BNSHS Newsletter 24 May 2023

From the Principal's Office

 This week I would like to applaud and acknowledge the hard work of our incredible students and staff who brought the stage to life in our school musical, "Little Shop of Horrors." The show was performed last Friday and Saturday night.

First and foremost, congratulations to the cast, crew, and everyone involved in making the school musical a success. The countless hours of practice, dedication, and passion that each student poured into this production have undoubtedly paid off and brought pride and joy to our school community.

We would also like to extend our deepest gratitude to all the parents, teachers, and fellow students who came out to support the show.  Your presence and unwavering encouragement made the evenings even more special for our young stars.

We have some exciting news to share as we approach the milestone of our school's 50th anniversary in 2024. We are planning a celebration to commemorate this momentous occasion. We warmly invite all interested past teachers, parents, and students to join us for the celebration.  We are looking to hear from anyone interested in helping to plan the celebration.  More details will follow in the upcoming months, so stay tuned for further updates!  Please follow the link to register your interest in this event.

BNSHS - 50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION

I would like to draw your attention to a significant event taking place this week—the Bundaberg Career Expo on Wednesday 24 May at the Multiplex. This expo provides an excellent opportunity for students to explore various career paths, engage with industry professionals, and gain valuable insights into their future endeavours. The school has taken a bus load of students to the event but it is also open to the public and I would recommend that you attend if you are able.

As we conclude, let us once again extend our heartfelt congratulations to our students for their performance in the school musical. We are proud of each and every one of you.

Warm regards,

Robyn Kent, Principal

Friday 5 - Students remaining at school until 3pm Term 2, 2023

The Watson Report

All students received the Student Diary on their first day. Students are expected to bring their diary to school every day and take their diary to every lesson. The Student Diary contains useful information for students (and parents/carers) about our school. It also contains wellbeing information and activities that students will complete during BIG RAS and JETP/SETP. Most importantly it contains a weekly planner section for students to record homework, assessment and important daily notes. Please encourage your student to use their diary, and regularly check it to see what work they are completing at school. Using their Student Diary appropriately supports students to be organised and successful learners.

An important section of the Student Diary is the Classroom Expectations (page 4) and Behaviour Matrix (page 5 and 6). The Behaviour Matrix is guided by our school values: Respect, Responsibility and Safety, and is the basis of all expected behaviour at school. Yesterday at the junior parade I spoke to students about behaviour expectations for the toilets.

The diary is also part of the Out of Class procedure. If students need to leave the room for any reason, their diary must be signed before they are given an ‘Out of Class’ pass. Student engagement in class is the priority, therefore we discourage students leaving the classroom. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via email rwats34@eq.edu.au or phone 4130 0222.

North Rewards

NEW Gotcha vouchers now available! Students receive Gotchas for demonstrating the school values of Respect, Responsibility and Safety. The Gotcha Menu had been developed from student feedback and we encourage students to let us know what they would like on the menu. Lots of yummy options!  

Mrs Watson, Deputy Principal

Little Shop of Horrors

Congratulations to the cast and crew of "Little Shop of Horrors".  We are very proud of your performances on Friday and Saturday nights.  Thank you to those who attended and supported our students.  

Little Shop of Horrors

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Building & Construction Skills

Part of the Building and Construction course requires Year 11 students to complete a practical demonstration which involves concreting a project around the school. Students learnt how to mark out, excavate, and prepare an area for concreting, including installing vapour barrier and reinforcing mesh. On our concreting day, students learnt how to set up equipment such as cement mixers and demonstrated the processes involved when mixing concrete to industry standard. Once the concrete was poured, students learnt and demonstrated fundamental concreting processes such as screeding, trowelling and brooming to produce a quality concrete slab to industry standard. All students worked fantastically as a group and enjoyed the day. The students were very proud of the work they produced and are confident that they would be able to produce small concreting jobs to a high standard. This was a fantsastic opporunity for students to understand what it is like to work as a team within the constrution industry, and what it would be like to work on a real construction site. Well done to everyone.

Mr Monsen, Technologies Teacher

World bee day

May 20th was World Bee Day. To find out more about our native bees, the Planeteers invited a hobby native beekeeper, Stephen Curran, to speak to us about these important and interesting insects. We learnt that native social bees are often plain black, small, and stingless. They are sensitive to temperature and will only leave their hive once the temperature reaches 20 degrees Celsius, returning home before the temperature drops below 20 degrees Celsius. Crops that are pollinated by bees are not only bigger in quantities of fruit, but also tend to have larger fruits. Native bees are now being used to pollinate macadamias and avocados with potential to be useful for many other crops too. One advantage of native bees over European bees is that they have a much smaller range of less than 400m, meaning if they are put in the middle of a macadamia plantation, they will only pollinate the macadamias, whereas European bees venture further and may be enticed by flowers further away. Some native bees are solitary rather than living in a hive. Thank you, Mr Curran for teaching us about native bees.

Mrs Roberts, Planeteers Coordinator

Japanese students to arrive in July

We’ve had further contact from Tokyo Hakuo high school. They are hoping to return for two weeks, July 25^th-7^th August. So we are now looking for 20 beds for the students who are keen to meet Australians and enjoy our country. It’s a great experience for them and for us.

Some of our 2022 host families have already said that they would like to host again. But, we will also be looking for more families who are interested. “Families” may be from students at this school or from the wider community who would like to participate. Perhaps there is someone that you know, extended family or friends, who has a spare bed and would be good at hosting an international student for the fortnight.

Please note that host families will receive a small payment for hosting students and are responsible for their food and transport to school.

We will select families by:

1. Homestay Family application form
2. Blue card check (done at no cost to you but can take some time so start with the paperwork now)
3. House inspection (guests need to have their own bed but may be sharing a room with someone of the same gender)
4. Matching students with families eg. interests, non-allergies to pets ..

To express your interest or to proceed further with application forms, please email krayn24@eq.edu.au or phone 41300315

Katrine Rayner, HOD Humanities/LOTE/International Relations

Using trigonometry to solve problems

The Year 9s have been learning how to use trigonometry to work out unknown sides and angles in right-angled triangles. 9A used clinometers and measuring tapes to work out heights of different buildings in the school without having to physically measure the vertical heights. Students then used their measurements to calculate the area of the surface that would need painting on their chosen building.

Miss Carpenter, Mathematics Head of Department

BNSHS Athletics Carnival

The Bundaberg North SHS Inter-House Athletics Carnvial will be held on Thursday 22nd June and Friday 23^rd June .

On Thursday 22nd  June, the Inter-House Athletics Carnival will be held at 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 for events, 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 be bused from school to and from the venue at a cost of $2 per student. Students pay their $2 as they enter the bus.  Students will be bused back to school by 3.00pm.  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.  Parents are welcome to attend.  This years theme is 'Cartoon Crazy'.

On Friday 23rd  events will be held on the school oval.  On both days there will be an option to compete in discus and javelin.  As these are high risk activities, a separate consent form is required for students wishing to participate, and can be picked up from the school office or L block staffroom.  Students will need to show this consent form to the event marshall on Thursday 22^nd (for discus) and Friday 23^rd (javelin) so it is important they keep this signed consent in a safe place.

To provide consent for your student to travel to the Athletics Complex, please complete the online consent form by 12 noon on Wednesday, 21st June.   The link will not be accessible after this time.   

Understanding algebra

Exploring ways to enhance our algebraic abilities, year 8 Maths students are thinking BIG about how we can improve our skills through a feedback carousel. Algebra is an essential branch of mathematics that helps us solve problems using letters and symbols. It is used extensively in various fields, including science, engineering, and economics.

A feedback carousel is a collaborative learning activity where students work in groups to provide feedback to one another. It allows us to reflect on our understanding, identify areas of improvement, and learn from our peers.

A set of algebraic problems of varying difficulty levels. Include a mix of equations, expressions, and word problems were used. The problems aligned with the topics covered in class this term (In the context of algebra), the feedback carousel can be a powerful tool for enhancing our problem-solving skills.

The feedback carousel promotes collaboration and teamwork among students, enabling them to learn from one another. Through the feedback received, students gain insights into different solution methods, enhancing their overall problem-solving abilities. Building student confidence by positive feedback and encouragement from peers can boost confidence and motivation in algebra.

Students were encouraged to provide positive feedback to their peers, ask clarifying questions, offer suggestions for improvement and encourage engagement.

Remember, algebra is a skill that develops with practice and persistence. Engaging in activities like the feedback carousel will help us strengthen our understanding and mastery of algebraic concepts.

Keep up the great work, and let's embrace the feedback carousel as a tool for growth and improvement in our algebra journey!

Ms Carpenter, Head of Department Mathematics

Improving outcomes for First Nations students - School AIP Priority

I would like to acknowledge the traditional owners of the land on which I write to you from, and pay my respects to elders past, present & emerging.

Last week, a small team of junior students attended a special camp at the Barambah Outdoor Environmental Education Centre. The goal of the camp was to build self-confidence, teamwork and participate in academically rigorous activities ahead of their participation, as a school team, in the Department of Education’s Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Aspirations Program (ATSIAP) during terms 3 and 4.

In Semester 2, four students will participate in the ATSIAP Program to design a team shirt, write a persuasive speech, engage in problem solving and produce artwork as part of an academic challenge. Our ATSIAP coordinator Mr Williams will be on secondment working at another location and will support our students using a digital platform called Q-Learn where students will collaborate on their written component together, and will be supported in their other categories by teachers Mrs Hearn, Mrs McDonald and CEC Kerryn Fisher.

The Walk of Life - Cert II Outdoor Recreation Gold Coast Trip

The Walk of Life program, Certificate II in Outdoor Recreation, proved to be an unforgettable experience for ten students from Bundaberg North State High School, along with their counterparts from Kepnock State High School. Led by Senior Constable Mark Cartner, the group embarked on a thrilling six-day journey, exploring the captivating Gold Coast hinterland and coastal areas. 

Setting off  before light from Bundaberg, the students embarked on a lengthy bus trip to Currumbin Creek, with no time to waste the students drove straight into their Stand-Up Paddleboarding (SUP) training. Guided by the experienced staff from Paramount Adventure Centre, the students were encouraged to step outside their comfort zones and embrace the challenges posed by the cold water and wind. After an exhilarating SUP session, the group made their way to Springbrook National Park, where they settled into cosy cabins before heading on an evening adventure to the Natural Arch Bridge. As darkness surrounded them, the magical glow worms illuminated the pathways, creating an awe-inspiring spectacle. The students were captivated by the enchanting glow, and as they journeyed through to the cave, Mark, shared stories and deep knowledge of the area's history. 

The following morning, the students were up bright and early once again, ready for a full day of rock-climbing training in preparation for their upcoming exams. Working in pairs, they honed their communication skills and built trust as they tackled various challenges, including poles, barrels, angled walls, and overhangs. Throughout the activities, the students embraced a culture of support and encouragement, coming together as a unified group from both schools. They cheered on their peers and even applauded one another, even showing their support encouragement towards Mark and Ms Naughton as they scaled the walls. 

On Wednesday morning, Ms Naughton and the students returned to the water, continuing their SUP training. Pushing through the cold water, they practiced rescues and other water-based skills, displaying teamwork and unwavering support for one another. When Ms Naughton unexpectedly lost her balance and fell off her SUP, several students swiftly reacted, utilising their newly acquired rescue skills to come to her aid.  

The week brimmed with thrilling rock-climbing adventures that extended into the evenings, accompanied by numerous assessments to ensure the students' readiness, all overseen by the amazing Paramount team. However, before moving to the next leg of our journey, the next camp, the group enjoyed a rewarding visit to the Natural Arch Bridge during the day, revelling in the breathtaking beauty of the waterfall and the cave. At this point, Ms Naughton may have taken part in a bit of unexpected 4x4 driving on the wrong track. The journey continued up the range to Binna Burra, where the group gathered around a warm fire, sharing stories and toasting marshmallows. Despite the fatigue that had accumulated over the week, everyone rose before dawn to witness a magical sunrise over the valley, offering a stunning panoramic view of the Gold Coast. 

Throughout the week, the students were continuously encouraged to push beyond their comfort zones, showcasing resilience and fostering strong bonds with their peers. Each and every student should feel a sense of pride for their achievements and the obstacles they overcame. A heartfelt congratulations goes out to all of them for embracing new challenges with unwavering enthusiasm. Here's to the next adventure, Cape York! 

A few highlights from the North students….  

•  Aaron – for me it was seeing everyone get along with each other and building relationships together. 
•  Ben – definitely rock climbing, I really struggled on the first day but when I did the assessment climbs on the Friday, I got through them one after the other. I really didn’t think I would. 
•  Malae – it was going 4x4 driving with Ms Naughton 
•  Rhiannon – for me it was sitting by the fire on the last night with Mark and doing the Stick, Leaf, Rock activity – everyone was there around the fire, everyone was quiet and listened to each other as they talked, and everyone got along 
•  Grant – it was the Stick, Leaf, Rock activity around the fire with Mark on the last night, that was really good 
•  K’Larni – for me definitely the rock climbing and getting to the top of the climbs, as well as making new friendships 
•  Rylee – I really enjoyed the rock climbing and getting to the top of my climbs. I didn’t know I would like it that much, but I did. 
•  Koby – the rock climbing for sure. 

Outdoor Recreation

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Harvard Prize Book for Kaitlyn

Kaitlyn is an individual who strives to  meet her full academic potential.  A self-starter, Kaitlyn uses her initiative to ensure she remains ahead of timelines.  Arriving at our school in April of 2022, she has swiftly integrated herself into her peer group and achieved academic results well above average.  Kaitlyn presents as a quiet and unassuming individual, however her easy transition into term 2 Year 11 at a new school, in a new town, clearly demonstrates oppenness to change and a steadiness of character.  Her adaptability and intelligence will ensure that whatever path she chooses, Kaitlyn will be successful.

These are just some of the reasons that Kaitlyn was nominated and subsequently won the Harvard Prize Book.  Harvard Prize Books are awarded to outstanding students in Year 11 who display excellence in scholarship and high character, combined with achievement in other fields. Donated by Harvard Clubs and Shared Interest Groups (SIGs), Prize Books are presented annually in nearly 2,000 high schools around the world.

Mrs Fletcher, Head of Department - English

50th Anniversary Celebration - BNSHS

In 2024, Bundaberg North State High School will celebrate it's 50th anniversary.  Please complete the form below if you would like to be involved in the planning or celebration of this event, or even if you would just like to be kept informed of the progress.

BNSHS 50th Anniversary Celebration

Check mate

The 3rd Sunday Children's Chess Tournament for 2023 is on 28/05/2023. All enquiries about Bundaberg Chess Club Junior Chess should be sent to mobile:- 0418686497 or email presidentjohn@live.com.au. The Junior chess competitions are usually held on the last Sunday of the month. This year we are holding 7 Junior Chess Tournaments.

Cost is $8.00/child. A maximum cost of $16.00/family for 3 or more players. The cost includes 6 rounds of competitive chess plus a chess lesson from Mr John Harris who is a top-rated chess player in Bundaberg.   1st round commences promptly at 9.00 am at the U3A building (upstairs) on Woongarra St, Bundaberg.

Could players please arrive 15 mins early to register for the tournament. The session should finish approximately 12.00-12.20 pm. All children need to bring a water bottle and sufficient morning tea.

Prizes are given on each Sunday for 1st to 3rd place, with 2 lucky door prizes and 2 prizes for most interesting game. Children can accrue points through regular attendance at the Sunday Tournaments towards Grand Prix prizes awarded at the end of the year.

Career Pathway News

2023 Australian Liveability Census

The 2023 Australian Liveability Census invites local communites to share what is important to them and how local neighbourhoods are performing. Their objective is to understand liveability from the perspective of our nation’s diverse population and provide decision makers with the evidence base to enhance the lives of local communities. Launching on National Neighbour Day, Sunday 26th March 2023, and running until Friday 30th June 2023, the 2023 Australian Liveability Census is the country’s largest social research project.

School Dental Service

The school dental van is currently at Bundaberg North State High School.  All students between Year 7 and Year 10 were given parental consent forms to take home to be completed and returned.  If you have not yet completed a form and would like your student to receive free dental care, please dowload the form below to fill and return.  For any further help, please contact the school office on 4130 0222.  

P&C News

Our tuckshop is looking for volunteers. Please email Jacky our convenor if you are able to offer any help jburt144@eq.edu.au 

We are always looking for new Committee members. The P&C meets once each month to discuss matters of concern to the school and the school community.  If you would like to connect to the P&C but are not able to attend meetings in person, we are happy to have you join the meeting via Teams or phone.  Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month in the conference room in A Block and commence at 6:00pm.  You will find meeting dates on the school websites event calendar. 

www.facebook.com/bundabergnorthhighpandc

pandc@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au

Mrs Shelley Hansen, P&C President 

QParents in 2025 at BNSHS

QParents is all about making parents’ lives easier. QParents is a safe, private app to help parents and caregivers manage important details about their child’s education. Once you are registered, you can sign in securely and- Make payments online- Check your student’s timetable, assessment calendar and report cards- Inform the school of your student’s past or future absence- See upcoming events- View enrolment details- Update your contact details.

From 2025, the school will be asking all parents to submit their consent for excursions through QParents. Click the link below for more information or contact the school to arrange for your unique invitation code to start your registration process.

You can watch the introductory video at the link below to learn more about QParents and how it can work for you.

QPARENTS INTRODUCTORY VIDEO

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

GP bookings now open!

Appointments are now available to visit the GP each Tuesday at North High.  Students can make bookings by scanning the QR code above, which takes them to the school webpage, where they click on the MAKE A BOOKING box.  Alternatively appointments can be made simply by emailing GP@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au.  

Bookings are completely confidential, as are all emails sent to this address.  So, if you would like to provide feedback you can also do this by emailing GP@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au

Important dates