Newsletter - Issue 12, 2025

From The Principal's Desk

Strategic Plan

Post our school review we have had the chance to celebrate all that is great about our school.  In particular, we loved the feedback that our students have amazing opportunities through: 

1. our leadership program which builds a range of lifelong skills and  
2. our pathways programs that assist in preparing students for work or further study and giving them a head start on the rest of the field. 

The next step is to build a plan for our school into the future.  We remain committed to empowering our learners for a life of choice.  What this really means is: 

1. Building the general skills of our students to be personally and socially capable and to have the critical and creative thinking that will serve them well in an ever-changing world. 
2. Providing the opportuinities in class for our students to take greater responsibility for their learning.  To do so by: 

• Setting meaningful goals within and across units of study 
  
• To monitor their own progress against set standards 
• To do so utilising both self and peer assessment 
• To adjust their learning strategies based on their understanding of how they learn and what they learn. 
• To share their progress with parents and carers.
  

This is exciting work and we are keen to get things moving. 

Jackson Dodd
Principal

Year 7

To maximise student learning and engagement, it is important  that students:

• Arrive at school on time to attend CARE class – this helps set them up for the day. We have amazing CARE teachers who look out for your child.
• Are 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 – available at Lowes

Badging of our Student Ambassadors

Congratulations to our 21 Year 7 students who applied and were selected to be a Year 7 leader as an Ambassador. The students will have opportunities to develop their leadership skills over the coming year.  All students can apply in Term 3 after the Semester 1 reporting, provided they have received a Gold or Silver Award ( All A’s or A’s and B’s on their behaviour and effort on their report card).

Year 7 School Camp: Mimburri - Belli Park

Notification of Camp will be on QParents in Week 10.

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

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.

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

Dear Year 8 Families,

As we approach the end of Term 2, I’d like to take a moment to share some recent highlights and important reminders to help ensure a safe and successful term for all our Year 8 students.

Leadership in Action – Captains Visit Aussie World

Last week, our Year 8 Captains participated in an exciting Leadership Development Day at Aussie World. This was more than just a fun day out – it was an opportunity to grow their teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills. Our student leaders represented James Nash with pride and maturity, and we’re looking forward to seeing them bring what they learned back into our school community.

Rule Reminder – Following Staff Directions

A key part of being a respectful and responsible member of our school is following the directions of staff the first time. We ask families to please reinforce this expectation at home. It helps keep everyone safe, ensures learning can continue without disruption, and models positive behaviour for all students.

Shared Expectations – The Next Step

All Year 8 classes have recently been engaging with our Shared Expectations program, which has helped establish a strong foundation of respect, responsibility, and readiness to learn. Our next focus will be developing a *common language* that students and staff can use to describe and uphold these expectations consistently. This shared understanding is vital to creating a positive learning environment for all.

Bus Safety – Waiting Inside the School Gates

A reminder to all students and families: students must wait for their buses inside the school gates, not on the footpath or roadside. This rule is in place for student safety and is non-negotiable. We appreciate your support in keeping everyone safe during after-school transitions.

Attendance Matters

We know that 'every day counts' when it comes to student success. Regular attendance helps students stay connected to their learning and peers, and reduces the stress of catching up. If your child needs support around attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out – we’re here to help.

Staffing Update

Finally, I will be taking a few weeks of parental leave as of this week, as my partner and I have welcomed a new addition to our family. During this time, Mr Michael English will be stepping in as Acting Head of Department for Year 8. Mr English is an experienced and capable educator, and I know our students will be in excellent hands.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our Year 8 cohort. I look forward to reconnecting with everyone soon.

Zak Green
HODSS Year 8

Dear Parents and Carers,

As we continue to work together to provide the best possible environment for our students, the school would like to take a moment to highlight a few important areas where your support at home makes a big difference.

Uniform Expectations
Our school uniform is more than just clothing – it’s a symbol of pride, respect, and a shared identity. The uniform, as endorsed by our P&C Association, helps promote a positive school culture and reduces distractions. We kindly ask all parents to ensure their child is wearing the correct uniform each day, including appropriate footwear and jumpers. Please don’t allow your child to wear a hoody to school. If you are experiencing difficulties accessing any uniform items, please contact the school for support.

 Every Day Counts – The Importance of Attendance
Regular attendance is essential for learning success. Every day missed is a learning opportunity lost. When students attend school consistently, they are more likely to feel connected, develop stronger relationships, and achieve better academic results. If your child is unwell, of course, they should stay home – but for all other circumstances, we encourage full attendance and punctuality. Let’s work together to build strong attendance habits now that will benefit them for life.

Social Media and Online Safety
Teenagers are spending more time online than ever before. While social media can offer connection and creativity, it also comes with risks, including exposure to harmful content, online bullying, and negative impacts on mental health.

Here are some strategies you can use at home to support your child’s safe and responsible use of social media:

• Keep communication open – talk regularly about what your child is doing online and who they’re connecting with.
• Set boundaries – establish agreed times and places for device use (e.g., no phones in bedrooms at night).
• Use parental controls – most devices and apps allow parents to limit access to inappropriate content.
• Encourage digital balance – promote a healthy mix of online and offline activities.
• Know the apps – take time to learn about the social media platforms your child uses, including privacy settings.
• Watch for signs – changes in mood, sleep, or behaviour may signal online issues. If concerned, talk to your child or reach out for support.

Together, we can help create a safe, respectful, and engaging environment for every student. Thank you for your continued partnership.

Greg Cooper
Deputy Principal Years 7 & 8

Year 9

YLead Altitude Day

The year 9 ambassadors headed to the University of the Sunshine Coast to participate in YLead Altitude Day.

This saw year 9 students from across the region come together and participate in a number of activities that developed their leadership skills. This included working with students from other schools to develop skills including their communication, collaboration and build their confidence. Students also heard from guest speakers who were inspiring in their own journeys.

Students will bring back the skills they learned to further develop their leadership and use it to work with the year 9 cohort.

Attendance

At the moment, we are looking at our attendance on year level assembly. We have a number of our students who are sitting under the recommended minimum of 85%. Every student is encouraged to be here as much as they can. For this reason, I am rewarding and celebrating the students who are here over 85% of the time. We have weekly random draws of Playback, movie and tuck shop vouchers to give away. Every student who is here over 85% for the week and term are added to the draw. Good Luck.

Nat Hyde

HODSS Year 9

Year 10

Welcome to Week 8! As Term 2 progresses, it has been fantastic to visit Year 10 classrooms and observe the high level of focus and engagement from our students. Teachers have noted a consistent improvement in classroom behaviour and effort, with many students demonstrating a strong work ethic, a willingness to contribute, and respectful interactions with both peers and staff.

As our Year 10 students continue their journey through Middle schooling, we are encouraging them to take ownership of their learning. This term has been about laying the foundations for creating a pathway of choice, not chance—making informed decisions that reflect their strengths, interests, and aspirations.

Year 10 Stars – Gold and Silver Awards

Congratulations to all students who received Gold and Silver Awards this term. These awards recognise outstanding effort and behaviour in the classroom. Your commitment to learning and positive behaviour is something to be proud of. We encourage all students to keep striving for excellence and making the most of every learning opportunity.

SET Planning – Looking Ahead

In Term 2, Year 10 students continue to prepare for their Senior Education and Training (SET) Planning process. This is a key step in preparing students for Years 11 and 12, as well as their future career pathways. More information will be sent home early next term, and families will be invited to be part of this important conversation. We encourage all students to start thinking about their interests, strengths, and future ambitions.

Mobile Phones – Away for the Day

A reminder to all students and families that mobile phones must be switched off and away from the first bell of the day until the final bell in the afternoon. Phones should not be used during class time or lunch If students need to contact home during the day, they can go to Student Services. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this important school policy.

Uniform Reminder

As the cooler months continue, a reminder that all students are expected to wear the school uniform, including a school jumper or jacket. These can be purchased from Lowes at Gympie Central. We appreciate the support from parents and caregivers in ensuring students wear their uniform with pride.

Upcoming White Card Course – 3rd September

We are pleased to announce that our next White Card Course will be held on Tuesday, 3rd September. This course provides students with essential training in construction site safety, which is a great opportunity for those considering a pathway in building or trade industries. Permission notes will be sent home soon. Please ensure these are signed and returned promptly. Payment can be made at the front office.

Thank you for your continued support, and please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or concerns.

Senior School

Attendance – Compulsory Participation – Year 11 & 12 – 85% or better attendance required

Compulsory participation commences when a student turns 16 or finishes Year 10, after one of these milestones a young person is to engage in the compulsory participation phase until they reach 17 years of age.  Students have the option after reaching one of these milestones of:

• continuing at school for Years 11 & 12 and working their way towards achieving a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE),
• commencing employment with 25 hours or more each week, or
• completing a Certificate III Vocational Education certificate with an external provider.

In order to be able to continue with the chosen option, all of these options require the young person to be participating, ie turning up each and every day on time; working to the best of their ability and following the guidelines of the organisation.   Students studying Year 11 & 12 have a large work load, students’ excellent attendance at class supports their ability to manage the workload and to excel in their learning. 

Traditionally our Year 12s are the best attending grade in the school which goes a long way to setting them up for a successful transition to work or further education and training on completion of their schooling. 

Formal - Thursday 4th September

The Year 12 Formal is fast approaching and students have been busy looking at menu options and choosing their decoration theme.  Year 12 students who have completed all their school work/assessment will not be required to be at school on the Thursday.  Friday 5 September is a student free day/professional development day for staff, no students required to attend school that day.  More detailed information about the formal for parents and students will be emailed out in the next few days.

EXAMS:

• A reminder that exams cannot be completed earlier than the scheduled date
• extension (AARA – Access Arrangement & Reasonable Adjustment) can only be granted if a document such as medical certificate is provided to the Principal if you are absent on the day of the exam.  Further information about AARA’s (Extension) Ineligibility can be found below:

Subject Changes for Year 11

Students wishing to change VET or APPLIED Subjects will be able to do so in the last week of Term 2.  Subject change requests need to be submitted by Friday 17 July, week 1 of Term 3. 

Report Cards – Semester 1, 2025

Report Cards will be issued on Friday 17 July and there is an opportunity for parent/care givers to meet with their student’s teacher/s on Tuesday 5 August.  Information on how to book a teacher interview will be included on the report card. 

Year 12 100 Days Celebration

To mark 100 days left for our year 12s in 2025, the entire cohort was treated to an afternoon of ten pin bowling on Wednesday the 4th of June. They split into two busloads, with each bus taking a different approach to the venue at One Mile. Once we arrived, the students spared no time in striking the lanes – or the kiosk for hot chips and cold drinks. While most students bowled at a social (novice) level, a few had clearly seen an alley before. Strikes and spares were met with raucous cheers, but nothing compared with the deafening, supportive laughter at the many, many gutter balls. A few bowlers may have inflated their abilities in the lead-up, which only made the day more enjoyable. Well done Seniors at a great day out, and may the spirit you had on the day carry you through the final few months of your high school journey.

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Academy of Creative Arts

AIM Music Showcase

On Tuesday the 3rd of June, our talented AIM students from the Concert Band, Stage Band, and String Ensemble delivered an unforgettable evening of music for friends, family, and the wider school community.

After weeks of dedicated rehearsals, each ensemble performed a diverse range of repertoire that highlighted their musical progress and dedication. Some students also stepped into the spotlight with impressive solo performances, adding a personal and expressive touch to the evening.

Congratulations to all students and staff involved for their hard work and for delivering such a memorable and inspiring night of music!

By Tanika Howard – Creative Arts Captain 

Gympie Eisteddfod

Preparations for the Gympie Eisteddfod, taking place in early Term 3, are well underway. In addition to the larger ensembles, smaller groups—including the Woodwind, Brass, and Percussion ensembles—are hard at work, refining their performances during morning rehearsals and lunch breaks.

 We wish all students the very best as they continue to develop their skills and share their musical talents.

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.

Humanities

Year 9 Geography Students Explore Forage Farm

Our Year 9 Geography students had the opportunity this term to step out of the classroom and into the field during their excursion to Forage Farm, a local property known for its commitment to regenerative agriculture and sustainable farming practices.

The excursion formed an essential part of the Geography curriculum, allowing students to gain first-hand experience in fieldwork techniques, while deepening their understanding of sustainability, food systems, and environmental management. Students observed and recorded data on land use, soil quality, biodiversity, and water conservation strategies employed on the farm.

The excursion was a memorable and meaningful day, and we thank Forage Farm for their knowledge and hospitality.

Year 8 Go For Gold Class Collaborates with University of the Sunshine Coast on Sustainable Neighbourhoods Project

Last week, our Year 8 Go For Gold Humanities class participated in an exciting and interactive incursion hosted by the University of the Sunshine Coast (USC), called Sustainable Neighbourhoods. This unique learning experience allowed students to step into the shoes of urban planners and designers as they worked alongside USC’s planning students to model a sustainable urban development.

What made this experience particularly valuable was the direct engagement with university students studying urban planning, who guided the Year 8 participants through the decision-making process and shared insights into the complexities of sustainable development.

Year 7 Go For Gold Humanities Class Presents Their Documentary The Mighty Mary

Our Year 7 Go For Gold Humanities classes recently hosted a screening event to showcase their very own documentary, The Mighty Mary. This thoughtful film explores the cultural, environmental, and historical significance of the Mary River for the local community, highlighting the powerful connection between people and place.

The documentary was the result of months of research, interviews, and creative teamwork by the students, who worked hard to capture the river’s stories from a variety of perspectives. To complement the screening, another Go For Gold class contributed engaging presentations and detailed models that explored key themes such as river ecosystems, and conservation efforts.

Year 10 Ancient History Class Conducts Hands-On Archaeological Dig

Our Year 10 Ancient History students recently embarked on an exciting practical project, conducting an archaeological dig on a specially designed mock burial site. This immersive activity gave students a taste of the careful, methodical work that archaeologists undertake to uncover and interpret the past.

The students carefully excavated the site, documenting their findings with detailed notes, sketches, and photographs. The mock burial was thoughtfully constructed to include artefacts and features typical of ancient burial customs, challenging students to analyse evidence much like real archaeologists.

Currently, the class is in the process of analysing their evidence, interpreting the artefacts and burial arrangement to piece together a story about the people behind the site. This critical thinking and investigation stage encourages students to consider historical context, cultural practices, and the significance of their discoveries.

Japanese Exchange Program in Term 3!

Exchange students from Japan will be arriving in Week 2 of Term 3 for an exciting two-week exchange program here at our school! This wonderful opportunity will allow our students to experience Japanese culture firsthand, build lasting friendships, and enhance their language skills.

During their stay, our Japanese guests will attend classes and join in a range of social activities designed to immerse them in school life and the local community.

We encourage all students involved to embrace this unique chance to learn and share in the benefits of cultural interactions. Everyone is looking forward to welcoming our visitors!

INTAD

Building Futures in Design, Engineering and Trades

How our senior subjects in Design and Industrial Technologies are shaping real futures.

Choosing senior subjects is one of the most important steps students take on their journey beyond school. In our faculty, students aren’t just learning content — they’re designing, making, and building the foundation for a meaningful future.

Through subjects like Engineering, Design, and practical industrial skilled subjects, students explore real-world challenges, learn to work with industry-standard tools and technologies, and develop transferable skills in problem-solving, collaboration, communication, and innovation.

Whether your child is considering a university pathway, trade training, or simply wants to learn through doing, there is a place for them in our programs.

What We Offer

Our faculty proudly delivers a wide range of QCAA subjects and Vocational Training that cater to diverse student strengths and future pathways:

General Subjects (ATAR Pathway):

• Engineering – applying physics and maths to solve technical problems
• Design – creative problem-solving using human-centred design and prototyping

Applied Subjects (Hands-On, Practical Pathways):

• Engineering Skills – metal fabrication, basic mechanics, practical project work
• Furnishing Skills – furniture making, cabinetry, surface finishes
• Building and Construction Skills – framing, concreting, tiling, on-site safety
• Industrial Graphics Skills – computer-aided drafting for construction and engineering

Trade Training Program (VET Pathway):
Our on-site trade training offers nationally recognised qualifications in:

• Certificate I in Construction
• Certificate II in Engineering Pathways
• Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways 

These qualifications give students real-world trade experience and credentials while they’re still in school.

Why These Subjects Matter

In today’s fast-changing world, employers are looking for people who can think critically, adapt quickly, and make things happen. Whether it’s designing a new product, solving a real-world problem, building something with precision, or understanding how systems work, the skills students gain in our faculty go far beyond the classroom.

These subjects also help students develop:

• Work readiness and employability skills
• Hands-on technical knowledge that applies in the real world
• Confidence and independence through making and creating
• Pathway clarity, whether toward university, TAFE, or industry

Real Students, Real Futures. What our students are saying about learning in ITD:

“As a current Year 11 student who chose Engineering last year, I can honestly say it was one of the best decisions I made. Engineering isn't just about building things it's about problem-solving, thinking creatively, and learning real-world skills that apply beyond the classroom. We've done everything from designing with CAD software to hands-on projects which makes learning feel exciting and useful. If you're someone who enjoys figuring out how things work or likes turning ideas into reality, Engineering is a subject where you’ll thrive. Plus, it opens doors to awesome career paths in the future!” — Jon, Year 11 Engineering student

“I first chose Design in year 9 and I have loved it ever since. I have had some great teachers that made the subject even more enjoyable. It’s really fun if you like sketching and drawing, but also problem solving. I didn’t think I would enjoy it at first but now it’s my favourite subject. I am definitely considering doing something with design in my future career.” — Savannah, Year 11 Design student

“Engineering Skills isn’t just about slapping two bits of metal together and welding, it’s about being precise, creative, and focused. Yeah, it can be tough, but it’s also super rewarding. There’s so much career potential in the engineering industry. Even though this subject doesn’t give you a formal qualification, it can really open your eyes to all the possibilities and help you find what you’re passionate about.” — Aidan, graduate student now working as a boilermaker

 “There’s just something satisfying about learning hands-on skills and seeing something you’ve built actually come together. Building and Construction is not just hammering nails it’s about accuracy, application, and working as part of a team. It’s given me a solid idea of what working in the construction industry would really be like.” —Sam, Year 12 student

Furnishing is one of the best subjects available to us. The smell of the wood, the look of the grain, and the feel of the smooth, sanded, finished product are just some of the reasons I love working with timber. And if you make a mistake, you can always slap on some wood filler. It’s not about rushing to get it done; it’s about taking the time to create a beautiful and functional piece. — Arwen, Year 12 student

“I got into trade training on a whim. At first, I wasn’t sure — I didn’t grow up around trades or anything. But as I progressed in the course, I started thinking, “Hey, this could actually be a long-term career.” And now, I’m a school-based apprentice at Keba Engineering, and honestly, I’m loving it.“ — Bella, Year 12 Trade Training Student

Fast Facts

1. 1 in 3 jobs in the next decade will require trade or technical skills.
2. General subjects like Engineering and Design lead to university and STEM careers.
3. Applied and VET pathways lead directly to employment or apprenticeships.
4. All ITD subjects build critical thinking, collaboration, and confidence in young people.

Come See It in Action!

Join us at our Subject Showcase Night to see student projects and meet the staff and students shaping tomorrow’s tradespeople, designers, and problem-solvers.

Showcase Night: Week 1, Term 3 Wednesday 16 July. Information session @ 5:30 pm in the PA with Faculty Stalls in MPS from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm

Together, let’s build your child’s future — one project at a time.
For more information, speak to our Head of Department or visit the school’s website.

Science

Health Careers Day

Recently on Tuesday 13th May a big group of 10 Science students travelled to the Sunshine Coast University for a Health Careers Day. It was a great day with a lot of us wanting to get jobs in the health field like paediatricians, emergency services people, nurses and physiotherapists.  We first had a live simulation of an emergency call due to an electric scooter – it was crazy to see how many people were involved in saving a life.

Some of the other activities included using dummies to practice nursing techniques and tasting liquid hospital foods. The VR goggles used in analysis were also a highlight. We ended the day with some merch bags and a chat to various universities, TAFE and job agencies. The day was really useful and fun, would highly recommend!

Alicia Cavanagh

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Brain Health and Wellbeing Incursion

Year 9 students recently had the privilege of working with the Mind Set Do Team from the University of the Sunshine Coast.  Students learnt about the structure of the brain, and the neuroscience of learning and memory, including why the hippocampus is important.  They were challenged by a number of interactive activities designed to test their cognitions and memory such as the Stroop Effect.  Students enjoyed making annotated models of the brain, and conducting brain and eyeball dissections.

Sport Update

In 2026, JNSHS will introduce a Sporting Academy to the school. In 2026, one signature sport will be added to the academy and trialled across the year. A further 2 signature sports will join the academy in 2027. A further sport may be added in 2028 taking the total sports included in the academy up to four.Before a decision is made regarding the signature sports, James Nash would like to hear from parents and student to establish the sporting interests of the school community.

If you would like to propose a sport, please email sports@jamesnashshs.eq.edu.au with your nominated sport, considering the following:

Does JNSHS already have a court/field in place for the proposed sport?

Is there a local Gympie competition for the sport/activity which would allow a school team or participation in a competition?

What is the approximate equipment cost to play the sport?

Athletics Carnival 2025 

When:              Week 10, Friday 27^th June 8:50am – 3:05pm. 
Where:             James Nash SHS  
What to bring: Sun safe clothing/ hat - wide brimmed preferable/ sunscreen/ water/healthy lunch 
Wear:               House colours  
Care Classes:   Meet at the MPS for roll marking 

The Athletics’ Carnival will be held on Friday 27th June with Shotput, Long Jump, Triple Jump, 100m, 200m, 400m and 800m events run on the day. Some events will take place prior to the carnival day; Discus, Javelin and the 3000m events will be held on Thursday 26th June, and the 1500m will be run during a lunch time in the last week of this term. Opportunity to compete in High Jump will be available after school at Gympie South SS—date to be confirmed. The carnival will go ahead if weather conditions are wet, some events may be postponed if weather conditions become dangerous. If the carnival is cancelled due to dangerous conditions, the regular class timetable will commence. 

Note: Discus, Javelin and High Jump (Flop) require a permission form to be returned to the MPS Drop Box. This form will be handed out on assemblies to students who have nominated for these field events. If your student misses that assembly, please ask them to see Miss McClintock in the MPS Staffroom to collect a permission note. 

Our philosophy is that every day counts, and all students are expected to attend the Athletics’ Carnival. School carnivals are an integral part of a broader educational experience and contribute to building school pride. There will be no alternative program held at school on this day, however there will be some novelty events and SRC opportunities for students who do not want to participate competitively.  

Staff will have a commercial brand of sunscreen available and will supply this to students throughout the day. 

The tuckshop is not open for the Athletics’ Carnival. We strongly recommend that students bring a healthy food option for lunch and a drink bottle for the day, and a BBQ and Icy Cone stall will be provided by Hospitality students and the SRC.   

Students are not permitted to leave the school at any time during the day. If you need to collect your child any earlier than the usual 3.05pm finish on the day, please contact the school as per usual. 

We encourage all students to be involved in the Athletics’ Carnival, to dress in their house colours (as listed in the Student Planner) and enjoy the fantastic team spirit at James Nash State High School.  

Country Cup Netball: Game On (and Off the Grass)

On Friday 6 June, our James Nash Senior Mixed netballers set off before sunrise for the Country Cup in Kingaroy. Bleary-eyed but full of energy (well, sort of), we boarded a bus with none other than our soon-to-be rivals St Pat’s and Victory College. Despite the looming battles, there was nothing but friendly vibes on the two hour drive.

Our first match? A wake-up call in more ways than one… it was on grass. Yes, grass. Cue the slips, slides, surprise splits, and even a heroic faceplant that left one of us looking like they'd tackled a lawnmower. Still, we dug deep and held our ground against a team that had clearly played together prior to hitting this netball court... and their shoes seemed to actually have grip... we went down by two points.

Luckily, the rest of the games were played on good ol’ asphalt, and while the chill in the air stuck around, our skills heated up fast. We mixed up our combos, played with heart, and found our rhythm. Everyone had their moment to shine, and the wins started rolling in.

We wrapped up the day with a cracking 9–0 victory and left with cold fingers, warm hearts, and big plans to return next round with even more teams, more flair, and definitely more wins (preferably on solid ground).

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.  

QParents Update

Student Services

Community Notices

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.

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