BNSHS Newsletter 24 October 2025

From the Principal's Office

We have successfully navigated Week 3, the most challenging week of the year. As a school we have shone throughout our significant events; The Reach for the Sky awards ceremony and Our Awards Evening. Ms Brandon was largely responsible for the organisation of both events and provided two extremely professional ceremonies where student success was celebrated and rewarded. I know that Mrs Brandon has placed in her report the Reach for the Sky Awards. Next week we will provide an update on the Awards Ceremony. I have attached my principal report for those who were unable to attend. I feel this is a comprehensive snapshot of the school year.  Please have a read as there is some amazing improvement with associated data sets. I wish to congratulate all award winners and thank their support group for their ongoing encouragement. Thank you as well for the incredibly strong community support. This was a great night of recognition and celebration. 

I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate our 2026 Yr 7 Scholarship Recipients.

• Audrey C
• Perri K
• Indi K
• Hannah R
• Myah W
• Hannah T
• Robb H
• Trequelle (Bubba) F
• Emmi-Grace J

I met many of these amazing students last night and have real confidence that they will further strengthen the school climate in 2026. On a side note, I was truly proud to see that a couple of these students were Prep students when I was a primary principal at Moore Park Beach for a few years.

Our Yr 12 students have experienced a Beach Day as their last formal school day. This is a wonderful way to celebrate the end of the year with their cohort. I congratulate these students on the mature way they have engaged throughout the year but also on the way they have managed the last few weeks. They have behaved impeccably, demonstrated great personal values and are a credit to their families and school. This morning many of them met on the beach to see the sun come up and also had a breakfast together. Calm and considered celebrations with their friends indicate that they are more than meeting community expectations. I look forward to the graduation and formal in approximately 4 weeks’ time.

I know that Senior Exams start next week, and I wish all of those students the very best as they strive to attain the results they require for their required future path. We are on track for 100 % QCE attainment and I congratulate our senior students on their commitment to their studies. Mr Ross has sent extensive communication top all senior students regarding the Exam Block.

We have named our School Captains for 2026. I wish to congratulate Isabelle S and Kai W on their appointment. I look forward to working with these fine school representatives in 2026. I would like to say that the applicant pool was incredibly talented and led to perhaps the most challenging selection process I have been involved with. I have confidence that the other candidates will also lead and support the continued growth of the school and represent our school with pride. I could not be more proud of these young people. They are fine examples of the values we are developing at Bundaberg North. I would like to thank Zahlia and Nik for their strong leadership over the last 12 months.

I have included in my principal report our Term 3 academic data but wish to highlight the improvements in our academic standing. This is largely due to our explicit focus on the assessment literacy placemats. Please discuss these with your children along with their Term 4 goals.

Next week we have The Day for Daniel on Thursday. Please support this by allowing your child to wear red for the day. A gold coin donation is appreciated to support this cause. We also have on Friday, JC Action sports with a positive message for our young people regarding personal resilience.

We also have the Yr 7 camp in Week 6. I know a lot of planning has allowed this event to occur. I am sure that students will behave in a manner which is reflective of our values. This will be a great chance for these students to further strengthen their relationships and personal confidence.

I am sure that you can see that we are accomplishing great outcomes at Bundaberg North and meeting our motto of ‘Realising Our Potential’. The rest of the year will fly by quickly. Please remain focused on the upcoming events and due dates. 

Mr Craig Martin, Principal 

News from Mrs Brandon

Reach for the Sky Parade – Celebrating Excellence, Effort & Commitment

Each term, our Reach for the Sky Parade shines a spotlight on students who go above and beyond in their academic journey. It’s more than just a celebration, it is recognition of those who consistently strive to Realise Their Potential, living out the values that define our school community.

Student awards are based on the behaviour and effort ratings reflected in the End of Term report cards with the following criteria:

• North Star Award - This prestigious award celebrates academic excellence. Recipients have achieved all As and no lower than Bs in their Term Achievement results—a remarkable accomplishment that reflects both talent and hard work.
• Reach for the Sky Award - This award recognises students who demonstrate outstanding effort and engagement in class, paired with exemplary behaviour. These students consistently bring a positive attitude and a strong work ethic to everything they do.
• 100% Attendance Award - Attendance matters! These students have shown unwavering commitment by being present every single day of the term. Their reliability and consistency set a powerful example for their peers.

Congratulations to all our award recipients! Your dedication inspires us all, and we’re proud to celebrate your achievements.

We also thank Mrs Tracey McPhee, Councillor for Division 4, Bundaberg Regional Council for making time in her schedule to present the Year 11 and 12 awards and then to address the parade on the importance of hard work and leadership.

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Father’s Day Luncheon

In the last week of term, our Hospitality students catered a delicious luncheon for our Term 2 Reach for the Sky Parade recipients and their fatherly figures. It was another great feast with all participants enjoying the vast quantities of food. Thank you to Ms Liddell for her with the Hospitality students and for all those who attended.

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GEM Day

In Week 10 last term, we held our Term 3 GEM Day, continuing our focus on the three core principles of The Resilience Project: Gratitude, Empathy, and Mindfulness.

The day began with a gratitude activity in RAS classes, encouraging students to reflect on the positives in their lives. Afterwards, students gathered in the Hall to hear powerful stories of resilience shared by three staff members: Youth Support Coordinator Luke Collett, Mr Smith, and Mrs Beer. Each bravely spoke about challenges they faced growing up or in early adulthood. We are incredibly proud of their courage and vulnerability in sharing these personal experiences with the entire student body.

To finish the day, students participated in a fun and uplifting activity—a choreographed dance (thanks to Mrs Redgard) to the school song introduced during Term 2 GEM Day. This joyful moment was a reminder of the importance of finding happiness in simple things and connecting with others.

Enjoy the video clip capturing the highlights of the day (thanks to Ms Knight!).

RISE ABOVE - BUILDING RESILIENCE

JC Action Sport Seminar – Friday 31 October

We’re thrilled to welcome JC Action Sports to our school as they deliver their dynamic Rise Above – Building Resilience workshop to students in Years 7 to 11. With Resilience being one of our four core school values. This is a fantastic opportunity for students to learn practical strategies for overcoming challenges and staying strong in the face of adversity.

Known for their energetic and inspiring presentations, the JC Action Sports team is sure to leave a lasting impression as they share powerful messages through action-packed demonstrations and relatable stories.

Immersion Day

In Week 2, we had the pleasure of hosting an Immersion Day for primary school students in Years 4 and 5. Our HPE department led the way, rotating groups through a variety of fun and engaging activities that gave students a taste of high school life.

We’re already looking forward to welcoming these students back next year in both Term 1 and Term 2, where they’ll have the chance to explore a broader range of subjects and experiences. It’s a great way to build confidence and excitement about the transition to high school.

Upcoming Transition Day for Year 7 2026

Year 6 students will again visit us for the last Transition Day on Wednesday, December 3. On this day they will be placed into draft class groupings and experience different subjects to what they have so far this year.

Only students who have completed enrolment paperwork are able to attend this day. We thank the 100+ families who have already completed the enrolment paperwork. We know there are few others attending our feeder schools who are yet to submit this. Please pop into the office to collect and complete the enrolment pack or go to the school website (https://bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au/enrolments) and download a copy which can be emailed to the principal@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au .

Junior Rewards Trip

On Friday 5 December, we’re heading to Aussie World on the Sunshine Coast with 100 lucky students from Years 7 to 9! This Junior Rewards Trip is a way to celebrate those who’ve earned multiple Reach for the Sky and North Star Awards throughout the year - what an achievement!

Students who qualify will soon receive an invitation letter with all the important details, including the student/parent contribution, travel times, uniform requirements, and more. Consent forms will also be sent via QParents.

With only two buses booked, spots are limited to the first 100 students who return their completed consent forms, so return the form / consent quickly!

Keep an eye out for the invitation coming home and the consent form in QParents in week 4. We can’t wait to celebrate with this amazing group!

Mrs Natalie Brandon, Deputy Principal 

Senior Schooling News

🎓 Wishing Our Year 12s All the Best for Their Final Weeks!

With Term 4 underway, we extend our warmest wishes to our Year 12 students as they complete their final weeks of school. This is a milestone moment — the culmination of thirteen years of learning, friendship and growth — and we couldn’t be prouder of how far they’ve come.

Preparing for the Finish Line

The next few weeks are filled with important events and opportunities for our seniors. As always, we encourage students to stay organised, communicate with staff if support is needed, and finish strong.

Prom Invitations:

The Year 12 Prom is one of the highlights of the year — a celebration of achievement, resilience and community. Invitations have now been issued to students who have:

• Completed all assessment tasks, including VET requirements
• Upheld a strong standard of behaviour
• Continued to honour their Senior Pledge made at the Investiture Ceremony

Students who met these criteria received their formal invitation letter at the Year Level Parade on Thursday, 16 October. Ticket costs vary depending on individual fundraising and ‘Gotcha’ redemptions. Payment of formal tickets are due no later than Friday, 14^th of November to the front office. If any student was deemed ineligible and wishes to discuss their situation, they are encouraged to make an appointment with Mr. Martin as soon as possible.

Finishing Year 12:

To ensure a smooth conclusion to the school year, students are reminded to finalise the following by Friday, 24 October (end of Week 3):

• Payment of any outstanding school fees
• Return of school property, including laptops, textbooks & uniform items
• Completion of any remaining VET or assessment requirements

External Exams Ahead

From Monday, 27 October, Year 12 students will begin their QCAA External Examinations, running over a 17-day period. Regular classes will be suspended during this time, with students only required on campus for their scheduled exams.

Each student has been issued a personalised exam timetable, and it is essential that they attend all exams as scheduled. In cases of illness or unexpected circumstances, families must contact the school immediately — QCAA only considers special provisions in extreme situations supported by documentation.

The Final Celebrations

The final day for Year 12s on campus will be Wednesday, 19 November, which will include a Whole School Parade, Graduation rehearsals, and Prom preparation activities.

The celebrations will then continue with:

• 🎓 Graduation Ceremony – Wednesday, 19 November, 5:30pm at the school
• 🌟 Prom – Thursday, 20 November, Brothers Sports Club, Bundaberg

These two events mark a fitting conclusion to the Year 12 journey — a time to reflect, celebrate and look ahead to exciting futures beyond school.

A Message to Our Seniors

To all our Year 12 students — you’ve reached the final chapter of your schooling journey, and we wish you every success in your upcoming exams and future endeavours. Take pride in your achievements, support one another, and finish the year knowing you’ve made your mark on our school community.

We look forward to celebrating with you at Graduation and the Prom. Good luck, Year 12s, you’ve got this!

Mr Aaron Ross, Deputy Principal

Year 10 Students – Option to Wear Senior Uniform in Term 4

As our Year 10 students prepare to transition into their senior years, they are welcome to begin wearing the senior uniform during Term 4 on a Tuesday.
This is optional and not a requirement; however, it provides families and students with an opportunity to be organised ahead of next year and get into the senior school routine.

Students may choose to continue wearing the standard Year 10 uniform.

If you have any questions about uniform requirements or purchasing details, please contact the school office.

Kellie Dexter, YLC Year 10

Celebrating Outstanding Achievement in Physics

Bundaberg North SHS are proud to recognise the exceptional achievement of our Year 12 Physics student, Bryce. He enters his external examinations with an impressive perfect score of 100% for the subject. This remarkable accomplishment is a testament to his dedication and hard work throughout the year.

Congratulations, Bryce, on this outstanding accomplishment! We wish you, and all members of our Year 12 cohort, every success in your upcoming external examinations.

Mrs Stevens and Year 11/12 Physics class

Opti-MINDS State Final – A Weekend of Creativity and Teamwork at UQ!

Over the weekend, our team of enthusiastic Opti-students travelled to the University of Queensland in Brisbane to compete in the Opti-MINDS State Final. This exciting event brought together some of the most creative and collaborative young thinkers from across the state.

On Saturday, our students were challenged to complete a long-term challenge. This was a 10-minute performance based on their favourite story. With just three hours to prepare, the team brainstormed, scripted, rehearsed, and brought their story to life through acting, problem-solving, and teamwork.  

On Sunday, the students took part in the 20/20 Forum, where they presented and discussed their inspiring idea, UN4U, with other teams and mentors. This opportunity allowed them to share their vision for a better world and engage in meaningful conversations about leadership, innovation, and the future.

We are incredibly proud of our Opti-MINDS team for representing North with such enthusiasm, creativity, and teamwork. What an amazing achievement and an unforgettable weekend of learning and fun! 

Sophie Parkinson, Teacher 

Renewable Energy Workshop

Bundaberg North State High School has recently become a Gateway To Industry School for Renewable Energy. Through this program we were fortunate to be able to take 10 students interested in renewable energy from years 9 to 12 to a workshop at Park Ridge State High School. At this workshop, students learnt about renewable energy through presentations from industry representatives, including engineers working in the emerging hydrogen industry in Townsville, and Brian Inglis from Inglis Consultants, who has done a lot of work across many different aspects of energy industries, both renewable and non-renewable. Participants were also shown various different innovations, using renewable energy to solve problems around the world.

Students completed a variety of small activities, both individually and in small groups, to get their creativity flowing. They were shown how to pitch an idea to an audience, then worked in their teams to come up with a solution to a problem, involving renewable energy. Students had to research, collaborate, come up with an idea and pitch it to the judges and other participating students. They were told their ideas would be judged in three different categories: most innovative, most viable and best pitch, competing against teams from both private and public schools, mostly based in the Brisbane area.

Kai, Harry and Tyler pitched an idea using kinetic energy to power vehicles using modified tyres. Isabelle, Ellamay, and Caitlyn focussed on the upcoming Olympics and how kinetic energy could be used to power a stadium by implementing Pavegen technology into stadium stairs, walkways and even seats. Benjamin, Niklas, Bryce and Calum’s innovation was all about using the kinetic energy of wastewater to produce electricity using their invention, “Turboflush”. Isabelle’s group were awarded prizes for “most viable” innovation, while Benjamin’s group was awarded prizes of “highly commended” and best presentation. The students represented the school with pride and have come away with a better understanding of renewable energy careers and innovations. We look forward to seeing where this takes these students in the future.

Tracy Roberts, Teacher

Aussie Bird Count

Monday the 20 October is the first day of the week-long backyard bird count, supported by Birdlife Australia. Our Planeteers have registered to do a bird count in our school grounds at second break on Wednesday October 22. All students are invited to join us. We will meet at the back of N block at the beginning of the break. Families can also register to complete their own backyard bird count. Every registered entry goes in the draw to win a variety of prizes, including a professional-grade camera. More information can be found at: 

Tracy Roberts, Teacher 

Mashed Theatre Review

On Friday the 17 October, The Mashed theatre company visited our school to perform a reenactment of the play Romeo and Juliet by Shakespeare. This was presented to the Year 10 cohort to further support the understanding of the current unit for English. Students will review the themes within the Shakespeare play and their impact on adolescents in our society

Mashed theatre had two enthusiastic and informative actors who played several characters from various scenes included in the play. They engaged our cohort effectively throughout the presentation while also relaying important information for adolescents of today.

The two performers were outstanding and successfully covered numerous aspects. They gave us a visual representation of the personalities of the cast in the play. The interpretations of scenes gave an improved sense of depth for students to understand the themes.

Overall, the company created a unique and innovative experience for all grade 10 students. We’d like to thank Sarah and Tyrell for their wonderful contributions to our Year 10 community, and we hope to receive more of your shows in the future.

 Sidnee J, Tayla M and Lacey W, Year 10 Students 

P&C News - Tuckshop Day - 7 November 2025

The daily efforts of Verity and our tuckshop workers and the many volunteers who support our students and our school have been tremendous this year.

We should remember to say please and thank you every day, but on Tuckshop Day, Friday 7 November, we will say a very special thank you to this wonderful team.

Our tuckshop provides a great service that helps families who have to juggle many different tasks at the start of each day and some good food helps the students study and play through the day.

We don’t take their hard work for granted and it is great to see parents putting up their hands and getting involved with our school. Thank you everyone.

Shelly Hansen, P&C President 

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

Breaky Club @ North High

Forgot breakfast? Slept in? The school provides toast with an assortment of spreads for students every morning before school. Pop in to grab yourself something to eat to start the day off right.

Important dates

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.