3 April 2019

Newsletter Articles

Principal’s Report

Dear Parents,

Wow Coolum: what a start to 2019! With the first break of the year looming and our teachers and students finalising the term’s assessment, now is a great time to reflect on the absolutely magnificent journey Coolum State High School has purposefully undertaken over the past nine weeks. I am very proud of the progress we have made and of the success our students are showing.

We were privileged to have the Honourable Grace Grace, Minister for Education, visit our school earlier in the term (via a flooded North Queensland) and have the opportunity not only to thank the Queensland Government for their injection of funds into our school, but most importantly, to showcase just how amazing Coolum State High School is. To say the Minister was impressed with how the Smart Futures Centre was being implemented in day-to-day teaching and learning, the talent of our students who performed, spoke at and attended the official opening and the general tone of pride, care and respect pervading Coolum High… well, it would be an understatement. In an official statement to the Queensland press, she stated that, “It’s wonderful to see students and teachers already using the centre…” going on to say it was great to talk to staff and students. I was incredibly proud of the conduct of our students and the way in which our entire school displayed just how serious we are about our very bright future! And that kind of future is set to continue with the government committing to an additional $6.3 million for the construction of our new STEM supercentre. This investment in the future of Coolum’s children should be completed mid-2020 and will further position our students for success, featuring science labs, design studios and flexible learning areas.

It’s not just these ‘big ticket’ funding items which signpost Coolum’s journey towards excellence however; the continuous support and efforts of our community are just as, if not more important to the success of our students. This term our P&C were able to secure a $5000 grant from the Bendigo Bank which has resulted in five new bike racks for students. The Coolum Native Nursery have donated tree seedlings to the school (something they do on a regular basis) for campus beautification and environmental improvements. Our local businesses continue to support our thriving apprenticeship and traineeship programs, ensuring that Coolum students are positioned for post school employability not only within our community, but further abroad. Our schooling community continues to strengthen also, with the Meet and Greet Afternoon attended by a large number of parents and teachers, keen to put faces to names and forge the very important educational partnership between school and home.

For our students, this translates into a supportive schooling environment, where bright futures are around the corner and goals are achievable. Throughout the term we’ve had a number of inspiring speakers and visitors, from NRL footballers to entrepreneurs, successful past students, surfing greats and jazz masters, each and every one showing that determination and grit can be turned into success in whatever field you might be passionate about. Even more pleasing, the willingness of our students to give back to their community is fantastic. Whether in their own personal environmental crusades or involvement in planting trees during the International Day of Climate Action, to forging ties with Japanese exchange students, Coolum kids care about their community and the world around them.

Coolum State High School is such a great place to be, and it’s only getting better! I hope all of our families enjoy some restful and relaxing time together over the Easter break ready to return for another fantastic term!

Troy Ascott
Principal

Deputy Principal - Junior Secondary Year 7

This week our Year 7 and 9 students will sit a practice NAPLAN test. This will help prepare the students by reducing any anxiety that they may have and also ensure they are familiar with the test conditions that they will undertake on the 14, 15 and 16 of May. NAPLAN tests sorts skills that are essential for every student to progress through school and life, such as reading, writing, spelling, grammar and numeracy. As educators it provides us with data so that support can be planned to assist each individual student needs.

It is important for you and your child to know that NAPLAN is not a pass/fail test. It simply looks at what level students are achieving in literacy and numeracy against National Standards and compared with student peers throughout Australia.

NAPLAN cannot be studied for and students are not expected to do so. The best way you can help your child prepare for NAPLAN is to let them know that it is just a routine part of their school program, and to urge them to do the best they can on the day.

For the practice test and the actual test in May, students are required to take a 2B pencil and a pen with them. Water bottles are also permitted. A standard desk calculator is required for the first Numeracy test (iPad/mobile phone and graphics calculators are not permitted). No calculators are required for the second Numeracy test. No other books or materials are required.

If you wish to withdraw your child from the tests for issues such as religious beliefs or philosophical concerns please do so by contacting me at school on 5471 5333.

NAPLAN tests skills in literacy and numeracy that are developed over time, through the school curriculum.

2020 NASA / USA Excursion

Currently we have 16 students enrolled for the excursion in September 2020 to NASA and the USA. These students have been selected from the applicants to our current ALPHA class in Year 7. We have been approached by a couple of these families who have a sibling in Year 8 who would also like to attend this excursion. In an effort to ensure family harmony, we have agreed to this request. If you would like your child to be considered for this excursion, please contact me at school via email at aswan26@eq.edu.au.

Anthony Swan
Deputy Principal

Deputy Principal - Junior Secondary Year 8 & 9

Our Vision: That students have the confidence, desire and belief to succeed through strong foundations in literacy and numeracy.

Literacy and Numeracy

I have been very encouraged with the work of our Year 8 and 9 students in the areas of literacy and numeracy this term. As someone who regularly visits English and Maths classes, I have seen firsthand the improved student engagement and disposition in these areas. I would like to recognise the improvements that our students are making under the deliberate practice of their teachers.

As always, I am encouraging all students to believe in their ability and put in their best effort when developing their literacy and numeracy skills. It is very clear that students who have these skills perform better in senior, which in turn opens up more opportunities for them. I firmly believe that all Coolum High students are capable of having a future of choice, not chance, through improved literacy and numeracy skills.

School Resumes Tuesday 23 April

I look forward to seeing everyone back and ready for an exciting Term 2 when school resumes after the Easter break. The first day of Term 2 is Tuesday 23 April. We will be holding our school ANZAC Day ceremony on this day and all students are required to be in the full formal uniform.

Terry Proctor
Deputy Principal Junior Secondary

Deputy Principal – Senior Secondary Year 10

Excellence in everything we do

Senior Schooling and Inclusion

As we near the end of Term 1 and a welcome holiday break, it is important that students finish their term with their best effort. Ensuring students have all of their assessment requirements complete and have sought feedback from teachers will allow students to understand where their areas of strength in learning are and where they need to target energy for improvement in Term 2.

As always, we expect our students to strive towards improving their attendance percentage by coming to school up to and including the last day of Term 1.

We have the school Cross Country scheduled for the last day which is always a fantastic event for the whole school.

Year 10 students are reminded to ensure they have the correct forms completed for their block of work experience. This world of work taster is scheduled for 6 – 10 May. Students need to have organised a placement for this block of work experience as soon as possible. Further information and support in this process can be accessed through VET Head of Department Mr Patrick Walden.

I am so proud of all our students in Year 10 and all the achievements they have made as individuals and as a year level in Term 1. I am looking forward to reading their report cards and celebrating their success with the students.

I wish everyone a safe and happy Easter Holiday break spent with friends and family. Looking forward to a wonderful Term 2!

Emma Clarke
Deputy Principal Senior Secondary Year 10

Deputy Principal - Senior Secondary Year 11 & 12

On the first day of Term 2, Tuesday 23 April, Coolum SHS will conduct our ANZAC Ceremony. The expectation are that students attend school in full formal uniform and move to period 1 classes at the start of the school day. Students will be given further instruction from their period 1 teachers.

It has been pleasing to see all of the senior students undertaking the block exams period with dedication, arriving for exams prepared and doing their best. Teachers have been extremely busy marking and reporting over the last two weeks and reports will be emailed home Friday afternoon.

Those students wishing to make subject changes need to do so within the first two weeks of Term 2 through the Senior Schooling Head of Department. Academic at risk meetings will be organised at the beginning of Term 2 for those students that are at risk of not getting their QCE.

Finally, I wish everyone a safe and enjoyable Easter holiday and look forward to a great Term 2 ahead.

Lee Merrett
Deputy Principal Senior Secondary

Business Services News

NOW is the time to complete your Student Resource Scheme and make payment of the $300 fee. We endeavour to have all SRS fees received as soon as possible so that we can allocate the necessary funding for resources required for your child. The start of the year is very important as it sets our students up for the rest of the year and starting them with all the necessary learning tools and resources is essential to their success.

Don’t forget that there are many payment options available to you such as BPOINT which is a direct debit into the school bank account, call the office to find out how to set this up. It’s very easy to do and takes only a couple of minutes to set up. I encourage all families to take up this option.

Before a student can be considered for participation in an optional school activity, a parent is expected to have:

• fully paid all outstanding fees or
• paid the Student Resource Scheme and other outstanding fees up to and including the term in which the school activity takes place or
• made regular on-going payments towards these fees, as previously arranged with the Principal or Business Manager
• been exempted by the Principal from paying all or part of these fees

This also includes such events as district, state and regional sports events. Mid-Winter Ball, senior jersey, Year 12 Graduation and other extra-curricular activities.

The Statement of Account is emailed every fortnight to assist you with keeping up to date with your child’s account. Please ensure you are making timely payments towards fees and excursions and activities. Your cooperation with on-time payments is very much appreciated.

Nolly Griffiths
Business Manager

P&C News

Events happening in Term 2

New Canteen -

The P&C is excited to announce the ‘Canteen Naming Competition’ as we look forward to a refurbished and modern canteen opening next term. Information about the competition has been posted on Facebook and students have been informed at Homegroup. Andrew our Canteen Manager has the nomination forms and the Voting Box is in the AFL shed (our make shift Canteen). The winner will receive a $50 Canteen voucher and the honour of having named an important facility in the school. Nomination forms can also be emailed to pandcexecutive@coolumshs.eq.edu.au. Don't forget to put your name and contact details on the form. We are sure there will be many creative and meaningful names out there.

Trivia Night

Friday 7 June is an important date for your diary as the Annual Trivia Night is on again. After last year’s success, we are looking forward to an even bigger event in 2019. Our theme this year is ‘THE 80s’!! Dig out those fluros, shoulder pads and fingerless gloves or dress glamourous as a famous 80s icon (the likes of George Michael, WHAM, Princess Diana and David Lee Roth spring to mind), for a night of trivia, games and good fun.

The event will be $5.00 per head, with tables of 6 -8. Throughout the night there will be spot prizes, games and rounds of random trivia. More information will be available next term.

Have a safe and enjoyable holiday break and look forward to many exciting times in Term 2.

Monica Kutt
Vice President

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

At Coolum High, we are committed to every student transitioning into further education, training or employment. Our vocational programs play a huge role in making this achievable and offer a range of pathways that see every student succeeding.

Year 10 TAFE Trade Taster Program Term 2

Congratulations to our Year 10 students who applied and have been successful in gaining a place to participate in a new-format “Trade Taster” program. Students will have the opportunity to see if a trade is the right option for them or test out a potential career path that they’re considering following in the future. Electrical, Engineering, Furniture Making and Plumbing will be featured in the program.

Students who have been successful will receive communication from TAFE relating to next steps to officially enrol and commence the program. Places will be offered on either a Tuesday or Friday at the Nambour campus.

Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways - Year 10 and 11

This year, all students in Year 10 and 11 are undertaking a Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways. This course is designed to provide opportunities for the development of key employability skills. Students are currently engaged in professional resume and cover letter writing to prepare for a Mock Interview with an external industry representative in Week 3 Term 2 (Wednesday 8 May).

If you have relevant industry experience and would like to volunteer to conduct some mock interviews with our Year 10 and 11 students on 8 May, please contact me to register your interest and obtain further information.

Hello World Excursion – Sunshine Coast TAFE Campuses

This Thursday 4 April, our Year 11 students who are not completing an ATAR pathway will visit both Nambour and Mooloolaba TAFE campuses to discover first-hand the range of courses and post-school options available to them as part of our “Hello World” experience days.

Year 10 Work Experience Placement Update

Year 10 students will be participating in a compulsory work experience placement in Term 2 from Monday 13 – Friday 17th May (Week 4). Students are required to approach employers to secure their own placement. It is vital that completed Work Experience Agreements are returned to the school as soon as possible for processing. The holiday period would be an ideal time to approach employers if you haven’t already been able to secure a placement.

Defence Force Work Experience Program

Defence is committed to providing a national work experience program designed to:

• demonstrate the wide variety of interesting careers available within Defence;
• ease the transition of students into the workplace; and
• contribute to the development of the skills of young people.
• Please Note: The Defence Work Experience Program offers unpaid work experience for students residing in Australia.

See the exciting work experience placements that are on offer.

Full details can be found online via the link below

Griffith University Research Project – Year 10, 11 and 12

Griffith University are seeking your views on what influences student decisions about undertaking studies in Vocational Education and Training (VET) when they leave school. Coolum State High School is a partner in this research project.

As such, all Year 10, 11 and 12 students, regardless of their pathway have been invited to participate in a short survey to support this research project in Term 2.

Parent consent is required for participation. All students have been given a form which they are required to return to the school as soon as possible. By participating, students have the chance to win one of four $25 gift cards!

A copy of the form and further information can be downloaded here.

Importantly, the findings from the project should lead to better choices and outcomes for students in their post-school transitions.

School-Based Apprenticeships and Traineeship (SATs) Vacancies

Under a SAT arrangement, a senior school student is released from school time to undertake an apprenticeship or traineeship in their chosen field. For further information, please speak to a staff member at the VET office in DBA.

Full Time Apprenticeship Vacancies

These opportunities are not school based. They would suit those looking to leave school as a priority and transition into the workforce.

By completing a Vocational Pathways Expression of Interest (EOI) form students will be registered to receive further information and support.

Please contact me on pwald9@eq.edu.au or 5471 5321 to discuss matters relating to Vocational Education and Training at Coolum State High School.

Patrick Walden
Head of Department - Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Performing Arts News

Future Island Production Update

Rehearsals for our production have been in full swing since early this term and Ms Puncheon and I have been overwhelmed by the interest and the work ethic from all of our students enrolled. I met with Mr Ascott late last week and asked that our production be extended to run on the 22nd, 23rd and 24th of August (Week 6, Term 3).

In consultation with Ms Puncheon, we have cited the scale (ie. number of students involved) and the ongoing significance of a high quality, polished production for our community as our rationale for a request for extension.

We have been overwhelmed with the talent and commitment of all of the students involved in the production so far. We would like for them to continue to have as positive and as proud an experience for our production as they can.

Our camp on the May weekend from the 3-5 May will continue as planned and more information will go home with students regarding the camp weekend early in Term 2.

Information about the camp will be sent through to students next week and information regarding ticket sales and event details will be advertised to our school community mid-way through next term.

Thank you all again for your support of our Creative Arts program here at Coolum.

We can’t wait to share with you all the students work in August.

Rohan Hardy
Head of Performing Arts

Lote News

Japanese Update

I’m very excited to inform parents that this term has seen the introduction of our first ever senior Japanese class at Coolum State High School. Our Japanese teachers have worked very hard over the last few years to build the interest in Japanese to enable us to offer a senior class. In addition to this, we also have separate Year 9 and 10 classes. Prior to this year we have always had a composite Year 9/10 class. We are extremely pleased to be in this situation and I am particularly grateful to the Japanese teachers who have brought this to fruition.

Planning has begun for a school trip to Japan in September 2020. A similar trip has been run every second year for the last ten years. Students from Year 9 to Year 12 who study Japanese will be invited on the trip in the near future. Having recently visited Japan myself I cannot recommend it highly enough. Students who are interested in attending the trip to Japan should start saving now and further information and updates will be on student notices.

Junior Japanese classes are currently working hard on assessment. Year 7 and 8 both have exams in Week 9 and Year 9 and 10 have been presenting weather forecasts in Japanese. Generally Japanese is split into language and culture and both elements are assessed. It has been wonderful to visit classrooms and see the great work the students have been doing. Exciting times ahead.

Tracy Ford
Head of Junior Secondary

Sports News

Cross Country

Get your running shoes ready as CROSS COUNTRY is on Friday 5 April. A great chance for some inter-house competition and fun for everyone!

Touch Academy (Girls)

The Touch Academy girls’ team enjoyed a coaching session from former Australian Touch Football Coach, Danny Goodwin. Danny has coached many Australian teams in different divisions in over 65 test matches and has been involved in Touch since 1996, coaching juniors and seniors and being instrumental in the development of very successful Australian representatives. This is such a great opportunity for the girl’s team, who will continue to work with Danny throughout the year.

Justin Hodges’ 9s Rugby League Gala Day

Well done to all teams that participated in the Justin Hodges’ 9s Rugby League Gala Day. Congratulations to the Year 8 team who won the final against Mountain Creek SHS. What a fantastic day!

Bus Pass Information 2019

Q: What is a Buslink Bus Pass?

A: The Queensland Government’s School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS) provides assistance to enable eligible school students to attend education facilities. The Buslink Bus pass is distributed if you are eligible for such assistance

Q: Will I need to apply for a new bus pass for 2019?

A: If the below circumstances have changed for you and/or your student then you will need to apply for a new Buslink Bus Pass:

• your child is moving from primary school to secondary school
• you have changed address
• you have changed travel days
• you have enrolled them at a different school

Q: What happens if I currently have a Buslink Bus Pass and my circumstances haven’t changed?

A: Buslink will automatically print off a 2019 Buslink Bus pass for you and you will need to collect it from either your AM Buslink Bus Driver or at published pick up points at your school.

Q: How do I apply for a Buslink school travel pass?

A: Your child may be eligible for free bus travel. To download an application form head to your bus service Sunshine Coast. You can email your completed application to info.sunshinecoast@buslink.com.au or post to 11 Page St, Kunda Park Qld 4556.

If you don’t have access to a printer you’re welcome to ask one of our friendly Buslink drivers or come in to our office for an application.

Q: If my student is ineligible for a full Buslink Bus Pass travel, and only eligible for a Part Buslink Bus Pass, how do I pay the top up fare?

Students with a Buslink part pass (part payment) can purchase single, daily or weekly tickets from the bus driver using cash. If your student is travelling Monday to Friday in both morning and afternoons, it is cheaper to purchase a weekly ticket as you’ll receive a day free travel. Please do not pay your top up with a Go Card or you will be paying the full fare.

Q: If I’m not eligible for a Buslink Bus Pass, can I still travel on a Buslink Bus and how do I pay a fare?

If a student doesn’t qualify for a Buslink pass they will be required to pay the full cash fare or purchase a Go Card to save up to 30% off the full fare.

Q: If I or my child need a reminder of the Code of Conduct where do we find this information?

Buslink Buses are governed by the Code of Conduct. Similar to schools we have an expectation of behaviour that is acceptable on each bus and if that behaviour is breached then students will receive consequences for their behaviour. To view the code please go to: Code of conduct

Dates for your Diary