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Dear Parents and Guardians
It is hard to believe that already Week 3 of Term 3 is upon us. All terms are incredibly busy at Brisbane State High School, but Term 3 is an absolutely crucial term for students.
There is a constant focus on assessment preparation and completion across all year groups. GPS and QGSSSA competitions are fully committed to their competitions and there is a myriad of other co-curricular and extra-curricular activities occurring.
Next week also includes our annual ‘Athletics Carnival’ followed by ‘State High Day’ on Saturday 2 August, which promises to be bigger and better than ever! This event will showcase the unique current context at BSHS, while also acknowledging the achievements of the past. On this day, BSHS is hosting BBC, culminating in the First XV match on the oval in the afternoon. There really will be something for everyone on this special day and your support and presence will be much appreciated.
BSHS is keen to continue to develop its reputation as a leading light in state school education and in mid-term we are hosting an AI forum, which will be attended by Senior Leaders representing the largest schools in the greater Brisbane area. This particular area remains an exciting ongoing challenge for schools, as does inclusive curriculum delivery strategies, holistic development of students, and timetable and weekly structure effectiveness.
With regards to the recent consultation that occurred for the preferred timetable model for 2026, I am pleased to advise that this was overall very positive and the model will now be forwarded to the Department of Education for approval to implement from the start of the 2026 school year. You will be kept fully updated regarding this process.
ATAR tracking is remaining on course to produce academic results of a very high standard, which are consistent with recent years. NAPLAN results significantly exceed state averages in all categories, with spelling in Years 7 and 9 showing some more work and focus is required here. On average in Year 7, 89% of students are ‘exceeding’ or ‘strong’ across all 5 categories, while in Year 9 the average percentage is 84%.
On Wednesday, the school celebrated ‘Foundation Day’, the original 1921 date, when the school was officially established. The theme of Past, Present and Future was reflected by speeches from a current Year 11 student Jocelyn Cosentino, alumna Dr Ann Bennett, and myself.
The day was capped off by the appearance of the legendary alumni Wally Lewis, who was interviewed appropriately on our sports oval.
See you at State High Day!
Warm regards
Mr Greg Pierce | Executive Principal
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Term 3, 2025 |
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Week 3 |
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Monday 28 July |
Year 12 Exam Block |
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Tuesday 29 July |
Year 7 Vaccination Clinic |
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| Wednesday 30 July |
Interhouse Athletics Carnival |
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| Friday 1 August |
GPS Chess - Round 3 |
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| Saturday 2 August |
Music Viva - Game Day 2026 Selective Entry Music Merit Auditions Duke of Edinburgh Instrumental Music Camp QGSSSA Winter Fixtures - Round 2 GPS Basketball - Round 3 GPS Rugby - Round 3 Australian Percussion Eisteddfod |
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| Sunday 3 August |
Intermediate Ensembles Day Camp |
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Week 4 |
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Monday 4 August |
Maths Team Challenge Science Olympiad - Physics |
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Tuesday 5 August |
Science Olympiad - Biology Curriculum Showcase |
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Wednesday 6 August |
Science Olympiad - Earth & Environmental Science |
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Thursday 7 August |
Science Olympiad - Chemistry Australian Maths Competition Year 12 Cohort Photo |
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Friday 8 August |
QGSSSA Rhythmic Gymnastics Championships QGSSSA Athletics - Meet 1 Year 11 Medicus Program International Chemistry Quiz Dance Workshops GPS Chess - Round 4 |
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Saturday 9 August |
GPS Basketball - Round 4 GPS RUgby - Round 4 QGSSSA Winter Fixtures - Round 3 Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge |
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Sunday 10 August |
Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge |
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Week 5 |
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Wednesday 13 August |
EKKA PUBLIC HOLIDAY |
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Friday 15 August |
GPS Chess - Round 5 |
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Saturday 16 August |
QGSSSA Winter Fixtures - Round 4 GPS Basketball - Round 5 GPS Rugby - Round 5 |
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Welcome back to what is the busiest term in the QGSSSA and girls' sporting calendar.
We have nine different sports in operation for girls, as well as representative competitions for Athletics, Basketball, Netball, Volleyball and Rowing. It is important that all girls take care of themselves away from sport and communicate effectively with everyone involved in their activities.
Last week, in the QGSSSA competition, we played Hockey, Netball, Tennis and Volleyball against St Peters Lutheran College.
– Mr David Miles | Director of QGSSSA Sports and Girls' Activities
Athletics
This week, we hosted the first event of our school carnival, with some field events held on Tuesday 22 July and the 3,000m event held today (Friday 25 July). Like all sports at BSHS, our athletes continue to shine with great performances and at least two school records already being broken by our girls.
We look forward to our whole school Athletics Carnival next Wednesday 30 July at the State Athletics Facility (SAF). The first official QGSSSA competition commences on Friday 8 August.
Please check Team App for further details.
Hockey
Only two matches were played, with our Open team launching their title defence with a dominant 13-0 performance, while our Junior A team had a more competitive match, winning 4 – 2.
Netball
It was a challenging start to the season with Round 1 played away at St Peters. Given our short preparation we look forward to the progression of our teams throughout the season.
Our teams won 5 out of 14 matches with our Senior A and B teams recording great performances.
Tennis
Once the wet weather cleared and the courts dried up, we were underway. There were extremely impressive performance from our Open side and Junior A&B teams in recording a clean sweep of their matches and not dropping a set the entire morning.
Volleyball
We travelled out to Nissan Arean for our fixtures on Saturday, and it was great to see our girls in action. Once again, we had a challenging round with our junior teams showing good strength and potential as the 7A, 7B and 8A teams recorded victories.
Our junior teams will benefit greatly from their first experience in QGSSSA Volleyball, and we look forwarded to stepping up this weekend in Round 2.
This weekend, we will compete in Round 2 of the QGSSSA Winter season against St Margaret’s College and host our first round of Winter fixtures.
As always, please check your venue and game times very carefully via Team APP or our website via “Sports this week”.
A huge thank you to all our alumni, parents, staff, and volunteers who support our programs.
Your efforts behind the scenes—whether in coaching, managing teams, officiating, or supporting at events—are truly appreciated.
– Mr Ben McKenzie | Director of GPS and Boys Activities
GPS Chess
– Ms Victoria Bond | MIC GPS Chess
Rugby
The GPS Rugby season has started with a tough round against Nudgee College. The Rugby program has some extremely close loses against the Nudgee College powerhouse.
I would like to congratulate all of our 1st XV Debutants as well as our new students who took the field for State High for the first time. It was fantastic to see so many new students to Rugby. I would also like to thank the amazing student and parent spectators that took to Fursden Road over the weekend. It was amazing to see the Spirit of State High on full display.
– Mr Ben McKenzie | MIC GPS Rugby
GPS Basketball
It was a very successful weekend for the BSHS Basketball program in the opening round against Nudgee College with nearly every team in the program opening their season with a win.
The junior Basketball program especially is thriving and we are excited to see what they can do over the remainder of the season.
– Mr Brett Sue See & Mr Matt Cochrane | MIC GPS Basketball
Brisbane State High School 2025 Interhouse Athletics Carnival will be held on Wednesday 30 July 2025 at the Queensland Sport and Athletics Centre (QSAC), Kessels Road Nathan. This is a normal school day and all students are expected to attend.
Students may make their own transport arrangements to and from QSAC or travel by bus as organised by the school. A survey is now open to sign up for the bus - https://forms.office.com/r/5gkFXbjnr7.
Students making their own way to QSAC must arrive by 9:00am or earlier if competing in the first events. All students making their own way must sign in with teachers at the entrance gate upon arrival. The day concludes at 2:30pm. Due to the event being at an external location, no students will be permitted to leave the venue prior to this time.
Event details are as follows:
Wednesday 30 July 2025
Departing from 7:45am
Return departure from 2:30pm
Charter buses will commence departing from Edmondstone St on 15-minute intervals from 7:45am (competitors in first events) until 8:45am. Students are to assemble inside F Block. Buses will return to school by 2:50pm.
Queensland Sport & Athletics Centre, Kessels Road Nathan
Bus transport is $5.00, payment will only be accepted by Qkr!. Use the Qkr! App (or visit https://qkr-store.qkrschool.com/store/#/home) and navigate to the School Payments, Excursions/Incursions menu.
To set up Qkr!, download the app on your Android phone, iPhone or iPad or use the link above. Sign Up, search for our school and register.
Some field events including Shot Put, Javelin and Triple Jump will be held on the school oval on Tuesday 22 July 2025. The 3000m event will be held on Friday 25 July 2025, also on the school oval. Discus, High Jump, Long Jump and track events will be held at QSAC.
There will be 3 separate consent forms released on QParents for the carnival:
- General consent to attend the BSHS Interhouse Athletics Carnival as a spectator or competitor in medium risk events (all students)
- Consent for ‘high/extreme’ risk events (javelin, discus, high jump) (nominated students only)
- Bus transport (one way and/or return) (nominated students only)
Should you have any questions regarding this event, please do not hesitate to contact the Extra-Curricular office via email – ecoffice@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au.
No classes will operate at school on the day. All students are expected to attend the carnival. No students will be permitted to leave early. (If there is an emergency, parent/caregiver will need to collect their student from the venue)
– Ms Leisa McGiffin | Head of Department Extra-Curricular Activites
Film and Television
Over the past fortnight a group of Year 11 Film, Television and New Media students volunteered at West End State School, working with Year 4 students from across the metropolitan region on creating mini-documentaries. The documentaries proposed a way that the world could be made a better place – from picking up rubbish, to being kind.
Each Year 11 volunteer worked with a group of 5 Year 4 students to coach them in filming with iPads, editing with iMovie, and using documentary conventions.
Some of the Year 11s, it was a chance to give back to their old primary school, WESS!
Thanks to BSHS FTV Alumnus and PHD candidate Keya Makar and WESS teacher Ms Eliza Bell for steering the ship!
Senior Drama
Ms Moore’s Year 11 Drama students have begun their Australian Gothic Drama Unit with striking creativity and insight. They’ve embraced the eerie, tension-filled conventions of the genre, experimenting with mood, tension, and space to evoke unease and mystery.
Their work has shown impressive maturity, especially in their use of lighting and shadow to heighten dramatic tension and create powerful visual moments. From ghostly silhouettes to fragmented storytelling, students are pushing boundaries and exploring the emotional depth of this challenging style.
Well done Year 11!
CREATE
- Ms Aimee Gust | Head of Department - The Arts
CGEN 2025
Yet again, our Performing Arts students represented Brisbane State High School admirably in the annual State Schools Onstage celebration in the CGEN Spectacular, Excellence Awards in Instrumental Music (MOST) and Choral Fanfare.
Both Chorale and Vox Musica choirs performed magnificently in the Choral Fanfare with Vox Musica conducted by Ms Naomi Thurlow awarded ‘Most Outstanding Choir’ in regional finals!
An impressive 12 State High students have received the sought-after opportunity to perform in the Excellence Awards in Instrumental Music (MOST).
29 students performed in CGEN Spectacular - in First Nations Dance Troupe, Massed Choir, Brass Band, Drumline, Featured Dance, Massed Dance and the Symphony Orchestra, conducted by the incredible talent of Meg Robson.
Our School Captain, Lily Dutkowski, excelled onstage in a featured vocalist role and shares her experience.
- Ms Gabrielle Quinn | Director of Cultrual Activities
Each year, over 2000 state school students join together in a celebration of excellence in the arts of Queensland Education. Brisbane State High has been fortunate to involve themselves in the entire 21-year journey of Creative Generation, and this year was no different.
From dance, music, vocals, drum line, drama, and tech/media crew, last week we celebrated the performances of CGEN 2025 on the 18 and 19 July.
BSHS students were involved in many aspects of this year’s show, with senior students performing in the dance company, instrumentalists playing in the symphony orchestra, and vocalists joining the featured cast.
The show is an incredible opportunity to work with industry-professionals at a leading venue in production, the BCEC. I can personally say that after 5 years of performing in this show, my last was definitely my best. This year’s theme was "The Next Chapter”, highlighting all the things you need to travel through life; courage, joy, compassion, and love.
With the dedication and passion of exemplary teachers and professional artists, such as Meg Robson, we discovered what it means to find joy and commitment when pursuing a career in the arts.
Congratulations to all BSHS performers for 2025, and I look forward to enjoying the show next year, from the other side of the theatre!
- Lily Dutkowski | 2025 School Captain
We are proud to share that two of our outstanding educators, Chesa Kelly and Lucy Gray, were invited to speak at the Australasian Association of Philosophy Conference on their presentation titled:
Dialogue, Justice, and the Classroom: Challenging Dominant Narratives through Democratic Teaching.
In a world increasingly shaped by algorithms, disinformation and deep political polarisation, Chesa and Lucy explored how classrooms can play a vital role in fostering democratic habits of thought. Drawing on Connell’s work and a critical feminist lens, they highlighted that without a deliberate effort to challenge systems such as patriarchy, imperialism and capitalism, schools can inadvertently reproduce them.
Their presentation showcased how dialogic pedagogies, teaching through rich, structured dialogue, offer a transformative approach. By encouraging students to interrogate fake news, question inherited assumptions and engage in respectful disagreement, teachers help students to think deeply about the world around them. Rather than teaching students what to think, dialogic approaches help them learn how to think.
Chesa and Lucy shared practical classroom examples where dialogue has empowered students to question injustice, challenge dominant narratives and contribute to building a fairer and more inclusive world. Their work is a reminder that every classroom can be a space where critical thinking, empathy and social responsibility thrive.
Congratulations to Chesa and Lucy on representing Brisbane State High so brilliantly on a national stage and for inspiring educators across Australia with their commitment to justice and democratic teaching.
- Ms Lucy Gray | Head of Junior English and Humanities
- Ms Liz Enfantie | Head of Learning and Enrichment
Monday Enrichment Program – Term 3
At Brisbane State High School, we are committed to extending every student’s learning beyond the classroom. Our Monday afternoon Enrichment Programs offer a diverse range of experiences from hands-on workshops to engaging educational sessions. They are all designed to spark curiosity and deepen understanding. Led by industry professionals, expert staff, and alumni, this is the final enrichment opportunity for the year.
Registrations close strictly at 9:00am on Tuesday 29 July
Explore the program and register using the links below.
https://forms.office.com/r/443LTTfyej
Partnerships and Transitions News
We’re excited to announce the Engeniator Launch at QUT this Monday 28 July, now in its third successful year! This event brings together Year 10, 11 and 12 students in the program, along with parents and teachers, to celebrate the start of a hands-on journey into the world of engineering.
The launch will feature guest speakers and industry professionals, highlighting the strong partnership between QUT and BSHS. Students will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in various engineering disciplines, from flying drones and motor sports to designing model cities.
If your child is not currently enrolled in the Engineering pathway but is interested, please get in touch via email. @Future Focused Extension Programs
- Ms Ashley Holland | Head of Partnerships & Transitions
UQ Open Day
Clancestry
QPAC’s deadly Clancestry Festival https://www.qpac.com.au/whats-on/clancestry from 23 July – 10 August which showcases theatre performances, free live children’s performances, face painting, workshops, live art, and music.
QPAC also offers mobtix for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members to gain access to $25 tickets across all paid shows.
- Ms Rachel Hobson | Deputy Principal Student Culture and Engagement
PERSONAL INJURY INSURANCE
The Department of Education does not have personal accident insurance cover for children/students. If a child/student is injured as a result of an accident or incident while participating in an excursion or activity at school, all costs associated with the injury, including medical costs are the responsibility of the parent/carer. Some incidental medical costs may be covered by Medicare. If the parent/carer has private health insurance, some costs may also be covered by that provider. Any other costs must be covered by the parent/carer. It is up to parent/carer to decide the type/s and level of private insurance they wish to arrange to cover their child. Please take this into consideration in deciding whether or not to allow the child/student to participate in excursions or activities whilst at school.
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES INSURANCE
Brisbane State High School has made the decision to provide personal accident insurance to students who are participating in the school’s extra-curricular activities. The cost of this insurance will be included in the activity levy. Levies must be paid to be eligible to make a claim in the event of an injury.
Please contact our EC office in the first instance to initiate the claim process.
Join us for the 2025 State High Masters - Charity Golf Day!
Get ready for a great day out at Ashgrove Golf Club on Friday 5 September.
This is a student free day, so bring the whole family.
How much fun can supporting the school be? Turns out a whole tee-rific amount!
With cart, breakfast and lunch included, this is one event you won’t want to miss.
$170 per player (student discount available)
Sign up a team, or come solo – we’ll wedge you in somewhere fun
Heaps of prizes
All golf abilities welcome – from serious swingers to social putters!
Want to make a bigger impact?
Hole sponsorships are available! Promote your business while supporting State High – what better way to tick off a business expense AND give back to the school? Hole sponsorship is available from just $900 including signage and recognition on the day.
Sponsorship/event enquires: statehighfoundation@brisbaneshs.eq.edu.au
Spots fill fast so register now - www.statehighconnect.com.au/golf2025
– Ms Natalie Loye | Alumni and Community Engagement
Join the P&C Association
The P&C is a volunteer, membership-based organisation that is open to all who support
the State High community and the students at State High.
To find out how to join the P&C, or to inquire about what we are all about, please visit the P&C website. We hope that you will find information on this website useful to support you and your child’s journey through secondary school and to maximise your family’s experience.
If you would like to become a P&C member, please complete the P&C Membership Form (download via the button below) and return it via email to admin.officer@bshspandc.org.
Consider joining the P&C Executive Committee in 2025:
P&C General Meetings
Uniforms for Sale
State High Day 2025
https://events.humanitix.com/state-high-day-2025
Volunteer call out for State High Day!
WE NEED YOUR HELP
State High Day needs your help. Please look at the links below and consider signing up as a team leader or volunteer on the day.
Stall Team Leader https://signup.com/go/OVjTeKK
General Volunteer https://signup.com/go/WZVdDCu
Sponsorship
State High Supporter Jersey 2025
Rowing Celebrating 100 Years
Brisbane State High School warmly invites you to a landmark evening celebrating 100 Years of Rowing.
This centenary event is more than a dinner - it’s a powerful moment for our entire rowing community to come together, honour the legacy of those who came before us, and help shape the future for generations to come.
Join Brisbane State High School's, current families, coaches, rowers and supporters for a night of connection and celebration.
Enjoy canapés, 2-course meal and 4 hour premium beverage package at the historic Tattersalls Club.
Whether you rowed, cheered from the bank, or simply believe in the power of this sport to shape young lives, we invite you to stand with us for this once-in-a-century celebration. Help us celebrate what it means to be a part of the warm and embracing community.
Tickets are strictly limited. Early bird pricing is now available.
Bring your crew, rally your old squad, and be part of this historic night.
https://statehighconnect.com.au/#action=showEvent&EID=E161
The social tile for the 100 Club is attached below as well.
Brochure: BSHS ROWING 100 CLUB BROCHURE
Direct ASF Link: BSHS – ROWING 100 CLUB
Thanks again for all your help and support, this event means a lot to our Rowing community.
Rugby Raffle
Thank you to our amazing Rugby sponsors...
Canteen Fundraiser
Link https://events.humanitix.com/save-our-canteen-fundraiser
Event Description
We know times are tough for many right now, which is why we’re so grateful for every bit of support we receive. Our canteen is more than just a place to eat – it’s a gathering spot, a place of connection and comfort. Unfortunately, our screens have seen better days, and we’re raising funds to replace them so we can continue serving our community in the best way possible.
Why are we fundraising?
Come October, Microsoft changes mean all our canteen screens will stop working - and replacing them isn't cheap. We need your help to keep the canteen running smoothly for our students and staff.
Here's how you can help
Every dollar goes directly to support our P&C, $5 or $8 or any amount you can spare. Buy a ticket today. We appreciate your support!
Brisbane State High School P&C Association
