From the Principal

A Rich and Holistic Education

Our last School Assembly witnessed a wonderful celebration of many of the varied dimensions the rich and vibrant holistic education Kinross Wolaroi affords. We heard marvellous music compositions from our HSC Music 2 students, our dance group performed and our sports captains and exchange students shared reports of their seasons and overseas adventures.

The significant opportunity for personal growth from undertaking an international student exchange was beautifully expressed in the reports from Percy Meates and Tom Nelson (Year 10), and Jules Donelli-Divol from France.

The boys spoke so positively of their experiences and of the profound impact it had upon them.  I wish to share with you what I believe to be the immense value of undertaking an International student exchange and experiencing the benefits of a global education.

International Student Exchange and the Benefits of Global Education

One of the most powerful opportunities we can offer our students is the chance to participate in international exchange.  As clearly articulated by students at our recent Assembly, these experiences enrich learning, broaden perspectives and foster personal growth in ways that remain with young people for life.

As a proud member of Round Square, a global network of schools committed to character education, our School draws inspiration from a framework that values internationalism, democracy, environmental stewardship, adventure, leadership, and service.  These ideals underpin our commitment to developing courageous, compassionate, and globally minded citizens.  They remind us that education is not only about academic achievement but also about shaping character and preparing students to contribute meaningfully to the world.

Our extensive International Exchange program is a central expression of this membership.  Each year, around 30 of our Year 10 students undertake exchanges of up to a term in partner schools across England, Scotland, France, Kenya, India, Japan, New Zealand, and South Africa.  For those fortunate to participate, the experience is life changing.  Living and learning in another culture demands independence, resilience, and adaptability, while opening students’ minds to different ways of thinking and living.  Many describe their exchange as the most memorable and rewarding experience of their schooling.

The benefits of exchange, however, extend well beyond those who travel.  Our School community is greatly enriched by the students we host from around the world.  Their presence in our classrooms, on our playing fields, and in our cultural and co-curricular programs deepens our collective understanding of different traditions and perspectives.  The friendships formed during these visits are genuine and lasting, and they help to nurture a spirit of global citizenship among all our students.

I wish to express the School’s immense gratitude to our families who generously host visiting students.  Their warmth and hospitality are central to the success of the program.  Time and again, we receive outstanding feedback from international students who speak with deep appreciation of the kindness and generosity of our host families, and of the welcome they receive from the wider school population.  These words are a source of great pride and affirmation of the values that define our community.

The personal growth that flows from such exchanges is profound.  Students return with greater confidence, independence, and maturity, often having formed enduring friendships across continents.  They also gain a richer understanding of themselves, their culture, and their opportunities, while developing empathy and respect for the lives and experiences of others.

International exchange embodies the very best of education.  It brings together academic learning, social awareness, and character development, while providing unforgettable experiences and treasured connections.  As a School, we are proud to nurture these opportunities and to see the transformative impact they have on our students.  Through Round Square and our exchange program, we reaffirm our belief that education extends far beyond the classroom and that the lessons learned through human connection, cultural understanding, and friendship are among the most valuable of all.

I strongly encourage our current Year 9s to consider such an opportunity to have the courage to step outside their comfort zone and take on the challenge that will provide an experience that will bring great life-long memories and personal growth.  The school is presently beginning the process of applications for our 2026 International Student Exchange.

Congratulations

We have received some marvellous results with several of our students receiving OnSTAGE nominations from NESA for excellence in Drama.

OnSTAGE Individual Performance Nominations

Lily-Rose Carter - Half Hanged Mary      

Olivia Dillon - Living with the Enemy 

George Hogg - Death of England        

Isabella Lloyd George - Dear Reginald 

Caroline Smith - Macavity the Mystery Cat      

OnSTAGE Group Performance Nominations

Charlotte Buckley - D.I.Cs

Lily-Rose Carter - The I.D.I.O.Ts

Olivia Dillon - The I.D.I.O.Ts

Nicholas Hannaford - The I.D.I.O.Ts

George Hogg - D.I.Cs

Felicity Knox - The I.D.I.O.Ts

Isabella Lloyd George - D.I.Cs

Caroline Smith - D.I.Cs

Debating

Our Year 7, 10 and 11 Debating teams have all advanced to the Quarter Finals of the Australian National Debating Virtual Competition.

Music

Outstanding results attained at the City of Orange Eisteddfod where we won all Strings, Bands and Orchestra competitions.

Hockey

Paxton Buckerfield and Phoebe Lyons selected for the NSW Under 14 Team.

Rugby 

NSW Selections

Hamish Leader and Declan Dixon – NSW Under 15 Next Gen Squad.

Maddy O’Brien – NSW Under 18 Girls XV.

Australian Selection - George Gregan Scholarship Winner

Oscar Cleary – Australian Schoolboys team to play Tests v Fiji.  This is Oscar’s second year in the National Team.  Oscar has just signed a three year contract with the ACT Brumbies and has been awarded the George Gregan Scholarship to the University of Canberra which covers all his university fees for the duration of his academic studies.