Mareeba State High School Newsletter - Week 6, Term 1.

Principal Update

Dear Parents, Carers and Families,

Welcome to week 6.

We are over halfway through the term and students will be in the middle of assessment items. It is always important to check in on your student and ensure they are up to date with class work and assessments but, also check in to make sure they are ok.

Checking In: Supporting Your Child During Assessments and Ensuring Well-being

As we approach assessment periods, it's crucial to support our children not only academically but also emotionally. Checking in with your child can make a significant difference in their performance and overall well-being. Here are some tips on how to effectively check in with your child around assessments and ensure their well-being:

1. Open Communication:

Start Conversations: Regularly ask your child about their day, their classes, and how they feel about upcoming assessments. Questions like "How are you feeling about your exams?" or "Is there anything you're worried about?" can open up meaningful discussions.

Listen Actively: Give your child your full attention when they talk. Show empathy and understanding and avoid interrupting or offering solutions too quickly. Sometimes, just being heard can be incredibly reassuring.

       2. Create a Supportive Environment:

Establish Routines: Help your child create a study schedule that includes breaks and leisure time. Consistent routines can reduce stress and improve focus.

Provide a Quiet Space: Ensure your child has a quiet, comfortable place to study, free from distractions. This can help them concentrate better and feel more prepared.

       3. Encourage Healthy Habits:

Balanced Diet: Encourage your child to eat nutritious meals and stay hydrated. A healthy diet can boost energy levels and concentration.

Physical Activity: Regular exercise is a great way to reduce stress and improve mood. Encourage your child to take breaks for physical activity, whether it's a walk, a sport, or a quick workout.

Adequate Sleep: Ensure your child gets enough sleep, especially during assessment periods. A well-rested mind is more alert and capable of retaining information.

      4. Offer Emotional Support:

Acknowledge Efforts: Recognise and praise your child's efforts, regardless of the outcome. Positive reinforcement can boost their confidence and motivation.

Be Understanding: Understand that assessments can be stressful. Reassure your child that it's okay to feel anxious and that you're there to support them no matter what.

      5. Seek Additional Help:

School Resources: Encourage your child to reach out to their teachers or school counsellors if they need extra help or support. Many schools offer resources such as tutoring, study groups, and counselling services.

Professional Support: If you notice signs of excessive stress or anxiety, consider seeking help from a mental health professional. Early intervention can make a significant difference in your child's well-being.

      6. Stay Informed:

Know the Schedule: Keep track of assessment dates and deadlines. This will help you understand your child's workload and provide timely support.

Stay Connected: Maintain communication with your child's teachers and school staff. They can provide valuable insights into your child's progress and any areas of concern.

By checking in regularly and providing a supportive environment, you can help your child navigate assessment periods with confidence and maintain their well-being. Remember, your involvement and encouragement play a vital role in their success.

Staying Safe and Looking Out for Each Other

As we navigate through this tricky period of the school term, it's important to remember that safety and well-being are our top priorities. Whether you're in the classroom, on the sports field, or hanging out with friends, looking out for each other and seeking help when needed are essential practices that contribute to a positive and secure school environment.

We all play a role in creating a supportive community. Here are some ways you can help:

Be Observant: Pay attention to your surroundings and the people around you. If you notice someone who seems upset, lonely, or in distress, reach out to them. A simple "Are you okay?" can make a big difference.

Show Kindness: Acts of kindness, no matter how small, can have a huge impact. Offer a helping hand, share a smile, or include someone who might be feeling left out.

Stand Up Against Bullying: If you witness bullying or any form of harassment, don't stay silent. Speak up and report it to a trusted adult. Your actions can help stop harmful behaviour and support those who are affected.

Seeking Help: It's okay to ask for help when you need it. Here are some resources available to you:

School Counsellors: Our school counsellors are here to support you with any academic, social, or emotional concerns. Don't hesitate to reach out to them for guidance and assistance.

Teachers and Staff: Your teachers and school staff are always ready to listen and help. If you're facing challenges, let them know so they can provide the support you need.

Peer Support: Sometimes, talking to a friend or peer can be comforting. Remember, you're not alone, and there are people who care about you.

Safety Tips: To ensure your safety and the safety of others, keep these tips in mind:

Stay Informed: Be aware of the school's safety procedures and follow them. Participate in safety drills and understand what to do in case of an emergency.

Use Technology Wisely: Be mindful of your online presence and interactions. Protect your personal information and report any suspicious or harmful behaviour you encounter online.

Travel Safely: Whether you're walking, biking, or taking the bus, always follow traffic rules and stay alert. Travel with friends when possible, especially after dark.

By looking out for each other and seeking help when needed, we can create a safe and caring school community. Let's work together to ensure that everyone feels valued, supported, and secure.

Stay safe and take care!

Chris Keating

Principal

Deputy Principal Senior Pathways Update

Hello Mareeba State High School Community, 

We are now in week 6 of term 1 and it’s a very busy time for our Year 12 students with Internal Assessments due this week and into week 7.  It is critical that students adhere to the school assessment policy.  Students must submit their assessment tasks on time and ensure that the work is authentically theirs.  Teachers have processes around this to support students, but it is very important that students provide medical evidence if they are absent form an exam or are unable to meet an assessment deadline.  A family holiday is not an acceptable reason for missing any assessment task, please keep holiday plans to the school holidays for your year 11 and 12 student. Please refer to the school assessment policy on our school website for information about the processes for applying for extensions for assessments. 

I would like to thank Ms Doeblien and Ms Collett-Dyer for ensuring that the Pathways Day is running smoothly.  We have students enrolled in vocational training programs and students accessing tailored learning programs.  If your student is not engaged in program of learning on the Pathways Day please contact the school.

Lastly International Women’s Day is on March 8^th.  The 2025 theme, 'Accelerate Action,' calls for rapid advancements in gender equality. It focuses on recognising strategies and tools that drive women's progress in education, employment, and leadership.  I would like to acknowledge all the wonderful women that contribute to our school community.   I encourage everyone to reflect on how we can continue to push the boundaries and keep moving forward around equity for women. 

Lesa Moro

Deputy Principal Senior Pathways 

Deputy Principal Junior Pathways Update

Dear Parents/Guardian,

NAPLAN testing will be conducted during Week 7 Wednesday 12^th March to Thursday 20^th March 2025 for Year 7 and 9 students.

Year 7 and 9 students will be conducting the testing in allocated computer rooms. It is important for every student to sit the test as this provides schools and caregivers with valuable information to best support the individual learning needs of students. If your child is absent on one of the test days, catch up testing will be made available as per schedule.  

Please see the testing schedule noting the earlier start times. Students need to be at their allocated room by 8:45am.

Daniel Roos 

Deputy Principal Junior Pathways 

Deputy Principal Educational Achievement

Hello Mareeba State High School Community, 

We are at the of the term where students will find themselves beginning to start assessments and preparing for end of term exams. This is an opportunity for students to showcase the hard work and dedication they've put into their studies so far. Students, whether you're preparing for exams or completing assessments, it's essential to stay focused and give your best effort.

Tips for Success During the Assessment Period:

1. Stay Organised: Assessment calendars have been handed out to all students, outlining the dates for upcoming assessments. Be sure to mark these on your planner or calendar at home to keep track of deadlines and ensure you're well-prepared.
2. Use Your Student Planner: Your student planner is an invaluable tool during the assessment period. Take time to record when your assessments are due. This will help you to prioritise deadlines and revision. I also encourage students to continue using their planner beyond the assessment period. Reflecting on your progress, jotting down what worked well, and identifying areas for improvement will set you up for even greater success in the coming terms.
3. Ask for Help: If you're feeling unsure about any topics, don't hesitate to reach out to your teachers for extra support. They're here to help you succeed!

Yours Sincerely, 

Krista Inglis 

Deputy Principal Educational Achievement 

Deputy Principal Educational Support Services

Hi Parents, Carers and Community members,

It is hard to believe we are already in Week 6 of Term 1. There have been a number of sobering events at Mareeba State High and the Staff and students have demonstrated their resilience and their support for each other.

All the Year 7s have participated in P.A.T. testing in Maths, English and Science over the last few weeks. We are proud of our students being able to engage like this in a test situation. These tests are important because they help us focus our teaching on what skills students need to keep growing in their learning journey.  The results will be sent to families in the next few weeks. Overall, all the students participated and engaged in the process.

The Education Support Services team presented to the whole school on what our role is and the supports that we can provide for both Teachers and Students. I would like to personally thank all staff involved as it was definitely a ‘team effort’. We are supporting a number of Teachers in identifying particular student needs and what adjustments can be made to improve their learning.

The Advisory Visiting Teacher (AVT) team visited us this week and will provide a PD around the use of setting up Soundfield Systems in classrooms and the correct usage of the unit.

Our Life Learning Program (LLP) group is progressing well and are making progress in all areas of their learning. One of our Senior students has commenced work experience at Mareeba Shire Council in the Parks and Garden section. Thank-you MSC for providing this wonderful opportunity for our student.

Many of the Teacher aides are supporting in many classrooms across the school and are working well with all the students.

Enjoy the rest of the term and look forward to meeting future parents and community members at our Open Day on Monday,31^st March from 5.30-6.30pm and enjoy a tour of the school to see what MSHS has to offer students.

Enjoy the rest of Term 1, 2025

Ann-Maree Fewtrell

Deputy Principal Educational Support 

Swimming Carnival 2025

Swimming Carnival Results 

House Results                              

1. Kennedy - 546 points 

2. McKinlay - 532 points

3. Leichhardt - 481 points 

4. Gregory - 381 points

Age Champignons 

Hi all,

I want to thank all staff who helped with the setup, running and pack up of the Swimming Carnival on Thursday, 20 February 2025. It was a great opportunity to build positive culture through sport and competition with students displaying fairness and fun which is a part of our School ROLS (Respectful, Organised, Learners and Safe). It was certainly one of the best experiences I have had at a school carnival since being at Mareeba and it couldn’t have happened without all of your hard work. 

The Sports House Captains and House Masters have been working hard to increase participation and inclusion at sports carnivals in 2025 and they started off with a bang.  We had a 46% increase in attendance for the Swimming Carnival from 2024 which translated into a greater number of participants across the day.  Thank you to those hardworking staff and students in achieving those figures for 2025.  Thank you to all the staff that motivated and encouraged students to attend and participate leading up to the event.

Next is Cross Country at the end of Term 1.  We look forward to your support leading up to and during the event.  Very proud to be a part of the Mareeba SHS staff team.

Thanks again!

Leonard Hodges,

HPE Head of Department

Swimming Carnival

Follow us on Facebook to view more photos from our Swimming Carnival 

Upcoming Events - save the date

School News

Exciting News from our Multi Learning Centre 

HEARVIEW Subtitle Glasses on Trial

Our Auslan Team recently had the exciting opportunity to trial new assistive technology at school. Sign language Mentor Mel introduced HEARVIEW glasses, an innovative device that listens to voices and displays real-time captions on the lens.

This groundbreaking technology, which is both new to Australia and highly expensive, has the potential to enhance access, literacy, and independence for deaf and hard-of-hearing individuals. Some of our Deaf Auslan using students experienced the HEARVIEW glasses for themselves, taking a little while to get used to seeing captions in their line of sight, but enjoying the exciting experience!

Having deaf adult mentors like Mel is invaluable for our Auslan-using students, providing role models who share knowledge, lived experiences, and guidance. Education Support Services (ESS) are incredibly grateful that Mel is available at school three days a week, ensuring students have access to the latest technology and strong support within the school community.

Year 7 and 10 Tablelands Immunisation Program

Please return completed forms to Q Block by Friday 28 March 2025. The program will visit the school on the below dates: 

Visit 1:    Monday 12/05/2025
Visit 2:    Monday 28/07/2025
Visit 3:    Monday 20/10/2025

News from Chappy Bec

Hi Mareeba High School Community,

I’m your local School Chaplain and I’m based at the school on Mondays and Fridays.

One of my main roles is to be a support to the entire school community in the social, emotional and educational space. I am a confidential listening ear for all who need it and understand the importance of seeking more help by way of referral for those who need it.

In this segment of the newsletter, I just want to introduce a resource to all you parents. Michelle Mitchell has been termed the ‘teenage expert’ by the media and is sought after for her compassionate and grounded advice for parents. Her website is michellemitchell.org. She hosts webinars and sends out regular newsletters giving suggestions and advice for this challenging and rewarding age that young people (and their parents) traverse through.

I hope that it proves useful for you all.

And remember connection before communication is key!

Warm regards,

Chappy Bec

News from the P&C Association

P&C meetings are moving, to every 2nd Wednesday of the month, during school terms.

The next meeting will be held at 5:30pm Wednesday 12th March 2025, in the Q Block Common Room.

We hope to see you there.

School Information

Photos! Good News and Our Achievements

Clean Up Australia Day 2025

The Gr8B and D WAM classes participated in the School Clean-Up Day, which is part of Clean-Up Australia Day on Sunday 2 March.

The students showed excellent cooperation and enthusiasm for this effort and service to the school.

The winning group collected almost 2kg worth of rubbish from their assigned area of the school, with a total of almost 6kg gathered by the entire group.

This rubbish will stay out of our waterways and will not negatively impact our environment. Recyclable material will be taken to the recycling centre for proper disposal.

The winning group was Indie, Sasha and Yasmin (front row fltr) and the group that was second with a mass of 1.3kg was Marquisha, Summer and Latayah (back row fltr).

These students were an excellent example to their peers of the difference that a small amount of effort can make.

Congratulations to Ruth, Janaya and Azariah who have signed up as school base trainees with Mareeba Kids Campus, Constance and Dunlop Streets. 

Mareeba Kids Campus is a huge supporter of our school allowing numerous students to help achieve desired pathways. These students will study a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care. 

Congrats Lachlan on your School Base Traineeship with O’Donnell’s Office National.

Lachlan will study Cert III in Business with a focus on warehousing.

Thanks to Nathan from Apprenticeship Support pictured.

Updates from our Science Department

The grade 11 Biology class completed their first mandatory prac as part of the new QCAA syllabus.

Students worked well in groups and delivered accurate results. 

Community News

COMMUNITY SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM 2025

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Your organisation gets sponsorship, and your banking helps support the community.

Sponsorship Applications
Open 31st of January 2025
Close 14th of March 2025

Please click on the below link for more information and your online application
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