Mental Health Month

In recognition of Mental Health Month, Headspace Armidale visited Guyra Central School on Tuesday 22 October 2024, to engage with students and provide a delicious BBQ lunch. This meal was offered to all secondary students, as well as those in Year 6. It allowed our students not only to enjoy a fantastic lunch, thanks to the team at Headspace Armidale, but also to converse with Headspace staff about the support available for young people and their families, along with information on how to access these resources.

Headspace centres and services are available throughout Australia, serving metropolitan, regional, and rural areas. They aim to support young people and their families in maintaining mental health and staying engaged in their communities. Headspace centres serve as a comprehensive resource for individuals aged 12 to 25 seeking assistance with mental health, physical health (including sexual health), substance use, or support for work and study. The services provided by Headspace are free, and referrals can be made by anyone, including self-referrals, family members, friends, service providers, and health professionals. Referrals can be done in person, via phone, in writing (email, fax, letter), or online at https://forms.office.com/r/r3jpWKKwLp.

We extend our heartfelt gratitude to Durga and Bronte from Headspace Armidale for visiting Guyra, engaging with our students, and providing such a wonderful lunch!

Careers Expo

Wednesday 6 November 2024 was a remarkable day for the students at Guyra Central School during our Careers Expo, which provided a unique opportunity to explore a diverse range of career options. Students were able to fully engage with the event, gathering valuable information about potential career pathways, educational requirements, and job opportunities. The expo featured a total of 20 exhibitors, including representatives from local emergency services. Additionally, students had access to information from registered training providers, as well as opportunities related to apprenticeships and traineeships, specifically tailored to the job market in the New England region.

It was wonderful to receive positive feedback from our stallholders, who praised our students for their impressive maturity and attentiveness during the expo. Many stallholders expressed that it was a pleasure to be part of the event.

To enhance the enjoyment of the event, students had the opportunity to come to school dressed as their 'Future Self.' It was fascinating to see how our students envision their lives after school, and it will be intriguing to find out if they pursue the paths they've imagined for themselves in the future.

A special thank you to Mrs. Kylie Adams for coordinating this exceptional experience for our students, and a heartfelt thanks to the following stallholders for dedicating their time to attend and contribute to this valuable experience: Community Power Agency, Essential Energy, UNE Future Students’ Team, UNE School of Nursing, Southern New England Landcare, EPP, Rural Fire Service, Guyra Fire Brigade, GALA, Guyra & District Veterinary Services, Nutrien, Schute Bell, Deano’s Trout Farm, Guyra Show Society, Costa, Armidale Regional Council, Guyra Preschool and Long Day Care Centre, Elders, and Local Land Services.

Charlie represents Australia

Charlie Ward proudly represented Australia in Show Jumping and Dressage during a competition in China. Four athletes were selected for the Australian Team, traveling to compete against teams from Ireland, South Africa, New Zealand, and China. Over her 19-day stay in China, Charlie rode numerous horses, including one that competed in the World Cup in Europe, jumping heights of 1.60 meters. Charlie expressed, “It was the most amazing time, and a great opportunity for a rider who is passionate about this sport.” She returned home with immense pride, having won a gold medal as an individual competitor. Her individual results also included a bronze medal, along with placements of 7th and 11th. As part of the team, her contributions resulted in 2 bronze medals, 3 silver medals, and placements of 4th and 5th. This accomplishment is a significant milestone for Charlie, as she wholeheartedly represented our country and brought home the gold! Congratulations!

Northern NSW Schools DTL Shoot

On November 8 2024, Charlie Ward participated in the Northern NSW Schools DTL shoot held in Tamworth. These events provide an opportunity for all enrolled students to engage in a day of DTL clay target shooting, making it a wonderful occasion for boys and girls to shoot alongside peers from various schools. Charlie had an exceptional day, achieving 2nd place in the AA double barrel championship, 1st place in the AA single barrel championship, and being the overall winner in both the point score and double rise championships. Additionally, Charlie excelled in the team events, where three participants from the same school or those who are the only representatives from their school can join forces for an overall point score. She also secured the titles of Overall High Gun at the Northern NSW School Carnival and the Cherie Hunter Memorial Ladies High Gun. Expressing her gratitude, Charlie remarked, “It was a great honour to win these awards, and I am very thankful to receive the Memorial Ladies High Gun as it holds significant meaning for the Tamworth Gun Club.” This is a remarkable accomplishment for Charlie Ward.

Successful Transition from Year 6 to Year 7: A Bright Future Awaits!

As we look forward to the 2025 school year, we are excited to reflect on the success of our Year 6 into Year 7 transition program. This initiative is designed to ensure that our students make a smooth and confident transition into high school, equipping them with the tools they need for success.

Engaging Information Evening

Recently, we held an informative evening for Year 6 students, parents, and carers. This event provided valuable insights into what students can expect in Year 7, including curriculum, extracurricular opportunities, and support services available to help them thrive in their new environment. Our staff presented information and an opportunity for families to ask questions and express any concerns they may have.

Building Connections

The transition program emphasises building connections, not just within the school community but also between students. Through team-building activities and orientation sessions, students are encouraged to form friendships and support networks that will ease their transition. Many participants reported feeling more confident and excited about starting high school, thanks to these initiatives.

Support for Students and Families

We understand that moving to high school can be both thrilling and daunting. We are here to support our students and their families and can provide information about academic programs, mental health services, and extracurricular activities available for our students. This information is designed to empower families to make informed decisions and support their children during this important transition.

Looking Ahead

As we continue to refine our transition program for future years, we are committed to ensuring that every student feels prepared and excited for the journey ahead. We believe that with the right support and resources, our students will thrive in Year 7 and beyond.

Thank you to all the parents, carers, and staff who participated in the information evening and contributed to the success of our transition program. Together, we are fostering a nurturing environment that sets our students on the path to success!

For more information on the Year 6 into Year 7 transition program, please feel free to contact the school office on 6779 0844.

Year 7/8 Tech

Year ⅞ Technology class has been on a culinary adventure this term, turning up the heat in the kitchen! Feast your eyes on their scrumptious old-school English muffins, baked from scratch! Well done, Year 7/8!

Year 6 Farewell

Year 6 students were honoured during our 'Primary Celebration Day' in recognition of

their successful completion of primary education. Students from Guyra Central School and neighbouring schools have participated in several transition days this year to prepare for their secondary education.

On Monday, December 16, Year 6 celebrated the conclusion of their primary education with a western-themed "Year 6 Farewell Dinner." We extend our gratitude to Jess Brennan, Bradie Vidler, and Kayla Hutton for their invaluable assistance to Mr Alletsee and Miss Fletcher in organising this memorable event.

As an institution, it is truly gratifying to accompany these remarkable students on their educational journey from kindergarten through Year 12.

Its official - Transition are ready!

Our remarkable Transition students are officially prepared to enter Kindergarten in 2025. To commemorate this significant milestone, Guyra Central School hosted a Transition Graduation Ceremony, inviting parents and caregivers to join in the celebration. We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all Transition students for successfully adapting to the routines of "Big School." We eagerly anticipate following each student's educational journey in the years to come.

Secondary Debating

This year the Stage 4 debating team consisting of Ruthie Taylor, Makayla Galindo, Zac Raper, Meghan Beard and Bethany Small , competed in the Premier's Debating Challenge.

We competed in and won 3 debates making us Zone winners, which then took us to the Regional final, where we opposed Peel High School from Tamworth, arguing for the negative with the topic 'All gaming sites should be banned on weekdays'.

After winning that round against Peel High School we competed in the second regional final. The topic for this debate was 'That parents should bribe their children to stay off social media'. After a long run of being negative the coin was flipped and we were deemed the affirmative team, supporting the argument in the debate. After a very close and interesting debate we sadly lost which meant that we would not make it to the State Finals in Sydney.

Congratulations to the Aurora debating team who competed in Sydney in December. We're all looking forward to another great year of debating in 2025.

Guyra Central School Magazine

Pride, Respect and Responsibility

Issue 4 · 18 Dec 2024

In this issue