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Mr Justin KuskiePrincipal |
Mrs Chandell PoleDeputy PrincipalSenior School |
Mr Daniel WardDeputy PrincipalJunior School |
At the end of term 3, we find ourselves looking forward to a two week break to come back refreshed for the next term.
Our year 12 students have recently finished their mock exams, and many hit the slopes on our annual Ski Trip.
Our year 11 students enjoyed their voyage with numerous stops in and around Brisbane and our School hosted the annual spaghetti Bridge competition, bringing students from year six students from our cluster schools to enjoy a day of bridge building along with other transition activities and delicious spaghetti.
Year 11 & 12 students have already had reports sent home with the remainder of the school reports being sent home at the end of the first week of Term 4.
Congratulations to Peta Gow on being successful in obtaining our permanent Science Officer position. Well done. And good luck to Chris Smith with his Deputy Principal position for Term 4 at Bowen State High School. We wish him all the best.
Thank you, parents and carers, for all your support this term and we look forward to seeing what term four has to offer.
Enjoy the break.
Ms Stephanie Stevens & Mrs Tanya Hamilton
As Term 3 draws to an end, I just want to take the opportunity to thank students for their hard work inside and outside the classroom. Thanks to the students that wear the correct uniform each day, exemplify REP each day in our school and uphold the values at Stanthorpe State High School. Year 7s have been forging friendships are an important part of our lives. It can be tricky navigating some of these friendships, as we begin to become more independent in who we are, what we believe in and what we value. It’s important to remember that we don’t have to be friends with everyone, but we must be respectful and kind to all.
Well done to our 12 year old athletes Ella Pavey, Chloe Beckett & Fletcher Perkins who represented the Granite Belt Zone at the Darling Downs Track & Field Championships. Also, great work to all the Year 7 students that participated in the Tenterfield Eisteddfod. So wonderful to see so many Year 7 students representing Stanthorpe State High School.
And lastly, our community has a range of fantastic holiday activities and locations. Over the spring break, I encourage students to switch off devices and have some fun! You’ve definitely earnt it.
Quick reminder that students must bring a hat to school each day. The sun is back out again and students require at hat for outside breaks, school activities, cirrculumn & excursions.
If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s wellbeing, please don’t hesitate to contact a Year 7 YLC.
Tanya Hamilton Email: thami105@eq.edu.au
Stephanie Steven Email: sstev255@eq.edu.au
Ph: 4681 5888
Ms Leigh Cusack
End of Term
As this is the final newsletter for Term 3, congratulations are in order. Often recognised as the toughest term due to illness and absence over winter and the sometimes tougher than expected assessment, Term 3 can be challenging for students and their families.
As we move into Spring and the upcoming Holidays, take a moment to recognise the growth your student has shown in gaining new skills and experience overcoming challenges the year has presented so far. Term 4 can feel like it’s moving quickly!
Full School assemblies
You may be aware that full school assemblies (FSA) are a little more formal than the usual grade assembly! Consequently, students are expected in full school uniform.
There are 4 FSA a term-Tuesdays Week 1, 3, 6 and Wk 9. Next term also has Awards Night in Week 7.
Check your student has the uniform they need for these school events.
We want them looking their best, especially when being recognised for their best work! As always, uniforms are available for those in need.
Eisteddfod
The school was represented by 6 Year 8 students at the Tenterfield Eisteddfod in Week 8. Well done, Ellie, Eryk, Jayleigh, Ruby, Declan and Christopher.
Italian Evening
Italian students and their families are warmly invited to an evening of Italian movie and food, next Thursday night (18-9-25), 4-7pm, at the school. Students have received a permission note for return, so that numbers can be confirmed.
Next Term
School returns on Tuesday 7 Oct, with a Full School Assembly. Please be prepared with Formal uniform.
As always, if you have any issues or concerns please make contact:
Email: lcusa9@eq.edu.au Ph: 07 4681 5888
Mr James Killer
Form Focus
Students are currently finalising their Senior Education and Training (SET) Planning booklets during form time, following a term-long focus on career exploration and educational pathways. This process has provided valuable insights into a wide range of careers and the steps required to achieve them.
Junior SET Planning Day
The entire Year 9 cohort will participate in a comprehensive SET Planning Day on the first day back next term (7 October 2025). The program will consist of four structured sessions. Initially, students will explore the range of subjects available and gain a detailed understanding of course content and expectations. In the second session, they will hear directly from industry professionals, who will share their career journeys and pathways. The third session will focus on collaborative team-building and problem-solving activities. Finally, students will take part in an individualised subject selection session, drawing on their previous academic results and completed SET Planning booklets to inform their decisions.
We wish all students and families a safe and enjoyable holiday break.
If you have any issues or concerns please make contact.
Email: jmkil5@eq.edu.au Ph: 4681 5888
Ms Kate Dearden
Where did Term 3 go? It seems like only yesterday that students were attending SET Planning and now Year 10 only has one term to go. Term 3 is always a tiring time, being past half-way but not yet at the end. As always, a few cracks have started to show but in all, Year 10s have managed their workload and behaviour really well. Students need to stay focused right to the end and ensure they are following instructions and behaving respectfully in all situations.
STUDENT COUNCIL NOMINATIONS
It's time for students to step out of their comfort zone and sign up for Student Council for 2026. Congratulations to those students who participted in 2025 and I hope you step up again for next year. This is a fantastic opportunity to develop planning skills, generate ideas and build teamwork to make the school a better place for everyone.
LOVE BITES INCURSION
All Year 10s will be participating in the Love Bites Incursion in Week 2 next term. This is a vital experience which aims to equip young people with the knowledge, critical thinking skills, and problem-solving abilities to make informed choices and foster relationships free from violence and abuse.
END OF YEAR EXCURSION
Year 10s will again have the opportunity to end the year with a theme park excursion. They will need to meet eligibility criteria so must ensure that they maintain high behaviour and attendance standards during Term 4. In addition, they need to focus on collecting REP points to receive a discount on their excursion price.
As always, if you have any issues or concerns please make contact:
Email: kdear13@eq.edu.au Ph: 07 4681 5888
Mrs Jo Rogers
It has been pleasing to see so many Year 11 students positively participating in school life this term. Most students have high attendance rates and attend class on time, ready and willing to learn. Students have worked diligently to submit quality assessment items, while also participating in the many on-campus activities and community events. Congratulations to all that have made the most of Term 3!
2026 Student Leaders
The 2026 school captain and house captain leaders for Stanthorpe State High School are in the process of being selected. The Year 11 leader candidates have stepped up and are willing to represent our school and values both here on campus and in the community. Other Year 11 students are currently in the process of applying for other leadership positions on offer as a Prefect or for the Student Council.
I commend all students that applied to be school leaders and the positively and flexibility that all are showing in completing the selection requirements. I look forward to seeing all applicants shine in some way as leaders of our school.
RYDA
Recently, Year 11 and 12 students undertook the RYDA Road Safety Awareness Program. Over the day students participate in sessions about road choices, attitudes about being safe drivers, how emotions affect choices on the roads, strategies to keep us safe as passengers and drivers and about how our actions on the roads can affect everyone. Students became crash investigators to help understand the cause of crashes and the safety features in vehicles.
Our students were praised by the facilitators for their behaviour, attitudes and participation in the program.




Year 11 Future Pathways excursion
In Week 10 of this term, Year 11 students headed off to Brisbane for the three-day excursion. Look out for more news about how the excursion progressed in future newsletters.
Please get in touch via email or the school office with any queries or concerns.
Email: jroge3@eq.edu.au Ph: 4681 5888
Miss Meghann Wear
The end of Term 3 is here - despite the urge to wind down its important that students maintain their consistency, attendance and work to ensure they remain on track to finish up next term. It is an exciting time for Year 12!
Ski Trip
The Ski Trip group left last Saturday morning bright and early at 4am. I wish each of them a fun and safe week on the slopes, one of the best years for snow down at Perisher that we have seen in a while. They will enjoy their lessons at Smiggins Holes and I am sure will enjoy the challenge that skiing and snowboarding brings.
University Entry and QTAC
Those students who are planning on applying for University in 2026 are reminded to get their QTAC applications prepared and submitted. It is also important that those looking to gain early entry to courses have completed their applications and requested all necessary evidence to support them. If students require assistance in any of this they are welcome to come and see me.
Graduation
Preparations for this years graduation celebrations are well underway. As part of our presentations we use students Year 7 photos. If your student did not attend Stanthorpe State High School in Year 7 and are willing to share could you please email me a copy at mwear8@eq.edu.au. These photos will only be used for graduation event purposes.
If you have any queries please don't hesitate to get in contact via email or phone.
Email: mwear8@eq.edu.au Ph: 4681 5888
Mr Lucian Giles - Duffy
Head of Department - English and Languages
Term 3 is coming to a rapid end and students across English and Languages classes have been busy learning and working through assessment tasks.
Year 12 English students have been getting excited about William Shakespeare’s Othello and will sit a mock exam in preparation for their external exam.
Recently we had the privilege of a Shake & Stir Theatre Co incursion. Year 12 English students enjoyed a performance of Othello followed by an engaging masterclass facilitated by the performers. The Year 10 English classes, who are studying Romeo and Juliet, enjoyed the modern adaption of the timeless tragedy.
Year 11 English classes are studying a re-imagined version of The Drover’s Wife. They have been working to expand on the characterisation and concepts in the play.






Junior languages classes are gearing up for incursions and excursions, for which letters have gone home. The Italian incursion is scheduled at school on Thursday 18 September from 3:30pm. The Japanese excursion to Toowoomba is scheduled for Friday 10 October.
Ms Lydia Barker - Head of Department
Health and Physical Education
Bill Turner Soccer
The girls’ soccer team travelled to Brisbane early in term 3 to play Kelvin Grove State College in the Area 3 Final. Although the girls were defeated, they played well against a very strong team. Kelvin Grove went on to win the QLD title and will now play the winner of each state. Well done girls on achieving such a fantastic result in this National Competition.
SSI Red Lions Soccer
The SSI soccer teams travelled to Toowoomba to play in the SSI Red Lions Gala Day. The boys finished 2nd in their pool and in a cross over system had to play St Joseph’s Toowoomba in the semi-final for the plate competitions. In a nail-biting game, the boys unfortunately lost in a penalty goal shoot-out. The girls finished 2nd in the Cup pool and had to play St Ursula’s in their semi-final. The girls won this game in extra time drops off with only 7 players remaining on the field. This seen them progress through to the grand-final against Harristown SHS. Unfortunately, the girls didn't back up their winning performance from last year but still played some very competitive soccer. Well done all players.
Interschool Basketball
Our Junior and Senior (boys and girls) basketball teams recently competed in the Interschool Basketball competition against Warwick State High School, Assumption College, Scots College and Stanthorpe St Joesphs. Although our teams didn't get the win overall, they showed improvement, great sportsmanship and teamwork over the two rounds played. Great work students.




















Border Districts and Granite Belt Track and Field
We had 31 students compete at the Border District Track and Field Carnival in Warwick. Overall, the school finished 3rd with numerous students placing and achieving qualifying distances and times. In our 12 year old age division, 8 students competed at the Granite Belt Zone Track & Field Championship held at Stanthorpe State School. Well done to all students and special congratulations to the following Age Champions and Runner-ups.
Also, special mention to the Year 10 Volunteering classes that assisted with the running of events over several days with the Primary school athletics carnivals. Well done to all students.





















Darling Downs Track and Field Carnival
Well done to our 12-year old athletes Chloe Beckett, Ella Pavey & Fletcher Perkins and 13-18years old athletes Ewan Keith, Jacob Kent, Ethan Kent, Isabella Jackson, Bronson Simpson and Ashley Bell who represented the school at the Darling Downs Track and Field Championships in Toowoomba. The following students placed and qualified for the Darling Downs team.











Representative Sport
Congratulations to the following students who accepted their position in the Darling Downs Sports teams this term.
Melissa Pascoe
Head of Department - Food & Digital Technology
Year 12 Certificate II in Financial Services
Earlier this week students welcomed Dan Cuthbert, Finance Broker at Power Tynan, to speak about relevant and current happenings in the world of Finance.
Students benefitted from discussions ranging from budgeting to loans, credit cards to superannuation to build on their Financial Literacy. Specific examples relative to young people starting out in the real-world of finance enhanced the information presented and tied in beautifully to the content of the Financial Industry qualification that students will shortly be awarded.
Thanks Dan for taking the time to talk with our students.
Mrs Jenny McCarthy - Behaviour Support Teacher (Learning and Engagement)
2025 Student Council
Term 3 Project/ Proposals
- Student Council this term donated $300.00 towards the purchase of a new musical instrument stand. We hope the students in the music department enjoy using it in performances.
- Student Council executive have participated in the tender process for the purchase and installation of Cooling Water bubblers. We are still awaiting quotes and look forward to sharing information as soon as we know.
- Stanthorpe Show Fruit and Veg Display – Students will be invited (early next term) to attend weekly design meetings to participate in planning, making and installing at the 2026 Agriculture Show. We encourage all ages to participate!
Term 3 EVENTS
Bully No Way Day - Correction
Please note an amount of $213.50 was raised to support the RizeUp Foundation (not $145.50 noted in week 6 newsletter) to promote the national week against bullying and violence. Well done again to our prefect Amy-Lee on organising the event.
Ponytail Project / World’s Greatest Shave
In week 7 students; Sarah, Sahara, Kayla, Poppy, Ms Alldridge and Mr Kinnear, ROCK THE CHOP and SHAVE FOR CANCER. An amazing $4120.00 was raised, including donations on the day of $151.90 and both platforms. Thank you to all family and friends that donated and a special congratulation to Sarah and Mr Kinnear for raising over $1000.00 each.
A big thank you also to Amelia for organising the event and Cuts and Curls Hairdressing Salon for providing two hairdressers on the day to support the event.




REP Card Swap – Term 3, Week 9 Monday 8th September – 2nd break
Many students enjoyed swapping a completed double sided REP card on Monday to receive one of Mrs Pascoe's Year 11 Hospitality classes drink assessment including the classic Ice cream Spider. Thank you to all the students involved!








REP Card Banking: Students are also encouraged to bank their completed cards in at the Library, where they are able to save up to $50.00 (25 double sided REP Cards) for their end of year excursions for Year 7-10, Senior Jackets for Year 11 and Graduation tickets for Year 12.
REP Behaviour Focus: Keep up to date with the weekly focus in Schoolzine dailey student notices.
Week 9– ENGAGED: Complete all set task to the best of our ability.
Week 10 – ENGAGED: Ask for help. (Important for finishing school tasks and your safety on the holidays)
T4 Week 1 – REPECTFUL: Follow all classroom expectations
T4 Week 2 - RESPECTFUL & ENGAGED: Follow instructions & use equipment and technology as instructed
email: jmcca398@eq.edu.au Phone: 4681 5888