Ripley Valley State Secondary College
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18 Parkway Ave
Ripley QLD 4306
Subscribe: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/subscribe

Email: principal@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Phone: 3819 5333

School Newsletter (Week 1, Term 4)

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School Newsletter (Week 1, Term 4)

Dear Parents/Carers, 

Welcome to the final school term for 2022 and I trust you were able to enjoy the recent Queen's Birthday long weekend or have found some time to enjoy the warmer weather and great outdoors at present.

As we commence Term 4, a number of significant college events and activities will occur including our Annual Awards Evening, Performing Arts Showcase, Year 6 into 7 Transition Day and Remembrance Day service to name but a few.  As the end of the year quickly approaches it is easy to forget these significant events and I would encourage you to keep abreast of these events and details through our Facebook, website and DayMap so as to not miss out on any important information or details. 

As always, if you have a question, please contact the school via phone 3819 5333 or email administration@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

Our first major event for this term is our annual college Awards Evening to be held on Wednesday the 19th October (2 weeks time).  On this evening we will recognise and congratulate our students for their academic, cultural and sporting achievements throughout the year.  At this event, we will also announce our student leaders and student council representatives for 2023 along with a range of special awards and bursaries.  Information for the various awards and student leader positions have previously been distributed at the end of Term 3 and we will continue to distribute information to students/parents in the lead-up to this event as needed.   

At the end of last term, students/parents were emailed out their child's Term 3 interim report card.  Once again, it was a pleasure to read through these report cards and see some significant improvements in individual and whole year/cohort results.  Each term, as a school staff we review our student, class and cohort results to look at what is working well and what we can do better. Teachers also take time to discuss with classes and students about goal setting, reviewing their progress and areas of strength/development so that we are all on an improvement journey. 

If you find that your child is struggling or needs additional help or support please contact the subject teacher directly or attend the free after-school homework club or arrange a time to meet with our HOD Inclusion, as needed.  By working together we will see our students results improve and I encourage you to partner with us in your child's educational journey.

As always, I thank you for your continued support and involvement in our college community and I look forward to seeing many of you throughout this term at our various special events and evenings.

Yours Sincerely,     

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Brendan Krueger

Foundation Principal

Homework Centre returns in Week 2
The Homework Centre will operate on Tuesday's and Thursday's from 2:45pm - 4:15pm in CG01 from Weeks 2-8 in Term 4, based on Term 4 assessment timelines.
All students in attendance will be provided with a light afternoon tea and will be supported by our Teacher Aides in completing their homework and working towards assessment.
Please complete the registration form if you would like your child to attend:
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NAPLAN 2022
Late last term, all Year 7 and 9 students who completed NAPLAN were issued with their paper-based reports.  Your student's results on NAPLAN reflect their performance on the testing day and does not replace the extensive, ongoing assessments made by teachers about each student's performance. Your child's teacher will have the best insight into their educational progress. The reports allow you to see your child's progress against the national standards in literacy and numeracy at that point in time and over their educational journey when compared with Year 3, 5 and 7 results.
If you did not receive you child's NAPLAN report please contact the College at administration@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au and we can send you a copy of the reports.
Pre-service Teachers
Our College is again welcoming a number of pre-service teachers into our school community during Term 4. I would like to extend my gratitude to Mr James Gerchow, Mr Dale Ezzy, Mr Tim Barclay, Ms Christie McKendry and Ms Genevieve Martins for their mentoring of the next group of pre-service teachers.
I would also like to thank all of our staff and students for their support of the 24 pre-service teachers who have completed their placements with our College this year.
Ongoing Construction and Fencing
Over the holidays, some existing fencing has been moved and new construction fencing installed in the area near the RaptorDome as part of preparations for additional construction.
Students and parent/carers are no longer able to access the College via Gate 7 at the top of the RaptorDome. The only gate that will be open before and after school for access to the RaptorDome area will be Gate 4 at the carpark entry.
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Emily Prenzler

Deputy Principal - Year 9 and 10 - Teaching & Learning

Term 4 is upon us already! It feels as though the year is rushing by and all too soon we will be enjoying Christmas vacation.  Before we get there, we have a wealth of key events planned. 

Mental Health Week:

During Week 2 of Term 4, Ripley Valley SSC will be celebrating Mental Health Week. Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW) is an annual awareness week that aims to shine a spotlight on individual and community mental health and wellbeing.  Students will have an opportunity to engage in a range of events throughout the week, culminating in the Wellbeing Expo on Thursday 13th of October. Look out for daily notices for further information.

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Awards Evening:

As one of the key events in the school calendar, Awards Evening offers us an opportunity to acknowledge and celebrate the academic, community, sporting and cultural achievements of our students. The event will be held on Wednesday the 19th October in the Raptordome from 6pm. Students who are receiving awards will be notified in the coming days and invitations will be sent home to parents and carers. Lists of Gold Raptor Award winners have also been published in the Library for students to cross check.

 

Transition Days and Orientation Day:

Throughout this Term we will be working with our feeder Primary Schools and offering our future students the chance to experience High School. This will include visits to various State Schools in the region as well as our Year 6 Orientation Day, which will be held at Ripley Valley SSC on Friday the 2nd December. Information about this event will be disseminated closer to the date.

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Daniel Pym
Deputy Principal Year 7 and Year 8 - Culture and Development

Moving on from RVSSC?

Are you moving on from Ripley Valley SSC next year? Please let one of our friendly office staff know as soon as possible.  This will assist us greatly to ensure that library books, computers and accessories are returned and any refunds due to you are processed.

2022 Student Resource Scheme (SRS)

The SRS payment is now overdue, if you have not finalised your SRS invoices (including elective subject fees for Year 10) please make payment via one of the following methods.   

Please note that non payment will result in the students individual laptop being collected.  Your student will need to backup their data onto Onedrive as the laptop will be wiped and returned to the school fleet of computers.  Families with outstanding fees will be notified via email commencing next week.

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. 

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).

If you would like an update on your account or a statement at any time please email the school office admin@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

 

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Michelle Mills

Business Manager

Year 7 2023 Transition Presentation:
On Wednesday the 12th October and Friday the 14th October some of our current Year 7 students will accompany both myself, Mr. Pym (Deputy Principal Year 7/8) and Mr. Atkins (School Chaplain) when we visit Ripley Valley State School, Deebing Heights State School and Amberley District State School. These visits are to open up a general Q&A forum to our future students where they can ask our current students questions like:
  • What is high school like?
  • Do you get to play sport?
  • Do we get laptops?
  • How long are your lessons?
These are to name a few. We look forward to presenting to our future Year 7 students in the upcoming week. 
Year 7 2023 Orientation Day:
Our current scheduled day for the Year 7 Orientation Day is Friday the 2nd of December.  This is an opportunity for the Year 6 students transitioning into Year 7 to experience a full day on campus.  All students will be involved in fun curriculum activities from Period 1-3, with Period 4 being our "House Activity" session that will be run by our Year 7 Coordinator (Mr. Coles) & HoD Junior Secondary (Mr. Dunn). 
Invitations will be sent out later this term directly to those families who have been accepted for enrolment and have returned their completed enrolment forms. Please keep an eye on our school's Facebook page for further information, along with information provided to your school's administration.
Amberley District Early Years Expo:
On Wednesday the 14th September, selected members of our eSports Academy took part in the Amberley District State School's Early Years Expo. This saw our students demonstrate how implementing eSports into our curriculum benefits opportunities to build strategic, situational and communication skills within learning experiences. Thank you to Mr O'Neill for reaching out to RVSSC and allowing our community to be a part of this event. 
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Year 8/9 Camp:
In Term 4 on Monday the 28th November, students in Year 8 & 9 will have the opportunity to attend a Camp held at Emu Gully Adventure Group. In 2021, Year 9 students had a very successful camp and we look forward to seeing the 2022 students attend and enjoy just as much. The purpose of the camp is for students to develop exceptional leadership skills and participate in team building programs based on the character values of Courage, Mateship, Sacrifice and Perseverance.
Staff and students are looking forward to this. Please make sure you have completed all payments for this to secure your spot. Any further questions, please email Mr. Lynn on aklyn0@eq.edu.au.
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James Dunn

HOD - Junior Schooling 

jdunn232@eq.edu.au 

Welcome back to Term 4 for all our senior students and their families.
As we near the end of 2022, it is important that students continue to maintain their focus and continue to work towards their goals set within the SET planning process completed in Term 3. For some students this will be in regards to developing good study habits, others may be to improve their grades in certain subjects, while others may focus on increasing their efforts in the classroom. These goals are not only applicable for helping students improve on their academic performance in 2022 but set a good foundation for continued success in 2023 and beyond. Take the time to sit down with your Term 3 report card, review the goals you have set and determine if any corrections need to be made to help you achieve them. 
Careers and Traineeships
Mrs George is continuing to advertise both part-time and traineeship positions that are available at a number of local businesses. These provide students with a fantastic opportunity to either gain employment or work towards qualifications for future employment. For further information on available positions please see Mrs George in the Career Hub (library) or visit our Ripley Valley SSC Careers website. 
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Todd Robson

Head of Department - Senior Schooling - Technology

trobs20@eq.edu.au

A warm welcome back to Term 4 for all staff, students and families. Over the break we have farewelled Mr McAully and welcomed a few new members to the IT team. I'd like to extend a very warm welcome to both Mr Tim Turner and Mr Andy Evans who will be taking on the role of IT technicians for Ripley Valley SSC and wish Mr McAully all the best in his new role. 

Device Health Checks

Thank you to all the Year 9 and 10 students who have participated in the device "Health Checks" over the last week of Term 3. These checks will also occur during Term 4 for all Year 7 and 8 students. The health check will consist of:

  • Checking for any damages that have not been reported to have fixed via Warranty (where possible), or through Accidental Damage insurance (Excess costs listed below).
  • Checking that students have and are using the required laptop case. Checking students have the RVSSC sticker on their laptop, and their laptop is labelled correctly with all required cataloguing stickers still intact.
  • Ensuring device is running at optimal levels, and re-imaging where needed.

As per the laptop agreement, if damage is found on the device or students are missing their RVSSC stickers and/or laptop cases, parents will receive notification of this, damage fixed and lost items replaced. An invoice sent to effected families as per the prices listed below:

ITEM / DESCRIPTION COST

  • Insurance Excess - 1st damage in 12 months $50
  • Insurance Excess - 2nd Damage in 12 months $100
  • Insurance Excess - 3rd Damage in 12 months Cost of full repair (Quote will be provided)
  • Damage to school bank laptop (Hot Swap) Cost of parts + $50 labour fee
  • Laptop Case $45
  • Replacement Charger $35
If you know of issues with your child’s laptop that has not been reported please feel free to contact our team at tech@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au so we can ensure issues are rectified.
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Todd Robson

Head of Department - Senior Schooling - Technology

trobs20@eq.edu.au

    Welcome back for Term 4!

    Thank You

    Thank you all for the warm welcome back as I return for Term 4. Also a big thank you to the Student Services Team, our Teacher Aides and Jamei Pertzel for covering me in my absence. It is so wonderful to have such supportive people and that is what makes Ripley Valley a great place to be.

    Disability Action Week

    At the end of last Term, we celebrated Disability Action Week. Well done to the team for making this a huge success and an enjoyable and meaningful event for our staff and students. 

    Disability Action Week is held annually in September with the aim of empowering people with disability, raising awareness of disability issues and improving access and inclusion through out the wider community. Our aim for the day was to open opportunities, think outside the box and share success.

    This year Ripley Valley State Secondary College has raised awareness regarding disabilities by having Robert Paino from Mission Australia address the students on assembly regarding his journey after having his leg amputated at the age of 16. Sporting Wheelies and the Disabled association facilitated a Student Vs Teacher wheel chair basketball game at lunch time and our Physical Education classes took part in adjusted basketball and volleyball games during their scheduled class time.

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    New Staff

    Welcome Maria Kelly to our Teacher Aide Team (also known as Team Awesome). She will be supporting classes full-time. Please give her a warm welcome.

    Taletha Champs is joining us as our additional Inclusion Coordinator to support teachers in designing learning that is accessible for all.

    October is ADHD and Specific Learning Disorders (Dyslexia) Awareness Month

    You may have seen a lot in the media at the moment around ADHD but not so much around the Specific Learning Disorder, Dyslexia. It is often shrouded in misinformation and misunderstanding. This month Student Support Services and providing additional information for staff to help build understanding to better support these students. 

    https://www.adhdaustralia.org.au/awarenessmonth/

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    School to Work – Introductory Webinars for secondary school students with a disability and their families.

    This webinar will provide you with an introduction to this initiative to assist your family on the path to creating a positive vision for the future, a vision that includes work. 

    This webinar will also focus on planning for work, developing positive mindsets and focusing on your student’s strengths. 

    We will discuss possible barriers you may encounter on the school to work pathway, and how to handle these. 

    We will also be highlighting the importance of involving your student in decision-making throughout the school to work journey.

    The webinar will include live Q&A. 

    For more details, follow the link below:

    https://events.humanitix.com/imagining-work-getting-started-in-years-7-and-8-19-october-2022 

    Online Parent/Carer Workshop - 4 sessions

    This online workshop is 4 short sessions spread over 4 days. We encourage you to attend all 4 valuable sessions. It is for parents, full time carers and grandparents. Join other local families to learn more about autism and ways to strengthen the home-school partnership.
    3 - 24 November 2022
    For more information, follow the link:
    In Support Services you will find:
    Head of Department Inclusion Rhiannon Kemp
    Guidance Officer Janet Ingram
    Speech and Language Pathologist Nicole Anderson
    Inclusion Coordinator (Coach) Jamei Pertzel and Taletha Champs
    Chaplain Kristian Atkins
    Defence School Mentor Tracy Cooper
    Youth Support Worker Alicia Pickerill
    Support Services Administrator Rachael Pratt 
    Industry Liasion Officer Marnie George
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    We look forward to supporting you.
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    Rhiannon Kemp

    Head of Inclusion

    studentservices@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

    Jamei-Ann Pertzel
    Phone: 3819 5319
    Email: jpert2@eq.edu.au

        A very warm welcome back to all staff, students and families for Term 4! This term always tends to fly by and before we know it, Christmas will be upon us. It will be a busy term in all Mathematics classrooms with most year levels engaging in two pieces of assessment.

        Year 7 students will explore the concepts of Statistics, Probability and Financial Maths. They will begin by learning how to calculate and interpret the mean and median of data sets and to construct data displays. They will demonstrate these skills with an in-class extended response. Then they will learn how to list sample spaces, calculate the probabilities of events and compare the cost of items. They will demonstrate these skills during an exam.

        Year 8 students will be learning all about Measurement and Geometry this term as they learn how to calculate perimeter, area and volume of shapes and then moving onto triangle properties and congruency. Year 8 students will demonstrate these skills throughout two exams.

        Year 9 students will also be learning about Measurement and Geometry as they calculate the area, surface area and volume of prisms and cylinders. They will then move onto calculations involving triangles as they learn about Pythagoras theorem, trigonometry and scale factor. They will be assessed with two in-class exams.

        Year 10 students in General and Extension Mathematics will continue their work on Algebra & Number as they explore the concepts of inequalities, simultaneous equations and quadratic equations. These will be assessment with a mid-term exam. They will then finish of their year and prepare for senior by working towards a financial maths extended response based off the concept of compound interest.  

        Year 10 students in Foundation Mathematics will be exploring the concept of probability as they explore sample spaces, calculating probabilities, conditional probabilities, as well as, tree diagrams and Venn diagrams.

        And, finally, students complete the Short Course in Numeracy are due to complete their final course work this term on the topic of "The Work Environment" as they explore everyday numeracy skills involving time, percentage, fractions, measurement and shapes. We are excited for our first group of Year 10's to bank a QCE point after the successful completion of this course.  

        I would also like to use this space to highlight some key reminders:

        • Be prepared for class! Every student should have a notebook, stationery and a scientific calculator available for every math lesson. We are continuing to see students arrive to class without these essentials and this is limiting their ability to keep accurate notes for revision and study purposes.
        • Mathematics tutoring is available every Tuesday at 1st break and Thursday at 2nd break in CG01. This will start in Week 2 and finish in Week 8.

        All the best for the term ahead!

         

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        Tess Reeves

        HoD Mathematics

        tsmur0@eq.edu.au 

        Welcome back to Term 4 to all our RVSSC community members. I hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing break and time was spent with loved ones. As we return to the classroom in Term 4, it is important for students to review their current goals and set new goals, looking at strategies they can put in place to help them achieve these goals. As always, students will be supported by our amazing staff to reach their potential and encourage them to work towards these goals throughout the remainder of this Term.

        This Term our students will continue to connect the learning that occurs within the science classroom to their lives outside of school and we encourage them to be critical and creative thinkers by utilising the inquiry skills they learn.

        Our Year 7 students will investigate Earth Sciences this Term; developing an understanding of Tides, Seasons, and Climates, all of which occur due to the relationship of Earth to The Moon and Sun. This unit develops their research and inquiry skills, with multiple lessons dedicated to practising these skills throughout the Term. For their assessment, students will research key questions and climate data to produce a multi-modal presentation.

        Year 8 classes will be covering their Biology unit on Cells and Reproduction. This unit will focus on human reproduction and physiology, with a particular emphasis on topics such as the menstrual cycle. At all times, this unit is in alignment with the Australia Curriculum and will be taught scientifically. As educators, cultural understanding and sensitivity will be held with upmost importance. If there are any queries about the content within this unit or the resources used, please do not hesitate to contact your student’s teacher. Assessment for this Term is an exam.

        The Year 9 students will investigate the Earth’s structure by delving into the different layers of Earth, Continental drift and Pangaea, Tectonic plates, Greenhouse gases and Climate. Students will also sit an exam at the end of Term.

        The Year 10 students continue on their varied pathways in this shorter term with both the Psychology and Chemistry classes continuing their semester units, both of which will sit an exam at the end of the Term. Our Core science classes are investigating motion, and calculating speed, velocity, and acceleration, and finish the Term with an exam. The Foundation class has started their new unit this term to look at Science inquiry skills, modelled around the senior Science in Practise subject. Students will explore concepts such as The Big Bang and Evolution.

        We look forward to another exciting Term and wish all our students the best as they get back in to the learning routines within all their classes

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        Tim Barclay

        Acting Head of Department - Science 

        tjbar2@eq.edu.au

            Welcome back to Term 4!

            Term 4 is notorious for flying by.  For this reason, it is important that students apply themselves consistently across the Term.

            On our first assembly for the Term, Mr Pym emphasised the importance of consistent effort every day, rather than cramming everything in at the last minute. This will be particularly important for our Year 10’s who will finish at the end of Week 8 of this Term.

            During Term 4 our cohorts will be studying the following units:

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            Year 7 – From the Director’s Chair

            In this unit, students will create an analytical text that describes and explains directorial choices that position audiences to respond in particular ways. For example, how does the director represent ‘good’ and ‘evil’?

            Year 8 – To Infinity and Beyond

            In this unit, students will explore speculative fiction and one of the sub-genres it encompasses. Students will engage with a range of texts including short stories, novel extracts, film and television extracts. They will develop their understanding of how texts are influenced by context, purpose and audience. Students will consider the value of the speculative fiction genre within the real-world context by using informative texts, technical and content information from various sources about specialised topics. Students will create a persuasive video blog that persuades readers to share their perspective on the relevance of speculative fiction to contemporary audiences.

            Year 9 – An Inconvenient Truth

            In this unit, students will view and analyse a variety of documentary films (extracts and in full) including those that put forward different perspectives on a number of issues. They analyse the text structures (visual and auditory) and language devices used in each film to  create particular effects  and meaning; developing their understanding of how texts are influenced by context, purpose and audience. Students will evaluate  the effectiveness or potential harm of a particular  film  in making a comment on a social issue.   

            Year 10 Foundation English – Representations of Issues

            In this unit student will explore a range of written and visual texts on a particular issue/concept. They will identify and explain how the texts use language features and text structures to create representations. Students will evaluate other interpretations of texts, analysing the evidence used to support them. They will listen  for ways features within texts can be manipulated to achieve particular effects. Students will explore the cultural assumptions/ values/ attitudes/ beliefs presented in the texts. They will complete a short response exam where they will respond to one seen written text and one unseen visual text.

            Year 10 General English – Good Reads

            In this unit, students will complete an in-depth study of a play, short story or novel. Students will read and analyse the text, examining how the characters are developed and shaped by the attitudes, values and beliefs of the culture or society in which they live. They will consider the text structures and language features as tools for making meaning. Students will respond to a seen question/statement in an analytical essay, under exam conditions.

            Year 10 Extension English – Ideas Worth Spreading

            In this unit, students will explore and understand the purpose of a TED Talk as a contemporary contributor to the development of culture and social values. They will view and deconstruct a variety of TED Talks that range in content, purpose and delivery. Students will consider how TED Talks are constructed to impact on their audience, and their ability to inform, persuade and entertain. They will explore and develop presentation skills that will enhance the delivery of their own TED Talk. Students will nominate and then investigate topics that are suitable for the ‘Youth Speak – TEDx event'. They will plan, write, rehearse and present their TED Talk either live or digitally. 

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            Year 7 Humanities – Ancient Egypt

            Year 7 are being historical detectives and investigating the death of Tutankhamun. They will be examining sources and medical reports to piece together evidence that supports their hypothesis. Was it murder? An accident? A medical condition?... A hippo? The Year 7's are working to solve a 3000-year-old mystery!

            Year 8 – Landforms and Landscapes

            ‘Landforms and landscapes’ focuses on investigating geomorphology through a study of landscapes and their landforms. This unit examines the processes that shape individual landforms, the values and meanings placed on landforms and landscapes by diverse cultures, hazards associated with landscapes and management of landscapes. ‘Landforms and landscapes’ develops students’ understanding of the concept of environment and enables them to explore the significance of landscapes to people, including Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. These distinctive aspects of landforms and landscapes are investigated using studies drawn from Australia and throughout the world.

            Year 9 – Biomes and Food Security

            ‘Biomes and food security’ focuses on investigating the role of the biotic environment and its role in food and fibre production. This unit examines the biomes of the world, their alteration and significance as a source of food and fibre and the environmental challenges and constraints on expanding food production in the future. These distinctive aspects of biomes, food production and food security are investigated using studies drawn from Australia and across the world.

            Year 10 History – Australian Migration: 1945-Present 

            In this unit, students examine the impact of changing government policies on Australia’s migration patterns; from the abolition of the White Australia Policy, to the need to ‘Populate or Perish’ post WWII, and the arrival of refugees in the wake of the Vietnam War. Students will evaluate the contribution of migration to Australia’s changing identity as a nation, and to it's international relationships. Through the study of the unit, students will come to understand the context of Australia’s multiculturalism and appreciate the benefits of living in a culturally inclusive society. 

            Year 10 Legal Studies – Evidence and Forensics

            This unit aims to introduce students to Forensic Science and its use as a reliable source of evidence in both criminal and civil cases. An examination of a number of areas such as trace evidence, handwriting, DNA analysis and fingerprinting will develop student understanding of these areas and their usefulness in Law enforcement. Students will also examine a number of cases where the reliability of forensic evidence had a major impact on the outcome of the case and present their findings in an inquiry report.

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            The Japanese students in Year 7 and 8 have had a very industrious (isogashii) and creative Term 3. The Japanese learners have created role-plays which have been entered into the Japan Foundation’s Video Matsuri (festival). Mr Sogathur has edited the films by using green screen technology. We wish the students well in this engaging competition and we also commend them on their teamwork, commitment and resourcefulness to include the furoshiki signature item in the preparation for their performances while they were filmed after school.

            Additionally, the Japanese students have been engaging with our sister school in Japan. On October 5th, we were online via Skype connecting with staff and students at another school, Fuzoku which is an associated Junior High School of a University due to our first school, Sammu Boyou’s teacher being on maternity leave. Recently, we were very pleasantly surprised to receive a parcel in the post from our sister school. It is a strong part of Japanese culture to show gratitude and appreciation in the form of gifts, and often hand-made gifts. Our students received paper, maps and souvenirs including a local mascot called Chiba-kun. This suffix ‘kun’ is a term of endearment in Japan and our students are looking forward to taking Chiba-kun on excursions. The upcoming Tea Ceremony at Nerima Gardens on the 14th October will be Chiba-kun’s first outing with the Year 7 students in Australia.

            During the last week in Term 3, Year 7 created their Cherry Blossom and Jacaranda Tree collages which were made out of wool and tissue paper. They celebrated the end of term by also writing haiku poems and planting trees and shrubs for our school.

            We congratulate Nathan, Ella and AJ for their Credits awards in the 2022 Languages Competitions Education Perfect which was held online from the 10th to the 12th August.

            Thank you to Ms Wellwood for her contribution to this article.

            We are really excited for the Term ahead and wish your child the best in their academic pursuits.

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            Ms Jasmine Diesing

            Head Of Department - English | Humanities | Languages

            jbunt18@eq.edu.au

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            Welcome to Term 4! It is a great time to celebrate all the wonderful achievements throughout the year. Our students have had such great success in the Creative Industries department learning new skills and knowledge along the way, from cooking, drawing, wearable art, stop animation, advance manufacturing techniques, furnishing skills and many more.
            On Friday the 4th of November you will have an opportunity to see all the wonderful creations in the School Creative Showcase, alongside the Performing Arts Department. 

            Competition time:

            Competition.JPGMaha Sinnathamby Ideas & Imagination Award
            The question: Tell us what the future of Springfield will look like.

            The Challenge 

            Tell us what Springfield will look like in the future. Focus your answer on a theme.

            The Context

            Greater Springfield is master planned with Education, Health and Technology as central pillars. Greater Springfield wants to ensure the future of city-living is sustainable and healthy, allowing residents to live, work, rest and play.

            The Why

            Maha Sinnathamby AM, Chairman of Springfield City Group, created the competition to encourage students from the area to voice their ideas and dreams for the city they call home.

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            Timeline 

            Stage 1:  Submit your idea by Friday the 21st October. Remember, no idea is too small or too big

            Stage 2: Feel proud of yourself for using your entrepreneurial skills.

            Stage 3: Present your idea. Short listed entries will be invited to present their idea to judges at Springfield City Group on Friday the 28th October 2022. Click here for pitch template.

            Stage 4: Winners announced for Primary and High School on the presentation day.

            High School Winner: $500 gift card, Trophy and Certificate

            For more information please check the website: https://mahasinnathamby.com/ideas-and-imagination-award/

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            Lorinda Stiles

            HoD Creative Industries
            lstil21@eqeduu.au

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            7 Dance

            Grade 7 Dance have been busy learning technical and expressive skills for their upcoming performance task! They have shown perseverance in the dance room to continue improving their performance, as well as building confidence to perform in front of their peers.  From Week 3, they will move into their final unit, choreography, were students will create their own popular dance performance collaboratively in small groups.

            9 Dance

            Grade 9 Dance are coming to the conclusion of their theory unit! They have been learning about the Elements of Dance and analysed a performance of Revolting children from the Musical ‘Matilda’ through the lens of a blog review writer. From Week 3, they will move into their final unit, choreography, were students will create their own musical theatre performance collaboratively in small groups.

            8 Drama

            Year 8 Drama students are excited to be sitting in the Director’s chair this Term! Students will make choices about how actors speak, move and interact to best depict roles, relationships, situations and tension in the Indigenous Australian play, “Honey Spot”. To provide a holistic view of what it means to create dramatic work, students will also make decisions about the props, set design and costumes used within an effective production. They will use identification and evaluation to consider how improvements and alterations could be made to present the most engaging piece of dramatic action. With workshops involving directorial skills, script annotations and design components, we can’t wait to see the students’ creativity concepts come to life!

             

            Drama Troupe 

            With Showcase fast approaching, Drama Troupe students have been working hard to refine and polish their performance. This wonderfully dedicated ensemble attended a rehearsal on the school holidays to plan costuming, organise props and rehearse voice and movement skills to bring our story to life. To whet your appetite, here is an image of our magical sound machine! How do empty jars make sound? How will it be a part of the performance at Showcase? You’ll have to come to see!  

             

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            Year 9 Drama

            Year 9 Drama students are exercising their quick thinking skills as they enter the improvised world of Commedia Dell’Arte. Larger than life characters, a bit of comedic slap-stick and some witty one-liners come together in this style that is created off the top of students’ heads with minimal planning time. While their quick-thinking and creativity may be challenged, this unit is sure to have students’ looking at contemporary comedies through a different lens. With both practical and theoretical assessment this term, students will explore this heritage style that still underpins many comedic works today.

             

            Year 10 Drama

            Year 10 Drama students have just completed their Epic Theatre unit, examining how theatre can be a tool for social and political comment. Shortly, they will journey into the world of Australian Gothic Theatre where ghostly, dark and cryptic stories abound. This unique style of theatre marries realistic elements with the supernatural and students will be delighted to play in a realm of magic and intrigue. The assessment task this Term has students finding gaps within a published Australian Gothic play, before creating their own ‘hidden’ scene that adds to the narrative and dramatic meaning of the piece. This is sure to be an invigorating unit to set student creativity alight in preparation for senior Drama and Drama in Practice next year!

            10 Music

            Our year 10 music students have their very first performance afternoon on Thursday the 7th October. We wish them the best of luck! 

            Showcase!

            Our annual Showcase performance evening is quickly approaching. We can't wait to share our hard work with you on Friday 4th November 2022. Doors open at 5.30pm for a 6pm start. Tickets will be on sale from the Student Services office from Monday the 10th October. Make sure you come along to view work from students across the Arts subjects. 

            If you have a child involved in our Showcase then please see the important dates below and add them to your diary. These dates, as well as permission forms and costume lists were sent home in Term 3. Please ensure the permission form is completed ASAP. 

            • Week 4 Thursday 27th October Tech run 3 – 5pm Hall
            • Week 4 Saturday 29th October Showcase rehearsal 8am – 12pm Hall
            • Week 5 Thursday 3rd November EXTRA rehearsal if needed 3pm – 5pm Hall
            • Week 5 Friday 4th November 8.45am – 2.45pm Dress rehearsal Hall
            • Week 5 Friday 4th November SHOWCASE!! 6pm doors open at 5.30pm Hall

            Creative Generation 2023

            This year we had 5 students participate in the State Schools on Stage Creative Generation performance. It was an awesome experience for the students who were involved in the Dance sections. If your child is interested in being a part of Dance, Drama or Music for the 2023 CGen show then stay tuned as we will have information regarding the nomination process available by the middle of Term 4. 

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            Jessica Starkey

            HOD - Performing Arts

            jxsta12@eq.edu.au

            Welcome back to Term 4 to all our RVSSC community members. We hope everyone had a wonderful and relaxing break and time was spent with loved ones. For HPE this Term, our students will be engaged in the following learning experiences:

            Year 7 HPE students will begin to look at Food & Nutrition during theory and AFL in Prac. Throughout the Food & Nutrition unit, students will investigate the importance of good nutrition options in a sustainable school tuckshop. 

            Year 8 HPE students will begin to look at Fitness Techniques during theory and Fitness Testing during Prac. Throughout the Fitness Techniques unit, students will investigate fitness strategies that develop health-related fitness components, in order to create and monitor personal fitness plans. They will design and monitor a personal fitness plan. During prac, they will perform physical activities that improve health related components of fitness and analysing how the components are developed through these activities.

            Year 9 HPE students will undergo units in Health Detriments for Theory and Oz Tag or Netball for Prac. 

            Year 10 Sport and Rec Students will be engaged in learning experiences to develop their understanding and skills in Orienteering. They will be required to demonstrate and refine there Orienteering skills in a range of physical activity contexts throughout the term.

            We look forward to another exciting and busy Term and wish all of our students every success in reaching their goals.

            If you have any questions regarding what is happening within your child's HPE class, please make contact with their Teacher:

            Year 7 HPE Curriculum Co-ordinator: Mr. Ben Sharma (bkshak0@eq.edu.au) & Miss. Christie McKendry (clmck1@eq.edu.au

            Year 8 HPE Curriculum Co-ordinator: Mrs. Keesha Nugent (klnug1@eq.edu.au)

            Year 9 HPE Curriculum Co-ordinator: Mr. Justin Clifford (jclif117@eq.edu.au

            Year 9 HSE Curriculum Co-ordinator: Mr. James Dunn (jdunn232@eq.edu.au)

            Year 10 Sport and Rec Curriculum Co-ordinator: Mr. James Dunn (jdunn232@eq.edu.au)

            Year 10 Health Curriculum Co-ordinator: Miss. Christie McKendry (clmck1@eq.edu.au

            Yours in sport,

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            James Dunn

            HOD – Health and Physical Education

            jdunn232@eq.edu.au 

            Welcome back Sports Fans, 

            Things are starting to quiet down this time of year with sport as we prepare for next year. This Term we will be running a number of lunch time sport events across a variety of sports. Ensure students are keeping an eye on Daymap for any information about lunch time sport competitions that will run this Term. 

            RAD is continuing this Term on Wednesday afternoons (3pm - 4pm) and Friday mornings (7:15am - 8am). This Term students are working with Ms Kara Hansen and myself in whole body weight training exercises in the gym. The goal of this program is creating lifelong students of physical activity and therefore all are welcome regardless of skill or experience. Whether it be for social purposes or you just want to get fit, come along to our fitness sessions. 

            As always, any questions related to sport please contact the sports coordinator Mr Justin Clifford (jclif117@eq.edu.au)

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            Justin Clifford

            Sports Co-ordination

              GPs in Schools Pilot program

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              Helping students access the health care they need 

              Ripley Valley State Secondary College was selected to participate in the GPs in Schools Pilot.  The Pilot is part of the Queensland Government's Student Well-being Package, an initiative which makes it easier for all Ripley Valley SSC students and students in Year 6 at Ripley Valley SS to access the healthcare they need.

              The Pilot has allowed our school to set up a fit-for-purpose GP clinic in our community hub which already houses a community midwife clinic.  This clinic provides students with access to a GP each Friday during the school terms.  

              How to book an appointment:

              Parents/Guardians and Students are able to book an appointment with the School GP via email, phone or in person.

              Email: GPbookings@ripleyvalleySSC.com.au;

              Phone: 3819 5321

              In person (students only): Visit Mrs Pratt the Administrative Co-ordinator in Student Support Services (J Block).

              If you are a first-time user of the clinic, please register you (student) or your child’s details using this link:

              https://urgentcarebne.snapforms.com.au/form/student-registration-form---ripley-school-

              Completion of this form via the link registers Medicare details only. Please book appointment via phone, email or in person as per above.

              What services will the GP provide?

              Our school GP clinic will offer secondary students the majority of services that young people are able to access from GPs in the community, including management of physical health, mental health, and sexual and reproductive health issues.   The school GP clinic is not a vaccination centre.

              Will there be a cost for students to see the GP?

              All visits to the 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 students bring their Medicare card (or their Medicare number) with them to their appointment.

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              Ripley Valley State Secondary College has been short listed for the QMHW Achievement Awards – Schools Award (Primary and Secondary).  The winner will be announced at the Awards Breakfast Ceremony on Friday the 14th October at The Greek Club, South Brisbane.

              https://www.openminds.org.au/achievement-awards

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              ABOUT QMHW

              Queensland Mental Health Week (QMHW) is an annual awareness initiative that promotes individual and community mental health and wellbeing, boosts awareness of mental illness, and celebrates the contribution of the mental health and community sectors.

              Each year, people across Queensland come together during QMHW through hundreds of local events, conversations and activities.

              QMHW takes place in the week of World Mental Health Day on Monday the 10th October. In 2022, the week will be celebrated from Monday 10th October to Sunday 16th October.

              WHAT IS MENTAL HEALTH

              Mental Health is a key component of overall health and wellbeing. We all have mental health!

              How you think, feel, and act in order to face life’s situations…

              For example, how you handle stress.

              How you look at yourself, your life and the people in your life…

              For example, how you relate to others.

              How you evaluate your options and make choices…

              For example, how you make decisions.

              WHAT CAN I DO TO HELP MENTAL HEALTH AND WELLBEING?

              The Queensland Government’s Dear Mind campaign encourages Queenslanders to practise simple, everyday mental wellbeing activities from the Six Building Blocks of Mental Wellbeing. You can create a healthier relationship with your mind by doing activities to Get Healthy, Connect More, Keep Learning, Show Kindness, Take Notice and Embrace Nature.

              For more information on mental wellbeing, as well as activity ideas and inspiration visit qld.gov.au/mental wellbeing.

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              SUPPORT SERVICES

              If you or someone you know needs support, there are a number of services available. If your situation is life-threatening, call Triple 000 immediately for help.

              Lifeline - 13 11 14 | lifeline.org.au

              Suicide Call Back Service - 1300 659 467 |

              suicidecallbackservice.org.au

              SANE Australia - 1800 18 7263 | sane.org

              Beyond Blue - 1300 22 4636 | beyondblue.org.au

              Kids Help Line - 1800 55 1800 | kidshelpline.com.au

              ADIS (alcohol and drug support) - 1800 177 833

              Queensland Health - 13 HEALTH (13 43 25 84)

              Carers Queensland - 07 3900 8100 | carersqld.com.au

              At Ripley Valley State Secondary College we will hold the following events to celebrate QMHW:

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              Janet Ingram

              Guidance Officer

              studentservices@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au 

              Welcome back to term 4, arguably the busiest and quickest term of the school year. 

              The Defence School Mentor Program has an action-packed term lined up as we head towards the end of the year, and yes…Christmas!

              DEFENCE PEER MENTOR EXPRESSIONS OF INTEREST (EOI)

              EOI's will be sent out this week for the Ripley Valley SSC Peer Mentor program for 2023.  This year, a Defence Peer Mentor was added to the program.  This was an initiative from our current Year 10 Defence Peer Mentor (DPM) Jackson Sheen.  The DPM is a Defence student who offers peer support to our Defence students who experience the unique challenges they face, specifically in the areas of extended parental absences and regularly moving schools due to the military commitments of their parents. The DPM is supported by the Defence school Mentor (DSM). 

              The Peer Mentor program not only benefits students needing support, but also the mentors themselves.  Skills acquired through the program in the areas of support and communication will be carried into the mentor’s adult lives and future careers.

              The ability to help others using their own experiences will enhance their own self-confidence, empathy and overall wellbeing.

              For further information on the Defence Peer Mentor (DPM) role, please feel free to contact me

              DEFENCE STUDENTS 2022 PHOTOGRAPH

              In 2020, our Defence student body numbered twenty Year 7 and 8 students.  This year the number is sixty- three students of full-time serving families (plus additional students from families transitioning from Military service), with that number expected to rise next year as students from local feeder schools, and those posting in from other bases and camps, join our school.

              As many students move from school to school, I feel it is important for them to feel like their time at a school is important. Even if it was for a short period of time, their time at RVSSC was important and that they were valued members of the school.   

              For that reason, this Term I will be endeavouring to take a Defence Student Body photograph.  The photo will be available to all Defence students who would like one and will be a nice keepsake in times to come.

              OTHER TERM 4 EVENTS

              • Wellbeing Expo: held in Week 2, the Wellbeing Expo will showcase extra support avenues available to our students including DMFS, Kookaburra Kids and Open Arms
              • Remembrance Day Commemoration: 7 November 2022
              • Christmas Coffee & Chat for Defence Parents: Week 5
              • Amberley, our Defence Mascot, will be heading out to the RAAF Base Amberley for some work experience
              • Posting out parties: Farewells for our ADF students who will be leaving us this year.

              SUPPORT

              As always, if anyone is looking for support, please contact me via email or phone, so that we can work together to find the right help for you.

              I look forward to assisting you with any support needs this term.

              Defence School Mentor

              For more information on the Defence School Mentor Program at RVSSC, please contact Tracey Cooper at tcoop203@eq.edu.au or call 3819 5333

              DMFS SUPPORT

              For more information on the Defence School Mentor Program you can head to:

              https://defence.gov.au/members-families/Family/kids/education.asp

              To contact the Defence School Mentor:

              Wednesday and Friday 0800 - 1400hrs

              Email: tcoop203@eq.edu.au

              Phone : 0436 944 525

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              Tracey Cooper

              Defence School Mentor

              Ripley Valley State Secondary College

              Defence Member and Family Support
              Defence Member and Family Helpline 1800 624 608

              Chaplain News

              Welcome back to the final Term of 2022. I hope you are well rested and ready for the final Term for 2022.

              Breakfast Club

              Breakfast Club will start up again in Week 3. It will operate on Tuesday's & Wednesday's. If you would like to volunteer for this, please contact me.

              Love Bites

              Love Bites is still running this Term. We are currently half way through the program and we have learnt more about healthy relationships. I do want to thank our Adopt a Cop, Constable Andrew Goulding for coming in yesterday and teaching the students around this topic.

              Rock & Water

              We are already 2 weeks into our Rock & Water program. The students have learnt more about their emotions and the impact it can have on our bodies. They have learnt as well the importance of standing up for what they believe in, in a kind way but also times where they can adjust and adapt.

              Peer Mentor Program 2023

              Peer Mentor Applications are open for Year 9 & 10 Students for 2023. If your child wants to become a Peer Mentor in 2023, please encourage them to look at the link on Daymap and apply. Applications are due on Friday the 21st of October.

              Spiritual Support

              One of my roles as Chaplain is to provide spiritual support. One of the ways I do this is to connect students to a local youth group. If you feel as a parent that this is something your child needs, please contact me and I will find local youth groups that are around where you reside.

               

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              Kristian Atkins
              Chaplain

              Term 4

              Thursday 13 October

              Mental Health Week Expo and USQ Live Broadcast

              First Break - Senior Area all students welcome

              Friday 14 October

              Fuse Cup Excursion - Year 9 and 10 Super Smash Bros

              Wednesday 19 October

              Awards Evening - 6:30pm RaptorDome

              Thursday 20 October 

              P&C Meeting - 7:00pm Community Hub

              Thursday 27 October

              Year 7 Immunisations Community Hub

              Tuesday 1 November

              School Tour - 3:30pm

              Enrolment Information Session - 5:00pm RaptorDome

              Friday 4 November

              Creative Industries Showcase - 5:30pm RaptorDome

              Monday 7 November

              College Remembrance Day Service - 8:45am RaptorDome

              Friday 11 November

              Remembrance Day Students and Staff will observe one minute's silence at 11:00am

              Tuesday 15 November

              Staff Retreat Day 1 - new teachers in 2023 will be at the College

              Thursday 17 November

              Enrolment Information Sessions - 3:30pm and 5:00pm RaptorDome

              P&C Meeting - 7:00pm Community Hub

              Monday 21 - Thursday 24 November

              Year 10 Exam Block

              Friday 25 November

              Year 10 Rewards Day

              Year 10 Final Day for 2022

              Monday 28 November - Thursday 1 December

              Year 8 & 9 Camp

              Tuesday 29 November

              Staff Retreat Day 2 - new teachers in 2023 will be at the College

              Enrolment Information Sessions - 3:30pm and 5:00pm RaptorDome

              Friday 2 December

              Year 7 2023 Orientation Day

              Semester 2 Reports issued

              Monday 5 and Tuesday 6 December

              Peer Skills Training for selected students

              Wednesday 7 - Friday 9 December

              Alternate Program for Years 7-9 Students

              Friday 9 December

              Last Day for 2022 - Years 7-9

              Uniform Shop Hours

              Monday  8.00am to 10.30am

              Tuesday 2.30pm to 5.00pm

              Thursday 2.30pm to 5.00pm      

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              SAFE AND RESPECTFUL SCHOOL COMMUNITIES 
              Your child, our student. One team.
               

              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.

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