Principal Update
Message from the Principal
Dear Parents and Carers,
It has been an exceptional week at Balmoral State High School — one that truly highlights the creativity, commitment, and connection that define our learning community. From milestone industry partnerships to student-led showcases and final celebrations for our graduating class, there is much to acknowledge and celebrate.
Celebrating 21 Years of Partnership with Boeing
This week marks another milestone in our 21-year partnership with Boeing, one of our school’s most valued and enduring industry relationships.
Our Aerospace students have been preparing throughout the year to present their innovative design solutions to Boeing executives at the company’s Brisbane headquarters — a genuine opportunity for our students to engage with industry professionals and demonstrate how classroom learning connects to the real world.
This year’s challenge asked students to design a logistics strategy using the MQ-28 Ghost Bat, an advanced autonomous aircraft, to improve humanitarian aid delivery across the globe. Their task required not only technical skill but also deep thinking about how emerging aerospace technologies can be used to ensure vital resources — such as food, water, and essential supplies — reach communities in need more effectively.
I am incredibly proud of our students’ commitment, creativity, and teamwork in tackling such a significant global issue. I also want to acknowledge the staff who have supported them through this journey. I look forward to joining them this Friday as they deliver their final presentations to Boeing executives and showcase their solutions to real-world challenges.
Music Showcase
Wednesday afternoon’s End of Year Music Showcase was another highlight of the week, bringing together students, families, and staff to enjoy an afternoon of exceptional performances. Our talented musicians shared a range of ensemble and solo pieces, reflecting the depth of talent across our music program. Thank you to all the families who attended and supported the event — your presence made the occasion even more special.
This showcase was particularly meaningful as it marked the final performance for many of our Year 12 students, who have been outstanding contributors to the school’s cultural life throughout their time at Balmoral. We wish them every success in their next chapters and thank them for the joy, leadership, and artistry they’ve shared.
Year 7 Horizons Presentations
Also on Wednesday, our Year 7 Horizons students presented their final projects to an audience of peers, parents, and grandparents. These presentations reflected the curiosity, depth of learning, and critical thinking that our Horizons program seeks to foster.
The feedback from our community has been wonderful, with one grandparent sharing: “What an impressive group of young people we listened to today. Australia is in good hands with such bright and enthusiastic young people in our community.”
Congratulations to the students for their professionalism and creativity, and to the dedicated teachers who have guided them throughout the year. The confidence and pride our Year 7s displayed is a testament to the strength of the learning culture they are developing.
Big shoutout to Mrs Greenwood and Ms Rowe, our hospitality gurus, for organising catering for this event!
Year 12 – Week of Belonging
This week has also been a significant one for our Year 12 students, marking their final days of classes before external exams begin next week. Our “Week of Belonging” has provided them with the opportunity to reflect on their time at Balmoral — the friendships formed, the memories made, and the impact they have had on our school community.
The week has been filled with gratitude and connection, with our senior students leading with pride and maturity. As they now focus on their external examinations, we wish every Year 12 student the very best for the final stage of their schooling journey. We are immensely proud of the young adults they have become and look forward to celebrating their graduation in the coming weeks.
School Environment and Facilities Update
Across the school grounds, families and students will start to see some new outdoor seating areas being trialled in different locations. These additions are part of our plan to improve comfort and connection spaces for students during break times. Thank you to those who have provided feedback, particularly the suggestion for larger tables that allow groups of friends to sit together.
Our new Bike Storage Centre is also progressing well, with roofing and external sheeting being installed over the next two weeks. We anticipate this new facility will open for student use before the end of November.
Thank you, as always, for your ongoing support of our students and school community.
Regards,
Timothy Barraud
Principal