Term 1 Newsletter 2025

Principal's Report

Welcome to the 2025 Academic Year!

Dear Students, Parents, and Staff,

As we embark on another exciting academic year, I am thrilled to welcome you all back to our vibrant school community. The start of a new year always brings a sense of renewal and opportunity, and 2025 is no exception. We are committed to continuing to grow our environment so every student can thrive academically, socially, and emotionally. We are encouraged by the wonderful support received at home in support of student learning.  Thank you.

I am reminded of the right perspective to enhance every student’s achievement.

We must all never forget that one’s learning at school is merely the start of a life of learning. Success in learning is individual and may be irregular in growth. The common thread for every person’s learning is their self-belief in their ability to learn.  This grows with every individual experience. 

Our job collectively as adults, is to maintain the narrative of self-belief with our young people.

Our dedicated teachers and staff have been working tirelessly to prepare engaging and enriching programs that will inspire and challenge our students.

We are also excited to introduce several new initiatives aimed at enhancing our learning experience, including updated technology in classrooms, expanded extracurricular activities, and a renewed focus on student well-being. I encourage everyone to take full advantage of the opportunities available and to support one another in our collective journey towards excellence. Together, let us make 2025 a year of growth, achievement, and joy.

Supporting your child’s wellbeing and learning

When children have a powerful sense of wellbeing, they experience greater success in learning. Our school is strongly committed to enhancing the wellbeing of our students which is why we have a range of activities and supports across our school that help students feel and function the best they can.

This is part of a Queensland-wide recognition of the importance of wellbeing. Investigate the videos on relevant topics for your student via our SchoolTV platform.

Warm regards
Peter Linnehan

Term 1 Report - Years Prep-6 Deputy Principal

Hello Parents and Home Tutors,

Term 1 has certainly gone quickly.  It has been a very exciting and action-packed term with new curriculum courses being implemented, NAPLAN and Mini Schools.  We have also implemented some new initiatives with reading including lunch time stories, what’s on the shelf and Hooked on Book packs for our Year 6 cohort. 

Naplan

Naplan is now completed for 2025 for Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students.  A huge thank you to all of the parents/home tutors who either sourced host schools, participated in Naplan onsite at Cairns SDE or were eligible and sat Naplan offsite at home.  Our participation rate increased slightly this year.

Results for Naplan usually arrive after August and an Individual Student Report will be posted out to all students who participated in Naplan.  The Individual Student Report uses proficiency standards for each assessment:

• Exceeding: the student’s result exceeds expectations at the time of testing. 
• Strong: the student’s result meets challenging but reasonable expectations at the time of testing.
• Developing: the student’s result indicates that they are working towards expectations at the time of testing.
• Needs additional support: the student’s result indicates that they are not achieving the learning outcomes expected at the time of testing. They are likely to need additional support to progress satisfactorily.

English units

Our new English version 9 Australian Curriculum units for P-6 have been implemented this year.  These units are designed to incorporate all of the achievement standards that teachers are required to teach and assess students in the units.  The vision for these units is to provide all of the teaching and learning online as well as provide 3-4 English live lessons a week to our students.

The units align with the department’s Equity and Excellence policy by providing all students no matter location, time zone, ethnicity or ability access to high quality innovate teaching anytime.  Students have the flexibility to complete all of the learning online only if they choose or a combination of both online and live lessons depending on their circumstances.  Teachers have embedded mini teaching videos that students can watch multiple times if they are struggling with key concepts or skills.  This frees teachers up to provide deeper learning in the live lessons with a focus on drilling down into the more complex concepts and demonstrating to and with students how to do a particular skill.  The live lessons are now much more interactive with students learning not only from the teacher but from each other which is new key feature of the version 9 Australian Curriculum. 

Our new English units also provide opportunity to cater for all students with our fabulous teacher aides attending English live lessons and going into break out rooms with students to either extend or provide additional support depending on what the class teacher decides.  Attendance and engagement in these lessons is improving daily. 

Reading

"Being able to read and write is profoundly transformative, both for individuals and for population-health and wellbeing more widely" (Snow. P 2021. 'The Science of Language and Reading' Child Language Teaching and Therapy, vol 37. no3 pp. 222-233)

A big focus the last couple of years at our school has been reading.  We now have fully implemented a systematic synthetic phonics program in Prep-Year 3 called Get Reading Right which provides students with the ability to identify the relationships between letters and sounds when reading and spelling.  

To assist with tracking students’ progress with early reading in Prep-Year 2, teachers are assessing students using the DIBELs assessment.  This is assessed at the beginning of the year, middle of the year and end of the year to track progress and identify students requiring additional support.  Please support our teachers to gather this information by responding to the testing time requests and supporting your child while the teacher administers the tests.

In Year 1-Year 6, we have weekly Literacy Circles sessions to develop and improve students’ comprehension skills.  The teachers have a focused literacy circle session each week based on a book that is or relates to the English unit the students are working on.  This session is followed up by teacher aides who run small group sessions with students so they can interact and discuss the book in more depth.

In Year 3-6, students’ comprehension skills are assessed using the PROBE reading tests.  These tests provide teachers with valuable information into each child’s reading ability and the types of comprehension skills that your child has gained or needs to develop.  PROBE tests happen once a semester.  Please support our teachers to gather this information by responding to the testing time requests and supporting your child while the teacher administers the tests.

Students in primary that have been identified by their class teacher and P-3 HOD/4-6 HOD as requiring additional support for reading, will be invited to participate in Sounds Write intervention.  Sounds Write intervention is run by our teacher aides and is either small group or 1:1 intervention.

Term 1 Report - Years 7-9 Deputy Principal

Student engagement in the Junior Secondary years across the globe is under the spotlight as student engagement shows a steady decline. Our year level Engagement HoDs have been working to understand how we can influence student engagement at our school. Their work and the work of  HoD Nadine Kent is leading to a number of informed practice and process improvements. Meanwhile in response to inquiries from parents, I have been working to identify information to help at home. I have found a new book called The Disengaged Teen: Helping Kids Learn better, Feel better, and live better. In this newsletter I have included key points from the introduction and part one of the book. I look forward to sharing more with you in future newsletters. 

The Disengaged Teen – Helping kids learn better, feel better, live better (Jenny Anderson & Rebecca Winthrop)

Notes for Parents & Carers - Introduction & Chapter 1

1. Recognising and Supporting Interests in addition academic requirements

Take notice of your child's unique passions and encourage them to grow their interests. Whether it's art, coding, or sports, ask questions like "What do you enjoy most about this?" Share resources—such as art supplies or online courses—and show how their interests connect to real-world careers or activities.
Example: If your child loves drawing, you might explore digital art software together or introduce them to online tutorials.

2. Creating a Supportive Environment

Make home a safe space for curiosity. Let your child ask questions, share opinions, and even take calculated risks. Offer constructive feedback to help them build confidence in their ideas.
Example: When your child wants to experiment with a new science project, encourage them to share their plan and discuss how to improve it.

3. Offering Choices

Let your child choose activities that interest them, whether it's a school project, sports, or hobby. Giving manageable options fosters independence and motivation.
Example: If they’re interested in a reading assignment, let them pick between fiction and non-fiction topics they enjoy.

4. Engaging in Shared Solutions

Solve problems together to teach respect and decision-making. Small steps, like agreeing on how to balance gaming and homework, can show that their opinions matter.
Example: Set a timer together for gaming, then switch to homework with the understanding that both activities have their place.

5. Encouraging Reflection

Help your child think deeply about their experiences and what they mean to them. Reflection builds self-awareness and helps them understand their goals.
Example: After completing a big project, ask questions like "What did you learn from this? How would you do it differently next time?"

6. Modelling Positive Behaviours

Show flexibility, curiosity, and resilience in your own actions. Share personal stories about overcoming challenges to inspire your child.
Example: Talk about a time you learned a new skill at work and how persistence helped you master it.

7. Supporting Non-School Learning
Encourage your child to explore hobbies and engage in community activities that expand their learning. This connects schoolwork to the real world.
Example: Visit a local science (or online) museum or encourage participation in community sports or art workshops.

8. Providing Emotional Support

Help your child overcome emotional barriers to learning, such as stress or lack of confidence. Be understanding and seek professional guidance when needed.
Example: If your child is anxious about a test, work together on strategies like relaxation techniques or study schedules.

9. Encouraging Agency

Guide your child to take responsibility and make positive changes in their life. Encourage critical thinking and self-reflection in daily tasks.
Example: If they face challenges with schoolwork, help them set achievable goals and identify when to ask for help.

10. Celebrating Achievements

Cheer for every success, big or small! Celebrating achievements boosts confidence and shows them that their efforts matter.
Example: Celebrate finishing a challenging school project by cooking their favourite meal or simply sharing how proud you are.

Term 1 Report - Years 10-12 Deputy Principal

Senior Assemblies

Our Year 10, 11 and 12 students have had a number of guest speakers attending our weekly assemblies in Term 1 to share information around various careers:

• Adrianna from Tourism Travel provided a great Hospitality & Tourism experience for year 12 leavers.
• Renee from Australian Institute of Architects gave an interesting insight into the career pathways and work involved in being an Architect.
• Adam from Qld Fire and Rescue shared some important and confronting information about Road Safety amongst young drivers.
• Amy from CQ University spoke about the different opportunities to study certificates and degrees while still at school and after school.

Term 2 assemblies will include guest speakers from Kids Help line and an accomplished author.

Term 1 Excursions

• Cairns-based students attended the JCU Health Careers Breakfast
• Cairns-based students attended the Health Careers Expo at the Cairns Convention Centre

Term 2 Excursion opportunities

• Year 10-12 SEQ-based students have the opportunity to attend the Brisbane Careers Expo with our Guidance Officer (GO) and Industry Vocational and Training Pathways Officer (IVTO) on Friday 13^th June. Attendance and permission forms will be shared early in Term 2. Contact Ms Campbell lmhar6@eq.edu.au should you require further information.
• Ergon Energy Emerging Leaders breakfast in Cairns in May – information will be shared on assembly in Term 2.

James Cook University (JCU) Residential opportunity

JCU offers a range of residential programs for senior students who are considering university pathways after year 12. The inaugural JCU Navigate YOU Summit is a live-in program offering current Year 10 students studying and residing in North or Far North Queensland the chance to experience university life during the school holidays. The program is an entirely immersive residential program that is fully funded by JCU. It provides students with a distinctive experience of tertiary education to inform their career goals, develop confidence and build capacity for tertiary study. The Navigate YOU Summit aims to provide encouragement to students who have the capability to thrive at university, however, may lack the confidence and career clarity to pursue a tertiary pathway.

Program details

• Dates: Monday 7 July – Friday 11 July 2025 (Week two of school holidays).
• Location: JCU Townsville, Bebegu Yumba campus, Douglas.
• Staying on campus: Accommodation is in the residential colleges on JCU campus with catering provided for all participants while on campus. Residential participants will be supervised by JCU staff.
• Cost: Free. JCU will coordinate and provide all travel, accommodation and meals for students.

Who should attend

• Year 10 students who would like to experience a University Residential Program
• Students who wish to build confidence in subject selection and career choices
• Students wanting an educative approach to the decision-making process
• Students that have permission from their Parent/Guardians to attend for the full duration of the program

Applications open in April at the beginning of School Term 2, 2025 and close COB Friday 30 May 2025. 

Student and Parent Information Sessions

We welcome a new staff member to a new position at our school: Industry Vocational Training Officer (IVTO) Amanda Taylor, will be working alongside our Vocational Education and Training (VET) HoD – Jennifer Vicig. There have been a number of changes in the VET space across Australia in the last couple of months. Together they will be providing an information session for parents of Years 9-11 students who are interested in a vocational pathway – i.e. School-based apprenticeship/traineeship and/or Certificate courses for 2026 and beyond.

This session will run in Term 2. Details and link will be shared early in Term 2. 

Parents and students who have an interest or questions about what is possible in this area are welcome to join us for a brief presentation and Q and A.

Year 10 Senior Education and Training Plan (SET Plan) – 2025

• Year 10 SET Planning will commence in Term 2 – a date claimer will be emailed to all Year 10 students and parent at the beginning of Term 2. Whether your student is leaving at the end of Year 10 or continuing onto year 11 and 12, all Year 10 students are required to engage in a SET Plan Interview with a Cairns SDE staff member.

Timetable changes for Term 2

Due to a decrease in numbers in Year 10 and 11, some classes have been collapsed, and these changes will take affect from the beginning of term 2. In most cases, lessons will still occur at the same time, but students may have a new teacher. Please check your timetable on Tuesday 22 April 2025.

Student Achievement - Anna attended a JCU Residential experience

Last year, senior student Anna P secured a place in one of the JCU Residential experiences. Anna has shared this experience with us:

Last year I had the amazing opportunity to participate in the Heroes in Sport program in Townsville after being selected and getting a rural scholarship. This program was run in conjunction with JCU and the North Queensland Cowboys. The day started at the JCU campus where I got to learn about courses which are offered including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and sport and exercise science. We viewed learning areas at JCU and participated in practical activities related to these careers. Following this we headed to the North Queensland Cowboys High Performance Training Centre where the Cowboys train. We met the Cowboys trainers, had a tour of the facilities and participated in a high-performance training session. The Heroes in Sport program was an incredible experience and I gained so much from attending. If you get an opportunity, I strongly recommend participating in one of these programs offered by JCU. 

Graduation and Celebration week - Term 4: Week 7

Monday 17 November to Friday 21 November – Year 10, 11 and 12 students - Save the date for a week of camping, Graduation Dinner (Year 12), Presentation Ceremony and Reef trip. It will be a jam-packed week of activities for our senior students. Hope to see you there!

Positive Behaviours for Learning (PBL)

Cairns SDE is a Positive Behaviour for Learning school. Our three foci for Cairns SDE are identified in our Matrix for Expected Behaviours: Responsible, Respectful, Resilient.  Teachers and Home Tutors are encouraged to identify and acknowledge our students when they demonstrate these behaviours.

Parent Liaison Officer News

Guten Tag Parents and Home Tutors!

How was first term with your students?

Many of you, for a variety of reasons, were unable to start the year with our Orientation Week and participate in the first lesson for all of your student’s subjects. I am hoping you experienced what Cairns SDE is known for and that you had kind, caring and understanding Connect and subject teachers to guide you through. Maybe they didn’t have exactly what you were after, but they are very capable of troubleshooting and helping you navigate student expectations and possibilities.

Home Tutor Inductions

I had the pleasure of meeting many of our new families via a Teams Home Tutor Induction during Term 1. As per usual I didn’t have the time to get through all of the new families however and I am always here to assist you with any Home Tutor support queries you might have. To assist this process, I will also create a video dedicated to supporting new families, followed by the offer of a “Check-In” after there has been the opportunity to view.

Mini School Term 1

A BIG thank you to all the parents and Home Tutors who participated in the Mini Schools. I was in Albion (Brisbane) with the SEQ crew and it was wonderful to see all the Home Tutors connecting, asking questions, and reaping the benefits of being involved in a community. I heard that the same happened in Cairns and again in Malanda with the long serving families of the Tablelands cluster.

Special thank you to retiring teacher John Sellars who delivered valuable professional development at all 3 events regarding Education Perfect and Maths Literacy. We also had interesting information shared and discussed, regarding cybersafety and screen time which is likely to be turned into a podcast. Look out for our podcast series due to commence in Term 2.

Joint Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation project

The other project that Home Tutors commenced for Mini Schools was a crocheting adventure in conjunction with Far North Queensland Hospital Foundation. Each region had their own colour and came together to create granny squares. A granny square is a crocheted square, typically made in rounds with clusters of traditional stitches. They are used to produce various outcomes like blankets, cushions, or clothing.

We will be combing the yellow granny squares of Cairns’ coastal beaches with the rainforest green squares of the lush nature of the Tablelands environs, and the Nordic blue squares, representing the vast and clear oceans of our SEQ cluster. The yellow, green and blue squares will combine and become fidget quilts for Alzheimer and Dementia patients.

All the best for Term 2 and beyond.

Clare Macpherson | PLO@cairnssde.eq.edu.au | 07 4080 9208

Term 1 Student Leader Report

Hello Everyone,

Our Student Leader Superstars began the year attending the first ever Student Leader Camp!

At the beginning of the Term, the first Student Leader Camp of 2025 was held on campus of CSDE. Thank you to Ms Stoetzel, Ms Findlay, Ms Sugden, Mrs Preston, Mr Fara, Mr Agnew, our amazing principal Mr Linnehan and our awesome DPs and HoDs, as well as teachers for supporting our Student Leaders at this fabulous camp. Leaders who couldn’t attend in-person had the opportunity to participate online and showed resilience in the face of technical challenges.

We range from grade 3 to 12 and were amazing during this camp. The Leaders attended the GRIP Conference, onsite and online. It was there where we talked about a lot of innovative ideas, how to make this school better, how we can navigate challenges.

We also have achieved implementing our first ever Year 6 Graduation shirts, thanks to our Primary Team.

We meet every Friday at 12:45pm via Microsoft Teams meeting to discuss a range of innovative topics, such as Clubs, future and current events, challenges that occur. The Leadership Team focuses majority on building community engagement through our assemblies, such as quizzes, talking to the slides and much more. We provide student voices within our school planning processes. Events for Term 1 and Term 2, such as the Photography Challenge, Anzac Day, our Student Clubs, the Exercise Challenge and Cultural Day are all brought to you by our Leaders.

Our current clubs for 2025 are

• Minecraft Club (Tuesdays and Fridays from 3:00 pm- 4:30 pm)
• VEX Robotics Club (Mondays from 2:30 pm- 3:15pm)
• Art Appreciation Club (Thursdays at 3:00pm- 4:00pm)
• Film Club (Lunch Break Thursday 1:00pm- 1:30pm fortnightly)
• Student Writers Club (Mondays from 2:30pm- 3:30pm)
• Sign-Online Club (Tuesdays from 1pm-1:30pm)
• Philosophy Club (TBA)
• Sustainability Club (TBC)
• Anime Club (TBA)

We are also working on putting together a Survey for new Clubs.

Our Team from Grade 3- 12:
Tijania D C (Year 3)
Colby J (Year 4)
Charlie C (Year 4)
Chelsea A (Year 4)
Allira D (Year 6)
Emily E (Year 9)
Sina L (Year 10)
Sienna O (Year 11)
Natalie P (Year 11)
Briella C (Year 11)
Talen M (Year 12)

Senior School Captains
Aaron T (Year 12)
Mackenzie B (Year 12)

Junior School Captains
Madelyn A (Year 6)
Pippa P (Year 6)

We look forward to participating in events as the year progresses and making a positive impact on our school.

Emily Evans & The Leadership Team

Cairns Mini School

Cairns Mini School

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Cairns Mini School: Stories Coming to Life

In the final week of Term 1, our students took part in an unforgettable Cairns Mini School experience, themed “Stories Coming to Life.” Across three exciting days, students immersed themselves in storytelling, creativity, and collaboration, developing new skills and deepening their love of learning.

Day 1: A Journey Through Creativity and History

The week kicked off with a burst of inspiration as students worked with graphic novel author Lachlann Carter. Through engaging workshops, they explored the art of storytelling and illustration—learning how characters, ideas, and visuals come together to form compelling graphic narratives.

In the afternoon, students visited the Cairns Museum, diving into the past through interactive exhibits. The museum provided a rich historical context that helped spark ideas and imaginations, offering students a deeper understanding of the world around them and how stories can be shaped by history.

Day 2: Characters Come Alive

Creativity was in full swing on Day 2 as students stepped into the world of drama. In a fun and energetic session, they brought their wonderful characters to life through performance. The laughter and enthusiasm in the room were contagious!

Following the drama workshop, students began storyboarding their creations, either by hand or using digital tools. This planning stage allowed them to map out scenes and narratives, combining imagination with structure to prepare for the final phase of their projects.

Day 3: Lights, Camera, Action!

The final day was a flurry of editing, polishing, and performing. With their characters and storylines in place, students brought their narratives to life through short films, digital media, or performances. The growth in confidence, collaboration, and creative thinking was on full display.

To conclude the week, students presented their work in a special showcase for staff, parents, and home tutors. The audience was blown away by the originality, effort, and storytelling talent on display. It was a truly proud moment for all involved.

A heartfelt thank you goes out to our guest facilitator Lachlann Carter, the team at the Cairns Museum, all our incredible students, staff, parents, and home tutors for making Cairns Mini School such a resounding success. We can’t wait to see where our storytelling adventures take us next!

Tablelands Mini School

Mini School in Malanda: A Cinematic and Cultural Adventure

Our recent Mini School event in Malanda was an unforgettable experience for students from Prep to Year 12, filled with creativity, movement, and adventure!

Years 4-12 focused on the art of filmmaking, learning essential skills to craft their own short films. Many students took the opportunity to submit their creations to the Very Short Film Festival, showcasing their storytelling and cinematography talents.

Meanwhile, Prep to Year 3 explored the magic of moviemaking by creating their own very short films. They learned about different film shots and angles, danced, acted, and even delved into local history through storytelling. Their hands-on activities included making picture book puppets from popsicle sticks and taking on exciting LEGO team challenges.

Each morning, we kicked off the day with 'Energise with Mrs B', where students stretched, played games outside, and enjoyed touch football, as well as traditional Chinese and Indonesian games.

The grand finale of our three-day event took us to Lake Barrine, where we celebrated our hard work by watching our films and embarking on a cruise across the lake. Along the way, we spotted eels, fish, turtles, and even a giant python! Some students took on the 5km Lake Barrine Walk, while younger students enjoyed the Twin Kauris Walk, complete with an exciting scavenger hunt.

Mini School was an incredible blend of learning, creativity, and outdoor exploration. We can’t wait for the next adventure!

Tablelands Mini School

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SEQ Mini School

SEQ Mini School

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Sparking Imagination at the CSDE SEQ Mini School

In the final week of Term 1, CSDE students, home tutors, and staff came together in Brisbane for our Southeast Queensland Mini School — three inspiring days of hands-on learning, creativity, and connection, all under the theme “Sparking Imagination.”

Day 1: Planes, Cars, Boats & Beats

We launched into Mini School with a paper plane challenge, where students tested their designs in a friendly competition to see which could fly the furthest.
In the morning sessions, Prep to Year 7 students built and raced balloon-powered cars, while Years 7–12 created sailboats from Styrofoam, paper straws, and other recycled materials — a fantastic display of teamwork and problem-solving.
In the afternoon, we were joined by the talented Josh Arnold, who worked with students to begin creating an official CSDE school song. There was music, laughter, and plenty of school spirit on display!

Day 2: Bridges, Popcorn & Science Magic 🤓😄

The second day began with engineering challenges, including building bridges and designing popcorn containers.
Then, excitement filled the room as Danni from Street Science brought science to life with a series of dazzling demonstrations. Students got to make fake snow and jelly creatures, while learning about the science behind each reaction. It was a highlight of the week — hands-on, fun, and full of “wow” moments.

Day 3: Spheros, Solar Buddies & Stack Attacks

Our final day featured a mix of technology and teamwork. Students explored coding and robotics through Spheros, solved a crime using chromatography, and revisited the popcorn container challenge with new ideas.
Later, we took part in a meaningful service activity by assembling Solar Buddies — portable solar-powered lights for children living in areas without reliable electricity. It was a powerful way to give back and reflect on global citizenship.
To wrap things up, we had a fun-filled cup stacking competition: students versus home tutors! Everyone showed off their unique thinking and fast hands. Teachers also held a mini awards ceremony where students read postcards aloud — a lovely way to celebrate friendships and achievements.

A huge thank you to all the students, families, and staff who made the SEQ Mini School such a special event. We can’t wait to see what we’ll create together next time!

Year 10 HPE - Special Guest Speakers

Inspiring Lessons on Spinal Injury and the Power of Smart Choices

On Wednesday 5 March, our Year 10 HPE cohort had the privilege of welcoming guest speakers Jason East and Don Tennant to our school. Their visit provided an invaluable opportunity for students to gain a deeper understanding of spinal cord injuries and the lifelong impacts they can have—not only on individuals but also on their families and communities.

Through their compelling personal stories, Jason and Don emphasized the importance of making safe, informed decisions, particularly in situations involving risk. Their accounts highlighted how a single moment can change a life forever, reinforcing the significance of responsibility and awareness in everyday choices.

The session was both eye-opening and deeply moving. Students listened attentively as the speakers shared their experiences, and many found themselves reflecting on their own attitudes toward risk-taking and personal safety. The opportunity to ask questions and engage in discussion helped further develop empathy and understanding for those living with spinal cord injuries.

Beyond just being an informative session, the visit served as a powerful reminder of resilience, adaptability, and the human spirit. Jason and Don’s positive outlook and willingness to share their journeys left a lasting impression, inspiring students to think critically about their own decision-making and the broader implications of their actions.

Year 10 HPE Teachers
Mr Agnew, Mr Llewelyn, Mrs Bakurski, Mr Coleman, Mrs Agnew, Mr Davis & Mr Gunning

Prep to 6 Easter Hat Parade Competition

In Term 1 we held a Prep to 6 Easter Hat Parade competition. Student entries were top notch, and it was a hard decision for the judges to choose the winners! Even our staff didn't want to miss out, getting creative with their own Easter Hats!

Drum roll please.... 🥁 We are excited to announce the winners are Evie (Prep) and Hailston (Year 4). Congratulations Evie and Hailston!

Here's a message from the staff who made this event possible:

A Joyous Celebration: Our First Prep – Year 6 Assembly & Easter Hat Parade

On Friday March 28 we gathered for a special milestone at CSDE—our first Prep to Year 6 assembly! This exciting event also featured our much-anticipated Easter Hat Parade, bringing together 80 of our students, staff, and families to celebrate creativity and community spirit.

Our wonderful student leaders Pippa, Maddy, Colby, Chelsea, Charlie and Tijania assisted Ms. Carly in hosting the assembly, demonstrating confidence, enthusiasm, and exceptional leadership. They are fantastic role models for their peers, and we sincerely appreciate their efforts.

A huge thank you to all the students who participated by sending in photos of their incredible Easter hat creations. The level of creativity and effort was truly outstanding! We were also thrilled to see so many of our teachers involved, designing some fantastic hats and ears. This enthusiasm made the event even more special.

We extend our gratitude to our special guest judges—our wonderful teacher aides, Mrs. Miriam, Mrs. Chamalee, and Mrs. Karla—who had the challenging task of selecting winners. Congratulations to Hailston in Year 4 who received the Best Hat Award and to Edie in Prep for earning the Highly Commended Award. Well done to all participants for your hard work and imagination!

Thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to making this event so memorable. Seeing the excitement on students’ faces and the pride in their creations was truly heart-warming.

Message from 2024 Dux Award recipient Amelia

At the start of the school year, we announced the 2024 DUX Award recipient, Amelia Reynolds. Amelia has shared her story, which is one of true perseverance and with an ultimate goal in mind, she now begins a new journey. Amelia we wish you all the best for the future. Here is her story.

Amelia Reynolds - My Journey

Distance Education is a lot like ballet: both require immense discipline to continuously improve and perform under pressure. My decision to pursue full-time ballet training in 2020 at the age of 14 meant leaving my home in Tasmania and moving to Brisbane alone. Everyone in the dance world told me Cairns School of Distance Education offered the flexibility to continue my senior schooling from Year 9 around a training schedule that filled all regular school hours.

I ambitiously undertook parallel study, aiming to become a professional dancer whilst also attaining my QCE. The demanding workload was not the only challenge I faced, as a frustrating cycle of injuries threatened my dance progress. Instead of diminishing my focus and determination, they motivated me to learn about my body – optimising my training approach and preparing for a life beyond dance. When CSDE provided the opportunity to compete in the 2021 Brain Bee Neuroscience Competition, I jumped at it, reaching the state final in Brisbane. I proudly wore the maroon CSDE blazer and was thrilled to receive third place. Yet, what I remember most is a member of the CSDE team travelling from Cairns to cheer me on as I tackled questions on functional neuroanatomy, psychology and disease. 

CSDE continued to support me when I relocated to Amsterdam in 2022 to undertake a two-year Associate Degree in Classical Ballet with the Dutch National Ballet Academy. Pursuing my QCE was extraordinarily challenging whilst training six days a week – often from before sunrise into the evenings – touring the Netherlands performing with the Dutch National Ballet and managing a significant time zone difference. At the same time, my studies and struggles with Joint Hypermobility Spectrum Disorder seemed to collide, igniting a passion for medicine, so I reset my sights on achieving a med-worthy ATAR. CSDE teachers devised a plan for me to complete Years 11 and 12 over three years and didn’t hesitate to change my subject selections. Every spare minute had to be dedicated to exam preparation, even doing Maths Methods calculations side stage during 11pm performance rehearsals! Then, there were the hurdles of medical school entry to overcome. From the University Clinical Aptitude Test to Mini-Multiple Interviews, I pushed my brain just as hard as I pushed my body and approached each test with performance focus, driven by the prospect of making a meaningful difference to the lives of others.

Was it all worth it? To be honest, I am proud but tired. With an Associate Degree in Classical Ballet and provisional entry into a Doctor of Medicine at the University of Queensland, the dual ambitions of a high school student have been fulfilled. The team at CSDE should take a bow for my award as Dux of 2024 while I spend this year preparing for seven years of study to become a doctor, starting in 2026. I continue to dance every day, pursuing performance opportunities, grateful that I have never had to choose between my artistry and academics.

Amelia

Student Alumni Achievement

2025 graduate Richard Sayers was the recipient of a UniSC scholarship sponsored by the Moreton Bay Council for students studying at the Moreton Bay campus located in Petrie. 

Mr Findlay and Ms Campbell were able to meet with Richard recently to congratulate him on this wonderful achievement. It was a great opportunity to support Richard who was an active CSDE student leader and PBL representative.

Congratulations and well-done Richard! We wish you all the best with his Engineering studies.

Student Achievement - Jett

A huge congratulations to Year 12 student Jett, who qualified for the Track and Field National Titles in Perth on April 6, to compete in the gruelling 3000m race! Jett’s qualifying time places him among the fastest 3000m runners for his age – what an incredible achievement! 

Before Jett heads to Perth for the Nationals, he competed at the Queensland 3000m Championships at the University of Queensland Athletics Sports Centre in St Lucia. 🏃‍♂️ He put in a stellar performance, winning the title of 3000m Queensland State Champion! Not only did he claim the title, but he also shattered his personal best by an impressive 12 seconds, clocking in at 8:30 minutes. Well done, what an amazing accomplishment! 

We're all cheering you on for the Nationals on April 6. Best of luck, we're 100% behind you!

Student Achievement - Vakula

Congratulations to Vakula who has been awarded a placement in the 2025 SPARQ-ed (Students Performing Advanced Research Queensland – Education) Junior Research Engagement Program! Well done Vakula, we are beyond excited and proud! 

Vakula will attend the two-day event at the end of May in Brisbane. Participants are provided with a practical introduction to biomedical research at the Translational Reasearch Institute, a cutting-edge facility featuring a fully equipped Physical Containment (PC2) teaching laboratory and learning centre.

We look forward to hearing how it all went!

Student Art Showcase - Emily

It's wonderful to be able to share student's amazing work.

Year 9 student Emily felt inspired to draw these gorgeous pictures after reading the "Wings of Fire' series. Wow! Well done Emily, you are very creative! 

Staff Achievement - Shweta Goyal

We are proud to share the wonderful achievement of our amazing staff member Ms Shweta Goyal. Shweta is a Maths and Physics Teacher at Cairns SDE and she was recently selected as the recipient of the Cleo Xynias Multicultural Woman of the Year Scholarship. Congratulations Shweta! Shweta has shared her inspirational journey below:

I am deeply honoured and grateful to have been selected as the recipient of the Cleo Xynias Multicultural Woman of the Year Scholarship, awarded by the Ethnic Communities Council of Queensland (ECCQ). This recognition is incredibly meaningful to me, reflecting not only my personal passion but also our collective commitment to fostering multiculturalism, equity, and inclusion within our community.

This scholarship helps me to empower women and supports my ongoing efforts to advocate for equity and inclusion. Through this recognition, I aim to amplify voices, encourage leadership, and create meaningful impacts in our diverse community.

Currently, I am pursuing a PhD in Education at the University of Southern Queensland, focusing on exploring the work-life balance experiences of women in STEM fields within regional Australian universities. This research aligns closely with my dedication to promoting equity and empowerment, particularly for culturally diverse women navigating professional and personal responsibilities.

I sincerely thank ECCQ for this honour and my wonderful colleagues and students at our school for their constant support and inspiration. I look forward to bringing these enriched experiences and insights back to our community.

Warm regards,
Shweta Goyal

Term 2 Annual Camp Week - 23-27 June

We are excited to announce our next big event of the year, Term 2 Annual Camp Week! Monday 23 - Friday 27 June.

A week packed full with camps for Years P-9, Cultural Day Celebration and to finish the week, Sports Day!

Monday 23 - Wednesday 25 June
Years Prep - 3 Camp - Cairns SDE Campus, Manunda
Years 4-6 Camp - Tinaroo Environmental Education Centre, Tinaroo
Years 7-9 Camp - Daradgee Environmental Education Centre, Daradgee (Innisfail)

Thursday 26 June
Cultural Day Celebration - Cairns SDE Campus, Manunda

Friday 27 June
Sports Day - Johnson Park, Gordonvale

Full details of the event, and registration information will be sent to families soon.  Keep an eye out on your inbox and our Facebook and Instagram page.

Save the Date - Celebration Week Term 4

Save the Date! Get ready to celebrate the end of a wonderful year at the 2025 Cairns SDE Celebration Week from Monday 17 - Friday 21 November (Term 4, Week 7)

Event Details

Monday 17 to Wednesday 19 November

• Years 10-12 Senior Camp
• Prep to Year 9 Swimming and excursion

Thursday 20 November

• Prep to Year 12 Presentation Day
• Year 12 Graduation Celebration Dinner & Formal

Friday 21 November

• Years 10-12 Reef Trip
• Sugarworld

More information will be shared in Term 3, but for now mark your calendar for the event of the year!

Save the Date - Year 12 Graduation Celebration

An extra special Save the Date

Year 12 Graduation is a very special and memorable time. This year we have locked in the date Thursday 20 November. The celebration will be made up of Formal arrivals and a Celebration Dinner for in-person attendance. We will also have options for virtual attendance, so you can make it special in your own way wherever you are. Either way, dress to impress!

Full details will be shared in Term 3. For any questions, please feel welcome to contact Ms Preston spres40@eq.edu.au 

Lunchtime Stories - Monday & Wednesday at 1pm.

Join us for Lunchtime Stories, every Monday and Wednesday at 1pm in CSDE Student Space. Check Student Notices weekly to see who the special guest reader is.

Who to contact

Do you have a question about your child or student? Not sure who to contact? Here's a quick reference guide 📩

Student Achievement - Let us know

If your child has an achievement or you would like to share a story about your child with our school community, please send us an email with information and photos regarding your child’s achievement and it will be shared in our newsletter and on social media. Email: marketing@cairnssde.eq.edu.au 

SchoolTV

Have you seen SchoolTV?  

You will find a range of topics published monthly with comprehensive videos from leading specialists and organisations. You will find fact sheets, suggested books, apps, websites and much more. Because SchoolTV is independent, they’ve pulled in some great content from organisations such as Beyond Blue, ReachOut, HeadSpace and others.

If you do have any concerns about the wellbeing of your child, please contact our school for further information or seek medical or professional help.
We trust you get great value from every edition and happy, safe parenting!  

Link: https://cairnssde.eq.schooltv.me/category-latest-newsletter 

Here's our top picks for the start of 2025

School Transitions: https://cairnssde.eq.schooltv.me/newsletter/school-transitions  
Confidence & Motivation: https://cairnssde.eq.schooltv.me/newsletter/confidence-motivation-au
Managing Screen Time: https://cairnssde.eq.schooltv.me/newsletter/managing-screen-time  
Friendship & Belonging: https://cairnssde.eq.schooltv.me/newsletter/friendship-belonging  

QParents

Attention Parents & Carers!

If you haven't yet downloaded the QParents app, now is the perfect time! The QParents portal will provide secure online access to your child’s student information in one place, anywhere, anytime.

Here’s how to register

1. Have your QParents invitation email ready. If you haven't received it, please contact us at: QParents@cairnssde.eq.edu.au
2. Gather documents for identity verification
3. Your child/children’s EQID (Education Queensland Identification number)

Check out the attached QParents guide for detailed registration steps. For more information, visit: https://bit.ly/3Weol5b.

Don't miss out on this opportunity to stay connected with your child's learning!

Did you know we have a Facebook and Instagram page?

Follow us for regular updates, news, photos & more.

Facebook:  https://www.facebook.com/cairnssde 

Instagram:  #cairnssde

Support Organisations

Did you know that Lifeline has the option of text support counselling?

2025 EQ School Calendar

Start planning with the 2025 school calendar now available on the Education Queensland website.

The calendar features school term dates, school holiday dates, public holidays and staff development/student free days.

If you’re looking for more room to write, check out the 2025 school planner which is now bigger and better at A3 size per term and notes each term week.