As Buzz Lightyear famously said, “To infinity and beyond!” And so it is for our Year 12 cohort as they finish their formal classes and prepare for the next chapter of their lives.

On Friday morning, we gathered for breakfast to celebrate their achievements and thank those who had supported them throughout their educational journey. It was wonderful to see the array of costumes as students dressed to represent their chosen careers, with some revisiting what they had dreamed of becoming back in kindergarten!

Our formal Assembly on Thursday provided an opportunity to acknowledge the contributions of the Year 12 cohort. We celebrated those who went above and beyond to create a sense of wonder and connection within the year level, alongside the academic achievements gained across their classes. As always, the farewell speeches from our outgoing Captains were a highlight. They spoke with warmth and passion about their time at Kilbreda and reflected on the strong sense of connection that has developed within the group.

On Wednesday evening, we will gather with parents and families to give thanks for the support received throughout thirteen years of schooling. We are fortunate to have Father Peter Matheson celebrating the Mass with us. His passion for the Kilbreda values makes this a fitting occasion to reflect on the journey our students have taken and the people who have helped them along the way.

I would also like to thank the students who have shared the senior school journey with me over the past two years. Through it all, they have supported one another, celebrated successes and built friendships and memories that will stay with them long after they leave. Thank you for the laughter, the conversations and the many good times we have shared. It has been a privilege to be part of your senior school experience, and I wish you every happiness as you move forward.

To those entering the workforce, TAFE or university, I hope the opportunities ahead are exciting and rewarding. For those preparing for exams, I wish you the very best of luck. When studying feels overwhelming, keep going. The finish line is in sight, and all those hours of effort will soon be behind you.

And for those who are still unsure about what next year holds, remember that you do not need to have everything worked out just yet. There is no single path to success, and sometimes the best opportunities come from trying something unexpected. Be open to new experiences, trust yourself and give yourself time to discover what you enjoy and where your strengths lie.

As you prepare to leave Kilbreda, take with you the friendships, experiences and values that have shaped your time here. Be brave, be kind and embrace the opportunities that come your way.

Year 12, as you close this chapter and begin the next; may the years ahead bring you happiness, purpose and plenty of adventures. I look forward to seeing all that you achieve.

Sue Dempster

Level Leader: Year 12