term 2 week 10 SOUTH SYDNEY HIGH SCHOOL

Inspiring Visit from Stella Clarke

We were thrilled to welcome Stella Clarke to our school this week. As a trailblazing engineer at BMW, Stella captivated our students with her powerful story—sharing her journey from studying engineering to leading cutting-edge innovation in the automotive industry. She spoke about her groundbreaking work developing the BMW "i Ink" colour-changing car, and the importance of creativity, persistence, and thinking differently.

Her visit offered an inspiring glimpse into the possibilities of STEM careers, especially for young women aspiring to make their mark in traditionally male-dominated fields. Stella’s message of resilience, leadership, and purpose truly resonated with our students and left them buzzing with questions and ideas.

A heartfelt thank you to Stella for taking the time to engage with our school community—her story was a powerful reminder of where passion and determination can take you.

Stage 6 Subject Information Evening

Thank you for attending our Stage 6 Subject Information Evening. It was wonderful to see so many parents and students.

Homework Club

Homework Club continues to be well supported by our students. This term we have had on average 25 students each session from Year 7 to Year 12. We extend our thanks to our tutors and staff who have provided support.

Homework Club will resume Term 3 - Tuesday afternoon 29th July from 2:45 pm till 4:45 pm in the school library.

Attendance Champions

Uniform Heroes

Support during the holidays

As student wellbeing and welfare are the school’s highest priorities, I would like to provide the following information considering the upcoming two-week holiday.

We all lead stressful lives at times, so it is important look after ourselves, each other and seek support when we or our loved ones might need it.

Such assistance can be accessed through the school, however, over the next fortnight, please consider contacting the services below if counselling and/or mental health support is needed.

• Kids Help Line on 1800 55 1800 or https://kidshelpline.com.au/
• Lifeline on 13 11 14 or https://www.lifeline.org.au/
• Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636 or https://www.beyondblue.org.au/get-support/talk-to-a-counsellor/chat
• 13YARN on 13 9276 or https://www.13yarn.org.au/

These services are confidential and available 24/7 at no cost.

IMPORTANT DATES

• Tuesday 22 July - Students Return
• Friday 25 July - Year 10 Love Bites
• Term 3 Weeks 1-4 Years 7 to 9 - Check in Assessments
• Term 3 Wednesday 30 July to Friday 1 August - Year 11 Camp
• Commencing 4 August and concluding 15 August - HSC Trial Examinations
• Saturday 23 August - P&C Trivia Night

P&C News

South Sydney High P&C Trivia Night

SAVE THE DATE - SATURDAY 23rd AUGUST!

Our South Sydney High School P&C Trivia Night is fast approaching, so please save the date - Saturday 23 August. Get ready for a fun filled evening while fundraising for this great school.

A huge thanks to our Platinum Sponsor " Walsh's Village Pharmacy" in South Maroubra. Open 365 days and nights a year from 8am - 9pm. Brothers Richard and Philip Walsh have been amazing supporters of their local community for many years.

Many thanks to all our other local businesses that are coming on board as sponsors as well:

• Heffron Centre - GOLD SPONSOR
• School Parent Shane Wilding from Driver Training & Assessment
• Local Maroubra Surf Instructor, Lars from Let's Go Surfing
• Fantastic Framing, Kava Pros Matraville & Hair By Ash Eastgardens

Please help support the businesses who are helping support our kids!

capa news

CAPA Showcase

What an incredible night! The CAPA Showcase was a complete sell-out and a true celebration of creativity, talent, and community spirit. The vibe was great!

This event reminded us all of the power of the arts to bring people together, lift spirits, and create joy. It was inclusive, vibrant, and full of heart.

What stood out most was the powerful reminder of what South Sydney makes possible. A packed hall, diverse voices and talents, opportunity for every student to shine – it was a showcase not only of performance, but of equity, access, and the values we stand for.

A huge thank you to our incredible staff, students, and families who made it all happen. The talent on display was inspiring, and the feel-good vibe in the hall reflected everything we work so hard to build at SSHS.

I walked out of the Showcase feeling incredibly proud – proud of our students, proud of our staff, and proud to be principal of this school that celebrates and uplifts every young person.

Here’s to more moments like this - Ms Neilsen

Year 9 Visits the Archibald

Our two Year 9 Visual Arts classes are currently studying portraiture. On June 30, we visited the Art Gallery of NSW to see the Archibald Prize. Students have begun preparation for our annual Souths Archies Portrait Prize. They will be painting a portrait of a staff member from SSHS. Students had a great day at the gallery and enjoyed seeing artworks in person which they are studying for a written assessment task. They were inspired by the paintings and many students remarked how impressive the works look in person and how surprised they were by the scale. Stay tuned for information about the Souths Archies Prize exhibition later in the year.

NIDA Workshop

Our Drama Ensemble had a blast at NIDA’s Acting and Performance workshop! They developed their confidence for the stage and refined their performances for last week's CAPA Showcase.

TAS News

Year 11 Hospitality students had a truly memorable and enriching experience as they ventured out on an excursion to Sydney Tower. The day began with an insightful talk from the Executive Chef and the Event Co-ordinator, followed by a behind-the-scenes tour of the establishment. Students then had the unique opportunity to dine 309 metres above ground at the Sydney Tower SkyFeast, enjoying a rotating 360-degree view of the city skyline.

Despite the heavy rain and strong winds, students remained enthusiastic and engaged throughout the day. Their excitement was evident as they sampled the diverse buffet offerings and soaked in the stunning panoramic views. To top it all off, the students participated in a lively Scavenger Selfie Hunt, snapping photos at various iconic locations across the city.

The excursion was a perfect blend of education, industry insight, and fun—leaving students inspired and full of lasting memories.

Ms Stephenson & Ms Melani - TAS Teachers

Excursions

Kinder World Experience Excursion

Last week, a group of students had the opportunity to attend the Kinder World Experience - a wellbeing-focused excursion hosted by JEMS. The program is designed to inspire kindness, empathy and inclusion. Throughout the day, students heard from an inspirational speaker, took part in a series of hands-on activities, and created personalised care packages for people in need. They also had the chance to relax and connect with others in the "Kindness Lounge" enjoying games like table tennis, air hockey, and arcade machines.

The feedback from students was overwhelmingly positive, and we are hopeful there may be opportunities for more students to participate in future sessions.

SistaSpeak

In week 6 of this term, nine students from Years 7 and 8 attended the SistaSpeak Network Day at La Perouse Public School. SistaSpeak is a program for young Aboriginal women which aims to develop cultural connection, leadership skills, economic independence, communication skills and improve physical and mental health outcomes. The network day included students from neighbouring primary and high schools.

All the students quickly bonded by working together in activities, such as, meet as many people as possible and learn three things about them, as well as working in groups to make particular shapes. The second session was a bush medicine soap workshop, where students learned about the medicinal uses of lemon myrtle, native thyme, cinnamon myrtle and aniseed myrtle. These plants were boiled and the liquid retained. This liquid was mixed with melted soap flakes, poured into a mould and left to set. Some of the native plants were also added for decoration. The aroma in the kitchen was amazing!

This was followed by a presentation from Souths Cares on How to Seek Mental and Physical Health Support. The students were actively engaged in this session and offered some valuable answers and observations.

In the afternoon, the girls were treated to a dance workshop with Rayma Johnson, from Buuja Buuja Butterfly Dancers. Rayma shared her story of growing up and how important it is to share Aboriginal language, stories and dance so this knowledge and cultural connection does not disappear. All the girls then learned some new choreography and performed some dances. This was followed by weaving and afternoon tea with mums and aunties.

It was such an informative and fun day enjoyed by all!

Sport News

Zone Carnival Success

A huge congratulations to all the athletes who competed in the Zone Athletics Carnival last week. South Sydney was proudly represented by a strong team across a range of individual and relay events.

We’re thrilled to announce that many of our students have now qualified for the upcoming Regional Competition — an outstanding achievement!

Well done to all competitors for your dedication, sportsmanship, and team spirit – GO SOUTHS!

Volleyball Schools Cup Match Report

On the 24th June, the Year 8 Girls Volleyball Team played and competed for South Sydney High School. The first match was against Riverside Girls. Their team was at a similar level to us, but they showed better communication and energy. Despite our best efforts, we lost two very close sets.

The second match was against Tempe High School, and it felt more intimidating than the first. We were nervous because their team had taller players, better spikers, stronger setters, while we had fewer tall players. Tempe dominated the first set, but in the second set, things started to shift. We almost pulled off a win thanks to Summer and Kassidy’s aces, as well as the incredible passing from Lily, Sara, Diamond and Mia. Our setters, Luna and Emilia also played key roles in keeping the ball moving.

Unfortunately, we struggled with foot faults, serving errors, lost track in rotations and net touches, which cost us points. It was nerve-wracking because we were so close to winning that set. If we had been able to stay confident, we might have pulled through. In the third set we were losing more confidence and communication, leading to an unfortunate loss.

Our third game against Arthur Philip High School was the highlight of the day. After being exhausted, frustrated, and a bit down from our previous matches, we managed to shake off the negativity and push forward. We competed with heart, remembering that we were representing South Sydney High. In the end, we came together as a team and won two sets in our final match.

Though we were drained, this experience taught us so much. It reminded us of the importance of perseverance, teamwork, and enjoying the game, no matter the outcome. We left the court feeling tired but also more motivated than ever to improve our skills and play even better in the future.

We would like to express our sincere thanks to Mr. Shan for giving us the incredible opportunity to compete with other schools and for dedicating his time to help us improve. His guidance has gone beyond just training. He’s taught us the values of teamwork, discipline, and perseverance. The lessons we’ve learned from him will stay with us long after the competition. We would also want to express our deepest gratitude to Lianne and Dylan for being our unwavering support through it all. Your kind words were exactly what we needed to heal and find strength. Thank you, Mr. Shan for making us better in so many ways!!!

Kassidy C - Year 8 student

School Sport Australia 15 & Under Volleyball Nationals

Huge congratulations to Michaela in Year 10 for representing NSW at the School Sport Australia 15 & Under Volleyball Nationals in Adelaide (15–20 June)! Michaela showed incredible resilience, sportsmanship, and team spirit on and off the court. Though NSW narrowly missed bronze, finishing 4th, Michaela was a true ambassador for our school, state, and sport. Well done, Michaela — we’re so proud of you!

Hockey Success

A huge congratulations to Liam, who represented the Sydney East Hockey Association at the State U/16 Boys Hockey Tournament held in Orange last week. What a fantastic achievement and an exciting opportunity to compete at such a high level. Well done, Liam – we are proud of you!

Bench Press Championships

Another year of impressive feats and strengths: The following students competed and these were their amazing results:

Soccer Champs

Congratulations to Andrew of Year 11, and his team, St George City, for winning the U16 International Borneo Cup 2024! They made history as the first-ever Australian team to take the title. We are so proud of your achievement!

NSW Lifesaving - IRB (Inflatable Rescue Boats)

Several of our students competed last weekend.

From the Library

Young Mentors – Be Connected

Congratulations to another successful group of Year 10 students for participating in the Young Mentors program at Bowen Library teaching technology to older learners. It is always a pleasure to be involved with the program and watch the students develop relationships so quickly and dazzle the older learners with their knowledge and patience. The seniors involved in the program praised our student representatives for their patient aptitudes and interpersonal skills.

Thank you to Birgit, Cathie and Nicola from Bowen Library for providing the training and support for our students and older learners.

“The program has been a great opportunity and experience to connect to our senior members of our community. We helped them have a better understanding when using different technologies and helped them build confidence when using digital tools. This changed our view on how helping other people can build our confidence as well as being a gratifying experience. “

- Alexia and Jamie M

New to the Collection Highlights

Coven by Soman Chainani and illustrated by Joel Gennari

This is an action-packed spin off, with characters from the School for Good and Evil series. Hester, Anadil and Dot, aka the Coven, are hunting for justice and truth in the world. Filled with evil monsters and exploring the idea that wasting precious resources leads to problems in the world, this is a terrific graphic novel.

The Surface Trials by HM Waugh

An epic page-turner full of twists you won’t see coming. Set on an alien planet where, under the watch of a galaxy-wide TV audience, Ammy Antares and her fellow competitors must complete a challenging quest to gain entry into an elite interplanetary academy. Filled with people eating plants and enormous insects, it will keep readers entertained through to the end.

Villain by Adrian Beck

Gaming fanatic Jay receives a strange phone call on a school trip to Titanium Tower. The voice on the other end calls himself Z. He has trapped Jay’s classmates in the elevator at the very top of the skyscraper. A terrific action-packed adventure with two enemies forced to work together to save the world. A great read for lower secondary.

Wandering Wild by Lynette Noni

Lynette Noni delivers a swoony YA romance perfect for readers wanting a high stakes lost in the wilderness adventure brimming with tension filled romance. This story is full of humour, happiness, tears and thrills, and is so hard to put down. Best suited to readers in middle and upper secondary.

A Wizard of Earthsea by Ursula K. Le Guin and Fred Fordham

A stunning graphic novel edition of the classic fantasy adventure. It follows the story of Ged, a poor smith’s son, who discovers a magical talent and is sent away from home to a wizard school.

Trapped! by Julia Lawrinson

Inspired by the true story of the trapped miner of Bonnie Vale and told in verse, Julia Lawrinson weaves a tale that will beckon readers down into the gold mine to find out how the daring rescue unfolded.

Ms Maddocks, Teacher Librarian

Careers News

Year 12

I encourage Year 12 students to book a time to chat about post school options – use this link below.

Book time with Meredith Mattock: Meeting with Ms Mattock - Careers Adviser

Please keep an eye on Careers Google Classroom for important information:

• Year 12 - o46wli2
• Year 11 sr64tws
• Year 10 mutret6
• Year 9 - jatx4ftf - this is a new classroom – please join!

A reminder about the South Sydney HS Careers Website - HTTPS://SSHSCAREERS.CAREERTOOLS.COM.AU

UNSW Gateway https://www.unsw.edu.au/study/how-to-apply/undergraduate/admission-pathways/Gateway/admission-pathway

UOW Year 12 Subject Support Series 8 July - Wollongong Campus (English Advanced and Maths Advanced) - https://future-students-events.uow.edu.au/Year11-12subjectsupport

9 July - Intensive Science Events (Year 11 & 12 Physics)

15 July - Liverpool Campus (English Advanced and Maths Advanced)

The University of Wollongong (UOW) is committed to providing additional resources and assistance to help students reach their potential in their final years of school. The Year 11 & 12 Subject Support Sessions is designed to help students improve their knowledge and understanding of key subject content and discover what HSC exam markers are looking for. In conjunction with InspirationED, experienced HSC teachers/markers and UOW staff will be running subject revision programs across May, June and July for current Year 11 and Year 12 students. Participants will have the opportunity to ask questions and receive tips and strategies directly from the most qualified and experienced HSC markers in NSW. And here’s the cherry on top: all webinars and bootcamps are completely FREE! For our brand new science 'Intensive' in Physics, we've kept the cost very low at $11 to help cover student lunches and materials. PLUS, all attendees will receive an example exam paper with exemplar responses, so you can see exactly what top-tier answers look like and how to nail your own!

Western Sydney University - Free Online HSC Study Sessions 29 September - 3 October https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/events/free-hsc-study-sessions

From Monday 29th September to Friday 3rd October 2025, Western Sydney University will be offering a range of online study sessions to assist Year 12 students in their preparations for the HSC. These will be delivered by highly qualified senior teachers with 24 free sessions across 15 key HSC subject areas, with sessions that include content analysis, tips and strategies, and a detailed exploration of key syllabus and curriculum areas. Students also have the opportunity to sit a practice exam and deconstruction, with feedback and advice from experts. The HSC Study Sessions are offered in partnership with leading education services provider InspirationED, with their team of highly qualified HSC teachers and experienced markers to deliver the sessions. Sessions include: •English Advanced • English Standard • Mathematics Advanced • Mathematics Standard • Biology •Business Studies • Chemistry • Legal Studies • Ancient History • Study of Religion • Community and Family Studies • Economics • Physics • PDHPE • Modern History

University Applications/Early Entry and Post School Information

Early Entry Guide – Study Work Grow

https://studyworkgrow.com/education/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/05/Early-Entry-Guide-2025-School-Licensed-Edition.pdf

Universities Open Days Guide – Studyworkgrow

https://studyworkgrow.com/education/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2025/05/Open-Days-Guide-2025-School-Licensed-Edition.pdf

University of Sydney Webinar - Scholarships at Sydney 30 July

https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_siCwQZoaTimjQM3DFWhaYg#/registrationAt the University of Sydney, we offer over $135 million worth of scholarships every year. We are dedicated to supporting you throughout your time at university and offer a variety of scholarships for domestic undergraduate students. To make the process easier and more accessible, we have created a centralised form where you can be considered for multiple scholarships through one simple application. Additionally, some of our scholarships require no application at all! In this webinar you will learn about the scholarships we offer, find out about your eligibility, get tips on writing a strong scholarship application and have your questions answered by our team. UTS Experience Day 17 July https://www.uts.edu.au/events/experience-uts-dayExperience UTS Day is on this July school holidays! Hosted on campus, choose your workshops and experience UTS.

ACU Webinar - Guarantee Early Offer and Pathways webinar 8 July https://www.acu.edu.au/about-acu/events/2025/july/acu-guarantee-early-offer-and-pathways-webinar-nsw-act-qld

Learn about ACU’s entry and pathway options, including the ACU Guarantee early offer program, key dates and how to apply. Plus, hear from current students about their journeys UNSW Portfolio Entry Information Evening https://www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/unsw-portfolio-entry-information-evening-0

16 July UNSW, we know your creativity, individuality, and drive can't be captured by an ATAR alone. That's why we offer the UNSW Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme—a personalised pathway to university that truly reflects who you are. Join our Information Session! Hear directly from UNSW academics and students about crafting a compelling portfolio for undergraduate degrees within the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture and the Faculty of Engineering in 2026.We'll guide you through what to include, how to apply, and tips to help you succeed. Plus, you will have the chance to ask questions and get clarity on anything you're unsure about.

UNSW Arts, Design & Architecture Portfolio Entry Information Session 15 July https://www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/unsw-arts-design-architecture-portfolio-entry-information-session

At UNSW, we know you're more than just a number. That's why we've created the UNSW PortfolioEntry Early Conditional Offer Scheme—a flexible, personalised pathway to university that recognizesyour unique talents and ambitions. Why wait? Get an early conditional offer with a lowered ATAR requirement—up to 10 points below the usual selection rank for your dream degree. This scheme is designed to showcase your creativity, passion, and potential to excel in your chosen field. Join us for an exclusive info session tailored for students applying to undergraduate degrees within the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture for 2026. Hear directly from UNSW academics on how to craft astand out portfolio that highlights your strengths.

Webinar - See Inside the Oxbridge Admissions Office https://www.crimsoneducation.org/au/campaign/see-inside-the-oxbridge-admissions-office-july-2025/

9 July - Are you aiming for Oxford or Cambridge University? Thousands of ambitious Australian students apply to Oxford and Cambridge every year. This popularity stems from the academic excellence, incredible facilities and incomparable career prospects they offer their students. But with this popularity comes fierce competition. Oxford and Cambridge have an average acceptance rate of18%, the lowest of all UK universities. So what can you do to stand out from the crowd? In this FREE session, Former Oxford Admissions Officer, Lucy Baehren

UNSW Year 11 Experience Days 7-11 July https://www.events.unsw.edu.au/event/year-11-experience-days-2025

Step into university life at UNSW’s Year 11 Experience Days, running from 7–11 July 2025. Designed exclusively for Year 11 students, this event gives you the chance to explore your study options through more than 40 interactive workshops across a range of disciplines. Meet current students and academics, experience campus firsthand and get inspired to shape your future. Whether you are curious about medicine, science, law and justice, business, engineering or arts, design and architecture, this is your opportunity to dive into Uni life and start planning what’s next.

TAFE NSW TVET Guide 2026 https://cd.tafensw.edu.au/api/-/media/Files/PDFs/Brochures-Flyers/TVET/TAFE-NSW-TVET-Guide.pdf

Are you about to start your final years of schooling but already know your perfect career? Or maybe you’ve got an idea of what life after school could look like, but want to try it out first? Either way, you’ll get a head start while still at school with a TAFE-delivered Vocational Education and Training (TVET) course. From Animal Care to Community Services to Music Industry courses, we’ve got just about all interests and industries covered.

Bradfield Senior College - July Open Day 29 July https://bradfield.nsw.edu.au/open-days/2026-open-day-july-29-2025/

For October Year 12 2025 start and Year 11 2026 start. Obtain an enrolment pack. Tour the campus. See students at work. Meet staff. Q+A. Location: Building A, 213 Pacific Hwy St Leonards 2065

HIA Building Apprenticeships https://hia.com.au/careers-and-learning/become-an-hia-apprentice/how-do-i-apply

Shape your future by learning from the best in the building industry Our apprentice program guarantees that you will learn every facet of the industry that you need to know from the most experienced and skilled HIA members. You will learn on the job training and mentoring with a mix of training courses to make sure you become a fully qualified tradesperson. You can then decide if you want to continue working for someone else or whether you want to become your own boss.

Australian Cabinet & Furniture Association Apprenticeships https://www.acfa.net.au/

Flexibility and Personalised Apprenticeships ACFA is a registered training organisation that brings a unique experience to how young people are trained in an existing industry. The workplace-based training model brings flexibility and a personalised touch with a dedicated trainer.

Your ultimate step-by-step guide to successful selection into the Australian Defence Force https://www.defenceready.com.au/adf-exam-prep/

The Defence Exam Mastery System is your personal guide for the best practice possible leading up to your selection tests and exams. This ground breaking system will get you rapidly up to speed in the most challenging aspects of ADF selection. We're here to help you along throughout your entire testing process. From your initial Virtual YOU assessment day through to additional officer selection boards and additional testing days (including pilot testing). You will get the exact preparation you need to achieve your goals. You will get instant access to hundreds of sample test questions, detailed explanations and lessons, training strategies, tips and techniques. This is the most comprehensive guide available to prepare you for the rigours of ADF recruit selection.

Webinar - The Ultimate Australian Students Guide To US/UK Admissions! https://www.crimsoneducation.org/au/campaign/the-ultimate-guide-to-us-uk-admissions-july-2025/

30 July UK and US universities only admit the best Australian students!

Make sure you’re ahead of the game with Crimson’s Ultimate Guide to US and UK Admissions, a session so popular we have had to bring it back for 2025! Join Crimson as we dissect what US and UK admissions officers are looking for and how you can improve your admissions chances to top universities from Australia.

Return & Earn

If you have any cans, bottles or 10c items, please bring them to school to Ms Mattock's office - keep them coming in!

Meredith Mattock - Careers Adviser

parent information

Expanding Opportunities for Gifted Education

Who to Contact

Community news & events

Community Charter