LSHS Newsletter June 2025

From the Principal's Desk

Teacher Recruitment

We are pleased to share that our school has successfully recruited four new staff members since our last newsletter. One of these staff members commenced this week, while the remaining three will begin at the start of Term 3. One of these new teachers will be supporting students in our FlexiSpace program.

FlexiSpace Program at Laidley State High School

The Queensland Department of Education’s FlexiSpace initiative is designed to support students who are at risk of disengaging from mainstream education. These purpose-built, in-school learning environments provide targeted assistance to help students re-engage with their education while remaining connected to their school community.

Laidley State High School was allocated a FlexiSpace program in mid-2024. Renovations to establish the FlexiSpace were completed in the library over the Christmas holidays, in preparation for the program’s launch. While staffing challenges delayed the initial rollout, the recent appointment of a dedicated Flexi teacher now enables the program to begin in Term 3.

FlexiSpaces offer flexible, short-term learning support for students showing early signs of disengagement. These spaces feature adaptable furniture and learning zones, allowing teachers to tailor curriculum delivery to meet individual student needs. The primary goal is to support student engagement without disconnecting them from their peers or the broader school environment.

The upcoming semester will mark the start of the Flexi program for selected Year 8 students at Laidley State High School. A cohort of 12 to 15 selected students will be invited to join the program, where they will study Maths, English, and Geography using the same Australian Curriculum units as their year-level peers. Students will continue to attend their other classes within mainstream settings.

Participants will receive personalised instruction from dedicated staff, with a strong focus on supporting their academic progress and eventual reintegration into full-time mainstream classes. Learning will take place within our newly developed FlexiSpace, an inclusive, well-equipped environment designed to foster engagement and confidence.

Since its introduction in 2018, the FlexiSpace program has expanded rapidly. In 2024 alone, over 100 FlexiSpaces have been established across Queensland as part of the $288 million Youth Engagement Education Reform package. This investment reflects the state’s strong commitment to providing inclusive educational opportunities for all students.

Program evaluations have consistently shown promising outcomes, including increased attendance, improved academic performance and stronger student engagement.

We are excited to welcome our first group of students into the Laidley State High School FlexiSpace program before the end of this term.

Mr Michael Clarkson
Principal 

Senior School Report

Senior Schooling Snapshot

As we approach the final weeks of Term 2, it's a valuable time to reflect on the progress made and look ahead to key milestones in our senior schooling journey.

Year 11 Update

Year 11 students have now completed Unit 1 in all General and Applied subjects. Some students have made subject changes, and we are now working through Unit 2, which will continue until the end of the year.

A reminder that each subject consists of four units across Years 11 and 12 and students must earn a minimum of 20 credits to be eligible for a Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE).

To support students and families in tracking progress towards the QCE, QCE Reviews will take place on Tuesday, 24 June. Year 11 students are not required at school on this day; however, all families are expected to book a meeting to review their child’s academic progress, subject selections and QCE eligibility. Booking information has been distributed. If you have not received it, please check your Junk or Spam folders.

Year 12 Milestone – 100 Days to Go!

Last week, we marked an exciting milestone for our Year 12 students, just 100 days remaining until graduation! Students celebrated with cake and shared reflections on their journey so far. The key message is clear: now is the time to intensify focus and effort as we head into a critical stage of assessment, preparation and transition planning.

We were also pleased to welcome guest speakers from the UQ Outreach Mentoring Program during a recent Year 12 CPD session. These mentors generously shared their experiences and offered practical advice for life after school. We thank them for their valuable support of our senior students.

AARA Reminders

As assessment periods approach, please remember that AARA (Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments) paperwork is required if a student is unwell, misses an exam, or needs to request an extension. We ask families to contact the school as early as possible so we can ensure the appropriate supports are in place.

Looking Ahead

We are also looking forward to a visit from the Pat Cronin Foundation, which will deliver an important presentation on respect, choices and safety as part of our wellbeing and personal development initiatives for students.

Thank you for your ongoing support of our senior students as they continue to strive, grow and prepare for their futures. Your partnership plays a vital role in their success.

Mrs Kerrie Gray
Head of Year 11/12

Middle School Report

Year 9 Highlights

As we move into Week 9, our Year 9 students are entering a busy and important part of the term, with assessment tasks now well underway. We understand this can be a challenging time, but it’s also a valuable opportunity for students to demonstrate how much they’ve learned and grown.

We encourage all students to stay focused, ask for help when needed and continue putting in their best effort - you’ve got this!

Uniform Reminder

A reminder to families about our uniform expectations, especially as the weather begins to cool. Students are required to wear the correct school jumper in line with our uniform policy. If your child does not have a school jumper, they are welcome to borrow one from the office.

Please also note that full formal uniform is to be worn on Tuesdays and Thursdays. If, for any reason, a student is unable to wear the correct uniform on these days, a written note from home is required.

yLead Altitude Day

In Week 5, some of our Year 9 student leaders had the opportunity to attend the yLead Altitude Day in Highfields. This inspiring event focused on leadership, personal strengths and resilience.

Our students participated with enthusiasm, developed valuable skills and most importantly, represented Laidley State High School with pride and maturity. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and the way they embraced the experience.

Thank you for your continued support as we head toward the end of the term. If you require any assistance from myself or the school, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

Wishing you all a safe and restful holiday break when it arrives!

Mr Alex Ward                    
Head of Year 9                

Year 10 Updates

Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan Interviews

This term, our Year 10 students have been busy in CPD classes exploring suitable pathways to help them achieve their future goals. The SET Plan process is a collaborative effort involving the student, their parents/guardians and the school.

All parents/carers have received information to book their interviews, which are scheduled for Thursday, 19 June 2025. Bookings are now closed, and we are looking forward to working with students and families to ensure everyone understands the requirements moving forward.

Students are required to bring their laptops and dress appropriately for an interview. They are only required to attend school for the interview itself. Supervision will be provided for any students who are unable to make alternative arrangements.

Structured Work Placements – Term 3, Week 6

We are excited to offer Structured Work Placement opportunities for all Year 10 students in Week 6 of Term 3.

Students will have received a letter outlining the process along with a form that must be completed and returned no later than Monday, 23 June 2025 (Week 10).

To make the most of this opportunity, we encourage students and families to be proactive. If your child has a specific workplace or connection in mind, please include it on the form. Students should research and provide contact details for at least two preferred job choices, along with their preferred placement location. Please complete and submit the form by the due date.

Work experience is a formal, short-term placement that allows students to gain insight into their chosen industry. These placements are unpaid and give students the chance to observe and assist with tasks under supervision. Students are not expected to undertake duties requiring extensive training or expertise.

Mock Interviews – Term 4

Following their work experience, all Year 10 students will take part in Mock Interviews in early Term 4. This will be a fantastic opportunity for them to practice and develop essential interview skills.

In preparation, students will work in CPD classes to:

• Create a professional resume

• Learn key interview techniques

• Gain confidence in presenting themselves

The future is full of possibilities, and we can’t wait to see where our students’ pathways will take them!

Mrs Kerryn Riddell 
Head of Year 10

Junior School Report

Term 2 Update 

Term 2 has been a whirlwind of learning, success and a few challenges, all part of the Year 7 and 8 journey! We’ve seen students step up, bounce back and continue building those all-important skills for life and learning. There’s been lots to celebrate, steady improvement and plenty of memorable moments.

Career and Personal Development (CPD): Growing Our Mindsets

In Year 8 CPD, students have been learning about growth mindset, the idea that we can improve through effort, smart strategies and learning from mistakes. It’s not about being perfect; it’s about giving things a go and learning along the way.

As part of their assessment, students have selected inspirational quotes that reflect this mindset. Here are a few popular choices:

• “I have not failed. I've just found 10,000 ways that won't work.” – Thomas Edison

• “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.” – Winston Churchill

• “You miss 100% of the shots you don’t take.” – Wayne Gretzky (or Michael Scott, depending on who you ask!)

In Year 7 CPD, students have been exploring resilience – learning how to bounce back from setbacks, manage emotions and persevere through challenges. Weekly reflections and class discussions have helped build stronger emotional skills and confidence for the years ahead.

Special UQ Visit – Study Skills & Resilience

Both year levels were fortunate to take part in a special visit from the University of Queensland (UQ). The sessions focused on study skills and resilience, complementing our CPD work and giving students practical tools they can use throughout the year. (Check out some snapshots from the sessions below!)

Attendance Reminder – Every Day Counts!

A friendly reminder: students need at least 85% attendance to participate in school activities such as sport, camps, arts events and more. Missing even one day per fortnight adds up quickly and can impact learning and PBL Passport eligibility.

If attendance is a challenge for any reason, please get in touch – we’re here to support you.

Uniform – Keeping Warm the Right Way

We know the mornings are cold! Students are welcome to wear their own jumpers under their school jumper or jacket, but non-school jumpers over the top aren’t permitted.

Need a school jumper or jacket? Students can borrow one from the office for the day. If you need help accessing uniform items, our support team is ready to assist, just reach out.

Let’s Finish Strong!

There’s still more to come this term and we’re excited to finish on a high note.

Enjoy the rest of Term 2 – and remember…. Together, we can!

 Mr Armstrong - Head of Year 7                                                                                                                                               

Mrs Pitty - Head of Year 8                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Wellbeing Hub

Understanding and Managing Exam Anxiety

With students now in the midst of end-of-semester exams, many are experiencing increased levels of stress and parents may be noticing it too. Exam anxiety is a common response during what is often a high-pressure time, and it can arise before, during, or even after the exam itself.

For some, a little anxiety can be a helpful motivator. But for others, it may negatively affect performance, wellbeing and mental health. If exam anxiety is becoming overwhelming, it's important to remember you’re not alone and there are strategies to help.

We’re sharing a valuable resource that explains what exam anxiety is, offers practical tips for managing it, and features a real student’s story of navigating panic attacks during exams.

Learn more by clicking the link below.

Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Hub

Celebrating Culture and Community

I’m excited to introduce myself as the new Head of Department for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Education, taking over from Ms Chloe Park while she is on maternity leave. It’s a privilege to be working alongside our amazing First Nations team and to support the cultural identity, learning and success of our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students.

This term, we’ve been incredibly proud of the way our school has come together to recognise National Reconciliation Week. As part of our whole-school activity, students created large Rainbow Serpent artworks that represent strength, connection and story. These beautiful pieces will be displayed at key events throughout the year and serve as lasting symbols of our commitment to reconciliation. During the process, students also took time to learn about the meaning and importance of Reconciliation Week and what it means to walk together toward a shared future.

Looking ahead to Term 3, we’re preparing for our NAIDOC Week celebrations, where students will take part in a range of cultural activities including traditional games, art and reflection. It’s a valuable opportunity for all students to celebrate and learn about the richness of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander cultures.

Our talented First Nations dance troupe will also be very busy next term, with several performances planned across the school and community. Their commitment to rehearsals this year has been outstanding and this dedication truly shone during their first performance at our annual Showcase Extravaganza in May. We are incredibly proud of their efforts and can’t wait to see them continue to shine.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to build a strong, inclusive and culturally proud school community. Keep an eye out next term for more NAIDOC Week details and photos!

Miss Sheovon Murray
Head of Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Education

Kokoda Youth Foundation - On the Right Track

Kokoda Journey

Our Laidley SHS On the Right Track students are well into their journey as part of the Kokoda Youth Foundation’s six-month program, which promotes personal growth, builds life skills and encourages young people to set healthy boundaries. Over time, these experiences help students rediscover their potential in education and life, while strengthening their self-worth and confidence.

Inspired by the Kokoda Campaign of WWII, where Australian soldiers displayed immense courage, endurance, sacrifice and mateship, the program challenges students to include these same values, also known as the Spirit of Kokoda. Through regular mentoring, team activities and physical challenges, students are encouraged to overcome obstacles and develop lasting resilience.

Students have been participating in weekly training hikes and recently attended a three-day Kokoda Training Camp (6–8 May), where they were involved in activities designed to build leadership, cooperation and perseverance. A highlight came last weekend when our team took on the Brisbane Kokoda 18km Challenge, finishing in just 4 hours and 50 minutes!

This incredible achievement marks an important step toward their biggest challenge yet: the Gold Coast Kokoda Challenge – 48km, happening on 19–20 July in the Gold Coast hinterlands. This endurance event is a key milestone in the program, reflecting the lessons learned over the past months and showcasing the determination, resilience and teamwork these students have developed.

Beyond the event itself, students will also complete volunteer community service, applying what they’ve learned in real-world settings and giving back to the community in meaningful ways.

At Laidley SHS, we are incredibly proud of our students for embracing this journey and demonstrating the Spirit of Kokoda in all they do.

Mr Matthew Maticic
Kokoda Coordinator 

Student Council

Term 2 Highlights

Term 2 has been a busy and inspiring time for our Student Council, who have continued to show outstanding dedication to creating positive change within our school and the broader community.

On May 9, students wore blue in support of Do It for Dolly Day, standing united against bullying. In partnership with the Wellbeing Team, the Student Council organised a lolly raffle and coordinated the free dress day, raising over $400 for the Dolly’s Dream Foundation.

Most recently, on Friday, June 6 our school was awash with pink for Pink Day for Emily, raising awareness of Batten’s Disease, a rare and devastating condition affecting local community member, Emily. Students showed their support by wearing pink accessories, decorating the school and buying cupcakes, with all proceeds going to the Batten Disease Support & Research Association.

Behind the scenes, the Student Council has also collaborated with Chappy Julie to begin planning a new Wellbeing Garden, a meaningful legacy gift from the 2024 Student Council. The garden will be developed around the Wellbeing Hub to provide a peaceful, supportive space for all students.

A huge congratulations to our Student Council for their compassion, initiative and leadership throughout the term!

Miss Emma George
Student Leader Coordinator

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 9

Next

Sport News

Year 9/10 Cluster Day

📅 Monday, 23 June (Full day)
📍 Laidley Recreation Grounds

Athletics Carnival

📅 Thursday, 26 June – Full-day event for all students
📅 Friday, 27 June – Half-day event for competitors only
📍 Location: School oval

Get ready to cheer, compete and show your colours with pride!

🔵 Boomori (Blue): A – G
🟡 Lallira (Yellow): H – O
🔴 Wundurra (Red): P – Z

We look forward to seeing our students getting involved, giving it their best and showing true house spirit!

QLD All Schools Preliminary Games

📅 Wednesday, 3 September (After school)
📍 Laidley Recreation Grounds

Mrs Kristy Kreis
Sports Coordinator

Instrumental Music

Instrumental Music Combined Western Tour

On Monday, 2nd June, 51 instrumental music students and 6 brave teachers embarked on the trip of a lifetime out West, visiting and performing in St George, Charleville, Roma and Chinchilla.

Over the four-day tour, students collaborated with more than 15 schools, mentoring primary students and making music (and friendships!) with high school students.

In between rehearsals (which Mr Edwards made sure were hard-working!), students enjoyed a games night in St George thanks to Chappy Sam, gazed in awe at the stars at the Cosmos Centre in Charleville and even learned about and met, the endangered bilbies.

Another highlight was the visit to the Great Artesian Spa in Mitchell, where students relaxed in natural hot spa waters before cooling off in the ambient pool.

Throughout the tour, students were committed to refining their skills and strengthening their curriculum learning, delivering polished 45-minute performances right up until the final day.

A massive thank you goes to Jim McDonald MP, Lockyer District High School P&C and the Laidley State High School P&C for their generous support in helping make this incredible experience affordable for our families.

Mrs Jessica Logan
Instrumental Music Teacher

QUT Sports Technology Outreach Program

 QUT Sports Tech Van!

On Friday, 30 May, Laidley State High School had the exciting opportunity to participate in the QUT Sports Technology Outreach Program, a hands-on, immersive experience delivered through the impressive QUT Sports Tech Van!

This dynamic mobile workshop brought sports science and technology to life through a series of interactive rotations. Students explored how data, biomechanics and tech innovation are transforming the world of sport — and how these tools connect directly with what they’re learning in the classroom.

Aligned with the Australian Curriculum (Years 7–10) and the QCE Physical Education Syllabus (Years 11–12), the experience enabled students to make meaningful connections between their HPE studies and real-world pathways in sport, health and technology. They also gained valuable insights into future careers and study opportunities beyond school.

Proudly funded by the Higher Education Participation and Partnerships Program (HEPPP), the Sports Tech Van targets regional and low-ICSEA schools, providing exceptional access to university-linked learning at no cost to participating schools.

A massive thank you to QUT for delivering such an inspiring program and for promoting future opportunities in sport, science and education to our students at Laidley!

Mrs Amy Moore
Head of HPE & Science

Theatre Restaurant

Save the Date – Theatre Restaurant 2025!

We are thrilled to announce that the highly anticipated Theatre Restaurant will be returning on Thursday, 31 July 2025.

This special event is a highlight on our school calendar, showcasing the incredible talents of our students through an evening of live entertainment paired with a delicious meal.

Make sure to mark the date and stay tuned for more information in the coming weeks. 

P&C News

P&C Association Meeting

The next P&C Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 17 June 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 

Community Noticeboard