A Place to Belong: Celebrating our School Community

Recently, I have been reflecting on the strength and spirit of Kilbreda College – a school community that has thrived here in Mentone for the past 120 years. This deep sense of belonging and unity was profoundly felt during the recent Year 12 Graduation Mass and Dinner, as well as at our Return to Kilbreda Day on Saturday 26 October. Both events offered wonderful opportunities for connection and reconnection, rekindling the bonds that make Kilbreda more than just a school, but a true community. As T.S. Eliot so eloquently said, “What life have you if you have not life together? There is no life that is not in community.” These words capture the heart of Kilbreda, where the spirit of belonging shapes the life we build together, celebrating each individual’s role in the journey of our school.

This sense of belonging and community was also vividly present at the recent callback sessions for 42nd Street and the Year 10 drama class’s performance of ‘The Girl Who Cried Wolf And Got Away With It.’ At each of these events, the support and encouragement shared between staff and students created an atmosphere of unity and pride. Watching our students and teachers celebrate not only individual talents but also collective accomplishments underscored the essence of Kilbreda – a place where each person’s contribution is valued, and success is a shared joy. This spirit of mutual encouragement and recognition strengthens the bonds that make Kilbreda a vibrant, nurturing community, one where everyone’s efforts are acknowledged and celebrated.

Over the past fortnight, many of our Year 9 students embarked on an unforgettable Duke of Edinburgh adventure camp at Wilson’s Promontory. Immersed in nature, they took on new challenges – learning to surf, hiking rugged trails, braving gale-force winds, and sharing meals prepared over a Trangia. Each experience demanded teamwork, resilience and problem-solving, helping our students build skills that go far beyond the classroom. As they navigated the ups and downs of outdoor life together, they strengthened bonds with their peers and formed lasting connections with their teachers, reinforcing that they are part of a supportive and encouraging community. These shared challenges fostered not only a sense of accomplishment but also a deeper sense of belonging, reminding us that Kilbreda is not just a place to learn but a place to grow, together.

Our senior students are currently tackling the VCE exams, an important milestone in their Kilbreda journey. As a community, we play a vital role in supporting them through this challenging period, encouraging their efforts and celebrating their resilience. The golden ribbons adorning our oak tree, each bearing the name of a graduating student, stand as a testament to the unity and pride we hold for each individual. These ribbons remind us of the collective spirit that upholds and encourages them as they prepare to step beyond the gates of Kilbreda. It is our privilege to help ensure their transition is a smooth one, equipping them with the confidence and courage to embrace the opportunities that await. Together, we send them forward not only with knowledge but with a lasting sense of belonging to a community that believes in them, now and always.

In every gathering, performance, adventure, and milestone, Kilbreda College remains a place to belong, a place where each person is valued, and a place where the bonds of friendship, support, and shared purpose carry us all forward. As we celebrate 120 years of community, we are reminded of the joy that comes from journeying together, from our youngest students to our graduates stepping into the world. It is this spirit of togetherness that makes Kilbreda not only a place of learning but a place of shared dreams and enduring connections, one that will continue to inspire and support every individual in the years to come.

All Saints and All Souls Day

This week is a significant week in our Liturgical Calendar, as Catholics we celebrate All Saints Day on 1 November and All Souls Day on 2 November. We remember all saints, known and unknown, who were ordinary people who did extraordinary things in their lifetime. These courageous women and men have given us hope and continue to inspire us today. We also remember and pray for all our loved ones who have died. We honour their lives and give thanks for them all.

Jesus, dear Saviour,

On this day we prayerfully remember all our loved ones who have died.

Please give them comfort and hope, and may they be at peace,

knowing that they will rest in God’s arms eternally.

Thank You for our memories of them and for the good times we shared.

We ask You, please, through this intercession,

to deepen our faith, strengthen our hope, and increase our love,

that we, too, may someday stand before You,

ready to enter Your Holy Kingdom

Amen

Stephanie Smyth

Acting Principal