As we move toward the end of Term 3, it is wonderful to reflect on the many opportunities and achievements our students have been involved in recently, as well as the collaborative work we continue to strengthen across our local schools.

Early Dismissal Program with Laura PS and Gladstone PS

This week’s early dismissal program was run in partnership with Laura Primary School and Gladstone Primary School. Our focus was on the transition of students between sites and, importantly, the way we share and use student data to best support their ongoing learning. It was an excellent opportunity for staff across our schools to build consistent practices that will help students feel confident and supported as they move through their educational journeys.

Upcoming Fiji Service Trip

We are very proud of our eighteen students who will soon embark on the Fiji Service Trip. This will be a life-changing experience, where they will contribute to community projects, develop global perspectives, and strengthen their sense of service and leadership. We look forward to sharing their stories and reflections in future newsletters. Many thanks to Danya McKay and Emma Jeffries who will accompany our students on this trip of a lifetime.

Royal Adelaide Show Achievements

Congratulations to all of our students who recently participated in the Royal Adelaide Show. Their achievements are a credit to their hard work and the guidance of staff and community members who support them. Months of work goes into preparing for this event and it is rewarding to see students and their animals develop over the course of the year.

Port Augusta Technical College Pathways

It has also been encouraging to see quite a few of our students engaging in all four pathways at Port Augusta Technical College. The breadth of involvement demonstrates the wide range of interests and aspirations among our learners, and we commend them for taking on these opportunities with commitment and enthusiasm. It has been a steep learning curve and at times a daunting experience. Already, many of them have commented on how valuable it has been and the new skills they have already developed.

Attendance

Finally, I would like to touch on attendance. We greatly appreciate families who keep us informed when students are unwell and for ensuring they remain home to recover. This keeps our school community safe and healthy. At the same time, we stress the importance of returning to school as soon as possible and catching up on any missed work. Every day matters, and consistent attendance makes a significant difference to learning progress and outcomes.

Together, these highlights reflect the vibrancy of our school and the many ways our students are building skills, demonstrating our values, and preparing for their futures.

Subject Counselling for 2026 

Subject counselling for students entering Year 11 and 12 in 2026 has now been completed. Senior Staff are reviewing the selections to determine what subjects we can offer in a way that supports all students to achieve their individual goals and future pathways. We look forward to building a timetable that enables every student to take steps toward their dreams.

University Visits 

This term, students had the opportunity to hear directly from university representatives. Flinders University visited GHS to deliver their River Journey sessions, providing valuable insights into university life and pathways. We also welcomed UniHub, who spoke about the opportunity to stay local while studying at university, with the support and resources of their regional campus model. These sessions help students explore their post-school options and understand the variety of pathways available to them.

Port Augusta Technical College (PATC) 

Several GHS students have participated in learning opportunities at the brand-new Port Augusta Technical College during Term 3. Congratulations to Madi Clogg, Lilly Gregory, Hudson Seidel, Aaron Hombsch, Charlie Flavel, Jakobe Evans, Ollie Heinrich, Millie Smith and Mirra Tunbridge for their involvement. We look forward to watching the program grow into the future. 

Madi Clogg and Lilly Gregory were part of the inaugural week of PATC and shared their reflections: 

“Last week was our very first week at the brand-new Port Augusta Technical College (PATC) – and what a week it was!

We’ve just started working towards our Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance through the Australian Nursing and Midwifery Education Centre (ANMEC), and we’re so grateful to PATC and ANMEC for giving us this amazing learning opportunity.

The week kicked off with the official campus opening on Monday, 4 August, where we got to hear from South Australia’s Premier, Peter Malinauskas, and Minister for Education, Blair Boyer – plus there were lots of cameras from the media covering the event.

After the excitement of the launch, we had a few things we thought could be improved, so we spoke to the staff. They listened, made changes, and made us feel much more comfortable staying on campus for the week.

In our Health and Social Support course, we’ve already learned how to assist someone from sitting to standing and from the floor without lifting aids, along with important lessons about laws and ethics, WHS, emergency procedures, and manual handling.

We’ve also made lots of new friends, shared plenty of laughs, and brought home some funny stories from our first week away.

We’re excited to head back to the Tech College this Sunday with the other GHS students – ready for more learning, new experiences, and memories we’ll never forget!”

Year 12 Countdown 

 Our Year 12 students are now in the final weeks of their school journey. With exams and final assessments approaching, they are encouraged to make the most of their study time and use feedback from teachers to refine their work. This is the time to stay focused, work hard, and finish strong—we look forward to celebrating their achievements at the end of the year.

The Year 9 and 10 students have had a busy and exciting term, packed with events, accomplishments, and important milestones.

For the Year 10s, course counselling has been a key focus as they consider their pathways and prepare for the transition to Year 11. These sessions have been invaluable, helping students make informed decisions about their subjects and setting goals for their future academic and career journeys.

Meanwhile, Year 9 and 10 students proudly represented Gladstone High School at the Adelaide Show with our school’s goats and sheep. Their positive attitude, teamwork, and willingness to participate in all activities made us incredibly proud. It was a fantastic opportunity to showcase their dedication and enthusiasm for agriculture.

Some Year 10 students also enjoyed an adventure-filled Outdoor Education camp, hiking from Crystal Brook to Georgetown along the Heysen Trail. This experience allowed them to challenge themselves, develop teamwork skills, and appreciate the great outdoors. The camp was a highlight, filled with fun moments and personal growth.

A reminder to all families that school uniforms are an essential part of our identity and must be worn every day. If you need to purchase new uniform items, they are available through the school, and we encourage all students to take pride in representing Gladstone High School through their presentation.

Well done to all our Year 9 and 10 students for their positivity and hard work this term! Keep up the great efforts as we look forward to what’s to come.

Ski Trip

The Year 9 Ski Trip was extraordinary—an adventure brimming with new challenges, perseverance, and memories to last a lifetime. From the moment the group set off at 9 pm on Saturday to the final run down the slopes, the students demonstrated their adventurous spirit and enthusiasm.

After an overnight journey, students arrived in Mount Beauty at 2 pm on Sunday, where they eagerly began unpacking and sorting their ski gear. Though exhausted from the travel, their energy levels soared as they prepared for the days ahead. An early 6:15 am start on Monday morning marked the ascent to Falls Creek.

The trip wasn’t without its hurdles. From mastering the demands of putting on ski boots to learning the fundamentals of skiing, the students met every challenge head-on. Falling down was part of the journey, but so too was getting back up—a lesson in resilience that will serve as a metaphor for life’s trials. Despite the slips and spills, every student embraced the activities with determination, laughter, and an unwavering enthusiasm that shone brightly on the slopes.

Some students quickly found their stride on skis, advancing to tackle the intermediate blue runs. Popular slopes included "Wombats," "Main Street," "Village," and the aptly-named "Monkey Bar." These slopes became favourites for their combination of excitement and challenge, with students pushing their limits and celebrating every small victory along the way.

The camaraderie among the group was just as heartwarming as the experience itself. The joy, encouragement, and support they extended to one another made the trip even more memorable. Watching friendships strengthen and confidence grow was a highlight for all involved.

At the heart of the adventure was not just skiing, but the life lessons gained—perseverance, teamwork, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. The Year 9 Ski Trip wasn’t just the best time—it showcased the remarkable spirit of the Year 9 cohort and gave everyone an experience they’ll treasure for years.

Active Citizenship Convention

On the 18th of August, a group of seven Year 10 students, accompanied by Mrs Jeffries and Mr Bennet, travelled to Adelaide to participate in the Active Citizenship Convention. This remarkable event was designed to inspire young people to explore democracy, discover the power of their voices, and understand how they can shape their future.

The convention featured a diverse lineup of speakers, including Premier Peter Malinauskas and the Leader of the Opposition, offering valuable insights into leadership, governance, and the importance of active participation in the democratic process. Students also engaged in interactive workshops alongside peers across South Australia, working collaboratively to discuss key issues and propose ideas for real-world impact.

The day was an eye-opening and energising experience for all involved. Our students not only gained a deeper understanding of Australia’s democratic system but also left feeling empowered to make a difference. With newfound knowledge and confidence, they learned that their voices can influence positive change.

It was a fantastic opportunity for the students to connect with others, learn from inspiring leaders, and reflect on their role as active citizens in shaping a brighter future.

It has been another productive and engaging term for our Year 7 and 8 students, with plenty of learning and activities taking place both in and beyond the classroom.

In morning Homegroup, our Year 7 students have been working on developing their own “Ready to Learn” scales and plans. This has been a valuable opportunity for them to reflect on how they prepare themselves for the day ahead, and to take ownership of strategies that help them to be focused, calm and ready for learning.

Later this term, both Year 7 and 8 students are looking forward to their excursion to Port Pirie to see the Youth Theatre’s production of Madagascar in Week 9. This promises to be a fun and inspiring experience, and we are excited to see our students engaging with the arts in our wider community.

We were also pleased to welcome a group of Year 6 students from Crystal Brook Primary School who visited as part of their transition to high school. It was great to see their enthusiasm as they explored our learning spaces. For any students or families who were unable to attend our Open Night tours earlier in the term, we encourage you to get in touch if you would like to arrange a visit.

It was also pleasing to see the number of students recognised for their academic efforts in our assembly earlier this term. Celebrating these achievements is an important way of acknowledging the hard work and commitment our students bring to their learning.

Like many schools, we have seen a significant impact from illness this term, with attendance presenting a real challenge. While it is important that students take the time they need to recover, I encourage parents and caregivers to stay in close contact with class teachers to ensure students are supported and don’t fall behind in their learning.

Looking ahead, Parent Teacher Student Interviews will take place early in Term 4. This will be a valuable opportunity to connect with teachers about your child’s progress, and I encourage families to reach out beforehand if they have any questions or concerns. I am confident our students will continue to be well supported in their learning as we move into the latter part of the year.

Helen Gaunt - Coordinator

Year 8 A Science Excursion 

During Week 5, our Year 8A students had an incredible opportunity to see energy in action! 

A huge thank you to Arlen and Phil from Energy Australia Hallet Power Station for giving our students a guided tour, including the rare chance to see inside the brand-new gas-fired turbine. The insights shared gave our students a real-world perspective on how electricity is generated and delivered across South Australia.

Students also travelled to the Hornsdale Energy Reserve, home to one of the world’s largest battery storage facilities. Seeing how renewable energy is stored and supplied was a perfect connection to their current Energy unit in Science. 

We are so grateful to Energy Australia for supporting our students’ learning journey and inspiring the next generation of scientists, engineers, and innovators.

Lauren Amey - Teacher

R U OK?

Thursday, 11th September, was R U OK Day. This day raises awareness of the importance of conversation and noticing changes in the people around us. This year, we held a special Breakfast Club with hot toasties, chocolate and strawberry milk. We encouraged our students to think about the ways they can check in with their friends and ask “R U OK?”

For parents, it can be quite common to feel like our children don’t want to share much about their day. Does this sound familiar?

“How was your day?” “Fine.”

“What did you do today?” “Not much.”

Sometimes, the way we word our questions can help with creating a deeper conversation. Below are some ideas of different questions we can ask young people.

If you would like more information, visit https://www.ruok.org.au/

It's nearly Fiji Time!

Shout out to the Gladstone Op Shop for generously funding the labelling of our tops to take away! Amy Hagger from Shear Magic in Jamestown did a fantastic job with the labelling, and they will definitely help us to be recognisable while abroad. With volunteers helping volunteers, this is a great example of the power of positivity and community-mindedness. We look forward to leaving the schools we are assisting with some photos of the communities and businesses that supported our ventures overseas.

Keep an eye out on our Facebook page for updates of our trip...we set abroad on Monday 22^nd September and can't wait to show you pictures of our teaching and learning experiences, along with progress shots on the initiatives that we will help with while abroad. 

Thank you again to all of the businesses and individuals who have helped us out in our fundraising pursuits and encouragement. We have been very fortunate to have received the support from the local communities that we have. 

Vinaka, vaka levu (Fijian, Thank you very much)

Danya McKay

Gladstone High School Shines at the Royal Adelaide Show 2025 

Gladstone High School’s Show Team has once again represented our school with pride, skill, and professionalism at this year’s Royal Adelaide Show. From goats, sheep and steers to poultry, our students demonstrated teamwork, dedication, and a passion for agriculture that impressed both judges and crowds alike.

Led Steer Competition

Despite some very wet weather (including hail!), our team showed incredible resilience and spirit in the lead-up to the competition. Over the past few days, students have been busy cleaning steers, polishing equipment, and setting up our steer pen.

Our steers weighed in at 594kg, 571kg, 451kg, and 401kg, with all qualifying for the main competitions – a huge achievement! 

The action began on Saturday with the TFI Competition, followed by On Hoof Judging on Sunday. A big thank you goes to Goolagong Santa Gertrudis & Angus Stud for transporting our cattle to the Show – your support is greatly appreciated. 

Led Goat Wether Competition

Our goats arrived at the Show on Tuesday, thanks to the support of Nigel Clogg and Peter Zwar, and were brushed and polished to perfection before hitting the ring.

• Year 9 students created an outstanding pen display, looking sharp in shirts and ties.

• The team placed 6th in the ATASA Most Professional School Show Team category.

• Special congratulations to Duncan Clogg, who achieved 5th place in the Handlers Competition for his goat’s weight class.

Led Steer – On Hoof Wrap-Up

It was a big weekend for our cattle team, with highlights across the board:

• In the Thomas Foods International Breed Judging Competition, our Speckle Park steer was chosen to represent the breed in the TFI team – a huge achievement showcasing both our students’ hard work and the genetics from Ewyn Beef.

• Students proudly participated in the Grand Parade, showing professionalism and resilience even when the steers were a little cheeky!

• During weight class judging, while no ribbons were won, Nicki Zanker stood out by being selected for the Best Relationship with Animal class – a testament to her calm handling and bond with her steer.

The excitement isn’t over yet – the team now awaits results from the On Hook Carcass Competition, one of Mr. Wren’s favourite events!

Merino Wether Competition

Competing against 77 pens, our two pens of three wethers were recognised for their quality, with one selected for wool value and the other for meat value. This marks the second year in a row we’ve earned 4th place — a fantastic achievement as the competition grows!

A big thank you to former student Will Griffin for his expert crutching work, which was praised by judges.

Well done to all involved — an impressive result for our Ag students and the Mid North farming community! 

Poultry Success – EGGcellent Results!

Our poultry team also enjoyed great success, with their pen of three chickens judged on Sunday:

• The girls placed 7th overall.

• Even better, they achieved 4th place for pen similarity and true-to-breed criteria, showing strong improvement from last year’s results.

Congratulations!

A huge congratulations to all students, staff, and supporters who contributed to another fantastic Show season. Your long hours, commitment, and passion for agriculture have once again made Gladstone High School proud.

Statewide Netball

At the end of August, our year 9/10 Statewide Netball Team competed in the Division Three, Statewide Netball Final at the Netball SA Stadium. Throughout the whole competition, they have been commended for their sportsmanship, flexibility and peer support. The girls placed third in the event. Thanks to Lauren Amey for coaching and to all parents who supported the event, whether by travel, scoring, umpiring or cheering them on.

MNSEC Fast Five Netball

Gladstone High School was the proud host of the 9/10 Fast 5 Netball Carnival for our MNSEC Schools. The event had great energy and plenty of competition across the day. Fast 5 Netball is taught in the curriculum prior to the carnival, which finalises the unit and is treated as an assessment task and a celebration of their learning while connecting with others at an interschool competition.  

As hosts, there were lots of helpers who eased the day's runnings, special thanks to Hannah Pech, Brooke Skinner, Brianna Pullan and Lauren Amey for their contributions towards coaching, umpiring and teaching the students prior to the event.  Alo, special thanks to the year 12s who cooked a barbecue lunch, with proceeds going towards their end-of-year dinner. There were many grateful recipients. Shout out to Amanda Bowman also the convenor of the event. 

Farmers Across Borders

In the early hours of the morning, we received an email seeking support from the Farmers Across Borders organiser, Dave Humphris. Dave needed help getting the side of a trailer load of hay painted in readiness for the Crystal Brook Show the very next day. The trailer wasn't going to ready until after lunch...which didn't leave us with much time to undertake the adventure. 

Anyway, in a true example of mateship and collaborative work, a group of our Stage 1 Art students got on board without hesitation. Shout Out to Jackson Fudge who spent his morning making up templates proportionate to the size of the intended painting, to give us a guide of the lettering and shape being sought after. At lunch time, Jackson Fudge, Taylah Palmer, Isabella Laird, Eloise Cowin, Riley Hoskin. Imogen Cunningham and myself, loaded up for an efficient operation. With the impressive help of a local farmer, Hamish Klemm, who had not only the trailer ready, but had also welded a ladder with rails, to ensure all safety was considered, on top of the safety gear that Meredith had provided, we were suited up, safe and efficient. 

It's fair to say that the students were pretty proud of their efforts and there was a real buzz about helping out a local in need, and finishing off the job well. While it was a hectic afternoon, it was definitely a highlight of the week and if you saw the truck at the Crystal Brook Show, the results spoke for themselves. Well done to everyone who helped!

Danya McKay

We recently held a whole school assembly to reflect on the significance of Aboriginal Education at Gladstone High School. We showcased what our Aboriginal learners participated in throughout Semester 1 and how we continue to embed Cultural engagement in our school.   

We are currently reviewing our Reconciliation Action Plan and were successful in fulfilling our objectives, one of which was to create a ‘Acknowledgment to Country' pull-up banner!  

Jasmine O’Brien contributed to some artwork, which is reflected on the banner representing KAWi, which is water in the language of the traditional custodians, the Nukunu people.  

Over the semester, I have visited Years 7-8 classes to share information to reinforce our stance on racism at our school and reflect on the significance of events in our shared histories.  

Our Aboriginal learners have created QR pickets to display around the school so learning areas can access them to keep the flow of conversations going.

Judy Crosby - ASETO