Term 2 is well underway and continues to be a vibrant and dynamic time at North Rockhampton State High School. With a number of public holidays and special events on the calendar, it's been a pleasure to witness our students actively engaging in school life and representing our values with pride.

A particular highlight this term was seeing our students involved in both the ANZAC Day Dawn Service and the Rockhampton ANZAC Parade. Their respectful participation and sense of community spirit were commendable.

As we look ahead to the remainder of the term, there are still many exciting activities planned. I encourage all students to take full advantage of these opportunities to connect, participate, and grow.

Upcoming Term 2 Events

Week 6

• Thursday 29 May – Whole School Parade: Celebrating our new partnership with Construction Skills Queensland

Week 7

• Wednesday 4 June – NRSHS Career Expo for Years 10–12
• Friday 6 – Sunday 8 June – Musical Camp

Week 8

• Tuesday 10 & Wednesday 11 June – Year 10 SET Plan Interviews
• Thursday 12 June – Rockhampton Show Holiday
• Friday 13 June – Annual Athletics Carnival

Week 9

• Monday 16 June – White Card Course

Week 10

• Tuesday 24 June – Year 10 CQU Experience Day
• Friday 27 June – Final Day of Term 2

Uniform Policy Update

At our most recent P&C meeting, the school’s uniform policy was reviewed. The P&C has endorsed an amendment to the policy, effective from the beginning of the 2026 school year. From this time, only maroon jumpers and maroon tracksuit pants will be permitted—grey outerwear will no longer be part of the uniform. Families are encouraged to begin planning ahead to ensure students are equipped with the correct winter uniform items by next year.

Health and Wellbeing Reminder

As we transition into the cooler months, it's important to be proactive about student health and wellbeing. A flu vaccination is strongly recommended and can assist in maintaining strong attendance and overall wellbeing during winter. We also encourage families to stay informed and follow current QLD Health guidelines. Every day at school matters and staying healthy is an important step in ensuring students make the most of their learning.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our students and school community. We look forward to a strong finish to Term 2.

Amanda Pearce

Acting Principal

Parents, Carers, and Members of the School Community,

As Term 2 gets underway, we’ve welcomed a small leadership change in the English Department. Mr Upsall has taken on the role of Acting Deputy Principal for Years 11 and 12, and we are pleased to announce that Mrs Clark-Coolee has stepped into the position of Acting Head of Department for English for the remainder of the term. We thank both staff members for their ongoing leadership and support of our students.

We are excited to share that North Rockhampton SHS has registered for the 2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge, which officially begins on Tuesday, 6 May and concludes on Friday, 22 August. Keep an eye on our school’s social media and newsletters for registration updates, with further information to be provided via the daily Student Notices.

We are fortunate to have so many talented writers at our school, and one wonderful opportunity to nurture this talent is the upcoming Stories by the Sea festival in Yeppoon, where students can attend enriching writers’ workshops and explore their creativity.

As the current Acting Head of Department, I’m incredibly proud to lead a team of passionate and dedicated English educators. We believe that English offers students a lens through which they can explore diverse perspectives and experiences—broadening their understanding of the world and helping them develop their voice. At the heart of our work is a shared belief that every student deserves an education that empowers them to pursue their dreams and thrive in life.

For the remainder of this term, I will be working closely with teachers, students, and families to ensure that all English classrooms are calm, purposeful, and focused on learning. Upholding our school values and classroom expectations remains central to supporting every student’s success.

What’s Happening in the Classroom?

Year 8 – Myths and Legends
Year 8 students have begun their journey into the fascinating world of myths and legends. They are currently creating their own mythical stories, and early drafts reveal an abundance of imagination and originality. Our teachers can’t wait to see how these narratives unfold.

Year 9 – Drama and Debate
Year 9 students are exploring the classic courtroom drama Twelve Angry Men. It’s been inspiring to see students embrace their roles as jurors and bring the play to life through engaging class readings. For their final assessment, students are producing podcasts that explore the play’s enduring relevance in today’s society.

Year 10 – Creative Storytelling
In Year 10, students are developing short stories inspired by themes from their core novel study. This week, the focus has been on narrative planning and structure, and we’re already seeing strong, compelling story ideas take shape.

Senior English – Confirmed Success
We are proud to report that assessment samples submitted by Year 12 General English and Literature students for QCAA confirmation were validated with no changes to student results. Six students received results in the 20–25 range—an outstanding outcome that reflects the continued growth in achievement across the senior school. Congratulations to all students and teachers involved in this excellent result.

Essential English
Year 12 Essential English students recently completed their Common Internal Assessment (CIA), and we now eagerly await the results. We are confident they will reflect the students' dedication and hard work.

There is always something exciting happening in our English classrooms. To all our students and families—wishing you a productive and rewarding Term 2. We look forward to connecting with you again in the next edition, after the holidays.

Warm regards,

Erin Clark-Coolee

Acting HOD English

Gudamulli Families, 

It’s good to be back working with the students. For those that don’t know me, my name is Jodie Martin and I am the CEC here at North Rockhampton State High School. I am a proud Karingbal, Goreng Goreng & South Sea Islander women, born and raised on Darumbal country. I have been in this position since 2019, however, I was on leave last year and have missed meeting all the new students and parents.

Our school currently has just over 300 Indigenous students, which makes up about 32% of the whole school. These numbers have increased largely within the last couple of years. For comparison, when I first began in this position in 2019, we had about 150 Indigenous students.

Percentages of Indigenous students, in each year level:

Year 7                    42.43%

Year 8                    37.85%

Year 9                    29.74%

Year 10                 29.16%

Year 11                 26.37%

Year 12                 24.48%

At the moment and for the rest of term, I am only here from 8am-12.30pm. The school is working towards extra staff to assist; however, it is just me for the time being. 

PROGRAMS

ARTIE Academy

The ARTIE Academy assists to Close the Gap in educational outcomes between Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students. It provides opportunity to participate in programs that encourage improvements in school attendance, behaviour, academic achievement, effort and ultimately Year 12 attainment or its equivalent. The ARTIE Academy is an initiative of the Queensland Former Origin Greats (FOGS) and funded by the Australian Government and Queensland Government.

Our CQ ARTIE co-ordinator is Gabby, who is based in our school every Monday, should anyone like to speak directly to her for any of the following.

                Attendance Challenge

Every Indigenous student is eligible to be a part of this program. Students must meet the 90% attendance rate each term to receive the term prize.

                Driver’s License Program

Only 16-year-old students who have had 90% attendance in the SEMESTER before turning 16, will be invited to be a part of this great program. NOT ALL STUDENTS ARE ON THIS PROGRAM, only eligible students. Eligibility includes:

• 90% attendance
• No suspensions
• Good effort and engagement
• Satisfactory in Maths and English

If you are turning 16 in semester 2 (July-Dec) you are on your DLP Semester challenge now! 

If you miss out, or enrol after your semester challenge, don’t worry! Each new semester in grade 10 and 11 is a new opportunity to make yourself eligible. 

WHAT IS INCLUDED IN THE DRIVING LICENSE PROGRAM?

Financial support with the approximate value of $1,500 including

• Prep l sign up fees
• Learners License fees
• 6 x 1-hour free lessons with Rockhampton Driving School (18 hours for your logbook!)
• HPT fees
• Driving test package which includes, pre-test lesson, hire of car for test, test fees
• 3 years of license once driving test has been successful
• Completion pack including Deadly RACQ-ARTIE shirt 

Mentorship and support to complete each step in your Driving journey

• To sit with you to sign up and pay at each new step
• To complete prep L and pass the test
• Check ins regularly over the school term on progress, and to help identify any issues that may arise on your journey
• To support to book lessons, and your driving test package

 CULTURAL CLASSES

This lesson, which we have just started is scheduled in for Wednesdays Period 4. Our senior students are taking the lead and running this. We currently have classes for Didgeridoo, weaving, dance and painting (working on our NAIDOC banner). However, we would love some family involvement, so if you have a skill you would like to share with our students, please let me know.

 QATSIF

QATSIF was created to give Queensland's Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander families increased educational choices and life opportunities. It is an independent, not-for-profit trust managed by The Public Trustee of Queensland and operates through a small Secretariat.

QATSIF provides educational scholarships of $500 per semester ($2000 across Years 11 and 12) to support eligible First Nations students with the educational costs of their senior studies. Each year, QATSIF contacts all Queensland schools (State, Catholic and Independent) to invite applications from their eligible Year 10 students. Our schools play a vital role in: supporting students and families to apply for a QATSIF scholarship; overseeing the administration of the QATSIF scholarship within their community; ensuring that scholarship funds are spent within the guidelines and that their students remain eligible to receive the scholarship; and in maintaining contact with their parents and carers.

The funds used by QATSIF for its programs and activities are drawn from the interest earned on the original capital provided to The Public Trustee to establish the Trust. Built from the labour of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Queenslanders under now-repealed laws, preserving this capital means the toil of previous generations will have a direct benefit to the generations that follow. In this way, QATSIF will always stand as a permanent and positive legacy for the future.

Eligible students in Year 10 & 11 will be contacted by myself or someone from the Senior School team and will be given an application form. To be eligible students must have 85% attendance and a minimum of a C in both English and Math. 

We also have students who attend programs off campus, that are run by community organisations. When these programs become available, I will let students know. Also, please encourage your student to check out the notice board in the Murri Unit, as I put the information for these programs and scholarship opportunities on there. I have attached a photo of a scholarship, that is currently available.

Jodie Martin

CEC

Supporting our Senior Students

The Senior Schooling team continues to work closely with our senior students as they progress through the final stages of their educational journey, striving toward the successful completion of their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) and Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR).

As we enter this important period in the school year, our Year 12 students are increasingly focused on final assessments and examinations. We encourage families to support their children by helping them maintain a healthy balance of sleep, nutrition, and wellbeing.

We are also aware that many of our senior students are balancing part-time or casual employment alongside their studies. We kindly ask families and employers to be mindful of their commitments and to support students in prioritising adequate rest and study time at home.

Together, we can help our students finish the year strong and confidently take their next steps beyond school.

Important Information for Year 12 Students for Term 3:

• Final School Day: Year 12 students will conclude their classes at the end of Term 3, Week 7, with their final day being Thursday, 29 August. This applies to all General, Applied, and VET students.
• Outstanding Work: Students who have not completed their required assessments will be expected to remain at school beyond this date to finalise their work.
• Mock Exams: General subject students will participate in mock examinations during Weeks 8 and 9 to prepare for their upcoming external assessments in Term 4.
• External Exams: Scheduled from 27 October to 18 November. Students will receive their personalised exam schedules via email shortly.

Careers Expo: Inspiring Future Pathways

As part of our commitment to supporting students in exploring and preparing for their future career pathways, we are delighted to announce our annual Careers Expo.

This event will provide students with the opportunity to engage with a diverse range of industry representatives, gaining valuable insights and building connections that may shape their future aspirations. Attendees will include professionals from sectors such as:

• Manufacturing
• Trades
• Central Queensland University (CQU)
• Real Estate
• Childcare
• Fitness and Sports
• Health and Allied Services
• Mining
• Queensland Police Service
• ...and many more.

To ensure a meaningful and productive experience, students will also participate in a range of structured activities designed to enhance engagement and deepen their understanding of potential career options.

We look forward to seeing our students inspired and informed as they take important steps toward their future.

Year 11 Leadership Camp – Building Future Leaders

Preparations are well underway for the upcoming Year 11 Leadership Camp, with Miss Bygrave, our dedicated Year 11 Coordinator, finalising the details for what promises to be a memorable and meaningful experience. The camp will be held at Seaforth Pines Outdoor Education Centre and is designed to foster leadership, teamwork, and personal growth—skills essential for success in the senior years of schooling. 

Key Details:

• Dates: Term 3 – Tuesday 30 July to Thursday 1 August
• Cost: $375 – due by Thursday, 19 June at the finance window
• Consent Forms: Distributed to all Year 11 students 

We strongly encourage all Year 11 students to take part in this enriching opportunity. The camp provides a supportive environment for students to develop confidence, strengthen peer relationships, and prepare for the leadership roles and responsibilities that lie ahead in their final year of schooling.

Key Upcoming Dates

• Athletics Carnival – Friday, 13 June
• Year 11 Leadership Camp – 30 July to 1 August
• Mock Exams (Year 12) – 8 October to 25 October
• External Exams (Year 12) – 27 October to 18 November
• First Nations Senior Celebration – 12 November
• Formal – Wednesday, 19 November
• Graduation Ceremony – Friday, 21 November

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to a successful term ahead for our senior students.

Warm regards,
The Senior Schooling Team
North Rockhampton State High School

Leah Vea Vea

HOD Senior School

Throughout Term 2, our Year 11 and 12 students undertaking General Science subjects—Biology, Chemistry, Physics, and Psychology—have been diligently completing their Internal Assessment 2 (IA2) Student Experiments. This assessment requires students to modify an existing experiment, collect their own data, and conduct analysis to respond to a self-developed research question. This task is highly valued by students for its practical, hands-on learning approach and its relevance to real-world scientific inquiry.

In the Applied Science subject of Aquatic Practices, students have had the opportunity to participate in engaging field excursions. Year 11 students visited Great Keppel Island for a snorkelling-based experience, while Year 12 students explored Cool Waters. Both excursions provided students with valuable, real-world exposure to aquatic ecosystems, reef health, and sustainable fishing practices. Feedback from both students and staff has been overwhelmingly positive, noting the practical nature and educational value of these learning experiences.

Our Year 10 Science students have been working on physics experiments focused on the laws of motion and the conservation of energy. Following their investigations, students have written scientific reports to analyse and communicate their findings. Many have found this form of assessment both engaging and enriching, enjoying the hands-on application of theoretical concepts.

Year 9 students are currently exploring key biological concepts, including the differences between asexual and sexual reproduction across various organisms. They are also learning about the structure and function of the nervous and endocrine systems, and how these systems work together with the immune system to respond to external changes. This unit offers essential insight into human health and medicine. Assessment for this unit includes the development of informative posters or PowerPoint presentations, along with a written examination.

In Year 8, students are studying the principles of flight and associated energy transformations. By investigating the relationship between potential and kinetic energy using paper planes, students are simulating the energy changes involved in real-life aviation. This unit has sparked curiosity and enthusiasm, with many students appreciating the relevance of this topic to human innovation and global connectedness.

The Science Department warmly encourages parents and caregivers to reach out to their child’s Science teacher or the Head of Department should they wish to discuss any aspect of their child’s progress or engagement in Science.

We look forward to continuing to foster a passion for scientific knowledge and skills among our students this semester. Thank you for your ongoing support.

Vicky Nielsen

HOD Science

Spotlight on – 10 ART

Our Year 10 Visual Art program continues to thrive, with strong student interest leading to the addition of a second class this term. The focus for Term 2 is Coil Pottery, where students are developing their practical skills by crafting clay vessels such as vases and pots—with an imaginative twist—featuring elements inspired by animals.

Can you help?

To support these creative endeavours, we are kindly asking families to donate any clean and reusable containers or craft materials you may have at home. The following items are particularly helpful:

• Butter tubs
• Jars
• Plastic trays
• Yoghurt tubs
• Takeaway containers
• Magazines and newspapers

All donations can be dropped off to the Main Office. Your support in supplying these resources helps enhance hands-on learning opportunities for our students—thank you in advance!

Musical

Musical Tickets Are on Sale Now

Excitement is building for the upcoming world premiere of North Rockhampton State High School’s original musical, Rock ‘n’ Heads Roll. Tickets are now available for purchase from the school office.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: $20
• High School Students: $15
• Primary School Students: $10
• Children under five: Free

Rehearsals have intensified, with students now attending lunchtime and Saturday morning sessions (10:00 am–12:30 pm) in preparation for the performance.

We’d also like to remind families that the Musical Camp will be held at Capricorn Caves from 5:00 pm Friday, June 6 to 2:00 pm Sunday. Please ensure students are dropped off and collected at the specified times.

To add to the experience, our Trade Training Centre will be operating during show nights, offering food and refreshments on:

• Thursday, 24 July 2025
• Friday, 25 July 2025
• Saturday, 26 July 2025 (matinee and evening shows)

We look forward to welcoming you to enjoy the mystery, energy, and talent behind Rock ‘n’ Heads Roll. Be sure to secure your tickets early!

With tickets now selling, make sure you secure yours and join the fun and mystery of Rock ‘n’ Heads Roll! 

Spotlight on Film and Media

Throughout Terms 1 and 2, students in Years 8 to 12 enrolled in Film and Media have been engaged in a range of both theoretical and practical learning experiences. These units have focused on developing students' technical and creative skills in video production.

Students have been introduced to the operation of video cameras, camera movement using various stabilisation tools, effective lighting techniques, and sound recording practices. These foundational skills are being applied across a variety of projects, including documentary-style and narrative films, tailored to the requirements of each year level’s assessment.

This term:

• Year 8 students are producing informative films,
• Year 9 students are exploring the world of animation,
• Year 10 students are delving into the stylistic conventions of Film Noir,
• Year 11 students are crafting suspense-based films, and
• Year 12 students have commenced work on their final major film projects.

We commend all Film and Media students for their ongoing creativity, technical growth, and commitment to the filmmaking process. We look forward to sharing and celebrating their work with the wider school community.

Sarah Schuemaker

HOD The Arts

 World No Tobacco Day

World No Tobacco Day, celebrated on May 31st, to raise awareness about the harmful effects of tobacco use and encourage people worldwide to avoid smoking or using tobacco products. Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of preventable death and disease worldwide, and it’s important to understand the risks associated with smoking. Whether you smoke or not, it’s essential to be aware of the dangers of tobacco use, especially for those who may be tempted to start.

Here’s what you need to know:

• Short-term effects: Smoking can immediately affect your fitness, energy levels, and sense of smell and taste. It also increases the risk of respiratory issues, such as coughing and wheezing.
• Long-term effects: Chronic use of tobacco is linked to serious diseases, including heart disease, stroke, lung cancer, and chronic respiratory conditions.
• Second-hand smoke: Even if you don’t smoke, being around people who do can affect your health. Second-hand smoke has been proven to cause various health issues, including respiratory problems and increased risk of cancer. 

World No Tobacco Day is a great opportunity to think about the impact of smoking on your future health. If you or someone you know is considering quitting, there are resources available to support you, including programs and counselling services. Talk to the school nurse or call Quitline (13 78 48) for guidance and assistance.

Krystal South

School Based Youth Health Nurse

These dates are subject to change and will be updated throughout 2025:

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