Term in Review - 1 April 2022

From the Senior Leadership Team

For many students, staff and families in our Academy community, there will be a collective sigh of relief that we have made it to the end of Term 1, and that our students have at least experienced some face-to-face schooling.
It has been a tough time for many, with Covid-19, the floods and the escalating crisis in Ukraine. We are continuing to seek ways to support families who have been impacted by these events. The House Deans play a vital role when families are experiencing trauma, as they are the first line of contact for organising ways in which the Academy can provide support.

School TV
Another initiative introduced this term is the formal engagement of SchoolTV, as a resource to provide support to our families. This can be accessed via our website, where you will also be able to access the QASMT Wellbeing Framework. Wellbeing at QASMT is a visible wholehearted, supportive approach where everyone in the school community works together to intentionally promote rich connections and a balanced lifestyle. .

SchoolTV is a resource for schools, created to educate parents and support families across all areas of mental health and wellbeing. SchoolTV provides a resource about a specific topic, to streamline reputable information from leading specialists. Content is based around major topics of influence and is delivered via a series of videos presented by leading youth health specialist, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg. SchoolTV is accessible via mobile, tablet and desktop and designed especially for Australian schools.

In 2021, QASMT completed the processes required for the five-year evaluation (2017 – 2021) of our Diploma Programme by the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO). The aim of this evaluation is for the IBO to ensure that the standards and practices of the Programme are maintained. The IBO is aware that for each school the implementation of an IB programme is a journey, and that the school will meet these standards and practices to varying degrees along the way. The report is based on the analysis of the self-study questionnaire and supporting documents together with the findings of the school visit. The report includes the following:

• feedback on the self-study process;
• commendations for school practices that address the Programme standards and practices in ways that solve challenges faced by the school and/or outstanding implementation;
• recommendations for the school on further developing the Programme;
• matters to be addressed (MTBAs) that identify areas within a school‘s practice which, if not addressed immediately, will jeopardize the integrity of the Programme and thus the school‘s entitlement to be considered an IB World School;
• findings that describe the practices at the school that led to the commendations, recommendations or MTBAs;
• indication of the evidence to be provided by the school in case of MTBAs;
• a conclusion for each standard.

The report received by QASMT this term is a testament to our commitment to an IB education and can be found on our website.

Finally, we would like to wish our community a safe, restful and enjoyable holidays and we look forward to welcoming everyone onto our campus in Term 2.

Kath Kayrooz – Principal, Kerry Bullock – Associate Principal Teaching and Learning, Tanya Haggarty – Associate Principal Academic, Rebecca Skarshewski - Deputy Principal Performance, Sandra Davey - Deputy Principal Engagement

From the Deputy Principal Senior Years

Term 1 has been exceptionally unique for students and families, with Queensland experiencing the full effects of the pandemic for the first time and the significant flood event that has impacted all of us in one way or another.  Students have been required to be more flexible than ever before, adapting to changes and remaining focused on their schooling despite the continued disruption to their educational experience. I am grateful to all our teachers for their continuous care and support of our students throughout the disruption, and to our students for their dedication in these unusual circumstances.

Senior Years Curriculum and Assessment
Despite the disruptions to the term, I commend the Senior Years students on demonstrating their resilience as they continue to complete school based and IB assessment. Our Year 12 students have continued to submit final IB assessments and are in the drafting stage of their Extended Essay, with their full draft due in Week 2 of Term 2. All Senior Years students and parents have now been emailed their relevant Assessment Guidance Handbooks, which can also be located on our school website here. This is an important document that all students must read and be familiar with.

I wish all our Senior Years students and families a well-earned break and look forward to seeing you all refreshed and recharged in Term 2.

Catherine De Freitas Pessoa, Deputy Principal Senior Years

From the Deputy principal Middle Years

The year so far has been busy and productive for our Middle Years students. All have focused on maximising their learning opportunities both within the classroom and extra-curricular opportunities. I congratulate the students for their organisation, resilience and flexibility throughout Term 1.

Congratulations to our Year 7 students for completing their first term of high school. They have all had high levels of energy and focus for learning, as well as an openness to developing new friendships and to immerse themselves in the QASMT culture. Thank you to parents for supporting their student through this settling-in phase.  A special thanks to our House Deans who have provided a constant friendly face and helping hand if needed.

NAPLAN Online (Year 7 and 9 students)
Our Year 7 and 9 students have their NAPLAN practice tests on 21 April 2022 to support their familiarisation with the test format, question types and online testing experience; prior to NAPLAN testing in May. A communication to students and parents with information specific to necessary equipment, key dates, student data privacy and NAP locked browser download has been emailed home.

One of the main features of NAPLAN Online is that it is a tailored or adaptive test. Tailored tests provide more precise results and have been shown to be more engaging for students because the test adapts to their test performance.

It is important that our QASMT students do not become concerned if they think that the questions are more difficult than expected or differ to what they have previously experienced; this may simply mean that they are taking a more challenging, but more appropriate pathway. Harder questions receive a greater weighting so there is no disadvantage in scoring. This means, our highly capable students at QASMT have the opportunity to demonstrate what they know and can do, without ‘ceiling’ the test.

This ‘tailored testing’ approach means that a wider range of student abilities can be tested when compared with the paper approach, where all students answer exactly the same questions.

A reminder that parents are asked to plan for their student to attend school during the NAPLAN Online test window between 12 to 17 May 2022.

I wish all our QASMT students and families a happy and safe, well-deserved holiday.

Sara Johnston, Deputy Principal of Middle Years

From the Inclusion Team

Inclusion professional development has been a focus for our staff this term. The Inclusion team presented professional development to the QASMT teaching and learning community on the National and State Legislation with regards to disability, diversity and inclusion, with a focus on removing barriers; and the Department of Education strategies relating to disability, and the changes to the National Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD). It was wonderful to see so many people engaging in this learning and discussing how to make inclusion a key focus and ways to implement best practices within our Academy. Next term our professional development focus will be on Neurodiversity, De-escalation, and the next steps in the NCCD process.

What is the NCCD?
Under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 (DDA) and the Disability Standards for Education 2005 (the Standards), Australian students with a disability must be able to access and participate in education on the same basis as their peers. To ensure this, students with disability may receive adjustments to access education, based on the professional judgement of teachers, in consultation with the student and/or their parents, guardians or carers.

The NCCD gives Australian schools, parents, guardians and carers, education authorities and the community information about the number of students with disability in schools and the adjustments they receive. The Australian Education Regulation 2013 requires all schools to report the data collected for the NCCD to the Australian Government on an annual basis. Extra resources are available here. 

National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence
National Day of Action Against Bullying and Violence was held on 18 March. The theme for 2022 was Kindness Culture. By building Kindness Culture together, we can promote inclusion, respect and community belonging for all students in schools across Australia. One of the best strategies is hanging around with friends and being with people who help you feel good about yourself (people who encourage you when you are down!) 

This year our Academy Chaplain, Mandy, set up the courtyard in a sea of orange to recognise and raise awareness for the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence. Students were invited to participate by wearing orange ribbons, being together at lunchtime, signing a pledge to build Kindness Culture, and blowing bubbles. It was so encouraging to see so many students pledging that they want to see a culture that promotes kindness and to end bullying and violence.

Week 9 was International Neurodiversity Celebration Week and at the Academy we recognised and celebrated this with learning about neurodiversity.

Neurodiversity Celebration Week is a worldwide initiative that challenges stereotypes and misconceptions about neurological differences. It aims to transform how neurodivergent individuals are perceived and supported by providing schools, universities, and organisations with the opportunity to recognise the many talents and advantages of being neurodivergent, while creating more inclusive and equitable cultures that celebrate differences and empower every individual.

We had posters up around the Academy and media pole that explained aspects of Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism, Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, Dyscalculia, Dysgraphia and Tourette Syndrome, and gave a snippet of insight into the lives of successful people who have enriched the world and what it is like to be neurodivergent. Academy staff were sent information daily on teaching strategies to support students who are neurodivergent. Some our favourite insights are from Greta Thunberg who gave an insight on why autism is her strength. Greta said, “Being different is a gift. If I was like everyone else, I wouldn’t have started a school strike.”  Maggie Aderin-Pock, Space Scientist said, “My dyslexic thinking means I don’t just think outside the box…I think outside the planet.”

We hope all our families have a safe and happy holiday break and encourage you to explore what is neurodiversity if you have not already done so.
Jane Manwaring, Fiona Young and Danica Judge

From the Department of Language and Literature

“Improvement makes straight roads, but the crooked roads without improvement, are roads of genius.” ― William Blake

We arrive at the end of Term 1, 2022 reassured about the resilience and grit of our students in the English Language and Literature Faculty. This term has seen us experience many “crooked roads”; however, we have seen students continue to strive for their best when engaging with a variety of units, topics, skills and outcomes along their MYP and IB Diploma journeys.

At MYP level, our Year 7s showed that they could integrate the skills of research and creative writing through their thoughtful Empathic Biographies. Year 8 demonstrated creativity and precision in generating Speculative Fiction Narratives in which they imagined dystopian worlds affected by technology. Year 9 created recorded podcasts in which they analysed a variety of Australian poems and placed the significance of their thoughts in a cultural context. In this, our students demonstrated flexibility, efficiency, and a real engagement with the texts and genres that they had encountered over the course of Term 1.

Our Year 10 students studied The Great Gatsby in preparation for a Week 10 examination. The Year 10 teaching team were impressed by our students’ ability and willingness to talk about “the big ideas” concerning societal inequality and the moral implications of living within a materialistic world. The ideas communicated through conversations in class, work completed at home, and in-class essay preparation sessions were impressive in terms of insight and depth.

Our Diploma students (Years 11 and 12) took some significant steps in their “Diploma journeys”. Year 11 students explored the collection of short stories from Nigerian author Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie and demonstrated an awareness of how people from a variety of social situations encounter similar feelings and responses to culturally universal phenomena. Students articulated their insights into the experiences of people around the world through engagement with “Global Issues”. Meanwhile, our Standard Level Year 12 students engaged with these “Global issues” in their Individual Orals, which comprise 45% of their final mark for the IBO Diploma. Our Higher Level Year 12 students are in the final throes of completing their Essays, which compose 25% of their final mark. We are thrilled with how our Diploma students have not just met course requirements, but strived for creativity, unique responses and depth in their work.

Finally, our Debating program has continued at “full steam ahead” throughout the term. Our QDU Debating teams have represented the school with rigor, nous and confidence. Meanwhile, our Friday afternoon Debating CCA have shown flexibility in delivering debates in person and online. With many students new to the skills of debating, students have found creative and online ways to collaborate and coordinate their teams.

Our goal is to create learners that are insightful and knowledgeable; but more than this, over the course of the term, the students at QASMT have shown that they can be flexible and adaptable. These are attributes which empower lifelong learning and an ability to meet the challenges of the world with confidence. In the English Language and Literature Faculty, we are grateful for the students that we teach and the approaches to learning that they have shown this term.

David Bracken, Head of Department Language and Literature

From the Department of Language Acquisition

It has been a start to a school year quite unlike any other, and our students and staff are to be commended for demonstrating remarkable resilience and adaptability.
This term we welcomed the new Year 7 and Year 10 students to our school and welcomed back our other year levels under rather unique circumstances. As the new Head of Department, I arrived to find a department devoted to language instruction with a strong academic focus. As the term progressed, it become very apparent there was a strong passion driving the Language Acquisition staff to foster and nurture the goals of developing cultural awareness through the development of a second language, and enabling students with language skills, cultural insights and perspectives, to engage with people in a rapidly changing world.

Teachers in Language Acquisition
The dedicated language acquisition team worked hard with a unique start to the year to ensure continuity for student learning across our five languages at QASMT. The language staff are:

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International Mindedness
Ms Wilson, Ms Liebchen and Dr Blumbergs are part of the International Mindedness working parties. International Mindedness is a view of the world in which people see themselves connected to the global community and assume a sense of responsibility to its members. Concepts that fall into this are: Multilingualism, Intercultural Understanding and Global Engagement. This term they have continued to work on developing international mindedness in the curriculum and the wider school community.

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 Language Acquisition, Dr Andrew Blumbergs. ajbl0@eq.edu.au

Andrew Blumbergs, Head of Department Language Acquisition

From the Department of Technology and the Arts

Flexibility, agility and resilience are three words that describe our teachers and students in the Technology and the Arts Department this term.
 I am delighted to share the learning that has taken place this term despite the many disruptions that we faced.  

 Diploma Programme 

Year 11 Information Technology in a Global Society (ITGS) 
Our focus this term has on Digital Media. One of the learning activities has been developing movie-making techniques and the stages of film production. The brief was for students to work in pairs to shoot and edit a basic 8-shot scene in under 30 seconds. The story shows our character walking along when they notice that their shoelace is untied. They give a sign of frustration, kneel, tie their shoe, and then continue walking. Check out this video clip to see a showreel of our 30-second movies

Year 12 Visual Art 
Our Year 12 students have been working frantically toward their final exhibition (which will happen in mid-term 3), creating artworks and documenting their processes along the way. In Week 7 they were lucky to work with Brisbane artist, Donna Malone.  

Malone spent the morning sharing her approaches to creating her work both practically and philosophically. “You must respect and love your materials,” Malone told the students. This will develop a practice of continual observance and celebration of the materials and their qualities.  

Year 9 and 10 STEM Futures Program 

Year 9 Disrupt the Market 
In response to the statement of inquiry 'Products and processes must adapt in response to market trends', students learned how to use the laser cutter and explored a range of materials including wood, denim, calico and acrylic. They reimagined a range of products that included magnets, bookmarks, 3D models and personalising jeans by engraving patterns. 

Year 9 Visual Art - Artists as Changemakers 
This term the Year 9 students have been working in pairs conceiving Installation Artworks that explore an issue. Focussing only on the idea development and experimenting they worked in pairs developing artworks that considered opposites of their chosen issue. 

Year 10 Computational Thinking (Computer Science) 
Students have discovered there is more to Computer Science than programming.  
They investigated possible career pathways of a Computer Scientist, including the different disciplines of study and the university pathways that can be undertaken to become a Computer Scientist.  Students have developed logical and algorithmic approaches to problem solving, concepts fundamental to computer science.

MYP Program for Year 7 and 8 

Year 7 Visual Art - Improbable Beasts 
In response to our statement of inquiry, As culture evolves, so does the way we represent the world around us, our Year 7 artists have researched environmental issues and designed hybrid animals that are survival superstars. They had fun creating graphite drawings of their creatures as well as colourful collages from their own painted paper.  

Year 7 Music - Bold and the Beautiful 
Students in Year 7 Classroom Music explored 'Bold and Beautiful' music through group performance and research.  Through collaboration and teamwork, students rehearsed pieces they arranged themselves for their unique instrumentation.  Having larger rooms this term in C block devoted to music lessons and rehearsals, students were able to explore a range of music elements to enhance skills for future studies and performances.

Design 
Year 7 Design 
In response to our statement of inquiry, In the development of products, functionality is crucial for stakeholders, our learners in Year 7 Design have designed and developed a mobile app prototype using Adobe XD. They have learnt about the value of prototyping designs to allow their clients, in this case one of their peers, to have a better understanding of the eventual product. This process has also underpinned the importance of client feedback in refining designs. 

Student Ambassadors 

Arts Ambassadors 
Our Arts Captain and Ambassadors have been doing a lot of work behind the scenes to prepare for our Festival of Creativity in June. This follows a fantastic start to the year with coordinating the House Dean portrait competition to encourage all the school to participate in the Arts in a fun and collective way. This culminated in working with the judges to sort the artworks into categories and file them accordingly. Many of our Arts Ambassadors are involved in Instrumental Music so they were involved in the setup and leading of sectionals outside the large ensemble sessions.

I want to thank each of our teachers, our support staff and, above all, our students, who have been amazing as they have overcome each of the challenges that we have faced this term. I wish you all a well-deserved rest.  

Madeleine Brookes, Head of Department Technology and The Arts 

From the Department of Individuals and Society

My personal mantra since my first day of teaching has been for students to become confident and resilient individuals who enjoy learning new things and achieving to the best of their ability. The multiple challenges students have faced this term has certainly meant students have needed to be resilient, while the summary of subjects below show how students have enjoyed their learning in I&S.

Year 7 I&S
Students have studied Civics and Citizenship this term and now have a clear understanding of the values and rights of Australian citizens. As part of the term assessment, students were required to create an infographic on one of the principles of the Australian Constitution. During my class walkthroughs, students regularly informed me that they are now more informed as citizens of Australia and future voters.

Year 8 I&S
The early 20^th century was studied this term, with students learning about both Australia’s Federation and our contribution to World War I; in particular, the Gallipoli campaign. To end the term, students have engaged with primary resources that are on loan to the school from Queensland ANZAC Day Committee.

Year 9 STEM Futures
Forensic Psychology (Psychology-Biology), Cultural Revolution (History) and World in Your Pocket (Economics-Business) have been studied by students this term, with Katie and Jess sharing their personal perspective.

World in Your Pocket focused on Economics, in particular the production process. We learnt about stakeholders, the stages of the production process, imports, exports, industrial sectors and the economic sector. We will be able to use this as a foundation for further knowledge in the future if we select the Business or Economics subjects. Our assessment task this term was to create an infographic composed of a flowchart outlining the production process of a chosen product, a spider gram of the four key components of the product, the impact of this production process on two key stakeholders and graphs showing Australia's imports or exports. While completing this task, we were able to apply and display our acquired knowledge, and apply our ATLs, specifically critical thinking. We had a great time learning this term and look forward to the next unit.

Year 10 STEM Futures
Tragedy of the Commons (Economics) has seen students learn basic economic principles while considering that many resources (air, oceans, forests) are shared by everyone. Early in Term 2 we will be joined by guest speakers from UQ while attending an excursion to UQ. Show Me the Money (Business Management) has focused on ‘starting with why’ when creating a product and there has been an emphasis on both empathy and sustainability. UQ Ventures has engaged the classes four times throughout the term and Tomas Piccinini will be the guest speaker at the STEM Seminar Series on May 12. Ventures is all about assisting students develop their ideas into reality.

Riddhisha shares a student’s perspective from a guest speaker during Inside Your Head (Psychology).

We received an insightful lecture about different personality disorders, and how to correctly correlate them into different clusters (A, B and C) based on similar characteristics and symptoms. An interesting factor about this categorisation was that many people with one personality disorder also may acquire the signs and symptoms of at least one additional personality disorder, providing a remarkably interesting insight into human behaviour, emotions and thinking.

A personality disorder is a type of mental disorder in which you have a rigid and unhealthy pattern of thinking, functioning, and behaving. A person with a personality disorder has trouble perceiving and relating to situations and people. This causes significant problems and limitations in relationships, social activities, work, and school. Furthermore, during discussions with the guest speaker, we learnt the causes of obtaining such personality disorders. We began with identifying that personality is the combination of thoughts, emotions and behaviours that makes you unique. It is the way you view, understand, and relate to the outside world, as well as how you view yourself. Personality forms during childhood, shaped through an interaction of both your genes and your environment. Your genes may make you vulnerable to developing a personality disorder, and a life situation may trigger the actual development.

Furthermore, we learnt about the risk factors where although the precise cause of a personality disorder is unknown, certain risk factors increase the chances of developing or triggering personality disorders. Overall, through this insightful lecture from the guest speaker, we have greatly enhanced our understanding in the unit of Personality and Stress and hope to apply this knowledge in our future learning.

Business Management, Economics and Psychology
DP1 students have all completed introductory units which set students up to go deeper into other units over the next 18 months. The focus this term for DP2 students has been completing internal assessments.

The Psychology department welcomed two Psychologists from the Queensland Brain Institute who came in to talk to the Year 11 Psychology students about their work and research into the brain and behaviour. Dr Margaret Moore talked about her research working with patients who have had a stroke, including how it is diagnosed, the different types of strokes and the implications for behaviour and how to treat a stroke.

Dr Anthony Harris talked about the scientific study of consciousness. He challenged students to consider which behaviours were conscious. Dr Harris talked about the different ways that brain imaging techniques can be used to investigate different levels of consciousness.

Both talks gave our Year 11 students a valuable insight to the study of the brain and behaviour and allowed them to apply what they had learnt in the classroom to the outside world.

Lyle Fredericksen, Head of Department: Individuals & Societies

From the ToK Coordinator David King
DP2 TOK
The six prescribed titles for the Theory of Knowledge essays were received at the start of March and the students are now working through the process of selecting one title on which they want to complete their essay. The next step after this is finding relevant real world-examples as these are used within their essay to analyse the essay title. A draft of the 1600-word essay will be due in Week 5, Term 2. The students must ensure they submit a quality draft essay so their teachers can provide feedback, as this assessment is worth two thirds of their final grade.

DP1 TOK
This term the students have considered the core theme, “Knowledge and the Knower”, which they will return to during the remainder of the year. They have also reviewed one of the five Areas of Knowledge, Mathematics, which they will return to at the start of Year 12, prior to the prescribed titles issuing in March next year. The students have also completed a practice exhibition task of 350 words in preparation for the final exhibition task at the end of this year. They will complete two more of these practice tasks before Term 4 to ensure they are well prepared for their final exhibition which is worth a third of their final grade.

From the Department of Physical Sciences

What a term!
Term 1 has been extremely busy for our Physical Science students - our laboratories have been bustling all term.

In Year 10, Future Materials students have been learning about the chemistry of alloys and crystal structures and were treated to a guest lecture by Professor Darren Martin, from UQ, who explained his work in the area of innovation in biomaterials to the entire cohort. Many students then took up the opportunity to spend lunch time talking in more detail with the UQ Professor about his research. In our physics-based Year 10 subject, Journey to Earth X, students have been learning about the physics concepts of leaving planet Earth, and have undertaken several extremely fun looking experiments, including this ticker timer experiment. If you have a student in this subject, ask them to explain this image to you!

Extracurricular Science Updates
Thirteen Year 10 QASMT students have embarked on a scientific collaboration with Kamnoetvidya Science Academy in Thailand (KVIS), led by Dr Kirsten Hogg. Students attended an extensive online conference with students from KVIS, where they learned about Thai culture and language, shared their own cultures and languages, and collaborated on science projects. It was an absolute pleasure to be invited to participate on the first day of the conference and see the enthusiasm of our students! Over the course of the week, professors from both UQ and KVIS presented guest lectures, and students were extended in the many areas, including biophysics and quantum optics. The students have now entered the STEM research project phase of the collaboration, and the level of scientific research these students are undertaking is extremely high and rigorous.

QASMT Scientific Research Exhibition
At the end of Week 7, we were proud to present the annual QASMT Scientific Research Exhibition, an exciting real-world experience for our science students to present their scientific work to an audience. This year we had 18 QASMT students and 5 QASMT alumni present their research. As I walked around the poster presentations, it was clear to me that we have some of the brightest minds of the future here at our school. Congratulations must be extended to all the students and staff involved - what a fantastic display of our students’ research capability.

To all our science students and our families, please make sure you take a well-earned rest over the break, and I am looking forward to another wonderful term of science in Term 2.

Esme Hatchell, Head of Department Physical Sciences

From the Department of Life Sciences

What a bumpy start to the year! Our students have really shown just how much they demonstrate that they are IB learners.
Students have shown that they are open-minded and flexible to the changing learning environment and are growing from this experience. They have been caring towards each other and more importantly towards themselves which leads to being balanced. They have also been reflective in this journey, as have the teachers who have put in much work to ensure that learning is continued in the best way possible. It has been great to see our QASMT community work in this way.

Year 8
Year 8 students have been looking within and focusing on the physiology of their body. In particular, how their cells work, and how the cardiovascular and respiratory system work together. They have been linking this with exercise measuring their own heart rates before, during and after exercise. Despite the bumpy start, Year 8 students have been really engaged and have found their momentum.

Year 10 Medical Biotechnology
Students have been focusing on genes and biotechnology. They have learned about what DNA is, and the Central Dogma of DNA. They explored genetic mutations and how that relates to diseases. Students also ran a DNA gel electrophoresis as part of their assessment. Finally, the students were treated to an insightful lecture by Dr Lisette Pregelj and Professor David Ascher who talked to us about different aspects of ‘Precision Medicine.’ Dr Pregelj approached the topic from a molecular perspective, and Professor Ascher from a big data and machine learning perspective. It really gave the students an insight into the amazing work that researchers are doing in the field.

Science Ambassadors
It has been a quiet start to the year for the Science Ambassadors. However, with their Captain, Jessica B, they ramped up operation towards the end of the term and put together some fun filled ‘Random Acts of Science’ days. Students were treated to a bit of molecular gastronomy with ‘edible juice beads creations’ and they saw a cool ‘elephant toothpaste’ demonstration run by the Senior Ambassadors and Mr Avery. Finally, they got to make some pretty lava lamps using nothing more than oil, food colouring, Alka-Seltzer tablets, and a glass jar! Thank you, Science Ambassadors, for once again putting on some interactive and entertaining activities for QASMT.

“The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling, but in rising every time we fall” – Nelson Mandela

Vanessa Bermingham, Head of Department Life Sciences Foundation

From the Department of Mathematics

Term 1 is over, and we have achieved so much in the Mathematics Department between engaging lessons, problem solving clubs, competitions and Pi Day celebrations.  

In the classrooms……
In all our MYP classes, students have completed Criterion B (Investigating Patterns) assessments. This criterion looks at if a student can select and apply problem solving techniques to discover simple and complex patterns, describe that pattern as a relationship or rule and then verify and justify these findings. Year 7 and 8 students are also assessed on Criterion C (Communication) in the same assessment item. Here the focus is on using appropriate mathematical language, moving between different forms/organising information and using complete and coherent mathematical lines of reasoning.

Our Year 7 students have settled in well, learning to use their computer and OneNote to organise their lesson notes. In their unit Patterns Everywhere! they have been learning about algebra and linking this to measurement in the task investigating the relationship between side multipliers and area/volume multipliers. The students have also been doing some NAPLAN style questions.

Year 9 students have spent their time working on algebra and index laws. They used these skills in their investigation to discover rules for completing the square. There has also been some Naplan practise in lessons.

It has been pleasing to see students using their stylus enabled computers in their mathematics lessons. A few students are still having computer issues (short battery life, no stylus), which can hinder learning in the classroom

QAMT Problem Solving Challenge 
On 11 March, 174 students from Years 7 -12 participated in the Queensland Association of Mathematics Teachers Problem Solving Challenge. Students were given two hours to solve five challenging questions. Congratulations to all the students who showed they are risk takers, inquirers and mathematically knowledgeable. QASMT was very successful in this competition last year, so we are excited to see if this continues.  

Kangourou Sans Frontières
168 students had 75 minutes to answer 30 multiple choice questions in this online competition held on Thursday 17 March for the second time ever. Congratulations to these students for stretching themselves and being problem solvers. We look forward to seeing their results.

2022 AMT Maths Challenge
Over 180 students in Years 7, 8 ,9 and 10 have signed up for the four-week Maths Challenge, organised by the Australian Maths Trust. This is an amazing number quadrupling since last year! In this competition students work through six challenging problems over four weeks and are required to present written solutions to as many of these problems as they can. Students will have a chance to discuss ideas for this at the Maths Challenge or Maths Problem Solving CCAs in Term 2 with Mr Madigan and Mr Chen.

The second stage of this competition is Maths Enrichment. Students will be invited to this competition based on their success in the Maths Challenge.

Maths Help Sessions
Lunchtime and afterschool help sessions have been well attended by students. It is wonderful to see students being proactive about getting help for concepts they are finding difficult in class. These will continue in Term 2.

Maths Ambassador Leadership Team
The Maths Ambassadors have offered several activities this term. Here is some news from the team.

​The Mathematics Leadership Team were delighted to bring a variety of activities to the students and staff in Term 1. In the past few weeks, the maths team has been busy organising events for Pi Day, as well as some weekly mathematics to brighten up QASMT's maths lives. We sent out weekly questions for all students and staff to solve, providing encouraging opportunities for QASMT students and staff to be more engaged in mathematics throughout the term. Through surveys, the wide variety of problems garnered nearly 250 responses in just the first week, and 35 prizes have already been given out this term!

This year, we were able to celebrate Pi Day on 14 March! For Pi Day, the Mathematics Leadership Team organized several different events, including the Pi Day Trivia Competition, a Maths Trophy Designing Challenge, the classic Reciting Pi Competition, and a new activity called Buffon's Needle! Collaborations with the Technology and Robotics Teams added two more activities to the list: the long-running Raspberry-Pi Technology Showcase, and a Pi-themed robotics challenge. Pi Day at QASMT was a super success with over 300 students participating in our many events! These exciting maths-based activities allow our students a breath of fresh air from their normal classroom mathematics and give them fun activities to do during their lunch breaks while learning about maths! Over 300 students participated in our many events, making Pi Day a superb success!

We have had a wonderful start to the year and will continue to bring maths to QASMT students and staff in exciting and innovative ways in the coming terms.

The Maths Leadership Team: Luna, Callum, Kanwar, Sonya, Kieran, Esha, Katherine, Nicole, Victoria

I wish you all a restful Easter break. Hopefully Term 2 will be less disrupted.

Jane Gorman, Head of Department Mathematics

From Education Outside of the Classroom (EOTC)

The Education Outside the Classroom faculty has certainly been busy this term! Between our Sport Program, CCA, CAS and curriculum, we have lots to tell you.
Before we do, I would like to welcome a new member to the team, Vanessa Elmore. Vanessa will be taking on the role of Academy sports coordinator.

Co-curricular Activities Program
We kicked off our CCA Program with a Year 7 sign up fair, organised by a group of hard-working Year 11 students as part of their CAS project. With such a wide range of opportunities on offer, this allowed students to ask questions and select clubs that not only complement their learning, but also provides them with some unique experiences to start their high school years. It was great to see so many students take advantage of these amazing clubs, and I would like to extend a huge thank-you to the teachers who volunteered their time.

This term, I would like to highlight the Ultimate Disc Club, run by a group of Year 11 students for CAS. The team, led by Daniel H, began the planning phase last year. Their major goal was to promote active wellbeing through sports and relaxation, get out of their comfort zone and learn about co-teaching, planning and management of students. This club has been extremely successful, and I congratulate them on their efforts. They will continue Ultimate Disc Club in Term 2.

Next term, we have some new clubs to look forward to, including crystal growing, astronomy club and an exciting opportunity for students to learn about coding through the “Do your: bit” global challenge.

Yanah Floridis, Head of Department Education Outside the Classroom

Representative Sport – Sean Conway
There have been several notable efforts in representative sport in Term 1. Mia P, Indy I, Tyler T and Hanna P all made the Met West swimming team and will compete at the state school swimming trials this week. This is a strong showing by QASMT Swimmers.

District representatives for Term 1 are shown below:

Northern Eagles District
Neola D and Minh N – Tennis
Ella K and Jessica I – Soccer
Ben N, Wendy D, Ruby L, Hanna Y and Ava C – Volleyball
Harrison P - AFL

Well done to all selected students.

I would also like to extend a huge congratulations to Euan F who has had some amazing results in Judo this year. Euan has competed in several interstate competitions, most recently winning a bronze in the Under 18 division of the Melbourne International. Euan also assists with the school Judo Club as part of the CCA Program and loves sharing is passion with his peers. He is on track for National Selection, and we wish him luck.

Curriculum – Dale Meyer
Our unique Physical and Health Education curriculum provided many opportunities for personal growth this term. Year 7 students embarked on a journey of interpersonal skills through a range of minor games, such as Karsti and Capture the Flag. Throughout the different games, students had the opportunity to develop effective communication, leadership, and opportunities to display a range of interpersonal skills, as well as how to manage and resolve conflict. By the end of the term students have formed solid relationships, which will be foundational for the terms ahead.

In Year 8, students learned not only which factors influence their choices when it comes to health and nutrition, but also how to compare and build a personalised eating plan per age category, according to the Australian Guidelines to Healthy Eating. It was extremely interesting to unpack the cultural differences within class groups and this sparked lots of discussion. Reflecting on nutritional habits and physical activity is integral to numerous facets of health and is an excellent example of lifelong learning. Although we had a rain and flood-interrupted term, students also developed foundational physical skills, such as throwing, catching, batting and fielding, which are transversal across a range of different sports. This meant that not only physical skills were in action but also a myriad of tactical elements, where problem solving was highly evident. Students demonstrated continuous engagement during all activities, which reflected team cohesion, positive behaviours and willingness to stay healthy and active.

The Year 10 SEHS students have been preparing for the majority of the (rain-interrupted) term by focussing their attention on the human cardio-respiratory systems and biomechanics, which culminated in a fantastic excursion to the UQ Sport Science department. Students were put through their paces by completing sprint, agility and power tests using the latest technology, to show how speed and aerobic capacity play a role in athletic ability and player profiling of athletes. The ‘hands-on’ sessions allowed students to demonstrate their skills, test their abilities and compare the data to their teammates using the equipment provided.

Overall, it was great to see how they were committed in all activities, while exhibiting constant enthusiasm, risk-taking and a growth mindset.

From the House Dean of Agnesi

Agnesi House started Term 1 on fire – we debuted our new flag and our new war cry – (please ensure students remember the words for the Cross-Country Carnival in Week 1, Term 2!) The leadership team have worked hard to make the new war cry our own, and to reflect Agnesi wolf pack values of loyalty, support and playfulness.

Introducing the new war cry and flag was perfectly timed, as it coincided with Agnesi Alumni returning this week to collect their IB Diplomas. Lachlan, last year’s Agnesi House Captain, was more than impressed with the new war cry and was so happy to see his vision for the House realised. Lachlan who is now studying to be a paramedic wishes to pass on his best wishes to everyone.

I would like to take this opportunity to let you know how proud I am to be House Dean of Agnesi. Students have shown dedication, devotedness and support for each other this term and this has been very noticeable by me and the InStep Mentors.

I would also like to thank you students for their participation in the House Dean portrait competition. Congratulations to INA02 for placing second in the competition and I eagerly look forward to seeing entries to the competition.

PEP Update
Year 9 students have been industrious over the past two weeks preparing for their PEP mini service project. Some groups have baked brownies and choc chip cookies to show their appreciation of Agnesi House Mentors, while others have secretly delivered treats to the QASMT cleaning staff who do such a tremendous job keeping the campus so clean and tidy. Another group has brightened up the Agnesi locker area with positive affirmations and words of wisdom. This should provide hope and support for our senior students as they embark upon Exam week.

InStep Update
I have noticed much more energy and increased interactions across all year levels in InStep this term. Students are connecting much more and getting to know each other through positive engagement in games and circle of life conversations. I hope to see this continue into Term 2 and beyond.

Uniform Supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead. However, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1 in Term 2 wearing their full formal inform (all students must wear their blazer every day).

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 quickly ends and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy.  It is important that students express their individuality and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this.  However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy, as students are required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.

Below are some important areas to highlight:

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue.  If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the QASMT Dress Code Policy, please ask your student to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Term 2 and 3 Winter Uniform
As Term 2 begins, a reminder that students will need to wear their blazers to and from school every day along with their hats. Students are required to wear their blazer to the commencement assembly on the first day back, Tuesday 19 April.

Finally, I would like to wish all students and their families a relaxing break over the holiday period and that you stay safe, and students return ready to claim victory in the Cross Country Carnival.

Yours as ever in the Quest for Zest!

Aileen Davis, House Dean Agnesi

From the House Dean of Curie

Term 1 has been and gone and the Easter break is upon us!
What was meant to have been an action-packed term with many whole school events and activities, has turned out to be anything but normal, with a delayed start for most students, a return to online learning for the DP students, wild weather and flooding and finally another peak in Covid-19 cases. Even though there has been uncertainty and plans have changed, I would like to applaud the students on their flexibility and engagement across Term 1. Seeing the students turn up each day with smiles on their faces ready to participate in their classes, CCA groups, music ensembles and sporting teams has been delightful. Congratulations to all students for their positivity and continued willingness to be involved. In Curie House, building positive relationships has been the priority and I have been thrilled to see the students being risk-takers, stepping outside their comfort zones and taking the time to establish connections with students in their InStep, year level and House. I believe our new Year 7s and our seven Year 10 students have settled in well and are engaging fully in Academy life; with all students in Curie having set themselves up for a successful year ahead!

2021 Curie Inter-InStep Champions
Congratulations to INC08 who won the 2021 Curie Inter-InStep competition. The reward for winning was a pizza party and after the restrictions were lifted a few weeks ago, INC08 were able to celebrate together during a lunch break in Week 9. Thank you to Ms Jasper for her fantastic work in facilitating relationships within the group and encouraging the students to participate and collaborate through healthy competition.

Cross Country Carnival | Wednesday 20 April
Due to the restrictions that were in place for the majority of the term, the Cross-Country Carnival has been moved to Wednesday 20 April, Week 1, Term 2. The carnival is the first opportunity for houses to win points for the Inter-House Competition and after placing second by only a few points in 2021, the student leaders are keen to emulate the success of 2020 and reclaim first position.
Attendance, participation and the beloved War Cry Competition provide opportunities to win house points on the day. Student leaders have set the house some lofty goals for the day:

1. 100% student attendance in Curie – all students in all cohorts
2. Place in top 3 for Cross-Country Carnival – each student participating
3. Place in top 3 for War Cry Competition

Throughout the term, student leaders have been leading war cry rehearsals in their InStep groups and over the last two weeks the house has been able to come together to fine tune preparations. Since 2019, Curie House has won five of the last six war cry competitions and the house, under the guidance of their captains and ambassadors, are keen to give it their best shot at the Cross-Country Carnival.

House Dean Portrait Competition
In Week 4, when all students had returned to campus, the House Dean portrait competition took place in InStep groups. This was an opportunity for InStep groups to work together, get creative and have some fun. Recently I had the pleasure of viewing all the House Dean portraits from all eight houses and each InStep group. I was very impressed with the quality, creativity and knowledge that students have of their House Deans. Congratulations to INC04 who were judged as the overall winner from across the school…not sure if this was due to the quality of their art skills or the quality of the model! 
Thank you to the Arts Captain and Ambassadors for organising this!

Attendance and Arriving on Time – Everyday Counts!
I recently read an article that described 50 things that could be done in under a minute (i.e., make bed, tidy workspace, washup after breakfast, offer someone your seat on the train, smile etc). The premise of the article appeared to be focussed on making every moment count.

“Sometimes we’re so quick to count down the days that we forget to make every moment count”
Unknown

If we can agree that it is important to make every moment count, just as it is important to start the day off well, then arriving to school on-time is a worthwhile goal. Of course, there can be interruptions, but for the most part our plan should be adaptive enough to ensure that we are ready and raring to start the day on time.

Make every day your masterpiece’
John Wooden

In the first ten minutes of any given lesson the attendance roll is marked, the learning intentions are discussed, and success criteria outlined. Being present in the lesson at the start is vital to ensure we understand what, why, and how. In other words, at the start of the lesson we begin to develop a picture of the purpose. Be there!

Uniform Reminders
As Term 1 quickly comes to-a-close and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy. It is important that students express their individuality and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this. However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.
Below are some important areas to spotlight:

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, students will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain
about any aspect of the QASMT Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Term 2 and 3 Formal Uniform
As Term 2 begins, a reminder that students will need to wear their blazers to and from school every day, along with their hats. Students will need to wear their blazer to the commencement assembly on the first day back, Tuesday, 19 April.

Uniform Supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead, however, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1, Term 2 wearing their full winter formal inform (all students must wear their blazer every day).

Holidays – a time to relax, refresh and reconnect
I want to wish everyone well for the upcoming holidays. Balanced is one of the IB Learner attributes and I believe the holidays provide a great opportunity for our students to prioritise activities that may take a back seat when the pressure of exams and assessment is being felt at the end of a term. Students should make the most of the break and spend quality time with loved ones, doing the things you enjoy most.

I look forward to seeing you all again next term. If you need to contact me, please don’t hesitate to do so at dfann6@eq.edu.au

Yours in pink
Dean Fanning, House Dean Curie

From the House Dean of Da Vinci

Since my first year of teaching in 2004, I have never experienced quite a term like we have just had. A huge display of resilience, compassion and empathy was required and displayed during the term.
Despite a shorter number of weeks, our DaVinci student leadership team, with the support of our awesome InStep Mentors, ensured our House community was off to a flying start.
I want to focus this on our DaVinci student leadership team. They have grown in their leadership skills, increased house spirit and listened to the house community to improve their InStep, locker room and house spirit.

Student Wellbeing
Our student leadership team consists of eight sub-committees. Astha G leads our Wellbeing Committee and with her team organised and implemented two wellbeing lunchtime activities. Students were invited to quiet spaces to colour, paint and/or decorate. These were well attended by the entire QASMT community. 

Locker Room
Our locker room committee led by Merin M will spend Term 2 painting our dragon mural, which will be a welcomed addition to making our Dragon Den spirited. We are also grateful for Emilia L and Shaunah B who designed fun and informative locker boards.

CanTeen Charity
DaVinci supports the amazing efforts of CanTeen through weekly links to information in our update, assembly presentations and financial fundraising. This term, our committee has been communicating with CanTeen to invite a guest speaker to our school and are planning a combined Intra-InStep and bake sale and working towards our annual Bandana Day activities. 

Assembly and Newsletter
An integral part of our positive house spirit is the tireless work of our Assembly and Newsletter Committee. This term our assembly team had the added challenge of creating online assemblies and hybrid models that allowed for some of our team to join us while isolating. Term 2 has seen a redesign of our student newsletter. 

Captains’ Corner
‘Hello Da Vinci Community! 
I hope that you have all been staying safe throughout this term with Covid-19 and the floods. I have found it a bit of an awkward term with all the interruptions. If anyone is feeling stressed or concerned about anything, do not hesitate in contacting Ms Wallace or our Guidance Officers. I hope that you all had fun in InStep this term and that you were able to participate in all the fun activities. This term, I was very impressed with the effort that everyone put into war cry practice and how well it has come along, even with all the additional segments. If we can show our spirit and do the war cry to the best of our ability, I truly believe we can win it at Cross-Country Carnival this year. Thank you everyone for a great term and I wish everyone the best of luck with their exams and assignments. Have a great holiday!’
House Captain, Joshua P (Year 9)

'Well, what a term that was! Despite the many many challenges we faced, all Da Vinci managed to get through it in one piece. So firstly, congratulations for your resilience and perseverance because it certainly wasn't easy! My highlight of this term was practising our house war cry each week. As captains, Josh and I have made it our personal missions to win the Inter-House War Cry Competition this year. Not only is defeating Curie House on the agenda (which I'm almost certain we'll do!), but I think our war cry perfectly sums up the nature of Da Vinci, where we can reach goals in any facet of our lives by working hard and dreaming big - and this sort of drive and passion has definitely been visible in our various war cry practices. Thank you, Da Vinci, for your enthusiasm and spirit. I'm convinced that if we can continue with this energy, only great things will come of it. As always, please don't hesitate to reach out to me or Josh if ever you need a chat. I'm so keen for Term 2 - let's make it as good as this one!!’
House Captain, Stevie C (Year 12)

Uniform supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead. However, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1, Term 2 wearing their full formal inform (all students must wear their blazer every day).

Attendance
I recently read an article that described 50 things that could be done in under a minute (i.e., make bed, tidy workspace, washup after breakfast, offer someone your seat on the train, smile etc). The premise of the article appeared to be focussed on making every moment.

 “Sometimes we’re so quick to count down the days that we forget to make every moment count”
Unknown

If we can agree that it is important to make every moment count, just as it is important to start the day off well, then arriving to school on-time is a worthwhile goal. Of course, there can be interruptions, but for the most part our plan should be adaptive enough to ensure that we are ready and raring to start the day on time. 

‘Make every day your masterpiece’
John Wooden

In the first ten minutes of any given lesson the attendance roll is marked, the learning intentions are discussed, and success criteria outlined. Being present in the lesson at the start is vital to ensure we understand what, why, and how. In other words, at the start of the lesson we begin to develop a picture of the purpose. Be there!

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 quickly comes to-a-close and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy.  It is important that students express their individuality, and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this.  However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.

Below are some important areas to spotlight:

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Term 2 and 3 Formal Uniform
As Term 2 begins, a reminder that students will need to wear their blazers to and from school every day, along with their hats. Students will need to wear their blazer to the commencement assembly on the first day back, Tuesday 19 April.

Yours in green

Stacy Wallace-Cunningham, House Dean Da Vinci

From the House Dean of Franklin

Congratulations to Franklin House students for making it through Term 1, 2022. Students have dealt with the colossal interruptions of Term 1 and have taken it in their stride. A very warm welcome to our new Franklin students from Years 7, 9 and 10. The Year 10, 11 and 12 students have already completed their first exams of the year and are poised for greatness in Term 2 also.

Uniform supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead, however, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1, Term 2, wearing their full formal uniform (all students must wear their blazer everyday).

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 ends and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy. It is important that students express their individuality, and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this. However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.
Below are some important areas to spotlight:

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Term 2 and 3 Formal Uniform
As Term 2 begins, a reminder that students will need to wear their blazers to and from school every day along with their hats. Students will need to wear their blazer to the commencement assembly on the first day back, Tuesday 19 April.

Franklin House DNA project
Our DNA mural project is nearing completion with the installation of our DNA strand and Franklin House motto on the locker room wall. It will be completed later next term when our student committee installs acrylic over the image for a 3D finish.

Good luck in exams
The Franklin House student notice board committee ensured that our Year 10, 11 and 12 students knew we were thinking of them this week and provided a few tips for studying, including ensuring sufficient rest to ensure optimum performance.

School TV
SchoolTV is a resource for parents regarding practical strategies and resources. It is a platform containing reports, analytics, interviews and wellbeing tips that engages with hundreds of schools and organisations. If you would like to know more then please head to the SchoolTV website.

2022 House leaders
I would like to introduce our complete Franklin House leadership team for 2022. We now welcome Aimee and Samuel to the team as Year 7 House Ambassadors. Our House Captains, Srishti and Andrea including Ambassadors Esha’al, Charvee, Eimi, Aanya, Abbey, Rebecca and Fiona are very active in their duties representing the student voice, preparing for the Cross-Country Carnival and numerous other projects for Franklin House.

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“…to strive, to seek, to find, and not to yield” – Alfred Tennyson

Ross Bray, House Dean Franklin

From the House Dean of Hawking

Hello Hawking! What an interesting first term it has been! Despite being quite disruptive the Hawking students have united (as always) and have been able to come together to continue building a beautiful sense of belonging and house spirit.

House Spirit
Although students’ start to the school year was delayed, they went straight back in with building house spirit! The House Dean portrait competition was introduced this year and each InStep was tasked with drawing me. I have to say I was a little worried, but I need not have been, our students are so wonderfully imaginative and the images they created blew me away. Not only was their talent outstanding but it really demonstrated to me how well they know my values and vision for Hawking House. Hopefully you’ll agree with me that their work is truly special.

Unfortunately, we had to postpone a number of events from Term 1 to Term 2, but we will kick start next term with Cross-Country Carnival! We have been busy practising our war cry and even had a war cry off with Franklin House in Week 9 to see who the best cat in the jungle was. It was found to be a draw BUT we got some great feedback to implement for the real thing, so I look forward to seeing Hawking House get out there!

Tiger of the Term
Tiger of the Term is an initiative exclusive to Hawking House and is awarded to one junior student and one senior student each term. Students nominate one another via the suggestion box and as always, I was inundated with nominations! It made choosing so difficult, but I am pleased to announce that the Junior Tiger of the Term went to Year 8 student Khwahish G for being helpful, nice, caring and a good leader. 

Our Senior Tiger of the Term is Year 12 student Yeshwant S who was nominated for being a kind and supportive friend. Such fantastic qualities - well done Khwahish and Yeshwant!

Does your student want to be Tiger of the Term in Term 2? If so, think about how they can impress those around them!

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 quickly ends and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy.  It is important that students express their individuality, and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this.  However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.

Below are some important areas to spotlight:

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue.  If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Have a wonderful holiday Hawking and should you need anything, please do not hesitate to contact me on rbrow477@eq.edu.au or extension number 382. Mr Wheeler’s contact details will be made available to you in his commencement in Term 2.
Rebecca Parker, House Dean Hawking  

From the House Dean of Hollows

Term 1, 2022 done! We look forward to the rest of the year being without too much disruption.
I hope that all households impacted by the floods and Covid-19 isolations can recover quickly and have some relaxation time over the Term 1 holidays. Please note the topics below as we reflect on the term and look towards Term 2.

HD Portrait Competition
The term started off with an engaging InStep task where each InStep was given three sessions and material to sketch a portrait of their House Dean. As expected, there were some random images that as long as the sketch had a bald head, it would do! Some InStep groups worked very well together and the likeness between me and the “Rock” was extremely lifelike; thanks InStep 5. However, the winning entry for the House Dean Portrait Competition was Prabha T of InStep 4. 

Cup Stacking Championships
Just like last year, Hollows House had another fiercely fought InStep Cup Stacking Championships Tournament. Over two days, InSteps battled with one another to elect their internal champion and on the third day, a hotly contested semi-final and grand final took place. Congratulations and 2022 Hollows Cup Stacking Championships bragging rights go to William V of InStep 2.

Year 11 VET Certificates
The fact is, having qualifications makes you more employable and so congratulations to our Year 11 students who throughout their time in Year 10 earned a nationally recognised Certificate 2 VET qualification. Well done Year 11 for working hard and adding an additional qualification to your growing resume.

All aboard new students
It must have felt like Christmas last week to our new Year 10 and 7 students. Finally, we were able to have a face-to-face assembly and publicly bestow upon them the much-treasured Hollows House badges and key rings. There was much celebration as we welcomed our new students aboard the Hollows express and we all look forward to seeing their contribution to the house as time continues.

School TV
As you know, QASMT strives to put student wellbeing front and centre in all that we do so we are trialling a wellbeing resource found using the following link .

It has a variety of modules such as Cyber Safety, Mental Health, School Survival, Healthy Body & Positive Parenting all with associated resources, videos, short quizzes and topical information. I invite you all to navigate around the site.

Year 8 Engineers
Year 8 PEP students finished the term off with a small tower building competition to assess their creativity problem solving and engineering skills. Randomly allocated groups were asked to build the highest free-standing tower using limited resources within a 15min period. Well done Year 8 students.

Year 9 Intentional Acts of Kindness
Year 9 PEP students finished the term working in small teams to plan, resource and deliver an intentional act of kindness to the QASMT community. Students made gift bags, hosted InStep parties, gave chocolates, cookies, put notes on lockers and wrote teacher letters to show their gratitude. Year 9 students did a great job, as society has a real need for more kindness at the moment.

Attendance
I recently read an article that described 50 things that could be done in under a minute (i.e., make bed, tidy workspace, wash up after breakfast, offer someone your seat on the train, smile etc). The premise of the article appeared to be focussed on making every moment count.

 “Sometimes we’re so quick to count down the days that we forget to make every moment count”
Unknown

If we can agree that it is important to make every moment count, just as it is important to start the day off well, then arriving to school on time is a worthwhile goal. Of course, there can be interruptions, but for the most part our plan should be adaptive enough to ensure that we are ready and raring to start the day on time. 

‘Make every day your masterpiece’
John Wooden

In the first ten minutes of any given lesson the attendance roll is marked, the learning intentions are discussed, and success criteria outlined. Being present in the lesson at the start is vital to ensure we understand the what, why, and how. In other words, at the start of the lesson we begin to develop a picture of the purpose. Be there!

Uniform supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid-19. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead, however, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1, Term 2, wearing their full formal uniform (all students must wear their blazer every day).

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 quickly ends and students take some much-needed rest and relaxation, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements as outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy. It is important that students can express their individuality and the holiday season is a great opportunity to do this. However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.

If students return next term and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Have an enjoyable term break and I look forward to hopefully a less disruptive Term 2 for the Mighty Fighting Hollows Hawks. Please direct any enquiries you may have regarding Hollows House to Mr Michael Colquhoun House Dean of Hollows at  mjcol3@eq.edu.au

Michael Colquhoun, House Dean of Hollows

From the House Dean of Jackson

What is ‘Jackson House culture’ – We are truly successful together
At the start of the year, I wrote an article about bringing all we can from our experiences in life. So, it was motivating to see everyone trying their absolute best across the many domains represented here at school, despite the significant interruptions we faced throughout the term.

I was particularly taken by what seems to be a strong tendency of the QASMT community to work together. Since joining the Academy mid-2021 I have observed what I believe to be the beginnings of a transformation in our House culture from “I am a high performer” to “We are truly successful together”. This is exciting, not only because it emulates the attitude of our namesake Mrs Mary Jackson, but also because it is a way to improve our performance.

I expect that nurturing a House culture of ‘we are truly successful together’ will improve engagement in the school community, our interaction with constructive feedback, social awareness, stress levels, and our thoughts on personal responsibility. Now that is a house of which I would like to be a part!

An important part of this ongoing transformation has been the new students we welcomed at the start of the year. I have enjoyed getting to know our new Year 7 and 10 students over the last few weeks and have seen they already have a positive effect on our community. It has been wonderful to see and feel their enthusiasm and motivation emanate throughout the classroom. I hope that all students enjoyed their first term at QASMT, and I look forward for many more happy experiences to come.

Everyday Counts
I recently read an article that described 50 things that could be done in under a minute (i.e., make bed, tidy workspace, wash up after breakfast, offer someone your seat on the train, smile etc). The premise of the article appeared to be focussed on making every moment count.

“Sometimes we’re so quick to count down the days that we forget to make every moment count”
Unknown

If we can agree that it is important to make every moment count, just as it is important to start the day off well, then arriving to school on time is a worthwhile goal. Of course, there can be interruptions, but for the most part our plan should be adaptive enough to ensure that we are ready and eager to start the day on time.

‘Make every day your masterpiece’
John Wooden

In the first ten minutes of any given lesson the attendance roll is marked, the learning intentions are discussed, and success criteria outlined. Being present in the lesson at the start is vital to ensure we understand the what, why, and how. In other words, at the start of the lesson we begin to develop a picture of the purpose. Be there!

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this in a timely manner to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with their House Dean before acting.

Uniform supplies
As most families are aware, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead, however, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and other items from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child’s uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We very much appreciate your patience and consistent check in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student’s uniform for Term 2.

We look forward to welcoming all students back for Day 1, Term 2, wearing their full formal uniform (all students must wear their blazer every day).

Samuel Weston, House Dean Jackson

From the House Dean of Newton

A colleague referred me to an article that described 50 things that could be done in under a minute (i.e. make bed, tidy workspace, wash up after breakfast, offer someone your seat on the train, smile etc.). The article's premise appeared to be focused on making every moment count.

‘Sometimes we’re so quick to count down the days that we forget to make every moment count’  Unknown

If we agree that it is essential to make every moment count, just as it is essential to start the day well, arriving at school on time is a worthwhile goal. Of course, there can be interruptions, but for the most part, our plan should be adaptive enough to ensure that we are ready and raring to start the day on time.

                                                     ‘Make every day your masterpiece’  John Wooden

In the first ten minutes of any given lesson, the attendance roll is marked, the learning intentions are discussed, and success criteria outlined. Being present in the class at the start is vital to ensure we understand the what, why, and how. In other words, at the beginning of the lesson, we begin to develop a picture of the purpose. So, let’s be on time every time. 

Uniform Reminder
As Term 1 quickly ends and students make for some much-needed rest, I thought it would be timely to remind everyone about the hair and jewellery requirements outlined in the QASMT Dress Code Policy. It is essential that students express their individuality, and the holiday season is an excellent opportunity to do this. However, before going and spending your hard-earned money on unique hairstyles and colours or piercings, take the time to revisit the Dress Code Policy as you will be required to abide by these requirements from the first day of Term 2.

If students return in Term 2 and there are uniform discrepancies, they will be asked to rectify this promptly to resolve the issue. If you have any questions or are uncertain about any aspect of the Dress Code Policy, please ask your child to speak with me as their House Dean.

Term 2 and 3 Winter Uniform
As Term 2 begins, a reminder that students will need to wear their blazers to and from school every day along with their hats.  Students will need to wear their blazer to the commencement assembly on the first day back, Tuesday 19 April.

Uniform Supplies
As most families know, our uniform suppliers have had difficulties with shipments from overseas due to Covid. We are happy to confirm that all uniform pieces are now available at School Locker in Oxley and Wearitto in Newstead. However, you may need to obtain some items from one supplier and others from another supplier. Please call ahead to the uniform suppliers to confirm your child's uniform order is set aside for you to collect. We appreciate your patience and consistent check-in with the uniform suppliers to secure your student's uniform for Term 2.

Newton House update from the Ambassadors
Hi, we are your Year 8 Newton Ambassadors, Daniela C and Annie P.

Throughout the term, we have indeed faced many challenges, but as a resilient house group, we continue to take it one step at a time. What do our teachers think of our house? Mr Conway's favourite things about Newton is our spirit, the students and staff, and our ‘never give up’ attitude. Have you also wondered what our teachers like to do in their free time? Whenever she gets the chance, Ms Tyler enjoys going camping with her husband and dog, Archie.

Shark of the Month – February and March
Aaron D (Year 7) and Navreet K (Year 11) were awarded the Shark of the Month for February and March respectively. Newton students voted for them for their genuine happiness and always looking for positives. 

InStep
Our InSteps have participated in a House Dean portrait competition, where everyone got creative and made fantastic artworks. INN01 was the winner for Newton, and INN04 received a highly commended from Ms Johnson. Another activity in which everyone got involved was the Birthday Calendar competition. Making colourful collages on our poster, we all had fun participating in this activity with our peers.

Recently, our hard-working Newton Captains and Ambassadors got together to create a dynamic war cry, showing off our powerful house spirit. Newton students and staff enjoyed rehearsing the war cry, and we are determined to leave everyone in awe at upcoming events. Also, a fun fact, did you know that blue sharks are blue? Thank you.

As the first term comes to an end, it is crucial to reflect on the day’s past. Yes, we have had disruptions due to the flooding and the ongoing pandemic, but keeping a positive mindset is extremely important. It has been pleasing to note the determination of our students to get back into their study routine, especially those returning from quarantine. Please remember, we are here to support you, so do reach out when needed. Have a safe and restful break, and I look forward to seeing you again, refreshed and energised next term.

“Connection is why we’re here; it is what gives purpose and meaning to our lives.” Brenè Brown

GO NEWTON!

Deva Prasad, House Dean Newton

From the Guidance Officers

From the Guidance Officer (Career Planning and Inclusion)
What a busy term it has been in the guidance offices with challenges and celebrations!  Term 1 is particularly encouraging as we hear updates from our 2021 graduates. We join them in celebrating their successes and joys with their next phase of life and learning.

Career Breakfast
Our Year 12 Career Mentoring Breakfast was a wonderful opportunity for our seniors to engage with professionals and academics from many vocations. The students were able to learn about the realities and opportunities of life after secondary education. The inspiring conversations have brought deeper insight and encouragement as they seek to make their own pathways. We are very grateful to the people who contributed to the breakfast, particularly the parents, academics, community and industry representatives who volunteered as mentors. Thank you for your investment into the lives of our young people

SET planning
Our new Year 10 students have also had the opportunity this term to explore the possibilities for their futures. Over several weeks, they have considered the many influences that may impact their pathways, including personal strengths, values, goals, interests and opportunities. They have spent time researching the labour market and tertiary landscape. This has culminated with the development of their individual Senior Education and Training (SET) plan to map out their preferences for the next stage of their education. This career education unit culminated with an interview with their House Dean or Guidance Officer to reflect on their SET plan. Thank you to the parents of our new Year 10 students for talking with your student as they have worked through this process.

UCAT
The UCAT ANZ helps universities to select applicants with the most appropriate abilities and professional behaviours required for new doctors and dentists to be successful in their clinical careers. It is used in collaboration with other admissions processes such as interviews and academic qualifications. Students can only sit UCAT ANZ in their final year of high school or higher.

UCAT ANZ bookings are open from 1 March to 17 May 2022 with testing held during July and August.

You must register an account with Pearson VUE on the UCAT ANZ website and then book a test via your account by the deadlines. Please refer to UCAT ANZ Test Cycle page for information on key dates and costs.

NOTE: Students are expected to seek a test time outside of school hours e.g., during the July holidays. If unavoidable, bookings within school hours will require a request for leave be submitted to the Principal for consideration at the Principal’s discretion

Wishing you all a restful and peaceful Easter break.

Katrina Judge, Guidance Officer (Career Planning)

From the Guidance Officer (Career Planning and Inclusion)

Term 1 has been a very productive term for our Academy community. We have worked together to overcome challenges with the delayed start to the term, devastating weather events, and prioritised time to celebrate together our strengths, successes and growth.

There have been some common themes in the areas for which students have been accessing support from the Guidance Officer this term that include:

• workload pressures
• time management stressors
• relationships – friendship and family, and
• brain health as it relates to anxiety.

I continue to support students at school around complex wellbeing and mental health concerns. Parents and community play a key role in supporting our young people during times of need. Please explore the resources below for ways to learn more about how to support your child and others in our community.

SchoolTV
The Academy have invested in a subscription to SchoolTV. This is an excellent resource that I have used with parents for some time now. The response from parents and community who have accessed these resources have reported to find them extremely engaging and insightful.

Today parents face a multitude of modern-day challenges in raising happy, well and resilient young people. Whilst there is a great deal of information available, this can often be confusing and overwhelming for parents looking for guidance.

SchoolTV addresses this as a new online resource designed to empower you as parents with credible and sound information with realistic, practical ongoing support strategies.

I invite you to take some time to explore each of the series listed below, as they each include numerous topics. The resources section is also worth exploring, as you will find useful factsheets, apps, books, websites and other additional videos, all on one single topic!

Sections include:

• cybersafety series
• mental health series
• school survival series
• healthy body series
• positive parenting series, and
• special reports.

This resource can be accessed through the Academy’s website here. 

Wellbeing Seminar Series
To further support the wellbeing and brain health of our students and community, we will be running a Wellbeing Seminar Series throughout Term 2. These sessions will include three sessions for students, and one family and community session. With changes to restrictions, I am very happy to inform that all these sessions will now run as face-to-face events.

Headspace provide young people with access to health advice, education and employment. Their vision is to improve young people's mental, social and emotional wellbeing. Their student workshops aim to increase mental health literacy, reduce stigma, and 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 click here.

Headspace will be presenting the following sessions. Keep a look out for information relating to registering for these events.

Session 1
27 April     Wednesday 2-3pm - Lecture Theatre
Tips to a good headspace and how to help a friend

Session 2
18 May      Wednesday 2-3pm - Lecture Theatre
New to Senior School – Focus on Year 10-12

Session 3
25 May      Wednesday 2-3pm - Lecture Theatre
Motivation and self-esteem

Session 4       Parent and community session
25 May            Wednesday 6-7pm - Lecture Theatre

The parent and community session will cover:

• understanding mental health and wellbeing in your people
• notice changes that a young person might be going through a tough time
• identify strategies to connect and communicate with young people, and
• increase knowledge about how to support a young person and where to access professional support.

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

Tara Le Pla, Guidance Officer (Student Wellbeing)

From Instrumental and vocal Music

The Instrumental and Vocal Music program at QASMT is thriving and has grown to a point where we have moved to larger premises on campus to accommodate rehearsals, practice and group lessons alongside Classroom Music classes. 

On Saturday 21 March, all ensembles gathered on campus for a memorable Workshop Day where students engaged in intensive sessions with conductors, leading to a performance by students, for students, as a grand finale to a productive and focused day to prepare for our evening concert in May and Fanfare instrumental competition in June. Jazz students were treated to sessions with Mr Dan Quigley from Jazz Music Institute. Percussion specialist, Alice Emor-Kan, provided targeted training to our percussion students. A big thank you to our parent helpers and teachers from across the QASMT faculties who assisted with sectionals and the smooth running of the day. 

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On Monday 23 March, students in QSO Compose Project worked with Craig Allister Young, cellist and composer from Queensland Symphony Orchestra. Our students are working on compositions to workshop with musicians from QSO with a concert at ABC Studios at Southbank in July. Only four schools in Queensland have been approved to participate in this prestigious project.

Gregory Thompson, Instrumental Music Coordinator
gdtho0@@eq.edu.au

from Sustainability

With the aftermath of the flood still so visible, the importance of finding ways to create a more sustainable world are starkly apparent to us all.

QASMT has a strong commitment to implementing changes throughout the school to ensure we reach our goal of a carbon neutral status in 2023, as well as educating our school community to make changes in their own habits to reduce our impact on the planet.

This term students loved the opportunity for a non-uniform day in support of World Water Day on March 22. All donations from the day will be used to contribute to the adoption of a koala. This is an important goal for the school as the Australian Government has now officially listed koalas as an endangered species in Queensland, New South Wales, and the Australian Capital Territory.

On this day we also chose the official name for the QASMT Sustainability mascot. There were over 100 submissions in the naming competition, with one particular name entered by multiple students. So, the winning name for our mascot is Coral! Coral the Dolphin represents our commitment to our oceans, biodiversity and the environment as a whole.

Congratulations to the winners:

• Naisha P
• Manasa S
• Amelia L

Throughout the term we also promoted awareness of World Wildlife Day on 3 March, Ride to School on 25 March and Earth Hour on 27 March.

It is great to see an ever-growing use of active transport to school, whether that be bike riding or greater use of public transport. Many teachers have jumped on-board this initiative and you can see that the teacher bike shed is full most days. 

Fiona Curran, Sustainability Working Party

From Corporate Services

Term 2 - Campus Tours
We are pleased to offer Term 2 guided campus tours for families who are considering entry into Year 7 in 2024 (currently in Year 5).  

To reserve your place on a tour, please visit the link below:
Term 2 - Campus Tours

There are still some 2021 Yearbooks available, if your Yearbook has yet to make it home, please pop into Student Services in A block and collect this book of treasured memories.

School Marketing Team - Terri Bettany, Chelsea Hardman-Denning and Sammy Haggarty

From the P&C

Message from the P&C President

The Parents and Citizens Association (P&C) aims to help enrich every student's experience by supporting Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology (QASMT) events, activities and projects. The P&C provides a platform for parents to contribute to the success of QASMT with as much or as little time as you can spare to volunteer. If you would like to join the P&C, send us an email: qasmtpandc@gmail.com

Thank you to all who attended our AGM and First General Meeting for 2022. It was great to meet new parents and see many of our continuing members. 

P&C Executive Officers elected for this year are:
President: Winand D’Souza
Vice President: Dhaval Patel
Secretary: Lily Liao
Treasurer: Samantha Jones

This year, we will be focusing on community building through organising events, with an aim to bring the school community together. We also re-launched our P&C Building Fund to fundraise through tax deductible donations towards upgrade of our sports and wellbeing facilities on the oval. The Building Fund subcommittee is now looking for three volunteers who have a background in either Marketing, Legal or Accounting. Please contact us should you wish to join this subcommittee. 

Thank you for your continued engagement and support for our wonderful school.

Winand D’Souza, QASMT P&C President

QASMT P&C FUNDRAISING

The QASMT P&C would like to thank the sponsors below,
who pay to advertise their services at the back of our newsletters.
All advertising queries should be directed to the P&C via email (qasmtpandc@gmail.com).