Newsletter

Thank you for assisting your children for a seamless transition from holidays to school. It was lovely hearing the holiday stories and seeing happy children at school. Although we greatly appreciate the days for professional learning, it is great to have the school full of the chatter of children again.

A big welcome to our new families. There is aways a great deal of information when starting new at a school. Please reach out if you need any support. I will outline an important process in our school. Our drop off an pickup lane process is comprehensive but only works if the rules are adhered to by all using this space. These rules are in place to ensure the safe arrival and departure of your children.

Please ensure you are following the below points:
* Accept the clear direction from the controller about which side to pull into
* If car seats limit your access to both lanes, please indicate to the controller
* Drive as far forward as you can, limiting space in front of your vehicle
* Ensure your children have their bags ready to leave your car. If you have multiple children in a car this can be difficult. If this is the case, ensure that you as the adult are getting bags from the boot. Children are not to walk to the back of cars with incoming traffic. This is a major safety concern
* All children exiting their vehicles need to do so closest to the footpath
* Do not park and leave your vehicle. This is not a parking area between the hours of 7:30 and 9am .
* Have your family name on the visor of your car or front dash so the teacher on duty can call your children to your car. If you do not have a dash name, please notify primary reception
* If you are parked on the street and are picking up from the stairs, have your name tag with you so the teacher on the microphone can call your child/ren’s names
* Children are only to cross at the zebra crossing that is controlled by a staff member regardless of where you pull into the zone
* If you are on Quarry Street and cannot fit into the pick-up zone lane, continue driving and complete a lap to get a clear path into the pick-up zone. Do not block traffic on a through road
* Parents are also reminded that it is a 40km zone and they must slow down. If crossing with children, they must come to the crossing and wait for instructions. After the crossing supervisor blows the whistle twice, they can them cross. Please only use the pedestrian crossings to cross the road.

Please refer to the below do’s and don’ts visual for easy reference.

The School greatly appreciates your help in managing the safety of this space.

Trying new things, stepping out of comfort zones, and learning new routines can evoke a wide range of emotions. These may bring excitement, joy, and a sense of achievement, but they can also lead to feelings of uncertainty, nervousness, or even apprehension. It is important to recognise that all of these thoughts and emotions are completely normal and to be expected during times of change.

It is equally important to acknowledge that the fluctuations in emotions that students may experience are a natural part of the process. The ebb and flow of these feelings – whether they manifest as moments of confidence or periods of uncertainty – are intrinsic to adapting to new routines and environments. Each child’s journey will unfold in its own unique way, and it is important that we provide the necessary support, recognising that patience, reassurance, and understanding are vital in helping them to navigate this time positively.

To ensure a positive and smooth transition back into school routines, one of the best things we can do for our children is to prioritise their wellbeing. This includes ensuring they get enough rest, have time for leisure and play, enjoy nourishing meals, and are given opportunities to spend quality time with loved ones—those who make them feel safe and supported.

Additionally, an essential aspect of a successful transition back to school is being mindful of supervision times, as this ensures the safety of all our students. A quick reminder for families: active supervision begins at 8:00am, and students are to be collected by 3:30pm from the designated drop-off and pick-up area.

Thank you for the ongoing support of our students and our school. I am eager to work alongside our students, staff, and families, and to build strong, positive relationships as we learn and grow together. Being a part of The Rockhampton Grammar School community is truly special, and I look forward to contributing to its continued success and fostering an environment of care, respect, and collaboration.

Central to this approach is the use of decodable texts—books designed to help students apply their phonics knowledge in a structured, systematic way. These texts are carefully selected to match the phonetic patterns that students are currently learning, allowing them to practise decoding unfamiliar words and build confidence as they progress in their reading skills.

Instead of traditional home readers for homework, we encourage our students to read for pleasure at home. This can take the form of a library book, eBook, or a physical book—whatever format best suits your child and their interests. By prioritising reading for enjoyment, we not only foster a love of reading but also provide opportunities for students to develop fluency and comprehension in a more relaxed, self-directed setting. We also encourage parents and carers to share in this experience by reading to your children, helping to build a deeper connection with stories and the joy of reading.

The idea is that as students continue to build their decoding skills in class through explicit instruction and the use of decodable texts, they will naturally feel more confident and engaged in independent reading at home. This approach helps strengthen their reading abilities while also promoting a lifelong love of reading.

By combining the science of reading with a focus on reading for pleasure, we create an environment where students can thrive as both skilled readers and enthusiastic learners. This approach allows them to see reading as both a valuable skill and an enjoyable activity, setting them up for continued success in their academic journey and beyond.

We look forward to hearing of your shared adventures as you delve into a world of reading.

NAPLAN 2025 – Important Information for Parents

Dear Parents and Carers,

Now that students have settled into the school year, we would like to provide you with important information about the upcoming NAPLAN assessments , which will take place in March 2025 .

Since we have already conducted online NAPLAN assessments in the past, we are confident our students will be well-prepared to navigate the digital format again this year. The online format ensures a smooth and efficient testing experience, and we continue to support students in becoming comfortable with this format in their day-to-day learning.

What is NAPLAN?

NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) is a nationwide assessment for students in Years 3 and 5 , measuring key skills in reading, writing, spelling, grammar, and numeracy. The results provide valuable insights into student progress and help guide future learning.

Benefits of NAPLAN

✅ Identifies strengths and areas for improvement – Helps teachers tailor learning to support each student’s needs
✅ Monitors progress over time – Provides valuable information on student development from one assessment period to the next
✅ Prepares students for future assessments – Builds confidence in digital testing and structured exam-style conditions
✅ Supports school improvement – Helps schools refine teaching strategies and enhance learning outcomes

Key Information for 2025

✅ NAPLAN Testing Period: Testing window commences 12th March 2025
✅ Who Participates? Students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9
✅ Format: Online (except Year 3 Writing, which remains paper-based)
✅ Devices: Students will use school-provided devices to complete the tests

Supporting Your Child

To help your child feel confident and prepared for NAPLAN:

Encourage regular reading, writing, and problem-solving activities at home

Ensure they get a good night’s sleep and a healthy breakfast on test days

Remind them that NAPLAN is just one part of their learning journey—there is no need to feel pressured

Further details, including specific test dates and schedules, will be shared soon. If you have any questions, please reach out to your child’s teacher.

Thank you for your continued support in making NAPLAN a smooth and positive experience for our students.

Click here to visit the Parent and Carers section of the NAPLAN website

Exciting Extension Writing Programmes for Years 4, 5 & 6!

Our Extension Writing Programmes for students in Years 4, 5, and 6 , will be commencing in the next few weeks. These programmes are designed to challenge and inspire young writers, helping them develop advanced writing skills, creativity, and confidence in their work.

At present, we are in the process of identifying students who demonstrate strong writing abilities and a passion for storytelling, persuasive writing, and creative expression. Teachers will be observing students’ work and engagement in class to determine participation.

Invitations will be sent out to parents and carers of the students identified.

Unlocking Young Minds: Our Extended Mathematical Thinking (EMT) Programme

At The Rockhampton Grammar School, we believe that mathematics is more than just numbers—it's about thinking critically, solving problems creatively, and exploring the world with curiosity. Our Extended Mathematical Thinking (EMT) programme is designed for students in Years 4, 5, and 6 to develop and refine these essential skills in an engaging and supportive environment.

The EMT programme goes deeper into the Australian Curriculum, challenging students with complex problems, logic puzzles, and real-world scenarios that require deep thinking and innovative solutions. Through this approach, students enhance their ability to analyse problems, make strategic decisions, and develop resilience when faced with challenges.

Benefits of the EMT Programme?

Problem-Solving Mastery – Students tackle high-level mathematical problems that encourage them to think outside the box. Using evidence-based problem-solving strategies linked to Prime Maths.

Critical Thinking Development – The programme fosters logical reasoning and decision-making skills applicable in all areas of learning.

Creative Exploration – Students learn to approach problems from different angles and explore multiple solutions.

Collaborative Learning – Working with peers, students develop teamwork and communication skills while sharing strategies and insights.

The EMT programme is not just about finding the right answers—it’s about developing a mindset that embraces challenges and sees mistakes as opportunities for growth. EMT provides an enriching experience that will benefit students beyond the classroom.

I would like to welcome all families to the School for 2025!  I trust you all had a refreshing and enjoyable holiday period.

It was wonderful to have all new students at the School on Tuesday 28 January. Their faces showed a mixture of nerves, anxiousness, and excitement! I hope all Year 7-12 students enjoyed a productive and positive first week.

Overview of the Role of Head of Secondary School – Academics

To assist parents understand my role as the Head of Secondary School (Academics), I am responsible for the teaching and learning programme of the School and the administration of the educational programme of the Secondary School. My key duties include:
* Leadership of the Heads of Department
* Management of student assessment, including Queensland Curriculum Assessment Authority (QCAA) requirements such as endorsement, confirmation, external assessment, General and Applied subject syllabi, external assessment and the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) system
* Oversight of the planning and implementation of the School’s Academic Plan and ongoing pedagogical development
* Direction of school policies relating to the Queensland College of Teachers and teaching standards
* Management of subject departments in the preparation of Marzano Planners and Study Plans
* Collation and analysis of Secondary School academic results, and
* Oversight of the timetable (including class lists), academic administration, and staffing of the School.

As Head of Secondary School (Academics), I am supported by the Dean of Academic Administration and Staffing (DAAS), Mr Julien Wright, who has responsibility for providing administrative support for the academic programmes, broader activities and staff of the School, the Dean of Studies (DoS), Mrs Debbie Moulds, who has responsibility for the management of the School’s curriculum and pedagogical development and the Dean of Strategic Projects (DoSP), Mr Scott Kerr, who has responsibility for implementing specific projects and initiatives linked to the Studies Directorate.

Year 12, 2024 Outcomes
A snapshot is provided below for your review.

One hundred and seventy-nine students graduated from RGS in 2024 (30 more than 2023), with all graduates achieving a QCE. Obviously, 100% is impressive! Achieving a QCE ensures options for all graduates regardless of their post school goal. Statewide approximately 93% of students received a Queensland Certificate of Education (or 95% if the QCIA is included).

Students receive a Certificate of Academic Commendation if they achieve an A level in at least six General subjects. RGS graduates with straight A results in 6 General subjects were: Lachlan Wilson, Martha Dingle, Vivash Dixit, Medha Koduri, Isabelle O’Rourke, Benjamin George, and Abenaya Suntharavadivel.

The School’s (Internal Assessment) Dux for 2024, Lachlan Wilson, achieved the following results – Chemistry 99/100, Physics 100/100, Mathematical Methods 100/100, Specialist Mathematics 100/100, Literature 98/100, and Biology 100/100. These results confirmed that Lachlan was also the School’s overall dux for 2024! In an outstanding achievement, Lachlan received a QCAA Distinguished Academic Achiever award. He attended a special event on Wednesday 11 December with the Queensland Education Minister, John-Paul Langbroek and QCAA CEO Jacqui Wilton. This award is for students who, ‘in achieving a QCE, demonstrate exceptionally high achievement across a diverse range of learning options’. Generally, only 30-35 are issued to the 53,000+ Year 12 graduates each year (35 were issued in 2024). This noteworthy achievement reflects the unwavering commitment by Lachlan, his family, the RGS Boarding staff, his teachers, and indeed the entire RGS community. Importantly, it verifies students outside the Brisbane schooling district can achieve to the highest level, when given the necessary support and guidance, which is offered by RGS.

Data is available for 90 graduates who were issued an ATAR and indicates the following:
* 40 students (44.45%) achieved an ATAR of 90+
* 63 students (70.00%) achieved an ATAR of 80+
* 79 students (87.78%) achieved an ATAR of 70+
* 87 students (96.67%) achieved an ATAR of 60+

The School’s VET data was very pleasing, with the main certificate courses on offer for RGS students were – Certificate II in Engineering Pathways, Certificate III in Agriculture, and Certificate III in Fitness.

Throughout the state 69.29% successfully completed a VET qualification. RGS graduates far exceeded this result, with 169 of 179 students (94.4%) achieving a VET qualification!

The School’s Level of Achievement data for General subjects were:
* 237 of 757 enrolments were an A = 31.31%
* 338 of 757 enrolments were a B = 44.65%
* 176 of 757 enrolments were a C = 23.25%
* 6 of 757 enrolments were a D = 0.79%

Hence, in 2024, 75.96% achieved an A or B level of achievement!

Year 12 Study Hall
All Year 12 students will remain on campus and attend tutorial or the SRL during period 9 and 10 of a Tuesday and Friday.

The schedule below will operate every week and other tutorials will/can be added on an ad hoc basis (due to assessment requirements).

Tuesday
1. Senior Research Library – Library staff plus Mr Stewart Norford

2. Physics tutorial – Mrs Christie Mahon

3. English tutorial – Mrs Lisa Jenkin and Mrs Melissa McCosker

4. Technology/Engineering catch up – Mr Noel Philips

5. Humanities (Geog/Histories) tutorial – Mrs Claire Matheson

6. Mathematics – Mrs Tania Norford

Friday
1. Senior Research Library – Library staff plus Mr Stewart Norford

2. Chemistry tutorial – Mrs Debbie Moulds

3. Business tutorial – Ms Emma Currie

4. Mathematics tutorial – Mr Gary Glisson

5. English tutorial – Mrs Meg Kerr

6. Technology/Engineering catch up – Mr Noel Philips

Queries
I encourage you to contact me if you have any queries or questions relating to the academic domain at the School. My details are 07 49 360 609 or [email protected] .

It is with great pleasure that I extend a warm welcome to both returning students and those joining us for the first time. As we embark on this journey together, I would like to remind everyone that success is not solely defined by academic achievement, but also by prioritising personal wellbeing. Our School is fully committed to fostering a supportive and nurturing environment, which is reflected in our Pastoral Care programme. This programme focuses on four key areas: Careers and Courses, Leadership, Study Skills, and Wellbeing. It is underpinned by the Leadership for All framework, which ensures that each student feels valued, safe, and empowered to thrive. A copy of the Pastoral Care Handbook is available in Parent Lounge and Student Cafe.

We recognise that students perform at their best when they feel confident and well-supported. For this reason, RGS has a team of dedicated, caring professionals who are committed to supporting students in their personal and academic growth. Through the Pastoral Care programme, we aim to build a community where all students feel encouraged, respected, and ready to meet any challenge with resilience and kindness.

We believe in the importance of open communication and are here to work alongside you. Should you have any concerns or require additional support, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Head of Year (HOY) or any member of our team.

Here’s to an exciting and successful year ahead, filled with learning, personal development, and many rewarding experiences!

It has been such a joy to see the enthusiasm and confidence of the group during their first week of secondary school. The students have been finding their way around, managing their locks and lockers, and trying their best to get on top of all the new routines and procedures. Thanks to Mums and Dads, grandparents, and other family members, our Form teachers, and the wonderful Boarding team for your work and encouragement in preparing the children for the transition and supporting them through the week.

In Tutorial and Form lessons this week, we have focused on building skills and knowledge to navigate Year 7. Self-awareness is a key theme as we move through this term, and I look forward to sharing the exciting activities we undertake with you.

Thank you to those parents who have returned the Immunisation forms directly to the Health Centre. Please ensure your forms are returned as soon as possible, including if you are choosing not to have your immunisations at school. All immunisations will be given during the tutorial period led by Ms Tuaine. This ensures the students are not missing curriculum-based work, and the nurses are only attending to one class at a time, making for a smoother and calmer process. If you have any questions, please contact the Health Centre.

The transition to secondary school can be a challenging time, with lots of changes occurring. If you have any questions or concerns about your child, please do not hesitate to contact me. Often, a problem dealt with early is easier to solve than if we wait to address it. I look forward to an exciting year ahead with our Year 7s!

It has been wonderful to see students settling in after a slightly nervous start on Tuesday morning. As the week has progressed, I’ve enjoyed watching them grow more confident, finding their way around the school, meeting their new teachers, and forming friendships. It’s completely normal to feel some nerves at the start of the year, and I am incredibly proud of how well our Year 8s have navigated their first few days.

Throughout the year, one of the most common concerns I hear from families is uncertainty about who to speak to when their child needs support. As Head of Year 8, I am here to help and encourage you to reach out if you have any questions or concerns. Thank you to those families who have already been in touch—I appreciate the opportunity to support you. If I am unable to assist directly, I will be happy to connect you with the right person. Our team of dedicated Year 8 Form Teachers is also an excellent point of contact for students.

This term, our Form and Tutorial programmes will focus on Connection while reinforcing our school values of Integrity and Honour, Respect and Care, Endeavour and Responsibility, and Courage and Resilience.

Important Reminders
📸 ID Photos – Wednesday
ID photos will be taken this Wednesday. Students must wear their formal uniform, including their blazer. Blazers are required only for the photo and may be removed afterward. I have been very impressed with the high standard of presentation among our Year 8s so far, and I encourage them to take extra care in their appearance on photo day.
📚 Elective Changes
Some students have inquired about changing elective subjects. While there is a small window for adjustments, requests must come from a parent or guardian. If your child wishes to change an elective, please email me with the subject they would like to drop and the one they hope to take. Please note that changes are subject to availability and class sizes, so while we will do our best, it may not always be possible.

I look forward to a fantastic year ahead and to seeing our Year 8s continue to grow and thrive in our school community. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any support.

I am incredibly excited to take on the role of Head of Year 9 and even more so at the prospect of supporting this cohort over the next two years.

This year, we welcome 24 new students into Year 9, along with their families, as they join the Grammar community. I am really looking forward to working with this year level and setting collective goals that help us all strive to be the best versions of ourselves.

It was fantastic to see most students return on day one looking well-groomed and wearing their uniform with pride. Maintaining high standards will continue to be a focus throughout the year to ensure this remains consistent.

A quick reminder that Secondary School ID photos will be taken this Wednesday, 5th February, during lessons. Students must wear their formal uniform on the day.

As we settle into the term, it is important that students start developing strong study habits and routines that support their learning. Now is the time to establish positive habits that will carry through into senior schooling. I encourage all students to reflect on how they balance their time between study, co-curricular commitments, and leisure.

Please check the Daily Notices regularly, as many co-curricular activities are already underway, with trials happening over the coming weeks. Assessment schedules will also be available soon on Student Café and Parent Lounge for planning purposes.

I am looking forward to getting to know the wonderful students in this cohort over the next few weeks in tutorials. If you have any queries or concerns, please do not hesitate to get in touch. Looking forward to a great year ahead!

I am thrilled to welcome you back for what promises to be a pivotal and dynamic stage in your educational journey. Year 10 marks the beginning of new challenges, responsibilities, and opportunities that will help shape your future pathways. This year, you will experience a wide range of subjects, projects, and learning experiences that will help you discover your passions and strengths. You will also be preparing for important academic milestones as you start thinking about your goals for Year 11 and beyond.

Throughout this year, all Year 10 students will be completing a Certificate I in Active Volunteering. This certificate course serves to engage our students in service learning with the added benefit of receiving two points towards their Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE) upon completion. As part of this course, students will be required to complete 20 hours of volunteering. I will speak with the cohort at length about what does and does not constitute volunteering so that they are well informed. The school will endeavour to provide a multitude of volunteer opportunities over the course of the year. However, students will need to be proactive and sign up for these opportunities. Families are also able to provide volunteer opportunities to their children through their own connections.

At the Year Level assembly last week and during tutorials, I have been discussing with the students the Outdoor Education Programme offerings. Please note that the Outdoor Education Programme represents a mandatory part of Year 10 at RGS, and all students are expected to attend one of the offerings available. It is always an incredibly positive experience that leaves an indelible mark on our students and encourages them to mature and make new friends along the way. Please do not hesitate to contact me over the course of the year with any questions, queries, worries, or dramas. I welcome proactive communication and am always more than happy to help where I can.

Let’s make Year 10 a year to remember!
Wishing you all the best for an incredible year ahead.

My name is Amy Challacombe, and I am the Head of Year 11 for 2025. I have emailed parents and students in the first week of school—if you have not received any emails from me, please ensure your details are updated on Parent Lounge.

I am looking forward to meeting all students formally throughout the term. It was great to informally meet the cohort during their Year Level meeting last week and at least put a face to the name for students. During the Year Level meetings, students were reminded of the school expectations around uniforms, electronic devices, and social media. Throughout the year, we will focus on Study Skills, Relationships, Leadership, and Futures Readiness in Form and Year Level meetings.

Students will be emailed the link for their subject assessment overviews this week, and I will include parents in the email. Please ensure your child is up to date on their assessment due dates. If for any reason your child is sick, will be absent for their assessment, or is struggling, it is important to contact the school ASAP.

Subject changes will be available for students up until Monday 10th February, with parental approval. After this date, students will not have the opportunity to change subjects again until after Unit One has ceased.

Work experience applications are now open for the Easter Holidays. Students can submit their applications to the Secondary School Office. Where available, placements in the fields of Medicine, Veterinary, Engineering, and Diesel Fitting do fill quickly—so the sooner applications are submitted, the better. Work experience is a valuable tool to utilise for students to try pathways of interest before committing wholly.

A gentle reminder that school photos are on Wednesday 5th February. The Year 11s will have their photos taken from 9:50 am—please ensure they are dressed in their formal uniform and are adhering to the school's grooming policy.

If you have any queries, concerns, or would like to check in, please do not hesitate to call or email me.

While 2025 will be a busy year for all students, there is also much to celebrate and enjoy along the way. I encourage every Year 12 student to make the most of their final year of schooling and participate in as many activities as possible during this year. It has been wonderful to see students settling back into a school routine, and I hope the year progresses smoothly for everyone.

Congratulations to those students who have been appointed to Leadership roles this year. I am confident you will undertake these roles with dedication and maturity, and I look forward to hearing your ideas and seeing them come to fruition. In Year 12, while some Leadership roles come with a title, it is important for all Year 12 students to remember that leadership is not defined by a badge or title. You are all leaders of the School, and your impact in your role as Seniors can make a lasting positive impression for future years.

We have commenced our year in Form classes with a letter to their end-of-year self, using Futureme. Hopefully, when the Year 12s read these letters when they arrive in their email inbox in early October, they can reflect on what their beginning-of-the-year self was like and consider all that they have experienced, the challenges that they have overcome, and the amazing times that they have had over their final school year. Additionally, Year 12s will have a focus on self over the upcoming term during their Form lessons as well as developing a good understanding of the School Value of Honour and Integrity. We commence by looking at gratitude, empathy, and mindfulness. The video at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iOBQlI_tIGY provides some insight into these characteristics. Robert Emmons, a psychologist and professor, discusses how gratitude can positively impact our wellbeing in the following School TV video: https://rgs.qld.schooltv.me/newsletter-external-resource/power-gratitude-robert-emmons . This week, students will look at their own personal power, where they will investigate grit, persistence, and resilience and how this influences their ability to succeed.

A few items to note, which will also be discussed during our first Year Level Meeting tomorrow:
• For any missed assessments or requests for extensions due to medical reasons, a medical certificate must be provided that states the actual medical condition.
• Leave forms must be completed for any absences of three or more days.
• Students must check emails regularly.
• Students will be in Study Hall sessions during Tuesday and Friday periods 9 and 10. They are welcome to attend any of the tutorial sessions on offer over these times (see below for sessions offered) or complete independent study in the SRL.
• Students are encouraged to keep a record of any Leadership or Service activity they engage in, as this can be used later in the year when applying for Leadership Colours.
• Uniform infringements have commenced. Students should be well aware of uniform requirements, particularly adhering to our jewellery, sports uniform, and hair policies.

Please regularly check the School calendar for what is on and when over the upcoming year. This is updated regularly.

I hope all students enjoy their final year of schooling. Please do not hesitate to contact me if needed.

Our Values and Goals
The foundation of our co-curricular programme is built on three key principles: Respect, Community, and Responsibility . From this foundation, we aim to have all students actively participate in the programme. Last year, 82% of students in Years 7–12 represented the School, and this year, we’re aiming to increase that to 85–90%.

Participation is key to personal growth, and once students sign up, we encourage them to attend every training session, rehearsal, or event with the mindset of giving their best effort. By consistently showing up and challenging themselves, students can unlock their full potential and excel in their chosen sport or activity.

Daily Notices
All the latest information regarding Co-Curricular can be found in the daily notices on Parent Lounge and Student Café.  We encourage parents and students to check them on a regular basis.

RGS Trial Information
Details for internal trials for week 2 and 3 this term can be found via:
* Parent Orbit App – Daily Notices/RGS Internal Sport Trials
* Parent Lounge – School Links/Co-Curricular (General)/RGS Internal Sports Trials

RGS Term 1 Co-Curricular Online Nominations
Registrations for co-curricular activities will continue online in 2025. To access information about registering for a sport or activity, go to Parent Lounge or Parent Orbit App and follow the instructions provided:
* Parent Orbit App – Daily Notices/Registration Instructions – RGS Sports/Activities
* Parent Lounge – School Links/Co-Curricular (General)/ Registration Instructions – RGS Sports/Activities

The following sports/activities are available via the Co-Curricular menu:
(Sports in bold have registration that close this week)

AFL
Art Club
Boys Futsal
Boys Rugby Union
Chess
Girls Basketball
Girls Rugby Union
Hospitality
Opti-Minds
Photography Club
Public Speaking
Robotics
Show Cattle Team
Touch Football (Wednesday or Friday Night)
Water Polo

Please note the following registrations are via the Events and Payments menu:
Music
Musical
Rowing

If you are required to pay for a co-curricular activity / sport or an event / excursion, any costs will be payable at the time of registration (sign-up). This process includes providing parental permission and verification of student medical details.

Uniform Distribution will start Week 2 for Futsal and Basketball and Week 3 for Rugby Union. Students must be fully registered to be provided with uniform.

Rockhampton District Sport Trial Nominations 2025
The nomination booklet can be found at the following link - 2025 - Representative School Sport Permissions Details Booklet.pdf

The process will consist of the following:
* It is preferred that the nomination booklet be completed and signed electronically, which can be found at the attached link.
* For Secondary Students the completed booklet must to be sent to the RGS Sports Administration Office at [email protected] for signature by the School.
* Upon receipt of the booklet, students will be added to the nomination list.
* Once signed, the booklet will be emailed to the students and their parents.
* The signed booklet must be handed in at the trials as students will not be allowed to participate      without it.

The booklet submitted at the district trials will be subsequently used for the Cap trials as well.

The dates for all district sports trials can be found in the Daily Notices on Parent Lounge & Student Café.

Rockhampton District Sport Trial Dates
Please find the below information to access the 2025 Rockhampton District Sport Trial Dates. It is preferred that forms are completed and returned to the school at least the day before the nomination due date to assist the school in processing forms.

Details on how to access the District Sport Trial Calendar online or via the Parent Orbit App can be found via:
* Parent Orbit App – Daily Notices/2025 13-19 Yrs Trial Calendar
* Parent Lounge – School Links/Co-Curricular (General)/ 2025 13-19 Yrs Trial Calendar

Sports with Nominations due in the next 2 weeks:
* Volleyball Boys and Girls – Monday 3rd of February
* AFL Boys and Girls – Wednesday 5th February
* Girls Rugby League – Monday 10th February
* Football Boys and Girls – Tuesday 11th February
* Basketball Boys and Girls – Tuesday 11th of February
* Water Polo Boys and Girls – Friday 14th February
* Hockey Boys and Girls – Monday 17th February

RGS Parent Support Groups
Some of the larger sports and activities at the School have parent support groups that provide a link between students and the School, assist with running that sport/activity and assist with fundraising and events. Any parent of a student that is registered for a particular sport/activity is welcome to attend meetings to assist. Upcoming meetings:

RGS Music Council General Meeting
Thursday 6th February, 6:00pm in the Music Rooms

RGS Rugby Club AGM
Tuesday 11th February, 6pm in the Seminar Room or via Teams online
Anyone wishing to nominate for positions should email [email protected]

Nominations called for all positions:
* President
* Vice president
* Treasurer
* Secretary

RGS Rowing Club General Meeting
Wednesday 12th February, 5:45pm at the Rowing Club, Harman Street, Rockhampton.

RGS Netball Club AGM
Wednesday 19th February, 6:30pm Seminar Room or via Teams online
Anyone wishing to nominate for positions should email [email protected]
Nominations called for all positions:
* President
* Vice president
* Treasurer
* Secretary
* Umpire Coordinator

Cross Country
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.

The sessions also provide a good training opportunity in preparation for the RGS Cross Country event on the last day of Term 1 (Friday, 4 April). This event will be held at Rugby Park and offers a mixture of both competitive and participation events.

RGS Run Club training sessions:
* 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 2: Thursday only
* Week 3: Monday only
* 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!

Netball
2025 Netball RGS Netball Trials- RGS netball Trials will be held in Duggan Hall

Minis Meet and Greet Monday 3rd February 3:30pm
Year 3/4 Wednesday 5th February 3:30 - 5:00 pm
Year 8 Saturday 8th February 9:00 - 10:30 am
Year 9 Saturday 8th February 11:00 - 12:30 pm
Year 10 Saturday 8th February 1:00 - 2:30 pm
Year 11/12 Thursday 6th February 3:30 - 5:00 pm

Trials for Magic, Meteors, Storm, and Year 7 are already completed.

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
Athletics
Grace Francis won bronze medal at the Australian All Schools Championships in Brisbane in December for U15 15O0m.

Cricket
Sam Gassman represented Queensland Cricket U17 side at the National Championships in Launceston in January. Queensland made the final against New South Wales but unfortunately were beaten in that match.

Rugby League
Jonty Coutts and Sam Fahlstrom participated in Titans Academy sessions for a week on the Gold Coast

Mason Broadhurst and Cormac Werner participated in Cowboys Academy Sessions over the holidays

Softball
Good luck to Kellen Crouch, Year 12, who will be travelling to New Zealand in February representing Queensland in Softball.

Swimming
Year 10 student Ashton Rodgers endured the jellyfish and less than ideal racing conditions, competing at the National Australian Open Water Championships held near the beautiful Busselton Jetty in WA in January.  He placed 3rd in Australia in the 5km 16 years swim in a time of 59 minutes, 23 seconds.  He was also 4th in the 7.5 km 16 years swim in a time of 1 hour, 36 minutes.  He also competed in the Open Mixed Relay team, a first for Rocky City Swimming, where the team placed 11th, against teams such as Japan and other major swimming clubs from around Australia.

Water Polo
Congratulations to Alex Harris, Lauren Moody, Jean Haviland, Max Cottam, Ty Lynch, Sam Maurer and Evie Francis who represented Rockhampton at The Qld Country Junior Water Polo Championships at the Gold Coast in December. All students played particularly well with Lauren and Jean coming home with a bronze medal.