Term 2 Newsletter 2 2024
Principals Message
As we draw the curtains on this term, I am filled with immense pride and gratitude for the collective efforts that have made the term both successful and memorable.
Our staff appreciated the chance to connect with families at the Celebration of Learning event last week and then again at the parent teacher interviews on Tuesday afternoon. Research consistently shows a strong correlation between student academic and social success and progress and strong partnerships between home and school. For that reason, I want to express my thanks to those of you who were able to be present for these important discussions with teachers and other staff. I also want to thank many of you who were unable to attend on these evenings but stay actively engaged with your young person’s education and connected with our staff in other ways.
Earlier in the term, our School Association and I held a community forum. The forum was attended by current staff, students and families as well as local primary school principals and School Association representatives. The forum was typified by respectful, honest discussions and here is a summary of what we heard:
What are your expectations of us?
- Provide a wide variety of learning experiences
- Have a strong wellbeing focus
- Provide a safe, friendly and positive environment
- Have high expectations and focus on culture
- Have a strong focus on academic achievements
What are we doing well?
- Providing high quality and passionate teachers
- The music and outdoor education programs in particular are held in high regard
- Communicating with students whether they are meeting academic standards and what they need to do to improve through assessment rubrics
- Providing a broad offering of specialist subjects
- School-home communications have recently improved as well as confidence in the way in which bullying and student behaviour is managed
What can we do better?
- Continue tightening up expectations and supports for students
- Continue the visible focus on developing a calmer, more orderly and safer school culture
- Better communicate the school’s and individual student successes
- Work to improve the physical environment, with the pod system being an ongoing concern
- More proactive education about bullying and appropriate use of social media
- Develop a school brand and a clear sense for all as to what it means to be part of the KHS community
What do you hear? What is the current perception of Kingston High?
- The school is known for providing a variety of options such as outdoor education, ARC, sports, band tours and reading intervention
- Some are concerned that student behaviour is not managed well
- Some are concerned that there isn’t enough opportunities for academic extension and enrichment
- Families and the community want to know that our programs have enough academic rigour to set students up for Grades 11 and 12
For me, the forum was both affirming and insightful. Many of the identified opportunities for improvement have already been identified through our school assessment data and improvement actions are already underway. Other matters raised have resulted in further reflection and investigation too. I take a view that if a school (or any organisation) is not engaged in a meaningful, ambitious improvement agenda, then it is probably losing ground. Our 2024 School Improvement Plan focuses on:
Priority 1 - High expectations for teaching and learning:
- Review and refine reading intervention programs
- Have teachers learn together about high impact pedagogical practices and implement these with fidelity
- Implement Learning Plan adjustments with rigour and ensure they are applied to assessment tasks
Priority 2 - High expectations of and for student support and positive,
safe and orderly school culture:
- Adjust the school leadership structure to ensure there is more support for students through access to their Grade Coordinators
- Adopt the five DECYP values and contextualise these values within the framework of a School-Wide Positive Behaviour Support methodology
- Gather student voice to develop a statement of expected behaviours and then put into place structures to ensure students are recognised when they meet those expectations
- Focus on improving culture through high visibility leadership presence, grade and whole-school celebration assemblies and development of clear and known positive behaviour management practices
Priority 3 - High expectations for systems, communication and connection:
- Develop a communication strategy so that communication with families is done in a timely manner across multiple channels
- Engage with feeder primary schools as early and often as possible
- Develop more pathways for families and staff to connect as they work in partnership to support young people.
The school’s strategic focus is rigorous and achievable and I am pleased with the progress made to date.
F-Pod works
Our efforts throughout the year have come to fruition and we have secured funding to install internal walls into some of our pods. Work will commence in F pod next week, with the space being divided into six discrete spaces. We believe this change to the physical environment will have a positive impact of levels of student focus in the classroom and therefore deep learning. Works will continue later in the year on another pod.
Staffing changes
Throughout this term we have farewelled two long-standing staff members and we wish them well in their retirement.
Ms Pip Geason has been a teacher and leader at our school for 25+ years and will be sorely missed. Across Kingston High, Cosgrove High, Rosetta High and Oatlands District School, Pip has worked in education for over forty years. She has been a wonderful and supportive colleague to all and many of our past students will remember her support fondly.
Mr Richard Shuttler left us earlier in the term after an incredible contribution to Kingston High of almost 25 years. Richard worked as our Education Facility Attendant (Grounds) during this time and was a wealth of knowledge about everything to do with the buildings and grounds across the old and new KHS site.
We wish both Pip and Richard the best for their retirement and thank them for their service.
Motorised bikes
The prevalence of motorised bikes has been a topic of discussion in the community recently and we receive reports of young people using them more often, particularly between towns in the Channel area. With that in mind, I think it is important to ensure all families are aware of recent changes to the law which means that bikes with any type of a petrol engine attached are treated as motorbikes and need to be registered as such, with riders needing to be licensed. Here is a fact sheet from Legal Aide Tasmania which outlines the changes to the law and outlines why motorised bikes cannot be brought to school: Fact sheet – Bikes with engines - Tasmania Legal Aid
As we wind up the term with a very cold week, perhaps the only people thrilled with the weather are the staff and students preparing for our Mt Hotham Ski Trip. The trip takes place in the second week of the school holidays and we will be sure to share the adventure with our community on our social media pages. As always, I am incredibly appreciative of our staff for their generosity in putting aside their own recreation and family time to provide incredible opportunities such as this to our students.
In closing, I wish everyone a restful and enjoyable break and look forward to seeing all students return for the new term on Monday 22nd July.
In partnership,
David Bryant
Acting Principal
Kingston High School
Reward Excursion
A wonderful end to a great term!
About 80 students participated in reward excursions to either Bounce or RockIt.
These photos capture just some of the fun and we will share more on our Instagram page over coming days.
We will make sure we have more opportunities across the rest of the year to recognise more students for consistently meeting our expectations – we could have very easily taken many more along today.
We hope students and families have a fantastic holiday and we look forward to seeing students return to school on Monday 22nd July.
Reward Excursion
Freaky Friday - A New Musical
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to spend a whole day in someone else’s shoes? Well, you’re in luck, because this year our school production is about that very concept. Two characters from Disney’s Freaky Friday – A New Musical will react to an out of this world event, as will their friends and family!! Challenges galore – parent/teacher meetings, wedding planning, runaway sandwiches, and treasure hunts. Three evening shows only from Wednesday 18th- Friday 20th September in the Kingborough Performing Arts Centre. Tickets on sale from Friday 30th August, $15 – adults $10 – youth/children.
Tammy Stanford
Teacher
Freaky Friday - A New Musical
If you missed out on a hoodie or would like to order a t-shirt – please place your order by Wednesday 31st July to the office. Size guides available from Ms Stanford.
ARC
Celebrating Our ARC Program: Achievement, Responsibility, and Community
Kingston High School’s ARC program continues to thrive, offering students a platform to explore their interests, develop valuable skills, and forge meaningful connections. This term, the theme of agriculture served as a rich tapestry for our students' Personal Interest Projects, highlighting their creativity, dedication, and growth.
Diverse and Engaging Projects
The breadth of topics covered by our students this term has been impressive. Here are some of the standout projects:
- Meso-American Cultures and Agricultural Collapse
- Technological Advancements in Agriculture in Ancient History
- Animal Farm: Industrialised animal cruelty and revolutions
- Tropical Fruit Species
Exhibiting Learning and Building Connections
The culmination of these projects was the exhibitions that highlighted our students' learning journeys. These exhibitions not only showcased their hard work but also fostered strong connections with families. The exhibition process allowed students to share their findings, receive feedback, and celebrate their achievements with pride.
Success in Work-Place Learning
The ARC program also emphasises work-place learning, providing students with real-world experience and opportunities for career development. We are proud to share that we have had over 30 students who have gone out on work-placements so far this year. Here are some of the highlights in this area:
- Sam: Sam has gained an Australian School-based Apprenticeship (ASbA) at Hobart Motorcycles. This opportunity will allow Sam to further develop his expertise and pursue a promising career in the automotive industry. Well done, Sam!
- Zack: Zack has successfully completed his placement at Nato's Auto Mechanics, developing his skills as he explores this trade.
- Oaklee: Oaklee has been working at the Tasmania Museum and Art Gallery, helping to prepare specimens for the collection. This experience has provided Oaklee with invaluable insights into the world of museum curation and conservation.
- Raphael: Raphael impressed his mentor at Panko Chan Restaurant with his dedication and enthusiasm.
A Community of Growth and Achievement
Our ARC program embodies the values of Achievement, Responsibility, and Community, fostering an environment where students can explore their passions and develop their potential. The diverse projects and work-place learning experiences this term have showcased our students' courage, resilience, and intellectual growth. We look forward to continuing to support their journeys and celebrate their successes. Thank you to all the students, families, and community partners who have contributed to another successful term of the ARC program.
Nadia Colqhuhoun
ARC Teacher
ARC
Twilight Concert
On a chilly winter evening, the Kingston High School auditorium was filled with warmth and excitement as students took the stage for the much-anticipated Winter Twilight Concert. This concert was a celebration of the musical talents of the high school’s students, who had the freedom to choose and perform pieces they were passionate about. The evening showcased a remarkable variety of songs, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of parents, carers, and community members.
The concert featured a diverse lineup of performances, reflecting the eclectic musical interests of the students.
The evening was a resounding success, highlighting the incredible talent and dedication of its students. Each performer brought their unique style and passion to the stage, creating a rich and varied musical experience that was enjoyed by all.
John Salter
Music Teacher
Twilight Concert
Hobart College orientation day, Grade 10 transition, Grade 10 activities
Grade 10 Transition and Events
During Week 8, Grade 10 students attended the Hobart College Taster Day to sample a variety of subjects prior to their formal enrolment in Term 4. Marking one of the key orientation experiences throughout the year, students spent the day deepening their understanding of college life and how this differs from a high school setting, as well as the requirements of VET and TASC Courses. This key orientation experience saw students feeling more confident and informed about their potential future pathways in 2025.
As part of their broader transition experiences within the Hartz Collective, a number of students also attended the Huon Valley Trade Training Centre in Week 9. The HVTTC offers a state-of-the-art learning environment for trades including construction, metal fabrication, automotive, hospitality, aquaculture and agriculture.
Coming into the second half of the year, the Grade 10 program includes a range of eagerly anticipated events such as the RYDA Road Safety Education Day and End of Year celebrations. Keep your eyes out for further information coming next term!
Rachel Kumar
Grade 10 Co-ordinator
Huon Valley Trade Training Centre & Hobart College Taster Day
HPOE
WHATS BEEN HAPPENING HPOE IN TERM 2
It has been a busy term for students participating in sports and activities at Kingston High. The Outdoor Education program has had a number of day excursions where students test themselves in the outdoors. Sports Leaders have been busy during lunch times creating activities for their respective Year Groups. A couple of students participated in the All Schools MTB competition with Nathan K coming 7th in the XCO race. 57 students competed in the Inter High Cross Country which was followed by the All Schools Cross Country with Libby C and Aidan C both coming 5th place. Reclink Super 8 Cricket at Blundstone Arena with the Boys winning the shield again. Most recently the Volleyball All Schools competition occurred with great results from Kingston High with three teams making the Finals. The Year 9 Girls Badminton Team has been very competitive in the Badminton roster. The Year 8 Sports Leaders have been doing a fantastic job under the supervision of Mr Cook coaching Year 7s in daily PE each week. Next term looks to be as busy with Athletics, Netball, AFL and Swimming on the calendar for students to opt in and participate.
VOLLEYBALL
On June 19 & 20, Kingston High competed in the All-Schools Volleyball Competition. All participants from Kingston High performed well with standout performances. The Yr 9/10 girls made the finals against Bayview with a very close finish coming second overall. Both the Yr 7/8 and the 9/10 Boys made the finals. Yr 7/8 boys came second with a loss to Taroona in the final. Yr 9/10 boys beat Hutchins in an exciting final, clinching the third set to become overall victors. Fantastic effort by all the players that represented Kingston High with many students new to the game of volleyball but picking up the skills quickly. Volleyball Tasmania have been coming into the Yr 8 HPE classes over the last 4 weeks to improve the skills of Kingston High students. Well done to all students that participated over the two-day competition.
Phil Samanek
HPOE teacher
Volleyball
Outdoor Ed Year 8
In week 6 of this term, our adventurous Grade 8 outdoor edders explored the wild foothills of kunanyi/Mt Wellington. Despite what had been a dubious forecast, Ms Richardson wrangled the weather gods to arrange a cracker day. Joined by Mr Horan and our TA, Ollie, we set out on mountain bikes along the Pipeline track and wound our way around the flanks of the mountain. Though in good spirits, some of the adventurers appeared jealous of Ms Richardson, cruising effortlessly on her e-bike. Nevertheless, we appreciated the e-bike when it was deployed to assist a brave student who had dislocated her knee the previous day. Near the end of the Pipeline Track, we dismounted and headed on foot up to the Wellington Falls lookout: an impressive sight after the recent rain. After lunch, the return journey took us via Silver Falls and back to Fern Tree. Our lovely bus driver from Wisby Coaches was understandably dismayed at the mud-specked state of our crew – but our cunning plan involving towels and blankets on seats solved the issue. Overall, we had a great day and we are very grateful to both Mr Horan and Ollie for sharing their mountain biking expertise. A massive thank you also to Mr Shaw for swiftly stepping in to deliver a stranded mountain bike trailer. Now, as the outdoor ed semester draws to a close, our students have begun scheming adventures of their own.
Outdoor Ed Year 8
Outdoor Education Year 8 & 9
Kingston High School Outdoor Edders showing that no matter the weather, there’s always scope for a learning adventure. Our winter program is proving a winner!
Outdoor Education Year 8 & 9
Newsletter Sponsors
