12 February 2025

A MESSAGE FROM THE PRINCIPAL

Welcome to 2025

As it is the first newsletter for 2025, I would like to start by thanking all of the staff, students and families for ensuring we had such a smooth start to 2025.

Our school is built on the foundation that all students are leaders irrespective of if they hold a nominated position. At Mount Gravatt High we focus on developing all students as leaders. At last week’s leadership ceremony, I spoke about the three marks of a good leader.

Leaders come in all different shapes and sizes and they have different abilities and talents, however there are three things they have in common. 

The three marks of a good leader are:

• A good leader has a servant heart
• A good leader has a courageous heart
• A good leader has a true heart 

A good leader has a servant heart

A servant-hearted leader is a leader who is focused on others. They are thinking about how they can help others become the best that they can be.

A servant-hearted leader says, “what can I do for the good of others”. Who can I be for the good of others? 

The opposite to that is, “what can I do for the good of me” and “how can I make myself look good, how can I make my life better, how can I become more popular, what do I need right now”. 

When you look at a good leader and you look at a bad leader you see this difference all the time. Good leaders are focused on others and not themselves.  

At Mount Gravatt High we believe that to be a good leader you need to have a servant heart. 

A good leader has a courageous heart

A good leader needs to be bold, brave and courageous. 

Without courage, a leader won’t try and change things even if it is for the best. They are afraid that people may not like the change and therefore they might be seen as unpopular. A leader who is not courageous will allow themselves to be swayed by peer pressure.

Peer pressure is wanting to fit in with friends and peers so much that you are willing to change what you believe in, the values you hold, the promises you keep and even who you are. Leaders who are not courageous do not stand up for what they know to be right and true for fear that they will be rejected by their friends and peers. They are afraid to set the right example and to follow the rules in case the rest of the group judges them as uncool.

A good leader needs to be above this and demonstrate courage. They need to be brave. They need to boldly put forth their vision for what the school could be even in the face of judgement. 

Courage is feeling fear but doing the right thing anyway. There is nothing wrong with being fearful but what is wrong is when a leader is so fearful, they don’t make decisions or try to change things for the better.  We want all of our students to be courageous.

A good leader has a true heart

Having a true heart is saying what you mean and meaning what you say. A bad leader says one thing and then does the opposite.

Having a true heart reflects the common saying that, “your actions speak louder than your words”. If someone says they are your good friend but then talks about you behind your back and is mean to you then clearly, they are not a good friend, it doesn’t matter what their words said if their actions said something completely different. 

We expect all students to be trustworthy. You can only gain people’s trust when you are trustworthy yourself. It is a clear expectation that all students say what they mean and mean what they say. 

Thank you all again for an amazing start to 2025.

Andrew Beattie
Principal

KEY DATES

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SCHOOL PHOTOS

School photos for all students were taken on Monday 10 February, by Leading Image. For students who were unable to make it on Monday, catch-up photos will be taken on Friday, 14 February.

To order your school photos, please follow these steps:

Visit www.leadingimage.com.au
Click on "Order Your School Photos"
Enter the Access Code: LVT674BA

Please note that photos will be distributed to students at school.

DROPPING OFF AND PICKING UP

Parents are not permitted to drop off/pick up on school grounds

Parents dropping off and picking up students must do so safely and without driving into the school grounds. We ask all parents/carers follow this instruction to keep our school safe.

SENIOR SCHOOLING

Mrs Sandra Wilson
Head of Department - Senior Schooling and VET

2025 Senior School Team

Welcome to new students and families to the Senior School.  To our new Year 11s and returning Year 12s we wish you a happy and successful 2025. 

I would like to introduce the Senior Schooling Team for 2025. Jason Sammon returns as Year 12 Dean and Jacqui Robotham will look after the Year 11s while Anthony Lollback is on Leave in Term 1. Honi Roberts and I are also continuing in the Senior School to ensure our students meet the Statement of Expectations and continue the tradition of producing excellent results, through their chosen pathway. 

Jason will work closely with students in Year 12 to meet their learning and attendance targets. He will also work towards organising Events such as Formal and Graduation and to celebrate student success in their final year of school. 

I have the role of looking after students seeking a QCE by closely monitoring students on their Senior journey.  Some ways that students can be supported is through studying additional or alternative pathways through Certificate courses such as VET (Vocational Education & Training) in School or Short courses, School based Traineeships and Apprenticeships and Work Experience.  

We encourage students to regularly check emails to keep up with the latest information in order to be proactive learners. We encourage our senior students to follow their own path which will allow them to thrive and have a more enjoyable experience in their final years of schooling. 

Together with Honi Roberts, Senior Deputy we will monitor achievement and QCE progress for all students to ensure they meet the Statement of Expectations.  We also administer the External Exams for our Year 12 students in Term 4.  

Welcome Breakfast Wednesday 19 February 

We look forward to meeting our new and continuing Senior School families with our Welcome Breakfast on Wednesday 19^th February in the K Block Parklands (Between K and L Block at MGH). This is an opportunity for you to meet your child’s teachers in an informal setting and put faces to the names.  If you have recently changed your contact details or have not received the letter through email, please contact the School Admin so that we can update your contacts and send through the invitation letter. 

Parents can also find support through a series of Webinars provided by one of our Partners, Elevate. Elevate work with our Senior students during sessions in Seek Worthy Things to improve their Time Management and Ace their Exams. 

See the flyer below for opportunities such as: 

• How to Get (and keep) Your Child Motivated
• How You Can Help Your Child Manage Their Time
• How you can make Technology an Ally (& Not the Enemy)
• How you can help improve your Child’s Memory

Senior School Values 

In Senior, we encourage students through our Senior School Values of Growth Mindset, Inclusivity and Active Citizenship.  This is demonstrated through a range of opportunities.  We encourage students to be proactive in their Learning and develop as Respectful, inclusive individuals. 

VET Statement of Expectations 

Students who attend additional training at TAFE or Traineeships/Apprenticeships throughout the week, need to meet the VET Statement of expectations, in order to balance their school and work.  Students need to read and return signed portions of the Statement.  They are also advised to check all details emailed to them regarding their training, and return these as soon as possible to  
D01.  We can then ensure our Roll marking is accurate for the days they are off campus, and Parents can avoid the dreaded absence text message.   

First Aid – Wednesday 26 March 

We are running a First Aid workshop this term on Wednesday 27 March at a cost of $75 for students interesting in the valuable skills that could potentially save someone’s life.  Students who successfully complete the course will also gain 2 QCE credits. Students, who have expressed interest will need to complete the enrolment form previously emailed to them and return to D01 staffroom. Additional courses will be run in Term 2 and 3 for those that may miss out. 

Certificate II in Sampling and Measuring – VETiS Funded 

Students interested in developing skills in Science or the Mining sector, can participate in the Certificate II in Sampling and Measuring.  This course is being offered in Term 3, please see the details below and return consent forms by the due date. 

Sandra Wilson

MIDDLE SECONDARY SCHOOL

Ms Stacey Warwick
Head of Department - Middle Secondary | Business | International Student
Co-ordinator

2025 Middle School Team

Welcome to the Middle School for 2025.  Our team is dedicated to supporting Year 9 and 10 students through some exciting (and, sometimes, challenging) years of high school and provide valid pathways and options for their senior schooling years / alternate pathways. 

We are also supported by our Guidance Officers, Social Worker, School Nurse, Community Education Counsellor, Case Managers from our Inclusive Practices team, and our SWT (Seek Worthy Things) teachers. SWT is a career and well-being program conducted in one 70-minute lesson per week – every Thursday, period 3. 

Year 10 SWT – Week 1 

Week 1 of SWT for our Year 10 students had them engaging in a theatre performance by Brainstorm Productions, title “Wired”. This performance focused on what online bullying and anxiety can do to a young person. It also explored what help there is for people experiencing these issues. The performers also conducted a Q & A session with the students at the end of the performance. Thanks to our amazing year 10s for being a respectful and engaged audience. 

Middle School Leaders 

Week 2 saw our Middle School Leaders participate in the badge ceremony, with other School Leaders. Congratulations to our 2025 Middle School Leaders, and know that the staff team is looking forward to working with you all this year: 

• Alison Cheung
• Tilly Conway
• Ava Gillespie
• Jarrah Gold
• Justin Harris
• Jasmine Gor
• Lasya Thuraga
• Aled Williams

Key date claimers for Year 9 and 10 students 

• Year 9 NAPLAN Testing in Term 1, Week 7 (week beginning 10 March)
• Year 10 Curriculum Heads of Department subject talks for SET Plans (pre-senior program) in Term 1, Weeks 9 and 10
• Year 10 Subject Selection Information Evening (Year 10 into 11) in Term 2, Week 3 (Wednesday 7 March)
• Year 10 SET Plan interviews (pre-senior program) in Term 2, Week 4 (Friday 15 May)
• Year 10 Career Expo excursion in Term 2, Week 8 (Thursday, 12 June)
• Year 9 Camp in Term 3, Week 1 (Wednesday 16 July to Friday 18 July)

AARA Applications when absent for assessment 

If a student is unable to attend school, due to illness or other circumstances beyond their control, they need to submit an AARA application to allow them further time to complete their assignments or sit a missed exam. Full details of the reason for absence are important to enable the AARA team to make a reasonable judgement on the reasons for absence. If you are able to obtain a medical certificate, it should be lodged with the application. With the assessment phase in full swing currently, and reports due to parents and carers at the end of term, there may be a need for an AARA to be completed. The application can be found on the school website under “Support and Resources” > “Forms and documents” > “Documents”. There is a specific application form for Years 7 – 10. 

Stacey Warwick
Head of Department – Middle Secondary & Business

JUNIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL

Ms Heidi March 
Head of Department - Junior Secondary

2025 Junior School Team

Ready to Learn 

Thank you to all families for ensuring their young people arrived on Day One ready to learn: excellent attention to uniform and punctuality, displaying an eagerness to get down to the core business of learning. 

After a short Year 7 assembly, even our newest students were ready to take their place in their multi age level form classes in the whole school assembly, and then off to their Period 2 classes. 

Focus in the Junior School has been on establishing routines and procedures for all our students, especially for our Year 7 students. Senior Mentors, Middle School Leaders and Junior Leaders were again on hand to assist in the first week, ensuring students felt safe and connected. 

Year 8 students too, have settled into their new ways of working. They are enjoying the opportunity to form relationships with different groups of students in each of their subject classes. The opportunities exist for many students to experience increasing challenge in a broad range of classes.  

We offer Level Up Club in the Junior School which is on once a week from Week 3 – 9 each term. Students can attend and receive help with any class assessment or homework with support from student leaders and the Junior Secondary Team. We also provide brain food (fruit and sandwiches) to those who attend. Level Up Club will be on Thursday at 2^nd break in the RIRC Annexe.  

A reminder to all students to ensure they are coming to school ready to learn with a: 

• Fully stocked pencil case 
• Fully charged laptop & earphones  
• Exercise books for each subject 
• Materials for specialist subjects  
• g. PE Uniform, blue apron & safety glasses or ingredients for IDT, etc.  

Year 7 Laptop Proficiency Certificate 

In Week 2, the Year 7 Dean, along with the Junior Secondary Leaders, Middle School Leaders and Senior Mentors, assisted Year 7 students attain their Laptop Proficiency Certificate during lunch time sessions. Thank you to Year 7 Dean of Students, Mrs Doyle, for facilitating this week - long undertaking. 

Year 7 Parent Information Evening 

Thank you to all who were able to attend the Year 7 Parent Evening, a combination of formal introductions and information sharing, along with an informal opportunity for students to introduce parent and teachers – enabling the establishment of ongoing relationships.  

Seek Worthy Things 

Seek Worthy Things is a social emotional learning program that provides a foundation for students to understand themselves and others, and navigate their relationships, lives, work and learning. Developing social and emotional capability can help students to cope with everyday challenges and improve learning and wellbeing. The program focuses on elements from the Personal and Social General Capability Continuum in the Australian Curriculum. Students with well-developed social and emotional skills find it easier to manage themselves, relate to others, collaborate, develop empathy, set goals and resolve conflict. The Personal and Social capability supports students to build their ability to regulate their thoughts, emotions and behaviours. This ability assists students to effectively engage with new ways of thinking, knowing and doing in an increasingly demanding and diverse global society.  

Each term there is a unit aligned to our MGH student values as well as the elements of the continuum. In Term 1, we will focus on growth mindset, goal setting, perseverance and adaptability and emotional regulation. Students will access resources on QLearn for this program. 

Parades 

Please see below table for our Term 1 Parade schedule. Students are to arrive at 8.25am in the hall for parade and sit in form class/period 1 class in alphabetical order. 

We will have full school parade in the hall in Weeks 1 – 3. After this, we will have full school parades every second week. When there is no full school parade, students are to attend form class. When full school parade/form class ends, students are to go to Period 1 class. 

Junior Parade will be every second week commencing Week 2. (Week 2, 4, 6, 8, 10). When Junior Parade ends, students will go to Seek Worthy Things (SWT). When we don’t have Junior Parade, students will have a full lesson of SWT. 

Thank you to 7A & 7B for starting strong with hall setup. Please see the Term 1 roster. Students are to arrive at 7.40am at the hall on their allocated weeks. Thank you parents and carers for your support in bringing your student to school early on their allocated week. 

Heidi March
Head of Department - Junior Secondary School

CREATIVE ARTS AND INDUSTRIES

Mr Anthony Pirovich
Head of Department - Creative Arts and Industries

Vocal Ensemble

Does your child love to sing?  If so, we invite them to join our vocal ensembles. The vocal ensembles are free, fun and the students love working with the singing teacher.  

Vocal Lessons – Auditions  

The school offers small-group vocal lessons for students of all ages. These are available to students at a cost of  $490.00 for the year. Auditions for 2025 lessons are happening this week. 

Day & Time:       11:00am - Thursday, 13 February
Venue:                 H7 
Prepare:              Your own song choice (verse and chorus). Or Happy Birthday  
Teacher:              Ms Mel Lathouras https://www.fearlesssinger.com/ 

For more information, contact Mr Pirovich at apiro1@eq.edu.au

Dance Troupe Auditions

Mount Gravatt High School Dance Troupe develops passionate and talented dancers through weekly rehearsals, and participation in competitions and events. In the past we have performed at the Beenleigh, Gold Coast, Ipswich Eisteddfods and school events. We look forward to continuing this tradition into 2025.  

Auditions will be held Monday 10^th February (week 3) in L3 Dance studio from 3.00-4.30pm.  All 2024 Dance Troupe members must be present to -re-audition for their place. All new students are welcome to attend the audition and find out more information about our Troupes.  Please know that these are closed auditions and parents are not in attendance.  

Students must be available Mondays 3:00-5:30pm for ongoing rehearsals throughout Term 1 and Term 2. Additional lunch time rehearsals will occur Monday, Thursday and Friday lunch breaks. Students are reminded that participation in the Troupe is a year-long commitment, and that a Dance Levy is charged for each student’s participation. Dance troupes will be under the guidance of Ms Boundy, Mrs Mijatovic and our guest choreographer, Ella Murphy. The troupe are further supported by our dance captains, Eva Binnie and Sienna Tainton.  

Ms Boundy and I look forward to meeting all interested dancers at auditions. Please bring appropriate dance clothing (leggings and t-shirt) to participate. No shoes are necessary. Please come and ask any questions at H Block staffroom. 

Mrs Mijatovic smija3@eq.edu.au  

Year 11 and 12 Dance

Year 11 and 12 dance students are preparing for their first assessment item. The Year 11 students are working with a guest choreographer to perform a contemporary dance. The Year 12 students are busy polishing their contemporary performance for their first assessment. 

Instrumental Music 

Events and Dates 2025

Anthony Pirovich
Head of Department - Creative Arts and Industries

DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGIES

Mr Dan Hollis
Head of Department – Design & Technologies

Welcome Back to Industrial Design and Technology for 2025!

2025 is already shaping up to be an exciting year in the Industrial Design and Technology (IDT) department, with new projects, technologies, and learning experiences for students across all year levels. Welcome to our new IDT teacher Antonia Sofios. We look forward to your enthusiasm and expertise in STEM.

Workshop

Our junior workshop curriculum blends traditional manufacturing processes with STEM and emerging technologies, giving students hands-on experience with a variety of materials while focusing on sustainability.

Senior Applied Subjects

This year marks the full implementation of our new applied programs, which began in 2024. These updates have introduced innovative projects, industry-linked machinery, and modern processes, ensuring students gain valuable, real-world skills.

Workshop Safety

Safety remains our top priority in the IDT workshop. Students have spent the first week of term completing workshop inductions, and those in Years 9–12 must return consent forms for high-risk tasks. A reminder to all workshop students: PPE is required for every practical lesson.

Hospitality

Year 7 IDT Rotation

Our first group of Year 7 students has begun their compulsory IDT rotation, where they are introduced to essential kitchen skills that will set the foundation for future learning.

Junior FDT

Year 9 students are kicking off their elective journey with the Kids in the Kitchen unit, focusing on fundamental cooking techniques and creating healthy recipes designed for teenagers.

Year 10 Food and Design Technology (FDT) students are diving into the science of doughs and pastries this term. In Term 2, they will put their creativity to the test with bespoke cake and cookie decorating.

Senior Hospitality

Year 12 Hospitality students are taking their culinary skills to the next level by exploring modern food trends. Their studies will culminate in an exciting buffet lunch event, where they will showcase their expertise in menu planning, presentation, and service.

With so many exciting projects and opportunities ahead, 2025 promises to be a fantastic year in IDT.

We look forward to seeing our students develop new skills, embrace creativity, and take on industry-relevant challenges!

Dan Hollis
Head of Department – Humanities  

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Mrs Mel Everingham
Head of Department - Health Sciences and Sport

2025 Swimming Carnival

The first best day of the year! In Week 2 we had a fantastic Mount Gravatt High Swimming Carnival! A great day for swimming as students flocked to the Logan North Aquatic Centre with house spirit, ready to take on Swimming Carnival 2025. Students displayed fantastic school spirit, determination, support and dedication on the day, with our 2025 Age Champions identified below:

Here is also a list of all the records broken on the day.

Participation this year was unbelievable with the most students we have ever had at swimming carnival.

The winner was Kittani with 432 points. They had 5 aged champions on the day taking out the House Swimming Championship this year.

Congratulations to all these students who were nominated for the south district regional swimming trials!

Well done Dragons!

Thank you to all students who participated, supported their peers and demonstrated their house and school spirit on the day. Thank you as well to Mrs Rann and Mrs Potts who ran the SRC BBQ on the day and to all the teachers, teacher aides and administration for your help and effort to make the Swimming Carnival so enjoyable.

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Bring on Cross Country! Fire up Dragons.

Mel Everingham
Head of Department – Health Sciences and Sports

HUMANITIES

Ms Tanya Di Salvo
Head of Department - Humanities

Year 7 Humanities

Year 7 Humanities has started off with a blast from the past as we start the Unit: Investigating the Ancient Past with a focus on Egypt. The students were introduced to what archaeology is and the importance of preserving artefacts that may be found. Archaeology is important because it helps us understand the past, preserve cultural heritage, and learn from the past to inform the present.  It provides a window into how people lived, how societies functioned and helps us learn from the past and apply those lessons to the present.  The student then applied the practical skill of excavation through removing the choc chips from biscuits. This careful process helped the students learn that the art of archaeology is delicate and one needs to be methodical as to not destroy the ‘sacred biscuit’ or precious artefacts. The lesson of the day – artefacts are not to be eaten!    

Year 11 Legal Studies  

Exploring the rule of law. Year 11 students commence their Unit 1: Beyond a Reasonable Doubt content with a deep dive into the Australian Legal System. The learning intention surrounding this lesson is to understand the principle that everyone is subject to the law, including those who make the laws. The rule of law is a fundamental part of the of Australia’s legal system and democracy.  

What does the rule of law mean?  

• Laws are clear, accessible, and predictable
• Laws apply equally to everyone
• Laws are made publicly, and the community can participate in the law-making process
• The judiciary is independent from the executive branch of government
• People have access to legal advice
• People have the right to a fair and public trial
• People are presumed innocent
• The government is subject to the law

Tanya Di Salvo
Head of Department – Humanities  

INTERNATIONAL

Ms Stacey Warwick
International Student Coordinator 

Lunar New Year

The International Student Program celebrated Lunar New Year in style at Ya Hoo
Dining Restaurant at Upper Mt Gravatt on Friday 31 January. We observed the Year of the Snake with a banquet, along with Mr Beattie and Mr Jones. Our students missed the opportunity to spend time in their home countries, with their families, for this special occasion, so it was an important event for our school to undertake.

Ms Fung and Mrs Warwick (ISP Team)

Ms Stacey Warwick
International Student Co-ordinator

CLUBS 2025

HOMEWORK GUIDELINES

Homework is a very valuable part of the learning process.  In the less structured environment at home, students have the opportunity through focused activities to deepen knowledge, refine a range of skills and develop their thinking processes.  Homework also enables time management and organisational skills to be developed.

A teacher at a state school may require a student of the school to complete homework. The school’s Principal decides what is a reasonable amount of homework for a student at each year level. In deciding what is reasonable, the principal takes into account the following guidelines as developed for the school under Section 427(2)(f) of the Education Act.

Click on the link to Mount Gravatt High’ website to view full details and responsibilities

NAPLAN

NAPLAN is a national literacy and numeracy assessment that students in Years 3, 5 7 and 9 sit each year.  It is the only national assessment all Australian students have the opportunity to undertake.  As students’ progress through their school years, it’s important to check how well they are learning the essential skills of reading, writing and numeracy.  Years 7 and 9 will partake in two NAPLAN Readiness tests in Week 4 Term 1 (Thursday and Friday 20 and 21 February) and the NAPLAN tests in Week 7 and Week 8 (Wednesday 12 March – Monday 17 March) Term 1.  All tests are conducted online. 

One of the main benefits of NAPLAN Online is tailored (or adaptive) testing, in which the test presents questions of higher or lower complexity depending on a student’s performance. Tailored (or adaptive) testing is designed to assess a wider range of student abilities and to measure student achievement more precisely. Your child should not be concerned if they find questions more challenging than usual; they may be taking a more complex test pathway. A student’s overall NAPLAN score is based on the number and complexity of questions they answer correctly. 

NAPLAN READINESS TESTS – in K Block

NAPLAN –Term 1

If you have any further questions, please contact Francine Potts, DP for NAPLAN.

OPEN DAY

Join us for Open Day Tuesday 4 March

Mount Gravatt High School Open Day for Year 7 in 2026, taking place on Tuesday, 4 March from 9:00 am until 11:00 am. The event will be held in our school hall, located at the Creighton Street entry (please note, no parking is available on school grounds).

Open Day is a valuable occasion for prospective students and their families to learn about the exciting opportunities at Mount Gravatt High. Families will have the chance to gain insights into our academic programs, extra-curricular activities, and supportive community. Additionally, guided tours of the school and classrooms will be provided, allowing visitors to experience firsthand the vibrant learning environment we cultivate. All are welcome to attend and discover the journey ahead at Mount Gravatt High.

STUDENT SUPPORT

At Mount Gravatt High School, we understand that empowering our students involves providing a nurturing environment that addresses their diverse needs. Our dedicated team of professionals, including guidance officers, a social worker, a school-based youth health nurse, and a community education counsellor, ensures that your child will receive the support they need to thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.

As parents and guardians, your involvement is key to our students' success, and we encourage you to reach out to any of our support staff if you have any questions or concerns. Together, we can create a positive and enriching educational experience for your children at Mount Gravatt High School.

GUIDANCE OFFICER NEWS

Wellbeing News

Welcome to the 2025 School Year.

We extend a warm welcome to all new families who have joined the Mount Gravatt community in 2025 and a welcome back to all those families who have returned.

One of the special qualities of Mount Gravatt High School is our focus on building a strong culture of wellbeing and community. Our Guidance Officers (GOs) support students in order to maximise their potential and have their concerns addressed with care and dignity.

Our Guidance Officers are registered teachers with a Master’s Degree in Counselling and Career Development.

We assist in the delivery of a broad range of support and counselling, including: jobs and career pathways; entrance to University or TAFE; choosing subjects; schoolwork and stress management; sleeping or eating problems; friends and relationships; teasing and bullying; grief, loss, anger, anxiety and depression; drugs and alcohol; and family hassles.

Options Career Bulletin

Each Newsletter you can look forward to the latest edition of the Options Career Bulletin. This newsletter is a comprehensive tool for career investigation and can be a valuable assistance in career planning.

Career Information Bulletin 1 is now available to view.

You can view using the following link:

Your Guidance Officer Team

Appointments with the Guidance Officer can be made via the following link: Guidance Officer

Our Guidance Officer Team
Daniel Wilson, Sarah Stubican and Tess Varipatis

STUDENT WELLBEING

SOCIAL WORKER

School based social workers work as a link between school, home and community by providing counselling, advocacy, resources and crisis management to students and families.

Social work is a values-based profession, aiming to improve people’s lives by promoting social justice, human rights, equity and wellbeing.

If you would like to know more about the services our school based social worker provides, please contact Ms. Janie on 3291 5261 or email: jgibb164@eq.edu.au 

Janie works Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, and is located in A-Block Room A32.

Janie Gibbons
Social Worker – Student Wellbeing

With a background in youth work and inclusive practices, Jade White has joined MGH to assist with school engagement and general wellbeing. Offering a quiet space for when students may be feeling overwhelmed or just need to chat, drop ins are welcome (located in SC1 beside the Engagement Hub) and regular appointments can be made.

Ms White will be available for things like goal setting, strength-based strategies, tailored programs to suit individual needs and group intervention. Her focus to seek positive outcomes for both students and their school community.

Ms White will be available Monday to Friday, and is located in SC1 beside the Engagement Hub.  She can be contacted via email jwhit1287@eq.edu.au.

Jade White
Student Support Officer

Barbara is available Monday and Tuesday, if you would like to contact Barbara, call the school or email direct, bcars52@eq.edu.au

Barbara Carson
Community Education Counsellor

SCHOOL-BASED YOUTH HEALTH NURSE

School Based Youth Health Nurses work in secondary schools across Queensland, with their focus being on preventative healthcare, early detection and brief intervention for all the students in Year 7 to 12.

Confidential Student Appointments

Students can make an appointment with the SBYHN in person, by emailing nurse.mtgravatt@health.qld.gov.au or via the student counter, to discuss any questions they may have about their health and wellbeing. These appointments are confidential, and the nurse will not share any information without the student’s consent, unless there is a significant risk to the student’s health or safety.

In most cases, the SBYHN encourages students to talk to their parents or carers about their health and wellbeing issues and often the nurse supports students to do this.

Individual health consultations may include:

• Early detection of actual or potential health problems.
• Providing information, options or referrals to relevant health services to provide them with further assessment, treatment and/or support.
• Provide brief interventions and/or referrals to other services as appropriate.

Some of the main issues for which students have accessed the SBYHN this year have been mental health, including social and emotional wellbeing, relationsnhips, family issues, stress, eating issues, sexual and reproductive health, drug use (including tobacco and alcohol) and growth and development.

Please encourage the young person in your care to contact the nurse if they require any information or support for any health-related issues.  The SBYHN can also take referrals from teachers and parents at nurse.mtgravatt@health.qld.gov.au. Esther is available Wednesday and Friday.

Esther McCall
School-Based Youth Health Nurse

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE RIRC

RIRC – More Than a Library

The RIRC, our library, is open before school and at first and second break each day.  In addition to being a great place to read or study, students can play board games, do mindfulness colouring, complete jigsaws, even learn Origami. As the term progresses, more lunch-time activities will be added. The article, ‘WHAT’S HAPPENING IN THE RIRC’ outlines the opening hours and lunch-time schedule.  If your child is new to the school or would like to meet likeminded friends, ask them to read the screens as they enter the library, there’s loads of fabulous information about how to find and choose books.

Sora is Here!

Sora is an award-winning digital reading app that empowers students to discover age-appropriate eBooks, audiobooks and more from their school library.

How do I find books when I’m not in the RIRC?

SORA is an app you can install on your phone or device to access eBooks through Overdrive.

1. Install Sora app from soraapp.com
2. In Sora, find your school. It is called Education Queensland (Not Mount Gravatt SHS)
3. Use your ordinary username and password
4. Browse using the explore tab, borrow a book and you can start reading right away.

If you have a special skill or are interested in running an activity in the RIRC, please email Ms Money at bmone4@eq.edu.au or pop over and see her in the RIRC at lunchtimes.

Submitted by Ms Money, Library Management

FINANCE

Mrs Sarah Harvey
Business Manager

All families should have received their 2025 Student Resource Scheme (SRS) invoice.  Thank you to the families that have either met their Student Resource Scheme (SRS) commitment in full or have commenced payments via a regular payment plan.  If you have not yet received an invoice, please contact our accounts team at studentaccounts@mtgravattshs.eq.edu.au .

For families that are paying the SRS in full or via the term instalments, the payment is due Friday 21 February. 

Student Resource Scheme

Mount Gravatt High School has for many years operated a successful Student Resource Scheme that has been strongly embraced and supported by the school community and endorsed by our P & C. Our scheme has offered a cost-effective alternative to purchasing resources elsewhere, through reduced prices gained from the school’s bulk purchasing practices.

On average across the years of operation, almost 100% of families have agreed to participate in the scheme taking advantage of the savings it offers. As a result, the scheme has been able to provide outstanding resources to all students including a laptop, to enhance student learning outcomes.

The scheme ensures that students have consistent personal resources for their education and saves parents and carers time and money.  All revenue collected through the scheme is applied directly to the operation and provision of student resources. The scheme does not raise funds for any other purpose.

Student Resource Scheme Categories:

Resource Inclusions

All resources included in the SRS are detailed in the Student Resource Scheme Requirements.  The comprehensive list of resources is available on our website.

Resources provided under the scheme

Students participating in the scheme will receive many resources required in the course of their studies, these include:

• Textbooks required for each subject
• Prescribed consumable resources for subjects studied
• Laptop hire for students use and on-site IT support
• IT applications, software and online programs used in place of textbooks or other learning resources
• Printing, reference materials and teacher-prepared material which complement and/or substitute for textbooks
• Art, Home Economics, Industrial Design & Technology consumables
• Student ID card for use outside of school

What is not covered under the Scheme

The scheme does not cover students’ personal requisites such as stationery and writing materials.  Resources not covered under the Student Resource Scheme are included on the Stationery Requirements List for each Year level.  These items are to be purchased by the parent:

• Excursions / incursions / competitions
• Work experience placements – Years 10 to 12
• TAFE courses – Years 10 to 12
• Courses / certificates offered by external providers – Years 10 to 12
• Camps – all Year levels and departments
• Senior Jersey and Senior Formal
• Other resources / services that may be recommended for purchase
• Laptop damage repairs and replacements items e.g., charger, laptop bags and lost or stolen devices
• Programs of Excellence e.g., Athletic Development Program, Dance Program

If you have any questions relating to the Student Resource Scheme, please contact our accounts team via studentaccounts@mtgravattshs.eq.edu.au.

Sarah Harvey
Business Manager

BIKE STORAGE

Mount Gravatt High has provided secure storage for student bikes. Students requiring access to the secure bike storage will be issued with a fob/dongle device. These devices have a $20 security deposit.

Please see Accounts Department or office staff for further details including access agreement.

Sarah Harvey
Business Manager

P&C NEWS

Become a Volunteer

Have you got one morning a month you could be a volunteer in our Canteen or Uniform Shop or would like to volunteer at fundraising events? You do not have to be a member.

It is a great way to meet other parents, enjoy a social outing and be involved in your child's school community. Grandparents and family members are most welcome. 

If you have any questions, please contact the office on (07) 3291 5222 or email pandc@mtgravattshs.eq.edu.au

Thank you for your support and for helping to make our great school even better.

CANTEEN

Canteen Menu

Full Menu on Flexischools

Please see Flexischools for our full menu and how to order your child’s lunch and snacks. The canteen also has daily specials, snacks and drinks available at both breaks.

UNIFORM SHOP

The P & C Association Uniform Shop carries the full range of uniforms necessary for your student to attend Mount Gravatt High. All compulsory uniform clothing items are available including socks. 

Uniform Price List

Online Orders

Orders via Flexischools can be collected from the Uniform Shop during opening hours.
https://www.flexischools.com.au/

Second-hand uniform sales

• Second Hand Uniforms available washed and ironed.

Opening Hours

Monday - Friday: 7:30am – 11.00am

The Uniform Shop is closed on public holidays and school holidays. 

Unwanted Uniforms

If you are interested in selling your unwanted uniform, please bring in your freshly washed and ironed items to the uniform shop. A 50% commission is deducted from the sold items and cheques will be issued twice a year.

Lost property – can now be collected from the Uniform Shop

There is a lost property box outside the Uniform Shop or please see Mrs Brown in the Uniform Shop.

The amount of lost property that we have on hand continues to grow and it is overwhelming how many hats, clothing and other items we have mounting up.  We are confident parents do not want to continue to pay for the same items over and over again.  Please NAME your student’s items.

Gayle Brown - Uniform Shop Manager

Mount Gravatt High Dress Code

The required black school shoes and sporting footwear are not available from the Uniform Shop and must be purchased separately.

P& C FUNDRAISING

2024 P&C Executive Members

Past Students

To join Mount Gravatt High Alumni simply download the application form below or contact Mount Gravatt High on 3291 5222 or email admin@mtgravattshs.eq.edu.au

OUR ENVIRONMENT

Bird Bee Butterfly Bush Care

You are invited to come along, meet locals, international students and community members while unwinding and getting fit with some gardening.

Join us afterwards for cake and a warm drink.

Date:     Second Sunday of every month
Venue: Mount Gravatt High, the green corridor above soccer oval. School oval behind 52 Bentham Street.
Time:     3:00pm - 5:00pm
Contact: Laurie or Sheamus on 0409 273 874 or just turn up on Sunday afternoon. 
Bring:     Hat, water bottle and walking shoes
Afternoon tea provided with a guarantee of fun and fitness.

Supported by Mount Gravatt Environment Group, Griffith University students and our local community

Containers for Change – Envirobank

It’s simple, collect an orange Envirobank bag from reception and start collecting. Containers and bottles should be empty, unbroken, not crushed, lid free and display a 10-cent refund marking on the label. Please return your full orange Envirobank bag to reception.

COMMUNITY SPORT & RECREATION

Australian Navy Cadets

Kids Karate

Karate/Jujitsu

Sun Bae Taekwondo & Hapkido - Mount Gravatt Hall 

Monday and Thursday evenings

For more information, please contact Master Bradley on 0414 574 574 or visit the website www.sunbae.net

SCHOOL ZONE PARKING

Electronic Gates at Loreburn Street

The Loreburn Street entrance electronic gates are now operational. This new addition aims to provide ease of operation and assist in managing traffic within our school grounds, ultimately enhancing the safety of our students.

The decision to install an electronic gate was driven by our commitment to ensuring a secure and controlled environment for our students and staff. By allowing access to authorised vehicles only, we can effectively monitor and regulate the flow of traffic on school grounds reducing congestion and minimising potential risk to students and staff.

It is crucial for all parents, guardians, and visitors to note that all other vehicles, apart from authorised vehicles, are required to remain outside of our school grounds at all times.

We kindly request your cooperation in adhering to this policy.

Brisbane City Council's School Zone Parking Compliance Program

Parents parking illegally at school drop offs and pick-ups are on notice with Brisbane City Council

School parking is being targeted by council officers in a program designed to tackle illegal parking around schools, from blocking driveways to parking on yellow lines.

Brisbane City Council has advised that parents are not complying and are parking over driveways, on yellow lines and double parking so council officers will issue fines for illegal parking to prevent the issue affecting local residents and student safety.

Council officers will be conducting patrols around the school to ensure safe parking. Parking fines will be issued in cases where illegal parking is observed.

We would like to take this opportunity to ask parents, guardians and visitors of our school to complying with local traffic conditions and laws and respect our neighbours by not parking across driveways, or waiting in driveways.

SCHOOL WATCH

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