School Newsletter, Term 2, Week 9

From the School Principal

As we near the end of Term 2, I’m excited to share some incredible achievements from our Year 12 students. This year, 52 students have achieved 100% on 128 assessment items, and 50 students received full marks across every criterion in their Applied subjects. These outstanding results are a testament to the determination and hard work of our students, the expertise and commitment of our teaching staff, and the unwavering support of families. They serve as a powerful reminder of what can be achieved when we work together to support our young people.

As students begin applying for leadership roles for 2027, it's sparked meaningful discussions about our current student leadership structure. Students are leading a review of the model to ensure leadership opportunities reflect a diverse range of strengths and provide a broader platform for different types of leadership to be recognised and celebrated. If you have ideas about what student leadership could look like at Holland Park SHS? We’d love to hear from you — Have your say here

As the winter months set in, we understand that attendance can become more challenging. We all know the pull of a warm, cosy bed on cold mornings — especially when you're feeling under the weather. It’s important to strike the right balance between rest and recovery when genuinely unwell and maintaining consistent attendance whenever possible.

Regular attendance not only supports academic success but also promotes wellbeing through routine, social connection, and a strong sense of belonging. Research shows that students who attend regularly are more likely to experience positive relationships, lower stress levels, and significantly stronger learning outcomes. If your child is finding it difficult to maintain regular attendance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to their Head of School or Year Level Deputy Principal for support — we are here to help.

Finally, I’d like to share some welcome news regarding traffic arrangements around the school. With the support of Councillor Krista Adams and her team, the 15-minute parking zone opposite Mulsanne Street (outside the Hall) on Bapaume Road will be converted to a 2-minute stop-drop-and-go zone during peak times, reverting to 15-minute parking at all other times. This change will help ease congestion and create a safer, more efficient drop-off and pick-up experience away from the crest of the road.

A reminder that parents should not drive into the school grounds to drop off or collect students — this is a shared zone and not designed to accommodate high traffic volumes. Additionally, U-turns across the solid white line on Bapaume Road are illegal. If you need to change direction, please use nearby streets to safely complete a lap of the block.

Thank you for your continued partnership in keeping our students safe, well, and supported — both in learning and in life.

Bindi Lodge,
School Princiapl

Report Cards for Year 7-10

School Report Cards on QParents

Semester 1, 2025 School Report Cards for all Year 7-10 students will be available exclusively via QParents on Friday, 18 July 2025.

Parents will be able to gain access to their students report card via the QParent App only. If you have not yet set up your account, we encourage you to do so now before the report cards are published. If you require support with setting up your QParents account, please contact the Administration office.

Years 7–10 TrackEd

 TrackEd Profiles will be distributed via email on Friday, 18th July 2025. 

We encourage all families to take the time to review these reports and discuss them with their young people. Open communication and ongoing goal setting play a vital role in supporting student success.

From the Deputy Principal, Years 7-9

Wow!  Here we are nearing the end of Term 2. 

A huge thank you to families for supporting the students throughout the term. 

Assessment Preparation for Years 7-9

As we reach the end of semester, students in Years 7 - 9 are beginning to encounter a range of assessments - from assignments to exams and presentations. These early secondary years are an important time for students to develop good study habits, organisational skills, and confidence in their learning.

The skills learned now play a crucial role in future academic success. Assessments in these years are designed to:

• Reinforce classroom learning
• Encourage independent thinking
• Introduce students to assessment formats they’ll see in Years 10-12
• Identify learning strengths and areas needing support

Assessment time can feel overwhelming, but with the right support and strategies, students in Years 7- 9 can approach it with confidence. These early experiences help build the resilience and skills needed for success in the senior years of schooling.

Taking Pride in Our Uniform

Wearing the correct uniform sets the tone for a respectful, focused, and strong school community. Wearing the school uniform helps students feel part of a community. It reflects our shared values and school pride, whether in the classroom, at events, or out in the wider community.

Uniforms help level the playing field by reducing competition around fashion and labels. In a time when social pressures are high, uniforms can take some of that stress away and help students focus on what really matters - learning, friendships, and growth.  Wearing a uniform properly helps students develop responsibility, time management, and respect for shared expectations - important skills in future workplaces. Uniforms make it easier to identify students both on and off school grounds, especially during excursions or interschool events. This helps keep everyone safe and accountable.

We ask all students to:

• Wear the correct uniform each day, including formal and sports uniforms on the appropriate days
• Wear school shoes and socks that meet uniform expectations
• Keep hairstyles, jewellery and grooming in line with our uniform expectations
• Wear the uniform with pride both at school and when travelling to and from school

If students are unable to wear the correct uniform on a given day, a note from home is required and the correct uniform item will be provided by the school.

We encourage families to support students in meeting these expectations by checking uniform items regularly and discussing the importance of pride in presentation.  Together, we can maintain a strong, respectful school culture.

Attendance

Regular attendance is essential for student success in high school. Being at school every day helps students keep up with classwork, build strong study habits, and stay connected with peers and teachers. Missing days can lead to gaps in learning, increased stress, and difficulty catching up—especially in subjects that build on previous knowledge. Consistent attendance also sets a positive pattern for future responsibilities in work and life. Showing up every day gives students the best chance to achieve their personal and academic goals.

Leann Nichol
Deputy Years 7-9 

From the Dean- Junior School

Semester 1: Years 7 & 8 Summary

Semester 1 has been an exciting and productive time for our Junior School students at Holland Park State High School. Our Year 7 and Year 8 students have embraced every opportunity with enthusiasm and a strong commitment to our school values of Learning, Respect, Kindness and Perseverance.
In Term 1, our Year 7 students attended their first high school camp at Maroon Outdoor Education Centre. The camp provided a fantastic opportunity for students to step outside their comfort zones, build resilience and form lasting friendships. Through a variety of outdoor challenges and team-building activities, they learned the importance of supporting one another, showing kindness, and working together with respect and cooperation.
Both Year 7 and Year 8 students proudly represented the school at the Intermediate Schools Cup Volleyball competition. It was a wonderful experience that highlighted the importance of teamwork, communication and persistence. Our students demonstrated great sportsmanship and resilience, showing perseverance through every match, win or lose.
Academically, students across both year levels have applied themselves diligently. In Term 1, they tackled NAPLAN with determination, and throughout the semester they continued to work hard across all subjects. Their consistent efforts in the classroom reflect their commitment to learning and growth, and we are proud of their achievements and progress.
Overall, our Junior School students have demonstrated maturity and a strong sense of community throughout Semester 1. They continue to uphold the values that define Holland Park State High School, and we look forward to seeing what they achieve in Semester 2. Congratulations to all Year 7 and Year 8 students on a fantastic start to the school year.

Michael Jesberg,
Dean, Year 7 & 8

From the Dean- Middle School

Preparing for the Future: Work Experience, Careers & Study Success in Middle School

Our Year 10 students are stepping into an exciting chapter as they prepare for their upcoming Work Experience placements. Over the past few weeks, they’ve been researching potential workplaces, contacting employers, and learning the importance of professional communication and workplace expectations. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to explore career pathways, gain real-world skills, and make meaningful connections beyond the classroom.

Adding to this future focus, our Year 10s also attended the recent Careers Expo. This hands-on event sparked curiosity about industries ranging from healthcare and trades to creative arts and business, while also prompting students to reflect on their own interests, strengths, and goals.

Meanwhile, our Year 9 students have been busy exploring different occupations in class, learning about the wide range of career options available and which school subjects support various pathways. These early conversations help lay the foundation for informed decisions in the years ahead.

As we approach the final stretch of term, all students are encouraged to plan ahead. With exams and assignments due in the coming fortnight, now is the time to break down study goals into manageable chunks. Whether it’s setting aside regular time each night to revise, using a planner to track due dates, or reaching out to teachers for guidance, small efforts add up to big results. Time management, not last-minute panic, is the key to success.

Let’s keep supporting one another with kindness, encouragement, and focus as we move through these busy weeks.

Wellbeing Tip: Stay healthy by taking regular breaks from screens, getting some fresh air, and aiming for 8 hours of sleep each night. Looking after your body helps your brain do its best work!

Jessica Colstrum,
Dean, Year 9 & 10

From the Deputy Principal, Years 10-12

Reporting Progress to Families

As we approach the midpoint of the academic year, it is timely to report on the progress of our students across all year levels. A suite of OneSchool Reports and Track Ed profiles are scheduled to be sent home to families over the coming weeks.  

Year 11 Reports and SET Plan Reviews

With the first Unit of Senior studies concluding, Year 11 Unit 1 Reports and TrackEd Profiles were emailed home to families on Wednesday, 18th June 2025. These reports provide valuable insights into student achievement and engagement.

In addition, on Wednesday and Thursday this week, all Year 11 students participated in one-on-one meetings with their Academic Coaches to review their Student Education and Training (SET) Plans. These meetings are designed to ensure each student is on track with their studies and enrolled in subjects that align with both their academic strengths and post-school pathways —whether that be university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or employment.

Year 12 Reports

The Year 12 Reports, scheduled to be distributed on Friday the 27^th of June, are currently being finalised. These reports will include:

• Confirmed results for IA1; and
• Unconfirmed results for IA2.

In the accompanying TrackEd Profiles, parents and caregivers will be able to view detailed performance data:

• For General subjects, numerical results by Criterion, offering a clear view of how students have performed within each assessment task. Cumulative totals are also display so that students and their families are aware of how students are progressing leading up to the External assessments.
• For Applied and Essential subjects, A – E results are reported against the relevant Dimensions.

We encourage families to dive deeply into this information and use it to support ongoing conversations with your young person about academic goals, study habits and where and how to get support if it is needed.

Parent/Teacher Interviews – Term 3

We would like to advise families that Parent/Teacher Interviews will take place in Week 3 of Term 3, on Wednesday 30th July.

This is a valuable opportunity to meet with teachers to discuss your child’s progress and strategies to support their continued success. Bookings will open after the school holidays, and families will receive further information, including booking instructions, closer to the date. We encourage all parents and caregivers to take advantage of this opportunity to engage in meaningful conversations about their young person’s learning.

Kokoda Schools Challenge

On Friday, June 7, eight teams from Holland Park took on the Kokoda Schools Challenge — a gruelling 48km event that honours the spirit of the Kokoda Trail while supporting youth development through the Kokoda Youth Foundation.

In the lead-up to the event, 34 students displayed exceptional dedication, participating in fundraising, tackling tough weekend hikes, and developing the resilience, teamwork, and determination needed to succeed.

Each team raised at least $500 for the Foundation’s youth programs, which build leadership, confidence, and purpose in young Australians. Congratulations to our top fundraising teams — All Wheel Drive Mode ($2364), Stigmas ($1771), and the Moths ($1297) — and to our standout individual fundraisers, Wesley Chan ($1579) and Mason Speck ($1016).

We are deeply grateful to the teachers and Mr Murray who guided the teams with unwavering support and leadership. A special thank you to Mr Tye and Ms Bayly-Millatt for coordinating the event, and to the amazing support crews and parents who ensured everything ran smoothly — from logistics and transport to encouragement and first aid. We couldn’t have done it without you.

We are incredibly proud of the achievement of all our teams and the way they represented our school and community.

School Sport-Athletics Carnival

Get Ready for the 2025 Athletics Carnival!

The countdown is on for one of the most exciting events on our school calendar — the Athletics Carnival! It's all happening in Week 10, and we want YOU to be a part of the action!

Key Dates:

• Pre-Carnival Events: Thursday 26th June – selected events during class time
• Main Carnival Day: Friday 27th June – all-day event on the oval

This is the last major school sporting event for 2025, so let’s finish the year strong by turning out in full force to support this event.

Whether you’re a serious athlete, a casual competitor, or just love being part of the school community, the carnival has something for everyone!

Students will have the chance to earn house points and show off their house spirit in both competitive and novelty events. Every event you enter helps your house climb the leaderboard, so get involved and help your team claim victory!

From sprints and long jump to war cries and standing high jumps — it’s a fantastic way to celebrate the end of Term 2 with energy, fun, and friendly rivalry.

Don’t miss out — join in, cheer loud, and show your colours!
Let’s make this year’s Athletics Carnival the biggest and best yet!

Yours in Sport
Craig Dawson

Inter-house Athletics Carnival program, Friday 27th June 2025

Pre-Carnival Events, Thursday 26th June 2025

Representative Sport

Met East Volleyball

Year 12 student Harrison recently represented both our school and the Met East region at the 16–19 Years Volleyball State Championships. As vice-captain, he played a key leadership role in guiding his team to a strong third-place finish, earning a well-deserved bronze medal. Congratulations to Harrison on this fantastic achievement!

South District Cross Country

Congratulations to Year 10 student Luke, who achieved an impressive 7th place in the 16 Years Boys category at the South District Cross Country trials. The event was held at the Citipointe Christian College course, known for its challenging terrain, and required competitors to complete a demanding 6km run. Luke’s strong performance has earned him a place at the upcoming Met East Cross Country trials. We wish him all the best as he takes on this next stage.

Ainslee Joss
Sports Coordinator – Representative Sport

Griffith University- Mooting Competition

Holland Park Shines in Inaugural Mooting Competition

This month, Holland Park State High School proudly entered its inaugural team into a mooting competition—a simulated court proceeding where two opposing sides present legal arguments before a judge. Our team was tasked with representing a convicted drug trafficker appealing their sentence.

Leading the charge was Rabeeha, our lead counsel, who had 10 minutes to present legal evidence and case law in support of overturning the conviction. She delivered a focused and compelling argument, demonstrating a strong command of the material and responding confidently to the judge’s probing questions.

Following Rabeeha, junior counsel Finn presented arguments on the second count under appeal. Finn’s preparation was evident as he delivered a persuasive case and skilfully addressed several complex legal questions posed by the judge.

Supporting both advocates was Juliette, who served as the team’s solicitor. She played a vital role in preparing the case and offering real-time support throughout the moot.

As the opposing Crown team presented their rebuttal, our team watched with anticipation. The day also included a role-play activity modelled after Griffith University’s law program, where students acted as jurors in a simulated murder trial—an insightful experience for those considering a future in law.

After a tense wait, the results were announced: Holland Park placed 2nd overall out of 13 teams. Individually, Finn earned 3rd place and Rabeeha 4th in the mooter rankings—an outstanding achievement for our first competition.

The experience offered a valuable glimpse into the world of legal practice and was an inspiring day for all involved. The team now looks forward to their next challenge at QUT in August.

International Student Program

Taiwan Study Tour – Mingdao Junior High School

Mingdao High School明道中學 from Taichung, Taiwan has returned to Holland Park for their 2^nd visit of the year! Ms Hsieh, Ms Liao and 16 Mingdao students arrived on Tuesday, June 10^th and have been enjoying their stay as they shadowed our Holland Park Buddies for 2 weeks. Mingdao students will be experiencing our HP Program through STEAM, Art, Volleyball, Hospitality and Technologies Workshops. Massive thank you to all host families, staff and students who are looking after our Mingdao students during their two weeks stay at Holland Park! Look forward to continuing our study tour relations next year!

Lucy Shiau,
International/EALD Coordinator
Language Coordinator

Music Department

Join us for a magical evening of music! 

Holland Park SHS Instrumental Music proudly presents the 2025 Winter Concert — a celebration of all that our ensembles have achieved so far this year!

Don’t miss this showcase of talent, teamwork, and musical excellence. Bring your family and friends and warm up your winter night with the sounds of our incredible students! 

Permission for Excursions

Consent Manager for Permission via QParents

We are now facilitating parent permissions for all school excursions and incursions using Consent Manager. This platform generates and distributes permission documents via QParents and ensures a streamlined and secure way for you to provide consent for your child’s participation in school activities. If you have not yet set up your QParent account to be able to access consent forms we ask that you request a consent form from the Administration office. We do also encourage you to install the QParents application. Our administration team are happy to help with this process so please contact us should you need assistance.

Finance News

As we near the end of Term 2, we kindly remind you to review and settle any outstanding balances on your child’s student account. Keeping accounts up to date allows us to continue providing high-quality educational services and resources for all students.

Account Statements
Detailed statements have been emailed, outlining SRS fees, subject levies, sporting fees, and any additional excursion charges incurred during the term. If you need a copy of your statement, please don't hesitate to contact our Finance Office.

Payment Options
We offer a variety of payment options to suit your needs. Should you require assistance or have any questions regarding payment arrangements, our Finance Department is happy to help. Your prompt attention to this matter is greatly appreciated.

Follow-Up Communication
Any unpaid invoices will be handled in accordance with the department’s Debt Management Procedure.

Important Notice for Year 12 Families
Please be aware that all outstanding fees for Year 12 students must be fully paid prior to attending the Year 12 Formal. This is an important milestone, and we want every eligible student to have the opportunity to celebrate. Your prompt attention to this matter will ensure all students can participate without issue

From Our Guidance Office

Supporting Student Wellbeing: Introducing SAFEMinds to Our School Community

At Holland Park, we know that wellbeing and learning go hand in hand. That’s why we’re excited to share a valuable resource with our parent and carer community: SAFEMinds (Schools and Families Enhancing Minds).

SAFEMinds is an evidence-based initiative that supports early intervention in student mental health. It offers practical tools to help families notice changes in mood or behaviour, ask gentle questions, and take early steps to support their young person.

Whether your child is in Year 7 or Year 12, the SAFEMinds website includes short videos, tip sheets, and advice designed specifically for parents and carers. It’s not about having all the answers—it’s about staying connected and supportive through the ups and downs of adolescence.

We encourage you to visit the Parents and Carers section of the site:
🔗 www.safeminds.org.au/parents-and-carers

Take a moment to explore the site—your support matters.
Small steps can make a big difference. And if you ever have concerns about how your young person is coping—at school or at home—please reach out to our student support team.

From Our School Nurse

Hello Holland Park SHS students, families and carers. Did you know, nurse-led walk-in clinics offer free treatment to all adults and children aged over 2 years for non-life-threatening injuries, illnesses and common health concerns.

The clinics are open 8am – 10pm every day of the week, and no bookings or referrals are required.

Services are free, even if you don't have a Medicare card.

Location: 1437 Logan Rd, Mt Gravatt

More info: https://www.metrosouth.health.qld.gov.au/hospital-and-health-centres/nurse-led-walk-in-clinic

Queenslanders can walk in and receive clinical assessment, treatment and advice from qualified nursing staff about common health concerns, such as:

• fevers, coughs and colds
• earache, tonsils and sore throats
• infections and rashes
• minor eye issues
• minor cuts and burns
• minor head injuries
• strains and sprains
• gastroenteritis
• urinary tract infections.

Women-focused health services will also be available, such as:

• women’s health concerns
• contraception, including emergency contraception
• advice on period and menopause
• support and referrals for women experiencing domestic, family or sexual violence.

We do not provide:

• medical certificates
• scripts for drugs of addiction.

For mental health support, call 1300 MH CALL (1300 64 22 55).

P&C News

80's Music Bingo Fundraiser

HPSHS P&C would like to thank everyone who turned out for a very fun night of 80s nostalgia and music bingo. Big thanks to Jessie from Pick the Hit entertainment who always puts on a fun night!  The funds raised will go towards costs associated with the Wedding Singer Musical. The P&C would love to know what type of parent social event would you like to see next?

Email us at PandCPresident@hollandparkshs.eq.edu.au

Exciting News

The P&C has engaged in a pilot with P&C Queensland to help rejuvenate our canteen and uniform shop.  Electronic ordering via School 24 is not far off and we look forward to working with P&C Queenland in adopting new processes and procedures.  Stay tuned for more news as the pilot develops.

Keep up to Date with all P&C News with our new Facebook page:  https://www.facebook.com/share/1C8PbXuZC5/

Our next Meeting is Thursday 17 July 6.30pm in the Admin Building

All welcome and we hope to see you there

Leah Williamson 
P&C President

From the Students-Push Up Challenge

Community News

Brisbane's bus network will undergo significant changes starting on June 30, 2025.

Here are the key points:

• About three-quarters of Brisbane's bus services will change, including cuts, additions, rerouting, and renaming.
• The new bus network will be introduced alongside a new Brisbane Metro route, improving reliability and capacity.

See flyer below for more information.

"Sharks Camp 2025 - July. GET IN QUICK LIMITED SPOTS AVAILABLE!!

Sharks Camp is a four-day volleyball camp designed to cater to athletes of all skill levels. With elite development opportunities available and pathways into club and state-level volleyball, this camp has something for everyone!