Dear Parents and Carers 

Our school’s vision statement is Together we learn, Individually we grow, Success for all.    

Our school’s values are Respect, Responsibility and Safety.   

It is these beliefs that guide our day-to-day actions and choices as well as our long-term goals and improvements.

It’s been a busy start to this term, and during May there have been several events which have enabled students (and staff) to step out of their comfort zones and build greater connections within the school community.  

Year 7 Camp 

In week 3 this term, 100 students attended Year 7 Camp at Maranatha Recreational Camp in Yandina. Students were split into four groups and completed a variety of activities designed to challenge themselves and build teamwork.    

It was awesome seeing students complete challenging activities such as: Mid-Ropes, Giant Swing, Jacob’s Ladder and Leap of Faith. I saw many students overcome their fear of heights and develop a real confidence in their ability to achieve what they set their mind too.  

Teamwork was a major focus as well. There were a lot of activities which challenged students to communicate with each other and work together. Students were taught how to complete a wide range of knots with rope, and then used this knowledge to build rafts, bridges and catapults.   

It has been nice after camp talking to the year 7’s in the playground and seeing them really settled at our school. I hope that our students continue to challenge themselves in the future and remember their time on this camp forever.  

A big thank you to all the staff that attended camp and stayed at the accommodation to supervise the students. These staff members had to spend time away from their own families and we truly appreciate their commitment to our students.  

Kokoda Challenge  

It is always a pleasure to be involved in the Kokoda Challenge. Since our school first participated in the 48km at the Gold Coast in 2021, we have repeatedly entered teams to participate in the Sunshine Coat event. Each year we are getting more and more students and staff participating in the event, and for the first time, we entered teams in all three distances (18km, 30km and 48km). Well done to everyone and especially to our junior students that finished first in the 30km event! 

The terrain is always rough, the mountains are always steep, and it seems like it will never end.  

I was really impressed with the comradery of our students and the care that they showed to each other, and to staff. Students and staff showed that despite how challenging it gets, the best thing to do is to put one foot in front of the other.  

I truly hope the students and staff that participated remember this experience forever are really proud of themselves.   

I would like to thank our amazing support crew who once again showed their care and dedication to our school by support our walkers. Without this wonderful support, our teams would find it even more difficult. Thank you! 

Year 10 Work Experience  

Our year 10 students are currently in the process of organising their work experience places in the community. Year 10 Work Experience is scheduled to occur in Term 3 on 21st, 22nd and 23rd July (Week 2).  

Work experience is extremely important for students to explore career options and understand the links to current schooling. It is important that our students have a sense of direction and take these first steps.  

By the end of week 9, students should have their workplace agreement forms returned to school.  

Please contact the school if you have any questions regarding work experience.  

Scott Siddell

Deputy Principal

Tuesday the 29^th April students competed in the school cross country around our beautiful grounds and bush track luckily the rain held off for all events. Participation was awesome with much higher numbers than previous years. Well done to everyone who participated.

Cross Country Age Champions

12	Estella O'Day	Jack Coker
13	Addison Smith	Joe Wilson
14	Imogen O'Day	Brax Gibbons
15	Mahlia Robinson	Rafe Pierantozzi
16	Keeley Holznagel	Chevy Berrell
17	Lara Pryde	Kyan King

Kokoda Challenge  

The Kokoda challenge is about Courage, Endurance, Mateship and Sacrifice. On Saturday 10th May at 7.30am 31 students and 8 teachers embarked on the journey to challenge themselves. For the first time Beerwah entered two junior teams one doing the 30km and blitzing the challenge running in just under 6hrs and taking out the winning 30km school team! Congratulation’s boys. Our second junior team of year 7/8 girls tackled the 18km Challenge and conquered the course in 7hrs.   

Another 6 teams took on the 48km challenge in high spirts after taking on numerous hills with elevation up to 555ft they reached the halfway support crew stop where an army of staff were there to assist the teams with strapping sore knees, ankles and toes. Feed the troops with delicious fresh food generously donated by Woolworths Beerwah. Teams went from weary to refreshed and every team member headed back out to complete the challenge in high spirits.  

Our fastest teams finished just under 13hrs while others took 17.5hrs showing just how gruelling this challenge can be. Every team member completed the challenge after a long day of hills and mud. Thank you to the P&C for running an ice block fundraiser raising $840 which allowed us to enter more team and subsidise entry fees for the students. Thank you to Kendall Morton, State Member for Caloundra for your generous donation of $250!

Congratulations to all who were involved. 

Katherine Claydon

Teacher H.P.E & Science

The School Transition Enrichment Program (STEP) is designed to allow promising students an opportunity to explore a curriculum area of their choice in greater depth, providing opportunity for extension and challenge. The subjects available will be Sports Development, The Arts, Dance, Design Technology (Industrial and Food), Digital Technology, and Science. Applications are now open for these progrmas please apply via the link below and applications will close on the 27th June 2025. Our STEP days will be on the 18th July 2025 and again on the 22nd August.

Celebrating all things Music, Instrumental Music, Drama, Dance, Media and Visual Art 

Celebrating Our Talented Choreographers!  

Last Term, our Dance students took the stage for our annual Choreography Showcase. Each performance was a testament to their creativity, passion, and hard work.  

We were also thrilled to recognize some standout works with special awards: 

• HONOURABLE MENTIONS: Lylah C, Sophie M, Joakim M 

• BEST IMPROVISATION: Lily S and Mahalia D 

• STANDOUT PERFORMANCES: Bella L and Jassie B 

• OVERALL GRAND SUPREME: Jasmine H 

Thank you to everyone who joined us to celebrate these young artists. 

BDC X Amira Industry Day! 

On March 25th, a powerhouse group of BDC dancers spent the entire day diving into a brand new commercial jazz routine with the incredible Amira Mollenhauer — 2024 Winner of Australia’s NEXT Choreographer! 

They smashed it out in just ONE day, bringing nothing but energy, focus, and fire. 

Our dancers were so lucky to learn from one of the most in-demand and creative choreographers in the industry, and we cannot wait to see this fierce routine hit the stage! 

Thank you, Amira! 

Outstanding Results at the Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod 

We are absolutely bursting with pride over our incredible BDC dancers! Our students hit the stage for the first time this year at Sunshine Coast Dance Eisteddfod and we are beyond thrilled to have placed in all routines: 

• 1st - Jazz B 

• 1st - Musical Theatre B 

• 1st - Lyrical A 

• 2nd - Jazz C 

• 2nd - Musical Theatre A 

• 2nd - Contemporary A 

• 2nd - Contemporary B 

• 2nd - Hip Hop A 

• 4th - Lyrical B  

• 4th - Jazz B 

• 4th - Hip Hop B 

We also had some of our senior students compete their self-choreographed solo routines and all were exceptional on stage.  

• 1st - Taylah G (contemporary) 

• 2nd - Jasmine H (up-tempo)  

• 4th - Lylah C/Jasmine H (contemporary), Lily S (up-tempo) 

• 5th - Mahalia D (contemporary) 

To top off our three days, we were also awarded a perfect score of 100/100 for our SNR Lyrical routine, one of two schools for the entire education competition. Congratulations BDC!  

Exploring Art Beyond the Classroom: GOMA Excursion

At the beginning of this term, 60 of our Visual Art students had the exciting opportunity to visit the Asia Pacific Triennial Exhibition at the Gallery of Modern Art (GOMA) in South Bank, Brisbane. 

The day was filled with inspiration, as students explored an incredible range of contemporary artworks from across the Asia-Pacific region. From large-scale installations to interactive exhibits, the experience was thought-provoking, educational, and fun. 

This excursion gave students the chance to engage with art in new and meaningful ways—beyond the classroom—and sparked plenty of creative ideas to bring back to their own work. 

A fantastic day of artistic discovery was had by all! 

Creative Sparks in the Art Room! 

While many of our Year 7 students were away at camp, those who remained at school were busy creating incredible artworks in Art class with Ms Ballard. 

Their creativity truly shone through as they explored different techniques and materials, proving that with the right tools, inspiring ideas, and a passionate teacher, anyone can create something amazing. 

Well done to our talented young artists—we’re so proud of what you’ve achieved! 

More Artistic Success from Our Year 9 Visual Arts Students 

Our Year 9 students have been showcasing their creativity once again in Art class with Ms Massingham. This term, they have been working on mixed-media self-portraits, combining different materials and techniques to express their unique identities and artistic voices. 

The project has encouraged students to experiment boldly with textures, colors, and styles—resulting in a diverse and impressive collection of artwork. We are proud to celebrate their ongoing artistic growth and look forward to seeing more inspired creations! 

Spotlight on Curriculum: Year 10 Visual Art 

Last term, our Year 10 Visual Art students embarked on an exciting creative journey inspired by the vibrant Modernist movements—including Impressionism, Post-Impressionism, and Fauvism. 

Students chose to explore still life, figure, or landscape subjects, experimenting with a variety of painting techniques on canvas. This hands-on approach allowed them to develop their own unique interpretations while learning about different artistic styles. 

To celebrate their hard work and creativity, we recently held an Open Exhibition at school, proudly facilitated by their Art teacher, Ms Kosch. The stunning final artworks on display truly showcased the talent and dedication of our young artists. 

Creating Connections Through Music 

Recently, two of our talented Instrumental Music students, Christina and Danielle, had the exciting opportunity to attend the Sunshine Coast High School Stage Band Workshop at Chancellor State College. 

This workshop brought together skilled young musicians from schools across the Sunshine Coast for an enriching experience as part of a large Jazz Ensemble. Over the course of the day, the students explored a vibrant range of styles—including funk, blues, and swing—with a strong emphasis on developing their jazz improvisation skills. 

Christina and Danielle represented our school with enthusiasm and dedication, gaining valuable experience and making musical connections that will inspire their ongoing growth. Well done to both students for their hard work and commitment! 

Honouring Through Music: Concert Band Performs at ANZAC Day Service 

Recently, the Beerwah State High School Concert Band proudly took part in the Beerwah Community ANZAC Day Service, delivering a moving musical tribute to our servicemen and women. 

Each year, our Concert Band joins forces with Instrumental Music students from Glasshouse Christian College to form a combined ensemble for the event. In preparation, students attended several joint rehearsals—demonstrating commitment, collaboration, and a shared sense of purpose. 

This year, students showed exceptional resilience and adaptability when the service was relocated from Turner Park to the local shopping centre due to weather conditions. Despite the last-minute change, the ensemble performed with excellence and professionalism. 

We are incredibly proud of all the students involved for representing our school with pride and for contributing meaningfully to such an important community occasion. Well done, Concert Band! 

Celebrating Excellence: Concert Band Students Shine at SHEP 

Recently, three of our talented Beerwah State High School Concert Band students proudly represented our school at the State Honours Ensemble Program (SHEP) held on the Sunshine Coast. 

SHEP is a prestigious Instrumental Music initiative run by Griffith University, bringing together the most accomplished young musicians from across the state. Participation is by nomination only, and selection is a testament to each student’s skill, dedication, and musical excellence. 

Over the course of an intensive weekend, students had the opportunity to rehearse and perform in a large concert band, working with a distinguished conductor and fellow musicians from a wide range of schools. The program culminated in a public performance on Sunday morning, showcasing the incredible progress and musicality developed over just a few days. 

We are also thrilled to share that: 

• Danielle has been accepted into the South East Queensland SHEP program, 

• Caitlyn and Christina have been selected for the Queensland SHEP, to be held later this year at the Queensland Conservatorium in Brisbane. 

This is a tremendous achievement, and we are incredibly proud of their hard work, talent, and the way they continue to represent Beerwah High with pride and excellence. Congratulations, Danielle, Caitlyn, and Christina! 

A Cinematic Symphony Experience with QSO 

Recently, our students had the incredible opportunity to travel to QPAC in Brisbane to experience the Queensland Symphony Orchestra perform the iconic music of Hans Zimmer in the stunning surrounds of the Concert Hall. 

This excursion offered more than just entertainment—it provided an invaluable live learning experience. Students were immersed in the world of professional musicianship, witnessing firsthand the precision, emotion, and ensemble dynamics that bring orchestral music to life. 

From the swashbuckling energy of Pirates of the Caribbean to the intensity of Inception and the epic themes of Batman, the performance left our students captivated and inspired. The excitement was palpable, as many students expressed a renewed passion for music and a deeper appreciation for the art of performance. 

Opportunities like this not only enhance learning in the Arts but also ignite aspirations—encouraging our young musicians to refine their craft and consider pathways in the creative industries. We’re proud to provide experiences that extend beyond the classroom and into the heart of live performance. 

Are you keen to learn an Instrument? 

If you are interested in joining any of our Instrumental Music programs, whether you’re experienced or just beginning – we want to hear from you! You have the opportunity to join our Multi-Instrumental Music program with a range of instruments, or concentrate solely on Bass Guitar. See our talented music teachers for more information. 

Growing Creativity: Our Drama Troupe Joins Queensland Theatre’s ‘The Scene Project’ 

For the second year running, our school is proud to participate in Queensland Theatre’s ‘The Scene Project’. Rehearsals and training have begun under the guidance of Ms King for the talented students involved in our Drama Troupe. 

We’re thrilled to witness our students’ energy, enthusiasm, and dramatic skills flourish through a blend of learning and fun. This term, we were fortunate to welcome actor Lauren Jackson from the Sunshine Coast for an inspiring 2-hour workshop. Lauren worked closely with our students, encouraging them to develop their ideas through improvisation and devising exercises. 

Collaborating with industry professionals like Lauren is a fantastic opportunity for our students to grow as artists and gain insight into the creative process. Over the coming weeks, the troupe will be building a powerful 15-minute performance focused on individuality and empowering young people to take control of their futures. 

We can’t wait to see their creativity and confidence shine on stage! 

Upcoming events and excursions: 

We have a number of excursions, events and upcoming opportunities for students in the Arts. A reminder to all of our families that the easiest and quickest way to return your permission forms is with digital consent through QParents. If you haven’t signed up yet, contact our School Office to send you your personal link required. 

Should you have any other queries about the programs we offer, or how your student can get involved, please do not hesitate to contact me directly via cking202@eq.edu.au or phone the school on 5436 5333.  

Carolyn King 

Head of Department – The Arts 

Term 2 is shaping up to be a busy one across the faculty. Term 1 Interim Report Cards were issued recently and students should be reflecting on their results and working with teachers to ensure they are on a pathway to success for Semester 1. 

Recently our Year 9 History students and their teachers participated in an online workshop with the State Library of Queensland where they were introduced to "Charlie", an Ai powered Virtual Veterans research assistant who was able to support their learning about WW1.  

Students engaged positively during the workshop and will be using this tool as part of their research approach during assessment work this term. 

Online Services - Consent Required

Have you provided consent for website-based services used to support teaching and learning at Beerwah SHS? Check your QParents account for any outstanding consent requests.  

If you have any questions about the consent, please contact Patrick Walden via pwald9@eq.edu.au.

We are using electronic consent forms for all excursions. Thank you to our parents and carers who are registered for QParents. 

If you are not registered for QParents, put this on your priority to-do list and action today  

If you have not received an invitation code, contact qparents@beerwahshs.eq.edu.au for assistance or come in and see our office staff who will be happy to help. 

Digitally connected for learning every day @ Beerwah SHS 

A reminder that students are expected to bring a device for learning every day. We have a range of online learning tools which teachers are planning to use with students to enhance their learning experience. Ask your child about how they use their device in the classroom.  

If you are needing your child to access a Hire Device, the link to the Digital Hire form for 2025 is here:

Please note, that we only have a limited number of devices for hire, subject to availability and payment of Hire Fees. 

If you are purchasing a device, it is strongly recommended that you refer to provide a copy of our purchasing letter to your preferred retailer to ensure that any device purchased will be compatible with the school network environment. Google Chromebooks are not compatible with the school network and should not be purchased. Further information including device specifications to assist with purchasing can be found here:

If you aren’t able to commit financially to a device option for your child, please contact us to discuss your circumstances. We want to work with you to connect your child at Beerwah SHS. 

Digital Teaching and Learning Strategy Reference Group – Get Involved 

As part of our ongoing commitment to Digital Teaching and Learning, we are forming a Digital Teaching and Learning Strategy Reference Group with student, staff, parent, industry and community representation to guide our work in this area. If you are interested in becoming involved with this group, please contact Patrick via pwald9@eq.edu.au to express your interest and find out more information.

Should you have any other queries about our programs, please do not hesitate to contact me directly via pwald9@eq.edu.au or 5436 5326. I look forward to connecting with you. 

Patrick Walden 

Head of Department

Digital Technologies & Humanities 

Hello Term-2! 

We’re seeing strong numbers and growing interest among Trade enthusiasts, particularly with the TAFE Trade Taster – Term 2 intake. There’s also increasing demand for immersive excursions in the health sector, as well as a steady flow of general EOI’s for Work Experience (WEX). 

Our Year 10 cohort is also gearing up for their annual WEX program, scheduled for Term 3. 

Interesting and exciting times ahead! 

SAT Program 2025 

Please help me congratulate our new amazing School-Based Apprentices and Trainees. 

SAT Opportunities 

Attention Year 11: 

Reece Group is currently looking for a School-Based Traineeships, various location across Sunshine Coast 

Course Program – TLI20420, Certificate II in Supply Chain Operations 

TAFE Trade Taster – Term 2 

It's great to see the strong interest in the Term 2 TAFE Trade Taster program. 

To date, we have 19 confirmed enrolments across a mix of areas, including Traditional Trades, Hairdressing, and Sport & Fitness Skill Tasters.  Additional 13 students remain on the waitlist mostly in the health care sector, with the majority expected to be enrolled for the late May intake, and others being considered for Term 3 intake. 

Events/Excursions 

2025 Beerwah Co-Op, Safe Travels Program 

We are excited to welcome another year of the 2025 SAFE TRAVELS – Young Drivers Program, following its great success in 2024. The Safe Travels Program focuses on equipping students with essential safety knowledge and practical skills that can be applied in everyday life. Delivered in a group format, the program encourages teamwork, focus, and peer support throughout. Key components of the program include CPR (First Aid), Safety Awareness, Defensive Driving, Practice Road Rules Test, and more. 

This valuable initiative is proudly supported by iDriveSim Training. 

Congratulations to the students selected: 
Max, Joel, Jade, Lara, and Jaxson – we look forward to seeing you thrive and ‘drive’ in this exciting opportunity! 

All smiles here from Info Session

CSQ / Hutchinson Builders – Try a Trade 

In early April, Hutchinson Builders, with the support of Construction Skills Queensland (CSQ), ran a Try a Trade event at Peregian Beach. This event gave students a hands-on experience in the world of construction. 

Try a Trade is a fun and interactive program that lets high school students try different trade skills, like carpentry, plumbing, and electrical work. 

The goal is to help students learn about the many job opportunities in the construction industry. 

Students moved between different activity stations, got help from experienced trainers, and had the chance to use real tools and try out different trade techniques. Our future tradies in action - fun pics here:

Future Careers of the Sunshine Coast Event  

Ms Young and I were lucky to be invited by the Sunshine Coast Regional Jobs Committee (SCRJC). 

SCRJC is proudly supported by the Queensland Government. Their goal is to bring together passionate local people who share their ideas and knowledge to help the Sunshine Coast grow and succeed. 

At the event, guest speakers from local council, the Minister for Finance, and local businesses shared their success stories through video presentations. We learned some great facts about the Sunshine Coast, including: 

• It’s one of the fastest-growing areas in Queensland 

• More people from across the country are moving here to live and work 

• Jobs are growing, especially in health care, public services, electricity and gas, and education and training 

Job opportunities are growing across many industries, and we hope to see more BSHS students stepping into the workforce! 

Work Experience 

SNEAK, PEAK: Year 10 - Work Experience Program 2025, Term 3 

Our HOD and Year 10 team are in full force! 

All Year 10 students are expected to participate in a Work Experience Placement for three days during the second week of Term 3 – Monday 21 to Wednesday 23 July 2025. Work experience is a valuable part of the school-to-work transition, offering students the chance to engage in real-world workplace activities in a structured and supported way, while still enrolled at school. 

Further and detailed communication will be provided to students and parents/guardians in the coming weeks. 

EOI, General Work Experience Program 2025 

Malou Gemino

Industry Liaison Officer 

Exploring the Justice System Beyond the Classroom:

Year 12 Legal Studies Students Attend the Queensland Police Museum Excursion

At Beerwah State High School, we are committed to providing our students with meaningful, real-world learning experiences that bring classroom content to life. For our Year 12 Legal Studies students, the excursion to the Queensland Police Museum presented a unique and valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of the criminal justice system in an engaging and hands-on environment.

The Queensland Police Museum is more than just a collection of artefacts — it’s a space where history, law, and investigation intersect to tell the story of law enforcement in Queensland. During this excursion, students were be able to explore the evolving role of the police within the legal system, gaining a firsthand look at how justice is upheld from the moment a crime is committed to the final stages of prosecution.

This experience directly links to core Legal Studies topics, including:

• The role of law enforcement in the justice process
• Police powers and responsibilities
• Criminal investigations and evidence collection
• Case studies of real-life crimes in Queensland

Students were also exposed to historical and contemporary perspectives on policing, explore mock crime scenes, and learned about significant legal cases that have shaped public policy and policing practices over time. These insights were invaluable for students as they prepare for their internal and external assessments, allowing them to apply theory to practice in a meaningful way.

In addition to enriching their academic understanding, this excursion may spark interest in legal and law enforcement careers, offering inspiration and practical knowledge that will stay with students long after the visit.

Year 12 Legal Studies students were excited to attend this excursion and take full advantage of this learning opportunity. It’s not just a day out — it’s a step into the world of justice, investigation, and legal responsibility.

Emma Braund

Teacher 

Legal Studies

Winter shipment has arrived so come on down to the Uniform Shop at the canteen on Tuesdays and Fridays 8am-9am and rug up for the cold weather ahead!

Key points to remember:

• Long pants - plain navy is allowed, no LOGOS
• Undershirts -must be navy (NO BLACK)
• Jumpers - School jumper or plain navy only.