LMHS Smooth Sailing Newsletter - Term 2 2025

Science - Faculty Report

As we conclude Term 2, it is essential to reflect on the myriad of enriching experiences our students have engaged in within the Science Faculty this term.

Our Year 10 students had the opportunity to attend an excursion to Luna Park, where they explored fundamental concepts of motion in a hands-on environment. This excursion not only enhanced their understanding of physics but also provided a unique platform for applying theoretical knowledge in real-world contexts.

In a remarkable showcase of scientific inquiry, our Year 12 Biology, Chemistry, and Physics students participated in the Experiment Fest hosted by the University of Newcastle. This event allowed them to engage with current scientific research and innovation while networking with peers and professionals in the field. Additionally, our Year 12 Extension Science students attended a masterclass hosted by Lambton High, designed to cultivate essential skills for their student research project thesis. This experience has proven invaluable in preparing them for their upcoming challenges.

Throughout the term, our faculty has conducted a variety of assessment tasks. All Stage 4 and 5 classes completed their mid-year examinations, demonstrating their knowledge and understanding across various scientific disciplines. In Year 11, Biology students participated in a practical exam focused on analysing enzyme activity on milk, while Investigating Science students created models to simplify complex scientific concepts. Year 11 Chemistry students conducted a depth study to investigate the rate of reactions, further solidifying their experimental skills.

As we acknowledge these accomplishments, it is important to note some changes within our faculty. I will be taking leave early in Term 3, and we welcome Mrs. Gobor as the relieving Head Teacher of Science during this time. We also bid farewell to Mr. Paul Nebauer, who has accepted a permanent position at another school. His vast experience and enthusiasm for Science have greatly enriched our faculty, and he will be missed.

As the term draws to a close, we encourage our students to reflect on their progress. Many notebooks are now reaching capacity; therefore, we advise students to begin the next term with fresh notebooks. Additionally, please ensure that pencil cases are stocked with essential supplies for success, including pens, pencils, glue, scissors, and a functioning calculator.

We wish all our students a restful break and look forward to welcoming back our young scientists for another exciting term.

Mrs Martin

Head Teacher Science

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CAPA - Faculty Report

Music

Junior musicians have been working with diligence all term and experimenting with a range of different instruments! Our Year 7 and 8 Music/SHINE students are consistently achieving excellence and refining their skills on guitar, drums, keyboard and vocals.

Our Year 8 and Year 9 music students were invited by the University of Newcastle to attend an immersion day at the conservatorium located in the city campus in June. Mr Davis and Ms Gillard worked with our musicians to participate in a range of workshops, including exploring a professional recording studio and experimenting with a theremin.

Year 10, 11 and 12 musicians can be congratulated on their outstanding achievement recently being competitively selected for several items in the Central Coast Showcase in August. Our school has been invited to participate in this amazing performance showcase across music and dance this year, with a total of five items chosen. Congratulations!

Our Year 11 and 12 students also attended the HSC Music Study Day at Tuggerah Lakes Secondary College in Term 2, performing for an audience of their peers from over ten local high schools. Students were given positive feedback and advice moving forward to help lift their performance grades in the upcoming examinations. It was an excellent day, and our musicians were fantastic ambassadors for our school.

Modern Languages

Minnasan, Konnichi wa! This term, our Year 8 students have truly immersed themselves in the vibrant world of Japanese language and culture! They have become adept at introducing themselves, describing their favourite things using colours, and even navigating a sushi menu in hiragana. It’s heartening to see so many students thriving in their hiragana studies, mastering reading and writing skills faster than we anticipated!

Culturally, our students explored the fascinating traditions of “Golden Week” and “Kodomo no Hi” (Children’s Day). They had a fantastic time creating samurai helmets with origami and crafting colourful paper kites, which now proudly adorn the ceiling of our classroom. The excitement reached new heights when they had the chance to view a genuine samurai mon—a stunning three-story banner gifted to our school.

A major highlight of the term was our students' unforgettable Japanese BBQ experience. They eagerly learned how to prepare Yaki Soba in true Japanese style, and the enthusiasm was palpable as they returned for seconds and even thirds! A heartfelt “thank you” goes out to our wonderful staff members—Mr van Drempt, Mr Davis, Ms S Stephens, Mr Kelly, Ms L Stephens, and Mr Pike—who helped make this event a resounding success. We also extend our gratitude to Ms Paul, Ms Ironside, and Ms Kaye for their support. These mornings were not just fun; they were enriching experiences that our students will cherish.

Photography & Digital Media

Our Year 10 Photography students have been focussing on film making and animation this term with outstanding examples of short movies produced by this talented cohort. Highlights from Term 2 include the documentary film promoting literacy and reading across curriculum groups, filmed and edited by our dedicated team from Ms Stephens’ class. Students worked closely with English faculty member Ms Wirz to draft a script and plan their storyboarding. Our Y10 Photography students then approached a range of staff to shoot them engaging in reading their favourite novels and other hardcopy texts. This is currently being edited to create a short film promoting literacy for our community!

Another noteworthy achievement is the outstanding efforts of our Y10 Photography students working as a recording crew for the Big Picture Faculty to document their recent exhibition assessments. Our team ran cameras and sound recording equipment for the week to ensure the exhibitions can be shared and kept as an important memento of the Big Picture student’s fantastic progress throughout their journey.

Visual Arts

Our junior Visual Art students have been exploring drawing and ceramics in Term 2, working towards a big exhibition of their outstanding! Students discovered the world-famous artists Yayoi Kusama and Ramesh Nitheyendren, who inspired their wonderful ceramic sculptures. They are currently being glazed and fired ready for display soon.

Year 9 and 10 Visual Arts and SHINE Fine Arts students have been focussing on the conventions of portraiture, completing an acrylic painting of a friend, family member or celebrity. Our portrait exhibition is currently on display in the staff room and looks amazing!

Senior Visual Arts went on the annual Art Adventure at the end of June, this year we flew from Sydney to Hobart to visit the fabulous MONA gallery. Students were immersed in a range of cultural excellence during this visit to the bustling creative artist hub surrounding Salamanca in Hobart.

Dance

Huge congratulations to Ms Stanford and the SHINE Dance cohort for their outstanding achievements this term! They have been competitively selected for the upcoming Central Coast Showcase at the Laycock St Theatre in Wyong. Tickets are on sale soon for the show on the 20th + 21st of August. Well done!!

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Warm regards,

The CAPA Faculty 🎨🎭🎶

Mathematics - Faculty Report

📐 Year 7N and 7K Explore Geometry Through Origami

To conclude the Angle Relationships unit, students in Year 7N and 7K at Lake Munmorah High School engaged in a creative hands-on activity by constructing origami trisoctahedrons. This exercise not only reinforced their understanding of geometric concepts but also highlighted the practical applications of mathematics through the art of paper folding. Origami has been recognized as an effective tool in teaching geometry, allowing students to explore angles, shapes, and symmetry in a tangible way.

🎉 Congratulations on a Successful Term!

The Mathematics Faculty extends heartfelt congratulations to all students for their dedication and achievements throughout Term 2. Your enthusiasm and commitment to learning have been truly commendable.

✏️ Essential Materials for Every Lesson

As we prepare for Term 3, please remember to bring the following items to every mathematics class:

• Pen
• Pencil
• Scientific Calculator

For those who need a scientific calculator, Casio models are preferred for their reliability and user-friendly features. They are available for purchase at the front office for $33.

Here's to another term of exploration and discovery in mathematics!

PDHPE - Faculty Report

As the end of Term 2 approaches, here’s a snapshot of all the great learning and achievements across our PDHPE and related classes:

Year 7 PDHPE

• Theory: Exploring Power and Relationships—understanding how to recognise healthy dynamics in friendships and teams.

• Practical: Developing skills in striking games, from modified tee-ball to beginner softball drills.

Year 8 PDHPE

• Theory: Delving into Mental Health & Resilience—strategies for managing stress and building coping skills.

• Practical: Mastering net and court games, with students showing excellent teamwork in volleyball and modified tennis.

• School Sport: This term, the Central Waves Basketball Association coached our Year 8 boys —building on the terrific sessions the girls enjoyed in Term 1. A big thank-you to the CWBA for your expertise and energy!

Year 9 PDHPE

• Theory: Nutrition—examining how food fuels our activity and supports long-term health.

• Practical: Discovering international and cultural games. Badminton proved a sensational hit, with many students picking up rackets for the first time.

Year 10 PDHPE

• Theory & Practical: Studying Diversity & Resilience, culminating in some truly exceptional performances for the Dance assessment task. Well done to everyone who choreographed and performed with confidence.

Year 11 Health and Movement Science

• Busy completing their Collaborative Investigation—collecting and analysing primary data to answer engaging questions about human movement and health.

Year 12 Community and Family Studies (CAFS)

• Completed the Flour Baby assessment, caring for a “bag of flour” over the weekend and reflecting on the challenges of caregiving. Their empathy and insight were impressive.

Year 9 Child Studies

• Finished the Conception to Birth assessment, which included a lovely Baby Shower for Miss Stanford. We wish her all the best as she welcomes her baby boy!

As I prepare to leave Lake Munmorah High to take up a new role as Head Teacher Wellbeing next term, I want to say a heartfelt thank-you to all the fantastic staff, students, and families for your support over the past years. Enjoy a safe and relaxing break—I look forward to hearing about everyone’s achievements in Term 3!

TAS - Faculty Report

Throughout Term 2, students in Stages 4 and 5 have had valuable hands-on experiences across all Technology and Applied Studies classes. They have been actively developing their practical skills, exploring creative solutions to real-world problems, and learning how to link their classroom learning with industry practices. These opportunities have allowed students to engage deeply in areas such as Textiles, Metal, Food & Agriculture technology, and Timber technologies.

In Stage 6, Preliminary students have been refining and strengthening their foundational skills in preparation for Year 12. Meanwhile, HSC students have been working diligently on their Major Projects. Their dedication and commitment have been evident as they apply both theoretical knowledge and technical skills to bring their projects to life, demonstrating creativity, innovation, and perseverance.

Year 12 Construction have made 2 mud kitchens for Gwandalan Public School. The students have made the mud kitchens from scratch, designing the projects, ordering the materials and manufacturing all the components together. They will be delivered to the primary school early next term.

Support Unit - Faculty Report

Boccia Team

This term, the LMHS Support Unit Boccia team competed in the School Sport Unit Regional Boccia Competition in Newcastle, going head-to-head with teams from 20 schools. Our team remained undefeated all day, with the final match coming down to a tense tie-breaker, which they won. They’ve now earned their place in the state finals, to be held next term at Sydney Olympic Park.

Work Experience

This term, selected students from the Support Unit have been attending work experience at Fairhaven CoPack in Tuggerah. Our students have been hard at work completing a variety of jobs, such as packing boxes with chocolates and sachets, connecting hose plugs, filling and sealing cold packs, and even quality control. The initiative and strong work ethic of these students has been fantastic. They have shown that they will make excellent contributions to the work force when they leave school. Congratulations to these students on a job well done!

Visual Arts

There are several keen and capable artists in the Support unit who have been developing their skills and creating a range of interesting artworks. Throughout Term 2 students have been learning about "Pop Art" and artists and have been using these practices and techniques to represent subjects significant to their own world. Popular subjects include animals ,pets and subjects from books, movies and games.

The students explored colour, line and shape using a variety of media and materials to create their artworks on canvas, clay vases and wooden boxes. The images of artworks showcased in this newsletter reveal the fine efforts of Ella, Nick O., Paul and Corey.

Sports 4 All Tenpin Bowling Nationals glory has come to Lake Macquarie, with students Jack and Oasis bowling their way to gold and silver in Perth—and they didn’t come home empty-handed. Oasis captured gold in the D Division singles event, while Jack teamed up to claim silver in the doubles competition. Their journey to the national stage is not just a sporting achievement, but a celebration of consistency, growth, and the power of community.

Jack and Oasis have been supported by 4TITUDE / Sports 4 All for almost a year as part of a group of young people preparing for life beyond school. Through weekly programs focused on skill-building, confidence, and social connection, the boys have been steadily working toward greater independence and future readiness.

One activity that has particularly captured their interest has been the Wednesday Afternoon Tenpin Bowling League at the Bateau Bay Tenpin Bowling Centre. What started as fun after school quickly became something more meaningful. When they first began bowling during school hours, they relied on bumper bars, but as part of the 4TITUDE league, those bumper bars became a thing of the past. They’ve been learning the rules, developing technique, and discovering the etiquette of the sport.

Importantly, participation in a regular league is a key requirement for progressing to regional, state, and national competitions. Over the last 12 months, Jack and Oasis—alongside fellow league members Nick and Paul G —have travelled to competitions in Sydney, Canberra, and now Perth, proudly representing themselves, their families, their school, and the wider community.

The Perth trip in June was the boys’ first time at a national-level event, and they embraced the challenge with enthusiasm. After arriving at a hotel overlooking Scarborough Beach, the group settled in with pizza, movies, and plenty of excitement for what was to come. Over several days, Jack and Oasis bowled up to three games a day, competing with focus while also enjoying the social side of the event—forming new friendships, swapping stories, and showing genuine support for their teammates.

Oasis achieved first place in his division early in the tournament, ultimately earning the gold medal in the D Division singles event, and on the final day bowled just one point shy of his personal best. Jack also shone on the lanes, teaming up to secure the silver medal in the doubles competition while improving his confidence and consistency with each game. Off the lanes, the boys explored Kings Park, visited the beach, played games with peers, and even cheered on a local rugby union match with one of the support staff.

What stands out most, however, is their growth not just as bowlers, but as young people. They showed teamwork, resilience, maturity, and a true sense of community. As they transition out of school in the coming years, experiences like these are helping shape the young men they are becoming.

Jack and Oasis are now seen as ambassadors within the 4TITUDE bowling league. Their journey shows what’s possible with the right support, commitment, and opportunity. They’re eager to keep improving, move up divisions, and one day help mentor or coach others coming through the same pathway.

Their message is simple: “If we can do it, so can you.”

If any students or families are interested in learning more about the bowling league or other programs run by 4TITUDE, you’re welcome to reach out via 4titude.com.au.

Mr Oscar Trenear

Big Picture

Semester 1 is complete, and what an incredible start to our first year as a Big Picture Learning community at Lake Munmorah High School! Over the past two terms, our Year 8 and Year 9 students have embraced this new way of learning with curiosity, creativity and courage. We are so proud of the way they’ve thrown themselves into the journey of personal, interest-driven learning.

Throughout Terms 1 and 2, students have engaged in self-directed projects based on their passions. From landscape and Aboriginal art painting to baking, music production, pulse jet engines, business ventures, the science of flow state and podcasting – their ideas have been as diverse as they are inspiring. Through these projects, students have developed research skills, explored digital tools and deepened their understanding of the world.

In addition to their projects, students explored their identity and personal story through the “Who Am I?” project, creating family trees, photo essays and conducting interviews. Some made fascinating connections to family history, while others reflected on how childhood passions continue to influence them today.

In Numeracy, Mr Shepherd led students through lessons on financial maths and other real-world topics, always tailoring support to each student’s needs. From budgeting for businesses to calculating measurements for baking or woodworking – every session was purposeful and practical.

Advisory time has been a powerful space for connection and growth. Students have kept journals, participated in Town Hall meetings and engaged in independent reading. These moments have built community and helped students reflect on their learning journey.

A highlight was our first round of Exhibitions in Term 1 and our recent Term 2 Exhibitions, where students presented their work to families, staff and the wider school community. These were powerful celebrations of learning, bravery and growth. Students also wrote personal Narratives to reflect on their journey.

In Term 2, students continued to refine their projects and learning portfolios. A standout moment was our Year 8 Advisory learning from a senior student how to respectfully integrate an Acknowledgement of Country into their Exhibitions – a moment of cultural respect and shared leadership.

We also welcomed students and staff from Hunter Sports High School, who visited our learning spaces to connect and share ideas. It was a great opportunity to build our Big Picture Learning community, and we look forward to visiting them soon.

As Semester 1 ends, students are already developing new Learning Plans, ready to explore new questions and ideas in Term 3.

A big thank you to our wonderful staff mentors, and to our parent and carer community. Your ongoing support makes a world of difference.

We are excited for what the rest of the year holds and can’t wait to see how our students continue to grow and shine in Term 3!

Junior & Senior Leadership Team

Term 2 Report

The leadership team have proudly represented the school and raised further money and awareness for worthwhile charities this term.

During the April school holidays, our senior leaders proudly represented our school by laying a wreath at the ANZAC Day Dawn Service at Doyalson RSL. They took this time to pay their respects and reflect on all the servicemen and women who have fought in conflict and allowed us to enjoy the freedoms we have today. They also spoke beautifully and assisted Mrs Spencer to run a moving ANZAC assembly at school in early term 2 so LMHS students could show their respect. Lest we forget.

In early May the Junior and Senior leaders also ran another highly successful MAGS (Mothers, Aunties, Grandmothers and Special Friends) Day barbeque breakfast. It was a fantastic opportunity for staff and students to connect with our school community, and we had an amazing turn out. Thank you for all that attended. We look forward to running a similar event for the DUGS (Dads, Uncles, Grandfathers and Special Friends) in our community, later in term 3.

On Wednesday 18th of June, Junior and Senior leaders raised over $500 for the Mark Hughes Foundation by running a Beanie for Brain Cancer Day. This involved encouraging staff and students to wear a beanie on the day and collecting donations for the research into a cure and support for families of those who suffer from brain cancer. They also ran a highly successful hot chocolate stall break 1 and 2 to raise additional money. This was a perfect touch to a chilly winters’ day!

Looking forward, next term we will begin the process of electing our junior and senior leadership team for 2026. If your child is interested in applying (or re-applying) for a position on the leadership team, please encourage them to see myself, Mrs Patterson or the front office early next term.

Term 3 will see our current year 12 leaders run their final leadership team events and assemblies before they embark on their next journey. They have made an incredible contribution to our school community so far and are leaving big shoes for our 2026 team to fill!

Mrs Gobor

Leadership Team Coordinator

Wellbeing - Faculty Report

Term 2, 2025 has been a busy and exciting time for student wellbeing. Each morning from 7:30am to 7:55am, the Wellbeing Hub opens for Breakfast Club, providing a welcoming space to start the day. During Breaks 1 and 2, students can enjoy toasted sandwiches, and an additional variety of fruit and snacks. All food is generously donated by Eat Up, Foodbank, and our generous community partners.

The Wellbeing Team is lead by Relieving Head Teacher Wellbeing, Miss Kaye, and comprises of a number of staff who support students to achieve their best.

Our Year Advisors have also been working hard to coordinate engaging year group excursions:

• Year 7 tackled the Raw Challenge
• Year 8 bounced their way through Flip Out
• Year 9 adventured through Net World at Tree Tops Adventure Park
• Year 11 explored the Shark and Ray Museum

We’ve also had strong student involvement in a range of wellbeing programs and initiatives this term, coordinated by our dedicated Student Support Officer, Racquel. These have included:

• Aspire Program
• Fit For Life Police Program
• The Body Project
• Wellness Warriors
• Seasons for Growth
• Name, Narrate, Navigate
• Digi Van
• Love Bites

In addition, our Gender Sexuality Alliance proudly led whole-school activities to acknowledge the International Day Against Homophobia, Biphobia, Interphobia and Transphobia (IDAHOBIT), promoting a message of inclusion and respect across our school community.

A special mention also goes to Prue, our Student Wellbeing Officer, for running the ever-popular Warhammer Club and Art Therapy sessions, both of which have provided students with creative and calming outlets during the school day.

Primary School Transition

We are excited to welcome Mr Jeff Patrick and Miss Gabby Ainsworth to the Wellbeing Team as our 2026 Year 7 Advisors. This term, they have done a fantastic job coordinating successful transition days with our partner primary schools.

Year 5 and 6 students from Mannering Park, Gwandalan, and Lake Munmorah Public Schools visited Lake Munmorah High School to take part in Taster Lessons. These engaging sessions gave students a chance to experience what high school is like, including hands-on lessons in Science, HSIE, and Food Technology.

NSW Public School Survey

The NSW Public Schools Surveys (NPSS) started in Term 2, 2025. This is a new, state-wide survey that gives students a chance to share their thoughts about school life. The feedback helps school leaders see what’s going well and where things could be better. All year groups at LMHS took part, with support from the NPSS Team – Mrs Wirz, Mr Alistair Unie and Miss Kaye.

Learning and Support Team

We’re lucky to have an incredible Learning and Support Team here at LMHS, made up of Ms Fitzgerald, Mr Rogers, Mr Davis and Ms Evans.

This term the team have been hard at work updating student learner profiles, supporting students to meet the HSC Minimum Standards, and gathering important data for the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD). Their efforts play a big part in making sure every student gets the support they need to thrive.

The Reconnect Room

The Reconnect Room, led by Ms Evans, provides targeted intervention to help students re-engage with their learning and reconnect with school. Students in this space take part in Restorative Practices and explore learning through Gardner’s Theory of Multiple Intelligences. They also work on individualised passion projects linked to High Performance and Gifted and Talented domains, building self-motivation and a sense of ownership in their education.

Zonta Young Women in Leadership

This term, our Girls Advisors proudly established a new partnership with Zonta Central Coast, an international organisation committed to empowering women through service and advocacy. As part of this connection, we celebrated the leadership achievements of three outstanding Year 11 students: Amber, Chey, and Rebecca, who were nominated for the Zonta Young Women in Leadership Award.

While the overall award winner was selected from outside our school, Zonta was so impressed by our students' applications that they awarded Amber, Chey, and Rebecca with Certificates of Recognition for their inspiring contributions to leadership at LMHS.

We’re excited to continue working with Zonta as we begin establishing a Z Club at LMHS. This is an exciting opportunity for students to develop leadership skills and engage in meaningful service initiatives that support women and girls locally and globally.

Year Advisor Reports

Year 7 - Mr Rob Johnson

Year 7 Wrap-Up: Braving the Rain and Embracing LMHS Life

Our Year 7s have officially made it through their first semester at LMHS—and what a start it’s been! From navigating new routines to making new friends, they’ve taken on every challenge with enthusiasm. One of the highlights so far was their recent excursion to Raw Challenge. Despite the cold and rainy conditions, this resilient bunch showed true grit, pushing through the mud and obstacles with determination and plenty of laughter. It was a day that showcased their spirit and brought them even closer together.

We hope Semester 1 has been a positive and memorable start to their high school journey. It’s been fantastic to see their growth and energy, and we’re excited for what the rest of the year has in store. Whether it’s in the classroom or out on more adventures, there’s plenty more to come for our awesome Year 7s!

Hope you all enjoy your well-earned break.

Your proud Year Advisor,

R Johnson

Year 12 - Miss Emily Davis

As we enter the final term of high school for our amazing Year 12 cohort, it’s hard to believe how quickly the time has flown. With only a few short months left before graduation, we’re excited to see the determination, leadership and school spirit our students continue to display across all areas of school life.

A major highlight from this term was Round 2 of the Munners Cup, where our Year 12 students took on the teachers in a fiercely competitive volleyball match. The energy was high, the rallies were intense, and the crowd was loud — but in the end, the students came out on top, claiming a well-earned victory over the staff team. This ties the series at one win apiece!

This means we’re heading into Round 3 – the decider!

The final showdown will take place early next term on NAIDOC Day, adding even more significance and celebration to the occasion. The chosen sport? Oztag! Get ready for another spirited match full of speed, skill and plenty of laughs. Will the teachers take home the cup, or will the students seal the win and take ultimate bragging rights?