There was something particularly special about our final Year 12 assembly this year, and for me, it was personal in more ways than one. I started my journey at Kolbe in the same year as this graduating class, so in many ways we have grown into this community together. My youngest son is also part of the Year 12 cohort, and with my eldest having graduated from Kolbe two years ago, the assembly gave me a chance to reflect not only as a staff member, but also as a parent.
The assembly was, of course, a celebration; we recognised the contribution of our outgoing Year 12 Leadership Team and thanked them for the way they have served the College, while also looking ahead to welcome our 2027 Captains, Student Leaders and Peer Support Leaders as they begin to build their own legacy.
House Awards were presented to both Year 12 students and staff, along with City of Rockingham leadership and scholarship awards, the Melissa Baxter Memorial Award and a special presentation of the Ngala Kwop Biddi Brighter Futures Scholarship Award to Year 12 student Ariana. Each award was another example of the many different ways our students and staff contribute to the life of our College. We also shared a video of highlights from the Year 12s’ final year, with plenty of laughter, familiar faces and moments that reminded us just how quickly the year has gone.
What stayed with me most, though, was the sense of community in the room. As a parent, I am incredibly grateful that my own children have gone through school surrounded by so many adults who genuinely care about them. Teachers, support staff, leaders and mentors who know our students, notice when something is not quite right, celebrate their successes and continue to show up for them. That, more than any single award, is what I think makes moments like this so meaningful.
To our Year 12s, thank you for what you have brought to Kolbe. It has been a privilege to share the journey with you.
