Ewan Keith - School Captain

Hey everyone, Ewan here, I will be taking the reins for this School Captains report and I am so excited as it’s been such a great term for our school especially with the school Sports Carnival coming up to cap off our Term Two. Before we finish this term on what to me is the sporting highlight of the year, lets look back and congratulate ourselves and our school on the sporting term we have had.

You name it, from soccer to netball, futsal to rugby our school has been going all out this term.

Stanthorpe State High School sent three teams to the Vicki Wilson netball competition in Toowoomba - a junior and senior girls team as well as boys team. Both girls teams performed well against their fierce Toowoomba competitors. I was lucky enough to go along as a member of the boys team, we had a blast but felt the pressure as the reigning champions. Unfortunately, we couldn’t defend our title and lost in our semifinal against Harristown State High School. Still spirits where high and I was proud to see the sportsmanship as the team agreed to play friendly matches in the afternoon against different schools. Thank you to coaching staff Mrs Brunckhorst, Mrs Freeman and Miss Follett. 

I would like to give a special shout out to all students who have been selected for Darling Downs teams this year. As a team member myself I understand what it takes for these students and their parents, where there is almost as many hours of driving as there is hours of practice, it is a huge endevour but it can provide great rewards. It truly is an honour for these students to wear the red and blue and represent our region!

The P&C encourages all parents/carers to join our P&C.

Key membership information 

Being a P&C member does not mean that you must attend all meetings. We understand families have busy schedules and sometimes it is physically impossible to commit to attending. We just ask for you to volunteer when and where you can. To keep you informed, draft minutes are circulated within a week of each meeting.

If you are a staff member of the school with a child attending the school. Your P&C membership is as a parent.

You do not need to attend a meeting to become a member of the P&C. Simply complete the membership form and either return it to the office or email a copy to sshspcsecretary@gmail.com

Remember, the P&C is made up of parents/carers.....just like you! The primary goal of the P&C is to enhance the educational opportunities for the students at our school. But along with that, it is also a great platform to –

• Enhance your skill set.
• Become more informed on important school matters and policies and provide parent input.
• Give back to our wonderful school community.

If you have any questions regarding how to become involved with our P&C, or for a membership form please don't hesitate to contact us at sshspcsecretary@gmail.com

Our next meeting is Wednesday July 30 at 6pm in the Stanthorpe State High School Library.

Cameron Gow

President

Ms Lydia Barker - Head of Department

Health and Physical Education 

Bill Turner Football (Soccer)

Earlier in the term, Stanthorpe State High School hosted the Southern Downs Gala Day. The boys team went through undefeated (3 wins & 1 draw) to finish on top of the ladder. After Assumption forfeited and their modified game didn't count, the girls just had to beat St Josephs, which they did convincingly 6-1. In the Cup competition the boys progressed through to play Highlands Christian College and girls played Harristown State High School. Unfortunately, the boys were knocked out of the competition after they were defeated in their game. Congratulations to the girl’s team winning their game against Harristown State High School 1 nil. In the Darling Downs Area final, the girls travelled to Highfields to play Mary McKillop Catholic College. In a very evenly contested game, the girls were able to finish strong to come away winners 2-1. The girls will now play the winner of the Brisbane area. Thank you to the support from parents/carers, local clubs for use of their fields and coaching staff Mr Giammattei and Miss Barker.

Rugby League and Netball Broncos Cup

Rugby League and Netball players travelled to Goondiwindi to play in round 1 of the Broncos Cup Competition. The netball girls came away undefeated in the B and C division. The league boys went down to a very strong Goondiwindi team and a narrow loss to Assumption college in the A division. The 2nd round and final series was played in Warwick. The B grade Netball girls were crowned Champions with a strong win over St Josephs (27-21). Special mention to Amelia Perkins who won "Player of the Final". C grade Netballers were outstanding but went down to Killarney in their final to be awarded runner-up in their division. The Rugby League Boys played well in a competitive A grade competition, with a depleted side. Although the boys didn’t get the wins, they showed great sportsmanship and grit throughout what was a tough day. The student's overall sportsmanship and commitment should be commended and thank you to coaching staff Mrs Stevens, Mrs Freeman, Mr Coutts, Mrs Brunckhorst and Miss Barker. Special thankyou Mrs Tara Hills for coaching our rugby league team and the parents/carers for their support.

Rowing Squad

The South Queensland School-Age Regatta Conference Trophy Regatta took place on Saturday 14 June at Wyaralong Dam, near Boonah. Stanthorpe High students competed in singles and doubles in Division 1 races against very strong opposition from schools from the Gold Coast, Brisbane and the Sunshine Coast. Students attended two lead-up regattas in May and June in preparation for the Trophy Regatta. Although Stanthorpe did not come away with any medals this year, students competed strongly to the best of their ability. Well done to rowing squad members Lawrence Carmichael, Oliver Kuskie, AJ Neucom, Meradith Alldridge, Ava Mayne and Victoria Morison. Thank you to rowing coach/manager Mrs Dearden, and the ongoing support of parents/carers and the Storm King Boat Club.

FQ Darling Downs Schools Futsal Championship

Students travelled to Toowoomba to complete in the school futsal Championship for the Darling Downs region. The Open Boys division narrowly missed the semi-finals after a goal difference count back. The Open Girls division went down by 1 goal in their semi-final against St Ursula's. Thank you to coaching staff Mrs McCarthy and Miss Barker.

Mrs Tanya Hamilton & Ms Stevens

As we reach the end of Term 2, it has been a busy semester for students transitioning, it’s important to reflect on achievements and choices. Students are still developing the independence to manage social situations, identify conflict and utilise strategies of communication. Friendships have been forged and students are consistently demonstrating REP throughout the school within classrooms and in the playground. The Year 7 cohort are beginning to demonstrate resilience, and engage in wellbeing topics in a respectful and positive manner. The cohort has had fantastic achievements in Winter sports and Arts this term and so it will be great to watch student compete in the Athletics Days carnival and House spirit which will be held Week 10.

Next Term in Week 1 the Year 7s will have a Focus Day, this day is specially planned for Year 7s.  Students will have sessions built into the day along with activities.  This is a great way to start the school term, build a positive and inclusive Year 7 culture, re-establish expectations, building on student personal and academic skills and have students engaged and ready to go for Semester 2, 2025.

Following sessions:

1. Healthy Body image for boys and girls, the physical and social changes that occur as students grow and how teenagers maintain a healthy lifestyle.  
2. Building Self Confidence, how students can maintain self-confidence and build self-esteem and manage social and emotional behaviours.
3. Resilience and the strategies young teens can build to manage current and future challenges.
4. Making Safe and Responsible decisions and Online safety
5. Academic goal setting and students identifying their own learning style and how to achieve an academic goal in Semester 2.

And lastly, enjoy the winter break! I encourage students to switch off those devices and explore your community, I am excited to see what Semester 2 has instore!

If you have any concerns or questions regarding your child’s wellbeing, please don’t hesitate to contact myself or Stephanie Stevens. 

Tanya Hamilton Email: thami105@eq.edu.au

Stephanie Stevens Email: sstev255@eq.edu.au

Ph: 4681 5888

End of Term

The Year 8s have been working hard during a busy last couple of weeks with assessment and extracurricular commitments.  They have handled this challenge well, with uniform and behaviour both being at a good standard.

Thank you Parents and Guardians for supporting your student through the last couple of weeks.

The reward is, of course, the annual 2-day Athletics Carnival on Thursday and Friday of the last week.  Parents and families are very welcome.

Students are encouraged to come dressed in house colours, ready for activities and events. No school materials will be required.

Uniforms coming into winter

I have been encouraging Year 8 to collect their lost property, (mostly school hoodies) for the last few weeks, as we will return to Term 3 with cooler weather.

Students have also been reminded they will need a note/phone call from a parent/guardian, if they are unable to wear a school jumper at school for a day or 2.  Be aware that being out of uniform, without a note, will result in a HOD detention the next day.

If your student has outgrown or worn out their uniform, the Uniform shop is open Mon 8am-12pm and Thursday 8am-12pm.  Staff can even ‘name’ the items you buy, reducing the chances of lost belongings.

For parents without the Flexischools app: a price list is on school website SSHS Uniform Shop, were the order form is second on the right hand menu.  For families needing further assistance, the Yr 8 YLC can provide uniforms.

School photo day and our induction assembly provided the Year 8s with a chance to shine with their uniform, and they rose to the challenge! Thank you for supporting students to wear correct uniform.

Next Term

Week 1 of Term 3 begins on Monday 14 July.  Term 2 Reports will be emailed home early in the Term, with parent Teacher interviews to follow in Week 5, (13 August).

Keep up-to-date with the Stanthorpe State High School Facebook page. Great for the latest news, picture and videos and parenting resources.

Safe and happy holidays,

Leigh Cusack

Mr James Killer

As we approach the final week of Term 2, I want to take a moment to thank you for your ongoing support throughout the year. Term 2 has been a busy term for our Year 9 students with the Emu Gully camp and of course the regular rigor of their classes. The winter holiday period will provide a well-earned break for our Year 9 students. To finish off Term 2, the final 2 school days (26/06/25 – 27/06/25) we will be holding our annual Athletic Carnival. All students are encouraged to attend as these are still compulsory days of school and to wear their house colours.

In the previous newsletter, families were reminded about the importance of having the correct winter uniform as the colder weather sets in. I’m pleased to say that our cohort has done a fantastic job meeting this expectation. It's great to see students consistently arriving at school in full uniform, prepared for the season and representing the school with pride. Thank you to parents and carers for your continued support in helping maintain these standards.

Additionally, I would like to remind everyone to take note of the first-day of our next school term (14/07/25) and ensure students are ready for with the necessary school supplies and uniforms.

Enjoy the holiday break.

If you have any issues or concerns please make contact

Ms Kate Dearden

Term 2 is screeching to a halt and Year 10 is now half over. As the assessment demands increased and the weather chilled some students have lost some of their focus on the REP expectations. Hopefully, a refreshing break will bring students back to a renewed focus and effort for Semester 2.

Thanks to those students who have been proactive about signing up for Work Experience with Ergon and other organisations, and applying for the E-STEM camp and UQ Young Achievers Program. There are even more opportunities which will be advised in Term 3: UQ Game Changers is a camp for motivated and keen sports people (more information to follow). There is also the Young Tech Ambassador Program on the horizon. So many opportunities if students just raise their eyes.

A final reminder about SET planning  in Term 3 Week 2, a compulsory process for all Year 10s and an essential step in ensuring students are being catered for in Year 11. It involves career talks, current Year 12s discussing their chosen pathways, subject talks from current teachers, the Careers Market and Speed-date Your Career, and hopefully chats with former students about their current pathway, to prepare students as much as possible for decision-making about their Year 11 subject choices and/or a future beyond school. 

This week the Period Pain and Endometriosis Program was presented, a valuable opportunity to develop an understanding of what is 'normal' with periods and seek assistance, or support others who are affected by this issue. Students should see Ms Flood in Q Block if they missed out or are concered about other students.

To end a hectic term, the Athletics Carnival will take place on Thursday and Friday of Week 10. It will be great to see all Year 10s participating and competing for their Houses in a fun way to end the term. 

As always, if you have any issues or concerns please make contact:

Email: kdear13@eq.edu.au     Ph: 07 4681 5888

Mrs Jo Rogers

Unit 1 – Semester 1

Over the last few weeks, Year 11 students have been working on completing Unit 1 assessment tasks. With Semester 1 reports issued soon, it’s a good time for students and parents to think about this year’s progress, including strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats to school achievement. Such a reflection can enable students to meet the challenges and rewards of a successful Term3.

In a recent form lesson, students were provided with information about the upcoming university open days. These events provide information about further education, training and employment opportunities.

Athletics Carnival

Thursday and Friday of Week 10 is the Athletics Carnival, and all Year 11s are expected to be in attendance. If students are planning to nominate for leadership roles next year, they should be looking to be involved and assist current House leaders.

Year 11 Future Pathways excursion

All students are encouraged to return the permission note for attendance at the Year 11 Future Pathways excursion. As the consent form says: Its aims are for Year 11 students to explore their potential future pathways in a metropolitan setting. In visiting an array of tertiary and industry centres, students will develop a firsthand understanding of future careers that will assist them in making informed choices for further education and training post Year 11/12.

Students will be staying at the QCCC Brookfield campus, and the camp includes all meals and entries.

We look forward to as many students as possible attending the excursion. Students are to return the permission form to the office and then invoicing will occur.

Road Attitudes and Action Planning Presentation

Next week, Year 11s be visited by local Emergency Services crews to emphasise the importance of road safety. The presentation is timely as many students are in the process of getting their Learner’s Permits and Provisional Licences. The Road Attitudes and Action Planning (RAAP) presentation is a free road safety awareness and education program delivered by firefighters in Queensland schools. Ask your student for the information note handed out in the last few weeks.

Border District Eisteddfod Debating

Congratulations to the Year 11 students that competed in Border District Eisteddfod debating competition. Students debated the negative to the topic - that the voting age should be lowered to the age of 16.

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

Attendance

Year 12 have completed Unit 3 and are well on their way to completing their certificate courses. It is important that students maintain their attendance at school in order to support their learning and engagement with their subjects and their teachers, every day matters.

Ski Trip

Students have been provided with their medical forms for the Ski Trip, these are expected to be handed in to the Administration Office by the end of term. The next scheduled payment is due on Monday 23rd June. Please contact the front office if there are any issues with meeting this. Packing lists and other organisational items will be provided to students early in Term 3.

Athletics Carnival

Next week marks another milestone for our Year 12 cohort. Their final track and field carnival at Stanthorpe State High School. It would be wonderful to see as many Year 12s proudly wearing their house colourts, participating in the events and cheering from the hill. Looking forward to what will be a wonderful two day event. 

If you have any queries please don't hesitate to get in contact via email

Email: mwear8@eq.edu.au Ph: 4681 5888  

Mrs Jenny McCarthy - Behaviour Support Teacher (Learning and Engagement)

2025 Student Council

PRIDE Month: June has seen many opportunities for students to be involved in activities to support Pride Month.  Weekly activities students have been involved in to support our LGBTQIA+ community have included: Week 7 Chalk art/face painting in the quad, Week 8/9 PRIDE FLAG Scavenger Hunt and teachers wearing a Rainbow Mullet.  Next week we finish off pride month with Just Dance and calming activities in the Wellbeing – Groove and Chill space.

Men’s Mental Health Week: This week students have had the opportunity to vote a teacher to wear a Mullet for the Day, raising money for Men’s Mental Health.  Each vote has cost 50 cents and all money raised will be donated to Men’s Line Australia. A huge thanks to AJ and Nic for leading the event and all the Student Council volunteers that ran the voting stand each break for a week.  

Men's Mental Health Week BBQ: Stanthorpe Men’s Shed volunteers were also here to support Men’s Mental Health Week, cooking up a free sausage sizzle for students on Wednesday.  Thanks again to all the volunteers that came to support the event.

Positive Behaviour Records: Once REP cards are used in the canteen or on REP swap days, all cards are being recording into students OneSchool records.  These are both acknowledged in class and in OneSchool records.

REP Card Banking: Students are also encouraged to bank their completed cards at the Library, where they are able to save up to $50.00 (25 double sided REP Cards) off their end of year excursions for Year 7-10, Senior Jackets for Year 11 & Graduation tickets for Year 12.

REP CARD SWAP – Pizza Party: Students who have demonstrated expected behaviours swapped their completed REP cards for pizza in Week 7. Well done to all who are working hard at school!

REP Behaviour Focus: The last two weeks of school will see the following behaviour focusses reviewed each day.  These are both significant with the school educating students about PRIDE month, Men’s Mental Health Week and the holidays coming up.

Week 9: Engaged: Ask for help when needed.

Week 10: Engaged: Act in a safe manner.  

email:  jmcca398@eq.edu.au Phone: 4681 5888

Stanthorpe State High School Crowns Its First eSports Champions!

This week marked the exciting conclusion of the inaugural Stanthorpe State High School eSports Tournament - a thrilling new addition to our co-curricular calendar. Held over Weeks 7 and 8, the competition saw students go head-to-head in two adrenaline-pumping challenges: a high-speed Minecraft obstacle course and Mario Kart time trials that pushed reflexes and racing lines to the limit.

After a fierce qualifying round, the top 8 racers battled it out in a high-stakes Mario Kart final. In a nail-biting finish, Connor crossed the line first, earning the title of our first eSports Grand Champion, with Channing Smith-Holmes and Kai-Ray McCall rounding out the podium in 2nd and 3rd place.

Over in the blocky world of Minecraft, Jarrah blazed through the obstacle course with the fastest time of the tournament, showing precision and speed that wowed the crowd. Coming at a close second and third were Oliver (second) and Christopher (third). The rest of the competitors weren’t far behind, making it one of the most closely contested events we've seen.

A huge congratulations to all who participated—your energy, teamwork, and sportsmanship made this tournament one to remember. We can't wait to see what the next term brings!