Newsletter

Last Monday, I had the privilege of joining our Year 6 students, along with Ms Duggan, Mrs Odewahn, Mr Langman, and our Year 6 teachers, for a dynamic Leadership Day at Ritamada. The day centred on the key principles of leading self and leading with others, featuring engaging discussions and hands-on activities designed to build teamwork, confidence, and personal responsibility.

One of the highlights of the day was a series of positive team-building challenges that required students to communicate effectively, problem-solve collaboratively, and support one another. These activities reinforced the idea that leadership is not just about taking charge but also about lifting others up and working towards shared goals.

A key discussion centred on the power of the “second person” in creating a movement. Students explored how the first leader may start an idea, but it is the second person—the one who follows and encourages others to join—who truly transforms an idea into action. This lesson underscored the importance of courage, inclusivity, and the role each person plays in shaping a positive community.

To further develop their leadership skills, our students will also participate in a day of learning with the dynamic team from Inspire Higher, reinforcing their understanding as they begin the process of nominating and preparing for leadership roles.

These experiences are equipping our students with valuable leadership skills and the confidence to take on new challenges as they take their first steps into developing themselves as leaders.

Part of ensuring this approach is to enable and foster student voice and agency. It is important that our students feel their thoughts and feelings matter, and that their voices are heard. Through collaboration with students and staff, we are working to enhance social and emotional wellbeing, whilst also reinforcing the positive behaviours we want to see embedded throughout RGS. As part of this process, I have the pleasure of teaching in each class in the primary school over a three-week rotation.

This week I started visiting classrooms and one of the most rewarding aspects of this approach, is the opportunity to connect with the students on a personal level. Building strong, positive relationships is central to my role, and I want to ensure that I have the capacity to build relationships with students to support and understand each student’s unique needs, meeting them where they are at and ensuring they also have the opportunity to get to know me.

As part of this process, we have been engaging with students to explore how they are feeling about themselves and their school. We have discussed the importance of gathering data and how we use this information to gain valuable insights into what is working well and where we can grow. By understanding student perspectives, we can identify areas of strength and opportunities for growth across our learning and our school.

Empowering students to discover their own voice in a supportive school environment fosters self-confidence, initiative, and leadership. When students feel heard and valued, they are more likely to take responsibility for their own learning and growth, creating a positive and dynamic atmosphere in the classroom and across the school community.

At RGS, we are always here to support our students. We recognise that success looks different for each student, and we are committed to providing the support necessary for each student to experience success. We are always available to discuss how we can best support our students. I have thoroughly enjoyed beginning to get to know and work with our students and look forward to further fostering these important relationships.

The Impact of InitiaLit on Student Literacy Development
As we reflect on the progress our students have made from Year 1 in 2024 to Year 2 in 2025, the data from the InitiaLit screener reveals significant improvements in literacy outcomes. These results highlight the academic growth of our students, and the effectiveness of embedding practices based on the Science of Reading in our classrooms.

Year 1 (2024): Establishing a Strong Foundation
At the outset of Year 1, the InitiaLit screener indicated that 62% of students were performing below the expected level, indicating challenges in foundational literacy skills. Additionally, 21% of students were in close proximity to achieving the required level, while 17% were performing at or above the expected standard. These results highlighted the need for targeted interventions and emphasised areas for focused improvement through explicit instruction.

Through focused instruction in phonics, decoding, and comprehension, students received the necessary support to strengthen their literacy skills and progress towards meeting the expected benchmarks.

Year 2 (2025): Remarkable Growth and Achievement
In Year 2, the results of the InitiaLit screener demonstrate a remarkable transformation. Only 6% of students are now performing below the expected level, a significant decrease from the previous year. Furthermore, 20% of students are in close proximity to the expected level, signifying they are on the verge of full proficiency. The most striking result is that 74% of students are now performing at, or above, the expected level, reflecting a substantial increase in the number of students who have successfully developed the literacy skills necessary for early academic success.

The data from Year 1 to Year 2 highlights the effectiveness of explicit instruction based on the Science of Reading in addressing the diverse needs of students and supporting their progress towards literacy proficiency. By utilising detailed screener data, our educators were able to identify specific areas of need and provide tailored instruction that has resulted in significant improvements in student outcomes.

This progress represents a deeper engagement with literacy, increased student confidence, and the development of essential reading skills. This outstanding result for our students and teachers is a direct outcome of their hard work and perseverance, and it is a success we proudly celebrate at RGS.

Year 7-12 Tips for Parents and Carers
The QCAA have released a new video series featuring clinical psychologist and register teacher, Dr Judith Locke. The series features nine short videos for parents and carers offering practical tips to help support their child’s learning and wellbeing. A link to the series is here - Advice from Dr Judith Locke | Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority

Topics covered during the short videos include:
* Getting your child ready to start secondary school
* Establishing homework routines with your child
* Preparing for the tween and teen years
* Reconnecting at the end of a school day
* Helping your teen to be motivated and set the right goals
* Supporting your teen to have a balanced life
* Supporting your teen in senior schooling
* Preparing your child for work or study after they finish school.

Year 11 and 12 Determination of Subject Results
I wanted to explain the determination of subject results for Year 11 and 12.  Under the current system there is not one unit of measure. The scale used depends on whether it is a General, Applied or Applied (Essential) subject. Based on guidelines set by the QCAA ‘to determine results, schools make judgements about student achievement using the evidence in student work matched to the syllabus standards, reporting standards or ISMG for the relevant syllabus.’

Determining results: Units 1 and 2 General subjects
The School must report student results for Unit 1 and Unit 2 to the QCAA as satisfactory (S) or unsatisfactory (U). Where appropriate, the School may also report a not rated (NR).

Determining results: Units 1 and 2 — Applied subjects
The School will make judgements on individual instruments using an instrument-specific standards matrix. The unit judgement of A–E is made using the syllabus standards.

Determining results: Units 1 and 2 — Applied (Essential) subjects The School has to make judgements on individual instruments. The unit assessment program comprises the assessment instrument/s designed by the School to allow the students to demonstrate the unit objectives. The unit judgement of A–E is made using the reporting standards

Determining results: Units 3 and 4
Students need to respond to all instruments in all subjects to receive a final subject result. All evidence used to determine each student’s results is authenticated as their own work.

Determining results: Units 3 and 4 — General subjects
RGS will make judgements regarding the evidence in students’ responses using the ISMG to indicate the alignment of student work with performance level descriptors. The School will award a mark for each criterion assessed by the three internal assessment instruments. The external assessment is also used to determine a mark out of one hundred. The QCAA will issue this mark along with an A-E result based on cut offs that they determine for that specific subject and year. Hence the cut offs are not known prior to December and are not determined by RGS.

Determining results: Units 3 and 4 — Applied subjects
An exit folio is a collection of evidence of student responses to all assessment instruments in the assessment program. The assessment program is defined in the School’s approved study plan and includes the four instruments designed to allow the students to demonstrate the objectives twice across Units 3 and 4. An A-E result is determined for the Applied subject.

Determining results: Units 3 and 4 — Applied (Essential) subjects The School must make an on-balance judgement using evidence in each exit folio, matched to the reporting standards (expressed as an A-E by criterion). The folio includes responses to the three school-developed assessment instruments and the common internal assessment (CIA) instrument, which provide evidence of achievement in relation to all objectives of the syllabus and standards.

Year 7 and 9 NAPLAN
The School will hold NAPLAN trials later this term. Again, the School will complete NAPLAN via the online platform following a federal government mandate several years ago. Annual NAPLAN testing commenced in Australia in 2008 for all students in Year 3, 5, 7 and 9, with tests conducted in the domains of reading, writing, language conventions (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy. The history of NAPLAN is based on the Adelaide Declaration on National Goals for Schooling in the Twenty-First Century (1999) which agreed to report on a state and territory basis using national key performance measures. This Declaration was supported by the Melbourne Declaration (2008), which stated ‘the learning areas of English and Mathematics were fundamental in all areas of schooling.’ It was this belief which gave rise to the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy.

The formal online NAPLAN assessments will commence at the School on Wednesday 12 March and more details will be provided to parents shortly.

GENERAL
If you have any questions regarding academics or your child’s progress please feel free to contact me on [email protected] or 49360 609.

For some students, they are already feeling organised, in control, and managing their classes and co-curricular activities. Other students are still adjusting and finding their way, which is very normal. There is no set timeline for adjusting to big changes, and beginning Secondary School is definitely one of them. However, if you are worried about how your child is adjusting, please take a moment to contact me.

In our Year 7 Enrichment Programme last week, we were thrilled to have the Head of Leadership, Mr Kyle Langman, join us for our Leadership for All launch. During this session, Mr Langman introduced Year 7 students to the three dimensions of leadership – Leading Self, Leading Others, and Changing Our World – and focused on what this might mean for a Year 7 student. It was interesting to hear students' responses when they were asked what it means to be a leader. While there was a range of answers, students eventually settled on the idea that being a leader is not always about the big things. You can lead by being kind to others and by listening to them. This aligns well with the messages the Year 7s have been receiving in Form and Tutorial lessons, encouraging them to show kindness to others and always leave space in their circle for one more person to join. We look forward to continuing to work with Mr Langman as we deepen our understanding of Leadership.

Last week, I sent a reminder to families about the upcoming Immunisation clinics for Year 7 students. The schedule for these clinics is as follows:

In that email, I also reminded families about Flexischools, the online ordering option for the School Canteen. If you have not yet set up a Flexischools account, please consider doing so.

On Thursday, we will hold the Secondary School Swimming Carnival. I encourage all our Year 7 students to embrace this event. While I do not expect to see every Year 7 student swimming, I do expect to see all of them there, cheering on their friends and their House. It is also a great opportunity to support our Formal and Valedictory Dinner by making a purchase from the Canteen, run by senior students. Please remember that this day is a half-day, with the carnival concluding at 12:30 pm. I look forward to seeing all our Year 7 students there!

It has been fantastic reconnecting with our Year 8 students and seeing their enthusiasm as they settle into the year.

Last week, we held our first cohort assembly, a thrilling moment as we gathered the entire year group for the first time. The energy in the room was incredible, and I look forward to seeing how this cohort grows and supports one another throughout the year. Over the past few weeks, visiting Form classes has been a highlight, offering a glimpse into the unique dynamics of each group.

Our theme for this term is Connection, and through both Form and Tutorial sessions, we are exploring how we connect with ourselves, others, and the world around us. These discussions are helping to build a sense of belonging and shared purpose within our cohort.

This Thursday, we have our Swimming Carnival, a great opportunity for students to get involved—whether by competing in the pool or cheering on their friends and House. I encourage all Year 8s to embrace the event, give their best effort, and most importantly, have fun!

In Tutorial lessons this week, we will focus on Assessment Planning. Students will read through their assessment schedules, noting key draft and due dates in their diaries. As we map out the term, it will become clear that some weeks are busier than others, and planning ahead will be essential to managing workload effectively. Many subjects have already distributed assessment tasks, so I encourage students to avoid last-minute work by starting early.

Additionally, if your child will be away for an extended period this term, please let me know well in advance so we can implement the necessary processes. If you have any questions or concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out.

Looking forward to another great week with Year 8!

I have been truly impressed with most students and their approach to their studies so far this year. Congratulations on a great start, Year 9s.

Over the past few weeks, students in both Form classes and Tutorials have been engaged in activities designed to challenge their thinking and reasoning skills. Specifically, in Tutorials, we have been exploring the concept of Negativity Bias and how it can impact the human mind. We have also started exploring goal setting in the Form programme, with students beginning to set short-term goals. Having clear goals helps students focus, work towards specific achievements, and use their time and resources more effectively.

Assessment Schedules have now been uploaded to Parent Lounge and Student Café, allowing for discussions around time management and preparation. With Year 9 students sitting NAPLAN this year, subject assessments will take place earlier than usual. Subject Departments are incorporating NAPLAN-style content into lessons to ensure students feel well-prepared for the challenges of the testing period.

At RGS, we are fortunate to have a team of excellent psychologists who can identify and support students in need of extra assistance. Please encourage your Year 9 student to seek help early if they are struggling. They are always welcome to speak with me or reach out directly to one of our psychologists.

All subject changes should now be finalised, and students will fully immerse themselves in their chosen electives. For students who would like to revisit subject selections, they will have the opportunity to do so at the change of Semester. However, if there is an extenuating circumstance that requires evaluation, please do send that through so we can investigate it.

A quick reminder: Friday 21 February is a student-free day for the Secondary School only.

We have started 2024 with great energy, and it is wonderful to see our Year 10 students making a productive start. A special commendation to our returning students for warmly welcoming new members of the cohort. It has been inspiring to witness this spirit of camaraderie. Likewise, our new students have embraced life at RGS with enthusiasm, eagerly taking on new opportunities.

Over the past two weeks, Year 10 students have been engaging in the ‘Leadership for All’ programme, starting with an exploration of self-awareness through undertaking a 16 personalities test and sharing their responses with their classmates. Their participation has been outstanding, and we are collectively gaining deeper insights into both personal and collective growth. We have also been discussing, during Tutorials, the concept of technology and the impacts it has on their lives, particularly how predictive AI is shaping the way devices tailor content to continually engage and control their lives.

The week ahead is a short one, ending with the much-anticipated Inter-House Swimming Carnival on Thursday. This is always a fantastic display of school spirit, so we encourage all students to participate and support their House.

Students have now had access to their Assessment Schedules for a week. We encourage families to sit down together and review the schedule to ensure students are well-prepared for the upcoming assessments.

As always, please feel free to reach out if you have any questions or concerns—I am happy to assist in any way I can.

Let’s keep up the momentum and make Week 4 another great one!

It is hard to believe how quickly the term has progressed already! This is a friendly reminder that Friday is a student-free day for the Secondary School. Assessment schedules have been uploaded to Student Café and Parent Lounge, with the exam schedule to follow within the next week. Please keep an eye on these assessment dates and let me know as soon as possible if your child is unable to submit any assessment pieces or attend an exam. We can organise extensions for illness or unforeseen circumstances, but unfortunately, poor planning will not be accepted as an excuse for extensions. Exams can be rescheduled for illness with a medical certificate or in unforeseen/exceptional circumstances.

Communication is essential in the senior years—the more we know, the better we can support students throughout their schooling journey. Subject changes have now closed for Unit 1. Any changes needing to be made will need to be done before tomorrow; otherwise, they will have to wait until the end of Unit 1.

Congratulations to students involved in co-curricular activities—the year has begun with a bang! It is wonderful to see students thriving and enjoying RGS, not only in the academic realm but also for what it offers beyond the classroom.

This Thursday is our School Swimming Carnival. I look forward to seeing all students throughout the day.

For any students wishing to participate in work experience during the April school holidays, paperwork can be collected from the Secondary School Office (SSO). Ms Thomasson, Mrs Tregea and Mrs Jensen are more than happy to assist.

In the coming weeks, students who wish to nominate for Leadership roles will be sent an expression of interest form. We encourage all students who are considering nominating to complete the expression of interest. This will assist the school in supporting potential leaders in developing their leadership skills throughout the year. Students were notified about the expressions of interest form and the application process during our Year Level Meeting in Week 3.

Throughout the term, we will focus on developing the School’s Values and offering students opportunities to showcase these skills and values through an online learning platform called Kloodle. More information can be found here .

I wish all our secondary students travelling this weekend a safe journey and an enjoyable long weekend. I will be on campus if you need me during the student-free day. Please call or email to discuss any concerns or arrange meetings.

At the Foundation Day and Leaders Induction Ceremony last week, it was wonderful to see our Year 12 students presented with their Leadership positions, in which they are already showing great potential for the year ahead.

With the new diary, we are encouraging students to use this medium to plan their study. Students should bring this to every class and note homework and assessments after each lesson. It is also a useful tool for noting upcoming events, to-do lists, and short-term goals. Please continue to encourage students to use their diaries to assist with organisation and time management. It also contains some academic tips, Leadership for All content, School History information, and School Values focus points.

Tomorrow, we are excited to welcome Dr Justin Coulson to address the Year 12s. For further information regarding Dr Coulson and what will be discussed in this presentation, please follow this link. (Link to be embedded with attached information.)

During Form and Year Level Meetings, we will focus on work-life balance, incorporating both the School’s values and students’ personal values. Additionally, we will explore grit, resilience, determination, and willpower and how these factors influence decision-making and work-life balance.

With assessments approaching, please note that the Year 12 assessment schedule can be accessed through both Student Café and Parent Lounge. Exams will commence across many subject areas this week, continuing throughout Weeks 5, 6, 7, and 10. Students have been emailed the timetable for the year, and these dates should also be noted in their diaries. Tutorials on offer for Maths, Biology, Chemistry, Physics, English, Business, Geography, and History, as well as catch-up times for Cert II Engineering and ITS during Periods 9 and 10 on Tuesdays and Fridays, have been warmly welcomed by students. I encourage students to attend these tutorials, even if it is simply for quiet study and the opportunity to ask questions.

It is usually in the very near future that I start seeing students feel the pressure of Year 12, including submitting assessments on time and to a satisfactory standard, navigating relationships, balancing co-curricular activities, positions of responsibility, and work, all while finding time to study and complete homework tasks. This is not unusual; it is a common learning curve as students navigate their increasing workload and responsibilities both at school and beyond. I encourage students to take a holistic approach to their wellbeing—ensuring they exercise, eat well, sleep enough, and spend time with friends and family. The temptation is often to cut out some of these elements to create more space for studying. I encourage students to focus on achieving a healthy balance across all areas to maintain a positive headspace, which helps significantly with productivity. The following SchoolTV videos on ‘Surviving the Final Year’ may assist in helping your student understand why balance is important - link .

Communication is also key to preventing overly anxious and stressed students during this critical stage of their schooling. If you have any concerns or questions, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Year 12 students also hit the ground running, embarking on several key events that mark the start of their leadership responsibilities. Last Friday, students spread the love across the Secondary School and Early Learning Centre (ELC) by delivering Valentine’s Day messages to students. This was a key fundraiser for the Formal, and the Valentine’s Day Committee worked hard to ensure its success. This Wednesday afternoon and Thursday bring the final Swimming Carnival for the Year 12s, which many are looking forward to. It is a wonderful time for these seniors to shine and create school camaraderie and friendly competition amongst students through the guidance of the House Captains. With this weekend being the first boarder long weekend of the year, I hope all those who are able to head home have a wonderful weekend with family.

Fair Play Vouchers
The School has been approved as a registered activity provider for FairPlay vouchers for the following activities extending through to early June 2025:
* Netball
* Touch
* Cricket
* Rowing

Applications for parents, carers or guardians to apply for a voucher opened on the 1 July 2024. If you are yet to apply and would like to, you may do so using the link below.

Applying for and using FairPlay vouchers - https://www.qld.gov.au/recreation/sports/funding/fairplay/apply

After your application is approved, please print/email the voucher and present to RGS when you register your child before the expiry date. For specific information about how to present your vouched please check information in Daily Notices.

Cross Country
The RGS Cross Country event will occur on the last day of Term 1 (4/04/2025). This event is held at Rugby Park and has a mixture of competitive and participation races. Also, the RGS Run Club starts in Week 2. This is open for Prep – Year 12 students and the club runs will be tailored accordingly. There is no obligation to sign up or express interest in attending the sessions, please feel free to attend as much or as little as you can manage.

This year RGS Run Club sessions will be held:
* Course Run: Monday Rugby Park (second field away from the clubhouse) 5pm – 5:45pm
*  Speed Run: Thursday Rugby Park (second field away from the clubhouse) 5pm – 5:45pm

For your calendar, please be aware that sessions may not occur on both days of the week. Below outlines Run Club sessions for the term:
* Week 4: Monday and Thursday
* Week 5: Monday and Thursday
* Week 6: Monday and Thursday
* Week 7: Monday and Thursday
* Week 8: Monday and Thursday
* Week 9: Monday and Thursday
* Week 10: Monday only

Finally, as we live in Central Queensland and are blessed with sunny, hot weather during Term 1, sessions may need to be cancelled due to weather conditions. A call will be made by 3:30pm on these days and parents will be informed via the Parent App and/or the RGS Facebook page.

Thanks, and I look forward to seeing you at the RGS Run Club!

Inter-House Water Polo
Congratulations to Jardine on winning the Secondary School Inter-House Water Polo competition.  In the finals, Wheatcroft defeated Jardine in the Junior Division while Wheatley defeated Jardine in the Senior Division. Jardine won the overall points aggregate.

Netball
Registrations through Netball connect are due by this Thursday for all players selected in teams following the trial process. RNA grading games start the first week of March with most teams starting training this week or next.

The Speciality teams of Magic, Meteors and Storm enjoyed a day down at Ritamada on Saturday with players and coaches spending the time building team culture and goals for the 2025 season.

Rowing
Nearly 30 new students participated in the Try Rowing programmes over Saturday and Sunday on the weekend. Supporting by current rowing seniors and coaching staff, students were introduced to the basic skills required for rowing. Sessions continue on the 1st, 2nd, 15th and 16th of March to give all students an opportunity to try rowing before the season starts in Term 2.

Rugby Union
The First Boys and Girls squads enjoyed a weekend of team building at Ritamada at the end of week 2. Students worked through a variety of activities to lay a foundation for the 2025 season.

Our First XV, U16 and U14 teams travelled out to Marist College Emerald for trial games over the weekend. The First XV won 25-12, U16s won 37-0 and U14s won 29-5. Local fixtures start this week.

A number of our RGS Girls Rugby Players enjoyed the Girls in Sport forum over the weekend headlined by former Wallaroos Captain and current Australia A Women’s Coach Shannon Perry.

Show Cattle Team
The School’s Show Cattle students enjoyed a training day down at the Port Curtis Farm on Saturday with students working through team expectations and the variety of skills they will develop over this term to prepare for the annual show circuit starting later this year.

Swimming Carnival
Wednesday 19 February (approx. times)
* Order Open-U16-U15-U14-U13-U12
* 3:30pm - Medley Relay Events
* 4:00pm – Butterfly

Thursday 20 February (approx. times)
* 8.15am: Assembly in form groups in the Spaceframe
* 8.30am: Carnival commences with Backstroke
* 9:20am Breaststroke
* 10:10am – Freestyle
* 11:00am - Participation Races
* 11:30am Freestyle Relay
* 12:00pm – Presentations, Boarding students catching RGS Buses depart.
* 12:30pm - Carnival concludes. Students dismissed once pack up has been completed.

Notes :
* Students are required to dress in Sports House uniform (or PE uniform if you do not have your House shirt) with School hats on Thursday.
* Sunscreen and water will be available, but students should bring their own water bottle
* As it is a normal school day mobile phones are not permitted
* Regulation black swimming togs required for all participants.
* Yr 12 students only are permitted to dress in 'house theme' but they must swim in black togs only.
* No classes will be held on this day unless the carnival is postponed due to bad weather, normal classes will run until 3:10pm on the Thursday.
* Seniors will be running a canteen
* Parents and Families are more than welcome.

Water Polo Registrations
Please see herewith the registration process for all students who want to play water polo for RGS this term.

Register with Water Polo Queensland
All new Water Polo players must register as the following:
* All players who participated last term are already paid and registered for this season. For new players, registration cost for the term is only $50.
* Students are to only pay one membership to Water Polo Queensland through the registration link: http://www.rockhamptonwaterpolo.com/ .

Please note: Concerning the clothes sizes, can we ask that you leave these blank - as they will only apply to those selected at a higher level. Payment must be done at time of registration.

Register and pay with RGS: Using the instructions below, there will be a $25 RGS fee payable to RGS through Parent Lounge or Parent Orbit. To finalise registration and give permission for your child to participate, consent must be given by acknowledging the Parent Consent form.

If possible once all the above is completed, please send the one email with all the documentation to [email protected] to assist us in the administration of this registration process.

Notifications of Achievements
Due to the vast array of core and non-core sporting activities that students participate in, can all students’ sporting achievements be emailed through to Mrs Coetzer, the Sports Administrator – [email protected]

Student Achievements
Rockhampton District Representatives
(Please note that all Rockhampton and Capricornia representative recognitions are updated in the newsletter once final teams are provided to the School)

AFL
Hatcher Cook, Audrey Bailey

Basketball
Micky Simmons

Netball
Kaylee Acton, Honu Cedergreen.

Rugby League
Mason Broadhurst, Cormack Werner, Leo Fanuatanu.

Softball
Hollie Richmond, Eveline Cook, Kellen Crouch, Chelsea Hay.

Tennis
Hannah Hooper, Lennox MacLean-Booysen.

Capricornia Representatives
Cricket
Sam Gassman, Henry Lau, Adelaide McArthur, Riley McDonald, Olivia Paine, Josh Peckett, Evan Sullivan.