Newsletter

At RGS, we are taking a thoughtful, balanced, and responsible approach to integrating GenAI into your child’s experience.  We are grounding our use in the following guiding principles:

Keeping our values front and centre – every use of GenAI reflects the vision and ethos of RGS.

Enhancing, not replacing, learning – it’s a tool to support students, not a shortcut.

Building critical thinkers – encouraging problem-solving and deeper understanding.

Making real-world connections – showing how classroom learning links to life outside school.

Personalising learning – supporting different learning styles and needs.

Encouraging reflection – helping students think about their own learning journey.

Finding balance – keeping technology in check with human creativity and connection.

By using GenAI this way, we’re preparing students to navigate a world where these tools are becoming part of everyday life—thoughtfully, responsibly, and with confidence.

You can view the full Generative AI Parent Guidelines here .

Last Friday our Primary School joined schools across Australia to mark the National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence, with this year’s theme: Be Bold, Be Kind, Speak Up . As a whole school, students watched a video together that shared important messages about kindness, courage, and respect. They also proudly wore purple, demonstrating a united stand against bullying and violence.

As part of this work, we talk with students about the difference between everyday conflict and bullying. At times children will argue, disagree, or act unkindly towards one another, and this behaviour still needs guidance, correction and consequences. However, bullying is something different. It is repeated, targeted, and intentional behaviour that causes harm and involves an ongoing misuse of power. Having a shared understanding of this helps us respond in the right way when concerns are raised.

We also recognise that children often talk about what happens at home, particularly with siblings. Disagreements between brothers and sisters are very common, but it is still important to encourage respectful behaviour in those moments. The values of kindness and fairness that we practise at home and school reinforce one another.

Another important message for students this year is about the role of the bystander. When children see something unkind happening, they may feel unsure about what to do. We are reminding them that reporting is not “dobbing”—it is a responsible way of ensuring problems are dealt with and others are kept safe.

We encourage families to continue these conversations at home by asking children what being bold, being kind, and speaking up looks like in their daily lives. Together, we can give our children the confidence to act with courage and compassion, helping to build a culture where everyone feels safe, valued, and respected.

Every Day Counts: Supporting Your Child’s Learning Journey
At RGS Primary, we care deeply about each child’s learning, wellbeing, and sense of belonging. Every day of school is a new opportunity for children to build knowledge, strengthen friendships, and develop confidence in their abilities. Consistent attendance is one of the most important factors in helping children thrive. When students miss school, they can miss out on explicit instruction, independent consolidation, and valuable opportunities to collaborate and share ideas with their peers.

Even small absences can add up over time, making it harder for children to stay connected to their learning and their peers. Where possible, we encourage families to arrange appointments, holidays, and other activities outside of school hours to reduce the risk of missing valuable learning time. We understand that unavoidable absences will sometimes occur, but by working together, we can give every child the strongest chance to reach their potential and enjoy a rich, continuous learning journey.

Supporting Our Children in a Digital World
In our rapidly evolving digital world, children are discovering new ways to learn, play, and connect online every day. The eSafety Commissioner provides helpful guidance for families to support children in enjoying these opportunities safely and positively.

Here are some practical tips to help you stay connected with your child’s online activities and promote healthy, balanced device use:

Support your child’s friendships online and off by talking with them about their friends and activities.

Ask your child to demonstrate the games and apps they use to better understand what they play, why it’s fun and possible pitfalls they may encounter.

Help build confidence by encouraging children to share their knowledge of the online world.

Encourage routines that promote health and balance. For example, create device-free times and places in your home.

Model your behaviour by demonstrating that you can put your phone down and concentrate on spending time with your child, without the distractions of being online.

Talk to your child about who could be their ‘askable adult’, and when they would speak with them.

Take Home Message:
Having open, age-appropriate conversations with your child about their online experiences helps build trust and makes it easier for them to come to you with any questions or concerns. Responding calmly and honestly encourages ongoing communication and supports their confidence in seeking your guidance.

For more helpful information, please visit: The hard-to-have conversations | eSafety Commissioner (2025).

The hard-to-have conversations | eSafety Commissioner

Book Week 2025 – Term 3, Week 6
18–22 August (See Flyer below)
We are very excited for all of our Book Week celebrations this week!

Our first Breakfast and Books event will be held on the oval on Friday, 22 August , from 7:45 to 8:30 am . We invite families to bring a picnic rug and some favourite books to share a special morning of stories together — turning our oval into a sea of stories!

Delicious bacon and egg rolls will be available for purchase at $5 each — be sure to get in early so you don’t miss out. We are also excited to welcome local author and former RGS staff member, Michelle Felesina, who will have a stall set up with her books available to buy.

We’re looking forward to a wonderful morning filled with connection, stories, and community.

Parent-Teacher Interviews
Soon you will receive information about booking Parent–Teacher Interviews. I encourage you to make your bookings promptly once instructions are communicated. These meetings are a valuable opportunity to celebrate your child’s achievements and successes, as well as to discuss any questions or concerns you may have.

We kindly ask that you are mindful of the allocated interview times. Running over time can impact other families and teachers, particularly when multiple interviews are scheduled across year levels.

Macte Litteris Academic Award
It was wonderful to celebrate the achievements of our Macte Litteris Academic Award recipients at our most recent formal assembly. These awards recognise students who have demonstrated outstanding academic effort and excellence. We are proud of their commitment to learning and the example they set for our school community.

Year 7-11 Assessment
A reminder, all Year 7-11 Assessment Schedules are available to parents via Parent Lounge. Assessment is on our doorstep already this term. Please encourage your child to speak to their teacher if they have any concerns or questions. Students are able to access this data via their Student Café login and will have a Term 3/Semester 2 Planner for each subject.

Year 12 Confirmation Outcomes – IA2
The School has 24 subjects on offer this year. QCAA released the final subject outcome early last week. As such, Year 12 students should see the outcomes in their QCAA Learning account. If you have any questions please contact me.

Year 12 Confirmation – IA3
The School has to upload all student results for IA3 to QCAA for review by Tuesday 19 August.  As part of the confirmation process, RGS, like all Queensland schools will then be required to upload requested sample student assessment tasks. These papers will be reviewed by QCAA trained confirmers later this term.

Year 12 Assessment Mock Assessment Timetable
As a reminder, these assessment items commence on Monday 8 September and conclude Friday 19 September. The Mock provide important information for both students and staff in preparation for the external assessment tasks. The Mock tasks are also used to determine subject prize winners and the RGS Internal Dux award. Further details regarding the Mocks can be found here .

General
As a reminder, if you have any questions regarding academics or your child’s progress please feel free to contact me on [email protected] or 49360 609.

With both exams and assignments approaching, it can sometimes be difficult to keep track of key dates. To assist, the Assessment Schedule is available in both Student Café and Parent Lounge, while the Exam Schedule was sent out last week, confirming the dates for each subject’s exams.

Parents are reminded that they can view their child’s assignment details through Parent Lounge. By navigating to Student Details and then Curriculum Activities , parents can see a list of current assignments and access the task sheet. Many parents find this a valuable tool in supporting their child’s learning at home.

Over the past fortnight, both 7E and 7F enjoyed their camp at Ritamada, once again blessed with glorious weather. We thank our Form Teachers – Mr Fisher, Ms Cox, and Meredith, who ensures we are so well fed – for the effort they put into making camp a fantastic experience for students. Camps now pause for the remainder of the term, before 7A and 7G set off early next term for their own adventures.

In Tutorial and Form classes, our focus on teamwork has continued. Last week, students participated in a Bullying. No Way! activity, which sparked important conversations about respect, empathy, and inclusion. This complemented our Year 7 Enrichment programme, where we have begun watching and reflecting on the inspiring film Remember the Titans . Its themes of teamwork, resilience, and overcoming prejudice have already prompted thoughtful discussion among students.

It is a busy and exciting time in Year 7, with students balancing their academic commitments alongside a wide range of co-curricular activities. I am very proud of the way our students are embracing both the challenges and opportunities this term brings. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions or concerns.

In Tutorial, students have recently explored the Bullying. No Way! campaign. They discussed the important differences between bullying, conflict, and teasing, and considered how we can each contribute to a safe and supportive school environment.

Subject selection has also become a lively topic of discussion. Students are beginning to think carefully about their future pathways as we explore elective offerings for Year 9, along with the different Mathematics options available. These conversations encourage students to reflect on their strengths, interests, and aspirations.

Looking ahead, our Form groups will take part in an engaging presentation on Artificial Intelligence (AI). This will be a valuable opportunity to consider how technology is shaping the world, and to ask thoughtful questions about its role in learning and daily life.

I am proud of the way our Year 8 students are embracing both academic challenges and personal growth this term, and I look forward to supporting their continued development of resilience, responsibility, and curiosity in learning.

Term 3 is moving quickly, and with just four weeks remaining, assessment season is now in full swing. Assignments are due and exams are fast approaching, making this the ideal time for students to establish strong study routines to achieve their best, while also managing stress through preparation.

Subject selections for Year 10 are now finalised, and I encourage parents to check their email and sign off on their child’s selections. This will help ensure students are placed into their preferred subjects, subject to sufficient enrolments for classes to run in 2026. The Curriculum Handbook remains available in both Student Café and Parent Lounge to support conversations at home. Please get in touch if you have any questions.

In Tutorials, we have focused on the risks of vaping, reinforcing the message that there is no safe level of use. Even occasional vaping can harm the developing body and brain. We have also explored the recent national legislation banning disposable vapes since 2024. With adolescent vaping on the rise internationally, this is an excellent opportunity for ongoing conversations at home.

We are now shifting our focus to the impact of everyday words and actions, exploring issues such as casual racism, homophobia, and ableism, and considering the culture we want to build together.

Last week, we wrapped up Bullying. No Way! Week with activities centred on this year’s theme, Everyone Belongs . Belonging is about respecting differences, standing up to unkindness, and ensuring that everyone feels supported, valued, and safe.

By now, subject selections for Year 11 should be complete, allowing us to begin preparing timetables and resources for next year.

In the classroom, most assignments are now in either draft or final submission stage. We encourage students to manage their time well and seek feedback from teachers before submitting their work. Exams are scheduled for Week 7, making this an ideal time to review class notes and revise key concepts.

In Tutorial, students have begun exploring the topic The Dangers of Vaping , raising awareness of the health risks associated with this habit. They are being encouraged to think critically and make informed decisions about their wellbeing.

Looking ahead, our Year 10 OEP Camps are just four weeks away. These camps will provide students with valuable opportunities to build friendships, develop independence, and enjoy new experiences outside the classroom.

Thank you for your continued support as we help our Year 10 students finish the term strongly and prepare for their transition into senior school.

Next term marks the beginning of Unit 3 – the formal commencement of Year 12 content. Please remind your children of the importance of study and consistent effort during this critical stage.

At the end of the term, students will participate in a two-day leadership workshop run by YLead, held both on campus and at Ritamada. Information will be distributed this week. The workshop will involve a combination of team challenges, problem-solving tasks, and information sessions. Activities are designed to develop communication, negotiation, and leadership skills, and will be delivered under our inclusive Challenge by Choice philosophy. Please ensure your child is fully equipped for these days, particularly regarding sun safety. Students who are not attending will be required to take part in certificate courses or work experience.

This term and next, Year 11 will also be engaging in community service initiatives. As a cohort, we are supporting Share the Dignity through the annual #ItsInTheBag campaign. This encourages Australians to put together bags filled with essential items to donate to someone in need at Christmas. A list of suitable items is provided below.

Senior jerseys are now available for payment, following completion of sizing. Please contact the school with any queries.

Have a wonderful fortnight.

As we approach the Mock Examinations in Weeks 9 and 10, students have been informed that attendance is required only for their allocated exam sessions. All details are available via the Year Level Meeting Teams OneNote, which is regularly updated with additional information, including FAQs.

Some students may also be required to complete Certificate assessment if they are not yet up to date. Boarding students intending to arrange travel during the mock examination period must ensure they submit a Request for Leave form. This has been emailed to students and boarding staff and is also available via Teams.

Last Tuesday, the cohort celebrated the milestone of 100 Days to Go with a barbecue and cake. This was also a chance for the school to acknowledge the contributions of the Class of 2025 throughout their time at Grammar.

Next week, over forty students will participate in the Ponytail Project, raising funds for cancer research by donating hair for wig production. This follows the Rugby team’s involvement in Shave for a Cure at the end of Term 2. The generosity and commitment of our seniors in supporting others is highly commendable.

In upcoming Form classes, students will be guided through preparing their Student Colours nomination materials, based on their Kloodle entries. Criteria for categories will be shared shortly. Students are encouraged to reflect on all areas where they have demonstrated leadership, such as coaching, volunteering, or event organisation. Keeping Kloodle updated will ensure a smooth nomination process.

Important dates for this semester include:

External Exam Block: Monday 27 October – Tuesday 18 November (timetable available on the QCAA website)

Mock Exam Block: Monday 8 – Friday 19 September

Leadership Colours Ceremony rehearsal – Thursday 23 October, 9:50 am

Headmaster’s Lunch – Wednesday 22 October, 12:30 pm

Mocktails – Thursday 23 October, 5:30 pm

Final day of classes – Friday 24 October

Leadership Colours and Induction of School Leaders Ceremony – Friday 24 October, 9:30 am

Honour Guard – Friday 24 October, 10:10 am

Curriculum Prep Days – Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 November

Year 12 Final Day – Friday 21 November, 8:30 am (Auditorium; compulsory attendance)

Valedictory – Friday 21 November, 5:00 pm

Speech Day – Wednesday 26 November

As part of our Pastoral Care Programme, the following guest speakers and workshops will also take place this term:

Bolsover Health Presentation – Tuesday 19 August, Year Level Meeting

Young Workers Hub – Tuesday 26 August, 12:30–1:30 pm

RGS Alumni Information Session (Rachel Trump) – Tuesday 2 September, Year Level Meeting

Australia’s Underratted Animals

4K joined us in the Library during Science Week. We took part in the ABC’s competition to vote for our favourite Australian Underrated Animal! You can find the top 10 here https://www.abc.net.au/news/science/2025-08-01/science-week-underrated-australian-animal-vote/105582104

We held a Shark Tank approach to finding out about these mysterious creatures. The were each given a creature and had 5 minutes to develop a pitch for their animal using the ABC fact sheet. After listening to some amazing presentations, the judges had a very tough decision to make. The winning vote was The Great Desert Skink, so we submitted our vote just in time. The winner is announced on Friday 15th August.

Here are some photos of 4K in action. Please pop by the library to see the screen display of this activity.

This week I have already started meeting with students and their parents from Years 10-12 to make sure they are on the right track, whether it be for senior subject selections, possible work experience options or QTAC applications. Later in the week I will meet with all ATAR eligible Year 12s to discuss the QTAC application process and next week with the remainder of the 12s to look at their career pathway options.

If you would like to book in a time with me please email through to [email protected] , [email protected] or [email protected] and I will be happy to arrange a meeting.

The RGS VET and Careers news is available at this link .

Musical
We welcomed audiences to the fantastical world of Oz, where Dorothy embarked on a vibrant journey of self-discovery, friendship, and courage. Along the way, she met unforgettable characters, battles wicked witches, and sought the wisdom of the mysterious Wiz. With its infectious soul score, dynamic musical numbers, and endearing cast, The Wiz was a joyful reimagining of L. Frank Baum’s The Wonderful Wizard of Oz, adapted by William F. Brown.

For this production, we took a bold step into the present, re-adapting the story to reflect the digital age—where good witches are influencers, and the Wiz runs her own WizTube channel. This fresh concept was born from a creative collaboration with my son, Michael, whose imaginative vision helped shape this modern twist. After many brainstorming sessions and discarded ideas, we landed on a version we believed would resonate with today’s audiences while staying true to the heart of the story: that “there’s no place like home.” Bringing this adaptation to life has been both a challenge and a joy. The cast, orchestra, and creative team embraced the new concept with enthusiasm and dedication, pouring their energy into every rehearsal and performance. I’m deeply grateful to the behind-the-scenes crew whose tireless work and commitment have made this production a memorable experience for our students.

Preparing for The Wiz since February has been an unforgettable experience, and it’s been a true privilege to work alongside such talented students (cast, band and crew) and a wonderfully creative and hardworking production team. Your dedication, passion, and teamwork have made this production not only a success but a cherished memory for us all.

A special thank you to our amazing parents and volunteers who worked tirelessly behind the scenes—whether it was at BBQs, sewing costumes, serving at the theatre, or helping in countless other ways. Your time, energy, and support are deeply appreciated and have played a vital role in the success of this production.

We are also incredibly grateful to our generous sponsors, whose support helped bring this show to life. Their contributions enabled us to enhance the quality of our production and provide our students with an unforgettable experience. Thank you for investing in the arts and in our young performers.

Many of our production team members, (RGS staff, past and present, and my own family), have contributed their time, expertise, and creativity to RGS musicals over the last 25 years, and their continued commitment has been instrumental in shaping the rich legacy of performing arts at our school. This year marked my 30th year of RGS musicals, and I couldn’t have asked for a more special way to celebrate this milestone. Thank you all for making it so meaningful.

To our Year 12 students—thank you for talent, enthusiasm, and hard work. All the best as you embark on the next chapter of your journey. We’ll miss you!

Mrs Jan Kennedy (TIC Musical)

Rugby League
Dolphins Cup and Dolphins Schoolgirls Cup

The 2025 Dolphins Cup and Dolphins Schoolgirls Cup campaigns ended for the RGS Open boys and girls teams at Rugby Park last week.  Both teams made strong starts to the games before their respective opponents, TCC and Emmaus College, had the better of the second half. Well done to both teams on their effort in this year’s competition.

Good luck to the RGS Dolphins Challenge boys team in their regional grand final against Shalom College at Rugby Park tomorrow (Tuesday).

Rugby Union
Western 7s

All RGS teams enjoyed the opportunity and experience of participating at the Western 7s tournament in Emerald. We’re proud of all teams for their sportsmanship and support of each other. Congratulations to the Open Boys and U16 Boys for winning their division and to the U14 Boys and U16 Girls for being runners up.

Capricorn Coast Netball Carnival
Due to the wet weather, the Capricorn Coast Netball Association had to squeeze a 2-day carnival into 1-day. RGS Sparks and RGS Celtics won their respective divisions.

Robotics
Congratulations to all the RGS students who competed in the CQ Junior Robotics Competition. Represented by over 60 students, across Primary and Secondary, the RGS teams worked incredibly hard and stayed positive through every challenge.

Throughout the day, the students upheld the School values and represented RGS with integrity and enthusiasm. Their collaboration, problem-solving and positive attitude were great to see – when things didn’t go smoothly, they kept going with determination and resilience.

This year’s competition was the biggest in its 22 year history, hosting over 307 participants from Central Queensland schools.

In the Secondary competition, RGS placed in the Open Rescue and third in Secondary Dance Team. RGS placed fourth overall in the competitive soccer category.

Rowing
North Queensland Rowing Championship

Congratulations to the RGS Rowing team on their results at the North Queensland Rowing Championships:

Gold Medal

Boys Yr 11 Pair, Boys Yr 11 Quad, Boys Yr 9 Double, Girls Yr 9 Quad, Girls Open Quad, Yr 11 Boys Double, Yr 9 Boys Double, Yr 8 Girls Single, Yr 11 Boys Single, Yr 9 Boys Quad.

Silver Medal

Boys Yr 8 Single, Girls Yr 11 Quad, Girls Open Four, Opens Girls 8, Yr  Boys Quad, Yr 8 Girls Double.

Bronze Medal

Girls Yr 10 Double, Open Girls Single, Yr 11 Girls Pair, Open Girls Pair, Yr 9 Girls Single, Open Girls Double, Yr 11 Boys Single.

Show Cattle Team – Ekka Wrap
RGS had six students from the Cattle Show Team compete at the Ekka - Kate Preston (Year 11), Olivia Paine (Year 11), Polly White (Year 10), Klancy Brown (Year 10), Skye White (Year 8), and Trey Lawrie (Year 8).

The students represented the School with pride, taking part in a full programme of cattle events, including parading and judging across both commercial and stud cattle. While all of our students competed strongly in large and highly contested fields, several achieved notable results:

Team Judging: Olivia, Kate and Polly competed in the Inter-School Steer Judging Teams event, making the top 14 and earning a Highly Commended from more than 40 schools.

Led Steer School Paraders Competition: Trey and Skye reached the finals in a class of over 50 students, narrowly missing out on ribbons.

Kate Preston: 3rd in both the School Steers Young Judges Competition and the Commercial Young Judges Competition.

Skye White: 5th in the Stud Beef Paraders Competition from a field of over 50 competitors in her age group, and a Highly Commended in the Commercial Young Judges Competition.

The School also acknowledges RGS student Annaka Hanson (Year 11), who competed independently at the Ekka, qualifying for multiple Queensland Agricultural Shows finals and achieving Runner-Up placings in these events.

The team even made the cover of the Queensland Country Life publication with an article written by QCL reporter, and RGS alumni, Bella Hanson (RGS 2019).

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
Trampoline - Naviah Cook competed at the Trampoline Queensland Levels competition last weekend. Her results were:
Synchronised trampoline – 6th
Double mini trampoline – 4th
Individual trampoline – 3rd

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

Capricornia

Cricket
Benjamin Edwards, Evie Cook