Mr Justin Kuskie Principal	Mrs Chandell Pole Deputy Principal Senior School	Mr Daniel Ward Deputy Principal Junior School

To open, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to all families and community members who have actively engaged with the school over recent weeks. Whether through supporting your child’s participation in sporting events, attending parent-teacher interviews, joining us for the Senior School Information Evening, completing the annual School Opinion Survey, or contributing in other meaningful ways, your involvement is greatly appreciated. It is always a pleasure to see our students embracing the wide range of opportunities available both in and beyond the classroom.

In the Senior School, Year 10 students are currently undertaking their SET Planning interviews and completing their white subject selection forms. These forms must be signed by a parent or carer and returned to the Administration Office as part of the subject selection process for 2026.

Meanwhile, Year 12 students enrolled in General Subjects are preparing for their upcoming mock exams in Week 8. These assessments are a valuable opportunity to practise for external exams taking place in Term 4. We encourage all students to take this preparation seriously and make the most of the support available to them.

Our Year 11 students have also been demonstrating leadership and initiative, with many applying for student leadership roles in 2026. The selection process is ongoing, and we congratulate all applicants for their enthusiasm and commitment to contributing to the school community.

Recently, our Year 7 team visited local primary schools to speak with current Year 6 students about transitioning to high school. It was also a pleasure to welcome families to our campus for school tours on Wednesday afternoon. Looking ahead, we’re excited to continue our transition activities for the Year 7 cohort of 2026, including events like the Spaghetti Bridge Competition and Transition Day.

As always, thank you for your ongoing support. If you require any further information or assistance, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Ms Stephanie Stevens & Mrs Tanya Hamilton

On Friday 15 August, our Year 7 students proudly took part in Bully. No Way! Day. To show their support, students were encouraged to wear orange or purple—colours that symbolise unity and kindness.

During Morning Tea, the Year 7s came alive with music and positivity. Students took the time to write thoughtful messages and create illustrations, expressing their commitment to building a respectful and inclusive school community.

Throughout form classes this week, students also created a powerful visual display of solidarity and support to prevent bullying. Each student traced their hand and wrote a personal message, creating a collaborative artwork that celebrates respect, empathy, and standing up for others.

At Stanthorpe State High School, we take bullying seriously. Pages 23 to 29 of our Stanthorpe State High School Code of Conduct outline how we address bullying, as well as the steps students can take to report it. We encourage all families to review these pages together so everyone is familiar with the support systems in place.

Students can report bullying to their teachers, Year Level Coordinators, or Heads of Department. At Stanthorpe, we also use Stymie, an online platform where students can confidentially report any incidents they are concerned about. Stymie can be accessed via the school landing page or through the app on student school devices.

Additionally, we are moving into the assessment and reporting period, which can be a stressful time for students. It’s important to take moments to relax, enjoy hobbies, and prioritise wellbeing to help manage stress levels. Remember—support is always available, and it’s okay to ask for help if you need it.

Together, we can continue to make Stanthorpe State High School a safe, supportive, and welcoming place for all.

Tanya Hamilton Email: thami105@eq.edu.au

Stephanie Steven Email: sstev255@eq.edu.au

Ph: 4681 5888

Ms Leigh Cusack 

Assessment

Following last week’s Parent Teacher Evening, take a moment to check how you child has progressed.Term 3 can sometimes see a dip in results as longer/tougher assessment is attempted. Are they on track for where they wanted to be?

Year 8s are encouraged to consider what they would like their report card to look like by the end of the year, and take steps, (find a friend to work with, check in with their teacher, keep up to date with work, etc), at assemblies and form through Term 3. Students are aware the report card reflects their schoolwork, not their value as people, and indicates the steps they have taken to maintain or improve their grade. 

As students move into Year 9, we will encourage them to be aware of and responsible for their academic achievement, to build the independent study skills required in mid-and upper-high school.

If you would like to discuss your student’s progress, please make contact with the school.

Uniform 

The Year 8s continue to do a good job of wearing their uniform proudly each day.  Please remember students out of uniform now need a note, (or parental contact with the school), by the start of the day. Students wearing incorrect uniform and no note, receive an automatic detention.

With warmer weather on its way, Year 8s are aware no hat = no play. The Student Resource Scheme has ample hats in all sizes and house colours at a cost of $16.50. If purchasing a uniform, including hat, has become an issue, please contact me.  Uniforms are always available for those in need.

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.

Stay posted

Many fundraising events are happening over the remainder of the Term. Most involve a gold coin donation to support our chosen charities. Students will also enjoy related activities in the Quad at break times. To keep families abreast of what is occurring, posts are shared on the school Facebook page.

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

Email: lcusa9@eq.edu.au     Ph: 07 4681 5888

Mr James Killer

Bully No Way Day
On Thursday, 15th August, Stanthorpe State High School proudly participated in Bully No Way Day, an event dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of bullying and reinforcing our school’s commitment to fostering a safe and supportive learning environment. A large number of Year 9 students demonstrated their support for this important cause by wearing orange and purple, the recognised campaign colours, and enthusiastically joining in with the lunchtime activities that promoted kindness, respect, and inclusion. Events like this not only strengthen our school community but also provide students with the opportunity to reflect on how their words and actions can contribute to a more positive culture both in and outside of school.

Everyday Counts
As we move through the middle of Term 3, often regarded as one of the more challenging stages of the academic year, it becomes increasingly important for students to maintain strong attendance. Regular attendance is vital in ensuring students remain up to date with their classwork and feel confident in their learning progress. Of course, if a student is unwell and requires time off, we encourage families to support them in catching up on any missed content by contacting teachers directly and seeking guidance on class materials. By prioritising attendance and responsibility, students not only stay engaged with their studies but also develop the self-management skills that will benefit them throughout their future education and employment.

Form Focus
Since our previous newsletter, students have continued their exploration of future pathways as part of the lead-up to our Term 4 subject selection day. Through classroom discussions and guided activities, students have been encouraged to reflect on their personal interests, strengths, and aspirations, and to consider how these align with various career opportunities. By engaging in this process, students are developing greater self-awareness and gaining insight into the broad range of professions available to them. This preparation will help ensure that they make informed and thoughtful choices when selecting subjects for the year ahead, ultimately setting them on a pathway towards success in their senior years of schooling and beyond.

If you have any issues or concerns please make contact.

Email: jmkil5@eq.edu.au Ph: 4681 5888  

Ms Kate Dearden

Week 6 already and the most important term of Year 10 continues to roll along, Subject Selection evening has passed by and now individual interviews are taking place. A team of dedicated Year Level Coordinators, Heads of Department and the Senior School Deputy Principal have been assigned students and are ploughing through their interviews during their spare lessons to support students to make the best possible decision for their future. It has been very rewarding to chat one-on-one with students about their career options, subject choices and areas of interest. As we say to them, there is always more than one way to get where you are going but sometimes the shortest route is the best.

Subject selection forms are due in Monday 1 September:Week 8 (now Week 6).

University of Queensland Young Achievers 2025

On Tuesday at the Full School Assembly two students were acknowledged as the 2025 recipients of the UQ Young Achievers scholarships.

The University of Queensland provides Young Achievers Scholarships to high performing Year 10 students aiming for University study, who meet certain criteria. The scholarship provides financial assistance, camps and mentoring throughout Year 11 and 12, and, after school, four years of scholarship funding for a course studied at UQ plus accommodation support. This year’s winners join those from Year 11 and 12 who are already in the program.

Year 11: Chloe Cox, Sam Park and Dougal Toms

Year 12: Livia Cannavo, Ethan Elliot and Amy-Lee Innes.

The successful recipients from Year 10 2025 are: 

Cael Armstrong.

Bailey Cosmo

Opportunities abound

If students are complaining there's nothing happening at school, right now they could be participating in the Interschool Basketball competition, Creative Journeys Art Showcase, Enrichment Excursion QUT, Ponytail Project/Shave for a Cure, Aspire to Health workshop and the Elevate Study Skills session, Star-Gazing and/or RUOK Day.

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

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

Mrs Jo Rogers

2026 Student Leaders

Congratulations to the Year 11 students who nominated and were endorsed to proceed with their application for School Captain. The process includes creating both written responses to the selection criteria and one-minute videos about themselves. All students and staff will vote and candidates will be interviewed by a selection panel.

Congratulations to the House Captain and Prefect applicants that are also working through the selection process.

Assessment

Senior students need to be self-motivated and adopt effective study routines while committing to approaching school assessment in an increasingly independent way.  Students are reminded to stay active by getting outdoors and doing something physical, to make sure they get enough sleep to give their brain a rest and to eat well and stay hydrated.

Year 11 Future Pathways excursion

It is time for students to return permission forms for the upcoming trip. As shirts must be ordered, the cut off date is this week.

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.

Senior Student Expectations

Students and carers are reminded of the eligibility criteria for Co-Curricular Activities and Privileges. The document was included with the last newsletter.

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

Preparation for External Exams

Those students who study General subjects have completed their internal assessments for the year. Now the focus turns to the external examinations which begin in October (Week 4,Term 4). It is important that these students continue to revise and practice using their knowledge as much as possible to prepare for these important assessments. Students will undertake mock exams in Week 9 to ensure they understand the QCAA processes as well as gaining some valuable feedback from their teachers following their completion. The mock exam timetable was provided to students last week, full attendance is expected during this time.

Form

During form Year 12 have been using this time to gather extra information which may be important when they leave school and move in to the workforce or further study. Students have reset their QCE portals to ensure they are using a personal email as well as set up ATAR and QTAC portals for those applying to university. If your student missed any of this during form they are welcome to come and see me for assistance. Sessions in the coming weeks will cover Services Australia and the School Leavers Kit supported by the Australian Government. This information is on QLearn if students would like to continue using these resources.

Ski Trip

Ski Trip is fast approaching, final preparations are underway for a great week away for those students attending. Please ensure your payments are complete and you are gathering all the items on your packing list. Looks like it will be a great week of skiing! Final information will be communicated in the coming weeks, if there are any concerns please get in touch. 

100 Days Celebration

Last week Year 12 celebrated their 100 days remaining at school. Our students enjoyed a small morning tea and took some group photos to mark the occasion. Thankyou to Prefect Alannah Sweet for organising the event, the Student Council for supporting our morning tea and the ITD department for our new '100' decoration. 

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  

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

Term 3 Project/ Proposals

Student Council is working hard to move forward with the “Installation of Water Cooler” project with tenders occurring. Both Stanthorpe State High School P&C and School Facilities are pitching in to support the project.

Agenda items have also included the Music department advocating support for a new musical instrument stand and council members invited to represent the school at the Vietnam Veterans Memorial service and visit Girraween NP new information centre with local first nations artist, Selena Brown.

Student Council are also seeking design ideas for the upcoming 2026 Fruit and Veg display.  Students are invited to suggest ideas or designs for the theme: Past, Present and Future – Celebrating 150 years of the Stanthorpe Agriculture Show. Here are some images of the last two years display.  It is a great opportunity for students artistic ability to shine and teamwork with students creating the display.

Bully No Way Day 

Thank you to all students who donated a gold coin and participated in last Friday, 15th August with the COLOUR for CAUSE day to support the National Week of Action Against Bullying and Violence. $144.50 was raised for the BULLY ZERO FOUNDATION.  Thank you to Stanthorpe State High School Prefect, Amy-Lee for leading the project and student council volunteers that helped behind the scenes.

Ponytail Project / World’s Greatest Shave 

Stanthorpe State High School is stepping up to make a difference! Students and staff are bravely shaving their heads and cutting their ponytails on THURSDAY 28^th August at MORNING TEA in the QUAD.

Click the links below to donate and support our school’s courageous participants. Together, let’s make a real impact!

https://www.ponytailproject.com.au/fundraisers/StanthorpeStateHighSchool

https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/fundraisers/StanthorpeStateHighSchool1810

RUOK Day:  11^th September – Thursday Week 9 – Both breaks. Student council will be organising music, activities, #RUOK Photos, RUOK spotto, and more.  Keep updated with student notices. 

REP Card Swap – Term 3, Week 9 Monday 8^th September – 2nd break

Acknowledgement is ongoing in the classroom and this term students will be able to swap a double sided REP card for an ICE CREAM SPIDER. 

Mrs Pascoe's Year 11 Hospitality class will be assisting with the REP Card Swap, enabling curriculum to be part of the reinforcement system.  We can't wait to see what they plan and serve out to the students.  

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:

This week and the next two weeks students will discuss the below behaviour focusses. Please check out the daily questions used to discuss focuses in our Student Notices and use the same language at home to support your teenager.

Week 6 – RESPECTFUL & ENGAGED: Allow others to learn & Focus on your own work.

Week 7 – RESPECTFUL: Use school areas and property appropriately   

Week 8 – PREPARED: Bring charged iPad/Laptop and your Required subject   equipment

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