28 April 2015

Principal’s Report

Dear Parents,

Last week our school commemorated the 100 year anniversary of the Anzac landing in Gallipoli through holding a moving ceremony at school which was attended by special guests Mr Tony Hornby, Veterans Support Centre; Currumbin RSL Club; The Honourable Karen Andrews, Federal Member for McPherson; Ms Jann Stuckey, Member for Currumbin; Councillor Daphne McDonald; Legatee John Coggan, Legacy Club of Coolangatta Tweed Heads.

The ceremony featured an address by Mr Tony Hornby (RSL) and a speech by Year 10 student Elaine Summersford who gave her personal reflections on the Anzac tradition.

In addition to the ceremony, PBC students:

• Laid a wreath at the dawn service at Elephant Rock
• Made poppies that decorated the rock
• Participated in the March from Winders Park to the RSL
• Undertook a project with the RSL to make a poster, which was a collage of cenotaphs from communities across Australia and created a tribute to those who have served our country.
• Supported the development of the Outdoor Exhibition through providing voice-overs

At the same time this took place, Year 10 student, Emily Ireland was in Gallipoli as part of a delegation of students who were awarded the Premier’s ANZAC prize.

State schools seek to teach their students how to be active citizens in their local community and also to be a resource for local community groups. PBC’s partnership with the Currumbin RSL in commemorating the Anzac tradition serves as an excellent example of our commitment to this endeavour.

Staff changes

Mr Nigel Hughes, former Director of Senior School, has been selected as the Principal of Southport State High School. Nigel gave PBC over seven years of dedicated service and has been inspirational to students and parents alike.

Ms Alyce Cleary will act as Director whilst a recruitment process is run to identify a permanent replacement. Alyce joined PBC this year and her substantiative position is Deputy Principal of the Senior School.

There will be a coffee meet and greet on Friday 8 May from 9.30am to 10.30am in our Trade Training Centre. Guests will have the opportunity to meet Alyce and discuss these changes with our Executive Principal Stephen Loggie.

If you would like to attend please RSVP to Kate Issever on kisse3@eq.edu.au.

Report Cards

At PBC we program assessments as close to the holiday periods as possible. The major benefit of this approach is that we maximise the teaching time available to students, which in turn gives them the best opportunity for success.

As a consequence of this practice, staff complete the majority of their marking over the holidays and conduct their moderation practices as soon as possible upon their return. Moderation is a comprehensive process, which involves teachers marking work from other classes and making comparisons to ensure consistency of grading.

Parents can expect that Term 1 reports will go into the mail or be emailed on Friday 1 May.

Stephen Loggie
Executive Principal

Newsletter Articles

Senior School Update

Welcome back to Term 2. In a brief reflection on Term 1, I would like to thank all of the Senior School students in their efforts to start the year on a positive and productive note.

Parents can expect to receive their child’s interim report next Friday via email. It is imperative, particularly for senior year students, that time is spent going through these reports. A discussion between parent and child around progress will assist in the setting of goals for the coming term.

Please also be aware that Parent/Teacher/Student interviews will be held in Week 5 to discuss progress. These meetings are an essential communication point that allows all parties involved to build a clear understanding of what it will take for each student to achieve their best outcome. Appointments will open on Friday when reports are sent.

Please see dates and times below:

• Tuesday 19 May 2015: 3:30pm-8pm
• Wednesday 20 May 2015: 3pm-7:30pm
• Thursday 21 May 2015: 3:30pm-8pm

We look forward to seeing you there.

Alyce Cleary
Acting Director Senior School

Interim reports

Interim reports will be finalised this week and emailed to parents. All results in the Senior School will be analysed to ensure that students are on the appropriate senior schooling pathway.

Students in Year 11 and 12 need to be passing at least five of their six subjects to ensure that they remain eligible for the Queensland Certificate of Education (QCE). Students whose results indicate that they are not actively engaged in the learning process at school will have an intervention and be monitored by the Senior School administration team. Students who continue to be “at risk” will have their enrolment status at the school reviewed.

OP Predictions

Year 12 OP predictions will be emailed during Week 3 (Year 11 students will receive their first OP prediction when more results are finalised after Semester 1). Students who receive a predicted OP higher than 15 may need to consider alternative pathways to tertiary studies. Alternative pathways include moving to Selection Rank, or completing a Certificate III course whilst at school. These pathways are generally a better option for students with OPs above 15, as they will give students an option to attend University in 2016.

Subject changes in the Senior School are currently being finalised. These changes are subject to availability and take place only after the signature and permission of relevant Heads of Department and parents. Once these changes have been processed students can collect their new timetables in Y block.

Mick McDougall
HOD Senior School

Middle School News

I trust all of our Middle School families enjoyed a safe and restful break over the Easter Holidays. Term 1 was a very exciting time for our Middle School with the introduction of approximately 800 students joining our school across Year 7 and 8. It was also the inaugural term for our Year 7 cohort into our school and an extensive number of new staff and processes to cater for this new year level. I was extremely pleased that the details of our prior planning ensured that the transition of our new students, staff and processes was so successful.

It is with great pleasure that I welcome everybody back to Term 2.

The Middle School has many important events that will occur in the first half of this term. Some of these events include:

• Final ½ Days NAPLAN Turbo Day Rotations
  - Year 7 will be held on Thursday 23 April (Week 1) and Wednesday 6 May (Week 3)
  - Year 9 will be held on Tuesday 28 April (Week 2)
• National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) Tests will be held on Tuesday 12, Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 May (Week 4)
• Year 7, 8 and 9 Optima Awards will be held in the week commencing 18 May (Week 5).

Year 7 and 9 2015 NAPLAN Tests

I would like to acknowledge the consistent work of our Year 7 and 9 cohorts and thank all parents in advance for their support in preparing our 2015 Year 7 and 9 students to achieve to their potential in the upcoming National Assessment Program - Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) tests on Tuesday 12, Wednesday 13 and Thursday 14 May 2015.

As these testing days are nearly upon us, I ask for the support of our parents/guardians to help their child in achieving their best on these testing days by ensuring they are well rested and relaxed. Parents/guardians can also help by ensuring your son/daughter is sufficiently hydrated and nourished and has adequate sleep prior to arriving at school.

The schedule for the 2015 NAPLAN test is as follows:

• Tuesday 12 May – Language conventions; writing
• Wednesday 13 May – Reading
• Thursday 14 May – Numeracy
• Friday 15 May – Catch up tests for students absent on 12, 13 or 14 May.

The Middle School does significant work in the lead up to NAPLAN to ensure that the students are fully prepared and are able to perform at their very best. Thank you for your efforts in supporting our students’ preparation leading into NAPLAN.

Blair Hanna
Director of Middle School

OPTIMA Code – Be Safe

After the holidays, students return to school energised and refreshed, and often with excess energy. It is important to get back into school mode and get on with the business of learning.

Our school playground is a very busy place. Often this excess energy is used in rough play and silly behaviour. E.g. pushing, shoving, play fighting etc. I have this week reminded students that these behaviours are unacceptable at PBC. They are unacceptable because these games often lead to actual fighting. As all students are aware, fighting at our school is totally unacceptable and carries serious consequences.

Students with excess energy are encouraged to join in the structured lunchtime activities or play sport on the oval.

Being safe is one of the three global expectations of our Optima Code. Being safe starts with reflecting on our own actions and asking, “Is what I am doing safe for me and is it safe for others?” You can help by talking to your students about being safe and what it means for them at school and in the community.

Peter O’Brien
Deputy Principal Middle School

Feedback on Student Progress

Term 2 has commenced with a sense of energy and expectation in the Middle School. Now is the time when students are encouraged to revaluate their goals and commence the new term positively. When reports are emailed home on May 1, it is important to sit with your child and discuss how it was that they reached the levels of achievement, effort and behaviour noted. Where improvements are needed, set some specific, realistic and measurable goals. Should you require clarification or need to immediately discuss your child’s progress, remember that teachers welcome contact from parents; all teachers’ emails are listed under contacts on the PBC website.

As soon as report cards are published, we open bookings for Parent Teacher Interviews in Week 5. To be assured of interview times, go to the PBC Home Page, look for the ‘PTO’ link and follow the prompts. The interviews are conducted over several afternoons and evenings, to provide as many opportunities as possible for you to meet with teachers. Guidance Officers and other support staff are also available on these evenings.

Students are most welcome to be part of the interviews; it can be very useful for them to ask their own questions and to receive direct feedback from teachers, with you present. Teachers are also hoping to learn more about the student, and will welcome information that will help them support each individual in their learning.

We look forward to your booking soon!

NAPLAN Update

Students of Years 7 and 9 are now anticipating Week 4, when most will sit the examinations of the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN).

NAPLAN tests reading, writing, language conventions and numeracy. The assessments are undertaken nationwide, every year, over three consecutive days. The tests are presented as a combination of multiple choice, short response and extended writing. Most Year 7 students will have completed NAPLAN in Years 3 and 5, while Year 9 students are likely to have sat the exams in Year 7.

Should you have any concerns about your child sitting NAPLAN, please contact me at shill242@eq.edu.au

Sharon Hillcoat
HOD Middle School

Dean of Students Report

This year we have been fortunate to have gained the services of Rita Matthews as our Student Activities Officer. Middle School students now have a huge range of activities to engage with during lunch breaks. They cover everything from sport to cultural activities.

If your kids are saying they are bored during breaks you can remind them that they have the opportunity to be involved in the following lunchtime activities:

• Year 7 touch competition
• Oz tag for Year 9 students
• 3 v 3 basketball
• Cricket workshops run by Cricket Australia
• Dodge ball
• Chess Club
• Book Club
• Tennis
• Hangout/ Study Room
• Creative Writing
• Work Shops: Year 7 Peer Mentoring and Year 11 Music Excellence running a jam session in the Year 9 area.

One of the challenges facing parents is staying connected to high school. We encourage you to talk to your son/daughter regularly and if you notice they are ‘not themselves’ or seem out of sorts, please contact the school. Our school has one of the most comprehensive support structures and we are there to support both you and your student as they travel through sometimes-difficult years.

Paul Bullpitt
Dean of Students

Year 11 Semi-Formal

The PBC Year 11 Semi-Formal was held at Twin Towns on April 2. The night featured two great guest speakers and former PBC students Anabelle Spinoulas and Jackson Maynard.

We celebrated the achievements of Anabelle and Jackson since they had left PBC and they gave the students an insight into the hard work required to be successful in the senior years of high school and beyond.

Twin Towns put on a fantastic two-course meal and the students had the chance to use the very popular photo booth and show off their moves on the dance floor to the beats of world-renowned artist DJ Waz.

A big thank you must go to Executive Principal, Stephen Loggie, our wonderful staff who helped out on the night, and also Year 11 students Chloe Midson and Joe Richters, who were so enthusiastic to help that they turned up at Twin Towns at 5am on the day only to be greeted by the cleaners. A final thank you to the Year 11 PBC students who attended and demonstrated exemplary conduct, which made the night such a great success.

Tim Peach
Year 11 Coordinator

STEM Ambassadors

Six students have been selected to become STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) Ambassadors for Griffith University.

The students selected are Amy Cooper and Annika Danielsen of Year 9, and Darcy D’Hotman De Villiers, Shelby Craik, Amelia Cody-Byfield and Elise Watkins of Year 10. These students were selected not only because of their high achievement in science, but also on their participation in science extra-curricular activities.

As STEM Ambassadors, these students will be promoting science activities in the school, such as trivia nights, competitions, university events and other science related opportunities.

At the end of Term 1, these students attended a STEM conference with ambassadors from other schools, held at Game Over in Helensvale. Students participated in a leadership workshop; a team building activity and conducted a school strategic plan, along with some fun activities, which included go karting, laser tag and rock wall climbing.

The conference was also attended by teacher Krista I’Anson, who is PBC’s Griffith University STEM Ambassador Program Coordinator. Her role is to be a point of contact for the program and support the ambassadors to promote STEM in the school community. Dr Erik Streed, who will be providing extra support for our STEM students, also attended the conference for the strategic planning session. Dr Streed, whose research expertise is Biophysics and Quantum information processing with trapped ions, is a Griffith University Academic Mentor assigned to PBC. Overall, the students had a fantastic and enjoyable day.

Lee-Ann Bramley
HOD Science

CAX News

ANZAC Centenary Events

A big thank you to all the CAX students that participated and contributed to the ANZAC centenary events. We had students involved in the Pop-up Theatre with drama performances and visual art sketches, voice-overs as a part of the photographic exhibition, the vocal group performing at the Sleep-out, students throughout PBC who made poppies to cover Elephant Rock, and of course the hard work over the past two years by Visual Art students and Ms Paula Hall to create the ANZAC Poster. These students have all given up their time to help commemorate this important event, whilst having the opportunity to learn more about ANZAC day.

CAX Festival

This coming Saturday 2 May, is our Annual Creative Arts Excellence Festival. This event is being held from 1:30pm – 7:30pm in the Q block precinct of the school. This event gives us a chance to showcase some of the amazing work that our students have completed so far this year.

Below is the timetable for this event:

• 1:30pm – 3:30pm Senior Drama Excellence (Theatre)
• 3:00pm – 3:30pm Music ensemble performances (outside Q Block)
• 3:30pm – 4:30pm Year 7, 8, 9 and 10 Music Excellence (undercover quad stage)
• 3:30pm – 4:30pm Dance Excellence (Theatre)
• 4:30pm – 5:30pm CAX welcome session for current students and families – Please RSVP for this event (Theatre)
• 5:30pm – 6:30pm Year 12 Music Extension (Theatre)
• 6:00pm – 6:30pm Year 9 and 10 Drama presentation – Selected performances (undercover quad stage)
• 6:30pm – 7:30pm Year 10 and 11 Music Excellence (undercover quad stage)
• 6:30pm – 7:30pm Media Excellence (Theatre)

Throughout the day there will be a Visual Art Exhibition in Q11 for viewing.

All are welcome to attend performances, however, those interested in attending the welcome session are asked to RSVP to Sarah Bannan on 5525 9365 or via email sbann30@eq.edu.au

Thank you for your support of the CAX students here at PBC; we hope to see you this weekend.

Rebekah Shinn
CAX Coordinator

HPE News

Term 1 saw a variety of sports experienced across the HPE curriculum. Year 7 students enjoyed their introduction to volleyball, and this enjoyment was easily seen. Year 11 Physical Education students completed their first foray into canoeing, while the Year 12 cohort tested their fitness in the Aquathon. In Recreation Studies the Year 11 students are moving towards the assessment date for their lifesaving certificate.

This term most Middle School classes move to track and field in preparation for the school cross country and track and field carnivals. This includes a variety of fitness testing and building of strength and endurance.

Year 10 students will soon begin their aquatics unit. It is important to note that we use a heated pool for this unit to ensure student comfort during learning. Hot showers are accessible after the lesson to ensure student comfort continues. Any withdrawal from curriculum will occur under medical advice only. At the end of Semester 1, students currently studying HPE will move to History for Semester 2.

Health students have been studying a range of health issues relevant to personal health and development including self-esteem and addiction. Year 11 students produced a range of visual projects to highlight an impact on their self-esteem. Health students explore a range of concepts that enable them to make informed decisions regarding health.

Shane Roberts
HOD Health and Physical Education and The Arts

School Musical – 13

The School Musical ‘13’ is a “a grown-up story about growing up”

Tickets are $15 for students and $20 for adults. Bookings will be through student services.

Middle School Attendance

The need for students, parents and teachers to work together to ensure positive influence on good attendance practice is critical to the overall engagement and resultant success for young adolescents.

Attendance rates tend to ‘persist’ over time, that is, early school attendance is a reasonable predictor of likely attendance in senior schooling years. The persistence of such rates is further supported by Education Queensland reports on the adverse outcomes students face in the short and long-term as a result of poor attendance. Early school leave, lower academic achievement and unemployment are some of the adverse outcomes noted resulting from poor attendance at school in the Middle years.

PBC Middle School teachers are committed to supporting good attendance habits for their learners; however, parental engagement in this regard is the most influential factor. While some students’ absences are unavoidable due to illness etc., many are not. Parents are encouraged to positively influence their young person in maintaining highest possible attendance rates such that the young person is able to use every day and every lesson to maximise the countless opportunities available to them at PBC.

Sandi Mlinar
Middle School Attendance Coordinator

Study Skills

Organisation- Formatting class notes

The most common note-taking technique seen used by students is to write everything down on the page in full sentences in black or blue pen. The problem many students then have is firstly processing such a large amount of information when they read their notes, and then establishing what the most important information actually is when studying.

Additionally, when students attempt to write (or type) as much as they possibly can, notes are often formatted poorly and are then re-written when students go home. This is a duplication of effort, which prevents your students from doing higher-value work, such as working through practice tests and doing supplementary reading. The top students reduce the amount of words in their notes by up to 80% to just focus on the key words or ‘trigger words’.

The format below aims to get students writing their notes using trigger words in class, which prevents them from needing to re-write notes later in the term. It will also ensure that while studying their notes, extraneous information does not cloud their revision; only the critical information required for assessment will be memorised.

Courtney Underwood
Study Skills Coordinator

Homestay Families Wanted for Short Term Study Tour

Would you like to be part of a successful Homestay Program and experience a new culture?

Palm Beach Currumbin State High School requires homestay families who live in the Palm Beach/Elanora area to host students from Lizen, Taiwan who are on an International Study Tour from 20 May until 10 June.

Families are financially reimbursed in return for providing a caring family environment, meals, transport and accommodation.

Students are aged 15-17 years.

For more information about this program please call Corinne Van Put on 5525 9394 or e-mail cvanp1@eq.edu.au

Corinne Van Put
International Student Coordinator

Sport Excellence Applications

Sports Excellence Applications for Year 7 entry in 2016 close on 1 May 2015. Students will not be eligible to trial until an approved application has been submitted.

Tara Gonzales-Judd
Excellence Enrolments Officer

Tourism Excursion to Dreamworld

Tourism students had a great day out at Dreamworld on 20 March. Unfortunately, Damien (pictured above with Caleb and Taj) didn’t quite meet the height requirements for many rides and missed out on some of the fun.

Core competencies for their Certificate II in Tourism were the focus for the day. An Educational Officer from Dreamworld presented much interesting and relevant industry information to the students. Students can be commended for their excellent behaviour on the day.

Jennifer Bignell
TourismTeacher

Pathways Centre News

School based traineeships available for Year 10 and 11 students in 2015

Cert III Hospitality – Ocean Art Café and Gallery, Tugun Surf Club, Crust Pizza Broadbeach, Zest in Tugun, Sumptuous Fine Foods, Currumbin, Lunchland Burleigh, JJ’s Bilinga, Crema Espresso Robina and Pacific Fair, Dumpling Republic Robina, Euro Corner Miami, Pizza Hut The Pines.

Business/Retail – Trade Secret Burleigh and Piece of Pie Burleigh.

Cert III Business – 7 Eleven Palm Beach stores seeking school based trainees.

Expressions of interest – Bunnings Warehouse Burleigh Year 10 students only.

Business Administration – First National Real Estate Palm Beach is looking for a school-based traineeship. Great opportunity for someone who would like to work in the Real Estate Industry when they leave school. Must be able to work Saturdays.

Indigenous Traineeship – Westpac Bank and Dominos Mermaid Beach.

Work Experience – Direct Hire, small engine mechanics.

Cert III Hairdressing – Salon 35 are seeking a school-based hairdresser, will suit Year 11 or 12 student wanting to make hairdressing a career.

Year 10 students interested in working in the health industry, our guest speaker from the assembly held on 22 April is taking expressions of interest now in the Pathway Centre. The program will cover all areas of health including aged care, nursing, horticulture, kitchen, physio, orderly etc. Local health facilities available.

Love your current job? Would you like to turn it into a traineeship? Come to the Pathway centre and let’s see if we can create a traineeship for you in your current role.

The Pathway Centre is open before school and first break to apply for any of the above positions

Please see Ms Shreeve to apply.

Sonia Shreeve
Industry Liaison Officer

Guidance Officer News

Year 12 Griffith University Experience Day

Experience Griffith is a practical and engaging way for secondary school students to get a taste of life as a university student. The Experience Day will be held on May 22, where students can take part in a full day program that includes an interactive activity and two interest area sessions. Griffith University have worked closely with their academics to produce meaningful experiences that will give students a comprehensive insight into university study.

Please note:

• You must be a Year 12 student with a genuine interest in going to Griffith University to attend.
• Student’s interested in attending the Experience Day will need to go to Y block where information and instructions have been posted on how to apply.

UMAT

Year 12 students who are applying for Medicine or Health Science next year and would like to sit the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test (UMAT) in 2015 need to be aware of the following:

• Students must register by 5pm Friday 5 June. Test date is Wednesday 29 July 2015
• Can register online at http://umat.acer.edu.au

SCU - Access

SCU Access provides an opportunity for Year 12 students to undertake a university-enabling subject through SCU College while completing their senior schooling. Free from university fees, the program offers students the chance to gain a taste of university life, stimulate their interest in academic pursuits, and enhance their educational performance and long-term aspirations.

For more information please contact Caitlin Burcher from SCU by phoning 07 55 89 3137 or emailing caitlin.burcher@scu.edu.au

QCS – Special Provisions

Special provision is available to QCS students who are affected by a medical condition, impairment or exceptional circumstances that may act as a barrier to their access to the QCS Test or to their demonstration of achievement in the QCS Test.

Those students who think they may be eligible or are yet to provide a medical certificate need to see Mr Jones in Y Block as soon as possible.

Applications close 21 May 2015.

Steve Jones
Guidance Officer Senior School

3 Step Guide Helping Teens to Calm

There are lots of things we can do to help teens calm themselves.  One of the most important – and sometimes forgotten – is to help them come up with some actual words and phrases that they can repeat to themselves in times of stress.

Here is a 3-step guide for parents and teachers to  help teens develop ‘calm sentences’:

Step One: First, find out details about the worry.  Dig. Ask questions like ‘What could be the worst thing about that?’, ‘What might go wrong there?’, ‘What is the scariest thing about that?’, ‘Do you think something bad could happen with that?’ etc.   Write these down  on a piece of paper in front of the child.

Step Two: Then say:   “Now I understand your worries, let’s think of some calm words which you  can  remember when you  have these worries.  Together we are going to think of four different types of calm  sentences.  Here are the four types:

THIS IS NOT LIKELY BECAUSE…calm  sentences

To help your teen think of some  NOT LIKELY sentences  about their worry, ask them how many times this has happened in their life, how often it has happened to someone else, and what are things that make this unlikely.  Write these answers down, for example: This has never/rarely happened before or this is unlikely because…

I CAN COPE BECAUSE… calm  sentences

To help teens think of some I CAN COPE  statements, ask your teen, “Why is this not a catastrophe?”, “Why are there WORST things that could happen, why can you cope with this?”,  “Why are there some good things about this?”. Write these answers down: I can cope with this because… This is not the end of the world because…

I HAVE A PLAN …calm  sentences

To come up with I have A PLAN statements, ask the child, “If this did happen, what could you do?”,  “How would you manage this?”,  “What would be your next step?”.  These sentences could be: Even if this happens, I would… If that happened, I could…

SOMETHING HELPFUL TO REMEMBER IS…calm  sentences

To come up with SOMETHING HELPFUL TO REMEMBER sentences, ask the child, “What else is helpful to remember about this scary thing?”,  “What people are around to help you?”,  “What is something positive that is happening for you?”,  and “What might you learn from this situation?”.  For example: This person cares about me… The good thing about this is….

Remember to make all of these sentences short. You are aiming for one sentence dot points – simple language that is easy for the child to say to themselves when they are worried.

Step Three: Once you have your list of calm sentences, ask your teen to put them in a place they can see.  Ask your teen to read them out before worrying situations.  Ask your teen to read them before bed. 

Worried teens have worried thoughts. We need to help them add in another perspective. This is an exercise that does that, and it can make a big difference to children’s wellbeing.

By Kirrilie Smout, Clinical Psychologist Specialising in supporting Kids and Teens

Anna Willis
Guidance Officer Middle School

A Leo Reflection

The Leo's club means a lot to me. It has changed the way I see my life and has showed me how privileged most of us are and all the simple things we take for granted, like being able to stand, walk, talk and just get out of the house.

Leo's is great fun and you get to make many new friends across all the year levels as well as make a difference to the community and other parts of the world. There is always something to look forward to and there is never a dull moment.

We have recently decided to donate $1,000 to the Cancer Council's Relay for Life, which is a fundraising event in the fight against cancer. The donation will go towards research, prevention and support services and is just one of the many events we donate to. We don't always donate money to these well-known events and fundraisers, we also donate money to families who can't afford some of the expensive equipment needed to just move around and get out of the house. These changes may only be small for us, but it can completely change other people's lives, and seeing the photos and the letters we receive back, proves to us that we can make a difference and that every second we spend doing this, is worth it.

Inspirational

Too often the media portrayal of our youth in society is negative and this impacts on the communities’ perception of our youth. I had the pleasure of witnessing a group of young people from the PBC Leo club not only organise but also run the end of term dance for the Coolangatta Special School. A group of 25 Leo members won the hearts of many as they organised and implemented a super hero themed disco. Strobe lighting, music to sing and dance to and prizes for different categories and a sausage sizzle were all a part of the evening’s entertainment. As the parents and teachers watched the Leo members interact with their children I am sure that like myself, they had to wipe away a tear. There were no barriers, no labels but much empathy was displayed by the young Leos as they danced side by side the Special School students to the Macarena.

As always the Leo members were supported by their Palm Beach Lions and Lioness mentors and together they made a significant difference to a group of young people in our community. To prepare for such an event meant giving up much of their own time and they selflessly did this because of their community awareness.

The excited, happy faces and the shrieks of laughter from the children of the Coolangatta Special School will forever be a reminder to me of the generosity and empathy given by a group of young people in our community. As parents and teachers watched the interaction of the Leo members with their children the looks of gratitude were obvious. Well done Leo members of PBC your contribution to the community has a positive influence on shaping how our youth are perceived.

Leo Club member

Uniform Shop Update

Uniform Shop Trading Times – Term 2 2015
Monday to Friday	8:15am to 10.30am
Closed 1st lunch break

Please refer to the website for all price lists and order forms.

CAX shirts

If you ordered a CAX shirt they are available to be collected from the Uniform Shop.

Bucket hats/ PBC caps

Bucket hats and PBC caps are now available to purchase from Uniform Shop. These hats are a compulsory part of the uniform and are recommended for all outdoor activities. Cost is $15 each.

PBC school bags

PBC School Bags are now available from the uniform shop and selling fast.

Features include:

• Lifetime guarantee
• Padded laptop pocket
• Water resistant
• Ergonomic design
• Mesh drink bottle holder
• $70 each

Jumpers

The PBC knitted Jumper is now available to be purchased from the Uniform Shop. Get in quick before the cold weather sets in. Cost is $48.

Tracksuit pants

Tracksuit Pants are now available to be purchased from the Uniform Shop. Cost is $55. Please be aware that we have limited stock.

Payment methods available:

• Flexischools Online www.flexischools.com.au
• Credit Card
• Cash
• Cheques not accepted

If you are unable to come into the Uniform Shop you are more than welcome to call on 07 55259331 and pay for any uniform item over the phone.

Mandy Webb
Uniform Shop Coordinator

Canteen Term 2 Menu

Welcome students and parents to Term 2. This term the canteen staff will be offering some new and exciting menu items including warmer dishes for the cooler months and some meal specials that will be advertised in student notices in advance.

Canteen Volunteers

We are always looking for helpers in our busy canteen. We encourage volunteer assistance from members of the community, even if you are only able to help for a few hours, your assistance would be appreciated. Please call our canteen on 5525 9343 to inquire.

Tara Dare
Canteen Coordinator

Administration

For Internet banking please use the details below:

School’s Bank Account: PALM BEACH CURRUMBIN SHS General A/C
BSB Number: 064-404 CBA Branch Burleigh Heads
Account Number: 00090303
Reference/Details: Record both Student ID AND the reference Code to ensure your payment can be recorded correctly. (Reference Code = ITEM BEING PAID FOR e.g.: 2015 SRS8 or 2015 ACEX10)

Resources and Activities Schedule

To assist parents with budgeting, detailed below are current fees and activities with due dates for payment (due to short timeframes some excursions may not be listed).

Student Fee Excursion/ Activity	Activity Details	Amount Due	Date Due
Course Fees
Student Resource Scheme	2015 Fees Year 7 to Year 12	$330	1st instalment overdue
Student Resource Scheme	2015 Fees	$165	2nd instalment overdue
Excellence Program Fees	Excellence program 2015 students	Various	Overdue
2015 Instrumental Music Program	Years 9-12	$75.00	Overdue
QCS 2015	Year 12 students	$50.00	Overdue
Interschool Sport	Interschool Sport 2015	$100	Overdue
Cert 3 Educational Support	Year 11 students	$500	Overdue
Advanced Surfing	Advanced Surfing students	$180	Overdue
Holden Driving Centre	Year 11 students	$67.50	Due now
Coppelia	Year 10 CAX students	$28.00	Due now
H20 Water testing	Chemistry students	$15.00	Due now
Marine Aquatic Expo	Year 11 students	$12.00	Due now
Please note that all students are requested to present their Student ID card when making any payments to Student Services.

Most excursions do not appear on student statements. If you have any queries please call Lynne Riley in Student Services on 07 5525 9308.

Lost Property

Please check with Student Services for items like pencil cases, lunch boxes, etc. If you have lost an article of clothing (jumpers, shoes, hat) please check with the Uniform Shop.

Second Hand Uniforms

If you are holding on to old or unwanted school uniforms, please donate them to student welfare.

If your uniforms are good condition, please drop them off to the Student Services.

Nominate for Teacher of the Year

Help us decide which teacher at PBC should be nominated for a teaching award!

Every year there is an opportunity for one teacher from each High School on the Gold Coast to be nominated for Teacher of the Year.

This year we would like to get your opinion on which teacher from PBC has made a difference to your child’s education.

Please nominate a teacher that you value for teaching your child the skills and knowledge needed for their education and future over the time that they have spent at PBC.

PBC Alliance

Welcome to new partners and members

It is with great pleasure that the PBC Alliance welcomes on board our new Bronze, Silver and Gold partners and Alliance members. Our students benefit greatly from the support and engagement we receive from our Alliance partners and members and your continuing support will be integral to the continued success of PBC.

Business Directory

The PBC Alliance is developing a new initiative to create a local network for businesses within the PBC community, The PBC Alliance Business Directory.

Being part of the PBC Alliance Business directory will connect your business with a network of friends, parents, and members of the PBC Alliance business community.

This listing will be included as a link in the fortnightly PBC parent newsletter, PBC Alliance Facebook page and will be loaded to the PBC website under the PBC Alliance tab. Your listing may include the business name, addresses, telephone numbers, location, type of service or products the business provides, and a link to the company website.

QParents is here

Our school now has QParents. Parents should have received an invitation email or letter by now and it’s great to see that so many parents have registered already.

For those who have yet to sign up, remember that for a chance to win an iPhone 6, you must register by Sunday 17 May 2015.

If you have not received an invitation, please advise us as soon as possible.

Over time, QParents will become an integral part of how we communicate with parents. Get on board now to enjoy the ease and convenience that QParents offers.

Keeping Our Children Safe

Across the Gold Coast District Police are regularly contacted by school’s and concerned parents in relation to inappropriate driving and behaviour’s around school zones. Speed limits, drop-off and pick-up areas and parking rules exist to keep your children, parents and carers safe. They also help to minimise speed and traffic jams around schools. Whilst we appreciate that the drop off and pick up is a particularly busy time of day it does not excuse dangerous behaviour that could come with fatal consequences.

Gold Coast Police are constantly patrolling our school zones. Some of the offences that have been witnessed are, parents stopping in the middle of the road (double parking) and allowing children to get out of the vehicle, U-turns over double white lines into on-coming traffic, running red lights, speeding, unrestrained children, and road rage (use of offensive language whilst children were in the vehicle).

Over the next few weeks you will see an increase in High Visibility Traffic Patrols. We are keeping our roads safe by performing proactive and targeted traffic enforcement in relation to all school zones on the Gold Coast. So remember the road rules and don’t break them just to save a few extra minutes. The consequences will be with you for the rest of your life.

Below outlines some of the penalties, which apply to traffic offences that are currently occurring within your school zone.

SPEEDING

School zone times have been standardised in Queensland to help motorists remember when to slow down. The standard operating times for your school zones is 7–9am and 2–4pm.

Speeding:

• <13km over the speed limit $151 and 1 point
• 13-20km over the speed limit $227 and 3 points
• 21-30km over the speed limit $379 and 4 points
• 31-40km over the speed limit $531 and 6 points
• 41km and over the speed limit $1062 and 8 points

PARKING

Make sure to take extra care when parking on school grounds and on the roads and streets around the school and follow the signed parking rules at all times. Remember most schools are around residential areas please be courteous and respectful to these people by not parking over their driveways.

• Stop across Footpath $45
• Stop contrary to flow of traffic $45
• Double Parking $45
• Stop Contrary to continuous yellow line $45

OTHER COMMON OFFENCES

• Seatbelts – As the parent you are responsible that your child has their seatbelts on and if required the correct car seat. Penalties for not wearing a seatbelt is $341 and 3 points. If your child is under 16 and is not wearing a seatbelt you get the ticket.
• U-turns – Illegal U-turns when not signed to do so - $91 and 2 points
• Red Traffic Light - $341 and 3 points
• Cross Double Lines - $204 and 3 points
• Disorderly conduct - $341

District Crime Prevention Unit