principaL's addresS
As we near the end of a hot and humid Term 1, it’s the perfect time to reflect on some of the memorable moments.
On 10 March, the Swimming Carnival highlighted the exceptional talents of our students as they showcased their aquatic skills. Aulberry House secured an incredible victory for the third consecutive year. Congratulations to all participants for their outstanding effort and sportsmanship, and a special thank you to the Year 11 Certificate II Sport Coaching and Year 12 Certificate II Sport and Recreation students for their dedicated work on organisational roles throughout the day.
Mathematics enthusiasts celebrated Pi Day on 14 March, with students testing their memory and reciting at least 15 digits of Pi. This fun and educational challenge highlighted the joy of learning and mathematical curiosity. Our winning student was able to recite Pi to a total of 200 decimal points!
On 18 March, we opened our doors for a Twilight School Tour, offering prospective families an opportunity to experience the exceptional location and facilities at Leeming Senior High School that make us unique.
On 21 March we recognised Harmony Day; an opportunity to celebrate the diversity that enriches our school community.
Our Leeming SHS Debate Team has made a remarkable start in the WA Debating League. The Years 7/8 (Novice) teams achieved impressive wins against Willetton, while our Years 9/10 team narrowly missed victory by just two points in a tightly contested debate. Meanwhile, our Year 11/12 team delivered a strong performance, finishing only five points behind in an intense match. We look forward to their next debate on 27 March.
We are proud to strengthen our ongoing partnership with Murdoch University, having renewed our agreement for a third year of the Murdoch FlexiTrack Preparation Course. Additionally, our collaboration with the Australian Medical Association enters its second year, offering students the opportunity to pursue a Certificate III in Allied Health Assistance and a Certificate II in Community Health and Wellbeing in our new purpose-built demountable.
We are always thrilled to hear about the achievements of our alumni. Former student Claire Ho has made us proud as the co-producer of the award-winning documentary Everywhere, demonstrating the talent and ambition nurtured at Leeming Senior High School.
We are excited to announce that Leeming’s Interschool Swimming Team placed fifth and will remain in Division 2 for 2026, showcasing the talent and dedication of our swim team students.
To wrap up the term, we will hold an ANZAC ceremony on 10 April to honour the sacrifices made by Australian and New Zealand servicemen and women. Since the official ANZAC Day falls during the school holidays, this ceremony will provide an opportunity for our school community to come together in reflection and remembrance.
As Term 1 draws to a close, I would like to remind everyone that the final day of school is Friday, 11 April. Students will return on Monday, 28 April. I encourage all students and staff to enjoy this well-deserved break, taking the time to relax and recharge in preparation for an exciting term ahead.
Mr D. Atthowe, Principal
COMPASS PUSH NOTIFICATIONS
It is important that you have Compass downloaded on your phone to receive all school notifications.
If you haven't updated your Compass app to receive push notifications on your phone for upcoming events such as excursions, please follow the guide on our website or follow the steps below:
Attendance communications will be going to all families who have unexplained absences or have low attendance rates/concerns this term. Please ensure that communications about absence from school are communicated to the Attendance Officers, using the Compass app where possible.
A Fond Farewell to Kevin
We recently bid a heartfelt farewell to Kevin as he wrapped up his incredible career as a bus driver. Each morning when Kevin drove the 515 TransPerth Service, he greeted our students with a warm smile, becoming a familiar and friendly face on their daily journey.
To show their appreciation, our students took the opportunity to present Kevin with cards, gifts, and kind words, making his final day a memorable one.
Kevin, thank you for your dedication and the kindness you shared with the students. You’ll surely be missed, but we wish you nothing but the best in your well-earned retirement. Enjoy every moment of this new chapter!
Jazz Band Shines During Twilight Tour
As part of our annual Twilight Tour, we were thrilled to have our talented Jazz Band, led by the exceptional Mr. Ryder, greet parents with a memorable performance. For many of our students, this performance was not only a chance to showcase their skills but also a valuable opportunity to practice performing outside the classroom setting. The experience helped build their confidence and gave them a chance to shine in a real-world performance environment.
Parents had the opportunity to enjoy the performance while exploring the school in a relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. It was truly a special moment that highlighted the dedication and hard work of our students, as well as the support of our fantastic music program.
A big thank you to Mr. Ryder and the Jazz Band for adding to the Twilight Tour and ensuring it was a memorable event. We look forward to many more performances like this in the future!
Mr G. Ryder, Music Teacher
2025 House Swimming Carnival
The Leeming House Swimming Carnival was held at Riverton Leisureplex on Monday, 10 March with more than 120 students involved in an incredibly successful day. Students participated in 50m and 100m individual events and house group relays, culminating in a fun inflatable team relay.
The competition was fierce early in the day with Aulberry and Ramsdale leading the way. The senior students' events saw Aulberry gain significant ascendancy over the other teams after the first half of the carnival. This proceeded for the rest of the day where Aulberry went on to win for the third straight year. Well done to all competitors who gained valuable points for their house groups in what has been Leeming's most inclusive carnival to date.
Mr R. Boughton, HoLA Health and Physical Education
Interschool Swimming Carnival 2025
On Thursday ofWeek 9, Leeming competed in the Division 2 Interschool Swimming Carnival after winning the Division 3 Carnival last year. The team consisted of about 64 swimmers from Year 7-12. There was plenty of individual successes throughout the day for our swimmers. The Year 12 Boys 4 x 50m freestyle team went back-to-back for the win in the final event of the day.
Congratulations to Annabelle F. who won Individual Champion for the Year 12 Girls and Alyssa G. who was Runner-Up Champion for the Year 7 Girls.
Congratulations to the following swimmers who came first in their events:
- Alyssa G. (Year 7)
- Charlize B. (Year 8)
- Jasmine G. (Year 9)
- Aldrich F. (Year 9)
- Jacob R. (Year 12)
- Thomas B. (Year 12)
It was a huge team effort. We ended up 5th and will remain in Division 2. Thanks to helpers and staff for organising a successful carnival.
Miss R. Holt, Health and Physical Education Teacher
Year 10 Lightning Carnival - Soccer
Leeming SHS Year 10 girls showed unlimited passion, courage and a never say die attitude all carnival. Yujun and K. are to be awesomely commended for a job well done as co-captains all day. Even though results did not go our way, all students should be supremely proud of their performance and commitment to the cause. Thank you to Aditi and her awesome baking skills for supplying some much-needed cake nutrition to the players in between some taxing games.
Thank you to Jada and Chanel our Year 11 officials on the day.
Mr K. Griffiths, Health and Physical Education Teacher
A Mindful Adventure at MacFaull Park
On Friday, 28 March, the Lifestyle Fitness class went to MacFaull Park to play some Disc Golf (Frisbee Golf). Students were in teams ranging from 2 to 4, and had a go at the 9-hole course. While there, students enjoyed being out in nature, socialising in a friendly competition, and turned into big kids again on the famous flying fox! This term, our focus is on 'mindfulness,' and I believe this experience was a great opportunity to benefit our students.
Ms J. Blackmore, Health and Physical Education Teacher
Congratulations to Our Pi Day Champions!
What an extraordinary Pi Day celebration we had this year! It was wonderful to see our students embracing the challenge of reciting the digits of pi, testing both their memory and their passion for mathematics. The excitement was palpable as students competed to recall 15 digits of pi, with the reward of a $10 canteen voucher waiting for the top performers—a great incentive for all!
Your dedication and enthusiasm for numbers are truly inspiring! We are so proud of each of you for your impressive achievements.
Thank you to everyone who participated and made this Pi Day such a fun and memorable event. We can’t wait to see even more mathematical feats next year! Keep up the amazing work, everyone!
Maths Homework Club Continues!
We are pleased to continue the Maths Homework Club, running every Thursday from 3:00 to 4:00 pm in Maths Central throughout Term 2. This is a great opportunity for students to receive individual help with their Maths questions in a supportive and welcoming environment.
Whether you're working on homework, preparing for a test, or just need extra guidance, our dedicated teachers will be there to assist you. All students are welcome—just bring your maths problems and a positive attitude!
We look forward to seeing you there!
📍 When: Every Thursday, 3:00 – 4:00 pm
📍 Where: Maths Central
📍 Who: All students welcome!
If you have any questions, feel free to ask your Maths teacher. See you at Maths Homework Club!
Mrs S. Kalra, HoLA Mathematics
What’s Happening in the Library?
Feature Display
The feature display for the beginning of the year was ‘World of Dinosaurs’ which proved very popular and the books on display were enjoyed by all. This was followed by several others – including student infographic posters on the Industrial Revolution.
Robotics on a Tuesday after school is still very popular, as is Chess. We will have an intraschool tournament early Term 2, for all students to enter.
Cyber Safety Presentation by Paul Litherland
Paul Litherland once again presented a fantastic presentation on Cyber Safety to our Year 9 students. He is very focused on the students being online but being aware and safe while doing so.
eBooks & Databases
How to borrow eBooks and access databases subscribed to by the school:
- School Portal (https://portal.leeming.wa.edu.au)
- Type in the school security password (available on Connect > Library > Notices or on posters in the Library)
- Click on the database you wish to access, entering listed username/password. (All databases have the relevant access username/password written on tab)
eBooks are becoming increasingly popular worldwide – particularly as they are accessible 24/7 at home or at school on your own device.
ePlatform is especially good when students have a request for a book as we can upload it straight away. Students are able to borrow the eBook and be reading it within 5 minutes.
How to borrow a fiction eBook to read:
- School Portal (https://portal.leeming.wa.edu.au)
- Library eResources > Type in the school security password
- Click on ePlatform > Add your school username and the password is 1library
Students are also enjoying listening to audiobooks outside of school on their devices (tablets/phones).
STUDY SKILLS HANDBOOK and STUDY SAMURAI LIBRARY join forces at Leeming SHS.
Our school is a subscriber to the combined study skills and well-being website – which is available to all students.
This is a website with 3 online resources that helps students develop essential skills for academic success and a positive mindset. There are units of work on topics such as improving time management skills, how to study, research skills, summarising, technology use, brain and memory as well as topics like managing stress, growth mindset, goal setting, motivation and positive thought habits. You can see all the topics covered by following the links below.
How to access the Study Samurai eLibrary database:
- School Portal (https://portal.leeming.wa.edu.au)
- Library eResources > Type in the school security password
- Click on Study Skills & Samurai
- Enter school username (leemingshs) and password (77success)
Year 7 Study Smarter Sessions
On Mondays, Study Smarter Sessions after school are open to all Year 7 students. The focus this term has been organisation skills both at school and at home. The information is posted on the Connect Study Smarter page so that all students have access to the information.
Have a wonderful break and don’t forget to select a book or an eBook.
Ms C. Steel, Teacher Librarian
Year 12 ATAR Economics Students Attend BCEC Report Launch
On Thursday of Week 6, our Year 12 ATAR Economics students had the exciting opportunity to attend the launch of the Youth in Focus: Navigating Wellbeing in a Changing World report, hosted by the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre (BCEC) at the Perth Convention and Exhibition Centre.
This event was particularly special for our school, as last year’s Year 12 Economics class contributed to the research, and this year’s group was able to see the findings published. It was a great way for students to see how economic research influences real-world policy, especially in areas like youth employment, education, and wellbeing.
A highlight of the day was the panel discussion, hosted by ABC Radio Perth’s Nadia Mitsopoulos. The panel featured Tremane Baxter-Edwards (Director, Empowered Young Leaders), Georgie Carey (Deputy Mayor, Town of Mosman Park), and Alessia Maio (Paramedicine Student and Co-Chair, Ministerial Youth Advisory Council), who shared valuable insights about the challenges and opportunities facing young Australians today.
For our students, this event reinforced key macroeconomic concepts, showing how research shapes government policies that impact everyday life. It was an incredible chance to connect classroom learning with real-world applications and to engage with some of WA’s leading voices on youth issues.
A huge thank you to the Bankwest Curtin Economics Centre and Curtin University for the invitation—we appreciate the opportunity to be part of such an important conversation.
To check out the full report, visit: Youth in Focus – Navigating Wellbeing in a Changing World
Ms H. Britton, HASS Teacher
Work, Terrible Work!
Picking Oakum in the HASS 2 Workhouse allowed Year 9 History students the opportunity to experience working conditions in the Industrial Revolution for those with nowhere else to go. After producing some impressive posters (displayed in the Library) time-travelling students felt ready for anything the Industrial Revolution could throw at them. Under strict silence imposed by the top-hatted overseer, students worked hard, but the supply of ship’s rope seemed unending and for every thread pulled, another would appear. And then at the end of the lesson, the final straw- for workhouse inmates the only payment for all their work- was a thin, watery gruel. More, anyone?
Sweet Thoughts
No hard working student would be surprised to learn that the brain is the biggest guzzler of sugar in the human body. So it seemed logical for Year 11 ATAR psychology students to utilise sugary treats to help them understand the intricacies of the neurons making up the human brain. And using their brains to complete this sugary construction activity was perfect preparation for tackling the real thing in their brain dissection lab.
Ms R. Murray, HASS Teacher
Choosing Words Wisely
One night on a school camp, the campers were gathered around in a circle and the teahcer asked if any of the students wanted to share something that had impacted them that day. One camper raised her hand and said a girl from another camp cabin had said something that hurt her feelings, and she was really upset about it.
The teacher then went to the bathroom to grab a tube of toothpaste. She took the tube and squeezed it just a bit so some toothpaste came out. She then tried to put the toothpaste back in the tube, but it just created a mess. The teacher squeezed the tube even more, pushing out more toothpaste and making an even bigger mess, but none of it would go back into the tube.
The teacher then told the campers, “This toothpaste represents the words you speak. Once you say something that you want to take back, it’s impossible and it only creates a mess. Think before you speak, and make sure your words are going to good use before you let them out.”
From this, we learn that sometimes we may say something hurtful to someone, and once it's said, we can’t take it back. So remember to think before we speak.
- T– is it true?
- H – is it helpful?
- I – is it inspiring?
- N – is it necessary?
- K– is it kind?
The problem is, once words come out of your mouth, no amount of “I’m sorry” will make them go back in. Blurting something out and then attempting to take it back is like shutting the gate after the horse has taken off. Thinking before you speak gives you the time to consider the potential impact of your words.
Carl the Chaplain
Flu Season Approaches
With winter approaching, I recommend a flu vaccine for all. Why should I consider having my child vaccinated against the flu? The National Health and Medical Research Council, Australia's peak body for health advice, recommends annual vaccinations for anyone six months of age or older who wants to reduce their chances of becoming ill with the flu.
Annual flu vaccinations are strongly recommended for anyone six months of age or older with a medical condition that places them at higher risk of severe illness from the flu. Children and adults with heart, lung or kidney disease or a weakened immune system, are eligible for free flu vaccine through the National Immunisation Program.
Children without underlying medical conditions who become infected with the flu can also develop serious illnesses. The flu can cause high fever and pneumonia and worsen existing medical conditions. It can also cause convulsions and diarrhoea in children.
Influenza viruses are always changing. Each year, scientists try to match the strains of influenza viruses in the vaccine to those most likely to cause flu illnesses that year. It takes up to two weeks for protection to develop after vaccination against the flu, and protection lasts about a year.
The seasonal flu vaccine is available on prescription or through GP and immunisation clinics and is provided free for certain groups. Flu vaccines are available prior to the start of winter. For more information, visit www.health.wa.gov.au or contact your GP or immunisation clinic.
Unwell Students: Parents, I strongly advise you to please keep your child at home if they are unwell with flu-like symptoms.
Medication: Parents and students are reminded that the nurse is NOT allowed to give paracetamol or other medication to students. Parents and students are encouraged to bring a dose of paracetamol to school if needed, for conditions such as headache, period pain, toothache, etc.
Medical Conditions
If your child has a medical condition or develops a medical condition (e.g., asthma, anaphylaxis, diabetes, or epilepsy), please contact the administration officers for an Action Plan if you have not already done so. This is so we can manage your child’s medical condition appropriately while they are at school.
Anaphylaxis: Parents/Guardians, if your child has anaphylaxis, please ensure that their Anaphylaxis Action Plan is updated every 12-18 months, as this is the Department of Education policy.
Please provide the school with your child’s ASCIA Action Plan for Anaphylaxis, completed and signed by your child’s doctor. Update the plan (including a photo of your child) when the adrenaline autoinjectors are renewed (usually every 12-18 months).
Action Plans are available from www.allergy.org.au. Help the school to develop an Individual Health Care and Risk Minimisation Plan for your child.
Student Services/Health Centre Visits
Students Feeling Unwell: Students who are feeling unwell at school should go to Student Services and see the Attendance Officer first. The Attendance Officer will then either send the student to me for assessment or contact the parent and send the sick student home.
Reminder to Students and Parents: The Student Services and Health Centre can only be accessed by students during their own free time (e.g., before school, recess, lunch breaks, and after school) for non-urgent matters. Only emergencies will be seen during class time (e.g., severe pain, bleeding, anaphylaxis, asthma, and breathing problems). Students can make an appointment to see the nurse if needed.
Head Lice: Parents are reminded to please check your child’s hair regularly for head lice, as these little critters can appear from time to time—even in high school!
Tips for Preventing Head Lice:
- Check your child’s hair regularly for head lice and eggs (nits).
- Use a metal fine-tooth ‘nit’ comb and plenty of hair conditioner applied to dry hair to make the task easier and more effective.
- Tie long hair back. Braid long hair and/or put it up if possible.
- Consider applying hair gel or mousse. These do not prevent or repel lice but may help keep stray hair strands from contacting other heads.
- Avoid sharing combs or brushes.
- Remind your child to avoid head-to-head contact with other children (e.g., when working at the computer with others, or when playing or hugging).
For more information visit HealthyWA
Deodorant Sprays: Reminder to parents and students that deodorant sprays are NOT allowed to be brought into school and used. If deodorant is needed at school, please bring in roll-on or pump-pack. Acute asthma attacks can be triggered by deodorant sprays. If students are caught with a deodorant spray, it will be confiscated, and the student will be referred to attend the Health Centre for asthma education.
Parents, please support me in addressing this ongoing issue.
Mrs D. Kitak, School Nurse
This Month on SchoolTV - Cybersafety
Young people today are growing up in an increasingly connected world where technology is part of their everyday lives –– for learning, socialising, and entertainment. While the digital world offers enormous benefits, it also comes with serious risks. From cyberbullying and online predators to inappropriate content and screen time concerns, navigating the online environment can be challenging for young people and their families.
Cybersafety is not just about blocking access –– it's about empowering young people with the knowledge and skills they need to use technology responsibly and safely. This includes understanding privacy settings, recognising scams, and developing healthy digital habits. At the same time, it's important for parents and caregivers to stay informed, have open and judgement-free conversations with their children, and lead by example through positive online behaviour.
In today's digital age, safeguarding a child's wellbeing must also include protecting their online life. This edition of SchoolTV will help you better understand the digital landscape your child is navigating and offer practical strategies to help them stay safe, confident and in control online.
Access the SchoolTV - Cybersafety article by clicking here.
Kadampa Meditation Centre Workshop for Teenagers (ages 11-16)
Throughout 2025 Kadampa Meditation Centre is running four 2.5 hour workshops with guided meditation and practical tools to help teenagers navigate challenges, increase their mental peace, build self-confidence, develop inner strength and create stronger and more meaningful connections.
Information on classes for adults can also be found via the KMC Perth website and information on future teen workshop topics is provided below for information.
Future Teen Workshop Topics
Sunday 4th May: How to Relax and Recharge
Sunday 17th August: How to Be a Good Friend
Sunday 19th October: How to Make a Positive Contribution to the World
Acknowledgement of Country
We respectfully acknowledge the past and present traditional custodians of this land on which Leeming Senior High School stands, the Whadjak/Noongar people.
It is a privilege to be standing on Noongar country. We acknowledge the contributions of Aboriginal Australians to the education of all children and people in this country we all live in and share together – Australia.
Disclaimer
Leeming Senior High School does not endorse any of the products or services on our community board.