Week 2 Term 3 2026

Weekly Newsletter

Principal: Greg Neville

Deputy Principal: Stephen Sowter

Head of Primary Campus: Vanessa Ignas

Head of Secondary Campus: James Winas

Head of Boarding: John Kalenda

Message from the Principal

Principal’s Message

Thank You to Our Board Members

As we reach the end of Week 2 of Term 3, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to our Board Members for their attendance and participation at Thursday’s Board meeting. The Board’s commitment to Lae International School is consistently demonstrated through the strong attendance and engagement at our regular meetings. Their dedication, support, and governance are invaluable in helping us maintain the high standards of education and care that our community expects and deserves.

Strengthening School Safety and Security

The safety and wellbeing of our students, staff, and families remain our highest priority. As part of our ongoing commitment to safeguarding, we are introducing several additional security measures across the school campus.

Over the coming weeks, CCTV cameras will be installed in our school car parks to further enhance security and support our existing safety procedures. These measures are designed to help us provide a secure environment for everyone on site.

Vehicle Access Stickers

Vehicle access stickers will be distributed to parents and drivers during afternoon pick-up times. Stickers may also be collected from the Primary Office.

Beginning August, all parents and regular drivers entering school car parks will be required to display a valid vehicle access sticker or present their Parent Access Card. Either form of identification will be sufficient for entry.

Drivers who do not have an access sticker or Parent Access Card will be asked to pull aside and sign in with the security guard before being granted access to the school grounds.

Safeguarding Our Community

These measures are being implemented as part of our ongoing safeguarding programme and reflect our commitment to maintaining a safe and secure school environment. We appreciate the cooperation and support of our parent community as these procedures are introduced and strictly enforced from the beginning of August.

Thank you for your continued partnership with Lae International School. I wish all students, staff, and families a restful weekend and look forward to another productive week of learning ahead.

Mr Gregory  Neville

Principal 

Lae International School

Term 3 Calendar


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Deputy Principal's Notices

As we move further into the term, there is a great sense of excitement across both colleges as students become involved in the many opportunities and events on offer. It has been wonderful to see our students engaged, learning new skills, and making the most of the experiences available to them.

Primary School Disco

Next week, we are looking forward to our much-anticipated Primary School Disco, which will be held in the Hall on Wednesday 22 July.

Disco Times:

  • ELC, Preschool and Prep: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Years 1 - 6: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

I would like to acknowledge and sincerely thank our dedicated P&F Association, particularly President Helen, for hosting this event and organising generous donations of food and drinks that will be available for purchase on the night. All profits raised will go directly to the P&F, supporting the wonderful work they do for our school community.

If you would like to contribute a donation towards the event, please contact the Front Office. Your support is greatly appreciated and helps the P&F continue to provide valuable opportunities and resources for our students.

I would also like to recognise a group of our Year 7 students who have volunteered their time to organise games and activities throughout the evening. Their involvement will help create a fun and energetic atmosphere while providing them with valuable opportunities to develop their leadership skills.

High School Disco

Looking ahead, our High School Disco will be held on Thursday of Week 4. The Student Leadership Team has been busy planning and organising the event with the support of our Year 11 Emerging Leaders.

School discos are always popular highlights on our calendar, and I would like to extend my thanks to the many dedicated staff members who generously give their time to support these events and ensure they are safe, enjoyable, and successful for all students.

Extra-Curricular Activities

This week also marked the commencement of our Extra-Curricular Activities (ECA) Program, and it has been fantastic to see so many activities taking place across both colleges. From drones whizzing through the air and curriculum extension classes challenging young minds, to tennis being served up in the Hall, there has been something for everyone.

Our ECA program is an important part of our holistic approach to education, providing students with opportunities to explore interests, develop new skills, and build confidence in a safe and encouraging environment.

I would like to thank our teachers for their ongoing support of these programs, as well as our external providers, including: Lae Pickleball, Lae Tennis Club, Lae Swim Club and Lae Art Club.

Your contributions enrich the lives of our students and provide valuable opportunities that may otherwise not be possible.

Staying Connected

We have many exciting events planned throughout the term, so please make sure you are connected to the Audiri App to stay informed and up to date with important announcements, reminders, and event information.

If you require assistance setting up the Audiri App, please visit our Front Office, where our friendly staff will be happy to help.

Thank you for your continued support of our school community. We look forward to seeing many families at next week's disco and throughout the exciting events of Term 3

Warm regards,

Mr Stephen Sowter

Deputy Principal 

Lae International School

 

P&F Message

The P&F Committee is excited to be hosting the Primary School Disco next Wednesday, 22 July, and we look forward to welcoming students and families for a fun-filled evening.

Disco Times:

  • ELC, Preschool and Prep: 5:00pm - 6:00pm
  • Years 1 - 6: 6:00pm - 7:30pm

To help make the event a success, the P&F would greatly appreciate some extra support from our school community on the night. We are looking for volunteers to assist with the food and drink stall as well as manning the front gate.

We understand that everyone's time is valuable, so even if you can spare just one hour, your assistance would make a significant difference and be greatly appreciated.

If you are able to help, please contact Mr Sowter at ssowter@lis.iea.ac.pg.

Thank you for supporting the P&F and helping us create a wonderful evening for our students and families. We look forward to seeing you there!

Head of Primary Campus Notices

Dear Parents and Caregivers,

We are now into the second week of schooling, and it is wonderful to see so many students returning for the second semester.

Well done to Grade 7MP for their wonderful display of learning in today’s assembly. Congratulations also to the students who received awards for demonstrating the qualities of self-directing learners.

Coming home with your child this afternoon will be their PAT (Progressive Achievement Test) Report. Teachers have begun analysing the data and will incorporate the findings into their teaching and learning programs to better support students in their respective classrooms. During this first round of assessments, students completed PAT tests in English and Mathematics only.

Our Grade 8 students will be sitting their final mock examination practice next week. The examinations will run from Monday to Friday, noting that Thursday is a public holiday. Grade 8 Parent-Teacher conferencing will be held following the mock examinations in Week 4. Further details will be communicated shortly by the class teacher.

The P&F Association will be hosting a Primary School Disco on Wednesday, 22 July. This event is for ELC to Grade 6 students only. Parent volunteers will be needed to assist on the day, and donations of food and drinks would be greatly appreciated.

Looking ahead:

  • Week 3 – Grade 8 Mock Exam
  • Week 3 – P&F disco for ELC to Grade 6
  • Week 3 – Thursday 23rd July Public Holiday
  • Week 4 – Grade 8 Parent -teacher conferencing
  • Week 4 – Grade 4TP learning assembly
  • Week 5 – Grade 1WW learning assembly

Kind regards, Ms. Ignas

Vanessa Ignas

Head of Primary Campus

Upper Primary Student Handbook

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Head of Secondary Campus Notices

Dear Parents, Guardians and Students,

Welcome to another week.

It has been a productive first two weeks.

Once again thank all parents and guardians for your continued support.  Your partnership do plays a vital role in the success, wellbeing, and growth of our students. Together, we continue to build a strong learning community where every student has the opportunity to thrive.

Semester 1 reports have now been distributed, and I hope families have had the opportunity to reflect on student achievements, identify areas for growth, and discuss goals for the remainder of the year. A new semester presents a fresh opportunity for students to approach their learning with renewed determination, commitment, and enthusiasm.

At our Secondary Campus, we remain committed to providing engaging learning opportunities that enable every student to achieve their full potential because "Success Starts Here."

Important Events This Term

Term 3 promises to be a busy and exciting term, with a range of academic, cultural, and co-curricular opportunities available to our students.

Extra-Curricular Activities (ECAs)

A variety of ECAs have been planned to support student development beyond the classroom. Participation in these activities provides valuable opportunities for students to develop leadership skills, teamwork, creativity, and confidence.

Registration is now open. Students are encouraged to visit the Front Office to register for an activity of their choice.

Grade 11 Educational Trip – New Ireland

Our Grade 11 students will participate in an educational trip to New Ireland during Week 9 of this term.

Parents and guardians are reminded that all permission slips must be returned by next week to allow final preparations and arrangements to be completed.

Grade 9 Educational Trip - Cairns

Planning for the second Year 9 Cairns Trip is already underway. This exciting opportunity will provide students with valuable educational and cultural experiences while further developing their independence and confidence.

Please keep an eye on our communication platforms, particularly the Audiri App, for updates, announcements, payment schedules, consent requirements, and other important information relating to this trip.

PNG Independence Day Celebrations

One of the highlights of Term 3 will be our PNG Independence Day Celebrations.

We look forward to coming together as a school community to celebrate the rich culture, history, and achievements of our nation. Students will have opportunities to participate in activities that promote national pride, cultural appreciation, and unity.

Our Independence Day celebrations will be observed during Week 10, culminating in a Whole School Assembly on Friday. Further details regarding student participation, cultural presentations, and dress arrangements will be communicated closer to the event.

Student Wellbeing

Student wellbeing remains a key priority at the Secondary Campus. We recognise that student success extends beyond academic achievement and includes the development of resilience, positive relationships, healthy habits, and personal growth.

As we begin the new semester, we encourage students to maintain regular attendance, establish healthy routines, manage their time effectively, and actively engage in both school and community life.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to continue regular conversations with their children about their learning, friendships, and overall wellbeing. A strong partnership between home and school is essential in supporting young people as they navigate the opportunities and challenges of secondary education.

Students are reminded that support is always available. If they are experiencing academic, social, or personal challenges, they are encouraged to speak with a trusted teacher, homeroom teacher, or a member of the Secondary Leadership Team.

Remember, success is measured not only by academic results, but also by growth, character, resilience, and wellbeing.

Term 3 Calendar

The Term 3 Calendar accompanies this newsletter and contains important information regarding school events, assessments, excursions, and activities.

We encourage families to keep a copy accessible and refer to it regularly throughout the term.

Important Academic Updates

Well done to the year 10s for successfully completing the Grade 10 Science Practical Mock Examination this week. Congratulations also to the year 12 ACT students for completing the ACT Scaling test successfully. Final examination dates are shown below including the Grade 12 Written Expression Examination:

Term 3 is a particularly important period for our senior students as they prepare for key examinations and assessment milestones.

We encourage all students to remain focused, attend classes regularly, complete coursework on time, and seek assistance from their teachers whenever required.

Grade 10

Week 4, Monday – Final Science Practical Examination

Grade 12

Monday 3 August – Final Written Expression Examination

25–26 August – Final ACT Scaling Test

Grade 10 IGCSE Mock Examination.

Next week we have the Grade 10 IGCSE mock examinations. The examination timetable has been shared on Audiri this week for your information and appropriate action. Flyers have also been given to students concerned.

Stay Connected – Audiri App

Effective communication between home and school is essential.

The Audiri App remains the school's primary communication platform for important notices, reminders, event updates, emergency information, and school announcements.

We strongly encourage all parents and guardians to register for Audiri if they have not already done so. Families who are not connected may miss important information and updates throughout the term.

For assistance with registration, please contact the school office.

Final Message

As we commence Term 3, I encourage every student to approach the semester with determination, resilience, and a commitment to excellence. Set high expectations for yourself, embrace every opportunity to learn, and contribute positively to our school community.

Thank you once again to our parents and guardians for your continued support and partnership. Together, we can ensure that every student has the opportunity to succeed and flourish.

Success Starts Here.

James Winas

Head of Secondary Campus

Boarding Campus

Dear Parents and Guardians,

Welcome to the boarding section of our newsletter.

Our boarders have settled in well and are in full swing with our daily routines, learning, and behavioral expectations. It is pleasing to see students following these routines and expectations without needing prompts from their boarding parents.

Virtue of the Week: Empathy

The first weeks in the boarding house set the tone for the entire term. Introducing the virtue of empathy right away makes a huge difference in how students adjust, connect, and thrive. Starting with empathy establishes a foundation for a supportive community where students feel safe, valued, and understood. This not only improves their emotional well-being but also enhances academic collaboration and leadership growth.

Why Empathy in Week One Matters:

  • Community bonding: Early acts of empathy create lasting friendships.

  • Conflict prevention: Misunderstandings are common when students share living spaces. Empathy encourages patience and reduces tension.

  • Inclusive culture: Empathy ensures that cultural, social, and personal differences are respected from day one.

Our Practice This Week:

  • Roommate check-ins: Encouraging roommates to ask each other daily how they are feeling, building trust and care.

  • Empathy stories: Senior students sharing real examples of empathy that shaped their own boarding experiences.

Living together in a boarding environment relies on mutual respect, kindness, and looking out for one another. Boarding staff and students are working together to keep our community positive, inclusive, and supportive over the coming weeks.

Upcoming Events
  • Friday Fellowship Evening: To be hosted by students from the Highlands region.

  • Fire Drill & Community Service

  • Weekend Study Program

  • Alumni Talk: A former boarding student will share words of encouragement.

  • Drug Awareness Presentation: Delivered by the Head of Boarding.

  • Town Trip

  • Wednesday, July 23 (Remembrance Day): This will be a public holiday. A special program will be put out by the student leaders.

Weekend Sign-Out

A message will be sent to parents in the WhatsApp group regarding updates to our sign-out expectations.

Boarding House Review

We are looking forward to the boarding house review in Week 4. The review will provide feedback on the areas where we are doing well, while also giving us insight into opportunities for improvement. This will assist us in aligning our community with Australian best practices for boarding provision.

John Kalenda

Head of Boarding

Steps to create an Audiri account


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Safety Guidelines for Authorising Boarding House Leave


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Lower Secondary Student Handbook

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Upper Secondary Student Handbook

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Join our Social groups

Uniform Price List

Uniform Requirements


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Homework Policy

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Student Photographs

There are many photo opportunities at our school and student images are often used in publications, such as the Newsletter, and displayed online through the school website / Facebook and Instagram pages. Student images will continue to be featured in the Newsletter, website and other media this year. If you do not wish photos of your child to be displayed through any form of print or digital media, please advise the office.

This week in pictures!

Facility Hire