From the Principal - Catherine Lockhart
This week we celebrate our graduating Class of 2026, with assemblies, farewells, a breakfast gathering, celebration day and the culminating event, their Graduation Ceremony on Friday night.
It is a time of the year that always reminds me how precious those 13 years of school are and how quickly they fly by. I went on a mini excursion as we practised an offsite evacuation with our Highview children on Monday and to think that was Year 12 not that long ago. The Highview children are adorable, and it was great to spend time with them, but it also reminded me how far our Year 12 students have come along that journey.
They say it takes a village to raise a child and so many people in our Kardinia International College village will have helped to shape and guide the journey of the graduating Class of 2026. Far too many to be able to thank in person, so to anyone who has worked with our students in any capacity, the friends and families who have supported them and the wider community who has contributed to their experiences throughout school, thank you. You should be very proud of the young people they have become.
Speaking of our village, on a number of occasions over the past few months I have seen the strength of our Kardinia International College community as members have come together to show support, care and compassion for people within our immediate and wider community who have been experiencing challenging times. It makes me incredibly grateful to be part of such a kind and caring school community. Another example of this is the Supernova event happening this weekend in support of Novalie Morris and her family. Novalie has done so much to support others, and it is wonderful to see the support for her with this event.
From the Head of Senior School - Kath O'Neill
Looking ahead in the Senior School
- Thursday 15 October – Class of 2026 Celebration Day
- Friday 16 October – Class of 2026 Graduation Ceremony
- Monday 26 October – IB Exams commence
- Tuesday 27 October – VCE Written Exams commence
- Monday 26 October – Year 10 Leadership Program (Periods 1-4)
- Thursday 29 October – Art Show Awards Night
- Monday 2 November – Student-Free Day
- Tuesday 3 November – Melbourne Cup Public Holiday
- Monday 16 November – Level D/E and Year 11 Exams commence
- Monday 23 November – Year 11 and 12 2027 Orientation Week commences
- Friday 27 November – Last Day for Year 11 students
- Monday 30 November – Year 10 Journeys commence
- Tuesday 1 December – Year 9 Wellbeing Day
- Friday 4 December – Last Day for Year 10 students
- Tuesday 8 December – Last Day for Year 7-9 students
This is a very big week for our Year 12 students, as thirteen years of schooling draws to a close. We are so proud of the Class of 2026 and feel privileged to have been part of their education journey.
Last week, students who attended The Grove as Year 5 students in 2019 returned to see how it has developed since their time there. They enjoyed revisiting favourite activities and sharing memories, setting the scene for their final week of school.
On Tuesday, we formally farewelled our Year 12s at a Senior School Assembly, which also included the handover of leadership responsibilities from our 2026 prefects to our newly appointed 2027 prefects. We thank our 2026 prefects for their outstanding service and representation and congratulate our 2027 prefects on their appointments.
Role | 2026 | 2027 |
Cowie | Sage & Grace | Sam & Isabella |
Gotemba | Max & Fin | Ruby & Siena |
Morongo | Charles & Clare | Tara & Stella |
Thomson | Clare & Billy | Charlie & Poppy |
Sport | Leila | Cooper & Teagan |
Arts | Elliott | Rose & Page |
College | Alice & Alex | Fred & Ava |
This morning, the Year 12s enjoyed a farewell breakfast with staff from across the school. It has been lovely to see the camaraderie, affection and support shared this week as students navigate a bittersweet transition, with school coming to an end and exams on the horizon.
Tomorrow, students will enjoy Celebration Day activities on the oval. On Friday, our community will gather at the College with family and friends for the Graduation Ceremony of the Class of 2026.
In the Senior School, we value student agency and action. Two Year 7 students recently demonstrated both when they identified an opportunity to support girls in STEM and advocated for a Year 7 team to participate in the Girls as Leaders in STEM (GALS) program. The team attended its first workshop at Deakin University last week, exploring ways to raise awareness of girls’ participation in STEM subjects. We look forward to seeing their ideas develop throughout the term.
From the Head of Junior School - Mario Chrisanthou
Big Ideas, Bright Futures: Year 6 Girls Begin Their STEM Leadership Journey
Last week, our Year 6 girls began their journey in Deakin University's Girls as Leaders in STEM (GALS) program, which supports girls in Years 5 to 8 to tackle problems that matter to them, their school and their community. The day opened with a workshop led by Upstart, where the girls explored the foundations of entrepreneurship. The teams were introduced to the design process, which will be used over the next 10 weeks.
Throughout the session, the girls showed exceptional leadership, collaboration and creativity. They listened to one another, generously shared their ideas and took ownership of their thinking. We look forward to seeing their work take shape over the term, culminating in the launch of their projects at the community event in December.
The Grove Pop-Up Market
Don't miss The Grove Pop-Up Market this Thursday from 2:45pm, where families and staff will have the opportunity to purchase a selection of fresh, organically grown vegetables and produce harvested from The Grove. The market showcases the outstanding work of our students and staff and reflects The Grove's commitment to sustainable, hands-on learning. We encourage everyone to stop by, support the program and take home some delicious seasonal produce.
We are also seeking parent support for upcoming working bees at The Grove on Tuesday 20 October and Tuesday 27 October. If you have a few spare hours and would like to lend a hand, please let your child's Learning Group teacher know. Any assistance is greatly appreciated.
SunSmart Reminder
With the warmer weather upon us, a reminder for all students to be SunSmart each day. Please remember to bring your school hat, apply sunscreen before arriving at school and reapply throughout the day, and bring a water bottle to stay hydrated.
KIC Connect Update
Icy Poles Return!
KIC Connect is excited to announce that icy poles will be available again from Friday 6 November and will continue on the final five Fridays of the school year.
As we plan for next year, we would appreciate your feedback on a simple question: Would you prefer to prepay for icy poles via an online EFTPOS payment at the beginning of the year, or would you prefer students to bring coins and purchase them as desired? Please take a moment to complete the short survey via the link below. https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/wJawzqACFw?origin=lprLink
Volunteers Needed for the Year 6 Graduation Lunch
As we prepare to celebrate our graduating Year 6 students, we are seeking a number of parent volunteers to assist with the Year 6 Graduation Lunch on Friday 4 December.
Volunteers are asked to meet at Centrepoint Café at 11.45 am and will work alongside Sam Nevin and the canteen staff to help set up tables in the College Hall and prepare for the luncheon.
Once students and parents arrive at approximately 12.40 pm, volunteers may assist with:
- Serving at food stations
- Bringing fresh platters from the canteen to the Hall
- Removing empty platters and keeping serving areas tidy
- Providing general assistance throughout the luncheon
The lunch will conclude at approximately 1.30 pm and help with packing up afterwards would be greatly appreciated. Volunteers should be finished by around 1.45 pm.
We would be incredibly grateful for any assistance you can provide. Your support will help ensure we create a memorable and special celebration for our graduating Year 6 students and their families.
Thank you for your support. Please let us know via the following link if you are able to assist - https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/ucHZ8sXp65?origin=lprLink
Uniform Sale and Swap
Save the date for the KIC Connect Uniform Sale and Swap, to be held on Thursday 19 November from 2:30pm. Families are encouraged to donate outgrown uniforms that are still in good condition or come along to purchase quality second-hand items at affordable prices. Whether you are looking to clear out cupboards or stock up for the year ahead, this is the perfect opportunity. Thank you to KIC Connect for coordinating this valuable community initiative.
Poppy Shines on the Ballet Stage
Congratulations to Poppy on an outstanding ballet competition season, highlighted by a series of impressive achievements across Victoria. Poppy competed in the Royal Academy of Dance Audrey Nicholls Grade Awards, where students from across the state perform their examination work, and was awarded Runner-Up in her grade as well as Runner-Up overall across Grades 1–4.
Her success continued throughout the year, earning first place in both her Classical and Neo-Classical solos at the Warrnambool Eisteddfod, and first place for her Classical solo at the Ballarat Dance Eisteddfod. Poppy also achieved second place for her Classical solo at the prestigious Royal South Street Society Eisteddfod and was awarded the highest-scoring solo routine for her age group at Geelong's Time to Shine competition.
Adding to these accomplishments, Poppy attended a four-day intensive at the Australian Ballet School as part of its audition-based Inter/Intra-state Training Program during the holidays.
We are incredibly proud of Poppy's dedication, talent and commitment, and congratulate her on representing both herself and our College so brilliantly. We look forward to following her continued success in the years ahead.
Upcoming Dates
19 October- FY Assembly at 9am in the Katsumata Centre
20 October- Working Bee- The Grove
20 October- Excursion: Grove Canoe Experience Session 1 (selected students)
20 October- Sport: Regional Athletics (selected students)
21 October- Lower Primary Athletics Day
22 October- Year 3 Camp departs
College Art Show - 30 Year Anniversary Special Edition
The Annual Senior School Art Show is nearly here, mark your calendars for Awards Night!
Alongside this year's 30 Year Anniversary Celebrations, the Art Show includes a very special Art Competition! Come along to see entries from students, alumni, past and present staff, artworks have been created in response to the theme, 'Honouring the past, creating bridges to the future' as well as student pieces from various year levels, created throughout 2026.
Don't miss it! Awards Night: Thursday 29 October, 5-8pm (the exhibition will be up from 26-30 October, and open for viewing from 9am-5pm).
Humanities Department News
October is History Month in the Senior school.
The study of History allows students to gain insight and empathy to the peoples of the past, developing greater understanding of our current social, political and economic world. History develops essential skills for our students including critical thinking, analysis and interpretation, collaboration and problem-solving abilities.
This month we aim to promote all things History at our senior campus. There are student competitions and displays in the Learning Commons, alongside activities including the showing of historical films at lunchtimes and a History Mystery.
If you would like to be involved at home you could watch a historical documentary, encourage the reading of historical novels or biographies, or even have a lively discussion over the dinner table.
Remember, "History is not a burden on the memory but an illumination of the soul." — John Dalberg-Acton
Music News
What a Night at Beav's Bar!
More than 150 students, families and friends packed out Beav's Bar for an unforgettable evening of live music, celebrating the incredible talent of our Kardinia music students.
From high-energy rock and pop performances to soulful vocals and original music, our bands delivered a night full of fun, connection and outstanding musicianship. A huge congratulations to all performers, including Motive, Mean Teeth, Saltline, No Standing, Green Jam, KIC Start, Square 1, and KIC Brass who performed so professionally.
The evening was also a special opportunity to farewell our Year 12 music students, recognising their contribution to the music program and celebrating the many performances, rehearsals and memories they've shared over the years. We thank them for the passion, leadership and enthusiasm they have brought to our community and wish them all the very best for the exciting journey ahead.
Thank you to our staff, families and friends who helped create such a vibrant atmosphere.
Future Pathways and Education News
World of Work Health and Community Services Students Graduate
Congratulations to our WOW Health and Community Services Graduates!
We’re proud to congratulate our students who have completed the 2026 WOW Health and Community Services Program, run by the Geelong Region Local Learning and Employment Network (GRLLEN).
Across five modules this year, students explored the many career pathways in health and community services. They learned in a range of different settings, met industry professionals, and got a real insight into the work of people who care for and support our community.
GRLLEN praised the students for their commitment and professionalism throughout the program, and we couldn’t agree more. Attending every module alongside their usual school commitments takes real dedication, and our students represented the school with maturity and enthusiasm.
Congratulations to Eliza D, Louisa F, Stella G, Liv G, Maya P, Jackson S and Aaina S.
A big thank you to GRLLEN for creating such a valuable opportunity, and to the industry professionals who generously shared their time and experience.
Well done to all of our graduates! We look forward to seeing where your interest in health and community services takes you.
Wellbeing Hub News
Supporting your teenager through their final school exams can be extremely daunting for parents. However, maintaining a calm household will ensure your child has the best chance of success.
To perform at their best, students will need regular and adequate sleep, a healthy diet, daily exercise and regular reassurance from parents that their success in life does not depend on their final mark. Many students will experience high levels of anxiety and depression during this time, so it is important that their mental health is looked after as well as their physical health.
Community Engagement and Foundation News
CALL OUT TO ALUMNI - 2027 Chiang Mai Program Assistant
Calling for Volunteers for our Chiang Mai, The Journey program in 2027. Graduates from Year 12, 2026 and from 2015 to 2025 are invited to apply.
•Do you have a thirst for travelling and experiencing different cultures?
•Are you considering a GAP year?
•Are you available to volunteer for a 6-week (expenses paid) program assisting staff and students at our Kardinia Sum Pun campus in Chiang Mai, Thailand?
•Do you enjoy a team environment and a warm, humid climate?
•Are you active and healthy with a reasonable fitness level?
The Program
Chiang Mai The Journey is designed as an inclusive self-discovery journey, endeavouring to lead students to a deep self-understanding, self-awareness and true independence. It also serves to provide students with a deep and lasting sense of international mindedness, where an understanding, acceptance and respect for different cultures, religions and ways of life become a hallmark of their character. Kardinia Sum Pun is a resort style campus, located approximately 16 km northeast of Chiang Mai City, in Thailand. The College will provide volunteers attending the program with:
- Flights, visa, transport, meals and laundry.
- Travel insurance including the provision for medical expenses.
- Accommodation – volunteers will be provided a private en-suite room on campus and will be required to share a room during off campus overnight stays.
2027 Program Dates:
Monday 25 January - Saturday 06 March
Monday 10 May - Saturday 19 June
Monday 05 July - Saturday 14 August
Monday 30 August - Saturday 09 October
Monday 25 October - Saturday 04 December
Application for Program Assistants
Please read the Program Assistant Position Description and Information documents published on The Kardinians.
Send a current resume, referees and letter of introduction, outlining your suitability, qualifications if applicable (i.e. First Aid, Bronze Medallion, DoE, IB CAS, coaching experience) and dates of availability to chiangmai@kardinia.vic.edu.au
Please address application to Ms Kath O’Neill, Head of Senior School. Application due: Friday 30 October 2026
The First Decade Reunion 1996-2006
As part of our 30th Anniversary celebrations, we are delighted to invite all alumni and staff who were part of Kardinia International College during its first decade, to a special reunion event. This gathering offers a meaningful opportunity to reconnect, reminisce and celebrate the formative years that helped shape the College’s identity. Please share this invitation with our alumni from the first decade.
Date: Friday 30 October 2026
Time: 7:30pm – 10:30pm
Venue: Meet Me at Mary’s
Eligibility: All students and staff who attended the College between 1996 and 2006
Tickets are available at: Tickets for the First Decade Reunion
This commemorative evening honours the earliest chapter of Kardinia’s history and the people who helped establish the foundations of our vibrant community.
Bloom and Brunch - A Wildflower Planting Morning at Serendip Park
The annual Bloom and Brunch at Serendip Park is on THIS Sunday 18 October.
The focus is to plant native wildflowers at Serendip Park, that attract beneficial insects and support biodiversity. It will be followed by a BBQ brunch. We hope you can join us!
Date: Sunday, 18 October 2026
Time: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
Location: Serendip Park
BBQ Brunch Provided! (Please complete dietary requirements)
Tickets $15 (Family) or $5 (Individual) available at: https://events.humanitix.com/2026-bloom-and-brunch-a-k-12-community-event
Fiona Russell - Community Engagement and Foundation Coordinator
From the Archives
Celebrating 30 Years - The Bell 2000-2005
In the early years of Kardinia International College, The Bell magazine served as much more than a school publication. It became a valuable record of a young and rapidly growing College, capturing the people, programs, achievements and aspirations that helped shape its identity.
Published annually, The Bell documented a period of significant development between 2000 and 2005. Within its pages were reports on academic achievements, sporting success, performing arts productions, camps and excursions, community events, and the many milestones that marked the College's formative years. The magazines provide a fascinating snapshot of school life, preserving the stories of students, staff and families who contributed to building the Kardinia community.
Beyond recording events, The Bell reflected the optimism of a young school establishing its place within the Geelong educational landscape. Readers can trace the growth of enrolments, the expansion of facilities, and the emergence of traditions that continue to be valued today. Features celebrating student accomplishments, international programs, leadership opportunities and cultural activities reveal the breadth of experiences available to students during these foundational years.
These early publications provide a valuable record of the College’s journey, capturing both the milestones achieved and the spirit that has shaped the community from the beginning. As we revisit the pages of The Bell, we celebrate the stories, achievements and aspirations they preserved, and the enduring legacy they contribute to the history of Kardinia International College for future generations.
Note: The College’s annual magazine was originally titled The Bell. Following consultation with local Aboriginal leaders, it was renamed The Bridge in 2021.
Images below: Covers of The Bell magazines, 2000-2005.
Photo: College Archives
Fiona Russell - College Archivist
