So far this term, we have had three school weeks and plenty of events and activities that have taken place in this time. In particular, I would like to thank the staff, students and families who participated in ANZAC Day ceremonies at school and in the wider community.  And, I would like to acknowledge and thank our school Captains who represented our school with exceptional pride and respect at Toowoomba’s ANZAC Wreath Laying Ceremony at Mother’s Memorial.

Parent teacher interviews were well attended, and I thank the families, parents and carers who attended this important event amongst their work commitments and busy schedules. Creating an opportunity to discuss your child’s progress and the results on their interim report card is an important part of supporting them to achieve their best and to develop strong relationships between the school and families.

Our attendance goal is 92% attendance in all year levels. This is a challenge with on average between 150 to 190 students away per day. This brings us to an 85.6 % attendance for the year, not tracking well. Please make sure to contact the school when your student is away. Camps and some excursions, along with end of year functions for senior students, rely on 92% to attend. A doctor certificate for illness could be take in consideration by the Principal when just under the goal.

• Attendance: Week 2 Term 2:
• Year 7:   76.41 %
• Year 8:   84.34 %
• Year 9:   89.63 %
• Year 10: 82.85 %
• Year 11: 76.73 %
• Year 12: 74.12 %

Academically Wilsonton SHS is very much on par with other schools, some bigger than us. This success is attributed to working in partnership together.  The student, teacher and parent each have a role to play and a vested interest in the student outcome and futures.

Wilsonton State High School is a multicultural school in the true sense of the word. When many cultures come together in a school, it can be challenging and I ask for understanding and respectful acknowledgement of other students and families. We do this through a sense of belonging to our school culture and wearing of the uniform while concentrating on the curriculum to be delivered for academic outcomes.

 This is a snapshot of some of our countries of origin:

• Australia
• Brazil
• Burundi
• China
• Democratic republic of Congo
• China
• Hong Kong
• India
• Indonesia
• Iraq
• Kiribati
• Nepal
• New Zealand
• Philippines
• Syria
• Uzbekistan
• Vietnam
• Zimbabwe
• South Africa

Enjoy the rest of the articles

Lou Oberholzer

Principal.

Unit 1 Assessment Week

We are nearing the end of Unit 1 for all Year 11 students with work and assessment to be completed by the end of Week 5 (23/5).  Year 11 reports will be issued in the weeks after this.

Students will have a number of assessment tasks due in the lead up to, and during this week, and it is therefore timely to remind students and parents of the expectations around senior assessment completion.

Students whose ability to attend or participate in an exam is adversely affected by illness or an unexpected event may be eligible for consideration to reschedule the exam, without penalty, on grounds of illness and/or misadventure. 

The following principles apply:

• The situation cannot be of the student’s own choosing or that of their parents/carers, such as a family holiday.
• The illness or event is unforeseen and beyond the student’s control.
• The student has informed the school as soon as practical. It is preferable that this occur on, or before, the date(s) of the exam session.
• Provide a medical certificate to justify being absent from an exam.

In the case of all exams, students who have provided the necessary contact and/or documentation will sit the exam at a rescheduled time session without penalty. Students, who have not provided the necessary contact and/or documentation, will be issued a Not Rated (NR) grade and will still be required to complete the exam at the next available opportunity. Please note this will place their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) in jeopardy.

Should you have any questions about the upcoming Exam Block, please make contact with the Deputy Principal for Senior Schooling, Jacinta Alexander on 4639 0444.

Certificate II Sampling & Measurement

As part of the Senior Success Pathway Program, all students have the opportunity to access VETiS (Vocational Education and Training in Schools) Funding.  VET is learning which is directly related to work. Nationally recognised qualifications are developed by industry to give people the knowledge and skills they need to work in a particular job.

Some students are studying subjects that have not spent their VETiS Funding and we are providing them the opportunity to engage and complete the Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement.  More information regarding this certificate can be found here https://ledt.com.au/wp-content/uploads/MSL20118-GC.pdf

Students will be required to complete some pre online work (approximately 2 hours) and 4 days face to face training held at school in Week 7.  Students will also be provided with appropriate Personal Protective Equipment for the duration of this course.

One of the biggest advantages to completing this course is not only the qualification but also banking 4 QCE (Queensland Certificate of Education) points which can become a major advantage as they complete their Senior Studies.

Should you have further questions about the course or the purpose of completing the course, please don’t hesitate in contacting me at the school.

At Risk Interviews

I will be holding a number of interviews with Year 11 & 12 students and their families over the coming weeks.  These interviews are largely held in response to a student’s report card and/or their attendance patterns.

It is a good time to remind parents about the rules around achieving a QCE. The following links are helpful.

https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/certificates-and-qualifications

https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/certificates-and-qualifications/qce/eligibility-requirements

We are all about the right success pathways for students and continually review results, effort and behaviour to ensure a student’s pathway is appropriate.  We will work with you and your child to put some support measures in place to assist them in achieving a QCE.

Strict rules apply around Assessment and Exams. Our School Assessment Policy can be found at

https://wilsontonshs.eq.edu.au/supportandresources/formsanddocuments/documents/policies/2024school-assessment-policy.pdf

Jacinta Alexander
Deputy Principal - Year 10, 11 & 12

Year 9 Camp

The year 9 camp has been cancelled due to lack of interest. In its place, a “Wellbeing Incursion” from the Camp organisers will run at school all day on Friday 16th May for all year 9 students at no cost. Students will have normal breaks and will wear their usual sport uniform on the day. Families who have paid for some or all of camp will be automatically credited to their school account. For further information contact the school office.

School Uniform

With the cooler months upon us it is important that students are maintaining their high standards when it comes to the school uniform. Acceptable winter apparel at Wilsonton SHS include:

• Tack jacket (black, purple and green microfibre with embroidered school logo)
• Track pants (black microfibre with purple WSHS embroidery)
• Woollen pullover (purple with green trims, wool/poly blend v neck with embroidered school logo)
• Polar fleece jacket (black, zip up with embroidered school logo)
• Plain black, knitted scarf
• Plain black stockings or tights can be worn under skirts and culottes (no leggings)

A plain black crew neck jumper, plain black track pants or plain back polar fleece jumper can be worn in lieu of a school branded item. Hooded jumpers are not part of the school uniform.

Students who require assistance with their school uniform are encouraged to chat with their year level coordinators who can help problem solve any issues.

Student Senate

On Friday 2nd May, over 60 student leaders from years 7 to 12 participated in the first round of the school’s annual Student Senate. This is an opportunity for our current and future school leaders to engage in a range of team building and leadership activities as well as spend some time discussing using their voice to discuss our school priorities. The next and final round is scheduled for August.

Y- lead

On Monday 16th May, a number of our year 9 leaders will participate in the Y- Lead program.

The program aims to develop confident, resilient, positive leaders in the middle high school years. Through a series of fun and energetic games, students will identify the specific actions they can take to strengthen their leadership influence at school and in the community, whilst hearing inspiring stories of young people who have led positive change in their world.

Matt Buchanan
Deputy Principal - Year 9

Information for parents and carers

We know that wellbeing and engagement are important parts of your child’s life at school. The department and your school are looking at ways to collect information on these topics so we can support our students in the best way possible.

The Queensland Engagement and Wellbeing (QEW) 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.

Participation in the survey is voluntary. Choosing not to participate will not affect your child’s education in any way.

The information collected through the survey will be kept confidential. No personal information will be shared with anyone outside of the Queensland Department of Education. The Queensland Department of Education will store the data according to strict guidelines. The collection of information is in line with the Educational General Provisions Act (2006) and the Information Privacy Act (2009).

Student’s answers will be de-identified. They will only be reported back to the school as part of their year levels’ results. No one at your child’s school will be able to see their individual responses.

The survey asks about:

• resilience   
• school climate    
• relationships (peers, teachers, home)
• sense of belonging    
• motivation and perseverance    
• academic self-concept    
• personal social capabilities    
• future outlook and aspirations
• general life satisfaction        
• general health

More information, including FAQs, can be found on the Education website: https://qed.qld.gov.au/publications/reports/statistics/schooling/students/queensland-engagement-wellbeing-survey

As we embrace the vibrant energy of May, it's heartening to witness our community's commitment to fostering environments that promote the health and mental wellbeing of our young people. Recent events have not only showcased our region's spirit but have also provided avenues for teenagers to engage, connect, and thrive.

Celebrating the Toowoomba Marathon Weekend

The Toowoomba Wellcamp Airport Marathon, held on May 3–4, was a resounding success, drawing thousands to participate in a weekend filled with enthusiasm and community spirit. The event featured a range of races, including the Grand Central 5km and the unique Runway Mile on Saturday, followed by the Marathon, Half Marathon, and 10km races on Sunday.

Participants of all ages and fitness levels took part, highlighting the inclusive nature of the event. Notably, locals Jamie Lacey and Kathryn Parkinson defended their marathon titles, demonstrating dedication and resilience.

For teenagers inspired by this event and interested in starting their running journey, the Couch to 5K (C25K) program offers a structured and achievable plan to build endurance and confidence over time.

Join the Toowoomba Road Runners for Social Motivation

For teens who already enjoy running but seek the motivation that comes from group activities, the Toowoomba Road Runners (TRR) offer a welcoming and supportive environment. Established in 1979, TRR aims to promote health and fitness, create a positive social atmosphere, and encourage participation in Australia's Garden City.

TRR provides opportunities to exercise year-round and organizes major running events catering to all abilities, whether you're a total beginner or a sub-elite runner. The club offers nine organised runs throughout the week, each catering to different running abilities. Beginners are encouraged to attend Tuesday intervals, Wednesday, or Sunday social runs.

Membership is affordable, at $40 per year for individuals and $55 per family. Prospective members are welcome to try out a couple of runs with the club before committing.

Free Weekly Community Event: Toowoomba Parkrun

For teens and families seeking a regular, inclusive, and free fitness activity, the Toowoomba parkrun is an excellent option. Held every Saturday at 7:00 am in Queens Park, East Toowoomba, this 5km event welcomes participants of all ages and abilities to walk, jog, run, or volunteer.

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Participation is free, but first-time attendees should register online and bring a scannable barcode to receive a timed result. The event fosters a friendly and supportive atmosphere, with many participants gathering afterward at the Park House Café for a post-run coffee and chat.

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Engaging in parkrun can provide teens with a sense of routine, community connection, and the joy of achieving personal fitness goals in a non-competitive environment.

Upcoming: Hampton Festival – A Celebration of Creativity and Community

Looking ahead, the Hampton Festival, scheduled for May 17–18 at Chapman Park, presents a wonderful opportunity for teens to immerse themselves in local culture and creativity.

Saturday, May 17 – Art Immersion: Artscapes & Experiences

• Engage in hands-on art workshops and demonstrations.
• Explore the Hampton Art Exhibition, showcasing regional talents.

Sunday, May 18 – High Country Flavours: Learn & Grow

• Connect with local producers and learn about sustainable practices.
• Enjoy live music, market stalls, and culinary delights.

This festival not only celebrates the arts and local produce but also fosters a sense of community and belonging, essential components for adolescent mental health.

Supporting Teen Wellbeing Through Community Engagement

Participation in community events like the Toowoomba Marathon, Toowoomba Road Runners, Parkrun, and the Hampton Festival offers teenagers:

• Physical Health Benefits: Encouraging active lifestyles through events like fun runs.
• Mental Wellbeing: Providing a sense of achievement and purpose.
• Social Connection: Building relationships and reducing feelings of isolation.
• Skill Development: Enhancing creativity, problem-solving, and teamwork.

As parents and community members, your support in encouraging teens to participate in such events can have a lasting positive impact on their overall wellbeing.

Warm regards,

Rick Masters
Guidance Officer

As the School Based Youth Health Nurse, I work with the school community to promote health and wellbeing, create a supportive, healthy school environment and connect people with other support services. As the weather starts to cool down, we start to hear about influenza, or the flu. The flu is a highly contagious viral infection that infects your upper airways and lungs. It can be present all year round though flu cases usually peak in the winter months.

Symptoms can include:

• A fever
• A sore throat
• A dry cough
• Headaches
• Muscle or joint pain
• Tiredness or exhaustion
• Children are more likely to have nausea, vomiting and diarrhoea.

You can infect other people from 24 hours before you have any symptoms to a week afterwards.

How can you help prevent the flu:

• Staying home if you’re sick.
• Washing your hands often with soap and water or use hand sanitiser.
• Sneezing or coughing into your arm or a tissue and washing your hands after.
• Throw away used tissues and washing your hands after.
• Not sharing anything that may have touched someone else’s mouth or nose, such as cups or lip balm.
• Staying 1.5 metres or 2 big steps away from anyone’s who’s coughing or sneezing.

Most people will get better within a week, but sometimes it can last longer. In some cases, it can cause very serious illness. If your worried about your symptoms and/or have a fever of 38 C or more and isn’t improving, please seek medical advice.

The flu is the most common vaccine preventable disease in Australia. The reason the vaccine is different every year is because the strains change every year. The flu vaccine is free for all Queenslanders aged 6 months and older from March 1^st to September 30^th. You can get the flu vaccine from your GP, pharmacies and other vaccination service providers. For more information you can call 13HEALTH (13 43 25 84) or look up further information at https://www.vaccinate.initiatives.qld.gov.au.

PATHWAYS TO CESSASTION

The Pathways to Cessation program is delivered by health professionals at the Queensland Quitline service and combines information and counselling support with a free 12-week supply of nicotine replacement products such as patches, gum, and lozenges. A reminder here at Wilsonton SHS we are working in partnership with Queensland Health, so members of our school community can access a free quit support program for parents, carers, siblings.

If you’d like to find out ‘what to expect from Quitline’ or request a call visit the QuitHQ website at https://www.quithq.initiatives.qld.gov.au/how-to-quit/get-help-from-quitline. Students can access the program by contacting Quitline directly.

Also don’t forget to be SUNSAFE, wear a hat and put on sunscreen and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Angela Kain
School Based Youth Health Nurse
Working Mon, Tues, Wed & every second Thursday based in the Support Hub

WSHS P&C Executive:

President – Janelle Collins                                                 Secretary – Brenda Steger     

Vice President – Brenda Steger                                        Treasurer – Sonya Trim

Contact for the WSHS P&C Association

Operations Manager – Narelle Maynard   email: nmayn12@eq.edu.au

Notice of AGM & General Meeting

The next P&C General Meeting, will be held on Tuesday 20^th May, 2025 commencing at 5.00pm in the Auditorium Foyer. New members are very welcome!

Uniform Shop

All Uniform Items can be purchased from the School Uniform Shop which is opened each school day 7.30am until 8.45am.  For all enquiries after 8.45am is by request of appointment time ONLY, please contact the Uniform Shop (Ph: 46 390408) to book a time.  Second-Hand uniform items are also available (selected stock only). 

By supporting the P&C Uniform Shop, assists the P&C to make contributions back to the school and supporting Students.  Hannas is also an outlet for the school uniform items.  The Uniform Price list can be found on the school website by clicking on the following link:

Uniform Price List

Canteen Volunteers Needed!

If you can spare a couple of hours a week, fortnight or month, please consider volunteering in our school canteen. The School is growing. The canteen is getting busier. We are looking for and welcome new volunteers – all help is appreciated.  If you would like to “give it a go”, please call in to see Kim at the Canteen or phone 46390408 or email nmayn12@eq.edu.au

Canteen

Pre-ordering of lunches can be made by completing an order request form at the Canteen prior to the school day commencing (ordering available 7.30am up to 8.45am each school day).

The Canteen Menu can be found on the school website by clicking on the following link:

Canteen menu

Both Cash and EFTPOS facilities are available at the Canteen and Uniform Shop.

Flexischools

Online ordering for the Canteen and Uniform shop is possible through Flexischools.

Go to www.flexishools.com.au  to register for Wilsonton State High School!!!

The daily cut-off time for canteen orders is 8.30am.

Canteen items can be ordered for 1st and/or 2nd Break.

Uniform items ordered can be collected by students at the end of 2nd Break the following day.

P&C’s QLD

If you would like any general information about P&C Associations please go to: www.pandcsqld.com.au