2 December 2016

Newsletter Articles

Message from the Principal

The Director General of Education has advised us that Shailer Park High will become an Independent Public School (IPS) in 2017. This has been made possible through the hard work, determination and energy of a whole school community. This is a significant achievement for our school. It allows us the ability to make autonomous local decisions that best meet the needs of our students. As a school community, I think we can be immensely proud that the Department of Education and Training has entrusted us with this responsibility and recognised the significant progress the school has made.

Becoming an Independent Public School is also humbling as we face greater responsibility to ensure our continued success. In the new year, more information will become available regarding what becoming an IPS means for us. I am looking forward to partnering with all members of our community to ensure the long-term, sustained success of Shailer Park High and to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students.

I would also like to congratulate Kimberly Park State School, one of our partnering cluster schools, who also achieved IPS status. Congratulates to Mr James Forrest and the team! We are looking forward to growing our strong partnership even further.

We have also just received news that 100% of our graduating senior class of 2016 will receive their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) or their QCIA which is the equivalent for special needs students. This represents two straight years that Shailer Park High students have achieved this wonderful outcome. To reach this point involves countless hours of tracking student performance, conversations with students and parents, targeted intervention and the dedication of a wide range of school staff. I would like to congratulate our seniors of 2016 for achieving this feat and thank Kylie Woodgate (Deputy Principal) and Anita Winkeler (Head of Department – Senior Studies) for their tireless work with our students.

Followers of Shailer Park High’s Face Book page will have seen that our past student, Sef Fa’agase, was recently called into the Wallabies side during their spring tour of Europe. Sef spoke wonderfully at our recent Sports Awards and inspired our students with his message about what can be achieved by setting goals and working hard. Sef also spoke to students at a recent school assembly, not long before his call up to the Wallabies. We are exceptionally proud of Sef and will watch his career develop over the coming years.

I was inspired recently when I had the good fortune to attend the opening of Griffith University’s Civil Engineering program along with Mr Pirie, Ms Winkeler and four of our wonderfully talented science students.

Our young women in science, Beth Huggins, Rowan Duke, Caitlyn Bell and Jessica Nizeti-Panebianco rubbed shoulders with the university’s most inspiring and powerful leaders.

These included the Head of Science, who has a machine that uses laser lights to effect the structure of atoms, and the Head of Engineering, who is involved with making artificial hearts for use in operations. This was an incredibly interesting and inspiring occasion and our four budding scientists represented Shailer Park High with great dignity and maturity. NEXUS in action!

As this will be the last newsletter for this year, now is a good time to refocus on our school’s four major priorities:

• Reading
• Writing
• Attendance
• Senior School Outcomes

As a school, we have seen solid improvement in attendance this year and attendance is now over 90%, however there is still room to improve to reach a goal of an attendance rate greater than 95%. As the link between attendance and school achievement is well established, this is a goal we need to keep striving for always.

On Monday and Tuesday of this week, we welcomed our incoming Year 7s for their transition days. These students were a wonderful mix of enthusiasm coupled with just a few nerves. The students were fantastic, demonstrating good manners and behaviour and were excited about the opportunities that high school offers. We are very much looking forward to having these students become part of our school next year.

As we cast a vision forward to next year, there is a lot about which we can be excited. The NEXUS Academy has already opened doors to the exciting possibilities of Griffith University. The phenomenal growth in our clubs and societies offers endless possibilities for students. Our student leaders have already been well accepted by all of our students and promise to bring fresh ideas and enthusiasm. Instrumental music will go from strength-to-strength with significantly increased numbers. Our sports academies are strong and will only grow stronger. I am very much looking forward to the year ahead!

We wish all our families a safe holiday and will see you again in 2017!

Senior Schooling

Career Information

Our website has career information and opportunities for students. This information is useful for school leavers and students aspiring for traineeship opportunities alike.

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Release of QCE results, SEPs, OPs and FPs – Year 12

From 9 am on Saturday 17 December, all results contributing to the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE), OPs and FPs will be available in student learning accounts on the Student Connect website:

From Monday 19 December, students will begin receiving their Senior Education Profiles in the mail. Depending on students’ individual circumstances, their profile will comprise one or more of the following documents:

• QCE
• Tertiary Entrance Statement
• Senior Statement
• Queensland Certificate of Individual Achievement.

QCS –– Year 11

We will be starting 2017, Term 1, with clear goals and focus. Students wishing to sit the QCS exam will be expected to attend school on Friday mornings at 8.30 am, and also Tuesday afternoons from 3.00pm – 4.00pm.

Students in Year 11 have been allocated work for the summer break to prepare them for QCS. Any students needing an electronic copy should email awwin0@eq.edu.au for a copy.

Halogen Leadership Conference

This term the 2017 Student Leaders (Junior and Senior) attended the Halogen Leadership Conference: Imagination with Head of Year, Ms Hall.

Students heard from young Australians who have achieved success in their fields: sports, charity, entertainment and leadership. The overall message of the day was to be authentic, to be resilient, and to keep trying no matter how many times they have failed.

Presenters included the CEO of Halogen, X-Games world champion skateboarder, founders of Orange Sky Laundry and the youngest Australian to summit Mt Everest, amongst others.

The Leaders of 2017 were inspired by the day and excited to be coming up with ideas for next year. We congratulate these students on their excellent engagement, participation and behaviour.

Senior Nexus

Griffith University – Civil Engineering Launch

SPSHS students Rowan, Beth, Jesicca and Caitlyn were delighted to attend Griffith University's Civil Engineering Program Launch on 22nd November. The venue, at Griffith University's Southbank Campus - Queensland College of Art - was the perfect location for discussing engineering, innovation, architecture and futures.

These four young women in science are seen here with Professor Debra Henley, Deputy Vice Chancellor (Academic) and PhD Candidate Jennifer-leigh Campbell from the university.

A really unforgettable experience for these students. Women in Science! Go Girls!!

Australian Institute of Physics

Congratulations to four of our graduating students who received a very prestigious award in the pursuit of excellence in Physics this term.

Alex, Jerry, Stefan and Jackson received a grade of Very High Achievement above the fourth band in their studies in Physics.

They are recognised by the Australian Institute of Physics for their hard work and tremendous achievement.

Well done gentlemen!

Health at Griffith

Year 12 Biology students attended Griffith University Logan Campus for an amazing Health Experience with Associate Professor Suzzanne Owen and Dr Quentine Green this term as well.

Students gained insight into the diverse health careers and possibilities at Griffith University and thoroughly enjoyed the opportunity.

They learnt that university is accessible, possible and exciting, with a number of pathway options available to them

A big thanks to Griffith University, Suzie and Q – everyone had an inspiring and exciting day on campus.

The Leaders of 2017 were inspired by the day and excited to be coming up with ideas for next year. We congratulate these students on their excellent engagement, participation and behaviour.

Anita Winkeler
Head of Department
IT/Senior Schooling

Aspirations program with Ernst & Young

2016 marks another successful year’s participation in the Aspirations program with Ernst and Young. I’m not sure what was more impressive, the incredible views from the 51st floor or the kindness and supportiveness shown to our students by the Ernst and Young mentors.

This is what the students had to say:

At Ernst & Young, a group of 20 Yr 10 students were welcomed into the workplace. Our mentors volunteered their time to help us learn valuable skills and assets for the working world. In my time there, my confidence grew as they encouraged us to share our achievements and present our projects. We learnt what to do at a job interview, and the bonds within the groups grew as we completed numerous team building exercises. Thanks to Ernst & Young, I now have a job and am more confident than ever before.

THANKS ERNST & YOUNG!

Kyrah

The first time we went to the program we were given a tour of a few of the offices and got to meet the people who worked there. The last day of the program was a big confidence builder as we did interviews with our mentors. I definitely recommend this program to next year’s Grade 10 students as they will get a lot out of the program.

Emma

We learnt about how to get job ready and that there is more than one way to get into a career pathway. EY used activities to explain how a business worked. My favourite activity was the straw tower challenge. In this activity, we learnt that businesses can be restricted and that they need to find ways around the restrictions.

Nikhil

The Ernst and Young Aspirations program was very enjoyable. If I had to pick my favourite part of the program, I would struggle. The mentors were helpful. They didn't mind telling you about their careers and offer helpful advice that they have learnt from experience. It was also good to learn about my peers and watch their confidence grow. This was good for me because I decided I must be doing the same. The activities at lunch were good fun and taught us how to work in a team. I would recommend the Ernst and Young Aspirations program to younger students.

Josh

Participating in the Ernst and Young program was an unforgettable experience. Being able to work with and learn from such good-natured people was a privilege.

Deina

The Ernst and Young aspirations program was fun and engaging. During the 5 sessions with our mentors, we learned useful skills like building our personal brand, working in a team, writing a resume and interview skills.

Roger

Debra Errez
ABCN Co-ordinator

Creative Industries

These little fellows are currently sitting in the kiln waiting to be fired. The Year 8 Art students worked with Red Raku Clay to produce an array of Dragons; these are several from the group. Once they are transformed into a ceramic material students will be able to polish them up.

This year the Creative Industries took Year 10 students to the ballet rendition of “A Mid Summer’s Dream”. Dance, Drama, Music and Art then worked with the theme. Pictured here are two of the most successful of our paintings. Many students have already taken their work home but we hope that these two images will grace the School Foyer for the start of 2017. We anticipate the return of several other “Fantastic” year 10 paintings in the New Year.

The Angel painting from the year 11 “Prediction” Unit informs us that there is only one sure prediction we can make for our future. Here the very beautiful “Angel of Death” presides over the tombs of those who have met their future. Again we can anticipate viewing the work of the current Year 11 “Reflection” Unit in our Facets Gallery next year.

We wish you a Merry Christmas, a Happy New Year and an excellent start to Term 1 2017.

Health, Physical Education & Sports

Australian Volleyball Schools Cup

What is the AVSC?

AVSC stands for "Australian Volleyball Schools’ Cup". This event is the largest school-based sporting event in the Southern Hemisphere, attracting teams from across Australia, plus international teams. The event is the responsibility of Volleyball Australia and is organised by the Australian Volleyball Schools’ Cup Event Commission.

This event has seen tremendous growth since its inception and in 2015 saw 491 teams from 133 schools across Australia and New Zealand. This unique event has delivered almost all of the national players (beach and indoor) for the last 3 decades and will continue to see the next generation of national, international and potentially Olympic athletes.

The AVSC is the marquee junior participation event in the national events portfolio, bringing together hundreds of secondary school teams annually in December, enjoying an introduction to volleyball, camaraderie and enthusiastic competition amongst the nation's school community for the Australian Volleyball Schools Cup.

2015 Opening Ceremony Grand Stand

Guidance

Well the school year is almost over and we are about to have our well-deserved Christmas break. I wanted to congratulate all of the staff and students at Shailer Park SHS for their efforts this year. Take time to pause and reflect on your achievements and progress made this year and make a plan for some new goals next year.

I hope that the festive break gives you the opportunity to spend:

• time with family and friends
• time getting more physically active
• time to laugh a lot
• time to ‘chill out’

I look forward to working with the Shailer Park SHS community in 2017. Wishing you all a very safe and happy Christmas and best wishes for 2017.

Vocational Education

What’s next for school leavers? Vocational education and training could be the smart next step

Vocational Education and Training (VET) is the right choice for many school leavers. VET qualifications can provide students with a pathway to employment or a stepping stone to university. The Queensland Government subsidises more than 300 qualifications, allowing eligible school leavers to gain a qualification at little or no cost.

All school leavers, from Year 10 to Year 12, can register to receive more information about vocational and training opportunities in 2017.

By texting YES to 0476 850 648, school leavers can start receiving text prompts in 2017. The texts will connect them with information about training opportunities. Young people can choose how much or how little information they receive and they have the option to opt out at any time.

Please encourage your school leaver to register with this service.

The Department of Education and Training (DET) is collecting the young person’s mobile number for the purposes of providing them with regular updates on training opportunities during 2017. The mobile phone number will be accessed by authorised employees or contractors of DET. The young person’s mobile number will not be given to any other person or agency unless they have given us permission or we are authorised or required by law. If you have concerns about how the mobile has been used please contact 1800 210 210 (this is a free call). Opt out details will be provided on every text sent by DET. This information service will automatically end on 1 December 2017.

Standard charges will apply to SMS messages sent to us. SMS sent to the young person will incur no additional cost.

Aviation Australia - Certificate II Aircraft Line Maintenance

Aviation Australia is releasing two intakes in February 2017 into their Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance. The Certificate II can lead into a Certificate IV (under an apprenticeship arrangement) in three different areas:

• Avionics – wiring electrician
• Mechanical – working on the engines of planes and helicopters
• Mechanical Structures – panel beating, spray painting and Decal application on planes and helicopters.

Non OP Students who are entering into Year 11 in 2017 are welcome to apply. Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance.

This will be open to Year 11 students only, for completion in 2018.

Students will gain:

• 4 QCE Points
• Certificate II in Aircraft Line Maintenance

Where and Transport:

• Aviation Australia, 15 Boronia Road, Brisbane International Airport
• Buses run to the door.
• Parking available within 2 minutes walking distance to the premises.

When:

• One day a week.
• Two week blocks during the year. (this will take place on a school holiday semester, so as not to interfere with exams)

Duration:

• 2 Years (Year 11 & Year 12).
• To be Eligible students will:
• be in Year 11 at the commencement of 2017
• not have completed or be currently enrolled into any other VETis course
• be non OP eligible; and
• have 1 or less behaviour referrals, over 90% attendance, past and current school fees paid (or a payment plan in place) and passing core subjects.

To apply send through the following information to Ms Annette Lee the ILO at school alee296@eq.edu.au.

• Copy of School identification (Student ID card)
• Confirmation of Date of Birth (Birth Certificate / Driver’s Licence / Passport)
• Australia/NZ Passport / Medicare Card / Citizenship or Residency papers / Birth Certificate
• QLD Residency (current Driver’s Licence / Current HCC )
• details on any other Certificate Courses previously attempted
• Year 10 report card must be included in the application.

TAFE AT SCHOOL PROGRAMS

Applications for TAFE are still open with some courses filling up.

Students interested in undertaking a Certificate course next year can access the course information from the Guide below and make an appointment with Ms Annette Lee (ILO). (Conditions apply around VETis Funding, attendance, behaviour and school fees).

Hard copies of the 2017 TAFE at Schools Course Guide can be obtained from Ms Annette Lee (ILO).

(Conditions apply to enter into any school based Certificate Courses, Work Experience or Apprenticeships / Traineeships).

Further information on any of the above programs can be obtained from Ms Annette Lee (ILO) on 3451 2777 or alee296@eq.edu.au.

Notices

Finance Window

The Finance Window has closed and will reopen Monday 16 January 2017.

From Monday 16 January 2017, Finance will be open everyday from 8.00a.m. to 2.15p.m. for payments.

Payments can be made by cash, cheque or eftpos.