O-News 9 February 2024

From the Principal's Desk

Hello Everyone,

I hope this newsletter finds you well and that you are as excited as I am about the fantastic start we've had to the school year. Our students have truly demonstrated outstanding effort, excellent behaviour, and a commendable adherence to our new 'phones away for the day' policy. It has been wonderful to see the level of positive social interaction our students are having at lunch times.

It is truly heartening to witness the dedication and enthusiasm our students have shown in their studies. Their commitment to learning and their willingness to embrace this new policy has created a focused and productive learning environment. We are proud of their maturity and their understanding of the importance of minimizing distractions to maximize their educational experience. The Head of School, Mr Silcock and I have met and presented to each year level cohort on the first day of term to highlight school and year level expectations.  It has been excellent to witness students meeting these expectations. 

I am also thrilled to share with you the outstanding results achieved by our Year 12 students from last year. It is with great pleasure that I announce that 20% of all ATAR students achieved an ATAR score greater than 90 points. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of both our students and our exceptional teaching staff.

Furthermore, I am delighted to inform you that our highest achieving student obtained an outstanding ATAR score of 98.35 points. This is an incredible achievement and a reflection of the student's perseverance, intelligence, and commitment to excellence. We are immensely proud of their accomplishments and know that this success will serve as an inspiration to their peers.

As we move forward in the school year, I encourage all students to continue their outstanding efforts, and to maintain the high standards they have set for themselves. Let us celebrate these achievements together and use them as motivation to reach even greater heights.

Thank you for your continued support and partnership in creating an environment where our students can thrive and succeed. Together, we will continue to foster a culture of excellence and provide our students with the tools they need to succeed in their academic journey.

Warmest Regards,
Dan Murtas
Principal 

Head of School Update

Hello and welcome to Ormeau Woods SHS - 2024,

I am really excited where and how the school is moving over the next four years of continuous improvement as we commence our 2024 - 2027 School Strategic Plan with a sharp and narrow focus on providing:

• A Safe, Supportive & Collaborative School Culture,
• High Impact Teaching,
• Lifelong Learning,
• Sustainability and Growth.

As with any process of improvement, collaboration and feedback will underpin our learning in supporting students, families and the community effectively. I look forward to our engagement this year and beyond as we work together to maximise:

• Educational Achievement,
• Well-being,
• Inclusivity and Culture.

In planning for the future, we are mindful of our past and current context and reality.

With both students and staff, Principal Dan Murtas and myself have shared an extensive array of school achievement data, affirming significant improvements in student academic outcomes. As a result, students increasingly have greater access to education, training and employment. We can’t lose sight of the fact that we aim to inspire students and prepare them for their Next Step.

What were some of our key affirmations we highlighted and evidenced?

1. Whole school, we are achieving more A-C, A-B and A grades than previous, seeing progressive improvement each year. This has been strengthened through greater student success in all year levels and subjects. Significant work has been undertaken by staff in building their capability to deliver curriculum, assessment and classroom instruction effectively. Through our commitment to professional learning, collaboration and a focus on student achievement, we work collectively to ensure students are planned for and supported in their learning journey. As with any skill we aspire to improve further and be even better.
2. Senior School students continue to obtain greater results in Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking (ATAR) and QCE. Our Senior results are highly competitive in comparison to both local private and other Gold Coast Secondary State Schools. We are right up there and proud of it! Achieving 20% of all ATAR results above 90 plus. Our three years of 100% A-C is a testament to the work of students, staff and family working together to finish thirteen years of schooling with the Queensland Certificate of Education. We have a proven track record of not only getting students over the line but getting them to the top and onto meaningful pathways.

Overall, in comparison to relative schools contextual with ourselves, as well as the private sector, we demonstrate great value through our student achievement. Obviously, we want to make further gains and we believe that we will achieve that through our 2024 - 2027 School Strategic Plan.

Regards,
Matt Silcock
Head of School

Meet the Staff

In this edition of O-News, we are thrilled to introduce to you three key staff members at Ormeau Woods State High School.  English Head of Department; Languages, International, and Excellence Programs Head of Department; and HMS Head of Department.

These dedicated individuals play a pivotal role in shaping the academic landscape at our school, fostering an environment where excellence and innovation thrive. We will continue to showcase the remarkable talents within all faculties in future editions and highlight the exciting developments taking place within our classrooms.

Ms Nikki Stevenson  |  Head of Department - English

This is my fourteenth year in Education and my sixth as a Head of Department. This has included a wide variety of experience in curriculum, leadership, and pedagogy. Currently, I am in my third year in this role leading the English Faculty at Ormeau Woods SHS. My professional journey has taken me through various public and private schools in the South East Region, with a key focus on enhancing academic outcomes and fostering engagement in English and Humanities classrooms. 

Beyond curriculum responsibilities I have been actively involved in the design and implementation of intervention programs for reading and writing. More recently, I’ve been dedicated to challenging students who have the potential to work beyond their current year. Previously I have collaborated with Griffith University and the Reading and Writing Centre to enhance literacy in schools. Additionally, I have served as a presenter for the Beginning Teachers Association, conducted reading and writing workshops in several schools, led Academic Excellence programs, and worked closely with QCAA for several years in the Senior Schooling space. This involvement with QCAA has included external marking, confirmation, and more recently an invitation to become a Literature scrutiny panel member as a subject matter expert in addition to my current role. 

Looking forward, I am excited to be continuing my support of every student at Ormeau in their English journey and providing opportunities for them to succeed and excel. I enjoy speaking with parents so welcome phone calls or an email at any time. You can reach me using the school phone number or email me at ntatt5@eq.edu.au 

In coming newsletters you will be able to meet the English faculty team and I will be providing both Junior and Senior updates to help keep you in the loop this year.

Ms Tanya Capra  |  Head of Department - Languages, International and Excellence Programs

I have been a teacher for the last 25 years and have worked in a variety of public and private schools (both primary and secondary) up and down the Queensland coast, wearing the hats of an English, German, Japanese, HPE, and Art teacher. This is my sixth year at Ormeau Woods SHS and my third year in a Head of Department role – currently looking after Languages and the International and Excellence Programs. Throughout 2024 I will be focussing on nurturing a global perspective among our students, encouraging them to embrace excellence in their educational journey.

In addition to my Head of Department responsibilities, I am a member of the Positive Behaviour 4 Learning (PB4L) Committee.  I have been the school’s Pre-Service Teacher Co-Ordinator and a Mentor for Beginning Teachers.

On a personal note, I am mum to three children, with our youngest currently navigating the exciting challenges of Year 12. In my spare time, you'll often find me engrossed in a good book, gardening, or catching up with friends.

Mr Warren Camps  |  Head of Department - Health and Movement Studies

This will be my sixth year as Head of Department for Health and Movement Studies and Sport at Ormeau Woods State High School and I love it. 

 When I was growing up as a student, I probably would never have gone to school if it wasn’t for sport, so I find myself lucky to work with a group of amazing teachers who love to give opportunities to students through sport.  We offer sporting opportunities through touch football, volleyball, basketball, futsal and soccer, rugby league and netball.  I am so fortunate and grateful to work with so many teachers who give up so many hours of their time to hold trainings, attend games and competitions so that our students can learn, engage and thrive in so many different sports.

 Aside from sports, we also have our three big carnivals – Splashfest, LIVIN Run In the Sun and Ormeaulympics.  There might be a slight bit of bias from myself, but it is always good to see everyone having fun and enjoying themselves, competing and always coming runner up to the almighty Roxinho Highlanders!!!

The HMS Faculty is one that is not only about sport, but we also engage our students in their academic classes as well.  We offer core HMS in years 7-10, and then elective Fitness, Sport and Rec, Health Education and Physical Education in years 10-12 as well. 

The HMS Faculty has seen a bit of a shake up this year, with 4 new staff joining us – Ms Clearwater, Ms Edwards, Mr Sheldon and Mr Thomas.  These highly experienced teachers join the already top HMS team of Mrs Augur, Mr Austin, Mrs Ludowici, Mr Naufahu, Ms O’Connor and Mr Shirtcliffe.  If students ever need any of these amazing teachers, the HMS Faculty can be found at Issy D staffroom.

In the Woods

FLAME TEST IN YEAR 9 SCIENCE

Year 9 science students are doing a Chemistry unit this term and are learning about the internal structure of atoms and how this leads to various chemical reactions. 

To observe the electrons within atoms, students conducted the ‘flame test’ experiment where different chemical compounds are exposed to a Bunsen burner flame. These different chemicals cause the flame to change colour as energy is released from the movement of electrons within the atom as it is heated. Students were amazed to see the normally yellow/orange flame of the Bunsen burner change to bright red, green and purple. 

What a fun way to explore the atom!

YEAR 12 CERTIFICATE III FITNESS

Students are super fortunate enough to be able to simulate real life scenarios in our very own OWSHS gym!

At the moment they are practicing their group fitness training skills and completing their practical modules with our qualified staff and utilising Binnacle Training for their theory components.

The best part about this certificate is that they can leave school with a qualification they can use straight away in group fitness or a gym (linking learning with life) and also have 6 QCE points banked for their Year 12 certificate!

Looking forward to seeing some of our students in the fitness industry in the near future!

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 10

Next

OSMOSIS IN YEAR 10 STEM

Students in 10 STEM are currently developing science inquiry skills. Throughout the term students will be rotating through each science gaining exposure to what they will encounter when they select senior science subjects for next year, making them more prepared for success.

The first few weeks have been spent studying biology topics, students engaged in a practical activity to investigate osmosis by placing potato cells into different concentrations of sucrose and saline solutions overnight. Students then weighed the potato cells the next day to determine whether the cells had increased or decreased in weight due to the movement of water in and out of the cells. What a great way to start the term.

SAFETY FIRST IN THE WORKSHOP

Our Year 10 Material and Technology Specialisation in Timber class are kicking off the year with a crucial focus – SAFETY!  Under the expert guidance of Mr. Cullum, our students are diving into the proper use of workshop tools, ensuring a secure work environment for all.

Prev

Showing images 1 - 8 of 9

Next

YEAR 7 BUNSEN BURNER LICENCE

Students in Year 7 science lit matches today to demonstrate their ability to safely operate a Bunsen burner so they could be awarded their Bunsen burner licences.  The safe use of science equipment within the labs is an important skill that students have been focusing on for the first few weeks of high school to ensure they can partake in a variety of experiments throughout the year.

YEAR 12 FASHION

Our talented fashion designers are embarking on a cultural journey, infusing every stitch and thread with the vibrant stories of the world. The journey begins with creating vision boards, drawing from various cultural colours, textures and fabrics for inspiration. We can’t wait to check back in to see your creations come to life.

PB4L

For more about PB4L @ OWSHS please read the attached document:

Health Hub

Hello everyone,

The school’s Health Hub is located in the Resource Centre. We have a School Chaplain, School Support Officer, an Indigenous Support Officer, two Guidance Officers, a visiting School Based Youth Health Nurse, Service from Mission Australia, A Health Hub Teacher Aide, and an Administrative Officer.

Part of the service offered to students include:

• Conversations about concerns or issues.
• Subject discussion and career counselling
• Support and development of Personalised Learning Plans
• Support if feeling anxious about attending school
• Exploration of other supports if needed
• Adjustments and extensions for senior students

If you are unsure or in doubt about something, please contact the main office and ask for the Health Hub.

Looking forward to meeting and working together.

If you find yourself in need of extra support, there are lots of places you can contact for assistance.  Please also reach out for support from the Guidance Officers and the Health Hub team here at Ormeau Woods SHS at any time.

Breakfast Club

When? Before school Tuesdays and Wednesdays

Where? Outside Resource Centre

Who? Everyone

The School Psychologist at Ormeau Woods SHS can provide up to 10 free weekly or fortnightly sessions per year for students with mild to moderate mental health concerns. This may include various anxieties; mild to moderate trauma; panic disorders; low mood and depression; stress management; resilience; self-esteem and confidence issues. Referrals are made through the school Guidance officers.

Finance News

Student Resource Scheme

The SRS covers all resources supplied to students, excluding basic stationery. It includes class novels, dictionary & textbooks, basic supplies & consumables for practical subjects, class photocopying, and licences for software & learning apps provided on BYOD and Purchase iPads.

Monies paid for the SRS, in addition to the Textbook & Resource Allowance paid from the Qld Govt directly to the school, is utilised for resources for your student.

If you have elected to not participate in the Student Resource Scheme, you are required to supply your student with items as per the SRS breakdown which will soon be on our website.

Payment of the SRS invoices would be appreciated by due date of Friday 15 March 2024, unless a current payment plan is in place and registered with the Finance Office.

Subject Levies

Students in Year 9, 10, 11 & 12 will be invoiced for subject specific resources next week, after all student timetables are correct and finalised. Payment of these would be appreciated by due date of Thursday 28 March 2024, unless a payment plan is put in place and registered with the Finance Office.

Extra-Curricular Activities

During the year various extra-curricular activities will be organised and invoices generated to parent emails. Please note and pay by Due Dates, to allow for finance processing, generation of lists for attendance purposes and for final bookings & organisation of the activity. When an activity due date has been reached and prior to the activity occurring, unpaid invoices are cancelled and Adjustment Notes are emailed out to parents to reflect this. Adjustment Notes are not for payment, and are not credits for future use, they are clearing the original invoice/charge.

CentrePay and Credit on Accounts

CentrePay is for Educational Purposes such as Fees (SRS & SL) and iPad. CentrePay is not for extra-curricular activities such as excursions or sports or Formal. If fees have been finalised for the year and there is credit left on the account, parents can contact finance for credit to be utilised for extra-curricular invoices.  This is not an automatic process.

Upcoming Activities

District Swimming on Mon 12 Feb - $20 due by Mon 12 Feb

HoTA Year 12 Art Excursion: Sneakers Unboxed on Thurs 15 Feb - $25 due by Fri 9 Feb

Dance Camp (Sleepover) on Fri 16 – Sat 17 Feb - $16 due by Wed 14 Feb

Champs Day 1 G/Basketball & B/Touch on Wed 21 Feb - $25 due by Mon 12 Feb

Tonie Carroll Cup Year 7 Rugby League on Thurs 22 Feb - $30 due by Fri 16 Feb

School Payment Options Available:

QParents, BPoint, Qkr!, Direct Deposit, Card and Cash.

Payment Plans via Direct Deposit, Direct Debit and CentrePay.  Please make contact on finance@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au 

Canteen Payment Options Available:

Cash, Card or Flexischools at/through the Canteen.

IT Department

For more information on the iPad Purchase program please visit:

https://ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au/curriculum/bring-your-own-device

Parent Teacher Interviews

Save the Date

Parent Teacher Interviews | Meet and Greet

 Wednesday 21 February 2024  |  3:00-7:30pm

More information regarding how to book your interview slots will be emailed early next week.  We looking forward to seeing as many of our families here as possible.

Every Day Counts

Tutorials

International Homestays

Ormeau Links - Community Business Alliance

Queensland Train Manufacturing Program

For full details please visit: