Q: Is my child allowed to use ChatGPT for homework?

A: It depends on the task, the age of the child and any directions teachers have provided. Teachers will provide clear guidelines on when and how GenAI tools can be used. When in doubt, encourage your child to ask their teacher.

Q: How can I tell if my child is becoming too reliant on AI?

A: Look for signs like difficulty expressing ideas without AI assistance or reluctance to engage in independent problem-solving. Discuss any concerns with your child's teacher.

Q: Will using AI hinder my child's learning?

A: When used appropriately, AI can enhance learning. At RGS, we focus on using AI as a tool to support, not replace, critical thinking and skill development.

Q: How can I learn more about AI to better support my child?

A: There are a few things you can do:

* Talk to your child about what they have learnt about AI and what they may be using it for.

* Use some of the recommended tools yourself – start with a task where you know the nature and quality of the output you are wanting.

* Talk to your child’s teacher.

* Watch for information in the newsletter and school publications.

Q: What should I do if I have concerns about my student’s use of AI?

A:

* Please reach out to your child’s teacher or Head of Year.

* Talk to your child, they will have been given clear direction about what is acceptable use.

You can view the full Generative AI Parent Guidelines here.

It has been a long and courageous journey, and we are so pleased to have Henry rejoin our RGS community. He continues to recover from treatment and its side effects and is looking forward to reconnecting with friends and teachers.

As we celebrate this return, I also need to make families aware that Queensland Health has declared an Influenza A outbreak at our School. This reminder comes at an important time, as the returning student is immunosuppressed and therefore more vulnerable to infectious diseases.

To help protect this child and all members of our community, please you do not send your child to school if they are unwell. This includes illnesses such as measles, chickenpox, shingles, and the flu. Children should remain at home until they are no longer contagious.

If your child is diagnosed with an infectious disease, please notify primary reception to allow the family to be informed and take any necessary precautions.

I thank you for your care, diligence and kindness as we continue to wrap our arms around Henry as he returns to school.

Restorative Practices at RGS: Building a Culture of Responsibility, Respect and Connection
At The Rockhampton Grammar School, our approach to student wellbeing and behaviour is grounded in evidence-based practices that support positive relationships and long-term personal growth. Restorative Practices, founded on decades of international research in education and psychology, are a key pillar of our Behaviour Policy and our commitment to developing students of character.

Restorative Practices focus on connection over correction. They shift the focus from punishment to learning, asking students to reflect on the impact of their actions, repair harm and rebuild relationships. Research shows that restorative approaches lead to improved student engagement, enhanced emotional intelligence and stronger school communities. Students in restorative schools report a greater sense of belonging, increased feelings of safety and higher levels of respectful behaviour.

Benefits of Restorative Practices for Students
Restorative Practices are proven to:

Improve emotional regulation and empathy by encouraging students to consider the perspectives and feelings of others.

Promote accountability by guiding students to take responsibility for their choices and contribute to repairing any harm.

Strengthen relationships across the school community, creating a culture of trust and mutual respect.

Reduce repeated behaviours by addressing the underlying needs and emotions that drive actions, rather than focusing only on consequences.

Increase student voice and agency , empowering students to be active participants in resolving conflict and making positive change.

Aligned to the RGS Behaviour Policy
Restorative Practices are embedded in our Behaviour Policy as a framework for supporting students to make positive choices aligned with our values of Respect, Integrity and Responsibility. This approach is not only reactive but proactive, integrated into daily classroom practice through conversations, check-ins and collaborative problem-solving. It reflects our belief that behaviour is learned, and that every interaction is an opportunity for growth.

By implementing Restorative Practices, we are preparing our students not just to meet expectations, but to develop the interpersonal and emotional skills that will serve them throughout their lives. At RGS, restorative approaches help us ensure that every student feels seen, heard and supported to thrive.

Recognising Awareness and Appreciation – Friday 31 October 2025
On Friday 31 October, our school community will come together to acknowledge two significant events: Day for Daniel and World Teachers’ Day .

Day for Daniel – Promoting Safety and Awareness
Day for Daniel is Australia’s largest day of action to raise awareness about child safety and protection. It offers our students vital learning about recognising unsafe situations, building personal safety skills, and understanding the importance of speaking up. By engaging in these conversations, we empower young people and reaffirm our collective responsibility to ensure every child feels safe, protected and supported.

World Teachers’ Day – Celebrating Our Educators
World Teachers’ Day is an opportunity to honour the incredible dedication of our teaching staff. At RGS, our educators are not only highly skilled professionals; they are compassionate mentors who invest deeply in the academic, social and emotional wellbeing of every student. Their commitment creates a school environment where children feel known, valued and inspired to reach their potential.

Taking the time to express gratitude on this day is more than a gesture, it is a recognition of the profound impact teachers have on shaping lives and futures. By celebrating their passion, expertise and unwavering care, we acknowledge the essential role they play in the strength and success of our school community.

We thank all our incredible teachers for the passion, care and support they provide for our students, and each other, every day!

“A teacher affects eternity; they can never tell where their influence stops.”
— Henry Adams

Premier’s Reading Challenge

We are delighted to share that our Premier’s Reading Challenge certificates have arrived! These certificates celebrate the dedication and enthusiasm our students have shown for reading throughout the year.

The Challenge encourages students to discover new authors, explore different genres, and build lifelong reading habits. It has been wonderful to see so many of our learners embracing this opportunity to extend their reading horizons and share their favourite books with classmates.

Certificates will be presented at our next Primary Assembly on Monday, Week 5 (3 November). We look forward to recognising the fantastic effort of all participants and celebrating their love of reading together as a community.

Thank you to our teachers and families for supporting students along the way. Your encouragement makes all the difference!

Year 7-10
Assessment for Years 7-10 students commences this week.  Please ensure your child asks their teacher for assistance, if required. Students should use a variety of strategies to assist with their study for upcoming tasks. Many useful tips are contained in the School's Diary, which I encourage students to review.

Year 12
External Assessment Preparation

One of the final tasks for the Year 12 journey is the completion of external examinations. The EA block commences on Monday 27 October.

Students must attend external examinations for all relevant subjects and are required to wear full day or formal uniform .

Year 12 students have been sent the QCAA issued, Directions for Students, and the EA Equipment List. Students are reminded to review these documents closely. Both are also available on the myQCE website.

The School has emailed an RGS External Assessment Tutorial Timetable to students and parents. I strongly encourage students to attend the tutorials.

What to do if ...

*  you are sick on the day of an external examination – you must contact Ms Reniece Carter ( [email protected] or 0429995680, 49 360 609 ) or Mr Julien Wright ( [email protected] or 49360606) asap. QCAA has a strict process in place for students to remain eligible for subject credit.

*  you are late on the day of an external examination – you must call or text Ms Reniece Carter asap on 0429 995680 or Mr Julien Wright on 0408 324 448 .

*  you are unsure of an examination date/start time or equipment required – refer to the examination timetable with venues which was sent last term or the RGS Year 12 Teams page. You can also refer to the myQCE website (specifically the Year 12, 2025 Student Guide).

General
As always, please contact me if you have any concerns relating to the academic domain. My contact details are Reniece Carter 49360 609 or [email protected]

It is amazing to think that we are already approaching the halfway point of this term. Many classes are now beginning to prepare for assessment as we reach the busy part of Term 4.

Last week, families received a letter from Dr Moulds regarding the current prevalence of Influenza A. In Year 7 Enrichment, we reviewed good hygiene practices, and I have encouraged students to stay home and rest if they are unwell. While I understand that, for some, it can be stressful to be away once assessment is underway, when students are unwell, they are unlikely to be producing their best work, and there is also a high risk of passing the illness on. Please take the time to rest and recover, and if you are worried about catching up, please do not hesitate to contact me.

In our Enrichment lesson last week, we also discussed the upcoming changes to social media rules. Whilst many students were disappointed about the new age restrictions, they understood that these rules are being put in place for their protection. This discussion tied in well with our focus on community, as we have been reflecting on shared values, even within an online environment.

This week, our collection for the Salvation Army’s Christmas Appeal will commence. Students are being asked to contribute non-perishable items that will be donated to the most vulnerable in our local community. Thank you for your help in supporting this excellent cause.

In the coming weeks, we will be looking at class arrangements for 2026. It can be a nervous wait for students and their families as they anticipate who they will be with next year. We are unable to take requests; however, please be reassured that classes are decided after discussions with Class Teachers, Form Teachers, Heads of Department, Heads of Year, and our Heads of Secondary Students (Academics and Students). We take both academic and social factors into consideration and ask you to trust that we will place your child in the class we feel will best meet their learning and social needs.

If you have any questions or concerns about your child, please do not hesitate to contact me.

The first few weeks have been a blur of activity, and our Year 8 students have certainly hit the ground running.

Last week, students and families received a copy of the Term 4 Exam Timetable. With assessments already underway in some subjects, it is important that students begin preparing early. Good sleep, a balanced diet, and healthy routines are simple but powerful ways to set themselves up for success.

This term, our Community Service project will support the local Women’s Shelter. Our goal is to create wellbeing packs containing small, practical items such as toothbrushes, toothpaste, sanitary products, pyjamas, socks, hand cream, shampoo, nail clippers, pens, notebooks, and non-perishable food. These are just suggestions - students are welcome to contribute other suitable items. I have challenged our Year 8s to bring in small donations each week until the end of term. Every contribution, no matter how small, will make a difference to someone in our community.

As we move towards the end of the year and the weather warms up, I have noticed some students beginning to stretch the boundaries of our uniform expectations. A reminder that students are to arrive and leave school in their day uniform each day. They may change into their sport uniform at school for the relevant lessons and should change back into their day uniform at the next break. Female students may wear one plain stud or hoop in the lower earlobe only. Where expectations are not being met, our infringement process will be followed.

Thank you for your continued support in maintaining our standards. I also encourage students always to carry their water bottles to stay hydrated, but they must remember not to share with others.

I wish all Year 8 students the very best as they prepare for their upcoming assessments. If you have any questions or concerns about your child’s progress, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

Alongside major sporting events, we have had students perform successfully in Chess, Music performances, and Dance showcases. More information will follow in the coming weeks.

Thank you to all families who have completed their USI number registration. For those who have not yet done so, please see me if you need any assistance with the process.

This is a quick reminder that the usual uniform and behavioural expectations remain in place for the rest of this term. Some students still need to sign off on the expectations form sent to them earlier last term. These forms are located in the Student Café.

Term 4 has already been a busy and exciting one, with a number of key events having taken place or coming up. It was wonderful to farewell our Year 12 students on Friday, 24 October. It was heartening to see the warmth and friendship shared as our Year 12 students passed our Year 9 students to enthusiastic applause and emotional embraces.

Upcoming Events:
* Remembrance Day Assembly – Tuesday, 11 November
* Examinations – Week 5
* Guest Speaker (Adair Donaldson – Cyber and Personal Safety) – Tuesday, 18 November
* Speech Day – Wednesday, 26 November

During the Year 9 Tutorial lessons this week and next, students have been briefed on the changes to Australian social media laws and how these will affect those under the age of 16. There has already been some robust discussion around this topic. We have also been reflecting on the concept of happiness and how it relates to both individuals and our wider community.

This is also a reminder that the exam timetable has been sent to all families and Year 9 students, outlining all exams taking place from Week 5. Please contact me if you have any questions or concerns. Finally, Year 9 students are organising a collection of non-perishable goods to support drought relief as part of their community service. Further communication will be sent home shortly outlining how families can contribute.

They deserve recognition for the proactive and positive way they have approached the start of Term 4. It is clear many are beginning to display the maturity and focus expected of the Year 11 students they will soon become.

From a pastoral perspective, students have been using their tutorial sessions to explore moral dilemmas and the complexities these can bring to real-life situations. I have been impressed by the thoughtful and respectful way they have engaged with these discussions. By practising how to approach such challenges in a safe environment, I hope they feel more confident when faced with similar situations in their own lives.

The coming weeks promise to be both focused and busy as students continue revising for exams and finalising their class assessments. I wish all our Year 10s the very best as they complete their final tasks for the year.

A reminder that the deadline for the Certificate I in Active Volunteering was 17 October 2025. Thank you to those who have already completed the theoretical components of the course. For students who still have outstanding work, please ensure it is finalised as soon as possible, as completion of this certificate is a mandatory requirement for Year 10 at The Rockhampton Grammar School.

From assessments and leadership nominations to service projects and community initiatives, our Year 11 students have hit the ground running. Their energy and enthusiasm have set a positive tone for the final stretch of the year as they continue building momentum towards their transition into Year 12.

A standout highlight this term was the Glen Gerreyn seminar, which proved nothing short of inspiring. Glen’s message about leadership, character, and possibility resonated deeply with our students, leaving the room buzzing with energy and hope. He commented that this Year 11 cohort was the best group he had presented to, acknowledging their engagement, empathy, and willingness to think deeply about their own growth. If you get the chance, I encourage you to ask your child about the progress they’ve made on their vision boards - a powerful reflection exercise that many have continued to build on since the seminar.

Another significant moment for our cohort came with the Year 12 Captain speeches, where 20 nominees delivered speeches of remarkable authenticity, sincerity, and courage. The level of thought, humility, and leadership displayed by all candidates was truly impressive - a reflection of the strength of this group as a whole.

We congratulate Millie, Ned, Caleb, and Allie on their appointments as the 2026 School Captains and Vice-Captains. Their speeches not only captured the spirit of RGS but also highlighted their genuine commitment to leading with integrity and compassion.

In addition, heartfelt congratulations go to our nine newly appointed Prefects, who will take on vital leadership roles across various areas of school life next year. Each one brings unique strengths and passions that will shape the tone and culture of our 2026 Year 12 cohort. We also acknowledge that there will be some disappointed students who were unsuccessful in this round of selections. We encourage them to remain positive, as positions for Co-curricular and House Captains, as well as Form Seniors, are still to be appointed. It is important to remember that leadership isn’t confined to a badge or title - in fact, three prefects were added in Term 2 this year as recognition of their consistent, active leadership without holding an official role.

As this busy term continues, we are also supporting the Share the Dignity initiative. With 163 Year 11 students, if each brought in just one donated item, the SSO would be overflowing with generosity! Donations can be dropped off at the Secondary School Office, and every single contribution helps make a real difference to women in need this Christmas season. Let’s fill the shelves together - #ItsInTheBag.

To round out a busy and successful year, we are very excited for the Year 11 End-of-Year Social, to be held on the Islay Lee Deck. This smart casual event will be a relaxed and enjoyable evening to celebrate the end of Year 11, mark the beginning of Year 12, and enjoy a dance or two with friends. Tickets are available from the Secondary School Office for $10 each - we look forward to seeing all our students there for what promises to be a memorable night.

Last week, they enjoyed time with friends during the Year 12 Mocktails event, were recognised for their contributions to the School through their leadership, guidance, and support at the Leadership Colours Ceremony and Handover, and attended their final day of formal school classes.

Students enjoyed their final day of classes on Thursday, recreating the nostalgia of Primary School with pigtails, oversized uniforms, and photos of themselves from Prep. From my observations throughout the day, it was clear that students thoroughly enjoyed their ‘last day of school’, thanking staff and celebrating their final moments in class with friends. Mocktails that same evening was a semi-formal affair, and the organising committee did a wonderful job. Students enjoyed an array of food and beverages and made memories in the photo booth provided.

At Friday’s Leadership Colours Ceremony and Handover, Year 12 students received Service, Full, and Honour Colours for their leadership and contributions to school activities and the wider community. After the ceremony, the School - joined by many Year 12 parents - farewelled the graduating class in an Honour Guard from Duggan Hall to the main roundabout. Despite emotional goodbyes, many students are looking forward to their journeys beyond the School gates.

Upcoming Year 12 Dates:
* Valedictory – Friday, 21 November, 5:00 pm
* Speech Day – Wednesday, 26 November, 1:00 pm

The Year 12s have received emails regarding external exams, lockers, returning school items, and computers. Please remind your child to read these emails. Exam information can also be found in Teams in their Year Level Meeting Class Notebook. If you have any questions over these final weeks, please don’t hesitate to contact me.

Further information regarding the Year 12 final day on Friday, 21 November, will be emailed to students in the coming week.

Wishing all students sitting exams the very best over the next three and a half weeks!

This week Australia voted for the top 100 books of the 21st century. 287,990 people suggested their top 10 reads. If you interested to know which books made the cut you can find out here We have quite a few of the books on this list on display in the library, just waiting to be borrowed. We know that amazing things happen when we read – focus improves, vocabulary is extended, our ability to empathise improves and our mental health can benefit from a good read. Unfortunately, there is a decline in reading for enjoyment. The latest report from the National Institute of Education provides interesting statistics on the reading habits of Australian children and teenagers. The report found that the key factors driving the decrease in reading are:

Lack of reading models

Digital Media affecting attention span

Overemphasis on skills rather than enjoyment

Limited access to books and texts

Maybe you have read a book that you think was wonderful and should be in our library collection. You can request the purchase of a book through our main library page . We would love some student recommendations! The RGS library staff are always happy to recommend a book too.

Wishing our Year 12 Cohort all the best as you step into this new chapter of your life .

Although applications have closed for this year’s work experience opportunities, we encourage students to start thinking about what opportunities they may wish to apply for next year. Now is a great time to apply for part time or casual roles as many retailers and hospitality venues start hiring in October to prepare for the peak season. Often this can lead to varying roles and experiences and employment in the future. I look forward to continuing to guide and support students as they make these important decisions.

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

Student Leadership for 2026
The announcement of the 2026 School Student Leadership Team has brought great pride to the Boarding Community, with boarding once again being so strongly represented across the various portfolios. This representation speaks volumes about the calibre, commitment, and contribution of our boarders to school life.

The College extends its sincere gratitude to our outgoing student leaders for 2025, whose dedication and leadership have left a lasting legacy. Particular thanks must be given to our Boarding Captains, Lila Atkinson and Luke Frame, for their outstanding advocacy for their fellow boarders throughout the year. Both have modelled maturity, care, and quiet strength, guiding the boarding community through key moments of the year with compassion and clarity of purpose. Their contribution to strengthening the sense of unity and pride within boarding cannot be overstated.

We look forward to announcing the 2026 Boarding Captains next month, as we continue to build upon the remarkable culture and tradition of leadership that our boarders so proudly uphold.

Farewell to the Class of 2025
It has been a sentimental and celebratory few weeks as we have begun farewelling our Year 12 boarders. The traditional Guard of Honour was a highlight, providing a moment of recognition for the years of effort, friendship, and growth that have defined their school journey. There was a palpable sense of pride and nostalgia as the younger students, staff, and wider school community joined to celebrate the contributions of our departing seniors.

Later in November, a series of farewell events will formally acknowledge their time in boarding and the special role they have played in shaping the community. As the Class of 2025 commence their External Examinations, we wish each of them calm confidence, good health, and the knowledge that the entire boarding family stands behind them.

Reef versus Ranges – A New Boarding Tradition
The inaugural Reef versus Ranges competition has quickly become one of the standout highlights of the term, if not the year. Designed as a spirited yet friendly contest between our boarders representing their home regions, the event brought the entire community together in an atmosphere of laughter, competition, and camaraderie.

After a day of challenges, from Rugby League to ‘tug of war’ and the ‘high ball challenge’, Ranges claimed the inaugural victory—though the Reef team made them work hard for every point! Beyond the competition itself, it was the spirit of togetherness, teamwork, and pride in boarding that shone brightest. The event now stands as an exciting new tradition, one that will no doubt grow in scale and energy in years to come.

Health and Wellbeing Reminder
In recent weeks, boarding has managed isolated outbreaks of Influenza A and COVID-19, which have affected both students and staff across the wider school. We thank families for their support and understanding during this time.

A reminder that if your child is displaying symptoms of illness, they are better to rest and recover at home where possible, to protect both themselves and the wider community. Within boarding, staff have been actively encouraging students to maintain good hygiene habits, including regular handwashing, and careful attention to personal wellbeing.

We continue to reinforce the importance of adequate sleep, balanced nutrition, and regular physical activity, especially as our boarders approach a busy assessment period. These simple routines make an enormous difference to both health and academic performance.

The Boarder Long Weekend
The recent Boarder Long Weekend provided a much-needed “circuit breaker” for many after what has been a busy—indeed, busy!—start to the term. For those who travelled home, we hope it was a restful opportunity to reconnect with family and recharge for the weeks ahead.

For those who remained in boarding, the weekend offered a wonderful mix of activities and events, allowing boarders to unwind, enjoy each other’s company, and create lasting memories. Whether through shared meals, casual games, or exploring local attractions, the atmosphere was one of warmth and community—a fitting reflection of the spirit that defines our boarding family.

As the term continues, boarding remains a place of energy, connection, and care—driven by the extraordinary young people who call it home and the dedicated staff who guide them each day.

Rugby Union
CQ7’s
RGS was represented by 14 and 16 years boys and girls at the CQ Rugby 7’s at Yeppoon.  It was a tough day of fast-paced rugby for the RGS teams, with the 16 boys finishing runners-up in their division.

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]