4 April 2025

From the Administration Team

The Principal – Mr Will Curthoys

Hello everyone and welcome to the end of Term 1.

We work on many things at Warwick State High School, but during Term 2 our focus will be on learning.  How do we create an environment that promotes learning in our classrooms? How do we improve communication with our families in terms of celebration and support of your children?  This is exciting work and I really look forward to seeing how this will unfold.  Thank you all for your continued support of our great school.  Any feedback is always welcome, please make a time if you would like to talk.

 Thank you all

 Will

Deputy Principal – Mr Dan Finn

Dear Parents and Carers,

This year our Whole School attendance target is 90%. We are committed to providing an inclusive and positive schooling environment for all students to thrive as they engage with their subjects and build relationships with their peers. Consistent school attendance offers numerous benefits for students:

• Increased access to learning opportunities
• Maintenance of friendships
• Connection to curriculum progression
• Development of self-efficacy as a learner
• Better long-term life outcomes

Moreover, attendance plays a significant role in establishing routines and discipline, essential skills that carry over into various aspects of life. By attending school regularly, students learn the value of commitment and responsibility, which are vital traits for success in both academic and professional endeavours.

Currently, our whole school attendance is 86%, I look forward to reaching and exceeding our target together this year as each student makes the most of the opportunities available to them here at Warwick State High School. If your son or daughter is in need of support to re-engage with school, please contact us so we can support you with a re-engagement plan.

Save the date:
Term 2 Parent Teacher Interviews
When: Monday 12 May 2025
Where: U block, via the Victoria Street entrance

Parent-teacher interviews offer valuable opportunities for collaboration between home and school, playing a crucial role in a child's development. These discussions allow parents and teachers to exchange insights, address concerns, and share goals regarding the child's academic progress and well-being. Booking details will be sent to families early in Term 2.

Deputy Principal – Mrs Michelle Ferdinand

Principal Awards

In line with Warwick State High School’s Positive School Culture (PSC) Framework, our school will recognise students who meet the criteria for either Gold, Silver or Bronze Awards after each reporting period.  This will be a “point in time” recognition of achievement for the previous term or semester.

When determining Awards, the following criteria will be considered:

• student Effort and Behaviour ratings from Academic Reports
• attendance
• commitment to the Student Dress Code
• complying with the Student Code of Conduct and,
• participation in Extra-Curricular and other school activities.  

As a school, we value each student’s positive behaviour and contribution to the Warwick State High School community. Award Ceremonies and/or PSC Reward Trips may be held to celebrate student achievements.

Attached is the document with full details of the process to calculate Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards.

Year 8-12 certificates will be presented to students on their Year Level Assemblies. 

Year 7 certificates will be presented to students at a ceremony on Wednesday April 23 at 10:15am.  Parents of eligible students will receive an invitation to the event via email. Light refreshments will be provided by the canteen.  We are very thankful for having a supportive P&C.

The first Rewards trip for our eligible Year 7 students was held on Wednesday April 2. Ninety students went to Toowoomba to enjoy a fun packed day of activities.

Positive School Culture (PSC) – Andrew Jones (Behaviour Support Teacher)

The PSC focus for weeks 9 and 10 of this term is a recap of all our classroom expectations centering on our three values of Respect, Responsibility and Relationships. The focus highlights how following these expectations support the teacher in delivering lesson content and students learning. To help foster this environment we have had some great reward days this term including zooper doopers, pancakes, prize wheel and our famous sausage sizzle.

Members from the Warwick branch of the QPS attended Pancake Reward Day and we thank them for their support.

Breakfast Club – Marie Brennan (Chaplain)

Due to the wonderful support of the YMCA Breakfast Club program, we are able to offer hot milo, toast and cereal every morning before school.  In the cooler months baked beans will be added to the menu.  Running a school Breakfast Club offers numerous benefits, including improved student academic performance, improved concentration, enhanced engagement and connectedness, and a positive impact on student health and well-being.  Breakfast Club is a great opportunity for the Wellbeing staff and students to catch up for a chat, see our senior students mentoring the younger year levels and create social connections.  We welcome all students to drop by and join in for a healthy, free breakfast. 

Kindness Club – “Be the Heart of Change”

This year, the Kindness Club is guided by the motto “Be the Heart of Change”. Run by the Youth Support Coordinator (YSC), the club has started strong with a focus on connection and encouragement.

This term, students planned out the year, wrote notes to support Year 12 students, created thank-you cards for teachers, and made St Patrick’s Day cards to spread a little joy.

Small acts, big impact – kindness in action.

Travis Bradach and Tanya Jones

Deputy Principal – Mr Daryl Thompson

Free internet for students

The Australian Government has established the School Student Broadband Initiative External link (SSBI) to provide free home internet until 30 June 2028 for up to 30,000 unconnected families across Australia with school aged students. The National Referral Centre (NRC) has been established to allow families to self-nominate for the SSBI and can also provide families assistance with nomination details and contacting and arranging a service provider if required.

To be eligible for the SSBI, a family must:

• have a child living at home that is enrolled in a Queensland school (Prep to Year 12)
• have no active broadband service over the NBN network—having a mobile internet service does not affect eligibility
• live in a premises that can access a standard NBN service
• not have had an active NBN connection during the previous 14 days
• have their suitability determined via an assessment conducted by the NRC.

To apply, families can directly contact the NRC or be referred by a participating nominating organisation. Nominations will remain open until the 30,000 national cap is reached.

How to apply

Families should be encouraged to contact the NRC on 1800 954 610 (Monday to Friday, 10am–6pm AEDT). Call-back and webchat functions are also available via the NRC website. The NRC team will assess a family’s eligibility by checking their residential address and asking some questions to determine if they meet the government’s eligibility criteria.

If eligible, families will be issued a voucher which can be redeemed at any of the participating SSBI retail service providers. The NRC will also be available to assist with contacting a family’s SSBI internet service provider of choice or providing follow-up support.

Deputy Principal – Mrs Tanya Wright

To follow on from our Relational Pedagogy article earlier in the term, Warwick State High School has identified 12 observable ‘Look Fors’ that should be evident in high quality Relational Pedagogy classrooms.

I have the continuing pleasure of teaching the Year 10 Academy English class in 2025 and this exceptional group of students have been providing feedback to me about teaching and learning from their perspective. This information is being used to inform practice going forward. Stay tuned to find out more about our school journey.

Senior Secondary News

Head of Department – Mr Cory Wren

Registered Training Organisation (RTO) Accreditation

Warwick State High School has recently been reinstated as a Registered Training Organisation through QCAA and ASQA.  Through the hard work and dedication of a number of staff, we are now accredited to deliver the following Vocational Education and Training courses, free of charge to our students:

• FSK20119 – Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways
• SIS20321 – Certificate II in Sports Coaching
• MSF20522 – Certificate II in Furniture Making Pathways

These courses were selected to align with a need within our community, along with school resources including staffing and equipment.  We are very excited by the opportunities this provides to our students and will look to expand this into the future.

University Roadshow

On Tuesday March 18, we had the pleasure of hosting the annual University Roadshow. Year 12 students spent the session speaking with tertiary education providers about possible pathways and all elements of university life.

We thank the representatives from UniSQ, UQ, QUT, Griffith Uni, UNE, Torrens Uni, QTAC, TAFE and the Australian Defence Force for their time visiting us today.

The Benefits of a Week of Work Experience for Students

In today’s fast-paced and competitive job market, work experience is a crucial asset for students. Even just a week of work experience can offer students valuable insights and skills that extend far beyond the classroom.

1. Real-World Exposure

One of the greatest advantages of even a short work experience is the exposure to real-world scenarios. For many students, the workplace is a world vastly different from the classroom. A week of work experience allows them to step into this environment and observe the daily operations of a business, gaining firsthand knowledge of how industries function. This experience can help students see the practical application of the theories and concepts they’ve learned in school.

2. Enhanced Career Clarity

For students who may still be unsure about their future career path, a week of work experience can be a game-changer. It provides an opportunity to explore a particular field or role, helping them determine whether it's a good fit for their interests and goals. Even if the experience doesn’t lead to a specific career choice, it helps students make more informed decisions about their future studies and career plans.

3. Development of Transferable Skills

Although a week may seem brief, students can still develop important transferable skills such as communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and time management. These skills are invaluable across all industries and can help students build confidence in their ability to succeed in any job. In just a few days, students may find themselves stepping up in ways they hadn’t anticipated, taking on tasks and responsibilities that stretch their abilities.

4. Building a Professional Network

Even a short work experience placement can provide valuable opportunities to network with professionals in the industry. Students can connect with colleagues, supervisors, and mentors who can offer advice, guidance, and possibly future job leads. Building these connections early in their career journey can open doors to future opportunities and enrich their professional network.

5. Improved Confidence and Motivation

A week of work experience gives students the chance to prove themselves in a professional setting, often boosting their confidence. Successfully completing tasks and meeting expectations in a work environment can instill a sense of accomplishment and increase self-esteem. Additionally, this experience can motivate students to work harder in their studies, as they gain a clearer understanding of the importance of education in their career development.

6. Insights into Work-Life Balance

Understanding the balance between work and personal life is essential for future success. A week of work experience introduces students to the rhythm of a full-time role, helping them better understand how to manage their time and energy effectively. This exposure can also help them recognise the importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance, which is crucial for long-term career satisfaction.

7. Resume Building and Employability

Even a short work experience placement can significantly enhance a student's resume. Employer’s value any work experience, no matter how brief, as it demonstrates a student’s initiative, professionalism, and eagerness to learn. For students looking to gain an edge in a competitive job market, a week of work experience can provide an excellent starting point for future employment opportunities.

8. Learning Industry-Specific Knowledge

A week of work experience gives students a glimpse into the inner workings of a specific industry. Whether it’s marketing, finance, healthcare, or technology, the experience offers insights into industry-specific practices, tools, and technologies. This knowledge can provide students with a strong foundation and help them stand out when applying for traineeships, apprenticeships or full-time jobs in the future.

While a week of work experience might seem brief, it can have a profound impact on a student’s personal and professional development. From gaining industry exposure and developing key skills to building confidence and expanding networks, the benefits of this short-term opportunity are far-reaching. For students, a week of work experience is more than just a resume booster—it’s an investment in their future success. So, if you have the chance, seize the opportunity to dive into the professional world and make the most of your week!

Ana Naoum
Industry Liaison Officer

The Arts News

Head of Department - Mr Ian Follett

It has been a very busy couple of weeks with many exciting events occurring in the Arts faculty.

Zoonoses Exhibition Excursion

Senior Visual Art and Visual Art in Practice students recently visited Dr Nicola Hooper’s Zoonoses exhibition at the Warwick Art Gallery. Zoonoses artworks were not inspired by all of the noses of animals in a zoo, but rather relate to the study of diseases which can be transferred from animals to humans. Those small animals such ticks, fleas and mosquitos which can have a big impact on humanity (think the plague, malaria etc), were represented as giants. Cats and rats, crows and roos were all represented in some spectacular wall paper which plastered the gallery space with the repetitive tile designs multiplying much the same way a virus does until it overwhelms the senses. A very informative exhibition: who knew Brisbane experienced the plague in the early 1900’s (with its very own ‘Rat King’ found)? That Australia has ‘Sentinel’ chickens to track the spread of diseases across Australia? That fleas were used in warfare? That you shouldn’t try to kill the rats in your home using arsenic in your wallpaper as ingesting the small particles flaking off is not good for your own health?

Art really is an alternative means to communicate with one another. Add to that Dr Hooper’s skill in animation, sculpting and printmaking and it was a very worthwhile visit for the students to see how any topic can be a source of inspiration for a body of artworks.

On until the 12 April, I encourage everyone to pop in and check it out.

Tracey Pope
Visual Arts Teacher.

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Music Students at ‘Sister Act – The Musical’

On March 12, forty music students from Year 9 – 12, along with Mrs Ferdinand and Mr Follett, travelled to the Queensland Performing Arts Centre (QPAC) in Brisbane to see a matinee performance of the smash-hit Broadway and West End musical.

Based on the beloved movie of the same name, the show was set in 1970’s and was a story of music, mishaps and nuns on the run! With a score full of Motown, Soul and Disco music, it had all the ingredients of a great time in the theatre and the students thoroughly enjoyed the uplifting production.

Students in Year 9-12 Elective Music study ‘Rock Music’ and ‘Musical Theatre’ styles, as part of their curriculum course and this was an excellent opportunity to see an example of a contemporary musical, live on stage. The production was an amazing experience with awesome sets, great music and singing, energetic choreography and a fabulous cast!

The students who attended are also to be congratulated on their manner and their behaviour at QPAC. They presented themselves as great ambassadors for Warwick High and drew many favourable compliments from other patrons and the staff at QPAC who commended them on their excellent theatre etiquette.

By time the show had finished and we were back on the bus home to Warwick, the students are already excited about what musical they will have the opportunity to see next year.

Ian Follett

Warwick SHS School Musical ‘Disco Inferno’

Musical rehearsals are in full swing. The dedicated cast, chorus and band have been working through lunch hours and weekends learning songs and choreography. Warwick State High has a proud tradition of producing crowd pleasing musicals and this year, there is the added excitement of performing in our very own Performing Arts Centre in Victoria Street. Featuring popular songs by the Village People, Kool and the Gang, Gloria Gaynor and David Bowie, the musical is sure to please the Boomers and infect a whole new generation with disco fever.

Stayed tuned for ticket sales information. Shows are on June 5, 6 and 7.

Thank you to all the students who participated in creative arts activities and events throughout Term 1 2025.

What’s Coming up in the Arts Faculty in Term 2:

The following events are already in the planning stages for Term 2, please mark these on your calendars:

• Wind Symphony and Singing Group on the school ANZAC Day ceremony –April 24
• Instrumental Music – Royal Australian Artillery Band Workshop at Warwick SHS –May 20
• Warwick SHS Musical Production of ‘Disco Inferno’ – June 5, 6 and 7
• Queensland Youth Orchestra Workshop at Warwick SHS –June 16
• Warwick SHS Instrumental Music Mid-Year concert –June 18

Thank you
Ian Follett – HOD The Arts.

English and Humanities News

Acting Head of Department – Mrs Kirsty Caterson

Celebrating a Successful Term in English, Humanities, and Languages

As the term draws to a close, we take a moment to celebrate the fantastic work our students have completed across English, Humanities, and Languages. From creative storytelling to critical analysis and cultural exploration, students have engaged with thought-provoking content, developed essential skills, and produced impressive final projects.

English: Creativity and Critical Thinking in Action

Students across all year levels have completed major assessment pieces, showcasing their ability to think deeply and express their ideas effectively.

• Year 7 students continue to explore Holes by Louis Sachar, crafting narrative interventions that reimagine key moments in the story
• Year 8 brought characters to life through spoken monologues, inspired by their study of the film Wonder
• Year 9 took a creative leap into speculative fiction, producing original short stories that explored alternate realities, future worlds, and supernatural twists
• Year 10 demonstrated their analytical and creative abilities through imaginative transformations, reinterpreting scenes and characters from a range of novels
• Year 11 critically examined the representation of youth in the media, analysing non-literary texts such as news articles, advertisements, and films
• Year 12 continue to tackle complex themes of power and privilege through a study of The Great Gatsby and the documentary Park Avenue: Money, Power and the American Dream.

Across all year levels, students have strengthened their reading, writing, and speaking skills, gaining confidence in their ability to communicate and think critically.

Humanities: Understanding the World

Students in Humanities subjects have been actively exploring the past, present, and future through subjects such as History, Geography, Legal Studies, Economics and Business, Tourism, Business Studies, and Social and Community Studies. From examining historical events and economic systems to analysing global issues and legal principles, students have developed their research, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. These subjects continue to foster an awareness of the world around us and an appreciation for the complexities of society.

Languages: Exploring Japanese Language and Culture

Our Japanese students have built strong foundations in language and cultural understanding this term.

• Year 8 students mastered the basics of Japanese food, money, and self-introductions, preparing them for real-world conversations
• Year 9 expanded their knowledge by focusing on self-introductions and family, developing the ability to speak about personal experiences
• Year 10 refined their skills by exploring likes, dislikes, and comparisons, enhancing their ability to express opinions and make meaningful connections between ideas.

Learning a language goes beyond vocabulary and grammar—it opens doors to new perspectives, global awareness, and valuable communication skills.

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up another term, we congratulate our students on their hard work and achievements. We also extend our gratitude to parents and the community for your ongoing support in fostering a love of learning. We look forward to another exciting term of discovery, creativity, and academic growth.

Enjoy the break, and we’ll see you next term!

Year 8B English

As part of our Indigenous Texts unit for Year 8 English, students have been engaging in the rich tradition of dot painting, exploring storytelling through art. In today’s lesson, we were incredibly fortunate to have Wally (from Clontarf) join us in the classroom to share his knowledge and expertise.

Wally spoke about the significance of Indigenous art, the stories behind different symbols, and the techniques used in dot painting. He also gave us a special insight into his latest artwork, inspiring students as they worked on their own pieces.

This hands-on experience allowed students to deepen their understanding of Indigenous culture and storytelling while developing their artistic skills. We are grateful to Wally for his time and generosity in sharing his knowledge with us.

Ms Tori Gale

Year 8 Japanese

In Year 8 Japanese we are learning how to read and write hiragana.

We wrote some words and used a dictionary to translate them into English.

Then we got to eat our words!

Justice (Mostly) Served in Year 11 Legal Studies Mock Trial

Year 11 Legal Studies students traded textbooks for gavels as they conducted a mock murder trial to explore the criminal court processes of Queensland. The courtroom drama unfolded with students stepping into every role—from judge, bailiff, prosecution and defence, to witnesses and jurors—bringing the fictional case of R v Jack to life.

The case revolved around Jack, accused of murdering Mr Giant after a cow-for-beans transaction went south. Emotions ran high as forensic evidence, witness accounts, and DNA analysis were presented in the makeshift courtroom. Students embraced the challenge, demonstrating legal knowledge, courtroom etiquette, and public speaking skills.

In true Legal Studies fashion, students not only acted out the trial but also doubled as the jury that added to the fun. While teachers Miss Glass and Mrs Dwan held firm in their verdict of “not guilty”, citing reasonable doubt, the students were adamant Jack was “guilty”.

The final verdict: Jack was found guilty of murder and sentenced to life imprisonment. Rumour has it, that Miss Glass and Mrs Dwan changed their vote to ensure the trial wrapped up before the lunch bell rang.

The mock trial served as an engaging and memorable way for students to better understand the criminal justice system in Queensland.

In the end, justice may not have been perfect, but it was certainly educational and entertaining.

Technology News

Head of Department – Mr Bradley Hutchinson

Term 1 has been a busy term for students and staff in the Technology faculty. Year 7 students have joined the faculty for the first time and are learning valuable computer skills including typing, word processing and coding. Work is underway for engineering students who are working to complete a toolbox and bar clamp.  Year 9 have continued to work on C02 dragsters, producing some phenomenal results. On Friday March 28, Year 11 hospitality students hosted a pop-up café as the first part of their assessment. We thank students for their work this term and look forward to producing new projects after the break.

Mathematics and Science News

Head of Department – Mr Brian Amedee

Term Highlights in Mathematics and Science

This term, our Agriculture Show Team has truly shone, achieving fantastic results at several regional shows. We are especially proud of their victory in the Warwick Show Inter school competition. Their dedication and enthusiasm were evident in the outstanding placements and strong team spirit on display (see Photo 1). A heartfelt thank you goes to our Agriculture staff – Lex Brackin, Amanda Coy, and Jen Spenceley – for guiding and supporting our students in these remarkable opportunities.

Meanwhile, our teaching staff has been working hard to extend learning beyond the classroom by offering a variety of STEM-related excursions and activities. Five of our students recently took part in a STEM Ambassadors Day at Griffith University, where they brainstormed a comprehensive STEM program for Warwick State High School. Additionally, 50 students made the trip to Brisbane for the World Science Festival Day, soaking up cutting-edge insights and hands-on experiences. We appreciate our incredible teachers for planning and coordinating these events.

Lastly, our senior students continue to set a positive example for the entire school. In a recent Year 12 mathematics class, captured in Photo 3, seniors were seen collaborating, mentoring, and providing valuable feedback to our Year 11 students. This leadership and dedication to learning truly embody the spirit of our school community. Congratulations to all on a terrific term!

Thank you all for an incredible Term 1 of 2025.

Brian Amedee
HoD Mathematics and Science

Physical Education, Teaching and Learning News

Head of Department – Mrs Tanya Wright

Last week I had the opportunity to address students at Whole School Assembly regarding energy drinks. Energy drinks are beverages that usually contain high levels of caffeine, added sugars and legal stimulants that are used to increase alertness and energy. Colourful packaging, lolly-like flavours, widespread availability and targeted marketing have also contributed to an alarming trend in adolescents consuming energy drinks. The presentation included what energy drinks do your body and provided healthy alternatives such as eating breakfast, getting plenty of sleep and doing exercise to naturally increase your energy levels.

Year 7 HPE:

Our Year 7 HPE students have been testing their communication, teamwork and leadership skills within their theory unit this term.  The students have completed a wide range of challenge activities, such as the helium stick challenge, the ball and channel challenge and the impossible puzzle.

The groups have learnt that there are many valuable roles that are played with a team.  The leader, the ‘do-er’ and the cheerleader – just to name a few.  The students have also learnt the value of positive communication!

These skills can be transferred across many of life’s challenges and we look forward to our Year 7 students adding these skills to their resilience toolkits.

Sports Coaching

This year marks the initial offering of the Certificate II in Sports Coaching to senior students at Warwick State High School. Term 1 has seen the successful implementation of Project 1 – Work Safely, along with the commencement of Project 2 – Sports Coaching. Student feedback has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing enthusiasm for Term 2, during which they will visit East SS and Central SS to prepare Year 5/6 students for their annual Broncos Cup in soccer and netball.

Throughout the term, Sports Coaching students have cultivated a strong foundational knowledge of coaching principles and have actively applied and refined these skills through peer-to-peer and junior student engagement at Warwick State High School. We have observed the delivery of dynamic, innovative, and high-energy lessons, showcasing both creativity and leadership. The Sports Coaching teachers are extremely excited to see what Warwick State High School students create as they extend their expertise to our community primary schools in the upcoming term.

Special Education Program News

Acting Head of Department – Ms Jacinta Boland

First-Aid Skills

The senior students in the Special Education Program have been gaining experience in administering first-aid in different scenarios. As part of their ASDAN challenges, they have been learning how to deal with injuries such as cuts, grazes, nosebleeds, minor burns, sprains and snake bite. The students have appreciated engaging with their “injured” peers to apply their newly acquired first-aid knowledge.

Submitted by Deb Follett

Message from Year 12 Leaders

What we love about Warwick High

‘Warwick High offers so many diverse opportunities, one thing we have taken great advantage of, whether it be sport, the arts, STEM or leadership. There is something for everybody to get involved in! Some of our favourites this year have been the Swimming Carnival, which had the highest participation level we’ve seen in years. The School Musical is renowned around Warwick for being an outstanding show, whether that be in the band, on stage or backstage. This gives our students the opportunity to make new friends, connect with other grades and be part of a unique cultural experience offered nowhere else in town. We love the culture at Warwick State High School and really do believe there is something for everyone.

~ Piper and Ashley

• Edited by the one and only editor extraordinaire Nika Kos

What’s cookin’ at WSHS

Sporting News

Mr Nathan Rogers

Congratulations to the following students who have made it through the rigorous process of Darling Downs team selections from their respective school and district sport trial.  The following students will represent their school and region at state secondary school championships in the coming weeks/months.

• Orienteering Ariona Laws, Xanthin Laws
• Rugby League Ali Himstedt (shadow)
• Basketball                Harry Newton
• Hockey Maxwell Bryant, Malcolm Bryant and Lincoln Bryant

Congratulations to all students who participated in and assisted in the Jim Stevens invitational shield, held at the Warwick Junior Rugby League fields, Thursday week eight.  The Open Boys won their draw coming back from a deficit as underdogs to beat Assumption.  The intermediate boys came 2^nd and the Junior Boys fought it out hard to place third.  This is the third consecutive year in the district where the Open Warwick High boys’ team have beaten the Assumption College Confro team.

Congratulations to the U15 Boys South West QLD futsal team from high school who placed third overall in their competition to make it through to the champion of champions competition early next term in Brisbane.  The U13 boys narrowly missed the progression with both teams playing gallantly against strong contingents from power house region schools such as Toowoomba Grammar.  The open boys await their chance to compete and we wish them all the best.

The last Friday of school is the inter-house Cross Country Carnival.  It is a whole school event that starts after first lunch.  Students can run, walk or simply enjoy the afternoon filled with activities and music to celebrate the success of completing the first term of work in 2025.  Please refer to the following schedule for race times.  Parents and spectators are welcome at the school grandstand! Maps of the course are available on the school sports noticeboard and coming soon to the school Facebook page.

Thanks to all students, parents and staff on their efforts to provide opportunities for our students to compete and challenge themselves in, through and about sport.

Mr Rogers & the Sports House Captains

Schedule of Events – Races & Approximate Start times

Community Service

Pink Stumps Day

On April 1(Tuesday, Week 10, Term 1), our school came together to host Pink Stumps Day and support the McGrath Foundation. Students swapped out their normal school uniforms and instead transformed into warriors against cancer, wearing as much pink as they could possibly find. Juniors played cricket at first break and seniors at second break with an amazing turnout for both games. Thank you for everyone who took to the pitch for this amazing cause and supported the McGrath Foundation by donating so that they can continue to fund Cancer Support Care Nurses across Australia. The school raised a total of $615 Thank you to Mrs Waples and the Community Service Committee for organising this amazing event.

Charlotte Goodwin
Community Service Committee Leader

Student Council News

Committee Fair

On Friday, March 14, the annual Committee Fair took place, offering Warwick High students a chance to explore the offerings of the Student Council. Led by student leaders, each committee showcased its main aspects through engaging activities. The atmosphere buzzed with energy and excitement, setting the tone for an eventful 2025.  Listen to the notices each week and get involved.

Southern Downs Regional Youth Council

Congratulations to Year 10 students Mary Fraser and Bonnie Sims, who were inducted as our 2025 Southern Downs Regional Youth Council Representatives and the Warwick Town Hall on Thursday March 27. The highly motivated group of students will be working together with members of the Regional Council to ‘Leave a Legacy’ for our local community. The students are divided into small working groups and will be discussing the following topics in preparation to ‘make a pitch’ to members of the Council.  This idea may become a reality if proven to be a feasible option.

1. Inspired Youth – Teen Talent Takeover: The Ultimate Performance Tour - Cr Morwenna Harslett
2. Liveable Youth – Game Changers: Reinventing Sports & Rec for Teens - Cr Sheryl Windle
3. Healthy Youth – Teen Mental Health: No More Waiting, No More Barriers - Cr Sarah Deane
4. Productive Youth – Biosecurity Avengers: Fighting Invasive Species IRL - Cr Carla Pidgeon

This is an exciting opportunity for the girls to work closely with members of the Southern Downs Regional Council and obtain real life experience in public speaking and developing a proposal.

“Last year, we - Mary Fraser and Bonnie Sims - took the opportunity to be the SDRYC Representatives for 2025. Our main goal for the year, was to contribute to the community inside and outside of school, as well as, to convey ideas and discussions between our school and the youth council. We wanted to be part of this council not only to create a difference, but a long-lasting impact, and enabling room for people our age to speak up and have a voice that is heard. On February 27, we had our first meeting with the Youth Council. Peer Power was there to run various team building activities as well as several ice breakers for all the representatives to get to know each other. They also began to introduce us to what we will be doing throughout this year. We had an awesome day, getting to know the other students alongside a few members of the Council. A key goal to take away from our first meeting was to connect our schools with other schools to collaborate with them in different areas. We look forward to the rest of the year filled with meetings, opportunities, and experiences we'll never forget.”

 Mary and Bonnie
SDRYC Representatives

Clontarf Academy News

Term 1 at Warwick Clontarf Academy has been a successful and action-packed period for both staff and students. A major highlight for the term was our three separate camps.

• Year 7 Induction Camp at Leslie Dam
• Year 12 Leadership Camp at the Gold Coast
• Year 8/9 Camp at Inverell.

Unfortunately, due to Cyclone Alfred, the planned camp for our Year 10/11 boys to Coffs Harbour had to be cancelled. However, the academy has made arrangements to organise a big day out to Toowoomba in Week 10, ensuring that these students still have a valuable and engaging experience before the term ends.

Another highlight was the very strong engagement to our program, with all 88 indigenous boys at Warwick State High School, currently enrolled in the Warwick Clontarf Academy.

Plans are also underway for our Term 2 activities which will include:

• Hosting the South East QLD Year 7/8 Rugby League Carnival here in Warwick
• Year 11/12 Employment Forum at the Gold Coast
• Clontarf Year Twelve QLD v NSW Rugby League to be played at Cbus Super Stadium, Gold Coast
• ANZAC Day Service participation.

Office News

Warwick State High School would like to wish all students and their parents/caregivers a safe and relaxing holiday break.

The main school office will close on Friday 4 April 2025, and re-open on Tuesday 22 April 2025 at 8.00am.

Contact Details

Keeping parent and emergency contact details up-to-date is very important so that we can contact you if your student is unwell or requires urgent medical attention. Attached is a “Change of Details” form for your convenience so that, if necessary, this can be completed and returned to the school.

Leave Passes

In summary:

• All students leaving the school during the day, MUST be signed out of the school by a parent/caregiver, this must be done via the Main Office. After showing their Student ID card, they will be issued with a Leave Pass.
• Students are NOT permitted to sign out of the school unless a parent/caregiver (or another adult nominated by the parent in writing) is present. Students must present this Leave Pass, as requested, to teachers or police officers when outside the school grounds.
• All students returning to school must do so via the Main Office with a parent/caregiver present. After showing their Student ID card, they will receive a Returning Pass, which must be shown to their class teacher.
• Students who are registered to drive to school do not need a parent/caregiver to be present to sign out. However, parental permission to leave must be obtained by the school in writing from parent/caregiver.

Messages to Students

Messages to students will be taken and delivered only in an emergency.  Whilst every effort is made to deliver these messages, please note that classrooms do not have telephones.

Student Resource Scheme

The Student Resource Scheme fee for 2025 is $195.00.   To ensure your student is able to participate in extra-curricular activities now is the time to start discussing your payment options with us.

We have options available for payment: Cash, Cheque, Eftpos, Payment Plans and Centrepay.

If you are currently receiving Centrelink payments, we can set up Centrepay or if not, we can set up a Payment Plan where you can make direct deposits into our bank account to make regular payments for your fees.

Please contact Paula in the Main Office on 4666 9232 for assistance.

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