In this issue
- Principal's Update
- Upcoming events
- Big Picture News
- Opportunity News
- Science News
- Sport News
- From the Library
- Careers Hub
- Community News & Events
principal's update
In light of recent tragic events, I want to take a moment to reach out to our school community.
I have expressed deepest condolences to the McCann family on behalf of the South Sydney High School community.
Our students are grieving, and some may ask difficult questions. It’s okay not to have all the answers.
Specialist staff are available at school to support students and staff during this difficult time. I encourage you to contact me on 9349 3868 if your child would benefit from speaking to someone.
There are also a number of external resources that can help guide conversations with young people during times of grief.
You can find some helpful links here:
- Kids Helpline on 1800 55 1800
- Youth Beyond Blue on 1300 22 4636
- Headspace at https://headspace.org.au/
Lastly, I want to acknowledge and thank our outstanding and deeply committed staff for the compassion and care they have shown supporting our students during this challenging time. We remain deeply committed to excellence in their education and wellbeing at all times.
Janice Neilsen
Celebrating Carly
Congratulations Carly for her success in the recent North West Equestrian Expo at Coonabarraban. Her results across the event included:
- 5th place and a ribbon in the combined training event (Dressage and Jumping)
- 3rd in the pairs event
- 5th in the Team Hunt.
Her remarkable self-discipline, unwavering persistence and stamina have resulted in this fantastic achievement.
Carly demonstrates what it means to push boundaries and strive for excellence every single day.
We are so proud of her achievements and can’t wait to see where her dedication takes her next!
Our Band is Incredible!
Morning Band Practice mastering the Theme from the Incredibles Movie.
EDUtech Event
Joel in Year 10 will be sharing his experiences with Educators at the EDUtech event next week!
Important Dates
- Monday 9th June - King's Birthday Public Holiday
- Tuesday 10th June - Friday 13th June - Year 7 Assessment Week
- Wednesday 11th June - Sydney East Cross Country
- Friday 20th June - Optus Hack a Thon
- Tuesday 24th June - CAPA Showcase
Upcoming Events
CAPA Showcase
Click the link to secure your tickets: http://www.trybooking.com/events/landing/1393897
And remember, entry is just a gold coin donation at the door! All proceeds will support the Bayside Women’s Shelter, helping those in our community in need.
Big Picture News
Big Picture students learn to Scuba dive
For the last three days, three of our Big Picture Academy students completed their Open Water Scuba diving course at Abyss Diving. This adventure was planned and researched by the students, the course being the culmination of over three months of planning.
Liam, Jasper and Rowan completed the course with flying colours. As you can imagine, it was freezing cold in the water over the three days, even in a wet suit. We completed dives in Lilli Pilli and Camp cove, with visibility ranging from 2 to 6m. We saw stingrays, cuttle fish, puffer fish and many goat fish and bream.
Well done to all three students who worked hard over the three days, to learn, experience and test themselves in often trying conditions. It was a joy to watch them learn, experience and grow in this time.
Opportunity News
Austcorp-Career One on One experience
On Friday, May 9th, five Year 11 students had the privilege of meeting with career expert and Austcorp Executive CEO David Harrison for an invaluable mentoring session. The event provided them with insightful guidance on potential future pathways, making it both an informative and exciting experience.
Each student also participated in a one-on-one session with a career expert, allowing them to ask questions and gain tailored advice that will help them make rewarding and informed decisions about their future. Their enthusiasm and gratitude were evident throughout the experience.
The students were accompanied by Kate Mackenzie, who thoroughly enjoyed the excursion, remarking on its immense value. Such opportunities highlight the strong partnership between our school, Austcorp, and United Way, which first introduced SSHS to this exceptional business collaborator. We are incredibly fortunate to have these connections that support and inspire our students.
Helen Stell, Opportunity Program Co-ordinator
Science News
Our students have been busy exploring the exciting world of Science across a range of year levels. Year 7 students recently took on the classic "egg drop" challenge as a part of their assessment, designing and testing devices in groups to protect a raw egg from a two-storey fall- creativity and teamwork were on full display!
In Year 11 Biology, students have been learning about body systems and recently completed a cane toad dissection to examine internal anatomy up close.
Our Year 12 Chemistry students have been learning about organic chemistry, making fragrant esters and fermenting and distilling alcohol as part of their investigations. Meanwhile, Year 11 Chemistry students have been mastering quantitative techniques through solution preparation and dilution exercises.
Sports news
Zone Cross Country
South Sydney High School had an outstanding day at the Sydney East Zone Cross Country Carnival. With perfect running conditions, our students showed excellent cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, determination and school pride. A huge congratulations to the below students who have qualified for the regional competition.
- Year 7 - Violet and Kianna
- Year 9 - Xavier, Tom, Aidan, Luke and Taliyah
- Year 10 - Felix, Daniel and Sophie
- Year 11 - Ethan, Finlay, Donovan, Annabel and Olive
- Year 12 - Penny
Well done to all students who participated. You’ve done our school proud!
Ms Gooch, Ms Baseley & Ms Geldart
Sydney East CHS Boys Volleyball
Huge congratulations to the SSHS Boys Volleyball team for finishing in 3rd place at the Central Venue day where the top 8 teams play the final rounds of the CHS knockouts. Unfortunately only the top 2 teams move forward to represent this region. A phenomenal effort all round and a truly meteoric rise to the top as the Boys eclipse their Ro16 finish in 2023 and top 6 finish in 2024.
In the quarterfinals, we cruised to a straight set victory against Kingsgrove High School. The semifinals was an insurmountable challenge against perennial finalists Tempe High School but we pushed them deep into the second set, fumbling it 23-25. The bronze playoffs against GRC Oatley was a neck-and-neck affair with atrocious blunders from both sides. We narrowly scraped the final set 15-13.
Commendations to Sora for anchoring the team’s defense and Tristan for out-jumping and outplaying the opposition and asserting the offensive dominance to pick us out of some deficits.
To add some context to the pictures, the net is 2.43m high! Same height as the Men’s Olympics.
Stay tuned for more volleyball news as the teams test their mettle in the upcoming Schools Cup.
Mr Shan - Volleyball Coordinator
A Female Focus
Every Wednesday morning, bright and early, girls from Years 10 and 11 come together for a strength training session that’s all about building confidence from the inside out.
These sessions go beyond just fitness. Through challenging workouts, positive energy and good tunes, we’re building physical strength, mental resilience, and a strong sense of self.
Join our growing community of strong young women and start your Wednesday right.
Testimonials: We love girls' fitness because it gives us a fresh start in the morning, and the strength and power to get through the day!”
The Push-up Challenge
Year 11SLR are taking part in The Push-Up Challenge from 4-26 June, 2025 and would love you to get involved and show your support.
Each participant in The Push-Up Challenge is challenged to complete 3,214 push-ups (or the half target – 1,607) in 23 days to raise funds and awareness for mental health in Australia. You can do alternative exercises too, like sit-ups and squats.
We’re also raising funds to support much-needed mental health services and initiatives in Australia, so if you would like you can support by making a tax-deductible donation.
Head to our page to donate or sign up today:
https://www.thepushupchallenge.com.au/fundraisers/sshs11slr
Your donation will help fund much-needed services and initiatives to improve mental health in Australia.
We'd love to have you involved in the push for better mental health with us. Thanks in advance for your support!
Ms Mackenzie, Mr Wilson and the SLR boys
From the library
Sorry Day and National Reconciliation Week
Every year on 26 May, National Sorry Day remembers and acknowledges the mistreatment of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who were forcibly removed from their families and communities, which we now know as ‘The Stolen Generations’ (Reconciliation Australia, 2024).
The National Reconciliation Week (NRW) 2025 theme, Bridging Now to Next, reflects the ongoing connection between past, present and future. Bridging Now to Next calls on all Australians to step forward together, to look ahead and continue the push forward as past lessons guide us.
In the #NRW2025 theme artwork created by Kalkadoon woman Bree Buttenshaw, native plants − which are known for regenerating after fire and thriving through adversity − symbolise our collective strength and the possibilities of renewal. This is a time for growth, reflection, and commitment to walking together (Reconciliation Australia, 2024).
Our Library has many resources in our collection to find out more about our past and what we can do to work towards reconciliation.
New to the Collection Highlights
The Paperbark Tree Committee by Karys McEwen
A delightful, warm and moving story about Art, a thoughtful boy who learns to celebrate his individuality and uniqueness. A novel about facing change and coping with problems. It shows not only the transition from primary to high school, but also the challenge of changing families and your whole domestic environment. Beautifully written, with tremendous characters and so many real-life issues.
On Gallant Wings by Helen Edwards
Thirteen-year-old Ava lives in Darwin with her family and their homing pigeons, of which Essie is Ava’s favourite. A Japanese family live next door and their son, Kazuo, is Ava’s best and only real friend. Her father is serving overseas. Based on important events in Australia’s history with themes of war, internment, racial hostilities, family life and the brave role that pigeons played in war, this is an excellent lower secondary novel.
Renegade Girls written by Nora Neus; illustrated by Julie Robine
A graphic novel based on real-life stunt girl Nell Nelson and photographer Alice Austen with the author adding a fictionalised version of their relationship. It’s a story of bravery and fighting injustice at a time when women and children had no rights. Nell’s writing helped change all that, and the historical notes at the end of the book bring the characters to life even more.
Skin by Deborah Kelly
This is a wonderful short read exploring the suffering that can come when people feel that it is their right to comment on other peoples’ differences, about learning what makes you who you are, as well as the importance of friendships. Best suited to lower secondary readers.
The Case of the Missing Stuff by Rachael King; illustrations by Phoebe Morris
This is a great story about never giving up and following your dreams. Violet and her friends are wonderful characters who all have challenges of their own but work together to make sure the band work – and most importantly, that it is fun. A perfect book for lower secondary readers who love music and mysteries.
The Lost Notes of the Soul Spinners by Reece Carter
This is the thrilling conclusion to the magical Elston-Fright trilogy. Our ghosts, Girl and Corpse, are back in this new story. When a powerful sea wraith appears from the ocean, she threatens the town of Elston-Fright’s very existence, in her quest to recover the Lost Notes that the Soul Spinners had created years earlier. Contains themes of ghosts, monsters, family and friends working together and trusting each other to defeat the enemy.
Ms Maddocks, Teacher Librarian
Careers Hub
Year 12
I encourage Year 12 students to book a time to chat about Post School Options – use this link below.
Click here to book a time with Meredith Mattock: Meeting with Ms Mattock - Careers Adviser
Please keep an eye on Careers Google Classroom for important information
Google classroom codes:
- Year 12 - o46wli2
- Year 11 - sr64tws
- Year 10 - mutret6
- Year 9 - jatx4ftf - this is a new classroom – please join!
A reminder about the South Sydney HS Careers Website - You can subscribe to great weekly careers newsletters. HTTPS://SSHSCAREERS.CAREERTOOLS.COM.AU/
University of Sydney HSC Preparation Courses (Years 10-12)
Registration Open for July Classes.
Led by our highly experienced team of educators, each intensive course is tailored around a critical aspect of the HSC curriculum and offers up-to-date subject knowledge and skills. These intensive holiday courses are perfect for consolidating your school studies and developing key subject knowledge that’ll give you an edge when it comes time to sit your exams. Plus, our expert tutors will teach you examination skills designed to invigorate and challenge your approach to the test material.
With an incredible array of courses available, you can choose which area you’d like to focus and attend just that course, or sign up for multiple courses to get comprehensive support across an entire HSC subject.
https://cce.sydney.edu.au/courses/hsc-preparation
The University of Sydney Year 12 Information Evening 2025 - 11 June
Join us online for an exclusive information evening for Year 12 students and their caregivers to answer all your questions about joining the vibrant Sydney University community next year.
Hear from our expert staff to learn about university entry, scholarships, study options, accommodation options, interstate-specific information and more.
Get expert advice on entry requirements and the application process from UAC and the Sydney Future Students team.
Have your questions answered during the live Q&A at the end of the session. Click HERE to register!
University of Sydney - MySydney Entry and Scholarship Scheme Webinar - 24 June
Find out how you can enter your dream degree with the MySydney Entry and Scholarship Scheme for students residing in low socio-economic areas.
Hear about the great benefits offered, including entry on a reduced ATAR, a $8,500 per annum scholarship and a range of ongoing support throughout your studies.
Find out what you need to know about eligibility criteria, how to apply, frequently asked questions and more! Click HERE to register!
Applying to UTS - Early Entry Program Info Session - 11 June
Thinking of applying to UTS via our Early Entry Program? Learn how the UTS Early Entry Program can help you secure your place at UTS before final exams – even if you're still exploring your options. Click HERE for more information.
Year 12 Info Evening: Your Journey to UNSW (Online) - 10 June
To help you prepare, join us at our Year 12 Info Evenings to learn about admission pathways, scholarship tips and more. You’ll also hear from current UNSW students about uni life and how classes work.
What to expect, we will cover the following key areas:
- Choosing your dream degree at UNSW & UAC preferencing 101
- Pathways to UNSW: Gateway Admissions Pathway
- Pathways to UNSW: Nura Gili
- Pathways to UNSW: UNSW College
- Scholarships
- Co-Op Program
- Hear from current UNSW students with Q&A style
Click HERE to get your tickets!
Year 12 Info Evening: Your Journey to UNSW (On Campus) - 12 June
We’ll cover how to preference your dream degree in UAC, scholarship application tips and tricks, and how you can show you are more than just your ATAR.
You’ll also get a real taste of uni life! Hear firsthand from current UNSW students, and enjoy an evening of conversations with Industry Partners and UNSW faculty members.
What to expect - we will cover the following key areas:
- Choosing your dream degree at UNSW & UAC Preferencing 101
- Pathways to UNSW: Gateway Admissions Pathway
- Pathways to UNSW: Nura Gili
- Pathways to UNSW: UNSW College
- Scholarships
- Co-Op Program
- Hear from current UNSW students with Q&A style
- From 7pm - chat with our industry partners and UNSW faculties.
Click HERE to get your tickets!
UCAT & Pathways into Medicine Information Webinars - 6 August
The National Institute of Education (NIE) is proud to present the free information seminar all about UCAT and the undergraduate pathways into medicine, dentistry, and some other health science programs. This forum is an excellent opportunity for teachers, students, and parents to find out about the UCAT and to have their questions answered by an expert who has been working in the field since 1999. The session is PACKED with loads of valuable information during which we will be covering the following topics and more.
- What is UCAT? UCAT scores? UCAT Sub-tests?
- UCAT changes this year, and refining exam preparation strategy.
- The Undergraduate selection criteria
- Application process into universities for medicine and dentistry
- When and who can sit the UCAT
- UCAT vs GAMSAT - How is UCAT different?
- Can you prepare for the UCAT?
- Undergraduate medical school interview explained and medical school interview preparation advice
- Gap Year
- Alternative degrees and career choices
- Q & A
Click HERE to register!
Simulated UCAT Day Workshop: 2-part program - 22 June/12 July
The Simulated UCAT Day (SUD) 2-Part workshop conducted over a full day and a follow-up session.
If you are in Years 10, 11, 12, or you may be older and considering sitting the UCAT in the future, then this program is for you. The Simulated UCAT Workshop program is ideal and often a necessary step towards effective and efficient preparation for the UCAT.
The workshop is primarily designed to cover fundamental techniques in navigating all five sections of the UCAT test and also for participants to gain a better understanding of their own level of preparedness for the test. Over the course of the years, the program has evolved into a more comprehensive and holistic exercise, which not only achieves its primary goal, but it is also exposing students to a wealth of knowledge about all other aspects of the journey into a medical degree. The latest update has seen the program grow into a 2-Day event as the sheer amount of content covered was too great to fit into a 1-day program.
https://www.nie.edu.au/ucat-courses/simulated-ucat-day-workshop
University Applications/Early Entry and Post School Information - Early Entry Guide – Study Work Grow
Click HERE for more information.
Universities Open Days Guide – Studyworkgrow
Click HERE for more information.
UNSW Co-Op Scholarship - Application Closes 30 September
A Co-op Program scholarship provides industry training, professional development, networking and financial support for selected undergraduate students in the disciplines of Business, Engineering, and Science.
Today, it is the largest and most prestigious scholarship program of its type in Australia and a leader in career development learning. There are over 300 current Co-op scholars who join more than 3,500 UNSW Co-op Alumni. The experience and networks our scholars develop enrich their time at university and give them an invaluable head start upon entering the work force. Click HERE to apply.
UNSW Portfolio Entry Information Evening - 16 July
At UNSW, we know your creativity, individuality, and drive can't be captured by an ATAR alone. That's why we offer the UNSW Portfolio Entry Early Conditional Offer Scheme—a personalised pathway to university that truly reflects who you are.
Join our Information Session! Hear directly from UNSW academics and students about crafting a compelling portfolio for undergraduate degrees within the Faculty of Arts, Design & Architecture and the Faculty of Engineering in 2026. We'll guide you through what to include, how to apply, and tips to help you succeed. Plus, you'll have the chance to ask questions and get clarity on anything you're unsure about. Click HERE to register!
Year 10
High School Subject Selection Guide – from StudyWorkGrow - https://studyworkgrow.com/high-school-subject-selection-a-guide-for-parents/
University of Newcastle - Y10 Subject Selection Webinar - 28 May
Our student ambassadors will share key Year 10 Subject Selection information and share their stories and experiences with subject selection and transition to University studies.
Presentation topics:
- Subject selection process (our 3 simple steps on how to select your subjects)
- Subject selection resources, case studies and examples
- What if I don't know what I want to do or change my mind?
- What can you study at the University of Newcastle
- Differences between school life and university life
- Pathways to University
- Ask a Student platform
Click HERE to register!
University of Wollongong - Year 10 Subject Selection Information Webinar - 16 June
Choosing the right subjects in Year 10 is an important step towards achieving your future study and career goals.
Join the University of Wollongong (UOW) for a free online event designed to help Year 10 students and their parents make informed subject choices for senior years.
In this session, our experts will cover:
- How subject choices can influence university entry and career pathways
- The importance of prerequisite subjects and assumed knowledge
- Understanding the ATAR and the role of Year 11 results
- Tips for keeping your options open
You'll also have the chance to ask questions during a live Q&A and chat with our team. Click HERE to register for the webinar!
Future Doctors Australia - A 4 Day Program for ages 14 to 18 - Register now for January next year (22-25 January)
Gaining medical work experience is essential for young people considering a medical career. It provides insight into the field, helps develop skills and attributes, and provides networking opportunities. However, obtaining medical work experience can be challenging due to various restrictions such as limited opportunities, safety concerns, and confidentiality issues.
That's why NIE has developed the "Future Doctors Australia" program. This engaging and high-impact 4-day program provides young people with a unique opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will have the opportunity to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the rare opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will learn about clinical specialist's relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them.
https://www.niecareers.com.au/future-doctors-australia
TAFE Bachelor of Applied Commerce
Designed in consultation with industry, the Bachelor of Applied Commerce provides you with the skills and knowledge you need to be a successful financial professional. Complete your major in either accounting or financial planning, or do a double major. As well as developing knowledge and skills in accounting and financial planning, you will study management, marketing, law, economics and business statistics, as well as doing an industry placement in third year. Alternatively, you can complete a Diploma of Applied Commerce by completing all first year subjects in the degree. Click HERE for more information.
AFL SportsReady
Right now, AFL SportsReady has loads of great opportunities, with amazing employers. Please share the Job’s Board with any school leavers that may be interested in kick starting their career through a traineeship. Visit the jobs board now - https://aflsportsready.com.au/career-pathways/
NECA 2 Week Pre-Employment Program - 17-27 June
We are pleased to invite interested Year 11 and 12 students in Sydney to participate in our upcoming 2-week Pre-Employment Program, designed to introduce young people to the electrical industry.
Program Overview:
- Dates: Tuesday 17th June – Thursday 27th June
- Time: 8:00am – 4:00pm daily
- Location: 122 Hume Highway, Chullora
Throughout the program, students will:
- Complete 2–3 nationally accredited modules from the Certificate III in Electrotechnology
- Gain hands-on experience through practical workshop sessions
- Build foundational knowledge and skills relevant to a career in the electrical trade
This is a valuable opportunity for students considering an apprenticeship or career in the electrical field to get a head start.
We would greatly appreciate it if you could share this opportunity with suitable students and encourage them to register their interest.
For more information or to express interest, please contact Kathie at Kathie.borrello@necatraining.com.au
NIDA Open Day 2025 - 14 June
Interested in studying at NIDA, or just curious about what we offer? NIDA Open Day is the perfect opportunity for prospective students to visit the campus and get a taste of the NIDA experience.
Whether you want to perform on stage or be behind the scenes, you can learn about all NIDA’s course offerings, meet alumni and current students, observe classroom activities, check out students’ creative work in costume, make-up, design and more, as well as ask questions, get tips for your application, chat to expert teaching staff and watch live student productions.
At Open Day, you’ll get a sense of what life at NIDA is really like, and where your future with us can take you.
https://www.nida.edu.au/news-and-events/events/whats-on/open-day-2025/
Whitecliff Fashion Winter School - 9-11 July
Across three engaging and hands-on days, you'll learn from industry professionals and will explore key areas such as fashion styling, journalism, content creation and sustainable fashion - giving you a well-rounded view of today's evolving fashion industry.
This is a great opportunity to explore your passion, try out different parts of the industry, and build skills that could shape your future. Whether you’re dreaming of being a stylist, designer, content creator, or just want to see if fashion is for you — this course is the perfect place to start.
Click the link for more info - https://www.thefashioninstitute.com.au/tfi-winter-school
ANSTO Saturday Science Discovery Tour - 28 June
This tour provides an in-depth look into the world of nuclear science and the work ANSTO does in the areas of health, the environment and delivering solutions for industry. Subject to availability, we will visit Australia's only nuclear multipurpose research reactor - OPAL, the Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering, the ANSTO Nuclear Medicine facility and the Centre for Accelerator Science.
Click the link for more info - https://www.ansto.gov.au/whats-on/saturday-science-discovery-tour-32
Australian Defence Force Gap Year
Positions Available Now Spend an exciting 12-months in the Navy, Army or Air Force, where you'll get paid for meaningful work while travelling around Australia, gaining skills for life, and making lifelong friends. On an ADF Gap Year you’ll grow and develop in a dynamic, supportive and people-focussed environment.
Click the link for more info - https://www.adfcareers.gov.au/careers/gap-year?page=1&perPage=21&query=
Return and Earn
Keep the return and earn coming in!
If you have any cans, bottles and/or 10c items, please bring to school to Ms Mattock’s office.
Meredith Mattock, Careers Adviser
Community News & Events
Community food support available
DIVA Charity has a food and clothing drive on the first Sunday of every month at 9-11 Lexington Place South Maroubra at midday. The next drive will take place Sunday July 6th.
They also have a community pantry at The Hope Uniting Church - 829 Anzac Parade Maroubra.
The Salvation Army Eastern Beaches Corps, MAROUBRA - Community Meals
100 Boyce Road, MAROUBRA 2035 NSW
https://www.salvationarmy.org.au
Anglicare Mobile Community Pantry, South Coogee - Mobile Community Pantries
1 Gregory Street, SOUTH COOGEE 2034 NSW & Cnr Victoria & Franklin Street, MALABAR 2036 NSW
https://www.anglicare.org.au/community/food-assistance/community-pantry
St Vincent de Paul Society, Kingsford Community Support Centre - Emergency Relief
1A Meeks Street, KINGSFORD 2032 NSW
https://www.vinnies.org.au/nsw/find-help/assistance-with-food-and-everyday-essentials
We acknowledge and pay our respects to the Bidjigal people, the traditional owners and custodians of the land we work on. We also pay respect to Aboriginal elders past, present and emerging, and extend that respect to other Aboriginal people.
Contact us:
Telephone | 9349 3868
Email | sthsydney-h.school@det.nsw.edu.au
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