WOW WHAT'S ON AT WHITEBRIDGE

HALOGEN YOUNG LEADERS DAY

In Week 9 the senior leaders of the SRC went to Sydney to attend the Halogen Young Leaders Conference at the International Convention Centre. There we were introduced to four people who all have had to portray leadership qualities at different times in their lives - the Hon. Premier of NSW Chris Minns, actress Catherine Laga’aia, Emma Mckeon Australia's most decorated Olympian, and Nikhil Autar who was the 2024 Young Australian of the Year. Each of these speakers shared times in their life where they had to portray resilience and learn to embrace their challenges.

Isabella O’Brien - Year 12 Prefect

Assessment and Reporting Update

Most students across the school have successfully completed their first assessments for the year. Information about these tasks, along with the scope and sequence for each subject, can be found in publications available on our school website. To access these resources, please click on the button below and scroll to the bottom of the page.

These documents provide an outline of assessment schedules and topics covered throughout the academic year, helping students and families plan ahead with confidence.

In addition, Years 10, 11, and 12 students have recently confirmed their pattern of study for their School Certificate, RoSA, or HSC credential with NESA by signing their Confirmation of Entry forms. This crucial step ensures that all student details are accurate for their exiting credential, allowing for a smooth progression toward the next step in their pathway towards a future career.

Mr Glen Mulhearn - Head Teacher, Secondary Studies

WHITEBRIDGE HIGH SCHOOL P&C

On May 27, 2025, at 6pm the Whitebridge High School P&C will hold its Annual General Meeting (AGM) at the school. The Whitebridge High School P&C plays a vital role in the operation of the school’s exceptional canteen, and we warmly invite parents, families, carers and community members to attend and get involved to help ensure this important service continues. The canteen is the P&C's primary fundraising initiative, and the commitment required for various roles is minimal. Our dedicated team of paid canteen staff manage the day-to-day operations, with the P&C providing oversight. With just four meetings per year (one per term), the P&C is designed to fit the busy schedules of families. In addition to supporting the canteen, these meetings offer a chance to learn about the school’s current initiatives and recent successes. If you have any questions about the roles that are required to be filled, please reach out to secretary.whspandc@gmail.com or president.whspandc@gmail.com and the current members will be happy to answer your queries.

Angie Andressen - President WHS P&C

YEAR 7

Mr Wicks would like to say how incredibly proud he is of the Year 7 group for getting through their first term of high school! We have had an absolutely sensational start at WHS. Students have begun to make some fantastic friendships, complete assessment tasks in many subjects, and navigate our way around the school. We have made some lifelong memories at camp, and I am certainly looking forward to all of our camps in the future. Swimming at the baths for sport has also been extremely fun, and now we get to look forward to trying different sports in Term 2. I hope you all have a fantastic, restful break, and look forward excited for a great Term 2.

Mr Liam Wicks - Year 7 Advisor

YEAR 8

It has been a fabulous start to the year for our Year 8 students! With the introduction to our new electives, new tech/creative classes and not being the new kids on the block, we have seen a lot of diligence, participation and passion from this lovely year group. As always, Year 8's 'go-getter' attitude to signing up for extracurricular opportunities is impressive and very beneficial to their learning.

Earlier in the term we saw our three competitive swimmers, Oliver Blatchford, Flynn Trethan and Ayla Collins qualify for the NSW CHS Swimming Championships.

Our sporting highlights do not stop there with Emilee Quinlan making the Hunger Region U15s Girl's AFL Team and Axl Bryant selected as the youngest player on our school's Open Boy's Football (soccer) Team.

Year 8 has also made a great impact on our community and our bright ball of energy, Callie Neat showed great determination as a part-time runner, in the very important charity Charlie's Run for Kids.

We also had some hospitable and vivacious hosts - Poppy Beveridge, Isla Clark, Molly Dawson, Quinn Deacon, Tyreece Fenwick, Zara Gintings, Abby Gordon and Evelyn Nash host some lovely Japanese exchange students. Thank you to the students and their families for providing a once in a lifetime and distinctly Australian experience for these young visitors.

I would also like to give a shout out to Emily Moncrieff and Marley Gamble for standing up in front of the entire school assembly to do the acknowledgement of country. Well done girls! Thank you to our current SRC leaders Poppy Beveridge, Abby Gordon, Nixon Sherry and Koby Davis for reading our daily announcements at the weekly year assemblies.

Our creative gurus Wilbur Feenan, Jasmine Hardy, Liviah Glashoff, Lillian Forbes, Mason Gray, Georgie Horton, Quinn Deacon and Oliviah Birch have been selected to participate in Drama and Dance Star Struck. We are very excited to see their performances!

While on the note of creativity, I would like to wish our very own Year 8 rockstars Oscar Biskup, Max McCann and Flynn Hill good luck at their up and coming performance at Kahibah Sports Club this Sunday 6 April.

Not only are we superstars representing the school but we also have a list of legends with 100% attendance which is a terrific accomplishment. A big congratulations to Ryder Debnam, Abby Gordon, Piper Maddocks, Finn Piotrowski-Brasier, Sebastian Scott and Levi West. Keep up the awesome work, we love seeing your faces here every day!

As you can see it has been a wonderful term for Year 8 with many more students I could write about. I am so proud of us smashing goals in sports, creativity, community and leadership. There are lots of great things to look forward to in the rest of the year. If students are interested in any activity they can come and see me! Finally, thank you to the wonderful families supporting our fabulous Year 8 group. I hope you all have a wonderful and well-deserved holiday and stay safe (especially those with e-bikes!). See you all next term!

Miss Ashley Fry - Year 8 Advisor

YEAR 9

It has been a busy start to 2025, and I would like to start with a special thank you to the families who have donated clothes in the past few months to the clothing pool. They will come in handy in the upcoming cold winter months. We are now entering the time of year when representative sport is beginning and whilst I have spoken to the year group on many occasions about listening out for notices for their chosen sports, it seems that a number of students are leaving it until the last minute to put their name down or trial for their sports of choice. If I could get parents/guardians to remind the young people in their care to keep their ear to the ground for these activities so they don't miss out. It has been a long term setting up for 2025 with an 11 week start and I'm sure many students and families are looking forward to a break - myself included. Be safe over the Easter holidays and enjoy the mild weather while it lasts.

Mr Andy Holahan - Year 9 Advisor

YEAR 10

Year 10 students continue to shine this term! It has been a busy and exciting few weeks, with students actively participating in a variety of activities, including sporting events, barista courses, catering functions, and science challenges. They are embracing opportunities with a future-focused mindset and making the most of their learning experiences.

Our CTP students have been working diligently during their work experience days (Wednesdays), taking on job opportunities and demonstrating an outstanding work ethic. The feedback from employers has been fantastic. Well done to all involved. Keep up the great work!

A special congratulations to our talented students who participated in the Litterarty Competition:

🎨 Chase Inmon – Secondary Schools Runner-Up for his Whale Shark creation, "Strangled and Starved," earning a $250 cash prize.

🎨 Boston Paull & Ned Wilson – Winners of the "Ocean Impact Award" for their artwork "Bottled Ocean." They will receive tickets to a major tourist attraction, such as the SEA LIFE Centre in Sydney. Fantastic achievements!

Our VET Early Commencement Sports Coaching students successfully completed their first work placement at the Hunter Region Swimming Carnival. They conducted themselves professionally, assisting with timing, recording, and equipment management. Great job, team!

Barista Success! ☕

A huge congratulations to the 27 students who have successfully completed their Barista qualification! Not only did they master the art of making different coffee styles, but they also honed their skills in latte art. Well done!

Looking ahead, Miss Osland and Ms Turner will be taking Year 10, 11, and 12 hospitality students to the Royal Easter Show over the upcoming holidays. These students will gain hands-on experience running the Rural Café, refining their customer service and hospitality skills. Stay tuned for photos in the next newsletter!

It has been inspiring to see Year 10 students fully engaged in all aspects of their learning. Enjoy your well-earned break, and I look forward to seeing you next term

Miss Bronte Osland - Year 10 Advisor

YEAR 11

As the term comes to an end, our Year 11 students are demonstrating exceptional dedication and commitment to their studies. With the start of their senior year now behind them, it's clear that they are embracing the challenges and opportunities that come with this pivotal time in their education.

Year 11 as a year group have hit the ground running, with an overall attendance rate above 90%. This level of consistency and commitment to their schoolwork is truly commendable, setting the stage for a successful year ahead. The focus and determination shown by our students is evident in their approach to assessments, as they recently submitted their first Year 11 assessment tasks. These early assignments have allowed them to showcase their knowledge and skills, setting a solid foundation for the remainder of the year.

Students across Year 11 have also been getting involved in extra curricula activities. We have had many students representing the school in sporting teams, being selected for Hunter Region teams, representing our school at Star Struck, performing music items at Kahibah Sports Club and there are even students travelling down to Sydney to work at the Royal Easter Show during the school holidays! Mrs Morrow and Ms Turner are so proud of the dedication to school you are all showing!!

The cooler months are just around the corner, and our Year 11 students are eagerly anticipating the opportunity to wear their senior jackets everyday!

Have the most amazing break, stay safe – can’t wait to see you all return after the holidays, ready for another busy term!

Ms Courtney Turner - Year 11 Advisor

YEAR 12

Year 12 have been working diligently completing assessment tasks in the form of performances, major works, presentations and exams. A huge congratulations to all students as we are now officially halfway through the HSC journey! We have had many class groups engage in exciting real world opportunities on excursions to the NSW State Library, MAC Gallery, ArtExpress and Call Back. Congratulations to Jesse Hill and Josef Cresnar for their selection in the Hunter Region Open Boys Soccer Team. Year 12 are also to be congratulated on their attendance this term with the following students achieving 100% - Anastasia Binkovska, Maria Binkovska, Dorian Byrne, Brina Chong Nee, Camron Hill, Lachlan Hood, Freddie Ma, Sam Meadows, Kaila Webster and Macey Williams. Finally, we are looking forward to starting the process of University applications with support from staff at the University of Newcastle providing our year group with information and guidance. Wishing Year 12 a well-deserved break over the holidays!

Mrs Georgia Lindsay - Year 12 Advisor

CAREERS

Term 1 has been very busy so far with the new model for the Career Transition Pathway (CTP) class finalising work experience for 12 students by Week 3 to enable them to attend work every Wednesday over the past 7 weeks.

This year I have implemented 'Lunch and Learn' seminars for Year 9-12 students seeking university, trade, defence or TAFE pathways.

In Week 11, Year 12 students seeking a university pathway will have the opportunity to apply for the Early Entry Program at the University of Newcastle and also complete their University Admission Centre (UAC) application online.

Mr Matthew Bendall - Careers Advisor

HSIE/LANGUAGES

Year 7 Japanese – 日本語

In Term 1, Year 7 began their journey into learning Japanese and exploring culture through studying a unit of work titled “All About Me”. Students learnt how to say their name, where they live, their nationality and age in Japanese. Through interactive speaking and listening activities, games, and conversations with classmates, they have started building their confidence in using basic Japanese phrases.

They were also very lucky to have Japanese students, and the visiting Japanese teachers visit their lessons. Students asked questions in Japanese from what they were learning in class and also asked interesting questions about what life in Japan is like. Congratulations to Year 7 for an enthusiastic and positive start to their Japanese studies.

Visit from Japanese students from Shikoku, Japan

Whitebridge High School welcomed 14 Japanese students, their teacher and a member of the Japanese Educational Tour Company from the 21st March – 1st April. Our students and their families opened their homes to welcome them, building new friendships and creating unforgettable memories along the way.

During their stay, the Japanese students participated in a range of exciting activities that offered them a taste of both Australian school life and local culture. They had English lessons in the morning, joined our students in regular class lessons, giving everyone a chance to learn from each other and share perspectives from two different cultures.

One of the highlights of the week was a fun-filled excursion to Oakvale Wildlife Park, where our visitors had some close encounters with some of Australia’s unique native animals such as kangaroos and koalas, as well as feeding baby goats. This all made for an exciting and memorable day out.

Some of the students enjoyed visiting the Newcastle Ocean Baths to observe their host buddies participate in swimming activities while at the same time they were provided with the opportunity to play beach volleyball.

A wonderful farewell lunch was provided by Miss Osland and her Year 10 Hospitality class which was followed by the Japanese students sharing their culture through various engaging PowerPoint presentations and demonstrations. Thank you to Miss Osland and her class for not only catering for the event but for also setting up the library space so beautifully.

Thank you to the host families who generously welcomed the students into their homes. Your kindness and hospitality played a vital role in making this program such a success.

The students who hosted were: Quinn Deacon, Abby Gordon, Molly Dawson, Poppy Beveridge, Evelyn Nash, Isla Clark, Zara Gintings, Georgie Horton, Amelia Bowron, Stella Inmon, Selva Samadanipour, Burke and Lincoln Jefferson, Tyreece Fenwick, the Elliott family and Claude Yates who was a host buddy at school.

The cultural exchange has been a valuable experience for everyone involved. It not only gave our students the chance to learn about Japanese customs and traditions, but also strengthened their communication skills, empathy, and appreciation for global connections.

Thank you to all of the staff and students at Whitebridge High School for your support and for welcoming our visitors into our school community.

Mrs Trudy Quartermain - Teacher, Japanese

HSIE

This term in 'Human Society and Its Environment' (HSIE) students engaged with complex social, historical, and environmental issues, enhancing their ability to analyse and empathise with diverse perspectives. They explored historical events to understand contemporary social issues whilst developing critical thinking skills and a deeper appreciation for the world around them. The students are encouraged to think critically and actively inquire about the world around them.

In Year 7, students explored the field of archaeology, focusing on the methods used to study ancient human remains. They learn how archaeologists gather and interpret evidence to reconstruct past societies. This foundational knowledge prepares them for their subsequent studies of Ancient Egypt. Students delve into the rich history of Ancient Egypt, examining its culture, beliefs, and significant events. They engage in hands-on activities and discussions that deepen their understanding. Their learning will be complimented with the visit from the Tutankhamun Roadshow, where students will experience artefacts and knowledge from this ancient civilisation firsthand, enhancing their learning through direct engagement with history.

Year 8 students have been mastering their geographical skills by undertaking study about our complex and interconnected world. They work towards mastering geographical skills, including map reading, spatial analysis, and understanding human-environment interactions. Students explore themes such as population distribution, urbanisation and resource management. They apply their skills to understand the critical role of water in the world, studying its significance to ecosystems and human civilisations.

For Year 9, the term began with an exploration of the modern world, focusing on the Industrial Revolution's impact on society. Students analysed complex topics such as slavery, the experiences of convicts in Australia, and the broader implications of colonisation. They also investigated how Australia transitioned from separate colonies into a unified nation, understanding the political, social, and economic factors involved. This historical context sets the stage for discussions about Australia's involvement in World War I. Looking ahead to next term, students will participate in the WWI Trench Warfare Exhibit, which will provide immersive learning experiences about the realities of trench warfare, fostering a deeper understanding of the war's impact on Australian society and identity.

Year 10 challenged students to examine complex human behaviour, wellbeing, and issues of inequality. They explored how these factors have manifested within Australia and globally, considering how social, economic, and environmental contexts influence wellbeing. Students were given their Junior Geography Project where they were tasked with identifying a geographical issue that interests them, conducting primary and secondary research, and compiling their findings into a formal report. This project has emphasised research skills, critical analysis, and the application of geographical concepts in real-world contexts. Starting in Term 2, students will learn about various environmental changes affecting Australia’s coastline, including climate change, coastal erosion, and conservation efforts. This unit encourages our young people to think critically about environmental stewardship and the importance of sustainable management practices.

COMMERCE

Our Year 8 and 10 commerce students are exploring the Australian legal system, understanding laws that govern business operations, consumer rights, and the role of government in regulating commerce. They also learn about the fundamentals of running a business, including marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. Year 9 students have an exciting year ahead with planned excursions that connect classroom learning to real-world experiences, as well as a market day where they can apply their business knowledge in a practical setting. Year 10 students are actively involved in the ESSI Money Challenge led by Suncorp Bank, where they learn about financial literacy, budgeting, and investment strategies. They also participate in the ASX Schools Sharemarket Game, managing a $50,000 virtual investment portfolio, which enhances their understanding of the stock market and economic principles while preparing for their major project in the topic of tourism.

Mr Csaba Felkai - Teacher, HSIE

CAPA

Star Struck Update

Students from Whitebridge High School are gearing up for an exciting showcase at the 2025 Star Struck event, where they will demonstrate their talents in dance, drama, and music. With rehearsals well underway, the commitment and enthusiasm of these young performers is commendable.

The students have embraced the challenge, rehearsing after school and on weekends, showcasing their passion and determination. Their efforts reflect not only their individual talents but also the strong sense of community and collaboration at Whitebridge High.

Under the guidance of dedicated teachers Miss Fry, Ms Binkins and Miss O, students are diving deep into their repertoire, and we wish them the best of luck over the coming weeks.

Year 7 Music Program

As the first six weeks of school unfold, our Year 7 students are diving into the music program with enthusiasm and energy. Engaging wholeheartedly, they are exploring the fundamentals of beat and rhythm through hands-on experiences that are both educational and fun.

Students have been busy mastering a drum rock beat and fill, which has not only enhanced their rhythmic skills but also fostered a sense of teamwork and collaboration as they play together. In addition to drumming, they have begun to learn the ukulele, enhancing their understanding of harmony and ensemble skills.

Feedback from students has been overwhelmingly positive, with many expressing excitement about the creative opportunities the program offers.

We are proud of our Year 7 students for their dedication and passion in the music program and look forward to seeing their continued growth.

Mr Brent Budden - Relieving Head Teacher, CAPA

TAS

TECHNOLOGY

Year 11 IT Timber students have been working on their first project (nail box) which is a skills exercise to practise making a selection of cabinet joints using the wood lathe to turn their handle. This exercise will lead the students into the design phase for their bathroom/ kitchen cupboard minor design project.

7 Tec6 have been eagerly engaged in completing a tool caddy sheet metal work project. They have learnt to prepare raw material, measure and mark out to a drawing, fold and spot weld. The skills learnt will then be implemented to fabricate a handle that will fit their base.

Mr Robert Milne - Teacher, Industrial Technology

HOSPITALITY

Year 10 Hospitality students did a fantastic job catering for the Japanese students and their host families. I am very impressed with the work ethic of Year 10 students and congratulations on completing your first catering event. Well done and thankyou!

Miss Bronte Osland - Teacher, Hospitality

food technology

Year 8 Technology Mandatory – Food Technology students are well underway in developing their practical skills in food technology. They have been honing their cutting techniques, practicing proper safety procedures, maintaining high standards of hygiene, and working collaboratively in a team environment. Our most recent challenge was to create vegetarian nachos, and it was a huge success! Students thoroughly enjoyed preparing and tasting their meals. Families, you might just have Friday night’s dinner sorted—so sit back, relax, and let your budding chefs take over the kitchen (recipes are in the Google Classroom)!

Mrs Sarah Box - Teacher, Food Technology

Year 9 Food Technology students completed their first assessment task, which required them to develop a healthy muffin recipe tailored for adolescents. Their challenge was to modify an existing muffin recipe to enhance its nutritional value whilst keeping it appealing and tasty! They did a great job!

Miss Jess Munro - Teacher, Food Technology

TEXTILES & DESIGN

Year 12 Textiles & Design students are well underway in the production of their 'major works'. All students are engaged and showing strong dedication towards their projects. Ms Turner is very proud and cannot wait to see the finished products!

Year 11 Textiles & Design students have started off their senior years very strong, showing maturity and enthusiasm towards their learning. They have been building their knowledge and technical skills through the development of a textile journal. Ms Turner is amazed by the creativity and quality of work demonstrated!

Ms Courtney Turner - Teacher, Textiles and Design

ENGINEERING STUDIES

Year 12 Engineering Studies have just completed the personal and public transport unit learning about work, energy and power as well as how friction plays a role in everyday life. In the drawing unit the class recently completed transition drawings of ducting and triangulated these to be developed.

Year 9 have started working on bridge designs and models for testing in Term 2. Students have researched bridges around the world and are now building their own.

HYDROGEN CAR PROJECT

Students in our H2GP Team have successfully built the hydrogen car. They are now refining the car to make it more aerodynamic and lighter for the first test run before the big endurance race.

Mr Mark Bayada - Teacher, Engineering Studies

LIBRARY

The Whitebridge library has recently received an order of books from the Children's Book Council Notables and Shortlist for the 2025 Book of the Year Awards. These books are from four categories:

1 Older Readers 2 Younger Readers 3 Picture Books 4 Eve Pownall (non-fiction)

There are some great titles ranging from novels, picture books and information books. The theme for this year is 'Book an Adventure' and the books we have from the CBCA are on an adventure on the big library display. Borrow one of these books and be the first to go on an adventure with one of the amazing new books we now have!

The Premier's Reading Challenge opened on 24th February and closes to students 22nd August. Keep reading and logging books! Congratulations to those students who have already finished the 2025 challenge - Zoe Barker, Laszlo Hill, Liam Knight, Delilah Neilson, Nikai Worell, Isla Clark, Wilbur Feenan and Flynn Hill. Please come to the library if you need help to find books or log them.

CHESS

On Tuesday 1st April Whitebridge High School competed in their first round of chess for 2025 against Callaghan College. We came away with one draw and a win but unfortunately Callaghan did better overall this round.

The team consisting of Lucas Matheson-Douglas on board 1, Luke Ward on board 2, Jacob Hicks on board 3 and Thomas Pringle on board 4. The boys did an exceptional job, with a special mention to Thomas Pringle who is new to the chess team and won his first official match. We also had Owen Pringle, Lincoln Jackson, Healey Turner and Laszlo Hill watch the matches and play some friendly games of chess with the opposing team once official matches concluded. All those who attended showed great sportsmanship and we are proud of you all. Well done!

Mrs Sarah Walker - Teacher/Librarian