Dear Parents and Carers, 

Over the past 4 weeks I have had the opportunity to visit another local high school and reflect on our colleges progress and achievements over the past 5 years.  Our college has achieved a great deal in a very short period of time and much of this credit goes to our amazing staff, students and college community.  It seems like just the other day that we opened our college and welcomed our first group of Year 7 and Year 8 students.  

This year we celebrate the graduation of our first cohort of Year 12's and I can't wait to celebrate this momentous occasion and their remarkable achievements. As we countdown to this historic occasion our eyes are firmly fixed on the future. 

Throughout this year, we have undertaken a whole school review of our progress and achievements to date.  In such a short time we have achieved some remarkable results and we are increasingly being recognised at the state, national and more recently international level. As part of this whole school review process, we have created a draft whole school Strategic Plan for 2025 - 2028.  This "big picture" plan outlines what will be our focus and priorities moving forward.  I have attached a copy for your perusal and welcome your feedback and input as we seek to finalise and endorse this Strategic Plan by the end of this term. You are welcome to provide feedback via email at feedback@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au or in person to any staff member.

As we brave the winter weather and plan for the future of our college, I look forward to continuing to work with you long into the future to make this great school even better.

Yours Sincerely,  

Brendan Krueger

Foundation Principal

Year 12 Events - Term 3

As we get closer to the end of the schooling journey for our year 12 students, there are a number of key events that are taking place and important students and parents are aware of. 

Week 7 and 8 – Next Steps Meetings

These meetings will occur at different intervals across weeks 7 and 8 and involve all year 12 students. Students will meet with Janet (GO), Todd (DP), James (HoD), Marney (ILO) or Ness Perry (Link and Launch Officer) who will discuss students pathways for 2025. these meetings are to support students make sure they have everything ready for the next step past school. This could be help and advice with QTAC applications, it could be resume and cover letter support or job/apprenticeship applications. Students will make their interview booking with their respective case manager and all interview schedules will be published to staff when confirmed so you know when students will be absent from class.

 Week 9 and 10 – Mock External Exams (Friday of week 9 to Thursday of week 10)

Year 12 classes will be collapsed in a the end of week 9 in order for Mock External exams to be run. These exams will give students in General classes and opportunity to sit low stakes exams that provide an authentic experience of what will occur for the External Exams in term 4. Students will be supervised by a teacher other than their classroom teacher and be exposed to the conditions expected during the external exams. This is an opportunity for students to sit QCAA style exam papers and receive feedback prior to the start of the External Exam block in term 4.

Student Drivers and Passengers

During the senior years of schooling many of our students become drivers and start driving themselves to school. Whilst this is a significant and exciting time for our young people it is critical that we know who they are. 

Therefore, we request that if you have a student driver that you access the Student Driver Permission form and complete with your student and submit as soon as possible. This is to ensure the safety of your student.

It is also important that as parents/guardians you understand that we have a duty of care for all our students and that your son or daughter does not drive other students in their car without the prior appropriate permissions. Once again this is to protect the wellbeing of all of our students. If your child will be transporting other students, it is important that the Permission to be Transported by a Student Driver form is completed by all passengers and their parents/carers.

We would also like to remind all parents that students are not permitted to leave the school grounds without written permission from parents provided to the administration. It is not acceptable for students to leave the school grounds at any time during the day to get 'things' from their cars.

As a school we appreciate any support and reinforcement of these expectations from parents/guardians. Thank you for your ongoing support in this area.

If you have any questions about students driving, please contact Mr Todd Robson - Deputy Principal.

2024 State School Leavers survey

The Queensland Government is following up on Year 10, 11 and 12 students who left school in 2023, before completing Year 12.  Students will receive a letter with a personalised link to complete a 5-minute survey regarding their activities since leaving school. Students may also be contacted by email or phone and have the chance to win an iPad for participating. Please encourage them to take part. If their contact details have changed, please update with the interviewer or forward the instructions so they can participate. For more information, visit www.qld.gov.au/nextstep/ or telephone toll free on 1800 068 587.

Todd Robson

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

trobs20@eq.edu.au

I am so grateful to write to you as we approach the middle of Term 3. It is hard to believe the Year 10 cohort only have 75 school days left before they are entering their Senior years. I hope the pathway conversations that were had during our SET Plan meetings were able to offer some clarity and support our Year 10 students to set some goals or targets for the remainder of the year. Please continue to support your child in their aspirations to work towards these goals and reach out of us at the College if we can do anything to support. 

Year 10 Updates

• A reminder that Week 10 (9-13 September) is a non-school week for our Year 10 cohort. A large number of students will be headed off to camp or for our 2nd round of work experience. Please ensure your child has made arrangements for this week. If they wish to book in Work Experience, they must come and see our Industry Liason Officer, Miss George, ASAP. She can be located in the Library.
• We would like to remind all of our students that we expect all of our students to comply with the Uniform Policy. We have noticed an escalation in non-compliance with hair, make up, jewellery and jumpers. 
• A reminder that we are an electronic device free school and this extends to mobile phones, larger devices, air pods (or other headphones) and smart watches. These should not come to school or should be kept in a safe place, out of sight, during the day. 

Pedagogy Updates

As we continue our work in the space to review our pedagogical approaches, I will be extending an invitation to hear from our students. I will be seeking student input over the coming weeks to ask them how they like to Learn and what good quality teaching means to them. I will also be seeking their input around our digital pedagogies to ensure we are utilising their laptops to achieve excellence together. If you child wishes to be involved with these feedback, please encourage them to keep an eye on Daymap notices or speak with Mrs Reeves when I visit their classrooms.

Tess Reeves

2024 Student Resource Scheme (SRS) 

Statements have been emailed, 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. 

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

2025 Student Resources Scheme (SRS)

The draft SRS for 2025 has been submitted and approved by the P&C.  The SRS price has remained the same for the last 5 years and I am pleased to announce that there is only a minor increase to the Year 7,8 & 9 SRS.  The price will be increasing from $675 to $690.  Our regular arrangements of 3 installments ($230 each) or individual payment plans will still be available.

The price for Senior has also increased slightly due to rising costs of inclusions in the SRS. The price of our year 10, 11 & 12 SRS will be $600 + elective subject fees as per the subject selection handbook.

The parent information letters which outline all the Student Resource Scheme inclusions and show the value for money that the school is able to offer are attached below and will be sent home via email in Term 4 and included in future newsletters.

SRS_2025_Year_7_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_7_Parent_Information _pdf 240.62 KB

SRS_2025_Year_8_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_8_Parent_Information _pdf 240.33 KB

SRS_2025_Year_9_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_9_Parent_Information _pdf 445.04 KB

SRS_2025_Year_10_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_10_Parent_Information _pdf 566.75 KB

SRS_2025_Year_11_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_11_Parent_Information _pdf 574.91 KB

SRS_2025_Year_12_Parent_Information.pdf

SRS_2025_Year_12_Parent_Information _pdf 574.84 KB

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

Ellen Grant

Head of Department - Teaching and Learning - Year 9F to 9I 

egran55@eq.edu.au

It’s hard to believe we are already half way through term 3!

We are inching ever closer to drafting and assessment checkpoints and due dates.

It is important that students are in class and if away due to illness, work with their teacher to catch up on missed lessons.

In English this term, there are several year levels completing exams across multiple lessons. Please keep an eye on your emails in the coming weeks for important information about up-coming exams.

On Wednesday 24th July, our Senior Readers Cup team competed in the Brisbane West Years 9/10 Regional Competition. Our team represented our college brilliantly, demonstrating our college values. We would like to thank Ms McKay for her support on the day.

In Year 7 English this term, students are studying poetry, identifying its meaning and how it relates to context. This week, 7D took their context conversations to the school’s yarning circle, utilising the space to share ideas, stories and information in a safe space without judgement. The yarning circle allowed for students to practice deep listening, sharing of knowledge and show respect to one another.

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

Ms Jasmine Diesing

Head Of Department | English | Year 10E to 10G 

jbunt18@eq.edu.au

The Mathematics department has had a great start to Term 3 with high student engagement in classroom activities. This week, our IGNITE students in years 7, 8 and 9 participated in the Australian Mathematics Competition. Congratulations to all students who participated! We look forward to celebrating their success when the results are published.

We are fast approaching the assessment period for this term and students have already been informed about the assessment mode and time.

• Year 7 and Year 8 will be doing an exam on algebra.
• Year 9 will be working on an assignment applying the skills learnt in class to a real-life scenario.
• Year 10 classes will also be assessed with an exam.
• Year 11 students are currently working through Unit 2 content. Essential Maths students are currently working on their problem solving and modelling task due in Week 7. Mathematical Methods, General Maths and Specialist Maths students will be doing the Unit 2 exam in week 9. Students who successfully complete Unit 2 in their respective subjects, will earn 1 QCE point.
• Year 12 students in Maths Methods and General Maths have now completed all their internal assessments and will be doing a mock external exam in week 10. Essential maths students are working thorugh a problem solving and modelling task that is due in week 6. 

I encourage all students to actively participate in the classroom activities to improve their academic outcomes.  

General Notices:

• Mathematics tutoring is available every week. Tuesday at 1st break and Thursday at 2nd break in CG01. All students are welcome. 
• All students should be prepared for class, every lesson by bringing a scientific calculator, notebook, stationary and a charged laptop. Please support your students to be prepared for learning to ensure we can maximise our teaching & learning time. 

Haranoop Singh Goraya

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

hsgor0@eq.edu.au 

As we approach the midpoint of the term, I wanted to take a moment to share some of the exciting developments and accomplishments from the Humanities Department. Your children have been engaged in a range of enriching activities, and we’re thrilled to highlight their progress and provide a glimpse into what’s coming up.

History classes have been focused on understanding the impact of key historical events and movements. Students will be in the midst of completing research projects that connect past events with contemporary issues, demonstrating their ability to think critically about historical causality and its relevance today. These assessments are a testament to their dedication and analytical abilities.

Geography classes have been investigating a range of geographic concepts, from physical geography to human-environment interactions. They’ve worked on projects related to that has deepened their understanding of how geographic factors influence global and local phenomena.

In our business courses, students have been applying theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios. Projects have provided practical experience in areas like marketing, finance, and entrepreneurship. These projects not only enhance their understanding of business principles but also develop their problem-solving skills.

We appreciate the support and encouragement you provide to your children as they navigate their studies. The skills and knowledge they are acquiring in the humanities are not only valuable for their academic growth but also for their personal development. If you have any questions or would like more information about their coursework and progress, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to celebrating more of your children’s achievements as the semester progresses.

Cecilia Hall

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

chall213@eq.edu.au

Our Japanese classes in Years 7 and 8 are continuing to create videos for the Japan Foundation’s Video Matsuri. Keep watching this space! Mitte kudasai.

Zachary is an expert in karate!

We were grateful to hear about Ryken’s trip to Japan and appreciated his sharing of such a variety of kitkats!

Recently, the Year 8 Japanese students caught the train from Springfield Station into Brisbane City to attend the Brisbane-Japan Consulate. The students tried on yukata and happi while visiting the Consulate-General of Japan. During the school visit to the embassy, students learnt about festivals and traditional foods in Japan and then they experienced teppanyaki dining with a hasty visit to Daiso before returning by train. For their assessment, the Year 8 students are creating scripts in Japanese about their special visit and experiences in Brisbane.

On Sunday, 4^th August, six students travelled to the Nathan campus of the Griffith University to attend the Brisbane Languages Speech Contest for Japanese. They spoke about their families in the speech. It was wonderful to see them learn and speak Japanese without having to look at their palm cards! Congratulations to all students who will receive certificates. Jeshua Elms in Year 7 was awarded 4^th place in his division, and Athish Hariharan in Year 7 was awarded Highly Commended.

 

 

 

 

Georgina Wellwood

Japanese Teacher

gawel0@eq.edu.au

DANCE

Dance Academy

Our Dance Academy students have commenced their units on Lyrical and Jazz dance. This semester they will work on three tasks; performance, choreography and responding. In our performance task the team has learned a Lyrical and Jazz routine that they will perform at two eisteddfods this term. The students have been working hard on their expressive skills and communicating meaning in their dance routine. We wish them all the best for the Ipswich Performers Dance Festival next week!

7 Dance

We have loved getting to know our new grade 7 classes for this semester! Grade 7 Dance are coming to the conclusion of their theory unit. Students now have a wealth of knowledge on the elements and dance ready for their exam in which they will analyse and evaluate an unseen dance routine. They will begin their practical unit with some very excited students ready to get moving!  Students will have to show perseverance in the dance room to learn their performance, as well as building confidence in order to perform in front of their peers.

10 Dance

Year 10 dance students are diving into an exciting new unit, exploring the world of contemporary dance with a darker edge. This term, the focus is on a compelling contemporary piece that delves into intense, emotive themes. As students work to perfect their performance, they will be honing their expressive skills, which will be a key component of their assessment. Through this unit, they will not only develop technical proficiency but also learn how to convey deeper emotions and narratives through movement. This exploration promises to be a transformative experience, challenging students to push their creative boundaries and connect more profoundly with their art.

Certificate II Dance

Our Certificate II students are onto their final two projects of the course! Students have been eagerly working through their theoretical work to be signed off on their competencies. They have just learnt all about basic street dance techniques and will now apply this knowledge for their Artistic Performance project where students will create a street dance performance. Students are to be involved in the music selection, costume, lighting and choreographic process as they document problems and assign group member roles.

11 Dance

Year 11 Dance are in the depths of their largest task of the year. Students are in the creative process of choregraphing contemporary routines to be filmed on locations of their choice that communicate the meaning of acceptance, inclusion or diversity. Students have been workshopping effective camera angles and how these enhance meaning in their routine. Up next they take on the task of editing this all together to create a cohesive dance on film.

12 Dance

Year 12 dance students are wrapping up their academic year with a dynamic and creative final project before they embark on their external exam preparation. This culmination of their studies challenges them to craft a unique fusion of two distinct dance styles, blending elements to create a cohesive and expressive choreography. The project emphasizes not only technical skill but also the importance of communicating a personal message through dance. As students prepare to present their work, they are encouraged to explore how the integration of styles can enhance their narrative, offering audiences a deeper connection to their individual experiences and artistic vision. This final project serves as both a testament to their growth and a showcase of their ability to innovate and convey meaningful messages through movement.

DRAMA

8 Drama

This term year 8 students are exploring Australian Indigenous Theatre while developing their acting skills in vocal expression and physical manipulation in order to believably portray a role. Understanding the elements of drama and transforming this knowledge into a practical performance, assists students in their ability to create dramatic meaning while engaging an audience. Students are enjoying the play text 'Honey Spot' as it follows the story of two teenage students who strike up a friendship that is void of any judgement. It explores themes of racism and reconciliation, providing moments where students can connect to the characters experiences. Students are working towards a performance task which will showcase their acting skills and ability to engage an audience. 

12 Drama

Year 12 Drama students are concluding their final year with an incredible performance before diving into their external exam preparation. For Drama students, they have taken a heritage Greek tragedy, Medea, and transformed this into a contemporary theatre piece. A fusion of traditional language and modernised theatrical conventions has resulted in a dynamic and emotive performance piece.

Drama in Practice students have interviewed community members to share their voices and perspectives in a Verbatim Theatre and Documentary Drama performance. With their scripts written, students are now working on a performance that will give a voice to those who may usually go unheard. With two excellent performances culminating the practical component of their senior Drama studies, it is clear how much the students' creativity, communication and collaboration has soared this year.

MUSIC

7 Music

Year 7 music students have been honing their skills in guitar, piano, drums, and singing as they prepare for their end-of-term performance assessments. These budding musicians are not only mastering their instruments but also developing discipline, creativity, and confidence. Music education plays a vital role in young people's development, enhancing cognitive abilities, emotional expression, and social skills. As they practice and perform, these students are discovering the joy of music and the sense of accomplishment that comes with it.

10 Music

Our Grade 10 music students are embarking on an exciting exploration into the world of program music, examining its historic significance and its impact on modern compositions. This in-depth study is helping them understand how music can tell a story and convey emotions beyond mere notes and rhythms. Our students are preparing for the performance afternoon in week 9 with further details being provided to invited guests later in the term.

12 Music

Congratulations to our Grade 12 ATAR music students for successfully completing IA3! This assessment challenged them to explore the powerful ability of music to convey narratives, culminating in either an original composition or a prepared performance that showcased their insights and creativity.

With IA3 behind them, our students are now entering the final countdown towards the end of their school year. They will soon shift their focus to preparing for their final external exams, marking the grand conclusion of their five-year journey in music education at Ripley Valley State Secondary College.

As they embark on this final leg, we wish them all the best and look forward to celebrating their achievements and growth in the coming weeks.

12 Music in Practice

Our Grade 12 in practice music students are currently delving into the role of commercial music and what it means to be a musician in today’s 21st-century landscape. This engaging exploration is providing them with valuable insights into the commercial aspects of the music industry.

As part of their studies, students are creating a “sizzle reel”—a dynamic preview designed to showcase the potential success of a proposed musical venture. This hands-on project is allowing them to apply their knowledge and creativity in a practical and exciting way.

We’re eager to see the innovative ideas and presentations that will emerge from this project and are confident that this experience will greatly enrich their understanding of the modern music industry.

Instrumental Music

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to our talented instrumental students who recently performed at the P&C Bingo Night. Their exceptional performances were a highlight of the evening and showcased their dedication and skill.

As our ensembles finalize and perfect their showcase performances, they are also preparing for extended setlists for upcoming events, including our highly anticipated Music Celebration Night. This is an exciting time for our musicians as they refine their pieces and prepare to share their talent with the community.

We would like to remind all students of the importance of consistent attendance, especially with the colder weather approaching. Regular participation is crucial for maintaining the high standards of our ensembles. If any issues arise that prevent attendance, please ensure to contact your conductor promptly.

Thank you for your continued commitment and support.

Certificate III Community Dance, Theatre, and Events

The 2024 Certificate III Community Dance, Theatre, and Events Cohort have been busy putting together their annual performance event, 'Generation Gap', an engaging and interactive collage of dance, drama, and music performances. This unique production, framed by a competitive game show, delves into the age-old debate: "Which generation really had it harder?"

Our talented students have worked collaboratively to create and organise this community performance, exploring the teenage experience across different eras. Through the powerful mediums of dance, drama, and music, they bring to life the trials and tribulations faced by teenagers from various generations.

Don't miss out on this thought-provoking and entertaining event! Secure your tickets now to find out which generation truly had it the hardest. Generation Gap takes the stage on Friday, August 23rd, at 6pm in the RVSSC Performing Arts Centre.

Be there to witness the showdown – only one generation can lose.

Date

Friday 23 August 2024 5:00 PM - 7:30 PM

Location
RVSSC Performing Arts Centre

EXTRA-CURRICULAR AND EVENTS

Showcase

It’s that time of year again! We are in full swing preparing everything behind the scenes for our Performing Arts Showcase. All student performers have been notified that they are in the show and permission has been sent home to parents and carers.

This event is an opportunity for the students to Showcase their work from across the year. This year our event will be held in our new Performing Arts Centre (PAC). Due to the limited number of seats in the PAC we will be putting on two shows plus a primary school matinee performance to accommodate our audience size. Our shows will be held on Friday 11^th and Saturday 12^th October 2024. Tickets will go on sale at the end of this term so keep an eye on facebook.

Most of the rehearsal work takes place during class or extra-curricular training time however students will be required for the following additional rehearsal times in the lead up to the show. Where possible – please ensure your child arrives at the venue 15 minutes prior to the rehearsal so that we can start on time. All extra rehearsals will be held in the PAC.

REHEARSAL SCHEDULE

Dance Squad

Dance squad prepare for the Ipswich Performers Dance festival to be held on Monday the 12th of August, students have been tirelessly working on improving their technical skills particularly in flexibility, strength, coordination and alignment. The competition will be held at the Ipswich Civic Centre, our team will be taking a total of 10 routines (our largest yet) across the styles of Jazz, Contemporary, Musical theatre, Lyrical and Student Choreography. Come along and support our dancers at our 2nd last eisteddfod for the year and our last local eisteddfod in Ipswich!

Cheer

The countdown is almost over! The cheerleaders are heading to their first competition on Sunday, August 18^th. The athletes have been working extremely hard, all season, building their skills within the sport. The team will compete against two other schools in the Brisbane region, so be sure to check-in later in the term for the results. Let's go Raptors!

Drama Troupe

The Showcase spark has been lit and our Drama Troupe students are thrilled to share that some new productions will be presented this year. They have been learning lines, manipulating their vocality and altering their physicality to create dynamic characters and comedic scenes. Stay tuned for information about how you can get your hands on the hottest tickets in town and prepare yourself for a laugh-a-minute!

Creative Generation

In week 2 we had 9 of our student performers in Creative Generation state schools on stage! They participated in four performances from Thursday - Saturday at the Brisbane Exhibition and Convention Centre with 2100 other students from schools across the state. The show was the 20^th celebration of Creative Generation and our dance and vocal students had the honour of performing in this professional production. We also had a school excursion group head off to watch the show and support their friends. Congratulations to everyone involved!

 

Jessica Starkey

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

jxsta12@eq.edu.au

Sam Watt

Head of Department - HPE & Food Studies - Year 10A to 10B

scwat0@eq.edu.au

It's with great pleasure that I share the news that Mrs Candice Vidotto is our brand new Head of Creative Arts. This is a new position at RVSSC that encompasses our arts, film & tv, media, digital technologies and eSports curriculums and extra-curriculars. I will be working with Mrs Vidotto in this transition period and congratulate her on this new appointment.

James Gerchow

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

jgerc6@eq.du.au

Thank you to our families that have recently gone through the Year 9 PPP and Year 10 SETP processes to choose their subjects for 2025. These meetings represent a major milestone in the high school experience as students prepare for the next part of their pathway forward.

A number of students displayed an interest in external programs, including WesTEC, UQ Skills, UniSQ Headstart programs, Distance Education, and TAFE. Please see information below about these programs:

WesTEC – expressions of interest will close in Week 8 of Term 3 processed on a first in first served basis. Late submissions may be accepted on a waitlist but likely be a 2026 entry instead with many courses quickly filling up already. Enrolment links for your chosen courses will be emailed directly to you as well to complete by the end of this term.

 

TAFE – applications are now open. If there is a course not at WesTEC or RVSSC, please email to confirm with student name & TAFE course and an enrolment link will be sent to you. See more details on the TAFE website https://tafeqld.edu.au/courses/ways-to-study/tafe-at-school

 

UQ Skills – applications will open late Term 3 for the Cert II Animal Care. A reminder that a free shuttle bus runs from Dinmore Train Station to UQ Gatton campus for this program. Please email to confirm student name & an enrolment link will be sent to you once available. See more details on the UQ website https://uqskills.uq.edu.au/programs/high-school-programs/certificate-ii-in-animal-care

 

Distance Education – referrals will open at the start of Term 4 (date TBC) for students interested in studying an subject online, such as Japanese. Please be aware that BSDE subjects may not align directly with our RVSSC timetable with their classes beginning from 8am. The full list of subjects are available here https://brisbanesde.eq.edu.au/curriculum/senior-secondary If you have not yet advised of your preference to enrol into a BSDE course in 2025, please email to confirm student name & the subject you want to study online so we can put forward your referral next term.

UniSQ Headstart - eligible students have been emailed in regards to the upcoming UniSQ Headstart program starting in Week 8 of Term 3. Students completing this program will work independently through an online introductory level university course. On succesful completion, students will be guaranteed entry into a relevant degree at UniSQ and will also recieve 2 credits towards their QCE. Other universities also have programs available if UniSQ is not their preferred education facility.

Most of these courses will use VETiS funding (where the government pays for one free course per student from a selected list of options). A reminder that students can only access one listed course for free then will be required to pay for any additional VETiS funded programs or non-funded qualifications.

Students interested in finding out more information are encouraged to speak with Mr James Gerchow, Mrs Marney George, or emailing pathways@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au 

James Gerchow

Head of Department - Senior Schooling - Year 11 & Year 12

jgerc6@eq.du.au

Ordering Your QTAC Preferences

In the application, your teen will be asked to add their QTAC preferences under the course preference section. They can add up to 6 course (desired courses, backup courses and admission pathway courses) preferences on their QTAC application, stating their favoured course as their first preference.

Things to consider when selecting and ordering QTAC preferences:

• Check if any preferences have fixed closing dates.
• Note some courses starting in the same semester might have different offer round dates. Check the offer round dates in the course search on the QTAC website.
• If applying for courses being offered in different rounds, make sure to order them chronologically, according to the round date.

Once your teen submits their QTAC application, they can change their preferences up to 3 times free of charge. After this, each change of preference will incur a fee.

QTAC offer rounds

Offers will be notified via email and SMS. With each QTAC offer round date, applicants receive only one offer. This will be for their highest eligible preference, meaning the one for which they’ve met the admission criteria and selection rank requirement.

Offers need to be responded to by the date and time specified in the offer letter to ensure they don’t expire. To respond to an offer, there are 3 options:

• outright
• conditional with no change of preference
• conditional with change of preference.

For all 3 of these options, your teen can choose to accept, reject or defer their offer. If your teen didn’t receive an offer because they didn’t meet the entry requirements, they can either change their preferences for upcoming QTAC offer rounds or take an upgrading pathway to improve chances of entry in the future. It’s also possible the institution will contact them regarding pathway offers.

 

QTAC key dates for university study commencing in 2025

There are several key QTAC application dates that should be marked in your teen’s calendar. While specific dates for study commencing in Semester 1 2025 have not been released yet, you can use the rough dates outlined below as an indication.

• QTAC applications will open on 1 August 2024.
• Early offer rounds typically commence from mid to late August and vary between universities
• ATARs are typically released mid-December, just before Christmas.
• UQ’s ATAR Advice online event will be held the Sunday after ATARs are released.
• Main round offers will be released early to mid-January 2025.

When do QTAC applications close?

The due date to apply and submit documentation in time for when most offers are released in January 2025 is typically early December 2024. See the QTAC key dates page for when QTAC applications close for specific offer rounds.

Always remind your teen to check the entry requirements and due dates for supporting documentation etc. for the specific undergraduate program/s they wish to study, on the institution's website, as these dates can differ.

QTAC fees

The application fee for QTAC is $65. 

It’s worth noting that applications will not be processed until QTAC fees have been paid, so be sure your teen doesn’t leave their application until the last minute.

SAVE THE DATE - UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN QUEENSLAND – TERTIARY EXPERIENCE DAY, SPRINGFIELD CAMPUS

 

WHEN – 4^th September 2024

WHO – Yr 11 and 12 students interested in a University Pathway and will access Disabilty and Accessibilty supports, including but not limted to; Autism, HI, PI, VI, mental health and medical conditions

WHERE – USQ – Springfield Campus

More information will be available soon.

Karen.Berger@qed.qld.gov.au

Janet Ingram

Guidance Officer - Years 10, 11, 12

studentservices@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au 

Emily Leschke

Guidance Officer - Years 7, 8, 9

Chappy Newsletter

We are in the middle of the term and we still have plenty of events still to come.

Pastoral Care

As school chaplains, out role is to provide emotional, spiritual and social support to the students and wider school community. One of the ways that we provide support is with one-on-one pastoral care conversations. If you would like us to provide support for your child, please email me us chaplaincy@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

Breakfast Club

Our Breakfast Club program will start operating as of next week and will be on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 8:15-8:45 am this term. If you want to help out, don’t hesitate to contact me.

Chaplaincy Committee

The Local Chaplaincy Committee is the supporting and guiding body behind the Chaplaincy Service helping to shape it to meet the wellbeing of the school community here at the College. If this sounds like something you would like to attend, our next meeting on Thursday the 17^th of October, 4pm here at the college. Please get in touch if you'd like additional information.

Talkin’ It Up

Last Friday the 2^nd of August a group of our Peer Mentors went out to the annual Talkin’ It Up mental health forum that was held at the Ipswich Civic Centre. It was a great time of learning more about mental health and ways to look after our wellbeing. Thank you to all of those who came.

Bullying No Way

Ripley Valley State Secondary is participating in the Bullying No Way: National week of action – 12 to 16 August 2024.

By working collaboratively within our community, we can collectively help reduce bullying.

Parents and carers play an important role in helping your child understand bullying, and know how to respond to it.

If your child tells you about things at school, or you observe something in public that involves conflict or bullying, take the opportunity to talk about what bullying is. You can learn more about what defines bullying at bullyingnoway.gov.au.

Questions you could ask:

• What do you think bullying is?
• Have you seen it? How did you feel?
• Have you ever felt scared at school because of bullying?
• As well as me, who are the other adults you would talk to when it comes to things like bullying?
• Have you or your friends left other kids out on purpose? Do you think that was bullying? Why or why not?
• Have you ever tried to help someone who is being bullied? What happened? What would you do if it happens again?

Remind your child that bullying is never okay and discuss how they can respond safely if they experience or witness it.

Encourage them to seek help from a trusted adult and keep seeking support if needed.

By promoting open communication, we empower children to stand up against bullying and create a safer environment where everyone can feel that they belong.

For more information, visit bullyingnoway.gov.au.

R U Okay Day

R U Okay day is coming up on Thursday the 5^th of September. Please keep an eye out on Daymap and notices for more information to come

Chappy Kristian & Taylah

       

Kristian Atkins        Alicia Pickerill        Jacob Millerick

Chaplain                  YSC                         YSC

Student Wellbeing - Chaplain and YSC                                                 

studentservices@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au

It has been a busy few weeks for the Defence Community of RVSSC.  Following on from the Battle of Fromelles commemoration, Ripley Valley State Secondary College attended the Korean War Veterans 71^st Anniversary of the Armistice at the Ipswich Sub Branch RSL.

KOREAN WAR VETERANS MEMORIAL

The commemoration was attended by surviving Korean War veterans, along with special guests Mr Hyunseong Shin, the head of the Korean Consulate, CAPT Chaitanya Gunturi of the 6^th Engineer Support Regiment and the QLD Korean Traditional Drum and Dance Association.

As the Korean War ran between WW2 and the Vietnam War, (1950 – 1953), it is sometimes referred to as the ‘forgotten war’. It became one of the most destructive conflicts in modern history, ruining the country’s economy and amassing a death toll of approximately 3 million people.

Over 17,000 Australians served during the Korean War, of which 340 were killed and over 1,216 wounded. A further 30 had become prisoners of war.

One of our Defence students, Lucy Day, laid a wreath on behalf of the college, to acknowledge the service and sacrifice of those Australians soldiers who fought in Korea.  This commemoration is of special significance for Lucy and her family. Lucy’s  Great Grandfather, Warrant Officer Class 2 Ronald James Porto BEM, served with 1 Battalion of the Royal Australian Regiment (1RAR) in Korea from June 1952 until February 1953.  

D Company, 1^st Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment in Korea 

The Korean War Veterans Memorial was held at the Honour Stone at the Ipswich RSL Sub Branch

DEFENCE WEEK

In week three, we held our third RVSSC Defence Week.  This is an opportunity to highlight our ADF, and some of the lesser-known roles.

This year, the focus was on Animals in the ADF. 

The week kicked off with our senior assembly and a presentation from Sgt Milovankic, a dog handler from the RAAF Security and Fire School, who spoke about the raising, training and general care of the Military Working Dogs

Students were asked Defence Trivia Questions through the week, with lolly prizes for the correct answers, and a visual display in our library allowed students to learn about the different roles animals have had throughout the history of the Australian Defence Force, and earlier, in the Australian Imperial Force

The highlight of the week was a visit from Penny and Vernon, the two camel mascots from 9 Force Support Battalion, who popped in to the school for a visit. All students were able to come and say hello to our very chilled out guests, and learn more about the role camels have play in our military history.

I would like to convey a sincere thankyou to all of the ADF staff who took time out of their busy schedule to assist me in delivering, what hopefully, was a fun and informative week, learning about a different aspect of our Defence Force.                  

                                                                                             

 THE POPPY PROJECT

Calling all crochet enthusiasts!  If you enjoy a spot of crocheting, or maybe you know someone who does, and are looking for a small project, I am looking to collect as many poppies as possible to create a ‘Poppy Waterfall’ that can be displayed at the college.  This is a long-term project, which I am hoping to get up and running over the next year.

If you are interested in crocheting poppies, they can be dropped off by students at the Student Support Services (SSS) in J Block. 

 Poppies crocheted by one of our students.

DMFS SUPPORT INFORMATION

Defence Member and Family Hotline - 1800 624 608

DMFS https://www.defence.gov.au/adf-members-families/family-programs-services

To contact the Defence School Mentor: Tracey Cooper

Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday 0800 - 1430hrs

Email: tcoop203@eq.edu.au

Phone : 3819 5333

Tracey Cooper

Defence School Mentor

Ripley Valley State Secondary College