8 December 2024

From the (Acting) Principal's desk

Welcome to the final newsletter for the year. It is always enjoyable to reflect on the vast array of student achievements for the year in all aspects of school life. We have an amazing school with amazing students who continually learn, achieve and succeed everyday.

This past week has seen junior secondary students participate in alternate activities here at school, a year 8 camp at Daradgee Environmental Education Centre and a number of students on work experience in grade 9.  I want to commend the fantastic behaviour shown by all junior students in this last week. They have really lived our school values.

Over the course of the holidays our school will see a number of facility improvements including upgrades to the B Block and A Block toilets, the addition of an extraction fan in D Block Manual Arts, painting of the Hall and Auditorium and the addition of air conditioning to our F Block kitchens. We are excited to see our school facilities continue to improve in 2024.

Last week we welcomed our future year 7 students from our feeder Primary schools. It was great to meet all the excited future students and see them experience a ‘high school day.’ We look forward to seeing them in their new uniforms at Atherton SHS next year.

Away for the Day – Mobile Phones and other Devices

From the beginning of Term 1 2024, all Queensland state school students must keep their mobile phones switched off and ‘away for the day’ during school hours. Notifications on wearable devices, such as smartwatches, must be switched off so that phone calls, messages and other notifications cannot be sent or received during school hours.

‘Away for the day’ will support our school to maintain a strong focus on educational achievement, and student wellbeing and engagement by:

• providing optimal learning and teaching environments
• encouraging increased face-to-face social interactions between students
• promoting the health and wellbeing of students through increased social interaction and physical activity
• reducing the potential for students to be exposed to the negative impacts of the digital world, resulting from unsafe or inappropriate technology use.

A reminder that school starts back on Monday January 22 at 8.50 am. All students are to go straight to the school hall and sit in year level groups. Next year we see the change to 4 lessons per day and the bell times are listed below.

Staff Farewells

This year we say goodbye to a number of staff who are transferring or moving on to other things.   

We acknowledge and thank teaching staff members Alex Hinchliffe, Peta Murador, Saime Stevens, Damian Gray and Simon Anderson who are leaving Atherton SHS. We also wish Amanda Kielty and Matt Evans who are on a period of leave all the best in 2024.

We also want to thank non-teaching staff members Samantha Norris, Shannon O’Connor, Bianca Blandon, Jesse Wynne, Jennifer Porter, Melita Read and Denise Day who have contributed in various roles around our wonderful school.

We also acknowledge and thank our school Nurse Chris Silva who takes on a new challenge next year. Thank-you for all your work in student support,    

As we finish for the year, I would like to thank our outstanding staff team and congratulate them on their work in 2023.  They have delivered quality curriculum and engaging learning experiences for our students and, as a result, students have made great progress.

Finally, I sincerely thank our families and all members of our school community for your continued support of our staff, students and school in 2023. 

From the Deputy's Desk-Senior Schooling

With Year 11 and 12 finishing several weeks ago, our attention in senior schooling has now shifted to 2024 preparations. There is some important information that Year 11 and 12 students, parents and carers should be aware of for next year.

Firstly, a reminder that all alternative study (ALT) and all off-campus lessons cease at the end of this year, and students will have to apply for these again for 2024. Students will be given ALT and off-campus agreement forms in their first ALT lesson next year to be completed by students and parents. Conditions around off-campus lessons are being tightened in 2024, with students needing to have demonstrate and maintain 85% attendance rate (including approved absences) across all subjects to remain eligible.

Students who have school-based apprenticeships and traineeships or external training including vocational placement (e.g. work placement for the childcare certificate), will need to advise Ms Coleman of the days that they will be undertaking work or training, as these variations do not roll over to the new timetable.

Finally, next year reporting for Year 11 and 12 will align with their assessment program, rather than with the middle or end of semesters. This means there will be separate reporting periods for Year 11, Year 12 and Years 7-10. This will enable us to monitor achievement and track the progress of the Year 11s and 12s much more effectively.

Wishing you all a fabulous Christmas and holiday break and a great start to the new year. I’m looking forward to working with you in 2024!

From the Deputy's Desk-Middle Schooling

2023 has been a wonderful Year for our Year 9 and 10 students. There have been so many opportunities for them to investigate their future pathways and marry them to the subjects they choose at school. I am particularly looking forward to hearing from the 33 Year 9 students who attended work experience in the last week of school. So far, I have enjoyed watching the Year 9 students at school enjoy the many activities that have been led by our curriculum teams each day. These are particularly important for building relationship between staff and students – especially when getting to know teachers or teacher aides that students may not have regular contact with.

I really hope that all of our families share in a wonderful festive season and that you all remain safe and well over the school holidays. Merry Christmas to you all and looking forward to working with you for a Happy New Year.

Finance Update

ASHS Fee Structure

At ASHS we strive to keep fees in line with quality education, so you can invest in your child's future. The fee structure is as follows:

SRS Resource Fee:

This covers the majority of school expenses including, but not limited to our core subjects; Mathematics, English, Science, and Humanities. Billed each year at the beginning of the school year, usually within the first 2 weeks of school commencing. Due by the end of Term 1.

Subject Resource Fee:

Dependant on year level and subjects studied. This covers the cost of student expenses such as classroom consumables, etc and the cost of physically delivering the subject to our students. Billed each year, separately from the SRS Resource Fee, mid Term 1 to allow for finalisation of classes.  You can expect these invoices approximately at the beginning of March. Due by the end of Term 1.

Extra-Curricular Fees:

Extra-curricular fees are for activities such as camps, Music lessons and sporting levies. These are determined by your child/s activities within the Atherton SHS community. Billed intermittently throughout the year as they arise. Due before participation and dependant on finalisation of existing account prior. Not to be covered by payment plans

Payment of School Fees

ASHS conveniently offers a wide range of payment options as follows:

BPOINT:

The school’s preferred method of payment is via BPOINT. Please follow the link at the bottom left hand corner of any invoice or statement.

EFTPOS:

ASHS accepts; Visa, Mastercard, credit, cheque or savings account in person, alternatively you can make payment over the phone by using the IVR system 1300 631 073.

Please note that the ASHS is a cashless school. Circumstantial payment via cash and valid cheque, by prior arrangement only.

Payment Plans:

The following payment plans are available to our families:

• A single payment in full by the end of Term 1.
• Three equal instalments throughout the year, to be finalised by the end of Term 3.
• Instalment payments.

• eDDR (Electronic Direct Debit). The school will provide parents with a link to register for a payment plan via email, parents then click on the link and enter their payment details, parents will get a reminder each time they are about to be charged.
• Centrepay/BasicsCard. Parents provide CRN and DOB to the school to register payment plan from the school’s online Centrelink account, or the school provided its CRN to parents to complete set-up via their own Centrelink online account.
• Self-managed. The school provides parents with its BSB and account number for parents to set up direct debit from their own online bank account.

Queries relating to accounts can be directed to 4030 5248.

Chris' Spot on Health

As we approach the holidays, we might all be planning how we will spend our time. We fill our calendars with endless activities, tasks, fun things to do, and catch ups. It seems we all avoid the dreaded B word…..BOREDOM!!!

In this day and age with entertainment and technology literally at our fingertips, boredom is a thing of the past. At any moment, whether it is waiting in line to be served or counting the minutes before a friend arrives, we pull out our smartphones and check our emails or the latest posts on Instagram or Tik Tok. We no longer allow ourselves to get bored.

Did you know that it is actually good for your brain to be bored? If you want to kick-start your creative juices then spend some quality time being bored. When you are bored your mind wanders. This can engage a more “divergent thinking style”—the ability to come up with creative new ideas and creative solutions to a problem. So, before you sit down to write, paint, or start thinking outside the box, it may be smart to spend some enthrallingly boring moments of washing the dishes or perhaps weeding the lawn.

So how do we allow ourselves to become bored? The first step is to get in the habit of spacing out again. When we engage in activities such as social media we activate our brain’s reward system—the very same pathway that releases dopamine and other feel-good chemicals when you crush your PB at the gym or play your favourite online game. The more you perform a brain-rewarding activity the stronger the neurological connections become, and as a result, the more your brain will crave it. And so, the best way to cure the cravings is to start disrupting the neurological connections. Every time we resist the urge to pick up our phone or fire up our laptops as soon as we get home, we’re giving our brains a chance to rest and reset. This doesn’t mean you have to give up your technology. Rather, you just have to make sure that you’re not mindlessly using it to distract yourself.

Too much activation and we can become addicted. Boredom can break the cycle.

So here is your holiday challenge. Start embracing some boredom in your life. It may be all you need to create a masterpiece, write the next Harry Potter, or ace that next English assignment!!

Have a safe and fabulous break over the holidays.

Technology faculty update

Candle of Hope

We recently had special visitors from around our wonderful district who had the opportunity to experience a Design and Technology class. All the students were well behaved, polite and excited to get their hands dirty. Every student got to make and take home this beautiful candlestand as a memento of their day at Atherton SHS.

A huge thank you to Mr Sorensen for all the preparation and set up, Mr Alford, Mr Evans and Mr Anderson for the delivery and assistance in every class. A special mention to the teacher aides and student leaders who assisted and made the activity manageable and fun.

A Huge thank you to all for making the day special for the students.

The Fast and the Furious!

Move over Vin Diesel, The Atherton SHS Year 9 students have the cars to win!

This term the Year 9 students had the opportunity to make a C02 Dragster. This project incorporated two whole design processes from dream to concept sketches to 3D modelling to final design.

Well done to Mr Hinze and the Year 9 students. A fantastic display of individuality and creativity.

Well shiver me timbers! Arr! Now this is a treasure chest!

Mr Alford`s Year 8 class has dedicated this term to produce a beautiful treasure chest embellished with latches, metal corner mouldings, hinges and special art work to give it that personal touch. I was amazed and proud to see so many beautiful completed treasure chests.

I commend Mr Alford for elevating this project to the level it is at. A beautiful keepsake for every Design and Technology student in his class. Well done! A beautiful project the students will cherish!

Upgrading two of our workshops

Over the holidays D17 and D19 will be upgraded with a new dust extraction system. It`s a huge task and I thank our student and teachers for preparing the rooms for the major works which commence soon.

It`s a bit strange to see the workshops with no tools and equipment but we are excited to see the finished product in 2024.

School Photos

School photos will take place on Friday the 2nd of February.  Please order by clicking the link below: 

https://orders.nqsp.com.au/ordering/with?key=6RYBFJ8R      

HUB Therapy News

Students from ASHS Hub visited Horses Helping Humans Atherton Tablelands as part of our Community Access Program. Wendy taught us about the horses and their different personalities. Students got the opportunity to meet the horses and understand how important the “gentleman’s handshake” was to ensure a successful introduction and connection. Students then spent time grooming and connecting with the horses and thoroughly enjoyed the process.

We would like to thank Wendy for her kindness and for a wonderful experience of learning and connection. We really enjoyed it and are very appreciative.

International News

Kashihara Gakuin High School Day Visit

On Friday November 10^th Atherton SHS hosted a Japanese high school day visit in the hall with 7B and 7C as the buddies. There were 81 students from Kashihara Gakuin High School in Nara, Japan. This part of Japan is famous for the free roaming deer and the large Buddha statue.

Our principal was presented with a beautiful calligraphy set as the school gift.

The year 7 students participated in rotational activities such as a school tour, basketball, Japanese activities (origami / kendama) and English conversation using a question sheet on topics such as school life, food and hobbies. Students were encouraged to talk to our visitors about the Atherton Tablelands.

Sendai Seiryo Chutokyoiku School Day Visit

On Thursday November 23^rd Atherton SHS hosted its largest school visit for the year. We welcomed 121 students from Sendai Seiryo Chutokyoiku School in Sendai, Japan. This city is well known for the Tanabata festival held in August. 7A and 7E were the buddies with a few extra students from other year levels.

Two of our year 7 students presented a powerpoint presentation on school life at Atherton SHS as our visiting school were very interested in learning about our school.

It was another enjoyable day of rotational activities. A teacher from this visiting school said that this visit would be the highlight of their school trip to Australia. The visiting students will also return to Japan knowing the famous “nutbush dance” guided by our Atherton SHS students.

My New Gallery

Mobile phones are "away for the day" in 2024

From the beginning of 2024, all Queensland state school students will have their mobile phones switched off and ‘away for the day’.  We will send out more information over the coming weeks.  Please ensure your children have an eftpos card that they can use for tuckshop purchases as students will not be able to use their phone or cards stored on their phone to make purchases.  

'Away for the day' will support our school to maintain a strong focus on educational achievement, and student wellbeing and engagement by:

• providing optimal learning and teaching environments
• encouraging increased face-to-face social interactions between students
• promoting the health and wellbeing of students through increased physical activity at break times
• reducing the potential for students to be exposed to the negative impacts of the digital world, resulting from unsafe or inappropriate technology use.

For more information and frequently asked questions, visit the department’s website [link to: https://tinyurl.com/329kup6u]

Ramsey Undergraduate Scholarship

2022 School Captain of ASHS, Marni Dennis, has recently accepted a scholarship through the Ramsay Centre and University of Queensland to study a Bachelor of Advanced Humanities (Western Civilisations). The Ramsay Undergraduate Scholarship is awarded to academic high-achievers who aspire to make a difference in the world through creative and critical means.

This funding will allow Marni to pursue her interest in ancient history and theology, with the plan of sharing this passion through teaching in the future. “The amazing teachers at Atherton High introduced me to the fascinating topic of history and nurtured my learning, so I hope to one day return that favour to the next generation.”

Year 9 Work Experience

Some of our Year 9 students have been gaining valuable work experience this week, and while I was visiting them, I had the pleasure of reconnecting with some former students who have successfully secured employment and apprenticeships through our Vocational Education programs at Atherton State High School.

Olivia Cocco is currently enjoying her time at First Steps Early Learning Centre, where 2023 graduate Morgan Grimshaw has found employment using the Certificate III in Early Childhood Education & Care that she studied as part of her school curriculum.

Tom Godfrey is immersed in hands on experiences at Honeycombes, learning new skills alongside former student Trent Delai and engaging with some impressive machinery.

Tait Ashley is spending the week at McKenzie Hydraulics & Engineering, sharing the experience with current School Based Apprentice Seth.

Our school is fortunate to be part of a supportive community, and it’s inspiring to witness our Year 9 students recognising the benefits of participating in the various vocational opportunities available to them.  Special thanks to all the businesses that have supported our students in 2023.  We eagerly anticipate further collaboration and relationship building as we continue into 2024 and beyond.

Year 8 Camp

Year 8 Camp- Daradgee Environmental Education Centre

Monday the 4^th of December saw 53 students and six staff members tetris their belongings underneath the big bus, slap on some sunscreen and wave goodbye to the green, green grass of home. Eager and excited to spend three days away from school, teachers, and families; the air was thick with anticipation. Arriving at Camp Daradgee, hungry and needing the restroom, students enthusiastically found their roommates and were delighted to find that their dorm rooms were equipped with air-conditioning. Six very happy staff members, and many students who’s first challenge was making their beds and having a lesson on how to work the fans and air-conditioning panel. This was the start of many learning experiences for our students and staff; many who have never been on a school camp before.

A day-by-day, activity-by-activity encounter of the camp could be communicated; however, pictorial evidence of our amazing students would be a much more engaging correspondence. Highlights of the camp were:

• The food- healthy and so much of it
• The Faulty Towers- resilience, teamwork, facing fears, working with and encouraging others
• Making new friends and getting to know others
• Photography session

The outcomes of attending camp are expediential. The relationships that are explored, the learning in a different environmental setting, and the life skills that are demonstrated; are awe-inspiring. A massive thank you to:

• Staff who gave up their own time to make the camp possible- Amanda Linwood, Georgia Toner, Alex Hinchcliff, Rod Green and Yani Karamaroudis
• Organisational staff- Kelli Harris, Jo Couda, Margaret Selby, Kirstie Wybird
• Daradgee Environmental Education Centre Staff
• Parents and Care-givers who supported their child to attend

The rich learning experiences that have been experienced are not possible without your support, thank you.

Look out, we cannot wait for 2024!

My New Gallery

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Employment Opportunity

Hosted by our Cairns office, join Australian Spatial Analytics (ASA) online for this 60-minute virtual event to learn about:

• Who is ASA and what do we do?

(The short answer: We’re a work-integrated, not-for-profit social enterprise providing professional data services and Geospatial and Digital Engineering careers for young neurodivergent adults)

• Potential career opportunities available for neurodivergent young adults at ASA
• The ASA recruitment process

We will be recruiting for Junior Data Analysts for our Cairns office in early 2024. Join us on this virtual event to find out more about the roles and how to apply.

There will also be opportunities to ask questions to ASA staff, both before and during the event.

We hope this will be an opportunity to inspire neurodivergent individuals to pursue their career dreams as well as giving an overview of the opportunities that will be available at ASA in 2024.

To book your free ticket for this Thursday 14^th December, 11am – 12pm session visit our website www.asanalytics.com.au

Gaming Quiz results

Gaming Quiz Results

On Monday and Tuesday, diehard gamers descended on C023 to fight for the ASHS Gaming Champion title. 

Year 8 student Lochlan Lettice created the quiz as part of his literacy assessment. 

Lochlan and teacher Catherine Titasey marked the quizzes and the results are in. Yes, they were moderated.

Congratulations to Levi in Year 7 who scored the top title with a whopping 40 correct answers.  Levi won a $25 EB Games voucher.

Second place, Neo from Year 9 won a $15 EB Games voucher and third place, Jett in Year 8 won a $10 tuckshop voucher.

Lochlan said he really enjoyed creating the quiz.

Ms Catherine said she now knows more about COD, Fortnite and Minecraft than she ever imagined she could, despite having three gamer sons!

Caption for Winners pic.  Creator Lochlan (left) holding Levi’s winning voucher, Neo and Jett

Caption for Group Gaming Quiz pic.  Lochlan (far left) with Jeremiah, Jotham, Clay, Jasper, Kienan.

School Savvy pop-up shop

School Savvy pop-up shop is coming to Atherton!

We are currently calling out for donations of school uniforms, school supplies and computers to the communities at these locations.:

Donating Point (Atherton):

- Vinnies Qld shop (Railway Ln, Atherton QLD 4883)

- VPG - Vocational Partnerships Group Office (5 Comet Ave, Atherton QLD 4883)

- Centacare FNQ Atherton office (26 Mabel St, Atherton QLD 4883)

- Silo Central Shopping Centre (Silo Rd, Atherton)

- Better Together Community Support (16 Robert St, Atherton)

The School Savvy Pop-up shop will provide: (Coin donations for each item)

• Pre-loved or new school uniforms
• Pencil cases
• Notebooks
• Other school supplies
• Haircut for students - we are seeking a hairdresser who can donate their time and skills to support local students

BLA 2023 Annual Aspire Awards

Agricultural Futures Awards

These annual awards are offered to students in year 12 who wish to pursue a career in the Agriculture sector. Students had to achieve at ‘A/B’ level across all subjects; prepare a summary of themselves and their interests in agriculture and complete an interview with a panel of five industry representatives.

Runner Up – Cameron Colless

Highly Commended  - Grace Duck-Heard

CQUniversity Digital Technologies Award:

This competition aims to promote the study of Digital Technology subjects in schools; students need to apply their knowledge and develop a short video (2 -4  minutes) using Digital Technology.  

Third Place:  Cameron Colless

Schools Culinary Challenge

Out of a total of 14 students, each student had three hours to cook and present one main dish prepared from the ingredient lists supplied to the schools. The student’s final products were judged based on presentation and taste in a blind-tasting situation.

Runner up in Best Overall Food Presentation:  Ella Finey