From the Deputy Principal - Head of Junior School

From Mr Coppin

Here's to Strong Women: May We Know Them, May We Support Them, May We Raise Them

At Kambala, we believe that every day should be International Women’s Day. Our commitment to empowering young women is woven into the fabric of daily life at the school, with experiences and opportunities designed to inspire and equip girls for the future. By showcasing strong female role models from various fields, we aim to provide students with the guidance and motivation to pursue their dreams and become leaders in their own right. Central to this mission is the spirit of sisterhood—the unbreakable bond of support, mentorship, and encouragement that exists between women and girls of all ages.

 

The theme for International Women’s Day 2025 is “Embrace Equity: A World Where Women and Girls Have Equal Opportunities to Thrive.” We continue to champion this message through our initiatives, striving to create an environment where girls are not only supported but encouraged to lead, innovate, and excel in all they do. Sisterhood at Kambala means lifting each other up, celebrating successes together, and ensuring that every girl feels empowered to take her place in the world with confidence and courage.

 

This year, Year 5 students attended the Senior School’s International Women’s Day Assembly, where they were inspired by special guests from diverse industries. Our esteemed speakers included:

 

Mary-Lou Jarvis and Georgina Jarvis

Mary-Lou and her daughter Georgina shared their personal journeys navigating male-dominated fields, highlighting the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and breaking down barriers. Their stories left an indelible mark on our students, showing them the endless possibilities that await when they have the courage to follow their passions. Their dynamic as mother and daughter also reflected the power of intergenerational sisterhood—the passing down of wisdom, resilience, and determination from one generation to the next.

 

Ms. Danvers also spoke to students about the significance of financial independence and literacy, reminding them that the power to create change starts with knowledge and control over their finances. Financial empowerment is a key element of female solidarity, ensuring that women are equipped with the tools to support themselves and each other.

 

Year 6 students have just returned from Canberra, where they enhanced their understanding of government and politics in our nation’s capital. A highlight was meeting Governor-General Ms. Sam Mostyn AC. What a remarkable role model for our girls, demonstrating the power of leadership and the importance of women lifting each other up in positions of influence.

 

Later this week, Year 5 and Year 6 students will have the opportunity to attend the IWD Breakfast, where they will hear from two inspiring women in leadership:

 

Naomi Shepherd - Meta Group Industry Director 

Rachel Scanlon - Managing Director and Head of Asia Pacific for D2 Legal Technology

 

Both Naomi and Rachel are leaders in their respective fields, and their insights into overcoming challenges, embracing leadership, and striving for excellence will be invaluable to our students as they chart their own paths forward. Their stories will reinforce the importance of mentorship, networking, and the collective strength found in sisterhood.

 

At Kambala, we understand that the impact of these experiences is not defined by one single event or assembly. Rather, it is the consistent exposure to powerful female role models, mentors, and leaders that shapes the future of our students. Every day is International Women’s Day, and every day is an opportunity to strengthen the bonds of sisterhood. We are proud to say that Kambala students have been remarkable in the making since 1887 and we will continue to foster a community where women support, uplift, and champion one another for generations to come.

Year 6 Canberra Excursion - Curriculum in Context - 3-5 March, 2025

Year 6 Students have just returned from an action-packed three days in Canberra, filled with enriching learning experiences that brought Australia’s history and government to life.

 

The adventure began with a visit to the National Capital Exhibition, where the girls explored the story behind the creation of Canberra and the architectural inspirations for the city. The next stop was the Australian Institute of Sport, where the students were in awe of Australia’s top athletes in action. They toured the world-class facilities and watched athletes training to become the best in their respective sports.

 

On the second day, the students toured Parliament House, gaining valuable insights into the workings of the Australian government. They participated in a fun and educational role-play where some students took on the roles of the Prime Minister and the Speaker of the House. Afterward, the group visited the Australian War Memorial, where they learned about the courage and sacrifices of Australian soldiers and nurses in both World Wars. The sight of the marble walls engraved with soldiers' names, adorned with red poppies, left a lasting impression on the students.

 

A trip to Questacon provided an exciting challenge for many students, with a chance to test their courage on the giant slide and enjoy various interactive science exhibits.

 

The final highlight of the trip was a special visit to Government House, where the students had the privilege of meeting the Honourable Sam Mostyn , our current Governor-General. She took time to speak with the girls and answer their insightful questions, giving them a deeper understanding of the role of Australia’s leadership.

 

Overall, the Year 6 Canberra trip provided a rich learning experience, giving the students a clearer understanding of our democracy and the many privileges we enjoy as citizens of Australia. It was a fantastic opportunity to connect with our nation’s history and celebrate what makes our country so unique.

ySafe Cyber Safety Education Session for Parents of Year 5 - Year 8 Students - Wednesday 26 March 2025 - 6.30pm

Please CLICK HERE to register for the Webinar.

National Assessment Program Literacy and Numeracy - NAPLAN - Year 3 and Year 5

NAPLAN provides an understanding of how individual students are performing at the time of the tests. NAPLAN assesses literacy and numeracy skills that students have already learnt through the school curriculum. Teachers will provide appropriate support and guidance, including ways to become familiar with the format and functionality of the online platform. 

 

Students in Years 3 and 5 will sit the NAPLAN tests on the following dates:

 

Wednesday 12 March- Writing

Friday 14 March- Reading 

Tuesday 18 March- Conventions of Language (spelling, grammar and punctuation)

Thursday 20 March- Numeracy 

Friday 21 March- catch up testing for absentees

 

Students in Year 3 will complete the Writing test using pencil and paper. Year 3 students will answer the other test questions on their school iPad. Students in Year 5 will answer all their test questions on their school laptop. All students will need their own headphones.

 

Preparation at home is not required and can lead to unnecessary anxiety. The best way you can help your child prepare for NAPLAN is to reassure them that NAPLAN tests are just one part of our school’s learning and assessment program, and to advise them to simply do the best they can on the day.  A good night’s sleep, punctual school arrival and healthy breakfast are the best ways to set the girls up for success. Students and parents can access the Public Demonstration Site to familiarise themselves with NAPLAN and the types of questions and tools available. Please click on this link - NAPLAN 2025 Information for Parents and Carers- for further information.

 

After NAPLAN testing is complete, the Years 3 and 5 girls will enjoy time away at camp.

Years 4 - 6 Term 2 2025 Saturday Sports Choice

We are pleased to share the Term 2, 2025 sports options for students in Years 4-6. You can access the official letter detailing all available choices here.

 

Please review the document carefully, as it outlines multiple sports options. At the bottom of each section, you will find a link to the Google registration form, which must be completed to secure your child’s participation.

 

The registration deadline is Monday March 10, by 4:00pm.

 

The available sports for Term 2, 2025, include:

  • IPSHA Minkey/Hockey
  • IPSHA Netball

For skiing and snowboarding, please email kath_sambell@kambala.nsw.edu.au  if you require any information regarding the competitions for students in years K-12 during the last week of the July School Holidays.

Year 3 Term 2, 2025 Sport Choice

Year 3 will be given the opportunity to play Touch Football in Term 2. They will play in a competition against SCEGGS, Ascham and Kincoppal. The competition will be aimed at preparing the girls for the introduction of IPSHA sport in Year 4 by learning the basic skills of the sport.

 

Please read this information and fill out the form at the end of the letter if you wish to register your daughter for sport in Term 2.