20 September 2018 Volume 20 Number 9

PRINCIPAL

News from the Principal

The end of Term 3 is always a critical period for our senior students. In recent weeks Year 12s have sat the Queensland Core Skills Test followed by an exam block. Performance in this testing period will be critical to informing final subject achievement. During the QCS, students who did not sit the test were engaged in a Transition Program which required them to complete outstanding coursework, engage in Work Experience and attend a mock job interview. Additionally, students with outstanding course work were required to attend school during the exam block. This process supports our 2018 school target of 100% QCE Attainment upon exit.

Year 10 students and caregivers have recently engaged in the SETP process as a means of informing senior pathway and subject selection. I trust that the quality dialogue with Senior Staff around individual student aptitude, achievement and aspiration will realise good decision making.

Production

Congratulations to all staff and students involved in the recent Addams Family production. The show itself was highly entertaining, involved over 200 students and in the tradition of our productions over many years was inclusive of all. Behind all this was the hundreds of hours committed by staff dealing with the myriad of performance, organisational and student issues. Well done!!!

Work Experience

Year 10 students undertake structured work placement in Week 10 of this term. Work Experience has a valuable place in the school curriculum and is positioned in Year 10 to inform students around career options and consequent subject selections. Additionally the program forms part of the requirements of the Certificate 2 Skills for Work and Training. My thanks to the many members of the Centenary Business Community who have provided placement opportunities for students as well as the Senior Schooling team who have worked tirelessly to ensure the success of the program.

Learning Devices 2019

Building on the success of this year’s Digital Learning program in Year 7, we hope to expand in 2019. All students in Years 7, 8 and 11 will be expected to bring a digital learning device to school and it will be strongly encouraged in the other year levels. We are becoming more reliant upon a digital textbook platform as a resource and working tool for students. We have found that window devices work best with the school network.

NAPLAN Results

The NAPLAN testing program is one measure of school performance. It is particularly useful in gauging the specific areas or strength and weakness in individual students. Highlights include the Year 7 Upper Two Band performance of 37.2% (Grammar and Punctuation) and 36.8% (Numeracy) generally strong performance against National Means in both Year 7 and 9. Writing remains our weakest performance area in both year levels.

The school will interrogate this data further to:

• Identify students for further support
• Identify the high quality teaching practices that are contributing to these outstanding results
• Review discretionary funding to best support improvement

2018 NAPLAN SUMMARY

Student Success

There are plenty of good news stories around the school at present. Congratulations to our Vocal Ensemble who were one of only two public schools to make it to the finals of the Australian A Cappella Championships.

Our Year 10 Basketball team equalled a school best result by finishing in second place in the Metropolitan School Sport finals.

Lastly, congratulations to Ismahan Elsair in Year 10 who has been selected to the University of Queensland Young Achievers Scholarship program for 2019.

Enjoy your Spring Holiday

John Brew, Principal
Email: admin@centenaryshs.eq.edu.au

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Newsletter Articles

DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

News from the Deputy Principals

Parent Contact with the School and/or teachers.

There are many reasons why parents may need to attend the school, particularly the school office, to seek information or make payments.

Parents who would like to see teachers must make an appointment with that teacher or Head of Department ahead of time, and then enter the school through the School Main Office. Meetings with school staff will generally be arranged to take place at the school office.

Parents are reminded that they cannot go directly to staffrooms or classrooms.

Year 10 SETP Process and Subject Selections

All Year 10 students have now completed their SETP interviews and subject selections. We are now in the process of developing the timetable for 2019 based on these subject selections. There may be some instances where subject selection numbers do not meet minimum requirements which may mean that we will not be able to offer that subject. If this occurs for your child we will interview them individually and develop the best option for them. If you have any questions around the transition into Year 11, please contact the school to discuss further.

Semester 2 Interim Reports

Term 3 Interim reports for Years 7 to 12 will be sent to all parents by the end of Week 1 Term 4. This report is designed to give students and parents feedback which reflects how students are progressing with regard to their result, effort and behaviour for their subject in Term 3. Please make sure that your contact details, especially your email address, is up to date so that you do not miss out on this important information. If any contact details have changed can you please inform the office staff.

Year 12 End of Year Processes

As the Year 12 students head towards the end of their time at high school, it is important that they are focussed on doing their best right to the end of the year. A drop in attitude and effort can have a significant impact on results which can transfer to issues with their pathway attainment at the end of Year 12. A reminder that if students have not met school expectations with regard to engagement, attendance and work completion, then they run the risk of not being allowed to attend the Year 12 Formal at the end of the year. If you have any concerns about the progress of a Year 12 student, please see Mr. Richter (Year 12 Deputy Principal).

Matt McDonald, Deputy Principal (Year 11)
Email: mmcdo156@eq.edu.au

Adam Richter, Deputy Principal (Years 9, 12 & International)
Email: arich60@eq.edu.au

Sallyann Griffith, Deputy Principal (Years 7, 8, International & Exchange)
Email: sgrif88@eq.edu.au

Kelsey Oakes, Deputy Principal (Year 10, ATSI & EALD)
Email: koake10@eq.edu.au

BUSINESS MANAGER

News from the Business Manager

2019 Fees

The parent/carer contribution for 2019 has been set at $230 for Year 7 students and $250 for all other year levels. The scheme enhances and maximises student learning and provides a cost effective alternative to parents/carers for the use of curriculum textbooks/e-books, resources, consumables and other essential materials for students use. The scheme is endorsed by the P&C Association and is approved by the Department of Education, Queensland.

Shortly you will receive an invoice for the 2019 Student Resource Scheme. An early bird discount payment option is available. A $20 discount will apply if fees are paid in full by 30th November 2018. Alternatively, parents/carers have the opportunity to finalise these fees by 31st July 2019

2018 Fees

Thank you to the families who have paid the 2018 school fees. Your payments are greatly appreciated and go directly to enhancing the learning of your child/children.

Changes to the Payment of Excursion

This year excursion/camps/activities are no longer being included in payment plans. These are a user pay activity and will need to be paid in full prior to attending the event.

Parent/Carer Experiencing Financial Difficulties

A parent/carer wishing to participate in the Student Resource Scheme and experiencing financial hardship is encouraged to contact the Business Manager to discuss how their financial obligations can be met throughout the school year, or to negotiate alternative arrangements that may be available to accommodate their individual circumstances. All discussions will be held in the strictest confidence.

How to make a payment

Payments can be made over the counter by cash or EFTPOS (Debit Card, MasterCard or Visa) or by BPOINT or QParents. BPOINT and QParents options allow parents/carers the convenience of making payments from home and alleviates the need to pay over the counter transactions in person. For more information about QParents, please refer to the school’s website.

BPOINT Option

BPOINT is an online payment system and is the preferred payment method for the Department.

This option is accessed through an internet weblink below which appears on all invoices and statements. This link can also be located in the Quicklinks section of our school’s website homepage. You will need the Customer Reference Number (CRN) which is printed on the bottom of your invoice/statement before payment can be processed.

When accessing the BPOINT weblink on individual invoices all relevant information will prepopulate. Parents/Carers will only be required to enter their credit or debit card details.

INTERACTIVE VOICE RESPONSE (IVR) BPOINT is also available by dialling the 1300 number provided on individual invoices. This option will only accept credit cards.

ELECTRONIC DIRECT DEBIT REGISTRATION (eDDR) BPOINT is the approved payment plan option. To set up a payment plan parents/carers will be required to firstly contact the school office.

For more information on BPOINT please refer to the school’s website.

PHONE OR COUNTER payments Options

Payments can be made at the school office, Monday to Friday between 8:00am and 4:00pm. Payment options include credit and debit cards (EFTPOS); cheque and cash. Money orders are also accepted.

For payments over the phone, call the school on 3373 4555, Monday to Friday between 8:00am and 4:00pm and we will transfer you to the IVR BPOINT 1300 dedicated phone number. Only VISA or MasterCard can be used for this process. From 2018, schools are no longer able to accept credit card payments over the phone.

Lost Property

Students should check the school office for any property they believe they have lost. If property is marked with the student’s name, every effort will be made to return the property to the student as soon as possible. Parents/Carers are most welcome to visit the school and check the lost property section for items that their student may have lost.

Items of school uniform which remain unclaimed after one month will be placed in the “spare uniform” collection kept at the school for emergency situations or will be sent to the school uniform shop for sale as ‘second-hand’ uniforms. Other unclaimed items will be donated to charities.

Charmaine Macaulay, Business Manager
Email: cmaca5@eq.edu.au

STUDENT LEADERSHIP COORDINATOR

News from the Student Leadership Coordinator

In the lead up to the Year 12 Queensland Core Skills Test and the Senior Exam Block, the Student Leadership Forum held a week dedicated to ‘de-stressing’. Aimed at students from our senior year levels, Stress-Down week gave the students a chance to relax before their busy exam period. Activities held across the week included biscuit decorating, movie sessions, Head Space talks and a Teacher vs. Student ping pong tournament, and the students responded well with a huge turn out every day. Although the teachers absolutely blitzed the students, it was nice to see the smiling faces and healthy rivalry at the ping pong tournament and it was a great way to finish off a successful week.

As we move towards Term 4, our attention turns towards arming our future leaders with the ‘Leadership Handbook’ – a folder created by our current senior leaders with everything needed to coordinate successful fundraising initiatives and awareness campaigns. The senior leaders will be meeting to collate all of their resources and valuable advice for our future leaders early next term in order for the student leadership forum to flourish and succeed.

Also in Term 4 is our Presentation Evening – a prestigious event on our school calendar where we celebrate the successes of our student cohort. As well as academic, cultural and sporting achievements, the student leadership team is encouraged to nominate for the major awards up for grabs – namely, the ‘Citizenship/Community Service’ award open to all year levels, and the ‘Year 12 Caltex All Rounder’ and ‘Year 11 Academic Excellence and Leadership’ awards. All students in the Student Leadership Forum would be fantastic nominees for these awards and I wish them all the very best.

Claire Tuton, Student Leadership Coordinator
Email: ctuto3@eq.edu.au

GUIDANCE

News from the Guidance Officers

Beating Procrastination

study (verb): the act of being on one’s phone, eating and watching TV with an open textbook nearby.

Almost everybody procrastinates from time to time. It is all too easy to put off tasks that you know you should be doing in favour of something easier, more comfortable, or more pleasant. Too much procrastination can be detrimental to success, however, and for that reason it is important to understand why we are doing it, and how to rein it in.

Admitting You Have a Problem is the First Step

If you are sitting around binge-watching Netflix the day before an assignment is due, you are probably well aware that you are procrastinating. But procrastinating can look like work. Here are some things you might be doing to fool yourself (and others) into thinking you are working when you are, in fact, procrastinating:

• Spending ages on low priority tasks from your to-do list
• Reading emails several times without acting on them
• Agreeing to do unimportant, time-filling tasks that others ask you to do, even though you don’t really have time
• Waiting for the ‘right mood’ or ‘right time’ to tackle the important job that really shouldn’t wait

Working out Why You Do It is Key

There are several reasons why you might be procrastinating, and it is important to know thine enemy (so you can beat it). It could be because:

• The task seems boring or unpleasant
• The task seems too difficult
• You are disorganised and don’t know how to prioritise, how much time to allow, where to start, and how to break the task down into manageable chunks
• You are a perfectionist and put off the task because you don’t think you can do it perfectly
• You lack motivation

Adopting Proactive Strategies will break the Habit

You can’t break your procrastination habit overnight: you need to use as many strategies as you can to maximise your chances of changing your behaviour for good. Some strategies will work better for some people (and some tasks) than others. Try as many as you feel necessary to experience success.

• Make up rewards for getting tasks done
• Ask someone else to check up on you and keep you accountable
• Identify the unpleasant consequences of not getting the job done, and remind yourself often
• Aim to do the most important thing on your list first every day
• Keep a prioritised to-do list so you don’t forget or put off important jobs
• Plan your time and allocate sufficient time in your schedule for each task – then stick to it!
• Set yourself time-bound goals so you don’t have the luxury of procrastinating
• Focus on one task at a time
• Break the task into smaller, manageable tasks
• If you are having trouble getting started, pick some easy, quick first steps to experience some success and build momentum
• Congratulate/reward yourself when you have made meaningful progress

The Mind Tools website below has a number of anti-procrastination resources you might like to try. Breaking the procrastination cycle now will help you achieve your goals in the future.

Juanita Oberle, Guidance Officer
Email: jober13@eq.edu.au

Janet Ingram, Guidance Officer
Email: jingr34@eq.edu.au

CHAPLAIN

News from the Chaplain

Food for Thought

• Friends – The people you spend most of your time with will have quite a marked effect on the way you live and act as you will find yourself adopting a lot of their habits and hobbies
• Peer pressure is often referred to as being a bad thing, but that’s not always the case
• If you choose peers who act in a positive and respectful way, they will more likely influence you to behave in more positive way. On the other hand, if you choose friends who are constantly getting themselves in some sort of strife, then it won’t be long before you find yourself being led into doing things you don’t really want to do
• Remember, it’s your choice. Think of the characteristics that you like most in people and then look for friends who display those characteristics

A message from Chappy Bernie

How to help kids develop a positive mindset

It’s not difficult to help kids develop the right mindset for a great adult life. But we do need to be intentional about it. All kids will go through tough times, and the hormones of adolescence will make the path rocky, so focus on the long-term goal.

Here are five ways you can help a young person have a positive approach to life:

1. Point positivity out in others. Kids are great imitators. And in the age of influencers, there are plenty of people for them to observe. Talk about how people adapt to change, learn from their mistakes and focus on their goals
2. Deal with your own negative thoughts. We all have that little voice in our head that tells us we’re not all that good. Or smart. Or liked. It’s rubbish! We all have the capacity to contribute great things to this world. If negative thoughts pull you down too often, then get some counselling so you can be a great role model to your kids
3. Learn things together. A positive mindset is one that is open to learning, right throughout life. Your kids will pick up great lessons if they get to develop new skills and try new things with you beside them
   “I think anything is possible if you have the mindset and the will and desire to do it and you put the time in.” – Roger Clemens
4. Teach them to reflect. The ability to look back and evaluate how things have gone is an important part of a healthy mindset. Spotting mistakes, identifying weaknesses to work on, looking for opportunities. These all come from being able to assess how they’ve gone with a critical eye, not a biased one
5. Embrace gratitude. There are so many things in life that we can’t control. And if we get caught up in worrying about them, we’ll just get stuck. Kids need to learn to be thankful for the good parts of life. To look for the good in the bad and to hang on to hope. Gratitude helps us to stay humble and teachable too

A positive mindset is the best gift we can give to our children and teenagers as they head out into the adult world. It’s the one thing that can get them through anything, no matter how tough life gets.

Would you say your kids have a positive mindset? What do you think helped them get there? Or what holds them back?

Bernie McMullen, Chaplain
Email: bmcmu27@eq.edu.au

SCHOOL NURSE

News from the School Nurse

R U Okay Day at Centenary SHS Thursday 13th September

Launched in 2009, R U Okay day has now become an Australia-wide national campaign to genuinely change behaviour and get Aussies asking R U Okay? Their mission is to inspire and empower everyone to meaningfully connect with people around them and support anyone struggling with life.

At Centenary SHS the Student Support Team organised the event. Chappie Bernie cooked a delicious pancake breakfast outside CPAC to bring students and staff together to encourage them to meaningfully ask those around them ‘R U Okay’. Postcards with information and resources were handed out by our student wellbeing ambassadors to support the classroom lesson that was delivered by teachers earlier in the week.

By starting a conversation, you could help that family member, friend or workmate open up. If they say they are not ok, you can follow our conversation steps to show them they’re supported and help them find strategies to better manage the load. If they are ok, that person will know you’re someone who cares enough to ask.

The Student Support Team are very happy to offer further support and referral.

Please refer to the following links for further information:

• www.ruok.org.au/
• www.kidshelpline.com.au
• www.beyondblue.org.au

Kirsten Anstey, School Based Youth Health Nurse
Email: admin@centenaryshs.eq.edu.au

SPORTS DIRECTOR

Sports Director Report

Track and Field

Earlier this month we saw a strong contingent of 32 Centenary SHS students competing at the Met West Athletics Championships. These selection trials are for positions to compete at the State Secondary School Championships.

Our students acquitted themselves well with a number of PBs, medals, and team selection. At present we have a record 11 students earning selection in the Met West team to compete at States, and overall 17 medals awarded.

Congratulations to the following students earning selection for States.

• Olivia Boyd (800m, 1500m, Steeple)
• Jakob Houghton (HJ, LJ, TJ)
• Cole Piritt (HJ)
• Sean Kendrick (1500m)
• Jordi Capdevila (LJ, HJ, TJ)
• Alisi-Keti Fangaloka (Shot)
• Raijielli Vaakai (Shot)
• Kataraina Bennett (Javelin)
• Michael Melvin (800m)
• Allan Le (TJ)
• Samuel Berkeley (400m)

Centenary SHS also competed at the Queensland Athletics Nitro event recently and at the time of writing, the event was yet to occur.

Metropolitan Finals

Centenary had six teams compete at the Met Finals, Year 7 and 8 Netball, Year 8 and 9 Volleyball, and Year 10 and Open Basketball. All teams competed hard, coming across strong opposition and did the best they could on the day against their respective opponents.

Congratulations to the Year 10 Boys Basketball Team who equaled the best ever result of a Centenary SHS Basketball Team to finish Runners Up in the South East Queensland Grand Final.

The boys had round wins over Northside Christian College and St Augustines before being drawn to play Marsden, the top seeds in the Semi Finals. The boys played inspired basketball and clawed back a 5 point deficit with a minute to go to take the game to overtime before taking the win. They unfortunately went down in the Grand Final. The boys showed great spirit, teamwork, and determination through the entire day and were a credit to themselves and the school.

Sports Awards

These get awarded to students who attain benchmark levels of ‘Sports Points’ depending on the amount and level of achievement in interschool and representative pathways. Students have the opportunity to check their current point level on the Sports Notice Board and are to fill out a ‘Gremlin Form’ if there are points missing.

Tamara Nasalio, Sports Director
Email: tnasa1@eq.edu.au

SKI TRIP

2019 Ski Trip Report

After an extremely successful Ski Trip this year, we are currently planning a trip in 2019.

Details will be out in the coming days and a $300 deposit will be due to secure a place.

Students will be staying at a multi-share accommodation whilst away and this is situated in Jindabyne, a 30 km drive from the slopes.

Students will have the option to either Ski or Snow Board and will have compulsory 2 hour lessons each day.

Inclusions:

• Return private Coach to Jindabyne/Perisher
• 5 Nights accommodation at a multi-share room accommodation in Jindabyne
• Cooked breakfasts and dinner at the motel
• 5 ½ Day skis, boots and poles hire / or snowboard hire (+$65)
• Helmet Hire
• 5 ½ Day All Mountain Lift Tickets
• 5 x 2 hour Group Lessons
• Travel Insurance
• Group Photo

To be added to the information email list, please contact Mr Haines rhain0@eq.edu.au

Projected Cost - $1690-$1895

Richard Haines, Trip Co-ordinator
Email: rhain0@eq.edu.au

STEP

News from STEP

New to STEP this term, is a program offering students the chance to obtain their Bridge Award. This is a positive youth development program that is both fun and challenging. It is based on The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and offers young people the opportunity to gain new skills, improve their physical fitness, participate in community service and develop a spirit of adventure. It builds confidence and resilience and is a great introduction for the many young people who progress on to the Bronze level of The Duke of Ed. We are excited to introduce this program and have a group of committed students already well on the way to achieving this award. More information on the award and what it involves can be found via the link below. This program will return in Term 1 2019 when we will also introduce the Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze award for students 14 years and over.

Students can also sign up at any time and undertake this award in their own time. For more information contact Ms Moon in the Junior Secondary staffroom or on jmmoo3@eq.edu.au

Kate George, STEP Coordinator
Email: kgeor38@eq.edu.au

FACULTIES

ENGLISH

Last month, two Year 11 students, Samantha McKay and Mollie Taylor, represented Centenary SHS in the Evatt United Nations Youth Forum in the city. It was a great experience and the girls hope to participate again next year, and encourage others to join them.

Our Year 7 debaters also competed again last week. This from their coach, Ms Gummow:

Centenary entered two Year 7 teams in the QDU’s Junior Secondary competition. The competition wrapped up last week, and both teams were an asset to the school. The students who competed were complimented on their sportsmanship and maturity by the debating organisers, and we ended the season with a total of five outright wins out of the eight rounds. Congratulations to the debaters!

As our commitment to public speaking grows, Ms Long is working with a small group of enthusiastic Year 7 students who are soon to enter the English Speaking Union public speaking competition. Entrants will present a three-minute speech on the topic: ‘Attitude is a little thing that makes a big difference’ (Winston Churchill)

Last Thursday, Ms Hyndman, Ms Ringrose and Mr Levey took our Year 10 Introduction to Literature students to the Brisbane Writers’ Festival. These are our avid readers and writers, and they all enjoyed a day soaking up the literary vibe and listening to inspirational authors.

In recent weeks Year 10 students, and their parents, completed the SET Plan process. The decision in English is whether to enrol in one of the three General English subjects (English, Literature or English as an Additional Language) or the Applied subject (Essential English) for Years 11 and 12. Students need to be aware that, in each of these subjects, they will be required to complete at least one speaking task per year. Tasks of this kind are also completed in Years 7 – 10 so, by Senior, all students should be comfortable in giving speaking presentations. Spoken communication is a twenty-first century skill that our young people need to master, so they can go out into the world with confidence and successfully interact in many different contexts; such as job interviews and dealing with customers or clients.

With this in mind, our Year 12 English students recently completed their final speaking task. The Year 12 teaching team was inspired by the range of topics and the passion shown by these wonderful young adults in their presentations.

ICAS: the results of the Writing and English competitions will be announced, and certificates distributed, early in Term 4.

Angela Maguire, English HOD
Email: amagu7@eq.edu.au

SCIENCE

Year 9 EXCEL

Students of the Year 9 EXCEL group recently had the opportunity to conduct investigations on DNA fragments at the SPARQ-ed facility based at the Transitional Resrach Institute (TRI) attached to the PA hospital. SPARQ-ed (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland) is a unique educational facility established as a collaboration between The University of Queensland's Diamantina Institute (UQDI) and Queensland's Department of Education (DoE). SPARQ-ed aims to promote excellence and innovation in biological and biomedical education by delivering world class specialist programs to Queensland school students and their teachers. These programs are based on a model that brings together personnel and expertise from the education and scientific research communities.

The following report by Paige Brinkman-Lewis provides an interesting snapshot of students’ experience.

Science Post-Excursion Reflection

Electricity. Protocols. White jackets. It sounded almost terrifying as our Year 9 Science EXCEL class walked through the doors of SPARQ-ed in the UQ Diamantina Institute on the 17th of August. But when we arrived and received a briefing on the topic we had been studying in class, DNA and gel electrophoresis, it did spark our interest. Unfortunately, upon entry we had to wear our formal uniform, no genes.

The building our class had entered was an institute for researching, discovering, manufacturing and testing several elements of infectious diseases, cancer and diabetes. However, we obviously weren’t up to that level of science yet. Our goal was to extract and run a gel, which is the process of using electricity to separate DNA fragments by size as they migrate through a gel matrix (no DNA was injured or harmed during the making of this process). The class had a decent understanding and had really separated the task into its basics. When moved into the lab, each group of students were given a protocol and equipment to carry out the task. This involved a hands-on experience with equipment such as micropipettes, test tubes, dye, centrifuges and buffers to deliver the extracted DNA. Everyone in our class worked steadily through the protocol, which included some very complex instructions. When our class had run our DNA through the Agarose gel matrix, the results had been the same for everyone, with a strand appearing at roughly the same position in every row. The DNA samples were totally copying each other.

Our task was then concluded, and the leftover DNA samples were then to be used as samples for future uses in the institute. But when applied to the real world, DNA extraction can go much further than just sitting in a gel matrix from a high school excursion. For example, the human growth hormone can be produced, which is the hormone in the body that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and cell regeneration. Overall, the science excursion has advanced the whole class’s understanding of DNA extraction and finally let us know how a school subject can contribute to the real world.

Competition Results

The following students must be commended for their participation and achievement across ICAS Science and Big Science Competitions. The standard of the competitions are pitched fairly high and are conducted at national and international levels. Irrespective of the level of achievement, participation in competitions of this nature raise the profile of students and is indicative of their initiative to challenge themselves beyond the usual curriculum.

Allen Moodley, Science HOD
Email: amood23@eq.edu.au

THE ARTS

Welcome to the end of Term 3. I hope that everyone has a wonderful spring break, and catches up on rest ready for a busy Term 4.

The Addams Family

Wow!!! What an amazing show!!! A huge effort from everybody involved to create three spectacular shows across two days. The 140 plus students involved did an outstanding job in their range of roles including actors, dancers, singers, musicians, and backstage crew. Thank you to everyone who came to watch one of the three sold out performances. Big thanks to all of the arts staff for their tireless and outstanding work. Congratulations to all involved who made our major performance for the year such a successful occasion!!

Vocal Ensemble Melbourne Trip

The Vocal Ensemble travelled to Melbourne on Friday 7th September competing at the AUSACA National A Cappella championships. The students have worked extremely hard to produce some wonderful music, and performed brilliantly in a highly competitive field. While they did not place, we were thrilled that Year 9 student Grace received the award for Best Vocal Percussionist for her beat boxing. A huge thank you goes out to Alex Van den Broek who has done an absolutely stellar job in preparing the ensemble, and to Carly Manche for accompanying the girls down to Melbourne.

Creative Generation

I would like to acknowledge one of our Year 12 students who was part of the Creative Generations Media crew last term. Tommy recently sent us a photo of him and his fellow filmmakers. Congratulations and well done Tommy.

Cultural Awards

Nominations for Presentation Night Cultural Awards are now open. These awards are given to students based on their efforts in extra-curricular cultural activities at Centenary. Forms are available from the CPAC box office, and all nominations close Friday 21st September (last day of Term 3). Please make sure you get your nomination in if you wish to be considered for an award, as late nominations will not be accepted.

Music Extension

Our music extension students will be presenting their final recitals on Wednesday 19th September at 6:30pm in CPAC. We wish them well with their final assessment.

Year 12 Students

With QCS now completed, we wish all of our student’s great success in their upcoming exams and assignments.

Upcoming Events

Some of our flagship events are coming up in Term 4, so please check your email and notices for announcements, due dates and required payments. Events include the Primary School Tour, Presentation Evening, Arts Shirt Embroidery and Cultural Dinner and Showcase Evening.

Look forward to seeing you at one of our events over the next couple of months.

Centenary State High School Cultural Date Claimer 2018

Mark Watkins, The Arts A/HOD
Email: mwatk16@eq.edu.au

YEAR LEVEL COORDINATORS

Year 12 Report

At the time of writing, the QCS exam happened a week ago and now feels like a distant memory. The students have just finished their final extended Home Group session. Term 3 classes are finished and Exam Block is about to commence. The Year 12 Council is planning the Formal. Final arrangements are being confirmed with our Mystery Tour venues. The Graduation Ceremony is being organised by our hard-working admin staff. The end is near!

While Term 3 has been an extremely intense period (as it always is for Year 12 students), hopefully Term 4 will see the pace slow down – at least a little – as students complete their Senior studies and prepare to move on to life’s next big adventure. Students preparing for tertiary studies next year have recently met with our Guidance Officer, Mrs Juanita Oberle, to discuss their QTAC preferences. Many students on other pathways have recently undertaken simulated job interviews in “real” workplaces, as coordinated by Mr Adrian Homer. These interviews have imbued students with more confidence as they prepare to make the transition to the workforce.

Detailed information about the Formal and Mystery Tour will be sent to you very shortly, but here is a short summary. The Formal will take place on Wednesday, November 14th at Hillstone St Lucia. It will be a wonderful opportunity for students to celebrate the end of their secondary schooling in a fun and sophisticated environment. Families are welcome to the pre-event gathering from 6pm-7pm, where you can watch our glamorous young people arrive in style. The main event is for Year 12 students only, and finishes at 10:45pm. Students attending the Mystery Tour will have to change out of formal attire and meet at the school by 11:30pm. Buses will collect the participants from the Yallambee Rd bus stop, then we will visit five ‘mystery’ locations scattered throughout South-East Queensland. It will be nine hours of fun, friendship and farewells. Students will return to school around 9:30am on Thursday morning.

Invoices for the Formal and Mystery Tour will be sent to parents in Week 1 of Term 4. The Formal will cost $110 and the Mystery Tour will cost $135. Payment and consent forms must be submitted by Friday, November 2nd.

And don’t forget that the Graduation Ceremony is set for the morning of Friday, November 16th!

Thanks as always for your support, and please contact me if you have any issues or would just like to have a chat.

Terry Oberg, Year 12 Coordinator
Email: tober11@eq.edu.au

Year 11 Report

Program for young drivers

On Monday 27th August, I organised for the Queensland Fire and Emergency Services’ to deliver their Road Attitudes and Action Planning (RAAP) presentation to the Year 11s. The presentation was aimed at providing young people preventative strategies when driving. It is also aims to help young drivers to make informed decision to mitigate risks and consequences by planning ahead. The program was presented by operational firefighters who have had experience with trauma involved with vehicle crashes.

Jersey update

As a Year 12 student in 2019, your child will have the opportunity to wear a Senior Jersey. Most students view this as a highly desirable item! It is a souvenir representing the end of their journey through Secondary School.

The 2019 Senior Jersey was designed by Year 11 student Melanie Amundsen and will be produced by Canterbury. The cost will be $73. Payment is due by 19th October. This will ensure that Canterbury can deliver our Jerseys for 2019.

Students who have not returned Clearance Forms or have outstanding fees will not be eligible for a Jersey.

Young Scholars Program - UQ

YSP is a program designed to develop exceptional students and provide a unique opportunity for extension and enrichment. The program provides opportunities to discover, learn and engage with UQ’s academic community and a team of UQ Mentors and includes a five-day residential camp at the St Lucia campus in November.

Congratulations to Amy Parker, Samuel Muharem and Bank Chotrueng who have been selected to be part of this program.

Upcoming

This term the process for selection 2019 School leaders has begun. In 2019, some of the leadership roles are on offer include:

• School Captains
• School Vice Captains
• School House Captains
• Year 12 Student Leaders
• Year 12 Student Council

Please ask your child to consider their involvement in their final year of school.

Berenice Furlong, Year 11 Coordinator
Email: bfurl1@eq.edu.au

Year 10 Report

This term was a mammoth term as promised in the last newsletter! The Year 10 Camp at Maleny was a great success. Those who attended had a great time and the weather was fantastic! There were a number of non-HG teachers on board, which is testament to the reputation of this camp as being one of the most enjoyable of camps.... Despite the lack of a solid 7 hours sleep, teachers and students alike were rearing to go each morning. Marshmallows were a huge hit by the campfire by night. By day, the activities challenged all to their limit. I will be sure to include the highlights of the camp in their 2020 Year 12 “Retrospective”

I would like to commend students on their engagement and their behaviour on camp. It was a delight to be there. Many thanks to all involved.

We are well and truly on the downhill slide...by the time you read this, your son or daughter will be in the midst of their Work Placement. As mentioned at the recent Parent Information Evenings prior to SET Planning, the decision made are probably the most ‘high stakes’ decisions students have made since they started in 2015 as our first Year 7s. SET planning ran smoothly and we trust that your children are looking forward to their senior years at Centenary.

• Week 10: Work Placement all week (no formal classes for Year 10)
• September 21st: Last day of Term 3
• Monday 8th October: Day 1 Term 4.

Please contact your student’s HG teacher (or myself or Kelsey Oakes) if you have concerns regarding the welfare of your child.

Debra Mansini, Year 10 Coordinator
Email: dmans17@eq.edu.au

Year 8 Report

Last month, the Year 8s had the great opportunity to participate in the ‘High Resolves-Social Justice program'. These sessions introduced the students to the concept of social justice and equality in the world. It was fantastic to see the students working together and completing the various activities throughout the sessions. It was also great to see them getting frustrated at the lack of equality in the world but also seeing them realise that they can be a driving force for change in the world. I was very proud of the level of maturity the students demonstrated over the day and a half of sessions. These sessions are a valuable aspect of our HG program here at Centenary. It’s a great opportunity for the students to engage in topics about the world we live in.

Leading up to the holiday period, the Year 8s are focusing on leadership. As the time has come for us to elect the new Junior Captains for 2019. The 2019 Leadership Applications were due on Monday, with the successful applicants presenting their speeches to the whole cohort during lesson three on Monday of Week 10. The whole cohort will have their say by voting for the candidates they believe will be the best to lead them and the Junior School next year. The next stage will be an interview with Deputy Principal, Ms Sallyann Griffiths and Head of Junior Secondary School Ms McKay followed by a staff vote. I wish all the students luck during the selection process. It will a tough decision to make.

Have a great holiday break. Relax and recharge ready for Term 4.

Kate George, Year 8 Coordinator
Email: Kgeor38@eq.edu.au

P&C

News from our P&C

The last P&C meeting was held on 22nd August with our next to be held Wednesday 17th October at 7:00pm in the Resources Centre. We invite all parents to come along, participate and have a say in what happens in our children’s school. For such a large school it is disappointing to see only a very small band of regular attendees – all of whom lead extremely busy lives themselves.

Our P&C needs more participants – especially as some of our current executive have indicated an inability to stand next year after several years of dedicated service.

The P&C provides many services, equipment and support (that most take for granted) that would not otherwise be available, and we therefore need your help to continue this work. Our support services include financial support for the School Chaplaincy and, via the Student Support Fund, assistance to those students whose families are experiencing financial or other difficulties. This support enables those students to continue to receive the best education and facilities that the school has to offer.

Our recent Trivia Night raised much needed funds for these services.

Every year when the weather warms up the P&C, school and parents’ Facebook page light up with complaints about air-conditioning – a project the P&C (in conjunction with the school) has been undertaking over the last couple of years. However, our requests of voluntary Building Fund Donations, which are tax deductible, are met with little enthusiasm. The year we have so far raised $2,550 – and that includes a very generous donation of $1,000 from a single family.

We are hugely grateful to that family for their support – something all our children (not just theirs) will benefit from.

Donations – no matter how large or small are gratefully accepted and we ask you to think again and donate if you haven’t already. The donation form can be requested by writing to pandc@centenaryshs.eq.edu.au if you no longer have one. If you are not currently a member of the P&C and would like to join the membership form can be obtained by writing to the same email address.

Please join and become involved in your school.

David Harris, P&C President Centenary SHS
Email: pandc@centenaryshs.eq.edu.au