Deception Bay SHS Newsletter - Week 10
Principal's Address
Term 1 has been a highly successful period for the school, providing a solid foundation for our improvement journey to continue across 2024. Staff and students have continued to focus on learning as the core aspect of our school days, working collaboratively in alignment with the school Explicit Improvement Agenda to deliver high-quality, consistent teaching practices.
A key element of this has been the delivery of Phase 2 of our Curriculum Clarity Professional Development, ensuring that all teaching staff have the understanding and capacity to deliver our shared pedagogical approach. As we move forward this will expand to include all staff working directly in classrooms, providing a consistent and supportive learning environment for our students.
I am very proud of this work and the efforts made by staff to ensure we are performing at a high level. This includes all the staff of DBSHS, in teaching, support and cleaning roles; each is critical to our continued success.
As you would almost certainly be aware, I have made the very difficult decision to leave DBSHS, moving to be the new permanent Principal at Redcliffe SHS as of Term 2. This was a decision based on career opportunities. The move is a promotion to a higher banded school and was a difficult decision, given my deep regard for the school community of Deception Bay.
I am confident that I leave the school in a very strong position. We are fully staffed and have a clear strategic plan and improvement focus, supported by a team of people with strong commitment and belief that it is the “right work”.
As previously advised, I am very pleased to be able to confirm that the incoming Principal will be Mr. Goldy Sodhi, currently a Principal at Kingston State College in Logan. I am confident that he has the experience and understanding of working with diverse communities to continue and enhance this work. Goldy and I are conducting a full, detailed hand-over to ensure that the change process is as seamless as possible.
Work continues on a range of facilities, including the refurbishment of the school Tuckshop and Manual Arts building, the new carpark and our new Health Precinct building.
Currently, we are expecting the Tuckshop to be completed as of the end of week 1 in Term 2, allowing normal operations to resume for the provision of food for students and staff. My thanks to the many staff involved in ensuring we are able to provide lunches for students during this period, it has been a significant effort and is greatly appreciated.
The Manual Arts building should be ready to go as of mid-May and the Health Precinct has an anticipated completion time frame of early in Term 4. I am very much looking forward to the time when these resources are all on line and ready to support our school needs.
The strong work done by so many staff and students will be on show as reflected by our Term 1 interim reports. I am confident that once again we will see strong outcomes across a wide range of subjects.
These results will be shared with families once the reporting process closes, likely to be before the start of Term 2. Each time we have this data set we review the information it provides and seek ways to celebrate successes and consider areas for improvement.
Finally, I would like to express my gratitude to the DBSHS community for the welcoming and inclusive experience I have had as Principal here. It has been a career highlight and I have learned so much during my time.
I wish the school and wider community all the very best moving forward and will always have a bit of “D-Bay” in my thoughts – my thanks for the amazing experiences and the privilege of being your Principal.
Performing Arts Launch
On Thursday, 21st March, our Performing Arts students opened their performance season at the PA Launch. Nearly 120 students performed as part of our Dance Troupes, Drama Troupe, Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Stage Band, Student Band, String Ensemble, Voices of the Bay and Marching Drums. Thank you to all parents, family and community members who attended and supported our students. We are excited for what 2024 will bring!
Gallery
Science and Engineering Challenge 2024
A group of Year 9 and 10 Science students had the wonderful opportunity to attend the Science & Engineering Challenge hosted by QUT Gardens Point. Students were involved in an exhilarating day competing against other schools in fun and engaging hands-on STEM activities such as building a bridge, designing an earthquake proof tower, constructing a wind turbine, and crafting model planes. In other challenges students put their critical thinking and problem-solving skills to the test to construct code, power a city, or build sustainable fish traps.
The challenges were at times daunting but was wonderful to see students working collaboratively & demonstrating school values of persistence and aspiration to ensure they got the job done. Overall DBSHS placed 5th. Mrs Drysdale and Mr Gee were so proud of the way the students represented the school and encourage students of all grades to take advantage of the STEM enrichment opportunities still to come in 2024.
Gallery
Justin Hodges 9-a-side Rugby League Gala Day
On the 5th of March, Deception Bay sent three teams to compete in the Justin Hodges 9-a-side Rugby League Gala Day. The day was fiercely competitive, with over 60 teams participating in both beginner and experienced divisions.
Students represented the school with respect, integrity, and sportsmanship both on and off the field.
Despite the unfavourable weather, all three teams performed exceptionally well, with both the Open and Grade 10 teams narrowly missing out on the finals. The Grade 9 team, coached by Mr Rabbitt, went through the entire day undefeated and triumphed over Bray Park SHS in a nail biting final, securing the win in the competitive division. Special mention goes to Zion, who was named player of the final, and Jack, who was awarded best and fairest for the carnival, voted by his peers and coaches.
Special recognition is due to our dedicated coaches, Mr Rabbitt for the Year 9 & 10 teams, and Mr Carling for the Open Boys team. Their commitment makes these events possible. Students are already looking forward to competing next year.
Gallery
Yarn 'n' Eats
Yarn 'n' Eats is an annual event hosted by Jake Ginardi our CEC (Community Education Counsellor). This event is an opportunity for parents to meet our Cultural Connections Team and teachers in a relaxed setting. Jake works closely with students, families and community organisations to foster positive relationships with the school and establish opportunities in and out of school for students to thrive and grow.
The event was a great afternoon with stalls and activities set up by our valued community partners - Beyond the Broncos Girls Academy, ARTIE Academy, University of Sunshine Coast, Metro North Cultural Indigenous Unit Satellite Hospital and Deadly Choices. Many thanks to all the families who attended Yarn 'n' Eats, your presence made the afternoon a great success.
Harmony Day 2024
On Thursday, March 21st, our school was abuzz in vibrant orange and a spirit of unity as we celebrated Harmony Day. This annual event is a wonderful opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the cultural diversity that enriches our school community.
It was amazing seeing so many students proudly sporting orange accessories in support of Harmony Day. The color orange symbolises social harmony and represents our collective commitment to embracing diversity and fostering inclusion.
Events like Harmony Day remind us of the importance of celebrating our differences and recognising the strength that comes from diversity. They provide us with an opportunity to reflect on the values of tolerance, respect, and understanding that are fundamental to our school community.
Gallery
Cross Country and Colour Run
Lace up those running shoes and get ready to dash into excitement, because the DBSHS Cross Country and Colour Run is back and gearing up to be better than ever before! Whether you're an avid runner seeking to showcase your speed and endurance or simply looking to immerse yourself in fun with friends, this event promises an unforgettable experience for all.
Save the Date:
Mark your calendars for Friday, 19th April, as the DBSHS campus transforms into a haven for runners and colour enthusiasts alike.
Event Schedule:
- Periods 1 and 2 - Competitive Runners: Are you ready to push your limits and compete against fellow speedsters? Sign up at the gym starting from 15th April, to secure your spot in the race. This segment is tailored for those passionate about testing their running skills and to compete for Age Group placings.
- Period 3 - Colour Run: Dive into a whirlwind of vibrant hues during our Colour Run! Whether you're sprinting, jogging, or walking, this segment promises to be a riot of colours and laughter, perfect for those seeking a more relaxed yet exhilarating experience.
- Who Can Participate? This event welcomes everyone, regardless of skill level or experience. Whether you're a seasoned marathoner or a first-time participant, the DBSHS Cross Country and Colour Run offers something for everyone. So, rally your friends, gather your family, and join us for a day filled with camaraderie, fitness, and heaps of fun!
Don't Miss Out! Ensure you're part of the excitement by marking your calendars and spreading the word. This is your chance to create unforgettable memories while enjoying the thrill of the run and the joy of being part of a vibrant community event.
School Resource Scheme
We would like to remind you of the upcoming deadline for School Resource Scheme (SRS) fee payments.
The SRS plays a crucial role in enhancing the educational experience of our students by providing access to essential resources, materials, and programs. These fees contribute significantly to maintaining the high standards of education and support services offered here at Deception Bay State High School.
Payment Deadline:
To ensure the smooth operation of our school programs and activities, we kindly request that all SRS fee payments be made ASAP.
Payment Options:
If you find that you require a payment plan to manage the fees effectively, please don’t hesitate to contact our Finance Department at 3897 2222 or via email at office@deceptionbayshs.eq.edu.au. Our dedicated team will be more than happy to assist you in arranging a suitable payment plan tailored to your needs.
Benefits of SRS:
By participating in the School Resource Scheme, you are directly supporting your child’s educational journey. The resources and materials provided through the scheme enable our students to engage fully in their learning experience, ensuring they have access to the tools necessary for academic success.
How to Pay:
Payments can be made directly at the office via cash, EFTPOS and BPoint. Please refer to the invoice you received via post or email for specific payment instructions.
https://deceptionbayshs.eq.edu.au/support-and-resources/payments
Contact Information:
Should you have any questions or require further assistance regarding SRS fee payments, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our friendly staff are here to help.
Year 12 Next Step Day
Attention Year 12 students and families! Next Step interviews are designed to guide and empower you, for life after school.
What to expect:
- 30-minute interviews between students, a family member, and your GROW Coach;
- Discussions on pathway options post-Year 12, using the proven GROW coaching method to ensure thorough planning;
- Support from representatives of external organisations to enrich these conversations.
Save the Date: Friday, 17th May.
Parent Teacher Interviews
Parent Teacher Interviews will be conducted on Tuesday, 23rd April (Week 2) between 3:00pm and 5.00pm and will be 10 minutes in duration. Please book your appointment through the Compass app from Friday, 29th March. Report cards will be emailed Thursday, 28th March.
Note: Year 7 parents/caregivers please make appointments with CORE teachers only as elective teachers change each term.
All parents and caregivers are reminded not to book an interview with L4L teachers. If you have any questions, please email info@deceptionbayshs.eq.edu.au
