20 May 2025

From the Principal

‘The Little Mermaid’ Musical

I want to start by celebrating the cast and crew of our fantastic musical, ‘The Little Mermaid’. I was so proud to watch the performance on stage and the orchestra beside the stage. Our students are extremely talented and they should feel so proud.

However, we all know that these productions don’t happen without the dedication, nurturing and sacrifices of the many, many Kenmore SHS staff who contributed to this wonderful production. Thank you to Head of Department, Ms Jo Willett for leading this team for the Performing Arts Department Instrumental Music Teachers and for wider staff members instrumental in delivering this great team performance.

Also, a huge thank you to the P&C music sub-committee, led by parent Mr Mark Smeaton, who helped behind the scenes and with catering services on the performance nights.

Open Day, Saturday, 24th May (9am-12pm)

Kenmore State High School's annual Open Day, held in May, is an opportunity for prospective students, their families and the community to discover all that the school has to offer. Take the opportunity to experience life at Kenmore State High School and explore the school, visit academic and extra-curricular interactive displays, learn more about our Programs of Excellence, enjoy performances and engage with our teachers, P&C and students.

The Year 7 Enrolment Interview Day follows Open Day, on Saturday, 14th June 2025.  Please visit our website on https://kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au/enrolments/enrolling-at-our-school/year-7-in-2026 for further information and to schedule an enrolment interview appointment and download the application for enrolment forms.

Mr Paul Robertson
Your proud Executive Principal

Year 7 Update

Meaning Project

In Term 2 the Student Wellbeing program for Year 7s have been focusing on our school values of Partnerships, with a particular focus on Meaning (the M of PERMAH) and the character strengths: Leadership, Bravery, Teamwork and Curiosity. By the end of Term 2, all of Year 7s would have completed a Meaning Project that aligns with these themes.

When students get involved in a meaning project — whether it's organising a Push Up competition, fundraising for a cause, or volunteering in the community — they are not just helping others; they are also developing important life skills. Working together toward a shared goal teaches students how to communicate, delegate, and problem-solve as a team. Each Care class plays a part and each Care class needs leaders, and together they see how collective effort can make a real difference.

This terms focus is on the Children’s Hospital Foundation. Students are working collaboratively during their Wellbeing lessons to design and organise initiatives to raise awareness and support for this foundation.

Homework Club

Homework club is up and running and it has been wonderful to see our Year 7’s in attendance!

Our Junior and Senior students can access support on a Monday and Thursday afternoon to enhance their academic outcomes. The sessions are coordinated by a member of our Student Support Team with the assistance of past student tutors who are on hand to support students. These tutors have recently graduated from the new QCE with outstanding results. This program will appeal to student who appreciate structure and routine with the opportunity to collaborate with fellow students in a supportive environment. Students should come prepared with their homework, study or assessment. Light refreshments are provided. 

When: Monday 2:15pm-4:15pm, Thursday 3:00pm-5:00pm
Where: Library

Attendance

If your student is late or absent for any reason – please contact the school absences via phone call, email, SMS or the Q Parent App on the day of your student’s absence.

When we do not have a contact from parents, Heads of Year will follow up with the student. However, we do need parents to explain the absence. If your student is sick for three or more days, please provide a medical certificate.

Uniform

In the winter months students are permitted to wear white t-shirts under their formal or sports uniform to add layers. On really cold days (when they know they will never remove their jumper), they could wear long sleeve t-shirts to add warmth. The final layer needs to be the school uniform jumper, tracksuit jacket or new soft shell school jacket. Students can also wear thicker black tights or stockings (non-patterned). Hoddies are not permitted at school as are non – school hats. Please contact us if your student has an injury or medical reason as we can arrange a temporary uniform exemption. If parents are experiencing financial hardship in purchasing uniform items, again please let us know.

Should you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me (dkham0@eq.edu.au).

Daljit Kaur Singh
Head of Year 7

Mistakes lead to mastery: an update from Kenmore’s English Department

So far in our ‘analytical’ term, our junior English classes have taken a unique approach to learning by diving into the art of mistake-making—and it’s paying off! By analysing and correcting grammar errors and exploring what not to do in literary analysis, students are sharpening their skills and gaining deeper understanding of language and critical thinking, leading to impressive progress and engagement.

This ‘mistake’ method has sparked lively discussions, with students eagerly identifying errors in sample texts and collaborating to refine their own writing. Teachers have noted a boost in confidence among their students, who are becoming more willing to experiment with complex sentence structures and analytical techniques, knowing that mistakes are just stepping stones to mastery.

Michelle Wilson
Head of Department – English

Ken-X Project Updates

This term the Year 7 Ken-X students are investigating how catchment health can be maintained and improved. Students will be collaboratively designing and presenting a solution to improve the health of their chosen catchment – Toohey Forest, Enoggera Reservoir or Moggill Creek. So far, the students have visited Toohey Forest Environmental Education Centre where they investigated the quality of the creek on campus at Griffith University, as well as learnt about how to assess catchment health including using the presence of macro-invertebrates to draw conclusions about the water quality. The AMC will be held on the 6th August.

The Year 7s are looking forward to travelling to Enoggera Reservoir with Pullenvale Environmental Education Centre next week to continue their inquiry and data collection, and will be creating and communicating their solutions to a panel of judges in week 10.

This term the Year 8 Ken-X students are looking at how to lead an effective political campaign. This project has been a favourite amongst our Ken-X students every year. In groups, students form political parties representing the Kenmore Community. Already the year 8 students have formed their groups and attended a guided tour of Parliament House, where they learnt about the history of the building, gained knowledge about the functions of Queensland Government and roles and responsibilities of Members of Parliament, and participated in a mock debate in the Legislative Assembly Chamber, where they took on the roles such as the Premier of Queensland and Leader of the Opposition.

The students were also able to meet our local State Member for Moggill, Dr Christian Rowan who said it was, “As the State Member for Moggill, and Leader of the House, it’s a pleasure to welcome our Year 8 Ken-X Program students from Kenmore State High School, to the Queensland Parliament today. Engaging with our democratic institutions first-hand provides students with a valuable opportunity to deepen their understanding of the parliamentary process, including how our laws are made and how debates are conducted, the role of elected representatives, and the importance of civic participation.”.

Later in the term, students will be holding a Ken-X Election here at school, putting into action their Ken-X skills including ensuring they are communicating effectively through multiple different modes, working collaboratively as a party, and utilising their creativity and critical thinking skills. Our students, staff and special guests will be invited to vote for their favourite political parties based on the Ken-X students’ campaigns.

This term, the Year 9 Ken-X students are looking at how they can address global issues that we might face as a community. Students have been exploring the Sustainable Development Goals and looking at how local initiatives address these ‘SDGs’. Students then had the opportunity to form teams and work through a series of challenges over the course of the term, designed by BOP Industries. Later this term, each group will have the opportunity to present their solutions to these challenges to the class, and in week 10, students will have the opportunity to expand on these ideas in an ‘SDG Challenge Simulation Day’. In this simulation, teams are faced with a series of challenging scenarios that require their key Ken-X skills of collaboration and critical thinking. Teams present their ideas to a panel of judges after each round, and the winning team will be selected using real-world criteria to evaluate the effectiveness of the solution. We look forward to seeing which of our teams is announced the winner on the day!

Jacqui Vaughan
Ken-X Co-ordinator
Ken-X@kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au 

HPE Update

Year 9 HPE – Sociology in Sport and Touch Football

This term, our Year 9 students have been diving into the fascinating world of Sociology in Sport, exploring how culture, identity, and society shape the way we view and participate in sporting activities. Through engaging lessons and group discussions, students have examined how sport in Australia is more than just a game—it’s a powerful reflection of who we are as a nation. From backyard cricket to AFL Grand Finals, sport has long been woven into the fabric of Australian life. One of the key topics students explored was how Australian culture has influenced the development and popularity of sport. They learned how values like mateship, fair play, resilience, and a love of the outdoors have helped shape the sports we play and celebrate. Students also investigated how historical events have contributed to a greater diversity and richness of our sporting culture.

Year 11 Health Education – Personal Resilience

This term, our Grade 11 students have been learning how to strengthen their wellbeing using the PERMA+ framework—Positive Emotion, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning, Accomplishment, plus Sleep, Optimism and Physical Activity. As part of the unit, students explored each element and reflected on how it applies to their daily lives. They then used this knowledge to design a Personal Resilience Action Strategy, outlining practical ways to maintain balance, manage stress, and stay motivated. This empowering activity encouraged students to take ownership of their mental and emotional health, setting them up for success in Year 11 and beyond. Students will use their Personal Action Strategy in their upcoming exam.

Sport

A big congratulations to the 300 students who proudly represented our school at the recent Sports Gala Days! With teams competing in touch football, futsal, volleyball, cricket, and basketball, the enthusiasm, teamwork, and school spirit on display were truly outstanding. Students gave it their all on the field and court, showing great sportsmanship, determination, and support for one another across every game. Thank you to all staff, coaches, and supporters who helped make the day such a success.

Junior students have already begun trialling for the next Junior Gala Day, which will be held in week 10, Tuesday 24th of June. The final Gala Day for the year 10s, 11s and 12s will be held week 3, term 3 on Tuesday, 29th of July.

Met West Representatives

Congratulations to the below students who have made a Metropolitan West Regional Team so far in term 2.

• Isobel Golding – Australian Rules
• Jaime Hansen – Touch Football & Hockey
• Emma Sheehan – Hockey
• Andrew Cleary – Hockey
• Charlie – Hockey

District and Regional Trials

For more information regarding district and regional trials, please see the website and steps below for the process to follow.

Student Nomination Process for Trials

1. Students are notified via the student notices, Vivi blasts and this website when trial information is available 
2. To request a nomination, students must complete the survey by the due date. This information enables the Kenmore Sports Coordinator to nominate a student to attend the trials. The more detailed the answers the easier this process is.
3. To confirm a nomination, students must see the Sports Coordinator in the Activity Centre Staffroom (upstairs).
4. If students are at the appropriate standard, the Sports Coordinator will complete the nomination process by sending nomination through to the relevant convenor.
5. Successful students will then need to print and complete the 2025 Northern Eagles Student District Information Pack to Attend District Trials. Take the completed form to the office to get the Principal approval signed. 
6. Check the district information notice for your sport (see list below). 

** Students can only nominate through the school. Parents or students should not email nominations directly to convenors.

Pat Garner
Head of Department - HPE

Open Day 2025

You are cordially invited to the school’s Open Day on Saturday 24 May 2025 from 9:00am - 12:00pm. Our Open Day is an opportunity for prospective students, their families and the community to discover all that the school has to offer. Take the opportunity to experience life at Kenmore State High School and explore the school, visit academic and extra-curricular interactive displays, learn more about our Programs of Excellence, enjoy performances, and meet our teachers and students. To register to attend our 2025 Open Day, visit the link below.

Kenmore State High School

Year 7 Enrolments for 2026

The Open Day will provide you with an insight into the programs our school can offer your child. Enrolment interviews for Year 7 will occur only on Saturday 14 June 2024 - bookings are essential. Please refer to the link below for more.

Please note that the school has an enrolment plan. The Enrolment Management Plan (EMP) ensures that students who live within the ‘catchment area’ are guaranteed a place at their local high school and allows students from outside that catchment to apply for enrolment and be considered using a fair process. If you require more precise information about whether your residence is in or out of the catchment, please the Enrolment Management Plan for Kenmore State High School for more information.

We are very proud of our students and want to ensure that we can look after every student that we enrol. Please help us continue this by enrolling your child in line with the timelines. We look forward to meeting you at our Open Day.

For more information about enrolling at Kenmore SHS, visit the link below.

Kenmore State High School

School Based Youth Health Nurse talks about IDAHOBIT

International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination (IDAHOBIT) celebrates LGBTQIA+ people globally and raises awareness for the work still needed to combat discrimination.

LGBTIQA+ people can struggle to access healthcare services where they feel safe and understood. Health outcomes for these groups of young people can also be dramatically different than those around them. 

School-Based Youth Health Nurses are in schools to help young people access support and to help navigate the healthcare system. We operate in a safe, understanding, and confidential space. 

For more information, visit:

👉 https://www.idahobit.org.au/ 
👉 https://www.opendoors.net.au/ 

To make an appointment to see the nurse for health and wellbeing support, students can:

👉 Email: nurse.kenmore@health.qld.gov.au
👉 Visit your School Based Youth Health Nurse office on Mondays in A07
👉 For more information, visit https://bit.ly/chqSBYHN

Aggie
School Based Youth Health Nurse

Finance

Statements

Statements will be emailed to parents last week.  Payment is due now for invoices shown on your statement, and may be made using one of the methods below.  Please do not make payment on any negative amount (e.g. -$20.00) this is a credit on the account that may be used for any future excursions, sport, or fees.

Parents/Carers experiencing financial difficulties can contact finance to discuss payment options on (07) 3327 1503 or at finance@kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au

Upcoming Excursions - Payment is required 1 week prior to all excursions.   

• Open Veto Schools Futsal League Rd3 - $35.00 payment due 20 May
• Under 16s Veto Schools Futsal Round 2 - $36.00 payment due 20 May
• Under 14s Veto Schools Futsal League Round 2 - $36.00 payment due 20 May
• TALS Fun Run - $39.00 payment due 21 May 2025
• Year 7 Camp – Consent due 2 May 2025 - $370.00 payment due 16 May 2025
• Year 10 First Aid - $90.00 payment due 26 May

Methods of payment are:

• BPoint (click link in BPOINT box to make payment for individual invoice) *Preferred Method*
• QParent
• Qkr! App
• EFT - using Student ID as reference.  If payment is made via the internet, please ensure relevant forms are sent in to the school office, via email to finance@kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au.  The school bank details are as follows:

BSB:                     064-152
Account No:        00090103
Account Name:   Kenmore SHS
Reference:           Student EQ ID

• In person at the office using EFTPOS from 8.00am to 1.50pm
• Phone payment using credit/debit card via BPOINT 1300 631 073.  Please quote CRN and invoice number from the BPOINT box on the left of the statement.
• Please contact the school if interested in starting a payment plan

Please contact the finance team if you have any queries regarding these matters on 3327 1503, or via email to finance@kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au

Julie Taylor
Business Manager

From the P&C Association

Environment Group Working Bee

The Environment Group of the High School’s P&C will be holding our working bee for this term on Sunday 25 May. We will be working from 8.30 a.m. until mid-day at the northern end of the oval to the west of S Block.  Students and parents wishing to assist improve the school’s environment are asked to come to that area to the west of S Block at any time between those hours and stay for as long as they are able.  We do need such support to do this important work and anticipate undertaking some planting which, we are sure, will make you feel rewarded.  A light morning tea will be provided. 

Tuckshop

We are still very much needing tuckshop volunteers.  For June, we are needing a volunteer on the following days: 

• Monday 9th June
• Monday 16th June
• Thursday 19th June
• Wednesday 25th June
• Thursday 26th June

We are also hoping someone would like to help make sushi on Monday mornings and/or poke bowls on Friday mornings from about 7.30 – 8.00am until 9.30am.  We have been making our own sushi and poke bowls for the last few years and they are proving to be very popular, however this is only viable if we have volunteer help, so if you would like to help out with this fun task and notch up another skill, please email tuckshop@kenmoreshs.eq.edu.au. 

Uniform Shop

As the cooler weather is starting to set in, this is just a reminder that we have the new soft-shell jacket available for purchase at the uniform shop.  These are a warmer alternative to the sports jacket, they look really smart, and sell for $60.

Sue Abbott
Community Liaison and Operations Officer
Building a stronger school community through parental involvement

Community Events

Chapel Hill Community Kindergarten 60^th Anniversary

This year the Chapel Hill Community Kindergarten will be celebrating their 60^th Anniversary. We are on the hunt for old photos or memories from families that have attended the Kindy over the years. If you have anything to share can you please email it to 60@chapelhillkindy.com.au. There will be a celebration on site for families that attended the centre on Saturday the 7^th of June.

If you have any further questions please contact Tom McNicol at thmcn0@eq.edu.au

Saver Plus Information Session

Brookfield Show

Scouts Qld – July Holiday Program