From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
Yesterday, I had the pleasure of welcoming 25 French students and their teachers from our sister school St Alyre in Clermont-Ferrand, a beautiful town in the middle of France. We were welcoming back old friends, as last year myself along with three teachers and 23 students visited St Alyre. Our French friends will experience Australian hospitality and culture over the next two weeks as they stay with their Kardinia families.
Earlier in the day yesterday I also had the pleasure of visiting a Level A French class where our newest francophones were commencing their French studies. Hopefully, many of them will love learning the language as much as our French exchange students have and will have the opportunity for a similar experience when they are in Year 10 or 11. In the class, their teacher asked a question about why it is important to learn another language. There were some great responses from the students including appreciating what it is like for someone who does not speak English, being able to travel, opening up your understanding of different parts of the world, being able to make new friends.
Last week I shared about the work we have been undertaking to develop The KIC Way and defining more explicitly our KIC values. One of the values articulated in The KIC Way is Global Hearts, Local Hands, which recognises that we shape globally minded citizens who also act locally. We look beyond borders, value different perspectives and learn from diverse cultures and experiences. At the same time, we never lose sight of our local responsibilities – staying deeply connected and active in the communities we serve because building a brighter future starts with how we care for each other today.
I believe that programs such our sister school exchanges along with Chiang Mai, Timor Leste, our International and Social Justice Committees are just some of the ways that we support our students to live out that value of Global Hearts, Local Hands.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
We’ve had all of our Senior School students engaged in classes this week, with our Year 7s getting into the academic program after their introduction to Senior School and Kardinia last week.
Congratulations to Ruby (Year 11), who won the Lions Club of Hamlyn Heights’ Youth of the Year competition on Tuesday evening. She now qualifies to go on to the Regional Final later next month.
We have been thrilled to welcome a group of French students from Saint Alyre in Clermont-Ferrand, who are with us for two weeks. A group of our senior French students visited Clermont-Ferrand last year, staying with the families of these students and attending school at Saint Alyre. It has been fabulous to see the connections between these students renewed.
Planning for the Brighter Futures Festival on 3 March continues, and more detailed information will be sent to families via an Edsmart later this week. We are really excited about this event and are thrilled to have families on site in person, seeing more of the College and learning about our very many offerings.
Finally, a reminder that we have two of our compulsory Senior School events coming up in the next two weeks, with our Prefect and Colours Investiture on Friday 20 February, and our Senior School House Swimming Carnival on Monday 23 February. All students are expected to attend both of these events, to support their peers, recognise and celebrate achievement, and to actively contribute to the shared House and Senior School culture that underpins our sense of belonging, pride and community.
From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou
Last week we were delighted to welcome families across two Junior School Parent Information Evenings, with our Year 5 information session held at The Grove and K3 to Year 6 sessions hosted at our main campus. These evenings provided a valuable opportunity to reconnect, share our priorities for the year ahead, and strengthen the partnership between home and school. It was a pleasure to see so many parents engage with staff and spend time learning more about classroom routines, wellbeing practices and the broader life of the Junior School.
The evenings reinforced what makes our community so strong: shared values, respectful relationships, and a collective commitment to supporting every child’s growth. The conversations that followed, in classrooms, the Inquiry Centre and informal spaces, highlighted the importance of connection and the powerful role families play in shaping a positive school culture.
A particularly powerful moment from the evenings (one that a number of parents later approached me to comment on) was the sharing of ten pieces of advice from our students to their parents. To gather these insights, I spent time speaking directly with students across the Junior School, asking them a simple question: What advice would you give to your parents? I then followed up with why? why that mattered to them, and how it made them feel. It was in these conversations that the depth of student thinking became clear. The advice shared was as follows:
- It’s okay if I make mistakes. I’m still learning how to be me.
- Please believe me when I say I’m sad or worried. Even little things can feel big to me.
- Will you play with me sometimes? I don’t care what we do.
- Please don’t compare me to other kids. I want to be good at being myself.
- If you make a mistake, you can say sorry. It helps me learn how to do it too.
- Cheer for me when I try, not just when I win.
- Please stay calm when I get things wrong. I learn better when I don’t feel scared.
- Tell me you love me lots. Even when I’m grumpy or messy or loud.
Several parents later asked whether this list had been created using AI. My response was simple: ask your children. These reflections show just how closely children watch and listen. They notice tone, presence and behaviour, and they are constantly learning from how we respond, how calm we remain, how often we listen, and how love is shown in everyday moments. Their insights remind us that children are not passive recipients in their development; they are thoughtful observers and active meaning-makers. When children feel seen, heard and valued, they are far more able to learn, take risks and grow with confidence- and that is a responsibility we proudly share as a community.
“Children may not remember what you said, but they will always remember how you made them feel.” — Carl W. Buehner
Becoming a parent representative is a meaningful way to support our KIC Connect group and help strengthen our school community. By contributing your time, ideas, and perspective, you play an essential role in fostering communication between families and the school, supporting events, and ensuring that the voices of parents are heard. Your involvement not only benefits the group but also helps create a welcoming and inclusive environment where all families feel connected and engaged. If you are interested in becoming a parent representative, please let either myself or Rachelle Gibson know. You can reach us at: m.chrisanthou@kardinia.vic.edu.au or r.gibson@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Welcoming Our New Overseas Students
This term, Kardinia International College is proud to welcome six new overseas students joining our school community from Cambodia, Laos, Hong Kong, and Macau, along with five students from Gotemba Nishi High School.
We are delighted to have these students as part of our diverse and vibrant learning community, and we wish them a confident and successful start to their new journey at Kardinia.
We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to our host families for their generosity, care, and commitment. By providing a safe, welcoming, and nurturing home environment, our host families play a vital role in supporting the wellbeing, adjustment, and success of our overseas students.
We look forward to seeing our new students grow, learn, and thrive, and to the rich cultural connections they bring to our school community.
Sporting Achievements
Maggie E (Year 7) was featured in the Geelong Advertiser yesterday as part of the Torquay Tigers Girls Cricket Team. Maggie is the league's leading batter for this season. The Torquay tigers are so far undefeated for the season, with their latest match score 143/3 - 71/6.
Congratulations Maggie!
Arts News
We are excited to share that five of our IB Art students from 2025 have been selected to exhibit their artworks at the 2026 Annual Victorian and Tasmanian IB Visual Arts Exhibition at the Glen Eira City Council Gallery from 12 Feb - 8 March. Selection of five of our students is a reflection of the high standard of our student work in 2025.
Congratulations to the following students from the Class of 2025: Charlton L, Alice R, Toby S, Sacha S, Genevieve B.
Genevieve also came second in the Geelong Printmakers Show late last year with her Kangaroo Drypoint Print. Congratulations Genevieve!
Congratulations to Design teacher, Dale Baker!
Senior school Design teacher and author–illustrator Dale Baker has just released two new children’s books: Calm Your Farm and I Love to Draw, published by Little Big Sky.
Calm Your Farm is a colourful, high‑energy story about big emotions, big personalities and finding calm again — perfect for young readers navigating their own busy worlds. I Love to Draw is a joyful celebration of creativity, imagination and the magic that begins with a simple sketch.
From upside‑down surprises to vibrant characters, Dale’s illustrations bring every page to life. We’re so proud to see one of our own inspiring young readers and artists across Australia.
Signed copies are now available from Torquay Books, The Book Bird, and Dymocks Waurn Ponds
Congratulations, Dale!
Library Services News
Year 7 Library Orientation: A Fun and Engaging Start!
Our Year 7 students recently embarked on an exciting introduction to the school library, setting them up for success in their reading and research journeys. They learned how to borrow both physical books and e-books, gaining valuable skills to support their studies.
A highlight of the session was the Scavenger Hunt Challenge, where students explored the library while earning an extra raffle ticket for our Big Prize Draw. Thanks to our generous suppliers (listed below), the draw featured fantastic prizes, including books, tech toys, and stationery.
To make them feel even more welcome, each student received a Welcome Pack filled with stationery and other goodies to help them settle into their new learning space.
We’re thrilled to see our newest students embracing the library and can’t wait to support them throughout the year!
Future Pathways and Education News
Year 7 Right Start Program - Future Pathways Workshops
As part of the Right Start Program, the Future Pathways Team delivered a dynamic and hands-on workshop designed to help our Year 7 students begin their secondary school journey with confidence, connection, and curiosity.
Students spent time getting to know their housemates, building new friendships and strengthening their sense of belonging within their house communities. They also reflected on their personal strengths, exploring what makes them unique and how these strengths can support them both in the classroom and beyond.
Throughout the session, students rotated through a series of creative and practical activities focused on key future-ready skills, including:
- Creative Thinking – approaching challenges with imagination and fresh ideas
- Problem Solving – working collaboratively to find solutions
- Builders and Doers – hands-on tasks encouraging experimentation and teamwork
- Innovation – designing, testing, and refining new concepts
The workshop also introduced students to Kardinia’s rich co-curricular program, giving them a taste of the many activities, clubs, and opportunities available throughout the year. Finally, students learned how and when they can access support from the Future Pathways Team, ensuring they know where to go for guidance as they grow, explore, and discover new interests during their time at the College.
It was a vibrant and engaging session that set the tone for an exciting year ahead!
Year 12 KIC Start Day - Create Your Future
On Wednesday 4 February our Year 12 students kicked off the year with an energising and insightful KIC Start event designed to spark motivation, build confidence, and deepen their understanding of the diverse pathways available to them beyond school. The day was run by the Future Pathways Team in collaboration with the Wellbeing Hub and English Department.
Students heard from two engaging guest speakers: Woon Ooi, who shared practical strategies on turning pressure into progress, and Tyson Day from Arrive and Thrive, who explored the rapidly evolving world of AI and how emerging technologies are reshaping industries, careers, and education.
The day continued with a wide range of elective workshops delivered by our valued tertiary partners, including Deakin University, RMIT, Monash University, ANU, and GForce, giving students the opportunity to explore areas of interest and discover new options for their future.
Our Future Pathways Team also ran informative sessions on gap years, ATARs, preference planning, scholarships, and opportunities for studying interstate or internationally, supporting students to make confident and informed decisions about their next steps.
A special thank you goes to Debbie Minto, who led a thoughtful and practical workshop on Stress and Reflections, equipping students with helpful tools for navigating their final year.
In the afternoon, students participated in targeted VCE and IB English workshops, rounding out a purposeful and inspiring day of learning.
All resources are available on KIC online under the Future Pathways Page. We encourage students and parents to also make use of our Study Work Grow hub Kardinia International College – Study Work Grow Education for a range of resources to support your child.
Future Pathways Appointments for Year 12
Year 12 students are encouraged to book a Future Pathways appointment this term to set goals and map out their direction beyond school. These meetings are a valuable chance to explore options, refine ideas, and receive personalised guidance.
Please make your appointment during a Study Period using the online booking system.
Wellbeing Hub News
School TV is a resource for schools created to educate parents and support families across all areas of mental health & wellbeing so that our young people are given every opportunity to not only succeed but thrive!
Every year, the media exposes us to the hype and pressure relating to the final year of secondary school. However, putting things into perspective for students and parents alike, can help prevent everyone getting overwhelmed. Although this final year is important, it will not be the most important year of your child’s life. It is crucial for parents to reinforce the mantra of ‘you are more than your ATAR’.
A student’s performance in final year is only a point in time measured by their ability to sit an exam. If the desired ATAR or NCEA score is not achieved at the end of the day, there are other options available to your child. It will not define their happiness. There will be many other pathways available to them to help them reach their goals.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
Parent Mingle Night – ‘Mingle at Mary’s’
Ready to connect, unwind, and enjoy an evening with the Kardinia parent community? Our first social event of 2026 is here, and we’re excited to welcome all K–12 Kardinia International College parents to the Parent Mingle Night.
Join us for a relaxed, friendly evening where you can meet new faces, reconnect with familiar ones, and celebrate the vibrant community that makes Kardinia so special.
We can’t wait to share a wonderful night with you.
Event Details
- Date: Thursday 12 March 2026
- Venue: Meet Me at Mary’s – 66 Pakington Street, Geelong West
- Time: 6:30pm–9:30pm
- Tickets: $20 per person (includes entry and nibblies)
- Hosted by the College Community Council (CCC)
International Women’s Day Breakfast
Kardinia International College is delighted to host the 2026 International Women’s Day Breakfast as part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations. This year, we come together under the theme “Honouring the Past and Creating Bridges to the Future.”
Parents, alumni, staff, and our VCE and IB students are warmly welcomed to join us for a morning of connection, inspiration, and celebration. Enjoy a delicious breakfast smorgasbord, wonderful company, and thought-provoking insights from our Keynote Speaker, Dr Ashley Nesseler (née Kay, Class of 2000). We’re also thrilled to have Ms Nikki Petyanszki (Class of 2001) guiding the morning as our MC.
Event Details
- Date: Friday 6 March
- Time: 7:00am – 8:30am
- Venue: College Hall
- Tickets: Adults (Parents, Alumni & Staff): $25, Students (VCE and IB): $20
Join us as we celebrate the remarkable members of our community - past, present, and future - and reflect on the bridges we continue to build together.
Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day
Kardinia International College, in partnership with The Kardinians, is thrilled to invite you to the 2026 Kardinia Community Foundation Golf Day, proudly supported by McHarry’s Buslines. This much-loved community event will take place at the stunning 13th Beach Golf Links on Tuesday 31 March 2026.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer, a social player, or simply keen to enjoy a great day out, this event promises plenty of fun, friendly competition, and opportunities to connect with our wonderful Kardinia community. Participants can register individually or join through a business sponsorship. Head to the ticket link for more information.
What’s in Store
Enjoy an Ambrose style game (teams of four), a relaxed clubhouse lunch, oncourse competitions, raffles, silent auctions, and a fantastic community atmosphere.
Event Details
- Date: Tuesday 31 March
- Time: 7:00am – 3:00pm
- Venue: 13th Beach Golf Links
- Competitions:
- Hole in One (Hole 7) – $10,000 prize
- Longest Drive (Men’s and Women’s, Hole 11) – $100 prize vouchers
- Nearest to Pins (Mixed, Holes 3, 12 and 16) – $100 prize vouchers
- Tickets: Tickets include full golf registration, entry into all on-course competitions, formalities with Guest Speaker Cameron Ling, a relaxing postgame shoulder massage, and a delicious light lunch https://events.humanitix.com/2026-community-foundation-golf-day
Why This Day Matters
By taking part, you’re helping create lifechanging opportunities for deserving students through the Kardinia Community Foundation Scholarship Fund. It’s a chance to enjoy a memorable day while making a meaningful difference.
We’d love to see you there - bring your team, your enthusiasm, and your community spirit!
For more information, please contact Fiona Russell, Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator, at foundation@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Celebrating 30 Years – A Principal is Appointed
‘The success of the new College would require an exceptional leader. The new Principal would need be a motivational leader who could clearly express a strong vision for the future of the College. The Board interviewed candidates from around Australia. In early September of 1995, the College Board appointed Mr John Goodfellow as the inaugural Principal of the Geelong International School. John Goodfellow has been a principal in several schools in Victoria and Western Australia. In previous schools, John’s administration had seen student enrolments increase substantially. This experience would be valuable to the new College. John Goodfellow had recently been working with a school which was researching and starting to implement a vertical curriculum structure. His experience and knowledge of innovative curriculum practice would see the new College’s organisation and structure develop in new directions.
By mid-September the first open day was held for the new school. Theis was followed by an official dinner where the newly appointed principal and the new owner of the property were introduced to members of the local community. Over 400 people attended the open day and were quite impressed with the plans for the new school.
John Goodfellow told the visitors that the new school was a unique gift to Geelong which would add something new to the local educational offerings. Visitors heard that the new school would offer kindergarten and Years Seven to Nine in its first year of operation. Mr Goodfellow also explained the curriculum would enable students to study at their own pace and allow individuals who excelled in certain fields to accelerate…’
Extract from Kardinia International College-The First Ten Years 1996-2005 P. Dowie
Next week: The Geelong International School
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
