Newsletter - Issue 3, 2025

From The Principal's Desk

Empowering our learners.

We continue our work of empowering learners by further building the capability of our teachers to provide the knowledge, skills and strategies for students to take greater control of their learning.  By the end of this term all teachers will be trained in the process and will have started practicing these processes with at least 1 of their classes.  This poses the question .....What is an empowered learner?

The graphic below shows that empowerment follows on from engagement which in turn follows on from compliance. 

The link below helps to shed some light on empowered learners .

I look forward to the exciting journey of empowering learners for the years to come.  In doing so we position our students for a life of choice.

Jackson Dodd
Principal

Year 7

Easter, ANZAC Day, Labour Day and Gympie Show Day have given us a stop start beginning of the term. As we are now hitting our straps, it is important for our students to:

• Be prepared for learning with books and a fully stocked pencil case.
• Bring a hat – they need it for HPE and playing outside (including Learning and Well-being)
• Wear the correct school jumper

Bullying

Every student and staff member has the right to feel safe at school. Bullying and poor behaviour choices need to be called out. Please encourage your child to use the STYMIE website   https://stymie.com.au  to report so it can be followed up quickly. Some people think that reporting just makes it worse. NOT reporting means the bullying may continue.

Ambassador Program

At James Nash SHS, we have a very progressive Student Leadership program. There are leadership opportunities for all year levels and interests. In Year 7 it starts this term with an Ambassador program. To be eligible to apply, students need to have achieved Gold or Silver in their latest report cards. To Achieve Gold students, need to have had all A’s in behaviour and effort. Silver needs to have achieved A’s and B’s. Students will be informed of the process this week and can apply if they wish to.

Learning and Wellbeing

This term the students are participating in two learning experiences.

1. Outdoor Games led by our Year 12 leaders. Students are playing Capture the Flag and Kick Tennis
2. Cyber- safety lessons. We use the https://www.esafety.gov.au/ website for student resources. There is also a fantastic set of resources for parents to support their child with their responsible technology use.

Arranging a meeting with staff

There are times that you may wish to meet with me to discuss issues. It is important to contact me via email to arrange a time for the meeting. I am not be able to meet with you if you have not made a meeting time. Thank you for your understanding of this.

Year 7 School Camp: Mimburri - Belli Park

Eligibility for camp:

• Students will need to be financial or up to date with their payment plan. Even if you have returned your consent form, you won't receive an invoice if your child is unfinancial.
• Have good standing points – please check your child’s Good Standing points with them on their DayMap.
• Attendance over 80%

Approximate cost: $190- $240

If you have any concerns about your child in Year 7, please contact Ann Porter aport62@eq.edu.au.

Please allow 24 hours for a response unless an emergency.

Year 8

Year 8 Update – Growing Together, On and Off Campus

Term 2 has been off to a fantastic start for our Year 8 students, with exciting opportunities for leadership, learning, and personal growth.

Leadership Excursion – Teamwork in Action

Our Year 8 leadership students recently participated in a fun and engaging excursion to Holey Moley, where they took part in mini-golf challenges designed to build teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Beyond the laughs and friendly competition, students showed great maturity and collaboration, growing stronger as a team. The day was a reminder that leadership isn’t just about taking charge—it’s about listening, supporting one another, and working together towards shared goals.

The Importance of Attendance

A gentle reminder to families: if your child is absent from school, it’s essential to call the office or send a text message to let us know. Regular attendance is a key factor in student success, both academically and socially. By notifying us of absences, we can ensure our records are accurate and continue to support students in maintaining a strong connection to school. Every day counts!

Learning and Wellbeing – Safe and Respectful Relationships

In both our Learning and Wellbeing sessions, Year 8 students have been exploring the theme of safe and respectful relationships. These lessons focus on building empathy, understanding boundaries, and developing the confidence to communicate respectfully with others. These are vital life skills that help young people navigate friendships, social media, and everyday interactions with confidence and kindness.

As always, we’re proud of the way our Year 8 students are growing—academically, socially, and as positive members of our school community.

Zak Green
HODSS Year 8

Year 6 into 7 Transition:

It is that time of the year where we begin to start the process of working with the families of our 2026 year 7 students to ensure a smooth transition to high school. The first event is an information evening in week 6 – the details of which are below:

🎓 Year 6 into Year 7: Parent & Carer Information Evening 🎓

Families of Year 6 students are invited to attend an Information Evening to support a smooth and successful transition to high school.

📅 Date: Thursday 29th May
🕒 Times: 3:30 PM | 4:30 PM | 5:30 PM
📍 Locations:

• James Nash State High School
• Gympie State High School

You’re welcome to attend either school at a time that suits you. Each session will share the same essential information to help prepare your child for Year 7.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Winter Uniforms

Parents and students are reminded that JNSHS has a Winter uniform which is set by the school P & C.  On cold days students may wear:

• Black pullover jumper with JNSHS emblem or black jacket with emblem.​
• Black/flesh-coloured tights can be worn under shorts. Plain black tracksuit pants – no logos​ may be worn over shorts.
• No Jeans / Beanies /Hoodies​

Parents who are struggling to provide a uniform for their student are encouraged to contact the school through the HOD of Student Services to discuss options.

Greg Cooper
Deputy Principal Years 7 & 8

Year 9

Year 9 Camp – Barambah

In week 10, a number of year 9’s attend camp at Barambah. Students were involved in a number of challenging activities that developed their individual and teamwork skills.

Students mapped out and completed the Barambah Challenge in teams. This involved navigating through the bush to checkpoints and collecting points. Students walked though the bush and creeks, taking on the leeches and they had an amazing time. When we returned, it was so good to hear how many students not only enjoyed it, but were impressed with what they were able to achieve.

Students also participated in mountain biking, hiking, bouldering, knot tying, making a catapult to take down teachers and a dinosaur with waterbombs, night time games and a lot of table tennis and handball.

Personally, I had an amazing time and was impressed with the behaviour of the students and the effort they put in. It was so good to see them enjoying themselves whilst pushing themselves at the same time. As one student said, ‘I love camp. Everyone comes together. We all get along so well and have a great time.’ And, we sure did.

 Well done to all students who attended. A massive thank you to the staff who came along and the staff in the background who organised camp, we couldn’t have done it without you.

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Nat Hyde

HODSS Year 9

Year 10

Year 10 Students Plan Future Pathways

Term 2 is an exciting time for Year 10 students as it marks the beginning of their preparation for the SET Planning process.  Each week students engage in career education activities with the support of their Care teachers, to consider viable career and job options and the necessary education and training requirements that come with them. 

The Deputy Principal (Senior Schooling) as well as Heads of Department from across all Key Learning Areas will be meeting with the students to provide further clarity and information about the subjects, training options and pathways offered here at James Nash SHS.

To further support this process, we are hosting a Parent Subject Information Evening on Wednesday 16 July at the school from 5:30pm. It is important to us that families are included in this process and we look forward to meeting with many of you at this event. 

Please see below some additional date claimers to mark in your calendar. 

DATE CLAIMERS:

• PARENT SUBJECT INFORMATION EVENING -   Week 1, Term 3 Wednesday 16 July.

• SET PLAN MEETINGS with Student & Parent – Week 7, Term 3 – Monday 25 & Tuesday 26 August.

Senior School

The Certificate III Hospitality students were cooking up a storm on Thursday night. The students designed a menu and planned out a fantastic evening of meals for their guests. Parents were wowed by the students' culinary skills enjoying Thai beef salad, beef ribs, pecan pie and much more. Bar staff served amazing mocktails that complimented the beautiful table settings. The night will be one that both guests and students will remember for years to come.

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Senior Exams Term 2

The Exam Timetable for Year 11 & 12 students has been publish, emailed to students and is available on the school website.  Students are to attend their timetabled classes except when they have an exam scheduled.  

Subject Changes for Year 11

Year 11 students studying GENERAL subjects will be able to make subject changes during Week 6 this term.  Subject Changes will close for GENERAL Subjects on Friday 6 June.  For APPLIED and VET Subjects, subject changes can occur at the end of Term 2 and these subject change applications must be lodged by Friday 25 July.

No subject changes can occur for Year 12 students during the year.

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.

Academy of Creative Arts

ACA Excel Drama Ensemble Joins Queensland Theatre’s The Scene Project

We are thrilled to announce that the ACA Excel Drama Ensemble is proudly taking part in The Scene Project, an initiative by Queensland Theatre that places students at the heart of the creative process. This exciting opportunity has brought together 34 dedicated drama students from Years 10 to 12 at James Nash State High School to collaborate, create, and explore the art of theatre-making.

Over the past few weeks, students have been working hard to devise their own original scenes in response to a published play stimulus. The process encourages creativity, critical thinking, and ensemble collaboration as students shape their ideas into performance-ready material.

As part of the project, we were honoured to welcome a professional teaching artist from Queensland Theatre on Friday 9 May. The artist worked closely with our students, offering valuable insights, encouragement, and guidance to help deepen their ideas and elevate their scenes. It was an inspiring and productive day that left our ensemble buzzing with energy and creativity.

The ensemble is now focused on preparing for The Scene Project Outcomes Day in Term 3, where schools from across the region will gather to perform and celebrate each other’s work. This event offers students the unique opportunity to see a variety of interpretations and connect with other young theatre-makers.

In addition to Outcomes Day, our devised scenes will also be featured as part of the ACA Gold Collective Showcase in Term 3, providing a special opportunity for family, friends, and the broader community to witness the talent and dedication of our students.

We are so proud of our ACA Excel Drama Ensemble for embracing this challenge and can’t wait to see their creative voices come to life on stage. Stay tuned for more updates as we move closer to these exciting performances!

The Arts

Year 10 Drama Students Shine in First Performance of 2025

Our Year 10 Drama students have kicked off 2025 with an impressive start, presenting their first performance of the year with great success. Over Term 1, students developed their skills in the realism style of performance, focusing on authentic characterisation, natural dialogue, and emotionally grounded scenes. Their final performances demonstrated maturity, creativity, and a strong understanding of the theatrical style.

The enthusiasm and connection to their characters didn’t stop at curtain call. In the following lesson, students shared how much they missed performing and decided to revisit their characters by dressing up and staging photos — complete with a few fun classroom antics!

Congratulations to all Year 10 Drama students for your outstanding work. We look forward to seeing your continued growth and creativity throughout the year.

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Years 10 - 12 Music Workshop

Our grade 10-12 music classes recently had the exciting opportunity to participate in a workshop with our incredible local talent, Linc Phelps. This enriching experience gave students a unique insight into the world of music beyond the classroom.

During the sessions, students explored a wide range of topics including song writing techniques, performance skills, and important legal aspects such as copyright and royalties. Linc also offered valuable advice on the ‘behind the scenes’ elements of the music industry—covering areas like publicity, social media, and merchandise. Students were encouraged to ask questions and gained knowledge that directly supports their current in-class assessment tasks and future musical pursuits.

One of the most memorable moments from the workshops was when both groups collaborated to create their own unique class songs—an experience they are sure to cherish for years to come.

We extend our sincere thanks to Linc Phelps for generously sharing his time, expertise, and passion for music with our students.

Visual Art

On May 1st, 32 Year 10–12 art students, accompanied by their teachers, travelled to Brisbane to visit QAGOMA (Queensland Art Gallery of Modern Art) for the annual viewing of works by internationally renowned and highly skilled artists. They explored the 11th Asia-Pacific Triennial exhibition, as well as the gallery’s impressive permanent Australian collection, showcased across two world-class buildings.

The excursion offered a valuable opportunity for students to experience culturally diverse and inspiring contemporary art practices, sparking ideas and motivation for their own creative work. The group also enjoyed lunch and a leisurely walk through Queen Street Mall, where they engaged in observational sketching and photography of the urban architecture. It was a fantastic day out in the city, thoroughly enjoyed by all.

Business & Digital Technologies

Ms Vietheer's resourceful and forward-thinking Work Studies entrepreneurs in training put their adaptability and creativity to the test last week.  
A handful of Year 10 Work Studies students challenged themselves to showcase their creativity and adaptability by creating a drawing or painting to enter this week's Arts and Crafts section at the Gympie show.
Relaxing sunsets and chaotic portraits took over the classroom and were used to investigate visual communication skills that potentially enhance business outcomes through advertising and social media. 
This creative challenge delivered the Year 10 Work Studies focus on developing enterprising behaviours, workplace skills, and the ability to plan, implement and reflect on work-related activities. Through this project, students demonstrated initiative, risk-taking, and communication—key capabilities for success in the 21st-century workforce.
What a great way for students to learn to be proactive and show a growth mindset in this changing environment as they explore and embrace aspects and possibilities of the modern working world.
With positive attitudes we now await the results of the judges...

Gympie Trade Training Centre

Trade Training Excellence Recognised in School Review

James Nash State High School recently completed a school review, with visiting principals and executive staff conducting interviews and observations to help identify areas for improvement and celebration. Unsurprisingly, our Trade Training Centre stood out as a key highlight.

We already know we offer an outstanding program—with nearly 100% of our students successfully entering trade careers—and we regularly hear glowing feedback from families and industry partners. But it was especially rewarding to receive such strong praise from an external review team.

We’re incredibly proud of the quality of our program and the high standards we maintain. Entry is highly competitive, and we set clear expectations for student performance and commitment.

If your student is currently in Year 10 and considering a trade pathway, now is the time to get in touch. Contact the Head of Department to learn what steps they can take to secure a place in the 2026 intake.

As further proof of the strength of our program, our Year 11 Trade students received the top attendance award, and our Year 12s placed third—an impressive achievement. Congratulations to our entire TTC team!

Humanities

Brisbane Legal Studies Moot Court and Japanese Cultural Experience

Recently, our Grade 11 and 12 Legal Studies students had the chance to step into the shoes of legal professionals during a visit to QUT’s Moot court. Students presented legal arguments in simulated courtroom scenarios, developing practical skills and a deeper appreciation for the justice system. They also had the rare opportunity to witness real proceedings at the Brisbane Magistrates Court—an eye-opening experience that brought their studies to life.

Alongside them, Japanese language students spent the day immersed in cultural learning closer to home. They visited the serene Japanese Gardens at Mt Coot-tha and explored authentic Japanese stores in Brisbane’s CBD. While we were disappointed that a planned visit to the Japanese Consulate had to be cancelled at the last minute, the students still had a meaningful and memorable day.

Japanese Exchange Homestay Opportunity

James Nash State High is excited to offer your family the opportunity to host a Japanese exchange student. We will again be hosting 20 students, aged 15-17 from July 22nd to the 3rd of August, from the Yamaguchi Prefecture.

This experience is open to all students not just those currently studying Japanese. If you are interested in hosting, application forms can be found in K block staffroom. If you would like any more information, please contact Mrs Appleby at nappl12@eq.edu.au 07 5480 6333

Japanese Immersion Trip Confirmed for 2025

We are thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for our Years 10 and 11 students in the Japanese program—a 10-day language and cultural immersion trip to Tokyo, Japan, set for the end of 2025!

This incredible journey will allow students to put their Japanese language skills to the test in real-life situations while exploring one of the most vibrant cities in the world. From visiting cultural landmarks to navigating bustling markets and engaging with native speakers, the experience promises to deepen students’ understanding of Japanese society and enhance their confidence in using the language.

INTAD

Welcome to the Team, Mr Dukic!

We are excited to welcome Mr Dukic to our ITD team this term!

Bringing a wealth of industry experience and a passion for hands-on learning, Mr Dukic has quickly made a positive impact with his enthusiastic approach and real-world knowledge. His transition from the workshop floor to the classroom is already inspiring students, as he shares practical insights and encourages the next generation of makers, builders, and designers.

We’re thrilled to have Mr Dukic on board and look forward to the expertise and energy he brings to our department!

Science

Year 8 Science Go For Gold Excursion

On Monday the 1^st of April Year 8 Go for Gold went to the University of the Sunshine Coast Gympie Campus, just across from our school to learn more about the transplanting of natural and artificial organs. There we had fun listening to LesaMay Wilson, a nurse that was present for one of the first heart transplants in Australia. She talked about the history and requirements for organ transplants. We then went upstairs to look at a nursing lab that had been set up for students currently studying the profession. This was a room full of mannequins in a hospital setting that had all the correct equipment. We then had some time with the VR Headsets where we went on a journey through the body to look at all the functions of the main organs in the body. We overall had a splendid time visiting this University and hope we will have the privilege of visiting again.

Written by Emily Blake-McAulay

Sport Update

The 2025 James Nash State High School Cross Country Carnival was held on the final day of Term 1, and it proved to be a fantastic way to close out the term with energy, teamwork, and a strong sense of school spirit. Students from all year levels laced up their runners and gave their all across the new challenging course, with cheers echoing from each of the house groups supporting their competitors.

The day was filled with muddy tracks, laughter, and plenty of fun, as students tackled the course with enthusiasm and determination. Whether sprinting through puddles or sliding down hills or giving it their all in the final stretch, everyone embraced the conditions and made the most of the carnival atmosphere.

The atmosphere was one of celebration and camaraderie, with students running not just for individual achievement but also to earn vital points for their sporting houses. While the competition was fierce, the highlight was the encouragement and sportsmanship displayed throughout the day.  

The announcement of the Overall Winning House will take place at the Whole School Parade in Week 7—a moment everyone is eagerly awaiting!

We would also like to congratulate our 2025 Age Champions—these students gave outstanding performances and demonstrated impressive endurance and determination:

• 12 Years Boys – Loghan Roberts
• 12 Years Girls – Charli Maddocks
• 13 Years Boys – Finn Pomerenke
• 13 Years Girls – Harper Pomerenke
• 14 Years Boys – Dominick Pirkopf-Hinkley
• 14 Years Girls – Isabella Wilcox
• 15 Years Boys – Cooper Laycock
• 15 Years Girls – Charlotte Reed
• 16 Years Boys – Darcy Clark
• 16 Years Girls – Ruby McLean
• 17 Years Boys – Oliver Pratt
• 17 Years Girls – Nikitta Quinlan
• 18/19 Years Boys – Cody Francis
• 18/19 Years Girls – Jessie Boote

Well done to all students who took part and helped make the day such a great success. We wish our selected competitors the very best of luck at the upcoming Gympie Districts Cross Country. We can’t wait to reveal and celebrate the winning house at the Week 7 Whole School Parade!

P&C Update

Over the course of the last 12 months we have been working to develop a sustainable P&C. Key to this has been divesting the commercial aspects of the P&C to focus on parent and community voice as the primary function of the P&C. 

This has seen us transition the sale of uniforms to Lowes and in recent weeks transition the commercial operation of the Tuckshop to the school administration.  Central to this decision has been a need to invest in systems and governance to aid the economic viability of the Tuckshop rather than rely on volunteers to administer the business. 

In parallel with this decision the school is undertaking a significant refurbishment of the Tuckshop which will see a complete refit.  This is expected to commence later this term and be concluded by the start of term 4.  In the interim we have accepted the offer to borrow the Gympie Lions Catering van in which to operate our school Tuckshop.  This will see a slight change to the menu in order to align with different facilities but we are confident that the Tuckshop will be able to operate effectively from the temporary venue. 

With a new look P&C purpose we are excited to broaden our membership base and invite parents to become members of the P&C.  A broader membership base helps enhance parent voice in the decision making associated with your student’s education at James Nash SHS.  All members will be invited to provide input and feedback through our school governance mechanisms. 

If you’d like to join the P&C, please complete the form attached below and email to pandc@jamesnashshs.eq.edu.au.  

Community Notices

UQ IML High School Beginner Language Bootcamp - Enrol now

Program details:

• Dates: 22 September -26 September 2025
• Years: 7-8
• Languages on offer: French, German, Japanese, Spanish
• Delivery mode: Online (via Zoom)
• Day & Time: Mon-Fri, 9am- 10:30am 
• Sessions run for a duration of 1hr30min daily over 5 consecutive days
• Cost: $220 per student (price inclusive of GST)

Enrolments close: 12 September 2025

Jacaranda Ranger, Gympie Girl Guides, is looking for some new members starting ASAP. You might be interested in developing leadership skills, going camping, arts and crafts, canoeing, photography, food, all sorts of outdoor activities, weekends away, making friends, having fun, or just hanging out somewhere on Monday afternoons. 1st 3 weeks are free so come and try it. Call 0425850360 for more info.