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- Principal's Report
- Deputy Principal - Teaching and Learning
- Deputy Principal - Culture and Development
- Business Manager
- Technology @ RVSSC
- Head of Inclusion
- English, Humanities & Languages
- Mathematics
- Science
- Creative Industries
- Health and Physical Education
- Pathways
- Sport's News
- Guidance Officer
- Defence News
- Chaplain
- Upcoming Events
- Uniform Shop
- Congratulations
- Community Notices
Dear Parent/Carers
Welcome to a new school year and what I hope will be another rewarding and exciting year for us all. Despite the delayed and disrupted start to the school year, I am looking forward to welcoming over 580 new and existing students to our college next week. For new families who are starting with us this year, welcome, and to our many existing families, welcome back! Your partnership with us in your child's education makes a massive difference and I value your support and assistance as we navigate the next few weeks of change and uncertainty.
Unfortunately, due to the latest health guidelines, we are unable to host our traditional Welcome Parade and newcomers Meet & Greet. However, we have not abandoned plans for these events and plans are already underway to host these events later this term when restrictions ease. I look forward to welcoming parents, carers and community members back at school as soon as possible so that we can celebrate these significant events together.
I also want to thank our college community for your patience and support in the lead up to the start of school. There have been a range of challenges for us all this year, from delays with uniform supplies, building construction, wet weather to staff absences and supply delays. Despite these challenges we are all looking forward to the start of the school year and getting back to business.
Our college is more than just a place where your child attends each day. We want to partner with you in educating your child and for life beyond the classroom. Learning at school involves more than just memorising content and information. We look to prepare your child for life after school, and give them the skills not only for further education or employment, but also for being productive members of society. Our college values of 'Respect, Responsibility and Perseverance' are regularly taught so that our students leave school with the skills and attitudes they need for life.
Once again, thank you for your support and involvement in our school and I look forward to working with you to fulfil our college motto to Achieve Excellence Together.
Yours Sincerely,
Brendan Krueger
Foundation Principal
Assessment Planner
All students will receive a hard copy of their Assessment Planner during Week 2. The Assessment Planner outlines all assignments and exams that are to be completed during Semester One. A new assessment planner is issued each Semester, when students are completing new elective subjects.
I encourage you to put this on the fridge when it comes home and help your child organise themselves during the busy assessment period at the end of Term. Information about individual assessment tasks is available to parents/carers and students via Daymap.
Emily Prenzler
2022 Student Resource Scheme (SRS)
The invoices for the 2022 SRS will be emailed to all families by Friday the 11th February. These invoices will be for the full amount payable as follows
Year 7, Year 8, Year 9 - $675 for the year.
Year 10 - $500 + subject fees. The subject fees vary depending on what subjects your student is studying in 2022. These fees are outlined in the SRS parent information letter (attached below) and the Subject Selection Handbook. The subject fees will be invoiced by Friday the 12th March.
Following are the SRS parent information letters for each year level which outline the inclusions and cost of the 2022 SRS.
Payment Options
BPOINT – Use the link in the box at the bottom left corner of your invoice, this will take you directly to the payment screen to enter your details. Paying in instalments? No problem, just enter the instalment amount of $225.00 and then continue. Instalments will be due 25 February; 6 May and 12 August. Due dates have been altered to allow for the delayed start to the school year.
Phone payments using Credit/Debit card – You will need your Customer Reference Number (CRN) and Invoice Number from the bottom left corner of your invoice. Call 1300 631 073
In person at the office– The payment window will be open for EFTPOS, cash or cheque payments Monday to Friday 8am – 9:30am and 2pm – 3pm (other times by appointment).
Individualised payment plans by Direct Debit - Set and forget. If you would like to set up a direct debit payment using your bank account or credit card, email bsm@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au with the $ amount you would like to pay, the date you want the payments to start and how often you would like the payments made eg weekly/fortnightly. As an example – a payment of $27.00 per week commenced on Friday 25 February will pay the SRS in full before the final due date of 12 August.
Centrepay Deduction - Payment by Centrepay deduction can also be arranged through Administration.
If you have not received your invoice by Friday 11/02/2022 please email the school office admin@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Michelle Mills
Business Manager
Within our student induction students are taught about our laptop rules. These include:
Parent access to Daymap
Over the first two days of school you will receive an email from our team about how to set up parent accounts to Daymap so that you are able to view homework tasks, assessments and send /receive messages from teachers. You will also receive instructions on how to set up an MSA account for use at the Canteen.
If you have any questions relating to laptops or student accounts please email tech@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Deputy Principal
Culture and Development | Pathways | I.T.
Angela Waugh
Email: awaug24@eq.edu.au
| Head of Department Inclusion | Rhiannon Kemp |
| Guidance Officer | Janet Ingram |
| Speech and Language Pathologist | Nicole Anderson |
| Inclusion Coordinator (Coach) | Jamei Pertzel |
| Chaplain | Kristian Atkins |
| Defence School Mentor | Tracy Cooper |
| Youth Support Worker | Advertised |
| Support Services Administrator | Rachael Pratt |
| Industry Liasion Officer | Marnie George |
- Irene McKay
- Linda Rzeszkowski
- Callum Simmons
- Tommii Keating
- Tarah Wall
- Fergus Rielly
- Nadine Kahotea
- Ryley Wilson
My name is Nadine Kahotea my role is Teacher Aide. Originally from New Zealand but have lived in Perth for 6 years and Brisbane for 11 years. My interests are anything to do with sport mainly Oz Tag, Volleyball, Touch Rugby in a coaching and playing role. I enjoy art painting, carving stone, sculpture. I’m looking forward to being part of the Ripley team and assisting students to reaching their potential.
G’day! My name is Ryley Wilson! I am thrilled to be joining the team at Ripley Valley State Secondary College as a Teacher Aide in 2022. I am currently studying secondary education, majoring in legal studies and geography. In my spare time, I love going on adventurous drives and tasting foods from various restaurants and cultures. I look forward to working with all students at our incredible school in supporting them to achieve their personal best. Although this year has gotten off to a rocky start, I am confident with the world-class resources, staff and facilities at RVSSC, 2022 will be a great success for all.
Hello RVSSC Families. I am Tommii Keating. I first came to Ripley for a University practical in April 2021 and was delighted to land a teacher aide role in Term 3. I am studying a Bachelor of Secondary Education at QUT and have a passion for supporting and assisting the development of your child’s education. A bit about me; I love spending time with family and friends and frequently travel to my home town, a few hours west of Brisbane. This year I am looking forward to further developing my relationships with existing students and building foundations with our new students.
Rhiannon Kemp
Head of Inclusion
Rhiannon Kemp
Phone: 3819 5319
Email: rxtoo0@eq.edu.au
I would like to extend a warm welcome to all of our new, and returning students, and their families. The English, Humanities and Languages faculties staff are looking forward to getting into classrooms next week.
As our school continues to grow, so are the subject our faculty is offering this year. 2022 sees the addition of six new subjects on offer for our year 10 students; History and Legal Studies as electives in Humanities, as well as four English subjects: Extension English, General English, Foundation English and Short Course Literacy if required in Semester Two. We are also excited to see our Languages faculty grow, now stretching across two year levels, with multiple classes.
With the growth across our faculties, we also welcome new staff to our very talented and dedicated team.
“My name is Ms Marks and I am ecstatic to be joining the Ripley Valley community in my sixth year of teaching. I have English and Humanities classes this year and am looking forward to helping students expand their critical and creative thinking skills. I can’t wait to have a fabulous 2022 with all of you!” - Ms Marks
“Hello! My name is Olivia Roberts and I teach English, Science and Japanese. I’m super excited for my first year here at Ripley Valley SSC. In my spare time I love reading books – ‘Into the Wild’ is my favourite but, I love old school Sci-Fi too. I am also obsessed with hiking the beautiful local National Parks here in Queensland.” - Ms Roberts
“Hello! I am an English and Drama teacher and this will be my twelfth year with Education Queensland. My passion is making sure learning is engaging and has a purpose. I have heard how creative Ripley Valley State Secondary College students can be, so I’m looking forward to an exciting and fun year ahead!” – Ms McLeod
"My name is Curtis Shaw and I'll be teaching 7 English and 7,8,9 Humanities at RVSSC this year. I'm passionate about making learning interactive, conversational, and collaborative. Outside of school, I love basketball, film and TV, and my Border Collie Charlie, who you might see around the community!" - Mr Shaw
“My name is Mrs Andrea Everittt. I am new to Ripley SSC this year after teaching in the independent sector. My main teaching areas are Humanities, English and Science. Prior to teaching I worked as an archaeologist for over 15 years specialising in maritime/historical archaeology and native title research. I am excited to be at Ripley and cannot wait to share my passion for history and geography with my students.” - Mrs Everittt
"Hi Ripley Valley! My name is Jason Coles and I am so excited to be teaching Music, English and Humanities at RVSSCC. I have been teaching since 2019 and enjoy building a classroom that is supportive, fun and engaging. Bring on 2022!" - Mr Coles
We welcome Miss Lauren Marks, Mrs Andrea Everett, Ms Jocelyn McLeod, Mr Jason Coles, Mr Curtis Shaw, and Ms Olivia Roberts. We are excited by the skills, knowledge and, fresh ideas they each bring to our faculty.
I am personally looking forward to getting back into the classroom with our students next week.
Jasmine Diesing
HOD - English | Humanities | Languages
Welcome back to the 2022 school year! My team and I are so excited to welcome your children into our mathematics classrooms after the extended school holidays and kick off the year surrounded with positivity, perseverance and enthusiasm.
Our team of wonderful mathematics teachers this year includes: Miss Mary Mahipus, Miss Brooke Gordon, Miss Damika Doorley, Mrs Anastasia Constable, Mrs Keesha Nugent, Mr James Gerchow, Ms Jamei Pertzel, Miss Manjan Deghgani and Mr Nicholas Cardiff. We will also be joined by Mr Tim Barclay, Mr Srikanth Sogathur and Mrs Andrea Everitt during our Maths Enrichment classes. These teachers have all been working so hard over the past 2 weeks to refine and enhance our curriculum and to prepare meaningful learning experiences for their classes.
I wanted to pass on a couple of notices at the start of the year:
- Mathematics tutoring will take place every Tuesday at 1st break in F111. All students are welcome and encouraged to attend.
- As per the book list, all students are required to have a scientific calculator. Students will use this frequently in class and during assessments. Any brand of scientific calculator will be suitable and your child's teacher can support them in learning how to use all the functions. Please ensure your child is prepared for Maths class.
Term 1 Assessments
During Mathematics in Term 1, all year levels will be assessed through an exam at the end of Term 1. More information will be available via Daymap over the coming weeks and keep and eye out for any emails from your children's teachers with updates as we approach these exams. We understand that absences may become a challenge as we navigate Covid isolations, so I would recommend encouraging your child to stay active on the class Daymap page and attend Mathematics tutoring if they have missed any learning.
At the start of the school year I also want to share this image about mathematics classroom norms. We know that a lot of students start the school year with anxiety when coming to Maths. I want to take the time to reassure students that in the maths classroom we encourage and welcome mistakes, questions and creativity. We want students to believe that they can learn maths and find meaning for numeracy in their life.
Boaler, J (2020) Setting Up Positive Norms in the Math classroom. Youcubed at Stanford University. Retreived from http://www.youcubed.org/wp-content/uploads/Positive-Classroom-Norms2.pdf
I want to finish my article with commending all of the parents and caregivers for navigating the extended holidays, through what I can only imagine was a period of confusion, exhaustion and hopefully not, isolation periods for some family. I guess this is a "tag, we're it" as we happily welcome students back into our classes and return to some normalcy.
Tess Reeves
HoD Mathematics
It is exciting to join the team at Ripley Valley this year and write my first newsletter article. Having worked in education within the wider Ipswich area for the past 14 years, I am excited to continue the great work that has been taking place at Ripley. I’m also ready to seek new opportunities to support students achieve their goals. I’m looking forward to meeting all the students as they return for the year and welcoming the year 7 cohort to the school as they embark on the next phase of their education.
As the school continues to grow we’ve also added a number of new staff to the science faculty this year. I’d like to formally welcome Ms O Roberts, Mrs A Constable, Mr J Gerchow, Mrs K Nugent, Mr N Cardiff, Mrs A Everitt and Miss B Gordon to the science faculty. I’d also like to thank the continuing staff of Mr T Barclay, Mr S Sogarthur, Mr J Clifford, Miss C McKendry and Mrs S Saini for welcoming us all in to the faculty and helping us find our feet so quickly.
This year our focus will continue to be on providing quality and engaging learning opportunities for all students and to help them connect the learning in the classroom to their lives outside of school. Whilst we will focus on particular areas of science knowledge, it is vital that we teach the inquiry skills that underpin science. The beauty of science is the framework of asking questions and then working through a process to determine an answer to that question. We hope this year to light the fire of curiosity and inquisitiveness in students as they interact with the world around them and help them discover the answers to the questions they pose.
One of my favourite quotes is John F Kennedy’s moon speech given at Rice University in 1962. “We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard, because that goal will serve to organize and measure the best of our energies and skills, because that challenge is one that we are willing to accept, one we are unwilling to postpone, and one which we intend to win, and the others, too” (John F Kennedy, 1962).
This year I encourage all staff and students within the science faculty to tackle the hard things that they face. As we work together to overcome the challenges and obstacles and achieve our goals, we’ll look back on 2022 with pride of knowing we’ve worked to our potential. I’m excited for the year ahead and working with the staff, students and families of Ripley Valley State Secondary College.
Todd Robson
HoD Science
Welcome back to an exciting new year, with many new faces. Our Creative Industries team has grown with new teachers and new subject offerings. Including Visual Arts, Digital Media, Food Technology, Drama, Design Engineering and Design Manufacturing.
I would like to introduce our teaching team:
- Mr Lynn - Digital media and Design Technology.
- Mr Clarke - Design Technology
- Ms Dixon - Dance & Drama
- Ms Mcleod - Drama
- Mr Ezzy - Music and Instrumental Music
- Mr Coles - Music
- Ms Starkey - Dance and Drama
- Mrs Stiles - Design Technology
- Mrs Montel - Food Technologies
- Ms Vidotto - Visual Arts & Media Arts
- Ms Pertzel - Visual Arts
- Mrs Kemp - Visual Arts
We are looking forward to meeting all the new students and welcoming back our foundation students.
Design Technology
Design Technology prepares our students in the increasingly technological and complex world. Students will develop knowledge and confidence to critically analyse and creatively respond to design challenges. Knowledge, understanding and skills involved in the design, development and use of technologies are influenced by and can play a role in enriching and transforming societies and our natural, managed and constructed environments.
At Ripley students explore this in multiple context Food Studies, Material specialisation and Engineering. Each of these subjects have links to Advance manufacturing and sustainable futures. Our aim is to provide students with problem solving skills to become discerning decision-makers.
A requirement for these subjects is parent permission, as some activities are medium or high risk. Teacher will provide more information regarding this in a welcome email. If you have any concerns or question please contact us.
DANCE
Welcome back to Dance! We are looking forward to an exciting year ahead as our school has gained an extra cohort meaning that we now have core Dance in year 7 along with elective Dance in years 9 and 10.
This year our classes will be learning to perform, choreograph and respond to dance works in the following styles:
Year 7 - Popular Dance
Year 9 - Lyrical Dance
Year 10 - Hip Hop & Contemporary Dance
We are most looking forward to running classes out of our new Dance studio in J111 that is equipped with specialist floors and mirrors. We also have a second studio next door in J110 that doubles as a Dance/Drama room.
As always in Dance we are striving for excellence whilst constantly applying our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Perseverance. We are really looking forward to seeing each and every student achieve success in the Dance classroom.
Extra-Curricular Dance
Due to popular demand we will be introducing a second dance team at RVSSC in 2022.
Dance Squad will be our representative team for those students with extra dance experience and technical skills. This team will compete for the first time at local and state competitions across the year as well as at school and local events.
Dance Troupe will be our developing team for those students who are keen to get involved in dance. They will work towards performing at in-school events such as our Term 4 Creative Industries Showcase.
If you are interested in auditioning for either of these teams then please come along to one of the information sessions in week 1. Tuesday or Thursday at second break in J111.
DRAMA
Welcome to Drama in 2022 at RVSSC! Two new teachers have joined Ms Starkey in the Drama team this year, Mrs Dixon and Ms McLeod.
Both Mrs Dixon and Ms McLeod have been teaching for over a decade and are passionate about the Performing Arts.
This semester, students will be exploring a range of topics including:
Year 8 Drama
The Elements of Drama through Indigenous Theatre
Year 9 Drama
Fractured Fairytales in Physical Theatre
Commedia Dell Arte
Year 10 Drama
Realism Theatre
Verbatim Theatre
It will be an exciting year ahead working in the new J Block Drama studio.
We’re looking forward to meeting and working with you all,
Mrs Dixon and Ms McLeod
Extra-Curricular Drama
What’s new in 2022? Ripley Valley State Secondary College’s Drama Troupe!
This year Ms McLeod will be running a Drama Troupe every Tuesday afternoon from 3:00 – 4:15pm for those interested in building their improvisation, performance and ensemble skills.
For further details, please come along to an information session during second break on Tuesday 8th February in the new J Block Drama Studio. Auditions will then be held Tuesday 15th February from 3:00pm in the new J Block Drama Studio.
Looking forward to seeing your confidence and creativity – Ms McLeod ?
Classroom Music
Music is back and bigger than ever in 2022. I am looking forward to an exciting year and welcoming the new students into our fantastic subject. Music has moved from its home in A block and can now be found in J block with a dedicated music room and instrumental storage room.
This year music students will be studying the following genres/skills of music:
Year 7 – Popular music
Year 9 – 21st Century skills
Year 10 – Global Radio & Programmatic
This year classroom music also has the pleasure of welcoming Mr Coles to our teaching team! Mr Coles will be taking some grade 7 classes and the grade 9's this year.
Instrumental Music
2022 will see our instrumental program grow in numbers and an extra ensemble! For those counting we are now up to 4. Students who are interested in participating in the instrumental program in 2022 will need to complete an Expression of Interest form.
This form is required for all students including those who studied instrumental at the college last year. Instrumental lessons will re-commence in week 3 with larger ensembles in week 4.
Ensemble rehearsal times for 2022 are as follows:
Concert Band – Tuesday 7:15-8:30am
Stage Band – Wednesday 3:00-4:15pm
Drumline – Thursday 3:00-4:15pm
Percussion Ensemble 7:30–8:30am
VISUAL ART
Item Request for Art:
Year 8 Art students will be having endless fun experimenting with ephemeral art this term. In order to play with line, form, shape and pattern found in natural objects, we've been busy collecting leaves, seeds, seedpods, sticks, stackablee stones and feathers.
If you have any interesting natural items in your backyard for our collection, we'd love to have them! Not only are we collecting leaves, seeds, seedpods, sticks, stackablee stones and feathers, we are also collecting bottle caps, ring pulls and any multiples of flat, coloured plastic items for a special 'end of unit' project in week 10. We have a special box in administration for donation drop offs.
MEDIA ARTS
SHOWCASE
Lorinda Stiles
HoD Creative Industries
lstil21@eqeduu.au
Welcome back to the 2022 schooling year! It hasn’t quite been the regular start to the schooling year as we have planned however we are thankful as Educators for all the support from parents and caregivers towards our College Community.
With every year the school grows, we continue to grow as a Department, and I would like to re-introduce existing staff members and introduce new staff members to our wonderful HPE Team. I’d formally like to welcome Ms. Keesha Nugent and Mr. Nick Cardiff to the HPE faculty who join us from their respective schools. I would like to thank the continuing staff of Mr. Ben Sharma, Mr. Justin Clifford, Ms. Christie McKendry and Mr. Anythony Lynn.
As a faculty we are looking forward to developing an even bigger focus on the importance of Health and Physical Education and Sport. The College does offer a wide range of opportunities for extra-curricular activity so please be on the lookout for any updates via Daymap or the school socials. Mr. Justin Clifford is the best person to contact regarding Sport at the College – please contact him on jclif117@eq.edu.au for any sporting questions.
HPE Specific Equipment:
When HPE lessons are conducted on the oval, students ARE required to wear a hat, as per RVSSC’s sun safety policy; this is a part of the student uniform and all students should have a hat available. Students are allowed to bring their sport shoes to wear ONLY during HPE lessons. Students will need to change into these shoes at the beginning of the lesson and change into their regular black school shoes at the conclusion. We encourage all our students to also bring a water bottle to remain hydrated throughout the day and most importantly during the hot Ipswich climate.
All Term 1 Assessment:
During HPE in Term 1, all year levels will be assessed for both a theoretical and practical component throughout the term (minus Health / Sport & Rec). We are conscious that a lot of our students are either practically or theoretically talented, and in some cases, a combination of both. Therefore, in saying this we are making sure we are providing an opportunity to demonstrate these skills to be successful. All assessment information will be available via Daymap and will be available to students starting Monday 7th Feb. We understand that COVID does have a big hold in our lives currently and if your student is away during a regular timetabled class, please make sure that you contact student services so this can become an approved attendance. If your student is absent during a timetabled assessment lesson, please follow the extension request that can be found in the student diary.
Benefits of Physically Activity:
As HPE Teachers we often talk about the importance of being Physically Active. Regular physical activity is one of the most important things you can do for your health. Everyone can experience the health benefits of physical activity – age, abilities, ethnicity, shape, or size do not matter. During this pandemic it is extremely important to continually engage in physical activity and we encourage our college community to continue doing so. Below is some benefits of physical activity:
James Dunn
HOD – Health and Physical Education
Welcome back to the 2022 schooling year! We are very excited to be welcoming onboard our new Year 7's to the evergrowing RVSSC community.
Our team of wonderful program leaders consist of: Mr. Ben Sharma (Football Academy), Mr. Callum Simmons (Esports Program), Mr. Srikanth Sogathur (Digital Tech and Coding Club), Mr. Tim Barclay (IGNITE/STEM Program) and currently putting together her program for 2023, Mrs. Starkey (Dance Academy).
The Academies & Programs listed above will be on show during our Community Open Day on Saturday 5th March - please look out for any updates regarding the proceeding of Community Open Day with the current Covid situation. We invite any current or future student who is considering to be a part of these programs in 2023 to attend the Community Open Day for more information.
Our Year 10 students currently have a number of external courses that they have a chance to be a part of, these are the following:
- Short Course Coffee Program (2 Days) - 10 sports available
- 2022 House Project (Certificate I in Construction - every Wednesday till end of year) - 4 sports available
- SPARQ-Ed Program
If your Year 10 student is thinking about being a part of one of these programs, please email me on jdunn232@eq.edu.au for further information.
Lastly, I thank all parents and caregivers for traversing a tricky and extended holidays for our students. I can guarantee we are all looking forward to being back in the regular swing of things.
HOD - Pathways & Partnerships
Welcome to 2022 - the year of sport!
My name is Mr Justin Clifford and I am the Acting Sports Coordinator for term one. If you have any questions of concerns please contact me via: jclif117@eq.edu.au
Term one is always a crazy big time for sport so its important that you read the notices carefully to ensure you haven’t missed anything. A couple of weeks ago I sent out an email to all parents outlining what events are taking place this term. If you happened to miss this please just send me an email and I am happy to forward this on.
District Nominations
The following sport trials are taking place during Week 1 and 2. Please make sure that the paperwork is collected from Mr Clifford before the trial date. The paperwork will need to be signed by a parent/carer and taken to the trial. Without the paperwork students are unable to participate in the trial. Remember it is the responsibility of the student and parent to transport to and from the trial location.
- 13 – 15 Years Girls Football (Thursday February 10th)
- 16 – 19 Years Girls Football (Thursday February 10th)
- 13 – 15 Years Girls Netball (Monday February 14th)
- 16 – 18 Years Girls Touch Football (Monday February 14th)
- 13 – 15 Years Girls Touch Football (Tuesday February 15th)
- 16 – 18 Years Boys Touch Football (Tuesday February 15th)
- 13 – 15 Years Boys Touch Football (Wednesday February 16th)
- 16 – 18 Years Boys Rugby League (Thursday February 17th)
- 13 – 15 Years Boys AFL (Thursday February 17th)
District Swimming for 2022 has been cancelled
Yagera Sport
Yagera sport is still going ahead at this stage and as such there will need to be trials for these sports starting Week 1. If you haven’t nominated for one of these sports and you would like to compete for the school please fill out this link: Yagera Sport Nomination Form.
The trials will take place on the following dates:
Week 1:
- Year 7 and 8 Girls Volleyball – Mr Simmons: Wednesday 3pm – 4pm @ the hall
- Year 9 and 10 Girls Volleyball – Mr Dunn: Thursday 7am – 8am @ the hall
Week 2:
- All Touch Football – Mr Clifford and Mr Cardiff – 3pm Tuesday @ the oval
- All Futsal – Mr Sharma and Mr Dunn – 3pm Tuesday @ the hall
- All Basketball – Ms McKendry and Mr Gerchow – Tuesday 7:30am @ the hall
Ripley Athlete Development Program (RAD)
RAD will begin Week 1 Friday morning at 7:15am on the oval. Please bring a water bottle and a hat.
Justin Clifford
Sports Co-ordination
Janet Ingram – Guidance Officer
I have worked as a Guidance Officer for 7 years in Central Queensland and the Southeast Region and I have been privileged to work with many students and their families. I love being able to help students to reach their potential by identifying barriers to success and working together to overcome the challenges they face each day at school. Helping young people become the best versions of themselves by overcoming challenges and setbacks (perceived and real) is central to my practice. It is my reason for getting up in the morning.
Students often ask me what kind of things can they talk to a Guidance Officer about. I reply,” Anything that is getting in the way of your learning right now.” Students often go to their peers for advice but unfortunately young people do not have the life skills to advise on complex issues. A Guidance Officer is an objective adult who can offer other perspectives in a confidential setting and provide support by addressing educational barriers, so the student can get on with the business of learning and shaping their futures.
Being a Guidance Officer in the secondary phase of learning gives me the opportunity to advise students in selecting university pathways and further training or work. Nothing is more satisfying than watching a student end their schooling knowing what work/study will be meaningful for them, and how they will contribute positively to society.
Guidance Officers are registered and experienced teachers with a Master’s Degree in Guidance Counselling. This unique expertise enables us to work in schools and help all students in the areas of academic achievement, social, personal and career development. Guidance Officers do not have the qualifications to diagnose mental health disorders, but we can suspect, in which case I encourage further support from external providers (psychologists) who can provide a deeper and more consistent treatment than I can provide at school. If your child does see a psychologist my work with them does not end. I work collaboratively with teachers, parents and external agencies to negotiate personalised plans which support students with their mental health needs at school.
Due to an increased demand on the Guidance Service, appointments are essential. From Week 5 onwards, I will be located in the new Student Support Services building. To book an appointment please email me on studentservicesripleyvalleysscc.eqeduu.au or jingr34@eqeduu.au . Alternatively, you can call 3819 5333 or visit the Student Reception in Administration in the meantime.
More information on the services I provide can be found on the school website.
httpss:/ripleyvalleysscc.eqeduu.au/support-and-resources/guidance-officer
Helping students access the health care they need
Starting from April 2022 secondary students at Ripley Valley State Secondary College will have access to a free GP clinic at school. The GP clinic will be located in lower B block which is positioned next to Administration.
What services will the GP be providing?
The doctor will provide students with the majority of the same services that GP's in the community do, including management of physical health, mental health, and sexual and reproductive health issues. Only secondary students enrolled at Ripley Valley State Secondary College will be able to access healthcare in our school’s clinic.
How can my child make an appointment with the GP?
Our school’s GP clinic will be open one day a week (TBA). Initially appointments will be available from 9 to 1PM during class an break times.
Appointments to see the school GP can be made either in person by seeing Mrs Pratt in the student services building or in the GP clinic on clinic days or emailing her on GPbookingsripleyvalleySSCC.com.au
You will be advised of an appointment via text/email. A booking flow chart is shown at the end of this article. A landline will be advised closer to the opening date of the clinic.
How much will it cost for my child to see the GP at school?
All visits with the school GP will be provided at no cost to students or their families. The GP will bulk-bill all appointments through Medicare, so it is important that your child brings their Medicare card or number with them to their appointment.
When can a young person get their own Medicare card?
Young people can apply for their own Medicare card when they turn 15 years of age. They will need to complete an application process through Services Australia. The GP can help your child with this process.
Where will my child’s medical records be kept?
The medical records will belong to the GP’s base clinic Bremer Medical Centre where they will be securely stored. The school will not be able to access your child’s medical records.
Can my child consent (agree) to their own medical treatment?
In Queensland, young people under the age of 18 can consent to their own medical treatment if they are determined to be a mature minor. Young people who are not deemed to be a mature minor cannot give consent to their own medical treatment and consent will be sought from parents/carers.
What does “mature minor” mean?
Mature minors are young people under the age of 18 years who are determined by a medical professional to be capable of providing informed consent for treatment of a particular health issue without having the permission of a parent or carer.
How will the school GP decide whether a young person is a mature minor?
To decide whether a young person is a mature minor and can consent to their own medical treatment, the GP will consider a range of factors, including:
- the young person’s age;
- maturity in other areas of the young person’s life;
- independence – whether they live at home with a parent or carer, or support themselves;
- how serious the treatment is; and
- if the young person understands what their health issue is, why treatment is needed, what the treatment involves, what other options they have, things that might go wrong (like side effects from drugs, or other complications), and what happens if there is no treatment.
Any student at Ripley Valley State Secondary College who wants to make an appointment with the school GP can do so. The GP will then determine if the student is a mature minor for the health issue for which they are seeking treatment.
It is important to understand that this is the same process that would occur if your child were to see a doctor in any GP clinic in the community.
What if my child is not a mature minor?
The decision about whether a young person is a mature minor might be different depending on the nature of the health issue. If the GP decides your child is not a mature minor, they must get your consent before any medical treatment is provided.
What if my child already has a GP?
If your child already has a GP but would like to see the GP at school, your child’s medical records can be transferred. This is what happens in GP clinics in the community. This sharing of records is important and encouraged so that all health providers your child sees have up-to-date information.
If your child is a mature minor, they can consent to the transfer of their own medical records. If your child is not a mature minor, consent to the transfer their medical records must be provided by their parent or carer.
Can I come to the appointment with my child?
Yes, if your child would like you to. Parent/carer involvement is encouraged. We recognise that parents and carers can be an important source of support and information for young people in managing their health and wellbeing.
If your child is not a mature minor, then it is up to you as the parent/carer whether you wish to accompany your child to their GP appointment.
Will the GP involve me?
There will be many circumstances in which it will be helpful or necessary for you to be involved.
If your child is not a mature minor, the GP will always seek to involve you. If your child is deemed to be a mature minor by the GP, the GP may see them alone if that is what your child wants. However, the GP will often encourage your child to involve you in their care.
Can the GP refer (send) my child to other health services if needed?
Yes. In most instances, the doctor will encourage your child to include you in these referrals.
What if I don’t want my child to see a GP?
Firstly, you should talk about this with your child. Secondly, discuss the matter with the school. Generally, all secondary students will be considered mature enough to decide to see the GP on their own. The GP will then determine if your child is a mature minor for the reason they are visiting the clinic. This approach is the same for GP clinics in the community.
Would I ever find out about my child’s GP visit?
If the GP decides that your child is a mature minor, their health information cannot be discussed with you or anyone else unless your child says it is OK to share, or the sharing of the information is permitted or required by law. This is called confidentiality.
The following are examples of when the sharing of health information is permitted or required by law:
- Your child consents to sharing the information.
- Sharing information is necessary to prevent a serious threat to public health, safety or welfare – e.g. your child has an illness that must be notified to the Department of Health.
- Sharing information is necessary to lessen or prevent a serious and imminent threat to any person’s health, safety or welfare.
If your child is a mature minor, to maintain confidentiality, school staff are not able tell you when your child has seen the GP unless your child agrees, or the sharing of information is permitted or required by law.
Can the GP see other family members?
At this point in time, the GP can only treat students at Ripley Valley State Secondary College.
What if my child is not eligible for a Medicare card?
The intention of providing a GP clinic at Ripley Valley State Secondary College is to provide students with free access to a GP, to make it easier for students to access the healthcare they need.
In rare situations if your child is not eligible for a Medicare card, they are still able to access the school GP free of charge and the school pays for this. Use of the medicare card or number is expected in the majority of cases.
In matters have not been clarified in the above information, please contact the program lead, Janet Ingram (Guidance Officer) on jingr34@eqeduu.au
Janet Ingram
Guidance Officer
WELCOME ADF FAMILIES TO RVSSC
A big WELCOME to all of our returning and new RVSSC Defence Force families. 2022 sees a significant increase in ADF students and their families to the College and I can't wait to meet you all. My hours are Wednesday and Friday 0830 -1445.
Defence School Mentor Program
Defence recognises that the impact of the Defence lifestyle on children is a major challenge for Defence members and their families. For example, the 2019 ADF Families Survey identified that the most important consideration for Defence families was their children’s education.
Furthermore, these family-related factors have featured consistently among the top ten reasons for leaving among ADF members transitioning from permanent ADF service.
For this reason the Defence Member and Family Support (DMFS) provide the Defence School Mentor Program (DSMP) in schools.
For the purposes of the Defence School Mentor Program, a ‘Defence family’ is defined as:
'the immediate family of a Defence member, meaning their spouse or interdependent partner, and any children who normally live with the Defence member. Other dependents as nominated by a Defence member can also fall under their immediate family (for example, any children they are a guardian for).'
The Defence School Mentor Program provides a mentoring service to students to assist with the transition between schools and also to help those coping with parental absences due to deployments, exercises and lately, Covid quarantine. The program also strives to promote resilience amongst our Defence students.
This is done by:
Defence Club held at second break.
Y 7-9 Wednesdays
Y 10 Fridays
Drop-ins at the DSM's office are whole heartedly encouraged if a student feels the need for extra support.
Parents are regularly kept informed, via email of the latest support programs, family events and workshops that will be available through the year (and there are many!) including DMFS, DVA, Mates4Mates and the RSL.
I can also check in with parents by phone to see how students (and parents) are coping, especially in times of absences.
The Defence School Mentor Program and Ripley Valley State Secondary College value the sacrifices ADF members in our community and their families make every day in their contribution to Australia's security and we strive to provide a supportive and inclusive environment for students during their time at the College.
If you are an ADF family and you have not yet identified as such to the school, you can contact our Adminisration on 3819 5333 or alternatively you can email me at tcoop203@eq.edu.au.
Despite the obvious challenges, I hope 2022 brings you all good fortune, especially for those of you who are newly posted to the area. With newly constructed classrooms, library, a dedicated School Services Hub and many clubs and activities available; I am positive your students are set for an action packed year.
Take care everyone and all the best for Term 1
Tracey Cooper
Defence School Mentor
Ripley Valley State Secondary College
Chaplain News
Welcome back to a new school year. I trust you all had a fantastic holiday break. I am looking forward to meeting all the new students & their parents/carers and reconnecting with everyone returning on Monday the 7th February.
If you don't know me, my name is Kristian Atkins, and I have the privilege to serve the community of RVSSC as the School Chaplain. I am currently here Monday afternoons, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays & Friday Mornings.
Pastoral Care
As a School Chaplain, my role is to provide emotional, spiritual and social support to the students and wider school community. One of the ways I provide support is with one-on-one pastoral care conversations. If you would like me to provide support for your child, please email me at katki121@eq.edu.au.
Breakfast Club
Breakfast Club, one of the extra-curricular programs of the school will start up again on Tuesday the 8th of March. Breakfast Club will operate on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 8:15am to 8:45 am, between G & H Block. This is an excellent way for the students to engage with one another over food or milo and doesn't cost them anything. If you want to volunteer for this, please feel free to email me. If your child wants to help out they can do that by filling out the form that I will send over Daymap in the coming days.
Mentoring Program
The Chaplaincy Service is looking to implement a mentoring program this year. The mentoring program will bring in community people who will meet with a student 1 on 1 on the school grounds, in an open space where they will spend an hour a week talking with them. The mentor is a life mentor and will undergo child safety training by the College as well as SU. The mentor must be over 21 years of age and have a blue card to participate.
This is a great way for the wider Ripley Community to be involved with the College and to help support students. If you want to be a mentor or if your child is someone who you think would benefit from this program, please contact me.
I'm looking forward to an exciting year ahead.
Kind Regards
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Term One |
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Friday 11th February |
House Day – wear your House Shirt! |
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Thursday 17th February |
P&C AGM and General Meeting 6:30pm Community Hub |
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Wednesday 23rd February |
New Families Information Session 5:00pm Facebook Live |
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Friday 25th February |
Yagera Gala Day #1 |
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Friday 4th March |
Yagera Gala Day #2 |
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Saturday 5th March |
Community Open Day 9:00am – 11:00am |
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Monday 7th March |
Welcome Parade & Investiture - 8:45am – 10:00am RaptorDome |
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Wednesday 9th March |
New Families Meet & Greet 5 :00pm RaptorDome |
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Friday 11th March |
School Photos |
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Thursday 17th March |
P&C Meeting 7:00pm – 8:00pm Community Hub |
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Thursday 17th March |
Short Course Coffee Program (Year 10 students) |
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Wednesday 30th March |
NAPLAN Practice Test Year 7 Period 4 |
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Thursday 31st March |
NAPLAN Practice Test Year 9 Period 1 Student Rewards Afternoon Periods 3 and 4 |
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Friday 1st April |
Cross Country |
Last Day of Term 1 |
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Term Two |
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Monday 18th April |
Easter Monday |
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Tuesday 19th April |
Term 2 commences |
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Thursday 21st April |
ANZAC Day Ceremony (all welcome) 8:45am – 9:30am RaptorDome P&C Meeting 7:00pm – 8:00pm Community Hub |
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Monday 25th April |
ANZAC Day Public Holiday |
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Tuesday 26th April |
Students follow Monday Timetable |
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Wednesday 27th April |
Parent Teacher Interviews 3:00pm – 7:00pm J Block |
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Thursday 28th April |
Central Comets Cross Country – invitation only |
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Monday 2nd May |
Labour Day Public Holiday |
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Thursday 5th May |
Year 7 and Year 10 Immunisations |
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Friday 6th May |
Student Resource Scheme payment due |
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Mon 9th May – Thurs 12th May |
Work Experience for Year 10 students |
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Tues 10th May – Thurs 12th May |
NAPLAN Online for Year 7 and Year 9 students |
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Friday 13th May |
Ipswich Show Public Holiday |
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Wednesday 18th May |
Wellbeing Expo for all students - RaptorDome |
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Thursday 19th May |
P&C Meeting 7:00pm – 8:00pm Community Hub |
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Monday 23rd May |
Headspace Information Session for Year 7 students |
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Friday 10th June |
Trial Day for Excellence Academies in Year 7, 2023 |
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Mon 13th June – Wed 15th June |
Year 10 Exam Block |
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Thursday 16th June |
P&C Meeting 7:00pm – 8:00pm Community Hub |
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Wednesday 22nd June |
Student Rewards Day |
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Thursday 23rd June |
Report Cards issued via email to parents/carers |
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Friday 24th June |
Athletics Carnival |
Last Day of Term 2 |
Uniform Shop Extended Hours
Monday 7th February 9.30am to 1.30pm
Thursday 10th February 2.30pm to 5.30pm
Uniform Shop - Normal Trading Hours
Monday 8.00am to 10.30am
Kaylan Harris - Australian BMX Titles
Congratulations to Kaylan Harris for his recent success at the Australian BMX titles.
Kaylan competed at the Australian BMX Titles on the Gold Coast over the school holidays and is now ranked 2nd in Australia for his age division.
Congratulations Kaylan!
We all deserve respectful, safe and non-violent environments, so aggression and harassment of any kind—physical, verbal or otherwise—isn't acceptable.
When you interact with school staff, remember we're all on the same team to support your child. We all have your child's best interests at heart, and the best way to achieve a positive learning experience is to work together.
