21 June 2024

From the Principal

Dear Community

As we wrap up another successful term, it is always important to reflect on the many wonderful accomplishments and events that have taken place.  This term our students have continued to strive for learning success, and we look forward to sharing their achievements with you when report cards are distributed early in the new term.

In addition to academic success, our students have engaged in a range of extra-curricular activities achieving some wonderful results across sport, the Arts and cultural events. I hope you enjoy reading about some of our most recent success stories throughout this newsletter.

Thank you to our dedicated staff for your tireless efforts and commitment to ensuring all of our students feel a sense of connection to our school and achieve their personal best. Recently, our staff were acknowledged for their excellence by being selected for The Educator 5-Star Employer of Choice 2024. This is wonderful recognition for the work that our staff undertake each and every day to foster a collaborative and collegial workplace to support our students to achieve success.

Finally, thank you to our community for your ongoing support of our learners, our teachers, our staff and our school. It has been a busy term. I hope that you enjoy a restful break and the Bellbird Park Team look forward to seeing our students return on Monday the 8^th of July.

Staff News

Congratulations to Mr Ryan Stanley who will be going to Bundamba State Secondary College next term to act as Deputy Principal for Term 3. Mr Stanley has made an outstanding contribution to our school and we wish him all the best in his new role.

We also wish our amazing Instrumental Music Teacher Ms Trish Allan all the best in her new role as HOD – Instrumental Music at Stretton College next semester.

Finally, we say a heartfelt thanks to Ms Danni Downie who has be appointed to the position of Deputy Principal for the new high school in Collingwood Park. Ms Downie has made a tremendous impact on our students as both Head of Year and most recently Head of Diverse Learners and we wish her all the best in her new role.

We also farewell the following staff who are leaving us to take on wonderful new opportunities.

• Luke Durbidge
• Dylan Wood​
• Holli Pope​
• Rebecca Davis​
• Ryan Stanley​
• Holly Newport​

We wish these staff all the best with their new endeavours and thank them for their fantastic contribution to our school.

I would also like to inform you that I have been extended as Acting Principal while Mr. Michael West continues his role as Principal at Brisbane South State Secondary College. I will keep the community updated with any further information regarding the principalship for the remainder of the school year as it becomes available.

Attendance

Attending school every day is crucial for a student's academic success and personal development. Consistent attendance ensures that students do not miss out on valuable instruction, discussions, and hands-on activities that enhance their understanding of subjects. It also helps build a strong foundation of knowledge and skills necessary for future learning. Regular attendance fosters a sense of responsibility and discipline, which are important life skills. Moreover, being present every day allows students to fully engage in the school community, develop social connections, and participate in extracurricular activities, all of which contribute to a well-rounded and enriching educational experience.

At Bellbird Park State Secondary College our goal is for all students to maintain attendance above 90%. As we are now well into the winter season, I encourage all parents/carers to ensure that if a student is away due to illness that they contact the school to advise. If a student is going to be absent from school for a significant period of time (greater than 10 days) and it would be unreasonable in the circumstances to require them to attend, it may be appropriate to apply for an exemption.

Please note that following are circumstances in which an exemption may be appropriate:

• illness or hospitalisation (including recovery period at home) for a period greater than 10 consecutive school days (where the student is not participating in a hospital education program)
• ‘carer’ responsibilities
• diagnosed mental health condition
• temporary interstate or overseas relocation where the family intends to return to Queensland.

Applications for exemptions should be submitted prior to the period in which the student is expected to be absent from school. If you need support, please don’t hesitate to contact your relevant year level Deputy Principal and/or Head of Year to discuss your child’s circumstances.

Prohibited Items – Health & Safety

At Bellbird Park State Secondary College, the safety and well-being of our students and staff are our top priorities. We are writing to bring your attention to an important issue that affects the safety and health of everyone in our school community: the use of aerosol cans on school premises.

Understanding the Risks

Aerosol cans, commonly used for products such as deodorants, hairsprays, and air fresheners, pose several risks when brought into a school environment:

1. Health Hazards: Aerosol cans release fine particles into the air, which can be inhaled by students and staff. This can trigger respiratory issues, particularly for individuals with asthma or other respiratory conditions. Additionally, some aerosol products contain chemicals that can cause allergic reactions or skin irritations.
2. Fire Safety: Aerosol cans are highly flammable. In a school setting, where there is a higher density of people and various electrical equipment, the use of these products can significantly increase the risk of fire.
3. Environmental Impact: The release of aerosols contributes to air pollution and can negatively impact indoor air quality. Schools are spaces where we strive to maintain a clean and healthy environment, and limiting the use of aerosols supports this goal.

School Policy on Aerosol Cans

To ensure a safe and healthy environment for all, we are reinforcing our policy that prohibits the possession and use of aerosol cans on school property. These are considered prohibited items as outlined in our Student Code of Conduct.

We kindly ask for your cooperation in the following ways:

• Educate Your Child: Talk to your child about the reasons behind this policy and the importance of following it. Explain the potential health and safety risks associated with aerosol cans.
• Provide Alternatives: Encourage your child to use non-aerosol alternatives. For personal care products like deodorants and hairsprays, there are many effective roll-on, stick, and pump spray options available that do not pose the same risks.
• Support School Initiatives: Reinforce the school’s efforts by reminding your child to leave aerosol products at home. If they need personal care items during school hours, ensure they bring non-aerosol alternatives.

By working together, we can create a safer and healthier environment for our students and staff. Your support in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Mrs Kelsey Oakes
Principal

Deputies Corner

Congratulations to all students who have busily been completing assessments in the last couple of weeks, including the first experience of an exam block for Year 10’s.

Semester 1 Reports

Year 11 and 12 reports will be emailed on Friday, 21 June. Year 7-10 reports will be emailed on Wednesday, 17 July (Week 2 of Term 3). The academic grade for each subject is based on the assessment completed in Semester 1, whereas effort and behaviour grades are based on Term 2 for each subject.

The effort and behaviour assessment (see Matrix Link) will be a representative of their term 2 effort and behaviour which is a big focus of our college.

EFFECTIVE EFFORT= PROGRESS= GROWTH (SUCCESS)

Please click here to view the Effort and Behaviour Matrix

Parent Teacher Documents

Our Parent Teacher Interviews are being held again in Week 3 of Term 3 on Thursday, 25 July from 1:40pm to 5:30pm in the sports hall. Bookings via Daymap will open on Thursday,18 July.

Research shows that parents and carers have a significant impact on their children’s educational achievements.

“In fact, parental engagement overrides all other factors that have been shown to influence a child’s achievement. It is therefore critical that teachers and parents develop effective relationships to bridge student learning between home and school”

Having parent contact with teachers is also a great way in keeping communication channels open about what is going on at school and how you and the teacher can best support your child in their growth at Bellbird Park.

Have a great break everyone!

Mr Gavin Grant
Deputy Principal Year 7

It has been another fantastic term with the Year 8s.  I have been so impressed with how students have applied themselves right to the very end.  Students have been working hard in their classes, finishing assessment and putting significant amount of efforts into their learning.  I look forward to seeing their hard work reflected in their Semester 1 report cards.

Together with finalising assessment, students continue to take steps on their leadership journey.  Applications for Junior School Leadership positions are now open and students have been busy writing their applications and having their participation in events signed off.  Part of their leadership requires students to give back to the College.  It was great seeing so many Year 8 students leading the PBL Rewards BBQ.  These students gave up their own time to help staff run the BBQ which saw hundreds of student’s cash-in PBL stamps for a sausage sizzle.  Thank you to those students for their diligence.

On behalf of the Year 8 Team, I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable holiday.  Looking forward to seeing everyone back for Term 3.

Ms Diane Pashen
Deputy Principal Year 8

As Term 2 comes to a close, I would like to commend our Year 9 students for their hard work and commitment this term. Your efforts towards your Semester 1 report card have been commendable, and I am confident that your results will reflect the commitment and determination you have shown.

Looking ahead to next term, we are excited to begin preparations for your Sub Senior Studies Plans early in Term 3. College staff will be conducting presentations to ensure you are well-prepared for your subject selection for Year 10. These sessions are crucial as they help set the foundation for your senior years and future career pathways. I encourage all students to engage fully in these presentations and discussions to make informed decisions about your subjects.

Additionally, a quick reminder for all students and families, all students need to have a laptop at the start of Year 10. This is essential to support your learning and access to digital resources. More information regarding the laptop requirements and guidelines can be found 

Thank you for your ongoing support and cooperation. I wish you all a restful and enjoyable break and look forward to seeing you refreshed and ready for Term 3.

Ms Melissa Fields
Deputy Principal Year 9

As the end of semester holidays approach, I’d like to extend my warmest wishes for a safe and restful break. Just like the thrilling matches of the T20 World Cup currently being played in the West Indies and USA, the semester has been filled with its own challenges and triumphs. Students, you've all shown incredible resilience, teamwork, and dedication, much like the world’s best cricket teams.

A special shout-out and good luck to the Australian T20 side, captained by Mitchell Marsh.

Now, it's time to take a well-deserved pause. The holidays are a perfect opportunity to relax, recharge, and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Whether you're planning to catch up on some much-needed rest, indulge in your favourite hobbies, or stay glued to the T20 World Cup action, I hope you make the most of this break.

As you watch the world's top cricketers battle it out on the field, remember the importance of taking breaks and staying refreshed. Even the best athletes know the value of rest and recovery. This holiday, I encourage you to do the same. Take this time to unwind and rejuvenate, so you can return ready to tackle the new year with the same energy and enthusiasm.

Stay safe, enjoy the cricket, and make the most of the June/July holidays. I look forward to seeing you back, recharged and ready for the exciting challenges ahead.

Mr Jason English
Deputy Principal Year 11

As we conclude the first half of the academic year, we are thrilled to celebrate the outstanding achievements of our Year 10 and Year 12 students. Their hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence have truly shone through, resulting in remarkable Semester 1 results.

Our Year 10 and Year 12 students have demonstrated a commendable level of perseverance and determination. These qualities, similar to those seen in rugby league, have propelled them to excel academically. Just as a successful rugby league team works together, strategizes, and pushes through challenges, our students have shown the same teamwork and tenacity in their studies.

As we transition into the holiday period, we encourage all our students to take this time to relax and rejuvenate. Enjoy the break, whether it involves spending quality time with family and friends, exploring new interests, or simply taking a well-deserved rest. This downtime is crucial for recharging both body and mind.

However, just like in rugby league, where the off-season is a time to prepare for the next round of games, our students should also keep an eye on the upcoming Term 3. It is essential to return refreshed and ready to tackle new challenges and opportunities. The journey doesn't end with the conclusion of Semester 1; in fact, it sets the stage for even greater accomplishments in the future.

We look forward to seeing our Year 10 and Year 12 students come back with renewed energy and enthusiasm. Let’s carry the spirit of teamwork and resilience forward, aiming for continued success and excellence.

Congratulations once again to all our students for their fantastic Semester 1 results. Have a wonderful and restful holiday,and be prepared to hit the ground running in Term 3!

Warm regards,

Mr Trent Cruasaz
Deputy Principal Year 10 & 12 

Administration Matters

Food for Thought

Try our new peri-peri chicken burger for only $6.50! Flamed grilled chicken, lettuce, tomato, cheese and  peri- peri sauce. Available on Monday’s, Wednesday’s and Friday’s.

On these chilly mornings, why not drop in to Food for Thought and pick up a Hot Chocolate for only $2.00.

Order online at www.munchmonitor.com

Back to the 80’s Musical

Scan the QR code below to book your tickets, you won’t want to miss it!

We are seeking a Bellbird Park SSC student drummer to play in the band for Back to the 80’s in September. The ability to read music is desirable.  Email sfain7@eq.edu.au if you are interested.

2024 Careers Expo & Industry Insights Panel

From the Head of Department – Teaching and Learning

Each semester, we celebrate the success of students and staff at Bellbird Park State Secondary College with their academic growth and personal achievements. This term, the Teaching and Learning Team have had the privilege of dropping into classrooms to support and celebrate the success of students during Term 2 assessment.

Staff have been instrumental in engaging our students with exciting lessons and have been providing necessary support to help our students achieve their personal best. Classrooms have been bustling with students busy completing exam revision, using draft feedback to improve their work, and undertaking final exams.

Here’s some snips from some of the many excellent assessment lessons from around the College this term! Congratulations to everyone for their effort and hard work to make this another fantastic term.

Michelle Hoffman
A/Head of Teaching and Learning

Head of Year Report

Mr Ramon Carreon – Head of Year 7

This year the Year 7 students started off on FIRE!

Our Term 1 Attendance stayed above the school goal of 90% throughout the 10 weeks.

However, Term 2 was not as consistent. As a cohort, the Year 7s averaged just 83% attendance. This is a significant reduction from Term 1. But not to worry, there is still plenty of time left this year to get back up to where we need to be. Please do not underestimate the power and long-term benefits of turning up every day.

Education is the key that unlocks countless opportunities, and attending school is your gateway to a brighter future. Every day at school is a step towards discovering your passions, expanding your knowledge, and building the skills you need to achieve your dreams. Embrace the challenges, celebrate the successes, and remember that every lesson learned is a powerful tool in your arsenal. School is not just about textbooks and exams; it’s about growing as an individual, forming lifelong friendships, and becoming the best version of yourself. Your potential is limitless, and education is the bridge that will carry you to a world full of possibilities. So, seize each day with enthusiasm and dedication, knowing that you are investing in the most valuable asset you have – yourself. Keep going, stay curious, and never underestimate the power of your education!

 Ms Pippa West – Head of Year 8

Thank you to all our Year 8 students and their teachers for a wonderful Semester One. Students have received dairies full of stamps, achieved amazing academic results and continue to shine in the area of personal growth! Well done! 

At Bellbird Park State Secondary College, we understand the importance of offering all Year 8 students the chance to be involved in leadership and personal growth opportunities. When students experience, practise and learn leadership skills, they understand what the concept of “being responsible” means. They are able to negotiate, solve problems, communicate, contribute and act independently.

Our Year 8 students, including the RISE representatives, continue to shine! They display and model leadership qualities every day at Bellbird Park State Secondary College, whether it be through upholding our RISE expectations at work and play, assisting with Reconciliation Day, being part of sporting competitions, contributing to the wider school community and environment or being a positive mentor to others. As we continue to offer opportunities for our students to develop their leadership abilities, we are confident that they will emerge as inspiring and responsible leaders who will all positively impact their communities in the future.

Many Year 8 students are completing their leadership applications for leadership positions in 2025! We wish them all success.

Semester One is drawing to a close and we thank every Year 8 student for actively striving towards achieving their academic and social goals.

Goals, both short and long, are important for every student to set as they can act as signposts where students can monitor and track their progress. As we move into Semester Two, students will have the opportunity to focus on their long-term goals. Research states that when students set goals they can visualise success, use positive affirmations, celebrate successes and understand the importance of receiving feedback to overcome barriers. Year 8 students will set and evaluate their goals with their Pathways teachers at the start of Term 3. We thank families in advance for working with their child to achieve set goals.

Students with well-developed social and emotional skills have positive wellbeing traits. They find it easier to self-manage, relate to others, engage in teamwork and feel positive about themselves.  They are able to communicate effectively, work collaboratively, recognise emotions in others and understand themselves as learners thus becoming more confident and resilient. Under the guidance of their Pathways teachers, Year 8 students will continue to learn and develop positive self -awareness, self-management, social awareness and social management skills.  During Term 2 we also welcomed guest speakers from the Black Dog Institute, Queensland Rail, community leaders and elders to our assemblies. They all reiterated the importance, and impact, that positive social and emotional skills can have on students’ wellbeing and their future successes. 

As the holidays are upon us, we hope all Year 8 students will continue to shine brightly and remember to uphold our RISE expectations when amongst their friends, families and out in the wider community.

Mr Jarrod Harvey – Head of Year 10

Exam Block

This week our Year 10 cohort has been experiencing their first exam block. This is a crucial part of the senior schooling journey as they get used to sitting exams as a cohort. During this time, all students have also been given the time to complete a ‘maximiser’ day in order to ease their FSK workload later in the year.

Ms Julie Scull – Head of Year 11 & 12

Year 8 & 11 Leadership Incursion

In Week 8, our aspiring leaders in Year 8 and 11 attended a leadership incursion facilitated by Alex from Character Builders. Our 25 leaders honed their communication, teamwork and creativity skills through a series of practical activities.

First the group broke up into 4 teams to play the Mini Olympics, including a relay where they needed to roll the ball into a hula hoop and shout ‘Hoopla’. Next, they were given short pipes and a ping pong ball and had to work as a team to get the ball from the start to the finish line. It was much harder than it sounds! Finally, the teams were required to stack cups blindfolded. As a replay, one team member verbally directed their blindfolded teammate to the area to place a cup down, with the aim of creating a balanced stack.

Next, students were given a list of values and discuss what one was pertinent in their leadership journey. Alex empowered the group to be: accountable for their thoughts, words and actions; intentionally contributing to the college with desired behaviours; honest about what needs to happen next; and compassionate and contributing to the culture of the cohort.

They then used this as inspiration to paint a canvas. Students were asked to paint an object, symbol or scenery that represents their contribution to the culture of the college community. Students then explained their painting to the group.

Students were put into a Leadership Conversation Circle where they used their conversational skills and rotated to speak with a number of people – some who they had never met before.

Finally, the group participated in Big Ups. In this final activity, students bravely gave a compliment to another person in the group, in front of the entire group! Not only does this activity build confidence in speaking publicly and builds relationships and confidence, it gives recognition where it is due!

We hope all of the students found this day as valuable as we did!

Leadership applications were due on Monday of Week 10. Students who applied for Junior College Captain and College Captain will be shortlisted and notified by Week 2. Good luck to everyone who has applied!

Year 12 - 100 Days Left Celebration

Congratulations to all of our Year 12s who have less than 100 days left until Graduation! All of our Year 12s celebrated at the Performing Arts Centre with lots of photos, they listened to music, played games and got to socialise as a cohort.

Thank you to the college for providing pizza, soft drink and cupcakes! Also thank you to Mrs Sharman and the Year 11 Hospitality students for the cupcakes – they looked amazing and were delicious!

To our Year 12s: Make these last 100 days count! Ensure you attend every day, put 100% into every assessment task, and be kind to yourself and others. Good luck!  

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Hospitality News

Year 12 Hospitality Showcase Dinner – Wednesday, 5 June 

The Year 12 Hospitality crew arrived at 3pm at the Hospitality Kitchen for the start of the final function. This event was designed to highlight their training and showcase their skills and what they have learnt throughout the year and a half working towards their Certificate II in Hospitality. The crockery was all washed, the tableware all polished, twelve tables and a skeleton of the bar set up. The recipes had been selected from a range they had trialled and the crew were keen but anxious as to how things would come together. As the teams were split up all students took their places alongside the Food Studies and Hospitality staff. 

For the pre-dinner setup, the service crews were busy discussing how to go about serving their tables in the dining room, setting up the bar for the mocktails and drinks service while the music students were going through their sound checks. The rest of the kitchen crews were busily preparing the entrée, mains and desserts. We had an alternate drop menu and had 2 dishes for each course.

As the clock ticked closer to 6pm the guests started to roll in and the nerves of the food servers and bar tenders became more obvious. There was a flurry of action seating the guests and serving the drinks while being entertained by the performers from the Bellbird Park music students—who did an exceptional job all night performing for the guests. We had a total of 83 guests attend the event, which was a fantastic support from the Bellbird Community. With precision timing, the dumplings and spinach cob loaf entrees were carried by the food servers to the tables and it was a tasty start to the dinner. Empty plates were taken away and then the next round of Chicken Korma with Naan and Lasagne with a side salad went out to the dinner guests. The evening was rounded out with the final dessert course of Chocolate brownie and Lemon cheesecake. The dinner guests were very appreciative of the student’s efforts, and they loved trying our mocktail recipes. 

The Hospitality staff were all very proud of every one of our year 12 Hospitality students. Many of them were apprehensive about their abilities. But as they were doing the food preparation, or serving the food they prepared with such care, their nerves disappeared and they did an amazing job. We hope all of our diners enjoyed the food, ambience and service throughout the evening and we have a great turn out again next year… Although we will definitely be more diligent to not pick a State of Origin night next year! 

Phoenix Feast

Throughout the term, the Year 10 Introduction to Hospitality students have been trying a range of different foods from finger foods to international cuisine to desserts.  This was a part of their Phoenix Feast assessment where they were creating their own mini version of Eat Street. The students came up with a dish that they thought would sell well and on Friday, 7 June they cooked up a storm, set up stalls to display their dishes and had their food tickets ready to go. Our Hospitality students were at their stalls bringing in customers and selling their dishes in a flurry of activity. The Bellbird staff and students swarmed the stalls and the register in a massive show of support and an eagerness to try a wide range of foods.  After the hurricane of staff and students disappeared after 1^st break the Hospitality students were able to have a break and sit down to enjoy a bite to eat themselves before gearing up to go again at 2^nd break.  I am so proud of how hard the Hospitality students worked for their first big event and so thankful to the Bellbird staff and students for making it a success.

Ms Ruth Jonsson
Food studies & Hospitality teacher

Life Pathways Class

Last week, the Life Pathways class attended an excursion to the YMCA at Springfield Lakes and Bunnings at Springfield. The purpose of the trip was to see different places in the community for leisure activities and to see what it is like to have a job at a large warehouse.

At the YMCA, students participated in the Garden Club where they were treated to a demonstration of the art of ‘Ikebana’ which is a form of Japanese flower arranging. They also toured the facilities at the YMCA to see what programs were on offer.

After lunch, students were given a tour by the Community Liaison Officer at Bunnings Springfield of the warehouse. Students were able to gain an understanding of how to apply for a position at Bunnings, the types of teams they may work in, the importance of personal protective equipment in the workplace and the types of machinery used to handle and manoeuvre stock.

The students gained a lot of practical knowledge of leisure and employment opportunities post school from this experience. Bellbird Park State Secondary College would like to extend it’s thanks to the YMCA at Springfield Lakes and Bunnings at Springfield for facilitating these opportunities for our students and being so welcoming of our group.

Ms Louise Burston
Experienced Senior Teacher