Kimberley College Newsletter - Term 4 2024

Principal's Update

Dear Parents and Carers,

With the conclusion of this term, we will see the end of what has been a great 2024 for Kimberley College. Both our students and staff continue to flourish and the college has continued to make positive strides forward. 

Tonight is Springtime Sounds, our annual Instrumental Music Showcase. Each year I am impressed with our students and their musical abilities, and I eagerly await tonight's performance at 5.30pm.  We are also celebrating the many sporting achievements of our students throughout the year at our annual Sports Awards event next week. 

Further to my earlier communication in August regarding the College relocation plans, we reached another milestone over the holidays as the College successfully acquired the neighbouring land across the road. 

Year 12 students will shortly undertake the final external exams in week four followed by the excitement and celebrations at the culmination of 12 years of schooling. I wish these graduating students all the very best with their future endeavours, whether it be further studies, employment, travel or the myriad of possibilities as young adults. I hope they will look back on their schooling years at Kimberley College with fond memories and a network of strong and supportive friendships as they join a very special group of College Alumni. 

We also celebrate a year of learning with primary and middle school events. Year 9 Students will depart for their Rites of Passage (ROP) camps to YarraKoora in northern NSW followed by the capstone event for this program with the returning ceremony and I strongly encourage as many parents, carers and family to join us at these celebratory events. 

Mr. Glenn Johnson
Principal
principal@kimberley.college 

Deputy Principal's Update

A time of reflection & growth  

Term 4 is underpinned by transition – a time of change. A time to reflect on the year to date and look forward to the next stage. A time of opportunity to assess the recurring patterns in our lives and make necessary adjustments to build on the good and reduce the bad.

School transitions 
In our senior school, Year 12s are preparing for their upcoming exams, looking forward to the rituals encompassed in their three final days and then onto their future pathways. Year 11s are stepping into the role of leaders and role models for the whole school community as responsibilities and expectations are elevated. Year 10s commence their Unit 1 QCAA courses with increasing demands on them.

Within the middle school, our Year 9 students are preparing for their transition into senior. Year 8s are considering the changes to their academic and pastoral programs for next year and the Year 7s are exploring what it means to step up as supports for the incoming new Year 7 cohort.

Within our primary school, our year 6 students are preparing for their transition into middle school. Students throughout our primary are preparing to step up into the next year level, many will involve moving to a new physical classroom with changes to teachers and other students.

Contextual supports 
Across the College, teachers are working with students to help set them up for success with their respective transitions. In conjunction with this, we have programs in place to support students. 

In our senior Social & Emotional Learning program, Year 10s have been supported with the SET planning process and coached in their future goals/plans to ensure that subject choices align to their strengths, interests and future pathways.

Our Year 9 students have been participating in a Rites of Passage program throughout the year, providing them with time and space outside of the routine/structure of school to reflect upon who they are, their sense of identity, and who they want to become. In Weeks 2 and 3 of this term, they will participate in a Rites of Passage camp. Upon returning to the College (on Friday 11 October for Barada and Jagera students and Friday 18 October for Lama and Maikulan), they will participate in a Return Ceremony in the presence of their parents and families. This will provide an optimal environment to acknowledge students’ individual strengths/gifts, hear about the changes that students want to make for the good, and celebrate and support their transition from child to health young adult.

Our Year 5 & 6 students will participate in a weekly peer mentoring program throughout Term 4 to support and prepare them for their respective transitions. Year 8 students – who have now been trained as peer mentors – will run a fantastic program with them, as well as build connections with the students throughout the term.

Reflection & growth 
With contextual supports in place at school and home, Term 4 ought to provide a wealth of opportunity for students to reflect on themselves and where they are in their life journey. I challenge students to consider what aspects of themselves they would like to stop/reduce (for example, procrastination, picking on siblings, not helping parents with chores, gossiping, etc) and what aspects they would like to build/strengthen to experience personal growth (for example, expressing gratitude, engaging in active listening, improving study habits, etc).

Have a wonderful Term 4! 
Ms. Janine Parkinson
Deputy Principal

Primary School Update

Welcome to Term Four! What an exciting term we have planned in the Primary School. We are all very excited for the action-packed time ahead.

This term in Kokomini, the students will explore the theme 'What Lies Beneath.' They have already started their pirate adventures. Captain Blackbottom left a special gift on the first day of term, his best friend, Sailor Sid, for them to look after. The students look forward to receiving another letter or visit from Captain Blackbottom soon.

Kokowara is looking at the theme, 'From Little Things, Big Things Grow.' They will explore Earth Science as they grow their own plants and use measurement and observation skills to track their growth. They will also learn more about what plants need to thrive, the water cycle, and how people contribute to caring for the natural environment. In English, they will participate in a novel study by reading the book 'Charlie and the Chocolate Factory.' During the study, they will compare characters from the book and learn how language features paint a picture in the reader's mind.

The theme in Waka Waka this term is 'A Little Bit of Show Biz.' The Waka students will dazzle and shine as they explore various performance techniques. They will participate in circus skills, puppetry, drama games, and mime workshops to create a performance for our 'Waka has Talent' Extravaganza.

'Let’s Break it Down' is the Gubbi Gubbi theme for Term Four. Throughout the term, Gubbi Gubbi will explore the idea of WAFFO (Warm Form). Students will learn to identify and understand positive behaviours, known as WAFFO behaviours, in themselves and their peers. By engaging in discussions, reflective activities, and group tasks, students will learn to recognise actions that are supportive, kind, and constructive. The term aims to foster a deeper awareness of how WAFFO behaviours contribute to creating a positive environment at Kimberley College and in Gubbi Gubbi while encouraging thoughtful interactions and building strong relationships among peers.  

Primary Assembly  
We will have our Primary School assemblies for Term Four every even week starting from Week Three, Friday, 18th November. Assemblies start at 8:45 a.m. Everybody is welcome!

Ms. Kristy Damen
Primary School Coordinator 

Middle School Update

This term, our Year 9 students Rites of Passage (ROP) program will culminate with some very special camps at  YarraKoora, approximately 10 minutes from Mullumbimby in Northern NSW. This will be followed by a return ceremony and we hope as many parents / caregivers and families as possible will be able to join us for this celebration and BBQ.  

If you haven't watched the short introductory video from Dr. Arne Rubinstein OAM and CEO of The Rites of Passage Institute, who collaborated with the College to develop our bespoke Year 9 Rites of Passage program, I would urge you to better understand the program. 

Dr Arne Video

The students will be delving into Australia’s rich and diverse past with "The Good Ole Days", the theme for this term.  Through an engaging exploration of food, fashion, and art, they will uncover the layers of history that have shaped the nation. From the vibrant traditions of Indigenous cultures, which date back thousands of years, to the dynamic influences of multicultural Australia, students will gain a deeper understanding of how these elements intertwine to create a unique national identity.

Year 9 Rites of Passage Camps
Please ensure that you have accepted the camp invitation on Parent Lounge and updated any medical or dietary requirements prior to your child’s upcoming camp. It is crucial for us to have the most current information to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for all students. Please refer to previous correspondence for all camp details including what to pack list. 

November 28 -  we invite you to join us in celebrating all Middle School students' social and academic achievements. This event will highlight our students' hard work, creativity, and dedication. An invitation with further details will be sent home soon, so please keep an eye out for it. We encourage all families to attend and support our students. This is an excellent opportunity to recognise individual accomplishments and foster a sense of community and pride within our Middle School.

Reminder that the uniform and grooming policy that must be adhered to throughout the term including the  Middle School Celebration. It is important to ensure that your child has the full formal uniform to wear so they can cross the stage to be acknowledged on the evening.

Mrs. Margherite Rigden
Middle School Coordinator  

Senior School Update

Term 4 has certainly come around quickly. This term is really all about our Year 12 students, who are entering their last term of schooling. External exams begin in week 4, so we wish all of our students studying general subject all the best for their upcoming exams. I would like to remind parents/carers that if you have any questions or concerns about the upcoming external exams, please do not hesitate to reach out to Mr. McAlpine or myself. We also have our Sundowner event on the 10th October starting at 5pm, Senior School Awards/Graduation night on the 13th November, Year 12 formal on the 14th, then our annual Year 12 v Staff water fight on the 15th.

The school has recently made the decision to make some changes to our student leadership structure. We currently have a “Student Executive” in which there are no formal titles nor hierarchy of positions. We are pleased to announce that this year’s Year 11 students will be the first cohort at Kimberley College to apply for the positions of School Captain and Vice-Captain. Applications are open now and close next Friday, 11th October. Our Year 10 students will also be taking the next stage is their schooling journey in Week 3, when they officially their start Unit 1 (Year 11) work. 

Key dates for each Year level 

All Years:  10-12 students 
8 October – Sports Awards night 
13 November– Senior School Awards/Graduation night

By year level 

Year 10 
14 October – Unit 1 commences 
29 October – last day of 2024

Year 11 
29 November – last day of 2024

Year 12 
10 October – Sundowner picnic
21 October – External exams begin 
13 November – Graduation 
14 November – Formal 
15 November – last day and water fight

If you have questions or concerns, please contact your students Head of Faculty (HOF) or myself.

Mr. Jeff Scott
Dean of Students 

Year 12 students in General subjects will enter the external assessment (EA) phase in Week 4. During Week 3, those students will work on independent study at home in the General subjects that will have EA’s commencing on Monday 21 October. All Year 12 students are only required to attend school if they have an EA.

The students will then sit up to eleven EA’s in a three week and two day period with the mathematics and science subject assessments contributing 50% to the student’s exit scores and the other subjects 25%. Some would wish the students luck with their tests, but I know luck is only a necessity for the unprepared. Stay diligent Year 12 General subject students. Continue to prepare and practice. There are no short cuts to success. Eat well, enjoy some exercise, and get lots of sleep. I will be sending an email out to you at the start of Week 2 reminding you of the EA schedule and the equipment you must bring with you. I will also remind you that those students who are yet to show me their QTAC applications should do so in the next few weeks.

The Year 12 students who are not sitting the EA’s should be using their time in those weeks to be applying for places at TAFE, other higher learning institutions or employment, setting yourselves up for next year.

After the EA’s are completed in Week 7, the final week for Year 12 consists of the Senior Awards night & graduation ceremony of Wednesday 13 November (parent’s and carers - don’t forget to book your tickets), the senior formal at the Indooroopilly Golf Club on Thursday 14 November and a final day lunch and humiliating defeat in the annual Year 12 v teachers water fight on Friday.

Year 11 have already commenced their Unit 3 studies across all subjects. Not only does Unit 3 & 4 contribute to their QCE but Exit scores on senior statements are based purely on the Unit 3 & 4 results as are ATARs. NOW is the time to get serious about showing what you are capable of and about building options for yourself beyond school, whether that is university, a prime apprenticeship or that dream job. As I advised you in the auditorium recently, regret is a terrible thing, looking back over your shoulder at what might have been means you often miss what is right in front of you. You may not always be able to control outcomes, but you always have control over effort. Put in your best effort, and most likely the best possible outcomes follow.

The same applies to Year 10 who will be given their Unit 1 timetables next week and will commence their QCE studies as of Week 3. The work you do from that point on, your industry, attitude and commitment all count towards your QCE. It’s not hard, it just requires doing a little bit often, showing maturity, being organised and paying attention. The graph below shows the breakdown of a school day if you complete ½ hour of study for the 4 subjects you have had at school that day.

It assumes 10 hours sleep and 2 hours travel and, keep in mind, you do not have 4 subjects every day. It shows that you have twice as much free time (‘other’) than you will have spent studying.

Year 10, you are now beginning the journey that Year 12 is finishing. What options would you like to have on offer to you in two years’ time?

Mr. Chris McAlpine 
Director of Studies 

Vocation and Education Training

As we wrap up Term 3 and head into the final term of the year, I want to share some exciting updates for our Vocational Education and Training (VET) students. For those unfamiliar, VET provides students with practical, hands-on learning experiences that prepare them for various industries and careers. It offers real-world skills and qualifications, giving our students a head start in the workforce.

TAFE at School – 2025 Intake

We are thrilled to announce that 50 of our students have applied for TAFE at School programs, beginning in Term 1, 2025. This is an incredible opportunity for our students to gain valuable industry-specific training while completing their senior schooling. Some of the courses offered by South Brisbane TAFE include:

• Certificate II in Animal Studies
• Certificate II in Plumbing
• Certificate II in Electrotechnology
• Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care

Acceptance offers will start to come through in tern 4 and we’re excited to see the fantastic things you’ll accomplish!

Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement

The school is excited to announce that a group of enthusiastic students has enrolled in the Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement course, running right here at the school in Term 4. This course provides hands-on training in the collection, testing, and analysis of samples, skills essential for careers in industries like environmental science, mining, and food testing. Congratulations to these students for taking this first step towards a promising future. Upon completion, they will be well-prepared for entry-level roles as lab assistants, field technicians, or to pursue further qualifications in science-based careers.

Farewell and Welcome

It’s also a bittersweet time for the Hospitality Department. After 12 years as the heartbeat of our VET faculty, we say goodbye to Kim Cooper. Kim has been an integral part of Namatjira, and her passion for teaching and dedication to her students will be greatly missed. We wish her all the best in her next chapter.

At the same time, we warmly welcome Rosalie Sullivan, who will be joining us as our new Hospitality teacher. We’re excited to have her on board and look forward to the fresh energy and expertise she will bring to the role.

Looking forward to a productive and exciting Term 4!

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

The Arts

This term in Dance, our focus is on our dance auditions which will be held on Thursday 24^th October and Friday 25^th October in Week 4. Any student is welcome to attend and come along to participate. You will find all the audition information and application forms on our college website. If you have any questions please email dance@kimberley.college 

Instrumental music lessons begin this week. The college is excited to present our instrumental music showcase on Friday 4^th October. If your child is interested in taking vocal, piano, guitar, drum or strings lessons please contact music@kimberley.college 

Ms Elizabeth Wagenknecht 
Head of the Arts and Yunupingu Faculty 

On the Sports Field

Term 4 in Sport: A Time for Celebration!
Term 4 is all about celebrating our sporting achievements! In Week 1, students involved in the AGCC will gather on Thursday afternoon to celebrate the outstanding performers from the 2024 Season A and B.

In Week 2, we will host the Kimberley College Sports Awards Evening on Tuesday at Redland Bay Golf Club. This special event will showcase the incredible achievements of our students across a wide range of sports, and we look forward to honoring their dedication and success.

Throughout the term, students will also participate in training programs aimed at preparing them for the 2025 AGCC tournament.Congratulations to all of our talented athletes for their outstanding performances, resilience, enthusiasm, and achievements throughout 2024. Let’s keep the Kookaburra spirit strong!

Kimberley College Football Academy 
We are excited to finish the 2024 year off with some great opportunities and experiences for KCFA students. 
Week 2 we look forward to acknowledging some special KCFA awards during the sports award evening, such as "Primary School Rising Star", "Middle School Player of the Year", "Senior School Player of the Year", "Exceptional Achievement Award", "Most Improved" (for each year level), and "Team of the Year".

Week 3 sees Zahra Ahmed (U14 South Coast) and Willow Ramsay (U16 South Coast) competing in the Futsal State Championships, representing Kimberley College, which is held in Toowoomba over 4 days. Mr. Shepherd was selected to coach the U16 Girls South Coast Regional Futsal team. We wish them the best of luck. 

During week 4 the U14 boys and girls Futsal teams will compete in their last group gala day for the Schools Futsal League, before competing in the final's gala day in week 5. 

Week 7 we have our U12 boys and girls competing in the Queensland Schools Futsal tournament. 

And finally, during week 9, our Under 9, 10, 11, 12 students will be competing in the Brisbane South Primary School Cup. On Friday of week 9, students will have an end of year celebration lunch at school to acknowledge their extra commitments to developing in football and futsal this year. 

Ms Caitlin Seary 
Head of Sport and HPE 

A Word from Counselling….

Can you believe it's term 4 already! I don't know about you but I find myself questioning where has the year gone. Can you believe there are only 12 more weeks until Christmas! and yet there are still so many events, celebrations and things to do before most of us can even think about  Christmas. Maybe the very thought of this can feel overwhelming, if so, this article might be for you!! 

From a personal reflection over the past  few years I have been intentional about slowing down and taking the time to pause and reflect in what I know can be a very busy time of year. I have found working with students the past 7yrs in counselling to be a gift where I have felt  challenged to be a more present parent based on their vulnerability to share their stories. 

Over the years I have heard countless stories from students where they often express feeling lonely  and isolated, and for   many I get the sense their family home has become one of passing ships, with overwhelmed parents. I believe  the disconnect In the family home has become more prevalent for many families not only in our communities but across the globe. Yet as a parent I am acutely aware the increasing  pressures on parents to provide financially mentally, physically and emotionally  has become a constant uphill battle as many parents are struggling to make ends meet.  I have seen and heard first hand so many parents are often on the verge of burnout, while other parents long for things to be different but don't know where to start. And if you are reading this I want you to hear this! you matter and you are worth it! 

I'm sure you have heard the analogy of the oxygen mask on a plane where as parents in an emergency we need to administer the oxygen to ourselves first  before our kids and the same is true in life, We need to attend to ourselves so we can turn up for our kids. The saying goes we can't pour from an empty cup. How full is your cup? 

Today I want to encourage you, as you step forward  into Term 4 be intentional about prioritising you by asking yourself what do I need right now. Let's be honest, being a parent can be rewarding, challenging, heartbreaking and frustrating all in one day which is why I strongly believe in prioritising self-care so you are able to help navigate and handle all that comes our way as parents. Research shows claims; when parents are kind to themselves and take time to relax and recharge they have better mental health, physical health and overall wellbeing, which in turn helps them be more confident in their parenting, and have more positive interactions with their children. 

When you decide to show up for yourself and your family I believe you can change the whole atmosphere of your home and how beautiful that thought can be. The following article is a great article on self-care. If you are a parent that struggles to prioritise self-care I encourage you to read the article. Separately I want you to know my door is always open if you are struggling in the area of parenting and would like a chat.
Until next time 

Clare Carmona 
School Counsellor

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