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- Principal’s Report
- 2024 Levies and Student Assistance Scheme (STAS)
- Attendance – Leaving school early
- Grade 10 Transition Planning
- Grade 10 Exams
- Mid-year Reports
- Battle of the Bands
- Congratulations
- Subject in Focus - Making Computer Games – Short Course
- Sport in Focus – Senior 1st Football
- Sport in Focus – Grade 8 Football
- Prefect Profile
- UTAS Open Day
- Launceston City Cycling Club - School Holiday Program
- Libraries Tasmania Northern Tasmania School Holiday Program
- Homelessness Week - Walk to Raise Awareness
- Tasdance School of Dance enrol now for Term 3
Our DECYP Value in focus is Courage:
The value of Courage involves accepting challenges and embracing opportunities. This is crucial in fostering an environment where students are encouraged to step out of their comfort zones and pursue their goals with determination and resilience.
At Riverside High School, the value of Courage is embedded in the school’s ethos and daily practices. Students are encouraged to set ambitious goals, whether in their studies, extracurricular activities, or personal development. This is underpinned by a framework of guidance and mentorship, ensuring that students feel supported as they navigate new and often daunting experiences.
Courage is also about fostering a growth mindset. Teachers and staff emphasise the importance of perseverance and learning from failure. Students are taught that setbacks are a natural part of the learning process, and that Courage involves persisting in the face of difficulties. This mindset not only helps students to overcome academic challenges but also prepares them for the uncertainties and complexities of the real world.
The school provides numerous opportunities for students to demonstrate and develop courage. This diverse array of activities challenges students to push their boundaries. These experiences help students to build confidence and resilience, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle future challenges.
In summary, the value of Courage at Riverside High School is essential in supporting students to accept challenges and embrace opportunities. By cultivating a supportive and encouraging climate, the school helps students to develop resilience, confidence, and a growth mindset. This focus on Courage not only enhances students’ academic achievements but also prepares them to face future challenges with determination and optimism, ensuring they are well-equipped for lifelong success.
Some highlights from the past two weeks at Riverside High include:
Battle of The Bands
Thank you to our Music department for supporting a large number of students to rehearse and perform at our school’s Battle of the Bands. The event was held at the Door of Hope on Friday, 28th June and the atmosphere and quality of performances were outstanding. We sold 400 tickets for this event which was well-supported by our school community. Well done to all involved!
Primary School Transition
Our associate primary school transition program has commenced. Miss Dudley has been working with our Grade 9 students in preparation for the Transition Mentor program that supports our upcoming primary visits. This is a valued part of our school transition program and supports our young people to feel connected to high school.
Grade 10 Transition Plans
Our Grade 10 students recently participated in a morning of transition planning facilitated by their Home Group teachers. These days are extremely important in supporting our Grade 10 students to complete their Transition Plans, have vital conversations about their futures and listen to different speakers from a range of industries providing a snapshot of what opportunities are available.
NAIDOC Week
This week our school highlighted the importance that NAIDOC week plays within our community. Many of our young Indigenous students participated in a variety of cultural activities. Thank you to our students and staff who helped to organise this week.
Mid-year Reporting
As our Mid-year reports have just gone home, this is an excellent opportunity for students to reflect upon their current academic progress and set some new goals for the remainder of the year. This provides an opportunity for parents/guardians to have conversations with their young people about their application to learning and the progress they are making in the classroom.
Term 3 Staffing
As we enter the second half of the year, we are very pleased to say that our staffing situation is extremely stable, and we have minimal changes to our classes for Term 3. Ms Bolton will return from her long service leave and Mr Smith will return to his leadership of Grade 8 and Mr Gadsby to his instructional coach portfolio. Mr Woodley (HPE/Stem) and Mrs Scott (HASS) retain their contracts and continue their work with their respective classes throughout Term 3.
I just wanted to take this opportunity to thank the community for your support and conversations over the past term. The role of principal is a challenging one, however, it is something that I have thoroughly enjoyed. I wish everyone a relaxed break and some time to recharge ready for the second half of the year.
Mr Adrian Smith
Acting Principal
2024 Levies and Student Assistance Scheme (STAS)
2024 levies are now due for payment. Invoices for 2024 levies were posted to families in March. If you did not receive your invoice or would like a copy, please contact our administration office on 6327 6333.
Payment for school levies can be made against this invoice, payment details can be found on the invoice.
Payments can be made via:
- bPay
- Internet payments
- Via our school QKR App
- Over the phone at our school office or in person
- CentrePay deductions (can be arranged through our administration office)
If you would like to pay in instalments or complete a payment plan, we are happy to assist you in this process. Please contact Cynthia Pearce, School Business Manager on 6327 6333.
Applications for 2024 Student Assistance Scheme (STAS) are still open, please check your eligibility via this online link: Student Assistance Scheme (STAS) (education.tas.gov.au)
Please contact our School Business Manager to discuss your levies and payment options.
Attendance – Leaving school early
What should you do if your child needs to leave school early?
For attendance register regulations students are required to sign out at the Student Admin Counter if they have to leave school early for any reason. Communication from parents/guardians can be via:
- Phoning the Administration Office which is open between 8:00am – 4:00pm (6327 6333)
- Using the Schoolzine App.
- Sending an email to either the Home Group teacher or our school email address Riverside.High.Admin.Staff@decyp.tas.gov.au
- Sending a text message to 0418 140 427 (MGM OutReach)
- When LEAVING our school for an appointment, students must have a green leave form which has been signed by Admin Staff and/or Assistant Principal. The Leave Pass is preferably completed before school and must be left with a member of our Admin Team at the time of leaving. The student must also sign out at the time of departure. Students who sign out for appointments should sign back in at the Student Admin Counter on their return.
Following this process ensures that students meet their parents for collection promptly without interrupting classes.
On Wednesday, 26th June, our Grade 10 students were afforded the invaluable opportunity to spend a highly productive morning considering their future educational and career-related pathways. Students worked efficiently to activate their Transition Plans, explore their interests, goals and values and gain a deeper understanding of potential careers which are best aligned to them.
Our Grade 10s were also fortunate to have an opportunity to benefit from the wisdom and advice offered by a number of guest speakers. Dan Hart from the Apprenticeships and Traineeships for School-aged Learners Team spoke to our students about apprenticeships in general as well as Australian School-based Apprenticeships (ASbA). Mr Pooley presented information regarding alternative Year 11 programs and opportunities. Ira Sulzberger from the University of Tasmania addressed our grade about university pathways and entry programs. Liz Bennett from Launceston College shared a range of information regarding Year 11 and 12 course offerings, subject levels, vocational education and training (VET), the Tasmanian Certificate of Education (TCE) and the Australian Tertiary Admission Rank (ATAR) scoring.
We would like to take this opportunity to thank all these presenters for providing our Grade 10s with exceptional information to guide and support their decision making regarding their future education and careers. Our thanks also go to Mr Child for organising this outstanding opportunity for our students and to our Grade 10 Team for supporting our students to develop their Transition Plans.
Grade 10 Leadership
Our Grade 10 students have now commenced the process of preparing for their exams. This has involved the sharing of general information with the grade regarding the upcoming exams and providing explicit teaching regarding how to best study for and complete an exam.
As mentioned in a previous Newsletter, our Grade 10 students will be completing exams in their core subjects of English, Maths, Science, and History during Week 2 of Term 3. Those subjects setting exams will provide students with dedicated revision and preparation lessons during Week 1 of Term 3.
We greatly appreciate the support of our Grade 10 families to assist our students with their exam preparation. Such support includes reminding students that the best way to prepare for exams is by attending all lessons, concentrating fully in class, and asking their teachers for assistance as soon as it is needed.
Please feel free to contact the Grade 10 Leadership Team if you have any questions regarding our exams as we are extremely keen to work in partnership with you to support our wonderful young people.
The Grade 10 Leadership Team
As you are undoubtedly aware, all students’ Mid-year Reports were distributed during a special Home Group session on Thursday, 4 July. This report is designed to provide a comprehensive picture of how students are progressing in each subject. The Mid-year Report also includes ratings on key attributes that are essential for learning to provide you with a clear indication of how your child is working in each learning area.
A reminder that on Monday, 26 August, a Parent/Teacher/Student Interview Evening will be held from 3:30 – 5:00pm in Building 2 (our Grade 9/10 Area, located directly above the Administration Area). Another Parent/Teacher/Student Interview Evening will be held on Tuesday, 27 August from 3:30 – 6:30pm in Building 2. These evenings will give both parents and teachers an opportunity to discuss how to best support students’ ongoing learning. Students are strongly encouraged to attend with their parents/carers. Interview appointments are for 10 minutes. Details on how to book a Parent/Teacher/Student Interview will be sent home early in Term 3.
We look forward to seeing you at our Parent/Teacher/Student Interview Evenings.
Mr Adrian Smith
Acting Principal
On Friday, 28th June, Riverside High School hosted its annual Battle of the Bands at the Door of Hope, showcasing the immense talent and creativity of our student musicians. The event was a resounding success, with each performance reflecting the hard work and dedication our students have put into their music.
We are incredibly proud of all the participants. Every band brought their unique sound and energy to the stage, impressing the audience with their original compositions and dynamic performances. The standard of musicianship was exceptionally high this year, making the judges' decisions particularly challenging.
A special congratulations goes to Astral Project, who delivered a captivating performance that earned them a spot in the prestigious Rock Challenge. Their innovative sound and stage presence set them apart, and we are excited to see them represent Riverside High on an even larger stage. Coming in a close second was 75% who will also be representing the school at Rock Challenge.
We also want to commend Jaylah, Gemma, and Darci for their outstanding performance in the Off the Rocks section. Their harmonious blend and compelling stage charisma won over both the judges and the audience, securing them the top spot in this category.
The Battle of the Bands is more than just a competition; it's a celebration of our students' passion for music and their ability to collaborate and create something truly special. Each performance was a testament to hours of practice and the artistic vision of our young musicians.
Thank you to everyone who participated, supported, and cheered for our bands. Your enthusiasm and encouragement make events like this possible. We look forward to seeing what our talented students will achieve next and wish Astral Project, 75%, and our acoustic trio the best of luck in the Rock Challenge!
Mr Rainbird, Mr Parry and Miss de Jong
Our Grade 10 students Skyla, Sophie, Daisy and Imogen (Captain) have been selected for the Under 16's State Soccer Team!
They will be travelling to Bundoora, Victoria this week to compete in the National Youth Championships.
The girls were in ‘The Examiner’ newspaper and we are very proud of you all.
Subject in Focus - Making Computer Games – Short Course
Our Grade 9 and 10 students have been busy creating digital games using a variety of tools, including, Microsoft MakeCode Arcade, GDevelop or Gamemaker.
They have been exploring game mechanics and design processes, software practices, modification, enhancement, and design to create engaging and interactive games. In addition to learning about the technical aspects of game development, students have also been exploring the history of computer games and what makes for a successful computer game.
With hard work and creativity, our students are developing the skills that might lead them towards creating their own viable and possibly financially successful computer game.
Darren Hanson
Sport in Focus – Senior 1st Football
Our Senior 1st football team has had a great start to the season. We have played some fantastic games against Prospect High School and secured a win over Kings Meadows High School. With the division now split into just three teams (Riverside High School, Prospect High School and Queechy High School), we have the time to progressively improve and learn how to play against our opponents.
Our leaders have been guiding us from the very beginning and leading from the front, with Ella S named as our captain. Olive N and Ruby J provide valuable tips during team huddles and Brooke P energises us as our chant leader. Goal scoring has been a massive team effort this season, with Ella, Brooke, Daisy, Maya, Lauren, Skyla, Olive, Jenna, Georgia W, and Sophie all contributing. The defensive side of the game would be lost without Sienna and Elsie, who hold the defence together and ensure the score lines are kept even. In our game against Kings Meadows High School, our defensive superstar Kacey M moved forward and scored a massive seven goals over two quarters.
It is great to see so many girls getting together and giving AFL a go. The camaraderie to lift each other up and get the job done each game, even with illness and injury affecting the team, is commendable. I am very excited to see the success we will no doubt achieve in the second half of the season.
Emma Groves
Sport in Focus – Grade 8 Football
Our Grade 8 boys football team has now played seven games in the NHSSA junior football roster, where the team is currently sitting second on the ladder with a 5-win, 2-loss record. The performances to date have been very encouraging and the boys have shown vast improvement, throughout the seven games; both individually and as a team. The best attribute the team has shown is their ‘never say die’ attitude where the boys have come from well behind in three of their games to record narrow victories. The biggest improvement has been the boys’ ability and willingness to listen to instruction and fulfil their role for the team.
Round 1:
Riverside High School 32 defeated Prospect High School 30 – in our first game, and some of our boys’ first games of football ever. The team came from four goals behind to take a memorable win. With Declan acting as the ‘swingman’ from defence to forward, Ethan playing well through the midfield, Thomas providing a strong target across HF, and Rory and Seb showing great endeavour in their first games of football, the team was able to get the job done in a promising start to the season.
Round 2:
Riverside High School 72 defeated Launceston Church Grammar School 53 – again playing at home, the boys found a way to win by coming from three goals down. All boys showed significant improvement in their understanding of their roles and their ability to listen to instruction. Sully came into the side as a Grade 7 and had an immediate impact with a best on ground performance. Once again Declan was strong as our ‘swingman’ and Liam, controlled the ruck.
Round 3:
Riverside High School 30 was defeated by Kings Meadows High School 83 – our first away game against the strong Kings Meadows High School was a great learning experience. Although the result looked one-sided, our boys once again showed great signs with their teamwork, understanding of their roles, and their ability to listen to instruction. Rory, was outstanding across HB, repelling many attacks, Liam was again controlling the air, and Seb continually improved his understanding of the game. The boys showed great resilience, teamwork, and sportsmanship.
Round 4:
Riverside High School 35 was defeated by St Patricks College 65 – although we did not win the game, this was our best team performance of the year with the boys showing excellent improvement in their ability to defend and be able to link up in offence. Playing St Patricks College Grade 8 team is always a massive challenge, but our boys really embraced this. Oliver led the way in the midfield, with some of our newcomers in Lachlan, Andy, Ben and Sam standing up to the challenge.
Round 5:
Riverside High School 130 defeated Queechy High School 24 – Round 5 could be identified as when the Grade 8 boys football ‘juggernaut’ started to really roll! With all the boys showing vast improvement across the previous two tough games, our boys gave an impressive display against Queechy High School. With strong contributors all over the ground, Seb, Jake and Liam shone bright. Jacob showed his forward craft to bob up and kick goals, while Xavier continued his stellar defensive work.
Round 6:
Riverside High School 68 defeated Prospect High School 28 – With a come from behind 2-point victory in Round 1 against Prospect High School, our boys were expecting a tough match, however the ‘juggernaut’ was at full throttle. With Declan once again providing a strong avenue to goal, the competition’s most improved player Rory repelling attacks, and Oliver being impassable, it was difficult for Prospect High School to get their hands on the ball. Ty and Lucas were strong contributors for the team in an even team performance.
Round 7:
Riverside High School 44 defeated Launceston Church Grammar School 41– With interest in the team at fever pitch around the school, Mr Child decided to start an assistant coach role with the football team. Ms Bolton also appeared at the game at Launceston Church Grammar School so the pressure was on to perform. Riverside High School got off to a very sluggish start that stretched well into the third quarter, resulting in a 4-goal deficit halfway through the third quarter. The boys responded with a withering burst just before three quarter time to reduce the margin to less than a goal. Kicking against a strong breeze in the last quarter, the Riverside High School boys were able to kick two goals in the last 4 minutes, with Grade 7, Eden, kicking the winning goal with less than 90 seconds remaining. Liam dominated the ruck, with Eden’s two goals proving decisive. Lucas and Oliver were solid contributors through the midfield, and Ethan bobbed up with two vital goals in the second half.
Adam Sanders
My name is Isaac, and I am honored to be a member of the Learning, Academic, and Arts Portfolio. Leadership has always appealed to me, but more importantly, I am passionate about helping others and making life better for them. This has been important to me well before high school, which is why I served as a peer support leader in primary school. I am especially grateful to my brother, who among other things, inspired me to become a prefect. Watching him enjoy his time with the board and help organise many exciting activities made me want to do the same. I have a wide range of interests, including playing the piano, making games, drawing, playing hockey, listening to music, and participating in drama both in and out of school. I also love playing board games with my family on weekends. These hobbies have taught me valuable skills in teamwork, creativity, and dedication. As a Prefect, I strive to be a reliable and valuable team member, always ready to help the Board and my portfolio in any way needed.
I am eager to see all the exciting directions the Prefect Board may take in the next half of the year. I look forward to working together to develop new initiatives, organise engaging activities, and make a positive difference in our school community. I am really looking forward to a fantastic rest of the year filled with great opportunities and memorable experiences for everyone.
Isaac
Get a taste of life at the University of Tasmania.