Focused to excel

Recognised globally, the IB is well regarded by tertiary institutions for producing knowledgeable and caring young adults who demonstrate independent learning and intercultural understanding.

Kilmore International School, located about an hour’s drive from Melbourne’s CBD, is one of a large family of schools worldwide that offer the IB diploma program.

Former school captain Phoebe Nadenbousch, a local student who graduated in 2018 with an ATAR above 95, attributes her acceptance into the University of Melbourne to the IB diploma.

‘‘For me, Kilmore International School facilitated and encouraged participation in extracurricular activities throughout my high school career. Attending, taking part and eventually leading such activities and events has equipped me with the skills to pursue social development and promote meaningful change in the future,’’ she said.

As a school leader, Ms Nadenbousch worked hard to encourage others to excel at their studies as well as participate in sport, United Nations events, The Duke of Edinburgh Award, and community service.

‘‘Kilmore fostered the growth of public speaking, critical thinking and research skills which has readied me for tertiary education. Furthermore, such skills provide the confidence to campaign for what I believe in by engaging in discussion and research and having the courage to be an advocate on certain issues,’’ Ms Nadenbousch said.

‘‘I couldn’t have done so well anywhere else.’’

Ms Nadenbousch is enrolled in an arts degree and on completion intends to undertake the Juris Doctor degree.

Kilmore International School has a strong academic track record. In 2018, more than half of the Year 12 graduates scored an ATAR above 90 with six scholarships offered from leading Australian and overseas universities.

Dux of the Class for 2018 Jack Heanly was awarded a scholarship from the University of Melbourne to study biomedicine.

The school offers a unique cultural and educational experience for its more than 400 day students, local boarding students and international boarding students from around the world.

Students are given an opportunity to learn another language from different countries such as Germany, China, Korea, Japan, Indonesia and Vietnam.

Although the school places a lot of emphasis on academic achievement, there are many co-curricular activities on offer from house events, camps and sporting teams, through to the arts and community service.

Students are recognised for their accomplishments at assembly and speech night. The Student Leadership Council sets standards and expectations for all students to follow.

As part of the IB program, students become active volunteers in charities and local community programs. At least 50 hours of community service must be undertaken as part of the IB program’s CAS program, which encourages students to learn and lead through creativity, action and service activities.

For more information, phone Kilmore International School on 57822211, visit the website at kilmore.vic.edu.au, email info@kilmore.vic.edu.au or like Kilmore International School on Facebook.