Dear Parents/Carers, 

It is hard to believe that we are now almost at the end of Term 1 and for many of our new staff and students it seemed like just yesterday we were welcoming them into our college.   I trust that the school year has started well for you and your family and I hope you can enjoy a well-deserved break over the upcoming Easter holiday period.

This year our college is undertaking a review of our whole school strategic plan and as part of this process students, parents, staff and the broader community have been invited to participate in a number of feedback surveys.  These surveys are available through our Facebook page and will remain open until the end of March when we will start to compile these responses to identify key trends, patterns and plans for our school's future direction.  In conjunction with these surveys, we are also hosting a school review team from the 16 - 18th April (Week 1, Term 2) to talk to as many staff, students, parent and community members as possible to provide additional feedback as to what we are doing well, what we can do better and where we want to be in the next 4 years.  All this information will be gathered to provide our draft College Strategic Plan which will be developed in Term 3 for endorsement and enactment from 2025 - 2029.  If you would like further information on this process or to be involved in the school review process from the 16-18th April please contact the college at principal@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

To celebrate our 5th year of operation and the opening of our new Performing Arts Centre (PAC) staff, students, businesses and community members are invited to purchase a historic school paver.  These paver's will be installed near the foyer of the PAC and orders close on the 14th April.

To secure your paver please read the details provided below or via our Facebook page.  Orders can be placed via the link https://ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au/calendar-and-news/news/celebrating-our-5-th-year-anniversary

For any questions or further information, please contact administration@ripleyvalleyssc.ed.edu.au or 3819 5333.

Yours Sincerely,  

Brendan Krueger

Foundation Principal

5th_Year_Anniversary_Fundraiser_Invitation.pdf

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Congratulations to our year 11 and 12 students on their recent assessment items. Year 11 students will have recently completed their first items of assessment for their senior courses, while year 12 students will have recently completed one of their final pieces of assessment for Unit 3 and 4. While tasks are still being graded and results finalised, I continue to encourage students to look for areas of improvement regardless of their result so that they are achieving their best throughout the year. 

Access Arrangements and Reasonable Adjustments

During the senior phase of learning (years 10 - 12) Ripley Valley SSC and QCAA recognise that some students may have a disability, impairment and/or medical conditions or experience other circumstances that may affect their ability to read, respond to and participate in assessment. Access arrangements and reasonable adjustments (AARA) are designed to assist these students.

These barriers fall into broad categories:

• Long-term and chronic conditions
• Mental health conditions, such as anxiety and depression
• Short-term conditions and temporary injuries
• Illness and misadventure.

The graphic below provides information on what conditions or circumstances are considered for an AARA. 

If you believe that your child/ren require an AARA within the senior phase of learning (year 10-12) and have not yet communicated with our AARA team, please email the AARA team (AARA@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au) who will provide relevant information and documentation to support the process. 

QCE review date claimer

At the end of the first unit of year 11 students will be required to participate in a QCE review and parents are encouraged to attend. During this process students and parents will meet with a member of the College’s Leadership team to discuss their progress and their intended pathway. These review meetings will occur in week 9 of term 2 with more information provided during term 2.

Todd Robson

Deputy Principal - Year 11 & Year 12 - Pathways & Partnerships 

trobs20@eq.edu.au

We are fast approaching the end of Term, and with this comes a lot of closure of content and multiple means of assessment due. Luckily, there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Recently, we have had a change of Excellence Academy Coordinators in some specific Excellence Academies. I would like to welcome Mrs Ana Constable (Ignite) and Miss Damika Doorley (Dance) to the team officially. They have been a part of the team for a long while now, however, have officially been awarded the title. In saying this, I would love to extend my upmost thanks towards Mrs Jessica Starkey (HoD Performing Arts) and Mr Tim Barclay (no longer with us) for their hard work and dedication to the start of their academies. Without those two, the academies would definitely not be in the way they are today.

Excellence Academy Trial Days:

In Term 1, 2 and 3, the College hosts 'Excellence Academy Trial Days' which sees students new and existing who are interested in applying for one of the College's successful Excellence Academies. The following Excellence Academy Trial Days are as follows:

- Trial 1 - Friday 22nd March (Week 9, Term 1)

- Trial 2 - Friday 7th June (Week 8, Term 2)

- Trial 3 - Friday 6th September (Week, 9, Term 3)

Students who are interesting in applying to participate in one of the Excellence Academies can do so via the link below:

https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/596 

This will close Friday 15th March at 7:00am. All applicants who apply after this date will be moved to Term 2.

Year 9 PPP:

As a part of Ripley Valley State Secondary College's commitment to student success, all Year 9 students and their parent/carer will participate in a Pathway Preparation Plan (PPP) meeting. This meeting is a critical aspect of the transition into the Senior Phase of Learning. The Pathway Plan is finalised at a compulsory interview held with a member of the College's Leadership Team. At the interview Year 9 students and their parent/carer will have the opportunity to discuss future pathways, study options and career goals for your child's future education.

All previous presentations, materials and resources can be found on our College website by clicking the link below. The PPP Meetings will be held on Wednesday 24th July (Week 3, Term 3).

Senior Secondary Information Night https://ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au/curriculum/senior-secondary

Dance Academy:

Our Dance Academy students recently represented the school at the RVSSC Open day! Students completed an intense technical session, practicing existing skills and challenging themselves with new ones. It was great to see many of our community viewing this rehearsal and we hope to see you at our upcoming trial day on the 22nd of March! If you have any questions about trialing for the 2025 Dance Academy, please contact Miss Doorley at ddoor4@eq.edu.au.

eSport Academy:

Years 7 & 8 Rocket League FUSE Cup Competition 

We're thrilled to announce the remarkable success of our Esport Academy at the Ipswich FUSE Cup competition! With sheer determination and skill, our talented gamers have achieved outstanding results, securing both first and second place. Congratulations to Preston and Hunter for their triumphant first-place finish, showcasing exceptional teamwork and strategy. Their victory is a testament to their dedication and hard work, and we couldn't be prouder of their accomplishments. Additionally, a round of applause to Nathan and Benjamin for their stellar performance, clinching the runner-up position. Their skillful gameplay and sportsmanship have earned them well-deserved recognition, and we're excited to see their continued growth in the esports arena. 

The success of our Esport Academy is a testament to the collective effort and passion of our entire community. Each participant, coach, and supporter has played a vital role in our journey to victory. As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, let's also look forward to the exciting opportunities that lie ahead. With the State finals on the horizon, our champions and runners-up are gearing up to represent our academy with pride and determination. Together, let's continue to push boundaries, break barriers, and write the next chapter of our esports journey. Congratulations once again to all our participants, and thank you for your dedication, perseverance, and unwavering support. 

Years 9 & 10 Rocket League FUSE Cup Competition 

In an intense display of skill and determination, Hunter and Preston soared to victory in the senior division of Rocket League. Their synergy on the virtual field was unmatched, securing them the championship title in a thrilling finale. Meanwhile, Nathan and Luccas showcased exceptional talent, battling their way to the semi-finals with grit and determination. Congratulations to all players for their outstanding performances in a fiercely competitive tournament!  

eSport Community Open Day:

Our recent Community Open Day was an incredible success, as we proudly showcased our state-of-the-art Esport Room and program to enthusiastic visitors. The event was met with an overwhelming wave of positive feedback, with many expressing keen interest and making enquiries about joining our program. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to all involved in making the day a resounding triumph – from our dedicated staff and coaches to the supportive community members who attended. Your enthusiasm and support fuel our mission to cultivate talent, foster growth, and build a vibrant esports community. Here's to many more exciting opportunities ahead as we continue to inspire and empower through esports!

Football Academy:

Competition Results:

	Competitions	Team	Home Team	Home Score	Away Score	Away Team	Player of the Match
Round 1	#ALWAYSVETO Futsal Knockout	U14 Boys	RVSSC	22	0	Bremer	Austen
		U14 Girls	RVSSC	4	1	Bremer	Sienna
Round 2	QFSL	Junior Girls	RVSSC	15	0	Loganlea	Eva
		Junior Boys	RVSSC	4	3	Loganlea	Karthik
		Intermediate Boys	RVSSC	2	2	Loganlea	Allen
		Senior Girls	RVSSC	7	0	Loganlea	Cherie
		Senior Boys	RVSSC	3	7	Loganlea	Harrison

SFL:

The SFL U16 Gala Day 2 approaches us quite quickly. Thursday 14th March see's us go against the following schools in the respective competitions:  

• Game 1: Lowood SHS 
• Game 2: Brigidine College (Girls), Redbank Plains SHS (Boys) 
• Game 3: Bremer SHS 

Good luck to our teams who are representing the College on this day.

Football Academy Community Open Day:

We received lots of positive feedback from future students, parents and carers who were involved in the school tours on Saturday 2nd March during our Community Open Day. We had roughly 35x Academy students involved in a training session which showcased the ability of our students, but most importantly gave a real-life view of what happens within the Football Academy Training Sessions. Once again, a huge thank you to the students were involved.

Team of the Week (TOTW):

Congratulations to the following students for their TOTW selection against Varsity College!

Ignite Academy:

Ignite invites you to visit us at the World Science Festival Brisbane!  

As part of the City of Science event, Ignite will be hosting an activity tent in the Cultural Precinct at South Bank. We will be exploring waterway health and meeting some of the macroinvertebrates living within Ipswich and Brisbane waterways. There are loads of other exciting things happening during the World Science Festival, too, so we hope to see you there! 

Dates: Saturday 23 March, Sunday 24 March  

Time: 8:30am-4pm  

Location: Top of the Rainforest Green, opposite South Bank Piazza 

World Science Festival - Brisbane https://www.worldsciencefestival.com.au/2024-event-program?gad_source=1&gclid=EAIaIQobChMI-s25qbDthAMVhaNmAh3GDgtTEAAYASAAEgKZ_fD_BwE

Head of Department - Junior Secondary - Year 7A to 7E

jdunn232@eq.edu.au

2024 Student Resource Scheme (SRS)

Thank you to all families that have already made payments or set up payment plans. If you have elected to pay in instalments, the first payment date was due Friday 16th February.  The remaining 2 payment due dates are:

• 2nd instalment due Friday 10th May 
• 3rd instalment due Friday 9th August

Statements will be emailed at the end of this week, please note that if you have already made a payment or set up a payment plan through direct debit or Centrepay these statements are for your information only.  Statements will be sent again prior to the instalment due dates.

Any missed payments will be followed up in the coming weeks.

Following are the SRS parent information letters for each year level which outline the inclusions and cost of the 2024 SRS.

Year_7_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

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Year_8_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

Year_8_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information _pdf 463.89 KB

Year_9_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

Year_9_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information _pdf 773.40 KB

Year_10_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

Year_10_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information _pdf 759.71 KB

Year_11_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

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Year_12_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information.pdf

Year_12_2024_Student_Resource_Scheme_SRS_Parent_Information _pdf 648.80 KB

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.

Phone payments using Credit/Debit card – Call 1300 631 073 Option 2. You will need your Customer Reference Number (CRN) and Invoice Number from the bottom left corner of your invoice.

In person at the office– The payment window will be open for EFTPOS, cash or cheque payments Monday to Friday 8am – 12pm (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 paymentplan@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au with the date you want the payments to start and how often you would like the payments made e.g., weekly ($27.00 over 25 weeks) or fortnightly ($56.25 over 12 fortnights).

Centrepay Deduction - Payment by Centrepay deduction can also be arranged through Administration.

Michelle Mills

Business Manager

School Laptop Expectations - Being prepared for learning

We are seeing an increased number of students coming to school with laptops that have not been charged. Please ensure you have a system at home to help remind your child to put their laptops on charge each night so that they are prepared for learning each day.

Chargers are NOT allowed at school as they are a safety hazard. Student laptop batteries are made to last all day - and if they are not lasting a school day, they need to visit Tech Support.

Students are also required to bring their laptop case to school each day, and have the Ripley Valley sticker on their laptops at all times as it provides extra protection for their device. Cases are $35 to replace, and stickers are $10 to replace. If you have any questions please email:

tech@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au 

Todd Robson

Deputy Principal - Year 11 & Year 12 - Pathways & Partnerships 

trobs20@eq.edu.au

I would like to commend our students for their effort in the lessons and assessments for this term. Majority of our classes have already completed the assessment and the remaining classes will be completing it by early week 9. I also want acknowledge the work of maths staff in preparing our students and now finalising their results for term 1 report cards. 

Students in year 12 have now completed their IA1 for all subjects and teachers will be sharing results and providing feedback to students after our internal moderation process. Year 12 students in maths methods and general maths will have their IA2 (unit 3 exam) during week 10. We wish students all the best for this exam. 

Some general notices:

• All students MUST bring a scientific calculator to class every lesson and will require this for the exam.
• Mathematics tutoring is on every Tuesday (1st break) and Thursday (2nd break) in C01. All students are encouraged and welcome to attend.  

I wish you all a restful and enjoyable Easter break with your families!

Haranoop Singh Goraya

Acting Head of Department - Mathematics - Year 10A to 10D

hsgor0@eq.edu.au 

Ellen Grant

Head of Department - Science - Year 9F to 9I 

egran55@eq.edu.au

As we bid farewell to an enriching Term 1, it’s time to reflect on the incredible journey students have had exploring the realms of History, Geography, Business and Economics. From thought provoking discussions to creative expressions of shared human experiences, Humanities at Ripley Valley State Secondary College has been a tapestry of learning, growth and connection.

Students have embarked on explorations that have taken them beyond the pages of textbooks: from studying ancient civilisations to understanding the impact of global events, classes have been a bridge that connects humans throughout time to contemporary society. These classes have broadened horizons, and encouraged students to critically think about their place in the world today.  

Here are three of many highlights from this term:

Year 9 students in Miss Mallet’s took the opportunity to ‘flip the classroom’ and become teachers themselves. While the teacher took a seat alongside the students, each member of the class became experts on the different migrant groups that came to Australis during the 19^th century. Students worked in small groups and investigated the living and working conditions of these groups, before coming back to the class and presenting their expert findings. Each groups taught the rest of the class, and prepared a quiz to check for understanding.

     

Year 11 Ancient History students explored an archaeology unit this term, and at one stage learned about ‘Bog Bodies’ in Europe (well-preserved remains that can be up to 2,000 years old). Recently, they examined the case of Lindow Man, a famous bog body found near London in the 1980s. Students used evidence from Lindow Man’s remains, and items found with him to determine his cause of death. They worked in groups to argue in a mock-trial whether Lindow Man died as a result of an accident, murder or ritual sacrifice. Students used historical evidence to support their theories and present them to ‘court’. Some students used precedent to prove their case, another group utilised a dramatic re-enactment of Lindow Man’s final moments. It was finally concluded, by using the evidence at hand, that Lindow Man died as a result of ritual sacrifice, possibly to ask the Celtic gods to protect the people of England from an imminent Roman attack. This classroom activity had students working together, exploring historical evidence and then proving a theory by using that historical evidence. 

  

Archaeology Club continues to thrive, with more members this year, engaging in activities at lunch time that help them learn the same techniques that archaeologists use to delve into the mysteries of our past, uncover hidden treasures and piece together the untold stories of civilisations long gone.

As we finish this term, we recognise the exceptional work and achievements of our students. From insightful research assignments to outstanding performances in exams, their dedication has left an outstanding legacy for continued excellence at Ripley!

As we look forward into the rest of the year, we are excited about what lies ahead. Plans for next term include field trips for Geography, immersive projects and more opportunities for students to continue to explore the many aspects of humanity. We will continue to foster curiosity, critical thinking and a life-long love for Humanities.

Cecilia Hall

Head of Department - Humanities and Languages - Year 7F to 7I

chall213@eq.edu.au

Our Community Day was held on the 2^nd March, and we welcomed many visitors to the classroom. Many people spoke about the trip to Japan in 2025. For those that would like more information, please go to the school website:

https://ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au/extra-curricular/cultural

This week, the Japanese students are super excited to host Mr Kawana and Mr Yamazaki who are travelling from Japan to visit our school, create exchanges and meet staff. Currently, Year 7 enjoy their online lessons with Mr Kawana and his students from Japan at the Chiba University Junior High School. Last week, the students from Japan created and shared some videos about their school. Our students did find the conversation to be fast. This is a weekly lesson and we welcome any student at Ripley who would like to be part of the exchange. If there is a student who would like to have some experience with an international exchange, they can contact Ms Wellwood or their teacher.

The Year 8 students are utilising all their writing and speaking skills for hiragana, katakana and kanji by creating surveys of daily routines and times. They are working very hard and I am proud of their efforts!

Japan Club starts in Term 2, after school on Thursdays from 3-4pm. Watch this space for more information!

Georgina Wellwood

Japanese Teacher

gawel0@eq.edu.au

Year 9 have explored colour theory when working with acrylic paints this term. They have explored colour values and how to create monochromatic tones using only tints and shades. Students have put their measurement skills to the test to create the very precise image for their assessment task. Each student has followed a guide applying their understanding of colour value to create their own vibrant vector images.
Each student will complete their 28cm square image before collaborating with every student from both Year 9 Visual Art to create one large scale artwork that includes each individual student work.

We can’t wait to show you the large-scale result in the next few weeks! Students, keep an eye out in the gallery space for this one!

 

Lorinda Stiles

Head of Department - Creative Industries - Year 9A to 9E
lstil21@eq.edu.au

DANCE

Dance Academy

Our Dance Academy students recently represented the school at the RVSSC Open day! Students completed an intense technical session, practicing existing skills and challenging themselves with new ones. It was great to see many of our community viewing this rehearsal and we hope to see you at our upcoming trial day on the 22nd of March! If you have any questions about trialling for the 2025 Dance Academy, please contact Miss Doorley at ddoor4@eq.edu.au

7 Dance

Students have been busy learning technical and expressive skills for their upcoming performance task!

This task requires students to learn popular dance movements to fun, upbeat music. As students navigate moving their body to the rhythm there are also working on their spatial awareness, coordination and expressive skills.

 With their assessment coming up early term 2, students have gradually started performing in front of their peers. Witnessing fellow Year 7 students command the stage fosters a sense of unity, encouragement, and shared enthusiasm. The performances serve as a reminder that the journey through high school is not just about academic growth but also about developing one's passions and nurturing a well-rounded personality. 

10 Dance

Year 10 Dance have completed their draft for their hip hop choreography task, displaying exceptional teamwork and creativity throughout the process. They have faced and overcome numerous hurdles from adapting to the style and the fast pace as well as adjusting to the stage space but they have persevered. Their final performance task is due at the end of week 8 and all are excited to display their new skills. In the following week students will be finishing up this unit and moving towards completing their theory unit. 

Cert II Dance

Certificate II in Dance students are well into learning their Jazz performance. Students have been learning stylised movement as this routine introduces them to the Fosse Style infused with the upbeat Jazz they are used to. They have at times, gave Miss Doorley questionable looks as she choreographs funny new moves but now see the vision and are loving the challenge!

11 Dance

Year 11 Dance students will be submitting their Jazz performance next week! Students have been challenged learning large amounts of choreography in a short amount of time, in a style they haven't explored before.  Despite this, students have successfully learnt all the choreography and are now eagerly rehearsing for success in their assessment. 

12 Dance

Year 12 Dance students are investigating how choreographers use dance to communicate a viewpoint, in a social, political or cultural context, to an audience. Students will develop and extend their application of dance concepts and skills to create and perform their own dance that communicates meaning. By examining Australian and international dance works and choreographers, students will expand their knowledge and understanding of how a choreographer’s life experiences influence the subject matter of their dance works and their choreographic processes. Through exploring current and historical Australian and world issues and the viewpoints of the people involved, students will deepen their understanding of how social, political and cultural concerns around the world affect dance.

DRAMA

8 Drama

Well done to Year 8 Drama students, who created realistic and dynamic characters in their Indigenous Theatre performances of the play "Honey Spot". Now, they tackle a new challenge – critical reflection. Students will analyse and evaluate their own performances, considering how the Elements of Drama were used to communicate a key message for the audience. These reflections will help the students improve their acting skills in preparation for creating and performing their own original Children's Theatre script. Term 2 will see students working in groups, using Children's stories as stimulus to create a new and engaging script for performance. The collaborative nature of drama fosters teamwork, empathy, and adaptability as students work together to bring stories to life, mirroring the interconnected and rapidly evolving dynamics of the contemporary world. Drama skills also cultivate effective communication by encouraging students to express ideas, emotions, and perspectives through dialogue and body language, essential for navigating the complex communication landscape of the 21st century. 

9 Drama

Congratulations to our Year 9 Drama students who have completed Part A of their Melodrama unit. Exploring the conventions of this theatre style, students successfully devised and created an improvised performance which engaged an audience of their peers. Improvisation is such a highly creative and collaborative form, it has been amazing to see the ensemble and communication skills developing in the class so far. Moving forward, Part B of their assessment requires students to analyse a Melodramatic work and successfully analyse the use of elements of drama and stylistic conventions in communicating dramatic meaning. Critical thinking, analysis and evaluation are skills that are required in so many different pathways and our Drama students are honing these skills with the added dimension of examining pieces through a creative lens. It will be excellent to see how their skill sets continue to develop throughout the semester. 

12 Drama

Our Year 12s have questioned the meaning of life, considered our role within humanity and examined theories of existentialism, all while laughing and collaborating in their Absurdist production of Samuel Beckett's famous play, Waiting for Godot. After the thrill of their first incredible performance of the year, students will be diving further into the realm of Theatre for Social Change. They will explore Political Theatre works from heritage pieces by playwrights like Bertolt Brecht, through to contemporary comments on society from practitioners like Angela Betzien. Students will analyse and evaluate how these playwrights share their socio-political messages, before embarking on their own creation of a concept for a Political Theatre performance piece. With many thought-provoking topics being discussed by our mature students, it has never been more evident how Drama has the ability to provide a voice to those who may normally remain marginalised. It will be very exciting to see the ideas that stem from this next unit of work. 

MUSIC

9 Music

Our performers are starting to hit their straps as they prepare for their first performance task. This term, students have been studying and engaging with virtuosic performers, including rock greats like Slash, classical specialists such as Luciano Pavarotti, and modern powerhouses like Adele. Our study of these greats has inspired our Year 9 musicians in their rehearsals, and they have worked hard to develop their skills to create a short performance. Watch this space as our Year 9's strive to achieve greatness in their art.

10 Music

Well done to the Year 10 music students completing their first task creating their own radio production. Students have done extremely well showcasing the characteristics of their genre and the wonderful examples that can be heard globally. The classroom is noisier than ever with the grade 10s now moving towards their performance task! Students will be applying their knowledge of genre characteristics to create a unique cover version of an existing song.

12 Music

The recording light is on and the senior in practice students are finalising their first project of grade 12! Students have been deconstructing the constituent components that make up modern performances and creating their own multi-track: They are performing each part of an existing song and making it their own. This has highlighted the tech skills needed in modern music performance while also showcasing some unique opportunities for harmony and creativity. It has been fantastic hearing the development throughout the last few weeks and we look forward to the final submission.

Instrumental Music

Instrumental ensembles have a few rehearsals under their belt for 2024 and are now working towards performances in term 2. With many new students stepping into the program for the first time and existing students taking up leadership responsibilities, it is wonderful to see the respect, responsibility and perseverance of our students.

How often should my child practice?

I cannot stress enough the benefits of home practice. Instrumental at RVSSC applies the ‘no zero days’ approach to practice; whereas students should pick up their instrument and do some form of practice once per day. Initially students may pick up briefly (2 minutes) per day but over time this becomes habit! In short – the more a student plays – the better they get and I ask you to encourage your child to practice at home as a regular part of their routine.

EXTRA CURRICULAR

Dance Squad

Dance Squad have now finished choreographing all their routines! We now begin the task of cleaning and perfecting these dances ready for the stage early next term. We are so proud of the team's effort in learning these routines as we have stepped up the difficulty due to the high standard and technical improvement of our amazing dancers!

Cheer

The Cheer Bow! In 2023, the RVSSC cheer team received a generous donation of cheerleading bows for each of our team members. These bows made their debut at The Performing Arts Showcase in November, 2023. The cheer bow is a symbol of stewardship and represents the unison of a team. As a staple piece of the cheerleading uniform, The Raptors, will proudly wear their bows and represent our school in four performances across the year.

Drama Troupe

Drama Troupe are gearing up for RVSSC's inaugural Drama Night, taking place in Week 10 of Term 1. The Troupe have been rehearsing with precision as the ensemble navigate different roles, scenes and situations to acquaint themselves with. One thing is for sure though, with comedic sketches based in moments from the classroom, through to the awkwardness of blind dates, there are sure to be laughs all around! Keep an eye on social media posts for the link to book tickets to RVSSC's newest event. There will be complimentary light refreshments, enthusiastic performers and entertainment for the whole family!

Creative Generation

Creative Generation - State Schools Onstage (CGEN) gives students, teachers and school communities the opportunity to be involved in a professionally produced, award-winning arena spectacular. Since its inception in 2005, the large-scale event has grown from a cast of 550 students to more than 1800 and is nationally renowned for its outstanding and vibrant display of state school talent.

This year, we have students auditioning across Dance, Musical Theatre, Hip Hop and Featured Choir, which is fantastic for our school.  Once auditions are done, rehearsals begin in early Term 2, and continue on weekends until ‘Show Week’ in July. As our third year of participating in CGEN, it is very exciting to have a number of students involved, and we look forward to seeing the awesome performances in July.

Jessica Starkey

Head of Department - Performing Arts - Year 8E - 8H

jxsta12@eq.edu.au

• Year 10 White Card Training
• Interview to Impress Workshop
• UniSQ Discovery Days
• Brisbane Careers Expo
• Gold Coast Careers Expo
• #GoHealth Careers Expo
• RVSSC Careers Expo & Subject Information Evening

If students are interested in any of the above experiences or have specific programs or training they are wanting to pursue, I encourage them to see Mrs George in the Careers Hub or myself or can email pathways@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au 

James Gerchow

Head of Department - VET & Digital Technology - Year 11 & Year 12

jgerc6@eq.du.au

Tracey Cooper

Defence School Mentor

Ripley Valley State Secondary College

Hi Sport fans!

The past few weeks have been a whirlwind for sport with Comets, Yagera and House days. We have had big successes across the park and we have even more sport coming in the next couple weeks!

Yagera Sport

We have finished up our last rounds of the first season of Yagera Sport. Our teams performed admirably, with this being our most successful season yet. More than results, we are even more impressed with the sportsman like professionalism that our students conducted themselves with whilst off campus grounds.  

Futsal

The Futsal teams were the first sport to play at Yagera this season, starting our season off with a number of championships. Both our new Year 7 teams took first place and will now progress to met finals. Not wanting to be outdone, the open boys also came out with a championship and will join the year 7s at met finals. Thank you to Mr Dunn, Mr Dawson, Mr Sharma, Mr Vargas & Mr Philip for coaching the boys this season.

Volleyball

The volleyball teams, our largest sport at the college, had a fantastic day competing at Nissan arena. Overall, the 7 girls placed second, the 8 girls place 7^th, 9 Girls placed 4^th, 10 Girls 8^th and open girl’s 4^th. Thank you to Mr Dunn, Mr Simmons and Ms McGovern for their continuous efforts training our volleyballers.

Touch Football

The boys touch football teams did very well. The Grade 8 boys fought hard but went down in semis by one point to Woodcrest SHS, after going five minutes in drop offs. Overall, they placed third. The Grade 10 boys made it to the Grand Final, Going down 6-3 to Bellbird SHS. A big thank you to Ms Kahotea, Mr Exelby & Mr Clifford for all your hard work training the boys so far this year.

 

Rugby League

Our Ruby League boys played at the South Rugby League Fields in Acacia Ridge. The boys came out strong winning their first game against Springfield. Our luck did not last after we were defeated by Glenala & Forest Lake. The boys finished the day in 5^th place. Good work to Mr Watt & Mr Clifford for training the boys this term.

 

Basketball

Our Basketball teams had a home field advantage, playing in the Raptordome for their Gala Day. Our Year 8 Boys finished the day in third and our year 8 girls finished the day in fourth. The year 10 girls were our flagship team taking out the tournament. The girls will now progress to met finals. Well done to Mr Shaw & Ms Rizvanovic in training these teams this season.

Major Sports

Vicki Wilson Netball – Trials were held over the past few weeks. Please keep an eye on daymap for specific information on team selection. If you have any questions, please contact the following people:

Ms Amy Robson (Senior Girls Coach)  - asrob0@eq.edu.au

Ms Richelle Ivanko (Junior Girls Coach) - rcapl2@eq.edu.au

Ms Peta Coles (Manager) - pcole50@eq.edu.au

 

Schools Cup AFL – Trials are being held in week 8 and 9 of this term. Please keep an eye on daymap for notices on this event. If you have any questions or concerns, please contact the following people:

Ms Christie Mckendry - clmck1@eq.edu.au

Mr David Turner - dturn106@eq.edu.au

This year our annual Cross Country will be held on Wednesday 27^th March in Week 10. This is considered a normal school day. At the college we boast a high participation rate in our House Days and we hope to continue this as we grow. The theme for this year’s cross country is Jobs. Students are to come to cross country in a job that aligns with their house colour.  

Students will get an opportunity to walk the course in week 9 during their house assembly. The schedule for the day is:

 

RAD

The Ripley Athlete Development Program is a general fitness group that is run every week on Wednesday 3pm to 4pm and Thursday morning 7:30am – 8:15am. This is a great group for students wanting to access physical activity but don’t like the pressures that come with sporting teams and competitions. No sign up is necessary, just come along and participate in some physical activity!

Justin Clifford

Sports Co-ordinator

jcliff117@eq.edu.au