An Engaged and Supportive Community
Words cannot describe how incredible busy the last two weeks have been. We are so grateful to be part of an amazing town with such supportive community. Together, School Staff, Students, Parent/Carers and the wider community have worked side by side on numerous educational and community fund raising events. A few examples include: - Miles Tyre and Battery 150 Rally, school staff, students and parent/carers worked tirelessly together on the BBQ for over a two-day period this was supported by generous sponsors T&J Butchery, Teys Condamine, Foodworks Miles, and Maces Bakery who worked with the catering team in the preparation phase. A few of our senior students volunteered their time to help Origin set up for their Reconciliation Week event at the Miles Historical Village. For the amazing work of our students, Origin has very generously donated toward the year 12 valedictory. Many thanks.
A Safe Supportive Community
As the weather has become colder our students are arriving to school in need of a warm drink and or a piece of toast to tide them through to morning tea. We have noticed our breakfast club is even busier in the mornings. Many thanks to staff members of our Wellbeing, Support and Engagement Team (WEST) and volunteer students who every morning provide breakfast to our students.
As I walk over to the kitchens in the morning there is a real sense of community with music playing and students mingling and chatting while eating a nourishing breakfast and drinking a warm drink to set them up for the morning session.
Why is it important for teenagers to have breakfast?
We have all heard breakfast is the most important meal of the day. But with a morning of competing priorities, snooze buttons and questionable appetites, it's easy to skip breakfast. This leads to, too many children and adolescents regularly miss the morning meal, ‘with many saying they are not hungry’
Energy
Along with sleep and exercise, breakfast is one of the best ways to recharge your batteries.
Improved concentration and emotional regulation.
Studies suggest that eating a nutritious breakfast improves brain function — particularly memory and recall.
Better grades
Research shows students who eat breakfast perform better academically.
The message for us all is to keep trying to get those valuable nutrients in their stomachs before class.
Take care
Josette Moffatt
A huge two weeks of events in and out of our school.
Congratulations to our Rural Op students at the Chinchilla show, terrific results and acknowledgement to Mrs Vikki Knight and Miss Caitlyn Crawley for their time with the students.
To Brady Moffatt, and his band of helpers from staff to students for their work with the Miles 150 on the weekend. The patrons were well feed and the event was successful.
This week we had our Junior School musicians attend the FanFare in Chinchilla and achieve a silver placement. Thankyou to Emma for her time with the students and to Sarah Perry and Kirsty Porter for transporting the students to and from the event.
Friday, we experienced the catering of our Senior Hospitality class at the Ladies Luncheon. Well done to Al Turner and her students for an enjoyable luncheon and relaxing atmosphere.
As the first half of Term 2 has been completed, students in Year 7 to 10 have also completed formative assessment, which staff are reviewing and adjusting their teaching to ensure all students are equipped to meet the requirements of their summative assessment at the end of the term.
Next week we have students involved in Farmfest, CIA exam for Yr 12 students for Essential English and Essential Maths and MIGAS visiting to offer Yr 12 possible apprenticeships for 2027.
This is why it is important for parent/carers to have their child at school learning, to allow them the success that we know they can achieve.
Until next time…
Raelene Bates
As part of our ongoing commitment to supporting families with cost-of-living pressures, the school has purchased a supply of navy jumpers and track pants for students who arrive out of uniform. These items are available for students to change into during the school day, with the expectation that students wear the replacement uniform provided and exchange it at the end of the day.
Our support staff wash all jumpers and track pants each day to ensure they are clean and ready for use. We appreciate the wonderful work they do behind the scenes to support our students and school community.
It has been fantastic to see the vast majority of students taking pride in wearing the correct school uniform each day. Maintaining high standards in uniform presentation, including jewellery and workplace health and safety expectations, helps create a safe, respectful and positive learning environment for everyone.
Thank you to families for your continued support in helping our students represent our school with pride.
Simon Wilson
The last two weeks have been a very busy period in the classroom. Students have been engaging in assessment, Wonder of Science, QMEA sessions, shows, and community events. All these activities have been incredibly rewarding and enriching for our students. I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone involved in organising, running, and participating in these events. All students and staff have represented the school with pride and excellence.
The hustle and bustle of the school term will continue over the coming weeks. Please ensure you are keeping an eye on assessment due dates via the assessment planner.
Year 11 and 12 students are currently in the middle of their assessment period. During this time, attendance is vitally important, and absences should only occur for two reasons: illness or misadventure. Both types of absences must be justified with valid supporting documents.
If your family experiences a situation where misadventure applies, please contact the school as soon as possible to discuss the event with the Principal, Deputy Principal, or Head of Curriculum. They will guide you on the necessary steps to follow.
If this procedure is not followed, students may find themselves unable to complete an assessment item, which could result in no credit being awarded for that item. This can leave a significant gap in their overall results for the semester (Year 11) or the entire year (Year 12). Students in other year levels must also follow this procedure, although there is more flexibility in these cases to help students learn what is expected regarding assessment completion and submission.
Good luck to all students completing assessments at the moment. Your hard work and dedication will undoubtedly be rewarded.
Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD)
At this time of year, the school is also preparing for the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data (NCCD). This process helps us document the actions we take to support students with disabilities and ensures that every student at Miles State High School is supported to achieve their best.
The NCCD is an important initiative that helps schools across Australia better understand and support students with diverse learning needs. It ensures that students who require adjustments to their learning programs—whether due to physical, cognitive, sensory, or social-emotional needs—are recognised and supported.
What is the NCCD?
The NCCD is a national data collection process that identifies the adjustments schools make to support students with disabilities. It ensures that schools are meeting their obligations under the Disability Discrimination Act 1992 and the Disability Standards for Education 2005.
What does this mean for your child?
If your child requires additional support to access and participate in their education, they may be included in the NCCD. This could involve adjustments such as tailored teaching strategies, specialised equipment, or additional support from staff. The NCCD does not affect your child’s enrolment or academic record—it is simply a way for schools to ensure that all students receive the support they need to succeed.
Why is the NCCD important?
The data collected through the NCCD helps governments and schools allocate resources and funding to support students with disabilities. It also ensures that schools are providing an inclusive learning environment where every student can achieve their best.
What do parents need to know?
If your child is included in the NCCD, you do not need to do anything. The process is confidential, and no personal or identifying information is shared with external organisations. Our school works closely with families to ensure that the adjustments in place are appropriate and effective for each student.
If you have any questions about the NCCD or how we support students with diverse learning needs, please don’t hesitate to contact the Head of Department of Curriculum, Teaching and Learning. We value your partnership in creating an inclusive and supportive learning environment for all students.
Thank you for your ongoing support of your child’s education.
Caleb Kuhl
Navigating Friendships in High School – The Ups and Downs
High school can be an exciting yet challenging time for students. It’s a period of significant change, both academically and socially, where friendships often play a vital role in shaping a young person’s experience. While positive peer relationships can boost self-esteem, provide emotional support, and create a sense of belonging, the complexities of high school friendships can also lead to challenges. As parents, understanding these dynamics and knowing where to turn for support is essential in helping your child navigate this journey.
The Ups of High School Friendships
Friendships are a cornerstone of adolescence, offering students opportunities to:
Positive friendships can foster resilience, improve mental health, and enhance a student’s overall school experience.
The Downs of High School Friendships
However, friendships aren’t always smooth sailing. Some common challenges include:
Supporting Your Child Through Friendship Challenges
As parents, you can play a crucial role in helping your child navigate the ups and downs of high school friendships. Here are some tips:
Available Support for Parents and Students
Sometimes, navigating friendship challenges may require additional support. Here are some resources available to you and your child:
Friendships are an essential part of high school life, and they come with their fair share of highs and lows. By fostering open communication and providing guidance, you can support your child in building healthy and meaningful relationships. Remember, you’re not alone in this journey—there are resources and support networks available to help both you and your child.
If you have concerns about your child’s friendships or notice significant changes in their behaviour, don’t hesitate to reach out to the school or a trusted professional for assistance. Together, we can create a supportive environment where every student feels valued and connected.
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
Ms Meghann Kenkel (PIVOT Teacher)
1. What is your role at our school, and how long have you been here?
I am the lead teacher of the Pivot Centre so I work closely with teachers and students to help students to be engaged in their learning and meeting their goals as learners. I have been at Miles State High School for just over a year.
2. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
I had a friend from kindergarten all the way to grade 12 who was “that kid”. He caused trouble, he struggled to sit still, and he was disruptive. Eventually, he matured and wanted to learn but he was stuck with the label of being a bad kid. Even as a teenager I knew that was wrong and didn’t want anyone to feel that way when they were at school.
3. What do you enjoy most about working at our school?
Easy… the kids.
4. Can you share a fun fact about yourself that most people might not know?
I think everyone knows that I am from Canada, but they might not know that I worked in both China and Japan before coming to Miles. Also…I would rather eat a bowl of fresh fruit than a chocolate bar.
5. What’s been the most rewarding moment in your career so far?
A few years ago a student who I had taught early in my career found me on social media to tell me that he had become a teacher. When I taught him he was often in trouble and struggled a lot in school. He told me that I was one of the first people who believed in him and didn’t think he was stupid. He told be that he wanted to be a teacher like me.
6. What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
On the weekends you could probably find me switching between a baseball and hockey game on tv. I also love to read and spend time with my dogs. During holidays, I love to travel and explore new places.
7. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
I grew up wanting to go to Paris and I am happy to say I have gotten there three times in my life. I grew up learning French in school and always wanted to experience that city for myself. I have been lucky to travel to many places in the world and had some great experiences. If I think about where I would like to go that I haven’t it is about adventure. I would love to go to Tanzania and see the wild animals of the African savannah, or take a boat trip along the Amazon river. I love baseball and at some point I would love to visit every baseball stadium in America (So far I have been to 7/30)
8. What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
My favourite book of all time is The Book Thief by Marcus Zusak (Who is Australian!)
9. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
The biggest risk is not risking anything at all. If I hadn’t taken that advice, I would have never moved to China and I wouldn’t be who I am or where I am today.
10. What’s one thing you love about our school community?
The students.
Mr Michael Holt (School Chaplain)
1. What is your role at our school, and how long have you been here?
School Chaplain. I’ve been in Miles now for nearly two and a half years.
2. What inspired you to pursue a career in education?
I had some amazing teachers at Chinchilla State School and Chinchilla State High so I was drawn to it from a very young age. After 30 years as a teacher, I wanted a change and still wanted to be of service.
3. What do you enjoy most about working at our school?
No two days are ever the same. Every day is a surprise.
4. Can you share a fun fact about yourself that most people might not know?
My past dogs were named Woofer and Barker. My next rottweiler puppy will be named Harold.
5. What’s been the most rewarding moment in your career so far?
When you know that you have been able to turn someone’s day around from feeling frustrated or helpless and to help them understand how much they are truly worth.
6. What are your hobbies or interests outside of work?
Lots of sport, learning about history.
7. If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would you go and why?
Lots of places… I would love to visit Israel for the history, Canada for the wildlife and Thailand/Vietnam for the culture, history…. and food.
8. What’s your favourite book, movie, or TV show?
The Bible, Field of Dreams and Top Gear.
9. What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received?
It’s easier to catch flies with honey than it is with vinegar.
10. What’s one thing you love about our school community?
It’s not too big and not too small.
Today we received this fantastic commendation for 5 of our students from Callie Fitzpatrick and the Miles Junior Touch program. Well done Harrison, Isaac, Asher, Cody and Joshua! Story and photo provided with thanks "Miles Junior Touch Football Club rallied together and promoted the autumn touch season. The participants have wrapped up ten weeks of skills and drills and are now ready to put their training into action in a five-week round robin competition, thanks to the support of local student coaches and community volunteers. Students from Miles State High School and Chinchilla Christian College stepped into coaching roles alongside Callie Fitzpatrick to help deliver the Autumn Junior Touch Footy Skills and Competition program. The program kicked off with a successful muster day led by Brendan Taylor from Touch Football Queensland, giving participants the opportunity to learn the fundamentals and get excited for the season ahead. Following the opening session, Callie and the high school student coaches worked with 42 participants over nine weeks, focusing on touch football skills, drills, teamwork and game awareness. The dedication shown by the young coaches created a positive and supportive environment for the younger players while also giving the high school students valuable leadership experience within the sporting community. The program has now prepared participants to begin their own round robin touch football competition, which will run for the next five weeks. The coaches will be able to lead their own team and guide them through the comp. A big thank you goes to the Miles Devils Committee for maintaining the grounds in top condition throughout the program, as well as to the parents and families who supported the initiative by bringing students along each week and investing in a program that continues to benefit the Miles community. The competition and training program will also help participating students prepare for upcoming opportunities including South West touch trials in June 2026, the Community Touch Competition in October 2026, and other touch football competitions across Queensland. The success of the program highlights the strength of community sport in Miles and the important role young leaders can play in encouraging participation, confidence and teamwork among the next generation of athletes.
Miles Touch Association
Kind regards
Callie Fitzpatrick Junior Touch Organiser"
The Year 11/12 Rural Operations students participated in the competency of Preparing Livestock for showing as part of their Certificate II in Rural Operations at the Chinchilla Show. This included, assisting in the loading and unloading of cattle, showing of school steers and stud animals, showing animals in nominated classes and being used in Handler classes and required to feed, wash, and prepare stock to a high standard at the Show. A BIG SHOUT OUT to Mrs Knight and Miss Crawley for accompanying the students and Mr Daveson for driving the bus.
Thank you to everyone involved in the delivery of the Careers and Problem Solving Day held with students from Miles State High School, generously supported by Origin Energy. A total of 12 students participated, engaging in a range of activities designed to build transferable skills and strengthen connections between school learning and future career pathways.
The day was structured to provide a balance of team‑building, problem‑solving and industry engagement, supporting students to reflect on how their skills and attitudes at school relate to the workplace.
Learning Focus & Student Achievement
🔹 Careers & Problem Solving Students participated in a series of collaborative activities that focused on building teamwork, communication and problem‑solving skills. They worked effectively in groups, supporting one another to complete challenges and demonstrating strong engagement throughout the day.
Students also reflected on key workplace behaviours such as punctuality, maintaining a positive attitude, and the importance of applying skills learned at school to future employment opportunities. Many students showed a strong understanding of how these skills translate into real‑world contexts.
Industry Engagement
🔹 Industry Interaction Students had the opportunity to work with industry representatives Marie, alongside graduate engineers Luke and Sam, who shared insights into their roles and career pathways into engineering.
A highlight of the day was the hands‑on gas and gas extraction activities, where Luke and Sam provided excellent support, helping students to deepen their understanding through practical application.
Students asked thoughtful questions about career pathways and industry roles, and strongly responded to hearing directly from professionals currently working in the field.
Student Feedback
Students were highly engaged throughout the day, particularly during the team‑building and practical activities. Feedback indicated students valued learning about teamwork, communication and problem solving as essential workplace skills, and enjoyed the opportunity to connect with industry representatives.
The day concluded with student presentations, where participants confidently articulated what they had learned and reflected on their skill development.
Feedback & Media
Thank you to Sarah and Caleb from Miles SHS for organising the workshop logistics at the school, as well as to the teachers who supported the class on the day. Their support strongly encouraged student interaction and engagement.
📸 Event Photos Event photos can be viewed on Flickr here: 👉 View Event Photos
📝 Feedback Summary Feedback from students, teachers and industry representatives was very positive, highlighting strong engagement, valuable industry interaction and the relevance of the skills explored.
Thank you once again to Miles State High School and Origin Energy for supporting this workshop. It was fantastic to see students building confidence in their skills while exploring connections to future career opportunities.
Warm regards,
Michaela Dobson
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.
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
