IMPORTANT DATES:
| 19 May | First Eucharist W/shop 3.10pm
P & F Meeting 5:30pm |
| 20 May | Good Standing Reward P5 (primary) and P6 (secondary)
Year 7 Retreat |
| 21 May | McCormack Day Liturgy
McCormack chips for lunch |
| 22 May | Primary Cross Country (Yrs 1 – 6)
Yr 11/12 Exams start |
| 26 May | First Eucharist W/shop 3.10pm |
| 29 May | Merit Assembly 8.50am
Yr 11/12 Exams finish |
| 1 June | WA Day Public Holiday |
| 2 June | First Eucharist W/shop 3.10pm
Yr 11 (2027) Parent/student counselling interviews being (2 weeks) Yr 11 Retreat |
| 3 June | Yr 9 Outdoor Ed Camp
Future in Focus (Bunbury) – select Yr 10 students |
| 4 June | Yr 9 Outdoor Ed Camp
Eucharist Retreat Yr 4 |
| 5 June | Chronicle
Interschool Cross Country Yr 9 Outdoor Ed Camp |
PRINCIPAL'S NEWS
Hello Kearnan College Community!
Our staff and students have been very busy in the last few weeks! There have been several Art excursions, school photos, the secondary interschool athletics carnival, our Year 4-6 students celebrated a class Mass and many students enjoyed our Wheels for Wellbeing event. In addition, the entire College participated in shelter-in-place, lock-down and evacuation drills to ensure we all know what to do in an emergency.
Our secondary teachers recently held parent-teacher interviews and this was a fantastic opportunity to connect and to celebrate our students’ successes. We really appreciate those who were able to attend the meetings and encourage those who were unable to be there to make contact with your child’s teachers. Positive home-school partnerships are an important element in supporting student learning and wellbeing.
Our Year 10 students have recently begun the important process of selecting their Year 11/12 courses. This is an exciting opportunity for our students to reflect on their hopes and ambitions for the future and to begin fine-tuning their learning pathways, so they are well placed with options at the end of their schooling. Parents and teachers play an important role in pathway and subject selection and Mr Pedlar, Ms Ardagh and our other staff are more than happy to provide guidance and assistance if students or parents have any questions. Please don’t hesitate to make contact.
You would have received an email from me last week inviting you to participate in our school climate survey. The purpose of the survey is to gather the perspectives of parents, students and staff about our school so that we can celebrate our successes and identify areas in which we could improve. All responses are confidential and we would greatly appreciate your input. The survey is open until May 29 and can be accessed here. The password is KCparents.
We have recently updated our school’s attendance procedures. You can find a copy on the College website. Regular school attendance allows our students to access the full curriculum, receive support and guidance from teachers and to grow and maintain social relationships. Catholic Education WA recommends an attendance rate of at least 90%. Even students with 90% attendance (which is missing an average of 5 days per term) are missing the equivalent of one year of schooling across their school career, so closer to 100% is best. We understand that there are legitimate reasons for students to miss school and we would prefer students stay home if they are unwell; however, we ask that you try to limit the amount of school students miss for other reasons.
As part of our updated attendance procedures, parents of children with less than 90% attendance will receive a letter each term as a reminder of their child’s current attendance rate. If there is anything the school can do to support your child’s attendance, please contact their class teacher (primary) or Head of Year (secondary) and we will do what we can to assist.
This year, we introduced some additional measures to support staff development. Each teacher has a growth plan and they are working towards their goals with the support of a member of the leadership team. Additionally, we have three instructional coaches: Dr Bree Abbott, Mrs Melanie Thomas and Mrs Narelle Kammann. Our coaches work with our teachers to assist them in targeting specific skills, chosen by the teacher and guided by our school focus areas. As part of this process, teachers may, from time to time, video part of their lessons. These videos will be focused on the teacher (although students will appear in them) and will only be viewed by the teacher and their coach. They will not be published anywhere else and their sole purpose is to allow the teacher the opportunity to view their teaching from the perspective of the students. If you would prefer your child not be included in these videos, please let the office know.
Our next P & F meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 19 at 5.30pm in the Boardroom. All parents are welcome and it would be wonderful to see some new faces there!
PASTORAL CARE AND MINISTRY NEWS
As we reach the end of Week Four, it has been encouraging to see the steady growth in engagement and routine across the College. By this point in the term, students are well into their learning, co-curricular commitments, and friendships, and it is a timely opportunity to reflect on how they are managing both their academic responsibilities and personal wellbeing.
Over the past fortnight, our focus in RISE Education has been on motivation, responsibility, and developing effective study habits. A key message we have been sharing with students is that motivation does not simply appear – it grows through action. Taking small, consistent steps, even when things feel challenging, is often the difference between progress and remaining stuck. We have encouraged students to reflect on the barriers they face, particularly the role that fear or self-doubt can play, and to consider practical strategies such as breaking tasks into manageable steps, creating positive study environments, and rewarding effort.
In our faith life, we continue to draw on the simple but powerful invitation from Scripture, “Come, follow me” (Matthew 4:19). This reminds us that we are not called to be perfect, but to be willing. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field, or in our relationships, each day offers opportunities for students to respond to this call through courage, kindness, and integrity.
It has also been pleasing to see students actively participating in various College events and initiatives, such as Wheels for Wellbeing, Bike riding at lunchtime with Mr Smith, and lunchtime sport organised by our Student Leadership team. During these events, our students demonstrated pride in their House spirit and a willingness to contribute to the life of the school. These experiences are vital in fostering a sense of belonging and connection within our community.
As we move into the coming weeks, I encourage families to continue supporting students in establishing positive routines at home, particularly around study, organisation, and rest. Open conversations about goals, challenges, and progress can make a significant difference in helping young people build confidence and resilience.
At times, students may also experience reluctance or anxiety about attending school. To support families in navigating this, we have included a brochure on school reluctance, which offers practical strategies and guidance. We hope this resource provides reassurance and helpful ways to partner with your child and our school.
Want to help your child grow up feeling good in their body? Butterfly’s webinar for parents of primary age children provides practical strategies to build body confidence, create positive relationships with food and movement, and know what support is available.
Date: 17 June 2026
Time: 7pm – 8.15pm (AEST)
Via Zoom (time-limited recording available)
Register: HERE
Cost: $15pp
(For info: Full registration link https://events.butterfly.org.au/portal/event/?id=170626_RBBC1751387700&Name=17/06/26%20RBBC
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support of the College and your partnership in the formation of our students.
SECONDARY SCHOOL NEWS
Welcome to Week Four, where the secondary students are in full swing of learning and completing work in their subjects.
A new face around the College
The secondary team welcomes a new face in the Health and Physical Education space – Mr Sam Handcock. Sam is a university student completing his final teaching practicum at Kearnan under the guidance of Mr Riley Mason and Mr Josiah Smith. Mr Handcock will be in a range of HPE classes this term observing and teaching as he gets signed off to be a future teacher! Whilst students are enjoying a younger face in their classes, it has been excellent to see how welcoming and polite students have been with a new member of the College.
International Fire Fighters Day
Last week Kearnan student leaders Jason Lisser, Amelie Windberg and Lianna Ellis has the privilege to be invited to the annual International Firefighters Day ceremony at Yornup. Being able to view the new museum and participate in the ceremony was a special experience. We ran into some past students who are now working in fire management and chatted to a range of people who work tirelessly in our communities. We took time to pause and reflect on the lives of those lost to bushfires, which sadly is currently over 100 people. We would like to thank and acknowledge Year 12 student; Adison Sousa who helped facilitate Kearnan’s attendance and personally was an integral part of the ceremony.
Parent – Teacher Interviews
I would like to say a huge thank you to all the families who made time to visit College staff in person or on the phone to discuss the academic progress of their child. Whilst short in duration, the 10-minute chat is an important moment to continue to forge the school-home relationship. There is a significant correlation between student engagement and success and the strength of relationship between school and home. I encourage all parents to contact their child’s teachers or Head of Year whenever something is on their mind. A small conversation can go a long way!
Year 10 information evening – Subject Selections
Exciting, scary, intimidating and confusing are all words that come to mind when students approach the end of Year 10 and enter the world of senior schooling (Years 11 and 12). To help with this process and to determine what direction is best for each student, the College holds a series of information evenings and student afternoon for Year 10’s.
Last Thursday we welcomed Year 10 families into the library for information around the process and options available at Kearnan. It was great to see numerous conversations with Heads of Learning areas around which subjects fit best for each individual student. Catering by Mrs Elson’s Food Technology classes ensured that we were well fed and congratulations to the Glancy family for taking the wine and chocolate prize for winning the quiz!
Year 10 families should be busy considering and completing their subject preferences online form and booking an interview with myself via college administration. Finer details of this were sent via email this week.
Three of Kearnan’s finest successful in selection of CODECRUSH!
A while ago I reported that three girls in our college bravely applied for Murdoch University’s CODECRUSH program. Last week we received the wonderful news that all three were successful in selection to participate in an all expenses paid for camp in Perth later this term. With only 30 spots available to 136 applicants, we are extremely proud of Matilda Muir, Hannah Thomas and Marsali Huggins for their exceptional applications that have seen them selected to represent Kearnan College.
Flynn soars through SSWA State Football Trails
Congratulations to Year 9 student Flynn Markotis who has trialled for the School Sport WA state football team. With over 500 applications, Flynn has successfully made it through the first two rounds of selection. Well done Flynn, the College is proud of you!
Senior School News
Our senior students are very busy now as they finalise their Semester One studies (concluding Week Six). General courses will continue with regular lessons as scheduled. ATAR examinations will occur at the Parish Centre each morning from Friday May 22 until Friday May 29. Students and families have been emailed the examination schedule.
It is important to note that this year there is a small change to the exam week. ATAR courses will continue classes in a central study hub to allow students to access the expertise of their subject teachers leading into their examinations. It is the College’s preference to have all Year 11 and 12 students on site for the full duration of each day. Students will any WPL or TAFE commitments should still attend these as per their normal arrangements.
Elective Selections Semester Two
Students in Years 8 and 9 will be able to select their electives for Semester Two later this term. An email will be sent to families with course information and an online selection form to enter subject preferences.
Interschool Athletics
On Tuesday our athletics squad was escorted to Bunbury with Miss Courtney Webb, Mr Riley Mason, Mrs Liz Collins and Mr Sam Handcock. Students represented the College with pride and gave their best in the warmer than usual weather. Students are to be commended on their exceptional behaviour, camaraderie and sportsmanship. We are awaiting the results to be confirmed by School Sport WA before sharing in our next Chronicle.
JUNIOR SCHOOL NEWS
Wheels or Walk for Wellbeing
Last week we challenged ourselves to ride or walk the average kilometres ridden during a full day on the Rotary Tour, which is 134km. This year, during the last period of the day Years 3-12 rode their bikes or walked, for their own wellbeing but also raising money for the Blackwood Youth Action, which supports the health of students in our region. In the designated half an hour, our students smashed the goal and ended up riding or walking a total of 453km. 319km on the bike and 134km by foot. Congratulations to all of our students! Special thanks to Mr Smith who attended every ride on his bike, Miss Webb and the Sports Coaching students who assisted with our youngest students, Mr Blincow, Mrs McCarthy and Mr Western who rode their bikes on Wednesday and all the teachers who helped supervise.
Baptism
Congratulations to our Year 1 student, John Spillman for receiving the Sacrament of Baptism on Easter Monday. John and his family travelled to Geraldton to celebrate this sacrament with family. Congratulations, John!
First Holy Communion
Preparation for the students receiving their First Holy Communion this term will commence soon. Mrs Harris has already started teaching the content of this sacrament in the Year 4 class. Parent/child workshops will start after school on the May 19. We keep in our prayers Evelyn Danti, Hendrix DeCampo, Nico Fitzgerald, Jules Markotis, Thomas McCarthy, Leo O’Donnell, Beau Pedlar, Emily Spillman and Riley Winters, who will receive this Sacrament on Sunday June 7 at 10.30am in St Joseph’s Church.
Walk Safely to School Day
Weather permitting, we look forward to participating in Walk Safely to School Day on Friday 22 May. Walking to school helps build confidence, improves concentration, and encourages lifelong healthy habits. For safety, children under the age of 10 should hold an adult’s hand when crossing the road. All families are warmly invited to join us. We will meet at 8:00am at the Timber Park carpark (opposite the Wellness Centre) and walk together up the hill to school. There will be tattoos available for all our walkers! As it is also Cross Country Day, this walk will provide a great warm-up for students. Parents are very welcome to join us for the walk – we would love to have you along.
Primary House Cross Country
On Friday 22 May, we will be holding our Primary Cross-Country event. Students are asked to wear their House shirts so that colours can be clearly identified as they cross the finish line. A timetable of events will be sent home with your child for your reference. Parents are warmly invited to attend and support our runners. Please remain in designated spectator areas and off the track to ensure the safety of all participants.
Year 6 Assembly and Elizabeth Bear
What a wonderful assembly we enjoyed last week as our Year 6 students presented their final assembly. It was filled with fun, energy and a touch of Mrs Mills’ drama, beautifully showcasing highlights from their school camp.
During the assembly, Olin Dalgleish was awarded the Elizabeth Bear in recognition of his gentle kindness and genuine care for those around him. Olin treats both his peers and adults with quiet respect and thoughtfulness, often noticing and supporting others in subtle yet meaningful ways. He carries himself with maturity beyond his years, approaching challenges with calm resilience and a positive mindset. Olin is a valued member of our school community and an excellent role model for others. Congratulations, Olin!
We look forward to our next class assembly, which will be presented by our Year 4 class on the June 19.
Year 4 Recycling – Tracey Lynn
On Friday last week, Mrs Harris’ Year 4 class built a Johnson Su bioreactor in the school veggie patch as part of their upcoming topic on decomposers. The students split into two teams; one team collected leaves from throughout the school and delivered them to the veggie patch where the second team built the compost. The groups then swapped so everyone had a go at both tasks. It was a beautiful autumn day for being outside, and the students had lots of fun learning all about what we can put into our compost and how microorganisms break down the materials to produce the mature compost we use around the school grounds.
The students will be monitoring the heat and moisture levels over the next couple of weeks and, as it matures, they will get to look at it under the microscope to see the types of microorganisms in the compost. This is always a fantastic win/win activity for students, not only learning about decomposers but also how to utilise and repurpose our green waste throughout the school, making a valuable product that positively impacts the wellbeing of the school gardens and lawns. Many thanks to Mr Bane, Mrs Ramiro and Mr Western for their assistance supervising the groups.
School Photos
School photos are done for another year. Thank you to all our parents for ensuring our students looked resplendent in their formal school uniforms. Hair was neatly presented and accessories were worn correctly – our students represented the school beautifully. Mrs Schutz will let us know when they are back and ready to go home.
P&F Supports Creative Mother’s Day Gifts in the Junior School
The Junior School has been buzzing with creativity as students prepared their Mother’s Day gifts this year, thanks to the generous support of our Parents and Friends Association (P&F). The P&F kindly funded the 3D printing filament used to produce the special gifts, allowing every student to take part in a unique and hands-on project.
Students had the exciting opportunity to watch as their gifts were created using the school’s 3D printers. Once printed, each student was given POSCA pens to decorate and personalise their creation, adding their own artistic flair and making every gift truly one of a kind.
A special thank you goes to Mr Rogerson, who has been fundamental in facilitating and organising the printing process. His careful planning and dedication ensured that all the items were printed and ready in time for students to complete their decorations before Mother’s Day.
It has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm and pride students have taken in creating something special for their mums and carers. The project not only produced beautiful gifts but also gave students a chance to engage with new technology and express their creativity.
We extend our sincere thanks to the P&F for their continued support of initiatives that enrich learning experiences for our students.
Thought of the Week
‘Parents are the ultimate role models for children. Every word, movement, or action has an effect. No other person or outside force has a greater influence on a child than the parent’~ Bob Keeshan
Have a wonderful weekend,
OTHER NEWS
Mr Smith’s Updates
Pokémon Club and Lego Club run every Tuesday at lunch, for both Primary and Secondary students. It is a welcoming space where our students can venture into all things Pokémon – including learning how to play the trading card game. Lego Club runs concurrently in the same space, offering a quiet escape for students to explore and build with their imagination. I have had the privilege of supervising this creative space, where I get to observe/help/and learn.
Bike Club
Bike Club launched at the start of Term Two. Every Wednesday at lunch, students from Year 3 – 6 have the opportunity to bring their bike across to Lower Imperials, and ride with their friends. This enables students to explore a space filled with easy to challenging riding terrain. Enabling students to test their skills, and continue exploring their capabilities on the bike. I have enjoyed watching students challenge one another to complete circuits, ride up tricky hills, and explore how fast they can descend the Big Hill.
Outdoor Education
Persuasive Writing for a Purpose – Matilda (Yr 3)
P & F Update
A huge thank you to everyone who attended or supported our Mother’s Day Pottery Paint & Sip evening. The night truly lived up to the hype — fun, creative, relaxed, and wonderfully crafty! It was fantastic to see so many people come together for such an enjoyable event, and we’re already looking forward to the next one.
Now it’s time to get those brains switched on for our upcoming Quiz Night on Friday 19th June at the Parish Centre! Gather your team and book a table of 8 for what promises to be a fantastic night of fun, laughs, and friendly competition. We are also currently seeking donations for the Quiz Night silent auction. If you (or your business) have something you’d be happy to contribute, we’d love to hear from you.
And don’t forget — the Bridgetown Craft Fair is coming up soon! If you create, make, sew, bake, snip, or paint and would like to host a stall, please get in touch. We’re always on the lookout for fresh, exciting, and talented vendors to be part of this wonderful community event.
Year 7 Visual Arts Excursion – The Lester Prize
On Monday, our Year 7 Visual Arts students had the incredible opportunity to visit the touring exhibition of The Lester Prize finalists for 2025, one of Australia’s most prestigious portrait art awards.
Now in its 18th year, The Lester Prize celebrates artists who challenge and redefine contemporary portraiture through diverse, thought-provoking, and powerful representations of the human experience. The exhibition offered students a unique insight into the stories, emotions, and communities captured through art.
Students left feeling inspired, motivated, and deeply engaged by the creativity and talent on display. A heartfelt thank you to Vanda Dei-Tos and the Shire of Manjimup for providing such a memorable and enriching experience for our students.
School Photos
Pre Kindy
PARISH NEWS
| Location | Day | Time | |
| Saturday Vigil | St Joseph’s, Manjimup | Every Saturday | 6pm |
| Mass | St Joseph’s, Manjimup | 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays | 10:30am |
| 2nd & 4th Sundays | 8:30am | ||
| Mass | Sacred Heart, Pemberton | 1st, 3rd & 5th Sundays | 8:30am |
| 2nd & 4th Sundays | 10:30am |
COMMUNITY NEWS
