LSHS Newsletter May 2025

From the Principal's Desk

Showcase Extravaganza

Join us for the Laidley SHS Showcase Extravaganza on the afternoon/evening of Thursday, 22 May. At this vibrant celebration of student talent and academic achievement, you will experience a wide range of subject displays, engaging demonstrations and captivating student performances.

Discover Year 6 into Year 7 transition support, including information and activities to help make the move to high school smooth and exciting.

For our senior students, Year 10 into Year 11 subject selection talks will provide valuable guidance and assist with the development of your Senior Education Plan.

Don’t miss the Careers Expo, offering insights into academic pathways, vocational studies and future employment opportunities.

The final program for this event will be forwarded to students and families once published. We look forward to seeing you there!

Teacher Shortage and Student Outcomes

Queensland schools are grappling with a significant teacher shortage, impacting school operations and student learning opportunities across the state. This shortage has led to a reduction in elective subjects, larger class sizes and an increase in teachers instructing outside their areas of expertise.

The ageing teacher workforce, increased workloads, and rising student mental health, wellbeing and behavioural issues are all contributing factors to the shortage.

Schools in rural and remote areas face even greater challenges than their city counterparts. These areas often find it more difficult to attract and retain qualified teachers due to isolation, limited accommodation and fewer personal, family and professional supports.

Our school, along with other secondary schools in our area, are being impacted by the teacher shortage to varying degrees at different times. Staff absences and changes occur for a variety of reasons, including discretionary leave (e.g., long service leave), non-discretionary leave (e.g., defence force leave), maternity/paternity leave, short-term and extended sick leave, resignations, retirements and promotions to leadership positions in other schools.

I congratulate our school leadership team and our teachers for their resilience and positivity as we continue to make timetable and class changes to replace teachers for these various reasons. Every change in class teachers impacts staff workload, student engagement and results. I particularly thank Kym Crosby, our timetabling Deputy Principal, who is working tirelessly with the other Deputy Principals, Heads of Departments and teachers to make the timetable work and minimise the impact on student learning.

I am pleased to advise that, despite the staffing challenges outlined above, our school has achieved a range of positive improvements in student engagement and performance outcomes this year compared to 2024. These improvements include:

• Attendance has improved by 5.2%

• Year 7–12 Achievement (A or B results on report cards) has improved by 1.7%

• Year 7–9 Mathematics Achievement (A–C results on report cards) has improved by 4.4%

• Year 7–12 Effort (A–C results on report cards) has improved by 5.0%

• Year 7–12 Behaviour (A–C results on report cards) has improved by 2.9%

• Short suspensions (1–10 days in length) have decreased by 32% for the same period (up to mid-May)

• Behaviour referrals by teachers have decreased by 15% for the same period (up to mid-May)

Congratulations to students, staff and families for your role in these improvements.

New Senior Toilet Refurbishment

The recent refurbishment of the senior toilet block at Laidley State High School marks a significant investment in modern, safe and respectful facilities for students. This upgrade aims to reduce vandalism and anti-social behaviour through enhanced visual surveillance and by fostering connection and pride among students.

Importantly, the project included a creative opportunity for students to contribute to the design of the boys’ and girls’ toilet graphics, encouraging ownership and care for their surroundings. The girls chose an enchanted forest theme, while the boys selected a graffiti art theme celebrating various males who excel in their fields of endeavour. Both groups selected a range of inspirational quotes for inclusion on toilet doors.

This project highlights the value of student involvement in creating a positive school environment and inspiring respect for shared spaces.

In addition to the toilet upgrade, the cleaners’ store, textbook room, Schools Officer staffroom, staff toilets/showers, and disabled toilet/shower were also refurbished.

This initiative represents another great government investment in our school facilities. We look forward to hearing whether we will be receiving funding to undertake a similar project in our junior toilets.

Mr Michael Clarkson
Principal

Senior School Report

Welcome Back to Term 2

I hope you all enjoyed the Easter break and the series of short weeks that followed. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the many students and their parents/guardians on the achievements reflected in the Term 1 Progress Report Cards. It was with great pride that I sent congratulatory emails to the parents/guardians of 36 Year 11 students and 41 Year 12 students who achieved a learning engagement rating of an A or B across all subjects.

The Term 1 Report Cards and Parent Teacher Interviews provided a valuable snapshot of your student’s progress to date. I encourage students and their parents/guardians to reflect on these achievements, celebrate successes and take the time to set meaningful improvement goals. I also welcome any contact regarding concerns or positive feedback about your student’s chosen pathway.

The senior years of schooling are critical in preparing students for life after school, whether that be full-time work, an apprenticeship or traineeship, TAFE, university, or a combination of these. Open lines of communication are essential so we can work in partnership to support your student’s educational journey.

Year 11 students have three weeks remaining until the completion of Unit 1. Following this, they will have a two-week period in which subject changes may be made. It is essential that conversations regarding any subject changes, including the impact on QCE attainment, future pathways and the reasoning behind the change, take place as soon as possible. The teaching and learning for Unit 2 will commence in Week 18.

In Week 10, all Year 11 students and their parents/guardians will be invited to participate in a QCE Review Interview. These interviews will be conducted by members of our leadership team (Principal, Deputy Principal, Heads of Department and Year and Guidance Officer). The purpose is to communicate how students are tracking towards achieving their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) by the end of Year 12.

Our Year 12 cohort is progressing strongly in their final year. I remind students to remain focused and engaged in their learning until the very last day. This includes maintaining a minimum 90% attendance rate, completing all assessments and striving to be the best version of themselves. Students enrolled in Essential English are currently preparing for their Common Internal Assessment (CIA), which will take place in Week 5. It is imperative that all students involved in the CIA attend every preparatory and exam session to ensure the best possible outcomes.

A reminder to all student drivers (Years 11 and 12) of the importance of submitting parent/guardian-signed permission forms, which allow them to drive to and from school. Additionally, any student passengers must also submit a signed permission form. Thank you for your cooperation on this matter.

As we head into the cooler months, I encourage all students to review the school’s uniform expectations on our website. In particular, please take note of the following requirements:

• Facial piercings: clear only
• Socks: white
• Shoes: black with an impervious upper
• Hat: school cap or bucket hat
• Jumper: school spray jacket, black knitted school jumper or Year 12 jersey

If you are unable to meet any of these expectations, please speak with your relevant Deputy Principal or Head of Year so we can work together to uphold the school’s standards. Our uniform should be worn with pride and respect.

Congratulations to the students and staff who took the time on April 25 to honour the ANZACs. I was incredibly proud to march alongside so many respectful young adults who represented themselves and their school with distinction. Special recognition goes to Lina Truesdale and Rohan Valencius for their exemplary delivery of the 1st and 4th resolutions. Congratulations also to Matilda Ilka, who was awarded a $1,000 bursary from the Laidley RSL. Her essay was selected as a winning entry by the RSL committee, an outstanding achievement.

I wish all students the very best for the remainder of Term 2. I encourage you to take control of your future and demonstrate through your actions that you are striving to excel in your chosen pathway.

Remember: "You reap what you sow." -  Galatian 6:7

Mrs Kym Crosby
Deputy Principal - Year 11/12

Middle School Report

Welcome Back to a very busy Term 2 for Year 9 and 10

We are excited to welcome students and families back for what promises to be a busy and productive Term 2.

The dedicated team supporting Year 9 and 10 students this year includes:

• Deputy Principal – Mrs Kristie Podlich
• Head of Year 10 – Ms Kerryn Riddell
• Head of Year 9 – Mr Alex Ward
• Year 10 Coordinator – Mr Shane Canavan
• Year 9 Coordinator – Ms Rachel Reis
• Youth Support Coordinator – Ms Annette Laenen
• CEC – Mrs Karen Day
• Guidance Officer – Ms Helen Wittman

We are all here to support both you and your student. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need assistance.

This year, our focus areas for improvement include:

• Accountability for Learning – Students are expected to bring all necessary equipment each day (laptop, water bottle, school uniform, stationery, and lunch).
• Attendance – We are aiming for a minimum of 90% attendance. In Weeks 5 and 10, parents and students will receive TrackEd attendance reports via email.
• Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) – Students are encouraged to earn points by demonstrating Respect, Responsibility, Safety and Learning.
• Academic Growth – Students are expected to improve their academic performance each term.
• Reduction in Behaviour Referrals – We are working to support positive behaviour across all settings.

Key Events this Term

Term 2 includes a number of exciting and important events for both Year 9 and 10 students.

Showcase Extravaganza
This is a highlight of the year for our school community. Families and students are invited to an evening event where they can:

• View demonstrations across all learning areas
• Attend a careers expo with external providers
• Ask questions about educational and career pathways
• Receive subject information relevant to Year 10 students preparing to enter Year 11 in 2026

This is a must-attend event. Our school will be open to the community, showcasing our amazing facilities, subject offerings and the dedicated staff who support student learning.

Year 9 YLead Leadership Experience
In the coming weeks, our Year 9 leaders will travel to Toowoomba to participate in the YLead program. During this event, students will:

• Explore how they can positively impact their school, regardless of having a leadership badge
• Step outside their comfort zone in a safe, supportive environment
• Reflect on their personal strengths and leadership goals
• Connect with peers from other schools and expand their leadership network

Year 10 SET Plan Interviews – Save the Date
Our Year 10 students are currently preparing for their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan interviews in Week 9. These interviews are a key part of the career development process at Laidley State High School, designed to help students select appropriate pathways that align with their future aspirations.

• Date: Thursday, 19 June 2025
• Location: School Library
• Duration: 30-minute interview with a member of the Leadership Team
• Participants: All Year 10 students and their parents/guardians (attendance is compulsory)

Parents will receive an email with full details and a link to book their interview time online. Please mark this date in your calendar now.

We look forward to working closely with you and your student throughout Term 2. Let’s continue striving for growth, excellence and success together.

Mrs Kristie Podlich
Deputy Principal - Year 9/10

Junior School Report

Adventure, Growth and Teamwork at Burleigh Heads

Many of our students have recently returned from our annual Year 7 & 8 camp at Burleigh Heads and all reports suggest it was a roaring success.

The camp provided an opportunity for students to engage in a variety of exciting beach activities, including bodyboarding, raft building, stand-up paddleboarding, an Amazing Race and the fan favourite – tubing! Aside from having a lot of fun, all of these activities were selected to promote connection, belonging, teamwork, perseverance and self-belief.

Some of our students took the opportunity to develop and demonstrate leadership, which was duly noted by their teachers. For others, simply attending the camp and being away from home was challenge enough and we are very proud of the courage they showed by stepping outside their comfort zones. No doubt, they have grown and gained confidence from the experience!

Of course, a massive thank you must go to the staff who gave up time with their own families to attend the camp, stay up late, rise early and get roped into participating in camp activities (much to the students’ delight!). Happily, these staff returned saying they had “a brilliant few days with an awesome group of students” (to quote Mrs Pitty).

Staff who attended the camp included Mr Armstrong, Mrs Pitty, Mr Maticic, Mrs Cooke, Mrs Miles, Miss Adamski and Miss Sally. A special thank you to Mr Armstrong and Mr Maticic, who were responsible for organising the camp – their efforts were greatly appreciated by everyone!

Students who were unable to attend the camp this year will have another opportunity to experience it in 2026. The Year 7 & 8 camp has already been booked for the same time next year!

Congratulations to all staff and students who contributed to making our 2025 camp such a success!

Mr Andrew Tarvit
Deputy Principal - Year 7/8

Wellbeing Hub

Sport News

Sporting Trials – Lockyer Zone and Western Ranges

If you'd like to trial for Lockyer Zone or Western Ranges in any of the sports listed below, please put your name down in the HPE staffroom as soon as possible.

Lockyer Zone

• 12 yrs Cricket (nominations due Monday, 26 May)
• 12 yrs Softball (nominations due Monday, 26 May)
• 12 yrs Girls Rugby League (nominations Monday, 2 June)

Western Rangers

• 12–14 yrs Boys and Girls Baseball (nominations due Monday, 26 May)
• 13–19 yrs Surfing (nominations due Monday, 26 May)
• 13–14 yrs Girls Rugby League (nominations due Monday, 2 June)

Cross Country - Age Champions

Term 2 School Sport Events

• Year 9/10 Cluster Day – Monday, 23 June (full day) at the Recreation Grounds. Helpers and players for touch football, speed soccer, and netball are required.
• Athletics Carnival:
• Thursday, 26 June – Full-day event for the whole school
• Friday, 27 June – Half-day for competitors only

The Athletics Carnival will take place on the school oval.

Mrs Kristy Kreis
Sports Coordinator

Drama

Year 9 Drama Students Take Centre Stage

Our Year 9 Drama students have been actively exploring the world of skits and short performances, developing their skills in acting, collaboration and creative storytelling. Through humour and imagination, they have brought a variety of entertaining characters and scenarios to life, learning how to engage an audience and work effectively as an ensemble.

It has been a fun and energetic term so far, filled with laughter, learning and plenty of dramatic flair!

Mr Shane Canavan
Drama/English Teacher - Yr 10 Coordinator - PBL Leader

Science

Laidley High shone at the 2025 Marburg Show!

Several Laidley State High School students proudly represented our school at the 2025 Marburg Show, competing in the donkey-led classes. Their dedication, preparation and strong bonds with their animals were on full display and their results spoke for themselves!

Achievements included:

🟣 Grand Champion Donkey

🟢 Reserve Champion Donkey

🔵 Multiple First Place Blue Ribbons

🟠🟢⚪ Placings in Best Presented, Junior Handler, and Led Trail classes

Congratulations to our outstanding participants: Heath Love, Jennifer Beezley, Taylor Olsen, Chelsea Smidt, Mickey Rennex, and Mackenzie Webb. You represented Laidley High with pride and excellence!

A special thank you and congratulations to Dr Wells for leading this fantastic initiative.

Manufacturing Innovations Conference – A Dynamic Learning Opportunity

Twenty-eight of our Year 7-10 students recently took part in Australia’s first Manufacturing Innovations Conference, held on 3-4 April at TAFE Queensland’s Toowoomba campus. With only 40 spots available, it was an incredible honour to have so many of our students selected to participate in this pioneering event.

Supported by Orica, a leader in the manufacturing industry, the conference offered students the chance to:

• Engage with cutting-edge manufacturing technology
• Explore future career pathways
• Participate in hands-on activities
• Hear from industry experts driving sustainable innovation in Australia

The two-day experience sparked curiosity, built valuable skills, and broadened students’ understanding of the many opportunities within the manufacturing sector.

A huge congratulations to Gracey, Lilli, Sofia and Amber, who were awarded Most Innovative Idea, a remarkable achievement and proud moment for Laidley High!

For more details, visit the Manufacturing Innovations Conference website or watch the event’s highlight video.

Mrs Amy Moore 
Head of Science and HPE

Instrumental Music

Term 2 is flying by and our Instrumental Music students are working hard!

Our senior QCE students are finalising their second assessment pieces, while our new beginners are making great progress toward completing their first.

Both the Concert Band and Stage Band are powering ahead in preparation for the upcoming ‘Battle of the Bands’, scheduled right between our second collaboration day and our bi-annual Music Tour!

Only 16 sleeps to go until we head out west to workshop, collaborate and perform with our musical counterparts in St George, Charleville, Roma and Chinchilla. Students will also enjoy visits to the Cosmos Centre, a Bilby Experience, the Balonne River Walk and a swim at the Artesian Spa in Mitchell! Alongside these incredible experiences, students will participate in six workshops and four performances. It promises to be a once-in-a-lifetime adventure!

A reminder that final payments are now due, and our final information note, including the packing list and detailed itinerary will be sent out next week.

You're Invited: Battle of the Bands!

Join us on Thursday, 29 May for an exciting evening of music as Laidley faces off against Lockyer District SHS and Toogoolawah SHS in a friendly band rivalry. Entry is free and drinks and snacks will be available for purchase thanks to our amazing P&C.

Bring your friends and cheer on our talented musicians, we can't wait to see you there!

Mrs Jessica Logan
Instrumental Music Teacher

Art Vibes

“Art is everywhere and everywhere is art!” – Brandon Boyd

A picture says a thousand words...

These are just some of the incredible works currently coming out of the Visual Arts Department:

• Year 7 students have been exploring landscape studies using creative line and tonal grid drawing techniques. They have now moved on to a new rotation, with another class currently delving into colour theory and painting.

• Year 9 students are getting hands-on with ceramics, designing their own charming tubby animals.

• Year 10 students began the term with Impressionist Still Life paintings and are now progressing to expressive celebrity portraits.

• Year 11 and 12 Visual Arts in Practice students continue to develop their Unit 1 work, creating resolved murals and custom skateboard decks - images coming soon!

Want to see these stunning pieces in person?

Come and view our students’ work at the upcoming Showcase Extravaganza next week in Rooms C1 and C2. You’ll be amazed by the talent and creativity on display!

Mrs Atlanta Jackson 
Art Teacher

P&C News

P&C Meeting

The next P&C Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 20 May 2025 at 5:30pm in C4 behind the Administration Building. All parents and members of our school community are invited to join us.

The P&C plays a crucial role in providing resources to support and improve outcomes at Laidley State High School. Your involvement is highly valued and can make a meaningful difference.

Please consider volunteering for the P&C by emailing pandc@laidleyshs.eq.edu.au 

School Nurse

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