Welcome to Week 4. The term is well and truly in the swing with a hive of activity in all areas of the school, learning, sports and cultural extra curricula activities. As this is our second edition of the newsletter in our new format! We value your feedback on the layout and accessibility, so please let us know your thoughts.

Selection for the 2025 International Air Cadet Exchange Program

Kai Douglass, Year 12 has been chosen as one of only five cadets from across Australia to represent our country in the International Air Cadet Exchange (IACE) program this July 2025, travelling to the USA for three weeks. With over 15 countries involved, this prestigious exchange aims to build global friendships, promote cultural understanding, and share insights into aviation and defence.

During the exchange, Kai will visit key aviation and military locations across the United States a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to deepen his passion for aviation and global defence cooperation. The program is partially funded by the Australian Defence Force and is open to cadets aged 18–20.

This is not Kai’s first major achievement. In 2023, he was selected for the Premier’s Anzac Memorial Scholarship, travelling to Singapore and Darwin to explore Australia’s wartime history. This year, he was also honoured to be asked to speak at the Anzac Day luncheon, sharing his experiences with the local community.

A dedicated member of the Australian Defence Force Cadets since Year 7, Kai has proudly participated in Anzac Day, Remembrance Day, and Vietnam Veterans Day ceremonies in Inverell and Gilgai as part of the guard of honour.

Kai has steadily worked his way through the ranks at Inverell 319 Squadron and now holds the position of Cadet Under Officer (CUO) the highest cadet rank, recognising his leadership and commitment.

We’re incredibly proud of Kai and wish him all the best as he represents his school, squadron, community, and country on the international stage.

Year 11 and 12 Parent-Teacher Night Success

Thank you to all parents who attended the Year 11 and 12 Parent-Teacher Night on Tuesday, May 20th. It was a fantastic opportunity to discuss your child's progress and collaborate on their academic journey. We thank you for your continued commitment in working as part of a team for your child’s success.

Year 7 and 10 will have reports issued at the end of this term. For your calendars, please keep Term 3 Week 1, Wednesday 23rd July free for our Year 7 to 10 Parent Teacher Night.

Student Representative Council Elections - Week 6

In Week 6, we will be holding elections for the Student Representative Council across all year groups. Being part of the Student Representative Council (SRC) can be highly beneficial for your child in several ways:

Developing Leadership Skills: Serving on the SRC gives students the chance to take on leadership roles, helping them develop essential skills like communication, decision-making, and problem-solving. These skills are invaluable both in school and later in life.
Boosting Confidence: Taking on a leadership role can significantly boost a student's confidence, helping them become more comfortable speaking in front of others and expressing their ideas.
Building Responsibility: Being part of the SRC involves representing the interests of the student body, planning events, and sometimes making difficult decisions. This teaches students responsibility and how to balance multiple commitments.
Promoting School Spirit: Students in the SRC play a key role in fostering a positive school culture. They help organise events, activities, and fundraisers that promote unity and school spirit, making them feel more connected to their school community.
Voice and Influence: The SRC gives students a platform to voice their opinions on school matters, such as changes to policies or the introduction of new programs. It helps them feel heard and that their ideas matter.
Enhancing Teamwork: Students work together with their peers on the SRC, which helps them develop strong teamwork skills, learning to collaborate, compromise, and respect diverse viewpoints.
Future Opportunities: Being involved in the SRC is a great addition to a student's resume or university application. It demonstrates initiative, community involvement, and leadership—all of which are qualities highly valued by future employers and universities.

Overall, the experience of being on the SRC is not only rewarding in the moment but also sets students up for future success in both academic and professional settings.

Term 2 Sport Fees Reminder

A reminder that Term 2 sport fees are due. Failure to pay may result in students missing their chosen sport and participating in school sports instead. Please ensure fees are paid promptly and can be done so via the School Bytes Portal or at the Front Office.

Winter Uniform Reminder

As we move into cooler weather, students are reminded to wear the appropriate winter uniform, including jumpers. Let's stay warm and comfortable as we focus on learning.

Thank you for staying updated with our school news. Your involvement and support are greatly appreciated!

Warm regards,

Mr Wayne Fowke

Principal

NEWS FROM AGRICULTURE

UNE Smart Farm & LLS Excursion