Welcome back

Welcome back to our existing families, and a very warm welcome to the many new families who have made Whites Hill State College their school of choice for their child’s education.  Like any new start to the school year, we are all keen to create and renew those quality relationships, which are so important for learning to take place.

We are now at the halfway point of Term 1, and it has been wonderful to see our students settling into their routines, embracing new challenges, and demonstrating a strong commitment to their learning. Classrooms are buzzing with curiosity, teamwork, and enthusiasm, and it’s been fantastic to witness the many ways students are engaging both academically and socially.

As we move further into the term, we have many exciting events ahead, providing opportunities for students to showcase their talents, build connections, and celebrate their achievements. We encourage families to stay connected and informed by keeping an eye on school communications and participating in upcoming activities.

Over these past few weeks, I have had the pleasure of walking around the school visiting classrooms and continue to be impressed with the experience and dedication of the staff, the passion and community spirit of the parents and the confidence, intelligence and manners of the children. It is these collective partnerships that enable us to provide the very best education for every child at Whites Hill.

A heartfelt thank you to our families for your ongoing support. Your involvement plays a crucial role in making our school a thriving, inclusive, and dynamic community, and we look forward to sharing another great half of the term together!

A few reminders about school procedures:

• The first bell rings at 8:40am – this is a time for our students to transition to classrooms.
• The school day (instruction) begins at 8:45am.   
• If your child is late, please present at the main office where you will receive a late slip.
• Parents can inform us of student absences in the following ways: Email: admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au; Student Absence Text: 0428 632 704; Telephone: 3900 8370
• When possible, please inform the school of student absences prior to 8:45am.
• School uniform. We are a uniform school.  Please support your child to wear the uniform correctly. Uniform Shop information   

School focus and vision for 2025

Moving Forward Together: Achieving Our School Priorities

As we embark on this journey together, we are guided by a shared commitment to excellence, inclusion, and wellbeing. Our school priorities—Educational Achievement, Wellbeing and Engagement, and Culture and Inclusion — are not just aspirations; they are the foundation of our collective growth.

By working together, we can turn these priorities into meaningful action.

School priority 1: Educational Achievement – Curriculum

How We Move Forward Together:

• Strengthening teacher expertise through professional collaboration and ongoing learning
• Engaging in reflective practice and professional dialogue to refine curriculum delivery
• Implementing the v.9 Australian Curriculum with a focus on deep learning and student success

Our Roles:

Staff: Collaborate, innovate, and share best practices.

Students: Engage in learning with curiosity and commitment.

Families: Support learning at home and foster a culture of lifelong education.

School priority 2: Wellbeing and Engagement – Pedagogy

How We Move Forward Together:

• Implementing differentiated, high-impact teaching strategies that cater to all learners
• Fostering positive relationships to enhance student engagement and motivation
• Embedding wellbeing into the learning experience to support holistic growth

Our Roles:

Staff: Deliver engaging and inclusive lessons that connect with students.

Students: Take ownership of learning and seek support when needed.

Families: Encourage resilience and a growth mindset at home.

School priority 3: Culture and Inclusion – Case Management

How We Move Forward Together:

• Building an inclusive learning environment where every student feels valued and supported
• Ensuring tailored support structures to enable all learners to thrive
• Embracing diversity and strengthening inclusive practices across the school community

Our Roles:

Staff: Advocate for and implement inclusive teaching practices.

Students: Show kindness, empathy, and respect for all.

Families: Engage with school initiatives that promote equity and inclusion.

Our Collective Commitment

Moving forward together means creating an environment where every student can succeed, where we empower each other as colleagues, and every family feels connected. By embracing these priorities as a community, we strengthen the foundations of learning, wellbeing, and belonging.

Together, we shape a future where success is shared, and every step forward is a step forward for all.

P&C Easter Raffle – Donations Due Soon!

A friendly reminder that Easter Raffle chocolate donations are due by Friday 28 February. Thank you to everyone who has already contributed! The funds raised will support some fantastic school projects, including:

• A student-run coffee cart
• Upgrades to the tennis courts
• Improvements to the primary play areas

Class Challenge: The class that donates the most chocolate will win a hot chip party!

Key Dates:

• Friday 28 February – Donations Due (via your child’s classroom / CARES class)
• Friday 7 March – Raffle Launch
• Wednesday 1 April – Raffle Draw

School zone parking and pick-up

We have had some concerns regarding the driving behaviour of some of our families.  A reminder that school zones exist to keep our children, parents and carers safe and to minimise speed and traffic jams around schools.

Drop-off, pick-up and parking rules

Parking rules apply around schools, especially around school entrances.

In a school zone:

• parking restrictions may be stricter than normal
• there may be a pick-up and drop-off area where parking is not allowed—but where you can collect your children in a fast and safe way.

Parking

Schools are busy areas, where there are often lots of children—who do not always understand the danger of roads and vehicles. Make sure to take extra care when parking on school grounds and on the roads and streets around the school and follow the signed parking rules at all times. 

Parking & Consideration for Our Neighbours

A reminder to please be mindful when parking around the school during busy drop-off and pick-up times. To ensure a safe and respectful environment for everyone:

• Use designated parking areas and avoid blocking driveways.
• Keep clear of no-stopping zones and pedestrian crossings.
• Drive slowly and safely, especially where children are walking or riding.
• Show courtesy to our neighbours by parking responsibly.

Thank you for your cooperation in keeping our school and community safe and respectful.

Reporting parked vehicles

If someone parks a vehicle illegally or dangerously, they can be given a fine and their vehicle may be towed. You can help keep our school zone safe by reporting badly parked vehicles. Contact your council to report an illegally or dangerously parked vehicle.

Drop-off and pick-up areas

Drop-off and pick-up areas, where you can quickly set down and pick up your children, create a safe environment for children and keep traffic moving. Drop-off and pick-up areas are signed with passenger loading zone signs or 2-minute parking signs. These signs mean you have a maximum of 2 minutes to drop off or collect your children.

How they work

There can often be queues at drop-off and pick-up areas outside schools.

When using a drop-off and pick-up area you:

• must use the area like a quick moving taxi rank
• need to move forward in the queue of vehicles to the signed area
• can get out of your vehicle to quickly help your children get in and out safely (once in the signed area)—however you must not walk away from your vehicle
• are only allowed 2 minutes in the signed area (if you take any longer you can be fined)—if your children are not ready to get straight into your vehicle at pick-up time, you will need to drive round the block and queue to enter the area again
• should only let your children out once you have pulled into the signed area (it is dangerous to let them out while waiting in a queue)
• should teach your children to look out for your vehicle and to get in quickly when you pull up
• must enter front in (never reverse).

As we move in to the second half of our term, I look forward to working with everyone in our school community to further enhance our college’s reputation and to provide your children with the knowledge and skills necessary to participate fully in further education and beyond.   I hope that your children come home this week buzzing with excitement for the year ahead!

Richenda Wagener
College Principal

As we reach the midpoint of the school term, we wanted to take a moment to reflect on the progress our students have made and share some important updates for the remainder of the term.

It’s been a productive and exciting start to the school year! Our students have been working hard across all subjects and we are so proud of their growth and achievements.

Our School Day in Primary

Our first bell for students to get ready for class is at 8:40am. Our school day of learning starts at 8:45am. The roll is marked at this time. Any late arrivals after 8:45am go through the main Administration building. Your child will get a late slip before going to join their class. While we understand that life can get very busy, we appreciate your support in ensuring your child is seated and ready to learn from 8:45am.

School Gates

For student and staff safety, College gates will be locked daily between 9:00am and 2:45pm.

Parents, visitors and contractors attending the school, while the gates are locked, are asked to use the administration gate on Burn Street.

Thank you for your support in keeping our school community safe.

Parents on School Grounds

Most mornings and afternoons a member of the Leadership team is out and about greeting parents as you wait for the school day to start or are ready for the end of day collection.

At Whites Hill, we believe that fostering a respectful and positive environment is essential for the success of our students. We kindly ask that if you have concerns or question about your child or an incident that may have happened, you do so by making a time to see the teacher or myself.

As our students are busy learning from 8:45am, parents are not permitted into the classrooms from this time.

Additionally, we remind parents to not discuss concerns with other parents on school grounds, as this can lead to confusion and unnecessary stress. If you have concerns regarding another parent or the behaviour of a child who is not your own, please feel free to schedule a meeting, call, or email me, and I will be happy to address your concerns in a respectful and collaborative approach.

By showing respect for all our staff and fellow families, we help maintain a supportive atmosphere that prioritizes the best interests of all students. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

Looking Ahead

As we move toward the second half of the term, we are excited about the opportunities and experiences that lie ahead. Together, we can ensure that this term is filled with continued success, and personal growth for all students.

Thank you for your ongoing support and partnership. We’re grateful for the opportunity to work alongside you in providing the best educational experience for your child.

As always, I welcome feedback and conversation that aligns with our CARES values.

Briohny Cuskelly
Head of School – Primary Campus

We have enjoyed a very positive start to the new school year. There have been many moments of joy watching our students stride back into school life and participate actively in their learning.

The beginning of a new school year is an important milestone. Whether a student is starting their first year of Secondary or moving into their last year of Secondary or exploring learning somewhere in between, the new year presents an opportunity to embrace new challenges, new subjects, new friendships and enjoy new learning.  

In the first 5 weeks of this year our college has:

• Welcomed a new cohort of Year 7’s into the Secondary school. Our new Year 7’s have come from a variety of feeder schools, and we are incredibly excited to welcome them into our community and watch them develop into a unified cohort. Their enthusiasm, curiosity and energy have been a highlight of start to school life in Secondary. Year 7 camp in week 6 promises to be an event that our Year 7’s will remember for many years to come. 
• Welcomed new students in Years 8 to 11. Starting at a new school is a challenge with many mixed emotions.  When you are not part of a whole new cohort such as the Year 7’s, navigating a new environment can be tough.  At WHSC we pride ourselves on making sure that every new student regardless of their year level feels like they belong and have a strong network of support around them. 
• Welcomed new staff and embraced the opportunity to share and reinforce our commitment to our CARES philosophy. We work together each day to display our CARES values in our school community. 
• Continued our connection with The Resilience Project (TRP) school wellbeing program, as a shared commitment to supporting the wellbeing of every member of our college community. We want our students, staff, and wider community to have strong values, feel positive about their learning and wellbeing and be grateful, empathetic, and mindful in the world. During Year 7 to 12 PDP lessons students will participate in research-based activities that will provide them with the knowledge and skills to act towards building their resilience and positively influencing their mental health. 
• We have enjoyed events such as International Women and Girls in Science, Secondary Swimming Carnival, and our Leadership Investiture, during our first few weeks.  In the coming weeks we look forward to highlighting International Women’s Day and Harmony Week.  At our leadership investiture we launched the 2025 leadership theme of, ‘Together WE Achieve’. 
• We continue to support our students to display our Standards for Success. Standards for Success are expectations for every student that support their success in school, for example attendance and behaviour appropriately. Our Standards for Success help provide students with clarity around expectations at WHSC. Our Culture and Engagement Coordinators (CEC) work closely with students to support the formation of habits and values that will create a strong foundation for future student success. 

We are encouraging our students to focus on the tiny gains each day that have a big impact on their growth over the long-term. Becoming the best version of ourselves does not happen in an instant but happens in the tiny moments each day.  These tiny moments of growth add up across the days, weeks, months, and years and eventuate in the realisation of personal milestones, goals, and achievements.  Every individual student at WHSC has the capability and capacity to achieve their personal best, and our community is ready and willing to support them to reach their potential. James Clear, author of the popular leadership book ‘atomic habits’, writes about continuous improvement; how it works and how to master it and the power of tiny gains and aiming to get 1% better every day.  

We look forward to supporting every student to continue their learning and growth this year. Thank you, students, parents and staff, for a fantastic start to the school year in 2025.

Samantha Hawkins
Head of School - Secondary

I would like to extend a warm welcome to our new and returning families. It has been great to see everyone settle so well into their new class routines, especially our Prep students.

Books on Wheels

It is always a pleasure to welcome Jacques and Anne from Le Van du Livre to share resources with our teachers and school community. Students have enjoyed browsing and discovering new resources during their visit to the van.  

New teachers

This term we have welcomed two new teachers to our French Bilingual Team.

Mrs Agnes Witt will be replacing Jess Connole who is going on maternity leave at the end of this week. We wish Miss Connole all the best for the arrival of the baby.

Turn to teaching in Secondary

This year in our secondary History and Geography FBP class, as well as our French language classes, we have the pleasure to have Elodie Ghestem join us as an intern as part of the Department of Education Turn to Teaching program. As part of her internship, Elodie will be conducting classroom observations and teaching under the supervision of teachers. This is a fantastic opportunity and are very excited to have Elodie join our team this year.

Links to French Curriculum

On Monday 17 February, I ran a quick session on how the learning is structured in the French curriculum. I will be emailing the PowerPoint to families by the end of this week. French curriculum documents that outline the end of cycle expectations and the end of year level expectations can be found here:

• CP / Year 1: https://eduscol.education.fr/document/13930/download
• CE1/ Year 2: https://eduscol.education.fr/document/13942/download
• CE2/ Year 3: https://eduscol.education.fr/document/13954/download
• Cycle 2 curriculum: https://www.education.gouv.fr/sites/default/files/ensel135_annexe3.pdf

Evaluations nationales

Over the last couple of weeks our Year 1, 2 and 3 students have completed the French National Assessment for French. The évaluations nationales are undertaken at the start of school every year in France and provide valuable information to the teachers with regards to students’ knowledge and understanding of French concepts. This information is used to plan and deliver targeted and differentiated learning opportunities for our students. The results will be shared with you during the parent-teacher interviews.

Enrolments for 2026

Our waitlist for 2026 is now active, you can register your interest in joining our French Bilingual Program here.

French Film Festival

The French Film Festival will be held from March 6^th to April 8^th.  The full program is now available on their website here: https://www.affrenchfilmfestival.org/brisbane

Bayard Jeunesse/ Ecole des loisirs subscription offer

Dear parents,

This year again, we encourage your child to read. Don't forget that reading is an essential skill in the learning process, along with writing and mathematics.

In partnership with Le Forum, we give you the opportunity to subscribe to books and magazines at the best price and local support in Australia.

1. Books from l'école des loisirs

Your child will receive 8 books at school during the school year from November 2024 to June 2025.

You can now order on Le Forum website - www.leforum.com.au - Ecole des loisirs  - Collection 24-25 - by selecting the grouped subscription of your choice.

Important: To facilitate the distribution of the books, please indicate in 'Your notice to us' at the time of payment the name, first name and class of the child.

2. Bayard/Milan educational magazines

Your child will receive a magazine every month at your personal address. Choose from 25 educational magazines on the world website specially designed to subscribe from overseas => www.boutique.bayard-monde.com (Use Promo Code E20 for Australia)

Important: Select   WHITES HILL on the drop-down menu so that your school benefits from free subscriptions!

Note to non-French speakers: As the website is in French language, please do not hesitate to contact leforummagz@gmail.com if you need help!

Read and Learn!

A bientôt,

Anne Mangeant - déléguée Bayard-Milan en Australie et Nouvelle-Zélande

Boutique Bayard Monde (Code Promo E20)   

French Books on Wheels / Le ForumMagz

Mob (WhatsApp): +61 413 477 229

Emma Van Cuylenberg
Head of Department – French Bilingual Program | Coordinatrice du programme bilingue français

2025 NAPLAN Testing

NAPLAN testing will be held from 12 to 19 March 2025. NAPLAN is a nationwide measure through which parents, teachers and schools can determine how well young Australians are developing the literacy and numeracy skills that provide the critical foundation for other learning. NAPLAN assesses skills that students are learning at school. It is not a test that can be studied for, so the best preparation is learning what we do in the classroom every day.

Read the NAPLAN information brochure for parents and carers.

To see the format of the online tests, visit the public demonstration site.

Families with students in Years 3, 5, 7 or 9: Information on arrangements for 2025 NAPLAN testing was distributed via two emails on Tuesday 11 February and Tuesday 25 February. We ask that you familiarise yourself with the information provided. If you did not receive these email communications, please contact the college.

Mark Granrose
NAPLAN Coordinator
Head of Department – Mathematics & Design and Technology

LATE PICK-UP?
Our school day concludes at 2:55pm, if you are running late to collect your child from school, please notify WHSC Administration on Burn Street as soon as possible by calling 3900 8333. Reminder: Outside School Hours Care is available if needed.

EARLY PICK-UP?
If you need to collect you child, in order to minimise disruptions, we kindly ask that students are collected before or after the following break times:
• First Break: 11.00-11.45am
• Second Break: 1.15-1.50pm

Thank you for your cooperation in supporting the smooth running of our college.

YEARS 1/2 A AND B - The students of classes 1/2A and 1/2B have spent the beginning of the year getting to know each other, different eating and playing areas, new teachers and routines. Activities for special days included making the coat of arms, snakes and hearts. We have begun to examine cultural stories and look forward to listening and viewing many more interesting oral histories that have become written pieces.

YEAR 3 - The Power Of Three! Year three have had a busy start to the year. They have discovered many things related to three. They are experts at counting in threes. They have been writing, expanding and modelling three-digit numbers. They have used triangles to create interesting drawings. The students built their vocabulary of "tri-" words.  These terrific threes have been using the trick of three in their writing to make things more interesting.  They discovered our school motto is a tricolon: Imagine Believe Achieve. They wrote a class motto using the same idea.

• 3A students are kind, creative and resilient.
• 3B students are respectful, safe and creative. 

Congratulations  on a wonderful, exciting, and productive start to Year Three.

This term in HPE, Years 5 and 6 students are practicing junior lifesaving scenarios in which they rescue and are rescued using rope and reach techniques. Students are learning survival strokes and ways to stay safe in and around water which is essential when living in sunny Queensland.

Katie Stankovic
Primary HPE Teacher

Our college celebrated the International Day of Women and Girls in Science with a number of activities to recognise the valuable contribution women make to the various fields of Science.

 In Lower Primary School (P-2) students engaged in a range of activities thinking about the concept of a scientist. In Upper Primary (3-6), students heard from a scientist about what she does in her field of work, and discussed this as a class. Lastly in Secondary, Junior female students participated in a workshop, and Senior female students listened to a panel discussion.

Thank you to the very talented women who have given up their time to help inspire our students at WHSC. Over 20 leading scientists in their fields contributed and we thank them for inspiring the next group of scientists and for showing our young women that a future in science is not only possible…but theirs for the taking!

Emma Scotney
Head of Department - Science and Technologies

CARES - Cooperation, Achievement, Respect, Enthusiasm and Safety are the values which form part of our whole of college framework that promotes positive behaviour and contributes to developing a safe and supportive environment for all members of our college community.

Our students are taught these values and understand different ways that they can be demonstrated every day. When students are seen to be exhibiting our CARES values, they are awarded CARES points by staff members. During the term, we celebrate the amazing students who receive CARES points and contribute to making our college a great place to be.

It is fantastic to see our CARES values in action every day!

Kristy-Lea Francis
Culture and Engagement Coordinator – Year 9 & 10

Sports Aerobics is back and bigger than ever in 2025. Students are now in their 4th week of training and representing WHSC with enthusiasm!

Katie Stankovic
Academy of Sports and Performance Coordinator

https://www.facebook.com/whiteshillstatecollege/videos/995193779419557

Junior Interschool Sport

Welcome back to another busy year of sport here at Whites Hill State College. My name is Mardi Johnson and I am the Sport Coordinator here for 2025. What a start to the sporting year to date.

Interschool Sport

Interschool Sport is a weekly competition where WHSC competes against the other schools in the South District. After 3 weeks of trials and/or training, we have just completed Round 2 of the 11-week Interschool Sport Summer Season. The College has been represented well with our Junior Boys Basketball getting off to a great start.

District Trials and Met East Sport Trials

District trials for a number of sports for both Lytton District, South District and Met East have already taken place.

So far this year, Ishani has made the Met East Cricket Team and McKinlee has made the South District Football Team. Well done Ladies.

If you are interested in trialling for a District/Regional Sport, please come and see me for details.

School and District Swimming

Wednesday of Week 2 saw our Interhouse Swimming carnival. What a fun packed day it was for all involved. Thank you to everyone for making this a day to remember. Congratulations to all our Age Champions and to Cunningham for taking home the trophy. From the school carnival, WHSC had 10 swimmers represent the college at the last South District Swimming Carnival. Well done to Xavier, Lee and Aiden for making it through to the Met East Swimming Championships on Tuesday 4^th March. All the best students.

School Cross Country

Our last day of this term, Friday 4^th March, sees our Interhouse Cross Country. It will be held here at school during Periods 3 and 4. More information will be available as it gets closer.

As it can be seen, it has been a very busy start for sport. Please feel free to contact myself with any questions/concerns with regards to sport here at Whites Hill State College- Secondary.

Mardi Johnson
Culture and Engagement Coordinator - Sport

As a host provider, you provide a secure family environment with a bedroom, study area, three meals a day and contribute to the brilliant reputation Queensland has of providing the perfect Aussie cultural experience.

Homestay families are a smorgasbord of diversity. They are married couples with or without kids, singles, singles with kids, dog people, cat people and grandparents too.

You could earn up to $1400 a month for welcoming an international high school student into your home! To find out more contact our Homestay Coordinator on 39008318 or email: international@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au

WHSC has partnered with Mater Education for Year 10, 11 and 12 students to study Health Courses on our campus. Our first session of 2025 started this week.

Our Health Hub is equipped with hospital beds, medical supplies and qualified Mater Education Trainers deliver Cert II Health Support Service and Cert III Health Services Assistance.

All courses contribute QCE points towards the Year 12 Queensland Certificate of Education. A Cert III qualification also can be used for direct entry to a number of universities within Brisbane.

Career Opportunities:

• Assistant in nursing
• Wardsperson
• Food services
• Physiotherarpy Assistant
• Occupational Therapist Assistant

Please contact our Industry Liaison Officer, Michelle Taylor for further information: mtayl505@eq.edu.au

International Women’s Day

What is International Women’s Day and why is it important?

International Women's Day is a special day celebrated in many countries worldwide to recognise and honour women's accomplishments. It originated in North America and Europe in the early 1900s. Over the years, it has become an important day for women globally, promoting their rights and involvement in various aspects of life.

In Australia, International Women's Day began in 1928 and has since grown. It's a day to celebrate women's achievements and address challenges that contribute to gender inequality.

Today, International Women's Day is a time to think about progress, advocate for change, and honour the bravery of women who have made history. It's a chance to review the journey towards equality, peace, and development, and to unite for meaningful change.

International Women’s Day 2025

The theme for International Women's Day 2025 is "Accelerate Action."

When we encourage others to appreciate and value the inclusion of women, we create a better world. When women feel inspired to be a part of things, they experience a sense of belonging, importance, and empowerment.

For more information:

Women’s Health: International Women's Day: Women & Health (internationalwomensday.com)

Women at Work: International Women's Day: Women & Work (internationalwomensday.com)

Women and Sport: International Women's Day: Women & Sport (internationalwomensday.com)

Women’s Empowerment: International Women's Day: Women & Empowerment (internationalwomensday.com)

 Sourced via: https://unwomen.org.au/international-womens-day/about/

www.internationalwomensday.com/Theme

Contact the School Based Youth Health Nurse to privately and confidentially discuss any concerns:

Email: nurse.whiteshill@health.qld.gov.au 

Or Scan this QR code to self refer to the service

Welcome to Term 1!

It is safe to say that Term 1 is a busy term! We have loved every second of getting to know all our new friends and their families.

2025 Enrolment

If you are a family who has already attended our service, please don’t forget that you do need to complete a new enrolment for each year, meaning we need a current one before you make any bookings for your children. If you need any assistance with your enrolment, feel free to contact us or come and visit our lovely room for a chat!

Preps 2025

What an absolute pleasure it has been meeting all our new 2025 preppies! Every single one of them has settled in so well and has become super comfortable with our current routine at OSHC. We will continue to assist them in any way that they may need whilst in our care. Our staff members will continue to collect the prep and year 1s from their classroom after school to ensure they are getting to the OSHC room nice and safely.

Staffing

The team here at AWH is going to continue to grow slowly this year as we have gotten so many new enrolments, which is so exciting! We have had a new staff member start with us in week 3, feel free to come and say hello to her!

Quest Football

As most families are aware, we have started doing Quest football again! From the children that have started doing it, they are giving great feedback about it. Quest is running every Friday afternoon in 2 separate groups. As we have a few families started already, we do currently only have a few spots left! Please see down the bottom for the link.

Our Program

The AWH program is a fun, exciting, educational program which is created by our entire team. Our staff are paired up with one another each week to ensure we join all the ideas that we have and put them into the best program possible for our children to enjoy!

Story Park

It’s great to see how many parents are now actively involved with what we post on our Storypark.  If you haven’t already please accept our Invitation for you to join.  We also want to assure families this is only for our Service to see.   This is an easy to use online service that is very private.   We do require permission prior and this is what you have indicated on your Enrolment Form. Please note this can be changed at any time.

We also use this platform to notify special events, holidays and our Monthly Service Bulletin.

Driving up to OSHC Building

Thank you to everyone for helping to keep our children safe by not driving up to the OSHC building.  There are some exceptions so if you do see someone driving up, please know that we are aware in the Office. 

Our Next Vacation Care commences: 7^th April – 17^th April!

The program will be sent to all families. Please, if you require bookings for vacation care, bookings can be made via the app but only when we notify you all that the rolls are open. Please let me know if you need any assistance.

Failure of Notice of Absence

We ask that if you are away if you can please notify us as soon as possible.  We need to account for all children who are booked in and this can take some time contacting families.

We unfortunately need to charge a non - communication fee if we are having to make calls/texts.

Absences need to be given to the service the Friday prior to the following week or an absent fee is charged.

Coming Up!

• 8^th March – International Women’s Day
• 3^rd March – World Hearing Day
• 5^th March – Ash Wednesday
• 21^st March – World Poetry Day

Sharon Seagrott – Service Coordinator
Mady Millar – Assistant Coordinator
YMCA Queensland – Outside School Hours Care YMCA Whites Hill
Gate 6 Abbott Street, Camp Hill
M 0439 510 335 E awh@ymcaqueensland.org.au
W http://www.ymcachildcare.com.au/services/outside-school-hours-care.html

Phone – 3900 8333
Email – admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au

OFFICE HOURS

Welcome back to school for 2025!

Office hours are:

• 8.00am to 4.00pm Monday to Thursday
• 8.00am to 3.30pm Friday

BUSY PERIODS

Please be aware that the busiest periods for the office are 8.30am–9.30am & 2.00pm–3.30pm.

We would really appreciate if any non-urgent calls can be made outside of these hours.

If you are wishing to advise an absence, notify incorrect uniform, or communicate early pickup you can call 3900 8370 (absence line messagebank) or text 0428 632 704, these are checked regularly throughout the day.

EARLY PICKUP OR PICKUP INSTRUCTIONS

If parents would like to collect their student/s early, or pass a message to their student/s regarding a change to their normal pickup routine; please notify the office at least 1 hour prior to the pick up time. This will allow the office staff time to contact the student/s if they are out of their normal classroom, so they can be ready to collect at the main office.

Please also plan around the college break times, as students at play are much more difficult to bring to the office in a quick timeframe. Please see the attached Primary & Secondary times.

HAVE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS CHANGED?

Now more than ever we rely on electronic communication to connect with our families.

If you have changed an email address or mobile phone number recently; or have not been receiving regular texts and email updates; please advise us via either contacting the school on 3900 8333 option 7, texting on 0428 632 704 or via email to admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au.

2026 ENROLMENTS

WHSC are welcoming enrolments of Prep & Year 7 students for 2026 and look forward to hearing from you to book an enrolment appointment for your prospective student.

Further information and enrolment application documents can be found on our website -– https://whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au/enrolments.

Completed application documents can be lodged by emailing them to – admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au; Daniela Kirkham – Enrolment Officer Ph: 3900 8333.

TWILIGHT EXPO – Save the date!

WHSC is very excited to be holding our Twilight Expo on Monday 26^th May 2025.

While this is an opportunity to share our college with our community and prospective students, it is also a great chance for parents of current students to visit our school.

This is an afternoon not to be missed where we will be showcasing some of what we offer as a college community, including tours with staff and class/ subject displays, performances and tastings from hospitality.

We hope to see you at our Twilight Expo!

2026 French Bilingual Program enrolments

Whites Hill State College & Tingalpa State School are currently accepting expressions of interest for the 2026 French Bilingual Program.

Tingalpa State School cover years Prep to Yr 6.

Whites Hill State College will cover Prep to Yr 4 in primary and Yr 7-9 in secondary.

For more information on the Program and to register your interest please follow the link to:

https://whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au/curriculum/excellence-programs

QPARENTS

As we commence the new school year, we would like to remind you of an important tool for staying informed and connected with your child’s learning and school activities – QParents.

If you haven’t already signed up for QParents, we strongly encourage you to do so.

This secure online portal is required to access digital consent forms and also includes features such as 24/7 online access to receive and pay school invoices, update contact and address details and view your child’s academic reports.

Families who are not registered yet will receive an email invitation.  Please check your junk mail.

To successfully apply for Qparents, you are required to complete the process on a computer. Once you have been approved, the mobile app can be used.

You will be required to provided 100 points of identification, if you are unable to meet the 100 points, please contact admin (admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au ) and we can support the approval process.

2025 STUDENT ID PHOTOS

Student ID photos were taken for all new students and all Year 7 students and is for ID purposes only. In Secondary this includes a student ID card. ID cards will arrive from the photographer soon.

Formal student photos will be held Friday 18 July 2025 (week 1 of Term 3).

You will be able to order online once open, order envelopes will also be sent home with students closer to the date.

Please visit the photographers website for more information:

http://www.advancedlife.com.au/index.php

Phone – 3900 8304
Email – accounts@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au

STUDENT RESOURCE SCHEME (SRS) 2025

In recognition of the cost of living issues many of our families are experiencing, our SRS fees remain unchanged.

The 2025 annual Student Resource Scheme participation fees are as follows:

• Prep to Year 6 – $160
• Year 7 to Year 9 – $310
• Year 10 to Year 12 – $360

For secondary students this also includes the Textbook and Resource Allowance (TRA $160 Yr 7-10 & $348 Yr 11&12)) component which has been applied to reduce the SRS fee payable by the parent.

If a parent has opted out of the scheme the parent is required to provide the educational resources listed in the SRS for their child by the start of the school year.

Please note that your student is not considered participating in the scheme and given access to the resources until payment is made or a payment plan is commenced.

Current payment plans are welcome to continue.

Further information and all documents for the SRS process are available on the school website:

https://whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au/support-and-resources/payments.

We understand there is a lot of information within these documents, please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions on 3900 8304 or admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au.

Please note it is College policy that families are required to be financial in the SRS to access extra curriculum optional activities (ie excursions, camps etc).

EXCURSION / EVENT CUT OFF

Please be aware that every event – excursion or incursion – comes with a final date for permission and payment.

This is so final numbers can be advised to the businesses involved and payments made to them.

NO LATE PAYMENTS WILL BE ACCEPTED.

Please note that we have a strict no pay no go policy and if the Permission form is returned but payment is not made by the due date unfortunately your child will not be able to attend.

YEAR 12 ACCOUNTS

This is an early notice that all year 12 accounts must be settled for students to attend any non-compulsory activity including the formal and the final week’s activities. This includes Student Resource Scheme, laptop scheme, certificate courses and sport costs. Statements will be sent out more regularly for Year 12 students, to help manage the costs of this last year of schooling. If you have questions or wish to set up a payment plan please contact the finance office to discuss.

PAYMENT OPTIONS

Whites Hill State College is becoming a CASHLESS School.

Payment options include:

• Bpoint - see link on invoices and statements
• Bank (direct debit) Transfer (BSB: 064-104 A/C Number: 0009 0061)
• Centrepay - please contact finance to set up
• Cash or credit/debit card at the office during open hours

 The Finance Office opening hours for 2024 will be:

• Monday - Friday 8.00am to 9.30am & 2.00pm to 3.30pm.

Please note: Bpoint is the Department of Education’s preferred method of payment.

Payment plans are available with all payment methods.

HELP WITH SCHOOL COSTS

There are many costs associated with your child’s education, even if they attend a Queensland Government school. This page has information on some of those costs, and the support payments that may help:

https://www.qld.gov.au/education/schools/financial/pages/cost

QUEENSLAND GOVERNMENT FAIRPLAY VOUCHER

Where eligible, parents, carers or guardians can apply for a voucher valued up to $200 for their child, which can be used towards sport and active recreation membership, registration or participation fees with registered activity providers.

There is a limit of 1 voucher per child per calendar year.

Applying for and using FairPlay voucher

Contact: Kylie Harris (Convener)
Phone: 07 3900 8325
Email: whscuniforms@gmail.com
Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 8.00am – 1pm

For known sizes, please order online or students may walk in without appointment between 8.00-8.30am on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays.

Online orders preferred – www.flexischools.com.au

Flexischools allows you to purchase new uniforms and text books via the app or website that will be delivered to either the main admin (Secondary) or to Primary classrooms. If you wish to purchase second-hand uniforms, you can email whscuniforms@gmail.com and use the pre-payment option to pay for items.

Should you be unable to visit the college during the uniform shop opening hours and require an appointment outside the opening times, please contact college administration via email admin@whiteshillsc.eq.edu.au to arrange.

If a fitting is required, please make an appointment by clicking this link or scan the QR code:

For further information including uniform policy & prices please visit the website:

As we kick off this year, we want to remind everyone of our “Phones Away for the Day” approach. During school hours, students are asked to keep their phones safely put away so they can focus on learning, building friendships, and being fully present when at school.

This helps reduce distractions and ensures students get the most out of their time at school. Let’s work together to make this year a positive and productive one!

We can’t wait for our Open Day (also known as our Twilight Expo) on Monday, 26 May.

Our Twilight Expo is always a wonderful opportunity for current and future families to explore our college offerings and facilities. Highlights are our Primary and Secondary guided tours where visitors can tour classrooms, participate in a range of activities and enjoy performances by our award-winning Sports Aerobics teams plus musical acts. We hope to see you there!