Newsletter

Edition 17 Term 4 2025

In this edition

From the Principal

From the Deputy Principal

From Head of Curriculum

From Head of Wellbeing & Engagement

From the Guidance Officer

Term 4 2025

Experiencing Sporting Excellence

School Values

Miles SHS Calendar of Events - Term 4, Week 5 and Week 6

Miles SHS Date Claimers/Notices

Community Events/Notices

Audiri App Instructions

School Watch

From the Principal

Hospitality Event

Congratulations to our Senior Hospitality Class for the incredible success of their assessment task, a dinner for staff, family and friends “A Starry Evening” its these incredible events shared with our community that provides our school community yet another door into participating in our students many and varied experiences. Many thanks for your attendance and support of Miss Turner, Mrs Edwards, and their students. We all so appreciated your attendance.

Year 6 into 7 Transition Day

Congratulations to all our Year 6 students for your incredible engagement and portraying of our school values Respect, Integrity, Safety and Engage during Wednesday 29 Octobers “The Day in the Life of a Year 7’ transition program. The feedback from the students and families has been very positive.

Special thanks to Ms Bates and our staff for making the day such a success. We are all excited for the final two-day transition program at Miles SHS on Tuesday and Wednesday the 2 & 3 December.

Senior End of Year Journey

Year 12’s have commenced engagement in external exams, and the completion of final assessment in their Vocational Education competencies.  Please continue to encourage and support your child to eat well, sleep well and exercise to assist in managing the stress that comes with exams and the ongoing future planning at this stage of their schooling and life journey. Remember please contact a member of the Wellbeing, Engagement and Support Team (WEST) if you are worried about your student during this very busy period of mixed emotions it can become overwhelming for some.  

Along with this our staff and students are preparing for the 2025 Academic Awards Night – 10 November for all students and their families, then the Year 12 Formal with all its “Glitz and Glamour” 19 November 2025 and the final day of school for our 2025 Year 12’s after 13 amazing years at the Senior Farewell Parade 21 November 2025 . We look forward to sharing these celebrations of success with staff, friends, family and our wider school community.    

Attendance Matters

Well done,  to students and their families who support students’ attendance each and every day. However, our weekly Attendance % is still too low. ☹

A reminder to all our parent/carer and students that school is compulsory. There is a government mandate and expectation that students attend school each and every day. Your child’s success and ongoing achievement is closely aligned to them attending school. Let’s together as a community support our students’ journey to success both now in their future work life with the understanding that presence is importance in every aspect of our lives.

At this time of year some students may convey to their families that not much is happening at school. We can assure you that every day of every week is planned curricular and extracurricular programs for our student. Please contact us if you wish to discuss the ongoing programs being undertaken by all our students.

Looking forward to seeing you all at our celebration event over the next few weeks.

Josette Moffatt

From the Deputy Principal

Hi everyone

Senior students

As you would be aware, our Yr 12 students have started their External exams and have already completed their English and Biology.  We have had several students in this week completing their Certificate courses to ensure they receive their accreditation. 

Thursday night the Senior Hospitality class excelled in presenting a fine dining experience for staff and partners.  Congratulations to Miss Turner, Mrs Edwards and all the students in the Yr 11 and 12 Hospitality class, it was a very memorable evening, the service and food was impeccable.  

School policy and enrolment agreement

As part of enrolling to Miles SHS there is a page that is read out to parent and child concerning the expectation of being a student at Miles SHS.  A student must agree to the five statements, if they intend to be a part of the Miles SHS community.  All parties sign the agreement, that we consent to the expectation of the school and will meet the enrolment agreement.

Unfortunately, staff are experiencing students who are not attending school regularly and are not on time.  Students who are not showing respect to others and are refusing to follow the reasonable request or direction of staff members.  School property damage by students, failing to show respect to our school environment.  We have a set school uniform – formal on a Monday and sports for Tuesday – Friday, students failing to adhere to our uniform policy.  Hats are to be worn if out in the playground, we are a sun safe school.  As students choose to ignore the enrolment agreement signed by them and their parent, we will be giving consequences and parents will be contacted.  The school is a workplace, rules and expectations for students, staff and parents need to be in place to keep us all safe and for us to meet the WHS policies. 

School attendance is expected for all students from Yr 7 to 11, only our Yr 12 students have the block exam from Week 4 – end of Week 6.

Awards Night

Please do not forget our 47th Annual Awards Evening on Monday 10th November, where we celebrate the success of our students at the Leichhardt Centre – starting from 6pm.

Raelene Bates

From Head of Curriculum

Term 4 is just flying by, and we will be at the end of the year before we know what is happening. During a term that is incredibly fast passed it is important to make sure you are not getting caught up in all events and hype. This term finalises our end of semester results and is important for students in big milestone years such year 12, 10 and 8. With this in mind, it is very important that all students are completing their best work all the way up to the end of the year.

Right now, our year 12 students are engaging in their external exams and finalising their results for the year. Other year levels are also busy with assessment.  Reminder that our year 10 and 11 students will finish their school year in week 8 (28 November). Well done to the students who have already meet all their requirements and good luck to those still finishing.

Last night our year 11 and 12 students put on a 3-course evening meal for some of our staff as a part of their assessment. This was an amazing meal with all details well planned out. Well done to students and staff that were involved with this event. It was an amazing night and students should be proud. Great work!

Caleb Kuhl

From Head of Wellbeing & Engagement

Vaping a Community Wide Concern

We would like to remind all families that Miles State High School maintains a zero-tolerance policy for vaping and smoking on school grounds, at school events, or while in school uniform. These behaviours pose serious health and safety risks to both students and staff and are not permitted under the Department of Education’s policy and Queensland law.

Though consequences will apply when a student is found vaping or in possession of a vape or related device.  Research is informing us all, that many young people who engage in vaping are experiencing nicotine dependence and require education and often medical support to quit.  Together as a community we must be vigilant around our community’s young people’s activities. We must together continue to be firm on the maintenance of laws and expectations regarding vaping, smoking and illegal substances of any kind. We all must continue to provide ongoing education and support for those young people who have chosen to participate in the consuming of these illegal substances.

As part of our school’s wellbeing approach, we encourage families to have open conversations with their children about the dangers of vaping. If your child is struggling to stop vaping, we ask that you seek medical advice from your family doctor, who can discuss treatment options such as nicotine replacement therapy (e.g. patches or lozenges) and provide ongoing support.

Our Student Support and Wellbeing Team (WEST) is also available to assist with referrals and resources to help students make positive health choices.

We appreciate your partnership in keeping our community’s young people safe at school, at home and in our shared community. 

Thank you for your continued support. Resource Link Below

https://adf.org.au/talking-about-drugs/vaping/helping-young-people-quit-vaping/

From the Guidance Officer

Schoolies tips for parents

Since the 1980s, schoolies has become a rite of passage for Australian school leavers. It's an exciting milestone marking the chance to celebrate the end of an era before stepping into whatever comes next. But when large groups of teenagers descend on party locations with newfound freedom and limited supervision, it's perfectly natural for parents to feel a knot of worry.

Here are some practical schoolies tips for parents that could help you support your school leaver while alleviating some of those inevitable concerns, keeping your teen safe while giving them space to grow. 

Start with an honest conversation

Communication is always the best way for you to make sure your teen is fully prepared. It also gives you an opportunity to offer your support and address and worries or concerns they have. Just make sure it’s not a lecture or negative, otherwise they’re likely to switch off or get defensive.

Approach your chat with genuine curiosity. Ask them what they're most excited about. Where will they be staying? Who's in their group? Let them do most of the talking while you listen and offer support. This creates space for the trickier topics to emerge naturally.

When you do broach subjects like alcohol, drugs, and safe sex, frame them as practical life skills rather than dire warnings. Remind them that being true to themselves is always the right choice, even when everyone around them seems to be making different decisions. You might discuss boundaries beforehand, what feels comfortable for them and what doesn't, and what their Plan B is if something goes awry. 

Let them know you have their back

Ask them to provide you with all the information you’ll need to help them in case anything goes wrong. This could include things like:

  • Address of where they’re staying (have a quick check of the accommodation agreement while you're at it)
  • Travel arrangement and details
  • Agreed check in times to let you know they're OK - perhaps once a day at a reasonable hour.
  • Contact details of friends they’ll be with
  • Their bank card information, just in case it goes missing
  • Help them add an ICE (in case of emergency) contact to their phone, along with the Red Frogs Hotline: 1300 557 123. Red Frogs volunteers are on the ground at major schoolies destinations, offering support without judgment. 

Send practical supplies, not worry

One of the most helpful things you can do? Make sure your teen has what they need to look after themselves. Consider sending with them or arranging a delivery to their accommodation things like:

  • Cases of bottled water to keep them hydrated
  • Pre-cooked or microwave meals for those inevitable lazy mornings
  • Non-perishable snacks
  • A small first aid kit
  • Some emergency cash tucked away separately from their wallet

These provisions send a message that you trust them while also showing you care and providing a safety cushion (you'll also be popular with their friends when the goodies get shared). 

What not to do (even when you're tempted)

We know that your worries come from a place of love and concern but your teen is feeling independent and getting their first taste of adulting. So here are some things we recommend that you don't do:

  • Don't bombard them with messages. Stick to your agreed check-in times. Constant calls and texts signal distrust and can actually distract them when they need to stay alert, particularly if they're driving.
  • Don’t provide them with alcohol even if they are over 18. Research consistently shows that providing alcohol to teenagers, even those over 18, can lead to riskier behaviour. Let them make their own choices within legal boundaries.
  • Don't become a social media liability. Posting about them or their friends without permission can cause genuine embarrassment and damage their trust in you. Remember, they're building their adult identity, and that includes controlling their own digital footprint. 

Stay informed and connected

Knowledge really is power when it comes to easing parental worry. Join the Red Frogs Schoolies Advice for Parents group on Facebook for real-time updates and tips from other parents going through the same experience. The Safer Schoolies website also offers excellent resources, including a downloadable checklist you can give your teen before they head off. 

Not all teens are the same

Not every school leaver thrives in the traditional schoolies environment. Some teens find the prospect overwhelming rather than exciting. If your young person is keen to celebrate but the chaos of schoolies feels like too much, there are plenty of alternative ways to mark this milestone.

Perhaps a smaller trip with close friends, a volunteering project abroad, or even a family celebration that honours their achievement without the pressure. The important thing is that they feel supported in whatever choice feels right for them. 

Send them off with confidence

Before they leave, make absolutely certain your teen knows they can ring you any time, day or night, regardless of the situation. No judgment, no "I told you so", just love and support. This promise might be the most important safety net you can offer.

It's not easy watching them navigate this transition, but with open communication and practical preparation, you can help them celebrate safely while taking their first confident steps towards adulthood. 

Find more parenting support

Looking for more guidance on supporting your teenager through life's transitions? Visit our parents' and carers page for articles to help you navigate the challenges and celebrate the victories of raising young adults.

Sarah Perry

You can speak with a trained professional by phone or webchat (6am-midnight), seven days a week.

An online bullying support forum is also available. This is a safe, moderated space to connect with others, ask questions, and share experiences.

📞 Call 1300 30 1300

💬 Visit parentline.com.au

Because parenting doesn’t come with a manual—but help is here when you need it.

Sarah Perry

Term 4 2025

Harley’s First Week at MSHS

As you are aware, Miles State High School has partnered with Dogs Connect to introduce a whole-school wellbeing program that includes our new wellbeing dog, Harley. This exciting initiative aims to strengthen our school’s culture of care and connection, supporting the wellbeing of students and staff alike.

Harley has enjoyed her first week at MSHS and has quickly become a much-loved member of our school community. She spent time with our Year 6 students as they began their transition to high school — a big welcome to our newest members of the MSHS family! Harley also made many new friends across the school and provided gentle support to our Year 12 students during their external exams, offering a calming presence in what can be a stressful time.

Over the coming weeks, we are hoping to have Harley at school on Tuesdays and Thursdays as she continues to learn her role, relax in her environment, and build trusting relationships with students and staff. These days will allow Harley to become more confident and comfortable in her job as our school wellbeing dog.

We look forward to many more days of smiles, calm moments, and positive wellbeing interactions with Harley as she continues to settle into life at Miles State High School.

Year 9 Science

Year 9 Science were practicing making qualitative and quantitative observations. 

Out and About in the Ag Department

There has been a bit going on down at the Ag farm lately. We welcomed some new kids on the block, hung the new Agritech Pathways sign and Year 8 planted some rockmelons.

Year 6 Transition

Year 11/12 Hospitality Catering Event

Experience Sporting Excellence

REMINDER: If students are wanting to participate in sport trials, forms MUST be returned by the due date and the mandatory levy payment made. The due dates are set to ensure that ample time is available for team managers to have the trial event organised and all paperwork submitted. 

Saints Weightlifting

Australian U15 F58 Champion

6/6 good lifts

+2kg Snatch PB 39kg

+6 kg Clean& Jerk PB 51kg

+8kg Total PB 90kg

GOLD MEDAL

Experience Your Future

Complete a Certificate IV in Justice Studies Online!

Morayfield State High is offering an online course in Cert IV Justice Studies and have invited Miles High students commencing Year 11 in 2026 to apply. Total course cost is only $450 for a nationally recognised qualification with credit transfers into a Bachelor of Criminology and/or Bachelor of Law. Limited spaces, enrolment conditions apply.

For more information please see Mrs Beutel or Mrs Perry! 

Miles SHS Calendar of Events

Term 4 Week 5

Monday 3rd November - Year 12 Essential Maths Exam, MPA Conference Room, 9:00am - 10:10am

Monday 3rd November - Year 12 General Maths External Exam, MPA Conference Room, 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Monday 3rd November - Year 7, 8, 9 RI, 2:25pm

Tuesday 4th November - Final Blue Edge Activity

Tuesday 4th November - Year 12 General Maths External Exam, MPA Conference Room, 8:50am - 11.00am

Wednesday 5th November - Year 12 Health External Exam, MPA Conference Room, 8:50am - 12:00pm

Friday 7th November - Year 12 Chemistry External Exam, MPA Conference Room, 8:50am - 11:00am & 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Term 4 Week 6

Monday 10th November - Awards Ceremony Practice

Monday 10th November - Miles SHS Awards Ceremony, Miles Leichhardt Centre, 6:30pm

Wednesday 12th November - Year 12 Psychology External Exam, 8:50am - 11.00am & 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Friday 14th November - Year 12 Math Methods External Exam, 8:50am - 11:00am & 12:00pm - 2:00pm

Friday 14th November - Newsletter Due

Miles SHS Date Claimers / Notices

Reminder - Homework Centre

Homework Centre is up and running, 3pm to 4.30pm every Monday and Wednesday afternoon.  Parents will need to complete a permission form from the Main Office and book on Sobs.  If unable to book on SOBS, please ring the office to confirm student attendance.

https://eq.sobs.com.au/pt3/parent.php?schoolid=70139 

Community Events / Notices

Reminder: Animals are not permitted on school property

Please email all planned absences to absentee@milesshs.eq.edu.au (prior to your child’s absence)

Miles State High School

Miles State High School is proud to be part of a community that embraces PARTNERS IN LEARNING together our students, their families, our wider community and our staff are committed to working together to ensure that every student succeeds.

Respect | Integrity | Safety | Engagement