LSHS Newsletter September 2025
From the Principal's Desk
School Rebranding
Our school is proud of its history and traditions, but we are also focused on the future. This year, we are beginning a rebranding exercise to ensure that the way our school is presented reflects the values, strengths and aspirations of our community.
There are several reasons why this rebranding is important:
- Reflecting our identity: Over time, schools evolve. The rebrand will help ensure that our visual identity - such as logos, colours and symbols - truly reflects who we are today and the direction we are heading.
- Strengthening community pride: A refreshed image creates a sense of belonging and unity for students, staff and families. It will also highlight our school as a place of excellence and opportunity.
- Enhancing recognition: A clear and consistent brand makes our school more easily recognised within the local community and beyond, supporting enrolments and partnerships.
The rebranding process will be undertaken thoughtfully and in stages. Some of the areas that may be impacted over time include:
- Signage and communications: School signs, newsletters, websites and digital platforms will begin to reflect the new identity.
- Events and publications: Updated branding will feature in all our materials to provide a modern, consistent look.
- Uniforms and sportswear: Any changes here will be phased in gradually to ensure affordability and practicality for families.
We have engaged a commercial branding expert to assist us with this process and use our input to create our new corporate identity.
This is an exciting step for our school and we are committed to making the transition smooth and inclusive. As we move through the process, we will share updates and invite feedback from our community. Together, we will create a brand that honours our past while embracing the future.
Student Dress Code Survey
Thank you to the hundreds of students, staff and parents/guardians who provided feedback on the Student Dress Code survey emailed last weekend. This is a valuable opportunity for our school community to have a say on policies and procedures that impact both our school and each of its members.
I look forward to sharing the outcome of this survey, along with its impact on our future Student Dress Code, in a later newsletter.
Reinvigorating Student Leadership at Our School
This year, we have strengthened and updated the School Captain and Student Representative Council (SRC) leadership structures to provide more opportunities for students to lead, contribute and represent their peers.
The revised model outlines clear roles, responsibilities and application processes for School and SRC leaders. Importantly, all students can engage in leadership through one of six new leadership portfolios:
- Houses
- First Nations
- Arts
- Junior Spirit & Wellbeing
- Senior Spirit & Wellbeing
- Community Connections
To be eligible for a formal leadership position, students must meet the expectations outlined in our new Positive Behaviour for Learning (PBL) Passport process. This system takes an evidence-based approach to evaluating student attendance, engagement and behaviour. The passport process will be reviewed at the end of the year to ensure it continues to support fairness, inclusion and high standards.
In addition to meeting PBL requirements, applicants must submit a written application supported by a parent/guardian, a staff member and a peer. School Captain candidates will also present a speech at a whole-school parade and participate in an interview with school leaders and external representatives.
These changes aim to:
- Encourage student voice and participation across the school
- Recognise leadership in both traditional and emerging areas of school life
- Ensure a transparent and fair process for all applicants
By updating our leadership framework, we are creating meaningful opportunities for students to develop confidence, teamwork and responsibility - skills that will serve them well both at school and in the future.
Mr Michael Clarkson
Principal
Senior School Report
Senior Schooling Snapshot
As we move further into Term 3, our senior students continue to focus on finishing the year strongly while preparing for their future pathways.
Year 12 Update
This term, Year 12 students have been actively preparing for life beyond school. They recently participated in a fundraising BBQ at Bunnings to support their formal and are now planning their final fundraising event - a staff carwash in Week 9. Students have also been reviewing their TrackEd portfolios to ensure they are up to date with their QCE progression. Presentations about QTAC applications have provided valuable insight into post-school options and entry requirements.
As Term 4 is a short term, it is essential that Year 12 students plan their time carefully. Each student has been issued an End of Year Passport, which needs to be signed by their family. This acknowledges that parents are aware that, once all assessments are completed, Year 12 students may stay at home.
Information regarding Year 12 Formal eligibility will be sent out in the last week of this term.
Celebration Events
Splurge Day will be held on Thursday, 18 September during Periods 3 and 4. This whole-school celebration sees each Care class create an activity or stand, for students to enjoy. Students can cash in their PBL points to participate.
ELEVATE Education will visit on Wednesday, 11 September to run Ace Your Exams, a session designed to support students studying General subjects with exam strategies and study techniques.
Year 11 Update
Year 11 students are currently applying for School Captain positions for 2026 and other student leadership roles. We are delighted to see strong interest in leadership opportunities from this enthusiastic cohort. They have also been working hard to design their senior jersey, with purchasing details to be sent to families soon. In addition, students must maintain focus on finishing Unit 2 to stay on track with subject completion and QCE requirements.
Uniform Reminders
Maintaining pride in our school uniform is important for modelling expectations to younger students. If a senior student arrives out of uniform, they are required to bring a note from home. The school will provide a correct uniform to change into, ensuring consistency and pride across our community.
Both Year 11 and Year 12 students are encouraged to stay focused on their studies, continue using the support systems available to them, and uphold the standards of our school community. With the year progressing quickly, now is the time to stay organised and finish strong.
Mrs Kerrie Gray
Head of Year 11/12
Middle School Report
Learning, Growing, Thriving
As Term 3 progresses, our Year 9 students are working hard to complete assessments and achieve their learning goals. We are proud of their dedication and encourage them to keep giving their best as the term draws to a close.
In the coming weeks, students will explore elective subjects for 2026, with guidance from Heads of Departments. They will finalise their selections in CPD classes at the start of Term 4 and all resources and detailed information will be emailed to families this term.
Recently, students participated in a 'Know Your Strengths' pathways session with the University of Queensland Outreach team, exploring their personal strengths and how these connect to future career opportunities.
We are also looking forward to Splurge Day, where students can spend their PBL points at stalls and take part in creating and running activities through their CPD classes - a fantastic way to celebrate positive behaviour and build teamwork.
Finally, we remind families to support punctuality, as arriving on time is essential for students to engage fully in learning and set themselves up for success.
Thank you for your continued support in helping every student thrive.
Mr Alex Ward
Head of Year 9
Setting Goals and Exploring Futures
It has been a busy and rewarding term for our Year 10 students and I would like to acknowledge their hard work, resilience and achievements, both in and out of the classroom.
A highlight of the term has been the Year 10 Work Experience Program. It was fantastic to see our student's step into the real world of work and gain valuable insights across a variety of industries. Many impressed their hosts with their effort and attitude, while for a few, the experience confirmed that the placement may not be the right career path - but even this was a valuable learning opportunity. I congratulate all students for their willingness to take on new challenges and take important steps toward their futures.
It is now time for Year 10 students to finalise their subject choices for 2026. Over the next two weeks, Mrs Podlich and I will be meeting with students who require guidance on their selections and parents will be contacted if changes are necessary. Students wishing to make changes should book an appointment with Mrs Podlich, either by contacting the office or sending her an email.
As we move further into the term, I encourage all Year 10 students to continue setting high standards for themselves - not only in their studies, but also in the values they bring to our school community. Let’s keep building momentum and finish the term strongly.
Mrs Kerryn Riddell
Head of Year 10
Junior School Report
Exploring Bright Futures!
Our Year 7 and 8 students have been busy exploring new horizons, both inside and outside the classroom!
Recently, they had the wonderful opportunity to step beyond the school gates and spend a day at the University of Southern Queensland’s Springfield campus. The excursion focused on hands-on learning, discovering exciting career pathways and imagining what the future might hold.
Throughout the day, students chose three sessions from a wide range of workshops, including:
- A Career in Teaching: Make a Difference
- Build Your Own Hydraulic Robot Arm
- Construction of a Paper Tower
- Designing Your Safe Space
- Rocket Science
- Seeing the Invisible: Ultraviolet Radiation
- Take to the Skies with Aviation
- Talk, Move, Think: Explore OT and Speech
- Unleashing Dynamic Career Paths in Business
From future engineers tackling paper towers, to budding scientists building robot arms, to students stepping into the worlds of aviation, teaching, therapy and business – it was inspiring to watch their creativity and curiosity shine.
Most importantly, our students were exceptionally well-behaved. They represented our school with pride, maturity and enthusiasm throughout the day. Their engagement in the workshops, respectful conduct and genuine interest in learning made them stand out and we could not be prouder.
As Term 3 heats up with drafting and assessments, we encourage all Year 7 and 8 students to:
- Stay organised and keep on top of timelines
- Submit all assessment pieces on time and in full
- Reach out to teachers early if you need a helping hand
With focus, energy and determination, we know our students can finish the term on a strong and positive note.
Well done, Year 7 & 8 – keep up the fantastic work!
Mr Armstrong - Head of Year 7
Mrs Pitty - Head of Year 8
Wellbeing Hub
Supporting Your Teen Online
Helping teens manage screens and social media can feel challenging, but small strategies make a big difference. The eSafety Commissioner suggests:
- Take an interest – ask your teen to show you their favourite apps and games.
- Encourage balance – set screen-free times, especially at meals and bedtime.
- Keep conversations open – let your child know they can talk to you about anything that worries them online.
Further information is available in Strategies to Support Teens Online flyer below and additional resources can be accessed via the eSafety Parents Page link below.
Quick Tips for Reducing Anxiety
Supporting your teen also means helping them manage stress and worries. Some simple, effective strategies include deep breathing to calm the body, distraction with a positive activity, physical exercise like a walk outdoors, mindfulness to focus on the present and even scheduling a short daily “worry time” to release anxious thoughts.
Art Vibes
"Art is too important not to share." – Romero Britto
Exciting times are ahead for our Visual Arts students over the coming weeks!
The Lockyer Valley Art Gallery is hosting its annual High Schools of the Lockyer Valley Exhibition, Viewpoints from 22 August to 12 October. Selected students and their families celebrated their amazing talents at the official opening on 28 August.
Also coming up is the Arts Department’s Splendour in the Hall, where there will not only be incredible performances in music, dance and drama, but also an exhibition of student artwork created throughout the year across all year levels. The public will have the opportunity to vote for their favourite junior and senior artwork in the People’s Choice Award, with the winners announced at a future school parade.
These two events are the culmination of the hard work and dedication of our Visual Arts students. Well done to all!
ITD Spotlight
White Card Construction Course
Some of our Year 11 Construction students successfully completed their Construction Induction (White Card) Course. This training is a key component of the Certificate I and II Construction Pathways course and is required for students to complete their qualifications.
The White Card, issued by Occupational Health and Safety Queensland, is compulsory for anyone wishing to work on a building site in Queensland, regardless of trade.
Throughout the full-day course, students completed both the theoretical and practical components with expert trainers from Blue Dog Training.
By successfully obtaining their White Cards, our students are now one step closer to being work-ready for apprenticeships and traineeships in the construction industry.
Year 8 Students Judge the Primary STEM Challenge
Last week, four of our Year 8 students were invited to Laidley District State School to assist with the Primary School Cluster STEM Challenge. STEM stands for Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
Local primary schools sent teams of Year 3 and 4 students to take part in the Minecraft Challenge, where they were tasked with designing and building a suitable zoo habitat for an endangered species of their own creation – the imaginary “Lizren”.
Our Year 8 judges faced the challenging job of selecting the category winners and the overall champion school. It was a tough task, as the students’ designs were so creative and impressive that the competition was extremely close.
The four judges – Nathan, Sofia, Archer and Leroy – did a stellar job and all attending teachers agreed: we were glad we weren’t the ones deciding the winners! They also demonstrated themselves to be excellent ambassadors for Laidley State High School. Well done!
Mr Ashley Dewar
ITD Teacher
Instrumental Music
Instrumental Music – What a Term!
What an incredible few weeks it has been for Instrumental Music at Laidley SHS! We proudly hosted our final Chamber Ensemble Day with students from Lockyer DHS and Toogoolawah SHS. The day was buzzing with energy and collaboration and our Chamber Ensemble students then took their talents to the stage at the Lockyer Valley Art Gallery opening night at the Lockyer Cultural Centre giving an unforgettable performance that wowed the crowd.
The excitement didn’t stop there! We welcomed more than 220 students from our cluster primary schools, including Laidley DSS, Hatton Vale SS, Forest Hill SS, Blenheim SS, Glenore Grove SS, Lake Clarendon SS, Helidon SS, Gatton SS, Grantham SS, Ma Ma Creek SS, Mt Whitestone SS, Flagstone Creek SS, Withcott SS, and Lockyer DHS. Together, they filled our halls with music, participating in a mass choir, string ensemble and streamed band ensembles. The week culminated in a spectacular evening performance that truly showcased the power of music to bring people together.
Adding to the excitement, students had the rare opportunity to learn from guest conductors from the Metro South region, a highlight that inspired everyone involved.
A massive shoutout goes to our phenomenal Head of Department - Arts and English, Ms Shannon, for her tireless organisation and to all of the dedicated teachers and guest conductors who made it such a success.
And we’re not done yet! Our Concert Band and Stage Band lit up the stage at Splendour this week and in Week 10, they’ll be joining Chinchilla SHS on tour at Gatton SS for a day of workshops and performances.
It has truly been a standout term for our Instrumental Music students, their talent, commitment and enthusiasm have made us all so proud. Here’s to finishing the year on the same high note!
Mrs Jessica Logan
Instrumental Music Teacher
Science Week
Curiosity in Action: Science Week Highlights
This year’s National Science Week was an exciting celebration of curiosity, innovation and discovery at Laidley State High School. Students across all year levels had the opportunity to participate in a range of engaging activities designed to showcase the importance of science in everyday life and future careers.
In the library, students took part in hands-on science activities that encouraged problem-solving, creativity and teamwork. Near the Ag plot, they explored the technology of the future with drone-flying sessions, learning how drones can be used in industries ranging from farming to filmmaking. To top it off, students enjoyed a special meet-and-greet with an agronomist, gaining valuable insights into agricultural science and the role it plays in supporting sustainable farming and food production.
Science Week 2025 highlighted not only the fun side of science but also its real-world applications and career pathways. A big thank you to all staff, students and guest presenters who made the week such a success!
Mrs Amy Moore
Head of HPE & Science
Sport News
Kings Cup Competition
- Monday, 15 September – U15 Girls & Mixed Teams
- Tuesday, 16 September – U15 Boys & U13 Boys
Qld All Schools Competition
- U15 Boys: Wednesday, 8 & Thursday, 9 October (Times to be advised)
- U15 Girls: Wednesday, 8 - Friday, 10 October (Times to be advised)
🔹 Note: Bus transport provided for Wednesday and Thursday. Students will need to arrange their own transport for Friday morning's game. - Open Mixed: Friday, 10 & Saturday, 11 October (Times to be advised)
Year 7/8 Cluster Day
🗓 Thursday, 18 September
📍 Laidley Recreation Grounds
Students will walk to the venue during school hours.
Year 9–12 students may be involved in officiating or assisting with organisation.
Sports Awards Night
🗓 Thursday, 16 October
🕡 6:15 PM
🔹Invitation Only - Invitations will be emailed to families at the beginning of next week.
Mrs Kristy Kreis
Sports Coordinator
School Nurse
P&C News
P&C Association Meeting
The next P&C Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, 16 September 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
Super Clinic Tour
Multi-Sport Player Development Clinic will be held during the September School Holidays at the Laidley Recreation Reserve on Thursday, 2 and Friday, 3 October 2025.
The clinic will give students aged 10 -18 years the opportunity to develop their skills in Rugby League, Netball or Soccer with coaching from some of the biggest names in sport:
- Todd Carney & Ben Roberts - Former NRL stars
- Georgia Grey, Shontelle Stowers & Taliah Fuimaono - NRLW Titans players
- Gretel Bueta - Australian Diamond & Queensland Firebirds star
- Shane Smeltz - Former International Footballer & A-League star
Clinic Details:
- Dates: 2 - 3 October 2025
- Location: Laidley Recreation Reserve
- Sports Offered: Rugby League, Netball and Soccer
- Ages: 10 - 18 years
- Cost: $99 per player, per day
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