15 May 2025

PRINCIPAL

This year, Centenary SHS is due for its 4-year school review. Reviews play an important part in how the Department of Education supports school improvement. They provide schools with independent feedback, tailored to their context and needs. All Queensland state schools undergo a review at least once every 4 years. Schools are generally reviewed in the year that they are due to update their 4-year strategic plan. Review findings and feedback help to inform this planning process.

These reviews are conducted by the department in collaboration with the school community. Reviews are conducted by experienced educators trained in the use of the School Improvement Tool, an internationally recognised framework for reviewing practices that contribute to school improvement. Schools are not ranked or given a performance rating. They are provided with a comprehensive report detailing the key findings and recommended improvement strategies for consideration. The school publishes the executive summary or full report on its website. Principals are encouraged to share this information with their staff and school community to help shape the school’s strategic direction.

Feedback from parents/carers and the community is an important part of school reviews, with everyone encouraged to have their say. Conversations with a review team member can be in person or over the phone. All feedback remains confidential. Reviewers endeavour to connect with parents/carers before or after school around school grounds and car parks. As a school, we will randomly organise for some parents/carers to be called by a reviewer for a brief phone conversation.

Many students will also be spoken to by the review team to gather their views on how Centenary SHS is serving their educational needs and what they think are areas for improvement over the next four years.

I am very much looking forward to the review and to the insights that staff, students and parents/carers can provide the review team to guide our next four years of improvement.

Ross McNichol
Principal
Email: admin@centenaryshs.eq.edu.au

To read newsletter in full view, please click on the “Newsletter Print Version” button on the top left-hand corner of the screen.

DEPUTY PRINCIPALS

From Deborah McIntyre

Diversity Policy review

The Centenary SHS Diversity Policy was written in 2021 in collaboration with staff, parents/carers, students, and community members to support the needs of gender diverse students at the school. In the past few years there have been some significant legislative changes which have impacted departmental policies related to supporting Gender Diverse students in Queensland schools. We aim to ensure that our school policies reflect these changes and that we are constantly improving our practises and support of all students at our school. On Friday May 2^nd, a group of interested Centenary SHS students met to contribute to the review of the policy. We received some very valuable feedback and suggestions from our students regarding the policy.

Preparing for Successful Senior Pathways

As part of our preparation for Successful Senior Pathways, identified students in Years 10 and 11 have engaged in a variety of work experience and skill building activities. Some students continue to build their confidence and customer service skills in the Canteen whilst other students are practising kitchen skills and teamwork.

From Matt Smith

Wellbeing Framework infographics in every classroom

Our Wellbeing Framework (Version 2) continues to evolve and develop at our school. This important framework is relevant and meaningful to everyone in our community: students, staff, parents/carers and the wider community. It is a reminder of what we value and how we see wellbeing in the context of a shared and common strengths-based language at Centenary SHS.

A significant development is the creation of 3 x Wellbeing Framework infographics (pictured). The infographics reflect key aspects of the Wellbeing Framework and serve as both an affirmation and an aspiration for our community.

We are pleased to announce that every classroom in the school now has the infographics on display. Throughout the term, our Heads of Department will be leading alignment work to help these infographics become more relevant, meaningful, and accessible across all faculties for staff and students.

For more detailed information about the Wellbeing Framework, please refer to our school website: 

We hope you also engage with our Wellbeing Framework, and this helps you better understand Positive Education and wellbeing at Centenary SHS.

Please contact Matt Smith (Deputy Principal – Positive Education) or Melissa Chamberlain (Head of Positive Education) if you have any questions or would like to learn more about the ‘why’, ‘how’ and ‘what’ of wellbeing at our school.

Matt Smith: rsmit925@eq.edu.au

Melissa Chamberlain: mcham55@eq.edu.au

From Carly Manche

Year 10 students shine bright: celebrating achievements and looking ahead

As we move further into Term 2, our Year 10 students have continued to impress with their commitment, growth, and positive contributions to school life.

Student achievements and awards

So far this year, we have had many students recognised for their outstanding effort and achievement as nominated by their Year 10 teachers. It is always a pleasure to walk through classrooms each Friday to hand out certificates and prizes to nominated students.

Future Options Evening

Thank you to those who attended our Future Options Evening last night. As students start to think about life beyond Year 10, we were excited to invite families to our Future Options Evening. This important provided valuable insights into post-school pathways, including university, TAFE, apprenticeships, traineeships, and employment opportunities. A range of exhibitors and guest speakers were available to offer guidance and answer any questions about future options.

Deborah McIntyre, Deputy Principal (Inclusion, EALD)
Email:  dmcin49@eq.edu.au  

Matt Smith, Deputy Principal (Year 7)
Email: rsmit925@eq.edu.au

Brooke Davis, Deputy Principal (Year 8)
Email: bldav0@eq.edu.au

Angela McKay, Deputy Principal (Year 9)
Email: amcka18@eq.edu.au

Carly Manche, Deputy Principal (Year 10)
Email: ceman4@eq.edu.au

Amiee Nolan, Deputy Principal (Year 11)
Email: axnol0@eq.edu.au

Ange Raven, Deputy Principal (Year 12, QCE)
Email: arave7@eq.edu.au

CONNECTIONS

The School-Based Youth Health Nurse talks about…World No Tobacco Day (May 31^st, 2025)

This annual event informs the public on the dangers of using tobacco, the business practices of tobacco companies, what the World Health Organisation (WHO) is doing to fight the tobacco epidemic, and what people around the world can do to claim their right to health and healthy living and to protect future generations.

The theme for 2025 is Unmasking the Appeal: Exposing Industry Tactics on Tobacco and Nicotine Product. The campaign will focus on revealing the tactics that the tobacco and nicotine industries use to make their harmful products seem attractive, particularly to young people.

👉 For more information, visit: World No Tobacco Day 2025 (who.int)

To make an appointment to see Nurse Sarah, students can:
👉 Email: nurse.centenary@health.qld.gov.au
👉 Self-refer via this link: School Based Youth Health Nurse - Young Person Self-Referral (Page 1 of 6) (office.com)
👉 Visit the Nurse office on Mondays and Wednesdays located in GS Block
👉 For more information, visit https://bit.ly/chqSBYHN

Leanne McBrien, Guidance Officer
Email: ljmcb0@eq.edu.au

Nicole Trembath, Guidance Officer
Email: ntrem1@eq.edu.au

Sandi Wright, Guidance Officer
Email: swrig273@eq.edu.au

Sarah Kelly, School Nurse
Email: nurse.centenary@health.qld.gov.au  

Lu Ware, Psychologist
Email: refer to Guidance Officers

HPE AND SPORTS

Update on our sporting goals

Crusha the Croc (our mascot) has been on the move, climbing the ladder toward our targets, as Centenary SHS athletes have had another incredible month of sport. We have now amassed a staggering 120 Northern Eagles District reps, 33 Met West Regional reps and 1 Queensland State rep. Furthermore, after two Gala Days, Centenary SHS teams have won 12 premierships flags with many teams progressing to the Metropolitan finals. Go CROCS!

Met West representatives

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected to represent Metropolitan West in their chosen sport. What an INCREDIBLE ACHIEVEMENT!

13-19 Years Boys Hockey
Kasper

16-19 Years Boys AFL
Liam

13-15 Years Girls AFL
Lulu
Chloe

14-15 Years Boys Rugby League
Raiden

16-19 Years Girls AFL
Lila
Rihanna

16-19 Years Girls Volleyball
Phoenix

16-18 Years Boys Touch Football
Kealan
Isaac
Elie
Rico
Kayden
Cezahn

16-18 Years Girls Touch Football
Aria
Isabella

13-15 Years Boy Touch Football
Carter

13-15 Years Girls Touch Football
Chloe

13-15 Years Girls Netball
Chloe

Cross Country

Congratulations to all competitors in our school Cross Country, held at the end of Term 1. Depending on their age group, runners completed either a 2km, 4km or 6km course. It was especially great to see our Year 7 cohort taking the opportunity to run for their house and potentially earn a spot in the District Team. We would like to acknowledge the following Age Champions from the Carnival and congratulate JARUP House who were crowned champions of 2025.

District Cross Country

On the 29^th of April, 25 students from Centenary SHS competed at the Northern Eagles District Cross Country Championships at Limestone Park. In difficult, hot and hilly conditions, our athletes performed exceptionally well. Congratulations to the following students who placed in the Top 10.

Rowan (T11) - 1^st place
Isabelle (U15 Girls) - 4^th place
Elijah (U15 Boys) - 7^th place

Colour Run

Centenary SHS celebrated our third ever Colour Run on the final day of Term 1. Students who participated were met with an explosion of rainbow colour as they tackled the course. It was fantastic to see such high levels of participation, engagement and spirit, with both students and staff smiling from ear to ear. A BIG thank you to the House Captains and HPE staff for organising such a brilliant event.

Gala Days

The Junior Gala Day took place on Wednesday April 23^rd after the first attempt had to be rescheduled due to rain. Centenary SHS saw almost 250 students participate at the event and nearly 400 students attend Centenary SHS for various sports.

Centenary SHS were competitive across all sports and came away with some coveted premierships:

• Year 8 Girls Volleyball

• Year 9 Girls Volleyball
• Year 8 Girls Touch Football
• Year 9 Girls Touch Football
• Year 8 Boys Touch Football
• Year 9 Boys Touch Football
• Year 8 Boys Futsal

The Senior Gala Day was held Thursday May 1^st. Centenary SHS entered eleven teams and brought home an impressive five premierships.

• 10 Boys Touch Football
• Open Boys Touch Football
• Open Girls Touch Football
• Open Boys Futsal
• Open Boys Volleyball

Coaches worked extremely hard to support their student’s attendance and all the credit must go to the coaching staff and the students!

SSNL Round 2 recap

The second round of the SSNL competition was held at Centenary SHS against Marsden SHS. The results were as follows:

• Opens: Marsden SHS 44 def. Centenary SHS 11
• 9/10s: Marsden SHS 42 def. Centenary SHS 28
• 7/8s: Marsden SHS 20 def. Centenary HS 11

While Centenary SHS went down in all three games, our teams continue to develop strong netball skills and teamwork. We're staying positive and looking forward to taking on Albany Creek SHS later in the term.

Upcoming dates

• Monday May 27^th – Athletics Carnival Day 1 (Field events, nominations only)
• Thursday May 29^th – Athletics Carnival Day 2 (Track and all other field events, whole school)

Yours in sport,
Lachie Gibbs, HPE HOD
Email: lgibb23@eq.edu.au

James Garrard, West Brisbane Sports Director
Email: jgarr57@eq.edu.au 

Richard Haines, Sports Coordinator
Email: rhain0@eq.edu.au

STUDENT FORUM

After a 'hairy' delay thanks to Cyclone Alfred, Centenary SHS is participating in the World's Greatest Shave on Friday May 16th, 2025, with students and staff saying 'adios' to their luscious locks.  Last year, we raised over $12,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation.

To help us make a difference again this year, you can donate here: 

To further raise money for the Leukaemia Foundation, students are invited to participate in our 'Crazy Hair Day' on the same day!

'Crazy Hair Day' is for hair and hair accessories ONLY (e.g. wigs, bandanas, hair accessories, hair sprays and elaborate hairstyles). Students are to wear their normal school uniform as per the Student Dress Code.

Students who participate in 'Crazy Hair Day' are expected to donate a gold coin, which will be collected on the day.

Thank you for your support of our school.

Marney O’Dea, Student Leadership Coordinator
Email: modea9@eq.edu.au

MARKETING AND EVENTS

Anzac Day

On Thursday April 24^th, we held our Junior Anzac Day Service and our Senior Anzac Day Service.

Thank you to all involved for making our services so special, including our wonderful performers and student cadets who performed a catafalque party. Thank you to all of our invited guests too for their attendance, including Honorary Milton Dick MP, Ms Jess Pugh MP, Councillor Sarah Hutton and Lieutenant Anne Nguyen, Royal Australian Navy.

More (including photos) can be found on our Facebook page: 

Furthermore, on Wednesday April 23^rd, the day before our school services, our 2025 School Captains attended the ANZAC Commemoration School Ceremony at Anzac Square, along with Mr Mark Watkins.

Parent Teacher Interviews

Thank you to all parents/carers who attended our Parent Teacher Interviews on Tuesday May 6^th. We appreciate the opportunity to work alongside our parent/carer community to improve academic and wellbeing outcomes for our young people.

Our next opportunity to meet teachers face-to face will be in August.

School Tours

Centenary SHS provides a number of opportunities for prospective parents/carers to view our school and gain important information about programs and educational opportunities for students.

School Tours give parents/carers and incoming students (too) the opportunity to view Centenary SHS in its typical day-to-day operation. It also provides an opportunity to talk to students and key personnel. Most find these tours enlightening and informative and the Q&A session at the end of the tour enables parents/carers to cover a range of questions they may have about life at Centenary SHS.

Organised tours run from 9:15am - 11:00am and are by registration only. 

Upcoming tour dates can be found below. To register, please email cwall328@eq.edu.au with date, numbers attending and best contact number.

Tuesday May 27th, 2025, 9:15am - 11:00am
Thursday May 29th, 2025, 9:15am - 11:00am

Caitlin Wallekers, Marketing, Events and Executive Services
Email: cwall328@eq.edu.au

PUBLIC SPEAKING AND DEBATING

Our Year 7 Debaters are off to a great start this year, winning their first short prep recently! Congratulations to our youngest debaters, and their coach Mr Joliffe!

Emma Salmon, Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator
Email: esalm20@eq.edu.au

JUNIOR SCHOOL

We have hit the ground running straight away in Term 2 in our Junior School, setting the tone for a term filled with connection, learning, and growth. In Weeks 1 and 2, we began visiting our local primary schools to speak with Year 6 students about what to expect as they transition to high school. These visits are a wonderful way to foster positive emotions and build early relationships, helping students feel a sense of belonging even before they arrive.

2026 enrolment packs have now been delivered to each of our feeder primary schools and are ready for completion. A reminder that applications for 2026 Year 7 enrolments are due by Friday June 6th, 2025.

I’d like to extend my gratitude to the Year 8 students who accompanied me on these visits. Their willingness to share their personal experiences – about school life, extracurricular opportunities, and support systems such as the Homework Hub – was both inspiring and reassuring for our future students. These meaningful peer interactions help build excitement and confidence in those preparing for their high school journey.

In Week 3, our Year 7 students took part in the much-loved annual camp at Tallebudgera. With 230 students and their teachers attending, the camp was a celebration of teamwork, perseverance, and adventure. From the thrill of the giant swing to the challenge of the high ropes and the fun of bodyboarding, students were fully engaged in every moment. Their willingness to support each other, take risks, and celebrate successes together highlighted their growing resilience and sense of accomplishment.

For those who remained at school, our Stay Camp program offered an equally enriching experience. Students explored a variety of hands-on and creative activities – from (pretend) fire twirling and friendly competitions to high-energy sports and the tactile fun of oobleck making. Each day was filled with joy, curiosity, and connection – contributing positively to student wellbeing and engagement.

A sincere thank you goes out to all Junior School staff who supported both camps. Their hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment ensured both programs ran smoothly and successfully for our students whilst creating life-long memories.

Rachel Habermann, Junior School HOD
Email: rhabe7@eq.edu.au

ARTS

Welcome to a busy Term 2! We hope you enjoy The Arts Faculty stories from the last half of Term 1!

For the month of June, the Centenary Arts P&C Subcommittee is one of the Local Matters Jars at Grill’d Mount Ommaney. Every time you eat there, you get a token and if we get the most tokens for the month, we get a $300 donation. We hope you’ll consider having a few burger nights and supporting the Arts Faculty!

Student success

Last issue we spoke of the amazing students who nominated and were accepted into Creative Generation State Schools on Stage. (CGEN) is Education Queensland’s professionally produced, award-winning arena spectacular, involving over 2000 students across the state. It is nationally renowned for its outstanding and vibrant display of state school talent. Our students have been attending weekend rehearsals in preparation for the show, and they are very excited about what they’re going to be presenting! If you would like to see our seven students in action, you need to purchase tickets ASAP. Tickets for CGEN are (mostly) sold out, however a final release for the Friday matinee performance will be made available at 9:00am on Friday May 16^th.

The Queensland Conservatorium of Music offers outstanding young musicians’ opportunities to participate in the Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University State Honours Ensemble Programs annually. The Honours programs are educational programs for music students that help extend and encourage their pursuit of musical excellence. We are thrilled to announce our biggest ever cohort of students have been successful in their nominations!

Invited to attend SHEP Brisbane, from May 30^th – June 1^st, are:

Ashton – Year 11, violin
Ava – Year 10, clarinet
Bella – Year 10, clarinet
Christabel – Year 9, voice
Daniel – Year 12, cello
Eva – Year 10, clarinet
Hayden – Year 12, trumpet
Isaac – Year 10, viola
Katelynn – Year 9, voice
Lil – Year 10, clarinet
Martin – Year 12, cello
Matthew – Year 10, clarinet
Mikaela – Year 10, clarinet
Raphael – Year 10, clarinet
Sam – Year 12, trombone
Simon – Year 10, viola
Sophie – Year 10, clarinet
Vedika – Year 10 bass clarinet

Invited to attend SHEP South-East Queensland, July 10-12:

Albert – Year 10, tuba
Angus – Year 9, cello
Annabelle – Year 8, cello
Avani – Year 9, cello
Cadence – Year 7, flute
Dahnbee – Year 10, violin
Dylan – Year 11, cello
Erica – Year 9, cello
Ian – Year 9, oboe
Jonathan – Year 9, baritone saxophone
Josh – Year 9, alto saxophone
Juliet – Year 10, viola
Leisa – Year 9, violin
Lilly – Year 10, violin
Mark – Year 10, violin
Myque – Year 10, percussion
Nicholas – Year 10, cello
Pazel – Year 9, clarinet
Sarah – Year 9, alto saxophone
Steven – Year 8, clarinet
Tiffany – Year 10, violin
Wilson – Year 9, cello
Yannick – Year 8, cello
Zahra – Year 8, clarinet

Congratulations to all of the musicians who have been selected for this amazing opportunity! We look forward to finding out about SHEP Queensland and the (auditioned) Australian Honours Ensemble Program later this month!

Curriculum news

Year 10 Visual Art students have just wrapped up a powerful unit exploring the concept of “Hostile Homeland”, with new curriculum from Version 9.0 of the Australian Curriculum. Using boards or skate decks as symbolic shields, they created artworks protesting against issues relevant to Australia today. You can check out their amazing creations next time you visit CPAC.

Students interested in Visual Art have been told about a great competition – the Next Gen Prize, as part of the Brisbane Portrait Prize. There is a $2000 prize for the winning entry! Students have until July 1^st to complete their artwork and creativity is encouraged – entries beyond traditional painting (e.g. digital art, photography or other unique forms of portraiture) are welcomed. Students interested should see Ms Duschka in AR or Ms Sleeman in CPAC staffrooms.

The Year 7 Performance Plus class braved the wet weather to head to the theatre to watch the theatrical masterpiece 'Peter and the Starcatcher'. This excursion provided students the opportunity to enhance their understanding of the elements of theatre production and bring their classroom learning to life.

Our Year 8 Performance Plus students have been diving into an exciting new project in partnership with Queensland Theatre. As part of The Scene Project initiative, students have been exploring scripted drama through collaborative workshops led by our talented Artist in Residence, Kurt Duval. Through hands-on rehearsal processes, improvisation activities, and expert guidance, students are developing their skills in performance and stagecraft, all while working toward a presentation early term 3.

Extracurricular news

The Arts Captains have hosted ten incredible days of talent show heats, showcasing the amazing talent here at Centenary SHS. We announced our five grand finalists last week – congratulations to Christabel, Eva, Steven, Three Pupils Band (Ava, Oskar, Miles), MJ, Toni, and Mala’e. We look forward to their performances during Arts Week!

The Arts Captains have been very busy – they have prepared a wonderful program of events showcasing all five disciplines of the Arts - Visual Art, Dance, Drama, Media and Music!  We look forward to sharing about our fun week in the next edition!

The Centenary Dance Troupes have been rehearsing since the start of the year and are ready for their first competitive performance this year. The Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge is going to be held locally, at Riverlife Church. You can buy tickets online: https://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1385034

Wizard of Oz news

This term the band has started rehearsing! The music is incredibly difficult but luckily, we have an amazing group of senior musicians and staff who will play all of the music live at the show!

Excitement is building as rehearsals for our whole school musical, The Wizard of Oz, continue to gain momentum! Last week, students from across the school have brought new energy to the stage as we completed choreography for one of the show’s most iconic numbers — The Merry Old Land of Oz. Thanks to Miss Milford’s creative movement, the arrival at Emerald City has come to life through energetic ensemble work and vibrant staging. It’s been wonderful to see students of all ages working together, supporting one another, and stepping confidently into their roles.

Instrumental Music news

We have started Term 2 with a number of school and community performances. The Symphonic Band were able to perform at school for our two Anzac Day Services but unfortunately, the community service was cancelled this year. We’ve had ensembles performing on assemblies and out in the local community. The Chamber Strings performed for our biggest ever crowd at Dovetree! This month we have the Stage Band performing at the Brisbane Youth Jazz Festival, the Choirs competing at the Queensland Youth Music Awards, the Woodwind Ensembles playing at the Darra Festival and our first Livening Up The Library Series. The Date Claimer for Term 2 is attached below for your information.

Our major concert will be held later this term. It’s the only opportunity you get to see every Centenary SHS ensemble in one event! We are hosting the event at iSee Church so we can fit everyone in and we are looking forward to an amazing evening. Tickets are already on sale: https://www.trybooking.com/DARRH

The Arts Subcommittee of the P&C hold their Term 2 meeting on Tuesday May 20^th at 7:00pm in CPAC. Our meetings are short and sweet, please let me know if you’re able to attend: aslee4@eq.edu.au.

Angela Sleeman, Arts HOD
Email: aslee4@eq.edu.au

BUSINESS TECHNOLOGY

New 3D printers!

Mr Glass has been putting our new 3D printers through their paces in Year 10 QIC (Introduction to ICT). His class has been developing prototypes and having fun with 3D modelling. We will be utilising these awesome machines throughout Year 10 QDT and Year 11 ICT later this year also.

Kirsten Caruso, Business Technology HOD
Email: kcaru11@eq.edu.au

HUMANITIES

Taiwan Culture Day at Centenary SHS!

Celebrating Culture, Connection, and Curiosity

On Tuesday May 6^th, students from Years 9 and 11 at Centenary SHS took part in Taiwan Culture Day, a vibrant celebration designed to immerse Chinese language students in the rich and dynamic culture of Taiwan. This exciting event transformed the classroom into a cultural hub filled with engaging activities, hands-on experiences, and delicious treats.

The aim of Taiwan Culture Day was simple: to bring learning to life. Through traditional games and authentic experiences, students had the opportunity to deepen their understanding of Taiwanese culture beyond the textbook. The event supported both cultural appreciation and language learning by creating a fun, interactive space where students could explore and enjoy.

Students rotated through a variety of activities based on their year level and class schedules:

• Year 9 (Lesson 1) enjoyed making and customising their very own bubble tea, a beloved Taiwanese drink that was as fun to make as it was to taste! They also took on the Chopsticks Challenge, a fast-paced game that tested their dexterity and chopstick skills in a race to pick up M&Ms.
• Year 11 (Lesson 3) also got their turn at bubble tea making, followed by a lively Mandarin Karaoke Contest, where students showcased their singing talents and Mandarin pronunciation through popular Chinese songs.

Each activity was designed to be both educational and entertaining, encouraging students to work together, practice language skills, and embrace new cultural experiences.

Taiwan Culture Day wasn’t just about games and food—it was about building global citizens. The event successfully:

• Enhanced cultural understanding through hands-on activities,
• Encouraged teamwork and social interaction,
• And most importantly, ignited a passion for Mandarin and Asian culture among students.

Events like these remind us that learning a language is more than grammar and vocabulary – it's about discovering people, traditions, and perspectives.

A big thank you to the language department and all staff who helped make Taiwan Culture Day such a meaningful success!

Zeenat Hussain, Humanities HOD
Email: znhus0@eq.edu.au

YEAR 12 REPORT

Welcome to Term 2!

The start of Term 2 has seen our Year 12 cohort get their interim results for the semester returned to them. Overall, the Year 12 results were outstanding, demonstrating a fantastic start to the academic year! 

PEEC in Focus

The beginning of this term in the extended HG space has been very hampered by public holidays. For the one Monday that we did have, we celebrated a milestone in the journey of Year 12: 100 School Days to Go!

The average Queensland school student does approximately 3445 school days, so for our current seniors, that means that have now progressed through about 97% of their schooling! We had a wonderful day starting off with a pancake breakfast, followed by some fun trivia about our students in their prep days, and photos and cake in Lesson 3. 

To see more from the day, head to our Facebook page: 

Events

Keep an eye out for information about the two events for this term, the Senior State of Origin Night, and the Senior Sleepout. Both will be great events!

Students in Focus

Anzac Day

During Week 1, a number of events took place throughout the community and the school to commemorate Anzac Day. Many of our Year 12 student leaders and performers played major roles in these events and ceremonies, and I would like to thank them and congratulate them all for their efforts.

Check out our Facebook page for more and the images included earlier in this newsletter.

Mark Watkins, Year 12 Coordinator
Email: mwatk16@eq.edu.au

YEAR 11 REPORT

Term 2 has been off to a productive start for our Year 11 students. Recently, students participated in the QEW (Queensland Engagement and Wellbeing) Survey, which aims to provide valuable insights into their wellbeing and engagement at school. In our HG sessions, we’ve been focusing on lessons around relationship building, helping students strengthen their connections and communication skills whilst having fun with their peers.

Looking ahead to Week 6, we’re excited to welcome a guest speaker from the PBF, who will present an important session on party safety, alcohol use, road risks, and phone distractions. This talk will highlight the serious impacts of spinal cord injuries and promote greater awareness of the risks.

In addition, students have started the design process for their senior jerseys – an exciting milestone – and preparations for the semi-formal are underway, with permission forms expected to be distributed in Week 6 or Week 7.

As school life becomes increasingly busy, we encourage all students to prioritise sleep, maintain balance, and reach out for support when needed. Whether it’s speaking with their teachers, myself, or Ms Nolan, help is always available.

Kate Tesch, Year 11 Coordinator
Email: ktesc0@eq.edu.au

YEAR 9 REPORT

As we reach the midpoint of Term 3, I’d like to take a moment to reflect on what has been a dynamic and eventful few weeks. Despite some interruptions to our ‘usual’ routines, our students have once again demonstrated just how resilient and adaptable they can be.

Whether navigating adjusted schedules or managing shortened weeks, our cohort has shown a remarkable ability to remain focused, positive, and engaged. While these moments can sometimes feel challenging, they have also provided valuable learning experiences – fostering life skills such as flexibility, initiative, and emotional awareness.

Positive Education – HG Program

Students have begun their career-focused HG Program, which encourages them to reflect on what lies ahead – where they want to go, and how they might get there. As part of this process, they’ll begin writing their curriculum vitae and cover letters, offering a real-world opportunity to prepare for future employment.

In Week 6, students will hear from various Heads of Department about what Year 10 looks like and the subjects available. This will offer valuable clarity around the “how” of their journey and support them in making informed, purposeful decisions.

Later in the term, students will hopefully have the opportunity to engage with universities, TAFEs, and external employment agencies such as the Australian Defence Force and Queensland Police. These encounters are designed to spark interest and broaden their understanding of the many pathways available – whether they are exploring a TAFE course, an apprenticeship or traineeship in Year 10, or considering the more traditional route of university study.

These experiences are not just about preparing for the future – they are about empowering students to explore their strengths, understand their options, and take ownership of their individual pathways. By engaging with real-world skills, hearing directly from subject leaders, and connecting with further education and industry representatives, students are building confidence, gaining clarity, and developing a deeper sense of purpose.

Our aim is for every student to approach the winter holidays feeling equipped, supported, and optimistic knowing they’ve taken meaningful steps towards their future.

Uniform reminder – setting up for future success

As we continue our focus on careers and future pathways, I’d like to take this opportunity to remind families of the importance of students adhering to our Student Dress Code, including expectations around jewellery, makeup, and overall presentation.

These policies are in place not only to uphold our school’s standards, but also to help students understand the expectations they are likely to encounter in the workplace. Whether it’s wearing a uniform, dressing appropriately for a job interview, or following professional grooming standards, these habits are valuable preparation for life beyond the school gates.

We appreciate your continued support in reinforcing these expectations at home and helping our students take pride in their appearance and readiness for the future.

Student shout-outs

Levi – Selected to represent Australian for Inline Hockey
Chloe – Selected to represent Met West for Under 13-15 Years Girls Touch Football 
Amelia and Elijah – Awarded Under 15 Cross Under 15 Age Champion for Cross Country

Year 9 Girls Volleyball & Girls and Boys Touch Football – Junior Gala Day Premiers

As we move into the second half of the term, we look forward to continuing this positive momentum – encouraging students to celebrate their progress, stay motivated, and set meaningful goals for what lies ahead.

Thank you, as always, for the role you play at home. Your support makes a real difference, and together, we are nurturing a year level that grows in confidence, resilience, and purpose with every step.

Pia Leinonen, Year 9 Coordinator
Email: plein0@eq.edu.au

YEAR 8 REPORT

We’re excited to welcome all our Year 8 students back for Term 2. Last term, we focused on building positive relationships and creating a strong foundation of connection and trust within our Home Groups.

This term, our HG curriculum will shift to the theme of ‘accomplishment’, where we’ll develop key skills to help us plan for success in both our learning and wellbeing. In class, we’ll explore our Term 1 academic results, effort, and behaviour, using this reflection to set goals and encourage personal growth.

As a highlight of the term, we’ll also be welcoming YLead to run a full-day team building program that will help us strengthen our collaboration, leadership, and community spirit.

We’d like to congratulate our Year 8 cohort on their excellent HG attendance. From the classroom walkthroughs by Dr and Ms Davis, it’s clear that a strong sense of belonging is being fostered across the cohort.

Lastly, a reminder that phone pouches are a school requirement.  All students are required to have functioning lockable pouches to secure phones during school hours. If you need a replacement, please visit Ms Davis' office — she’ll be more than happy to assist you. 

Brooke Davis, Year 8 Coordinator
Email: badav0@eq.edu.au

Brooke Davis, Deputy Principal (Year 8)
Email: bldav0@eq.edu.au

YEAR 7 REPORT

Last week, our Year 7 students embarked on an unforgettable journey to Tallebudgera for their much-anticipated school camp. From sandy beaches to thrilling outdoor challenges, the experience was a powerful blend of fun, personal growth, and meaningful connections.

Camp was more than just a break from routine — it was a living example of our school’s commitment to positive education. Through shared experiences and guided reflection, students explored key aspects of wellbeing including resilience, gratitude, and optimism. These values were woven into each day’s activities, fostering a strong sense of purpose and joy.

One of the most heartening aspects of the camp was witnessing the sense of belonging that developed among students. For many, it was the first extended time away from home, and yet, within hours, new friendships were forming and existing ones’ deepening. Whether it was cheering each other on during the high ropes course or collaborating on team challenges, students learned the power of connection and community.

Our dedicated staff played a crucial role in modelling and nurturing flourishing relationships. Their guidance helped create a safe and supportive environment where students felt seen, heard, and valued. The bonds formed between students and staff will continue to strengthen the fabric of our school culture.

The camp also encouraged students to step outside their comfort zones — and they rose to the challenge with courage and enthusiasm. From conquering fears of heights to navigating group dynamics, they developed confidence and skills that will serve them far beyond the classroom.

Beyond the challenges and achievements, there was plenty of laughter, fun, and memory-making. As students returned home tired but smiling, they brought back more than sandy shoes — they brought back a stronger sense of self, new friendships, and memories that will last a lifetime.

We are incredibly proud of our Year 7 cohort and grateful to the staff who made this experience possible.

Head to our Facebook page to check out more from camp!

Jim Joliffe, Year 7 Coordinator  
Email: jjoli0@eq.edu.au

COMMUNITY NOTICES

Learn more about Reach Lending Group by scanning the below QR code. Reach Lending Group is the proud supporter of our school’s happiness hound, Betty Centenary!

Scouts

From age 5 to 25, Scouting offers girls and boys the opportunity to have fun, build friendships and confidence, learn new skills and try exciting activities. 

Be part of the 50 million-strong Scouting family worldwide and JOIN THE ADVENTURE!

Jindalee Scout Group is based at 99 Mt Ommaney Drive and has active Scouts (11-15yrs), Venturers (15-18yrs) and Rovers (18-25yrs) sections.  Come along with your friends for a trial session or two, we have something for everyone!

We welcome all adults who would like to be involved in delivering and supporting this life-changing program and also hope to restart our Joeys (5-8yrs) and Cub (8-11yrs) sections soon.

For more information and to book a trial session, please contact Rosie/Platypus, Group Leader at gl@jindalee.scoutsqld.com.au or clink the QR code on the flyer.