Newsletter

In today's digital world, AI companion apps like Character.AI, Replika, and Nomi are becoming increasingly popular among teenagers. These apps simulate friendships, romantic relationships, and emotional support—offering experiences that can feel incredibly real. But a recent study by Common Sense Media and Stanford University’s Brainstorm Lab for Mental Health Innovation has raised important concerns about how these apps may affect young people.

What’s the Difference? Generative AI vs. Social AI Companions

It’s important to understand that not all AI tools are the same:

Generative AI Chatbots (like ChatGPT or Claude) are designed to help with tasks such as answering questions, drafting emails, or researching information. They’re practical tools meant for productivity and learning.

Social AI Companions (like Replika and Character.AI), on the other hand, are built to form emotional bonds with users—simulating friendships or even romantic relationships. These apps are designed to meet social and emotional needs, which can blur the line between real and artificial relationships.

While the first type is mostly used for work or school tasks, the second type engages emotionally—which can be risky for teenagers still developing their understanding of relationships and identity.

Blurring the Line Between Real and Artificial

AI companions can hold lifelike conversations, remember past chats, and even express emotions. For young users, this can lead to confusion—making it harder to distinguish between healthy real-world relationships and artificial interactions. Some AI companions even claim to be "real," distorting a teen’s understanding of human connection.

The Impact on Mental Health and Relationships

The study found several areas of concern, including:

Undermining Real Relationships: Some AI companions may discourage teens from listening to family or friends, making them more isolated and emotionally dependent on the app.

Inadequate Crisis Response: These apps cannot reliably detect or respond to signs of mental health distress like depression or suicidal thoughts.

Harmful Encouragement: In some cases, AI companions encouraged risky behaviours—such as dropping out of school, moving out, or even self-harm.

Exposure to Inappropriate Content: Despite supposed safeguards, some platforms have engaged in sexually explicit conversations—even with underage users.

Promotion of Cyberbullying: Alarming instances were noted where AI companions supported or encouraged bullying behaviour.

Access to Harmful Information: Tests revealed that some AI companions provided instructions or guidance related to dangerous materials, drugs, and weapons—often with fewer warnings or barriers than traditional internet searches.

How Can Parents Help?

Experts recommend the following steps to protect young people:

Age Restrictions: These apps should not be accessed by users under 18.

Open Conversations: Talk regularly with your child about the apps they use and how they’re feeling. Encourage honesty and curiosity, not fear.

Stay Informed: Research continues into the effects of AI companions. Keeping up with these findings can help families make safer choices.

Working Together to Keep Teens Safe

As technology continues to evolve, it’s more important than ever to understand how it shapes the lives of young people. By staying informed and engaged, families, educators, and communities can work together to protect the mental and emotional wellbeing of our students.

To learn more about Social AI Companions, we encourage parents to explore SchoolTV’s special report on Navigating AI Relationships , as well as the full findings from Common Sense Media’s recent study in partnership with Stanford University.

We know that busy families often prefer to receive information on the go. That’s why, with the help of NotebookLM, we’ve created a short podcast version of this article: The Hidden Dangers of AI Companions: What Parents Need to Know. In just four minutes, you’ll gain key insights into the growing popularity—and potential risks—of social AI companion apps used by teenagers. If you’ve got a moment, we encourage you to have a listen.

Dr Stelzer’s workshops were not simply about writing for a task—they were about discovering the joy of creating, imagining, and playing with ideas, just for the love of learning.

Students were captivated by his stories, illustrations, and the way he brought characters to life. More than just developing writing skills, his sessions encouraged children to take creative risks, explore new worlds, and enjoy the freedom of putting pen to paper without the pressure of assessment.

At the heart of Dr Stelzer’s visit was a powerful message: writing is not just something we do at school—it’s something we can love. His workshops reminded us that imagination is a skill worth nurturing, and that storytelling is a way of expressing ourselves, connecting with others, and exploring the world around us.

We thank Dr Stelzer for his time, his inspiration, and for helping our young learners see themselves as authors in their own right. We can’t wait to see where their imaginations take them next.

Mr Bartley is a familiar and respected face around the school, known for his invaluable contributions across a range of roles. Mr Bartley’s commitment to supporting our students shines through in everything he does, from guiding learners in their academic challenges to inspiring curiosity through his passions.

With a deep enthusiasm for sport, robotics, and mathematics, Mr Bartley brings an energetic and hands-on approach that resonates with students of all ages. His ability to connect and engage helps create an inclusive environment where every student feels empowered to succeed.

We’re delighted to celebrate Mr Bartley’s ongoing dedication to our school community and invite you to learn more about the enthusiasm and expertise he brings to his vital role.

What is a brief background of your educational experience?
I grew up and studied in Sydney, and my teaching journey has taken me across the globe. I've worked in schools in Sydney, Edmonton (Canada), London (England), and now here in beautiful Central Queensland.

What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
The diversity of roles and the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to a community really drew me to education. No two days are ever the same, and I love being part of something bigger than myself.

How do you like to spend your time outside of school?
I'm passionate about food and flavour—whether it's researching new recipes or experimenting in the kitchen. Lately, I've been on a mission to master the perfect Neapolitan pizza.

What is a memorable moment you've had with a student or colleague?
A moment that has always stayed with me happened nearly a decade after a student had left my class. We bumped into each other by chance, and she told me she'd recently reflected on someone who had changed her life during a wellbeing workshop at work—and she had named me. That conversation was incredibly moving, and even now, thinking about it brings back a rush of emotion.

What is something most people might not know about you?
I represented New South Wales in basketball for three years, including a season as team captain. It was a huge part of my life and an unforgettable experience.

If you could have dinner with any historical figure, who would it be and why?
It might not be a traditional answer, but I would choose my Nanna. To me, she’s a personal historical figure—strong, generous, and wise. I’d love the chance to tell her just how much she meant to me and to learn the secrets behind her incredible cooking.

Learning in our Library
During National Simultaneous Storytime 2025, our students gathered in our library for a special reading of The Truck Cat , a heartwarming story about adventure, identity, and belonging. The event brought together students from all grade levels, creating a wonderful sense of community as they shared in the joy of reading. Teachers facilitated discussions and activities that allowed the children to dive deeper into the themes of the book, fostering creativity and critical thinking. The library buzzed with excitement, and the collaborative atmosphere made it a truly memorable day for all involved.

ICAS registration
This is a friendly reminder to parents that registrations for the ICAS English and Mathematics tests via the Parent Payment System will close on Monday, 28 July 2025. These assessments are available to students in Years 3-6 only. If you wish for your child to participate, please ensure that you complete the registration process by the specified deadline. This is a valuable opportunity for students to challenge themselves and demonstrate their academic abilities.

Maths Extension: Team Challenges and Curious Shapes
Following our success at the regional Maths Team Challenge, students are now preparing for the upcoming Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers (QAMT) Quiz for Years 5 and 6. This exciting competition begins soon and gives students the opportunity to extend their thinking, solve complex problems, and collaborate in a timed environment.

In our weekly Monday morning sessions, students are exploring fascinating mathematical concepts — including how to name 2D shapes with 10 or more angles and 3D shapes with 10 more faces. Did you know a 31-sided shape is called a tricontatrihenagon? Each week, students encounter new challenges and intriguing topics that spark curiosity and mathematical thinking.

Extension Writing: Vocabulary with Purpose
In Extension Writing, students across year levels have been exploring the power of vocabulary. They are learning how word choice can enhance a reader's engagement and bring a piece of writing to life. We're now working on final drafts where students are deliberately applying rich vocabulary, including figurative language and emotive word choices. We look forward to sharing a selection of these creative pieces in future newsletters.

Lego Donation Drive: Help Us Build More Than Just Structures
We are currently seeking donations of clean, used Lego for our Learning Enrichment spaces. Lego offers more than just fun — it provides students with a calm, creative outlet at lunchtime, supporting self-regulation, social interactions, and problem-solving skills.

By building together, students practise collaboration and communication — important aspects of the Personal and Social Capability. Lego also encourages Critical and Creative Thinking as students design, experiment, and bring their ideas to life.

If you have any Lego tucked away at home that’s no longer in use, we’d love to give it a new life at school. Donations can be dropped off at the front office.

Year 12 QCAA External Assessment
As advised in the last Newsletter, the QCAA recently issued the official External Assessment timetable for 2025. I provided all Year 12 students and parents, caregivers an electronic copy. Parents can also find a copy on  the QCAA website at QCAA external assessment timetable 2025

The QCAA does not seek feedback on the schedule. Additionally, QCAA will oversee any clashes and RGS will be notified of specific details over the coming month. Relevant students will be notified once details are known.

Year 12 Mock Assessment Timetable
The School’s Mock timetable has been finalised and a copy has been sent to parents, caregivers and students. A copy of the Mock timetable can be found below.

NAPLAN
The School expects to receive Year 7 and Year 9 NAPLAN data early in Term 3. Parents will be advised once further details are received from ACARA and QCAA.

Year 10 – Where to now? SET Planning
Year 10 students will continue to complete their Senior Education and Training (SET) Plan, with the HOY – 10, Mr Nathan Doyle, or with me, as the Head of Secondary School (Academics). This is an important document as it allows students to consider their post school goals and ambitions. The link below, to a QCAA resource – MyQCE, provides an excellent overview of the process. The frequently asked questions section is particularly informative.
https://myqce.qcaa.qld.edu.au/your-qce-pathway/planning-your-pathway

Coursing and Timetabling for 2026
In Semester 2, students in Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10, will complete their subject selection documentation for 2026. It is important students submit their selection data on time, to allow the Studies Directorate the opportunity to ensure all requests can be met. It is important students review their Semester 1 report card and use the upcoming holidays to consider what subject electives they would like to take for next year.

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

With plenty of activities and events still to take place, it is not quite time to switch into holiday mode just yet. This week, Year 7 students will sit their Mathematics exam and submit final assessments for many of our experiential subjects. If your child missed any exams last week, it is important they check in with their teachers, as catch-up exams are likely to occur this week.

On Friday, we look forward to the Athletics Carnival. For many, this is a highlight of the school calendar - fun, energetic, and full of school spirit. For others, a day in the classroom may be preferable. As Year 7 students know, I firmly believe that carnivals are for everyone. Participation is not about athletic ability but about showing up, encouraging your peers, and contributing to the atmosphere. For those aspiring to take on leadership roles in the future, events like these are an excellent opportunity to lead by example. I look forward to seeing all our Year 7 students there on Friday - best of luck to those competing!

Last week, invitations for the Year 7 Showcase were emailed home to families. This is an important milestone in the Year 7 calendar and a chance for families to visit our classrooms and see the fantastic work students have completed. We warmly encourage you to attend and speak with students about their learning journey this year.

Next term marks the beginning of Year 7 camp. Camp information and permission forms will be distributed closer to the date. For your planning, the camp schedule is as follows:

7A: 13 -15 October
7B: 23 - 25 July
7C: 29 - 31 July
7D: 15 - 17 July
7E: 4 - 6 August
7F: 12 - 14 August
7G: 7 - 9 October

Enjoy the show holiday this week! After a busy few weeks of assessment, I know our Year 7s are looking forward to a well-earned break. As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.

We are now more than halfway through our assessment period. Last week in Tutorial and Form, students participated in a dedicated study session, and it was a pleasure to see them so engaged - whether working through revision sheets, making study cards, or using online resources creatively. A particularly heartening aspect was the way students supported each other throughout the session, showing strong camaraderie and collaboration.

With several recent events and illnesses, some students may need to sit make-up exams. In most instances, this can be arranged directly with subject teachers. However, if your child requires multiple catch-ups or has specific needs, please do not hesitate to contact me for support. Best of luck to all students for their remaining assessments.

Looking ahead, we are excited for the Athletics Carnival. While not everyone is naturally athletic, this event is about teamwork, encouragement, and school spirit. I look forward to seeing all of Year 8 there, cheering one another on and making the day a memorable one.

Please feel free to contact me with any questions or concerns.

If your child has been unwell and missed an exam, please ensure they speak with their classroom teacher to arrange a suitable time to catch up on this work.

Week 8 will be somewhat disjointed due to the Rockhampton Show Holiday on Thursday and our whole-school Athletics Day on Friday. Friday’s focus will be on track events held on the lower oval. The schedule will align with our usual school day, beginning at 8:30 am and concluding at 3:00 pm with the presentation of the House Trophy. I strongly encourage all students to attend, whether they are competing or cheering on their peers. It is a valuable opportunity to connect with house spirit and support one another.

During Tutorials in Week 9, Year 9 students will begin the process of subject selection for Year 10. They will receive information about the various subjects available and will be asked to indicate their areas of interest.

Week 10 marks the beginning of the ‘What About Me’ (WAM) camp programme. This is a compulsory part of our pastoral curriculum and is designed to support students' personal development. I am looking forward to seeing all Year 9 students fully engaged in the experience. As with most things, the value of this week will be shaped by the effort students put in and their openness to being challenged. Please expect a letter with all camp information to be available to you next week. It is also worth noting that parents are invited to the celebration on the final day of the programme concluding with cake, tea and coffee before students depart for holidays. For catering purposes, you will be asked to RSVP to this soon, so please keep an eye out for that.

I am confident it will be a rewarding end to the term and a meaningful lead-in to the mid-year break.

Unfortunately, illness has impacted several students, resulting in some needing assessment extensions. If your child is unwell or concerned about deadlines, please reach out so that suitable accommodations can be made. A reminder that medical certificates for absences should be submitted either to me directly or to the Secondary School Office.

In Tutorial, we are now turning our attention to subject selection for Years 11 and 12. Heads of Department have begun visiting assemblies to speak about their subjects, and students are becoming familiar with the language and decisions involved. These are important conversations, and I encourage you to continue them at home - considering how subject choices align with your child’s interests and future goals. We will soon begin the first-round preference process for 2026, which can be both exciting and overwhelming.

Congratulations to those students who have made significant progress towards their 20-hour community service requirement - many have already completed more than half. For those yet to start, now is a great time to get involved.

Finally, please ensure that any early leave requests are submitted well in advance so that appropriate learning arrangements can be made.

Thank you for your continued support.

These conversations have deepened students’ understanding of emotional wellbeing and have empowered them to recognise the signs of unhealthy dynamics and support their peers. In the coming weeks, we will explore the role of emotions and how greater awareness of them contributes to social and emotional intelligence.

We are incredibly proud of the resilience, curiosity, and effort shown by our students this term. The upcoming show holiday on Thursday 12 June and Athletics Carnival on Friday 13 June are perfectly timed to offer rest and celebration. These events provide balance and help students recharge while still staying connected to the school community. Reaching this point in the term is a significant achievement and deserves to be acknowledged.

This term has also seen great personal growth among our students. As they continue their journey towards becoming confident, global citizens, we are encouraging their participation in community service. One such opportunity is Rockhampton’s Relay for Life event. We hope many students will take part, and if you would like to donate, you can do so here:
👉 Relay For Life - RGS2025

As always, please get in touch if I can support you or your child in any way.

With two internal assessments already completed and a third underway, it can feel as though the finish line is both near and far. At the same time, many students are also feeling the weight of final-year decisions and the realisation that the end of school is approaching. These conflicting emotions are entirely normal - but they can be overwhelming.

In such times, it is important for students to remain present and grounded. Taking time to do the things they enjoy - spending time with friends, reading, walking, cooking, creating, or simply unwinding - is essential. Practising positive self-talk and focusing on the moment can help ease stress. For those looking to maintain motivation and a positive mindset, the following blog provides some helpful strategies:
👉 Training Your Subconscious

For students considering university next year and applying for college accommodation, please know I am more than happy to provide references - my details can be used on application forms.

Year 12 students have also been active in co-curricular events, including the Sullivans Netball Carnival, the Ridgelands Show, Oratory competitions, and the Vicki Wilson Cup. Our Wellbeing Day at Ritamada was a great success, filled with sunshine, outdoor activities, and a strong focus on teamwork, health, and connection. These moments help balance the pressures of study and personal growth. For more resources on healthy study habits, visit:
👉 SchoolTV Special Report

This week, we have both the twilight athletics event and the main carnival on Friday. I’m looking forward to seeing our students in action - whether competing or supporting - as they enjoy their final school athletics carnival.

This week’s Careers Newsletter is available at this link: The Rockhampton Grammar School

Topics covered are:

Apprenticeship Opportunities

Upcoming Events

University Open Days

Job Opportunities

If you or your child have any questions about Vocational Education and Training or career pathways, I’m here to help! You can book an appointment with me via the following link:
🔗 RGS Careers Appointment Booking

Alternatively, feel free to reach out via email:
📩 [email protected]
📩 [email protected]
📩 [email protected]

Also you can find lots of valuable information on the RGS Careers Website via the following link:
🔗 RGS Careers Website

Emmanuel College visit to RGS - Monday 2 June

On Monday, 2 June, Emmanuel College from Brisbane visited RGS and hosted a Pop-Up Stall during Morning Tea. Students took the opportunity to explore the stall and speak with Mr Paterson Boyd, Deputy Principal and Director of College Life, gaining valuable insights into college life at Emmanuel.

Emmanuel College - https://www.emmanuel.uq.edu.au/

We are a young adult co-residential community situated on the campus of UQ in St Lucia

We take students studying at UQ, QUT, ACU, Griffith

We offer not only accommodation but a sporting, cultural and social programs, academic support, wellbeing support and much more

Secondary School Athletics Carnival
Please take note of the information regarding the Athletics Carnival –

Main Carnival – Friday 13 June (Top and Bottom Ovals)

Time: 8:00am – 3:00pm

Track Events – 100m/200m/400m/800m and 100m Relays plus High Jump, Shot Put and Long Jump.

Day students will be required to be dropped off between 8:00-8:15am and picked up between 3:00-3:30pm. Students are to assemble in the Spaceframe in form classes for a roll to be completed at 8:15am.

Food - While there will be food available for purchase on the day, we are encouraging day students to bring their own lunch. Boarders and staff will be provided with morning tea and lunch.

Uniform – Students are asked to be dressed in House shirts and RGS hat and bring with them sunscreen and a water bottle. Year 12s can wear a themed costume, but they must compete in school uniform.

The event schedules for both days are available in the daily notices on Parent Lounge and Student Café.

AFL
Congratulations to the RGS Senior boys AFL team on finishing second in the StreetSmarts AFLQ Schools Cup – Capricornia division behind eventual winners St Brendan’s College.

Basketball
Best of luck to the RGS Year 7-9 Boys Basketball Team who have qualified for the RDSS Final against Emmaus College on Tuesday afternoon at 4:00pm.

Football
Best of luck to out Open Boys and Year 9-10 Boys Football teams who have qualified for the RDSS Finals on Wednesday. Both teams will play SBC at SBC at 4:45pm.

Netball
RGS will be represented by seven teams in the RDSS Netball grand finals at Jardine Park on Thursday 19 June. This follows 12 RGS teams competing in last Thursday's semi-finals.

The School’s speciality teams competed in the Vicki Wilson Cup recently. All teams were competitive with the Year 7-9 team winning 3 matches, drawing one and losing one to just miss out on representing the finals at the State Championships. The First VII Magic started the day slowly with a couple of loses and finished 4th overall.

Congratulations to the RGS boys team on winning the RDSS boys competition at Jardine Park recently. The team was undefeated across their six games.

The RGS Netball Club's Centre Circle event is being held at CocoBrew this Saturday afternoon from 1pm - 4pm. Tickets are still available at https://events.humanitix.com/2025-rgs-netball-club-centre-circle

Oratory
This year’s Oratory Competition saw nine students deliver passionate and thought-provoking speeches, on topics close to their hearts. The event offered a valuable opportunity for students to develop their public speaking skills, while engaging and inspiring their audience.

In the Junior division, Robert Muller impressed with his winning speech, The Spirit of Exploration, arguing that pushing boundaries is what drives human progress and innovation. His use of gestures, vocal expression and movement on stage, captivated his audience.

Intermediate winner Lahra Rice’s speech Signing the Future, passionately persuaded audiences as to why sign language should be taught in schools. She was confident and prepared, beginning her speech with the use of sign language to emphasise her idea.

In the Senior category, Kathleen Nguyen captivated the audience with her speech The Wildfire of Misinformation, urging listeners to question what they see and value truth. She left the audience with a poignant message: “In a world where everyone can speak, the greatest power lies not in speaking louder, but in choosing to speak wiser."

Congratulations to all who participated in this inspiring event and our three winners for 2025.

Thanks to Year 11 students Zoe Williams and Neal Dhamsania for hosting this year's competition.

Touch
Congratulations to the RGS Touch Football teams on winning the Rockhampton Touch Football Men’s and D Ladies division grand finals.

Interhouse Touch Competition
Congratulations to Kellow House on winning the Secondary School Interhouse Touch Football competition.

Rowing
Congratulations to all the rowers who ventured to Bundaberg on the weekend to compete in the Bundaberg Schools Regatta. All students were able to compete in multiple events with all students receiving a ribbon for 1st, 2nd or 3rd throughout the event.

Rugby League
Our 2025 Dolphins Cup, Schoolgirls and Schoolboys Cup starts tomorrow afternoon with home matches at Rugby Park vs Emmaus College. All supporters are welcome to come along in your red and black to support all three teams with the first game kicking off at 3:30pm. The Schoolgirls Cup match vs Emmaus College will also count for the local Schoolgirls RDSS Competition as both teams were due to play each other in a semi-final on Wednesday afternoon this week.

Games at Rugby Park:
3:30 pm - Dolphins Challenge
4:30 pm - Dolphins Schoolgirls Cup
5:30 pm - Dolphins Cup

Best of luck to our Year 7-8 Girls Rugby league team who play Emmaus College in the RDSS Semi Finals with the winner progressing to the grand final on the 18th of June.

Student Achievements

Hockey
Congratulations to Aria Caton (Year 7) on being selected as a shadow player for the Queensland Schoolgirls U12 hockey team. Aria represented Capricornia in the four-day Queensland Schoolgirls U12 Hockey State Titles in Toowoomba where the Capricornia team placed sixth and Araia was named player of the match during the championships.

Rugby Union
Congratulations to Evan Sullivan and Scarlett Gear who were selected on the weekend in Queensland teams following the Queensland School Sport 7s Rugby Union State Championships. Evan was selected in the 17-18yrs Qld White team and Scarlett was selected in the Qld White 15-16yrs team.

RGS students representing Capricornia were:
15 – 16 CAP Girls’ team: Zafeera Gibson and Scarlett Gear
17 – 18 CAP Girls’ team: Elvie King and Evan Sullivan

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]

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

Rugby League
Lylia Bidgood, Sophie Dendle, Zhenia Creek, Sinead Crawford-Naylor

Capricornia Representatives
Cross Country
Benjamin Baillie, Lawson Paine, Melissa Lehman, Anabel Morrison, Micky Simmons, Ryan Hendrie.