Language News

German Immersion Taster

This term, we proudly launched our first-ever Virtual German Immersion Schnupperprogramm (Taster Program) led by Dr. Mertens-Walker. Local Year 6 students experienced the world of German Immersion Science, participating in one interactive lesson per week.

Using the cutting-edge virtual collaboration platform iSee, students explored German animal names, constructed 3D food chains and engaged in discussions about feeding relationships in German forests—all in German! For their final project, they showcased their learning by designing digital identity cards about German forest animals using Padlet.

The program has been received with overwhelming positive feedback and will return in Terms 2 and 3 of 2025, welcoming interested Year 5 and 6 students who want to experience German immersion. Schools interested in joining can reach out to GIP@thegapshs.eq.edu.au for more details. 

2024 End of Year Celebration for International Students

As the year comes to a close, we bid farewell to some of our international students who are departing for various reasons: some are finishing their short-term study abroad programs, others are transferring to different institutions, and many are graduating. All of our international students, along with their homestay families and DHA parents, were invited to join us in celebrating the achievements of our students in 2024.

This year, our students participated in a variety of activities. They shared their compelling personal stories during Harmony Week, took part in an excursion to the University of Queensland to experience campus life firsthand, and engaged in activities within the science faculties. In addition, they enjoyed social sports on Fridays, hosted study tours from Japan and Taiwan, and took part in numerous activities with these visiting groups throughout the year. Not to mention, they also participated in various other activities as part of their subjects or broader school events.

One of the highlights of the event was the celebration of our international students’ accomplishments. Together with their families, we celebrated their hard work and success. The following award categories were presented:

• Academic Excellence Award – for exemplary academic performance across all subject areas
• Leadership Achievement Award – for exceptional leadership within the school and the wider community
• Outstanding Contribution Award – for outstanding contributions to the school or the wider community, including involvement in cultural activities and community events
• Academic Growth Award – for a student who has shown significant improvement in their academic performance, demonstrating dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to learning.

Congratulations to the following students, who won awards:

• Academic Growth Award – Junior Secondary: Yashar S
• Academic Growth Award – Senior Secondary: Yecan S
• Outstanding Contribution Award: Indy Kotchanan S
• Leadership Achievement Award: Mark Bhumpat P
• Academic Excellence Award: Lucy M

The celebration concluded with the singing of our farewell song, Matilda, with lyrics adapted to reflect the experiences of our students in Australia. Afterward, we shared a dinner and dessert with students and families.

A special thank you to Mrs. Benjamin and Ms. Suzuki, who generously prepared the dinner and dessert for our students and their families.

We wish all our students the best in their future endeavours.