BNSHS Newsletter 9th May 2025

From the Principal's Office

As we reach the end of Week 3, I wish to thank the school community for the great start to the term. We have engaged in The Anzac Services, held our parent conferences and recognised those students who in Term 1 demonstrated positive results and attendance. We still have a busy few weeks ahead. 

This year we had students and staff engage in Anzac Services in Bundaberg and at Moore Park Beach. Some also attended the Dawn Service, representing the school individually.  The day prior we held a truly solemn and respectful service at school so that students who couldn't attend could appreciate the importance of the Anzacs to our national identity. Students behaved respectfully in a powerful service at school. Thank you, Mr Ross, for your personal reflections of your grandfather and to Mr Findlay for the organisation of the school service. 

We held our parent conferences last week so that student progress and improvement plans could be discussed with guardians and carers. This afternoon was well received and appreciated by the parent body. I asked teachers to reach out to some parents if they did not have a full complement of interviews. I expect that these calls were supportive of student progress and provided insight to student improvement. We have provided students with their Track Ed Profile which show a student's progress in recent times. This has led to the development of personal improvement goals in RAS classes. This was well received by students, and we received positive feedback around this process. 

Some of the positives from our recent reporting period are attached 

Yr 7 English A- C result 85%

Yr 7 Science A-C Result 92%

Yr 7 HPE A- B Result 64%

Yr 8 English A-C Result 75%

Yr 8 Science A-C Result 92 %

Yr 8 Science Indigenous students A- C Result 92% 

Yr 9 English Indigenous students A- C Result 92% 

Yr 10 English A- B Result 46%

Yr 10 Ext Maths A- B Result 78% 

This week we held our North Star and Reach for the Stars awards. Students received recognition for positive attendance and results from Term 1. The ceremony held by Mrs Brandon provided well deserved recognition for those students who have met our values and expectations of Respect, Responsibility, Learning and Resilience. My message was that students who have received these awards will have demonstrated resilience and there are opportunities ahead for all students to attain recognition in the next round of awards. As part of this recognition students who have gained awards were provided with invitations for the mother figures in their lives to attend our Mother's Day morning teas next week. Whilst I won't be able to attend, I expect that this will be a great opportunity to further celebrate the great things happening at Bundaberg North. 

This Wednesday 2 of our school leaders and I attended the Candle Light Vigil for Domestic Violence Victims held in the main street near the Police Beat. This solemn service recognized those victims who have been affected by Domestic Violence. We as a Bundaberg community are experiencing a significant increase in this affliction which affects all of us. Domestic Violence does not discriminate. It happens in all sectors of the community. We need to do more as a community and our role as educators is to raise awareness and provide a response which discourages such behaviour. We will be doing more as school to recognise this concern. We will encourage students to attend the Walk against Domestic Violence to be held at the back of the Basketball Courts on May    We will also sign pledges as Senior Students and staff in the near future. If you know someone affected, please provide support. As a collective we need to stand tall and call out these behaviours. 

Today our students have recognised the Do It For Dolly campaign with some students wearing blue. We also have prioritised the stance against bullying at Bundaberg North. Again, we focus on the effects and provide more appropriate responses for those who demonstrate these behaviours and provide strength to the victims to stand tall and say no more and give them the confidence to seek support and refer their concerns. 

Prior to the next newsletter our staff will be engaging in Profiling, aimed at improving our classroom delivery of the curriculum. There will be some visitors to rooms in Week 5 but these people will be observing teachers and providing feedback to staff rather than commenting on students. We look forward to an improvement in this data from previous years. 

Our Year 10- 12 students attended on mass the Careers Expo on Wednesday at the Multiplex. This event was great opportunity for students to learn about future career pathways and the required skills and attributes. We steered students to specific areas, dependent upon their intended career goals. However, for some, the width of opportunity may have proved beneficial in widening future aspirations. Thank you, Mr Ross, for your organisation and planning.

We held the school cross country last week where students competed to gain points for their houses and to gain selection in the school team to compete at the District Trials. The results so far are Lachlan and Parker taking out 1st and 2nd in the 12 years boys and Bridie placing 4th in the 17 years girls. Congratulations to all who competed. 

Lastly, I ask that all families commit to the Student Resource Scheme. We provide a breadth of opportunity at Bundaberg North which can only be maintained if all parents and carers support these payments. This allows us as school to maintain our resources and provide the most current and subject specific materials providing the opportunity for students to engage effectively in modern education. If this proves too difficult for families, please reach out to the office so that we can provide payment plans or suspend for a while these payments, allowing families to get back on track financially. I have confidence that these requests will be confidential and supportive in nature. 

Great things are happening at Bundaberg North. We have an incredibly supportive tone at the moment, conducive to positive student outcomes. Well done everyone. This has been reflected in staff and student surveys, indicating that we have a great school. 

Craig Martin, Principal 

News From Mrs Brandon

Reach for the Sky Parade Celebrating Term 1 Achievements

On Tuesday, we held our first Reach for the Sky Parade for 2025. This parade is a special event each term dedicated to acknowledging students who consistently meet and exceed our expectations. It is a testament to our school motto, "Realising Your Potential," as it recognises those who strive to do their best. It was also fabulous to see parents and carers in attendance on Tuesday as well, the first time since COVID that we have opened the parade to parents.

From Term 1 reporting, we awarded over 250 students across the six cohorts with one, two or all three of the awards. As per the award descriptions which are detailed in the front of the Student Diaries, the North Star Award celebrates academic excellence, given to students with As and no less than Bs on their term report cards. The Reach for the Sky Awards acknowledge students who demonstrate high levels of engagement, effort, and exemplary behaviour in their classes. Lastly, students with 100% Attendance for the term.

We are incredibly proud of all our award recipients and look forward to seeing even more students achieve these honours in the future.

Enrolments for 2026 Now Open

It was great to see so many families come along to our Enrolment Information evening on Tuesday. We encourage all families with Year 6 students to submit their enrolment paperwork by August 8, so they will be included in the draw for a free uniform.

Coinciding with the Enrolment evening was the launch of our Year 7 2026 Scholarships and the applications for EAGLES Extension Program. Both of these applications are due by 29 August 2025 and can be accessed via the following links or the QR codes on the information brochures below.

Head lice

It's important for families to regularly check for nits and treat them promptly to prevent the spread of head lice. We currently have several students in different year levels with head lice so encourage all families to check and treat. Early detection and treatment can help avoid discomfort and ensure that students remain focused and healthy. By addressing the issue quickly, we can maintain a lice-free environment and support the well-being of our school community. Let's work together to keep our school a healthy place for everyone!

Natalie Brandon, Deputy Principal 

Senior Schooling Update

Celebrating Success: Bundaberg Careers Expo 2025

On Tuesday 7 May, over 250 of our Year 10–12 students proudly represented our school at the Bundaberg Careers Expo — one of the largest and most diverse career events in our region. With over 70 exhibitors in attendance, students had the opportunity to explore a wide range of tertiary, training, and employment pathways aligned with their future goals.

This year, our approach was more targeted than ever before. Prior to the event, students completed a 'My Futures' survey, which helped identify their key career interest areas across fields such as Medical & Healthcare, Law Enforcement & Defence, Arts, Trades & Construction, STEM, Business & Finance, Education & Training, and more. Using this data, staff were able to guide students toward the most relevant exhibits and conversations, making the experience more purposeful and personalised.

Exhibitors included a mix of national & state organisations and local industry leaders. Highlights for many students included meaningful engagement with:

• ADF Careers and Queensland Police Service – for those interested in defence and law enforcement
• TAFE Queensland and CQUniversity Australia – showcasing vocational and university pathways
• Bundaberg Fruit and Vegetable Growers - highlighting the range of skilled and essential careers available within our local agricultural sector, and the vital role this industry plays in our regional economy
• Royal Flying Doctors Service and Genesis Care Oncology – providing insight into careers in healthcare
• Superior Pak Pty Ltd and CPB Contractors – offering real-world perspectives on engineering and trades
• Community Services Gateway to Industry Project – connecting students to pathways in social and community services

We extend a heartfelt thank you to the 16 staff members who attended and supported students on the day — including our Guidance Officers, and support staff, your presence ensured that students had access to the right conversations, received encouragement, and gained confidence about their next steps.

Thank you again to everyone involved in making the 2025 Bundaberg Careers Expo such a success. We look forward to continuing this targeted and supportive approach in future years.

Aaron Ross, Deputy Principal 

Domestic Violence Awareness Walk – Community Invitation

Please join the school in honouring those who have lost their lives due to domestic violence and help raise awareness within our community.

EDON Place has organised a community walk in partnership with local organisations. School students and staff are invited to participate and show their support.

Meeting Point: Bywash Park, Flint Street, Bundaberg South (across from the Bundaberg Basketball Stadium)
Time: 7:15 AM
Date: Friday 16th May

• Students are required to arrange their own transport to and from the event.
•  All students must wear their school uniform.
• Year 11 and 12 students are required to wear their formal uniform.

To register your interest, please add your name to the sign-up sheet located at the school office.

Let’s walk together for change.

Mick Findlay, Deputy Principal

G.E.M. Day at North High

North High held its first G.E.M. Day at the end of Term 1 and it was a huge success!  Watch the video below to learn about our first G.E.M. Day as part of our commitment to delivering The Resilience Project. 

Engaging experience for our Mathematical Methods students

At the end of Term 1 our Year 11 and 12 Mathematical Methods students had the privilege of a visit by Insite SJC, a local surveying firm.  Patrick Metcalfe and 3 other surveyors from his team engaged our students with a series of activities designed to showcase the problem-solving and technology involved in this sometimes-misunderstood career (they do more than stand on the side of the road with a tripod!)  The students enjoyed the experience and got a real insight into the challenging and rewarding field of surveying!

Andew Duncan, HOD Mathematics 

Year 11 Agriculture Students Get Hands-On at Landcare

Last week, our Year 11 Agriculture students enjoyed an engaging and educational visit to Landcare. They had the opportunity to get their hands dirty while learning valuable skills such as potting out plants, propagating cuttings, and mulching gardens. The experience was both fun and informative, with many students leaving inspired by the incredible work Landcare does. Some even picked up plants to gift for Mother's Day! A big thank you to Landcare for such a wonderful day — we highly recommend a visit!

Gin Gin Landcare 10 Tableland Rd, Tirroan QLD

The garden is open 24/7, the nursery is open Wed & Fri 8:00 am – 4:00 pm and Saturday 9:00 am – 1:00 pm

Tanya Derriman, Teacher 

Connecting with Country: Year 7–9 First Nations Camp at Maranatha

Week 3, Term 2, our Year 7 to 9 students embarked on a transformative two-day camp at Maranatha’s Boulder Creek campgrounds, set on the ancestral lands of the Kabi Kabi / Gubbi Gubbi people. The camp was a celebration of culture, community, and courage, offering students the chance to step out of their comfort zones and deepen their understanding of First Nations culture and Connection to Country.

Throughout the camp, students rose to a variety of physical and mental challenges that encouraged teamwork, resilience, and reflection. Students collaborated to build sturdy bridges and faced their fears on the high-adrenaline “Tower of Tremble,” it was inspiring to witness the way students supported and cheered one another on.

A major highlight was the cultural nature walk, guided through bushland rich with native flora and fauna. Students delighted in catching yabbies in the creek and trying their hand at traditional gold panning—an experience that sparked both laughter and learning. A serene and spiritually significant moment was shared as students swam in the natural birthing pools, honouring the sacred traditions of the Kabi Kabi / Gubbi Gubbi people and reflecting on the deep connection between land, life, and culture.

The group also explored bush tucker, baking damper and learning how traditional ingredients are used in First Nations cuisine. These experiences offered a meaningful opportunity to engage with Indigenous knowledge systems in a hands-on way.

By the end of the camp, students had not only forged stronger connections with each other, but also walked away with a deeper appreciation for First Nations culture and the importance of preserving and respecting the stories and land of Australia’s First Peoples.

We are incredibly proud of how our students conducted themselves throughout the camp—working together, showing respect, and embracing every challenge with open minds and open hearts.

Amanda Foskett, First Nations Coordinator 

Year 12 Business Excursion

Year 12 Business were fortunate to be the first school group to tour the new Bundaberg Brewed Drinks Factory this week. Students learnt about the operational side of the business before visiting the Bundy Brewed Drinks Barrel where the focus changed to marketing. It was great to be able to sample the newly released range of low sugar drinks as well as the entire range available for purchase. Lunch at McDonalds was also a highlight given the marketing surrounding the new Minecraft movie, hence the fun hats! This excursion will set the class up for success with their next assessment piece based solely on Bundaberg Brewed Drinks.

Keri Jensen, Teacher 

Year 11 & 12 Legal Studies trip to Brisbane

Thursday our Year 11 and 12 Legal Studies students went to Queen Elizabeth Courts of Law to view cases in the District and Supreme Courts. It was a valuable learning experience for students to see trials with a jury, hear testimonies from medical experts and view sentencing taking place. The Year 11 class thoroughly enjoyed their talk by District Court Judge McDonnell whereby they got to ask questions, learn about the pathways to become a judge and explore an empty court room. The Year 11's then experienced  a tour around the Supreme Court Library. 

The Year 12 class visited Parliament House and learnt more about the history of our legal system. As it was a sitting week, the Year 12’s were able to go into the chambers and view our politician’s hard at work. A special mention must go to Stephen Bennett MP for providing us with a talk and tour that took us behind the scenes to places such as the library that is only available to visit if accompanied by a Member of Parliament. Both classes enjoyed some retail therapy in Queen Street Mall. Krispy Kreme Donut sales were at an all-time high on that day!

Amy Wilson, Teacher 

Save the date! Arts Night is 19th June 2025

Watch this space for more information. But first we need some entertainment – students interested in performing can sign up for auditions this coming Tuesday.

Sport @ North

Inter-House Athletics Carnival

The Bundaberg North SHS Inter-House Athletics Carnival will be held on Thursday, 26 June and Friday, 27 June 2025.

Students will compete for their houses and look to gain individual recognition in their age group.

On Friday 27th June, the Inter-House Athletics Carnival will be held at the Bundaberg Athletics Complex. All students are expected to attend the day. However, competitive participation is optional. There will be activities organised for all students, both competitive athletics events and ‘social’ events. It is not necessary to register. Students can just turn up and compete. 

There will be no organised classes at school as all students and staff will be attending the athletics carnival. Students will travel by bus to the Bundaberg Athletics Complex in the morning, leaving at approximately 8.30am  and return to school after the carnival by 3.00pm. As the carnival will take the entire school day, there will be no release of students for the “Friday 5 time or ICC Planning time"

There will be a canteen operating on the day at the complex. Shade will be provided. However, please ensure your child has sunscreen, appropriate sun safety clothing, a hat and water. Students need to be sun safe throughout the day.

Students are encouraged to participate and dress in either themed costume or house colours. This year’s theme is ‘Disney’. Parents are welcome to attend.

On Thursday 26th, events will be held on the school oval and will include the option to compete in discus and javelin. As these are high risk activities, a separate consent form is required for students wishing to participate in these events. These forms can be picked up from the school office or L block staffroom. Students will need to show this consent form to the javelin and discus marshal on Thursday 26th.

The Athletics Carnival is an important event on our school calendar, and we thank you for supporting this school activity and encouraging your children to attend. Consent for your child to attend will need to be completed through QParents before Monday, 23 June 2025. If you have difficulty completing the consent form, please contact the school office on 4130 0222. Due to the level of risk of this activity, we cannot accept verbal or late permission.

For further information about the activity, please contact Robert Thatcher on 4130 0222 or rthat1@eq.edu.au

Please note: there will be no Friday 5 on this day.

Rob Thatcher, Sports Coordinator 

2025 CROSS COUNTRY

The 2025 Cross Country was held on Wednesday 30^th April. Around 70 students battled either the 3km, 4km or 6km circuit. The open course provided a great spectacle as the runners raced through way through a variety of terrain around the school and neighbouring fields. With house pride on the line, many athletes pushed themselves to the limit in order to complete the course, while others took the more social approach, but still gained valuable house points.

 Students were then selected to compete in the District Cross Country where our competitors performed extremely well.  Two students, Zara and Bridie retained their age champion medals. The race also threw up a few surprise results for age-champions. Well done to all age champs!

 The 2025 House points were very close, emphasising how much ‘team spirit’ and ‘having a go’ can really make a difference! CONGRATULATIONS to MONDURAN House who were triumphant on the day.

GPs in State School Program at North

Did you know that Bundaberg North State High School has a Nurse Practitioner (NP) available 4 days per month? I’m here to provide health advice, medical assessments, and support for students right on campus.

✔️ Need help managing asthma, acne, stress, or sports injuries?

✔️ Want advice on sleep, nutrition, or general wellbeing?

✔️ Have concerns about sexual health, periods, or chronic conditions?

I provide a confidential, supportive space, with no cost to discuss health concerns. Drop in and say hi!

📅 Location: Nurse/GP room (shared with Nurse Robyn)

Claire Bayliss, Nurse Practitioner 

P&C News

P&C ask for your uniform donations

My name is Shelly Hansen.  I am the President of the BNSHS P&C Association and I am seeking your help.  Sadly, there are students at our school whose families are not able to provide them with a uniform.  I would like to ask for your assistance by donating any items of North High uniform that your children no longer need.  The P&C try to support all requests for assistance but with your help we may be able to extend that support further.  

All uniform donations are greatly appreciated, and we thank you for the continued support of our school.  

Thank you for your help, Shelly Hansen, P&C President

Callout for volunteers

Can you volunteer some time either at home or in tuckshop?

We have some jobs for the tuckshop that could be completed at home such as cutting foil into squares, cutting burger paper (baking paper), putting labels on bags and more.

We also need assistance in our tuckshop. This can be a background position (not student facing). The jobs could include washing up, stocking fridges/ice cream freezer/spoons and helping with food preparation (cutting salads/fruit).

The main days needed are Tuesday and Thursday from 8am-12noon, but any amount of time from 1 to 4 hours would be extremely helpful.

We can also sign off on your Centrelink, work/volunteer forms.

If you think you could spare some time, please contact us via email – pandc@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au

Shelly Hansen, P&C President 

Friday 5, Term 3 2025 Registration

Important dates

Stymie - #saysomething

What does Stymie do for young people?

Of every 30 young people in Australia seven will be dealing with a mental health issue, yet only two will reach out for support. Stymie works with you to give the young people you are working with, the power to say something or ask for help. We are an early intervention initiative that changes and saves lives.

Stymie empowers young people to ask for help when they need support, or if they are seeing or experiencing harm.

Stymie provides online reporting for schools. Encrypted, anonymous notifications are delivered within seconds to authorised recipients, who respond according to their wellbeing framework. The notification provides the option to include screenshots or images that validate the notification.

Being able to anonymously report, relieves feelings of helplessness for those who want to help their peers but don’t quite know how. Our purpose is to support you in creating an environment where harm can be minimised and effective action can be maximised.

Stymie can be used by anybody. It does not have to be a student at our school. The link to make a notification is on the school website front page

Containers for Change program

Bundaberg North SHS supports the Containers for Change program and raises money for student resources.  If you have empty bottles or cans and would like to donate them to North High we would be very grateful.   You can either bring them to school office and staff will give them to the Tuckshop or you can take them to one of the recycling depots and quote our school code – C10002160.  

Thank you for helping our school and the environment.