BNSHS Newsletter 13th March 2024

From the Principal's Office

As we approach the end of Term 1 there continues to be much happening at North High.  This week we are having our School Review.  Every 4 years we undergo a School Review to provide feedback on our achievements and also to provide recommendations for our future.  The recommendations will provide a basis for our next Strategic Plan that will be developed in Semester 2 and be our plan for the next four years.  Combining this with the timing of our 50^th Anniversary being held next term, we have come to the end of a significant juncture at North High.  With this in mind, I have decided to finish my time at North High and plan to retire.  I will be taking leave from Semester 2 onward and there will be a new Principal appointed ready to take North High through the next 4 year strategic plan from July onward. I have enjoyed my time at North High since 1997 as a Head of Department, Deputy Principal and now Principal and have many fond memories of the achievements gained by our students over the years.

We are looking forward to celebrating North High’s 50^th anniversary on June 1^st.  We are holding a day and evening event.  Please check our website for details and share the date with any past students or staff.

This week is our P&C and AGM.  We are looking for new members and keen parents to take on positions.  It is an important part of our school as the P&C run our school tuckshop and without them, the tuckshop cannot run in its current format.  Please consider coming along this Thursday evening at 6.00pm in the Administration building. 

Our annual swimming carnival is being held on Tuesday March 26, please ensure that you have completed the online permission form for your child/children to attend.  Normal classes will not be held on Tuesday.  All students will be bussed to the Norville Pool for a great day of activities and competition.  Please check your child knows of the sunsafe requirements.

At the end of term, students will be receiving their first Progress report for 2024.  Parents will be able to access the report on QParents or email and students will be able to access their report through oneschool.  I would invite parents to make appointments then with teachers for May 2^nd at our Progress conference afternoon.

On Friday last week, we held a LEAP (Leadership, Enrichment, Achievement and Passion) day for year 7&8 students focusing on Forensic Science.  Students were treated to an active day of investigation as they put their problem solving skills to the test.  Thank you to Ms Knight for developing the creative activity for the students.

NAPLAN testing begins this week (March 13-25) for year 7 and 9 students.  We will be conducting the testing in normal class times over the 2 week period starting with the Writing test.  We wish them the best for their NAPLAN tests.

Thank you.

Robyn Kent, Principal 

Friday 5, Term 1 2024

Friday 5 - Students remaining at school until 3pm Term 1, 2024

The Watson Report

Assessment

Over the last week most students started assessment, and over the next two weeks, students will complete assessment for all subjects. It is essential for students to be aware of when all assessment is due. This information can be found on their assessment calendar which they received earlier in the term. If you would like a copy, please email me on rwats34@eq.edu.au

For students to be successful with assessment they must:

• Know what the assessment is and what is required – this can be found on the task sheet and criteria sheet
• Complete activities related to the assessment
• Use exemplars and scaffolding provided by teachers
• Access information via QLearn and/or OneNote
• Complete a full draft
• Seek feedback from teachers – apply the feedback received
• Ask for assistance when required.

Reach for the Sky Awards

These awards recognise students who consistently demonstrate excellent effort and behaviour across their subjects. Students can receive a BRONZE, SILVER or GOLD award based on the number of ‘excellent’ results for effort and behaviour. Each student must meet the minimum requirement for both effort and behaviour, for example, to receive a BRONZE award they must achieve at least 4 x Excellent results for effort and 4 x Excellent results for behaviour across their chosen subjects.

Criteria:

GOLD: 6 x Excellent for Effort and Behaviour       

SILVER: 5 x Excellent for Effort and Behaviour  

BRONZE: 4 x Excellent for Effort and Behaviour 

PLATINUM: Achieve 3 x Reach for the Sky.

The data for these awards is from report cards; Interim report term 1, Semester 1 report, Interim report term 3. These awards will be presented at a whole school parade each term/year level parade, with the Platinum awards presented at our annual Presentation Night. If you have any questions about these awards, please contact me via email rwats34@eq.edu.au or phone 4130 0222.

Reward Day Menu

The new Reward Day Menu for 2024 has been released. Please note the updated criteria to qualify for attendance at each Reward Day. Criteria:

1. Demonstrate excellent behaviour and effort by receiving a Bronze, Silver or Gold ‘Reach for the Sky’ award during the previous term
2. Demonstrate excellent attendance by achieving at least 90% actual attendance at school with no unexplained absences or suspensions.

If you have any questions about North Rewards, please contact Mrs Watson via email (rwats34@eq.edu.au) or phone 4130 0222.

NEW Gotchas from school leaders

Our school leaders have developed special green Gotchas with a focus on students wearing correct uniform. School leaders will hand out green Gotchas when they see correct uniform. All Gotchas can be used to towards the ‘cash in’ Gotcha day on Tuesday 26 March at the swimming carnival or to hand in for vouchers from their year level HOD/YLC. Please see the available Gotcha vouchers and Gotcha ‘cash in’ day options.

Rebecca Watson, Deputy Principal

Senior Schooling Report

Uniform

Thank you to the vast majority of families who have their students in the complete, correct uniform each day for school.

Some students regularly question why we have a uniform (as do some parents) so it should be noted that Parents and Citizens Association and school community expect a school uniform and want it enforced for many reasons, including (but not limited to), it:

• Establishes a welcoming culture of school pride, a positive learning environment and high expectations;
• Promotes a positive image within the community with an identifiable uniform that is economical and functional; and promotes a sense of belonging and connection to our school community;
• Promotes the link between dress standards, school discipline and healthy school spirit;
• Addresses health and safety policies by ensuring:
• students are wearing appropriate footwear and sun safe clothing;
• students are readily identified as students of the school or non-students on the school grounds;
• Furthers social equality among students as the uniform diminishes socioeconomic differences, and removes the distraction of competition in dress and fashion at school;
• Prepares students for the workforce where an employer may stipulate a uniform or dress code, and societal expectations about standards of dress for a range of specific occasions; and
• Reinforces self-discipline – a uniform applies to many occupations and social activities. Wearing a uniform to school reinforces self-discipline which is required outside the school environment.

So again we thank those families who support the uniform policy and ensure their student is dressed well for each school day. However, we know there are few who are not quite there, and are continuing to work with those few families.

As we move towards Term 2 and the colder weather, it is timely to remind all families of the winter uniform requirements. The official uniform is the school jacket which is available from ShawLine on Walker Street and this remains our preferred jumper. However, we acknowledge that for some families this school jacket can’t be purchased at this time for a variety of reasons. For those families, students are able to wear a PLAIN black jumper with no logos, stripes or writing on it, without a hood. It can be a pullover or a zip up front, so long as it is plain and without a hood. These are available from places like K Mart and Big W for $8 to $12 each so this does provide a budget friendly option if the school jacket is out of reach at this point in time.

We are also hoping that by Term 2 students with incorrect shoes on will be able to find compliant ones. This is important as students need to comply with WH&S regulations in the workshops, kitchens and science labs. Students should be in plain black shoes with leather or vinyl uppers. Canvas is not going to protect their feet in these locations.

As always, if any family or student is having difficulty in providing the correct uniform items, we are here to help.

The school Uniform Policy can be accessed on the school website: 

Natalie Brandon, Deputy Principal 

Sport at North

Swimming Carnival

The 2024 Inter-House swimming carnival is to be held on Tuesday 26^th March.  This is a whole school event and all students are expected to attend whether they are competing or just supporting their House.

The carnival is about participation and fun. Students are encouraged to get involved as much as they can. There are competitive races and ‘social’ races where valuable points go towards the house. There will also be water polo available.

Students will travel by bus to and from Norville Pool. The cost is $2 and this will be collected as students enter the bus.  Students should bring their lunch, water bottle, hat and wear sunsmart clothing (no G-string swimwear is allowed).

The pool will be running a canteen.   Shade, sunscreen and First Aid will be provided.

The theme this year is ‘House Spirit’, so come dressed in your house colours.

Please provide your consent at the link below.  Please note that this link will be active until 9am Monday 25^th March and no further consent will be accepted.

Swimming Carnival Consent Form 2024

Robert Thatcher, Sports Coordinator 

Dream Deadly Program

Last week we began our after school Dream Deadly program for First Nations students.  The students are taking part in a cultural program run by Stepping Black and also having opportunity to have assistance with this homework.  A new CEC been appointed at the coordinator of the program.  On March 22 we will have the official opening of our after school Dream Deadly program that is being held in the First Nations room at 1.30pm.  We would like to invite all our Frist Nations families to the opening.

Day of Excellence: Forensics

We're thrilled to announce the resounding success of the first of our four LEAP Days of Excellences! The first LEAP Days of Excellences invited passionate Year 7 and 8 science students who enthusiastically delved into the fascinating world of forensic science to uncover the mystery surrounding the unfortunate passing of Mr. Peach (Head of Department – Science).

Their tasks encompassed a wide array of forensic techniques, including analysing shoe prints, conducting chromatography experiments, and comparing DNA samples. With unwavering determination and skill, they meticulously pieced together the puzzle of Mr. Peach's untimely end.

The science faculty would like to extend our sincere gratitude to all the students, teachers, and support staff whose dedication and hard work made this event truly unforgettable.

James Peach, HOD Science

Year 9 Science LEAP: Ecosystem Studies

Our Year 9 science students embarked on a journey to Moore Park Beach, where they delved into the intricate workings of our local ecosystem. During the excursion they engaged in a series of hands-on activities aimed at understanding the dynamic relationship between living and nonliving components.

Equipped with data collection tools the students set out to explore the diverse habitats of Moore Park Beach. From the sandy shores to the lush mangrove forests, documenting the abundance of life forms and their interactions with the environment. By recording their findings, they uncovered valuable insights into the delicate balance that sustains this coastal ecosystem.

Throughout the process, students were encouraged to analyse trends and patterns emerging from their observations. Where they examined the influence of environmental factors on the distribution and behaviour of organisms, gaining a deeper appreciation for the interconnectedness of all living things.

As they returned from their expedition, our Year 9 scientists carried with them not only a wealth of data but also a profound understanding of how interconnected ecosystems truly are.

James Peach, HOD Science

Celebration of QLD Law Week

In celebration of QLD Law Week, Miss Wilson will be hosting an incursion that will give students a taste of what Legal Studies is like. Students will have to use their critical thinking and attention to detail to solve a crime. 

Who: available to students in years 9 or 10 - but numbers will be limited

When: 14^th May during Big RAS

Where: on school grounds

Fee: no payment required

Please have your student make contact with Miss Wilson to express their interest either in person at O Block, or via email to alwil3@eq.edu.au

Amy Wilson, Teacher

Student Resource Scheme & Subject Fees - Payment Options

The Student Resource Scheme and Subject fees for 2024 have now been invoiced. Payment of these invoices are due on the 19th April 2024, unless you are on an approved payment plan. Attached is our Payment Options document which lists the various payment options available.

The Student Resource Scheme ensures that students have the resources required for them to engage with the curriculum for their education, and saves parents time and money in sourcing the prescribed materials elsewhere. The objective of the scheme is to provide a convenient and cost-effective way for students to access the educational resources necessary to enhance their learning experience at school. Participation is for the duration of your child’s enrolment at the school. Further information regarding the Student Resource Scheme and resource inclusion lists can be found on our website. 

Should you have any financial difficulties or questions, please contact us on 4130 0222 or email accounts@bundabergnorthshs.eq.edu.au

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 

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 

Next Step - Year 12 Completers Survey

The Next Step Year 12 Completers survey opens on 18 March. All Year 12 completers from 2023 are invited to complete this 5-minute survey about what they are doing now in terms of work and/or study. We ask parents, siblings and friends to encourage our graduates to complete the survey to help our school improve senior programs for future students.

As a thank you, participants have the chance to win one of 5 MacBook Airs. Graduates will receive an invitation by mail and may be contacted by phone. For more information about Next Step, visit the below link.

UCAT 2024 Registration Details | UCAT Information Session

If any Year 12 students are considering a career in medicine or dentistry, they will need to sit a compulsory entry exam known as the UCAT (University Clinical Aptitude Test) before they can apply for relevant placements in the aforementioned fields of study within most universities. 

Please see the below link for more information regarding the 2024 Information Sessions and Registrations. 

Important dates

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

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.

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