Dear School Community,

On ANZAC Day, our school community came together in a poignant tribute to honour the bravery and sacrifice of our servicemen and women. It was a day filled with solemn reflection and pride as our students and staff paid homage to those who served.

Joshua Cathie and Archie Wells represented our school with distinction during the ceremony. Joshua, with solemn reverence, read the Prayer for the King, embodying the spirit of remembrance and gratitude. Archie, with heartfelt sincerity, recited a poignant poem that resonates deeply with our local history. The poem, "To a Returned Soldier," penned by young Mary Bowling in 1916, captures the emotions and sentiments of a community welcoming back their heroes. Inspired by the return of Inverell’s World War I diggers, known as "the Kurrajongs," Mary's words echo through time, reminding us of the enduring impact of their sacrifice.

On Thursday, 8th May, the school held its ANZAC service with special guests Mal Dickson, RSL Sub-branch President and Mr Peter Kearsey and Mrs. Desie Kearsey OAM, who read her beautiful poems.

The focus of the principal’s address was a deep and respectful remembrance of former Inverell High School students Sisters Kathleen Neuss and Marjorie Schuman, who were tragically killed in the Bangka Island Massacre in February of 1942. We also paid our respects to former students of Inverell High who lost their lives in World War II, Korea, and Vietnam. Their sacrifices remain a vital part of our school's history and the community's identity.

Congratulations to Our Sports Teams

A big congratulations to the U15 and Open Soccer teams for their victories in their respective competitions. We also celebrate the success of the Open Boys Rugby League team, who defeated Warialda 44-6 today after the ANZAC service. Well done to all the students involved in these impressive sporting achievements.

Year 11 Life Ready Seminars

Year 11 students are currently attending Life Ready seminars on Thursday and Friday. These seminars are designed to prepare them for life beyond school and help them gain valuable skills and knowledge for their futures.

Cross Country Success at Campbell Park

Wednesday, May 7th, students participated in a fantastic Cross Country event held at Campbell Park, making the most of the Parkrun track and the beautiful Lions Park across the river. The day was filled with great energy, teamwork, and determination, as participants challenged themselves in a supportive and competitive environment. Congratulations to all the runners for their dedication and sportsmanship!

Looking ahead, our Athletics Carnival is scheduled for Friday, 23rd May 2025, at the Sporting Complex. We look forward to seeing our students compete and display their athletic talents.

Upcoming: Year 11 & 12 Parent-Teacher Night

A reminder to all Year 11 and 12 parents that the Parent-Teacher Night will be held on Tuesday, 20th May from 4:30pm to 6:30pm. This is a valuable opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and set goals for the remainder of the academic year. We encourage all parents to attend.

Student Representative Council Elections

Week 6 will bring the opportunity for students to run in the Student Representative Council elections. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to develop invaluable leadership skills and make a positive impact on the school community. We encourage all interested students to get involved!

Uniform Reminder

As we transition into the cooler weather, please be reminded that hoodies are not part of the school uniform. Students are expected to wear the school jumpers, and no leggings are to be worn. Please ensure that your child is in full school uniform as we move into winter.

Attendance

Everyone has a role supporting positive school attendance. Regular attendance helps students to:

· develop a sense of belonging

· develop and maintain friendships

· be more engaged at school

· progress with their learning

· be more aware of career and life options.

Everyday counts. Missing just one day a fortnight can amount to four weeks of lost learning over a year. Over their school life, this can equal one year of missed learning. The information below outlines the responsibilities of key stakeholders.

Warm regards,

Mr Wayne Fowke

Principal

CROSS COUNTRY