Farewell and God Bless, Mr Grivell

On Friday 1 May, the Encounter Lutheran College community came together in a heartfelt and memorable way to farewell our Principal, Mr Kelvin Grivell, and to honour his 14 years of influential and community-shaping leadership.

Held at 9.00am in the Kondole, the Community Farewell saw approximately 1,200 members of the Encounter family gather, including students, staff, parents, Old Scholars, past staff, Board members, and friends of the College. It was a special and significant opportunity to reflect on the impact of Mr Grivell’s leadership, to share in gratitude, and to celebrate the lasting legacy he leaves within our community.

The morning began with a whole-school gathering, followed by a community morning tea. A highlight of the event was a moving musical tribute from the Junior School Choir, who performed “Home” (by Phillips Phillips). This moment became even more powerful with a surprise ‘flash mob’, as the entire College community rose to their feet to join in song. It was a fitting and emotional tribute to a leader who has meant so much to so many.

Messages of appreciation were shared by Sam Dunbar on behalf of staff, and by Board Chair Sophie Ducrou, representing the College Board. A video presentation, “Memories of Kelvin,” offered a deeply personal reflection on his time at Encounter and the values that have guided his leadership.

As Mr Grivell reflected in the video, his journey with Encounter has been uniquely personal:
“I guess I'm fortunate to have a really unique story in that not only have I been the principal for 14 years, but I was also a founding member of staff back in 2001. So having experienced Encounter when it was just a primary school and when there were 80 odd kids in 2001 compared to then returning as principal and embarking upon secondary schooling kind of feels like I've had an awareness and had an influence across much of the journey of my life.”

While the growth and development of the College have been significant during his time, Mr Grivell emphasised that the true heart of Encounter lies in its people:
“…when you scratch beneath the surface, it's really the people. So, I'm grateful for the people, certainly the people in this space, but the people who continue to serve also as part of Encounter.”
“…it's so much more than the buildings, it's all about the people.”

Grounded in faith, Mr Grivell also spoke honestly about the transition ahead:
“I am placing all of my trust in God, believing that He has a plan.”

In a beautiful and unexpected final moment, the morning concluded with a moving guard of honour. As the Kondole doors opened, Mr Grivell was met with a winding line of students, from Year 12s right through to our Lighthouse Early Learners, alongside staff, forming a pathway that stretched across the campus. With applause, cheers, and heartfelt handshakes, the community created a powerful and lasting farewell, one that will no doubt remain a treasured memory.

Later that evening, staff gathered at the Wilderness Centre on Wurar Ruwi for a more intimate farewell, sharing stories, laughter, and sincere appreciation for Mr Grivell’s leadership and service.

Mr Grivell’s impact on Encounter Lutheran College has been profound. His commitment to nurturing a strong, connected, and values-driven community will continue to shape the College for years to come.

Farewell and God bless, Mr Grivell. You will be deeply missed, and we wish you every blessing as you begin your next chapter at Cornerstone College.