WEEK 5 TERM 2 2025
PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
As we navigate through Term 2, Week 5, I want to take a moment to acknowledge the recent adverse weather conditions that have tested our community. Despite the challenges presented by heavy rain and localised flooding, I am incredibly proud of our students and staff for their resilience, flexibility, and commitment to prioritising learning while working admirably through some challenges to keep warm and dry during breaks. After 11 straight school days of terrible weather and limited opportunities to be active, our students managed this challenge with maturity. Their strong attendance during these difficult times is commendable and demonstrates our collective dedication to quality education.
DEPUTY PRINCIPAL'S REPORT
Whitebridge High School – Our Commitment to High Expectations
At Whitebridge High School, we are proud to uphold high expectations for all students and staff. We are committed to fostering a culture grounded in our core values: Learning, Respect and Responsibility. We value the strong partnerships we have with our families and ask for your continued support in reinforcing these expectations at home. Below are key areas where we can work together to support student success:
1. Behaviour and Core Values
We expect every student to demonstrate Learning, Respect and Responsibility in their daily actions through kindness to others, accountability for their choices, and active participation in their learning. Disrespectful or disruptive behaviour will not be tolerated and will be addressed promptly by staff. A positive and inclusive school culture depends on all of us.
2. Respecting Our School Environment
Our school community takes pride in its surroundings, and we encourage all students to help keep Whitebridge High clean and welcoming. Issues such as littering, chewing gum, and not respecting shared spaces are ongoing concerns. Students are reminded to:
- Use bins provided around the school.
- Refrain from bringing or chewing gum.
- Take care of school facilities and resources.
Let’s continue to take care of our learning environment - together.
3. Mobile Phones and Personal Devices
Students must follow our "Mobile Phone Policy" from the first to the final bell. Phones and wireless headphones must be switched off and placed in the school-issued mobile phone pouch. Unauthorised use may result in the device being taken to the front office. Parents may be required to collect it. Ongoing breaches may lead to formal consequences being recorded. Please support us by reinforcing this expectation at home.
4. Wearing the School Uniform with Pride
Our uniform reflects our school identity and traditions. All students are expected to wear the correct full school uniform each day. As the weather cools, please ensure your child wears appropriate uniform items:
- Long charcoal grey pants (not tracksuit material)
- School shirt
- School jumper or jacket
Our staff, Deputy Principals, and Wellbeing Team will continue to monitor uniform compliance. If you need assistance with uniform items, please contact your child’s Year Advisor or the Wellbeing Team.
5. Bring Your Own Device (BYOD)
All students are required to bring a charged device to school every day to support learning. Every class has an online platform that supports daily instruction. The school offers a laptop loan program for a $200 bond per year. If you require support accessing a device, please contact the front office for assistance.
6. Attendance is Key
Regular attendance is critical to student progress and achievement. Arriving late, leaving early, or frequent absences significantly disrupt learning. Please note:
- Sport is compulsory for Years 7–10 every Thursday. Avoid scheduling appointments during this time.
- Family holidays during term time require an Application for Extended Leave – Travel, available on our school website.
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7. Safe and Respectful Travel
Students represent Whitebridge High School whenever they are in uniform including before and after school. While most students are excellent ambassadors, inappropriate behaviour in the community will be addressed by the Senior Executive Team. We also remind parents and carers to observe road rules, school zone speed limits, and parking regulations to keep our students safe. School zones are actively monitored by police and parking officers.
8. Student Support Services
Student wellbeing is at the heart of our work. Each year group has a dedicated Year Advisor, who is also the first point of contact for parents and carers. Our Wellbeing Team provides extra support for students who need it and can help arrange referrals to:
- Head Teachers
- Student Support Officers
- School Counsellors
- Deputy Principals
Students always have a trusted adult to speak with at Whitebridge High.
9. Parent Support through 'MyStrengths'
We are excited to continue our partnership with MyStrengths, offering all families access to the MyStrengths Parenting Membership - a fantastic resource to support your parenting journey. Topics include:
- Managing anxious thoughts
- Creating and enforcing family rules
- Handling conflict and arguments
- Building resilience in teens
This month’s topic:
🕒 How to Create Boundaries Around Screen Time
🎓 Access your free parenting resources here:
We thank our families for their ongoing partnership and support as we work together to build a safe, respectful, and high-achieving school community.
Warm regards,
Rod Carter, Melita Morrow and Louise Smailes - Deputy Principals, Whitebridge High School
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
Year 7 have made an excellent start to Term Two! I am so impressed with how maturely the year group have approached high school. We have plenty of assessment tasks due at the moment, and the students are encouraged to reach out if they need support or guidance with tasks. We have plenty of people at WHS who would be more than happy to assist!”
Mr Liam Wicks - Year 7 Advisor
YEAR 8
Congratulations Year 8, on a positive and enthusiastic start to the term! It’s been great to see so many of you engaging in all aspects of school life.
A huge well done to those who participated in the Athletics Carnival – whether you were running, cheering, or helping out, your spirit and teamwork were impressive. A shout out to Sunny Hoffman for winning best dressed!
We’re also incredibly proud of our talented students involved in Star Struck. Your dedication and creativity are inspiring! Remember to grab tickets to watch them in Cast B.
Also well done to our Year 8 band who performed at the live lunch and pulled a very big crowd. You're rockstars!
As we settle into the term, a quick reminder to please wear your full school uniform each day and make sure your laptops are fully charged and ready for learning.
As always, if you have any questions or feel like you need extra support please come and see me down in C Block.
Keep up the great work Year 8 – let’s keep this momentum going!
Miss Ashley Fry - Year 8 Advisor
YEAR 9
Term Two is off to a flying start for Year 9, and it’s been awesome to see everyone back in action after the break. There’s a real sense of focus and energy around the year group, and plenty to celebrate already.
Year 9 recently completed their NAPLAN tests late last term. While officially results have not been released, we can say that the preliminary results were very impressive with the cohort averaging in the ‘strong’ category across all the domains assessed. This is testament to the great work both students and teachers are doing in building the strong learning culture in the school.
One of the most exciting things this term is how many Year 9 students are getting involved in extracurricular activities. Whether it’s rehearsing for Star Struck, representing the school in sport, or putting strategic thinking to the test in the chess competition, you’re showing just how talented and engaged this year group is. Special mention to Sienna Egan who has been selected as a backup vocalist in Star Struck, Charlotte Helleur who has made the NSW Dept Hunter Singers and Amelia Phillips for her selection in the NSWCHS U15 Hockey team.
Being involved outside the classroom helps build confidence, friendships, and school spirit - so if you haven’t jumped in yet, find something that sparks your interest.
A big shoutout to all students for the noticeable improvement in uniform. You’re looking smart, tidy, and ready to learn. It might seem like a small thing but taking pride in how you present yourself really sets the tone for a positive day. If you are needing to purchase new uniforms for winter, don't forget the uniform shop is open down in the quad Monday afternoon and Thursday mornings.
Keep up the fantastic work, Year 9.
Mr Andy Holahan - Year 9 Advisor
YEAR 10
Term Two has had a vibrant and energetic start, with students enthusiastically taking part in a variety of sporting opportunities. A special mention goes to our Year 10 Sports Coaching class for their exceptional efforts in facilitating and supporting the running of our whole school athletics carnival. Their leadership, organisation, and teamwork contributed significantly to the smooth and successful execution of the event. Thank you to all staff and students involved. Your collective efforts ensured the day was enjoyable for everyone.
In Week 3, Year 10 students attended the Careers Expo in Maitland, where they explored a wide range of future career pathways. Students engaged in meaningful conversations with professionals from diverse industries including trades, healthcare, education, defence, business, and hospitality. These valuable interactions offered first-hand insights into potential careers, required qualifications, and daily responsibilities, helping students reflect on their interests and future aspirations.
The event also provided a foundation for informed decision-making as students consider subject selections, further study, or training opportunities. It was a highly beneficial experience that sparked curiosity and encouraged students to take an active role in shaping their futures.
Looking ahead, Year 10 students will participate in the Love Bites program in Week 5. This important initiative focuses on respectful relationships, personal boundaries, and consent, aiming to foster awareness, empathy, and healthy communication among young people.
Thank you, Year 10, for your engagement and enthusiasm this term. We look forward to more exciting opportunities in the weeks ahead.
Miss Bronte Osland - Year 10 Advisor
YEAR 11
As Term Two gets underway, it’s great to see Year 11 students showing real focus and commitment. Many are wrapping up their final VET work placements. This is a huge achievement that reflects the effort and dedication they’ve shown throughout the course. The skills and experience they’re gaining now are going to be valuable not just for senior school, but also as they start thinking about their future career paths.
Recently, Year 11 had a presentation from Atomi which is an online platform that all students have access to. During the presentation students were shown ways to create revision quizzes flashcards and how to use the platform to practice HSC style questions. If you haven’t already started using Atomi, now is the perfect time to give it a go—these strategies can make a real difference when things get busy.
It was great to see so many Year 11 students at our recent athletics carnival. Everyone looked amazing dressed in their house colours cheering on their peers and getting into the school spirit!
It’s completely normal to feel a bit stressed at this stage of the term, but remember—you’re not alone. If you're finding things challenging, reach out early. Whether it's advice on managing your time, understanding a task, or just needing someone to talk to, your teachers Ms Turner and Mrs Morrow are here to help.
Keep going Year 11, you are doing great and we are so proud!
Ms Courtney Turner - Year 11 Advisor
YEAR 12
Term Two is well under way and Year 12 have been focused and motivated as they work towards the completion of their HSC. Our Drama, Dance, Textiles, Visual Arts, Visual Design, Music and Industrial Tech students are busy developing their practice and preparing for major works and performances. We look forward to watching our talented musicians take the stage at Flamingos on the 11th of June to showcase their skills. It was fantastic to see Year 12 at their very last sports carnival wearing their house colours with pride, leading the school with great enthusiasm and sportsmanship in Week 3. For those students considering university after school, the pathway has begun with early entry applications under way and the UoN Campus visit scheduled for Week 10 (Thursday 3rd July). The HSC Exam Timetable 2025 has been released and the countdown is on for Year 12 as they take on the remainder of Terms 2 and 3 with positivity and motivation!
Mrs Georgia Lindsay - Year 12 Advisor
ATHLETICS CARNIVAL
Our whole school athletics carnival was held during Week 3 at the Fearnly Dawes Athletics Centre. We were exceptionally lucky with a break in the rain for the day. It was a great day with music, house mascots, excellent sportsmanship and involvement from all students. Congratulations to the following students who were crowned age champions and those students who have qualified for the Eastlakes Zone Carnival later this term. The winning house on the day was Jindabyne.
SCHOOL CROSS COUNTRY
Our school cross country carnival was held at the end of Term One. Many students completed the course with some teachers joining in the races. Congratulations to the following students who were age champions and to those students who progressed to the Eastlakes Zone Carnival.
SCIENCE
This term we welcome, Mr Hassan into the faculty, filling a teaching role while Mr Moore is on leave.
Our Year 7 – 10 students have been working extremely well on their in-class assessment items.
Year 7 have also been very creative in designing infographics on their animal of choice in our "Living Things" topic.
Year 8 tested their data analysis and working scientific skills using some data sets, graphing, interpreting and extrapolating skills.
Year 9 has discovered the history of the Atomic Theory – checking out the contributions of Dalton, Thomson, Rutherford, Bohr and Chadwick.
Year 10 have completed their compulsory student research projects. Some very interesting concepts and theories were explored including experiments such as:
- Determine the effect of one of the following on the bounce height of a ball:
- Type of ball
- Surface where bounce occurs
- Pressure of ball
- Determine whether different brands of paper towel have different level of absorbency of a fluid.
- Determine the effect of one of the following on the period of a pendulum:
- Length of pendulum
- Angle of pendulum
- Determine the effect of changing the angle of a ramp on the acceleration of ball along the ramp.
- Determine the effect of force applied to an elastic band on its extension.
- Darker colours absorb heat more quickly than lighter colours.
Year 12 students are progressing very quickly towards their Trial Exams in Term Three. Each course will have a visit to the University of Newcastle to participate in the 2025 HSC Expt Fest. This opportunity provides access to high end equipment and experiments that we are unable to cater for at school. Students and parents are directed to School Bytes to access more information and to give permission for their students to attend this opportunity.
Year 11 Chemistry will also be going to Orica over on Kooragang Island for a site visit to inspect the chemical production of ammonia – known as the Haber process.
I look forward to sharing some images and details of these excursions in the next newsletter.
Mr Steve Edwards - Head Teacher, Science
YEAR 10 MARINE STUDIES STUDENTS DIVE INTO MARINE BIOLOGY AT IRUKANDJI SHARK AND RAY ENCOUNTERS
This term, Year 10 Marine Studies students from Whitebridge High School embarked on an exciting excursion to the Irukandji Shark & Ray Encounters in Port Stephens. Their visit complemented their studies on the biology of bony and cartilaginous fish.
At Irukandji, students had the unique opportunity to interact closely with various species of sharks and rays. They engaged in hands on activities such as feeding, touching, and even snorkeling with creatures like eagle rays, fiddler rays, estuary rays, black-spotted rays, coral reef ribbon rays, bamboo sharks, zebra sharks, and epaulette sharks. This immersive experience allowed them to observe these magnificent animals up close, enhancing their understanding of marine life.
The staff at Irukandji provided informative talks and guided the students through the interactive exhibits. Their expertise extended the students' classroom learning, offering real-world insights into marine biology and conservation. The facility's focus on education, conservation, and fun made the excursion both enjoyable and educational.
This excursion provided students with a memorable and enriching experience, deepening their appreciation for marine life and the importance of conservation efforts.
Mrs Amy Daugherty - Teacher, Marine Studies
CAREERS
On Friday our Year 10 students attended the Careers Expo held in Maitland. The day provided them with a valuable opportunity to explore a wide range of potential future career pathways. Throughout the day, students engaged in meaningful conversations with professionals from various industries, including trades, healthcare, education, defence, business, and hospitality. These interactions allowed students to gain first-hand insights into different career options, required qualifications, and day-to-day responsibilities in each field.
The event encouraged students to think critically about their interests, strengths, and future goals, while also helping them make informed decisions about subject selections, further study, or training opportunities. Overall, it was a highly beneficial experience that inspired curiosity and confidence in planning for life beyond school.
HSIE/LANGUAGES
As usual, Term Two began with our annual commemoration of ANZAC Day organised within the school by Mr Sam Mackintosh. We always appreciate the availability of representatives from Cardiff RSL sub-branch who welcome the opportunity to participate in our commemoration. The ceremony is also an important leadership opportunity for our young school leaders.
Meanwhile our students continue to develop their skills in a variety of ways. Year 9 History students have recently completed their presentations about the realities of World War One and have created a variety of interesting responses to the task. Year 7 History students are anticipating the arrival of the Tutankhamen Roadshow while Year 7 Japanese students are learning about food and drink and will eventually learn how to make Japanese Rice Balls.
Year 10 Geographers are currently developing their own research projects as are some of our senior students including Year 11 Ancient, Extension and Modern History and our Stage 6 Society and Culture students. Business Services students have successfully completed their recent work placement. Meanwhile some enthusiastic juniors are participating in the Australian History Competition and we wish them well in their endeavours.
CAPA
Visual Arts - Junior Spotlight
Year 8 students have worked diligently resolving their works exploring animals. They have learnt about the elements of art and contemporary artists to create watercolour and mixed media works. Year 8 have developed their skills remarkably in line drawing and colour mixing.
TAS
Year 7 Tec 3
Year 7 have been studying Engineered Systems as their focus area for Semester One. This has involved them learning how to use tools and equipment to design and produce a timber automata design for a children’s toy.
Mr Shane Lloyd - Head Teacher, TAS
Year 7 TEC 4
Year 7 students showcased outstanding food preparation and cooking skills while making delicious open bacon and egg pies.
Miss Bronte Osland - Teacher, Food Tech
Year 7 Tec 8
Year 7 have been studying Engineered Systems as their focus area for Semester One. This has involved them learning how to use tools and equipment to design and produce a timber project utilising cams to move figures up and down.
Year 8 Food Tech
The Year 8 Food Technology class has been preparing foods with cultural significance from around the world while investigating global food security and assessing food waste problems Australia. These photographs show students experimenting with different techniques of wrapping chicken wontons.
Ms Genevieve Kenworthy - Teacher, Food Technology
Year 8 Food Skills - Cupcake decorating
Our Year 8 students recently took on a fun and creative Cupcake Decorating Task as part of their Food Skills unit. The brief was to design and decorate a cupcake for a special occasion of their choice. From birthdays to seasonal celebrations, students showcased fantastic creativity and attention to detail in their designs. Their hard work and enthusiasm were evident in the final results - each cupcake was unique and full of personality! Students should be incredibly proud of their accomplishments.
Ms Courtney Turner - Teacher, Food Skills
Year 9 Food Tech
Our Year 9 Food Technology students have been engaging thoughtfully in their practical lessons. In a recent session, students explored the concept of inequity by participating in an activity where groups were provided with different toppings, without the option to choose. This sparked meaningful conversations about fairness and how it feels to have limited choices, both in and out of school. Many students expressed emotions such as frustration and unfairness, showing a deep level of empathy and critical thinking. Alongside these discussions, students also had the opportunity to refine their food presentation skills, demonstrating creativity and care in their work.
Mrs Sarah Box - Teacher, Food Tech
Year 11 IT Tec Timber
Year 11 students in IT Tec Timber have completed their nail box skills project. They have produced excellent results with their joint work and turned handle designs. Moving forward they are currently exploring Onshape CAD Drawing in planning for their preliminary major project.
Mr Robert Milne - Teacher, IT Tec Timber
Year 12 Textiles
ENGLISH
In Week 1 of this term, 12 students from Year 7 & 8 competed in the International Lit Quiz Virtual Heat against 15 teams from across Australia. The heat consisted of 10 rounds of trivia style questions about literature and pop culture, with our Year 7 team coming 1st in Round 2 and earning themselves some wonderful new books for their accomplishment! There was plenty of excitement from our teams as they competed from a range of schools across the state. Well done to all competitors!
Earlier this term, we hosted a debating workshop facilitated by highly experienced adjudicator, John Beach. He worked on valuable critical and creative thinking skills with our teams, along with a group of students from Redhead Public School to support their debating skills Thank you to Ms Hollis for organising this day!
All our debating teams in the Premiers Debating Challenge are now preparing for the first round of the competition. We are looking forward to seeing your debating skills in action!
On 2 June, Year 12 Standard and Advanced students are visiting the University of Sydney for an HSC Study Day where they will be participating in tutorials for Paper 2 Module Paper. This will be valuable preparation for the upcoming Trial HSC Examinations in Term 3, Week 3.
Ms Lisa Murrell - Head Teacher, English
MATHS
Term 2 Assessment Schedule
We continue to ensure that students and parents are well-informed and prepared for upcoming assessments. Notifications will be emailed approximately two weeks prior to each task, outlining specific content and revision strategies.
Year Week Topics
- Year 7 - Week 6 Algebra
- Year 8 - Week 8 Algebra, Indices and Equations
- Year 9 - Week 10 Algebra and Financial Mathematics
- Year 10 Advanced - Week 10 Algebra and Equations
- Year 10 Standard - Week 10 Financial Mathematics and Measurement
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💻 Mathspace – Supporting Learning at Home
All students have access to Mathspace (see below) an excellent tool for independent practice, using their NSW Department of Education email. Earlier this year, Mathspace hosted a parent info session - see below.
Parents can also opt into receiving:
- Reminders about incomplete tasks
- Weekly summary emails on their child’s progress
This feature is currently inactive. To enable it, either:
- Complete this quick form by clicking on this button:
- Ask your child to add your email to their Mathspace profile.
👩🎓 Mathematician Student Profile
Each term, we highlight a student passionate about Mathematics to showcase their journey and inspire others.
Student Name: Matt Whalen
Year: Year 11 (completing Year 12 Maths as an accelerated student)
Courses Studied: Mathematics Advanced and Mathematics Extension 1
What do you enjoy about Maths?
I enjoy maths because it’s clear and logical and you’re either right or wrong, which makes it both challenging and rewarding. I find working with numbers and tackling difficult problems to be exhilarating, as it pushes me to construct and modify formulas to be able to approach problems from different angles. Though maths is all about calculations, it helps me recognise patterns in everyday life and understand how much of the world is shaped by mathematical ideas. It’s a subject that constantly keeps my mind active and curious.
Any career goals that include Mathematics?
Career goals include - Maritime Pilot, Electrical Engineer
Advice to younger students?
The best advice I can offer to younger students is “to make the numbers dance for you
Year 12 Mathematics in Action
Our Year 12 students recently undertook a hands-on data investigation task. They measured themselves and a classmate, comparing their proportions to those of Leonardo da Vinci’s Vitruvian Man. Students then graphed the class data and analysed how closely human measurements reflect ideal mathematical ratios.
An engaging way to blend historical art, biology, and mathematics!
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✴️ Upcoming Extra-Curricular Opportunities
We’re always looking to extend and inspire our students beyond the classroom. There are several exciting Mathematics opportunities coming up this term. Students are encouraged to see their Mathematics teacher or Mr Campbell for more information, and to regularly check Sentral Student Notices for updates.
🔹 UoN Young Mathematicians Program: A chance for high-achieving students to explore university-level Mathematics through problem solving and collaboration.
🔹 Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC): Open to students in Years 7–12. A great opportunity to challenge yourself and see how you compare nationally.
🔹 Maths Challenge for Young Australians: Ideal for students who enjoy problem solving and want to dive deeper into non-routine
Mr Nick Campbell - Head Teacher, Mathematics
LIBRARY
Book an adventure - reading is and adventure that never ends
We have so many some great books in our library right now ranging from novels, picture books and information books. The Premier's Reading Challenge 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!
Mrs Sarah Walker - Teacher/Librarian
CHESS
On Monday 12th the WHS Chess Team competed against Belmont Christian College. The students did very well with both schools scoring two boards each. Belmont narrowly took the win on the day based on how different boards are scored. We are incredibly proud of all the boys! Well done!
LEARNING AND SUPPORT
MALANG ACADEMY
SWIMMING
Students from the Malang Academy are currently undertaking swim lessons each week. They are learning about water safety, survival in the water, stroke correction and basic swim skills as they brave the rain and cold to learn these skills in preparation for the warmer weather. Students are demonstrating persistence and dedication to practice, listening and responding to feedback and really challenging themselves to move beyond their comfort zone to be brave and try something new. We are so proud of these Malang students for getting in and having a go!
GARDEN BED CONSTRUCTION
Malang Academy students from Waakan and Waaling have been working hard in TAS with Mr Heather to construct some garden beds for planting vegetables. The wet weather has impacted progress, but it was wonderful to get out in the sunshine to continue the digging last Wednesday. Outdoor learning and practical applications for construction are the key focus, resulting in students collaborating to plan, design and build these beds, with a view to planting fresh produce by Spring, weather permitting.
BOCCE TOURNAMENT
Student representatives for the WHS Bocce team worked cooperatively as a group to come away with 7th place overall from a pool of 20 high schools at the Hunter Schools Bocce tournament on Friday. There was some amazing strategy, focus and ball skills on show with students from WHS needing more experience, practice and consistency in their future training endeavours. The potential talent in this group is outstanding! We are excited to see them compete next year to hopefully improve their Hunter rankings. Thank you to parents and carers who braved the weather to come and cheer on the team. This rewarding day allowed students to meet new friends and work together to achieve excellent results. Congratulations to all team members: Lachlan, Jammah, Ben, Memphis (8), Kalen and Lexi, and our senior student coach mentors Janae and Hayley.