We are delighted by the energy and enthusiasm already evident across our community. A range of events and initiatives have been thoughtfully planned to ensure every student feels welcomed, supported and connected.

Our Year 7 students have embraced their transition into secondary school through interactive orientation activities and the much-loved Big Sister Little Sister program. These opportunities have helped them build confidence, develop friendships and feel a strong sense of belonging from the very beginning.

Valentine’s Day was a joyful celebration of kindness and community spirit at Kilbreda. At recess, our student leaders created a vibrant and welcoming atmosphere along the Colonnade, complete with ribbons, heartfelt messages and the uplifting sounds of iconic girl-power anthems playing in the background.

Their energy and thoughtfulness brought a wonderful sense of fun and inclusivity to the day. The care and enthusiasm they displayed beautifully reflected the strong culture of compassion, connection and belonging that defines our Kilbreda community.

Safer Internet Day

Last week we acknowledged Safer Internet Day, with a specific focus on the growing impact of Artificial Intelligence and the rise of AI-generated “deepfakes.” As part of the day, our student leaders developed an interactive Google survey quiz that challenged students to identify whether a series of images and videos were real or created using AI.

The activity prompted thoughtful discussion about how advanced AI technology has become and highlighted the importance of critical thinking, discernment and responsible decision-making in digital spaces.

Students also viewed a compilation of TikTok clips designed to test their knowledge and prompt reflection on how easily digital content can be manipulated. These activities encouraged students to question what they see online, think carefully before sharing content and understand the ethical and safety implications of emerging technologies.

Building digital literacy is a key priority as we equip our young people to navigate an increasingly complex online world with discernment, responsibility and confidence.

Attendance and Engagement

Each day at Kilbreda College is an opportunity – to learn, to grow in faith, to strengthen friendships and to build a bright future. Regular attendance and active participation in school life, including masses, liturgies, assemblies, House events and year level activities, are integral to a student’s growth.

By ensuring your daughter attends consistently and engages fully in both the academic and spiritual life of the College, you are partnering with us in nurturing not only her achievement, but also her sense of connection, belonging and spirituality within our Catholic community.

We look forward to a year filled with learning, growth and shared experiences as we continue to strengthen the vibrant spirit of Kilbreda.

Supporting Families in the Online Space

We encourage families to access trusted resources to support conversations at home:

• Beacon, developed by Kids Research Institute Australia, is a cyber safety app for parents and carers of primary and secondary aged children. It provides up-to-date, tailored information to empower families and help ensure young people grow up safe online. https://beacon.thekids.org.au/
• The eSafety Commissioner website offers practical advice on cyberbullying, reporting unsafe online behaviour, and strategies for families and young people to build safe online habits. https://www.esafety.gov.au/key-topics

Working together, we can help our students develop the skills to engage positively and safely in digital environments.

SchoolTV- Embracing Change and New Beginnings instead of School Transitions

It’s never been more challenging for parents to raise happy, healthy, and resilient children. The SchoolTV platform provides schools with an extensive range of wellbeing resources for parents, so they can work together in partnership to ensure better wellbeing for all students.

Whether it is starting school for the first time, moving up to a new year level or embarking on a journey through secondary school, there is no doubt that any school transition is a very exciting time for young people and parents. It means your young people are growing up!

However, transitioning is an ongoing process. It can continue long after students have entered their new environment and they may encounter difficulties at several different stages. These stressors may appear as anxiety and frustration and result in negative or disruptive behaviours. Such behaviours can become problematic making the transitioning process even more difficult for children and parents.

In this edition of SchoolTV, parents will learn practical strategies to assist your child during the transition process and reduce stress and anxiety levels.

Special report: Embracing Change and New Beginnings

Leah Cristiano

Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement