Week 9, 8th September 2025 CapSDE Newsletter

P & C General Meeting - Tomorrow 9th Sept 3:30pm

Our next general meeting will be held on the 9th September at 3:30pm. 

Please find the TEAMS meeting information below:

Join the meeting now

Meeting ID: 442 107 292 502 7

Passcode: c3x4U6D4

Save The Date - Get Set For 2026 Days

To support families and ensure a smooth start to the school year, our traditional Induction has been renamed as Get Set for 2026 Days. These sessions are designed to prepare both students and parents—new and returning—for the year ahead.

The program will run across two days, offered both face-to-face and online to provide flexibility and access for all families. These days are packed with important information, introductions, and preparation to help everyone feel confident and ready for the year.

Key Dates:

• 27 January – Initial teacher contact with families

• 28 January – Get Set for 2026 Day 1 (Face-to-Face & Online)

• 29 January – Get Set for 2026 Day 2 (Face-to-Face & Online)

• 30 January – Lessons commence

We encourage all families to take part in the Get Set for 2026 Days to ensure a positive and informed start to the school year.

2026 Calendar Photo Competition Winners!

We are excited to announce the winners of our 2026 Calendar Photo Competition!

Thank you to all the students and families who submitted their incredible entries – the creativity and talent on display was outstanding.

After much deliberation, the winning photos have been selected and will feature in our 2026 school calendar. Congratulations to our winners, and thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this year’s competition such a success!

Secondary Leading Edge

Life is looking bright. I didn’t get an apprenticeship with ergon, but on the 23rd-26th this month, I’ll be doing some work experience with a major air conditioning and refrigeration company in town. If all goes well, I’ll be offered an apprenticeship, so I'll be sure to let you know how that pans out.

On Tuesday the 2nd September, the day before I wrote this, I took my 5th driving test and passed. The feeling is phenomenal. All the times I made mistakes, failed, and had to try again only makes this moment feel more worthwhile and deserved. As a young adult finishing school, getting my P1 license has been by far the largest milestone. It means things like my work, going to the gym, and meeting up with people are no longer dependant on the availability of my close family. I now have the tools and resources to fulfil my own commitments to my heart’s content.

Better every day

Kind Regards!
Kian Barram

Sports Person of the year award 2025 - Nominations close 17th October

CapSDE annually acknowledges the sporting achievements of a Primary and Secondary Student, who has excelled throughout the year at the end of year awards.

The presentation of the Sports Person of the Year Award goes to the student who has accumulated the most amount of points throughout the year in their various sporting achievements. 

Parents are asked to advise the school throughout the year of the sporting achievements by completing this online form. Scores are based on events, the level of the event (district, regional, state, national etc) and the students placing within those events. You will need to complete the form for each individual achievement. Do not place all achievements on the one form.

On the 17th October, nominations will close and points will be collated. The winner will be announced at the end of year Awards Ceremony.

Information to note: 
* School sports are what counts for CapSDE Sportsperson of the year.  Students are recognised for their achievement in other non-school fields; however, these achievements are not part of the accumulation of points towards the CSDE Sportsperson of the year. 

* You should list the highest level that your student has represented in that sport, noting that the points are only entered if the student represented, and not if they were selected and did not attend. 

SchoolTV

SPECIAL REPORT: Healthy Study Habits

In today's world, where distractions are abundant and the pressure to excel is high, guiding children to develop healthy study habits is more important than ever. As students aspire to achieve academic success, the cornerstone of that achievement lies not just in their intelligence or drive, but in the study habits they cultivate.

It's essential for students to recognise that good study habits aren't merely about spending extra hours hitting the books. It's more about quality over quantity and having a more balanced approach. Emphasising the value of a routine is essential. Consistent study times establish a sense of structure and discipline, turning studying into a natural part of their daily routine rather than a burdensome task.

Additionally, how students approach their study sessions is equally important. Taking regular breaks is a crucial part of this process in maintaining focus and preventing burnout.

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle that includes sufficient sleep, a balanced diet, and consistent physical activity are indispensable elements that will significantly impact your child's ability to study effectively. Fostering these healthy habits is one of the most valuable gifts we can offer children, paving the way for a lifetime of learning and achievement.

This Special Report will help you support your young person as they embark on studying for exams.

Here is the link to your Special Report https://capricorniasde.eq.schooltv.me/wellbeing_news/special-report-healthy-study-habits-au

What's happening in Primary?

Brisbane International Primary Schools Cup 🎾

Last week, our students proudly represented Capricornia SDE at the Brisbane International Primary Schools Tennis Competition. They showed great determination, sportsmanship, and teamwork throughout the event. We are so proud of the effort they put in and the way they represented our school community. A huge thank you to Mrs Goodman for attending to supervise our students. These events would not be possible without staff volunteering their time. 

Empowering Year 6 Learners with A.I.: Balancing Innovation with Integrity

In our Year 6 classroom, students are stepping into the future of learning by exploring how artificial intelligence (A.I.) can support their education.

From personalised tutoring to instant feedback on writing, A.I. tools are helping students become more independent, curious, and confident learners.

Whether it's using A.I. to brainstorm ideas for a persuasive text, clarify a tricky maths concept, or summarise a complex science topic, students are discovering how these tools can act as a coach—guiding them through challenges and encouraging deeper thinking. The ability to ask questions and receive tailored explanations has been especially powerful for visual learners and those who benefit from differentiated support.

However, alongside the excitement of using cutting-edge technology, we are also having important conversations about digital integrity.

Students are learning that while A.I. can assist with tasks, it should never replace their own thinking, creativity, or effort. We emphasise the importance of taking pride in their work, using A.I. as a support—not a shortcut.

Through guided discussions and classroom activities, students are being educated about the pitfalls of A.I., such as over-reliance, misinformation, and the temptation to copy rather than create. They are developing critical thinking skills to evaluate A.I. responses, ask better questions, and reflect on how technology can enhance—not diminish—their learning.

This balanced approach ensures that our students are not only tech-savvy but also ethically aware, responsible digital citizens. As they grow into lifelong learners, they are learning to harness the power of A.I. with integrity, curiosity, and confidence.

CQ Sevens

On Thursday 16 October we will be providing students with an opportunity to participate in the
QRU CQ Sevens Primary Schools Competition in Rockhampton.

This event is open to students aged 9, 10, and 11, noting that this is a full-contact sport and event.

Venue: Colts Rugby Union, Tom Nutley Field, Park Street, Park Avenue, Qld 4701

RSVP and Consent Form due 7th October     Consent form in RSVP link and below

Secondary Scoop

VET Highlights from Mrs Wheatley

Our VET students have had a busy and exciting year so far, building real-world skills and exploring future pathways. Highlights include a series of industry visits where students connected classroom learning to current workplace practices, plus hands-on Fly Days that gave our Aviation students a close look at aircraft, ground operations and career options across the sector. We’ve also engaged with local employers and training providers to deepen industry currency and show students the many routes into work, apprenticeships and further study.

The momentum continues with our much-anticipated Airport Excursion Day coming up later this term. Students will step behind the scenes to see how an airport runs, speak with professionals across a range of roles, and link these insights back to their units of competency.

Thank you to our industry partners, families and staff for supporting these opportunities. If students would like extra study help or information about VET pathways, please reach out to the VET team, we’re here to help every step of the way.

Message from Mrs Bagget:

Second Year Aviation Students Nearing Completion of Certificate III

Our second-year Aviation students are reaching an exciting milestone in their training. After two years of dedication and practical learning, they are now in the final stages of completing their Certificate III in Aviation (Remote Pilot), with just one chapter left in their coursework.

In Term 4, the students will undertake their CASA-certified examinations to earn both their Aeronautical Radio Operator’s Certificate (AROC) and their Remote Pilot Licence (RePL). These nationally recognised qualifications will allow them to operate drones in compliance with Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) regulations and prepare them for future career opportunities in the rapidly growing aviation and drone industries.

The students’ progress reflects their commitment and passion for aviation, as well as the valuable skills they have developed throughout the program—including navigation, flight planning, and safe drone operation. With their final assessments approaching, they are well on track to graduate with the knowledge and licences required to enter the aviation workforce with confidence.

Hear from our students!

Students completing the Certificate II in Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways are linking their learning directly to real-world experiences. They are applying practical skills in authentic contexts, gaining confidence, and preparing for success in further study and future employment.

Skills for Work and Vocational Pathways is a great course as you can learn something new each lesson, connect with peers and your teacher, and end up having knowledge for the future and any future career paths. This course is beneficial to someone wanting to go into customer service, learn about manual labour or just learn more about some tradie work.

From Shandi McKenna

During my work experience working at the post office, I was able to use what I learnt during the Certificate II in Skills for Work sand Vocational Pathways in a few ways. Completing the work experience also helped me with the learning for the rest of the unit as I gained hands-on experience in a retail environment. It was good to be able to see how my learning related to the world of work. 

One funny experience that happened to me was when a man walked in demanding his package, which had not arrived yet. He insisted on both myself and the lady I was doing the work experience under to check the back for the parcel. Of course we came back empty handed. Although he was rather mean, I was able to use what I learnt in my Certificate to remain calm and handle the situation in a mild way.

I also learnt how to keep things organized in my certificate, something I put into practice while recording stock, filling in my time sheet and managing parcels.

Student

Beach Port Jetty, the second longest in SA and 772 metres long. It was so long and we estimated it to be close to 1km.

At start of the last school holidays, my Dad, and my kelpie puppy, Ruby, went to NT for an adventure. We also had our cat come along. I was still able to do my schoolwork because we got Starlink. I sent regular photos to the class and sometimes the teacher would Google the places and we would learn a little about it. I got to see a variety of retail places, some very small in isolated townships, and it was good to be able to see how the learning in the Certificate II related to all the different workplaces. There were similarities in how they used digital technology such as ordering by email and using EFTPOS machines to process sales. Fuel prices would go over $3 a litre in some places. We did 12,00km starting in southeast QLD, to SA, WA then NT. 

From Lesley Hannan – can publish name

Are you interested in a Career In Space?

If you are interested in a career in space, check out the Career's Booklet below for more information. 

Guidance 'Go-2'

7-13th September 2025 National Child Protection week

National Child Protection Week 2025 is just around the corner! This year’s theme, “Every Conversation Matters: Shifting Conversation to Action,” is about taking the next step beyond dialogue—turning meaningful conversations into real change at individual, community, and national levels.

This year’s theme highlights that while open discussions are crucial, words alone are not enough: we must turn dialogue into meaningful action.

NAPCAN acknowledges that while conversations can raise awareness, challenge harmful norms, and spark new ideas, real change happens when we take steps to create safer environments for children that prevent them from harm.

This year, their focus is on moving beyond conversations to concrete actions that prevent harm and instead, focussing on strengthening support systems, and empowering communities to actively protect children.

By shifting from conversation to action, we can ensure that every child not only feels heard but also experiences real safety, care, and protection.

Check out the link to webinars below and together let’s make child protections everyone’s business.

R U OK Day - Thursday 11th September

Thursday 11 September is R U OK? Day but we know that whether it’s a friend, family member, partner, or colleague , the people around us go through life’s ups and downs every day. That’s why we want everyone to feel confident to check in with the people they care about and Ask R U OK? Any Day.

Our research found that those who are regularly asked, 'are you OK?' report increased feelings of wellbeing, and we've learned that a third of Australians say they've been asking others more often over the past year. That means many of us are already showing up for others in meaningful ways, but when it comes to conversations about how we’re really going, some people are less confident than others. 

It’s natural to feel a little hesitant, but the good news is nine in ten Australians report feeling grateful, supported, and cared for when someone genuinely asks them if they're OK - and that’s a good reason to give it a go. You might even be having these conversations already without realising.

If you need tips to build your confidence, we’re here to help with plenty of free resources to help you check in with someone you care about. You’ve got this, and we’ve got your back.

Ask R U OK? Any Day because a conversation could change a life.

Employment, Apprenticeships & Traineeships

🔧💼 Employment, Apprenticeships & Traineeships

Looking to get started on your career while still at school—or right after graduation? Explore current apprenticeship, traineeship, and entry-level job opportunities across Central Queensland and beyond.

These roles are a great way to gain hands-on experience, earn while you learn, and take the first steps toward a meaningful career.

Check out the latest opportunities here:

SBT/A Vacancies QLD

Apprenticeships/Traineeships Jora - QLD

Apprenticeships/Traineeships Indeed QLD

https://www.apprenticeshipcentral.com.au/

https://www.megt.com.au

https://masnational.com.au/jobs-board/ 

https://www.seek.com.au/apprenticeship-jobs 

💡 Remember: Talk to your VET Coordinator or Senior School Head of Department if you need help finding a pathway that suits your interests.

What's on in your community?

Residential Career Insight Program 2026 Enrolments Are Open

The National Institute of Education is excited to share that enrolments are now open for the 2026 Academic Insights Program, hosted at the prestigious St. Paul’s College, The University of Sydney.

This immersive, 14-day residential program is designed for high school students who want to explore their academic passions under the guidance of world-class educators and professionals. In 2026, students can choose from the following streams:

• Medicine
• Veterinary Studies
• Engineering
• Psychology
• Law
• Business Management
• Creative Writing
• AI & Software Management

Missed our recent information webinar? You can watch the full recording here...

Want to explore more? View the program brochure here...

Enrol Now & Save

For a limited time, we are offering an additional $500 off the early bird rate. Simply use the code AIPNIE2026 at checkout and click “Recalculate” to claim your discount.

• Enrol today at: https://www.niecareers.com.au/academic-insights

If you have any questions or would like to speak with our team, feel free to call us on 1300 974 187 or email admin@niecareers.com.au

We look forward to welcoming the next generation of academic minds in 2026.

2025 Youth Bursary - Performing Arts Foundation to help future generations of performers

The Central Queensland Regional Performing Arts Foundation would like to hear from talented performers between the ages of 12 and 23 who are looking to develop theirs skills.

 The foundation, the gift fund of the Friends of the Theatre Rockhampton, has announced Round 2 of its 2025 Youth Bursary program which provides financial assistance to young people in the Central Queensland region to attend a range of short courses in the performing arts in the fields of acting, dance, drama, music and music theatre.

Applications are now open from residents of the Rockhampton, Isaac and Central Highlands Regional Councils and Livingstone, Woorabinda and Banana Shire Councils local government areas and will close 5.00pm on 15 October 2025, for courses to be undertaken between  15 November 2025 and  31 July 2026.

Foundation Chair Karen Capon said: “Central Queensland Regional Performing Arts Foundation has been the starting point for many international careers in the performing arts.”

“The Foundation provides opportunities for young people with a demonstrated interest in the performing arts to further develop their skills,” she said.

“The courses undertaken by past bursary winners have proven to be a marvellous stepping stone for not only developing skills but also making all-important professional contacts in the performing arts industry,” she said.

The program application kit is available at https://cqrpaf.com.au/programs.html

Sports Person of the year award 2025 - Nominations close 17th October

CapSDE annually acknowledges the sporting achievements of a Primary and Secondary Student, who has excelled throughout the year at the end of year awards.

The presentation of the Sports Person of the Year Award goes to the student who has accumulated the most amount of points throughout the year in their various sporting achievements. 

Parents are asked to advise the school throughout the year of the sporting achievements by completing this online form. Scores are based on events, the level of the event (district, regional, state, national etc) and the students placing within those events. You will need to complete the form for each individual achievement. Do not place all achievements on the one form.

On the 17th October, nominations will close and points will be collated. The winner will be announced at the end of year Awards Ceremony.

Information to note: 
* School sports are what counts for CapSDE Sportsperson of the year.  Students are recognised for their achievement in other non-school fields; however, these achievements are not part of the accumulation of points towards the CSDE Sportsperson of the year. 

* You should list the highest level that your student has represented in that sport, noting that the points are only entered if the student represented, and not if they were selected and did not attend. 

We welcome your feedback

Support Agency Contacts

Beyond Blue aims to increase awareness of depression and anxiety and reduce stigma. Call 1300 22 4636, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or email.

Blue Knot Foundation Helpline is the National Centre of Excellence for Complex Trauma. It provides support, education and resources for the families and communities of adult survivors of childhood trauma and abuse. Call 1300 657 380, Monday – Sunday between 9am – 5pm AEST or via email helpline@blueknot.org.au.

Butterfly Foundation's National Helpline is a free, confidential service that provides information, counselling and treatment referral for people with eating disorders, and body image and related issues. Call 1800 33 4673, 8am-midnight AEST / 7 days a week, chat online or email.

eheadspace provides free online and telephone support and counselling to young people 12 – 25 and their families and friends. Call 1800 650 890, 9am – 1am AEST / 7 days a week, chat online or email.

FriendLine supports anyone who's feeling lonely, needs to reconnect or just wants a chat. You can call them 7 days a week on 1800 424 287, or chat online with one of their trained volunteers. All conversations with FriendLine are anonymous.

Kids Helpline is Australia’s only free 24/7 confidential and private counseling service specifically for children and young people aged 5 – 25. Call 1800 55 1800.

Lifeline provides 24-hour crisis counselling, support groups and suicide prevention services. Call 13 11 14, text on 0477 13 11 14 (12pm to midnight AEST) or chat online.

MensLine Australia is a professional telephone and online counselling service offering support to Australian men. Call 1300 78 99 78, 24 hours/7 days a week, chat online or organise a video chat.

MindSpot is a free telephone and online service for people with anxiety, stress, low mood or depression. It provides online assessment and treatment for anxiety and depression. MindSpot is not an emergency or instant response service. Call 1800 61 44 34.

QLife provides nationwide telephone and web-based services for lesbian peer support and referral for people wanting to talk about a range of issues including sexuality, identity, gender, bodies, feelings or relationships. Call 1800 184 527, 3pm – 12am (midnight) AEST/7 days a week.

SANE Australia provides support to anyone in Australia affected by complex mental health issues, as well as their friends, family members and health professionals. Call 1800 18 7263, 10am – 10pm AEST (Mon – Fri), or chat online.

Suicide Call Back Service provides 24/7 support if you or someone you know is feeling suicidal. Call 1300 659 467.

Lifeline  on 13 11 14 — 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

Source from: https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/mental-health-helplines