Message from our

Campus Principal

As we come to the end of another busy and rewarding term, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the many achievements across our senior programs and acknowledge the hard work, resilience and growth demonstrated by our students.

Last week, we proudly celebrated the graduation of the Class of 2025 at the Gippsland Performing Arts Centre. It was a wonderful evening that recognised not only academic success, but also the personal development and perseverance our students have shown throughout their time at Kurnai College. It was a wonderful event with students receiving their completion certificates in front of proud families, friends and peers. Our School Captains Hannah, Declan and Sid spoke on behalf of the Year 12 cohort and recounted some of their highlights over their journey. The audience were entertained by Year 12 student Darnell who performed two songs during the presentation. 

We wish all our graduates the very best as they take their next steps—whether into further study, training, or employment—and we look forward to seeing the positive impact they will make in our community.

Our 2026 Year 11 students launched their Year 12 journey with an energising and purposeful three-day preparatory camp in Melbourne. VCE, VCE VM, and VPC students immersed themselves in activities designed to motivate, inform and prepare them for the challenges of their final year.

From a Q&A session with recent Kurnai graduates, to industry-focused workshops, to team-building experiences such as the Melbourne CBD Amazing Race, the camp provided valuable insights and strengthened students’ connections with both peers and staff. These opportunities not only help students refine their study and career goals, but also build the confidence and independence essential for success in Year 12. A sincere thank you to all staff who contributed to the planning and delivery of this important Headstart experience.

Our Headstart program is now well underway, and we have been pleased to welcome the Year 10 students from Morwell, Churchill, and LV FLO campuses into the University Campus, along with many new students joining Kurnai for Years 11 and 12. After a short assembly yesterday, students quickly settled into classes, becoming familiar with the subjects and expectations that will guide them toward success as senior students.

We are looking forward to unwinding and enjoying plenty of fun at Gumbuya World during the College Celebration Day on Thursday 11 December, followed by the College Awards Ceremony on Friday 12 December, where we will formally acknowledge outstanding student achievements.

As the year draws to a close, I would like to take this opportunity to thank our entire school community for their efforts and support. Thank you to the students who have worked diligently throughout the year to reach this point of accomplishment; to the families who have supported their children and our school; and to the dedicated staff of the University Campus, who consistently invest their time, care and expertise in helping our young people learn and grow. I would also like to acknowledge the broader community who support our campus through work placements, mentoring, excursions, mock interviews and many other opportunities which enrich our students’ experiences. It is through this collective commitment that our students are able to thrive.

On behalf of all staff at the University Campus, I wish everyone a very happy, safe and restful holiday break. We look forward to returning in 2026 for another brilliant year ahead.

Matt Jobling

University Campus Principal