From the Principal

Community lies at the heart of a thriving school

Last weekend saw our School community stage a number of highly enjoyable social gatherings as family and friends came together to reconnect and share that special connection that bonds us.

Over 250 parents gathered last Friday evening to enjoy our annual Senior School ‘Ice Breaker’ event. Many of our Year 12 parents met up for breakfast the following morning and Wolaroi House hosted a delightful Saturday lunch for their boarding families.  On Sunday morning a delicious brunch was held for our Year 7 boarding families from Stuart Douglas and Trathen Houses in the beautiful grounds of PLC. This was the first opportunity for our Year 7 boarders to reconnect and spend some time with their families following the first few weeks of settling in to boarding life.  The gathering was highly enjoyable and it was wonderful for me and Jo, and our House Staff to connect socially, and to hear of the many happy stories of an excellent start to life at Kinross Wolaroi.

Such gatherings afford tremendous opportunities for families to forge special friendships with others that they will journey through the School with, and who will share those age and stage ups and downs that all our children experience.

The special qualities of our community play a pivotal role in the success and vitality of our School, one characterised by country families and a thriving boarding school.

Our community is the heartbeat of Kinross Wolaroi, breathing life and spirit into every corner of our school. It serves as the catalyst for positive school engagement and spirit, creating an environment where students, parents, and staff are not just participants but active contributors to the shared experience of learning and growth.

Within the tapestry of our school community, friendships are woven with threads of shared experiences and common goals. These bonds extend far beyond the classroom, creating a supportive network that enhances the overall wellbeing of our students. Friendships forged within our community contribute significantly to the positive atmosphere that defines our School.

Trust lies at the core of any thriving community, and within our school, it is the foundation upon which meaningful relationships are built. The trust between parents, students and staff fosters an environment where open communication flourishes. This trust is an essential component of the collaborative efforts required to provide the best possible educational experience for our students.

A collective purpose unites us, guiding our actions and aspirations. Our commitment to learning, character development, and the pursuit of individual passions creates a shared mission that propels us forward. This collective purpose is evident in the outstanding achievements of our students across the full life of the school, and the dedication of our hard working and committed staff.

Community engenders a positive feeling of belonging, making Kinross Wolaroi a home away from home for students and a welcoming space for parents and families. It is this sense of belonging that transforms our school into more than just a place of learning—it becomes a community where each member is valued and supported.

I warmly encourage all our parents and families to actively engage in and enjoy the various school community events throughout the year. These occasions provide opportunities to strengthen the ties that bind us, celebrate our achievements, and contribute to the vibrant spirit of our beautiful School.

Thank you for being an integral part of the Kinross Wolaroi School community. Together, I very much look forward to us continuing to foster friendships, build trust, and reinforce the positive sense of belonging that makes our school truly exceptional.

Round Square International Exchange Students

Congratulations to the thirty Year 10 students who have been selected to represent the School on exchange this year.  Following a rigorous selection process including application, interview and references, our exchange students will enjoy a truly life changing experience within our global exchange network of schools.  In 2024 we will have students in France, New Zealand, Germany, Scotland, South Africa and Japan.  We also very much look forward to warmly welcoming students from our exchange schools to the Kinross Wolaroi School community during the year.

Regional Engagement Experience Internships

I had the immense pleasure of hearing some wonderful presentations from our 2023 Year 10 students who were involved in our Internship Program.  The students who presented on their experiences gave thoughtful reflections describing their internships and of the considerable learning they gained.  Thank you also to our generous community organisations who supported and guided our students throughout this valuable learning experience.

Congratulations to:

Alice Commins – ODEEP 

Emika Carter – Uniting Church   

Jimmy Hutchings – Quality Wool   

Sarah Johnston – Orange 360 

Bonnie Leighton – Rosedale Farm   

Sophie Luelf – The Remington 

Lucy McIsaac – Jeremy Curtain – Eye Specialist   

Ava Rouse – DPI 

Jess Thompson – Diesel and Blue   

Em Turner – Photography 

Georgie Zatta – Riding for the Disabled