Week 10, 15th September 2025 CapSDE Newsletter

School Fees - Support Available

Invoices for school fees for our Home-Based enrolments were sent out at the start of the year. Many of these are still outstanding.

We recognise that, for a range of personal reasons, some families may be experiencing financial difficulty.

If this is the case for you, we encourage you to contact the school so we can work together to find a supportive solution—this may include, for example, the option of a payment plan.

Our priority is to ensure that every student has access to their education without unnecessary stress on families.

We are here to support you, so please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our finance department via the phone prompts on PH:4931 4800 if you’d like to have a confidential conversation about your situation.

Principal's Pen

Dear Home Tutors/Parents/Caregivers,

As we approach the end of term, I’d like to share some important updates to support your planning for 2026.

Planning for 2026
Our traditional Induction Days have been refreshed and renamed Get Set for 2026 Days. These sessions will support both new and returning families to feel prepared and confident for the year ahead. They will be offered both face-to-face and online:

• 27 January 2026 – Initial teacher contact with families

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

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

• 30 January 2026 – Lessons commence

Mini-school Dates 2026

• Term 1: 9–13 March 2026 (Week 7)

• Term 2: 18–22 May 2026 (Week 5)

• Term 3: 10–14 August 2026 (Week 5)

• Term 4: 16–20 November 2026 (Week 7)

End of Year Events 2026

• 18 November 2026 – Secondary Swimming Carnival (Week 7, Rockhampton)

• 19 November 2026 – Secondary Awards Ceremony (Week 7, Rockhampton)

• 19 November 2026 – Year 12 Formal (Week 7, Rockhampton)

• 20 November 2026 – Last Day for Year 12 (Week 7)

• 27 November 2026 – Last Day for Years 10–11 (Week 8)

• 30 November 2026 – Year 6 Fun Day / Year 6 Dinner (Week 9, Emerald)

• 1 December 2026 – Primary Swimming Carnival, Primary Awards Ceremony & P&C Dinner (Emerald)

• 10 December 2026 – Last Day of lessons for Prep–Year 9

Onsite Attendance & Supervision
As a School of Distance Education, our learning model is designed primarily for remote delivery. While we understand that families may occasionally travel into town for personal or business reasons and may wish for students to attend onsite during these visits, our onsite arrangements differ from those of mainstream schools.

Students are welcome to access their scheduled online lessons from our campus. However, please note:

• All requests for onsite attendance are requested to be submitted at least one week in advance. 

• Requests will be considered on a case-by-case basis, depending on staffing and timetable constraints.

• Due to limited staffing and the structure of our daily schedules, it is not always possible to provide full-day supervision or additional onsite support.

• Our teachers are actively engaged in delivering online lessons throughout the day, which limits our ability to adjust schedules for extended student visits.

While we will assist where possible, we kindly ask for your understanding that supervision may only be available during a student’s scheduled lessons. If teacher supervision is not available, parents are welcome to use a space on campus to supervise their child during the visit. We appreciate your cooperation and continued support as we work together to provide flexible learning opportunities for all families.

Blue Card Changes
From 20 September 2025, changes to Queensland’s Blue Card system come into effect. More school staff, volunteers, and providers will now require a Blue Card, including aides, chaplains, tutors, cleaners, and groundskeepers.

These Blue Card changes were provided to families at the P&C meeting last week and via email. 

Thank you for your continued support as we prepare for a successful year ahead. Wishing you all a relaxing a safe holiday. 

Kind regards,
Amanda Rynne

Colour Run is back in Term 4!

Last year's P&C Colour Run was a huge success on both campuses.  Lots of happy, colourful children and amazing prizes for fundraising efforts were handed out to all students that were involved.

This year, Monty's Colour & Slime Fun Run is back and better than ever! This will be held on both campuses once again during Term Four Mini-school.  

Rockhampton Campus

Date: Tuesday 18th November 2025

Time: 3:30 - 4:15pm

Emerald Campus

Date: Thursday 20th November 2025

Time: 3:30 - 4:15pm

Funds from the Colour Run will go towards subsidising

• 2026 School Camps,
• end of year awards,
• future school events and
• other ways in which our P&C support your students.

Last year we raised a total of $18 277.00! Let’s see if we can go better this year! After this year’s event "The Colour Run will take place every two years. We encourage you to participate this year and help raise vital funds in support of our students."

This is something that students can fundraise for, even if they aren’t able to attend the event and there are also plenty of really cool prizes to choose from for students that fundraise.

Along with the cool prizes students could WIN $20 000 CASH. Every $20 raised = 1 Entry into the draw. Winner will be announced in December 2025. Australian Fundraising want to give our fundraising efforts an extra boost and are offering the following bonus promotions.

• The class that creates the most profile pages within 7 days of the fundraiser start date will receive a Monty Scented Pencil.

• Each Student who raises over $100 will receive a Monty Handball

• The highest fundraising student in each year level will win a Mini Monty Speaker

• The highest fundraising student in the school will win a Monty Show bag

How Do We Fundraise?

Fundraising for our school is easy!

Step One: Simply go to www.myprofilepage.com.au and click the register button to create a cybersafe, online profile page.

Step Two: Once you’ve created a parent account and profile page, you can share that around to family and friends to receive online donations.

Please note that this is an online fundraiser only and all cash donations must be converted to an online donation
before 14th November 2025.

Students will be required to bring appropriate clothing for the Colour/Slime Run: 

• White or light-coloured shirt to make the colour pop!

• Old closed in shoes are recommended

• Spare clothes after the event

• Towel for your car (optional)

Each student will also receive a pair of sunglasses and a headband.
We look forward to seeing the students all bright and colourful on the day of our Monty’s Colour & Slime Fun Run.

LINK FOR FUNDRAISING BOOKLET
https://australianfundraising.com.au/flipbook/2025funrunform/ 

For further information, please contact Tanya Lindley via email csdepnc.president@gmail.com
Keep an eye on the newsletter each week next term for more details.

Kind regards, 

Tanya Lindley, P&C President

Last Year's Colour Run!

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Bitesize Biscuit Box Fundraiser

A friendly reminder to the fabulous supporters of the Bitesize Biscuit Fundraiser.

All payments for the biscuit boxes ordered, are due into the P&C account this Wednesday 17th September. 

Please remember to use your family name and Bitesize as the reference.

If families are unsure of how much they owe they can contact Tanya via email csdepnc.president@gmail.com

Graduation Signature Kangaroos

As discussed in Tuesday's General Meeting, please see below for information about preorders for a Graduation Signature Keepsake available for preorder for Year 6 & Year 12 students.

To order:  Download the Flexischools app or visit www.flexischools.com.au and create/sign up for an account. 

Follow the prompts & type in Capricornia School of Distance Education when asked, then access the preorder service.  Pre-orders will CLOSE next Friday 19th September. 

Orders will be available to collect from either the Emerald or Rockhampton campus during Term 4 Mini school.  If you have any questions, please email: csdepnc.secretary@gmail.com

What's happening in Primary?

No Stalling Here – Year 5s Got the Ideas!

This term in English, our Year 5 students have been working diligently on their persuasive speeches, presenting creative and thoughtful proposals for stalls and activities for a school fete. Their ideas highlight both imagination and community spirit — ranging from interactive gaming trailers and baking stalls supporting local businesses, to animal workshops, petting zoos that promote wellbeing, chill-out spaces, celebrity guest appearances, and even a metal sculpture competition. Through careful editing, peer feedback, and practice, the students have refined their arguments, linking them to our school’s values and what makes our community unique. What has been special is how they’ve supported each other along the way. Year 5 have been swapping constructive and positive feedback, cheering each other on, and celebrating each other’s growth. Every speech is stronger because of the teamwork and encouragement they’ve shared — it’s been amazing to watch them build each other up. Over the next two weeks, they’ll be stepping up to present their speeches. With such passion and creativity, they might just talk you into joining the fun before you know it. So, when you see our Year 5s coming your way, beware — their persuasion powers are strong!

Year 5: Persuasion in Action!

Here are some of their amazing words in action:

Jenna – Horse Stall

“You can have fun while spending time with your friends and these beautiful beasts.”

“So therefore, you should come to no more horsing around and just horse about instead!”

 Korven – Active Gaming

“Have you ever wanted to zip through Rainbow Road or Moo Moo Meadows in Mario Kart Wii or dance like a pro in Just Dance?”

“Active gaming builds friendships, because players support and encourage each other.”

 Dameek – Coding Kingdom

“Learning to code isn’t just an option, it is also a necessity.”

“By developing the ability to code, children gain the method of computational thinking… and can solve problems quicker than the average child.”

Eli H – Minecraft Gaming Room

“By 2025, Minecraft boasts over 204.33 million monthly active players, ranking it among the most popular video games globally.”

“An area like this would not only be beneficial but NECESSARY for our school fete.”

Lilith – Minecraft Competitions

“By playing Minecraft as a team, students can build friendships as well as worlds.”

“We must include Minecraft in the school fete, it would be crazy not to. So, what do you say? Let’s show the community that CSDE is Mine-Tastic!”

 Zac – Social Tent

“The Australian Bureau of Statistics state that 1 in 3 people feel lonely in the whole world.”

“Come as strangers, leave as friends is my motto.”

Our Year 5s are proving themselves to be future leaders and persuasive thinkers. We can’t wait to see what else they create this year!

This term in HASS we have completed two separate units. The first, Dollars and Sense, was based within Economics and Business, where we studied what Resources were in relation to meeting needs and wants. We used the idea of a school fete to drive our learning, with lots of interesting discussions about profit, resources and ultimately best choices based on analysis of all evidence. The second unit, called Democracy Diner, has seen us study the foundations of democracy – which has been very relevant for those just returning from Camp and equally helpful for those who did not attend. Here are some work examples from our superstar students. Looking forward to a Geography unit next term where we meet up again with Travelling Ted! 

Year 6

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 - Cancelled

Unfortunately, due to the lack of numbers we have had to withdraw our registration for CQ Sevens Competition in Rockhampton. 

Secondary Leading Edge

Hello hello!

It’s me again! Aren’t you lucky! You get to hear from me three times this term instead of two! I’m stepping in for Lachie this week as he has recently experienced a family loss. To give him space and support, I’ll be taking over the newsletter this week.

This week I am focusing on what makes CapSDE so special: supporting each other. I believe that’s the heart of our schools’ community; we always have each other’s backs. My family is also going through something right now, and while only a few teachers know the details, the amount of support and encouragement I’ve received has been incredible! I’ve been at this school for nine years, and in that time, there have been plenty of ups and downs with me and my family. Every single time, the care from staff has been constant, and it reminds me why CapSDE is so unique. I know that if I needed a hand, there would be ten ready to help. That strong bond between students, teachers, and staff is truly the backbone of our school, and yes, it even when it includes teachers remembering my embarrassing stories!

So, what I want to say is simple: if you need us, we’re here. Reach out to our teachers, us leaders, and our incredible staff. It can feel scary to ask, yet when you do, our CapSDE community will be there every step of the way.

I know this one is a little shorter than usual, but with everything happening behind the scenes, and since you’ll be hearing from me again soon, I’ll leave it here for now.

Talk to you all soon!

Your School captain and Wattle house captain,

Alanah Rooney

Secondary Scoop

Report Cards

Secondary Interim Reports

Interim Report Cards for secondary students will be emailed on Tuesday 14 October.

Secondary Subject Selection

Current Year 8 and 9 students need to complete their 2026 subject selections in OneSchool.

Please see instructions below on how to complete your selections and also the Junior Secondary handbook which has information regarding subject options. If you have any questions regarding subjects, please contact the relevant Head of Department.

Year 9 Subject Selections

Subject Selections for 2026 Year 9 are now available in OneSchool.

Students are required to complete their subject selections for next year in OneSchool.

Due date: THURSDAY, September 18

👇Please see below instructions, on how to complete your subject selections in OneSchool.

There is also a link in OneSchool to the Junior Secondary Handbook should you need to refer to it.

Year 10 Subject Selections

Subject Selections for 2026 Year 10 are now available in OneSchool.

Students are required to complete their subject selections for next year in OneSchool.

Due date: THURSDAY, September 18.

👇Please see below instructions on how to complete your subject selections in OneSchool.

There is also a link in OneSchool to the Junior Secondary Handbook should you need to refer to it.

Take a look at Subject info!

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Airport Excursion – Exploring Aviation Pathways

Students from across our certificate courses enjoyed an exciting excursion to Rockhampton Airport, where they explored a variety of aviation careers and pathways. The day began with Rockhampton Airport Authority and Trident Airport Security Screening Services, giving students the chance to go behind the scenes to observe the bag screening and loading process and learn about the logistics of running a terminal.

Students then joined an Airside Tour and visited Airservices Australia Aviation Fire Fighting Services to discuss safety and emergency response roles. At Peace Aviation, they explored general aviation aircraft and pathways in flight instruction and maintenance, before touring the Alliance Airlines Heavy Maintenance Engineering facility to understand aircraft maintenance and engineering career options.

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Insects in Art Exhibition

eSports

Our eSports crew went head-to-head with BSDE in a friendly match last week. While the scoreboard wasn’t in our favour (we went down in all three games), the atmosphere was electric, and our players showed great teamwork, resilience, and a few new tricks picked up along the way. Most importantly – we had fun, we learned, and we’re already pumped for the rematch!

If you’ve ever thought about giving eSports a go (whether you’re a seasoned gamer or just curious), Term 4 is your chance. Come join the team, connect with others, and level up your skills – both in-game and out! Our new eSports Gaming Club is changing games in Term 4, and we want YOU to be part of the action! Whether you're a casual player or a competitive gamer, this is your chance to hone your skills, connect with like-minded students, and experience structured gameplay in a fun and supportive environment over an 8-week trial period.

No experience needed—just bring your passion for gaming! Register your interest now by emailing Mrs Schofield and Mr Stoff on CSDesports@caprrocksde.eq.edu.au

Maritime Engineering Major

New study opportunity 

Students can now launch their careers in maritime engineering at JCU Cairns. The Maritime Engineering major is available as part of JCU’s Bachelor of Engineering (Honours) and is available to study in years 1 and 2, before transferring to the Australian Maritime College at the University of Tasmania to complete the Bachelor of Maritime Engineering (Specialisation) (Honours).

Assistance for students

JCU has a broad range of scholarships to assist students with their study and living expenses. More than 50 scholarships are available, and cover everything from study area scholarships, to financial assistance for students living in regional, rural and remote areas. Students are encouraged to explore scholarship opportunities and apply.

Guidance 'Go-2'

SchoolTV - Parenting Styles

SPECIAL REPORT: Parenting Styles

There's no such thing as perfect parenting. But by understanding different parenting styles, we can better support our children in healthier and more effective ways.

Most of us parent as a blend of our own upbringing, lived experiences and external influences such as books, podcasts or parenting websites. And while parenting is always a challenge, it can become even more complex through divorce, separation, blended families, trauma or bereavement. Not to mention life's many other hurdles.

The concept of "parenting styles" was first introduced in the 1960s by Diana Baumrind, a clinical and developmental psychologist. She identified four main categories of parenting. Each style shapes a child's development in different ways and comes with both strengths and challenges.

Although well-intentioned, each parenting approach can have drawbacks in a child's development. Every child is unique, and their needs change as they grow. An authoritative style may suit younger children, but teenagers often require a greater balance of guidance and independence. The goal is to create a secure environment where children feel respected, heard, and supported.

By learning more about the different styles and how they influence children, you can make informed choices about the approach that best suits your family. And remember, styles are not fixed. They can evolve over time as your child grows and their needs change.

We invite you to watch this Special Report and complete the quiz to discover your own parenting style. You might also like to compare your results with your partner's and reflect together on the different approaches you each bring to parenting.

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?

Creative Generations Excellence in Visual Art Awards - Central Queensland Regional Exhibition

The Central Queensland Regional Exhibition is officially open at Emu Park Gallery! Come and immerse yourself in the incredible creativity and talent of young artists from across the region.

🗓 When: 1st October - 18th October

📍 Where: Emu Park Gallery

⏰ Open Daily: 10 am - 4 pm

If you are unable to attend the gallery at Emu Park, you are warmly invited to Room C204 – Baralaba on Friday, 19th September 2025, to view our students’ four entries for this prestigious exhibition.

2025 Accidental Counsellor Online Conference

 You are invited to the 2025 Online Accidental Counsellor Conference, happening October 8–10, 2025 in celebration of World Mental Health Day.

This FREE and ONLINE event brings back some of the most popular and impactful sessions from past conferences packed with practical strategies to help you support others while protecting your own wellbeing.

✨ Why You Should Attend

• FREE access to all sessions and replays for 2 weeks (until October 24, 2025)
• Learn from leading experts in mental health, wellbeing, and education
• Gain tools to manage emotional challenges, stay energised, and build stronger connections
• Watch at your convenience, 3 sessions each day, available on demand once released

👉 Reserve your FREE spot today!

​Conference Schedule

October 8​

10:00am – Staying Energised as a High-Performer (Without Burning Out!) – Melo Calarco​

1:00pm – The Science of Connection – Nicole Evans​

4:00pm – Companioning Others in their Time of Grief – Michael Turner

October 9​

10:00am – 6 Superpowers of Play – Dale Sidebottom​

1:00pm – The Power of Being Present – Melissa Ferrari​

4:00pm – Managing Big Emotions: A Brain Based Approach to Emotional and Behavioural Challenges – Rebecca van Herk

October 10​

10:00am – Integrating Simple Wellness Practices in the Classroom and in the Workplace – Parwaneh Sepasi​

1:00pm – Overcome Self-Doubt with Intention Tapping – Steve Wells​

4:00pm – A Trauma-Informed Approach to Emotional Regulation – Rocky Biasi

This is the perfect way to continue building your skills and confidence, whether you’re in education, health, community services, or simply committed to supporting others.

👉 Secure your FREE conference ticket today!​

📢 Spread the Word​

Feel free to share this event with colleagues, friends, or anyone who might benefit from these sessions.

🔗 Conference page link: https://acw.events/CONF25

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