Kimberley College Newsletter - Term 3 2024

Principal's Update

Dear Parents and carers,

This term, the biennial College musical, Annie takes to the stage to entertain and delight audiences. This family friendly musical is the culmination of many months of work commencing in late 2023 with the initial audition process for lead roles. Our students have been working extremely hard learning lines, songs and dance routines and I hope you will join with me in supporting their commitment and dedication by attending one of the three shows on either 26 or 27 July. I personally cannot wait to see our students shine on stage and bring 'Annie' to life.  I would like to thank and acknowledge Ms. Bunker and Ms. Larkin for once again leading the production and providing our students with the opportunity to participate in a show of this nature, as I know it is often the highlight for many students during their schooling years. 

This term also sees Opti-MINDS Creative Sustainability Challenge for our middle school students. This competition sees our students collaborate in small teams on various tasks to find the best solutions to a particular problem. Some of these tasks are worked on leading up to the event over several weeks and others are more impromptu challenges on the day, all within set parameters. The College has a long tradition of competing in this statewide competition for more than 20 years and provides our students with the perfect opportunity to put into practice a whole host of skills including creative problem solving, explore and experiment with ideas, communications skills and innovative thinking, all very necessary skills as we move forward into the workplace of tomorrow. Not to mention, the day is a lot of fun as well! 

This term, the college is pleased to welcome our new school counsellor, Clare Carmona. Clare has worked as a school counsellor in the independent school section for over seven years and has a passion to work with young people, adolescents, and families. Clare will commence full time in the role from week three. 

Along with our Dance Showcase, Art Exhibition and the second season of interschool sport this term, our year 12 graduating class will start mock exams before the term is finished and I encourage these students to take the time to prepare and ensure a balanced approach to studies, health and wellbeing, and commitments with family and friends.  

Mr. Glenn Johnson
Principal
principal@kimberley.college 

'Annie' tickets are on sale now!

Leapin' lizards! Our production of 'Annie' is almost upon us! Costumes are being finalised, sets have arrived, props have been collected, and our wonderful cast are polishing their performances. Our biennial musical production is set to take to the stage in just two weeks time! 

Our talented cast have dedicated countless hours to rehearsing their roles this year, and they are eager to showcase their hard work and creativity for audiences in July. Please join us in celebrating our hardworking and talented cast and crew as they bring this timeless story to the stage.

Three shows only 
Friday July 26 at 6.30pm 
Saturday 27 July at 2.00pm (matinee)
Saturday 27 July at 6.30pm

Venue: SunPAC, 470 McCullough St, Sunnybank

Tickets can be purchased direct from the SunPac website or via the following link:
We look forward to seeing you there!

This family friendly show is set in 1930s New York City, 'Annie' is a timeless show about a young orphan on her journey to find love, acceptance, and family.  It is a beloved family-friendly musical which highlights the value of community, the strength found in optimism, and the beauty of childlike wonder.

Year 9 Rites of Passage Program

Enrolled into the College’s inaugural Rites of Passage Program at the start of this year, our Year 9 students are now fully immersed in the weekly experiences, activities, discussions and reflective work with their Rites of Passage Mentors. Each term is underpinned by a particular theme which supports students in their transition from child to a healthy adult who can flourish in all aspects of their being.

The Rites of Passage Program encompasses:

• Term One: Story, Self & Building Community
• Term Two: Relationships
• Term Three: Challenge/Camp
• Term Four: Vision, Purpose & Community

We have an exciting term ahead as students take on a wide range of challenges to test themselves, develop and demonstrate courage and resilience, and strengthen their connection with self, others and their environment.  This will culminate in an incredible Rites of Passage camp early in Term Four in Northern NSW. 

Building a community around young people is critical to supporting their journey into adulthood. It is important for the community – teachers, parents/carers, friends and wider family - to come together to honour the strengths of each Year 9 student in their journey.  As such, we will be hosting a very special honouring ceremony in Term Four (post camp) with parents and carers to be invited in due course  to participate. 

Let’s continue to work together to best support our young people.

Ms. Janine Parkinson
Deputy Principal

Parents & Friends News (P&F)

The annual Father’s Day stall will be back this year on Thursday 29th August! We are very excited for the prezzies we have found and are ready to help your little shoppers spoil you on your special day. Be sure to look out for more information and possibly a sneak peak at the prezzies via our Facebook page.  We are always happy to have an extra pair of helping hands on the day – if you’re interested, please send us an email at pandf@kimberley.college 

We also wish to share a huge THANK YOU to everyone who supported us at our annual Trivia Night - Battle of the Supernerds and our Mother’s Day stall. We couldn’t do what we do without the support of the KC community.  
https://www.facebook.com/KCParentsandFriends

Christine Roberts
P & F President 
pandf@kimberley.college 

Looking for Volunteers to be Opti-MINDS Judges
This term, our Middle School students are participating in the
Opti-MINDS Sustainability Challenge. Opti-MINDS allows schools and members of the community to participate in open-ended, creative problem-solving events, with exciting challenges that require experimentation and reward sustainable practice and divergent thinking.

We are looking for volunteers to be judges on the day. Judges do need to be over the age of 18, however, no experience is required. As a judge, you will be in groups of three with other staff members, parents, community members to watch and judge the Opti-MINDS performances. 

When: Saturday 24^th August 
Where: Trinity College Beenleigh

If you are interested, please contact Ms Pirlo via email: melissa.pirlo@kimberley.college

Primary School Update

Welcome back to Term Three! In the primary school, we have hit the ground running, introducing the students to their new themes for the term.  Over the past week, the students have been immersed in their themes through a variety of fun and hands-on learning experiences.

Kokomini: 'Once Upon a Time' 
This term, Kokomini is set to explore the theme 'Once Upon a Time,' delving into various classic fairy tales. Through reading and writing activities, students will uncover the characteristics of fairy tales and culminate their understanding by showcasing a class play to friends and families. The students will surely have a wonderful time developing their confidence and performance skills. We can't wait!

Kokowara: 'X Marks the Spot' 
In Kokowara, students will explore the theme 'X Marks the Spot'! Through connecting with Aboriginal Dreaming Stories, they will learn more about special places across Australia and share their ideas about places that are important to them. The students will collect data in Maths to record where they live in our local area and practise using directional language to successfully read and create maps. In English, they will read popular dreaming stories and other familiar texts by Australian authors, like 'Koala Lou' or 'Edward the Emu.' These books will help them learn more about how language and imagery are used to entertain the reader and tell a story. The students will finish the term by dramatising their favourite dreaming story in small groups and writing their own ending to the Aussie favourite 'Wombat Stew.'

Waka Waka: 'Totally Rubbish' 
In Waka Waka this term, our unit ‘Totally Rubbish’ focuses on fostering an understanding of sustainability through the exploration of environmental issues and the promotion of responsible actions. Students will participate in hands-on activities and investigations to learn about the impact of waste on the environment, the importance of recycling, and sustainable practices. Throughout the term, students will delve into various environmental issues related to waste and its effects on the environment and wildlife. They will explore the types of waste we produce and where it ends up. As part of their studies, students will examine the history of recycling, including the process of making paper, and create different artworks from recycled materials. In addition, students will investigate food wastage by reflecting on their own lunches and the packaging they use. We will also explore where our food comes from with a trip to the EKKA to explore sustainable farming practices and agricultural waste management. At the end of the term, students will share their deeper understanding by producing a Waka magazine to share with the school community.

Gubbi Gubbi: 'A Whole New World’ 
This term in Gubbi Gubbi, students are exploring 'Whole New Worlds' through our dynamic and enriching theme. This unit fosters creativity, teamwork, and critical thinking skills. As a multicultural nation, Australia boasts a rich tapestry of stories from immigrants who have come here seeking a new start. In our English and HASS classes, students will delve into the life of famous Australian author Anh Do and his experiences fleeing Vietnam. They will review his book, 'The Littlest Refugee' as their final task. In Mathematics, students will explore area, perimeter, and measurement concepts while tapping into their engineering skills to design and construct a new city for Queensland. As young scientists, they will investigate the power of electricity and learn how to create circuits to power homes in their newly built city. In Theme, students will hone their social skills by participating in OPTI minds. This experience involves forming groups to respond to a social challenge by adapting it into a short play. We will showcase these amazing productions at the end of the term at our biannual Gubbi Picnic and Play.

Important Dates 
We have a few dates for the calendar coming up in the primary school this term, including:

• National Pajama Day: Friday, 19^th July
• Parent Teacher Interviews: Week Four
• Book Week: Monday 19^th – Friday 23^rd August, including Dress Up Day on Thursday 22nd August
• Scholastic Book Fair: Tuesday 27 August – Tuesday 3^rd September
• Father’s Day BBQ Breakfast & Stall: Thursday 29^th August

You will receive additional information regarding these events as they approach.

Primary Assemblies 
In the primary school, we hold our Primary assemblies fortnightly. This term, they will be held every odd week, starting in Week Three on Friday 26th July at 9.00 am in the Koko Green area. We look forward to seeing you there.  Week Seven (Thursday 22 August) will be a special Book Week assembly where students can dress up as their favourite book characters. 

Ms. Kristy Damen
Primary School Coordinator 

Middle School Update

This term, our students will explore the theme of “Journey”. Journeys are integral to personal growth, cultural exchange, and human development. They encompass physical voyages, emotional explorations, and intellectual pursuits, each offering unique opportunities for learning and discovery.

Through journeys, individuals expand their perspectives, confront challenges, and forge meaningful connections with others and the world around them. They serve as catalysts for transformation, fostering resilience, empathy, and a deeper understanding of oneself and society. Ultimately, journeys are not just about reaching destinations but about the profound experiences and insights gained along the way. 

OPTI Minds
The Opti-MINDS Creative Sustainability Challenge is an inclusive team challenge that empowers participants to think, create, and communicate. It is a creative problem-solving event for teams of participants in areas such as English, Humanities, Media Communications and Science and Engineering. The competition takes place on Saturday 24 August. Students who choose to participate must be present on this day. Otherwise, teams will be forced to forfeit if they do not have an entire team present. So please double check the date and pop it on your calendar if your child would like to participate.

PE – mouthguards 
This term, the students will be taking to the field and learning the art of Lacrosse. To participate in PE lessons and games, students will be required to wear a mouthguard. These can be purchased from Chemist Warehouse for approximately 12 dollars. 

As students prepare for school, it’s a good time to double-check uniforms and grooming and stationery supplies. Please ensure students have individual books for subjects, not a five subject book plus any extra equipment they might need.

School locker is now open and stocked with KC-appropriate jumpers or jackets. Therefore, hoodies and non-school jumpers will not be accepted. Additionally, we have noticed new hair trends coming in through our school gates. Please remember that extreme hairstyles are not in line with our uniform and grooming policy. Furthermore, skate shoes like Vans, Converse, or Sambas are not part of the sports uniform. They do not provide stable support for ankles during PE lessons. Students should wear predominantly black or white sneakers.

For students in Dance or KCFA, please do not wear your uniforms or any part of them to school, with the exception of students who had dance or KCFA in the last session. Those students may keep wearing their dance and KCFA uniforms. However, dancers need to have a shirt or jumper to put over their dance singlet when leaving the school grounds.

Electives
This term electives will commence in week two and run for eight weeks, with week nine being our final electives session. Students have made their selection, so please discuss what they have chosen, as some electives incur an extra cost. There are a few changes to what is offered for term three:

Photography                                                                                        Film Study
Laser Tag– extra cost $25 per week                                          Beekeeping – extra cost $10 per week
StemPunks                                                                                            Dance performance
Musical                                                                                                   Golf – extra cost $15 per week
Premier Sport:  Netball / Basketball / Touch/Oztag / Football

Ms Margherite Ridgen
Middle School Coordinator 

Senior School Update

There is so much happening in the senior school this term.  Already, students have had the privilege of hearing from Paul Dillon, a world-renowned expert in the area of youth, drugs and alcohol.  Paul has some great resources on his website DARTA | Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia, if you would like to access these for your own reference.  We have numerous cultural events this term, the highlight of which is our College musical “Annie” and we wish all the cast and support crew all the best.  We also have our Eisteddfod teams competing, our Celebration of the Arts assembly, Dance Showcase and Art Exhibition.

Each grade in the senior school has a clear focus for SEL programs this term. 

• Year 10 will be focusing on developing their SET plans and selecting their subject, ready to start Year 11, Unit 1 work in week 3, term 4. 
• Year 11’s will be focusing on student leadership, and starting the nomination process for becoming a school leader for 2025. 
• Year 12’s will be focusing on preparing for their final examination, either Essential subjects at the end of this term or General subject external examinations next term.  Key dates for each Year level are listed below.

Key Dates

Year 10 Specific Dates

• 16 July – Logan Careers Expo, followed up with Parent Information Evening regarding subject selection from 6-7pm
• 6 August – Immunization round 2
• 16 August – Yr 11 subject selection due
• 19-22 August – Student led conferences regarding SET Plan/subject selections

Year 11 Specific Dates

• Week 9/10 – Mock Exam block.  During this time, no classes will be running.  Students will only be required to on campus for scheduled exams.  A study room will be provided for student who will be on campus, but not have scheduled exams.

Year 12 Specific Dates

• Week 6 – Ski Trip
• 21 August – Year 12 Photo
• 27 August – Final Year 12 Assembly
• Week 9/10 – Mock Exam block.  During this time, no classes will be running.  Students will only be required to on campus for scheduled exams.  A study room will be provided for student who will be on campus, but not have scheduled exams.

If you have questions or concerns, please contact your students HOF or myself.

Mr. Jeff Scott
Dean of Students

Vocation and Education Training

This term, will see year 10  attend the IGNITE Youth Careers Expo on Tuesday 16 July at the Logan Entertainment Centre.

This event will help students explore future job opportunities and work out their study pathways for Senior Schooling. Students will explore different professions and gain further information on study options, apprenticeships, job opportunities and more that will help to define and achieve their goals. 
Reminder please: Formal Uniform is compulsory.  

Mr. Terry Elliott 
Head of VET and Namatjira 
terry.elliott@kimberley.college 

Applications for Tafe at School courses in 2025 open  Monday, the 15th of July.

• Who is eligible: Current Year 10 and Year 11 students.

Tafe at School course guide:
https://issuu.com/tafebrisbane/docs/tafe_at_school_guide_2025_greater_brisbane_issuu

The application portal: TAFE Application - Pathways (tafeapply.com)

• Please note that the application code is different to the course code.
  The application code to enter the portal will be either TQB2501 or TQST2501 (trade based). This information is on page 102 of the Tafe at school course guide. 
  
  
• Students will also be required to have a Unique Student Identifier number (USI).Students can create this number through the following site:
  Home page | Unique Student Identifier (usi.gov.au)
  
  
• The application will also ask for a LUI number. This is a number issued to each student by the QCAA. Please email me if you require this number and I will email you back with the LUI number.  

Questions: Email Mr. Elliott 

The Arts

The arts precinct is buzzing with excitement this term as we have several key events taking place. Kicking off in week 3, we have our college musical production of Annie. Tickets for this are now live and can be purchased through the ticketing link for Sunnybank Performing Arts Centre.

Our dance teams will take to the stage to compete in QUOTA eisteddfod in week four. We wish them the best of luck. All of our dancers in the program will be performing in our Dance Showcase on Friday the 30th August at Logan Entertainment Centre. Keep your eyes peeled for information about tickets in the coming weeks.

On Thursday of week 9 (5 September) we have our Art Exhibition held onsite in the dance studio. This is the perfect opportunity to come and view the artwork of our hardworking students. Week 10 our senior drama students will perform their own production of KC Goes Wrong. More information about dates and tickets will be available in the coming weeks. We look forward to a fun filled term!

Ms Elizabeth Wagenknecht 
Head of the Arts and Yunupingu Faculty 

On the Sports Field

A number of exciting sports events will take place across Term Three.

Pacific District Athletics trials will be held at QSAC on July 31^st and August 1^st.   
We would like to wish all our athletes the best of luck for their events on the day.

The AGCC tournament kicks off on Thursday of Week 2. We wish the best to our basketball, futsal, netball, oz-tag and touch football teams as they head into the 7-week competition.

KCFA News 
Term 3 sees KCFA high school students continue to enter the competitions phase after a busy Term 2.  The U14 girls Always Veto Knockout Cup Futsal team continue their campaign as we await details for their Grand Final conference match to be played during Term 3. 
Our Senior girls team compete in the AFA, Queensland Champion of Champions Futsal in week 1. We wish them the best of luck.  

Our U14 boys and girls will compete in the Schools Futsal League (SFL) which is run by Football Queensland. They will compete over the next 2 terms in 3 gala days in the Southern Conference and compete in a finals day against all other conferences depending on how they finish on the results table. 

Year 8 Maikulan and KCFA student, Zahra Ahmed competed in the Football Australia, National Youth Championships over 5 days in Melbourne during the holidays. Zahra's U15 Queensland Maroon team made it to the Grand Final as Zahra scored Queensland's only goal during normal time. Unfortunately, her team lost on penalties finishing up runners up for the tournament. Well done on this extraordinary achievement and we hope you took a lot from that special experience. We look forward to a busy term full of football, futsal and fun!

Ms Caitlin Seary 
Head of Sport and HPE

A Word from Counselling….

A big hello from counselling. I am so excited to have joined the Kimberely College community where already I have felt so welcomed. I have a heart for young people, adolescents and of course families, where I look forward to supporting our community in practical and tangible ways.   

Over the many years, I have seen firsthand that being a kid or teenager can be a whirlwind of mixed emotions. Their days might range from super exciting, super challenging and or just play old meh! Then there are times in our kids lives where the challenging days seem to be never ending where our kids feel a sense of hopelessness and feel like they have no joy in their lives.

 When our kids are struggling it usually impacts us and our family home as well. As parents we can feel a sense of hopelessness ourselves where we naturally want to jump in and rescue our kids and solve all their problems. One of the best things we can do for our kids (although not easy) is to remain regulated, have open arms and be a safe harbour for our kids to lean into us remembering - Connection is always key!

In the article below Dr Justin Coulson from Happy Families shares some useful tips for supporting our kids when life isn’t so great for them.  

Clare Carmona 
School Counsellor

Useful Parent links

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