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Dear Parents/Carers,
Last week was a historic milestone for our college as we farewelled our first graduating cohort of Year 12 Students. A number of these students and their families have been with us since our inception in 2020 and it was a very proud moment to congratulate them on their success and thank them for the legacy they have left for our school community. In so many ways, this graduating cohort has laid the groundwork for all those who will follow, and I cannot express how grateful I am for the mark they have left on this school.
As our graduating cohort steps into the next chapter of their lives I look forward to seeing and hearing of their many successes in time to come. To our current and future students, I encourage you to embrace change, pursue your dreams with confidence, and remember that excellence is not an end goal—it is a path, a way of living and learning. True success is found when you lift others up along the way, and that spirit of Achieving excellence together will serve us well as we embrace the future challenges ahead.
I look forward to leading our college into 2025 as we embrace a new cohort of Year 7 students and plan for our ever-growing school and community.
Thank you for your partnership with us throughout 2024 and I trust you have an enjoyable and relaxing Christmas holiday.
Yours Sincerely,
Brendan Krueger
Foundation Principal
Year 7 Extensions: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/250
Year 8 Extensions: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/251
Year 9 Extensions: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/252
Year 10 Extension: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/253
Year 10 - 12 AARA Request: https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/131
Year 11 - 12 AARA (Illness and Misadventure): https://ripleyvalleyssc.schoolzineplus.com/form/715
We recently held our final Leadership Retreat for 2024, where we looked to the future and consolidated our plans for 2025. Our team welcomed our new HODs for 2025, Jocelyn McLeod (HoD Teaching and Learning) and Kevin Campbell (HoD Science) as we worked together to remind ourselves of the impact of a dynamic team culture, unpacked the AITSL Middle Leader Standards and shared 2025 Faculty Action Plans. We may only be part way through Term 4, but we are future focussed to achieve excellence together in 2025 and beyond!
As I write this final newsletter for the year, I find myself reflecting on all the wonderful memories and moments that have made up 2024. I hope that for you all, the journey of the last 12 months has been an enjoyable one. I have certainly relished in celebrating the achievements and accomplishments of our remarkable students, and watching our school forging new traditions as we grow. Before we begin our holiday, there are several key events on our school calendar that we are all looking forward to.
Year 8 Camp:
During Week 9 of this Term, many of our Year 8s will be embarking on their 4-day camp to the Emu Gully Adventure Centre. Students will have the opportunity to engage in a range of activities and challenges designed to build students’ resilience, teamwork and leadership skills. As in years gone by, I am certain that our students will have a tremendous time and enjoy themselves thoroughly. Students who are not participating in the camp or remaining at home will be engaging with an alternative learning program at the school.
Orientation Day
On Friday 29th of November all future Year 7 students will be attending the College to get their first taste of high school and help settle them in for the start of next year. Over 200 students will be attending on the day and engaging in a range of activities and lessons that sample some of the engaging curriculum that we offer. Information about this event has already been distributed to our feeder primary schools and parents of future students of the College.
Alternative Program in Weeks 10 and 11
In Week 10 and Week 11 of this Term (commencing Monday 2nd December), any students still attending school will be involved in supervised alternative activities, not their regular class-based programs. During this time:
- Students may not be supervised by their regular teacher
- Students will be combined into diverse groups of varying ages, depending on which students are at school
- There will be no formal learning against the Australian Curriculum
- Activities will comprise of tasks that a multitude of age groups can participate in
- Groups of teachers will be taken off-line to work on deep planning and preparation for 2025 in line with the Australian Curriculum
- Tuckshop will be operating on a limited menu − students will be required to bring their own food and drink for the week
- Uniform is still expected to be worn each day
- Buses will continue to run as per their normal schedules
- Laptops and materials for learning are still required to be brought to school
- Normal school expectations remain during this time
Wet ‘n Wild Rewards Day Excursion
On Monday 9th of December, students who have consistently demonstrated our school values of respect, responsibility and perseverance have been invited to attend our end of year Rewards Day Excursion to Wet ‘n; Wild! To have received an invitation students must have submitted an application confirming that they have maintained at least a 95% approved attendance rate, submitted all assessments, and received no more than two admin detentions in Term 4.
Congratulation's year 12 Graduates
Last week marked a significant occasion with the graduation of our very first cohort of students! This momentous occasion marks the culmination of years of hard work, dedication, and perseverance, and we couldn't be prouder of the incredible achievements of our inaugural graduating class.
Each of these graduates has contributed to shaping the identity and future of our school, and we are confident that they will continue to inspire future generations of students who follow in their footsteps. Some of our graduates have already been accepted into university courses, while others have secured exciting career opportunities or chosen to pursue valuable experiences in the workforce. We are incredibly excited to see where their futures take them and are confident that they will continue to achieve great things.
As we bid farewell to our first graduating class, we are filled with gratitude and pride. You have paved the way for future students and set a lasting legacy of success at Ripley Valley SSC. We wish each of you nothing but the best in your future endeavours. Congratulations, Class of 2024!
Year 11 Subject Selection Changes for 2025
With exams and assessment finishing for our current year 10 students it is timely for students to review their subject choices and pathways for 2025. If there are any students who have now met prerequisites for year 11 subjects and would like to update their pathway and change subjects, or similarly, if students haven’t done as well as they planned or haven’t enjoyed a subject they’ve completed and wish to make a change, please contact Mr Robson before 6th December.
USI
Any students undertaking a VET course in 2025 are required to have a USI (Unique Student Identifier). A USI is an individual’s education number for life and creates an online record of your Australian training achievements. Any students who don’t currently have a USI can apply for one at the Australian Governments USI webpage.
Todd Robson
Deputy Principal - Year 11 & Year 12 - Pathways & Partnerships
These approaches will be flexible and adaptive over the next four years to ensure we remain evidence-based and data informed.
Tess Reeves
New Enrolments:
If your student is currently in Year 6 and you have not completed the required paperwork to enrol at our College, please utilise the QR Code below. All enrolments will need to be finalised by Term 4 (unless circumstance apply).
During Week 10 and 11 this term, students who are remaining on site (Year 7-9) will be engaged in an alternate program designed by our teachers and led by their Faculty Team.
Wet ‘n Wild Rewards Day Excursion
On Monday 9th of December, students who have consistently demonstrated our school values of respect, responsibility and perseverance have been invited to attend our end of year Rewards Day Excursion to Wet ‘n; Wild! To have received an invitation students must have submitted an application confirming that they have maintained at least a 95% approved attendance rate, submitted all assessments, and received no more than two admin detentions in Term 4.
Head of Department - Junior Secondary - Year 7A to 7E
2024 Student Resource Scheme (SRS)
The 2024 SRS payment is now overdue, if you have not finalised your SRS invoices (including elective subject fees for years 10, 11 and 12) please make payment via one of the methods below.
Please note that non-payment will result in the student's individual laptop being collected. Your student will need to back up their data onto Onedrive as the laptop will be wiped and returned to the school fleet of computers. Families with outstanding fees have been notified via email.
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 bsm@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.
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 instalments ($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.
Michelle Mills
Business Manager
Departing Families
As we enter the final few weeks of 2024 it is important for any families who aren't returning to the College in 2025 that all IT equipment must be returned by the end of the year. This includes the laptop, charger and case.
- For year 10 & 11 students, please return these items by Friday 22/11 by 2.45pm
- For year 7 - 9 students, please return these items by Friday 29/11 by 2.45pm.
These dates are at the conclusion of exams with all assessment having been completed by this point in time.
This only applies to students who are not returning in 2025. Students and families who will be returning to Ripley Valley SSC in 2025 are able to keep their laptop over the holidays as long as SRS payments are up to date.
If you are leaving Ripley Valley SSC at the end of this year and not returning in 2025 we wish you well and thank you for your time and support in partnering with us on your child’s education journey.
Year 9 Laptop Returns
As our year 9 students transition in to their senior education pathway, they will also transition to a new laptop for year 10 in 2025. In order to support students’ transition and be able to use their device immediately in 2025, students will be given their device in week 10 of this term.
In order for students to be eligible to collect their laptop at the end of this year they must:
- Have returned their current laptop, case and charger by the end of week 9
- Be up to date with 2024 SRS payments
Any students who do not return their current laptop, case or charger or have outstanding SRS payments will be able to collect their device once these have been corrected.
MICROSOFT ONE DRIVE – BACKING UP FILES
A common occurrence when students bring in their devices for repair is to hear that their files haven’t been backed to anywhere other than the laptop hard drive. While this isn’t a problem in itself, it becomes an issue if the hard drive is corrupted as all files are then lost. An easy way for student to avoid this problem is to use Microsoft One Drive to back up their files and save them to the cloud as well as on their laptop. For more information on how to sync your device to back up to the cloud please follow the link to Microsoft’s support guide.
Todd Robson
Deputy Principal - Year 11 & Year 12 - Pathways & Partnerships
Dance - moving around and using our bodies instead of being at a desk
Japanese - making Bento boxes which was like MasterChef and super delicious
Maths - finding new ways to solve problems and completing probability game rotations which were super fun
Science - learning how to use bunsen burners (setting stuff on fire!) and separating mixtures because it was hands on and we got to use science equipment
HPE - not having to be still and competing with our friends
Design and Technology - making a car and being in the workshop
What a wonderful variety of experiences for our Year 7s as they finish their first year of high school! I look forward to see what they highlight next year.
Ellen Grant
Head of Department - Teaching and Learning - Year 9G to 9I
As we approach the end of another academic year, I would like to take a moment to reflect on the progress and accomplishments of our students and faculty. This year has been one of growth, hard work, and success. I'm proud of our students and teachers who have come together to achieve excellence together.
Our students have shown impressive dedication and it has been inspiring to see their continued engagement in classroom activities. Their hard work has been evident in their individual achievements throughout the year.
I would also take this opportunity to express my gratitude to our teaching team whose commitment to student success is truly inspiring. Thank you to the parents/carers for their ongoing support.
Looking ahead, we are excited to build on this year's successes, with curriculum refinements and continued focus on making maths engaging for all learners.
Australian Mathematics Competition
AMC is organised by Australian Mathematics Trust and students from across Australia, New Zealand and other countries participate in this competition. AMC contains unique problems designed each year by leading educators and academics to challenge and extend students’ problem-solving skills.
We are delighted to congratulate our IGNITE students on their exceptional performance in the Australian Mathematics Competition that was held in August. We had 14 credits, 3 distinctions and 1 high distinction. Well done!
Congratulations to Alex J, who was awarded high distinction and also declared "best in school"!
Students were presented their certificates this week during parade. Congratulations to all the recipients!
Wishing everyone a restful break!
Haranoop Singh Goraya
Head of Department - Mathematics - Year 10A to 10D
As the year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the incredible achievements of the Humanities Faculty at RVSSC. From dynamic classroom experiences to enriching excursions and engaging excursions, this year has been a testament to the value of studying the humanities
Our History students delved deep into the stories that shaped our world, exploring and investigating topics from ancient civilizations to modern conflicts. Students in Years 7-12 have been using documents, artifacts and oral histories ranging from ancient cultures through to personal experiences in recent global conflicts.
In Geography, students expanded their understanding of the natural and human environment through hands-on learning. Field trips have allowed them to study the human impact on the world around them and well as looking at sustainability and conservation in action.
Our Business classes buzzed with innovation this year as students took a deep dive into researching varying types of businesses (from the small-scale to the large multi-national corporations).
Legal Studies students took a closer look at the justice system through mock trials and debates, enhancing their understanding of legal principles and critical thinking. A visit to the Brisbane Magistrates and Supreme Courts provided a real-world glimpse into the legal process, leaving many inspired to pursue careers in law or public service.
The Tourism program continued to inspire students with a mix of practical learning and cultural exploration. Highlights included planning simulated travel itineraries for international destinations and excursions where the topic of eco-tourism was explored.
In Social and Community Studies, students tackled big questions about society, culture, and global interconnectivity. Activities and topics that are grounded in the ‘real world’ had students exploring moral and ethical issues, as well as gaining hands-on experience in the finance systems.
Across all our subjects, collaboration was a cornerstone of success. Teachers worked tirelessly to create engaging lessons that connected classroom learning to real-world issues, sparking curiosity and critical thinking in our students. We are proud of how our students embraced the challenges of 2024, growing not just as learners but as thoughtful, informed citizens of the world.
As we look ahead to 2025, we are excited to build on this year’s successes with even more opportunities for innovation, exploration, and connection.
Wishing everyone a safe and restful end to the school year.
Cecilia Hall
Head of Humanities and Languanges (Year 7)
Recently, our college marked an exciting milestone as we hosted our first-ever international school visitors—a group of 25 students and 2 teachers from Morimura Gakuen Junior High School, hailing from Yokohama, Japan. The visit was filled with energy and cultural exchange, with our students acting as "buddies" to introduce school life in Australia.
The day featured a variety of activities, including an AFL workshop, Indigenous art, bridge-building teamwork challenge, and a tour of our campus. A delicious Australian-style lunch, prepared by our talented catering team, brought everyone together to share stories and laughter.
A huge thank you to our teachers for making this event such a success. This visit highlighted the joy of connecting across cultures, and we hope it’s the start of many future exchanges!
Miss Emmalene Stevens has been teaching students in ‘Japan Club’ which also starts again in Week 2 in J121 on Thursdays after school. Everyone is welcome!
Emmalene Stevens
Japanese Teacher
As the year is coming to a close, our Japanese students have completed their assessments this week.
I am looking forward to marking the mini-movies for Year 8 to hear and see how they showcase their preferred hobbies whilst they have imagined meeting Japanese people for the first time, as well as reading the Year 7 brochures promoting Ipswich’s Nerima Gardens and the traditional Tea Ceremony.
Hosting a Japanese student in your home through an Australian homestay program offers a unique opportunity for both your family and the visiting student to experience new cultures, build lifelong friendships, and enhance global understanding. It provides teenagers with the chance to practice language skills, gain international perspectives, and develop a deeper appreciation for diversity. For parents, it's a chance to enrich your home environment while helping to shape the future of young global citizens. Join this exciting cultural exchange and open the doors to new experiences for your family in Term 3 of 2025!
Wishing you all a wonderful holiday this summer season.
Georgina Wellwood
Japanese Teacher
Dance Academy
The 7/8 Dance Academy students have finished off the year with submitting their choreography assessment. For this task students were required to create their own Jazz routine. This task has enabled students to develop their skills in teamwork, leadership, communication and perseverance.
The Year 9 Dance Academy class has finished the year with their combined choreography and responding project. Students choreographed a solo lyrical piece where they had to communicate their personal identity, drawing on memories or key moments in their lives. This week they are submitting the written part of their task where they analyse and evaluate the use of the elements of dance in their solo work. It is with much pride that we will see these students graduate from the Dance Academy program at the end of this week. We wish all of our year 9 Dance Academy students the best of luck as the move into their Certificate II Dance in year 10.
As the year comes to an end we are reflecting on the growth and successes of our Dance Academy in 2024. We have continued to grow individually and as a team and we can't wait for 2025. If Dance Academy is something that you are interested in for 2025 then please reach out to Miss Doorley via email ddoor4@eq.edu.au Please remember that this program runs within class time - 3 x 70 minutes per week and does not require outside of school training sessions. The only additional time that needs to be given up are our Eisteddfod days (4 per year) and our internal event days such as Dance Night and Showcase. We look forward to welcoming our 2025 cohorts into our Dance Academy program!
7 Dance
This term, Year 7 dance students took a lively journey through the decades, exploring iconic dance moves from the 1970s to today. Beginning with disco grooves from the 70s, they moved into 80s breakdancing, 90s hip-hop, 2000s street styles, and finally, today’s popular TikTok-inspired trends.
Through this group choreography project, students not only honed their dance skills but also developed teamwork, creativity, and an appreciation for dance history. Their enthusiasm and dedication brought each era to life in vibrant routines, celebrating the evolution of dance across generations!
10 Dance
Year 10 Dance students have officially completed their last piece of assessment for the year. They have finished up with a theory exam where they have had to respond to an unseen stimulus. Students have applied their analytical skills to draw meaning from the contemporary routine. We look forward to many of these students continuing onto our senior dance program next year in grade 11.
Cert II Dance
Congratulations to our students that have successfully completed their Certificate II in Dance. What an incredible achievement!
Students have completed the below units:
CUADAN211 Develop basic dance techniques
CUADAN212 Incorporate artistic expression into basic dance performances
CUAIND211 Develop and apply creative arts industry knowledge
CUAPRF211 Prepare for live performances
CUAWHS111 Follow safe dance practices
CUAWHS211 Develop a basic level of physical fitness for dance performance
CUADAN213 Perform basic jazz dance techniques
CUADAN215 Perform basic contemporary dance techniques
CUADAN218 Perform basic street dance techniques
BSBTWK201 Work effectively with others
Your hard work, dedication, and passion for dance have truly paid off. Wishing you all the best as you continue to pursue your dreams in the world of dance and beyond. Keep dancing and shining!
11 Dance
Upon the completion of their exams, the spotlight turned to the next chapter of their dance journey where students are now poised to take on their first Year 12 assessment task – a creative and challenging endeavour where they will learning a highly complex Contemporary Dance routine, displaying not just their technical abilities but also their expressive skills in communicating the choreographic intent of this routine. As the year comes to an end, the Year 11 Dance cohort is well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities that Year 12 holds for them.
12 Dance
Congratulations year 12 dancers on completing your final exams for the year. It was great to see students exit their exam with a sense of confidence in what they had achieved and a sense of relief. As you have now taken your 'final bows', know that every step, leap, and turn you've mastered has prepared you for so much more beyond these walls. Carry that same energy and courage forward into every new challenge you face. Remember that each moment, like each movement, is part of your journey, and each experience will only add to the beautiful choreography of your life.
8 Drama
The year 8 Drama student-devised Children's Theatre scripts are now three dimensional as the class work in ensemble groups to transform the text into high-energy, exaggerated and comedic performances. With engaging narrators, audience interaction and slapstick, these Children's Theatre performers are very engaging with rehearsals that are never short of a few laughs. As the year comes to an end, it has been wonderful for the Drama team to see the year 8 students' collaboration, confidence and creativity develop over their semester in Drama.
10 Music
The Grade 10 music class has wrapped up their final projects as they prepare to move on to senior music courses. This term, students explored the communicative power of programmatic music, learning how music can tell a story, convey emotion, or enhance a specific theme when paired with external programs such as film, visual art, or literature.
As part of their studies, students created their own programmatic medium—whether it was a short film, art piece, or narrative—and composed original music to accompany it. Through this process, they developed a deeper understanding of the skills and planning required to successfully write music that aligns with an external concept. They also explored how elements of music—such as rhythm, dynamics, and melody—can be manipulated to highlight and enhance key themes and emotions.
Looking ahead, many of our Grade 10 students will continue their musical journey in General and Applied Music courses in Grade 11. We’re excited to see them build on the skills and creativity they’ve developed this year as they move forward into 2025.
Instrumental Music
It’s been an amazing year in the instrumental music program, and we’re already looking forward to an exciting 2025! Many of our dedicated students are preparing for upcoming competitions and events, and we can’t wait to see them showcase their talent.
As our program continues to grow and develop, it’s been inspiring to see many of our senior students taking on additional responsibilities. In some cases, they’ve even picked up a second instrument, demonstrating their commitment to expanding their musical skills.
A friendly reminder to all students with hired instruments: please be sure to return them this week if you're in Grades 10-11, and by Week 9 if you’re in Grades 7-9. This helps us maintain our equipment and prepare for the next year.
We’re excited to continue this musical journey with our students and can’t wait to see all the amazing things they’ll accomplish in 2025!
Cheer
A mammoth CONGRATULATIONS to the Raptors Cheerleaders for their HIT ZERO performance at Super Nationals on November 9th! The competition was fierce but the vibes were high and the team took out 3rd place with less than 3-points between them and 1st place. The team joined in the comp culture, spreading the RVSSC spirit with Spirit Pegs that they made in Week 6. This event was such an amazing end to the season for our first year as competitive cheerleaders. Be sure to keep an eye out for communication about the 2025 tryouts!
Musical
Big News: Our First School Musical Is Here!
We are thrilled to announce that our school will be producing its first-ever musical, Legally Blonde! This high-energy, heart-warming production will take centre stage in October 2025, marking an exciting milestone in our school's performing arts journey.
Get ready to follow Elle Woods' inspiring and hilarious story as she proves that you can achieve anything with determination, heart, and a little bit of pink! From dazzling choreography to show-stopping songs, this promises to be an unforgettable experience for performers and audiences alike.
Stay tuned for more updates, including audition details, tickets, and ways you can get involved. Let’s make history together with this fabulous debut production! ??
Thank You for an Incredible Year in the Performing Arts!
As 2024 comes to a close, we want to extend our heartfelt thanks to our wonderful community for your unwavering support of the performing arts this year.
This has been a landmark year for us, marked by the grand opening of our Performing Arts Centre (PAC). The PAC has already become a vibrant hub for creativity, hosting unforgettable performances and providing students with incredible opportunities to shine.
Your encouragement and enthusiasm have been instrumental in making this year so special. From attending our events to cheering on our talented performers, you have shown just how much the arts mean to our community.
Here’s to more amazing moments in the years to come!
Jessica Starkey
Head of Department - Performing Arts - Year 8E - 8H
Ripley Valley Students Soar to Victory in Premier’s Coding Challenge with Stellar STEM Game
Two of our talented students from Ripley Valley State Secondary College, Saachi Sen and Ashman Batth, have upheld the winning streak of the prestigious 2024 Premier's Coding Challenge, emerging as one of just 10 winning teams from across Queensland. Their creation, Cosmic Dash, a 2D space adventure game designed to make learning about space both exciting and educational, has not only earned them rewards but also highlighted the growing impact of girls in the traditionally male-dominated field of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics). Our winning students have obtained a certificate from Queensland Government on their achievement and a robot kit. They have participated in UQ walk through of the state-of-the-art Mechatronics lab of Robots and drones.
The Premier's Coding Challenge is an annual competition that invites Queensland students from Years 3 to 10 to develop innovative digital solutions to real-world challenges. With this year’s theme, #digitalinnovationqld, students were encouraged to create digital tools that could improve various aspects of their school environments—ranging from enhancing learning experiences to promoting student well-being, sustainability, and safety. This year’s 2024 competition attracted over 450 entries, showcasing the incredible talent and creativity of students across the state. Our students have entered with 8 high quality entries creating digital solutions of the industry standard with majority of them getting highly commendable appreciation. However, Saachi and Ashman stood out as winners in the open category for Years 7–8 with their innovative, interactive approach to space education. Both of our year 7 girls gamified complex STEM concepts, transforming the vastness of space into an exciting adventure for young learners. Their game, Cosmic Dash, invites players to journey through the cosmos, solving puzzles and challenges that reinforce key astronomical principles, all while enjoying an engaging and dynamic gaming experience.
The judges were particularly impressed with the game’s accessibility, design, and educational value. They noted how the game’s intuitive instructions made it easy for players to grasp difficult concepts, while its captivating gameplay ensured that learning never became a chore. The accompanying video was equally impressive, providing an entertaining and insightful look at how the game works and how it can enhance students' understanding of space. The pair’s ability to combine entertainment with education was a standout feature, with the judges recognising their creativity in using gaming as a medium to make learning both fun and effective. Their win is not just a personal achievement but a victory for our girls in Digital Technologies. As the winners of one of the most competitive categories in the state, these two young innovators are paving the way for future generations of girls to follow in their footsteps and break barriers in STEM. Their achievement is a proud moment for Ripley Valley State Secondary College contributing to our winning streak of Premier Coding Challenge since 2021.
Senior Visual Art Excursion
Last week, our senior Visual Art General and Applied students embarked on an exciting excursion to South Bank, where they had the opportunity to engage with the inspiring collections and exhibits at the Queensland Museum. Focusing on animal species, the students began preparations for their upcoming 2025 assessment. They spent time documenting fascinating species from the museum's taxidermy collection through detailed sketches and research. The experience was made even more memorable when they encountered a few live animals along the way!
The students also visited the Queensland Art Gallery and the Gallery of Modern Art, where they delved into a variety of contemporary artworks. They explored the materials, techniques, and display choices of modern artists, gaining valuable insight into both portraiture and other innovative art forms. This excursion not only expanded their knowledge but also deepened their appreciation for the diverse ways in which art can be created and displayed.
Breaking News, Zombies Invade Ripley Valley
Year 9 Media students turned into Zombies for a day and the overtook school while participating in a Special Effects Makeup workshop. The workshop saw them create a range of looks including bruises, open wounds, bite marks, bullet wounds and full zombie faces. It was led by Taylor Manic, an industry professional, who has worked on a range of film sets along with creating looks for Movie World’s Fright Nights. After creating their looks, students started filming their Zombie films using the school as the backdrop. We can’t wait to see the final projects at the end of this term.
#ManicMakeup
#media
#specialeffectsmakeup
#zombiemakeup
Sam Watt
Head of Department - HPE & Food Studies - Year 8A to 8D
James Gerchow
Head of Department - Senior Schooling - Year 12
Janet Ingram
Guidance Officer - Years 10, 11, 12
We have come to the end of the year and what a year it has been. Already over the past few weeks we have had a lot happen in the life of the college such as the year 12 graduation but there are still things coming up.
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 us chaplaincy@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Breakfast Club
Breakfast Club is well underway for the term and is operating currently Tuesdays-Fridays from 8:15-8:45 am. If you want to help out, don’t hesitate to contact us.
Programs
The Chaplaincy Programs are wrapping up for the year. If you want your child to partake in some next year, please reach out to us.
SU Camps
Scripture Union Australia, the organisation that employs the chaplains here in Ripley Valley and in hundreds of schools across the country is also a camping organisation. If you are looking for something for your child to do over the holidays, please follow the following link. https://su.org.au/events/?category=Camp
Chappy Pantry
We have recently been able to create a Chappy pantry at Ripley Valley State Secondary College. It was designed to provide essential food assistance to students who may come to school without lunch, have insufficient lunch, or experience hunger during the school day.
The Chappy pantry has already made an incredible impact and we are excited to continue to grow this initiative.
Christmas Hamper Drive
Christmas can be a difficult time for families, so, our new Ripley Youth Club have helped plan in collaboration with Renew Baptist Church, a Christmas Hamper Drive this year. This will support the hamper drive as their community service opportunity for the term. We are hoping to collect an assortment of basic supplies, festive items and food to gift to families in our school community that would benefit.
Chappies Taylah and Kristian will be collecting the items in SSS and with the help of the students, put them into hampers to distribute before the 22/11/2024. If you would like to purchase anything to donate, please see some suggestions below. Feel free to use the suggestions or get creative!
Non-perishable items
- Basic necessities, such as soaps, handwash/ bodywash, tooth brushes and toothpaste
- Tinned soup
- Tinned spaghetti/ baked beans
- Long life milk
- Tea and coffee
- Cereal
- Muesli bars
Festive items
- Christmas biscuits
- Christmas cake/ pudding
- Fun items and activities: card game, chalk, puzzle, craft kit and Christmas decoration.
Peer Mentor Training
If your child applied and was successful at becoming a Peer Mentor in 2025 there is a 2-day training program coming up on Tuesday the 3rd of December and Wednesday the 4th of December here are the college. You should have received an email with the permission form already but if you have missed it please reach out.
We hope you have a safe and restful Christmas, we are looking forward to 2025!
Chappy Kristian & Taylah
Kristian Atkins Taylah Adsett
Chaplain Chaplain
Alicia Pickerill Jacob Millerick
YSC YSC
Student Wellbeing - Chaplain and YSC
Along with the usual challenges ‘teenagerhood’ presents, these Defence students also endured the added challenges that come along with the military lifestyle. Frequent and often long parent absences due to deployments and exercises, posting into many schools over the years, the constant adjustment to differing teaching styles, making new friends only to say goodbye, new doctors, new dentists, new homes and locations, and time away from extended families are just some of the obstacles they have had to contend with during their schooling years. These challenges can illicit young adults who are resilient and adaptable and able to get on with the job at hand, and to those who are about to step into the adult world, I wish them all every success as they carve out their own path in life. Goodbye and Good Luck!
Remembrance Day
On the 8th November, Ripley Valley SSC commemorated Remembrance Day with our annual Remembrance Day assembly. In a moving ceremony, members of the school community including staff, students and families, along with Ipswich Sub Branch RSL President Paul Rogers, members of the Ipswich Council, including Mayor Teresa Harding and P&C representatives laid wreaths in honour of our fallen. Defence students Lucy Day and Jayla Cameron read ‘In Flanders Fields’ and ‘The Ode’ respectively, and our wonderful Piper, Adam Regnart, play his pipes to accompany to wreath laying. Dale Ezzy, our resident music teacher, bugled The Last Post beautifully, a task that can very challenging during the sombre nature of a commemoration.
Our ceremony rounded out with the participation of our wonderful Army Cadets, who took up the role of Flag Orderlies with clear pride and professionalism.
On the 11th of November, Deputy Principal Daniel Pym, accompanied by Defence School Mentor Tracey Cooper, Defence Peer Mentor Jayla Cameron and Defence Student Cynthia, attended the Ipswich Sub Branch RSL Remembrance Day commemoration to lay a wreath on behalf of Ripley Valley SSC.
Each year the attendance at this commemoration grows, and of particular note this year was the number of schools that were in attendance. The young people attending these services is a promise to past generations that we will continue to Remember to Remember
A Year in Review
As the end of 2024 draws near, I reflect on the year that was for our Defence students at the college.
Term 1 activities saw welcome morning teas for new Defence families to the college, and the commencement of planning for our ANZAC Day assembly. The Defence Peer Mentors, Jayla Cameron, Ben Coop and Jackson Sheen were awarded their badges at our Investiture Assembly.
Term 2 began with ANZAC Day commemorations with the college hosting the Dawn service for the South Ripley Community, the creation and installation of Defence Family silhouette, and in week 6, a Defence Student Parental Absence Workshop was held for our Defence students.
In term 3 we held our annual Defence Week activities, which included a visit from 9FSB and their camel mascots, Penny and Vernon from RAAF Base Amberley. The Poppy Project was launched and the college was represented by students at the Battle of Fromelles, Korean War Veterans Day and Vietnam Veterans Day commemorations.
The year has rounded out in term 4 with Remembrance Day, Wellbeing Expo, Year 12 Defence Student farewell lunch, completion and mounting of ADF Family plaques in ANZAC Place, ADF Long Tan Award on awards night, DSM introductions a feeder primary schools, and the inaugural Defence Student Christmas break up,
which was a great way to kick off the wind down to Christmas
It has been a very busy year for the Defence community at the college. I have met many new students and their families, and I have said goodbye also. It is always a privilege to be a part of the support system for our Defence families, and I look forward to doing it all over again in 2025.
2025
If you are new Defence families who will be joining the Ripley Valley SSC community next year, you can identify as a Defence family when you enrol at the college, or you can contact me directly by calling 3819 5333 or by using the contact details below for any other information about the Defence School Mentor program.
I take this opportunity to wish you all a very merry Christmas, and a safe and wonderful holiday, and I look forward to working with you in 2025.
MERRY CHRISTMAS
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
Please see the attached flyer for details of extended trading hours and days – including appointment only days to beat the rush!
Are you going on holiday, or will be away from school before the term ends on 13th December 2024?
If so, you can let us know several ways: Email:administration@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Phone (absence line) :07 38195366
Administration : 07 38195333
If your holiday / absence contains 10 or more school days you will need to complete an exemption from schooling form, available on this link https://ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au/our-college/absentees
The form is also required If your student will not be returning on the first day of term, 28th Jan 2025
If your student is not returning in 2025, you will need to complete an exiting student form, please follow the link below and email it to administration@ripleyvalleyssc.eq.edu.au
Thank you
Administration team
