We warmly welcomed many of our Old Scholars back to Kildare for our annual Mentors Breakfast.
There is something very special about seeing former students return to share their stories, experiences and wisdom with the next generation of Kildare girls. Over 100 students from Years 10, 11 and 12 had the opportunity to connect with inspiring Old Scholars, ask questions, and hear about different pathways beyond school.
The room was filled with conversation, laughter and genuine connection, and the morning offered our students encouragement, career inspiration and a reminder that their goals are within reach.
A special thank you to Michelle den Dekker for her outstanding address. Michelle spoke with honesty, warmth and authenticity, sharing a message that was both practical and inspiring.
It was a memorable morning that reminded our students of the many possibilities that await them beyond Kildare.
Our Years 11 and 12 Drama students captivated audiences with their production of Picnic at Hanging Rock, one of Australia’s most enduring and mysterious theatrical works.
Set on St Valentine’s Day in 1900, the story follows students from Appleyard College on a picnic to Hanging Rock, where several girls mysteriously disappear. As the mystery unfolds, certainty begins to unravel, leaving those who remain to grapple with fear, fascination, grief and unanswered questions. Audiences were left reflecting on the questions that have fascinated readers and theatre-goers for generations.
Throughout their intense 12-week production process, students immersed themselves in the world of Australian Gothic theatre, exploring the tension between the ordered world of Appleyard College and the vast, ancient Australian landscape. Through extensive script analysis, character development and ensemble rehearsal, students examined the emotional truth at the heart of the story, drawing on Stanislavski’s acting techniques to create authentic and heightened performances.
The production challenged students to work collaboratively as theatre-makers, experimenting with atmosphere, movement, sound, lighting, and innovative technologies to bring the haunting world of Hanging Rock to life.
Congratulations to all students and staff involved in the production. Your hard work, artistic courage and commitment to excellence made this year’s Senior Drama Production a memorable success.
