Bundaberg North State High School eNewsletter

From the Principal's Office

Dear Parents and Guardians,

As the academic year progresses, we have been presenting the Semester 1 Reach for the Sky (RFTS) and North Star awards. It was very pleasing to see that 88 students received North Star awards (having received an A or B for all of their subjects). This is an increase of 18 students from Term 1. Congratulations to the North Star award winners. We also had 43 students gain a Bronze, 43 students gain Silver and 39 students gain a Gold 'Reach for the Sky' award.

Student Progress conferences – (Parent-Teacher-Student Interviews)

We encourage all parents to participate in our Student Progress Conferences on Thursday August 3^rd. These meetings present an opportunity for you to meet with your child's teachers, gain insights into their academic progress, discuss their strengths, address any challenges, and collaborate on ways to ensure their continued success. Your active involvement and support is important in fostering a strong partnership between home and school. Please use the link here to book or call our friendly office staff to assit.

BOOK A STUDENT PROGRESS CONFERENCE HERE.

A warm welcome to our Japanese students

Our school has been privileged to host 20 Japanese students from Hakuo High School in Tokyo. The students and 2 teachers arrived last Tuesday and we welcomed them to our school in a ceremony on Wednesday. Students have been interacting with our students and their classes, and will be attending CQU and visits to Bundaberg tourist locations. Thank you to the host families and buddies who have been welcoming the students into our community. A farewell ceremony will be held on Friday 4^th August.

P&C Cent Sale: Fundraising

Mark your calendars for the Parent and Community (P&C) Cent Sale, scheduled for the 26th of August at the Spotted Dog Tavern in North Bundaberg at 1.00pm. Please call the school to check details and book a table. The Cent Sale is not only a fun-filled occasion but also an important fundraising event that directly benefits our school's initiatives and resources. We encourage all parents and community members to attend and contribute to this worthy cause.

50th Anniversary preparations

Looking ahead, we will be celebrating our school’s 50th anniversary next year. As part of our preparations, we will be forming a planning committee and welcome your suggestions, ideas, and contributions to help us organize a celebration that pays tribute to our school's history. If you have not done so already, please follow the link to register your interest.

50TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS - REGISTER YOUR INTEREST

Year 10 SETP Interviews: setting pathways

By now the majority of Year 10 students have completed their Senior Education and Training Plan (SETP) interviews. These interviews play a crucial role in guiding students towards their desired career paths and further studies. We will now be building the timetable and finalising the Year 11 subject offerings. Thank you to the many parents who accompanied their Year 10 child for their interview. It is important we are working together to assist students with their future pathway.

School Opinion Survey

By now, you should have be received an email from the School Opinion Survey Team inviting you to take part in the annual School Opinion Survey. I encourage you to complete the survey as it provides us with information about how parents feel North High is going. Each parent is sent a link to the survey which is anonymous and is due to be completed by August 18.

I thank those who have already completed the survey. Your time and support is much appreciated.

Robyn Kent

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

This form is not active

The Watson Report

STUDENT NOMINATIONS FOR PRESENTATION CEREMONIES

Presentation ceremonies will be held on Tuesday 10 October. At Bundaberg North SHS we have a Presentation morning and evening event. An Award Committee has been formed to consider students’ achievements and involvement in extra-curricular activities. There are many awards across year 7 to 12. Some of these awards are determined by academic results, others consider representation of the school or extra-curricular activities. For this reason, students are asked to nominate for awards, so the Award Committee has as much information as possible before making decisions. Now is the time for students to nominate for the following awards:

Year 12 Major Awards
Sport Awards including: Green and Gold, Maroon Award, Full Colour, Half Colour, Wide Bay Certificate, Sporting Certificate
Service and Cultural Awards including: Green and Gold, Maroon Award, Full Colour, Half Colour, Wide Bay Certificate, Service or Cultural Certificate.

CELEBRATION LUNCH

As part of North Rewards, we recognise the excellent of students. To attend Reward Days, students must achieve 95% attendance. To recognise the outstanding effort of a small number of students who have achieved 100% for semester 1, they will be invited to a Celebration Luncheon, at the L Block dining room on Friday 11 August. These students will receive the following invitation.

GOTCHA UPDATE

Students receive Gotchas for demonstrating the school values of respect, responsibility and safety. Students have been collecting Gotchas to ‘cash in’ for various items. The North rewards team is considering updates and some new initiatives involving Gotchas. Watch this space!

Mrs Watson, Deputy Principal

And the survey says....

It is that time of the year to complete the annual School Opinion Survey. By now you should have received from the School Opinion Survey Team a link inviting you to complete the parent survey. Could you please take the time to complete this as the information is compiled and made available to schools to use for future planning. Students, staff and parents are sent a link to the survey. Surveys are due on August 18^th. I thank you for taking the time to complete it.

Robyn Kent, Principal

Walk of Life - Trip of a Dream Time

A Trip of a Dream Time!

When one man's deep passion for Cape York ignites a desire to share its beauty and culture with others, particularly the youth in our community, an extraordinary adventure unfolds.

To bring his inspiring vision to life, he carefully assembled a team of four leaders who assisted him in the transformative "Trip of a Dream Time”. Four fortunate year 12 mentors were carefully chosen to support the eighteen year 10 students. Despite coming from different high schools, these students quickly formed a close-knit dream team, ready to embark on a two-week adventure together.

Enthusiasm filled the air early in the morning at the Bundaberg PCYC as everyone eagerly packed trailers and boarded the buses, ready to embark on their second, more extended expedition with the Walk of Life program. Their destination lay further away from home, heading north into the much warmer weather. They made a couple of stops along the way at PCYC's and outdoor recreation centres. Their first stop in Cape York was Wujal Wujal, where we were warmly greeted with a welcome to country from local elder, Aunty Mary. Aunty Kath and their family followed with a traditional smoking ceremony. The whole group immersed themselves in local stories, as they savoured freshly baked damper and fried scones. Aunty Mary, Aunty Kath and their family were more than happy to have a yarn to the students and hear stories of theirs as well.

The journey continued early the next morning, but before pressing on to Cooktown, the first item on the agenda was a refreshing swim in a local waterhole, The Lion’s Den (croc free). Once revitalized, the group proceeded to Cooktown, where they delved into the area's rich history and learned about the significance of Reconciliation Rocks along with several other stories of the area. Before departing the big job of collecting the next weeks supply of food from the local Ice Works, who had prepared our shopping order. From Cooktown, the next destination was Crocodile Station in Laura. Upon arrival, the station's welcoming committee were eagerly awaiting our arrival, which consisted of a couple of hundred Brahman cattle (recently mustered), half a dozen horses and five friendly dogs (including two delightful puppies). In no time, the canines became close companions to their twenty-seven new guests, finding comfort in a different swag each night. Their growth in just the few days we were there was noticeable as their little bellies became rounder, thanks to the abundant table scraps and the affection of many students.

As the group set up camp, rolling out swags and finding their own spaces for the coming days, a fire pit was soon created. This space would soon become the heart of each evening, a place for gathering, sharing stories, and reflecting on their experiences.

On the first full day in Laura, everyone needed a well-earned rest. The students utilized the local facilities to work on some of their Cert II modules while also exploring the small community before returning to Crocodile Station. During the day, the students caught up on washing, explored the land, and played several games of rugby.

In the afternoon, each individual played a part in preparing the roast dinner, cooked over the open fire, all eagerly anticipating the arrival of their guests. Through this collaborative effort, the students developed a fresh sense of unity, forming a close-knit second family away from their own homes. Following dinner, our guests enthusiastically shared captivating tales of their travels, outdoor adventures, and experiences within their communities.

After the meal, Mark presented each student with specially procured shirts—a sentimental gesture that brought smiles to everyone's faces. These shirts were skilfully printed by Mark's wife, Naomi, and designed by one of the talented year 12 Cert III students. The artist explained the design's significance—the turtle symbolizes an important local animal in Bundaberg, where our journey commenced. The artwork also features the rare Cooktown orchid, exclusive to the Cooktown/Laura region, representing our ultimate destination. The feet portrayed in the design represent the Walk of Life program and its logo, symbolizing the entirety of our trip from start to finish. Lastly, the pom poms are fashioned after a flower from a rainforest tree in Wujal Wujal, another significant area of the trip.

The next day, began with Kent catching a decent sized Barramundi that would be a part of the evening meal. Following on everyone was filled with eager anticipation, we attended the Laura Quinkan Dance Festival, uncertain of what awaited us. As we strolled along the dirt road, the rhythmic beats of the music intensified, accompanied by enthusiastic cheers. Amidst the ancient trees, the air reverberated with diverse stories from various countries, resonating throughout Quinkan country as everyone came together in celebration. For some, the experience proved to be profoundly moving; for many, it was a captivating journey into a rich cultural tapestry. Our students wholeheartedly embraced the vibrant culture unfolding before them and, when invited, joyfully joined in the traditional dances with great enthusiasm.

On the second day of the festival, we were entranced by more captivating dancing, each of us already having picked our favourite dance groups in anticipation of the final announcement. However, before the announcement could be made, we had to adventure on to Split Rock, departing early from the festival grounds.

Trip of a Dream Time

At Split Rock, we were warmly greeted by Johnny, a knowledgeable local traditional owner. He guided us on a 4.5-hour hike, leading us through enchanting landscapes and introducing us to the region's bush tucker and medicinal plants. Our journey was soon rewarded when we encountered several galleries adorned with stunning and historically significant rock art throughout Split Rock.

As we reached the top of the rock, cheers from the festival announcement could be heard in the distance, making it clear that the winner of the Laura Quinkan Dance Festival had been declared. Despite missing the announcement, our time at Split Rock had its own profound significance. Johnny shared the importance of Split Rock and the cultural significance of the local area, and as the sun began to descend, we made our way down the mountain, enjoying breathtaking views of the sunset and more amazing rock art galleries.

Looking back on the experience, many students mentioned that their time at Split Rock was the most memorable moment of the trip. It provided them with a deeper understanding and appreciation of the local culture, making it a truly enriching experience.

The following day we were fortunate to be given the opportunity to explore a neighbouring cattle station, where we had the chance to check out the creek on the property and observe the workers loading up their trucks with newly mustered Brahman cattle. Many students were in awe as they discussed their interest in the land and the possibility of mustering in the future. Karlene, one of the station managers, was more than happy to engage with everyone and answer any questions they had. She was pleasantly surprised to learn that there were potential future musterers among the group and was super supportive to see those interested to return one day.

As our time in the Cape was drawing to a close, the Cert II students had one final task to complete: their online exams. Once they finished, they were rewarded with a well-earned day of relaxation or exploration at Crocodile Station.

To express our deepest gratitude towards our hosts and their hardworking team, we extended an invitation for them to join us in a sit-down lunch upon their return to the station after more than a week of mustering cattle. Both Karlene and Roy, our gracious hosts, were delighted to have Mark return with yet another group of Walk of Life students, and it was clear that they wouldn't be the last to visit.

As the end of our time in the Cape approached, many students found themselves not wanting it to end. They were in awe of the experiences they had during their short stay and cherished the new relationships they had built with each other and their leaders. It was evident that the Cape had left a lasting impression on everyone's hearts, with many already discussing their plans to return one day.

Being a part of this exceptional team of leaders and witnessing the remarkable journey of such a diverse group of students, who have now developed a strong sense of community and an even stronger sense of belonging, was a true privilege. This experience has been genuinely extraordinary, providing a wealth of valuable and enriching encounters that have pushed comfort zones and fostered resilience.

Witnessing the growth and development of the students from both schools over the last six months of preparation fills me with immense pride. Not only have the students built valuable and meaningful relationships, but we as leaders have also formed strong bonds with all the students from both schools. The anticipation for the next adventure is high, and I am eager to see where their dreams take them. Bring on the next trip, and of course, many more! It's truly a journey of a Dream Time!

A sincere thank you to the follow:

Dave Payne of Paramount Adventure Centre and his team
The Outdoor Education Consultants
Roy and Karlene Shephard of Crocodile Station
Tom Walker and the Dominos stores from Bundaberg to the Cape
Dr Will Dobud of Charles Sturt University
Johnny Murison of Jarramalli Tours
Auntie Kath Walker of Wuial Wuial
PLO (Auntie) Mary Barlow from Wujal Wujal police
PCYC – Bundaberg, Yeppoon, Airlie Beach, and Townsville
Northern Outlook
Bundaberg NSHS – Rebecca Watson, for supporting and encouraging the Walk of Life program at BNSHS
Trip leaders - Mark Cartner, Kent Cartner, Rohin Power, Carly Naughton and Robyn Kirby

Whom without this trip could not have been such a success

National Tree Day

The first Sunday in August is National Tree Day. Australians are encouraged to plant trees to provide habitat for native species and the benefits that go with increasing the number of trees in our environment. On Thursday the 27^th of July, our Planeteers organised a school tree planting event. Our groundsman, Mr Mark, pre-dug holes for us, and got the trees ready. All students were invited to help plant the trees at second break. We planted two fruit trees and ten native trees all up. We look forward to seeing these trees thrive in the future and provide us with fruit, flowers, shade and animal habitat for years to come.

Mrs Roberts, Teacher and Planeteers Coordinator

Enrolment at North High - Yr 7 in 2024

Many thanks to those parents who attended Enrolment Afternoon and who have submitted their 2024 enrolment documents. Your students are now enrolled and are ready to attend the first transition day on August 16th.

For those wishing to have their student attend Transition Day, you will first need to complete the online form at the link below. This is an 'Intention to Enrol' and is the first step of the enrolment process. Without having submitted the form, or any enrolment documents your child will not be able to attend the first Transition Day. Staff require this information to prepare classes, activities and resources for students attending.

Please contact the school on 4130 0222 if you need any help.

Intention to enrol at BNSHS - 2024

Scholarship opportunity for Bundy students

Bundaberg Regional Council recently launched a new initiative offering scholarships to students in our region to further their education.

The purpose of BRYSA (Bundaberg Region Youth Scholarship Awards) is to recognise and support young people who may have been impacted by obstacles and may require support to continue their education.

The awards are open to young people 15 - 24, with six scholarships of $2000 on offer in the following categories:

Two recipients for beginning or continuing university studies
Two recipients for beginning or continuing vocational education and training courses (VET)
Two recipients for beginning of continuing apprenticeships or traineeships.

Applications must be submitted by 7 August.

Information about the questions you need to answer is attached.

Use this link to find out more and apply!

Youth_Scholarship_Awards_EOI.pdf

From a student perspective...

How do I start studying… and what actually is it?

As someone who has lost far too much sleep playing study catch up at the hands of procrastination, I’d love to offer you a few alternatives to the notorious “Do it all the night before”.

So, what do I study?

I know you probably hear the term studying a lot. “Make sure to study before your exam”, “You should study for at least 4 hours every week…”. Which isn’t very helpful if you don’t know what to study and how to study it. First and foremost (I seriously cannot stress this enough) read over your class notes. Regularly. If you look at something once, it’s probably not going to end up in your long-term memory. Doing this for all your subjects at the end of the week will save you scrambling to remember it the night before exams (that’s what your notes are there for). Great, so now you’re revising your notes, what’s next? Active recall and practicing techniques. In most exams there are two kinds of information you’re going to need, 1; facts—the stuff that you’re going to have to ‘actively recall’, maybe a movie quote, a maths formula or the parts in a body system. 2; Techniques—the kind of thing that takes practice and critical thinking, like how to write an effective analysis or doing long division. Think of practiced techniques like tools in a toolbox, the more you use them, the better you’ll be at using them. Learn how to identify what kind of information you’re going to need for assessment and exams (the best way to do this is to check your subject syllabus, you can do this at any year level through the QCAA website).

1,2,3,5 & 7

This is a super helpful revision technique I found through TikTok—for anyone willing to dedicate little time to pre-planning, this works amazingly for stressful exams. A big problem I always had when it came to studying is that I told myself I’d do it, but I never actually committed any specific time. 1,2,3,5,7 is pretty simple, set time aside to study 1 day before your exam, then 2 days before that, then 3 days before that and so on. It doesn’t have to be for a heap of time, but the more time you put in, the more you’ll get out of it. The biggest part of this revision style is to write down the days you’re going to study and commit to them!! (You, very conveniently have a student diary to do this—but it's always good to set reminders on your phone or set up your outlook calendar.)

Sophie, Year 11 student

Student vaccination update

If your student is in Year 7 or Year 10 in 2023 the following information about the School Immunisation Program may be of interest to you. Bundaberg North State High School will publish the dates of future clinics in the newsletter when they are available.

Cent Sale! P&C needs your support

The Bundaberg North SHS P&C are holding their annual cent sale fundraiser on 26th August. This event has been hugely successful in previous years so once again we will be holding the cent sale at the Railway Hotel/Spotted Dog Tavern on Saturday 26th August. The cent sale will start at 1pm but you are invited to arrive any time after 11:30am. To book a table, call the school office on 4130 0222.

If you have any non-perishable goods, pantry items or bric-a-brac you would like to donate, these can be dropped off at the school office. All donations are very gratefully received.

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

QParents Register here!

Stymie - #saysomething

STYMIE

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

Raising Teens today

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.