Term 2 2025

Dates to Remember*

Principal Update

Term 2 Wrap Up!

What a busy and rewarding term we have had. Term 2 was filled with achievements, school events, and important preparation for the months ahead.

We started the term with our whole school ANZAC Day assembly, where we welcomed special guests from our community to commemorate. Our Marching Band also proudly represented our school in the Ipswich City ANZAC Day parade.

Our Student Leaders and First Nations Leaders were officially inducted this term. These students have embraced opportunities to represent our school with pride through a range of school and community activities.

We celebrated positive behaviour across the term with two PBL Rewards Days. These events allow us to acknowledge and reward students consistently demonstrating our school’s REAL expectations.

It has been a particularly busy term for our Year 10 students as they prepare for their senior years. They attended the annual Market Day to explore subject options and took part in the SET Planning process with their parents and carers to make important decisions about their future pathways. We are excited to continue supporting them as they build strong foundations for success in their senior years.

A highlight this term was our Centre Stage Stars production, Redbank Plains Night Live. It was fantastic to see our students take to the stage and share their talents, creativity, and teamwork with the school community.

In Week 10 we had a wonderful performance for our Cultural Day, “Many Cultures ONE Community”. The showcase was filled with high-energy cultural dancing and music bringing the students and staff together to experience the rich diversity of our school community.

We also celebrated numerous outstanding sporting achievements, with students excelling in both team and individual events. 

I am incredibly proud of what our students and staff have achieved this term. Thank you to our families and community for your ongoing support. We look forward to an exciting and productive Term 3.

Ms Aimee Argiro
Executive Principal

Associate Principal - Diana Furlan

I would like to introduce myself to our school community in a new position established at the beginning of this term, though I have been Deputy Principal for many years. With our increased student numbers, we have created a new position of Associate Principal. In this position, my portfolios include Senior Pathways (Years 10–12), Digital Innovation, Data-Informed Practices, and Staff Wellbeing. I look forward to strengthening our pathways and ensure every learner is supported through their senior years. I’m excited to continue contributing to our school’s growth and innovation in this new capacity.

As we reach the end of this term, it’s a great time to reflect on our student’s journey with the Year 10’s completing their SET Plans as they prepare for their final senior phase of schooling and our Year 12’s thinking about “it’s only just 100 days of school left till graduation” and Year 13.

For our Grade 10 students, this term has enabled them to look at subject options early for study in Year 11 and 12 allowing some of them to make small changes to their timetables in Semester 2 to be better prepared for Year 11 and 12. Further, we are implementing some changes to how students’ study in Year 11 2026 and then onwards with a day set aside for those students attending WesTEC, School based traineeships or apprenticeship, delivery of Work Experience and other certificate courses to enable students to finish Year 12 with a personalised career pathway for Year 13. Stay tuned for more information throughout Term 3 and 4.

For our Grade 12 students, this term marks an important milestone as they completed Unit 3 final assessments. Many of our students enrolled in Vocational Courses are completing those at present with students then being offered flexi timetables to enable them to concentrate on final assessments for their other subjects. With Unit 4 on the horizon, many have realised the importance of completing their education and have shown a commitment to achieving their QCE.  Important dates for Term 3 and 4 include 100 days Celebration 13 August, Formal 17 September, final Year 12 Assembly 14 October, External Exams Block – 27 October to 14 November, Academic Awards 18 November, and Graduation 21 November.

We are grateful for the support you, as parents, carers and guardians, have provided throughout this term. Together, we are helping them achieve their best.

Wishing you all a restful and enjoyable break.

Diana Furlan
Associate Principal

Deputy News

As Term 2 draws to a close, I’d like to take a moment to acknowledge the effort and growth we’ve witnessed across our Year 7 and 8 cohorts. I have witnessed connection, progress, and increasing confidence in our students, and I have enjoyed watching their continued development, inside and outside the classroom. I am proud of the way students have continued to embrace the opportunities and challenges they have been presented with.

Year 7: Finding Their Feet and Gaining Confidence

It’s been fantastic to see our Year 7s settling further into high school life. They have become more familiar with our expectations, processes, and school culture, taking more responsibility for their learning and choices. They’re developing increased independence, challenging themselves, seeking support if required, and building relationships. The adjustment from primary to secondary school is a big leap, but Term 2 has shown that our Year 7 students have risen to the challenge. A big focus this term has been developing routine and consistency – showing up to school prepared, completing classroom tasks and engaging in their learning, asking for help when needed, and managing time effectively. These are skills that will serve them well in the years ahead.

Year 8: Stepping Up and Stretching Themselves

This term, Year 8 students have continued to develop their skills, friendships, and confidence as active members of our school community. In the classroom, they've taken on new challenges across all subjects, with many showing impressive growth in both effort and achievement. Outside the classroom, students have been involved in a range of school activities, which have been completed with enthusiasm. We’ve seen growing leadership and teamwork skills across the cohort. Their role in school life is growing, with increased opportunities to lead and demonstrate their individual skills. As they begin to consider their pathway and subject choices for Year 9, it’s an ideal time to reflect on their strengths, interests, and future goals.

Highlights of the Term

Some standout moments this term have included:

• The PBL Rewards Day, which included a dunk tank, where students enjoyed dunking staff (myself included!)
• Urban Utilities – Beneath the Streets Presentation – Year 7
• Jack Beasley Foundation Presentation – Year 8
• Redbank Plains Night Live
• Sporting competitions, where our students have represented our school with pride

Exciting events still to come this term:

• Multicultural Assembly
• Track and Field Carnival

Wellbeing and Respectful Relationships

At Redbank Plains State High School, wellbeing is an important aspect of our school community. Respectful relationships and digital citizenship have sparked some important conversations across Year 7 and 8 this term. Navigating social media safely, developing empathy, and building resilience are all crucial skills for our young people, and we’re committed to supporting students to thrive both socially and emotionally.

Looking Forward

As we move into Term 3, we’ll continue to build on academic growth, student voice, and individual goal-setting. For Year 8s, subject selection and preparation for the middle years is a key focus. For Year 7s, consolidating learning habits and routines, and strengthening relationships will remain a priority.

I’d like to thank our families for your support throughout this busy term. Whether it’s attending events, encouraging good learning habits, or simply checking in with your child each day – your involvement makes a significant difference. Please remember the importance of students attending school every day.

Wishing you all a safe, happy, and well-earned break. I look forward to seeing all the student’s back next term.

Bec Piercy
Deputy Principal – Years 7 & 8

School Events

PBL Rewards Day

A fun filled day rewarding the Top 80 students from each year level with a session of fun activities on the oval which included…

• Inflatable Hungry Hippos, Basketball, and Soccer
• A 30m Obstacle Course
• Teacher Dunk Tank (which was definitely a favourite)

Positive Behaviour Learning (PBL) is an Education Queensland initiative for creating positive learning environments. At Redbank Plains SHS we have four key behavioural expectations we explicitly teach our students that reflect our values. We promote REAL behaviour through the school community- Respect, Excel, Attend and Learn. To celebrate and acknowledge the students who are consistently meeting these expectations we use Compass Points, this gives us the opportunity to provide feedback and recognition of REAL behaviour.

ANZAC Day Ceremony

Our school community alongside special guests including Mayor Teresa Harding, Milton Dick, Councillor Pye Augustine, Councillor Jacob Madsen, Chris Condon (Policy Advisor for Hon Shayne Neumann), Steven Hall, Paul Sinclair, Lance McCallum and Gary Gibson OAM from Redbank RSL, came together to commemorate ANZAC Day 2025. ANZAC Day is a National Day of Remembrance in Australia and New Zealand.

Woogaroo Creek State School Under 8s Day

Our school leaders attended the under 8s day at Woogaroo Creek State School. It was a wonderful morning with students leading a range of activities and encouraging the young children to participate. It was heart-warming to see our students engaging with the children, celebrating with hi-fives, and offering words of encouragement and praise. The feedback from attending WSS staff and parents was overwhelmingly positive with several people commenting on how kind and compassionate our students are.

Year 7 Urban Utilities Workshop

On Wednesday 21^st May, all Year 7 students enjoyed an interactive session, ‘Beneath the Streets’ presented by the Urban Utilities Education Program.

The session aimed for students to understand how wastewater services are managed by Urban Utility, and how wastewater is being transformed through treatment process to be used as a powerful resource in our community.

Students assisted in hands on experiments showing how the properties of water can be manipulated for different effects including creating water vapour clouds with liquid nitrogen, helping them to visualise the evaporation and condensation phase of the water cycle. 

The session allowed students to connect and transform their knowledge from their Geography unit on water scarcity. They made real world connections to the local management of water, and the value of the water cycle. 

Student Leadership

L.E.A.D. Program Kicks Off with Energy and Inspiration!

We are thrilled to announce that the L.E.A.D. Program – Leading, Educating, Aspiring to make a Difference – is officially up and running at Redbank Plains State High School!

This exciting initiative engages 35 passionate young leaders from Years 8 to 12, with plans to welcome our enthusiastic Year 7 leaders to the program next term. The L.E.A.D. Program is all about developing leadership potential, amplifying student voice, and inspiring students to make a real difference within our school and broader community.

In just a few short weeks, we have already completed three dynamic workshops that have sparked energy, connection, and growth among our student leaders.

• Workshop 1 kicked off with a fast-paced brainstorming challenge where students reflected on why they wanted to be leaders and shared big ideas for improving student life at RBP. The energy in the room was electric as students put their passion and creativity into action.
• Workshop 2 was a highlight, as we welcomed Principal Ms Argiro and Deputy Principal Mr Sippel to speak about their personal leadership journeys and the traits they believe make an effective leader. Our students were inspired by their stories and walked away with new insights and motivation.
• In Workshop 3, students were put to the test with a challenging communication activity that pushed their patience – and their problem-solving skills – to the limit. The result? A powerful realisation that leadership can be a frustratingly positive journey, and that perseverance and teamwork are essential to growth.

Over the coming weeks, students will continue building their leadership toolkit through workshops focused on setting personal leadership goals, teamwork, decision-making, empathy, and taking initiative. We’ll also be exploring ways our young leaders can actively represent the student voice and lead real initiatives within the school community.

As the L.E.A.D. Program grows, so too does the potential of our students. We can’t wait to see where their leadership journey takes them next!

Arts Faculty News

Around Our Classrooms

Dance

Year 9 Musical Theatre

Continuing from our Musical Theatre Unit last term, students were challenged to create their own choreography for a musical theatre dance. Students collaborated in groups to create a performance piece and worked to build a folio of their work. Students investigated the ways movement can communicate meaning and tell a story!

Drama

Year 9 POV Storytime Unit

This term, our year 9 Drama class dove into the world of TikTok skits! The rise of entertainment through apps such as TikTok and Instagram has uncovered a new genre of performance. Students investigated the various styles of these popular short form skit videos and worked on creating their own. Students engaged in workshops for script writing and developed their own storyboards and character profiles. They then used these to inform their own short form skits!

Year 10 Physical Theatre

During Term 2, our Year 10 Drama class investigated the world of Physical Theatre. Students looked at various examples of famous physical theatre from its earliest forms, to its most popular! Students spent the term developing their understanding of the conventions of the genre, learning how to create meaning through movement, rather than words. In groups, students interpreted themes from various stimuli and collaborated to create a story concept. From there, they worked to incorporate music and props to help enhance their theme. Below are some groups in their workshopping phase of the performance.

Media

Year 8 Stop Motion

This term the Year 8 Media class has been busy turning their storyboards and planning from last term into a stop motion movie using fabulous Playdough characters and objects. Scenes were carefully arranged, objects moved, re-photographed and then turned into a movie.

Music

Year 7/8 Music learnt how to play a variety of different instruments including acoustic guitar, bass guitar, keyboard and glockenspiel to perform Three Little Birds by Bob Marley in small groups.

Year 9 students have been busy learning about analysing the musical elements in our Video Game Unit. Students have been studying and listening to the music from games such as Halo, Super Mario Bros, The Last of Us and Zelda, just to name a few. They completed their TEEC paragraphs in exam conditions about an unstudied work.

These students are now composing their very own music to a video game of their choice using the digital platform Soundtrap.

Here is an example of a composition created by our talented Indi who based her assessment on Skirk from Genshin Impact.

Picture: A snippet of Indi’s work based on Skirk from Genshin Impact.

The Year 11/12 Music in Practice class has been Building Their Brand this term, focusing on their Composing skills. A wide variety of compositions were written, including EDM, R n B, ballads, pop rock and jazz. Some students performed their compositions live with a band, some performed solo whilst others created original works in Soundtrap. We will bring you several of these original works in our Term 3 Arts Showcase.

Visual Art

This term both our Year 11 and Year 12 Visual Arts in Practice classes have made Artists Books for their major project, expressing a theme in a format of their own choosing.

Instrumental Music

Concert Band and Marching Band

At the end of Term 1, the RPSHS Concert Band and Marching Band participated in a two-day workshop. The HOD of Instrumental Music for Metropolitan South Region, Mr Matt Chambers worked with our Concert Band, finessing the music for ANZAC Day. The following day the Marching Band had the pleasure of participating in a workshop led by retired Chief Petty Officer Jesse Carmona, formerly of the US Navy. Chief put the band through many drills to improve their marching and their playing. It was a great end to the term.

ANZAC Assembly

Our Instrumental Music students began Term 2 with the school’s ANZAC Day assembly, performing hymns and marches for our special guests, staff and students. A special shoutout must go to Brooklynn in Year 9 for her performance of the Reveille and the Rouse on the bugle. Anyone familiar with trumpet repertoire would know that this is a challenging work to play, especially in front of peers. Great work Brooklynn.

ANZAC Day

Once again, our Redbank Plains State High School Marching Band stepped off from the Top of Town to represent our school in the Ipswich City ANZAC Day parade. We received many favourable comments from the community afterwards from people who were completely unknown to us. Several even said that our band was their favourite part of the parade! Well done students!

State Honours Ensemble Program – Congratulations Kristine!

In May, Year 9 student Kristine attended SHEP. This is a prestigious event that students are nominated to attend. With so many nominations, it is a very competitive program. Kristine spent the weekend playing in a Concert Band directed by an Industry Professional, working with many other advanced student musicians from schools across Queensland. The weekend culminated in a concert at the Queensland Conservatorium of Music. Well done Kristine!!

Lunchtime Activities

🎤Karaoke Club🎤

Our newest teacher to the Music Department, Krystle Gallichan has started up some exciting new lunchtime activities including Karaoke Club and Guitar Workshop. They are an opportunity for all staff and students to have a safe space to learn, practice and connect through the joys of music. Whether you’re a seasoned performer or just starting out, come along and get involved in the fun!

At Karaoke Club, our Singstars strive to create a fun, inclusive, and supportive space where every student feels welcome to be themselves. Our vision is to build a positive community where all voices are celebrated and heard, whether you're a confident performer or just discovering your love for music.

We celebrate self-expression, encourage each other to step out of our comfort zones, and create a space free from judgement. Through laughter, music, and new friendships, we aim to make every Karaoke Club session a place where students can grow, connect, and shine — one song at a time.

Guitar Workshops🎸

Our Rockstars have started these workshops enthusiastically!

In Week 7, they learnt how to read and interpret tablature (TABS) and playing songs such as “Seven Nation Army”, “Smoke on the Water” and “Harry Potter – Main Theme”.

In Week 8, students learnt how to read and interpret chord diagrams of A, D and E and played along to “Wild Thing” by the Troggs.

In Week 9, students learnt the G, Am, Em and C chords to perform a Musical Futures mashup featuring the songs “Halo” by Beyoncé, “Stay” by Rhianna and “Geronimo” by Sheppard.

Staff and students alike have united in the love of learning guitar. Some of their goals include performing their favourite riffs or songs, singing and playing at the same time, being around like-minded people, to form a rock band and to learn something different. We cannot wait to see what these future rockstars will achieve!

After School Extra-Curricular Activities

Centre Stage Stars

Term 2 saw the re-vitalisation of our Drama Extension program with a new name and a new logo – enter Centre Stage Stars!

Redbank Plains Night Live!

Congratulations to Drama staff Geo Toner and Ruby Hughes on their first show at Redbank Plains State High School! On the Thursday and Friday nights of Week 8, our Centre Stage Stars took to the stage to perform for our wider school community in Redbank Plains Night Live, a collection of comedic skits and improvisations. Many laughs were had, and several students showed some alter egos which are not visible in their other classes! If you attended, we hope you enjoyed the show.

The show meant many different things to the students – for some, it was simply a chance to perform on stage. For others, it was a chance to try out their many different voices, characters and skills and think about how they could use these in their other subjects and hobbies. For other students, it was a safe space in which to grow as a person and work out who they are. Whatever their reason for joining Centre Stage Stars, the students left on a natural high each night with a real sense of achievement.

Thank you to the many other staff who made the show possible - Simon Band, Emily Green, Sarah Michels, Kristy Kozij, Sophie Mara and Tim Williams for their important contributions before, during and after the show.

Dance Troupe & Comp Crew

Dance Troupe have been working to perfect their Jazz number for the Week 10 end of term school assembly. Students have been rehearsing weekly in preparation. In Comp Crew, our small group has been workshopping their Hip Hop performance in the lead up to their upcoming Eisteddfod in Term 3. Many more exciting dance opportunities coming in Term 3!

Looking Forward - Date Claimers – Term 3

Metropolitan Secondary Schools Music Workshop – Wednesday 23 July, Glenala SHS

Ipswich Performers’ Dance Festival – either 9 or 10 August, Ipswich Civic Centre

Ekka Marching Band Performance – Friday 15 August, 10:00 am, 11:00 am, 12:30 pm

Arts Showcase – Tech Rehearsal Tuesday 26 August (Week 7)

Arts Showcase – Dress Rehearsal Thursday 28 August (Week 7)

Arts Showcase – Showtime! Thursday 4 September (Week 8)

Ipswich Battle of the Bands – Saturday 6 September, Ipswich Civic Centre

Final Word

Well done to our Arts students who have taken advantage of the opportunities on offer this term. Thank you also to our parents for transporting students to and from rehearsals and to the wider community for attending Arts events. We have enjoyed sharing our students’ work with you.

We look forward to seeing you in Term 3. Wishing you a safe and restful holiday.

The RPSHS Arts Team

Sports Report

Another exceptional performance by all of our students in numerous competitions and events in Semester 1. As always all of our students participated to a very high standard and continue to follow the REAL expectations of Redbank SHS. Before sharing all of the statistics and performances, a massive thank you must go out to all of our coaches who give up their personal time to coach students. Without these staff, students would not be able to participate and succeed as they do.

Yagera Summer Interschool Sporting Competition

Out of a possible 30 competitions run by Yagera, Redbank fielded an amazing 28 teams. We had 8 Premier teams and 3 runners up. Below is how they all went:

SEQ Metropolitan Finals

All winners from the Yagera Competition can compete in the SEQ Metropolitan Finals competition. This Competition brings together the best schools from 12 different districts in South East Queensland.

Since 2019, Redbank has only won 1 competition in 2023 and this year we had 2 winners.

Congratulations to:

Year 9 Girls Volleyball coached by Ms. Tanuvasa

Year 10 Boys Futsal coached jointly by Mr. Franklin and Mr. Phan

Additional Sporting Events

Volleyball

Year 9 Girls are the Division 1 State Champions after competing in the State Schools Cup competition.

Year 9 Boys competed over the same 3 days and finished 6^th.

Congratulations to all students that competed and to Ms. Tanuvasa who coached both teams.

A special thanks must also go to Mr. Turner and Mr. Cardwell who coached and looked after the teams on the Sunday.

Futsal

Our Year 9/10 boys and Open boys have been competing in the Veto School Futsal League. The Open boys came 3rd in the pool and made the Finals but unfortunately lost out and came 4^th in our 2nd round finals group. Despite this, they made it far and was awesome watching them play against the best futsal schools. 

 The 9/10 boys did not qualify for the finals day, but won a number of games and just missed qualification.

Basketball

Our Year 9/10 boys and Open boys and Open Girls have been competing in the CBSQ (Champion Basketball School Qld) Wildcard Qualifiers.

Although the teams didn’t qualify, they competed against some of the best teams / schools in Queensland and acquitted themselves very well.

Outstanding Individual Performances

Hudson - Athletics

National Championships:

• 8^th in the javelin.
• 2^nd in shot put.
• 1^st in the hammer throw by 11m! He’s also now holds the Australian championship record for the under 14 boys hammer.

Cassidy - Rowing

• World Record 13 – 14 Years rowing 5000m
• Australian record for the Men’s 15 – 16 years rowing 10000m

Cassidy recently competed in the South Queensland School Age Conference Trophy Regatta at Wyaralong dam with over 250 rowers. He competed in the School Boys Open Single and the Year 10 School Boys Single, coming away with silver in both! 

Ruby - Softball

• As a 13 year old student, Ruby has been selected in Metropolitan Team to compete at State Championships in the U19’s Softball Competition.
• Ruby was also selected in the State U14 Softball team to compete at the National Championships in Melbourne.

VET Department

It’s been a huge Term 2 for the VET Department at Redbank Plains State High School! Over 160 students have taken bold steps into their futures by participating in hands-on training at WesTEC Trade Training Centre, engaging in a diverse range of vocational courses including Construction, Automotive, Engineering, Logistics, Food Processing, Plumbing, Health, Community Services, Electrotechnology, Retail Cosmetics, Tourism, Salon Assistance, Barbering, Justice and Aviation.

This real-world experience gives students the opportunity to develop industry-specific skills, gain nationally recognised qualifications, and build strong pathways beyond school.

In addition, 15 students are currently completing School-Based Traineeships across sectors like Business, Health, Retail, Child Care, Dental, and Hospitality - learning on the job while still completing their senior studies.

The VET team is incredibly proud of all our students and their achievements this term. We can’t wait to see what Term 3 brings!

TAFE at School: South West Region Taster Program

8 of our Year 10 students attended the Trade Taster at WestTEC in Week 10 of Term 2!

These students were lucky enough to have the opportunity to test drive a future career without locking into a full qualification. Our Year 10s took this opportunity to explore the world of trades and industry by testing out automotive, construction, engineering, and plumbing trades. Our students got hands-on, got messy, and got inspired, and ALSO walked away with their white card — all for FREE.

The best part was, our students completed units from actual trade programs without affecting their VETiS funding for future qualifications.

If you’re curious about this program and ready to explore the world of trades and industry, you haven’t missed out. There will be another opportunity to attend the South West Region Taster Program at the end of Term 3. Keep an eye out for information on how to apply.

Cultural News

Year 12 Art Assessment

Charlotte’s amazing artwork, Meeanjin River was submitted for assessment  this term.

From Charlotte:

This artwork compares the contemporary and built-up Brisbane to the natural and pre-urbanised Brisbane through symbolisation and traditional techniques. The idea of how people have impacted the landscapes of Australia was shown in many Indigenous artworks, as well as my artwork, through the contrast between the land that was being respected by the Yuggera people and the urbanisation of Brisbane. The size and use of primed canvas fabric represents how freely Aboriginal people were able to express their artworks without fixed media, such as a canvas or on paper. However, the use of acrylic paint represents how artwork and art media has changed from dhawurraa (ochre) to acrylic paint. The artwork implies the evolution of art from traditional Aboriginal artwork to contemporary artworks and techniques.

Cultural Food Stalls – A Taste of the Nations 

On the 25th of June, our school came alive with the sights, smells, and flavours of cultures from around the world as we hosted our Cultural Food Stalls event as part of our schools first ever Cultural Week! 

In 3 small groups, students prepared and cooked traditional dishes at home, putting in an incredible amount of time, effort, and care to represent their culture. This was a great opportunity for everyone to try something new - a taste of the nations. 

3 Ethnic stalls were set up and the following foods were sold: 

• Pani puri 
• Butter chicken 
• Koko Alaisa
• Keke Isite
• Spaghetti 
• Lumpia 
• Siomai 
• Sagot Gulaman

All profit goes directly to support our REAL council/class of 2025 formal. Beyond the delicious food and community spirit, our goal as the class of 2025, was to leave behind a legacy that future year levels can continue and build on. We’re proud to have started something meaningful that brings people together. 

Sarah – School Captain

Access Program

Think U Know

Think U Know Presentation – facilitators QPS (child protection unit).  Interesting and important safety message delivered by QPS regarding cyber safety education program.  Presentation gives important information to students about safe and responsible use of technology.  Aim is to protect young people from online exploitation, cyberbullying, image-based abuse, grooming and scams.

Follow up to this presentation, in schools, will encourage more open communication between staff and students about the risks when online.  With up-to-date, real-world examples, students were able to engage easily with the content and information being addressed. 

Thank you to our local QPS for attending and presenting this information.

Tanya Webber – Dean of Students

Jack Beasley

Jack Beasley Foundation Presentation – facilitators QPS and Belinda Beasley (from JBF). 

A powerful presentation aimed at educating our students about the dangers of knife crime and to promote making safer choices.  Founders, Brett and Belinda Beasley, started up JBF after the tragic loss of their 17 year old son, Jack in 2019, to a knife crime.   A very personal and emotional firsthand account of the family and friends experiences of the consequences of knife crime, will leave a lasting impression on our students. 

The promotion of making safe decisions ‘I live my life without a knife’, education about knife-related laws, including “Jack’s Law”, which was presented by QPS member Seargent Webber assisted students in realising the serious implication of knife possession and how safe police precincts and ‘wanding’ along with law changes was key to keeping people safe.  With personal accounts, statistics and QPS information, students engaged in this very heavy topic and it reinforced the importance of being safe in the community.

Thank you to our QPS representative Seargent Webber and Belinda Beasley from JBF for attending and presenting this information.

Tanya Webber – Dean of Students

Senior School

It has been a very busy and productive term for students in Years 10-12.  SET Plan meetings were held for Year 10 students in Term 2 - please see the article from Mr Wybranowski on this initiative. It was wonderful to meet parents and caregivers and to discuss the student’s career pathways and study options for Years 11-12.   
Reminder: students on an ATAR /tertiary student pathway should check the university course prerequisites in the QTAC 2028 Year 10 Guide to Career Pathways and Tertiary Prerequisites, to make sure their study options will meet course requirements.

UQ Young Achievers Program

Applications are open for Yr 10 students.

Applications close 23 July 2025.

The UQ Young Achievers Program (YAP) supports students in Years 11 and 12 by offering mentorship, financial support, personal growth, and leadership opportunities.

Students intending to apply for the UQ Young Achievers Program should prepare their application and request a school statement of support as soon as possible. Students need to lodge their applications online. Documents to support an application include:

• Student Personal Statement
• Casual Student Video Statement ~ 1 minute.
• Signed Parent/Guardian Consent form
• School Endorsement Letter
• Year 10 Semester 1 Report Card
• Provide any of the following: Health Care Card/Pension Card, Tax Return or Evidence of Support from Centrelink to prove income eligibility

Information about the program and how to apply is available at https://study.uq.edu.au/information-resources/high-school-students/young-achievers-program

UQ Outreach program for Term 2 (Years 10-12)

This term, the University of Queensland Outreach team have supported students in the senior school through a number of presentations and workshops.

Year 10 students attended the “SET for Success” class-based presentations. Students were encouraged to identify subjects they may be interested in for senior school and understand how high school subjects can help meet their future study and career goals

Year 11 students also participated in class-based sessions entitled “Strive to Thrive”.  This workshop introduced students to self-regulated learning techniques, including strategies for time and stress management. The aim was to help students regulate their decision making and therefore deal more effectively with the pressure points of the senior phase of learning.

The Mentoring Program continued in Term 2 for Year 12 students who are on an ATAR or tertiary study pathway. Students heard information about financial support, accommodation and transport options during this session. The next session in Term 3 will focus on QTAC applications and pathways.

Looking ahead

External Assessment 2025 – Year 12 students

The external assessments Year 12 students studying General subjects will be held from Monday 27 October to Tuesday 18 November 2025.

The 2025 external assessment timetable is now available 2025 external assessment timetable (PDF, 143.6 KB)

For more information about external assessments please go to https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/external-assessment

Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA)

Students may have disability, impairment and/or medical conditions or experience other circumstances that may affect their ability to read, respond to and participate in assessment. Students and parents/carers should contact their Case Manager and /or Mr Sarudin (Yr 11-12 Guidance Officer) to apply for Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA) if needed.

Please note, there are some circumstances where AARA does not apply, for example, to matters of the student’s or parent’s/carer’s own choosing, e.g. family holidays, sporting events.

https://www.qcaa.qld.edu.au/senior/assessment/aara/information-parents-carers

Please contact me if you have any questions about the programs or events mentioned above.

Marianne Watterson - HOD Senior Schooling

Year 10 Market Day for SET Planning

Year 10 students attended the annual Market Day this term. An opportunity to experience RPSHS's offerings for Year 11 & 12. Students were encouraged to ask questions, engage with practical activities, and most of all, start thinking about their future as they prepare for SET Planning

Year 10 SET Planning

After months of conferences, presentations and activities in Access time, over 280 Year 10 students, and their families, completed their SET Plan Interviews on the 9^th and 10^th of June. Conducted with the assistance of RPSHS staff, Year 10 students discussed their interests, abilities and future pathways in pre-booked one-hour sessions in the Resource Centre, culminating in the students selecting their subjects for Year 11 and 12. The bright future of our school and community was emphasised in this event, with the high level of student engagement in the discussions around their vast and varied pathways a testament to the current Year 10 cohort. The quality of the discussions occurring throughout the Resource Centre over these two days also exemplify the significant role that schools, and particularly the staff, play in the lives of these young people, with words of encouragement, drive and opportunity shared with students, along with honest and up-to-date information to best support student decisions. 

A huge thank you is extended to each and every student and their family for attending and engaging with this important process. With over 90% of the cohort having completed their interviews on the allotted days, this was a highly successful event due to your efforts. A further thank you is also extended to the range of staff members who took part in the interviews and the plethora of conferences and information sessions provided to students in the weeks and months prior. SET Planning could not have happened without you.

Michael Wybranowski
Shadow Head of Department – Senior Schooling Academic Pathways

Students Step into the Future at the #GoHealth Careers Expo!

On Wednesday 18 June, a group of our enthusiastic students embraced an exciting opportunity to explore the world of health and medical careers at the #GoHealth Careers Expo—and what a day it was!

Held at the Brisbane Convention and Exhibition Centre, the expo gave students the chance to connect with industry professionals from a range of health services including the Queensland Ambulance Service, Queensland Pathology, and Queensland Health. Through hands-on activities and insightful conversations, students gained a deeper understanding of the many career pathways within the health sector—from emergency response and diagnostics to public health.

In addition to engaging with health industry professionals, students also interacted with a range of RTO’s and tertiary education providers. A highlight of the day was the friendly school-vs-school challenges hosted by Connect 'n' Grow, where our students triumphed in both the PPE Dress-Up Race and the Sort and Label the Skeleton Challenge—a fantastic display of teamwork, speed, and knowledge! Students also had the opportunity to speak with representatives from Mater Education, TAFE Queensland, and leading universities including USQ, Griffith University, QUT, and UQ. These conversations helped students understand their future study options and the qualifications needed to pursue careers in nursing, paramedicine, allied health, medical science, and more.

We are incredibly proud of how our students represented the school—with curiosity, confidence, and enthusiasm. With experiences like #GoHealth, our students are not only dreaming big—they're preparing to make their mark on the world of health and care!

From our School Nurse – Jemma!

Dental Hygiene  

It is important to look after your teeth.

Did you know that you may be eligible for free dental care?

Children under the age of 18 with a medicare card and Queensland residents or students attending a Queensland school are eligible for public dental services.

Children and young people

To get free dental care your child must live in Queensland or go to a Queensland school.

They must also be eligible for Medicare and be one of the following:

• aged 4 or older and haven't completed Year 10
• hold, or be listed as a dependent on a Centrelink concession card
• eligible for the Child Dental Benefits Schedule.

Child Dental Benefits Schedule

The Child Dental Benefits Schedule covers part or the full cost of some basic dental.  Read more about the Child Dental Benefits Schedule on the Services Australia website.al services for your child if you get certain Centrelink payments.

School dental services:

See eligible children at free school dental clinics or mobile dental vans at locations around West Moreton. To make an appointment or to find out when we're next near you, call us on 1300 763 246 8 am to 3 pm Monday to Friday.

Making an appointment

You don't need a referral to use our service.

Please tell us if you need any support during your appointment. This includes using an interpreter, talking with an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander liaison officer, or if you have any disability needs.

What to bring to your appointment

• Your Medicare card
• Your concession card
• Photo ID
• Details of any medicines you're taking

Should you have any concerns or further questions please see our School Based Youth Health Nurse, Jemma.

Enrolments 2026

Enrol Now for Year 7, 2026

To be a great school, it takes time and experience. With over 35 years of experience educating young people in the Redbank Plains and surrounding communities, We Inspire Minds to Create Better Futures. Enrol today! Click here for General Enrolment Requirements: https://tinyurl.com/4akrbakt

Mrs Jess Ambler
Enrolment Officer

Keep in Contact

Absences

If a student is absent for a full day, a parent or caregiver must:

1. Enter the absence details via the Compass App.

OR

2. CALL or LEAVE A MESSAGE: (07) 3432 1209 or email the Student Office

Please make sure you provide:

• Your name, contact number and relation to the student
• Student’s FULL NAME and year level
• Date/s of absence
• Reason for absence
• Pick up location

Student Office Email: StudentOffice@redbankplainsshs.eq.edu.au

*A note from a parent/guardian (must match parent/guardian listed on school system) may be produced prior to absence or to explain a previous absence.

Finance Days

School Payments

Open hours - EFTPOS and cash payments can be made in the Student Office:

• Tuesday and Thursday (2 days only)
• 8:15am - 12 noon

Preferred Payments - BPoint and Qkr!

• BPoint application form
• Centrepay application form
• Qkr! parents how to guide
• BPOINT user guide

Download the Compass App

Download the Compass School Manager App to stay updated on school news, events, assignments, and more. Designed for students and parents, Compass provides real-time access to important school information.

Key Benefits:

• Easy communication between school and home
• Online absence approvals & attendance tracking
• 24/7 access to schedules, news & updates
• Digital permission slips for excursions
• Streamlined classroom & admin processes

New families receive login details at the start of the year. Get connected today!
Visit: https://play.google.com/store/apps or https://www.apple.com/app-store/
 to download the app.

Update Your Contact Details

Do we have your current contact information? It is important that you keep us up-to-date with all your contact details so that we can keep you informed on all the news and updates from the school with the Compass App.

Alternatively, email the Student Office:  studentoffice@redbankplainsshs.eq.edu.au team and include your:

• your name
• your child's name
• year level
• new address
• contact numbers (home/mobile).

Laptops For School

At Redbank Plains State High School, it is mandatory for all students to participate in our BYOx program, meaning every student must have their own laptop for school.

Buying Your Own Laptop?

Please note: Chromebooks, Chrome OS devices, and Android Tablets are not compatible with the Department of Education's network and will not connect.

For detailed laptop specifications, visit our website:

Laptops Available at the Uniform Shop

Laptops are available for $600 from the Uniform Shop.

For more details, call: 3432 1262

Laptop4Rent Program

Returning students can secure a rental laptop for the following school year by paying $200 in Term 4. Payment plans can be arranged, with the full amount due by the last day of attendance.

Payment Options:

• VISA & Mastercard (preferred)
• Qkr!, Centrepay & BPoint
• Other arrangements available

Withdrawing enrolment in Term 4? Refunds can be requested for payments made.

For more information, visit:

P&C Association

What does the P&C do?

The P&C brings the school community together by holding events and fundraising activities throughout the year. It provides our parents/carers with an opportunity to have a voice and take part in the education of their children. With the support of many volunteers from our school community, the P&C provides amenities and services for our children, including the Canteen and the Uniform Shop.

Uniform Shop Opening Hours 2025

Scholarships - 2026

2026 Scholarships Now Open!

Apply now! Scholarships are available for incoming Year 7s and students in Years 8–11, both internal and external.

Recipients will also receive a free Laptop4Rent device for 12 months ($200 value) or a $200 credit towards Resource Scheme Fees.

Apply here: