Ormeau Woods State High School eNewsletter

From the Principal's Desk

A Promising Start to the Year at Ormeau Woods!

Dear Ormeau Woods Community,

It has been a fantastic start here at Ormeau Woods State High School, and I am pleased to share some of the highlights with you.

Before the term officially began, our dedicated team of teachers participated in an enriching series of Student Free Days. During this time, we focused on our school priorities, particularly on ‘High Impact Teaching’ strategies, based on feedback. These sessions were instrumental in equipping our educators with innovative tools and techniques to enhance student engagement and learning outcomes. Our commitment to excellence in teaching is strong, and we are excited to see the positive impact these strategies will have in our classrooms in 2025.

In addition to our professional development initiatives, I, along with the head of school, had the pleasure of meeting with students across all year levels. These meetings were a wonderful opportunity to discuss our key expectations and goals for 2025. We emphasized the importance of a supportive and inclusive school environment, academic excellence, and personal growth. Our students responded with enthusiasm and a shared commitment to upholding the values that make Ormeau Woods a special place to learn and grow.

This year, we are also aiming to build on our greatest ever results from last year. Our achievements in 2024 were truly remarkable, and I am proud to announce that Mr. Silcock, our Head of School, will be detailing and celebrating these successes in his upcoming article. We are confident that with continued dedication and hard work, we can reach even greater heights in 2025.

Furthermore, we are scaling up our invitations to school events in 2025, already hosting some remarkable gatherings. These include our ‘Wheels in the Woods Car Show’, the Excellence Academies Meet and Greet, the Principal’s Honour Students Breakfast, and of course, the lively ‘Splashfest’ Swimming Carnival. These events are designed to bring our community together, celebrate our achievements, and foster a sense of belonging among students, staff, and families.

As we move forward, we are eager to build on this momentum and continue fostering a vibrant and dynamic learning community. Thank you to all our students, staff, and families for your ongoing support and dedication. Together, we are poised to make this year one of the best yet!

Dan Murtas

Principal

Head of School Update

In this edition, I am excited to provide the community with a snapshot of our 2024 student outcomes and share the 2025 practices we aim to embed to ensure ongoing improvements in academic achievement.

In 2024, we pivoted after Term 1 to focus intensively on raising the academic achievement of our Year 8 students. High expectations and clear goals were set and communicated by Head of Year, James Ulcoq. All Year 8 teachers worked together to know their students and develop shared strategies to differentiate learning for their cohort. Deputy Principals, Heads of Department, and I made frequent visits to Year 8 classes to monitor student learning, understanding and progress.

This sharp and narrow focus on Year 8 yielded excellent progress in student achievement, contributing to record results for the school since its opening in 2009. Additionally, all other year levels also made significant progress throughout the year, demonstrating that the commitment to high expectations and targeted support had a positive impact across the school.

Notably, we saw an increase in A-grade achievement as we continued to extend our academically able students to reach new heights, while also providing essential support for students who struggled to meet year-level standards, particularly at grade C. These efforts reflect our dedication to supporting all learners and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to grow and succeed.

The key strategies implemented have proven to be a solid blueprint for future growth. Well done to all year levels for their efforts and progress throughout 2024!

See table below for 2024 Semester 2 results, including trends since 2020.

As we continue to build a solid and improved foundation in the junior phase of the school (Years 7-10), we are seeing a direct positive impact on academic achievement in the senior school. Notably, we are proud to report that all Year 12 students graduated with their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) for the fourth consecutive year.

Our capacity to support students in reaching the heights of ATAR continues to progress, with three students Ike S, Lachlan S, and Nana L, being recognised and awarded by QCAA for achieving six grade A results. This is a remarkable achievement, and we celebrate their hard work and dedication. All three students achieved an ATAR ranking equivalent to the old OP 1.

In addition, our highest ATAR for 2024 was achieved by Ike S with an impressive score of 99.35. This achievement is a testament to Ike's determination and academic excellence, and we congratulate him for this outstanding accomplishment.

As we reflect on our record-setting achievements in 2024, we are looking forward to continuing our focus on excellence in 2025. This year, our efforts will be centred around High-Impact Teaching strategies, ensuring we maintain and build on the success we’ve achieved. Our Commitment to High-Impact Teaching

🔹 Delivering Timely and Actionable Feedback
We are committed to providing clear, constructive feedback—both verbal and written—that is directly linked to learning criteria. This will help students not only understand their progress but also apply the feedback to actively improve their learning outcomes.

🔹 Making Learning Visible and Structured
Through the use of innovative learning environments like Third Teacher Spaces and Learning Walls, we will make learning more engaging and transparent. These spaces will help clarify learning goals, enhance student interaction, and create opportunities for ongoing feedback.

These strategies will be discussed in greater detail during the Parent and Teacher Evening on 26th February, where we encourage you to join us in learning more about our approach for 2025 and how we can work together to support your child’s success.

Supporting Punctuality for Success

In addition to our teaching team's commitments, we seek your support in ensuring that students arrive on time for the start of school. We have made a change to our daily schedule, removing the 15-minute roll call from 8:30-8:45am, so lessons will begin promptly at 8:30am, Monday to Friday. Punctuality is crucial in maximising learning time, and we appreciate your efforts in getting your child to school on time each day.

Thank you for your continued support. We are excited about what 2025 will bring and look forward to working together to provide the best educational experience for all our students.

Warm Regards,

Matt Silcock

Head of School

Key Contacts

Sponsorship Announcement

We are thrilled to welcome Community Bank Pimpama–Ormeau as a Gold Sponsor for 2025!

A huge thank you to Greg, Ash, and the entire team at Bendigo Bank for their support, we can't wait to see them at many of our events throughout the year!

Their commitment to giving back and reinvest profits into local schools, sports clubs, events, and initiatives make a real difference.

You can find Community Bank Pimpama–Ormeau at Pimpama Shopping Centre, be sure to stop in and say hello!

Save the Date - Parent, Teacher Meet and Greet

The booking portal for our Parent-Teacher Meet & Greet will open Tuesday 18 February.

Parents and caregivers will receive an email with the booking link, so be sure to check your inbox!

This is a great opportunity to connect with teachers and discuss your child's needs.

DATE: Wednesday 26th February

TIME: 3.00pm-7.00pm

LOCATION: Lower level of INNOVATE

We look forward to seeing you there!

Photo purchasing

A friendly reminder to purchase your school photos before Saturday 22 February to avoid any late fees!

Head to www.advancedlife.com.au to place your order today.

In the Woods

STEM Challenge

Our Year 9 and 10 STEM classes kicked off the year with an exciting hands-on challenge, using the Engineering Design Process to build a sturdy chair, out of just four pieces of paper and masking tape!

Tasked with designing a seat strong enough for a plush toy, students brainstormed, prototyped, tested, and refined their creations. This engaging introduction to STEM encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and resilience, proving that even the simplest materials can lead to innovative solutions. Way to go team!!

CELEBRATING INNOVATION & SUCCESS AT ORMEAU WOODS SHS!

In week two this term, we were honoured to welcome the Queensland Regional School Review Team, along with the Regional Director and Assistant Director General of Education.

Principal Dan Murtas, and Head of School Matt Silcock, proudly showcased the innovative educational practices that have driven remarkable student achievements. Our visitors were highly impressed by the school’s dedication to creating a high-quality, dynamic learning environment that continues to drive outstanding student achievements.

It was also a special moment for our 2025 Student Executive Leaders, as they undertook their first official duties by warmly welcoming our guests. They did a fantastic job representing Ormeau Woods!

The feedback from our visitors was overwhelmingly positive, with plans to share the insights gained from our school to help enhance programs in schools across Queensland. This visit highlights the power of collaboration, celebrating success, and ensuring that best practices in education continue to inspire future generations.

We are incredibly proud of our students, staff, and school community for their dedication to excellence!

𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗗𝗘𝗠𝗬 𝗢𝗙 𝗥𝗨𝗚𝗕𝗬 𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗚𝗨𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗚 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝗦𝗧𝗥𝗢𝗡𝗚

During the holidays the Academy of Rugby League boys gave up 3 days of their break to rip into some tough, physical, pre-season training. This consisted of 2 fitness and skills sessions at the school and one at the beach. The beach day was also a great opportunity for the team to have a bit more fun with a BBQ for all to finish off the day.

The boy's attitude towards training in the holidays and since returning to school has been top notch, and with the way their skills are coming along, we are looking forward to a bumper first season with the Ormeau Woods SHS Academy of Rugby League.

𝗦𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗦𝗛𝗙𝗘𝗦𝗧 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟱 – 𝗪𝗛𝗔𝗧 𝗔 𝗗𝗔𝗬!

What an incredible day filled with competition, colour, and endless fun! A massive shoutout to our amazing staff for the hard work and dedication that made this event such a success, you truly outdid yourselves!

To all the students who participated, gave it their all, and pushed themselves to new heights, congratulations! A special mention to those who have now qualified for districts, what an achievement! We are so proud of you!

And to our Year 12s, we hope you soaked up every moment of your final Splashfest! It’s been an unforgettable journey, and this was the perfect way to make a splash in your final year.

Thank you to everyone who made this day so special. Bring on Splashfest 2026!

𝗣𝗥𝗜𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗣𝗔𝗟'𝗦 𝗛𝗢𝗡𝗢𝗨𝗥𝗦 𝗕𝗥𝗘𝗔𝗞𝗙𝗔𝗦𝗧

We had the privilege of celebrating the outstanding achievements of our students at the Term 1 Principal’s Honours Breakfast.

Joined by proud parents and staff, we recognised the hard work, dedication, and excellence demonstrated by students in their Term 4 results from 2024. Their commitment to learning and striving for success continues to inspire our school community.

A special thank you to our Gold Sponsor, Community Bank Pimpama–Ormeau, for their generous support in making this event possible. Your commitment to investing in local students and education is truly valued.

Also, a huge thank you to Ike and Lachlan, who joined us to share their success since graduating last year, showing our students what’s possible when you stay committed to your goals!

Congratulations to all our honourees, you are setting the standard for excellence at Ormeau Woods SHS! Keep aiming high!

𝗡𝗢𝗥𝗧𝗛𝗘𝗥𝗡 𝗖𝗢𝗟𝗟𝗘𝗚𝗜𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗖𝗔𝗠𝗣

On Wednesday 12 February, our Year 10 Northern Collegiate Team travelled to Tallebudgera for an exciting leadership camp!

Over a few days, these students worked alongside teams from other Gold Coast schools, developing their leadership skills, building teamwork, and stepping outside their comfort zones.

We can’t wait to hear all about their experience and the valuable lessons they bring back to Ormeau Woods SHS! We hope you had an amazing time, team!

𝗬𝗘𝗔𝗥 𝟭𝟮 𝗦𝗘𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗥 𝗜𝗡𝗗𝗨𝗖𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡

Last week, we proudly celebrated our Year 12 students at their official Senior Induction Ceremony! Each student received their 2025 Senior Badge, marking the start of an exciting final year.

But the highlight of the day? The moment they finally got their hands on their Senior Jerseys! Despite the scorching 30-degree heat, our seniors wore them with pride, a true symbol of their journey ahead.

𝗛𝗔𝗣𝗣𝗬 𝗩𝗔𝗟𝗘𝗡𝗧𝗜𝗡𝗘'𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬!

A huge shoutout to Tayla, Faith and our entire Community Pillar Group for their amazing fundraising efforts this Valentine’s Day!

On Friday morning, they were busy spreading joy across the school, delivering roses to students in all year levels.

A big thank you to everyone who took part, whether by brightening someone's day with a thoughtful gift or supporting the Community Pillar initiative. We hope everyone had a wonderful Valentine’s Day!

Curriculum vs Extra-Curricular

Curriculum invoices include the SRS/Student Resource Scheme, Subject Levies and Academy Program Fees.

** Please note that Subject Levies for Years 9-12 only, will be generated this week on Friday 21 February, and will be due by Friday 28 March 2025 **

Extra-Curricular invoices include incursions & excursions, sporting events, camps, Soiree, Senior Jersey and Year 12 Formal, for payment after Curriculum invoices are paid or on a registered payment plan.

Preferred Payment method for all invoices is BPoint. Alternative payment methods include Qkr! and Direct Deposit. Please contact Finance Office for Curriculum invoice payment plans, including CentrePay and Direct Debit.

Excursion Process

Invoices for excursions are generated with due dates being ONE WEEK prior to an event. This is to give time for organisers and administration processes to occur, such as bus hire and venue confirmation, based on paid student numbers. This allows student lists to be finalised prior to the event, for students to enjoy a smoothly run event. To ensure lists are correct and event runs smoothly, no late payments can be accepted.

QParents

QParents is a wonderful way to keep an eye on all things finance with your student’s school account. If you haven’t already, I strongly encourage families to sign up for QParents as soon as possible, to be well informed of invoices, credits, due dates and more.

Queries regarding Finance? Please make contact via finance@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au

Health Hub

Meet the newest member of the Health Hub Team

Ruby began her career in education as an English as an Additional Language and English teacher, where she spent five rewarding years supporting students in developing their language and literacy skills. Her passion for student wellbeing led her to transition into the role of Guidance Officer, a position she has held for the past three years across multiple schools.

Ruby is dedicated to helping students navigate their academic journey while also supporting their personal growth and overall wellbeing. Outside of work, she enjoys listening to music and spending time at the beach.

We are thrilled to have Ruby as part of our team at Ormeau Woods SHS!

RISE AND SHINE WITH BREAKFAST CLUB!

Bring your appetite and kick off the day with a burst of energy and a side of fun in the Brekkie Club!

Tuesdays and Thursdays at the PAC, and on Friday’s head to Southern Amenities, from 7.45am to 8.25am.

The Brekkie club is all about starting the day with great food, good friends, and a whole lot of laughs, so come along and join the fun!

Canteen News

Exciting news! The Great Ormeau Bites Canteen has extended their hours on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday afternoons, staying open until 3.00pm starting this week. This will allow students and staff to grab something to eat after 2.30pm when staying for afterschool activities, tutorials or just to grab an afternoon snack for the trip home.

To ensure you get your preferred items, a limited selections can be ordered via Flexischools by 9.00am for collection between 2.30pm and 3.00pm on the selected day.

Every Day Counts

Please take a moment to review our Attendance Policy within the Student Code of Conduct and follow the correct procedures at all times, including when arriving late to school.

If a student will be absent or late for any reason, a parent or guardian must notify the school using one of the following methods:

📞 Call the Absence Line: (07) 5540 9266
📲 Send a Text Message: 0427 248 087
📧 Email: absences@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au

If a student is absent without prior notification, a text message will be sent to parents/guardians. If you receive this message, please respond directly with the student’s name, and reason for the absence.

Your cooperation helps us maintain accurate attendance records.

https://ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au/our-school/policies

QParents

If you haven't already, download it now! It's a game changer for managing all your student/s school information.

Invitations have been sent to families who still need to set up their account. This will have the unique access code required for setting up your account. If you haven't seen the email please check your junk box or email qparents@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au to have it resent.

For more information about QParents and how it can save you time please visit HERE

*Please note - If you would prefer not to upload documents for identification when setting up your account, simply visit our friendly staff in the Administration Building where they can verify your documents and confirm your account without the need to upload.

𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘 𝗗𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗤𝗦𝗖𝗛𝗢𝗢𝗟𝗦 𝗔𝗣𝗣 (𝘕𝘖𝘛 𝘛𝘖 𝘉𝘌 𝘊𝘖𝘕𝘍𝘜𝘚𝘌𝘋 𝘞𝘐𝘛𝘏 𝘛𝘏𝘌 𝘘𝘗𝘈𝘙𝘌𝘕𝘛𝘚 𝘈𝘗𝘗)

The QSchools App is no longer supported by the Department of Education, and the information showing is outdated. We recommend you remove it from your devices to avoid confusion. Please install QParents in it's place.

Enrolment Information Evening

We are thrilled to invite the Ormeau community to step inside our gates and discover what makes Ormeau Woods SHS an incredible place to learn and grow!

Explore hands-on curriculum activities
Enjoy live student performances
Meet our dedicated staff and leadership team
Experience the vibrant school culture firsthand

This is a must-attend event for families considering Ormeau Woods SHS in 2026!

Be sure to mark Wednesday 26 March 2025 on your calendars and stay tuned for more details coming soon.

Early pick up Process

If you know you will be collecting your student/s up early, please arrange a Leave Request, or phone ahead to advise you are on your way to collect a student. This saves on waiting times and interruptions on class learning.

Leave Requests can be arranged at the office by both students and parents. Information needed is; the reason for the early pickup, and the time the student/s is/are needed at the office for collection.

We can then issue a 'Leave Request' pass.

(Note: if parents call or email, please remind your child to come to the Student Window to collect their Leave Request).

Students can then show their teacher the Leave Request, and at the nominated time come and wait at the office for your arrival.

Parents MUST still come to the office (Student Counter/Window at the back of Administration) and sign students out before they leave school grounds.

Please call (07) 5540 9222 or email info@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au if you have any questions

Tutorials

iPad Purchase Program

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

Second Hand Uniform Donation

Do you have old uniforms that are just collecting dust? We're on the lookout for generous donations of uniforms to assist families and also to stock up our school's uniform room. Your support can make a significant impact!

Whether your children have outgrown their uniform, or perhaps finished their schooling journey, we'd be immensely grateful for your contribution.

We simply ask that you drop off any donations to the main Administration Office.

Let's come together as a community and ensure every student has access to the uniforms they need. Thank you for making a difference!

Ormeau Links - Community Business Alliance

Ormeau Links has undergone an exciting revamp throughout 2024, and we are looking forward to building even stronger connections with local businesses in 2025.

If you are a business owner seeking opportunities to grow your brand, engage with local families, and build meaningful connections within the Ormeau community, we invite you to explore a partnership with us.

Together, we can create a mutually beneficial sponsorship arrangement that supports your business goals while enhancing educational outcomes for students at Ormeau Woods State High School.

Our Sponsorship Invitation outlines the impactful role our school plays in the community, our standout excellence programs, and how sponsors can integrate their brand with ours. This is an opportunity to grow your business and make a lasting connection with our students, their families, and the wider community.

For sponsorship enquiries please email ormeaulinks@ormeauwoodsshs.eq.edu.au to arrange a meeting.

O-News 17 February 2025