Newsletter - Issue 8, 2024

From The Principal's Desk

As the school year approaches a close and we farewell our senior students we begin to cast our eyes towards 2025.

The 2025 year is shaping up as a key year for us as we consolidate the great work of the last few years and look to the future.  I am very proud of the gains our school has made and the plans we have in place to continue to provide an education for our students that meets their needs both now and into the future.

We are a unique school leading the way in education because we focus on 4 key pieces that set us apart:

1. Our staff are experts in learning
2. Our students are empowered learners
3. We offer diverse opportunities and
4. We provide every student with a meaningful pathway post school.

If we were to be honest – education is a facet of life that has not changed very much over generations – yes we moved into a digital age, we now use whiteboards and data projectors and the tuckshop sells healthier food but lessons are constructed much the same, classes are organised much the same and students are expected to consume the knowledge dished up much the same.

Over this time (the last 50 or so years) much has been learnt about learning and in particular the neuroscience of learning but education has found it difficult to apply this knowledge.  At James Nash we have committed to doing business differently based on the science of learning and it is through this that we have chosen a path that has shifted some focus:

1. From experts in teaching to experts in learning
2. From teachers holding the cognitive load of learning to shifting some of this to students.

We know that this will prepare our students for living in a world that is saturated with change and the need to constantly update and upskill.  Because if they don’t, they will be thrust into a life that offers them less and less choice about their future.  We compare this to walking up the down escalator – if you stop you will go backwards.

As we look to the next 5 years, we are committed to staying abreast of the new knowledge about learning and to build this into our systems of operation so that we can support our students to be ready to learn (student services) and to then shoulder the cognitive load of learning (Teaching and learning).  This means continuing to build our capability as teachers and to organise our resources to support the great and vital work that teachers provide to ensure a better life and a better community tomorrow.

This year, term 4 is 11 weeks long.  The 10th week (2 – 6 Dec) will involve our normal program that includes school-based activities and our student rewards program. 

The 11th week of the school year will be one of school based supervised alternate activities with a focus on student engagement and wellbeing.  Normal timetabled classes will not be operated at this time.  Please note that school will remain open until Friday 13 December 2024 

In closing I wish everyone a wonderful break over the Christmas and New Year period and look forward to welcoming you back to learning in 2025.

Jackson Dodd,
Principal

Year 7

We are amazing.

We are fine.

We are graduating in 2029

Junior School Captains

Our Junior leadership application process is complete. Thank you to all those students who applied for the roles. We had an outstanding group of future leaders who put their hand up. The Junior School Captains for 2025 are:

• Marium Cultural Captain
• Daniel Cultural Captain
• Anna Communication
• Lani Communication
• Lillee Events and Fundraising
• Clara Events and Fundraising
• Emily Citizenship
• Dominick Citizenship

The Ambassadors and captains voted and selected the following students to represent them at the Student Representative Council (SRC). These students are:

• Ella
• Lilli R

James Nash State High School Awards Night: Thank you to those who attended and made it a very special night for our Year 7’s as they successfully completed their first year at high school.

Good Standing

• Please keep reminding your child of the behaviour expectations that underline our Nash Values – Respectful, Resilient, Hardworking and Positive
• It is important for our students to maintain high behaviour expectations as the school year comes to a close.

Bullying and Name Calling

This is a repeated message from the Week 4 Newsletter. The name calling has not decreased despite a focus on this behaviour. Racial slurring and fat shaming are two ways in which our students are bullying each other. It is having a significant impact on the well-being of our srudents. Please help us to support you child by either calling this language out at home as inappropriate. If your child is being bullied please contact me or help your child make a notification on Stymie. This is the quickest and easiest way to alert me of the issues. The process is designed to empower the student to be able to call out bullying.

https://about.stymie.com.au/

Q Parents

Please register for Q Parents to access report cards and camp permission forms. Please contact the office if you are having any problems accessing this information.

Lunchtime Play 

It is wonderful to see our students engaging in appropriate play at lunchtimes. 

I would like to thank you for the support you have given your child and the school in their transition to high school. It is incredible how quickly the year went. I wish you and your family a happy festive season.

Year 8

What an amazing year we have had in Year 8.

We have seen our students produce some amazing results, through both curricular and extra-curricular activities. It was great to see so many of our year 8’s recognised at our Sports Awards Night, Gold and Silver Award Ceremony and School Awards night and to acknowledge and celebrate their achievements.

We have an amazing group of young people in Year 8.

I would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge the work of not only all our Year 8 students, but also our Leaders. A number of our students have worked as Leaders and Ambassadors and have done a great job throughout the year to develop their leadership skills and support the cohort. The Junior Leaders handed the reins over to the incoming leaders at assembly this week. Thank you for all the work the out going leaders have done and best of luck to the incoming leaders for 2025.

Throughout the year, I have seen the students grow both academically and socially and I look forward to seeing what they can do next year.

Have a fantastic break, a great Christmas and I look forward to seeing everyone in the New Year.

Nat Hyde
HODSS Year 8

School Owned Technology Devices

Parents and students are reminded that all school owned technology devices need to be returned to school prior the holiday. The timeline below outlines when each year level must have their device back to computer room in G Block.

• Year 7 to 9 must have their computers returned by the 28th November (Thursday of Week 9)
• Years 10 and 11 must have their computers returned by the 19th November (Tuesday of Week 8)
  

If students will have trouble meeting this deadline, please discuss with your year level HOD of Student Services or HOY.

Greg Cooper
Deputy Principal Years 7 & 8

Year 9

Dear Year 9 Students and Families,

As we approach the end of Term 4, we’d like to take a moment to reflect on our recent focus and celebrate the achievements of our Year 9 cohort.

Focus on Future Goals

Over the past few weeks, our students have been engaged in thoughtful discussions about their future goals and aspirations. It has been inspiring to see so many students actively considering what they want to achieve in life, whether it be in academics, sports, arts, or other areas of interest. This focus not only encourages personal growth but also fosters a supportive environment where students can share their dreams and plans for the future.

Positive Behaviour and Improvements 

We are thrilled to report noticeable improvements in student behaviour across all classes. This positive change reflects the hard work and commitment of our students, and we want to commend everyone for their efforts. Your dedication to maintaining a respectful and productive learning environment is commendable—well done, Year 9!

Commitment to Learning

As we head towards the final days of Year 9, it’s important that we remain focused and committed to our learning. Our teachers are dedicated to ensuring that every student is learning right up until the very last day. Let’s keep up the momentum and make the most of this valuable time!

A Special Thank You

On behalf of the entire Year 9 team, Mr. Green would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to all parents and guardians for your unwavering support throughout the year. Your involvement and encouragement have played a crucial role in your children’s success, and we are grateful for your partnership in their education.

Exciting Rewards Excursion

To celebrate the hard work and achievements of our Year 9 students, we are excited to announce a Rewards Excursion to Movie World and the Water Park in Week 10! This will be a fantastic opportunity for students to unwind, have fun, and enjoy a well-deserved break after a busy term. Further details regarding the excursion will be sent out soon, so stay tuned!

Thank you for your continued support, and let’s finish the year strong!

 Warm regards,

 The Year 9 Team 

Zak Green                                                                                                          Shelley Gauld HOD HODSS Year 9                                                                                                   Deputy Principal Year 9

Year 10

This term our whole Year 10 cohort had the opportunity to engage with an outside provider called Character Builders, a company who specialises in experiences and activities aimed at developing confidence, respect, resilience and self-esteem.  The program was a full day incursion run onsite here at James Nash SHS and was focussed on Teamwork and building relationships with students working in their House and Care class groups.

It was an opportunity for an outsider’s voice to offer some insights towards compassion, empathy and working towards a deeper connection and developing team work skills among the cohort.  The activities were fun, engaging and provided a mechanism for change, allowing students working together in a different format and the staff from Character Builders were amazing at what they do.

The incursion was a unique opportunity for our students and provided continuity, for the work previously done with Character Builders and allowed those students who attended the Yr10 Leadership camp to further extend themselves in a supportive and conducive environment.

The program included the following activities:

• Introduction and Presentation by Character Builders -“Step Up, Step Back and Encourage Others”
• Conversation Circles (split into two groups)
• Bootcamp (4 separate groups & spaces – 50 students each)
• Bootcamp Off! Where House Teams Battled it out Boot Camp Style!
• Groups - Domino Theory – using all the dominos to create a maze and then watch them all fall / 8 Count – Dance Battle prep, groups creating their own dance to “Ice Ice Baby” by Vanilla Ice
• Dance Off & Debrief!
• Big Ups – The Art of Complimenting and Public Recognition
• X Marks the Spot! - End of the day 

The students who attended loved the day and really shone more precious than Gold!

Forge Ahead Blacksmithing Program

The Queensland Government has funded the Forge Ahead program.  This unique opportunity is designed for youth aged 14 to 17 who may be disengaged from school, to learn traditional blacksmithing skills under the guidance of a Two-Time World Champion Blacksmith, right here in Gympie.

The program, started on Thursday 15th October 2024, Every Tuesday or Thursday from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM and aims to empower young individuals by fostering creativity, discipline, and personal growth. Through hands-on learning, participants will develop valuable skills while engaging in mentorship and community involvement.

The aim of the FORGEAHEAD program is to Empower Youth using blacksmithing for engagement and fostering creativity, discipline and personal growth. Components include workshops, mentorship, entrepreneurial training, community showcases, life skills and post program support and promote positive development.

By the end of the program, participants will have created a unique piece they can proudly take home, showcasing their hard work and newfound skills. The program aims to help reduce stress and anxiety through physical activity, build self-esteem, and foster a sense of accomplishment.

Program Benefits:

• Hands-on learning and practical skills.
• Enhancement of creativity and craftsmanship.
• Development of patience, precision, and focus.
• Encouragement to persevere through challenging projects.
• Positive mentorship, potentially leading to further education or employment.

Any questions to, Dan and Gina

Mob 0458 509 000

Dan Davie WORLD CHAMPION CREATIVE BLACKSMITH

Simon Knight
HODSS Year 10

Senior School

2024 State School Leavers Survey

The Queensland Government is following up on Year 10, 11 and 12 students who left school in 2024, before completing Year 12.  Students will receive a letter with a personalised link to complete a 5-minute survey regarding their activities since leaving school. Students may also be contacted by email or phone and have the chance to win an iPad for participating. Please encourage them to take part. If their contact details have changed, please update with the interviewer or forward the instructions so they can participate. For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/nextstep/ or telephone toll free on 1800 068 587.

First Nations News

I would like to take this opportunity to announce our First Nations Leadership team for 2025

FIRST NATIONS LEADERS

Senior School                         Hayley Cummings

                                               Lewis Cavanagh

                                               Phoebe Emanuel

Middle School                         Alicia Cavanagh

                                               Annalyce Stokes

Junior School                         Josh Cavanagh

For 2025 we have also included an Ambassador role

FIRST NATIONS AMBASSADORS

Senior School                         Taelha Hanks-Carman

Middle School                         Kieran Von Schoeler

Junior School                          Bayli Demnar

Congratulations to these students. I am confident that these students will provide great leadership and support for all First Nations students and represent the school in the many First Nations activities within the school and the wider community.

Thank you to all our outgoing 2024 First Nations leaders for the commitment they have shown this year.

The Arts

2025 Creative Arts Captains

Congratulations to Lily Olsson and Tanika Howard who were awarded the 2025 Creative Arts Captain roles. Both students will represent the Arts Faculty as a whole, while both taking responsibility for a portfolio:

• ACA – Lily Olsson
• AIM – Tanika H

ACA Drama Ensembles Shine at Parent Showcase Evening

James Nash SHS Academy of Creative Arts celebrates young talent with a night of student-devised drama.

The Academy of Creative Arts (ACA) recently held an inspiring Parent Showcase Evening for its junior drama ensembles, JAAM and InterACT. The students captivated an enthusiastic audience of friends, family, and staff with scenes they had devised and directed themselves, bringing their stories to life on stage.

These ensembles are more than just opportunities for students to build Drama skills. They also foster a strong sense of belonging, forge friendships across year levels, and give students a safe space to explore their creativity. These junior ACA ensembles help students develop the confidence, collaboration, and foundational experience needed for participation in ACA senior ensembles and ACA’s highly anticipated biannual musical production.

This showcase was a testament to the dedication of our students and the passion of our staff. Special thanks go to Miss Deanne Fox and Miss Emma-Kate Stevenson, whose enthusiasm and guidance have been instrumental in nurturing these young artists.

This event officially concluded ACA for 2024. As we look forward to the talent and passion these students will bring to future ACA performances, we celebrate their achievements and the promise they hold for the years to come.

By Courtney Perren, Arts Head of Department and ACA Coordinator

Last week, our talented LARK Ensemble had the privilege of performing at the Senior Citizens Hall in Gympie for the Gympie Meals on Wheels morning tea. The performance set a wonderful tone for the event, with the group's beautiful music filling the space and creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. The audience, which included local seniors and Meals on Wheels volunteers, was delighted by the performance, and the event was well received by all in attendance. A big thank you Ms Smith for her continued teaching efforts and LARK for sharing their music and making the morning tea such a memorable event for everyone involved.

On Monday, November 11th, we celebrated the culmination of a fantastic year of music at our Academy of Instrumental Music End-of-Year Concert. The evening was a shining showcase of our talented students, who performed with passion and skill, captivating their parents, family members, and special guests. It was a heart-warming event that truly highlighted the dedication and hard work of all involved.

 A special mention goes to our Grade 12 students, as this concert marked their final performance within AIM. While we’re sad to say goodbye to six of our talented senior musicians, we are excited to see what the future holds for them and wish them all the very best in their next adventures.

 If your child is interested in joining the Academy of Instrumental Music in 2025, please feel free to see Mrs. Bell in the E Block staffroom (down the long ramp) for more information.

 Congratulations to all our performers for a memorable evening and thank you to everyone who made this event such a success.

Science

Year 11 biology students spent Tuesday October 29 conducting ecological field studies at the University of Queensland.  Science professors and tutors led the group through a series of outdoor ecology experiments on the university campus.   After collecting data, students then enjoyed working in a lecture theatre, practicing how to present, analyse, and interpret the data to a high standard.  The event titled ‘Experience Ecology’, provides students with skills and experiences relevant to their upcoming Unit 3 Biology assessment tasks. 

Year 10 science students also had the privilege of visiting the University of Queensland recently.  The students learnt how to interpret scientific literature, and practiced scientific writing and data analysis. They asked critical questions, and provided insightful answers to questions.

They enjoyed a number of hands-on experiences in the lab, revealing the creepy crawlies that live in our soil and affect our crops. University professors discussed some projects they have worked on, and possible projects the students could work on to help improve the world one step at a time. Students also had the opportunity to explore some of the science buildings and library area; visiting the mini museums located in some of the departments. Despite the dreary weather, the students had a great time getting to sample a day of university life.

Year 8 and 9 students interested in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) will also travel to the University of Queensland on November 22 for the Spotlight on STEM Day.  Workshops will inspire students to become our next generation of STEM practitioners, as they learn about new and contemporary innovation and enterprise in STEM. 

QLD Hydro STEM Scholarships

Thanks to Queensland Hydro, Year 10 and 11 students planning to study senior STEM subjects in 2025 recently had the opportunity to apply for scholarship funds.

Queensland Hydro is a publicly owned entity established by the Queensland Government to design, deliver, operate and maintain long duration pumped hydro energy storage assets.  As a component of their work in our community, Queensland Hydro have sponsored a number of scholarships for students with an interest and passion for STEM subjects and these scholarships are designed to support students with the costs associated with their education.

Last week, twenty students were awarded a scholarship worth $1000 each to be used in 2025 on school and educational expenses.  A huge congratulations goes to all twenty students. Well done!

Humanities

Exploring the World Beyond the Classroom

This term, the Humanities Faculty has been bustling with exciting excursions that have brought History and Geography to life for our Year 7, 8, and 9 students. Both excursions offered hands-on experiences, giving students an unforgettable look into their curriculum topics.

Year 9 Geography: Sustainable Farming at Forage Farm

Our Year 9 Geography students had an enlightening visit to Forage Farm, where they dove into the topic of sustainable farming. As part of their coursework on sustainable farming practices, students had the unique opportunity to collect real-world data on the farm's practices. They observed soil management, water conservation, and animal welfare techniques first-hand, gaining valuable insights into what it means to farm sustainably. Additionally, students conducted interviews with local farmers, hearing directly from those at the heart of sustainable agriculture.

Year 7 and 8 Go For Gold at the Abbey Museum

Our Year 7 and 8 Go For Gold Humanities classes took a journey back in time with the excursion to the Abbey Museum, each year group engaging in tailored, immersive historical experiences.

Year 7: Ancient Egypt and Archaeology Year 7 students began their day with a hands-on mummification experience, learning about the rituals, techniques, and cultural significance behind this ancient Egyptian practice. They also participated in an archaeological dig, where they uncovered replica artifacts, learning excavation techniques and the importance of artifacts in piecing together history.

Year 8: Medieval Europe Year 8 students delved into the Middle Ages through an immersive Medieval Europe experience. They explored the art of stained glass, handled replica weapons and armour, and even tried their hand at archery. This exploration of medieval daily life, warfare, and art deepened their understanding of this historical period and its legacy.

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Gympie Trade Training Centre

GTTC Students Thrive in First Year of Trade Program

GTTC students are wrapping up their first year in the Trade program, and the results are promising. Throughout the year, students have not only gained valuable technical skills but have also had the opportunity to apply these skills during their workplace days, bridging the gap between learning and real-world application. With high attendance and engagement, the centre has quickly proven to be an excellent choice for these budding tradespeople. GTTC staff and industry partners have praised the students’ commitment and growth, recognizing the program's success in preparing them for future careers. Congratulations to all for a fantastic first year!

Business & Digital Technologies

Unleashing Creativity with Cricut: Business Innovation in Action

This year, students have been exploring the world of business innovation with our very own Cricut machine, transforming ideas into custom products. From personalised signs and mugs to unique hats, staff vests, and keyrings, the creativity has been endless. This hands-on project has given students a taste of real-world design, production, and entrepreneurship as they create and customise items for our school community.

Exciting news: students interested in joining this innovative project will have the chance to get involved in 2025! Stay tuned for more details on how you can bring your creativity and business savvy to life.

Finance News

Important Reminder: Outstanding Fees and Payment Options

To ensure you receive important financial updates, please make sure your email address is current with the school. Financial statements and reminder notices are regularly sent via email.

If you have any outstanding fees, we kindly ask that you make payment as soon as possible. Payments can be made through BPoint, Direct Deposit, or Qkr. If you need further details or would like to request an invoice, please contact the finance department at 5480 6333 (press 5).

Please note, in line with James Nash SHS policy, all fees must be paid, or a Payment Plan must be in place, for students to participate in school excursions, the Year 12 Formal, purchase a Senior Jersey, and take part in other extracurricular activities.

Mobile Phones

Due to the recent change in policy relating to the banning of mobile phones in schools, it is no longer necessary for James Nash SHS to manage expectations using the Yondr pouch system first implemented in 2023. Commencing next year, only Year 7 students will be issued with a locking pouch for phones as part of their transition into secondary schooling. There are no other changes to the mobile phone policy or the consequences applied if the policy is not followed, this being that mobile phones (as well as devices connected to phones) are to remain off and out of sight from 8:45am-3:05pm on school days. Failure to follow the policy will result in these continuing outcomes: 

As we conclude our usage of pouches across Years 8-12, we ask that all students return their Yondr pouches to Student Services before the end of the school year during the weeks listed below:

 YEAR 12s: During Week 7

YEARS 10-11: During Week 8

QParents

Parents, student academic reports for Semester 2 are available now! QParents users will be able to view and download report cards online as soon as they are published. It’s not too late to register for QParents – just contact the school administration to request an invitation.

Community Notices

A friendly hello from Gunyah of Wellness Medical Centre! We're excited to introduce ourselves as your new local healthcare provider, dedicated to strengthening the wellbeing of our community.

At Gunyah of Wellness we believe in healthcare that’s unique. Our practice offers comprehensive and culturally empowering health services, welcoming everyone in our diverse community while specialising in Indigenous care. We're not just another medical centre, we're your partners in health addressing every aspect of your wellbeing - right here in Gympie!

Our extensive range of services includes:

• Bulk Billing (all concession card holders, under 16s, and all First Nations people)
• Telehealth appointments for our regular patients
• 715, Healthy Hearts, and all other health checks
• Care for the whole family - men's, women's, and children’s health
• Vaccinations
• Mental and social wellbeing support
• Diabetes screening and care
• Allied Health referrals
• Skilled nursing services
• REFOCUS programs for Aboriginal and Torres Strait families needing extra support

If you have questions, we've got answers! Reach out to our friendly team:

• Call: 1800 REFOCUS (press 1 for Gunyah, then 2 for Gympie)
• Email: gunyahgympie@refocus.org.au
• Visit: www.refocus.org.au/gunyah-of-wellness/
• Or pop in and say hello at 21 Excelsior Road, Gympie