Head of Year 9 & 10 News

As we move into the June/July holiday break, I would like to wish all of our Year 9 and Year 10 students and their families a safe, happy and relaxing holiday. The school term can be a busy time for students, parents and staff, so I hope everyone has the opportunity to recharge and spend quality time with family and friends. I would also like to thank our students for their efforts throughout Term 2 and acknowledge the positive contributions they have made to our school community.

Attendance Matters

As we move into the cooler months of the year, we have noticed an increase in common colds, flu and other seasonal illnesses. I would like to thank parents and guardians for their ongoing communication with the school regarding student absences. Strong communication between home and school plays an important role in supporting student attendance and success.

Currently, our Year 9 cohort is sitting at an attendance rate of 89%, while our Year 10 cohort is achieving an outstanding 93% attendance rate. These are positive results and reflect the commitment of our students and families.

Attendance remains one of the strongest indicators of student success. Research shows that students who attend school regularly are more likely to achieve positive academic outcomes, build stronger social connections and develop the skills needed for future employment and training opportunities. Missing just one day per fortnight can equate to nearly a month of learning lost over the course of a school year. I look forward to continuing to work with students and families next term to maintain and further improve these strong attendance rates.

Term 3 Rewards Trip

Students who have worked hard to maintain or achieve Level 2 status will have the opportunity to celebrate their success during our Term 3 rewards trip to Brisbane to watch the Brisbane Broncos take on the Melbourne Storm.

Planning and organising an excursion of this size requires significant preparation, and we are excited to provide this opportunity for our students. Permission notes and will be distributed during Week 3 next term. To assist with organisation, we ask that permission forms and payments are returned promptly by the due date. We look forward to rewarding the efforts of students who have consistently demonstrated positive behaviour, strong attendance and a commitment to their learning.

Creating a Safe School Community

Every student has the right to feel safe, respected and free from distraction while at school. Unfortunately, during the final weeks of Term 2 there were some instances of students becoming involved in gossip and rumours.

Gossip has no place in our school or wider community. It can negatively impact relationships, create unnecessary conflict and affect the wellbeing of those involved. As a school, we will continue to promote kindness, respect and responsible communication. We encourage students to think carefully about their words and actions and to support one another in creating a positive and inclusive school environment where everyone feels valued and safe.

Uniform Expectations

As we begin Term 3, I would like to remind students and families about the importance of wearing the correct school uniform. Our uniform helps create a sense of pride, belonging and identity within our school community. It also promotes equality and ensures students are dressed appropriately for learning and school activities.

I understand that there can sometimes be challenges in accessing uniform items. If your family requires support in obtaining uniform pieces, please do not hesitate to contact the school. We are more than happy to work with families to ensure all students are able to meet uniform expectations.

Save the Date – Year 9 Camp & Rite Journey Events

During Week 1 of next term, Year 9 students will receive information regarding our Year 9 Camp, which will take place from 19–21 August.

We are excited about this opportunity for students to come together, strengthen teamwork skills, build resilience and continue their participation in The Rite Journey program. A significant component of the camp is the Solo experience. The Solo provides students with a valuable opportunity to spend time reflecting on themselves, their goals, their values and the young adults they are becoming. It is often one of the most meaningful and memorable experiences of the program.

Another important date for the calendar is our annual Rite Journey Charity Walk. This year, our Year 9 students have chosen to raise funds to support mental health initiatives. We are excited to announce that a special guest who works closely within the mental health sector will be joining us for the event. More information will be shared in the coming weeks.

The charity walk from Esk to Toogoolawah will take place on Friday 11 September, and we encourage families to save the date.

Looking Ahead

Overall, I would like to congratulate our Year 9 and Year 10 students on another successful term. There have been many achievements worth celebrating, and I am proud of the way the majority of students have approached their learning, attendance and involvement in school life.

I look forward to welcoming everyone back next term, starting fresh and tackling another great 10 weeks with a fantastic group of young people. Thank you for your continued support and enjoy a well-deserved holiday break.