From the Deputy Principal Senior Years

Term 2 has been an engaging and busy term for the whole school community. 

As I have walked through classrooms over the past ten weeks, I have seen students across all year levels deeply engaged in their learning, actively using the IB Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills. From research and thinking to collaboration and self-management, our students continue to show high levels of commitment and creativity in their learning. There have been many exceptional events – including our School Review Forum, Cross Country, the Festival of Creativity and Sustainability Week. All these events have been a celebration of student voice and agency, and it has been inspiring to see our students articulating their ideas and creativity with confidence.

Thank you and have a wonderful holiday break

Esme Hatchell, Deputy Principal Senior Years

From Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)

The Education Outside the Classroom team successfully delivered a dynamic and engaging Term 2, filled with a diverse range of opportunities for our students.

From sports and music to co-curricular activities, CAS initiatives, and curriculum-linked experiences, students embraced the chance to challenge themselves, try something new, and develop valuable skills. It was an action-packed term, and it was a pleasure to see our students thrive across so many areas of school life.

Sports Program in Term 2
After a disrupted Term 1 due to weather, students were eager to return to competition, and Term 2 delivered in spades. With clearer skies, students across both Middle and Senior Years enjoyed the term of sport. Students have been training hard in the lead up to the West Brisbane Senior Secondary Sports Association Gala Day competitions, and we look forward to hopefully sharing some amazing results in the Term Ahead article in Term 3.

Representative Sport
Term 2 was another outstanding term for representative sport, with QASMT students showcasing their talent and dedication across a wide range of disciplines. Congratulations to all students who embraced the challenge of high-level competition, taking part in demanding trials and representing the school with determination, resilience, and pride.

Special commendations are extended to the following students for their outstanding achievements and subsequent selection in the respective teams. Students are listed below for their highest level of achievement, meaning that students making Metropolitan West representation also represented Northern Eagles district. New students from Term 2 trials are bolded.

Cross Country Carnival
Our Cross Country Carnival took place on Wednesday 30 April (Week 2), and was a fantastic celebration of school spirit and House pride. Students took to the course with enthusiasm, proudly wearing their House colours and belting out war cries in support of one another. The energy and participation from both students and staff made this event a memorable highlight of the term, and we thank everyone for their involvement.

A special congratulations must go to students who placed in the top 3 for their age groups!

Athletics Carnival
Unfortunately, our Athletics Carnival was cancelled twice this term due to persistent wet weather and unsafe field conditions. While we were disappointed not to be able to come together for this much-anticipated event, the safety of our students and staff remained our top priority. We thank everyone for their understanding and look forward to future opportunities to celebrate school spirit through athletics.

CCA & Club Programs
We celebrate the success of our Co-Curricular Activities (CCA) Program and Club Program, which have offered students meaningful opportunities to pursue their interests, expand their skills, and connect with others beyond the classroom. Whether through creative expression, hands-on projects, or leadership roles, students have participated with great energy and commitment. It has been rewarding to witness their personal growth, as they stepped into new experiences, collaborated with peers, and built confidence. These programs have not only enriched individual student journeys but also contributed to a stronger, more connected school community reflecting the values we champion at QASMT.

Looking ahead to Term 3, we are excited to offer a new range of extra-curricular opportunities for students to get involved, try something different, and connect with others. With fresh programs and activities on the horizon, there’s something for everyone to enjoy and explore outside the classroom.

Service Learning Tour CCA – Minjerribah (North Stradbroke Island)
Despite the wet weather on Minjerribah, the Year 11 Service Learning Tour was a deeply enriching and highly successful experience, blending scientific inquiry with meaningful intercultural engagement. Students showed remarkable resilience and positivity, embracing each activity with curiosity and enthusiasm. It was inspiring to see them learning with and from one another in such a spirited and collaborative way. A key highlight of the tour was working alongside representatives from the Quandamooka people (QYAC), who guided students through land and water management practices, ensuring Indigenous perspectives remained central to the experience.

A heartfelt thank you to Ms Liebchen for her planning and leadership on the tour. This experience also offers an excellent opportunity for students to use as a CAS Project, and we look forward to the next Service Learning Tour in 2026.

Volleyball Academy
Term 2 has been another exciting and rewarding chapter for the QASMT Volleyball Academy, marked by strong progress, high-level competition, and well-deserved success on the court.

Training intensified throughout the term as our Year 9 and 10 teams prepared for the Intermediate Schools Cup (ISC), held in Week 6 on the Gold Coast. Over three action-packed days, students showcased their skill, teamwork, and resilience while competing against some of the best school teams in Queensland.

In a perfectly timed delivery, our brand-new Volleyball Academy uniforms arrived just before the tournament. Spirits were high as students proudly donned the striking new kits, giving every team a unified and professional look that perfectly matched the quality of their performances.

Stand-out Results at the ISC

• Year 9 Boys – Gold Medal
• Year 10 Girls – Bronze Medal
• Year 9 Girls – 4th place, narrowly edged out in the bronze-medal playoff
• Year 10 Boys – Mid-table finish in the highly competitive Honours Division

All students competed with outstanding spirit and sportsmanship, and they should be immensely proud of their efforts. Please join us in congratulating each player on a fantastic achievement!

Looking ahead to Term 3, we’re excited to expand the program further, with new opportunities for junior and senior students to get involved. The future of QASMT Volleyball is bright, and we can’t wait to see where the next term takes us.

Music Program
The Music Program has had a very busy term! The Instrumental Workshop Day, which was delayed due to the cyclone, took place earlier in the term. Students enjoyed working with guest conductors/tutors and could see the benefits in their playing and ensemble work immediately. Students then performed wonderfully at the Evening of Music concert, encompassing music from string ensembles, to percussion, bands and jazz.

String Quartet to Regional Principal’s Day
The Senior QASMT String Quartet were asked to perform for Principals in the North region. Claire, Dami, Wendi and Terrie represented the school wonderfully and received many compliments on their playing.

State Honours Ensemble Program
A record number of students were involved in the SHEP program this term. SHEP is a great way to play new repertoire, with concentrated practise that takes place over a weekend, culminating in a concert series on the final day. Well done to all QASMT IM students that participated.

QSO Compose
Leonardo V, in Year 11, has been working with the Queensland Symphony Orchestra as part of the Connect Compose project. Leo’s composition was performed by the QSO, playing his piece “Home in the Crosshairs” as part of their Classics in Cairns performance. What an amazing achievement, Leo!

Arts Captain and Ambassadors
A big thankyou to Arts Captain, Claire, and her team of ambassadors for getting a banner painted in time for the Festival of Creativity. To match the theme Starry Night (by Van Gogh), arts students painted a banner with a QASMT twist, which hung beautifully at the end the Laneway Stage, adding to the atmosphere of the evening.

Lissa Sullivan-Ward, Music Program Coordinator

Chess Program
22 of our finest chess players represented QASMT in the second annual Miskin Cup, taking on their counterparts from BBC in a tightly contested competition. Each student played two 30-minute games, one with white, and one with black, against a matched opponent in what proved to be a challenging afternoon of strategic play.

While BBC emerged victorious overall, winning the cup with a final score of 29.5 to 14.5, there were some standout performances from our team. Nikola, Andrew, and Ayden all achieved dominant wins, defeating their rivals with both the white and black pieces, a remarkable feat.

Team Captain Bella graciously thanked BBC for hosting the event and congratulated them on their well-deserved win, noting their strength across the board this year.

Despite the result, the QASMT team showed great spirit and sportsmanship, and they are already looking forward to next year’s rematch!

Guy McNicol, Chess Coordinator

Student vs Teacher Dodgeball
This term’s Teacher vs Student showdown brought all the energy, laughter, and flying dodgeballs you could hope for in a spirited lunchtime match. With bragging rights on the line, senior students stepped up to challenge their teachers in what turned out to be a wildly entertaining and fast-paced game of dodgeball.

From the first whistle, it was clear the teachers meant business. Led by the lightning arm of Miles “of Skill” Doherty, the staff squad delivered precision throws and strategic dodges, keeping the students on their toes (and often out of the game). Despite the students' valiant attempts to mount a comeback, the teachers never let up, securing a decisive and well-earned victory.

The game was filled with big plays, bold moves, and plenty of laughs, capturing the true spirit of friendly competition that makes these events such a highlight of the term.

With netball on the horizon for next term’s rematch, the students will no doubt be plotting their revenge. One thing’s for certain, the Teacher vs Student rivalry is alive and well!

We're excited to provide students with even more ways to grow, connect, and shine beyond the classroom in Term 3!

Marc Wheeler, Head of Department Education Outside the Classroom

From the Guidance Officers

Term 2 has once again provided many opportunities for students to progress their future planning and personal development.  

I encourage families to discuss these experiences with their students.

Our Year 12 students have been completing their individual pathways forms. Each student is required to complete their Pathways Interview Form and submit to Mrs Judge by 31 July at the latest. See ‘Important Files’ on our Pathways Hub at https://studyworkgrow.com/education/school/queensland-academy-for-science-mathematics-and-technology/. Thank you to those students who have already completed this process.

In addition, students are able to meet with the guidance officer to discuss their plans if support is required with planning the next stage of their career journey. Students may access bookings through the booking link in Mrs Judge’s email signature to select an interview time.

QTAC Guides have been distributed to Year 12 students. Year 12 students who have not collected their guide should come to student services to collect their copy.

Year 10 have had a very productive semester, completing their Certificate II in Sampling and Measurement and their Certificate III in Laboratory Skills. Congratulations to all of them for a job well done! They have now begun a series on “how to choose”, exploring the skills and resources that may help them choose the next steps of their career pathway.

All Year 9 students attended the annual UQ Career Pulse event, choosing from many electives to engage with various faculties and career fields while experiencing a day of university life. They received valuable information to inform their subject selection for Year 10 and the Diploma Programme, enabling them to pursue their individual career plans.

All students and parents were welcomed to our latest Career Information Session, “Study Around the World”, exploring the complex scenarios of international university applications. If you missed this event, you may access the slides in the ‘Important Files’ section of our QASMT Pathways Hub (see the link in our resources section below).

We welcomed representatives from St Georges University Medical School who presented to interested students and parents about the opportunities for studying medicine abroad. Further information can be found at sgu.edu, or speak with them at our QASMT Tertiary Expo on 21 July.

Career Planning Resources and Events

QASMT Tertiary Expo
Monday 21 July, 3pm-4:45pm in the Auditorium, Lecture Theatre and M Block. 

Students and families from all year levels are highly encouraged to attend!

Local, interstate and overseas tertiary providers will be in attendance to answer questions and provide information to support your career planning and subject selection. Speak with tertiary representatives with your personal queries at the booths in the Auditorium. Listen to the presentations in our Lecture Theatre and M Block. This is a great privilege that these providers are coming to us and we encourage our students and families to make the most of this event.

Information Sessions: throughout the year, Career Information Sessions are held focussing on timely information for career planning. Sessions will have a target audience (eg. Parents or a specific year level) but others are welcome to attend. Topics will include application processes, university specific information and study field focus sessions. During Term 3, a session is scheduled exploring Scholarships and IB Advantage, presented by UQ. The session conveniently follows our Tertiary Expo program, so please stay for this bespoke presentation.

University Rankings and Indicators
“As the name suggests, university rankings rank universities. However, each ranking organisation measures institutions in different ways, using different criteria, and different weightings of similar criteria. Rankings can take into account research quality and revenue, surveys of academics and employers, staff-student ratios, and statistics on demographics such as the number of international students.”

https://www.sydney.edu.au/news-opinion/news/2016/09/13/university-rankings-how-do-they-work-and-are-they-important.html

QILT: The Quality Indicators for Learning and Teaching (QILT) are a suite of government endorsed surveys for higher education, across the student life cycle from commencement to employment. All 41 Australian universities and around 90 non-university higher education providers take part in the QILT surveys. https://www.compared.edu.au/

Good Universities Guide: The Good Universities Guide will help you find courses at Australia's top universities, TAFEs and training colleges. The ratings provide independent five-star performance ratings for every university in Australia, based on student-relevant criteria such as; graduate salaries, teaching quality, learning resources, graduate employment rates and much more. https://www.gooduniversitiesguide.com.au/ 

QS World University Rankings: featuring 1300 universities from around the world. https://www.topuniversities.com/qs-world-university-rankings

Shanghai Ranking: Since 2009 the Academic Ranking of World Universities (ARWU) has been published and copyrighted by ShanghaiRanking Consultancy. ShanghaiRanking Consultancy is a fully independent organisation on higher education intelligence and not legally subordinated to any universities or government agencies. ARWU uses six objective indicators to rank world universities. https://www.shanghairanking.com/rankings/arwu/2021

Times Higher Education (THE) World University Rankings: university rankings to assess university performance on the global stage, and to provide a resource for readers to understand the different missions and successes of higher education institutions. Rankings cover the three main areas of university activity: research, impact and teaching.  https://www.timeshighereducation.com/world-university-rankings

Wishing you all a restful semester break. 

Katrina Judge, Guidance Officer Career Planning

There have been some common themes for which students have been accessing support from the Guidance Officer this term, these include:

• Self-management (time, organisation, planning)
• Building positive relationships
• Safe and responsible choices.

The academy provides some great resources for parents and students to engage with to support our community as we continue to learn together.

Student Program – Life Skills: How to master them
The second course for 2025, Term 2 - Life Skills: How to master them - had a high number of students engaging across all year levels. This program aimed to provide students with an opportunity to learn about these life skills and engage with practice tasks each week to master them.

Student Programs will continue to be offered each term. These online programs will run for 4-6 Weeks (during Weeks 4-9), just one session a week (accessed at any time suitable for each student). The sessions will be weekly ‘bite sized’ learning opportunities. These learning opportunities include science-based strategies around an assortment of topics.

A new learning opportunity will be available in Term 3 to support students, please keep an eye out for the next program - Interpersonal Skills: How to improve them. Details will be provided to students at the beginning of Term 3 around how to enrol.

School TV (for parents) as well as Guidance Officer led courses (for students), together with the Parent & Community sessions are a great learning tool.

Parent and Community:
Our first Parent and Community session for 2025 was delivered during Term 2. The presentation from Headspace provided some great information regarding Perfectionism and Performance Anxiety. If you were not able to engage with this session, resources from this session were provided from our Headspace presenter. Please contact me if you would like a copy of the resources sent to you.

Term 3 brings another opportunity for our community to learn together. Headspace will be presenting for us on Monday evening of Week 3 (evening of the Student Free Day).

Please note, there is no cost for the session.

Please use the following link to register your interest in attending. 
https://survey.qed.qld.gov.au/n/dNxhz49?ver=1223134462

Links to access the online presentation will be sent to those who have registered on the day of the event.

Headspace provides young people with access to health advice, education and employment. Their vision is to improve young people's mental, social & emotional wellbeing. Their student workshops aim to increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, build the capacity of young people to understand their own wellbeing needs, support their peers, and explore pathways for help-seeking. Workshops are interactive, strength-based and evidence-informed. For further information about Headspace: https://headspace.org.au/

Term 2 Special event – Digital media literacy and safety: Part 2
This special event, provided to us by SchoolTV, was an excellent source of information. The webinar was again presented by Dr Michael Carr-Gregg and Susan McLean, two of Australia’s leading experts in youth wellbeing and cybersafety. The presentation provided invaluable insights into how to support young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

As a special surprise, we were informed that there will now be a Part 3 in this series – something to look forward to in Term 3.

Dates will be communicated to our QASMT community as soon as they are announced.

While we anticipate part 3 of the webinar series, I invite you to explore the ‘Cyber Safety Series’ area of SchoolTV through our school website.

This will provide information and other resources to further support adults in learning how to keep our children safe online.

SchoolTV resources can be accessed through the Academy’s website: https://qasmt.eq.schooltv.me/channel-newsletter/315 

Accessing Guidance Officer: Student Support
Referrals to QASMT Guidance Officers are made through Student's House Deans, and form part of a tiered model of intervention and support.

For highly sensitive concerns, I welcome parents or students to contact me directly. Early support can make all the difference.

Community and Online Support Services
Managing Your Mental Health Online document below can be found on our School Website, as a related link to our Wellbeing Framework.

Found here: https://qasmt.eq.edu.au/support-and-resources/wellbeing/wellbeing-framework

Stay safe over the break – be kind to yourself and each other.

Tara Le Pla, Guidance Officer Student Support

From the House Deans

As we wrap up an eventful and rewarding Term 2, it’s a great moment to reflect on the rich learning, leadership, and wellbeing experiences across our school.

Thank you to all parents and caregivers for your continued support, particularly in ensuring that students arrive punctually and in correct uniform. Your partnership plays a vital role in your child’s learning journey. Consistent attendance not only supports academic progress but also fosters the development of important social and emotional skills such as resilience, collaboration, and communication (Source: Every Day Counts).

A reminder that in Term 3, students are required to wear full Formal Uniform (including blazer and Formal hat) on Monday, Tuesday, and Friday, and Active Wear on Wednesday and Thursday.

We also remind families of the ‘Away for the Day’ messaging as students are not permitted to use mobile phones and electronic devices with SIM card capability (such as an iPad) during school time. Keeping devices off during school hours supports student wellbeing and promotes stronger face-to-face connections and learning focus. Please refer to the Responsible Use of Electronic Devices and Mobile Phone Policy for further details and relevant exemptions.

As students prepare for Semester 2, it’s a good time to revisit goals, reflect on academic progress, and seek feedback from teachers. As Dr Carol Dweck reminds us: "Becoming is better than being”. By embracing a mindset of continuous improvement, students can move confidently through their academic journey with purpose and direction.

Interhouse Events
Term 2 kicked off with the Cross Country Carnival, filling the school Oval with colour, energy, and House spirit. Congratulations to Da Vinci and Hawking, who claimed the War Cry title with their passion and unity.

Students across all year levels gave their best on the Cross Country track, and a special congratulations to Agnesi House for taking out the overall win for the third consecutive year, an incredible achievement!

Week 10 marks the start of Sustainability Week, featuring the exciting Sustainable Fashion Parade, a vibrant display of student creativity and commitment to environmental awareness. Congratulations to Curie House for taking out the top spot with their winning group!

Unfortunately, due to continued wet weather, this week’s Athletics Carnival has been cancelled. Stay tuned for our next interhouse event, the Trivia Challenge, coming early next term!

InStep: This term in InStep we strengthened connections across all year levels and discussed several topical questions. It was great to see all year levels exploring the issue of National Reconciliation with a focus point on the impact of the stolen generations. Thank you to Mr Aspland for providing resources for us.

In the lead up to the student leadership applications deadline, Yr 8 students led a range of engaging InStep activities to demonstrate their initiative and collaborative skills. Over the last few weeks there has been a focus on Sustainability and how we can continue to embed positive sustainable practices in our daily routines.

House charities update

• Curie House held a successful fundraiser in support of the Alannah & Madeline Foundation. Students had the opportunity to purchase second-hand clothes, books, and accessories, with all proceeds going toward helping children live safe, happy lives. Thanks to the enthusiasm and generosity of our school community, the Curie House Charity Sale raised an impressive $500.00! A huge congratulations to our Curie Ambassadors and Leaders for their hard work in organising such a meaningful event.
• Da Vinci and Newton Houses joined forces to hold a successful Pancake and Brownie Dessert Sale. This student-led initiative was a wonderful demonstration of community spirit and compassion. Thanks to the generosity of students, staff, and families, the event raised close to $1,000.00 for two important charities:
• Canteen, supporting young people living with cancer
• Miracle Babies Foundation, helping premature and sick newborns

Additionally, under the guidance of Ms Mila Reynolds, a CAS project led by several Year 12 students and titled ‘Newton Crochet Club’ was held weekly. As part of this initiative, interested students from across the houses learned to crochet beanies for babies, which will be donated to the Miracle Babies Foundation. Thank you again to Ms Reynolds and all the students involved for their time, effort, and dedication to this worthy cause.

• Franklin House extends its thanks to all students and staff for their generous support of their bake sale, which featured a variety of delicious donuts. Through the collective effort of the school community, $1,050.00 was raised in support of animals great and small, with all proceeds donated to the RSPCA.

House Deans Update
In Semester 2, we welcome back Mr Marc Wheeler as House Dean of Curie and thank Ms Serena Wanstall for her leadership and support over the past Semester.

Congratulations to Ms Zoe Kirby on her appointment as Head of Department – Inclusion. We thank her for her dedicated service as Da Vinci House Dean. A new House Dean for Da Vinci will be announced ahead of Term 3.

Finally, on behalf of the House Deans, we wish all families a well-earned and restful mid-year break. Thank you for your ongoing support and we look forward to seeing everyone refreshed for the second half of the year.

Aileen Davis, House Dean Agnesi; Serena Wanstall, House Dean Curie; Zoe Kirby, House Dean Da Vinci; Ross Bray, House Dean Franklin; Dean Aspland, House Dean Hawking; Andrew Chen, House Deans Hollows; Tyler Pearson,  House Dean Jackson; and Deva Prasad, House Dean Newton.

From the Department of Mathematics and robotics

Have you ever wondered how easy it is to get lost in a forest or finding your way to a  location without being able to travel in a straight line? 

If so, you need to speak to a Year 9 student who could talk to you at length about this, after completing their Criterion C (Communicating) and D (Applying mathematics in real life contexts) project.

What else has been going on in Mathematics classrooms in Term 2……

Year 8 students have applied their knowledge of rates, ratios, percentages, profit and loss, time, linear equations and linear relationships to a real life scenario (selling homemade brownies) to consider how to run an online business in the “Money, Money, Money” unit, so they make a $400.00 profit in a month. This in class test has allowed the students to see the use of mathematics in real-life contexts whilst at the same time improving their communication skills.

“How can we bring things together?” has been the question considered by Year 7 classes. This unit has allowed them to use their knowledge of fractions, decimals and integers, and apply this to Algebra.

Algebraic fractions, measurement, statistics, quadratics and advanced trigonometry have been the topics that have engaged the Year 10 students. They completed two exams in the exam block in preparation for the move to their new subjects (Maths AA or AI) next term.

Our Year 11 students have been busy learning new coursework while the Year 12s finalised what they need to know for the November exams. This term has been a busy one for Year 12 students who have worked very hard to complete their final IA – a Maths exploration on a topic of their own choice. This is a substantial assessment that the students should be very proud of.

Maths Enrichment
During Term 2, students have been able to participate in a number of enrichment opportunities.

On April 24, 142 students sat the UQ/QAMT Problem Solving Challenge. This 2-hour competition required students to solve five very challenging questions. Interest in this competition continues to grow every year, and the results are expected in Term 3.  

Over 70 students have been working on 6 problems from the Maths Challenge booklet provided by the Australian Maths Trust. Students should find out their results in Term 3. A further 90 students have embarked on the 16 week Maths Enrichment Challenge, which will continue into Term 3.

Forty-eight students from Years 7-10 were invited to Stage 1 of an AMO (Australian Intermediate Maths Olympiad) training program offered by AMOC Qld. These students completed four difficult problem sheets and a revision paper. All of these students have now been offered places in Stage 2. Congratulations to these students on their commitment and perseverance to this challenging program.

We also have results for some of the competitions that we offered in Term 1, and are very happy to announce the following exciting news:

• AMO (Australian Mathematics Olympiad)- two of our students were invited to participate in this prestigious competition in Term 1 and performed exceptionally well. Congratulations to Siddharth (Bronze), and Eason (Bronze).

• KSF (Kangourou Sans Frontieres) – 275 students competed in this online competition (our highest number to date), held during first term. Congratulations to 9 of these students who received High Distinctions. A further 76 students were awarded Distinctions, which is also a great achievement.

From the Robotics and Digital Educator

Robotics
As Semester 1 of Robotics wraps up, we are proud of what our students have accomplished. In Senior Robotics, we have three FTC teams putting the final touches on their robots before heading off to the Asia Pacific Open Championships at Macquarie University in Sydney during Week 1 of Term 3. They have worked tirelessly to become competition ready!

Meanwhile, our students in Robocup have been working together in teams with a variety of components to build autonomous robots to meet a variety of challenges from soccer, to performance, and rescue line. In FLL (First Lego League), our students have been working together in teams, building robots to complete specific missions on a themed challenge mat using block-based coding. Many of our students in all three branches of Robotics are preparing for competitions later this year.

Finally, we are proud of our Robotics Ambassadors who showcased the creative side of Robotics while raising money for the charity Limbs for Life with their stall at the Festival of Creativity.

Digital Library
With over 25,000 items available, our digital library offers everything from thought-provoking fiction to graphic novels, and audiobooks for our students to read not just for research but also for recreation. Why read for fun?

Reading builds empathy. In particular, reading fiction can expose students to diverse perspectives and emotionally complex challenges, which can help develop empathy.

Reading builds vocabulary. Leisure reading plays an important role in developing vocabulary.

Reading is good for us. Recreational reading can lead to an improvement in psychological well-being, providing relaxation and escape.

I hope all students and their families enjoy a restful holiday so you are ready for more Maths excitement, enrichment opportunities, and Robotics updates in Term 3.      

Russell Hams, Head of Department Mathematics

From the Department of Life Sciences

Term 2 has been another fantastic term with lots of enrichment opportunities for students, and some amazing experiments happening in our curriculum. 

Our students have shown incredible growth and determination across all areas of science.

Curriculum

Year 7 Science
This term, Year 7 students engaged in a unit about space and our blue planet. Their MYP Statement of Inquiry was ‘Relationships between planetary objects can be derived from the observation and interpretation of data’. Students investigated the solar system, studied the Earth's rotation, and used this knowledge to interpret seasonal temperature data. They also used STELR kits to carry out an investigation, and they learned about the scientific inquiry process through writing their first scientific report for their Term 2 assessment.

Year 8 Science

In Term 2, Year 8 students have been investigating energy transfer and transformations. Their MYP Statement of Inquiry was ‘Through transforming energy, we can have an impact on the way people live now and, in the future’. They learned about Conservation of Energy and how to sketch Sankey diagrams. They learned about different types of energy and specific heat capacity and were able to successfully show their knowledge in their Term 2 assessment.

Year 9 STEM Future students
Our Year 9 students have now completed their semester courses in Biochemical Solutions, Sustainable Futures and Biomedical Engineering. It has been wonderful to walk through classrooms and see students learning about biochemical reactions, food for our planet, and how hip implants are designed for different patients. Well done to all our Year 9 students and their families for a successful start to the Year 9 STEM Futures Science courses, and we look forward to seeing the students in their chosen courses next term!

Year 10 Blue Planet
This term, Year 10 Blue Planet students set sail into Moreton Bay, stepping into the shoes of marine biologists. They measured biotic and abiotic factors to identify and investigate various environmental issues. The highlight of their adventure was deploying the BRUV (Baited Remote Underwater Vehicle) to count fish species and gather data. Back on land, they transformed their data and presented it in a mini scientific report.

Year 10 Medical Biotechnology
This term, Year 10 Medical Biotechnology students embarked on a journey through the immune system. They explored various pathogens, discovering how these invaders infect hosts and how our immune systems battle them. The students also studied the rise of antibiotic resistance in bacteria, using this understanding to analyse the WHO's antimicrobial resistance report. This deep dive into medical biotechnology provided them with crucial insights into contemporary medical challenges.

Year 11 Life Sciences
Year 11 Biology students wrapped up their practice IA. It was an excellent opportunity for them to further refine their skills in experimental investigations and receive valuable feedback on their report writing. Looking ahead, next term marks the beginning of their final IA process where they will develop their methodology and conduct risk assessments for their individual investigations.

Year 11 Environmental Systems and Societies students learned about natural resources and the environmental, ethical and economic lenses applied to their uses and management. They also learned about energy sources and solid waste, while learning how to analyse secondary data and create surveys. They ended the term learning about ecosystems and how individuals, populations and communities fit into it.

Year 12 Life Sciences
Year 12 Biology students have been smashing through the new syllabus content and are eager to study for mock exams next term. They finished learning about body systems and homeostasis and have a new found appreciation for their kidneys and all it does to regulate osmolarity. They moved on to learning about the diversity and conservations of organisms on our planet, how scientists map evolutionary relationships, how speciation is possible and ended the term learning about Darwin’s theory of evolution by natural selection.

Year 12 Environmental Systems and Societies students have been learning about human impact on our environment, such as stratospheric ozone, photochemical smog, acid deposition and our energy choices and security. They ended the term learning about climate change and what humans do to try to mitigate and adapt to it. It’s been a busy term as they also received written and verbal feedback on their final IA, and made their final submission in Week 5. They now are ready to revise for mock exams.

STEM Seminar Series
Our 2025 STEM Seminar Series got off to a great start this term after TC Alfred lead to cancellation in Term 1. This term’s guest speaker was Dr Hannah Gullo from the School of Health and Rehabilitation Sciences at The University of Queensland. Dr Gullo spoke about her career pathway and current research in neuroscience and neurorehabilitation, including her hands-on clinical work in Brisbane hospitals. The seminar offered students the opportunity to engage with topics within clinical research, innovation, and real-world applications of technology in contemporary occupational therapy. Dr Gullo’s seminar sparked meaningful discussions in the Q&A session following the seminar. The strong turnout and engagement from our students highlights their enthusiasm for STEM and for being open-minded and inquiring IB learners!

Sustainability Week
What an a amazing way to end the term with Sustainability Week! With the theme of “Sustainable Consumption” and a focus on Sustainable Development Goal 12, the Sustainable Futures captain, ambassadors, and all related CCAs worked together to showcase all they have been doing to raise awareness and educate others on the importance of sustainability. We were fortunate to have Professor Ian Godwin from UQ as a guest speaker at our assembly. He is Professor and Academic Centre Director for the Queensland Alliance for Agriculture and Food Innovation and he spoke to us about the realities of organic foods and sustainable food production.

The annual Sustainable Fashion Parade followed the assembly this year with a new format to accommodate the new timetable this year. Houses had students form a maximum of three teams, each to design a unique piece out of fully sustainable materials and compete for the coveted first prize place, earning points for their house. 

There were some really fantastic outfits, and it was wonderful to see such creative ideas come to fruition in such a short period of time. They were all amazing. Congratulations Curie team, Earth Lovers, on their win.

Saengdao Philavane, Head of Department Life Sciences 

From the Department of Physical Sciences

As we near the end of what has been a very busy Term, please join me as I take a look back over the highlights from both in and outside the classroom in the Physical Sciences.

In Week 3, our Science Ambassadors ran their annual Science Technology Robotics and Mathematics (STRM)-based activities during lunch time. As per usual the highlight being the staff versus students imploding watermelon competition. I would also like to thank all of the Science Ambassadors, Mr Avery and Mr Bailey for their hard work in making this week such a memorable one for so many of our students.

In Week 4, Ms Bebbington took a group of our senior physics students to attend the annual Churchie lecture in physics. This excursion gave our students an opportunity to interact with physicists at the top of their fields, and to explore their branches of research. Thanks again to Ms Bebbington for accompanying our students on this excursion. At the end of Week 5, Mr Pearce took four teams of Year 10 SMT students to compete in the UQ titration competition. Mr Pearce worked with these students for many weeks in preparation for this event and so I want to thank him for his huge contribution which he gives so willingly.

In Week 6, we sent three students to the SISTEMIC Science Fair in Singapore as part of our STEM Research Project Program (STEM RPP). Mariah, Ananya and Charlie designed and built a prototype micro fluidic device which uses small amounts of electric current to move water droplets. They presented, along with their scientific poster at this international fair. They were accompanied by Mr Pearce and Dr Weynberg. They were very successful at the Fair, being awarded Silver for the innovative nature of their project.

Our STEM RPP 2025-26 is already up and running and both myself and Dr Slessor are very excited with the developments we've made to the program for this next group of students. We are delighted to be working much more closely with researchers from UQ across a range of areas in the sciences. These researchers will act as mentors to the students who have been selected to the program and will, no doubt, bring our student projects to the next level in terms of presentation, complexity and depth of exploration. Myself and Dr Slessor are also already preparing for National Science Week where we will be displaying all of the posters from our STEM RPP members of the 2024-25 Program. The program is going from strength to strength and is something that we are very proud of.

Now on to the topic of Science Olympiads. The Science Olympiads, organised by the Australian Science Innovation (ASI) group, run in a sequence which started with the Big Science Competition at the beginning of Term 2, then moved to the Junior Science Olympiad (JSO) exams at the end of Term 2, and will finish with the Olympiad exams for senior students in Term 3. These assessments are known to be challenging and so it is an exceptional achievement when any senior student makes an Australian Olympiad Team. This year we have had two students, Isaac in Physics, and Katherine in Chemistry. They were just recently presented with their green team blazers. I would also highlight that we are hoping to host our first ever Australian Informatics Olympiad exams in Term 3. Clearly our Olympiad examination offerings are in a healthy position and we hope to find our next Science Olympians very soon!

To finish, I want to thank everyone for their support this term and I hope that you all have a well-earned break.  

Robert Hughes, Head of Department Physical Sciences

From the Department of Individuals and Societies – Social & Behavioural Sciences

Term 2 has been busy with a range of wonderful school events, public holidays and IA submissions for students. 

I wish all students, families and staff a safe and relaxing mid-year break. I hope over the two weeks everyone gets a chance to recharge the batteries ahead of the second half of the year.

During the Labor Day long weekend, many I&S staff attended three days of official IB training. A key takeaway from this training was the importance of students signposting their responses. By writing clearly “The first advantage…”, “However there is a limitation to this advantage”, “This action plan will have three steps, the first step is…” allows the marker (for year 12s these will be external) to clearly see where the knowledge and application is applied. It was very pleasing to see students respond to this feedback and develop clear responses this term. TEAL is the recommended structure we teach students with a topic sentence, examples/evidence, address the command term/question and link sentence all included in each paragraph.

Both Mr Richard Bent and Mr Matthew Trethewey are departing QASMT at the end of this semester. We thank them for their contributions over 2025 and wish them the best for the future.

Lyle Fredericksen, Head of Department Individuals and Societies – Social & Behavioural Sciences

From the Department of Language Acquisition – Classical & Modern Languages

As Term 2 comes to a close, we’re proud to share some of the engaging learning experiences and milestones from our languages classrooms.

Year 7 Japanese – Calligraphy and Cultural Craft
Our Year 7 students have been exploring Japanese culture through both language and tradition. They enjoyed practicing hiragana through traditional calligraphy, learning the art of brush control and character formation. In addition, students folded origami cranes, developing their fine motor skills while engaging with a meaningful symbol of peace and perseverance in Japanese culture.

Middle Years – Anime Movie Afternoon
Middle Years students were treated to a Japanese anime movie afternoon featuring Mirai by Mamoru Hosoda. This beautifully animated film helped reinforce listening skills and sparked conversations about family, time, and cultural values. It was a fun and immersive way to experience contemporary Japanese storytelling.

Year 9 Latin – UQ Antiquities Museum Excursion
Our Year 9 Latin students stepped back in time with a visit to the University of Queensland’s Antiquities Museum. They explored ancient artefacts, examined the armour of a Roman army soldier, and participated in a hands-on ancient coin workshop. This engaging experience brought the ancient world vividly to life and was a highlight of the term, with rave reviews from the students.

Year 12 Japanese and Latin – Final Assessments
Congratulations to our Year 12 students who have completed their final oral examinations in Japanese and submitted their Internal Assessments for Latin. Their hard work and commitment have been outstanding as they move closer to graduation.

We wish all our students and families a restful and enjoyable break, and look forward to another exciting term of language learning ahead!

Fiona Scarth, Head of Department Language Acquisition – Classical and Modern Languages

From the Department of Language and Literature

As winter settled quietly over the QASMT campus, so too did students across all year levels lean into a season of reflection, refinement, and renewed purpose. 

With the summer’s pace behind them, Term 2 unfolded at a steadier rhythm - ideal for deep thinking, close reading, and thoughtful discussion. Across subjects, students were invited to pause, to look more closely, and to warm their analytical minds through texts that asked big questions: about identity, justice, power, and the ways we express ourselves in the world.

Year 7 English Language and Literature
In Year 7, students settled into the reflective mood of the season through their study of R.J. Palacio’s Wonder. As the term unfolded, they explored how identity is shaped by context and how communication can influence the way we see ourselves and others. Though the rhythm of learning occasionally slowed, students remained engaged, gradually drawing out ideas about empathy and resilience. Their discussions gathered warmth through shared understanding, encouraging them to look inward as well as outward.

Year 8 English Language and Literature
Year 8 students navigated the layered allegory of George Orwell’s Animal Farm, examining the ways in which systems of power are built, manipulated, and preserved. As the weeks passed, they paused to consider the impact of language on perception and truth. Learning moved at a deliberate pace, allowing time for deeper analysis and careful thought. In the cool clarity of this analytical space, students uncovered the complexities of control, freedom, and resistance.

Year 9 English Language and Literature
Through Simon Stephens’ adaptation of An Inspector Calls, Year 9 students examined personal responsibility and social conscience. They worked through questions of guilt and transformation, returning again and again to the question: what do we owe one another? While the pace of work occasionally paused or shifted, students remained focused, drawing meaning from the text’s subtle tensions. The steady inquiry brought a quiet confidence, as they grew more attuned to the nuances of dramatic structure and moral reflection.

Year 10 English Language and Literature
In Year 10, students turned their attention to F. Scott Fitzgerald’s The Great Gatsby. They considered its treatment of ambition, illusion, and loss, engaging with the novel’s symbolism and structure. Their learning gathered momentum as they approached the Block Exam, preparing to respond to unseen questions with clarity and independence. Across the term, they demonstrated a growing ease with textual interpretation, drawing strength from routine and the process of refinement.

Year 11 Language and Literature
Year 11 students immersed themselves in a range of non-literary bodies of work, engaging with Brandon Stanton’s portraits, Banksy’s provocative imagery, Ella Baron’s editorial cartoons, and episodes from Black Mirror. The shifting nature of these forms encouraged thoughtful movement between interpretation and reflection. While learning was occasionally interrupted, students adapted, returning with renewed focus. The work drew them toward questions of identity and representation, and they found themselves rethinking the familiar in subtle, profound ways.

Year 12 Language and Literature
The final year cohort approached their study of Arthur Miller’s The Crucible with gravity and insight. As they moved toward their Paper 2 examination, students traced themes of morality, hysteria, and social pressure - engaging in dialogue that sharpened their critical voice. Following this, they turned to non-literary texts exploring cultural identity, family, and change. Their responses grew more assured, shaped by reflection and the maturity of lived experience. The term marked a period of both consolidation and quiet determination.

Across Year Levels
Throughout the term, students worked steadily - sometimes in quiet bursts, sometimes with renewed momentum - toward deeper understanding. While the pace of learning occasionally shifted, inquiry remained constant. Teachers guided each learner with care and attention, creating conditions where curiosity could settle and grow. This term was marked by thoughtful engagement and academic perseverance, with students emerging more articulate, more assured, and more prepared to meet what comes next.

David Bracken, Head of Department Language and Literature

From the Deputy Principal Middle Years

Across Term 2 it has been great to see our Middle Years’ students involve themselves in a range of SMT events and activities, from our sustainable fashion parade, to extra-curricular competitions, the Festival of Creativity, excursions and so much more.

Our Year 7s have adjusted well to high school life. Their confidence, enthusiasm and positive engagement is on display every day in school lessons and at school-run activities. I also had the pleasure of speaking with them all together midway through the term, which was very enjoyable. This was also an opportunity for me to impart some important information about assessment and exams. I look forward to seeing what they achieve in Semester 2.  

Our Year 8s have also made their mark at SMT this term. We have had a very large number of Year 8 students involved in a number of enrichment activities. They have been involved in the Junior Olympiads, QDU Debating, Robotics ventures and Honours excursions, to name just a few.

Our Year 9s have also had a busy Term 2, which has culminated in their first Block Exam. Just like our Year 7s and 8s, the Year 9s have involved themselves in an array of activities and events. As we look towards Semester 2, our Year 9s will be heavily involved with preparations for their Year 9 Journey. This will include a clear focus on building teamwork and leadership skills. This year’s Year 9 Journey will take place at Coobie Dam near to Crows Nest in early Term 4.

I wish all Middle Years’ students a pleasant and relaxing holiday break. I look forward to seeing you all again in July as we start another busy and productive Semester.

Kirsten Baker, Deputy Principal Middle Years

From the Senior Leadership Team

As Term 2 comes to a close, we want to extend our sincere thanks to our school community. Your ongoing support and involvement has helped us create the rich, vibrant learning environment that makes QASMT such a special place to be.

Thank You to Our Parent Volunteers

To our parent volunteers and Year Level Parent Representatives, thank you for your ongoing support this term, especially during key community events such as the International Women’s Day Breakfast, the Mother’s Day Stall, and the Festival of Creativity. Your help behind the scenes and on the day ensures these events run smoothly and feel welcoming for all who attend.

We also value the many ways you support your children’s learning at home and remain connected with our school; your contributions truly make a difference.

Appreciation for Our Teaching and Support Staff
To our teaching and support staff, thank you for your commitment, care and hard work. Your efforts across a wide range of activities, events, enrichment opportunities and classroom learning have once again shaped a term full of engagement and achievement.

A special thank you goes to our teachers for the consistency of support you provide every student, every day; with high expectations, encouragement and care.

Thank You to Our Students
It’s been a big term! Thank you to our students for your energy, commitment, and care for one another. Whether in clubs, classrooms, competitions or community events, you’ve represented QASMT with integrity and school spirit.

As part of our Outreach Program, students mentored our Young Einsteins who are gifted primary school students with a passion for STEM. Their collaborative research projects will be proudly showcased during National Science Week in Term 3.

Service has also remained a strong focus. Students took part in:

• The Curie Second-Hand Stall, promoting sustainability and raising funds for the Alannah and Madeline Foundation.
• ANZAC Day commemorations, including our Academy Assembly and the Dawn Service.
• National Sorry Day activities at Graceville State School, connecting with Elders from the Benawarra Community Group.
• Our Service Student Leadership Team’s newsletter and initiatives, including a service trip to Stradbroke Island, keeping our community informed and engaged in meaningful opportunities to give back.

Festival of Creativity
The Festival of Creativity was once again a highlight of the term, transforming our campus into a vibrant hub of colour, sound and imagination. The event showcased the incredible talents of our students across Visual Arts, Music, Drama, Literature, and Design. It was wonderful to see students and families exploring the exhibition spaces and enjoying the live performances together. Thank you to everyone who contributed time, creativity, and expertise.

Other Term 2 Highlights

• Term 2 Commencement Assembly – a vibrant start to the term led by our Academy Captains and student leaders.
• Cross Country Carnival – rescheduled due to rain but full of energy and house spirit, with Da Vinci and Hawking sharing the War Cry win.
• STRM Week – Science, Technology, Robotics and Mathematics came alive with quizzes, challenges and the Watermelon Implosion.
• Chappy Week – a moment to celebrate our school chaplain and the positive connections she fosters across our community.
• Sustainability Week – including the ever-popular Sustainable Fashion Parade and activities led by our Green Team.
• First Tech Challenge – our robotics teams preparing for the Asia Pacific Open Championships.
• Miskin Cup Chess Meet – a friendly tournament with Brisbane Boys’ College, focused on strategy and sportsmanship.

School Opinion Surveys – 2025
The annual School Opinion Surveys will be open from July to August 2025. Families, staff, and students in Years 8 and 11 will be invited to participate. We encourage everyone to take part and share feedback on what our school does well and where we can improve.

Looking Ahead to Term 3
Term 3 will begin with our Commencement Assembly on Monday 14 July (Period 2A). Please ensure student blazers are dry-cleaned and ready for this formal occasion.

Next term promises a wealth of opportunities for our students, including:

• Year 12 Spirit Week and school formal
• National Science Week
• Positive Education Week
• STEM International Tours, among many others

Thank you again to all our students, families and staff for your part in making Term 2 so successful. We wish everyone a safe, restful break and look forward to seeing you in Term 3.

Kath Kayrooz, Principal; Kerry Bullock, Associate Principal; Kate Oxenford, Deputy Principal Performance; Sam Weston, Deputy Principal Academic; Jane Manwaring, Deputy Principal Engagement

From the Deputy Principal Senior Years

Welcome to Term 2 – a busy and exciting term!

With ANZAC Day, Cross Country, our famous Mother’s Day Stall, Year 11 Leadership Day, STRM Week, the International Mindedness World Cup Futsal Competition, our Music Concert, National Reconciliation Week, Year 11 Group 4 Science Planning Day, the Festival of Creativity, Sustainability Week, a multitude of subject-specific excursions, and the Year 10 Experience Scientific Research Day – there are many opportunities for our students to connect, create, lead, and grow both in and outside the classroom. And with both Parent Teacher Interviews and our Parent Information Evening happening this term as well, there are also many opportunities for our parents to connect with teachers and leaders here at school.

Diploma Programme (DP) - Years 11 and 12
For our Year 12 students, this term is all about progressing through their final Internal Assessments (IAs) and Individual Orals (IOs), while also locking in the major components of their DP Inner Core. Along with other assessments including the final modern Language IOs, drafts of Year 12 students’ Extended Essays (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) essays are due this term. Teachers will provide detailed feedback to support students ahead of final submissions later in the year. It is really important that all students submit their very best work when they submit their draft, as IB has a strict rule that we follow - students are only allowed written feedback on one draft. I often tell the students: your draft submission should not be your first draft, it should be your best draft.

For the last aspect of the Inner Core, CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service), students will participate in their CAS interviews this term. These check-ins help ensure they are on track to complete their CAS portfolios with the meaning and depth required by IB. Remember, CAS is an essential part of the Inner Core, and must be completed to be eligible for a Diploma.

Our Year 11 students are now settling into the rhythm of the Diploma after a full term of learning. As students receive feedback from their assessments from last term, now is the perfect time for our Year 11s to be reflective. Students should reflect on what strategies have helped them succeed last term, and where they might want to try new approaches. I highly encourage you to ask your students about how they have gone and what they want to do differently this term, there is a significant body of educational research which shows self-reflection is one of the most powerful strategies for emotional and academic growth in young people. I also encourage students to connect with their teachers or House Deans for tips and guidance on study habits, time management, and subject-specific strategies.

A reminder for parents and caregivers of all DP students: The IBDP Assessment Guidance Handbook was shared with you last term, and the Term 2 Assessment Calendars were shared with you early this term. These documents include key information around due dates, as well as the extension process should your child experience illness or misadventure. Please keep them handy as we move through assessment season.

This year we have moved to holistic reporting for TOK, to align with our EE reporting. Students will be given either a satisfactory (S) or an unsatisfactory (U) depending on their holistic engagement and progress in TOK. Look out for a further email from our TOK Coordinator Mr Kiehne which will further explain TOK reporting to all DP families. 

Diploma Preparation Programme (DPP) - Year 10
Our Year 10 students are currently wrapping up their STEM Futures subjects and preparing to select their subjects for Semester 2 of Year 10, which is their Diploma Preparation Program (DPP). Students will choose three Standard Level (SL) and three Higher Level (HL) subjects, aligned with their strengths, interests, and future study and career goals. I encourage students to aim for a balanced, achievable, and enjoyable combination that will carry them confidently into the full DP next year. This is an important decision, and if students feel they need more support with their decision, then they should talk to their House Dean, their Heads of Department, or make an appointment to come and see me. We aim to have students in their correct subjects and levels during Semester 2 DPP, so that they are then able to fully prepare to study those subjects and levels in their Diploma next year.

Year 10 students are also continuing their Certificate II in Sampling and Measuring and Certificate III in Laboratory Skills, with a focus this term on completing their practical lab work. It is important that theory modules are up to date - any students needing help are encouraged to reach out to Ms Judge, who is overseeing the VET program.

At the end of this term, Year 10 students have a wonderful excursion called Experience Scientific Research Day at UQ. This bespoke full day excursion has been designed together with UQ, has been running for a significant number of years, and is aimed at fully supporting all our students to develop the skills they will need for their IB Diploma studies, no matter which Group 3 or 4 subjects they choose. Information for this event will be coming out later this term, so keep an eye out for this in your email inboxes.

To our families, thank you, as always, for your support from home. With so many events and milestones this term, I am looking forward to celebrating the achievements and efforts of all our students this term. To all our students, as Isaac Asimov (1983) magically wrote, “Education isn’t something you can finish” - enjoy the process of learning, it can be hard, but it is so worthwhile. I hope you all have a rewarding, productive, and inspiring Term 2.

Esme Hatchell, Deputy Principal Senior Years

From Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)

The Education Outside the Classroom team is excited to deliver a dynamic and engaging Term 2, filled with a wide range of opportunities for our students. 

With upcoming events across our sports and music programs, co-curricular activities, CAS initiatives, and curriculum experiences, there will be plenty of ways for students to get involved, challenge themselves, and build new skills. We look forward to an action-packed term ahead and can’t wait to see our students thrive!

Cross Country Carnival
Our Cross Country Carnival is just around the corner, taking place on Wednesday 30 April in Week 2 of this term. By the time you are reading this, students will have already taken to the course, proudly wearing their House colours and singing their war cries with pride.

Athletics Carnival
We are excited to announce that the 2025 Athletics Carnival will be held back on campus at QASMT on Wednesday 21 May (Week 5). This is a fantastic opportunity for students to get involved, represent their House, and showcase their athletic talents.

Students will have the chance to nominate for a range of events, including the 100m, 200m, 400m, long jump, high jump, and shot put. Whether aiming for personal bests, House points, or simply joining in the fun, we encourage everyone to get involved and make the day one to remember. We look forward to seeing our students out on the track and field, giving it their all and celebrating school spirit!

Club Program – Term 2 Update
At QASMT, we are proud to offer a vibrant and ever-evolving Club Program that gives students even more opportunities to get involved beyond the classroom. Clubs operate throughout the week - before school, at lunchtime, or after school - providing students with the flexibility to pursue their interests at times that suit them best.

This term, we are excited to launch a refreshed Club Program, featuring a mix of returning favourites and exciting new options. Following feedback from Term 1, we have also refined our sign-up processes to ensure greater fairness and transparency for all students. This includes providing club information in advance, opening the Club Survey Manager at a set time to allow all families a reasonable opportunity to register, and clearly listing the number of places available for each club.

Whether students are looking to explore a new hobby, develop a skill, or connect with like-minded peers, there is truly something for everyone. Participation in clubs not only enriches the student experience but also provides valuable CAS opportunities for our Diploma students.

We look forward to another exciting term full of creativity, curiosity, and connection. We encourage all students to take full advantage of the opportunities available!

Music Program – Term 2 Update
The QASMT Music Program is set for an exciting and busy Term 2, with a range of performances, workshops, and opportunities for students to showcase their talents.

Early in the term, students will participate in the Instrumental Music Workshop, working with expert conductors to further develop their ensemble skills and musicianship. This is a fantastic opportunity for our young musicians to refine their craft and strengthen their connections with fellow performers.

With more events on the horizon throughout the term, we look forward to celebrating the dedication, creativity, and passion of our music students. A huge thank you to our committed music staff and vibrant student community for the energy they bring to the program - Term 2 promises to be another inspiring chapter!

Marc Wheeler, Head of Department Education Outside the Classroom

From the Guidance Officers

Welcome back to Term Two!

This term, we will again have a number of opportunities for students to grow their knowledge of careers and build their career planning portfolio. 

• Our Year 12 students have commenced planning for their tertiary applications. Each student is required to complete their Pathways Interview Form and submit to Mrs Judge by the end of this term. See ‘Important Files’ on our Pathways Hub at https://studyworkgrow.com/education/school/queensland-academy-for-science-mathematics-and-technology/. 
• All Year 9 students have attended the University of Queensland for their Career Pulse event on Thursday 24 April. Students chose from diverse interactive workshops to explore the career options from tertiary study. It is a valuable experience in our career education program that supports students with their career decisions and appropriate subject choices to achieve their goals.

Information Sessions: throughout the year, Career Information Sessions are held focussing on timely information for career planning. Sessions will have a target audience (eg. Parents or a specific year level) but others are welcome to attend. Topics will include application processes, university specific information and study field focus sessions. During Term 2, a session is scheduled exploring International Applications.

UCAT – bookings close 16 May

The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ) is an admissions test used by the UCAT ANZ Consortium of universities in Australia and New Zealand for their medical, dental and clinical science degree programmes. You can only sit UCAT ANZ in your final year of high school or higher.

Latest News on the QASMT Pathways Hub

https://studyworkgrow.com/education/school/queensland-academy-for-science-mathematics-and-technology/

• Planning to study medicine at university?
• Balancing academic and extracurricular activities
• Early entry programs: Your fast-track to university offers
• “Entry to Medicine Guide” now released

UQ – Girls’ Programming Network: Saturday May 10, 10am – 4pm
We are excited to announce that The Girls' Programming Network (GPN) is coming to Brisbane, hosting their workshops at UQ! GPN runs workshops that teach high school students programming. During the workshops, students are taught everything they need to know to build an awesome project and have a great time doing it. Students learn cool new things, play games, solve fun computation puzzles, and make new friends (and eat a tonne of snacks).

Recommended Years: 7-12 students

Cost: Free

Individual sign up: https://events.humanitix.com/gpn-brisbane-term-2

Griffith University's Creative Arts Open Day on Monday 19 May, 10:00am - 2:00pm!

Join us for a day of inspiration, innovation, and imagination as we showcase the incredible talent and opportunities in the arts. Explore visual arts, design, music, film, and more with tours, workshops, info sessions and meet our esteemed faculty.

University of Oxford, UK

Parent webinars: A Parents’ Guide: Life at Oxford.
Presented by the University of Oxford, this session will provide insights into what international students can expect during their time at Oxford. They'll cover key topics such as academic and wellbeing support, student safety, and the unique college system, helping you feel confident and informed as your child prepares for life at university.

Southern Cross University (SCU) – Early offers
SCU provides graduating high school students the opportunity to secure a place in a Southern Cross University degree before Year 12 results are released.

Applications now open!  https://www.scu.edu.au/early-offer/

Study Work Grow – Early entry guide

Some universities and Tertiary Admissions Centres (TACs) have programs that allow you to apply earlier in Year 12 for certain courses. Students may receive a conditional or guaranteed offer, sometimes before even sitting final exams. Offers may be based on Year 11 or mid-Year 12 academic results, personal statements, leadership or community engagement.  These offers are supplementary to the usual major round offers which will be released in January. Students with an early offer are still able to apply through the major offer rounds should they wish to upgrade to a different course. Each early offer program is unique to the applicable university with frequent changes depending on the environment and needs each year.  Year 12 students are kept informed of current schemes applicable to their year and are encouraged to consider them in their planning.

Further information can be found on university websites or read more at https://studyworkgrow.com/early-entry-faqs/ .

Resources
There are many resources available to support our students’ career planning journey.

Guidance Office/Career Library (A Block): a range of free resources available for students to access.

Options Bulletin: The Options Career Information App gives you convenient access to career information and key calendar dates which can also be great conversation starters when talking with your child. Simply download the app and sign in using our unique access code “QASMT” (for our Academy community’s use only). Switch on the App’s notifications and you will know when the latest bulletin is published. You will continue to receive further career information throughout the year.  Alternatively, the latest bulletin is available at https://optionscareers.com.au/welcome/QASMT/bulletin .

Study Work Grow: features include guides (eg. Entry to Medicine Guide, Pathways to Engineering, Co-op Scholarships Guide), weekly newsletters, a work experience database, a scholarships database, job spotlights and online tools.  Investigate at www.studyworkgrow.com .

QASMT Pathways Hub: for free access to Study Work Grow resources and local QASMT career documents and news - https://studyworkgrow.com/education/school/queensland-academy-for-science-mathematics-and-technology/

Wishing you all a fruitful Term 2.

Katrina Judge, Guidance Officer Career Planning

Welcome to Term 2 – Strengthening Connections and Embracing Selflessness

Term 2 is already underway, and it’s wonderful to see our students returning with purpose and positivity. This term, our Academy continues to foster a culture where academic excellence is balanced with personal growth, and in 2025, we are proud to embrace the theme of selflessness.

The Strength of Selflessness
Selflessness is more than an act of kindness, it’s a mindset that builds empathy, strengthens relationships, and fosters a supportive community. Whether it's helping a peer, contributing to group projects, or simply listening without judgment, students who act with selflessness enhance their own wellbeing and the wellbeing of those around them. Encouraging these behaviours helps create a compassionate and connected learning environment.

Student Wellbeing Program – Life Skills: How to Master Them
Our Term 2 online wellbeing program, Life Skills: How to Master Them, helps students build essential skills including emotional regulation, effective communication, and resilience – all of which reinforce the values of self-awareness and contribution to others.

These are skills that serve students both personally and academically, regardless of their innate ability.

📆 Runs Weeks 4 – 9

📧 Enrol via email to TLEPL4@eq.edu.au by Monday 12 May

Parent and Community Seminar – Headspace: Managing Stress and High Expectations
Georgia McGirvan from Headspace will present this virtual session designed to help parents support their child through the challenges of a high-performance environment, with a particular focus on fostering emotional resilience and realistic self-expectation.

Links to access the presentation will be sent to those who have registered on the day of the event.

📆 Monday 28 April | 🕕 6:00pm – 7:00pm | 💻 Online
🔗 Register your interest here: https://survey.qed.qld.gov.au/n/dJZhVQM

Term 3 Headspace presentation set for Monday 28 July – keep an eye out for future communications to register your interest in this event for term 3.

Strategy Spotlight – Self-care as a Selfless Act
Each week, our whole QASMT community receive a ‘Strategy Spotlight’ to help them manage stress and improve focus. Interestingly, learning to care for ourselves – through mindfulness, routine and regulation – also allows us to better support those around us. This term’s Spotlights will explore how self-care and selflessness are deeply connected.

Term 2 Strategy Spotlight sneak peak...

Accessing Guidance Support
Referrals to the Guidance Officer are made through House Deans. For highly sensitive concerns, I welcome parents or students to contact me directly. Early support can make all the difference.

SchoolTV – A Hub of Support for Parents
SchoolTV continues to provide practical, evidence-based guidance for families. Topics include stress, perfectionism, friendships, and digital wellbeing – all areas where the values of empathy and connection are essential.
Access via our website: https://qasmt.eq.schooltv.me/

Term 2 SchoolTV Special Webinar event – Digital media literacy and safety – Part 2 – Date yet to be released.

As we move through the term, let’s embrace every opportunity to look beyond ourselves, lift each other up, and make kindness a habit.

Be kind to yourself – and each other.

Tara Le Pla, Guidance Officer Student Support

From the House Deans

Welcome back! We hope you’ve all had an amazing break filled with rest, reflection, and rejuvenation, leaving you ready to leap into a new term full of possibilities, growth, and excitement. 

As we start Term 2, let’s aim to challenge ourselves, explore new passions, and build stronger connections - both within and beyond the classroom. But most of all, let’s aim to become the person we are proud to be. Remember, we are a community that thrives on support, accountability, and respect. 

Together, we will continue to create a space where learning and growth happen daily. A place where we encourage one another to embrace challenges, push past obstacles, and discover better ways forward. Let’s be the critical thinkers and problem solvers that will shape the future. Let’s keep striving for more, not only for ourselves, but for the greater good of our community. 

House Dean Team 
The House Dean team welcome you all to the parent information evening on Monday 19 May 2025, to discuss any upcoming events and some key information.

Other Important Reminders 

Attendance and Lates 
As a means of ensuring the best outcomes for QASMT students, we aim to maintain a 97% attendance rating. While we understand things happen, it has been demonstrated that a student in the classroom is more likely to thrive at school. Please ensure that students arrive on time to maximise their learning potential.

CAS Audits and Interviews (Year 11-12)
In Weeks 3 and 4, students in Years 11 and 12 will be conducting their CAS audits and interviews. Please ensure you’ve met your minimum CAS requirements, and think about how to make future experiences valuable to both you and the community. 

Mobile Phones
Beginning last year, all Queensland state school students are required to keep their mobile phones turned off and stored away during school hours. This policy aims to enhance learning and foster more meaningful social interactions. Please review the updated 'Responsible Use of Electronic Devices and Mobile Phone Policy' available on the QASMT website. 

Uniform
Be sure to check your timetable and prepare your uniform in advance each day. If you are in the wrong uniform, please collect a Uniform Slip from any House Dean. Hats are required to be worn to and from school as a part of our commitment to sun safety. All uniform expectations are clearly outlined in the Dress Code Policy on the QASMT website. If you are still unable to source the correct uniform, please notify your House Dean.

Bus Safety and Seating
Be aware, be safe and be mindful of others. Students should maintain themselves in a manner which always embody the IB Attributes. So, if you see another passenger who could require a seat more than you, check in and see how you could help, and if your peers are unaware of the noise they are creating, politely let them know. Students should also be aware of the Safe School Travel policy and designated route for safe school.

Enrichment and Leadership Policy 
As a school that provides many exciting opportunities to its students, it is important to note our Enrichment and Leadership Policy. This document outlines the students' individual requirements should they wish to be considered for additional event invitations, workshops, leadership positions, and more. Please make yourself familiar with this document, as it can have a great impact on the opportunities available to students throughout the year. 

Term 2 is a very busy term as you can see, but is also a term full of opportunity to celebrate our community. The House Dean team look forward to a term full of growth, success and celebration.

Aileen Davis, House Dean Agnesi; Serena Wanstall, House Dean Curie; Zoe Kirby, House Dean Da Vinci; Ross Bray, House Dean Franklin; Dean Aspland, House Dean Hawking; Andrew Chen, House Deans Hollows; Tyler Pearson,  House Dean Jackson; and Deva Prasad, House Dean Newton.

From the Department of Mathematics and robotics

Welcome back to Term 2! It is my privilege to be filling in for Mr Russell Hams for the first four weeks of this term while he is on leave.

Term 2 Curriculum
In Year 7, students will be studying the unit "How can we bring things together?" This unit examines the statement of inquiry “Identifying and using patterns and rules is the key to simplifying relationships, in life and in algebra”. Students will also explore valuable skills for success in Criterion B, Investigating Patterns, and Criterion C, Communication.

The Year 8 unit "From Ratios to Realities" will see students explore the statement of inquiry “Understanding the relationships between key variables through linear relationships may help us analyse human decisions and their impact on a variety of systems”. The importance of Communication (Criterion C) will be emphasised, and students will examine ways of Applying Mathematics in Real-Life Contexts (Criterion D).

Year 9 students will further their algebraic skills in "All About Algebra". Their statement of inquiry, “The application of algebraic techniques and principles enables the solution of complex real-world problems through precise mathematical reasoning” will see them explore more complex patterns (Criterion B).

Year 10 students will study a variety of topics, including statistics, quadratics and trigonometry. As in Term 1, students will continue to develop their GDC skills, given the importance of these to ALL Diploma Program subjects. This will be an important term, as students will be making their subject selections for Semester 2: "Applications and Interpretation" and "Analysis and Approaches" are both offered at Standard and Higher Level. It will be important for students to reflect on their results in Term 1, as well as the style of Mathematics they enjoy, when making this decision.

In addition to continuing with their subject-specific content, Year 11 students will continue to engage in class in the IA Preparation Program. This term will focus on a presentation of the internal assessment, and develop in students an understanding of the IB’s expectations around this important criterion. Year 12 students will continue to work on their Final IA Submissions and finishing off content for their courses.

Maths Enrichment
We have already had over 130 students participate in the UQ/QAMT Problem Solving Challenge in Week 1. Students are encouraged to keep an eye out for information about future Mathematics Competitions on offer. A huge thank you must go to Mr Sean Zhu for his efforts in organising and coordinating these externally run events.

The Maths Ambassadors will continue to offer a variety of enrichment activities, including their incredibly popular Escape Rooms and Question of the Week emails. This term will also see a variety of STRM Week activities being offered.

Jeremy Isaacs, Acting Head of Department Mathematics

From the Department of Life Sciences

Welcome Back to Term 2!

We hope all our students and families enjoyed a refreshing term break and are ready for an exciting new term in Life Sciences.

Foundation Science
This term, our Year 7 students will explore Earth and Space Science, beginning with our solar system and life beyond Earth. Using the inquiry process, students will develop their own research questions and design investigations where they will interpret and analyse patterns in data related to solar energy. Later in the term, they will investigate Earth's natural resources, evaluate their own resource use, and explore renewable energy solutions to current environmental challenges.

Our Year 8 students will be investigating the theme "The Future of Energy." They will begin by exploring different forms of energy and the principles of energy transfers and transformations. Students will develop their understanding of energy conservation, thermal energy, and kinetic and gravitational potential energy. As the term progresses, they will learn about the concepts of work and power, applying their knowledge to real-world scenarios. The term will conclude with an exploration into renewable energy sources and how they can help shape a more sustainable future.

Diploma Programme Biology
Our Year 11 Biology Higher and Standard Level students will be continuing to learn about cells including organelles, compartmentalisation, specialisation, nuclear division, cellular respiration and photosynthesis. They will also be carrying out an investigation regarding osmolarity and water potential. This leads into their practice internal assessment skill-building, with a focus on data analysis, conclusion, and evaluation skills. Students will also take part in the Group 4 Collaborative Sciences Project aligned with National Science Week's theme, "Decoding the Universe," creating engaging workshops for our Year 7 students.

Year 12 Biology Higher Level students are completing their studies of Body Systems and Homeostasis before moving on to Biodiversity and Evolution. Standard Level students are finishing the first topic and then moving on to Ecosystems and Climate Change. As Year 12 students have finished their internal assessment, they now will focus on exam skills and learning the rest of the content of their syllabus.

Diploma Programme Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)
In Year 11 ESS HL, students are studying about natural resources, their uses and management, and embedded within that are the HL lenses of Environmental economics, ethics and law.

Year 12 ESS SL students are focused on completing the syllabus content focusing on atmospheric systems, including stratospheric ozone, photochemical smog, and acid deposition. They will receive feedback on their final IA drafts before final submission. Then they will move into studying energy security and climate change.

Sustainability Week
Sustainability Week will take place in Week 10, featuring a Whole School Assembly and our annual Sustainable Fashion Parade. Our Sustainable Futures Captains, Environmental & Biodiversity CCA, EcoMarines CCA, and Net Zero CCA are planning exciting lunchtime activities - more details to come soon!

Saengdao Philavane, Head of Department Life Sciences 

From the Department of Physical Sciences

Welcome back to Term 2 everyone. 

Week 1 was a very short week with the main focus of it being to settle everyone back into the routine of school and to return marked examinations. This term there are many events taking place that relate to the Physical Science department, so I will start with a brief overview of each of those before looking at what each of our year groups will be studying for the term.

In Week 4 we will have our annual Science Technology Robotics and Mathematics (STRM) Week activities which are organised by our Science Ambassadors. This term, I - along with Dr Slessor and a panel of experts from both SMT and UQ - will review our 2025 applications to our prestigious STEM Research Project Program (STEM RPP). This program is a great opportunity for our Year 10 students who want the chance to display their research on a national or international stage. We will have a small number of our senior physics students attend the annual Churchie Lecture that will occur in Week 4. A special thank you must go to Ms Bebbington who has kindly made herself available to accompany these students. Mr Pearce has also begun the process of preparing Year 10 students for the titration competition. Based off their performance in school, a team of these students will be selected to represent QASMT at the state competition which will be held this term at UQ. And finally, the first round of Olympiad testing will occur for our Year 7-10 students in Week 9. Expression of interest for this testing will go out closer to the time.

In the classroom, our Year 9 students will continue with their Semester 1 electives. Unit 2 for Year 9, Fuelling the Planet, focuses on greener alternatives to the fossil fuels that they learned about in Term 1. In Year 9 Future of Automation, our students will now bring their automated solution to life by making their prototype to help solve the problem that was presented to them in Term 1. In Year 9 World of Reactions, our students will learn about a myriad of chemical reactions with a big focus on the fundamental skill of representing chemical reactions using balanced chemical equations. And finally, our Year 9 Medical Physics students will apply their learning of wave behaviour from Term 1 to look at its application in nuclear therapy and imaging techniques.

Our Year 10 students will soon be in the process of subject/subject level selection for next year. I will be visiting lessons over the coming weeks to speak in person to our Year 10 students regarding the importance and implications of the choices that they make. Otherwise, we are continuing with our Year 10 Future Materials course, focusing on learning about polymers while our Journey to Earth X students now divert their attention to the challenge of landing on their exoplanet - ‘Proxima b.’

Our Year 11 Physical Science students continue their learning of content according to the new IB Chemistry and Physics syllabi. Having now seen their Term 1 Examinations, our Year 11 students should have a better indicator of their progress so far. They have been asked to write a reflection on their progress so far and come up with some strategies for this coming term. The content will continue to accumulate over the course of this term, so please be reminded that we run our weekly tutorials and are here to help any of our students.

Clearly another jam-packed term ahead of us all, with lots of opportunities for everyone to get involved, both inside and outside the classroom.

Robert Hughes, Head of Department Physical Sciences

From the Department of Individuals and Societies – Social & Behavioural Sciences

I have returned from parental leave in Term 1, so I would like to extend a warm welcome to students, parents and the community. Thank you very much Elin Williams for your leadership in Term 1.

To start the term, I have visited classes to encourage students to have a reflective mindset, to be consistent with ‘deep work’ routines and advised students of some trends we have seen from the November session exams. This is particularly important for Year 10 students who must select subjects that they will do well in. Students are able to double up either their group 3 or group 4 subject.

MYP
Year 7 students commence Civics & Citizenship this term where an exploration of Australian values, beliefs, culture and diversity will occur. Year 8 students are continuing with History studying a topic related to cooperation and conflict of their choice. With an Australian Federal Election imminent, there are some interesting case studies for the Year 9 STEM Futures Future Global Cooperation as they consider the different perspectives of issues from social, environmental and economic perspectives. Forensic Psychology students are busy finishing their crime scene lab work investigation before continuing with the unit “Making a case and reaching a verdict”.

DPP & DP
In Week 3 of Term 2, Year 10 Show Me the Money (Business Management) will be in the UQ Ventures lab and experience a workshop titled “Zero to One” in regards to generating a unique business idea. Students will then utilise the four business concepts; being creative students will develop a protype to respond to the changing needs of society. They will then pitch their sustainable (people, planet, profit) idea, which is ethical to an audience in Week 10. During the term functions of marketing will be studied also. Inside Your Head (Psychology) will explore the interesting topics of psychology that the IB guide does not have time for. Both subjects will continue to develop student techniques so that they can be successful with addressing the IB command terms in the future.

Year 11 students are studying Finance (Business Management) and the Cognitive Approach (Psychology). While Year 12 students are onto their final units of study and finishing the term with exams that historically been challenging for students, the new Paper 3 for Business Management and Paper 2 for Psychology.

This week we also say goodbye to valued staff members Abby Vogels and Bella Cantoni. Thank you for your contributions to Individuals and Societies, in particular Psychology, over the past 5 terms. All the best with your future journeys in education.

Lyle Fredericksen, Head of Department Individuals and Societies – Social & Behavioural Sciences