LMHS Smooth Sailing Newsletter - Term 4 2024

Principal's Report

Dear Parents, Carers, Staff, and Students,

As we approach the conclusion of another school year, it is my great pleasure to present to you the Term Four Principal’s Report for Lake Munmorah High School. It is hard to believe how quickly the year has passed, yet as we reflect on the journey, we can look back with pride at the growth and accomplishments of our students and the broader school community.

I would like to begin by extending a heartfelt thank you to everyone who has supported our efforts to improve our school uniform policy. I am pleased to report that significant progress has been made in this area. The improved standards are evident, and anecdotal feedback from staff indicates that students are more prepared for their studies and appear to be more engaged with their learning. This positive shift in student behaviour is a testament to the collaborative efforts of parents, carers, staff, and students alike.

Looking ahead to 2025, we are excited about the opportunities that await our school community. Several new and innovative initiatives are in the works, and we are confident these will further enhance the educational experience for our students. Among the most anticipated developments are:

• Big Picture Advisories: In 2025, we will launch two Big Picture Advisories for Year 8 and Year 9 students. This forward-thinking program will provide students with a personalized learning journey based on their individual passions. Through the development of individual Learning Plans and opportunities for internships with mentors in fields of interest, students will engage in rigorous, real-world projects that have tangible outcomes. This initiative is designed to foster deep engagement with learning while connecting classroom knowledge to the world beyond school.

• APEX Program: For our Year 12 students, we have already introduced the APEX (Achieving Personal Excellence) program. This program is designed to offer more personalized support for students navigating the HSC journey. Through enhanced case management and consistent monitoring of student progress, APEX provides tailored guidance and pathways, ensuring each student can maximize their potential and pursue the path that suits their goals.

• Aboriginal Languages and Culture: In response to feedback from our school community, we are continuing consultations on the introduction of Aboriginal Languages and Culture into the curriculum, with a formal rollout expected in 2026. This program will help our students develop a deeper understanding of Australia's cultural heritage and provide important opportunities for reconciliation and engagement.

• Expansion of Existing Programs: Our Shine (Creative and Performing Arts) and Targeted Sports Programs have proven to be highly successful and will be expanded in 2025. These programs provide valuable opportunities for students to explore their creative and athletic talents and are an essential part of our school culture. In addition, we are further enhancing our focus on Literacy and Numeracy, ensuring that all students have access to targeted Small Group Tuition, and strengthening Explicit Teaching practices across all Key Learning Areas.

These are just a few of the initiatives that will shape the coming year at LMHS, and we are excited about the opportunities they bring. With a strong focus on innovation, engagement, and personalized learning, 2025 promises to be an exciting and enriching year for all students.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has contributed to the success of our school community this year. Whether big or small, your support plays a vital role in making Lake Munmorah High School a thriving and vibrant place of learning.

Wishing you all a peaceful and joyful holiday season, and a New Year filled with promise and opportunity. Please take care, stay safe, and I look forward to seeing you all in 2025.

Warm regards,

Tony Keevill - Principal, Lake Munmorah High School

lakemunmor-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au

Science - Faculty Report

This term has been a busy and exciting one for Science!

Year 7 students have been studying Biology, with many using a microscope for the first time to examine a variety of plant and animal cells. Interestingly, we noticed that some cells bear a striking resemblance to Aboriginal artworks—how beautiful is nature!

Year 8 students have been diving into Chemistry, spending significant time in the labs observing chemical reactions firsthand. Year 9 students explored natural disasters, gaining a deeper appreciation for how fragile our planet truly is. Meanwhile, Year 10 students have concluded their Stage 5 studies with lessons designed to prepare them for senior subjects next year.

This year marked the inaugural year of Extension Science at LMHS. Our seven dedicated students in this program have been working hard to develop their research proposals. We were fortunate to host Dr. Philip Davy as a guest speaker this week. Dr. Davy shared invaluable insights into the research process, using his expertise in food science as an engaging example.

I would like to extend a heartfelt farewell to Mr. Ryan Mark and Miss Yuli Whiteman, who have been valuable members of the Science faculty this semester. Their contributions as outstanding educators will be greatly missed next year.

As students prepare for 2025, I would like to remind them to ensure they have the following essential items:

  • An A4 exercise book
  • A pencil case stocked with pens, pencils, a ruler, glue, and a calculator
  • Enclosed leather shoes

A significant portion of our budget last year was spent providing these supplies for unprepared students, which impacted our ability to replenish vital lab equipment. Your support in ensuring students come prepared is greatly appreciated.

As the Uniform Ambassador for LMHS, I also encourage parents to support our vision for improving student uniform standards in 2025. Please ensure students are equipped with the correct uniform, including a school shirt, navy blue shorts, and a navy blue school jumper. Uniform plays a vital role in maintaining a positive school image and fostering pride in our community.

Mrs Martin

Head Teacher Science

.

CAPA - Faculty Report

Music

We had an outstanding success with the End of Year Performance Showcase, which featured a range of fantastic musicians from Years 7 to 11. This Term we welcome Ms Gillard to the CAPA Faculty as our substantive Music teacher and we wish Ms Harris all the best in her new leadership role in the Hunter Valley.

Japanese

Year 8 have been exploring the language and culture of Japan throughout turn Term 4. Students have explored a range of artifacts, along with practicing their spoken and written language forms for Japanese.

Photography & Digital Media

Year 9 students have been focusing on event photography leading up to our end of year performances, they did an amazing job documenting their peers and capturing the vibe of the shows.

Visual Arts

Our junior artist have been exploring new forms with printmaking and painting, which culminated in a brilliant exhibition in the staffroom.

Y12 students Laura Dunn was competitively selected for the annual ‘First Class’ exhibition at MAC Yapang Gallery in Lake Macquarie. Congratulations Laura!

SHINE Program

A highlight of Term 4 was our annual SHINE Camp, this year at the beautiful Point Wolstoncroft. Our talented dancers, musicians and artist spent two days enjoying an immersive creative arts hub, surrounded by dedicated staff and students.

Warm regards,

The CAPA Faculty 🎨🎭🎶

Mathematics - Faculty Report

Reflecting on a Great Year and Looking Ahead

As we close the chapter on another successful year at LMHS, the Mathematics Faculty would like to take a moment to celebrate the hard work, growth, and achievements of all our students. Your dedication and enthusiasm for mathematics have made this year both rewarding and inspiring.

With the holidays fast approaching, we encourage all students to take a well-deserved break. Rest and recharge during this time so that you can return to Term 1 next year ready to give your best. A restful mind is a prepared mind, and we know you will rise to the challenges and opportunities of 2024.

Getting Ready for Term 1 To start the new year strong, all students are reminded to bring the following essential supplies:

An exercise book (for notes and practice work)

Pens and pencils (blue/black pens, pencils, eraser, and ruler)

A Casio scientific calculator (a must-have for our mathematics lessons)

These items are crucial for ensuring that you are fully prepared to engage in your studies from day one.

On behalf of the entire Mathematics Faculty, we wish you a restful and enjoyable break. Thank you for your efforts this year, and we look forward to welcoming you back in Term 1, ready to achieve even greater success!

TAS - Faculty Report

Stage 4 – Our students have learnt a range of new skills in Year 7 & 8 across multiple TAS subjects in 2024. In Year 7, students have made tie-dye tote bags, showcasing their skills on the sewing machines. They have also been busy in the workshop making their key rack holder, learning a range of metal tools and machinery. In Year 8, students have worked hard in the workshop and kitchen, learning new skills and processes that are preparing them for Stage 5.

Stage 5 – Our students have been busy across all of their electives. In Industrial Technology Timber students designed their own projects for Semester Two in Year 10, showcasing their innovative ideas. Year 9 have learnt a range of new skills while completing the Camp Chair Project.

In Industrial Technology Metal, students successfully made their Rocket Stoves in Semester One, before completing the Toolbox for Semester Two. Year 10 were busy creating their BBQs.

Our students have been extremely busy in Year 9 Fashion, sewing a range of items throughout the year. The end result from the projects has been fantastic with Ms Stephens very impressed with the level of skills displayed by our students.

Food Technology students have been learning a range of new cooking skills and techniques this year. On display are some wonderful cakes that have been decorated by our talented Year 9 students.

Stage 6 – Our VET Construction class were busy building a cubby house for Lake Munmorah Public School. Under the guidance of Mr Westwood, the project turned out to be a great success.

Year 11 Industrial Technology Timber showcased outstanding joinery skills in the development of their Jewellery Box Project. The students are now in full planning mode for their Major Projects. Mr Watson is very excited to see what the students can accomplish in 2025!

Our Year 12 students from 2024 worked tirelessly on their Major Projects, showcasing their joinery skills in the development of their projects. Through their hard work, the students have achieved excellent results in the HSC, Mr Watson is extremely proud and looking forward to hearing what the future holds for our talented students.

PDHPE - Faculty Report

As we wrap up another fantastic year in the PDHPE faculty, it’s time to reflect on what has been a busy and productive Term 4. Here’s a breakdown of all the amazing work our students and staff have achieved:

Years 7–10

This term, all Year 7–10 students completed their formal exams in either Week 4 or Week 6, and we are proud to share that some impressive results have been achieved across all year levels.

Year 7

Students have been working through the I’ve Got the Power unit in theory lessons, focusing on personal power and decision-making, while participating in a Modified Games unit in practical lessons to develop their teamwork and gameplay skills.

Year 8

The Summertime Safety unit in theory has helped students develop essential knowledge about staying safe during the warmer months, while the Summer Sports unit in practical lessons has been a hit, encouraging participation and skill development in a range of seasonal sports.

Year 9

The Get the Party Started unit in theory has engaged students in learning about partying safely and making informed decisions in social settings. In practical lessons, students have been continuing to build their skills and fitness through the Modified Games unit.

Year 10

As they prepare for senior studies, students have completed the What’s Next? Future Challenges unit in theory, exploring life after school, and the Game Sense unit in practical lessons, which has refined their tactical and strategic thinking in sports.

Year 11

Our Year 11 students have transitioned seamlessly into their HSC courses, diving deep into their studies in CAFS, PDHPE, and SLR. The hard work is already paying off, with their first HSC assessment tasks due before the Christmas break. Their dedication has been inspiring, setting the tone for a strong start to 2025.

Merry Xmas from Year 12 CAFS

Looking Ahead to 2025

We’re excited to share some key dates for Term 1 next year:

  • Swimming Carnival – Wednesday, 12th February 2025
  • Athletics Carnival – Friday, 4th April 2025
  • Cross Country – Friday, 11th April 2025

Additionally, TSP trials will begin in Term 1 and follow the same process as this year, including application forms, multiple trial sessions, and contracts for successful students. We’re eager to see the talent our students will bring to the program in 2025.

Thank you to all our staff and students for their hard work, dedication, and enthusiasm this term. We hope you have a safe and restful holiday break, and we look forward to another fantastic year in PDHPE in 2025!

Warm regards,

Erin Boake

Head Teacher of PDHPE

Aboriginal Education

As the year comes to a close, we reflect on an incredible range of achievements in Aboriginal Education across our school. Here are some highlights:

Staff Professional Learning

This year, our staff completed Professional Learning in Aboriginal Pedagogies, focusing on the '8 Ways' framework. Each faculty showcased how they have successfully integrated these pedagogies into their teaching programs, further enriching the learning experience for all of our students.

Muru Bulbi Shield

We hosted two outstanding Muru Bulbi Shield events this year. The inaugural primary school Muru Bulbi Shield saw high school students step up as referees and volunteers, embodying leadership and community spirit. The high school Muru Bulbi Shield was another great success, bringing students together in a celebration of sport and culture. Congratulation to Gwandalan PS and Gorokan HS who won their respective shields.

Ngura Creative Arts Program

Our Ngura Creative Arts program provided students with an exciting opportunity to create their own T-Shirt designs in collaboration with local graphic designer Tylah Mundine and Matt Sonter from Central Coast Council. This initiative highlighted the power of cultural expression through art.

On-Country Experience

Ten students participated in an On-Country experience at Bateau Bay, facilitated by Jonathan Wright from Dhinewan Mentoring. This enriching program deepened their connection to Country and cultural knowledge through sharing local stories. The day finished with students creating sand sculptures that reflected the theme 'change'.

PCYC Mural Program

Seven students successfully completed the PCYC Mural program, working with NSW Police Youth Command, graphic artists from Dot Matrix Design, and Bateau Bay PCYC. The result was a stunning mural wall that reflects the creativity and collaborative spirit of our students.

Academic Achievements

We are incredibly proud of our students’ academic successes this year:

  • Eight students completed the HSC, with several receiving early offers into a variety of tertiary degrees.
  • Four Year 10 students were accepted into SBAT courses with Central Coast Local Health District, pursuing pathways in nursing, pharmacy, allied health, and radiology.
  • Congratulations to our 2024 School Captain, Charlotte F, on receiving the prestigious University of Newcastle Ma & Morley Scholarship. This honour recognises Charlotte’s outstanding dedication, leadership, and hard work. Included in the attached pictures is Charlotte’s major visual arts project, showcasing her creative talent.

Attendance Excellence

A special mention to the following students who achieved over 95% attendance in Term 4: Isaac D, Isabella W, Nicholas O, Taj T, Malii T, Charly S, Raidyn H, Jai N, Ziggie R, Kael P, and Elizabeth R.

As we wrap up this year, we want to thank our staff, students, and community for their unwavering support and dedication. We wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season and look forward to another successful year in 2025.

Wellbeing - Faculty Report

Year Advisor Reports

Year 9 - Mr Aaron Bolte

Term 4 has been another busy time for Year 9 as they have been finishing off their course topics and covering the remaining outcomes leading up to Final Course Examinations. Congratulations to all Year 9 students for completing their Final Course Examinations and putting in their best efforts. Students are reminded to reflect on their Yearly report efforts and look for areas to grow and improve on moving forward into Year 10, 2025.

Regular attendance at school and in-class, correct school uniform and monitoring phone use have been focus areas at Lake Munmorah High during Term 4. Please support Year 9 moving into Year 10 2025 with monitoring and improving these focus areas. If you need extra help, support and positive strategies with these focus areas please contact wellbeing staff, classroom teachers, Head Teachers and Deputy Principal.

We have had numerous wellbeing, cultural and health programs running during Term 4 and Semester 2. Year 9 have been involved in these wellbeing programs and support; Core of Life, Healthy Body Healthy Mind, Youth Health workshops, Mental Health Support from Head Space and Police Talks.

Many Years 9 students were involved in the successful Muru Bulbi Shield sports gala day between Lake Munmorah, Gorokan and Northlakes High schools this Term. Students displayed great cultural leadership and sportsmanship during this sports gala day and are to be congratulated on their efforts! Congratulations also to all Year 9 students who participated in the 'Big Gig' CAPA performance and received awards at our end of year assembly. It was a great day to celebrate with our Year 9 students!

I hope everyone has a happy, healthy and safe Christmas along with an enjoyable summer break. We are looking forward to big 2025 with our Year 10 students at Lake Munmorah High School.

Thanks Mr Bolte Year 9 Advisor

Thanks Mr Bolte - Year 9 Advisor

Year 11 - Miss Emily Davis

Another school year done and dusted! I am so very proud of this year group moving into their senior years demonstrating a lot of resilence and dedication towards their studies. To finish off what was a very successful year, Year 12 students had an exciting and refreshing day out at Gosford Aqua Park! The trip was a perfect opportunity for the students to bond, have fun, and unwind after months of hard work. From thrilling water slides to relaxing in the water, everyone enjoyed some much-needed downtime. It was a fantastic way to celebrate the end of a busy term and recharge for the challenges ahead.

As the summer holidays approach, it’s important to take time to relax and reflect on the year. Now is the perfect moment for our Year 12s to take a well-deserved break and focus on personal well-being. However, balancing relaxation with some organisation can set the foundation for a successful start to the new year. Staying organised, whether it's planning next year’s goals, reviewing study materials, or simply sorting through upcoming responsibilities, can ease the transition back into school life.

I encourage all students to use their holiday wisely – take the time to rest, but also find a few moments to plan ahead, keeping in mind that a clear mind is key to starting the year strong.

Wishing all Year 12 students a well-balanced, relaxing, and productive summer break! And Merry Christmas of course!!

Miss Davis

Important Dates for Term 1, 2025

Due to the uncertain nature of future events - please refer to the Sentral Parent Portal for important dates, as these are currently subject to frequent changes.

Created By
Emily Davis