KUTA KAYA

HCS Grounds Maintenance Demonstration 

Kuta-kaya students got an opportunity to participate in the first grounds maintenance demonstration day run by Hunter Commercial Services. HCS are a local business providing disability and open employment opportunities from Wyee to Dungog. Today students had the chance to learn about grounds maintenance jobs, safety, what equipment is used and how it is used. They got to sit on the ride on mowers, use the push mower and learnt how to hold a brush cutter. Around a BBQ lunch, lots of questions were asked and students were really engaged. Students are to be commended on their behaviour, with the employer commenting that 'they are a lovely and polite group of kids'. The day was a great success, coming away with a future work experience host employer for 2026. 

BBQ – Sporting Friday Fun Day   

The Kuta-Kaya faculty sizzled with excitement when students hosted their end-of-term BBQ celebration. Our master chefs Banjo and Caiden took charge of the grill, serving up delicious sausages thanks to generous donations from Coles and Bread Basket kindly organised by Belinda. 

Music filled the courtyard as students created their own personalised playlist, choosing the tracks that set the perfect vibe for the afternoon. Between mouth-watering snacks, everyone got involved in a series of mini games spread throughout the faculty, turning every corner into a fun challenge. 

The day was packed with teamwork, laughter, and great food. With full stomachs and big smiles, it was clear that everyone enjoyed the event from start to finish! 

Kuta-Kaya Bike Program Rolls Ahead! 

This term, Mr Princehorn launched a new Bike Program, inviting Caiden, Banjo and Rylan to learn real workshop skills while repairing and restoring bicycles on campus. One of the first projects was a success — the students worked together to repair Miss Murray’s bike, ensuring it was safe and ready to ride again! 

The program has grown thanks to generous community support. Three bikes were donated through a local scrap pick-up contact, giving students more hands-on opportunities. The workshop was also upgraded with tool donations from an SLSO’s husband (Neat’s husband) — tools that are already being put to great use by the boys as they develop practical building and maintenance skills. 

With teamwork, problem-solving, and plenty of grease on their hands, our students are proving that learning can take you places — especially on two wheels! 

Mapping/ Position & Special Interest Project – Mathematics  

Mapping & Position – Special Interest Project (Mathematics) 

This term in Mathematics, students explored mapping, coordinates and positional language through a hands-on Special Interest Project. Instead of just drawing grids, they applied real maths skills to design and build themed creations using Nano Blocks, following step-by-step position and grid instructions to bring their models to life. 

Students then extended their learning by transforming Pokémon cards into coordinate pin designs, mapping characters, colours and shapes using grid plotting and ordered pairs, before turning these designs into custom badges to wear and share. 

The project quickly became a highly engaging, hands-on tool, giving students practical ways to read, follow and create coordinate systems. Going forward, students are already planning another mapping project to build, continuing to turn mathematical concepts into creative designs. 

Through problem-solving, following instructions, and applying Cartesian coordinates in a fun way, students discovered that maths isn’t just numbers — it’s creativity, design and imagination!

 Young Artist Shines in “Dream Together” Exhibition 

Year 8 student, Dakota has captured hearts with her powerful hand-painted artwork featured in the Dream Together exhibition. Her piece blends bold colour and expressive imagery to celebrate unity, imagination and the strength found in working as a community. 

Dakota’s painting showcases her developing artistic style, highlighting thoughtful detail and confident brushstrokes. Viewers praised the artwork for its emotional warmth and hopeful message, reflecting the importance of dreaming big and supporting one another. 

Her work stands as a proud reminder of creativity flourishing in local schools and the voices of young artists making a meaningful impact. 

Gaining Employment 

We have received news that two of our year 12 students have successfully found employment post school. Reanna Saunders is working in hospitality at Darwin’s Espresso Cafe part of Draytons Wines. Jacob Whitton has just been successful getting a job in grounds maintenance for Hunter Commercial Services a division of Kurri Kurri Community Services. We wish both students the best of luck in their jobs.  

Gaining Employment 

We have received news that two of our year 12 students have successfully found employment post school. Reanna Saunders is working in hospitality at Darwin’s Espresso Cafe part of Draytons Wines. Jacob Whitton has just been successful getting a job in grounds maintenance for Hunter Commercial Services a division of Kurri Kurri Community Services. We wish both students the best of luck in their jobs.