Embracing Community Spirit: Reflecting on Student Leadership at Kilbreda

On Wednesday, I had the privilege of convening with our Year 7 to 12 Student Leaders. Together, we took a moment to reflect on the journey of this academic year, develop plans for upcoming student-led initiatives and to identify areas of success and potential improvement within Kilbreda.  Among the topics explored were ‘What is working well at Kilbreda?’ and ‘Even better if.’  I’m delighted to share that all five Student Leadership groups unanimously recognised a profound sense of community spirit permeating our school this year. They illuminated this shared spirit through vivid anecdotes, citing events like the recent House Athletics Carnival, where participation soared to new heights and the Kilbreda Festival heats, where our Auditorium pulsated with energy as students rallied around their peers, nurturing and celebrating their diverse gifts and talents.

Our Student Leadership groups are eager to expand on these efforts in the upcoming weeks with a variety of initiatives, including:

• Do it for Dolly Day: This event aims to foster kindness and solidarity within our community, encouraging us to confront and prevent bullying.
• Mindful Minds Day: Students will engage in a series of activities designed to promote balance and inner peace.
• Community Action Group Breakfast: An opportunity for students to enjoy a communal breakfast with their peers.
• Brigidine Asylum Seekers Winter Food Drive: Supporting asylum seekers in need during the colder months.
• Laudato Si Week: Organised by our Student Environmental Action Group, this week will focus on environmental stewardship in line with the principles of Laudato Si.

Welcoming Opportunities:  A Vibrant Term Ahead At Kilbreda

Schools are dynamic hubs buzzing with a multitude of activities both in classrooms and beyond and at Kilbreda, we pride ourselves on offering a wealth of opportunities for our students to engage in. From showcasing their talents to honing new skills and deepening their knowledge, the first few weeks of this term have been brimming with involvement.

In the weeks ahead, our students will have the chance to:

• Represent the College at the KEM Social Justice Seminar – First Nations Immersion and/or participate in a range of Reconciliation Week activities.
• Forge stronger bonds with peers during the Year 8 Camp.
• Take part in the House Fun Run or represent the College with distinction at the CGSAV Athletics
• Cultivate their musical abilities and dazzle audiences at the Music Gala evening.
• Engage in debates, dance performances, singing, design projects and creative endeavours across various platforms.

Research by Fredricks and Eccles (2006) highlights the significant academic benefits tied to participation in co-curricular activities, including improved grades, test scores, heightened school engagement and greater educational aspirations. Moreover, students glean invaluable skills such as teamwork, leadership, a positive attitude toward learning, and a sense of belonging within the school community.

We strongly encourage parents/carers to initiate conversations with their children about their involvement in school life, fostering a supportive environment where their interests and passions can flourish.

Stephanie Smyth
Assistant Principal: Wellbeing and Engagement