12 November 2020 Volume 22 Number 10

NEWSLETTER ARTICLES

PRINCIPAL

News from the Principal

Signature Events

A number of our signature events have taken place in recent weeks across the school as we move towards the end of the school year. The restrictions pertaining to the COVID pandemic has forced us to undertake some of these events in a different format. Our 2020 Awards Presentation was split across three events, with our academic awards presented in separate Junior and Senior School events and our major Awards in a separate night function with parents present. All three events were successful, raising questions around their format moving forward.

These events continue to highlight the talent and successes of our community. It is certainly fulfilling as a school leader to watch our award winners as they receive their awards. The vast majority have worked hard for their successes. They are very much an embodiment of the school’s values of Aspiration, Commitment and Community. Congratulations to all our award winners.

More than ever Year 12 is high stakes. We are currently in the middle of the External Assessment Exam Block. In some subjects students are sitting exams worth 50% of their total assessment. Attendance has been very good to date and students appear to be in a good mind set. The logistical task in rolling out this assessment is huge. My thanks to Deputy Principal Adam Richter who has led this rollout so capably throughout.

The Year 12s finished their class work for the year with a celebratory day commencing with a BBQ Breakfast and some water fun in the afternoon on the oval. The formal is set to go ahead as planned although parents will not be able to be present at the venue. The Graduation will be held off site at Nissan Arena, which will allow parents and some family members to attend.

School Publications

A number of key documents are close to finalisation for 2021. We hope to release the school’s Student Code of Conduct in the next few weeks. The document replaces the existing Responsible Behaviour Plan and provides a detailed account of the school’s behaviour expectations and related policies. The proofs of the school diaries are complete. We are positioning the diaries as a key communication conduit between home and school.

Yarning Circle

The school recently held a community liaison afternoon for our proposed Yarning Circle. It was great to see a good number of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait families present at the event and entertained with indigenous dance, song and story telling.

Uniform Variation Requests

If you are requesting a uniform variation for you child please make it in the school diary. This allows us to keep track of the frequent flyers. I take this opportunity to remind all members of our community that we are a full uniform school that we expect to maintain our high standards through to the end of the school year.

Sun Safety

With the warmer weather it is timely to remind our families of our Sun Safety policy. All students on the oval and court area must wear a sun safe hat. In HPE classes, students are expected to wear a hat but in the circumstances where it is not practical due to the nature of the physical activity, sunscreen must be applied.

Student Achievement

Congratulations to our newly elected student leaders for 2021

• 2021 Captains - Annika Melkersson & Ronin Starmer
• 2021 Vice Captains - Nam-Chi Dang & James Callum
• 2021 Junior Captains - Elizabeth Pitt & Eli Gearing
• 2021 Junior Vice Captains - Pranavi Halai & Lachlan Goodhew

I am sure that these fine young people will continue in the Centenary tradition of outstanding student leaders.

John Brew, 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 PRINCIPAL

News from the Deputy Principals

Centenary SHS 2020 Presentation Events

The Presentation Events of 2020 took on a new look due to current COVID-19 restrictions. In place of the usual Presentation Evening we hosted a number of events to recognise and celebrate student achievements.

Thursday 22 October (8.55am – 11.30am) Senior School Awards Presentation

Attended by students in Years 10 - 12 and selected staff (no parents in attendance)

Thursday 22 October (12noon – 3pm) Junior School Awards Presentation

Attended by students in Years 7 - 9 and selected staff (no parents in attendance)

Friday 23 October- 6.30 pm - Major Awards Presentation Evening

Attended by Major Award winners, invited parents and staff

Changes to this year’s awards included:

• Academic awards: the introduction of Platinum awards to recognise students who achieve straight A’s
• No bronze awards this year
• Sporting and Cultural awards will be standard. Please note: no gold, silver or bronze
• There are some changes to major awards
• The Senior Dux for 2020 will be announced in 2021 due to changes to QCAA Senior Assessment processes.
• The Year 12 Highest academic achiever award recognised the academically highest achieving student in Year 12 (Based on the latest confirmed academic results)

The Major Awards Presentation Evening was held at La’Bonne Saigon Restaurant at Jindalee. The evening began with a performance by one of our ARTS captains and Senior Excellence in the Arts award winner Cooper Le Brocq.

This was followed by the Principal’s address by Mr Brew highlighting the challenges, opportunities and highlights of 2020. The Major Awards were then presented by members of the Centenary SHS Senior leadership Team.

Chris Donaldson (father of the late Nicole Donaldson) presents the Nicole Donaldson Inspiration Award to Ben Morrissey.

Centenary SHS 2020 Major Awards Presentation Evening

Vicky Spicer, International Student Coordinator, presenting the International Student of the Year Award to Patricia Law

2020 School Captain Amy Lightbody won the Community Service and Citizenship Award, The Student Leaders’ Forum Award and the ADF Long Tan Leadership and Teamwork award.

Dru Callaghan named one of the nation’s best

At our Major awards event Centenary SHS announced Year 12 student Dru Callaghan as the school’s recipient of the 2020 Caltex Best All Rounder Award, one of Australia’s most prestigious secondary school prizes.

Dru joins a select group of secondary students around Australia who have received a Caltex Best All Rounder Award for excellence in their studies, on the sports field and for their work in the community.

Announcing our 2021 School Captains and Vice Captains

School Captains: Annika Melkersson and Ronin Starmer

School Vice Captains: Nam-Chi Dang and James Callum

Year 12 External Assessment

The External Assessment Block for all Year 12 General subjects began last week and will run until Tuesday 17 November. All students have done a great job in preparing for these important exams and both students and teachers are nervously awaiting the outcome. Many students took advantage of the tutorial sessions held over the first two weeks of the exam block. Even the Saturday morning tutorial saw over 50 students turn up for English, Business and Math Methods. That is outstanding commitment from both students and teachers. The photos below are from the Saturday morning tutorial.

Our students completing QCE Plus Pathways are also busy working to complete vital coursework and certificate modules to ensure they achieve their QCE. We wish all Year 12 students well in the final run to the line. A reminder that students can access their latest results through their Student Portal. All students and parents have received information about how to access the Student Portal.

Year 12 Students – Final Week Procedures

There are a number of signature events in the final week for Year 12 students. You will receive detailed information about these events over the next couple of weeks but this is a summary.

Tuesday 17/11/20 – Final Day of Year 12 External Exam Block

Tuesday 17/11/20 – Lesson 1 and 2 – all Year 12 students expected at school for a Graduation Ceremony rehearsal in the Sport Centre. Students will leave school at AM break.

Wednesday 18/11/20 – Formal 7.00pm to 10.30pm at Hillstone St. Lucia

Wednesday 18/11/20 – Mystery Tour following the Formal event

Friday 20/11/20 – Graduation Ceremony at Nissan Arena, 1.00pm to 3.00pm. Students to travel directly to venue in full formal school uniform, there is no requirement to attend school before the event.

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

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

Deb McIntyre, Deputy Principal (Years 7 & 8, ATSI & EALD)
Email: dmcin49@eq.edu.au

Anna Petrie, Deputy Principal (Years 9 & 10)
Email: apetr0@eq.edu.au

Kelsey Oakes, Deputy Principal (Strategic Projects)
Email: koake10@eq.edu.au

BUSINESS MANAGER

News from the Business Manager

2020 Clearance Forms

All year levels have been be issued with the “2020 Clearance Form”. Students are required to complete this form and return it to the office by the due dates listed below. This process ensures that resources borrowed from the school are returned and accounted for. These items may include textbooks, library books, musical instruments and other equipment that will be required in 2021.

This checklist also gives parents/carers the opportunity to update personal details, explain any outstanding absences and finalise any outstanding fees that may be on the system.

The following important deadlines are outlined for Years 7, 8 and 9 students.

*Due dates can be extended if items are required for assessment.

The following attachments to the Clearance Form are to be returned signed –

• Student Resource Scheme (SRS) 2021 Participation Agreement Form. The agreement allows parents/carers to participate in the SRS for the whole of the student’s enrolment at Centenary SHS. Parents only need to complete a new participation agreement if they change their mind about participating.

2021 Fee - Student Resource Scheme

The parent/carer contribution for 2021 has been set at $280 for Year 7 students and $300 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 2021 Student Resource Scheme. An early bird discount payment option is available. A $20 discount will apply if fees are paid in full by 28 January, 2021. Alternatively, parents/carers have the opportunity to finalise these fees by 31 July 2021

Statements

Statements will been generated and emailed (or posted) this week. All fees relating to the 2020 calendar years were due on 31 July, unless you have entered into a payment plan. Please note that these statements will not include the 2021 Student Resource Scheme. The 2021 fees will be generated and emailed prior to the end of the year.

If your family is experiencing financial difficulties, please contact the school office to make alternative payment arrangements.

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

STUDENT LEADERSHIP COORDINATOR

News from the Student Leadership Coordinator

Carly Manche, Student Leadership Coordinator
Email: ceman4@eq.edu.au

NAIDOC CELEBRATION AND YARNING CIRCLE CONSULTATION

Advancing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education

“Engage, educate, empower, excel’

Last week at CSHS Differentiation Community of Practice our focus was on Cultural Competence and Cultural Safety. We discussed forming a working party to develop a Reconciliation Action Plan (RAP), a formal statement of commitment to reconciliation. We would like to invite all members of the school community who are interested to get involved.

The key steps for developing a RAP are:

Establish a RAP Working Group: A diverse working group ensures the responsibility of implementing reconciliation initiatives does not sit with one person. Your Working Group can include teaching and non-teaching staff, parents, students and community members.

Complete the Reflection Survey: To assist with planning, the Reflection Survey gives a snapshot of reconciliation in the school or early learning service.

Write a Vision for Reconciliation: A Vision clearly communicates the school or early learning service’s commitment to reconciliation to the community.

Add RAP Actions: There are 40 RAP Actions to select from, including 14 that are a minimum requirement.

Submit the RAP: RAPs are submitted to the Principal or Director for approval and then to Reconciliation Australia who will review the RAP's Vision for Reconciliation and Acknowledgement of Country statements prior to publication.

Do you know what Aboriginal land you're on today?

Indigenous Language Grant – CSHS P&C submitted application 6 October

The grant will be used for development of a Jagera language and other Aboriginal languages that belong to our Aboriginal student body and community. The Aboriginal language program will be aligned to the Yarning Circle and related cultural practices to be implemented with students.

The Aboriginal language program will be used to build cultural awareness & connectedness to the local Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander language & culture through development of a Yarning circle for school & community use. We will develop signage and a language program associated with the Yarning Circle and surrounds. An important part of the process involves consultation with the local Aboriginal community about the design/language for signage to support the Yarning Circle. The grant will be used to commission production & installation of signage in the local Jagera and other Aboriginal student language groups.

CSHS Yarning Circle

Designing and building our own ‘Yarning Circle’ will be one of our Reconciliation Actions.

We are currently in the consultation phase of developing our own yarning Circle

Sacred Yarning Circle and Bush Foods and Medicine Garden

Purpose:

• Develop respect and understanding of Aboriginal culture and honour Aboriginal connection to land and culture
• Create a place for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, parents and community to meet in a culturally supportive way
• Encourage all students to connect to an element of Aboriginal culture
• Outdoor learning space

Proposed Location:
Between Moolanda St and BT block: enough space, already some native plants, less traffic

Consultation:

• Inala Elders
• Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander landscaping company
• CSHS community

Centenary State High School NAIDOC celebration and Yarning Circle Consultation Event Monday 2 November 2020

The event was attended by Centenary SHS students and staff, their families, local elders including Rose Page and her sister Levine and Aboriginal artist and educator Moodjidi Fogarty and his dancers from the Murri school.

The event was organised to dually celebrate NAIDOC week and invite the local community, especially Aboriginal and Torres Strait members of our school community, to provide input, ideas and advice associated with building a Yarning Circle at Centenary SHS.

Aunty Rose singing a traditional song with Sophie Whitehead and Isabella French supported by Ms Angela Duncombe

The Themes for NAIDOC 2020 is “Always Was, Always Will Be”.

Always Was, Always Will Be. recognises that First Nations people have occupied and cared for this continent for over 65,000 years.

We are spiritually and culturally connected to this country. This country was criss-crossed by generations of brilliant Nations.

Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people were Australia’s first explorers, first navigators, first engineers, first farmers, first botanists, first scientists, first diplomats, first astronomers and first artists. Australia has the world’s oldest oral stories. The First Peoples engraved the world’s first maps, made the earliest paintings of ceremony and invented unique technologies. We built and engineered structures - structures on Earth - predating well-known sites such as the Egyptian Pyramids and Stonehenge. Always Was, Always Will Be acknowledges that hundreds of Nations and our cultures covered this continent. All were managing the land - the biggest estate on earth - to sustainably provide for their future.

Centenary SHS joined the Murri school dancers for their last performance of the day.

An afternoon tea including a special cake was served to celebrate NAIDOC week.

Murri School Aboriginal performers with Moodjidi Fogerty playing digeridoo.

Deb McIntyre, Deputy Principal (Years 7 & 8, ATSI & EALD)
Email: dmcin49@eq.edu.au

Angela Duncombe, CATSIES Coordinator
Email: adunc62@eq.edu.au

GUIDANCE

News from the Guidance Officers -Focus on Mental Health

Having just had World Mental Health Day on 10 October, I thought it an opportune time to visit some strategies for maintaining positive mental health. The World Health Organisation defines mental health as “a state of wellbeing in which the individual realises his or her own abilities, can cope with the normal stresses of life, can work productively and fruitfully, and is able to make a contribution to his or her community” (WHO). Stressors and other risk factors can erode mental health, but equally protective factors can enhance it. With that in mind, let’s take a look at Headspace’s tips for maintaining good mental health.

Get informed

Understanding more about what you’re going through is an important first step. Information to help you make good decisions about relationships, school, finances and seeking help is available in a number of ways. Read pamphlets, articles or fact sheets, listen to podcasts, talk to or watch videos about others who have had similar experiences, read trusted websites for information, or ask a trusted adult for advice.

Eat well

Eating well doesn’t only reduce the risk of physical health problems, like heart disease and diabetes, but it can also help with your sleeping patterns, energy levels, and your general health and wellbeing. You might have noticed that your mood can affect your appetite and food intake. A good balanced diet with less of the bad things (e.g. junk food and lots of sugars) and more of the good things (e.g. vegies, fruit, whole grains and plenty of water) will make sure you have all of the vitamins and minerals to help your body and brain function well.

Sleep well

Getting a good night’s sleep helps you feel energised, focused and motivated. Adolescence is a time when a number of changes to the “body clock” impact on sleeping patterns and you are more likely to have problems with sleep. Developing a sleeping routine can help you sleep much better. To do this try to wake up around the same time each day, get out of bed when you wake up, and go to bed around the same time each night. Avoiding caffeine after lunchtime, having a quiet, dark and uncluttered bedroom and shutting down your phone, laptop and other electronic devices before bed can also help you get a good night’s sleep.

Physical activity

Physical activity is important for everyone’s health and wellbeing. If you’re feeling down or finding things are difficult, physical activity may be the last thing you feel like doing. But even small activities like walking around the block can help relieve stress and frustration, provide a good distraction from your thoughts, help you concentrate and can help you look and feel better. Find a physical activity that you enjoy (e.g. swimming, playing sports with friends or cycling) and make a plan to do it regularly.

Reduce harmful effects of alcohol and drug use

Some people make the mistake of thinking that taking drugs and/or alcohol can help get them through tough times. While it may help people to cope temporarily, drugs and alcohol are one of the leading causes of harm to Australian young people and can contribute to, or trigger, mental health problems over time. Being responsible and reducing your use can improve your health and wellbeing.

Set realistic goals

Setting realistic goals can help you to work towards a healthy headspace. Small, realistic goals can be a great way to work towards feeling well – everyone has to start somewhere. Work towards eating well, getting more active, sleeping better and also think about working towards long-term life goals. Setting and achieving realistic goals can be incredibly motivating and can help build self-confidence.

Change your self-talk

Self-talk is the way that you talk to yourself, that voice inside your head. It can be positive (e.g. “I can make it through this exam”) or negative (e.g. “I’m never going to be able to pass this subject”). There are a number of things you can do to change the direction of your self-talk. First, listen to your inner voice – is your self-talk helping you or reinforcing bad feelings? Next, try to replace your negative thoughts with more realistic ones. Try to look for a more rational spin on your situation or think of strategies to tackle your problems, rather than giving up hope. By working on your self-talk the more you’ll feel confident and in control of yourself.

Relax

There are many ways to relax and different relaxation techniques to use to overcome stress. Progressive muscle relaxation involves tensing and relaxing specific groups of muscles from your feet all the way to your head, while focussing on your feelings of tension and relaxation. You could also try breathing techniques, such as deep breathing or focussed breathing (breathing in through the nose and as you breathe out say a positive statement to yourself like ‘relax’ or ‘calm down’). Place a hand over your diaphragm to make sure you’re breathing slowly – you should feel your hand move if you’re doing it right. Focus on breathing in slowly for 4 seconds, holding your breath for 2 seconds and breathing out slowly for 6 seconds.

Be socially active and get involved

Social relationships are really important to your general wellbeing. It is okay to take time out for yourself but friends can provide support when you’re having a tough time. Spending time with friends is also really important for keeping and building on existing friendships. Getting involved with volunteer work, hobbies, clubs or committees, or sports can help you feel connected to your wider community while also meeting new people. If you’re not feeling up to going out, even a phone call, email, text message or Facebook message can help us feel connected to friends and family.

Practice conflict resolution

Having a hard time with friends or family is difficult for most people. Talking through the issues in a calm and thoughtful way is the best approach. Avoid getting personal, be willing to compromise and listen to their perspective.

Help and be kind to others

Do something to help someone else. Acts of kindness help other people but also make you feel good. Give a compliment, offer to help someone out or volunteer either on a once off project or an ongoing basis and allow yourself to feel good for making someone else feel good.

Develop assertiveness skills

Being assertive means standing up for your own rights; valuing yourself and valuing others’ opinions without letting them dominate you. This can help build your self-esteem and self-respect. Being assertive is not the same as being aggressive. Remember to always listen, be prepared to compromise and be respectful of the other person’s opinion, while still being confident, calm and knowing what you want.

Seek help

A problem can sometimes be too hard to solve alone, even with support from friends and family. Be honest with yourself about when you may need support and get professional help. You can see your general practitioner (GP), make an appointment to chat to someone at your local headspace centre or visit the link below. Finding help might feel scary at the start but it gets easier over time. Getting support can help you to keep on track with school, study or work, and in your personal and family relationships. The sooner you get help the sooner things can begin to improve for you.

Acknowledgement: Tips to Keep Good Mental Health, please see the link below.

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

A woman who returned from India gave a speech about her work with some extremely poor families there.

One man thanked her for coming ‘from Heaven to Hell’ to bring him comfort.  Why did he say that?  It was because he knew that almost everyone in Australia lived in a home that contained more than one small room; that they had beds to sleep in, several changes of clothes, food to eat every day, medical help when needed, as well as the opportunity to learn so that they could earn a wage.  This man had almost none of these things, so to him, living in Australia would seem like living in Heaven.

We do have so very much to be thankful for in this country, and yet so many of us take it all for granted.  Are you like that?  Take time to have a good think about the blessings in your life.  Think about how much you have to enjoy, compared with many millions of people around the world.  Try to put aside grumbling and complaining and instead adopt an attitude of gratitude.

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’s 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?

Your Chaplain

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

SPORTS DIRECTOR

Sports Director Report

Interschool Sport

This year interschool sport saw Centenary SHS excel in the two Gala day carnivals that occurred (one Senior and one Junior carnival). These two carnivals would decide the West Brisbane Champion School from the West Brisbane District Schools of Centenary SHS, Kenmore SHS, Indooroopilly SHS, Corinda SHS, Yeronga SHS and QASMT.

After an outstanding performance and effort from all competing students and coaches in the two Gala day carnivals, Centenary SHS were announced West Brisbane Champion School on 312 points, a massive 104 points ahead of second place. This achievement is credit to the commitment and effort of all students and staff in sport.

The Social Gala day is coming up in Week 10 – Tuesday (8/10/2020). We are excited to have this last carnival to wrap up a significant year of sport.

Awards Ceremony 2020

2020 Sports Awards took place in Week 3. This was definitely a different process due to COVID-19 but it was a special ceremony that enabled Centenary SHS sports department to recognise award winners. In order to achieve a sports award students had to earn points throughout the year. Due to the restrictions placed on sport this year the point system was also modified to reflect this.

Congratulations to the following students that achieved a 2020 Sports Award:

The Major Awards was then announced and presented at a special awards evening. The Junior Sportsperson of the year went to Kya Horridge and the Senior Sportsperson of the year went to Olivia Boyd.

Junior and Senior Sportsperson of the year

The Junior Sportsperson for 2020 was awarded to Kya Horridge. Throughout 2020 she participated in the following sports:

• Centenary SHS Gala Day Representative – AFL
• Centenary SHS Gala Day Premier – Touch Football
• Age Champion- Athletics
• Age Champion – Cross Country
• All Schools Athletics
• All Schools Touch Football
• Northern District Eagles Representative – Netball
• Northern District Eagles Representative – Touch Football
• Netball Schools – Super 7s

The Senior Sportsperson for 2020 was awarded to Olivia Boyd

Throughout 2020 Olivia participated in the following sports:

• Centenary SHS Gala Day Premiers – Touch Football
• Age Champion – Cross Country
• Age Champion – Athletics
• All Schools Touch Football
• All Schools Cross Country

Kya and Olivia are both very gifted athletes that demonstrates outstanding sportsmanship both on and off the field. They have both trained extremely hard in their chosen sports and the hard work and dedication definitely paid off.

Olympic Change Maker Award

The Olympic movement aims to build a better world through sport. The Australian Olympic Change-Maker Award recognises students who are helping achieve this in communities across Australia, demonstrating the Olympic spirit, through leadership and driving positive change in their school or local communities.

The recipients of this award are Samuel Berkeley and Aaron Berkeley. Both students were awarded this award because of the following:

• Demonstrated the Olympic spirit through leadership, positivity, integrity and hard work
• 2020 Yallambee House Captains
• Represented the school, district and region in a range of sporting teams including, athletics, cross country and basketball
• Organised Inter-House sporting challenges

House of the year

The house of the year is awarded to the house with the most points accumulated from the Interhouse Carnivals and from the lunchtime competitions. Congratulations to Jarup for winning 2020 Champion House of the Year.

2021 House Captains

This year saw 20 students apply to be a House Captain. The students had to put together a written application, prepare for an interview and then other criteria were also looked at closely which included role model potential, participation and leadership skills. It was an extremely demanding process and the HPE department appreciated the time and effort the applicants took in order to apply. The calibre of students was extremely high but only 8 students could be selected.

Congratulations to the following 2021 House Captains:

Jarup – Caleb Scharvi and Georgia Smith
Curragundi – Connor Fitzgerald and Drew Clay
Moolanda – Peter Cradick and Trent Stewart
Yallambee – Grace Franklin and Ky Knight

QLD All Schools Touch Football

This year Centenary SHS had four teams competing at the QLD All Schools Touch Football Championship. The training and preparation was impacted on due to COVID-19 restrictions but the students did a fantastic job representing Centenary SHS. There were many students that were playing the sport for the first time and did a great job learning new skills. It was great to see so many students competing over 5 days at the largest Touch Football Competition in the world. Every team had wins, draws and loses and the U/13 boys finished 2nd in their pool. This is the most successful outcome Centenary SHS has had and normally this would mean that they progress through to the final series but due to a change in the format only 1st went through this year. This was a fantastic outcome and one that we are very proud of.

In 2021 Centenary SHS will be entering teams and information will be released early in Term 1 in order to hold trials and commence preparation.

Upcoming Events

December

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

Matalena Daniels, Sports Director
Email: mxdan5@eq.edu.au

ATHLETICS COORDINATOR

Athletics Coordintor Report

Queensland Track and Field Championships

Congratulations to all students who competed at the Queensland Athletics All Schools Track and Field recently. This is highest level of school-based competition being held in the state this year.

Our students acquitted themselves extremely well and attained many creditable placings and personal best. Apart from that, it is always a thrill to compete against the best in the state in main stadium (where the 1982 Commonwealth Games were held).

A few events were disrupted by rain and have been held over to another weekend.

A snapshot of results:

Olivia B - 800m - 5th & PB
Sophie - Disc - 7th PB , Jav -10th
Mia - Shot - 10th, Jav -11th, Disc- 13th, PB 100m
Ruby - HJ 8th, LJ 17th
Olivia N - TJ - 7th
Kya - LJ - 11th
Ashlea - 400m - 19th
Monty - 800m - 11th
Billy - 800m -16th, 1500m - 18th
Sara - yet to compete

Well done to all students who have been training hard and competed to the best of their ability!

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

SKI TRIP 2021

Ski Trip 2021

We are currently in the process of planning the 2021 Ski Trip. It will be at a domestic venue (Perisher or Thredbo) and will be in the June/July holidays. The Ski Trip has been an outstanding success the past few years and it is definitely a highlight of many student’s school experience. It will be open to students in Years 9-12.

We are waiting on supplier quotes and subsequently a number of other administrative requirements prior to full information packs being available.

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

Inclusions:

• Return transport to the resort (we are costing potential flying options as well as coach)
• 5 ½ Day Skiing/Boarding
• Potential night skiing and fireworks.
• 4 and 6 berth multi-share accommodation
• Breakfasts and dinners at accommodation
• 5 Day skis, boots and poles hire / or snowboard hire
• Helmet Hire
• 5 Day All Mountain Lift Tickets
• Nightly recreational/entertainment options
• Travel Insurance
• Group Photo

To be added to the mailing list, please email rhain0@eq.edu.au

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

FACULTIES

ENGLISH

We have arrived at the External Assessment period which has been eagerly and nervously anticipated by Year 12 students. On Saturday 24 October, approximately 40 students attended tutorial sessions for English and English as an Additional Language, with Ms Hyndman, Ms Lynch, Ms McDonald and me. We were very pleased with our students’ commitment to achieving the highest possible mark, and giving up half their Saturday to complete one last study session. Last Monday, our students sat their English and English as an Additional Language external exam. Next Wednesday, the Literature class will sit their paper. We all eagerly await results.

Essential English students sat their first QCAA assessment, the CIA (Common Internal Assessment) two weeks ago.

Across all senior English classes, I have been impressed by our students’ positive attitudes and determination to succeed, going into their exams.

Congratulations to Ms Lynch, Ms Gummow and Mrs Ringrose who are working for the QCAA as part of the marking pool for the EA.

This year we have all been disappointed at the very few opportunities for students to participate in public speaking. Luckily, the English Speaking Union’s Public Speaking competition did go ahead, and our students dominated once again, thanks largely to the support and coaching of Ms Long who has worked tirelessly with the students. We had multiple entrants, most of whom made the finals in their respective competitions. Congratulations to Lachlan Goodhew who won the Junior competition, and Seth Marinduque who won the Intermediate competition.

We are almost at the end of the year. Students in Years 7 to 10 are busily working on their final pieces of assessment and soon teachers will be swallowed up in marking and moderating. Every student in every year level should be putting in their very best effort in order to achieve the best results possible. One final push, and then we can all go on holidays.

Finally, congratulations and farewell to our departing Year 12 students. It has been my pleasure and privilege to work with you this year and to watch you develop into such amazing young adults. I wish you the very best for the future. Learn how to balance work and play as you move into your adult lives. Be active citizens. You have a voice. Use it for good.

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

HUMANITIES/LOTE

We are in full swing with all classes going about their business. Term 4 is always one of the busiest terms of the year. Year 12s very soon face the prospect of never wearing a school uniform again and deciding on a pathway for their immediate future. On behalf of all Humanities and Languages staff, we wish them all the very best for the future. Congratulations to Year 12 Modern and Ancient History students and also to our Year 12 Chinese and Extension Chinese students (and teachers!) The last two years have been challenging with new syllabuses and subjects to navigate. They have proven themselves to be resilient and strong under some trying conditions.

Year 11s have just completed their exam block and no doubt look forward to the Christmas break before diving into Year 12 in 2021. Extension Chinese, a year-long course begins this year already.

For Year 10, there will be a formal transition into Senior School in January 2021, as they begin their SATE study courses after the holidays. Congratulations to Year 10 Core History, Ancient / Modern History and the Geography / Economic students on the successful completion of your respective Year 10 course.

Year 9 Humanities are finish up the term with an introduction to Economics as an elective or a study of the future of food in Geography. Economics and Geography are taught as an Extension subject in Year 10, as a sound preparation for standalone Senior SATE subjects. Year 9 Chinese moves into Year 10 in 2021. Hard-working Chinese teachers Eva Cramb, Sophie Wu and Son Dinh in Staffroom 3 are more than happy to answer any Chinese-related questions.

The Year 8 Geography course for Semester 2 incorporates the findings from a field trip to the Spit at Southport. Under the leadership of Year 8 Humanities teachers and Staff from Griffith University, students undertook field activities relating to Coastal Management. Their findings will inform a decision about the mid to longer term impact of providing additional community space in this environmentally-sensitive landscape. Please see the Centenary SHS Facebook page for photos! Year 8 German, Chinese and Spanish students complete their compulsory phase of language learning at the end of the year. Language electives continue into Year 9, either in a classroom setting or through the Brisbane School of Distance Education (BSDE) Students wishing to continue with Spanish or German should see Mr Dinh in Staffroom 3.

Year 7 Humanities students study a second Geography unit dealing with issues around Liveability. They undertook field studies in the Kelvin Grove Urban Precinct to gather data first hand to inform their field report in Week 3. In order to achieve in this task, students must apply a range of higher order thinking skills such as analysing, evaluating, predicting and synthesising. Many thanks to James Garrad and the Year 7 teaching team for providing students with opportunities to excel. Year 7 Chinese, Spanish and German moved into their second term of learning, with most working towards showcasing their skills to complete a speaking or written assessment.

In the Humanities and languages, as in many faculties here at CSHS, students are provided with numerous extra-curricular opportunities. Unfortunately, the annual History Competition was cancelled due to you-know-what. The Australian Geography Competition however, did run albeit later and the results are in. What a fantastic result! Year 7 & Year 8 students achieved results in all three cognitive domains well above the Australian average. One of our Year 7 students, achieved in the TOP 1 percent in Australia! Congratulations to Jessica. The completion is challenging and engages the domains of Knowing, Applying and Reasoning. A great result, which is testament to the work done by both students and teachers in this faculty and the wider school. There is some talk of including Geography in the Earth Science strand of the Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMSS) from 2023 onwards, so please encourage your Year 7 or 8 student to continue their interest in this area.

If you would like clarification on any aspect of Humanities or Language learning here at school, please do not hesitate to contact me, or relevant member of the team.

Deb Mansini, Humanities /LOTE HOD
Email: dmans17@eq.edu.au

THE ARTS

A lot of congratulations and celebrating the success of our super talented Arts students in this edition. I am very proud and excited to share all of amazing students with you in this edition of the newsletter.

2020 Cultural Award Winners

2020 Presentation Arts Subject Winners

2020 Major Arts Awards

Year 12 Student Results

At the end of the internal assessment period, students in Year 12 and their teachers gathered to celebrate our successes of the year – not only was there a number of students who completed either IA2 or IA3 and received 100%, there were a number of students who, after completing all of their internal assessment, ended on 100%! That means they have entered the external assessment period with a lot less worry and stress! Congratulations to the Year 12s and their wonderful teachers!

100% for task 2 or task 3:

Instrumental Music News

Cole and Neve along with Mrs Harvey were involved with the Sherwood-Indooroopilly RSL over the September holidays, filming their performances of The Last Post and Rouse for a community Remembrance Day video.

The Stage Band have again performed at the Jazz on the Hill event, held at St Laurence’s, in a partnership going back over eight years with conductor Mr Damon Lougheed. Although slightly different this year, the evening was its usual thoroughly entertaining time, with the audience sitting back, relaxing, enjoying the jazz tunes of the students.

The Vocal Ensemble were devastated to find out the Australian a Capella Championships to be held in Brisbane for the first time ever would be cancelled due to COVID. But never fear, they got themselves involved in a recording collaboration project and released their own, all vocal version of ‘September’ by Earth, Wind and Fire – including working with international producer Richard Steighner from the USA! Their version of the song will form part of a compilation album to be released by AUSACA on all of the streaming services in November. We will release the song and video clip on our school Facebook page as soon as it gets released.

Visual Art

Year 12 student Alisha is one of the winners of the prestigious Creative Generation Excellence Awards in Visual Art for 2020. This award results in Alisha’s artwork being exhibited in the Gallery of Modern Art in 2021 in the Central Exhibition. Over 500 students had their works nominated for this award, including three other Centenary SHS Year 12 students Isabel, Anh and Patricia. An outstanding achievement!

Term four saw the installation of the Year 12 Visual Arts in Practice community mural project. These 24 students, helped by their art teachers Ms Teh and Mrs Duschka, created this bright and striking mural to be placed next to the International Student Services area, and to be used for photos of international visitors and students to our school. Thank you to Mr Tobin and the wonderful Manual Arts Faculty for their professional installation of the work. Well done to all these students and thank you for the wonderful memory you are leaving the school!

Media

Year 11 students Winston and Jake have won the award for Best Music Video at the Ipswich Film Festival for Youth, and were also nominated for Best Documentary. Superb work boys - congratulations!

Cultural Dinner

A celebration of 2020 and all things Arts was held here at school on Friday 30 October. Over 200 students and staff enjoyed dinner together as well as a number of instrumental music performances, including some final performances from our departing Year 12 students. We introduced the Year 12 2021 Arts Captains, farewelled the Year 12s with a lovely video tribute and the infamous Arts keyring, reminisced over the events of 2020 and shared in our successes. A huge thank you to Mrs Manche for her organisation and coordination of the event.

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

YEAR LEVEL COORDINATORS

Year 12 Report

We’re almost there…

As pictured, the Year 12 cohort’s final “regular” school-day was a joyous occasion. Starting with a BBQ breakfast and culminating with two hours of water fun on the oval, we all had a blast. Thanks to all who contributed, particularly our beloved grounds officer Terry O’Brien and his crew.

Bookings for the Formal and Mystery Tour have now closed. The uptake has been magnificent. The night of November 18 and the morning of November 19 are set to be memorable.

And then there’s the Graduation on Friday, November 20! You have been sent the details and hopefully you have booked your tickets by now. (If not, please do so quickly.) We look forward to seeing you and your family at Nissan Arena from 1pm-3pm.

A reminder that students will attend a graduation rehearsal at 9am on Tuesday, November 17 at Centenary. It is vital that students attend. Some students have an exam at that time but a catch-up session will be held for them in the afternoon.

This will be the final Year 12 newsletter report before Graduation, so let me thank you for reading these articles and showing an interest in your student’s schooling. It has been appreciated!

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 10 Report

Welcome to term 4!

Term 4 is a short term for the Year 10’s and thankfully not as busy as Term 3.

The main focus for this term, is preparing for camp. Just a reminder, the Year 10 camp is being held in Week 9 – Monday 30 November to Wednesday 2 December. Payment is due to be paid by the 23 November (start of Week 8). Please contact the school office for information on payment and payment plans if necessary. If your student is planning on attending camp and you have yet to return permission forms, please do so as soon as possible. This will ensure I have your student on our list. Thank you for your assistance.

As you know, Week 10 Term 3 saw our Year 10’s engage in work experience. This was a great opportunity for the students to experience the world outside school. It was fantastic to hear so many positives stories from students, employers and visiting teachers from the week. The students who stayed at school were able to engage in a number of community projects which were run along with a group of community service minded teachers.

The Sherwood Neighbourhood Centre and Brisbane Youth Service, with the assistance of our local Rotary were the worthy beneficiaries of our students and teachers, through the donation of essential hygiene products and food supplies. One of our groups developed an activity book through Heartkids for young adults in hospital. This is a special project for Centenary as the book has been dedicated to our past staff member, Nicole Donaldson. Another group of students wrote and illustrated a children’s book that discusses the implications of COVID-19. During the last week, a group of students tackled erosion issues throughout the school by building up soil and laying some much needed new turf. The same group planted trees and revitalised a number of garden beds around the school throughout Term 3 through a ‘planting a tree’ initiative

One group used the ‘videos for change’ concept from High Resolves to raise awareness of social issues through the creation of a series of short videos. Tables and chairs were designed and made with the help of our Industrial Design faculty to donate to our local primary schools. Awareness of animal welfare concerns were the focus of one of the groups with visits from Vets and other animal right advocates. One of our amazing ATSI students designed a mural with the 2020 NAIDOC theme of ‘Always was, always will be’. With the creativeness of a number of Year 10 students, this mural now has a permanent location outside the Centenary SHS Resource centre.

I would like to take this opportunity to say a sincere thank you for all your assistance this year. It has been a crazy, ever changing year and I appreciate the support you have provided for the Year 10 cohort and myself. Fingers crossed for a somewhat calmer Year 11.

Please do not hesitate to contact me for any questions or concerns – kgeor38@eq.edu.au

Kate George, Year 10 Coordinator
Email: kgeor38@eq.edu.au

P&C

News from our P&C

P&C November News

Firstly I would like to say a massive “Thank You” to our parents and Year 10, 11 & 12 students, who volunteered their time for our “Try On” days last week. This gave Year 6 students the opportunity to try and buy their uniform for next year in a safe and friendly environment. We could not have done this without your support.

There are still Flexi-School orders awaiting pick up. If you have placed an order, please collect ASAP. We would appreciate all orders collected before the end of the year. Uniform shop is open every Monday and Tuesdays between 8am to midday.

A reminder the Uniform shop will be closed Week 10 for stock taking. This only leaves a few weeks left to purchase any uniforms this year! The last day to purchase will be Tuesday, 1 December 2020. We will re-open in January the week before school returns. Days and times have not been confirmed however, we will advertise opening times on the parent Facebook page and local community page. We would again appreciate volunteers to help with the January rush.

To aid with the lines in January, please consider ordering via Flexi-School. We will endeavor to have an extra line (for collections only) to help run smoother and quicker.

Please help us continue with the Entertainment Book Fundraiser with the proceeds going to the Student Welfare fund. There is still plenty of savings to gain from the Entertainment Book. All books are now digital. Should you wish to purchase a book, please visit the link below.

The final P&C meeting for the year has been moved due to the Year 12 Graduation. This will now be held on Wednesday, 25 November at 7pm in the Resource Centre. Tea and Coffee will be available. Should you wish to attend from the comfort of your home, please email us and we will send you the link.

Thank you for your support over the past year in what has certainly been a year we won’t forget! The P&C will re-convene in February 2021.

I wish all our school community a wonderful and safe break and look forward to seeing you all again next year.

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