Newsletter

Deputy Principal

Mrs Stephanie Mee

It is with much delight that I introduce myself to The Gap SHS community. My name is Mrs Stephanie Mee and I have the privilege of joining the leadership team at The Gap State High School this year as Deputy Principal, looking after Year 7 students and systematics curriculum delivery across the school. I have come to The Gap SHS after 3 years as Deputy Principal at most recently at MacGregor SHS, and 13 years as Head of Mathematics at Kelvin Grove State College. I look forward to meeting you at upcoming school events, and working together to support and challenge students to achieve their full potential.

 

A very warm welcome to all our new families, as well as our returning families, for the 2024 school year. It was a fantastic start to the year, and wonderful to see students re-connecting with old friends and making new ones.

 

Establishing Good Study Habits

As we embark on a new school year, it's important to highlight the significance of instilling good study habits in our students. Developing effective study habits not only paves the way for academic excellence but also nurtures skills that extend far beyond the classroom. By incorporating the follow tips into study routines, students can develop effective study habits that will contribute to academic success and lifelong learning.

 

1. Create a Dedicated Study Space

  • Set up a quiet, comfortable, and well-lit study area free from distractions
  • Keep all necessary materials, such as textbooks, notebooks, and stationery, within reach

2. Establish a Consistent Study Schedule

  • Develop a routine that allocates specific times for studying, allowing for breaks and recreation
  • Stick to your schedule as much as possible to create a sense of routine and discipline

3. Prioritise and Plan

  • Make a to-do list or use a planner to prioritise tasks and set realistic goals for each study session
  • Break down larger tasks into smaller, more manageable steps to avoid feeling overwhelmed

4. Active Learning Techniques

  • Engage in active learning by summarising information in your own words, creating flashcards, or teaching concepts to a peer
  • Utilise visual aids, diagrams, and mind maps to enhance understanding and memory

 

5. Time Management

  • Learn to manage your time efficiently by estimating how long tasks will take and setting specific time limits for each activity.
  • Use timers or apps to help you stay on track and avoid procrastination.

 

6. Regular Reviews

  •  Schedule regular review sessions to reinforce what you've learned
  • Conduct self-quizzes or teach the material to someone else to test your understanding

 

7. Stay Organised

  • Keep your study materials, notes, and assignments organised to save time and reduce stress
  • Use folders, binders, or digital tools to maintain a structured system

 

8. Minimise Distractions

  • Turn off unnecessary notifications on your phone or computer during study sessions
  •  Consider using website blockers or apps that limit distractions to stay focused

 

9. Take Breaks

  • Incorporate short breaks during study sessions to prevent burnout and maintain concentration
  • Use breaks to stretch, take a walk, or do something enjoyable to refresh your mind

 

10. Healthy Lifestyle Choices

  • Ensure you get enough sleep each night to support cognitive function and memory consolidation
  • Eat a balanced diet and stay hydrated, as nutrition plays a crucial role in cognitive performance

 

11. Seek Help When Needed

  • Don't hesitate to ask for help if you're struggling with a particular concept or assignment
  • Form study groups to collaborate with peers and share knowledge

 

12. Mix Up Study Materials

  • Vary your study materials to keep things interesting. Use textbooks, online resources, videos, and other materials to gain different perspectives

 

13. Practice Mindfulness

  • Incorporate mindfulness techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation, to reduce stress and improve focus