Term in Review - 15 September 2023

From the Senior Leadership Team

Term 3 at QASMT is a time of many significant events for our students and the Academy community, including Interschool Sport Gala Days, NAIDOC Week, Awards Assemblies, Positive Education Week, the Music Program Evening Concert, National Plant a Tree Day and National Science Week. In Term 3 our students also had a number of opportunities to engage with the University of Queensland, with the Year 10 cohort participating in the Experience Scientific Research Day and Year 9 students preparing for their transition to the senior school during the UQ Engagement Day. Students at both UQ engagement events had a wonderful time on campus learning more about life at UQ and study options. As part of our continued commitment to sustainability, QASMT has joined The Alliance for Sustainable Schools (TASS) network, which is an international, non-profit network of schools working together towards a sustainable future. The school leaders who have committed to the Sustainable Schools Charter as part of the network are recognised in their latest blog post. This term students continued with the sustainability focus, participating in National Plant a Tree Day.

For our Year 12 students, Term 3 begins their transition into the final stages of their senior schooling and IB Journey. Students showed off their style at the Year 12 Formal and celebrated the completion of their Extended Essay with the EE pizza party. Theory of Knowledge essays were submitted in Week 3 and students have now completed all Inner Core requirements with the sign off of their CAS reflections. Year 12 mock exams and the Year 12 Conference provided opportunities for students to reflect on their readiness for their final IB exams. Students have been working with their teachers and House Deans to plan for success in November, with students preparing detailed study plans for their IB exam preparation time. We wish our Year 12 students all the very best and encourage them to maintain a healthy, balanced approach to their study. The Queensland Independent Schools Parent Network has some useful advice for parents in supporting their teenager through external exams. https://parentsnetwork.qld.edu.au/2021/08/31/year-12-external-assessments-resources-and-information-to-help-your-child-prepare/

Student leadership applications also commenced this term with students able to apply for a position in one our 12 portfolios ranging from Robotics, Science, Arts and International-Mindedness, as well as for positions to represent their house. Both house and portfolio captains and ambassadors work closely with their student team, teacher coordinator and House Dean providing just one of the many opportunities for student agency at QASMT. This year, we are taking this further by exploring the concept of co-agency. According to the OECD (2019):

“In education systems that encourage student agency, learning involves not only instruction and evaluation but also co-construction. Co-agency is when teachers and students become co-creators in the teaching-and learning process. The concept of co-agency recognises that students, teachers, parents and communities work together to help students progress towards their shared goals.” (OECD, 2019)

As a school we will continue to explore co-agency in the context of QASMT as part of our current Strategic Plan.

With such an eventful and action-packed term, we wish our students, teachers and parents a restful and recharging break and look forward to welcoming everyone bright and ready for Term 4.

Kath Kayrooz, Principal; Tanya Haggarty, Associate Principal Academic;  Kerry Bullock, Associate Principal Teaching and Learning; Catherine de Freitas Pessoa, Deputy Principal Performance; Michele Newman, Deputy Principal Engagement and Sandy Davey, ISSF Program Manager

From the Deputy Principal Senior Years

Term 3 has been a busy term, both for curricular and extra-curricular activities.

We have held Year 12 mock exams, a Year 10 and 11 exam block, and celebrated National Science Week - I’d like to share a few snippets from this term here for you.

Year 12 DP Curriculum

Congratulations must go to our Year 12 cohort who have now completed all their requirements for their Diploma Programme apart from the final examinations! During Term 3 our Year 12s handed in their final EE and TOK assessments, completed their CAS requirements, and completed their mock exams in all subjects. Every year our mock exams are designed to be an experience as close as possible to the final IB examinations in November, and I hope all our Year 12s and their families have a good understanding of how the final exams will look and feel. All Year 12 students have now received their final report cards, have had their IB examination study plan signed off by their House Deans, and have been fully informed as to the November examination protocols and dates.

I encourage all Year 12 students to ensure that - if and when they need to - they reach out to their teachers during their IB examination preparation which runs for all of Weeks 1-3 of next term. I also want to encourage them to stay healthy both physically and mentally through a healthy balance of study, sleep, physical exercise and healthy eating. Good luck to all our Year 12 students and families for this last part of their Diploma Programme.

Spotlight on ATL in the classrooms

At the end of each term, I highlight the IB Approaches to Learning (ATL), which are designed to help students “learn how to learn.” This term I would like to focus on the ATL - research.

This term students have produced work that requires research across all senior subjects from Year 10 DPP Chemistry through to Year 11 DP Economics and Year 12 DP TOK. In classrooms teachers have actively taught how to reference sources appropriate for the subject and assessment, and I saw a very effective lesson in a DPP Chemistry classroom where co-teachers presented examples of weak and strong references. This term all Year 10, 11 and 12 students have had a session with our Laboratory Research Educator (LRE), Dr Slessor, and me, focussing on how to research and how to maintain academic integrity through referencing. On top of this, QASMT Science Fair Program students have experienced a four-week Scientific Research and Communication Program with our LRE before they presented at their national and international conferences.

I was extremely impressed with the quality of research that our EE, Community Project and Science Fair Program students demonstrated this term during the National Science Week Exhibition, UQ-EE presentations and UQ Ideas Forum. The presentations were exemplary! The work presented demonstrated high-level research by students - all students could speak confidently and knowledgeably about their ideas and findings. Both the posters and speaker presentations were well-informed with appropriate references to support their ideas, and results were well-explained in light of real-world science.

I look forward to bringing you more news of IB and ATL next term, but for now, to all our families – have a wonderful break over the school holidays. Our holidays are a perfect time to purposefully practice two IB learner attributes – being reflective and balanced.

Esme Hatchell, Deputy Principal Senior Years

From the Deputy Principal Middle Years

Term 3 was another busy term for our Middle Years’ students at QASMT. 

It has been very pleasing to see so many students involving themselves in the many curricular and extra-curricular opportunities afforded to them each week.

One of the highlights for me this term was watching one of our Year 9 debating teams (Team 9.1) progress through to the Year 9 Queensland Debating Union’s grand-final. As a former English teacher, I have supervised many school teams participate in QDU rounds over the years, and so I know that progressing to the grand final is very challenging indeed. Although our team came second overall, their performance was outstanding, as also noted by the adjudicators. Congratulations to Prabha, Krithika, Bianca and Alaysha! Thank you to the many QASMT supporters who turned up on the night – students, teachers and families to cheer our team on.

Another highlight for me was seeing our Year 9 students present their STEM Community Project Showcase displays to teachers, parents and the public in the Auditorium during National Science Week. The enthusiasm they displayed towards their community endeavour was infectious. I could have listened to their presentations for hours. Well done Year 9! Thank you also to our Community Practice Coordinator, Ms Reynolds, and the many Community Practice teachers for your guidance and support over the past seven months.

Our Year 9 cohort also partook in an excursion to UQ this term with the purpose of exploring what UQ has to offer. By the end of the day all students had explored something new, working alongside UQ tutors and lecturers. It is always a very beneficial day for our Year 9s.

Our Year 7s and 8s were strongly involved with our National Science Week activities this term. From ‘Experience Science’ workshops to hands-on experiments in the courtyard at lunch times, it was an enjoyable week for all concerned. Well done to all students. I look forward to seeing what Term 4 has in store.

This term I spent time talking to all Middle Years’ students about the importance of ethical use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) tools in school assessment items. In line with the IB’s stance on the use of AI, I was able to explain to students the risks of using AI and the best ways to maintain Academy integrity at all times, in line with QASMT’s Academic Integrity Policy. It is important to note that the IB “will not ban the use of AI software”. However, “The IB does not regard any work produced – even only in part – by such [AI] tools, to be their own.” (International Baccalaureate 2023)

I hope that everyone has a very relaxing and safe holiday.

Kind regards

From the inclusion team

Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD)

In Term 3 every year, all schools across Australia provide information about students in schools who have a disability. The NNCD enables schools, education authorities and governments to better understand the needs of students with disability and how they can best be supported. Like all schools, we collect and provide information about the type of disability, the access and adjustments that are made for students and the frequency. If you would like to find out more about NCCD, please see the link provided below. It is important for us to have the most up to date information regarding your student if they have a disability. If you have not spoken to staff at the Academy and your child does have a diagnosis, please do not hesitate to contact me and we can discuss how we can best support your child.

https://www.nccd.edu.au/sites/default/files/nccd_parent_fact_sheet_english_0.pdf

Student Leadership applications for 2024

This year we have seen another increase in the number of student applications across the portfolios. We have increased the number of student ambassadors in portfolios from 6+ to 10+. This is not because of the increase in applications, but due to the work and commitment our student captains and ambassadors have done in their respective portfolios. Our calendar has never been so full, and with a broad number of opportunities for activities, students can engage with or become involved in few or many. All student leadership positions will be announced in Term 4, Week 4 and we wish all applicants the best of luck in the application process. I wish to remind students that if they are not successful this year, they should look for opportunities to show their leadership qualities and apply again.

Jane Manwaring, Director Inclusion and Wellbeing

From the Department of Language and Literature

The Term in Review for English Language and Literature is written in the style of James Joyce.

Term 3 2023 has born witness to the culmination of much of the splendid labor that had come before it in Group 1 – English Language and Literature. In Year 7, our budding scholars embarked upon a voyage into the realm of creative composition, where they fashioned their very own Picture Books after an in-depth exploration of myths and legends from the four corners of the globe. This creative expedition had been further enriched by the presence of an esteemed visiting author who had imparted invaluable "real-world insights and experiences" while guiding the students through their arduous writing process.

Year 9 undertook a meticulous analysis of a myriad of multimodal texts, fostering collaborative endeavors with their peers to delve into the enigmatic notion that communication for change casts an irresistible spell upon the audience's perspective. The students eloquently delivered analytical presentations, dissecting how various authors and organisations conveyed their messages to diverse audiences across the wide spectrum of contextual landscapes.

Year 11 had resolutely advanced towards their Internal Assessment in Term 4 by navigating the intricate narratives of Ishiguro's novel, Never Let Me Go, and the cinematic masterpiece, Gattaca. Both these artistic works probed presentations of speculative futures being shaped by unchecked technological advancements, devoid of moral restraint. The ideas explored and concepts engaged with had ultimately served as the crucible for their forthcoming Term 4 Individual Oral assessments.

In the midst of Term 3, the 2023 QDU Debating Season reached its zenith, marking a culmination of spirited discourse and intellectual engagement. Seven of our adept teams, each brimming with youthful exuberance, ascended to the pinnacle of their respective age-group competitions, making their presence keenly felt on the debating stage. Amongst these bright stars, our Year 9 ensemble, comprised of the formidable quartet Prabha, Krithika, Alaysha, and Bianca, attained the zenith, advancing to the coveted Grand Final of the Brisbane Secondary School Competition. This remarkable feat, a symphony of eloquence and perspicacity, bore witness to the indomitable spirit and unflagging industry of these budding orators. Their journey, a testament to their unwavering determination, tireless toil, and an unwavering dedication to honing their rhetorical prowess, stood as a resplendent example of youthful tenacity and the unquenchable thirst for knowledge. Through the crucible of debate, these students had not only refined their skills but also forged a lasting legacy of intellectual excellence.

Across the Faculty, each student had brought forth a distinctive voice and perspective to the study of English Language and Literature. Over the course of that term, our vision has crystallized, resolutely resolved to unearth and nurture our students' latent potential and cogitation through our innovative models of co-teaching within the hallowed confines of the classroom. Across all grade levels, whether engaged in the realms of creative composition or analytical discourse, that term had presented countless opportunities for students to manifest their insights and profundity of thought. As we reflect upon our shared journey, we can't help but be imbued with an overwhelming sense of pride and admiration for the remarkable growth and accomplishments of our cherished students.

David Bracken, Head of Department Language and Literature

From the Department of Language Acquisition

What a term it has been in the Languages Department! 

We have had wonderful successes at speech competitions; some of our leaders and Year 11 students are now off on amazing international experiences and student participation in the Global Youth Summit was inspiring.

Global Youth Summit

Students in Years 8-10 have been participating in the online sessions of the Inaugural Queensland Global Youth Summit throughout the term. So far there have been three online sessions where students have been exploring youth leadership opportunities, challenges within communities and problem solving with links to Sustainable Development Goals. The fourth and final online workshop will be held early in Term 4 with a culminating event in mid-October, where students will get to meet with others they have interacted with during the online sessions. All our students have contributed greatly throughout these sessions and have impressed the group facilitators with their gems of wisdom. 

Modern Language Teachers Association of Queensland (MLTAQ) Annual Speech Contest

The annual MLTAQ Brisbane Speech Contest was held again this year in August at Griffith University, Nathan campus. We had QASMT students participate in year level contests for French, German, Japanese and Chinese and many were successful with first place winnings in multiple year levels and languages. These students will be recognised at the Commencement Assembly at the beginning of Term 4. Special mention goes to Year 11 student Jyothika who placed first in the Year 11 Brisbane contest and was invited to participate in the Queensland State Competition at Griffith University on the Gold Coast. She placed first in the State Competition on that day and has now been invited to enter the National Speech Competition in September. This is sponsored by the Japan Foundation and results from this should be known by mid-October - best of luck Jyothika!

Fiona Scarth, Head of Department Language Acquisition

From the Department of Technology & the Arts

Term 3 is typically a hectic period featuring mock exams for Year 12 and an early exam block scheduled for Week 8. 

This term has been filled with exciting and innovative learning experiences. Let's take a look at the highlights from each course: 

Year 9 and 10 STEM Futures Program

Year 9 Future of Automation

The Year 9 Future of Automation students were introduced to programming micro-controllers, developing fundamental skills, and created projects that showcased their level of expertise with the Arduino prototyping platform. Each project was built, and computer coded, with the working prototypes videoed, and the design process documented. For building digital devices, students explored various input devices in their projects including movement, temperature, humidity, smoke, and light sensors. The output devices investigated included LEDs, servo motors, liquid crystal displays, speakers, and buzzers. The projects included simple and automated mechatronic engineering projects including humidity and temperature monitoring, fancy light controllers, temperature-based fan speed monitoring systems, sensor alarm systems to name a few.

Year 9 Disrupt the Market

Year 9 students have been learning about business and marketing strategies while also acquiring skills in Adobe Illustrator. In their first assessment task, they used their newly acquired technical skills and abilities in Illustrator to laser cut personalised keychains, using materials such as acrylic, leather, cork and wood. This is in preparation for their second assessment task, where students will be developing and creating a corporate gift that can be given to QASMT guests and visitors as part of the 2023 International Student Science Fair in Term 4.

Year 9 Biomedical Engineering

The connection between design and engineering plays a pivotal role in crafting intricate solutions, particularly when addressing issues within the human body. This journey began as students delved into the realms of engineering principles and procedures required to conceive and fabricate 3D printed models. Additionally, students embarked on a journey to understand the intricacies of bone structure, its biological characteristics, the causes of damage, and the mechanisms involved in the healing process.

Year 10 Living in a Digital Society

Year 10 students conducted an investigation into the effects and significance of social media within the fictional Ramos family's scenario. Their explorations encompassed several aspects, including the consequences of relying on social media as a news source, the influence of inadequately handling one's digital presence, and the utility of social media for both collaboration and personal learning networks (PLN). Each student then addressed their individual inquiry by crafting a three-four minute video essay.

Year 10 Computational Thinking (Computer Science)

Our Year 10 students in the Computer Science program have continued with their study and application of the Java programming language. They are currently engaged in development teams to create a command-line adventure game using Java. This project not only enhances their coding skills but also exposes them to the complexities of teamwork, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in software development.

Year 9 Music - Soundtrack - Space Odyssey

Our STEM Futures Music students have been composing Sonifications of NASA images by experimenting and exploring sounds and genre specific theoretical principles.  These include sound clusters, contrasting pitch textures, unconventional instrumentation and more, after investigating composers and pieces who have depicted space and astrology over time.  Students have been given the choice of using traditional notation software or technology DAW applications to create original compositions.  Students have also been presenting music in groups to a live audience with many developing practical skills on instruments that are not their primary instrument. 

Year 8 Music - Beatbox

This term, our Year 8 Classroom Music, students have taken a journey through the history of blues, jazz, rock and pop music.  This provided an array of learning experiences to develop theory, practical, presentation and research skills.  Students utilised notation software to publish an original song from one of the four genres in addition to rehearsing a song to perform for their peers.  Many students performed on instruments they have never played before, with all students required to learn drumkit and the guitar as part of their assessment.  

Year 7 Music - Bold and the Beautiful

Our Year 7 Classroom Music, students have been collaborating in groups to prepare for a performance in front of a live audience in a unit exploring 'bold' and 'beautiful' music.  In rehearsals, they have been problem solving and persisting with their instruments over time, in order to communicate the intent of the composer which includes interpreting scores and brainstorming approaches to playing individually and as an ensemble.

Year 7 Design

In Term 3, Year 7s learned about the MYP Design Cycle for the first time. Through Assessment 1, Part 1, they analysed an existing product selected by their groups. They sketched the product on a poster and annotated its features. Next, they discussed what new features could be added to the analysed product and what benefits those additions would bring. They incorporated these features into the poster.

For Assessment 1, Part 2, students paired up, with each taking on the roles of a client and a designer. They designed a mobile phone application that aimed to enhance the client's ATL (Approaches to Learning) skills. During interviews, students received client feedback, used techniques like SCAMPER and CARP principles, and created several designs to present to the client. Subsequently, students used Adobe XD to create prototypes based on the designs agreed upon with their clients. There were some installation troubles with Adobe XD along the way, but the students enjoyed the process of creating prototypes for the mobile application.

Year 8 Design

In response to our exploration of the statement, "Design choices influence how others perceive our identity," Year 8 Design students designed a three-page website for one of their classmates. Employing an authentic, human-centered approach, our students honed their interview techniques and cultivated their feedback and listening skills to develop designs that authentically represented the unique character of their clients. Guided by the foundational principles of design, specifically CARP (Contrast, Alignment, Repetition, and Proximity) and colour theory, the students sketched out creative ideas that showcased the essence of their client's identity. Utilising industry-standard languages like HTML5 and CSS3, they hand-coded webpages with the primary aim of presenting their peer clients in a positive and compelling light.

Have a safe and restful holiday.

Madeleine Brookes, Head of Department Technology & The Arts 

From the Department of Individuals and Societies

Firstly, all the best to all Year 12s for next two months as they prepare for the November exams. Remember to keep up good study habits and this includes getting enough sleep and having a healthy diet. 

The two-week mock exams were a challenging experience, adjusting to the lengthy exams and having to sit multiple papers for six subjects in a short space of time. Students should use this experience and the feedback from teachers to prepare for their success come November.

There were two significant highlights this term for students in I&S.

Year 10 Psychology

Abiel and Jasper are Queensland Brain Bee Champions! In Term 2, all QASMT Year 10 Psychology students entered the Queensland Brain Bee competition (a Neuroscience competition run by Queensland Brain Institute). As the top two students from QASMT, Abiel and Jasper were invited to stage two held at the Brain Institute. In the morning they had a tour of the labs and attended some lectures by QBI researchers, and in the afternoon they took part in the next round of the competition. They came first in the group competition; both made it through to the top 10 in the individual competition and Abiel came third overall. Congratulations to our champions. Written by Mrs D’Arcy Carrington

During our Queensland Brain Institute tour, we explored the 7T MRI, observed preserved brain samples, and ventured through the research labs of fish, nematodes, and fruit flies. We learned about the MRI's enhanced speed and precision, and its use for magnetic resonance spectroscopy in brain cancer research. The preserved samples gave us hands-on experience, allowing us to practice diagnosing diseases from what we learnt on paper. We were also shown how video game technology enables researchers to track individual protein behaviours within cells through fluorescent proteins and lasers. The highlight was seeing a real-time projection of a fruit flies’ brain. Written by Jasper

Lyle Fredericksen, Head of Department Individuals and Societies

From the Department of Physical Sciences

Term 3 was a term full of scientific inquiry and learning!

We began the term with all Year 10s joining their science teachers and Dr G on a day trip to UQ for the Experience Scientific Research Day at the end of Week 2. The day is a bespoke science day for QASMT students, where they are able to experience science in the UQ research laboratories. Students participated in a day of laboratory workshops and research experiences in: Scientific Literacy, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. These workshops aim at supporting students to succeed in their Diploma Programme science courses, as well as showing the students what it is like to study different sciences at tertiary level, and as you can see from the photos – it was a wonderful day!

As well as all science students participating in ICAS Science this term, all Chemistry students participated in the International Chemistry Quiz, which is an international competition in which over 95,000 Chemistry students from around the world take part. We are very much looking forward to seeing how our students went.

Still on the topic of science competitions, I would like to congratulate two of our Year 9 students Arianna B and Lucy K who won first place in the ‘Open Crystal’ category of the Queensland Crystal Growing Competition 2023. Crystals were grown - such as the one shown below - it really is an art form!

“You didn’t come this far to only come this far. Dig deep, finish strong and make yourself proud.”

- Gary Ryan Blair

Robert Hughes, Head of Department Physical Sciences

From the Department of Life Sciences

What an amazing term it has been!

It has been full of fun and exciting activities including National Science Week.

Year 10 Diploma Preparation Program

Biology students got a taste for what Diploma Programme Biology will be like. They started with cell basics and moved into genetics. Students finished the term with ecology and started preparing for their practical assignment. They learned how to use new equipment and completed their data collection.

Environmental Systems and Societies students explored speciation and evolution to look at how species develop over time. They analysed genetic information and applied this to classifying organisms and determining when speciation occurred. They have now started looking at urbanisation and the effects it has on freshwater ecosystems, in particular, the Brisbane River which they will investigate for their assessment next term.

National Science Week

Science Ambassadors

The QASMT Science Ambassadors played key roles in National Science Week this term. They organised displays and activities in the courtyard during lunch times and helped out with hosting and ushering events during the week, making themselves available whenever they were needed. I am extremely proud of the wonderful students that make up our Science Ambassadors; they truly encompass what it means to be a QASMT student.

Year 7 and 11 Exploratory Science Workshop (Group 4 Project)

During National Science Week Year 11 students took part in the Year 7 and 11 Exploratory Science Workshop, also known as the Group 4 Project. The Group 4 Project is a collaborative and interdisciplinary project undertaken by all IB students. The Group 4 Project offers students a platform to apply scientific concepts they have learned in their respective disciplines and develop activities that reinforce the principles of STEM education. That is, problem solving, critical thinking, collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches. In Term 2, Year 11 students had a full day of brainstorming and collaboration to prepare for this day. They delivered their purposefully designed activities to Year 7 students who were keen and excited to learn from them. All involved valued the experience and got a lot out of the day.

Brunch with a scientist

Dr Slessor, our Laboratory Research Educator, organised a fantastic experience for students on the Thursday of National Science Week. Eight STEM experts from the University of Queensland came and had brunch with the students and shared their research areas and expertise. They ranged from engineers to snake venom experts, to differential geometry and molecular structural biology. The students asked lots of questions and learnt a lot from these STEM experts.

Enrichment

Biotech Futures Symposium

On Thursday 13 July, three of our Year 11 students, Hermaan C, Sonny Z and Harry L, presented at the Queensland Biotech Futures competition at QUT. Their product design focused on the development of a mask delivery system for antiviral medication. They presented to a panel of academic judges and then answered subsequent questions. They placed first in the state and will now take their idea to Sydney next term at the national competition – best of luck!

Kids STEM Convention

20 of our Year 7 students have been busy working on their projects this term after their inspiration day at UQ in Week 1. We have a varied range of investigations that cover all three categories of scientific investigation, design engineering and digital technology. We look forward to them presenting at the celebration evening next term in Week 2.

“Curiosity is the most powerful thing you own”­

– James Cameron

Vanessa Bermingham, Head of Department Life Sciences 

From the Department of Mathematics

Term 3 is known as competition term, with maths enrichment programs on offer like AMC, Year 7/8 Maths Quiz, ICAS and AIMO. 

Students have been IB learners as they strive to be inquirers, thinkers and risk takers, both in the classroom and during competitions.

Curriculum in the classroom…

Year 7s started the term by extending their investigating pattern skills to use in their Criterion B assessment. They were also considering the statement of inquiry “How can we travel between dimensions?” While this may seem like space travel, the unit was actually looking at the dimensions of measurement (perimeter, area and volume) and concepts of geometry (angles, lines and 3D space). The unit culminated with a Criterion A (knowledge) test.  A new unit “How do we measure up?” has begun - with concepts of scale drawing, triangles and percentages being explored.

Early in the term, Year 8 students focused on length, area, volume and surface area of circles, triangles and prisms, before completing a Criterion A knowledge test. They then began work on indices, which prepared them for their Criterion B and C assessments, investigating patterns formed from diagrams and descriptions and fractals. The term will finish with new unit entitled “Take a chance on me” which includes the topic of probability.

Year 9 students started the term considering the inquiry statement “Human impact on the environment can be understood through valid models and spatial forms” and how this could apply to their Criterion D, real-life context assessment, that required them to apply their measurement knowledge to repackage an item with the goal of reducing the amount of packing material required. To round out the term, the concepts of linear equations, inequalities, linear relationships and solving simultaneous equations were covered before a knowledge test in Week 9.

Year 10 students are now in their Diploma Programme preparation subjects - Mathematics: Analysis and Approaches (in SL and HL) or Mathematics: Application and Interpretation (in SL or HL). While all students cover some common core topics like sequences and series, financial maths and functions, they also engaged in some unique topics specific to the style of work covered in the Diploma Programme, like proofs and polynomial for Maths AAHL and matrices for Maths AIHL.  Students have completed their first taste of the assessment style differences in the subjects with calculator and non-calculator papers in AA, but calculator allowed in all AI exams. Most students have chosen their subject and level well and are now finding their “tribe” in classrooms.

Year 11 students have continued to move through their subject content with HL students almost finished their SL content. Year 12, having completed coursework in Term 2, spent Term 3 engaged in a comprehensive revision program. They have just completed their mock exams, which will give them valuable feedback on areas of strength and which topics they need to target in their revision for November exams. We wish them a productive Year 12 exam preparation program.

Enrichment Programs outside the classroom…

There have been many enrichment opportunities this term.

38 students in Years 7 to 10 engaged in the Maths Enrichment Program offered by the Australian Mathematics Trust. They have been working through a booklet of difficult problems to solve. The final of these need to be submitted in the first week of Term 4. We hope they have enjoyed the challenge.

Over 100 eager Year 7 and 8 students competed in Round 1 of the QAMT Year 7/8 Quiz in Week 7. The room was buzzing with excitement as students used estimation skills to count the number of seats in the Schonell Theatre and the height of a tractor wheel in just 30 seconds. This was followed by a speed round, individual problems, a team relay and finally the dreaded general knowledge. Do you know “which number is represented in binary as 100”?

Congratulations to all students who participated and especially to the top three teams:

1^st place -  Aimee, Daisy and Melissa

2^nd place  - Key, Malcolm and Amaan

3^rd place - Ethan, Ethan and Sean

Round two will be in Week 1 next term. Good luck to these teams.

Two of our students were invited to sit the AMOC (Australian Mathematic Olympiad Senior Contest) which is a prestigious test only offered to approximately two hundred students in Australia. Congratulations to Siddharth and Katherine.

All students competed in the Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC) on 4 August. Years 7 to 10 students also completed the ICAS Mathematics Competition. We are hoping for great results in both of these competitions.

The final competition for the term was the Australian Intermediate Maths Competition (AIMO). We had 12 students from Years 7, 8, 9 and 10 competing in this problem-solving competition, based on their participation in various programs and competitions held earlier in the year. The students enjoyed a challenging four-hour exam made up of 10 questions. Performance in this will serve as part of the selection process for other AMT Olympiad-level competitions in the future.

I wish all students and families a safe and relaxing spring break after a yet another busy term. 

Jane Gorman, Head of Department Mathematics

From Education Outside of the Classroom (EOTC)

It was another big term in EOTC with the Year 10s kicking off our first annual Ski Tour since COVID. 

There was also CAS sign offs, Met Finals, Regional selections, Junior Schools Cup preparation and a strong chance of securing a pennant or two in the Term 3 Gala Day. We also had a great term in the classroom with a number of curriculum highlights.

Perisher Ski Tour

The first annual Perisher Ski Tour was a great success and proved that getting out of your comfort zone invites fun and adventure! Over 40 Year 10 students participated in this year’s tour, and quite a few had never seen the snow before which was super exciting for everyone.

One week out from the trip, snow conditions were looking grim with the temperatures hitting 10 degrees. We began to worry that we would see more grass than snow in Perisher. Luckily, a few days prior to arrival, temperatures cooled, and the snow bucketed in as Mr Conway eagerly monitored the snow cams. The slopes were primed and ready for our arrival.

Throughout the trip, temperatures ranged between 4°C and -7°C – great conditions for us to tackle some runs. Not even the snow fall, cold winds and, at times, low visibility could stop our students from carving up and/or (more often than not) falling down the slopes in the first couple of days.

As time went by, students that braved the conditions were rewarded and were quick to develop skills. T bars and end of the day bumps and mounds in the snow were a challenge for most, producing some piles ups, while the more experienced skier/boarders took advantage and tackled them like terrain parks. By the end of the trip, all students had experienced what it was like to ski from one mountain to another. A great feat for beginners.

Overall, the students did themselves proud. They were well mannered, responsible and safe on the slopes. While there were some injuries, students looked after one other and worked as a team. A huge thank-you to chaperones, Sean Conway, Aileen Davis and Georgina Lunn for their tireless efforts and expertise on the slopes.

Representative Sport

It has been a busy term for Representative Sport with several students trialling for various sports including district athletics and cricket. Well done to the students below who made the following teams:

Metwest Regional Cricket – Tanvi A

Northern Eagles District Cricket – Shlok D and Maurya P

Northern Eagles District Athletics – Loti W and Oliver A

Yanah Floridis, Head of Education Outside the Classroom

From the House Deans

Middle Senior Awards Program

Approximately 1000 students earned and received a principal commendation award for their academic performance in our Term 3 Week 3 Awards program and students should be very proud of their efforts and diligence to work hard to earn such accolades.  Wishing all students further success as they finish the year strong through sustained efforts in Term 4.  

Golden Paddle Tournament

Another prized piece of silverware up for bragging rights occurs every Term 3 at QASMT and this year a hard-fought tournament to decide the supreme table tennis champion occurred. Congratulations to Junior School Winner Ethan Dang and Senior School Winner Abiel Antony and then the overall champion table tennis player for 2023 is Abiel Antony.

House Charity Update 

Congratulations to all students in all houses for their generous contributions and efforts to support charities this year.  Congratulations to the Mr Panousis and the Leo’s team for raising over $400 through their Term 3 sausage sizzle and 20c challenge where all funds will go to kids’ cancer research and diabetes research.  The below table summarises the impressive contribution to all house charities by the QASMT community thus far and please note Da Vinci Bake Sale to occur in Week 7 Term 4. 

Inter House Trivia Competition 

Another fantastic engaging interhouse competition took place this term.  Over two days, the eight houses battled each other with their wits for ultimate bragging rights for Trivia Champions for 2023.  Results will be presented to students in the commencement assembly Week 1 Term 4. Thank you to Mr Bray and the Year 11 student team for planning and facilitating this enjoyable competition.

Year 12 Formal 

The highlight of all graduating classes is the Year 12 formal and thanks to Dr Davis, Mr Bray, and the Year 12 student team for another sensational night enjoyed by all. 

House Captains and Ambassadors for 2024 

All the applications have been read, all the interviews have been concluded, all candidate speeches have been given and houses have voted…All successful House Captains and Ambassadors for 2024 will be announced after awards night in Term 4 with their official duties beginning Week 4.         

Year 12 Conference 

A great way for Year 12 students to recover from mock exams is to sit back, relax and engage in a 3-day inspiring and motivational corporate style conference. Students were privileged to have dynamic guest presenters on motivation, team building and leadership, the importance of service to others, road, and personal safety, resilience boosts along with study tips and strategies from people who had been there and done that.  The conference culminated with a fun filled trip to movie world.  Thank you Mr Bray and Dr Davis, for coordinating this event enjoyed by all.

Year 12 Farewell House Assembly

All houses bid farewell to their Year 12s in their final house assembly in Week 9.  Kind words, touching tributes and emotional speeches were had and once again we say goodbye to the fine men and women that have been in our house for the past three years and wish them much success as they leave QASMT and make positive contributions to society just as they have in each of their houses. They will be missed but their contribution to their house will always be remembered.

Year 6 Transition Day 1 

A day of interactive social activity, school tours and information were delivered to Year 6 students who will attend QASMT in 2024.  Thank you to Mr Wheeler, Mr Weston, and the rest of the team for putting on an engaging informative day to ensure that all incoming students understand and begin to know school expectations and processes. Thank you to for the willingness of current Year 7 students to share their experience and give advice to the incoming students.

Year 12 SWOTVAC 

Year 12 students will be on their Final IB Exam Preparation SWOTVAC from Thursday September 7.  During this time, students are encouraged to be very disciplined by establishing a study routine and a set of peak performance behaviours that will put them in good stead for delivering their very best in their final IB exams that commence Week 4, Term 4.  Expectations, tips, advice, study plans, and recommendations have been communicated to students along with tutorial times for students to build into their daily habits of mind as they put their best efforts into their final obligations.  Wishing our Year 12s all the best with their preparations. 

STEM Tours 

We wish our 100+ Year 11 students safe travels and best wishes for their STEM tours over the holidays as groups of students travel to Japan, France, Germany, and Italy.  May all students keep healthy, learn lots and have fun with each other as they visit amazing sites, learn from others, and gain a further appreciation, respect and tolerance of other culture and way of life.  Looking forward to hearing the stories next term students.

Wishing you all an enjoyable and safe Term 3 holiday.  Please do not hesitate to contact any of the House Deans if there is anything we can do to further support your child.

Aileen Davis, House Dean Agnesi; Marc Wheeler, House Dean Curie; Stacy Wallace-Cunningham, House Dean Da Vinci; Ross Bray, House Dean Franklin; Beccy Parker, House Dean Hawking; Mick Colquhoun, House Dean Hollows; Sam Weston, House Dean Jackson; and Deva Prasad, House Dean Newton.

From the Guidance Officers

There have been many inspiring conversations this term as students explore the breadth of options available both here at the Academy and after they graduate. 

Our Year 9 students have completed their Senior Education and Training (SET) planning as they look towards their study options through the IB Diploma Programme and on to tertiary studies. This included individual interviews to discuss their plans, and collaboration with families to support our students’ journey.

For our Year 12 students, tertiary applications are now open. Some applications close at the end of September so students should be submitting their applications as soon as possible. Congratulations to the Year 12 students who have already received offers for courses for 2024 through one of the early offer processes.

Career Planning Resources and Events

Griffith University – Scholarships

• 1000+ scholarships on offer – academic achievement, relocation, equity and support, First Peoples, sports achievement
• Applications for 2024 now open
• Free and easy to apply
• Apply for all of them with just one form

Griffith.edu.au/scholarships

In 2024: New scholarships

• VC’s Academic Achievement Scholarship
• Brighter Futures Scholarship
• Chancellor’s Scholarship

QUT – Tours and Scholarships

Students are invited to join QUT in the September school holidays to discover the real QUT through a campus tour. Led by current QUT students, the tours will showcase facilities and community spaces. Tours will run on Wednesday 27 and Friday 29 September across both Gardens Point and Kelvin Grove campuses. Registration is essential. 

QUT offers a wide range of scholarships to future students. Application processes can differ – it is important that applicants are across the requirements and key dates for each scholarship.  Explore all QUT scholarships

JCU - Application Based Programs

This year, JCU’s written application for Bachelor of Medicine, Bachelor of Surgery no longer contains the additional four questions. Applicants now only need to submit their personal information, education background, with the choice to include letters of support. Learn more.

Bond University – Welcome to Actuarial Science

This event is for all students and their parents who are interested in studying the Bachelor or Master of Actuarial Science. A welcome reception and talks from faculty and industry speakers will occur on: 

• Date: Wednesday 4 October 2023
• Time: 5:00pm – 7:30pm (registration opens from 4.45pm)
• Venue: Building 6, Level 3, University Club 

Drinks and canapes to be served

Registrations close on Thursday 28 September at 9:00am. 

Speakers

• Terry O'Neill - Executive Dean, Bond Business School 
• Steve Stern - Professor of Data Science and Custodian and Co-creator of the Duckworth-Lewis-Stern (DLS) Method
• Ryan Boyd - Head of Product & Underwriting Health at Allianz 

ACU Guarantee

Students can guarantee their place at ACU, even before their Year 12 exams.

The ACU Guarantee program offers eligible Year 12 students a place at ACU based on their Year 11 results. Applications open on 24 July and close on 18 September.  Find out more.

ANU Offers

Offers for ANU Direct Applicants for 2024 entry were released on Monday 4 September 2023. The complete timeline for direct applications is available at https://www.anu.edu.au/study/apply/domestic-applications-anu-undergraduate/applying-to-anu-application-details/application

Our general advice to all students who receive an offer in September is to ACCEPT all parts of their offer, including any accommodation and scholarship offers. Students have until Wednesday 4 October to accept their offers.

USA – Ivy League Colleges

Join us to learn more about Brown University, Columbia University, Princeton University, and the University of Pennsylvania!

Admissions representatives will hold a virtual public information session for students and families about their respective universities and the highly selective college admissions process. Topics will include: academic programs, campus activities, admissions policies, financial aid, and international student life.

East Asia, Southeast Asia and Oceania Virtual Information Session

Wednesday, 20 September 8:00-9:00 am ET

Register now by clicking here.

Space is limited and registration is REQUIRED. If you have questions about the information session, please email ugrad-ask@columbia.edu.

Contact

I am available Monday to Thursday during school term, 8:00am - 4:00pm for appointments, or can be contacted by email if I can answer any questions to support you.

Wishing you all a restful holiday!

Katrina Judge, Guidance Officer (Career Planning)  
kjudg12@eq.edu.au 

It was another wonderful term of supporting QASMT students with their wellbeing. 

My role as Guidance Officer allows me the great privilege to work individually with students during some of their most challenging times while they experience complex wellbeing and mental health concerns. Students are able to access my support in a confidential manner, However, the best outcomes often result when students allow me to share some information with the adults who support them, their parents and teachers. I will continue to work with the students to engage them with the support they may need.

Some common themes have emerged this term. I have provided links to some of the fantastic resources from SchoolTV that may be helpful to support parent and community understanding and possible actions in these key areas.

• Brain health as it relates to stress
• Trauma and the impact on young brains 
• Low mood
• Managing screen time 
• Impact of digital misuse
• Exam stress

Wellbeing Seminar Series

Our Wellbeing Seminar Series continues to receive a great response from our QASMT community. This term we held another informative evening and there was a large parent response with attendance and positive feedback. The Headspace presenter, Georgia, and a clinician from Headspace, shared with parents and community about how to best support our young people. Topics covered included:

• Understanding mental health and wellbeing in young people
• Noticing changes that a young person might be going through a tough time
• Identifying strategies to connect and communicate with young people
• Increasing knowledge about how to support a young person and where to access professional support.

Community Support Services to access during the break:

For your children:

• Talk to your parents – they are your biggest advocates and think you are wonderful – they will listen to you and support you.
• Kids Helpline: 1800 551 1800    
• Lifeline: 13 11 14     
• E-Headspace: 1800 650 890 (e-headspace is not for crisis support)
• Youth Beyond Blue: 1300 224 636  
• Suicide Call Back Service: 1300 551 800 

For parents and community:

• Parentline: 1300 30 1300 
• Family and Child Connect: 13 32 64
• Lifeline: 13 11 14 
• Relationships Australia: 1300 364 277 
• Butterfly
• Griefline: 1300 845 754 
• 1800Respect: 1800 737 732 

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

Tara le Pla, Guidance Officer (Student Wellbeing)

From Instrumental Music and Vocal music

This term, our Big Band students from Years 7-11 participated in an exclusive workshop with the Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra with Wynton Marsalis on stage at the Concert Hall, QPAC. Students were given the unique opportunity to work with two professional musicians that have performed with Wynton Marsalis around the globe, Elliot Mason and Nicole Glover. Our Music Program students were able to develop their jazz performance skills; were given tips on how to improve their dynamic range; use their creative abilities when improvising and to foster teamwork whilst playing in an ensemble. Led by nine-time Grammy Award winner Wynton Marsalis, the superlative Jazz at Lincoln Center Orchestra from New York is made up of 15 of the world’s finest soloists, ensemble players and arrangers in jazz music today.  Only three schools in Queensland were accepted to play as part of the three-day residency at QPAC this year.

Rock band ‘Volcanic Rock’ performed in the regional Battle of the Bands. They prepared a three song set including an original song that made it to Triple J Unearthed High this year. This experience provided our students with a real-world experience with their level matching other schools on the night. Their dedication to their craft in the past few years as a group ensured their performance was high energy and was well received by the crowd and judges.

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