TERM 4 Week 10 2025
PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
As we come to the close of an extraordinary year, I want to take a moment to reflect on the achievements and growth we have experienced together in 2025. It has been a phenomenal year with a strong report card for our school, marked by increased attendance, significant improvements in HSC results, and impressive growth in NAPLAN literacy and numeracy outcomes. A special congratulations to our HSC Class of 2025 and Year 11 accelerated students on their outstanding HSC results. Your hard work and dedication have truly paid off, and you have set a high standard for excellence in our school community. A special mention to Lily Wilson who was awarded Dux of the HSC and was also recognised on the States All Round HSC Achievers Merit List having received 5 Band 6 results, this is an outstanding achievement form a dedicated and hard-working student. Our commitment to student wellbeing and sense of belonging has also been recognised, with positive feedback from the Public Schools Student Survey reflecting the supportive environment we continue to nurture. In addition, this year we proudly received a Secretary’s Award for Outstanding School Initiatives—an achievement that highlights the innovative and impactful programs led by our staff and students. Our students have not only excelled academically but have also made remarkable contributions in the arts, Aboriginal education, sport, and student leadership. Many have earned state awards and nominations of excellence, showcasing talent and commitment both within and beyond our school. I extend my sincere congratulations to all students, staff, and community members for your dedication and hard work. Your contributions have led to a strong and vibrant school community ready to embrace the future. Looking ahead to 2026, we will welcome new staff members and make some minor adjustments to year group allocations across our Senior Executive and Year Adviser teams to continue supporting our students to the high standards of care we are known for. For more details and to celebrate our achievements, please see below a copy of my principal’s address from our recent Annual Presentation Assembly, which marked the close of a very successful 2025. You will also find a special citation recognising our HSC achievers and Mr Peter Atkins the winner of the WHS award of teaching excellence. I wish you all a joyful Christmas and holiday season and look forward to welcoming all students back to school on Monday, 2nd February, commencing on a Week A timetable. The office will reopen for parent inquiries on Tuesday, 28th January, and staff return on Monday, 27th January. Warm regards, Nadene Harvey
Principal’s Address – End of Year Presentation Day
Good afternoon students, staff, parents, and guests, It is my pleasure to welcome you all to this special occasion as we come together to celebrate the achievements of our students and the entire school community. As we reflect on the year, I am filled with immense pride in the excellence shown across all aspects of school life at Whitebridge High School. We started our year firmly set on achieving our school’s vision. Where our students, staff and our school is a source of pride for our community. It is my sincere hope that today as we celebrate our collective achievements, that you walk away feeling proud. This year, our students have not only excelled within our school but have also brought distinction to our community at the regional and state levels. I would like to especially acknowledge Ruby, Lily, Eligh, Ellie, and Kiara for their outstanding HSC major works and further with the release of HSC results today, I extend congratulations to our class of 25 for their outstanding HSC results. We will soon recognise our distinguished achievers, however with 14 Band 6 results, an HSC all-rounder and having sat over 485 individual HSC examinations our class of 2025 scored more than 61% of their HSC results in the top 3 HSC bands. Indicative of our school continuing to go from strength to strength. Beyond the HSC, Eddy and Max received two of only 16 student Nanga Mai Awards across the state—an extraordinary achievement demonstrating their dedication and talent. Moreover, four of our students were honoured with Hunter Area Blues awards, and with only 4 major sporting awards on offer in the Hunter, we secured 2 of them. Jesse continued a recent 3-year trend of Whitebridge High Students receiving the prestigious Merv Cotterill Award, and Eddy, was recognised with the Hunter Area Scholarship for officiating. Our performers too have shone brilliantly – performing as the puppet ensemble in School Spectacular, the state’s leading arts event, and actors, dancers and singers playing key roles in Starstruck. Looking ahead, we are excited to have had 3 of our students selected as featured vocal artists for next year’s Hunter Starstruck. On the pathways front, we continue to create positive futures for students in school to work-place transition, with 100% of our stage 6 students electing to leave school prior to HSC completion securing employment in apprenticeships or traineeships and 65 of our graduating class already securing offers to University. Our Malang academy too are kicking goals, with students engaging in workplace learning and quality community access programs, they continue to develop entrepreneurial and retail skills through their $20 boss program and this year we celebrated the graduation of 5 Year 12 students from the Malang Academy. In academics, our students continue to achieve excellence, with success in the classroom and in external competitions and extra curricula programs. This success is exemplified not only by our HSC results achieved by graduates and those in our schools accelerated learning programs but by our strong results in NAPLAN. These results reflect our school’s unwavering commitment to growth in literacy and numeracy. Across all learning areas, our students’ progress is a testament to their hard work and application as learners. Whilst these little snapshots are simply some of the highlights across our year, I am sure that as our students are presented with their awards today, you will understand that we have many many more examples just like these. One could easily suggest with confidence that our little comprehensive high school surrounded by beautiful bushland, watched carefully by our totem the Weerekata and nestled quietly between the ocean and the lake is most definitely packing a punch!! We take pride in fostering a culture of high expectations, and this culture has clearly resulted in a strong learning environment and a positive sense of belonging for our students. With 192 days of learning and connection available to every student in 2025, our collective efforts saw an improvement in student attendance and with this, we have made a difference. Whilst this is positive, there is more work for us all to do - students, parents and staff alike in championing strong student attendance and addressing the learning and wellbeing gaps or learning poverty that arises from student absences. This year across our 912 students, we lost a total of 27,302 school days due to absence. With a committed partnership in learning that sees every student attend at least 90% of the time, we would get back more than 10000 days of learning and connection which would go a long way to bridging gaps and supporting student progress. Learning to be inclusive and to get along, learning to be resilient, learning to call out and stand up against poor behaviour, learning to learn and solve complex problems, learning to be active, to be a good team mate, learning to be work ready, learning to always give your best and above all learning to be kind. Whilst these things matter more to some than to others, the beauty of our school is that to us, it all matters and every piece of what we do for every student leads to both individual growth and collective success. Showing up each day matters more than you realise. Throughout this year, we have continued to shine as a beacon of excellence in public education, with many schools visiting us to learn from our best practice in accelerated learning, dual credentialing through the Australian Qualifications Framework and VET programs, and our extensive high potential and gifted education programs. I am also enormously proud to share that we once again received the prestigious Secretary’s Award for School Achievement in recognition of our collaboration with the Wiyellai Koa community of schools, fostering an authentic partnership and smooth transitions for students from Kindergarten through Year 12. Our focus this year on explicit teaching methods and tailoring learning to individual student needs has been highly effective. I want to sincerely acknowledge and thank our dedicated teaching and support staff—your professionalism and commitment are central to the success we celebrate today. On that note, I would like to take a moment to pay special tribute to a few colleagues. Mrs Sue Nunn will be retiring this week after 40 years of dedicated service in NSW public education. Sue’s passion for humanities has inspired many generations—it is with great respect and gratitude that we wish her all the best in her retirement.
We also acknowledge Mr Mulhearn, who after 26 at Whitebridge will continue his leadership journey as Head Teacher of Science at Cardiff High School next year.
Similarly, Miss Osland, recognised for her leadership in our VET program and recently accredited as a Highly Accomplished Teacher, will begin her role as Head Teacher TAS at Swansea High School in the new year.
Please join me in congratulating and thanking these outstanding educators. Looking ahead to next year, we welcome a new Deputy Principal, Ms Lawler to our senior executive team, to replace Melissa Krempin who has elected to continue her valuable work within the Department’s corporate team. With this change, I would like to recognise the outstanding work of Louise Smailes, who had done a marvellous job as Deputy Principal for the last three years. Louise’s leadership has been widely appreciated by students, parents, and staff, and we are fortunate that she will continue to lead excellence in teaching, learning, and wellbeing at WHS in 2026 through our Student Learning Hub.Please join me in acknowledging Mrs Smailes.
As we close out another successful year, I encourage everyone to enjoy a well-deserved and relaxing break. May this time provide an opportunity to reflect on the year that was, to give gratitude for the people around us that enrich our lives and to share and live with kindness to fill not only your own cup, but that of others through the simple act of kindness. As staff we will take this time to also recharge and prepare for the year ahead, where together we will continue our focus on student excellence, we will work hard to tackle learning poverty through improved attendance and engagement, and we will activate our students through empowering student voice and leadership. Together, we will continue to shine bright as a leading example of excellence in public education. As the Principal of this wonderful Public High School, I am extremely proud of our achievements, they reflect the effort, application and quality of our students, our staff, our school and our community and I want to encourage you to actively and loudly share in that pride. Thankyou
Thank you all, and congratulations once again to every member of our school community and please enjoy the celebrations!
Band 6 awards for the HSC 2025
A band 6 is the highest achievement level a student can receive in their HSC with the result a culmination of both school-based assessment and HSC exam performance. A band 6 represents an HSC mark of 90 or above and earns the student recognition on the New South Education Standards Authority Distinguished Achievers List. In recognition of the student’s achievement and the hard work it takes to earn such a result, our P and C have sponsored this award with a $100 scholarship for each Band 6 received. With HSC results released at 5.45 am this morning, it has been an early start and a quick turnaround to be able to present these awards to our wonderful students today. Of course, some of our students have received their results today already enjoying their holidays some far from home. As a result, not all of our recipients can be with us today. We will however still call their names and acknowledge each student. The 2025 Distinguished achievers and the winners of the Band 6 awards are:
At the end of Term 3, we held our Year 12 graduation ceremony. At this ceremony, our students are presented with their major awards, academic awards and their graduation certificates. Just as we recognise the top 10% of each year group at today’s ceremony, we also presented academic excellence awards to the top 10% of Year 12 students. I would like to acknowledge these students here today and I would ask them if they are with us to come forward and stand at the base of the stage when I call their names. Sam Wen, Polly Wilson, Lily Wilson, Lily Buckton, Ruby Buckton, Hannah Burton, Jesse Hill, Freddie Ma, Imogen Newbold, Imogen Sculley, Neve Scully Whilst these students are still on stage it gives me great pleasure to announce that we have also this year had a student recognised on the NSW Education Standards Authority All Rounders Merit List - To achieve this honour, a student must achieve a Band 6 in 10 or more units of their HSC which is a Band 6 result in 5 courses of study. I needed to do a bit of research to find out the last time the school had a student achieve this honour, and I can confirm that when this group of Year 12 students were in preschool in 2012, Whitebridge High’s Heath Winning completed his HSC and made the All-Rounders honours list. Making the most of our schools accelerated VET program, Lily Wilson worked hard and received a Band 6 in VET Hospitality in 2024. This Band 6 result in 2024, combined with her 4 Band 6 results achieved today, means that Lily has achieved this outstanding honour being recognised on the All-Rounders Merit List as one of the States Highest Achievers. In addition, today this achievement also recognises Lilys academic excellence as the recipient of this Year Whitebridge High School DUX award 2025. Ladies and gentlemen can you please congratulate Lily. Congratulations Lilly.
Whitebridge High School Award of Excellence in Teaching
This year’s winner, demonstrates a grounded passion and unwavering belief in public education, coupled with a genuine commitment to ensuring every student achieves success. As an excellent classroom practitioner, he consistently inspires students to reach their fullest potential through a combination of high expectations, perseverance, and effort. He prioritises foundational skills in literacy and numeracy as essential building blocks for excellence, he is particularly relentless in his pursuit of personal excellence from his HSC students, never accepting any submission that falls below each student’s personal best. It gives me great pleasure to announce the Whitebridge High School Award of Teaching Excellence for 2025 goes to Mr. Peter Atkins; a truly outstanding secondary teacher whose dedication, professionalism and teaching practice embodies the Highly Accomplished Teaching Standards. A valued and admired team member, he brings an infectious enthusiasm and a can-do attitude that uplifts and motivates students and colleagues alike. He is both a leader and a lifelong learner, actively supporting the growth of pre-service teachers and seasoned educators, while welcoming opportunities for his own learning, enjoying the role of mentor to early career teachers for the new games, experiences, and pedagogical approaches it presents to him. His commitment to continuous improvement is evident in his readiness to innovate and his unwavering high expectations, coupled with genuine humanity for all within his sphere of care and influence. Across his 27 years at WHS Mr Atkins has worn many hats, as Classroom teacher, Year Adviser, Sports Coach, Head Teacher and relieving Deputy, he is always willing to step in to any role asked of him with expertise and skill. Beyond the classroom, Mr Atkins extends his professionalism through his dedicated involvement in the local community. As coordinator of the local touch football competition and a passionate contributor to Central Charlestown Rugby Leagues club, he brings fun, fitness, and expertise to many beyond the school gates. His broken arm is testament to his lead by enthusiastic have a go attitude, where his slightly younger and possibly firmer opponent on the touch field caused him to take only a slight pause. His classrooms—whether indoors or outdoors—are spaces of explicit teaching, robust discussion, diligent effort, strong relationships, and enjoyment. It is with great pride and gratitude that we recognise Mr. Peter Atkins as the recipient of this year’s Whitebridge High School Award of Teaching Excellence. His exemplary practice, leadership, and commitment to student success set a benchmark for us all.
2026 Bell Times
School Uniform Shop - Holiday Trading
The summer school holidays are almost here and there’s so much happening across Newcastle, Lake Macquarie, Maitland, Cessnock and Port Stephens. Whether you’re a local family or visiting the region, we’ve rounded up the best activities, events and things to do with kids and teens this December and January. From beaches, pools and playgrounds to indoor fun, nature walks, workshops and day trips, this guide makes it easy to plan a brilliant summer. There’s something for every age and interest including plenty of options for under-5s.
HPGE PROGRAM
The High Potential and Gifted Education (HPGE) program at Whitebridge High School has actively engaged students through a wide range of enrichment opportunities, both within the school and across the local Wiyellai Koa Community of Schools. Throughout the year, HPGE students were accelerated into Stage 6 subjects, participated in the ASPIRE program, delivered workshops at local primary schools, engaged in school-based STEM initiatives, and competed in a variety of subject-specific competitions. In Term 4, Whitebridge High School proudly hosted the Wiyellai Koa Community of Schools HPGE Days, offering faculty-led workshops to over 140 primary school students across two days. Engaging sessions, including Ancient History’s “Poos from the Past,” saw students enthusiastically digging for ancient remains and exploring the past through hands-on learning. Also in Term 4, our HPGE End of Year Activities saw students choose two activities to enjoy over two days. Students and teachers worked alongside one another, sharing experiences that allowed participants to learn new skills or build on existing strengths in areas of personal interest.
Bushwalking
Whitebridge High bushwalking crew covered 22 kilometres across two epic days in Glenrock State Conservation Area. We are truly grateful to be so close to natural walking trails.
Ten Pin Bowling - Dullboys
Design It - Create Amazing Totes
Golfing at Merewether Golf Club
FISHING
Over two action-packed days, our HPGE students made the most of their outdoor classroom around Newcastle’s Queens Wharf, enjoying an unforgettable fishing experience by the water. They were thrilled to reel in a wide variety of species including tailor, bream, pike, butterfish and squire, with a special mention to ASTON TOWNSEND's impressive flathead catches on both days, which proudly became dinner both nights! 🍽️🐟 From learning new fishing skills to sharing laughs and stories with mates, students were truly in their element. The calm waters, hands on learning and strong sense of camaraderie made this experience one to remember. A hugely successful two days filled with skill building, connection and plenty of great catches. Well done to all involved! 👏
5 ON 5 BASKETBALL TOURNAMENT
Students refined their basketball skills through challenging drills and a fast-paced five-on-five tournament, before coming together to enjoy a BBQ feast.
The HPGE Team wish to thank the parents, students and teachers for a great 2025 and we look ahead to another inspiring year of offering high-quality opportunities that nurture student growth across the four HPGE domains: intellectual, physical, socio-emotional and creative. Csaba Felkai and Lauren Salcole - HPGE Co-ordinators
JAPANESE
Students in Year 7 Japanese this year have been able to experience different components of the Japanese language through reading, writing, listening, speaking and culture. They have studied the topics of “About Me”, “Fast Food”, “Sports, Hobbies, Birthdays and Star Signs” and “My Town”. Throughout these topics Year 7 have gained skills in how to read, write, listen to and speak Japanese. Within the topic of “Fast Food”, students designed a menu in Japanese for their assessment task. They then produced a vast array of different menus ranging from a restaurant and school canteen to a 7/11 menu. Students concluded their assessment task schedule with a self-introduction conversation with a friend. This task allowed them to exchange information about themselves in Japanese while at the same time asking their friend questions. They were also provided with the opportunity to make a traditional Japanese snack in class called “Onigiri” or Japanese Rice Balls. The importance of numerous Japanese festivals throughout the year such as Hinamatsuri, Children’s Day, 7-5-3 Day and the importance of New Year celebrations were also observed.
HOST FAMILIES NEEDED FOR VISITING JAPANESE STUDENTS 2026
From Friday 20th March 2026, a group of 24 Japanese students from Shikoku will be arriving at Whitebridge High School. These students will be staying from Friday 20th March to Tuesday 31st (departing – Tuesday morning). They will be at Whitebridge High School for 11 days. The arrival and departures times are yet to be confirmed. There will be 14 boys and 10 girls.
Families are allowed to host one student and during the stay, both Japanese students and their host students will participate in one, possibly two excursions. They will attend English lessons in the mornings during periods 1 and 2 then after this, the Japanese students will be integrated in normal timetabled lessons with their host student.
If you are able to accommodate one Japanese student while at the same time providing a cultural experience for your own family and that of our visiting Japanese young people, please contact TRUDY QUARTERMAIN (Japanese Teacher) at the beginning of Term 1, 2026.
SRC SPOTLIGHT
Term 4 was full of energy and enthusiasm from our newly elected SRC students.
In Week 2 the students gathered at Redhead Surf Club to share ideas about our school community and how they can work together to make a positive impact in the year ahead. It was fantastic to see everyone collaborating and engaging in respectful discussions. In Week 3, 5, 7 and 9 the SRC led regular meetings to further discuss ideas from the planning day. Two main focus areas were promoting the whole-school swimming carnival and organising a Christmas themed fundraiser. We also celebrated World Teachers Day in Week 3 by delivering cake and cards to staffrooms, whilst in Week 6 our Senior Leaders represented Whitebridge High at the Hunter White Ribbon Breakfast at McDonald Jones Stadium to raise awareness and promote discussion around ending violence against women.
SRC BAKE SALE - CHRISTMAS FUNDRAISER
Over the last five weeks the SRC organised a bake sale and out of uniform day to raise money for the Salvation Army. The Salvation Army is a charity that provides food, water, mobile showers, clean blankets and clothes. Our goal was to raise money to buy Salvation Army hampers that include food and other essentials for families in need. The day began with Christmas themed outfits and gold coin donations at the front gate. Then at recess we started our bake sale in the Quad. There were so many cookies, cakes, and slices! We ended up selling most of our baked goods but there was still enough left for another sale at lunch. Also in the Quad we had DJ Horvat playing Christmas tunes whilst the school camera was set up at the Yarning Circle for photos with our very own Santa. Bella Moran (Year 10)
During assembly we had a live tasting contest with special guest judges, Mrs Harvey, Mrs Morrow, Mrs Smailes and Santa. In the end Lara Morgan with her yummy rocky road and Ryan Hodsdon with his delicious red velvet cupcake, tied to share the win. The next bake sale at lunch was a frenzy with prices coming down to get rid of the last few items! At lunch we sold all our treats ending the day on a high!
After counting the money we raised $1,900 dollars! This is the equivalent of 54 hampers for the Salvation Army. A huge thank you to all that helped make the fundraiser a success! We couldn’t have done it without your support!
YEAR 7
In Week 10 EMILY BARKER, KAMEKO CANNADAY, LILY MONCRIEFF, HAYLOH PING and IMOGEN TUTTON represented Whitebridge High School delivering the Christmas cards hand-made by students at WHS to Amaroo Aged Care. The students walked from school and back in the heat to deliver the cards on behalf of our school. While there, they helped the residents craft Christmas picture frames for their relatives. The girls were polite, respectful and admirably represented the school. MRS LEVIN, MRS SMITH and MRS WALKER are very proud of all the students that attended. It was such a privilege to watch the lovely interactions between our young people and the residents.
YEAR 8
Year 8 students have had another outstanding term! It was incredible to see so many of our students attend our annual camp. We have had a lot of feedback from staff about the maturity, positivity and resilience (even with the sweltering heat!) shown by all students. This term, we also had four of our students QUINN DEACON, GEORGIE HORTON, LIV GLASHOFF and WILBUR FEENAN perform in the School Spectacular which was an outstanding achievement. And a range of our talented musicians, dancers, actors, and artists have their work showcased at our annual MADD night. Not only did we shine in the arts, but we also saw some incredible athletes step up at our swimming carnival and a great day was had by all as everyone dressed up in their house colours with great music and the sun shining. Our SRC leaders NIXON SHERRY, ABBY GORDON, HARPER CANVIN and KOBY DAVIS did an outstanding job assisting the Christmas Bake sale and have been fabulous role models throughout this term. There has been incredible work produced in our electives this semester from cute pjs, delicious treats, cool skateboards, and rockstar music. It will be very exciting to see this enthusiasm and passion in the two electives you will have for the entirety of next year. A special mention to our Korowa class who won our 5 week attendance, followed by Yurowa who took home the final 5 weeks of this term which saw both incredible classes being rewarded with a very well earned pizza party. Congratulations AYLA LITTLE! We are so proud of Ayla who has been competing nationally in Aerobics this year with outstanding results: - Junior World Aerobics – Prague, October 2025: 12th place (singles) and 6th place (duo) - Nationals – August: 3rd place (singles) and 1st place (duo) - State – June: 1st place in both singles and duo An incredible achievement showcasing dedication, talent, and perseverance — well done Ayla! Some quick news about next year - all of our students will receive their full 2026 timetable on the very first day of school 2026 (Monday 2 February). This is also a friendly reminder to ensure you have the correct uniform organised for next year including all black leather shoes and appropriate shorts. While this has been another great year for Year 8 I am looking forward to an even better, bigger, and more positive year in 2026. I wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year and cannot wait to support you all for another year in your wonderful high school journey! Ashley Fry - Year 8 Advisor
YEAR 9
Year 9 is an important stage of high school, where students continue to develop independence, strengthen friendships and take greater responsibility for their learning. It has been pleasing to see many students step up as leaders, support one another, and show respect for our school values. As the year draws to a close, I encourage students to take time over the holidays to rest, reflect on their achievements, and set goals for the year ahead. The Christmas break is a well-earned opportunity to recharge and return in the new year ready to embrace the challenges and opportunities of Year 10. I would like to thank parents and carers for their ongoing support throughout the year, and wish everyone a safe, happy and restful break, please be safe on the roads if you are travelling. Andy Holahan - Year 9 Advisor
CAMP
METALWORK
Year 9 Metalwork have been hard at work completing a folding camp barbecue. All the students have been working really well.
CHRISTMAS CONCERT
This year, our Year 9 Music class was invited to perform at the Widow’s Legacy Foundation Christmas party, hosted by the Kahibah Sports Club. The students practised and performed a range of traditional and contemporary carols that were thoroughly enjoyed by the ladies, and were treated to a 2-course meal. The students mingled during the event and were praised highly by everyone, both for their entertaining performances and the way they carried themselves throughout the event. This intergenerational event was a great success, and the Legacy coordinators have already invited us back next year. All of our Year 9 Music students should be proud of their efforts.
YEAR 10
HONOURING THE JOURNEY, EMBRACING THE FUTURE
Throughout this term, Year 10 students have taken part in a number of meaningful and memorable experiences, including the Pathways Celebration Dinner, Wellbeing Movie Night, and a university visit. These occasions were more than just events; they were moments of reflection, connection, and celebration. Students should be immensely proud of the way they represented themselves and their year group, consistently demonstrating maturity, respect, and a genuine commitment to shaping their future pathways. Serving as Year Advisor for this cohort over the past four years has been one of the greatest privileges of my career. I first met many of these students as Year 7s, stepping into high school during one of the most challenging and uncertain periods our education system has faced. Together, we navigated lockdowns, disrupted learning, and constant change and through it all, these students showed resilience, adaptability, and strength beyond their years. To now see them standing on the threshold of their senior years as confident, capable, and compassionate young adults is incredibly humbling.The growth this cohort has demonstrated extends far beyond academic achievement. They have developed independence, empathy, leadership, and a strong sense of identity. They have learned to support one another, to persevere through challenges, and to believe in their own potential. Watching this transformation has been both inspiring and deeply rewarding, and it is something I will always be immensely proud of. I would like to sincerely thank our parents and carers for the trust, support, and partnership you have shown over the past four years. Your guidance at home, open communication, and unwavering support have played a vital role in the success and wellbeing of your child and the students of our school. Working alongside you has shaped not only this cohort, but also the educator and Year Advisor I am today, and for that, I am truly grateful. This is not a "goodbye" to our Year 10 students, but a "see you soon". I look forward to continuing to support them as they move into their senior years, celebrating their achievements, and witnessing the many milestones that lie ahead whether in the classroom, the workplace, or beyond the school gates. It has been my absolute pleasure to support each and every student and to watch them grow into the young people they are today. Thank you Bronte Osland - Year 10 Advisor
MOVIE NIGHT
UNI VISIT
INDUSTRIAL TECH - TIMBER
Year 10 Industrial Tech Timber have been working on a corner table and are now just doing the finishing touches.
YEAR 11
As we come to the close of another busy year, it's a moment to reflect on everything Year 11 students have accomplished and the tremendous progress they've made. What a journey it has been so far and as we approach the end of this term, there is much to celebrate! Our Year 11 students transitioned into their first term of Year 12 with impressive determination and focus. The beginning of senior school can be a challenging step, but our students have shown great commitment to their studies. Their first assessment tasks have been submitted, and they have shown a high level of engagement and effort across all subjects. The dedication they've demonstrated is a testament to their readiness for the challenges that the final year of school will bring. Year 11 also took the lead in creating an energetic and spirited atmosphere at the Swimming Carnival. Their enthusiasm and school spirit were fantastic and their involvement helped make the event a success. It's clear that they have embraced their role as leaders within the school community, and we couldn't be prouder of them! Ms Turner and Mrs Morrow are excited about what the future holds for our Year 11 cohort as they transition into their final year of school. Their growth, both academically and personally, has been inspiring and we know that they are more than capable of finishing strong. The final year is an exciting chapter, and we're thrilled to be part of the journey alongside them. Have a safe, restful, and enjoyable break and we can't wait to see the amazing things you will achieve in 2026! Courtney Turner - Year 11 Advisor
Year 12 2026 have had their last Year Meeting for 2025. A huge thank you to MR MULHEARN our Head Teacher of Secondary Studies who also had his last senior meeting at Whitebridge High today. We thank him for all his knowledge and expertise guiding our senior students for many years. We wish him well in his new role in 2026.
YEAR 12
SCIENCE
As we near the end of the year, it’s the perfect moment to celebrate the many achievements of our students and science faculty throughout 2025. This year, our students have taken part in a variety of enriching experiences—such as field trips to Marine Parks, the University of Newcastle, and Awabakal—where they witnessed science come alive beyond the classroom. These opportunities have deepened their appreciation of the essential role science plays in understanding and shaping our world today. Our faculty has continued to explore innovative assessment strategies for Stages 4 and 5. While many of these new approaches have proven successful, we remain committed to refining our practices as we prepare for the introduction of the new science curriculum in 2026. We also extend heartfelt congratulations to our Year 12 students who completed their HSC courses in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics this year. Your determination and perseverance have led to impressive outcomes, and we wish you every success as you move forward into your next chapter. As we close 2025, we say farewell to an exceptional educator and leader — our Head Teacher Secondary Studies, GLEN MULHEARN. After an incredible 26 years of dedicated service at Whitebridge, Glen is taking on a new challenge as Head of Science at Cardiff High School. Throughout his career, Glen has been a member of the Science faculty through immense change — from renovated facilities and modernised laboratories to evolving curricula, emerging technologies, and transformative shifts in teaching and learning. Generations of students and colleagues have benefited from his calm leadership, wisdom, and unwavering commitment to excellence. We thank Glen for his remarkable contribution and wish him every success and happiness in his new role. On behalf of the Science Team, I wish everyone a joyful Christmas and a safe, prosperous New Year. We look forward to welcoming our students back in 2026, refreshed and ready for another exciting year of scientific discovery! Steve Edwards - Head Teacher, Science
SCHOOL SPECTACULAR
This year, for the very first time, Whitebridge students had the pleasure of experiencing the magic of School Spectacular. Throughout Term 4, AVA BELLAMY, PIA CORRIGAN, QUINN DEACON, GEORGIE HORTON, LIV GLASHOFF, WILBUR FEENAN, SIENNA HARDY and HAYLEY MATCHETT represented our school as featured artists. These students put their creative skills to the test, designing and constructing unique stage puppets alongside local legends, John and Julie Deacon. They committed multiple weekends to developing these large-scale creations, demonstrating their exceptional collaboration, critical thinking, and creativity. Their hard work took them to Sydney for intensive rehearsals and some students even found themselves as featured stars on 7NEWS’ "The Morning Show"! In Week 7, they then spent a full week performing in this years' "Remarkable" themed shows and got to be a part of New South Wales’ largest performing arts event, showcasing their talents across four shows to thousands of audience members. The students received countless compliments on their professionalism, positivity, and passion. It was truly special to see their talents shine, and we could not be more proud of them. We would like to spotlight AVA'S positivity, PIA'S perseverance, QUINN'S maturity, GEORGIE'S energy, LIV'S commitment, WILBUR'S creativity, SIENNA'S kindness, and HAYLEY'S expertise. These eight students were (excuse the pun) absolutely SPECTACULAR!
Whitebridge High School had the pleasure of hosting 14 students from Shikoku, Japan, along with their teachers from 21 March to 1 April. Our students and their families generously opened their homes, fostering new friendships and creating lasting memories. Throughout their visit, the Japanese students took part in a variety of engaging activities that showcased Australian school life and local culture. They attended English lessons each morning and joined our students in regular classes, providing valuable opportunities for cultural exchange and shared learning. Thank you to all of the host families who hosted, students and staff for making our visitors feel welcomed. Trudy Quartermain Japanese Teacher
MALANG ACADEMY
WORK SKILLS
Students in our Malang Academy Workskills class have been working hard on their individual research projects about different occupations. They have been researching childcare, dog walking, sports coaching, and working at Coles and Woolworths. The students have explored the tools, qualifications, uniforms, working hours, and pay for each occupation. Students have completed the Food Handler’s Certificate through the NSW Food Authority. To complete this course, they have worked through eight modules of food safety readings and videos, followed by a test – congratulations!
WAALING CLASS
This term, the Waaling Class has been focusing on travel training and moving safely around the community. We have learned to hop on and off the bus, use the escalators, and respectfully walk around the community while practicing our communication and financial skills by making small purchases.
WAAKAN CLASS
We are proud of our Waakan students who have worked hard, reading with MRS HEPPLE, MR CHAMBERS and MS GROENVELD to complete the 2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge. A sincere thank you to MRS MCTACKETT and MRS WALKER in the library for supporting and encouraging a love of reading for all our Waakan students. A special mention to NICHOLAS, our super speller, who has completed the Prime Minister’s Spelling Bee and has achieved the impressive rank of first place at WHS.
WAAKAN/WAALANG COLLABORATIVE LEARNING
Our Waakan and Waaling students have been busy investigating Christmas recipes, Christmas Around the World, the structure of procedure writing, and following procedures. The products of this have been the production of Reindeer Biscuits which students made to share with the Malang Academy. Our students have also been creating decorations for their homes at Christmas time. These have been gracing our classrooms, making us feel very festive and positive about the coming Christmas holidays. We have also been investigating celebration timelines in the community and planning for our Malang Academy Christmas Feast on the Tuesday, 16th December.
SWIMMING INTENSIVE
The Malang Academy have spent 10 mornings in a row walking up to Charlestown Pool, undertaking an intensive swim, safety and water awareness program. With the support of a grant received by the Sports Unit, all participants have improved their travel skills, knowledge about pool safety, swimming technique, and fitness. We were blessed with beautiful weather and enjoyed learning together in the pool with the guidance of a pool instructor and our Malang Academy staff.
FISHING EXCURSION
🎣 This term, some of our young people at the Malang Academy have had the amazing opportunity to Connect to Country through our fishing unit! Exploring the beautiful local fishing spots around Lake Macquarie, they've enjoyed learning to rig their own rods, discover various baits and techniques, and put their new skills to the test. Along the way, they've also focused on water safety and sustainable fishing practices. What a fantastic experience blending learning, culture, and fun! 🌊🐟
SWIMMING CARNIVAL
During Week 7, our school held its annual Swimming Carnival at Charlestown Swim Centre. The event was a tremendous success, featuring a variety of activities including novelty events, volleyball, tug-of-war, music, and plenty of house spirit. The highlight of the day was the Whitebridge Ironman Relay. Congratulations to Year 10 Sports Coaching for winning the senior division, and to Year 8 for their impressive victory in the junior division. The Staff vs Students Relay was another highly anticipated race, with a strong student team led by national swimmer LARA MORGAN securing the win over our staff representatives. The overall house championship came down to the final events, with the mighty TINGIRA emerging victorious by just one point. Congratulations to all students who attended and contributed to a memorable and enjoyable carnival.
Congratulations to AVA ROSS who recently competed at the Australian Athletics All Schools Championships in Melbourne. Ava delivered an exceptional performance, securing a bronze medal in the 100m sprint and a gold medal in the 4 x 100m relay. This outstanding achievement is a testament to her hard work, dedication, and commitment to excellence in sport.