2025 Kingaroy Highlights #6
Principal's Message
Good morning, everyone. David Thomson, the very proud principal of Kingaroy State High School. We're here at the Anzac Day march. We've got such a great turnout of our students representing the school. We've got our school captains leading our march. Also, Tasleigh Gangemi is carrying the flag for the community. Also, we have our band to play as well. We're so proud of our kids and we're so proud to be part of this wonderful community here in Kingaroy.
Senior School
Year 11
Interim reports were released to QParents on Thursday this week. Students who want to make subject changes can do so at the end of Unit 1, which is Week 5 this term. They can organise this change before then, so it is in place for the beginning of Unit 2 in Week 6. However, they must complete all assessment for the Unit they are currently enrolled in.
Students can see Mrs Walker, the Senior Schooling HOD, or myself to make these changes.
Year 11s will have an exam block in Week 5, to finalise Unit 1. The Senior Review team will then review all Year 11 results and will be contacting parents/caregivers about any concerns. Concerns for the school are when students are awarded an 'N' result for non-submission of work and/or receive below Satisfactory results for Effort and Behaviour.
RYDA
The Rotary club sponsor the RYDA program, a driver awareness program, and this will be occurring for all Year 11 students next Tuesday from lessons 1 to 3 inclusive. While the presenters are very mindful of their presentations, if any items do trigger any past events for students, our Guidance Officer will be available, or the student may be able to take a few minutes before reengaging. It is an excellent program and we thank Rotary for their hard work and commitment to the youth and future drivers of the South Burnett.
Year 12
Year 12s have begun their final Unit, Unit 4. Unit 3 reports will be issued in Week 4. While the end of their schooling is in sight, it is really important that students remain focused and continue to do their very best. We stressed a strong start. It is equally important to maintain a strong finish.
Flex Lesson
As part of our Senior School Step Up Strategy, we are committed to working with our Year 12 students to ensure that they are active participants in their senior pathway. In line with this, we are encouraging students to take ownership of their studies, their work and other commitments.
Students who have met our criteria and have been approved will be eligible to Flex off for Period 4 on Tuesday.
This time is designed to provide our Senior students with the opportunity to be flexible with how they manage their additional commitments, such as School-based apprenticeships and traineeships; TAFE days and blocks; academic requirements/ATAR workload; study sessions and catch-up tutorials.
Assessment
I cannot stress enough, the QCAA does not allow family holidays to be a reason for a student not sitting an exam on the day that it is scheduled. Holidays, or events of the students/parents/caregivers own choosing that lead to an absence are not grounds for an AARA. If your family does have an occasion on during school time, please contact the school to discuss.
UPP (Unleashing Person Potential)
On Wednesday 14 May, the UPP team will be running a LEADING FROM THE FRONT workshop at school for all school leaders, from Year 7 to Year 12. This is an excellent program and of great benefit to our school leaders.
Mr Andrew Maddern
A/Deputy Principal, Educational Achievement - Senior Secondary
Wellbeing and Engagement
End of Year Reward Trips
Parents and caregivers of students in Years 7 to 10 were emailed a letter this week, detailing how students will be eligible for this reward. These trips present an opportunity for students who have demonstrated our school values of Respect, Resilience and Responsibility to celebrate their non-academic successes throughout the year with their peers and teachers.
As these trips are intended to celebrate consistent and appropriate standards of attendance, effort and behaviour, a range of criteria related to these three areas apply. Students generally need to meet all criteria to be eligible for an invitation. These criteria are outlined below:
- Attendance rate of 90%
- No more than one suspension throughout the year
- All required assessment submitted by the end of Term 3
- This includes Certificate modules (VET) in Year 10
- School fees should be up to date
- If families are on a payment plan, then that plan will need to be up to date
Year Level Coordinators will be reviewing student progress throughout the year and working with students at risk of not meeting these criteria to ensure as many students as possible have the opportunity to attend.
Queensland Engagement and Wellbeing Survey
In the first 4 weeks of Term 2, students in Years 7, 9, 10 and 12 will be asked to participate in the the Queensland Engagement and Wellbeing (QEW) Survey.
The survey is designed to measure how state school students view their wellbeing and engagement.
Results from this survey will tell us about students’ levels of wellbeing and engagement. This information will allow us to better support our students and meet their needs.
A letter with more information has been emailed to parents of the relevant year levels.
Mr Steve Perrett
Deputy Principal, Wellbeing and Engagement
Community ANZAC Services 2025
Thank you to the over 175 students across all year levels who represented the school (and some who also represented community organisations) at 10 different community commemorations last Friday. It is impressive to see the respect and understanding of what ANZAC Day means to teens in 2025. Across the South Burnett, it was noticeable that Kingaroy SHS was well represented at both the dawn services and the main mid-morning parades. Students who participated will be acknowledged on their year level parade over the coming week, as community involvement helps to strengthen the vibrant community in which we live.
Our gratitude is also extended to the many parents and caregivers who took the time and effort to help their student attend the various services.
Ms Helen Maudsley
Deputy Principal, Educational Achievement - Junior Secondary
Year 8 News
Parents and caregivers of Year 8 students, you can be proud! The overwhelming majority of our Year 8 students have consistently demonstrated resilience, pride, great manners, diligence and the ability to work together in the school setting no matter the scenario this year. We are proud when they set the standard on whole school parade, when they do what they are expected to do around the playground or in class without having to be reminded. So many of our Year 8 students are demonstrating their leadership every day so please talk to your child about what they are doing in this space.
Last week before ANZAC Day, we had a short parade about the significance of the day, and particularly how the ANZAC biscuit links to the day. The ability of our Year 8s to provide responses to questions about this topic and to get themselves involved is truly admirable. At the end of parade, those who could, took an ANZAC biscuit with them, with one challenge being to make some at home for your family. Many did so, and if the sample made by one of our students (see picture) are anything to go by, the ANZAC biscuit making tradition is here to stay. Students have shared stories of their ANZAC biscuit making over the weekend, including whether the biscuit should be chewy or soft. By the way, chewy is the only answer! Some have also shared with us their family chats about war time, particularly those who have had or do have serving family members.
Reminders for Year 8s
- We continue to remind students to use their diary to write homework and assessment dates. Parents and caregivers please check your student’s diary to see how they are travelling. Intentional and consistent use of the diary makes a world of difference in coping with assessment and homework as well as extra-curricular activities but may take some time for the habit to become automatic.
- Chewing gum is NOT to be brought nor chewed at school. Students will continue to be issued with three days of withdrawal room when found to have chewing gum.
- Uniform – now is a great time to check that last year’s School jacket/jumper/track suit pants still fit!
Ms Helen Maudsley
Deputy Principal, Educational Achievement - Junior Secondary
ANZAC Day Commemoration: Honouring Our Heroes and Learning Through Humanities
On Monday during assembly, we gathered to commemorate ANZAC Day. Our school community came together to honour the bravery and sacrifice of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps. This solemn occasion not only pays tribute to those who served, but also provides a profound learning experience for our students, particularly within the Humanities curriculum.
Humanities in Action
This year, our Humanities department played a pivotal role in the ANZAC Day commemoration. Students engaged in various activities that connected their classroom learning to real-world events. Through units on history and social studies, they explored the significance of ANZAC Day, delving into the historical context and the impact of war on society.
Our commemoration event also provided valuable leadership opportunities for students. Tully, Chantel, and Archie exemplified this by taking on key roles in organising and leading the ceremony. Their dedication and hard work ensured that the event was both respectful and educational, making us all proud. Their involvement not only showcased their leadership skills but also inspired their peers to take an active role in community events.
The ANZAC Day commemoration is a testament to the strength and unity of our school community. It highlights the importance of remembering our past while educating the next generation. By integrating Humanities into this event, we demonstrate the power of education in preserving history and fostering a sense of responsibility and respect among our students.
A big thank you to Tully, Chantel, and Archie for their outstanding contributions. Also to the cadets, our RSL Guest Speaker and the Wind Ensemble Band, Trumpet Troupe led by Mr Matt Phillips. Your efforts have made a lasting impact on our school and community.
Lest we forget.
Mrs Jade Cluff
A/HOD Humanities and Business
Cross Country
Our Interhouse Cross Country was a fantastic afternoon filled with energy and enthusiasm as students tackled a new course, weaving through the agricultural paddocks and across the school ovals. The event showcased great house spirit and determination from all participants.
Congratulations to Palmer House for taking out first place with 441 points, closely followed by Lavarack on 431, Youngman in third, and Bradfield rounding out the competition. Well done to all competitors!
Mrs Annette Bales
Sports Coordinator
Clontarf
We wish to remind everyone that our Agriculture paddocks are completely off-limits to the public at all times, including weekends.
Unauthorised access poses significant safety risks to both our cattle and to individuals. For everyone's wellbeing, we respectfully ask that you do not enter these areas under any circumstances.
Thank you for your understanding and for helping us protect our animals and facilities.
From the School Nurse
Cold and flu (Influenza) symptoms can be similar and difficult to tell apart. Both colds and flu are caused by viruses. There are two main types of virus that can cause the flu (A and B) and also many sub-types and strains. Over 200 types of viruses can cause colds.
Flu is more serious than the common cold and severe cases can result in breathing difficulties and pneumonia. Cold and flu can occur throughout the year but is most common in Autumn and Winter.
People with flu can be infectious before their symptoms start, this can vary from 7-10 days prior to showing symptoms.
Anyone can get the flu, but some people are at a higher risk of becoming very unwell and requiring hospitalisation.
To prevent getting cold and flu symptoms, practise good hygiene.
- Avoid others who are sick
- Stay at home when sick
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Practice good handwashing techniques.
Flu vaccine provides some immunity against the flu and can prevent the flu or at the very least people with the flu who have been vaccinated experience only mild symptoms for a few days.
Everyone 6 months and over is recommended to get a free annual flu vaccine to prevent themselves from getting influenza. The 2025 Free Flu Vaccination Program runs from 1 March to 30 September 2025 for QLD residents, regardless of Medicare eligibility.
A flu vaccine is needed every year as the influenza virus strains mutate constantly and each year the vaccine contains the best match for the predicted strain in the upcoming year. Annual vaccination should ideally occur before the onset of each influenza season. Ideally, vaccinating from April provides protection before the peak season. Although it is never too late to vaccinate against the flu.
For a free influenza vaccine, discuss this further with your doctor or pharmacist.
For more information, go to https://www.health.qld.gov.au/clinical-practice/guidelines-procedures/diseases-infection/immunisation/service-providers/2025-free-flu-vaccination-program
Selena Stevens
School Based Youth Health Nurse
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