Dates correct at time of publication.

Brisbane State High School's 2024 Annual Giving Appeal week is underway! 

If you can give back to the Blue-Red-Blue community, your tax-deductible donation will help the State High Foundation greatly with funding essential projects that otherwise lack financial support. With increasing challenges around enrolments and funding, we need your help more than ever. Every dollar counts and no donation is too small.

About the Annual Giving Appeal

In recent years, the State High Foundation has successfully created many versatile teaching and learning spaces to enrich our students' experiences, including the Innovation Studio and Outdoor Learning Area. The impacts of increasing enrolments mean we need to be creative in how we accommodate more classes while still upgrading facilities for students. The current focus is on refurbishing the school library to transform it into an agile and contemporary place of connection and collaboration, incorporating dynamic zones of engagement that support 21st century teaching and learning. 

These new spaces and facilities will cater to a variety of needs, including: 

• Soundproof quiet zones 
• Meeting pods 
• A creative industries mezzanine with podcasting, recording studio, and design capability zones 
• Transformable furniture and fittings to accommodate a variety of situations, and large group presentations with state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment 
• Traditional reading and reference areas with access to books and journals

This ambitious project is the most significant undertaking by the Foundation to date. It aims to benefit all students and support emerging, dynamic industries. With your help we can do so much. Every dollar counts and donations are tax deductible. This year's Giving Appeal closes on Sunday 30 June. Thank you for your support.

– Ms Natalie Loye | Alumni and Community Engagement

State High's 2023 Annual Magazine celebrates the school’s achievements and highlights from last year.

We are pleased to announce that the 2023 Annual Magazine is finally out! We thank you for your patience and hope you enjoy this beautiful archive of memories.

Accessing the digital publication

How can current students and staff access the magazine?

Current students and staff can access and download the digital magazine as a PDF from StudentNet using the following steps:

1. Login to StudentNet.
2. In the top menu, click on Departments, then scroll down and click on Library.
3. On the Library page, scroll down and click on Digital School Magazine Collection.
4. Click on the cover of the 2023 Annual Magazine, which will load the publication in the StudentNet site.
5. In the top right menu, click on Download to save the PDF to your device.

How can past students access the magazine?

Past students can access and download the digital magazine as a PDF from State High Connect using the following steps:

1. Login to State High Connect.
2. In the top menu, click on School Annual Magazines.
3. Scroll through the timeline under the magazine reader to 2023 and click on the 2023 Annual Magazine thumbnail.
4. Click on the Download PDF link, which appears just above the magazine reader.

Why does the magazine only appear one page at a time?

StudentNet and browsers (e.g. Chrome and Microsoft Edge) only have the capacity to show PDFs one page at a time. It is recommended that the magazine is downloaded and viewed through Adobe Acrobat Reader, which can be accessed for free from https://get.adobe.com/reader/.

Purchasing a printed copy

Where can I purchase a printed copy?

Copies of the 2023 Annual Magazine can be purchased online at: https://www.myyearbook.com.au/shop/p/bshs-annual-magazine-2023 

What is the cost of the 2023 Annual Magazine?

The cost of one printed copy of the 2023 Annual Magazine is $60.00 (including GST and delivery within Australia)

Further information

To view frequently asked questions, please click here.

At State High, we are deeply committed to our goal of personal excellence for all students and acknowledge the critical role parents and guardians play in contributing to their child's education and success.

The Parents as Partners page on the school website provides a range of resources purposefully and specifically designed for parents and guardians to support their child's learning, including: 

• Tips and techniques for helping facilitate effective learning and study at home from Dr Megan Sumeracki and Dr Cindy Nebel, The Learning Scientists. Dr Sumeracki and Dr Nebel discuss the difference between homework and revision, and provide helpful tips for how you can support your child’s spaced practice and retrieval practice at home.
• Tips and techniques for helping facilitate effective learning and study at home from Dr Pooja Agarwal, Cognitive Scientist.

Our Future Focused Extension Programs are off to a great start with the exciting addition of Justicia, a program designed to give Senior students a deep dive into the world of law.

Justicia

Students in the Justicia program had the privilege of visiting The University of Queensland and Queensland University of Technology Law Schools. Our aspiring law students also benefited from the invaluable support of Brisbane State High School alumni, who have returned to share their insights, advice and support.

Scientia

Under the theme 'Reading is Magic!', our aspiring teachers have engaged in professional learning about the importance of reading. This preparation will conclude in a visit to West End State School during Term 3 to celebrate 2024 Book Week. Their journey so far has included a delightful visit to the local children’s bookstore, Where the Wild Things Are, where they learned techniques to engage young readers and enjoyed a wide range of books available for all ages.

Engeniator

Our future engineers have been involved in a variety of unique immersion activities. Our Year 10 students had firsthand experience with façade engineering, participating in rock climbing activities that focused on risk assessments of building façades. In collaboration with Queensland University of Technology and Urban Climb West End, students spent an afternoon learning to climb while assessing the associated risks.

Medicus

This semester, the Medicus program has encouraged students to look beyond medicine and explore the broader world of health. Highlights included celebrating International Nurses’ Day at Queensland Children’s Hospital (QCH) alongside State High students enrolled in the Certificate III in Health Assistant Services. Our Year 11 Medicus students collaborated with a Nurse Educator at QCH to develop a sun safety campaign, which they presented to Year 3 and 4 students at West End State School. Additionally, through a partnership with the UQ Dentistry School, students experienced a day in the life of a dentist.

Vocational Education and Training

This term, we proudly hosted our first Work Experience Host Appreciation Breakfast, acknowledging our ongoing industry partnerships and providing insights into how Generation Z engages with the world of work.

We encourage our Senior students to seek out work experience placements to gain insight into their areas of interest. Over 60 students will participate in our work experience program across various industries.

We extend our sincere thanks to the organisations that continue to support our students and welcome any new organisations interested in partnering with us. Please contact Mr Scott Mollica at smoll72@eq.edu.au for more information.

– Ms Natalie Coleman | Head of Partnerships and Transitions

Brisbane Performing Arts Competition

At the recent Brisbane Performing Arts Competition, Brisbane State High School’s Dance Troupes – Junior, Senior, State High Crew and Bollywood – showcased their talents and represented our school proudly.

The Junior Dance Troupe had particularly rewarding results. Their musical theatre number, a fosse-style dance choreographed by professional dancer Mr Brendan Hodder, received a very highly commended. Their second routine, a jazz number choreographed by BSHS alumna Julia Tetteris (Class of 2020), earned 2nd place.

The troupe was incredibly happy with these achievements at their first eisteddfod of the year and looks forward to their next competition at the Quota Beenleigh Eisteddfod.

– Written by Junior Dance Troupe Captains Jessica Buckley and Finn Core-Kotevski (Year 9)

Vocal Ensembles Program Recap

The Vocal Ensembles program has had a jam-packed Term 2!

In Week 1, our Senior Choir visited Tangara Retirement Village, spending an afternoon socialising and singing with residents. This is our second year visiting and everyone had a wonderful time.

Also in Week 1, Dr Shaun Brown, Director of Performance at the UQ School of Music, worked with Chorale on ‘Happy Together’ and ‘The Parting Glass’, greatly enhancing our ANZAC Day performance.

In Week 3, Ms Marcia Penman from Outside of the Jukebox helped Vox Musica prepare for the Queensland Youth Music Awards. Both, Vox Musica and Chorale earned Silver awards in their respective divisions.

Recently, Vox Musica was invited to perform at the Lord Mayor’s Prayer Breakfast and the Education Queensland Teachers' Conference, filling Brisbane City Hall with Billy Joel’s ‘And So It Goes’.

Thank you to our conductors, Ms Naomi Thurlow and Ms Jane Iszlaub, for their dedication.

– Written by Chorale Music Captains Robbie Hartley and Ling Hui (Year 11)

Congratulations to Jessica Weintraub (Year 12) on being selected for the Australian Rhythmic Gymnastics team to compete in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

This is an incredible achievement, reflecting Jessica's dedication, hard work and exceptional talent. 

Jessica's journey is an inspiration to all of us. We are excited to cheer her on in Paris as she represents both our school and Australia.

This year, we are implementing a new process for our extra-curricular photographs. Moving forward, we will no longer be photographing every extra-curricular team for every activity.

Instead, these group/team photographs will be represented using virtual groups, where each student’s identification photo taken at the beginning of the year will be used to create a virtual team photograph. Students in the First or Opens teams (comprising fewer than 25 students) will continue to have their photograph taken in their playing/team uniforms.

Here are the benefits of this new approach:

• Reduction in disruption: Less disruption to student learning for both students and teachers.
• Full team representation: Every student will be present in their team photograph without any absences.
• Accessibility for parents/guardians: Parents/guardians will have the opportunity to purchase a copy of their child’s team photo, which was previously only visible in the yearbook.
• Continuation of tradition: Open/First teams will maintain the tradition of being photographed in their team uniforms. Photographs will be taken at the end of Semester 1 and Semester 2 each year.

– Ms Amanda Chamberlain | General Manager

From the Director of QGSSSA Sports

Congratulations to all staff and students on a fantastic term of sports at State High. Following on from last year, we had another extremely successful Autumn season, which saw tremendous results and development, with our continued emphasis on student and staff involvement. BSHS was the most successful school in terms of premierships and second only to Brisbane Girls Grammar School in terms of participation.

Thank you to Mr Cameron Conlon (Basketball), Mr Damon Giles (Cross Country), Mrs Kimberly Hanley (Touch Football) and Mr Jesse Rigsby-Jones (Football) for their tremendous work as MICs of each sport. We are fortunate to have these passionate staff members leading the way for our girls and creating great lifelong memories for everyone involved.

As we transition into Term 3, we are excited to launch our Winter sport program right from Week 1. Rowing and Rhythmic Gymnastics will continue their preparations, while Hockey, Netball, Tennis and Volleyball will kick off on Saturday 13 July against Somerville House. Term 3 is an extremely busy time in the school calendar in all aspects of BSHS life. We encourage all students to look ahead and take some time for personal organisation, considering the potential challenges and busy periods that lie ahead. We want to engage in conversations with our students and offer support in managing their commitments during these demanding times.

We extend our gratitude to the staff members who play important roles in our sporting programs:

QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics – We thank Mrs Rachael Slorach and Ms Greta Cabot for their exceptional organisation of the Rhythmic Gymnastics program. The enthusiasm has been evident from staff and students this year and we can’t wait to see their performance on Friday 2 August at the QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships.

BSRA Rowing – Thank you to Mr Tom Herborn for his ongoing leadership of the QGSSSA Rowing program in 2024. This program demands significant time and dedication, and we are grateful for the support Mr Herborn and his staff provides for our rowers. 

The following staff members have been and will continue to serve as Masters in Charge (MICs) for Term 3, and we express our appreciation for their tremendous work so far: 

• QGSSSA Hockey – Ms Natasha Adams
• QGSSSA Netball – Ms Darcy Nolan
• QGSSSA Tennis – Mrs Ashley Carey
• QGSSSA Volleyball – Ms Leisa McGiffin

QGSSSA Track and Field

We have had fantastic enthusiasm amongst the girls as we begin our organisation for the upcoming QGSSSA Track and Field season starting next term. Attendance at our initial meeting and first training session was impressive to see. All girls from every sport are encouraged to join and develop their speed, strength and endurance for their main focus sport.

For information about the upcoming season, please join the following communication groups:

• Team App – 'BSHS Girls Athletics'
• '2024 BSHS Athletics' Showbie student only group (code available on Team App)

Mr Dave Miles

Director of QGSSSA Sports and Girls' Activities

QGSSSA Track and Field MIC

Email: dmile33@eq.edu.au

QGSSSA Basketball

Well done to everyone involved with the QGSSSA Basketball season in 2024. Throughout the course of the season, we had 115 players and 14 students involved in coaching our 13 teams. Having such a large number of girls take the court is our greatest success.

A special congratulations to our 7A, 8A, 9A, 10A and Opens Teams who were all undefeated premiers. This is an outstanding achievement for everyone involved with these teams.

Our program cannot run without the help of volunteers. Firstly, thank you to our coaches: Ms Charlene Notoa, Mr Ben Tierney, Mr Luke Medson, Mr Kris Robinson and Mr Jay Tarawhiti for their efforts this season. We would also like to thank Mr Sam Gordon, Ms Di Watson and Mrs Narelle Fletcher for all the time they have put in to assist our program.

– Mr Cameron Conlon | QGSSSA Basketball MIC

GPS Football

We had an incredible Football season with over 400 boys participating in the program. The 11D, 10A, 9A and 9C Teams finished at the top of their tables, with many others coming close. Our First XI Team ended the season strongly, winning two out of their last three games. We wish them the best of luck as they compete in the UHL Sports Cup.

A massive thank you to the Football community, including parents and guardians who assisted with setup, canteen duties and pack down each home round. Special thanks to the Brisbane State High staff and coaches who dedicated their mornings, afternoons and weekends to support training and games. Your efforts made this season possible. 

GPS Tennis

As the GPS Tennis season comes to an end, we celebrate the success of our program. Our First IV finished a strong season in 3rd place in a very tough competition. The 8B Team placed at the top of their table, with many others contending for top three positions. Thank you to the coaches and staff volunteers for their dedication throughout the season.

Debating

The BGDA Debating season closed this term with many girls participating for the first time. Although no teams made it to the finals, we congratulate Hannah Wu (Year 8) on winning Best Speaker in the Year 8 Division. 

The QDU Debating rounds also concluded this term. While the QDU has not yet announced which teams will advance to the finals, we wish all our teams the best of luck.

A massive thank you to all staff and alumni volunteers who supported our students in learning the art of debating so far this year. We look forward to what Term 4 brings. 

GPS Gymnastics

On Saturday 1 June, four BSHS gymnasts competed in the GPS Gymnastics Annual Foundation Cup. Our boys came third in Division 1A, just behind The Southport School in 2nd and Brisbane Grammar School in 1st place. All four BSHS gymnasts displayed great sportsmanship and camaraderie and should be congratulated for their efforts.

Left to right: Hunter Skinner (Year 9), Oskar Priest (Year 11), Spencer Tregear (Year 8) and Max Blacker (Year 11) 

We look forward to seeing what Term 3 brings with GPS Basketball, Rugby, Chess and Athletics.

Mr Keiron Goltz

Director of GPS Sports and Boys' Activities

Email: kgolt9@eq.edu.au

BSHS

BSHS

Music

Our Year 9 Music students participated in a songwriting workshop with Mr Luke Kennedy from The Little Red Company.

Mr Kennedy shared helpful tips for coming up with songwriting ideas, putting lyrics to music and planning the story of a song. Given that our task this term was composing to tell a story, Mr Kennedy’s methods were invaluable.

– Ms Laura Johnson | Music Teacher

Our Year 8B Music students have been busily exploring the delightfully quirky representations of Camille Saint-Saëns' creatures in his chamber music work, The Carnival of the Animals (1886). Using a variety of music resources, they have chosen to perform or compose animal themes individually or in small groups.

In the process, our students have been introduced to the unique instrument known as the glass armonica, which they have decided has a ‘love it or hate it’ timbre.

– Ms Jane Iszlaub | Music Teacher

Drama

Year 10 Drama students enjoyed a performance of ‘Much Ado About Nothing’ by Griffith University’s Second Year Acting students. We had the opportunity to view the performance on site at the impressive outdoor conservatorium, hidden in the heart of the university campus and all things creative at South Bank. 

In Semester 2 of their Senior studies, our Year 10s will be reimagining their own Shakespeare performance for a contemporary audience. Watch this space for an update on their progress.

Our Year 12 Drama students were fortunate enough to attend Queensland Theatre to see Medea. They participated in a contemporary theatre workshop with Mr Lucas Stibbard, where they learned how to reimagine a traditional text for a modern audience.

– Ms Eliza Moore | Drama Teacher

Film, Television & New Media

Year 10 Prep Film, Television & New Media (FTVNM) students have been experimenting with split lighting to create cinematic imagery for their genre trailer projects. They have learned how to use the aperture lights, demonstrating split coloured lighting, butterfly lighting and silhouette backlighting.

Meanwhile, our Year 12 FTVNM students completed their multiplatform documentary projects this term. Their productions provided a window into diverse worlds, with stories ranging from one couple's journey to open a 120-acre cow sanctuary in Queensland, to an exploration of the effort (and love) that's poured into State High's Valentine's Day serenades each year.

– Mr Nathan Canavan | FTVNM Teacher

Visual Art

In the Year 11 Visual Art space, students are exploring the concept of ‘art as code’. They have been working within a cultural context, using found objects pressed into clay and cast in plaster.

– Ms Madeline Cilento | Visual Art Teacher

Dance

Curriculum dancers from Years 9, 10 and 11 were invited to participate in the Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge (BPAC) Full-Time Auditions Day on Monday 10 June held in our Performing Arts Centre.

Students participated in workshops across a variety of dance genres, from ballet to broadway jazz, led by top industry professionals such as Ms Dana Stephenson from The Australian Ballet, Ms Rachel Dowse from RAW Dance and actress Ms Aleisha Groth. Students learned new ways of moving, received personal feedback on how to improve their technique, and were grateful for the opportunity to engage in this day with BPAC.

– Ms April Williams | Dance Teacher

At the end of Term 2, our Year 7 Curriculum Dance students attended West End State School (WESS) to lead workshops for the Year 5 students. Our Year 7 dancers taught their own ‘Just Dance’ choreography to the enthusiastic and eager Year 5 classes.

It was wonderful to see every student giving their best and to see the connections between BSHS and WESS students strengthen. Congratulations to the Year 7 dancers involved who demonstrated leadership and confidence!

– Ms Jessica Ziebell | Dance Teacher 

Join our Bridge to Brisbane Team!

Upcoming Event

P&C General Meetings

The P&C Association meets at 6:00pm on the fourth Monday of each month (except during school holidays/public holidays) in I Block – Room B2, on the Merivale Street Campus. Parking is available via Gate M2 on Merivale Street (refer to map). All members of the school community are welcome to attend.

Join the P&C Association

Sleep and Mental Wellbeing

Sleep plays a crucial role in allowing your brain the necessary 'down time' to process and store the information it receives during the day. Insufficient sleep affects your mood and concentration, this can then impact learning and school attendance.

Here are some tips for seriously good shut-eye:

The darker, the quieter, the better. Exposure to even low levels of light while sleeping has been linked to symptoms of depression. Try and make your room like a cave – quiet and very dark. 

Eat smart, sleep tight. Going to bed feeling hungry or full can cause discomfort and may keep you up. Avoid large meals or caffeine within a couple of hours of bedtime.

The cool thing to do. Sleep experts recommend sleeping at between 15 and 20 degrees Celsius. Try using a fan, opening windows and wearing cool pyjamas. 

Lights down, devices down. Try not to use devices with a screen (phones, laptops, tablets, computers, TVs) in the lead up to sleep. The blue light they emit can seriously affect your sleep patterns.

Be a morning person. We’re not suggesting you wake up at ‘what-the-heck-o-clock’ –just that you do any vigorous exercise or highly energetic activities earlier in the day so that you’re not too buzzed to sleep at night.

Live, sleep, repeat. Try sticking to a regular sleep schedule. Maintaining a routine around sleep can help you feel sleepy at the right time. We’re creatures of habit and our bodies crave routine!

For more help and information:

Sleep Ninja® - Black Dog Institute | Better Mental Health

Practical strategies to improve your teen’s sleep | Sleep (reachout.com)

Child not sleeping? Teenage sleep improved in a few steps | SleepShack

– Ms Marie Pritchard | School Based Youth Health Nurse

Our school newsletters have a sponsorship section which provides great exposure for local businesses to engage with our parent/guardian community. If you would like to be a part of this, please contact Schoolzine for more information.