Stepping through the doors of Kairos Community College’s Open Day felt less like visiting a school and more like being welcomed into a community.
Earlier this year, I attended one of the college’s Tribal Lunches after being invited to learn more about this alternative education option in Caloundra. I left impressed by the students’ warmth, confidence and maturity. Returning for the Open Day in July, it was clear that same culture of belonging was at the heart of everything Kairos does.
My student tour guides, Micah and Till, proudly shared what makes Kairos different.
For Till, the college offered a fresh start after feeling “overlooked” in previous schooling. “It’s the best thing that’s happened in my life,” Till said. “Everyone looks out for each other. It feels like a family.”
Micah discovered Kairos after struggling to find the right fit elsewhere. “They teach us stuff that’s relevant,” Micah explained, highlighting practical life skills alongside opportunities like Run Club and hiking that have built confidence beyond the classroom.
Listening to their stories, one message stood out: Kairos isn’t just about education. It’s about belonging.
With just 68 students supported by 14 staff, the college intentionally keeps its community small, allowing meaningful relationships to flourish.
Marketing Manager Katy Devers says the school’s priorities are simple. “We focus on wellbeing first, then community, then education. If students don’t feel safe and secure, they’re not going to learn.”
Acting Head of Campus, Nigel Riseley expands on that ethos. “At Kairos, we meet young people where they are, put their wellbeing first and create an education experience that is built around their individual strengths and aspirations. Our goal is to give every young person as many opportunities as possible to try, discover, connect and succeed – often opening doors they never thought were available to them.”
That philosophy extends beyond the classroom. Weekly Tribal Lunches see students and staff preparing and sharing meals together, creating space for conversation, connection and support.
Pathways Officer Darren Freeman says the college’s name reflects its purpose. “We need community to help us do this. That’s why we’re Kairos Community College.”
For families searching for a different path through secondary education, Kairos offers an approach centred on relationships, real-world learning and helping young people discover their potential.
