Mr Brown - Years 7 & 10

Year 7

Year 7 have been busy within their class completing and transitioning to their new projects. Term 3 presents many opportunities for year 7 with an excursion to Luna Park and the Year 7 sporting gala day in Maitland, where students are able to demonstrating their best behaviour whilst engaging in a fun and exciting excursions, a big thank you to all teachers who attended the excursions.

With 2023 flying by the attention will turn to Year 7 transitioning into Year 8 an the expectations and academic rigor that comes with this transition.

Year 10

Stage 6 Subject selections kicked off this term with Try-A-Course, followed by discussions with Head Teacher and Careers advisor to ensure students are selecting a pattern of study that will support their future endeavours. Subject confirmation will be given to students next term, with students able to make changes before the start of year 11 based on subject availability.

The Year 10 examination block commences in Week 9 with students sitting their first formal examinations. Students are to follow the examination room rules and failure to do so may result in a mark not being awarded. Students will sit examinations for English, HSIE, Mathematics and Science. Students are encouraged to prepare through appropriate study techniques, if students require assistance in this area students are encouraged to see their classroom teacher for strategies or Ms Hinchey (Year 10 Learning and Support Teacher).

Year 10 also had the opportunity to participate in the Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman wellbeing program. All students expressed how grateful they were to be able to participate in this program and how much they got out of the workshops. I know they are looking forward to the program returning in 2024.

Unisteps - Stage 5

Entrepreneurship in Year 10 - Students had the unique opportunity to explore and discover entrepreneurship and what is involved with starting a business. The I2N Startup founders had students re-imagine what they can achieve in their career. With one I2N Startup founder sharing their story and giving students a first-hand insight into the list of an entrepreneur, and how to get started on this career pathway.

Financial Literacy in Year 9 - The Greater Bank and the University of Newcastle have collaborated to create a financial literacy workshop that encouraged students to consider their spending and saving habits. While the focus for many students might be funding their current interest, over saving for the future, this workshop gave helpful tips on how to avoid some of the most common mistakes that can be made when becoming financially independent. During the session, students will work through learning modules consisting of: Introduction to Financial Literacy, The Fundamentals of Financial Literacy, Savings and Budgeting and Credit, Debt and Banking.

Hands on Learning (HoL)

The ‘Hands on Learning’ initiative has taken shape with the efforts of Mr Garrard and Mr Jacobs this term, the boys have been creating a host of projects to support the environment set up and products that can benefit the school community. If you would like to know more about this program please contact Mr Garrard, Mr Jacobs or Myself.

Accelerated Students

Our Accelerated students have started their first official examination block for their accelerated course. Students were able to work with Mr who provided the students with valuable study tips and advice. We wish the students all the best in their examinations.

EVET

EVET is continuing this term in Year 10, with the students having an excursion to the TAFE to explore career and learning opportunities. Students have been working hard on the 11 key competencies within the course include designing and evaluating workplace risk assessments.

As always, if you have any questions please contact the school and we will have the appropriate person respond. We encourage all students to be in full school uniform everyday, if students are experiencing difficulties with this, I ask they come and see myself and I will help support the student to be in full school uniform.

Ms Brady - Years 8 & 11

It’s been another busy term for everyone at KKHS which has included the introduction of the STAR recognition system that has seen the majority of students who do the right thing in every lesson recognised for their behaviour. It has been great to see not only the number of Year 8 and 11 students being rewarded but also teachers enjoying having a system to acknowledge all the wonderful students we have at KKHS.

Stage 4 have participated in Uni Steps workshops facilitated by the University of Newcastle with Year 7 participated in a Real World Numbers experience where they explored maths and it practical applications to develop an understanding of the importance of maths for their futures through hands on activities. Year 8 had a visit from NSW SLSA and the Lifesaver Drone Outreach Program who took them through the drone program they use to monitor activity in the water and ensuring people, and marine life, safety. The students were able to fly drones in the gym and everyone who participated had an amazing experience with several students making enquiries about when they can apply for early admission to Newcastle Uni, some very keen and determined students in Year 8!

Year 11 have again had the opportunity to participate in the Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman wellbeing program and also My Future, the Stage 6 follow up from last year’s My Strengths workshops. All students once again have expressed how grateful they were to be able to participate in these programs and how much they got out of the workshops.

Year 11 have had a busy term completing assessment tasks and course work in preparation for their final examinations. For some students this will be the first time they have undertaken a written examination in a formal setting including the use of external supervisors to simulate the conditions they will be undertaking during the HSC, giving them the experience of learning about time management and how to prepare for the types of questions they may encounter. However, for our accelerated students they will also be combining final Year 11 exams with finishing up their HSC courses ready for HSC exams next term. As we move into Term 4, Year 11 students may be able to drop a course and should see Mr McKinley as soon as possible to make sure that their pattern of study is on track to get them what they are wanting by the end of Year 12. Good luck to all students, study hard, use the study packs Ms Taylor (Twyford) and Mrs Stewart provided you and do your best! Big thanks to Ms Taylor and Mrs Stewart, I know the students, parents and I really appreciate all the hard work and support you have provided students.

The application process for the 2024 High Potential Academic Enrichment classes for Year 7, 8, 9 & 10 has been in full swing this term starting with Year 7 2024 students participating in interviews with KKHS teachers which for some was a daunting process, but Ms Sams and her team said all students tried their best. Year 8, 9 & 10 students for 2024 have completed their application and received a teacher recommendation to support their application for placement in these classes for next year. Students will now participate in a workshop facilitated by KKHS Head Teachers to solve a real-world problem and demonstrate the qualities and skills required of students in the high potential academic enrichment classes. All students who participate in the workshops are to be commended for applying and challenging themselves to extend their learning opportunities throughout the workshop and into 2024.

Finally, it is important to reiterate the expectations we have at KKHS for ALL students and their learning. ALL students need to be in class for the whole lesson. ALL students need to come to school prepared for learning. ALL students need to be in full school uniform EVERY day. ALL students need to listen and follow all reasonable instructions. If we can remind students of these expectations, we should have a great Term 4 to finish 2023, and lots of STAR rewards for Year 8 & 11!!!

Good luck and congratulations to Year 12 2023 as they embark on their HSC exams and their post school futures.

I hope everyone has a happy and safe break and is rested and ready for Term 4, it's going to be another busy one to finish the year.

Mrs Somerville - Years 9 & 12

Term 3 has been a very busy time with us trying to balance assessments, submitting HSC Major Works, continue learning and participate in fun activities that focus on student wellbeing! As well as this, Term 3 always ends with us farewelling another Year 12 class, wishing them well as they sit their HSC examinations and make decisions about what lies ahead. While they may be more focused on the formal and the farewell activities we have planned to celebrate their achievements, I’m sure they know it is also important to prepare for the HSC exams. At times it may be hard to maintain focus but remember that success is built on consistent effort and it’s not too late to start!! Some helpful hints might be to: Establish a study routine that works for you and stick to it. Allocate time for each subject. Review your notes regularly. Practice writing responses for your teachers who are still available to you, in person or through email, if you need feedback or support during your study time. Its also important to remember your wellbeing at this time and you need to make sure you have a good balance between school, work and recreation to keep you at your best. There are many mindfulness apps and websites that can help you such as:

Remember, while everyone wants to achieve something different, it is important to set clear goals and work towards achieving the success you want to achieve. Don’t forget that you can reach out to Mr McKinley for advice on your 2024 pathway whether it be applications to university, TAFE or employment. We are here to help and we know you are going to be successful!

Just like the Trial HSC, the HSC examinations will be held at Kurri Kurri TAFE and you can access your individual timetable through the students online portal. If you aren’t sure you can access the timetable document:

You will need to allow extra time at the start of your first HSC exam as there will be paperwork to complete so it is important that you are at the TAFE well before the start time of the examination.

Year 9 have also been busy applying for the enrichment classes for 2024 and it has been pleasing to see how many students have wanted to be apart of this opportunity. They have also balanced their learning with the fun side of school with lots of Year 9 students participating in Gala Days, Merit Assemblies, Leadership Conferences, PCYC sessions and of course the school soccer competition. Many students have also been recognised for their commitment to learning through the new STARS program. Simply by turning up in uniform and being ready to learn, students are able to gain STAR points and are quickly accruing them for future reward days. Attending each class has also been a focus this term, with students starting to understand that attendance has a strong connection to success in the classroom. At times learning isn't always easy, but it's through never giving up and always turning up that you realise what you are capable of achieving. I am hoping that Year 9 finish the term with lots of positive letters being sent home to recognise their efforts and achievements so parents and carers, please keep an eye on your emails!

Toni Wilson - Inclusion and Support

What a fabulous term we are having here at KKHS with providing our students with a multitude of extra-curricular activities to build their skills in the areas of wellbeing and culture.

Our Student Support Officers Megan and Sharni have been working tirelessly to make sure that all additional programs offered to our students are organised and run smoothly. Programs such as Bully Zero, Feeling Fantastic, Journey of Hope, Tomorrow Man/Tomorrow Woman, Drumbeat, Rock and Water and our Termly Wellbeing Week activities are just a few to name. Many of these programs do not run without the volunteering of time from our teachers and SLSOs and this shows an ongoing commitment to our students and the additional support that is being provided to build great citizens of the future.

Our Dream Together Aboriginal girls' program has had a chance to connect with their culture by experiencing days on Country with Elders, an art immersion excursion, YAKKA career development, mentoring, YES program and an opportunity to show true leadership by participating in the KKHS JAECG.

KKHS were the proud hosts of this year's Kullaburra Awards. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students from across our network of schools came together to celebrate success and farewell the outgoing Year 12’s. The event was a huge success with our Director Educational Leadership Mr Martin Rosser and the Mayor of Cessnock Mr Jay Suvaal attending to present awards. A special thank you to the Korreli Wonnai AECG executive, Community Liaison Officer Mrs Heather Sutherland and Hospitality teacher Mrs Caitlin McFarlane for helping us with this event.

Attendance at school for some students is concerning. The DoE expected attendance rate is 90%. Every day missed at school is a day of learning missed that could have a very negative impact on a student's future choices. Please support your child to be at school every day.

Introducing KKHS Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO), Mr Stephen Hook. Mr Hook can be found in room 15 or in the Kuta-kaya staffroom.

Racism impacts on student wellbeing, participation at school and learning outcomes. Racism and racist behaviour are not tolerated in NSW public schools.

What is the policy about? The Anti-Racism Policy promotes respect and harmony in the school environment. It aims to ensure that educational opportunities are fair for all students regardless of their culture, language or religious background. The policy:

• recognises the impact of racism on Aboriginal people

• ensures that schools hold high expectations of all students and that no one group of students is stopped from reaching their full potential because of their cultural, religious or linguistic background

• requires all members of the school community to think about their own behaviour and make sure their actions don’t result in other people experiencing racism

• requires all staff to complete training so they understand their responsibilities in preventing

racism

• requires each school to have a trained Anti-Racism Contact Officer.

What is an Anti-Racism Contact Officer?

An Anti-Racism Contact Officer (ARCO) is a teacher nominated by the principal who assists in

leading anti-racism education in the school. The ARCO assists the principal by providing:

• support to build staff understanding of the impact of racism on student learning and wellbeing

• advice to students and staff on how to respond when they see or hear incidents of racism

• advice on what strategies the school can implement to address racism.

The ARCO is trained to provide advice to parents and carers, and teachers and students about the procedure for resolving complaints about racism. If requested, the ARCO can also act as a support person or advocate during the complaints resolution process.

What should I do if my child is experiencing racism at school?

If your child is experiencing racism at school, you should encourage them to report it to a teacher or the school’s Anti-Racism Contact Officer, or you may report it on your child’s behalf.

How do I make a complaint about racism at school?

Any member of the school community, including parents and carers and staff and students, can make a complaint about racism. Complaints of racism can be reported to principals, Anti-Racism Contact Officers or any member of staff. Complaints of racism are managed as explained in the School Community and Consumer Complaint Procedure.

What about racism online?

School-related racism that occurs online, such as students directing racism towards individual students or cultural groups, should be reported to the school as above. For advice about how to stay safe online, see Online safety on the eSafety Commissioner website.

Where can I get more information? For more information see Anti-racism education.

New Student Mobile Phone Management Plan coming in Term 4 – All students need to be prepared

You may have heard about the changes regarding mobile phone use in NSW high schools beginning in Term 4, 2023.

Kurri Kurri High School acknowledges the educational value of technology in supporting and enhancing educational outcomes and student wellbeing. We also recognise mobile phones may cause harm if used inappropriately. We are committed to supporting our students to use them in safe, responsible and respectful ways to enhance student learning and engagement.

After careful consideration with our key stakeholders including the Student Representative Council (SRC), P&C, staff and executive teams, we have decided to proceed by using the strategy of locked pouches (Yondr), to reduce the distractions to students in the classroom.

In line with our expectation Tiers, students who abuse or damage their pouch or refuse to use the pouch will then have their phones stored in a locked phone cabinet within offices around the school. If students choose to bring their phones to school, they will be required to switch them off and hand them in to a school office or staff room as soon as they arrive at school. They will then be able to collect them from the same office or staff room when they are leaving the school premises at the end of the day.

The mobile phone ban will apply during all school hours, including before school, break times such as during lunch and recess, as well as while students are on school-organised excursions.

Students will still be able to carry their phones while travelling to and from school.

School staff can allow students to use their mobile phones in specific circumstances, such as for an educational purpose, or to support students with specific needs.

The new strategy is being implemented to increase focus in classrooms, remove distractions and to promote positive social interaction, while reducing the potential for online bullying.

We look forward to working with you and the students, to make sure everyone is aware of the changes, and will continue to provide information updates directly to you via students, on our school website and through our social media channels.

We are excited to make our school a mobile phone-free space to improve learning and engagement, however, we will always make sure you can contact your child in an emergency. There will also be further information posted on the school website and via letters to parents and caregivers.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the school directly on 4937 1877.

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