,
On this Feast of the Assumption, we give thanks for Mary – a woman of courage, compassion, and unwavering faith. May her example inspire us to live with open hearts, to say “yes” to Your call, and to carry Your light into the world.

We pray for our Kilbreda community, that we may continue to walk together in Strength and Kindliness, encouraging each person’s golden thread to shine brightly. May we be a place where hope is nurtured, gifts are celebrated, and no one walks alone.

We make this prayer through Christ our Lord.
Amen.

Stephanie Smyth

Principal