The 2026 academic year has commenced with an exceptional sense of optimism, and it is a pleasure to see our campuses once again filled with energy and enthusiasm. The sound of conversation and many smiling faces are a welcome reminder of the vibrant community that defines Unity College. The College is never quite complete without our students, and it is wonderful to have everyone back.
We anticipate another productive and engaging year ahead, with a wide range of opportunities and events planned across the College. Each year brings its own unique highlights, and 2026 promises to be no different. Term 1 will offer a full and enriching program, including camps, retreats, Sports Day, the Year 12 Formal, and many other activities designed to support learning, connection, and growth.
The Year 12 Formal is on Friday this week – with lots of excitement among the Year 12 students. We are looking forward to the event at the Murray Bridge Racing Club. Thanks to all the staff and teachers involved on the night to make this event a spectacular success.
Our Year 10 retreat in Robe and the Year 12 retreat at El Shadai were held this week, and it was wonderful to see students fully engaged and enjoying their time away. I had the pleasure of visiting the Year 12 retreat, where I joined students for a range of activities, including sports and an address aimed at setting a positive and purposeful tone for their final year. I also participated in a role-play of the Passion Meditation script alongside several Year 12 teachers. This production, led by Mr. Yeager, is shaping up to be an outstanding culmination to the term and a meaningful lead-in to the Easter season.
We extend a warm welcome to all students joining Unity College for the first time. We are delighted to have you as part of our community. We also welcome our new staff members, and we are confident that each of you will quickly feel at home and make a valuable contribution to our College.
New staff for 2026 are:
Kealie Cheriton
Simone Gregurke
Ada Hamilton
Amber Hayes
Eleanor Binney
Jessie Rathjen
Tiffany Ross
Hayley Boyce
Jacob Bailey
Kirra Carson
Kim Clayton
Stephanie Lee
Allyssa Levstek
Cian Yakas
Patsi May-Mesecke
Abby Harrowfield
Our Parent Meet and Greet Evening at the Junior School was very well attended. This was a great opportunity for parents to meet the Homegroup Teachers and hear about what’s happening this term. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any support, clarification, or guidance regarding your child’s educational journey at Unity. We are partners in this journey and want to work together to ensure that your children achieve their personal learning goals and reach their full potential.
Our Areyonga students are returning this week. This year will be the biggest group – 19 students. We are excited to welcome our Areyonga students back to Unity.
Congratulations to our 2026 Student Leaders. You play an important role as the voice of your peers, and I look forward to working alongside you throughout the year. Together, we will continue to strengthen Unity College as a place where every student can thrive, achieve their potential, engage in a wide range of opportunities, and, most importantly, feel supported, inspired, and confident in their learning journey.
Student Leaders for 2026:
Student Leaders: Archie Bell, Ella Gierus-Heintze, Alexandra White, Tyler White, Amelia DeMichele, Aiden Johncock
House Captains
Cooperation: Roclin Bates, Lexie Buick, Louella May, Fred Scammell
Loyalty: Olivia Griffiths, Noah Wiese, Taylah Cant, Chance Hearne
Progress: Halle Jarvis, Brady Lienert, Lottie Berling, Archie Nicholson
Union: Cora O’Shaughnessy, Ava Schubert, Amy Lienert, Hamish Bennett
Year 9 Ambassadors
Airlie Clayson, Siluni Gamlath Vidanalage, William Hollis, Jessica Nuske, James Pickering, Taylor Schilling
Year 5 Ambassadors: Duncan Cartledge, Elsa Fischer
Junior School SRC
Year 5s (who will serve a whole year): Eden Humby, Isabelle Masters, Lachlan Van Holten, Korbin Dix
Year 4 (who will serve for Semester 1): Lily-May White, Jaguar James, Tanner Franklin, Rolien Smit, Dougie Mort, Evelyn Bemmerl
Year 3: Tom Nicholson, Ellamay Elliott, Ethan Clark, Darla McCarthy
Year 2: Paddy Hunt, Halle Downs, Theodore Cutting, Grace Padman, Harry Bennett, Isla White
Inspirational Bible Verse
“Even youths grow tired and weary, and young men stumble and fall; 31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength.
They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” Isaiah 40:30-31
Let us place our trust in the Lord as we step into 2026, seeking His guidance and giving thanks for the many blessings He has bestowed upon our Unity community. May His wisdom and grace continue to shape our journey and strengthen us throughout the year ahead.
Blessings
Mr Francois Pienaar, Principal
