Junior School 

The Power of Friendship

In her pioneering work, In a Different Voice, Carol Gilligan provided a powerful lens to understand the central role of relationships in girls’ development. Gilligan’s research highlights how females are guided by an “ethic of care,” where empathy, connection, and responsibility for others shape how they think, make decisions, and engage with the world. Within this framework, relationships are not peripheral, but foundational - playing a critical role in how girls develop their sense of self, build confidence, and interpret their experiences. Friendships, in particular, offer a vital space where girls feel seen, heard, and valued, supporting both emotional wellbeing and identity formation. Equally, Gilligan emphasises that when these connections are disrupted, it can impact a girl’s voice, confidence, and sense of identity, reinforcing the importance of environments that prioritise trust, inclusion, and meaningful connection.

Gilligan's research exists within a substantial body of literature that reinforces our understanding of girls’ friendships as a vital support system. Strong peer relationships provide emotional security, reduce feelings of isolation, and contribute to the development of positive self-esteem. Within these relationships, girls are able to navigate challenges collaboratively, share in meaningful experiences, and celebrate achievements. Importantly, friendships also serve as a context for developing critical life skills, including empathy, communication, and conflict resolution.

Grounded in research, Kambala’s Junior School Day of Friendship creates intentional opportunities for students to experience connection, strengthen relationships, and practise the social and emotional skills that underpin a strong sense of belonging. On Tuesday 28 April, Junior School students will participate in friendship workshops, consolidating their learning from our Term 1 Personal Development lessons. During the workshops, students explore the language of friendship and learn how to communicate clearly, resolve challenges respectfully, and build trust with others. 

At lunchtime, the focus shifts to fostering connection. Students will join together in house groups for a picnic lunch, creating intentional space for informal interactions and shared experiences across the year groups. These moments facilitate micro-connections; small, yet significant interactions that contribute to a student’s sense of being known, valued, and included by their peers. After eating time, the girls will participate in games led by our Year 6 Leaders and the Year 6 Wellbeing Committee. These structured yet inclusive opportunities for play support students to engage with one another, fostering trust, cooperation, and a shared sense of enjoyment. 

The Junior School Day of Friendship reflects our commitment to cultivating a connected, supportive, and inclusive community. Feeling accepted, valued, and included has a profound impact on a young person’s capacity to engage, take positive risks, and develop a secure sense of identity. Research indicates that when students experience belonging, they demonstrate increased motivation to learn, stronger engagement with school, and greater resilience in the face of challenges. By prioritising opportunities for meaningful interaction, we are equipping our girls with the social and emotional capabilities essential for lifelong wellbeing.

Mrs Sheridan Sweeney

Acting Head of Junior School

Year 6 ISDA Debating Update

Last term the Year 6 Primary A and Primary B debating teams took part in the ISDA debating competition. Both teams debated every Friday evening against talented teams from Sydney Grammar, Shore, and Kincoppal. Each week both teams have worked hard in the preparation room to develop their confidence, teamwork, and ability to construct arguments.

Congratulations to both teams on competing in their first debating competition. A special congratulations to the Primary B team on progressing to the knockout rounds, an outstanding achievement in their debut season! 

Before School Care

I am writing to let you know that our Before School Care provider OSHClub has advised us that, unfortunately, due to a current low level of enrolments, maintaining the service beyond the end of Term 2, 2026, is currently not viable.

As a result, Before School Care will continue throughout Term 2, but will regrettably not be offered from the start of Term 3 unless enrolments increase to an average of three or more students each day. We encourage families who rely on this service to ensure their children are enrolled so we can continue to provide this support.

Junior School Events

Please see the next page for exciting Junior School Events and Dates for your Calendars!

Isla Yang Year 4 - Super 10s Selection- Tennis

In March, Isla Yang was selected to participate in the Super 10s, a highly competitive, state-level tennis program.

This selection is a significant achievement, as Tennis Australia identifies and brings together some of the most promising young players across NSW. Being invited to participate reflects Isla’s dedication, skill, and potential within the sport at an elite level.