Term Ahead - 25 July 2025

From the Senior Leadership Team

We are delighted to welcome families back for Term 3, a time packed with exciting and important events in our school calendar. 

Highlights this term include the QASMT Tertiary Studies Expo and Parent Information Evening, Instrumental Music Concert, and the Year 12 Formal – just to name a few. These events are wonderful opportunities for our school community to come together.

A major highlight this term is National Science Week, which we will celebrate in Week 5. This week is a cornerstone of our school year and features a wide range of engaging activities for both students and families. We encourage everyone to participate and be part of the excitement! We will be welcoming a host of distinguished guests to our school. This will be an inspiring opportunity for students to hear from and interact with leading voices in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM).

STEM is not just part of our school’s name; it is woven into the very fabric of our identity. Our commitment to STEM education provides students with the chance to pursue their passions and build skills that will position them as the leaders and innovators of tomorrow. We are very fortunate to be able to offer our students exciting STEM opportunities throughout their school journey, particularly with the University of Queensland. Additionally, our students have a unique opportunity that no other Queensland school offers; the chance to participate in International Science School Fairs, as our school is a member of the International Science Schools Network (ISSN).

The ISSN is a network of globally renowned STEM specialist schools, committed to fostering innovation, collaboration, and the development of future scientific leaders. As a full member school of this network, our students and staff engage with an understanding of the significant global issues in science to meet challenges from the perspective of global scientific collaboration. The organisation builds a global community of young scientists empowered to use their scientific knowledge and understanding in a purposeful and ethical manner and prepares young people to be the future science leaders of our world. Our students have the opportunity to attend a number of ISSN school science fairs each year.

Supporting our Year 12 Students

Term 3 is a particularly significant time for our Year 12 students, as it marks the final stage of their formal schooling journey. It is natural for students to experience mixed emotions as they prepare for the transition beyond school – excitement for the many celebratory events ahead, and nerves as they approach the upcoming mock exams in Week 6.

Mock exams play a crucial role in exam preparation, offering:

• a realistic practice experience that helps reduce anxiety
• insight into current preparation levels
• an opportunity to revise the entire syllabus
• familiarity with exam conditions and question formats
• identification of areas needing improvement
• a chance to build time management skills.

Year 12 Conference

The Year 12 Conference, held in Week 8, is a mandatory three-day program designed to help students reflect, recharge, and refine the skills needed for success in the final stages of their IB journey and beyond. With a focus on using mock exam feedback effectively, students will engage in workshops and sessions covering study strategies, wellbeing, time management, and real-world skills, while also strengthening cohort connections. The program concludes with a celebratory trip to Movie World on the final day of Term 3.

Reflecting on Progress and Setting Goals

All students have now received their academic reports or achievement summaries. This provides an excellent opportunity to reflect on their learning and set personal goals for the semester. At QASMT, we define personal excellence not as perfection, but as achieving one’s potential and flourishing, in alignment with our school’s Vision and Values.

Save the Date: Student Free Day

A reminder that Monday 28 July is a Student Free Day.

We look forward to a productive and inspiring Term 3 and thank you for your continued support. Together, we will ensure our students have every opportunity to thrive academically, socially, and personally.

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 back to Term 3! I hope all families enjoyed a restful break, and that our students are returning refreshed and ready for another productive term.

Year 12: A Pivotal and Important Term

Our Year 12 students are entering a particularly important phase of their final year. They will soon submit their Extended Essay (EE) and Theory of Knowledge (TOK) assessments, before shifting their focus to preparing for mock exams. These mock exams closely mirror the structure and demands of the final IB exams, and are the first opportunity students have to sit all exam papers across all their subjects.

To support students through this process, all Year 12 teachers are now running revision sessions in their subjects. From Week 4 onwards, I will meet with Year 12s during class time each week to outline the remainder of the year and answer any questions. I will now also be in regular contact with both students and families to provide important updates. Should students have any queries related to mock or final exams, I encourage them to reach out to me directly.

As exam season approaches, self-care becomes just as important as study. These tips from Headspace (2025) offer helpful strategies for managing stress and maintaining wellbeing:

1. Plan ahead – Create a study schedule and set up a quiet, well-equipped space to work in.
2. Prioritise self-care – Balance study with exercise, sport, healthy eating, and time with friends.
3. Rest well – Maintain regular sleep routines and take short breaks while studying.
4. Stay focused – Keep your goals in mind, limit distractions like phone use, and look after your mental health.
5. Reach out – Ask for support from teachers, friends, and family whenever you need it.
6. Be prepared – Know your subject guides and revise using past papers.
7. Set yourself up for success – On exam day, ensure you've had a good night's sleep, eat a nutritious breakfast, and arrive at school early to avoid stress.

You can read more on exam preparation and wellbeing on the Headspace website: https://headspace.org.au/explore-topics/for-young-people/prepare-for-exams/

Year 11: Stepping Into IB Assessments

Our Year 11 students are now fully engaged in their Diploma Programme subjects and will soon begin submitting their first formal IB assessments. Every student and parent should have access to the IBDP Assessment Guidance Handbook, which includes the IB Assessment Schedule 2025–2026 in Appendix 3. It is essential that students and parents are familiar with this schedule, as submission deadlines for draft and final assessments are fixed and cannot be changed. The Assessment Schedule should be used in conjunction with the Term 3 Assessment Calendar to help students manage their time effectively and meet deadlines confidently.

This term students will be introduced to the Extended Essay (EE), which forms part of the inner core of the Diploma. All students need to complete a 4000-word EE in one subject over the course of almost a full year. All students are encouraged to listen to the presentations in the coming few weeks, and to the information from our EE Coordinator and subject Head of Departments. This information will help students choose the most appropriate subjects for their EE, and students should look out for the EE Handbook which will be sent out to later this term.

Year 10: Beginning the Diploma Preparation Program

Year 10 students are also entering an important stage of their academic journey, having now completed their STEM Futures elective courses. This term, they begin their Diploma Preparation Program (DPP) courses in all subjects. It is important that students ensure they are in the right subjects and at the right levels. If a student wishes to change a subject, they must submit a Subject Change Form to A Block within the first two weeks of term.

Semester 2 is a very exciting time for Year 10 students. It is during these 6 months that students can lay firm foundations for their Diploma. In order to help Year 10s prepare for the rigours of the Diploma next year, I encourage all families to talk to their Year 10 students about:

• What does good time management look and feel like? How well did they feel they managed their time last semester? Perhaps have a look at the assessment calendar together to help them decide how to plan for all assessments this semester.
• What study techniques work for them? It is very powerful to be able to identify something that works well – and remember, everyone is different, what works for some students does not necessarily work for everyone.
• What role does reflection have in success? You might ask what worked well last semester, what do they want to do differently, and even if they achieved their GPA goal what could they improve on and how?

Looking Ahead

Term 3 is filled with enriching events and opportunities across the school, including Book Week, ICAS competitions, the Golden Paddle Competition, STEM Seminars, Ski Tour, National Science Week, the MYP Dance, R U OK Day, and STEM Tours – just to name a few. No matter your child's year level, there’s a lot to look forward to.

I have already begun to visit classrooms and I am thrilled to see the many Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills in action and to see our students fully immersed in their learning. I look forward to sharing more at the end of the term of what I have seen in our classrooms. Until then, I wish all our students and their families a rewarding and successful Term 3.

Esme Hatchell, Deputy Principal Senior Years

From the Deputy Principal Middle Years

Looking forward to Term 3, it will again be a busy term full of many opportunities and learning experiences.

This term our Year 9s will prepare for their Year 9 Journey. The purpose of the Year 9 Journey is to strengthen the characters, resilience, perseverance and teamwork of our students. Their journey to Camp Cooby in early Term 4 will be a memorable experience. Our Year 9s will also partake in our annual UQ Engagement Day at the University of Queensland on Friday 5 September. This day allows our students to engage with a number of university faculties and participate in activities and interesting discussions across the day.

Our Year 7s and Year 8s this term will also have numerous opportunities to engage with school life, from curriculum and sporting competitions, to our Honours Program initiatives, as well as both curriculum and non-curriculum excursions. A reminder that the more students engage with the many opportunities offered to them at QASMT, the greater experience they will have.

Community Project

The IB Community Project is a hands-on project that encourages Year 9 students to investigate the needs of their school and local community, and take action on identified needs. The students’ actions will range from creating awareness campaigns, to building prototypes and generating support resources. Our Year 9s are currently finalising their Community Projects, due in Week 3 this term. To engage with the community, each Community Project group will showcase their projects during our National Science Week in Week 5 this term. To conclude the project, all students will present their PowerPoint presentations in class during Weeks 7-9 of this term. I wish all of your Year 9s well with their projects and look forward to seeing their displays during National Science Week.

Curriculum

It is important that all students understand the power of Approaches to Teaching (ATT) and Approaches to Learning (ATL) as they both impact student learning. ATT and ATL lie at the heart of both the Middle Years and IB Diploma Programmes, and Middle Years’ teachers at QASMT embed ATL and ATT into their conceptual, inquiry-based lessons to achieve deep learning.

Applying for an Assessment Extension

I would like to remind all students, parents and caregivers of the protocols around applying for an extension for assessment. To apply for an extension, students are required fill in QASMT’s official extension request form (found on the Academy’s website in the Middle Years Assessment Guidance Handbook) and email it alongside the required documentation to support their extension request to the Middle Year Coordinator’s email address (this is printed on the extension request form). This form identifies the support documentation required for each request (e.g. a medical certificate). Once all information is received in full, I will process the Middle Year students’ extension request forms and alert each student of the outcome in a timely manner.

Wishing everyone a rewarding term ahead.

Kind regards,

Kirsten Baker, Deputy Principal Middle Years

From The Head of Department Inclusion

My name is Zoe Kirby, and I am delighted to be stepping into the role of Head of Inclusion this semester. Now in my fifth year at QASMT, I bring over 15 years of experience supporting students with additional needs to access, engage, and thrive in the classroom. I am passionate about ensuring all students feel seen, supported, and empowered to meet their personal and academic goals.

At QASMT, we are proud of our commitment to inclusive education and the systems that sit behind the support we offer. One important part of this is the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data on School Students with Disability (NCCD), which all Australian schools participate in each year.

The NCCD involves schools identifying and recording the educational adjustments we make for students with disability, based on existing evidence. These adjustments may range from differentiated classroom instruction, to more tailored support plans. No individual student is identified in the reporting process, and all information is protected by Australian privacy laws.

Why does this matter? Because the data gathered through the NCCD allows both the school and government to better plan for and resource inclusive education. It also helps us reflect on the supports we provide and make improvements that benefit all students. Participation in the NCCD does not require students to complete any additional testing or paperwork — it's simply a recognition of the everyday work already being done to support their learning.

If you’d like to know more, the NCCD Portal is a helpful source of information, and you’re always welcome to reach out to the school if you have questions.

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to build a community where all students are equipped to succeed.

Zoe Kirby, Head of Department Inclusion

From the Department of Language and Literature

As the quiet grip of winter loosens, Term 3 ushers in a renewed emphasis on individual insight and the eloquent expression of ideas. 

Building on the foundational work of earlier terms, Group 1 English seeks to cultivate student confidence in articulating ideas with clarity and grace. This term, learning finds its voice, either spoken, shared, and sharpened, through collaborative expression and purposeful communication.

Year 7 English Language & Literature students embark on a mythic journey across cultural traditions, uncovering the legends that lie at the heart of civilizations informed by the Statement of Inquiry Cultural identity is expressed through creative story telling. This exploration culminates in the crafting of illustrated picture books—small but resonant texts that prompt reflection on the intricate dance between storytelling and cultural identity. Through iterative feedback and shared dialogue, students will shape their narratives as both authors and cultural observers.

Year 8 English Language & Literature turns its lens outward, with students stepping into the role of documentary filmmakers. This creative process is informed by the Statement of Inquiry: Audiences connect with the expression of human experience. They will examine pressing social issues with both a critical eye and a collaborative spirit. With authorial choices comes the responsibility to defend one's creative vision—an exercise in thoughtful expression and mature discourse. The group dynamic, essential to this process, will develop the students’ capacity for listening, negotiating, and articulating.

Year 9 English Language & Literature plunges into the rich cacophony of multimodal texts—those modern symphonies of image and word that shape contemporary life. Students will work as analytical teams, decoding the subtle techniques used by creators to engage, persuade, and resonate across cultural and contextual divides. This conceptual and inquiry-led unit is directed by the Statement of Inquiry: Connections are affected by communication, conventions, and context. In this emerging season, their analytical skills bloom, nurtured by inquiry and shared discovery.

Year 10 English Language & Literature encounters Shakespeare’s Macbeth, a text as turbulent as any storm. Themes of ambition, guilt, and the erosion of moral certainty, offer fertile ground for examining the human condition. Students will be challenged not merely to understand authorial intent but to consider how such a work reflects our enduring psychological and ethical landscapes.

Year 11 English Language & Literature moves steadily toward their Internal Assessment. This term’s study of Carol Ann Duffy’s The World’s Wife invites reflection on voice, power, and perspective. Coupled with an exploration of global issues through film, students will be asked to engage personally and critically with the world around them. Their developing insights will serve as the seeds for their Term 4 Individual Oral.

Year 12 English Language & Literature, in preparation for their Mock Examinations, enters a phase of refinement. Through the study of familiar and new texts alike, students sharpen their analytical faculties and rhetorical fluency. Like spring’s arrival after a long chill, their expression will mature into something bolder: literate, nuanced, and ready for the world beyond.

In Group 1 English Language & Literature and Visual Arts, every voice holds value. This term, across all levels, students will engage with texts creatively and analytically, supported by a community that values insight, critical thinking, and originality. As winter recedes, so too do inhibitions, making space for confident expression and meaningful exchange.

David Bracken, Head of Department Language and Literature

From the department of Language aquisition – Modern and Cultural Engagement

Welcome back.

I hope you all had a restful and refreshing break and are feeling recharged for the busy and exciting term ahead.

📘 Language Acquisition Assessment Overview

Semester 2 Tutorial

🚀 2025 STEM Tour Preparation is on this term!

Preparations for the 2025 STEM Tour scheduled for September have continued this term with great momentum! This exciting opportunity promises to be an enlightening and immersive experience for our Year 11 students. The tour will feature a dynamic blend of educational activities and the learning experiences designed to deepen students’ understanding of STEM disciplines. In addition to its STEM focus, the tour offers enriching opportunities to explore languages and cultures, making it a truly global learning adventure.

The Ration Challenge

A heartfelt thank you to Ms. Wilson for her leadership in the Ration Challenge, an initiative that powerfully raised awareness around poverty, hunger, and displacement—deeply connecting with the UN Sustainable Development Goals and key IB learner attributes, including being caring, principled, and open-minded. Over the school holidays, 19 students participated in the challenge by eating the same limited rations as refugees for several days. This eye-opening experience gave them a deeper understanding of the harsh realities faced by millions of forcibly displaced people around the world. Our school community has raised a total of $1870.87, which will go towards providing emergency food, healthcare, and life-changing support for refugees in Jordan and beyond. Thank you to all the students, families, and sponsors who supported this meaningful cause. Your compassion and commitment have made a real difference.

Student Reflection: Participating in the Ration Challenge was a very special experience that showed me the challenges faced by refugees on a daily basis. Eating limited rations (and not being able to have snacks) was hard and made me think about how, for many people, this wouldn't just be a challenge over a couple of days and is unfortunately a reality that they have to face every day. Whilst three days of rations would never be enough for me to fully understand the struggles of forcibly displaced people, this has made me more aware and more empathetic. I'm grateful for having had the opportunity of partaking in the Ration Challenge, and I hope that through raising awareness and funds, we have truly contributed to the support for refugees around the world who are in need. 

Term 3 - PosEd Week, Luminous Parade, VR Geoguesser Experience

Looking ahead to Term 3, the Luminous Parade, NAIDOC week and VR Geoguesser will continue to promote peace, global citizenship, and sustainability.

If you have any questions at all regarding your child’s language development, please do not hesitate to contact your Language Acquisition teacher or the Head of Modern Languages & Cultural Engagement, Fei Xue fxue5@eq.edu.au

Fei Xue, Head of Department Language Acquisition – Modern & Cultural Engagement and International Student Coordinator

From the Department of Language Acquisition – Classical & Modern Languages

Welcome back to all students and families as we begin Term 3 – a vibrant, eventful, and often one of the busiest terms of the school year! 

We hope everyone had a restful and refreshing break. This term is packed with important assessments, cultural experiences, and opportunities for academic growth and support across our Languages Department.

Key Assessment Dates

Middle Years (Years 7 – 9)

Middle Years language students will complete key assessments throughout the term:
- Listening Assessments – Week 5
- Speaking Assessments – Week 7
Students are encouraged to continue building their vocabulary and listening skills both in and out of the classroom. Practising speaking with peers or family can also make a big difference!

Year 10 & Year 11

Senior language students will complete a range of assessments to support their language proficiency:
- Speaking Assessments – Week 4
- Reading Assessments – Week 8 (during the exam block)
These assessments are important checkpoints and provide excellent preparation for Senior studies.

Year 12

Our Year 12 students are in the final stages of their language courses and are currently preparing for their Mock Exams which will be conducted in Weeks 6 and 7 this term. Students are encouraged to make use of all available support and revision resources. Best of luck as they head into this crucial period!

Language Tutorials – Japanese, Latin & Spanish

To support students’ learning and progress, tutorials are available for all languages offered by the department. See below for specific times and locations:

These sessions are an excellent way to get help with homework, prepare for assessments, or revise content. We encourage students to take advantage of this valuable support.

STEM Tours in September

Planning is well underway for the exciting STEM language tours taking place in September. Spanish students will be joining the STEM Europe tour, departing in the middle of Week 9, while the STEM Japan tour will leave in Week 10. These tours offer a fantastic opportunity for students to use their language skills in real-world contexts and immerse themselves in authentic cultural experiences. Whether navigating the streets of Tokyo or exploring cities across Europe, students will gain a deeper understanding of Japanese and Spanish culture through hands-on learning.

Looking Ahead

Term 3 is a time for focus, growth, and celebration. We’re looking forward to seeing our students engage in their learning, embrace new challenges, and enjoy the cultural experiences we’ve planned. Thank you to our families for your ongoing support – we know it makes a big difference.

Wishing everyone a productive and enjoyable Term 3!

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

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

Welcome back, students and staff, after the mid-year break! I hope you had a chance to recharge and reflect on the first half of the year. 

With setting PLPs I strongly encourage students to reflect on their assessments and habits from the first half of the year to identify what they need to consolidate and what they need to maintain. In Week 1 with our Year 12 Business students, I shared the analogy of the doctor who gives a health check compared to a doctor who gives a postmortem. I showed the Year 12s their exam papers, previous errors, subject report common mistakes and previous SMT cohort trends. By showing this in Week 1, students can correct the mistakes of the past on their mock exams, then produce the high quality they desire in November final exams. I encourage all students to adopt a growth mindset so that they can achieve their Semester 2 goals.

Year 7 – 8 Foundation

Year 7 and 8 students will spend the first part of Term 3 studying Economics and Business. The Year 7s are particularly excited as we commence ‘The Game of Life’ and learn about the different financial challenges and opportunities that present themselves post-school, late 20s and during our middle stages of life. Following this, a History unit will commence that will utilise the virtual reality classroom and will give students the chance to travel back in time to either Ancient Rome or Ancient China. On Monday 25 August (Week 8) will have an excursion planned to the Abbey Museum – a real highlight of the year for past students. Year 8 students will be investigating how social enterprises are established due to changes in economic conditions. In the economy at large, individuals, businesses and the government make choices with resource allocation, and this can lead to equity issues. Students will locate real world examples and analyse these situations for different stakeholders.

Year 9 STEM Futures

Later this term Year 9 students will select their DP pathway subjects that they study for the next 3 years. Every SMT student does a subject from Group 1-5, then their final subject is a double up of either Group 3 (I&S) or Group 4 (Science). Students and parents should have conversations about students’ strengths and what subjects they are most likely to excel in. All five Year 9 subjects are about giving students the skills and ways of thinking that will allow them to be successful in the senior years of study once the content is aligned to just one subject. The ATL “Thinking Skills” is applicable to all subjects, and I would encourage students to always look for solutions from multiple perspectives. This had a direct link to criterion D in I&S of “Thinking Critically”. An example of this is when evaluating a decision consider the following: what are the strengths? What are the weaknesses? What are the alternatives? What are the limitations – is there information that is missing that you’d like to know that may influence your decision?

All the best to students this term as they study the following I&S subjects:

• Forensic Psychology
• World in Your Pocket
• Future Global Cooperation
• Cultural Revolution
• Disrupting the Market

Year 10 Diploma Preparation Programme

With the Semester 1 curriculum driven by collaboration with UQ, Semester 2 focuses more specially on content that is aligned to the IB Diploma Programme (DP) for Business Management and Psychology. This content gets covered again in more depth in DP, but the next semester allows students to get a foundation knowledge so that they can ‘hit the ground running’ and be successful in the Diploma. Most importantly students will be further introduced to different command terms this term, using exemplars and deconstructions so that they can explicitly answer the questions in the format the IB requires under exam conditions.

Lastly, I am very excited to welcome two staff Niki Hodson-Aubrey and Luke Warrick to the faculty. The following is a short introduction from each.

Niki Hodson-Aubrey

Before moving to Australia, I spent 14 years teaching in the UK across both co-educational and all-girls schools, delivering mainly Psychology, Sociology and English. Since relocating, I’ve had the opportunity to teach in both secondary and primary settings here in Australia. Alongside my classroom teaching, I also founded a tutoring business. I’m excited to be joining the QASMT community, where I can share my passion for Psychology and contribute to such a vibrant, intellectually curious environment. I'm particularly looking forward to working with students and staff, who are engaged, motivated, and open to exploring new ideas.

Luke Warrick

I’m excited to be back in my hometown of Brisbane after spending the last 6 years teaching in IB schools in China (Beijing and Shenzhen). Before this I spent 4 years in Toowoomba and Stanthorpe. I am a passionate teacher of Humanities and English and look forward to supporting students in these two subject areas. When not teaching I enjoy watching the AFL, landscape photocopy and playing tennis.

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

From the Department of Individuals and Societies – Global Systems and Design

Welcome back to Term 3! 

Now that we are halfway through, it is a perfect time to review our accomplishments and set our goals for the rest of the year.

I would also like to welcome a new member staff to the teaching team and have included a short message from them below:

Namrata Raval – Economics / Business

With a strong academic background in Business and Economics, complemented by university-level teaching experience, I bring a dynamic and interdisciplinary approach to the classroom.

I believe that every learner is unique and learns in their own way. As Aristotle said, “Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” My teaching philosophy embraces this idea—focusing on nurturing both understanding and curiosity.

By integrating real-world knowledge into theoretical frameworks, I aim to make learning meaningful, relatable, and inspiring. My goal is to equip students not only with subject knowledge but also with the critical thinking skills they need beyond the classroom.

Year 7 – 8 MYP – Design

In Year 7 Design, students are exploring how human-centered design drives product development. Using the design cycle, they are creating prototype mobile apps with a focus on user interface (UI) and user experience (UX). By engaging with client needs and seeking feedback, students will consider how modern apps attract users, ensure functionality, and address usability challenges.

In Year 8 Design, students are applying the design cycle to create promotional websites that reflect a client’s identity. Through interviews and consultations, they are learning how design choices shape audience perception while developing technical skills in HTML and CSS.

Both year levels are building foundational skills in digital design, client communication, and creative problem-solving.

Year 9 STEM Futures – World in Your Pocket & Disrupting the Market

This term, Year 9 students will participate in two complementary subjects that integrate business, economics, and design.

In World in Your Pocket, students will explore entrepreneurship—how opportunities are identified, risks are managed, and wealth is created. They will learn financial concepts such as budgeting, investment, and market analysis, culminating in an infographic project that demonstrates their understanding.

In Disrupting the Market, students will gain practical design and business skills through laser cutting activities and digital design challenges. They’ll learn to measure accurately, use design software, and understand the technology behind modern manufacturing while building entrepreneurial thinking.

Together, these subjects develop students’ financial literacy, design capabilities, and real-world problem-solving skills.

Year 10 - Diploma Preparation Programme

Following a UQ-led Semester 1 curriculum, Semester 2 will shift focus towards content aligned with the IB Diploma Programme (DP) subjects of Economics and Digital Society. Students will engage with introductory internal assessment tasks and develop the foundational skills required for success in Year 11.

As DP subject selections for 2025–26 approach, it’s important that students make informed choices. Students may choose two Group 3 or two Group 4 subjects, depending on their interests and pathways. We encourage students to speak with their teachers or respective Heads of Department for advice and clarification.

Year 11/12 IBDP - Economics and Digital Society

In Year 11 Economics, students will complete their 800-word commentary, analysing a current news article using the content and concepts studied during their Microeconomics unit.

Digital Society students will begin by exploring how culture is represented through digital media. Topics will include social media, deepfakes, and misinformation, with an emphasis on developing technical skills for their senior internal assessment. Students will also work with the IB pre-release statement, which forms the basis for their HL extension inquiry and Paper 3 examination.

Year 12 students will begin their mock exam period this term. On behalf of the Group 3 staff, we wish them every success. Maintaining a regular revision schedule and healthy sleep routine will be key to achieving their goals.

We look forward to a term filled with creativity, inquiry, and meaningful learning.

Josh Kiehne, Head of Department Individuals and Societies – Global System and Design

From the Department of Physical Sciences

Welcome to Term 3, the first Term of Semester 2. 

With the change of Semester, this is a good time to explain some of the key changes both academic and extra-curricular in the Physical Sciences. As usual I will start with an overview of the key STEM-related extra-curricular activities or events and then focus on the academic side of things.

In Week 1 of Term 3, after many years in the making, Dr. Slessor and Dr. Colley took over 30 of our STEM Research Project Program (STEM RPP) students to UQ to meet their UQ research mentors. The day was a great success with the Deputy Provost of UQ welcoming our students to this inaugural launch. Our STEM RPP students are now into the research phase of this program and will work to gather all of their data by the end of Term 4. Again, a big thank you to Dr. Slessor for all of her work in the background to make such a great event a reality for students at our school.

In Week 4 our series of Olympiad exams will be taking place. Please keep your eyes out for the incursion letter that will be sent home to the parents/caregivers of any students who express interest in taking part. This was also mentioned in Term 2 Term in Review article at the end of Term 2. Also mentioned in the last article was the addition of the Australian Informatics Olympiad, which I will be sending out an expression of interest form for in Week 2. This Olympiad testing will happen on Friday of Week 7.

Finally, the main event for Term 3 is of course, National Science Week (NSW). Please note that NSW is in Week 5 this year. This year’s theme is ‘decoding the universe.’ How would you interpret this? As per usual we will have a week packed full of science activities, including our ever-popular Science Ambassador lunchtime demonstrations, our Year 11 & Year 7 Group 4 Action Day, and our Colloquium presentations - just to name a few. A complete schedule of the events of the week will be made available to staff and students very soon. Now onto the academic side of things.

And finally, our Year 12 students are now into full revision mode in all of the Physical Science subjects. Their final internal assessments will soon all be in too, so it’s all focus directed towards the mock exams in Weeks 6 & 7. We have very well considered revision programs so the challenge now is to continue to motivate our Year 12s to get the very best out of them.

As always, I hope everyone has a great Term 3 and makes the most out of each opportunity that presents itself.

Robert Hughes, Head of Department Physical Sciences

From the Department of Life Sciences

Welcome back to all our science students, teachers, parents and caregivers. 

I hope you had a restful winter break, and are ready for an exciting term of curricular and extra-curricular science activities! This term promises to be extremely inspiring as we lead up to a highlight of the year for our school, National Science Week. 

Year 7
This term, students will be learning about forces and the science of toys. To understand this, they will learn about Newton’s Laws of Motion and how they explain balanced and unbalanced forces, friction and gravity. Students will apply their knowledge in a scientific investigation about what factors can affect an object falling, such as a paper helicopter.

Their statement of inquiry for this unit is: “Change is a consequence of scientific and technological innovation”.

Year 8

Students will be learning about atoms, molecules and chemical reactions. This will take them into an exploration of the Periodic Table of Elements, atomic structure, the difference between compounds and mixtures, and physical and chemical changes. They will use the process of inquiry to investigate collision theory and work in groups to design an experimental investigation, where they will collect data, process and analyse it and learn to make sound conclusions supported by scientific evidence.

Their statement of inquiry for this unit is: “Chemical change involves interactions that occur at an atomic level and is always accompanied by energy change”.

Year 9 STEM Futures

We have new classes of students for all Year 9 STEM Futures electives this semester.

Year 9 Sustainable Futures is an MYP Science course that is part of the pathway to IB DP Environmental Systems and Societies. They investigate the natural environment with a focus on sustainability and maintaining biodiversity. Students will be learning and developing fieldwork skills before and during their excursion to Toohey Forest, where they will investigate and compare data for two different sites, dry sclerophyll and wet sclerophyll. Students will use the data collected from their field study for their Term 3 assessment, which is a scientific report.

Year 9 Biomedical Engineering is an MYP Science and Design course that gives students some experience with Biology and Physics in medicine combined with Design. Students are assigned different patient case studies, all of whom require a hip replacement. They explore the problem both scientifically and from a design perspective in order to help their patient. They work in groups to research what their patient needs and develop a design brief as part of their individual Term 3 assessment.

Year 9 Biochemical Solutions is an MYP Science course that combines Biology and Chemistry to explore and understand how the structure of biological macromolecules relates to their roles in living systems. They will use this understanding to investigate the function of biological enzymes and how their activity is influenced by environmental conditions.

Year 10 Diploma Preparation Programme

Year 10 students have started their Diploma Preparation Programme to help prepare them for moving into the Diploma Programme in Year 11. Biology students have moved into their strands of Higher Level (HL) or Standard Level (SL). They have started the term learning about the structure and function of cell membranes. This will be followed by an exploration of genetics and inheritance. HL Environmental Systems and Societies students have started by learning about the different spheres of the Earth, exploring processes and mechanisms of how they work together as systems. Students will also be introduced to the HL lenses that have been added to the course, particularly environmental law, economics and ethics.

Diploma Programme

Biology

Year 11 Biology students are starting their final IA journey this term. They had an Introduction to IA session at start of this term, and will spend a bit of time each week dedicated to preparing for the IA. It is important that students meet all checkpoints for this in order to carry out their experiments in Term 4.

Year 12 Biology students are finishing up their curriculum content and will move into revision for mock exams and then ultimately their final external exams. This is a fantastic time to evaluate current study habits to see what is working and what is not.

Environmental Systems & Societies (ESS)

Year 11 ESS HL students have started Term 3 with their Practice IA, investigating the impact of different components of fertilisers on aquatic ecosystems. They will be learning about the criteria requirements for an ESS IA as it is different from the rest of the Group 4 science courses. Students will also learn about biodiversity, threats to biodiversity and conservation so we can help sustain biodiversity.

Year 12 ESS SL students have finished all curriculum content and have moved into revision of all topics for their mock exams. Students will be focusing on exam preparation and techniques for being successful on all aspects of the ESS external exams as this will conclude the assessments related to this syllabus.

Group 4 Collaborative Sciences Project

In Term 2, all Year 11 students were randomly placed into 16 different groups, ensuring a mixture of all Group 4 subjects represented within each group. Groups then had their planning day to collaborate and design National Science Week themed workshops for the Year 7 students for the Group 4 collaborative Science Project Action Day, which will take place on the Tuesday of National Science Week. The theme this year is ‘Decoding the Universe: Exploring the unknown with nature’s hidden language’. It’s a wonderful opportunity for the Year 11 students to share their collaborative efforts with the junior students.

Science Housekeeping
Just a reminder as we move into the second semester, students need to ensure that we maintain high standards of PPE use. Students have been directed to name their lab coats and safety glasses clearly, and ensure they keep these in their lockers. If lab coats need washing, students are reminded to return them to their locker once washed. We have a number of these items in lost property which is a concern, as they are required during practicals. It would be a shame if students could not participate in the practical component of science because they have lost their PPE. Any lost PPE is required to be replaced.

Saengdao Philavane, Head of Department Life Sciences 

From the Department of Mathematics and robotics

This term, teachers in the Mathematics Department are looking forward to offering a number of competitions and programs to intrigue, challenge and motivate students.

In the classroom

Year 7 students are considering how the study of measurement and geometry can help them inquire “How can we travel between dimensions?”. This unit will conclude with a Criterion A ( Knowledge) test. The students will also extend their patterning skills so they can complete their next Criterion B (Investigating Patterns) and Criterion C (Communication) assessment mid-term.

“You Better Shape Up” is the unit Year 8 students are working on, engaging in measurement investigations around area, surface area and volume of prisms, indices and algebra. This unit will conclude with a Criterion A (Knowledge) test in Week 10. Simultaneously, students will continue to develop problem solving strategies for investigating patterns that will be used for an assessment in the term.

Year 9 students are hard at work considering the statement of inquiry “Human Impact on the environment can be understood through valid models and spatial forms”. In their current project, students are repackaging a product to be more sustainable.

Our Year 10 students have started in their new classes - Mathematics Analysis and Approaches (AA) and Mathematical Applications and Interpretation (AI) - both of which are offered at Standard and High Level. All students will complete a common core of sequence and series, functions and exponentials. Each subject will then extend into topics that have been designed to give students a taste of the Diploma Programs offered in mathematics in Year 11 and 12. The graphic display calculator (GDC) will continue to be a focus as students learn new skills in its capabilities and how this can be applied when problem solving.

Year 11 students have started the term reviewing their exam results by reflecting on exam strategies, approaches in the different types of exams, topics that are their strengths and weaknesses, and what they need to work on moving forward.  Coursework has been completed by Year 12 Maths students and they now move into an intensive revision program until mock exams in Weeks 6 and 7.

Enrichment Competitions

Term 3 has many Mathematics competition opportunities.

• 90 students have been working on the Mathematics Enrichment program offered by the Australian Maths Trust. These students have this term to solve 12-16 challenging problems. 
• Year 7 and 8 students will have the chance to participate in the first round of the annual QAMT Year 7/8 State-wide Maths Quiz, sponsored by the University of Queensland. Teams of 3 will compete in rounds of general mathematics, mental computation, written computation, problem solving and estimation in a fun quiz format. This competition is tentatively set on Thursday 4 September from 3:30pm to 5:00pm. Parents and students will receive information about registering for this soon. 
• In Week 4, Tuesday 5 August, students will have the opportunity to compete in the AMT’s Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC). The AMC is an engaging 30-problem competition that demonstrates the importance and relevance of mathematics in students’ everyday lives. It will be held after school, payments need to be received by Monday 28 July (Week 3) for students to participate. 
• Students will have the opportunity to sit the ICAS Mathematics Competition on Thursday 28 August. It will be held after school. Payments need to be received by Monday 28 July (Week 3) for students to participate.
• Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad (AIMO) is an exam designed to stretch talented students in Years 10 and below and will be held on Thursday 11 September. Further information will be sent to invited students closer to the date. 

Congratulations goes to Eason and Bita for being invited to sit the Australian Mathematical Olympiad Committee (AMOC) Senior Contest. This is a significant achievement, as it will serve as part of the selection process for the AMT School of Excellence and other Olympiad-level competitions. We wish them good luck in the 4-hour paper that they will sit in August.

Additional Assistance in Maths

I would like remind students and parents that all teachers are available during break times to support students with any mathematical problems they would like assistance with.

From the Robotics and Digital Educator

Robotics
Three of our Senior Robotics FTC teams competed in the Asia Pacific Open Championships at Macquarie University in Sydney during Week 1 of Term 3. They have worked hard on their robots all year. This exciting international competition was a great opportunity for our students to develop their competition skills and meet and network with students from all over the world. All three teams reached the final playoffs and with Shabsters finishing in a fourth place alliance. Team VegeMight won the prestigious Think Award for their demonstration of the design process, including the underlying science, mathematics, and game strategies employed in the competition. Team Shabsters won the Judges Allrounder award for their excellence across all judging categories. 

Meanwhile, Robotics is kicking off strong in Semester 2. We have over 140 students in our program, working hard in a variety of robotics challenges across grade levels in Robocup Junior and FLL (First Lego League). Many of our teams are planning to compete in events later this year, including the Robocup State Championships at UQ in August. 

Digital Library 

New Materials 
The QASMT Digital Library is always getting new materials in our collection, whether through our rich and appealing Education Queensland Sora/Overdrive Collection, or the Overdrive books handpicked for our community. This term, we are working towards adding a variety of scholarly and recreational reading materials that have been requested by students and teachers alike. Keep an eye out for new titles coming soon!

Library Tech Tip of the Term 
Need a paywalled newspaper article from one of the local papers? Try visiting our Gale News database in the QASMT Digital Library where you can find publications such as The Courier Mail available in full text after a 1-day delay. 

Russell Hams, Head of Department Mathematics

From Education Outside the Classroom (EOTC)

Before we dive into the plans for Term 3, I want to extend a HUGE congratulations to all our teams who participated at the West Brisbane Junior Gala Day in Week 10 of the last term. 

All our teams made QASMT proud, earning praise for their efforts and conduct, both on and off the field. Best of luck to our Senior Teams as they take to the courts in Week 3 of this term.

Now, let’s explore what our students will be engaging in during Term 3.

Golden Paddle

This term we're excited to host the Golden Paddle Tournament, a full-school table tennis competition, where students will vie for the prestigious title of Golden Paddle Champion. This student-run and organised event is a testament to the dedication of our Sport Ambassadors, led by Wendy Du, who are working diligently behind the scenes to ensure its success. Taking place during lunchtimes, this tournament promises an intense battle, as table tennis remains one of the prime activities enjoyed during lunch breaks. Sign-up information will be sent out shortly, so keep an eye out for that. Good luck to all participants!

Sport

As always, our expert Coaches are ready to launch our Term 3 Sports Program in Week 2. This term, we welcome our Badminton, Australian Rules Football, Ultimate Disc and Pickleball athletes to hone their skills and potentially secure a spot on one of our West Brisbane Gala Day teams. Gala Day will take place in Week 10, and we look forward to defending our prestigious Badminton titles and perhaps adding more pennants to our growing collection. Please note that our Badminton Program is fully booked and operating in an alternative method this term. This has been communicated to both parents and students who are participating. We are currently exploring options for a Term 4 program for those who missed out.

In addition to our sports program, the Volleyball Academy Program will continue this term, with the Senior Teams beginning their training. Students will be rigorously preparing for the upcoming competitions, aiming to emulate the success of their rookie counter paths who achieved outstanding results in the Intermediate Schools Cup.

A huge thank you to our Sports Coordinators and expert Coaches for their hard work in ensuring students are safe and challenged throughout the program.

CAS

Our Year 12’s are on the home stretch with their CAS and will have their final sign off in Weeks 8/9 this term.  To prepare for this, students should be fine-tuning their portfolios and engaging in their final CAS activity. Shout out to our CAS champions who have engaged in and reflected on quality CAS throughout the duration of their diploma – well done for achieving this status.

Curriculum

In Year 7, students will explore the cultural aspects of physical activity, with opportunities to engage in Indigenous games, as well as those from their own cultures. They will investigate the inquiry, "Culture plays a role in the development of relationships and can be expressed through movement and interactions.". Through this exploration, students will delve into the historical significance of a chosen game or dance from a particular culture and examine the relationship between culture, games, and wellbeing. During practical lessons, students will learn about various culturally significant games, developing their practical skills. They are encouraged to continually reflect on their performance to identify strengths and opportunities for improvement. The Year 7 cohort will also take part in an Interdisciplinary Unit with the Mathematics Department – this will be a great opportunity for the students to engage in exploratory learning across disciplines.

Our Year 8 students will hit the courts and put their ATL skills to the test in an intraclass tournament. Leading up to this, they will organise training sessions and learn how to work as a team to achieve a common goal.

With IAs submitted and all topics covered, our Year 12 students are in revision mode, preparing for their mock exams this term. These mock exams will mimic the style and length of the final IB exams, providing valuable feedback for final preparations. Students are encouraged to maintain good study habits in preparation for their mock exams and the exam preparation period.

Vanessa Elmore, Head of Department Education Outside the Classroom

From the House Deans

Welcome to Term 3 everybody. I hope everyone had a well-deserved rest over the holidays. 

Term 3 is a great opportunity for Instep classes to re-connect and strengthen the bonds already formed in 2025 across all year levels. The vertical nature of our InSteps is one of the many advantages we have at SMT as it offers a chance to get to know students in all year levels and benefit from their experience, advice and SMT life hacks.

Positive Education Week

Pos Ed week 2025 is well underway with activities planned throughout the week. There were free pancakes on Monday, students have written gratitude messages for their teachers and friends which will be delivered at the end of the week and staff will take on students in netball ball on Tuesday. All staff-student competitions are fiercely contested for bragging rights!

Interhouse Events

Term 3 brings a number of exciting opportunities to participate in some fun activities not to mention collect house points at the same time. The House Trophy competition is very close this year with places changing almost daily.  I encourage all InSteps to get involved in the Interhouse Trivia Quiz taking place in Week 1 and 2. I know Agnesi House loves a good quiz, as do all the other houses – best of luck to every InStep. Thank you to Mr Prasad, Mr Aspland, and the CCA Committee for bringing this to us.

The graphic below shows the combined House Scores after the senior event, with the junior scores added next week to determine the overall Interhouse Trivia Champions for 2025.

Juniors (Years 7 – 9) next Friday is your chance to get your House over the line as Champions!

Year 12 Focus

Term 3 is a pivotal term for Year 12 students. They will be handing in their Extended Essay and getting to enjoy the traditional EE pizza party on Thursday 24 July. There is already a buzz in the air leading up to formal which will take place on 1^st of August. Formal is one of my favourite events of the year as we get to see Year 12 students in all their finery. Once formal is out of the way our Year 12 students then turn their attention to mock exams and the Year 12 conference which are both crucial events in preparation for the final exams. The trip to Movie World after the conference offers our students a break away from the school environment and a chance to feel a different sort of nervousness – let’s hope all the rides are open this year! Term 3 is also the time of year when we farewell Year 12 students from InStep – we wish Year 12 a very successful term.

Leadership 2025/2026

Student Leadership applications have now closed and we are hoping for a bumper number of applicants across all the leadership positions. There is something for everyone! I would like to wish all candidates all the best with their applications.

PEP Overview Term 3

PLP’s

As always in Term 3 students are busy writing their new semester PLP goals. This is such an important aspect of preparing for academic success and I strongly encourage all students to engage with this process. The “Personal” aspect in the Learning Plan title is key to linking identified goals with targeted improvement tailored to every individual’s unique learning style.

The Year 11 PEP focus for this term is Respectful Relationships. We will be covering the difference between respect and self-respect, gender equality, self-regulation and interpersonal skills in relationships.

Year 10 students are also navigating Respectful Relationships with a focus on Consent. Students will be identifying behaviours and interactions that represent a continuum between respect and abuse and how to recognise where to draw the line. They will also explore Bystander v’s upstander behaviour and healthy relationships.

In Year 9 PEP, students are actively engaged in the Journey Program. Additionally, Ms Katrina Judge, our GO (Career Planning), will provide essential guidance to students on making informed decisions about their future. This information is crucial as it will help them prepare for the upcoming SET plan interviews scheduled later in the term.

Year 8 students will be exploring the concept of Flow and how to harness flow to influence engagement and achievement. Flow is a cognitive state where one is completely immersed in an activity—from painting and writing to prayer and surfboarding. It involves intense focus, creative engagement, and the loss of awareness of time and self.

As already mentioned, Year 7 students will finalise their PLP SMART goals. These are goals that they set for themselves according to what they would like to achieve in each of their subjects. We will discuss the value of goal setting, the importance of devising strategies to help overcome obstacles, and motivation. After PLP Goals have been finalised Year 7 students will change focus to understand how having a growth mindset helps you achieve your goals.

Travel Opportunities

Year 9 and Year 10 students, I hope you are packing all your winter woollies for the upcoming ski trip to Perisher which will take place during Week5 for Year 10 and Week 6 for Year 9 students So far, the snow reports are looking very promising – which means we can look forward to some action-packed days on the slopes.

I am not sure if there will be any Year 11 students left in school by the time the STEM trips have departed – over 60 students and staff are heading to Europe, with some students venturing to Spain for the first time. at the beginning of Week 9, followed hot on their heels by up to 30 students on the Japan trip leaving Week 10. We look forward to hearing all about their adventures on their return. Bon Voyage!

Please don’t hesitate to contact me or any of the House Deans if there is anything we can do to further support your child.

Kind regards

Aileen Davis

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 Guidance Officers

Welcome back to Semester 2!

Term 3 is an exciting season for students to grow their knowledge of careers and build their career planning portfolio. 

• Year 12 students will be finalising and submitting their university applications. Every Year 12 student has been issued a personalised QTAC Guide including relevant application codes. Uncollected copies are available from the Guidance Office in A block. Year 12 Pathways Forms are due to be submitted to Mrs Judge by Thursday 31 July. A copy of the form is available under “Important Files” on our SMT Pathways Hub; or on the SMT Digital Library. Any Year 12 students who would like to attend a pathways interview are still able to arrange a time for discussing their career plans for next year and beyond using our online booking system (link in Mrs Judge’s email signature). 
• Many students and their families engaged with the visiting tertiary providers at our annual QASMT Tertiary Expo.
• All Year 9 students are engaging with discussions around career planning as they work towards creating their Senior Education and Training (SET) plans, culminating in individual career interviews to support their upcoming subject selection process.

This term includes significant dates in the career planning calendar:

• 21 July: SMT Tertiary Expo and Information Session
• July/August: University open days (see below)
• 24 & 31 July: Year 9 SET plan lessons
• 4 August: VTAC applications open for 2026
• 5 August: QTAC applications open for 2026
• 6 August: Year 9 SET plan interviews (students only)
• 8 August: Year 12 Information Session – How to apply (QTAC)
• Late September: some QTAC, UAC and VTAC courses close, on time applications due.

(Check websites for opening dates of other Tertiary Admission Centres around Australia.)

Career Planning Resources and Events

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, UQ presented our session on Scholarships and IB Advantage, in conjunction with our Tertiary Expo. With the opening of university applications, there will be another information session in August on the application process, just for year 12 students.

Early Offers Reminder

Year 12 students and their families are reminded that many university applications now include an early offer process in addition to the traditional January offer round. Processes and timelines vary considerably between universities with many open now or in the coming weeks. Check due dates for these processes at each university if you wish to access this additional opportunity. For a summary of possible schemes, explore the Study Work Grow Early Entry Guide, from “Download the latest guides” on our Pathways Hub.

SMT Tertiary Expo

Our 2025 SMT Tertiary Expo was a great success with many students and institutions valuing the opportunity to meet face to face. We are very grateful to the 18 tertiary institutions who participated, with displays in our expo for individual conversations and a lecture-style presentation to share broader details of each unique context. The experience was further enhanced by a special presentation from UQ on Scholarships and the IB Advantage. Thanks to everyone who participated!

UQ Open Day

Sunday 3 August, 9:00am – 3:00pm

UQ St Lucia Campus

We can't wait to welcome you to Open Day at UQ's St Lucia campus in Brisbane. Explore your interests and study options, immerse yourself in university life and get answers to all your questions.

Griffith | Open Day, Brisbane South (Nathan)

Sunday 10 August 2025, 9:00 am – 2:00 pm

Griffith University Nathan Campus, Kessels Road, Nathan QLD, Australia

Whether you've got it all figured out or have no idea where to start, Open Day is packed with useful information just for you. Visit the Gold Coast or Nathan campuses to chat with our expert staff and students and get a feel for what student life is like at Griffith.

QUT | Open Day 2025 

Sunday 27 July 2025, 9:00am – 3:00pm

Queensland University of Technology, Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove

You can discover the real QUT this Open Day – with the chance to explore facilities at Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove; speak with students and academics; get study area advice; and hear tips about applications, finances, and student life. And that’s just scratching the surface.  

Open Day Planner

Term 3 is the busiest time for university open days. Use the Study Work Grow open days guide to choose which universities to visit and plan your calendar. Always check dates and times with the tertiary institutions for any lastminute changes to schedules. Remember to register your interest with each university to keep up to date with programs and plans.

Further information can be found on university websites.  Access Open Days: Your ultimate guide to campus visits for tips and review a comprehensive list of all Open Days with the Study Work Grow Open Days Guide, free on our Pathways Hub and our SMT Digital Library.

Looking forward to a productive and rewarding term!

Katrina Judge, Guidance Officer Career Planning

Welcome to Term 3!

This time of year often brings both challenge and growth – students are well into their academic programs, and it’s a time when wellbeing and routine can be stretched. Our 2025 academy theme of Selflessness offers timely guidance. Now more than ever, giving attention to others and to community values can foster belonging, resilience, and purpose.

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: Interpersonal Skills

Our Term 3 Student Wellbeing Program will explore Interpersonal Skills – a crucial area for student success and community harmony. Students will have the opportunity to engage in short, online modules between Weeks 4 and 9. Resources will be sent to students through weekly email. These ‘bite-sized’ learning opportunities will focus on:

• Respectful communication
• Navigating conflict
• Building meaningful peer relationships
• Empathy and emotional boundaries

Students will receive an email email in Week 3 inviting them to register by emailing me directly.

SchoolTV: Webinar Series & Resources

Our SchoolTV series continues in Term 3, with a surprise addition: Part 3 of the Digital Media Literacy & Safety Webinar Series, featuring Dr. Michael Carr-Gregg and Susan McLean.

This highly anticipated session will support families in understanding how to guide young people safely through online environments.

Details of this event will be advertised 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 though 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

Parent and Community:

Headspace returns in Week 3 (Monday evening – Student Free Day) with a virtual session designed to support parents and carers.

This session will focus on:

Understanding My Child’s Wellbeing Needs and Where to Access Supports.

🗓 Monday 22 July | 🕕 6:00–7:00pm | 💻 Online
✅ No cost | 🔗 Register here

We encourage parents and carers to attend with their child, if possible, to support positive conversations at home.

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

Helpful Links

• Wellbeing Framework & Support Services: QASMT Wellbeing Page
• Community Support Services: eHeadspace, Kids Helpline, Lifeline, Beyond Blue, Parentline – details available via the QASMT Wellbeing Page

Strategy Spotlight: From Self-Reflection to Selflessness

Our weekly Strategy Spotlights will continue to be shared across the Academy, providing practical tools for emotional regulation, focus, and motivation. This term, Spotlights will also focus on the power of giving – exploring how helping others, volunteering, or expressing gratitude can directly support our own wellbeing.

Students are encouraged to share these strategies at home – these simple practices can have powerful ripple effects for families too.

Basketballs are big, and reading this, perhaps you can feel their size, maybe even smell the rubber and discern the texture on the outsides of the basketballs. Holding three without dropping any is practically impossible for most of us yet this is a great metaphor for what we try to do in our lives, either in practical or emotional terms. Are you holding too many things? This is a powerful question for the mind to consider, and as such is a cognitive (CBT) method. The metaphor helps to draw on the wisdom of our body. When we hold less, we have more control, it seems manageable. The solution-focussed process of imagining putting one ball down, then the other, and only holding one basketball with your two hands will help you to feel balanced and gain perspective. It will remind you not to juggle too many things at any level. This strategy is great for states of overwhelm and worry, it is a mindfulness practice for taking one thing at a time.       

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.

Wishing everyone a purposeful, connected and compassionate Term 3.

Be kind to yourself and each other.

Tara Le Pla, Guidance Officer Student Support