From the Principal

As the final chapter of 2024 unfolds, we reflect on a year of remarkable growth, inspiring achievements, and unwavering community spirit at Kambala. What a year it has been! From The Festival of Music to the Ingrid Holden Cup, this year's journey at Kambala has been one of delight, discovery, and shared success. As we bid farewell to yet another year, we celebrate the tenacity, creativity, and brilliance of our students, teachers, and community who make Kambala such a special place. Together, we have found joy in learning—whether through academic achievements, creative pursuits, or moments of discovery in and beyond the classroom. 

During the past 12 months we have enjoyed a number of events that have brought us together. The 2024 Welcome Cocktail Party hosted by the Kambala Parents’ Association in February, welcomed 680 new and existing parents to our School. The KPA continued their support with the KPA Golf Day, KPA Junior School Morning Tea, and the KPA Mother’s and Father’s Day stalls. We thank the KPA members and Kambala community who have given their time and energy over the past 12 months. We also give thanks to The Kambala Old Girls (KOG), who continue to engage with our former students across all ages and locations, keeping our extended family abreast with all our Kambala news. 

This year has been one of exciting transformation across our school facilities. We've focused on creating spaces that truly inspire and support our learners. The new Junior School art room, with its expansive workspaces and abundant natural light, provides a vibrant hub for creativity. The Junior School library amalgamation has created a dynamic learning commons with dedicated areas for collaboration and quiet reading. In the Senior School, the library has been upgraded with comfortable study zones for a more productive research environment. We continue to refresh Fernbank, ready for our boarders for Term 1 2025. 

With 2025 fast approaching we extend a warm invitation to prospective families who are joining our community. New dates for Tours with the Principal have been established, offering a firsthand glimpse into our vibrant learning environment. Our newly launched website provides a comprehensive overview of our programs, values, and commitment to academic excellence. Recognising that outstanding educators are the heart of our thriving school, we are pleased to announce an expanded role for Dr. Ron Ritchhart, Harvard Graduate School, in our professional development programs. Focusing on induction and leader development, Dr. Ritchhart's expertise in cultivating thinking classrooms and fostering student agency will be instrumental in supporting both new and experienced staff next year. In an era of rapid technological advancement, we are committed to equipping our students with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate the evolving landscape of Artificial Intelligence. Mr. Leon Furze, a leading expert in AI education, will collaborate with staff and students to explore the ethical implications and transformative potential of this emerging field. 

To our IB and HSC students awaiting their results on the 17th and 18th of December, we extend our best wishes. The dedication and resilience you have shown throughout your schooling, particularly this year, is commendable. No matter the outcome, know that you have grown immensely and are well-equipped for the journey ahead. We are incredibly proud of all our graduating students and wish them the very best in their future endeavours. 

2024 has been a testament to the strength of our sisterhood, where connections have flourished, and a deep sense of belonging has united us all. In a world that increasingly values equity, leadership, and collaboration, girls' schools have never been more relevant. By providing a space where young women can develop confidence, embrace challenge, and lead with courage, we are preparing them to thrive in every sphere of their lives. 

On behalf of the School, I would like to wish you all a happy, relaxing, and safe holiday break. I look forward to seeing many of the Kambala community members at Speech Day next Wednesday 11 December at the State Theatre, and I very much look forward to welcoming all our community back to school in 2025.

Merry Christmas.

Jane Danvers

Principal