WOW WHAT'S ON AT WHITEBRIDGE

Our planning is currently well underway for 2025 with students having already participated in subject selection information sessions and the school’s timetable for the new year under construction.

Discussions are currently underway to support the final adjustments to student courses and it is anticipated that students will be notified of their allocated electives on or around week 9.

Our students and staff have been throwing themselves into extra curricula opportunities with energy and enthusiasm and you could certainly be forgiven for wondering how we manage to pack so much into each week.

We have recently seen our SRC participate in their leadership development and planning day under the guidance of Ms. Munro and Ms. Mason. We look forward to regular updates from our SRC about the targeted initiatives and events they are working on in the interests of students, through their contribution to future newsletters. One special event that the SRC is coordinating is a charity hamper drive to support our local community. This will incorporate an out of uniform and activity day with a Christmas theme later this term.

Our students had a great day participating in a cultural excursion on Awabakal country learning about Aboriginal Culture, Histories, People and Country with the very engaging and knowledgeable Kenton from Bahtahbah Land Council. Our students are collaborating through our junior AECG to establish new opportunities for us to strengthen our schools learning and connection to Aboriginal Culture.

Last weekend, I was fortunate to be able to attend the launch of the Minimbah AECG book project where a series of books have been written by Aunty Laurel Williams adapted from local dreaming stories that showcase the local schools’ connection to Awabakal country. The books were illustrated by students and family members from Minimbah and If you look closely, you will even see some of our very own staff and students works featured. Congratulations to everyone involved. A copy of the books is now available for our students to enjoy in the school library.

Well done also to our CAPA team for their wonderful performance evening at Flamingos, our netballers for their strong performance in the recent GALA day, and our Year 10 students and staff for their resilience and persistence as they tackled the great North Walk across the three days of their camp.

Special mention to our staff and student facilitators for hosting two amazing days of High Potential Gifted Education workshops for stage 2 & 3 students across our partner primary schools. Over 120 students were involved across the Wiyellai Koa schools with a focus on a broad range of targeted extension programs. We look forward to welcoming these students to our school as they transition to high school in the next few years.

Our Year 12 students and Year 11 accelerated VET students have now completed their HSC examinations for 2024. We are extraordinarily proud of the wonderful work ethic of our students throughout this exam period. Students have continued to work hard in study groups and alongside their teachers in tutorial sessions submitting draft responses for feedback to ensure they achieve they personal best. We look forward to celebrating the efforts of Year 12 across the next 2 weeks as they finalise their official sign out from school before enjoying a wrap up BBQ breakfast with staff on the 19th of December. For our Year 11 accelerated VET students, they have harnessed the experience of sitting their HSC examination and are now focused on their first Term of HSC study as they commence their final year of secondary schooling and their journey towards their personalised pathway and HSC 2025.

Our school recently hosted the Zone 3 round of the World Skills Competition for secondary students. This was an exceptional day where our students were able to compete against students from schools across the Hunter in showcasing their skills and expertise in each of the VET frameworks. Students competed in Metals and Engineering, Retail, Business Services, Information and Digital Technology, Construction, Live Entertainment Industry and both Commercial cookery and Hospitality.

We hosted over 120 students, staff, judges, and members of the organising committee along with a contingent of 24 special guests invited to enjoy a lovely lunch prepared and served by the students in the Kitchen Operations Commercial Cookery and Hospitality Food and Beverage courses respectively. Our students performed exceptionally well and whilst we are still awaiting official results from the day, we are hopeful that some of our students may have been successful in progressing through to the National Round in Brisbane early in 2025. World Skills is a biannual event, and we look forward to showcasing our talents again in 2026. Congratulations to all students and staff involved.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our staff for their professionalism and expertise as they engage our learners through quality explicit teaching, a wide range of extra curricula experiences and continue to support students through their care, kindness, and commitment to high expectations. We are a very lucky school community with a dedicated staff team that continues to guide students to achieve success in their learning, cultural and extra curricula goals.

As we race through the next 4 weeks towards the end of Term, we have a number of important events on our calendar, and we would love to see parents and carers join us to celebrate a great year at WHS and the wonderful achievements of our students and staff.

The P and C meeting postponed from earlier in the Term will be held on the 3rd December in the admin building D5.

Celebration Year Assemblies and presentation of awards will be held on Friday December 13.

Semester 2 zero / 90 rewards day will be held on Tuesday December 17

The HPGE activity day will be held on Monday 16th December.

Our annual Presentation Day award ceremony celebrating Year 7-11 and special HSC achievement awards for Year 12 students will be held from 10-11.30am on 18th December and Student academic reports will be available to parents via the Sentral Portal on the 18th of December.

Kind Regards,

Ms. N Harvey

Principal

Deputy Principal's Report

Term 4 is already well underway, with just six weeks left in the academic year. The Higher School Certificate (HSC) exams have wrapped up today (Friday 8 November), marking a major milestone for Year 12 students. The HSC exams represent the culmination of years of hard work and dedication. Students have demonstrated resilience in managing their studies and facing the challenges of secondary education. Their efforts will soon be reflected in their results and the opportunities that follow. These events provide a chance to reflect on their achievements and celebrate the transition from school to the next phase of life, whether further study or entering the workforce. With the HSC exams behind them, students are now looking forward to the future, ready to embrace new opportunities with confidence and optimism.

The Class of 2024 have become our newest alumni and we wish them all the very best in their future endeavours. We look forward to hearing the results for their HSC which will be released on the 18th December 2024 and we will celebrate with a BBQ breakfast on Thursday 19th December 2024.

Year 11 2024 /Year 12 2025 students have officially begun their HSC courses, and their Scope and Sequences, along with Assessment Schedules, have been provided to help them plan for the next 12 months. Congratulations to all Year 11 students who have completed their first HSC exam for their early commencement VET subject. We look forward to seeing the results on the 18th December. Study passes are being completed for students to be able to access the Study Hub in the times where their VET subject was timetabled.

As part of our comprehensive transition program our Year 7 Deputy Mrs Smailes, Head Teacher Wellbeing, Ms Turner, LaST Mrs Budden and the Year 7 Advisor for 2025, Mr Wicks have been visiting all our partner primary schools. During these visits, staff have been taking the opportunity to introduce themselves to the students, giving them a sense of familiarity with some of the key staff members they will interact with next year. They are also engaging in conversations with the

students, providing them with valuable information about what to expect in high school, the support systems available, and the exciting opportunities that await them. Now the team are busy creating classes and opportunities to experience high school life through the SWAN program and Orientation Day on Tuesday 3rd December. Ms Turner trained a very enthusiastic bunch of Year 9 students to be questioned about our wonderful high school in preparation for next year.

My Strengths

Whitebridge High School is lucky enough to be engaged in a holistic wellbeing program called My Strengths. After working with hundreds of teenagers, Dan Hardie the founder of MyStrengths saw too many young people who could only describe themselves by negative labels: dumb, nerdy, bossy, too loud, too quiet.

Dan discovered that genuine and lasting change only occurred when positive self-esteem and confidence was built. That is why he created MyStrengths to help adolescents know themselves, like themselves and celebrate their uniqueness. MyStrengths moves students from self-doubt to self-assurance. In these sessions students have discovered their top 5 strengths, understanding how these form identity, esteem and future choices, growing in acceptance of peers and take home beautiful “keeper” strength cards and parent packs with their top 5 strengths.

Each year group has been through the program and all staff have discovered their strengths as well as a parent session which was hosted focusing on screen, social media and parenting in 2024.

As part of our partnership with MyStrengths, all families have access to the Parent Support Package which includes full and open access to our MyStrengths Parenting Membership. This will help parents with tools and strategies right when they need it - get help with:

o Anxious thoughts

o Creating family rules

o Strategies for conflict and fighting

o Building resilience in a teen

The package includes access to the MyStrengths series of online courses, free to Whitebridge High School parents and regular newsletter articles, all aimed at supporting our whole school community.

Access to online courses

If you have any issues our concerns for your child please contact your child’s Deputy Principal

Melita Morrow – Year 7 and 10

Rod Carter - Year 8 and 11

Louise Smailes - Year 9 and 12

MY STRENGTHS PROGRAM

Parents, welcome to the eternal standoff. You're on one side, encouraging your teen to buckle down and plan for a bright future. They're on the other side, looking at you like you've just asked them to move mountains. But deep down, we all know: life demands a payment. And we either pay now, or pay later.

Take these classic pearls of wisdom we toss their way:

· “Study hard now, and you’ll have more opportunities later.”

· “Save your money, and you’ll be able to buy something better down the line.”

· “Exercise today, and you'll be in better shape tomorrow.”

But here’s the real kicker: to get those big, life-changing rewards, it takes discipline. And yeah, a little bit of pain.

The Reality Check Conversation

Take Oliver, for instance, a teen who said he just wants to live his life, hang with his friends, and study “when he feels like it.” I asked him, “Oliver, do you think that chilling at the mall and hitting the books whenever is going to set you up for the Uni degree and job you’re dreaming of?”

Oliver’s answer might surprise you: silence. Because in that moment, he got it. There’s a battle between what feels good now and what he wants later. And he’s not alone.

The Wisdom of “Pay Now, Play Later”

Author John Maxwell puts it this way: “There are two paths people can take. They can either play now and pay later, or pay now and play later. Regardless of the choice, one thing is certain. Life will demand a payment.”

Some people move into adulthood and do the hard stuff first. They study, they save, they budget, they bought a house, lived tight. And now, they’re living a bit easier, able to have more freedom in their 30s. Others took the “play now” approach, with amazing memories from Ibiza to Santorini. But now? They’re juggling kids, rising rents, and career catch-up.

Neither approach is right or wrong but the principle of delayed gratification - it’s a game-changer for teens.

For Parents: Tips to Get Your Teen on Board

So how can you guide them to see the value in “pay now, play later”? Here are some practical ideas:

1. Model It: Show them how you put this principle to work. Talk openly about times you've delayed gratification to reap later rewards.

2. Set Small Wins: Start with small things, like saving a little each week or setting short study goals. They’ll see results faster, making the process feel more rewarding.

3. Link Rewards: Connect today’s efforts to future wins they care about. Whether it's getting into their dream program, a first car, or simply feeling more capable.

4. Challenge Their Goals: Ask them what they truly want later, and break it down with them into steps they can take now to make it happen.

5. Take your FREE course together: Our “No Regrets” course is full of strategies to help them make better choices in study, exercise, screens, relationships and even finances. And it’s free for you as part of your school’s support package. Log in by clicking on this button:

At the end of the day, it’s about helping them see that a little effort now means a whole lot more play (and less stress!) down the line. So, parents, let's teach them to pay today—so they can truly play tomorrow.

UNIFORM

School Uniform

Thank you to all our students, parents and the community for supporting your child in being in the correct school uniform each day. Uniforms are more than just a dress code. It is an essential part of our identity and culture, contributing significantly to our educational environment. The wearing of school uniform fosters a sense of belonging among students. When everyone dresses alike, it diminishes the boundaries of socioeconomic status, allowing students to focus on their shared experiences and collective goals. This not only enhances school spirit but also promotes inclusivity and acceptance, helping to build strong, supportive relationships among peers.

Uniforms are a visible representation of our school’s commitment to high standards and expectations. When students wear their uniform, they are reminded of their role as representatives of our school community. This sense of responsibility encourages them to take pride in their appearance, which in turn, reflects their attitude towards learning and respect for themselves and others. High expectations in dress lead to high expectations in behaviour and academic performance.

A uniform dress code helps to minimise distractions in the classroom. When students wear uniforms, there is less competition regarding fashion and personal style, allowing them to concentrate on their studies and engage more fully in the learning process. This focus contributes to a more productive and positive learning environment where academic excellence can thrive.

Wearing a school uniform instils a sense of discipline and professionalism in our students. It prepares them for future environments where dress codes may be enforced, such as workplaces or other educational institutions. School must abide by Work Health & Safety rules (particularly leather footwear). By wearing uniform, students learn the importance of adhering to guidelines and respecting institutional values, skills that are invaluable as they progress in their academic and professional journeys.

School uniforms plays a pivotal role in cultivating a positive learning culture. It encourages students to take pride in their school and reinforces our collective commitment to excellence. By wearing our school uniform each day, we send a clear message that we value education, respect our community, and strive for success.

In 2025, we will be expecting all students to be in full school uniform. This means the following;

• - The everyday uniform is to be worn on all days except Thursday. Sports uniform is only to be worn to school on sport days
• Only approved school green jumpers (No hoodies or branded jumpers)
• Long pants must be grey and straight leg style (no trackpants, tights or jeans)
• Sport shorts must be the school WHS black shorts for boys/girls (no bike pants, gym style short shorts or branding/stripes)
• Shoes must be fully Black leather. (no white logos)
• In 2025, the school will be introducing Grey WHS girls shorts similar to the current girls sport shorts to wear as an alternative to the skirts.

We encourage all students and parents to embrace our school uniform policy wholeheartedly. Let’s work together to promote a sense of pride, responsibility, and community spirit that will enhance our school’s environment and support our students’ academic journey.

ATTENDANCE

YEAR 7

Congratulations on nearly reaching the end of your first year of high school! You should be incredibly proud of yourselves. From forming new friendships, to becoming Whitebridge warriors at camp, to figuring out how to follow a timetable, to participating in extracurricular activities, to knowing what is best to order at the canteen, I have been very impressed with all of Year 7's resilience and positivity.

This term, Year 7 students all completed the MyStrengths training where they got to recognise their five top strengths and be celebrated for their unique talents. It was great to see students not only be proud of their strengths but acknowledge where they see their friend's strengths shine. Knowing these strong points will come in handy when moving into Year 8 and stepping into electives that allow them to showcase them.

With assessments and reports just around the corner I encourage all students to reach out to their teachers, year advisor, the learning and support team or their deputy if they need any extra assistance.

I have absolutely loved getting to be Year 7 Advisor this year and look forward to next year together.

As always if you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out. I wish everyone a wonderful remainder of the year and a happy and safe holidays which are approaching very quickly!

Ashley Fry - Year 7 Advisor

YEAR 8

Greetings parents/guardians of Year 8 students. I trust you all had a relaxing break over the October holidays. It has been a particularly busy time of year over the past few weeks leading up to assessment tasks and final tests/exams for a number of subjects. Good luck to everyone in this area. In Week 7 of this term we will be conducting Year 8 camp based at Clarencetown. Traditionally this camp has been known as ‘Bike Camp’ for Outdoor Rec students, but in recent years it has been opened up to the entire Year 8 cohort to provide an opportunity for all students to create stronger ties and relationships with their year group. I hope to see many of you at the camp for an enjoyable few days.

Andy Holahan - Year 8 Advisor

YEAR 9

Year 9 have settled in nicely this term. We have come back rejuvenated and ready to conquer the remainder of the year. As we progress through this term, we have plenty of things to look forward to such as Year 9 camp, peer support, the swimming carnival and of course the successful completion of Year 9.

A huge thank you to the 40 students who have offered to be peer support leaders for the new Year 7 students in 2025. It is admirable and certainly appreciated, and I know all of you will be great role models and assets to the future incoming students here at Whitebridge High School. Mrs Smailes and I had the privilege of reading over the EOI applications, and it was truly heartwarming reading some of the comments and reasons as to why they would like to become a peer support leader. It certainly is a proud year advisor moment watching my year group thrive and support other students.

Stay tuned for our upcoming busy weeks. I will have plenty of photos to showcase at the end of term but here is a trip down memory lane showing how fast my little Year 7’s from 2022 have grown up.

Bronte Osland - Year 9 Advisor

YEAR 10

Year 10 students have returned this term excited to start their final weeks of their junior school years. This term marks a significant transition, as they prepare to take on new challenges and experiences that will shape their journey into senior school.

At the start of this term students began learning their Year 12 content for their early commencement VET subject. Reports from teachers are positive and they are impressed with the maturity students are showing towards their learning.

In addition to their studies, our Year 10 students are already gearing up for their senior school experience with the recent order of their senior jackets. These jackets symbolise their pride and connection to our school community, and we can’t wait to see them proudly wearing them when the school year begins in 2025.

To top it all off, students are packing their bags in preparation for the upcoming bushwalking camp. The camp is from Monday 11 - Wednesday 13 November at the Crosslands Sport and Recreation Centre. This adventure will be a fantastic opportunity for them to bond, develop teamwork skills, and connect with nature.

Ms Turner and Mrs Morrow are so proud of the way Year 10 are conducting themselves this term. Let’s celebrate their achievements and the exciting journey that lies ahead. Here’s to a fantastic final term of junior school!

Courtney Turner - Year 10 Advisor

YEAR 11

A huge congratulations to our wonderful Year 11 students on the completion of their preliminary exams and transition into Year 12 this term. I am extremely proud of our students for taking an enthusiastic and mature approach to their studies as they commence their very last year of schooling. Our VET Early Commencement students are to be commended on recently finalising their qualifications and completing their first HSC exams - a huge achievement after an enormous amount of study and preparation. In Week 4, Year 11 participated in My Strengths workshops, growing confidence in their individual skills and personal traits. Students will have the opportunity to continue to collaborate and communicate with their peers and teachers during our Wellbeing Day in Week 6 at Newcastle Baths. It has been exciting to see our new senior leaders in action this term (Braith Pavlou, Brina Chong Nee, Jesse Hill, Neve Scully, Eddy Moncrieff and Cadell Pheils) supporting their peers and leading whole school assemblies with pride. It is looking to be an eventful remainder of the year, as our year group apply themselves to the HSC course work while enjoying many events and extra-curricular activities.

Georgia Lindsay - Year 11 Advisor

YEAR 12

A huge congratulations to Year 12 on their remarkable effort throughout the HSC exam period. Your hard work, dedication, and resilience have truly shone through during this challenging time. You’ve reached an important milestone, and we couldn’t be prouder of everything you’ve achieved. As you look toward new adventures and opportunities, know that the skills and perseverance you’ve shown will serve you well. Congratulations once again, Year 12, and best of luck in the exciting journey ahead!

Emma Beecham - Year 12 Advisor

PDHPE

SChool camps

Camp preparations are well underway for this busy term.

Year 10 leave for the Great North Walk on Monday of Week 5. They will carry all their food and sleeping gear in a backpack and then walk. On Day 2 they will have some adventures in abseiling.

Year 9 will camp at Hawks Nest during Week 9 and have the opportunity to canoe and fish with their mates. They will head out at the start of Week 9.

Year 8 will camp at Clarence Town and have the opportunity to ride their mountain bikes. They will head out at the start of Week 7.

Information for all these camps has gone out to parents. If your child has not replied and wishes to attend, please contact the school.

Luke Harradine - HT PDHPE

CAPA

Visual Arts - YEAR 8 SPOTLIGHT

Year 8 Visual Arts having been developing their skills in illustration and design. Students have continued an exploration of the representation of animals in art while channelling the work of contemporary artists ROA and Mulga. ROA is a Belgian Street Artist known for his depiction of animals through textural anatomical imagery. Students have used mixed media to create their own distinctive animal portraits. Mulga is an Aboriginal Australian Artist who uses bold colour and line to create exciting and often humorous depictions of animals. Year 8 have experimented with Mulga’s vivid technique using paints and markers, developing their own diverse gorilla designs.

Georgia Lindsay - Teacher, CAPA

ENGLISH

Spotlight on Year 7!

Year 7 students have worked consistently this year to meet our high expectations in English, especially in how they engage with assessment tasks. All students have been completing their final assessment task for the module Telling Stories and as a part of their task, they can choose to create posters that promote the power of storytelling.

PUBLIC SPEAKING CHAMPION

Year 7 student, Poppy Beveridge, has proven to be a skilled public speaker, with a talent for comedic anecdotes. As regional finalist in the 2024 Junior Secondary Speaking Competition, Poppy was one of the youngest entrants who impressed the judges and other contestants with the structure and content of her speeches. We are all looking forward to your next speech in 2025!

Year 7/8 Premier's Debating Competition

In the Premier’s Debating Challenge 2024, Whitebridge High School had a total of 6 wins out of 7 debates and we progressed through Round 1 and the knockouts but we were unfortunately beaten in our semi-final debate. Some of our topics included: ‘We should phase out the domestication of cats as pets’, ‘All students at the top of their class should help a struggling classmate once a week’ and ‘Paper should be banned in all schools’.

Round 1 consisted of three debates. The first two we won as the negative team while we won our third debate by forfeit, as the other team pulled out at the last minute. Our knockout debates all went well with us as the negative team winning each one. However, in our semi-final we were the affirmative team and although our team spoke very well, our opposing team had us beat.

The team this year consisted of Christopher Lalevski, Amelia Bowron, Sienna Hardy, Sienna Egan, Hayley Matchett, Samuel Dubojski and Nicholas Bassett.

Year 9/10 Premier's Debating Competition

During Semester 2, our Year 9 Debating Team entered into three debates against other schools in the Hunter Region. During these debates, our team was allocated categories such as sport, technology and politics.

Our team was defeated by Merewether High School during the political round where the topic was: That journalists should never face professional repercussions for social media comments, where we drew the affirmative. However, our team was highly commended in all their debates by the adjudicators for their confident public speaking skills, critical thinking and teamwork.

These students should be particularly proud of their efforts provided that for many, this was their first time debating at this level. Congratulations Lacy Barnes, Asha Forder, Isobel Kellock, Eliza Brown, Emma Cook and Bella Moran!

YEAR 11

Year 11 English Studies, Advanced and Standard English classes have commenced their HSC year and will be receiving their first assessment task for their respective course in the next week. While the HSC exams might seem like a consideration for next year, the most successful students use their first term of the HSC course to establish personal learning goals, communicate with their class teacher about how to attain them and implement effective study habits to reach their goals.

YEAR 12

With 2024 Year 12 just about to conclude their HSC examinations, the English faculty would like to congratulate you all on your success over the years and we can’t wait to hear about where your next set of adventures take you…!

Lisa Murrell - HT English

HSIE

A big congratulations to Year 12 students with all HSC examinations being completed by Friday, Week 4 and Senior Geography and Society and Culture being two of our faculty’s final exams. We pass on our best wishes to all senior students as they celebrate completing high school and transitioning into new opportunities.

We also appreciate some of our new Year 12 2025 students participating in the University of Newcastle’s Youth Forum held on the 6th November. This is an empowering opportunity to meet with other students from around the Hunter region to discuss legal and social justice rights for young people.

Younger students have been busy learning about the connections between their current studies and the world around us. Year 7 are currently completing a liveability analysis of their own suburb while Year 8 have realised the links between the medieval Black Death plague and the recent Covid epidemic. Meanwhile Year 9 have been investigating urbanisation and the movement of people around the world. Year 10 are realising that although Australia has made many improvements to people’s rights in recent decades, there are still rights and freedoms that haven’t been gained by all Australians.

Organisation is currently underway for commerce students to plan a mini-market day while Japanese students are continuing to develop their language skills and cultural understanding. We are also hopeful that next year we may have students visiting the school from both Japan and South Korea. Watch this space for further updates!

Sue Nunn - HT HSIE/Languages

TAS

advanced manufacturing awareness program

In Week 3 students from Whitebridge High School had the opportunity to participate in an Advanced Manufacturing Program that utilises skills from Engineering, Manufacturing, Electronics and Coding as students collaboratively work together to complete various tasks in Robotics and Mechatronics.

The objective of the Advanced Manufacturing Awareness Program is to introduce secondary school students and school leavers to the advanced manufacturing industry and give them perspective and understanding of what areas are involved in the field. These include:

• Mechanical: The design and analysis of mechanical systems, such as sensors, actuators, and mechanical structures. This can include anything from robotic arms and automated machinery to consumer products.
• Electronics: Electronic components and circuits are used to control and monitor the mechanical aspects of a system. Sensors collect data from the environment, and microcontrollers or microprocessors process this data to make decisions and control actuators. This might involve things like circuit design, PCBs (Printed Circuit Boards), and electronic components.
• Control Systems: Project systems often rely on control theory to regulate the behavior of mechanical components. This can involve feedback loops and control algorithms to ensure precise and desired system performance.
• Software and Programming: Project involves software development to control and coordinate the various components.
• Sensors and Actuators: Sensors gather information about the system's environment, and actuators take action based on this information. Sensors can include things like cameras, accelerometers, temperature sensors and more. Actuators might be motors, solenoids, or other mechanisms that move, manipulate, or change the state of the system
• Integration: Project holistic approach, bringing together experts from various disciplines to work collaboratively.
• Innovation and Automation: Automation and improving the efficiency and performance of systems.

Thank you to Robin Jaggessar from the Institute of Technology for his valuable time and for providing the resources to run this course. We hope to offer the course next year with the possibility of coding larger humanoid robots which will be exciting to see!

Mark Bayada - Teacher, TAS

SCIENCE

We are well underway with all Year 7-10 classes commencing their final in class assessments for 2024. Students have been allocated time in class to work on the following items:

• Year 7 – Data Analysis skills based on the Rocks module
• Year 8 - What Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples teach us about Country and Place
• Year 9 – Case study on a natural disaster
• Year 10 – Science Processes and Skills – styled on VALID 10 problems

Students are supported and guided through the completion of these tasks to ensure their best work is achieved. Look out for your young people's work being uploaded to their Google site student portfolios.

As we progress towards the end of the school year, each year cohort is reaching their last modules of study.

• Year 7 – Plants
• Year 8 - Resources
• Year 9 – Disasters
• Year 10 – Universe

It has been great moving around the various science laboratories and seeing students engaged and producing some creative models and representations of the new knowledge learnt from these modules. Here are some examples of their work:

Best of luck for the rest of the term!

Steve Edwards - HT Science

maths

Our Mathematics classes have had a busy start to Term 4.

Year 7 have been busy solving equations, Year 8 have been improving their ratio, rates and scale drawing skills, Year 9 have been refining their probability and statistics skills, Year 10 have been improving their ratio, rates and statistics skills and Year 11 have now commenced the Year 12 component of the HSC.

Congratulations to Year 12 on completing their HSC. We are extremely proud of you!

We welcome Miss Key to the Mathematics staff for Term 4. Miss Key is replacing Mr Fildes who is on leave and we thank Miss Svensk who replaced Mr Campbell for five weeks.

Sue Beacher - Relieving HT Maths

HPGE

This term has been busy for our HPGE (high potential and gifted education) students at WHS. Our Aspire groups have been working diligently on their Olympic inspired projects which range from stadium constructions to designing training plans for elite athletes. These students have been working enthusiastically towards creating mini projects and presentations on a range of topics including female health, public speaking, mathematics enrichment, as well as gaining skills on creating accurate scientific models for a major work based around conservation. It has been amazing to see the work of so many talented and hardworking students this term at WHS.

Externally, our HPGE students have been very active in taking up opportunities to extend and enhance their worldly skills and knowledge.

Our Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students attended the Wollotuka Institute at Newcastle University where they attended workshops from industry experts in health, engineering, science, media, and humanities.

Csaba Felkai - HPGE Co-ordinator

TEACHING AND LEARNING

Support for Upcoming Assessment Tasks

As we move into a busy period of the school year, we recognise that upcoming assessments can feel overwhelming for some students. Our Learning and Support Team is here to help! Whether it’s extra guidance on study techniques, organisation, or even a confidence boost, the team is dedicated to ensuring that each student has the support they need. We encourage students who would like assistance to reach out – no question is too small, and we’re here to help make sure everyone is ready to perform at their best. Students can visit Mrs Budden or Miss Dodd in the LaST office, or email through a request to book a time to meet.

Celebrating Our QuickSmart Program Graduates

A huge congratulations to the students who have successfully completed the QuickSmart program! The results have been remarkable, and this achievement is a testament to each student’s commitment to improving their skills. Through hard work and determination in each session, they have shown what dedication can achieve. We also extend our heartfelt thanks to Deb Levin and Caroline Smith who have supported, motivated, and encouraged our students along this journey. Well done to all involved!

Focus on Literacy and Numeracy – Family Support at Home

As a school, we are committed to improving literacy and numeracy skills for all students. Families play a crucial role in this development, and we welcome your support. Here are a few simple ways to help reinforce these skills at home:

• Encourage reading and discussion: Set aside time for reading each day, whether it’s a novel, a magazine, or even recipes. Discussing what they read with you helps students understand and engage with texts on a deeper level.
• Everyday maths practice: Involve your child in practical math tasks, like measuring ingredients while cooking or calculating the cost of items while shopping. These real-world applications help students see the relevance and build confidence in their skills.
• Positive reinforcement: Celebrate successes, no matter how small, and encourage perseverance through challenges. A positive attitude toward learning goes a long way!

Angela Bettison - Relieving HT Teaching and Learning

careers

This term another Construction White Card Course has run with 14 students attending in order to start their journey in the construction industry.

All Year 9 students are completing their Go2Workplacement certificate in preparation for their VET HSC course in 2025. They will also have obtained a USI number for the VET course and this needs to be supplied to the Careers Advisor.

Year 10 students will be receiving their TVET course offerings soon and will need to decide if they wish to pursue this TAFE VET course as part of their HSC subjects.

There are a number of school based traineeships (SBT) available for Year 10 to work one day and study at TAFE one day per week as an HSC pathway also.

Year 11 students are finalising their VET course this term and will be able to access their USI login portal and download a copy of their competencies. The school and TAFE VET course certificates will also be available on NESA schools online portal.

This year, ten students in Year 12 have successfully completed their SBT combining their HSC with a certificate 3 this year in the following VET courses:

• Nursing
• Early Childhood Education
• Real Estate
• Business Services

Matthew Bendall - Careers Advisor

CTP

careers transition program

The students in the Careers Transition Program are coming to the end of the year with some exciting opportunities ahead. Of the cohort of students that began the program in 2024, eight individuals have or are in the final stages of securing apprenticeships in 2025.

There is a lot of excitement as the students work through the final requirements for the Year 10 ROSA and prepare themselves for life after school at Whitebridge High.

Chris Dale - CTP Coordinator

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LIBRARY

LAPTOPS

Students who borrow school laptops will need to return them Monday 2nd December (Week 8 of term) as they will need to be reimaged and prepared for 2025 use. Bond paid for the use of these devices will be refunded as long as everything is returned in the same condition as when it was lent out. Teachers are aware of this so students will not be disadvantaged in class.

Displays

There's been a lot to celebrate in the library!

• The Year 12 of 2024. We are so proud of you all!

• The displays of student's work......

• Showcasing our more frightening stories for Halloween!

• Students and staff are thinking deeply about our strengths

Patron-Driven Acquisition

Thank you to all those staff and students who have made use of our library resource suggestion box. We have placed several orders for books based on these suggestions. It's YOUR library! Help us fill it with books you would like to read! Suggestions made now, will be considered for our first order of books in 2025!

NEW BOOKS

We have had several new books arrive at the library. Lots of these have been student suggestions. They are covered and ready to go!

There are HEAPS of new books (please come down to the library to check them out) but here are some in the spotlight...

KEEPER OF THE LOST SERIES

Author: Shannon Messenger

Description: 12-year-old Sophie Foster has always known she's different. She has a secret power: reading other people's minds. She thinks she's alone, until she meets another Telepath, who transports her to a whole new world where magic is everywhere and mythical creatures like alicorns exist. Her new home is full of surprises, but it's also full of secrets and challenges, and as Sophie's powers become stronger and she makes new friends, she also faces greater dangers and risks.

• Book 1: Keeper of the Lost Cities (2012)
• Book 2: Exile (2013)
• Book 3: Everblaze (2014)
• Book 4: Neverseen (2015)
• Book 5: Lodestar (2016)
• Book 6: Nightfall (2017)
• Book 7: Flashback (2018)
• Book 8: Legacy (2019)
• Book 8.5: Unlocked (2020)
• Book 9: Stellartune (2022)

SPY X FAMILY

Author: Tatsuya Endo

Description: Spy × Family is a Japanese manga series written and illustrated by Tatsuya Endo. The story follows a spy who has to "build a family" to execute a mission, not realizing that his adopted daughter is a telepath, and the woman he agrees to marry is a skilled assassin.

DEAR SON

Author: Thomas Mayo

Description: Dear Son shares heartfelt letters written by First Nations men about life, masculinity, love, culture and racism. Along with his own vivid and poignant prose and poetry, author and editor Thomas Mayo invites 12 contributors to write a letter to their son or father, bringing together a range of perspectives that offers the greatest celebration of First Nations manhood.

This beautifully designed anthology comes at a time when First Nations peoples are starting to break free of derogatory stereotypes and find solace in their communities and cultures. Yet, each contributor also has one thing in common: they all have a relative who has been terribly wronged – enslaved, raped and dispossessed – because of their Aboriginality.

Featuring letters from Stan Grant, Troy Cassar-Daley, John Liddle, Charlie King, Joe Williams, Yessie Mosby, Joel Bayliss, Daniel James, Jack Latimore, Daniel Morrison, Tim Sculthorpe and Blak Douglas.

CALLAGHAN: THE UNIVERSITY OF NEWCASTLE - WHOSE TRADITIONAL LAND?

Author: John Maynard

Description: "The concept of understanding Aboriginal land tenure and boundaries has plagued European occupation of the Australian continent from the initial instant of contact to the present. However, it is little appreciated that early European observation and recordings has left an indelible imprint. In traditional Aboriginal society there was no concept of conquest or that land could be bought or sold. People were and remained spiritually attached to their own sacred country. There was no need or desire to attain someone else's country within which there was not spiritual association."

A FOOTY TAIL

Author: Alex Johnston Illustrator: Gregg Dreise

Description: Inspired by the South Sydney Rabbitohs, written by NRL star Alex Johnston and illustrated by celebrated First Nations artist Gregg Dreise, this rhyming picture book about an underdog team of bunnies who are up against the stronger teams of animals is a wonderful story of unity, togetherness, resilience and teamwork.

Join AJ and his teammates, Cody and Latrell, and the Bunnies on their triumphant footy journey from being the competition underdogs to unlikely winners, with a little help from some friends - especially a wise and confident Crow!

AVATAR - THE LAST AIRBENDER

Script: Gene Luen Yang

Art and Cover: Gurihiru Lettering & Michael Heisler

Description: This anthology from the world of Avatar: The Last Airbender features all your favourite characters, brought to life by a cast of all-star creators! Journey along with Team Avatar as they rescue a pumpkin farmer waylaid by monsters, go undercover in the Fire Nation, help an old rival with a hair-raising problem, and reflect on what it means to save the world.

THE INHERITANCE GAME SERIES

Author: Jennifer Lynn Barnes

Description: The series focuses on a girl named Avery Kylie Grambs, and the Hawthorne family. It currently consists of four books: The Inheritance Games (2020), The Hawthorne Legacy (2021), The Final Gambit (2022), and a standalone book that follows the events of the series, The Brothers Hawthorne (2023). The series has garnered widespread acclaim for its intricate plot and engaging characters, making it a favorite among young adult readers.

In The Inheritance Games, it is revealed that Avery has been chosen to inherit the fortune of deceased billionaire Tobias Hawthorne, whom she has never met or heard of. The series follows her efforts, along with those of the Hawthorne family, to uncover the truth of her inheritance.

DEADLY D & JUSTICE JONES SERIES

Author: Scott Prince & Dave Hartley

Description: Eleven-year-old Dylan has to move from Mt Isa to Brisbane and he’s not happy. But as soon as he gets to Flatwater State School he finds a former Mount Isa Miner’s footy supporter in his principal and a ‘Broncos tragic’ as a teacher. He also makes a friend in Justice Jones and an enemy in Jared Knutz. Dylan is cursed with an abnormality transforming him into a fully-grown man whenever he gets angry. Always a worry, the ‘curse’ proves to be a blessing in the city when his alter ego attracts the interest of the Broncos during a class excursion to watch the team train. Dylan becomes ‘Deadly D’ – a star player with the fire to rival even the great Prince! But how will he continue to keep the ‘curse’ a secret?

JAMES TEDESCO SERIES

Author: James Tedesco

Illustrator: Heath McKenzie

Description: A story bursting with fun, footy, family, friends and Nonna's meatballs from NRL superstar and Dally M Medal winner, James Tedesco.

For every kid who dreams big!

Twelve-year-old Teddy is a footy star in the making. He plays rugby league at home on the farm. He plays for the Menangle Meerkats with his friends from school.

But when a storm turns his team's playing fields into a mud-pit, Teddy is faced with the worst decision of his life: if he wants to keep playing, he will need to switch teams from the Meerkats to their arch rivals - the Camden Rams.

But can a Meerkat really be a Ram?

Based on James's own footy-playing childhood, Hat-Trick Teddy encourages kids to follow their dreams regardless of the obstacles in their way.

Sarah Walker - Teacher/Librarian

MALANG ACADEMY

YAYLIN

Yaayiin have been busy harvesting their crops from the garden this term. Some of the vegetables they have been growing include potatoes, carrots, spinach, and lettuce. They recently had a vegetable sale with the staff from the Malang Academy.

Yaayiin students have also been working on creating products to sell at our end of year Christmas Market as part of our $20 Boss unit of work. Students have designed a range of products including brownies, rocky road, Aboriginal bookmarks, earrings, mint plants and tote bags.

WAALING and Waakan

Waakan and Waaling students are learning about fractions using collaborative food experiments. Students meet each week as a combined class and this term they are exploring how to divide evenly with their friends, interpret recipes using fractions and determine what products are the best value according to their needs. Students have worked with fairy bread, sausages, fruit and apples so far and it has been a delicious learning and sharing process.

Waakan

Waakan are learning how to count to ten in Japanese. They are also learning to write the numbers using kanji symbols. Waakan students are playing a new version of round the world basketball to consolidate their knowledge of the kanji symbols and the number the symbol represents. They are also practicing scribing the symbols using chalk in our playground.

Waakan students are practicing life skills by stock checking, compiling a grocery list and shopping for our class breakfast club. They are also using life skills in the classroom by preparing breakfast independently or with support.

Recently, Waakan students investigated stock prices at different supermarkets to determine the best price for ingredients to make ice cream sandwich slices. They then made the slice in class in preparation for the Malang Academy market day stall.

TUNANG

This term, Tunang class has displayed a keen interest in the Survival Focus Study. In particular, they have been looking at what it takes for humans and animals to survive in a range of different environments including jungle, desert and polar regions. In Mathematics, our students are studying probability and, in English, we have undertaken a film analysis of ‘Hunt for the Wilderpeople.’ As always, the class are continuing their dedicated work in the kitchen. So far, they have made dessert pizzas and Peri Peri chicken burgers.

malang academy camp

At the beginning of this term, the Malang Academy held their first ever campover experience at school. Students completed a bush walk to the Glenrock Lookout and had a picnic lunch before returning to school to set up their tents and get ready for dinner. Students collected firewood and cooked their dinner and dessert over the fires. They enjoyed some games of spotlight before settling in for the night with a movie under the stars.

SPORT

wheelchair sports

Students from the Malang Academy enjoyed the opportunity to experience Wheelchair Basketball, this term. They engaged in a road safety seminar before participating in a series of basketball games. Students had a great time and are already looking forward to it again next year.

NETBALL

In Week 2 our U15 Boys Netball team participated in the Hunter Region Gala Day. The boys showed exceptional enthusiasm and teamwork. Excellent shooting from Eli Johnson and Luke Goldshaft combined with smart mid court play by Brodie Lee, Blair Webster, Iziah Larsen and Kane Finch and finished off with strong defense from Zac Denham, Alby Lawrence and Taj Gageler resulting in the boys only losing one game throughout the day

water polo

It was a big week of water polo for the under 15s boys and girls.

Our girls started off with 2 wins against Callaghan College and Warners Bay before losing narrowly to Kotara in game 3.

Our boys had a narrow loss to Callaghan before drawing with Warners Bay. Both boys and girls teams played Lambton in their final game. Lambton regularly made the state finals last year and proved to be too good. It was a good experience for both teams with many playing for their first time. Thank you to Craig Boettcher, Nick Campbell, and Clint Bryant, who provided support and coaching for both teams. Special mentions to Samuel Griffiths scoring 2 goals as a first time player, our super fish Lara Morgan, who combined with her sister to score numerous goals, Ayla Collins who impressed some other teams coaches and all our first time players especially Koby Farina for throwing himself into goalkeeper first game.

A great couple of days was had by all. Look forward to doing it next year.