News

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:19:54 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

Are you #Ready2020?

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:41:16 AEDT

Hints, tips and resources to make a great start to the new school year – whether it’s your first day of high school or you’ve been here a while.

We work hard to make sure every student is known, valued and cared for – even before they walk into the classroom on Day 1, Term 1.

We’ve got great advice and resources for high school, no matter what year you’re heading into...

For families of students starting Year 7:

download our Getting ready for high school booklet
read our top tips for a smooth transition.

For families of returning students:

visit the back to school checklist to make a hassle-free start to the year
download the 2020 calendar to stay organised all year
check out our hints for setting up a study space.

Video – #Ready2020: First day at high school

Duration – 1:00

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:02:10 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 17:21:42 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 12:12:53 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Reading has been shown to reduce stress by 68% more than listening to music, going for a walk, or having a cup of tea.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – Ben Law asks students about their favourite author

Duration: 1:18

Author and #ReadingHour ambassador Benjamin Law talks with some of our students about their favourite books.

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:28:13 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

What’s next after high school?

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 11:26:39 AEST

Is your child in Year 9 to 12 curious about their career choices? Now they can use LifeLauncher, a free online tool to explore and simplify their career choices.

Your child can explore courses and careers in-depth, at their own pace, anytime, anywhere and on any device. The tool includes 4,000 careers and 1,500 course options, all in one place.

How does it work?

Encourage your child to jump online and complete the 5-minute personality and subject quizzes to be matched to a range of career options that suit their passions and strengths.

If they take both quizzes, they’ll get more refined suggestions. They can even create free online pinboards to shortlist the courses and jobs that interest them.

When your child creates an account, they can save their searches and build a real understanding of the opportunities and pathways open to them.

What can your child learn about their career options?

Your child can explore the weekly salary of the career options they’re interested in. They’ll also find the employment and growth rates of those careers and the number of workers currently in those fields in Australia.

Each career option shows them the education they need as well as other related careers. They can follow links to other sites to find out more about a course to help them find the best provider for them.

Launch into the future today

Use this tool to chat with your child about their post-school options in a meaningful way.

Inspire your child to find their career match today at LifeLauncher.nsw.gov.au.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:55:00 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:28:33 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 11:42:39 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:58:19 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:12:50 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:25:24 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

Follow your heart, not the herd

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:33:18 AEDT

We spoke with a group of Kindergarten students to find out what they had to say about going against the herd. They had some wise words for us on how we can care, respect and support each other in our schools.

Let’s start the year off right and prevent student bullying happening in our playgrounds, classrooms and online. If a group of 5-year-olds know the difference between right and wrong, shouldn’t everyone?

Video – Wise at 5

Duration – 1:08

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:22:14 AEDT

The first day of high school and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you and your child get organised and enjoy the experience we've compiled some useful tips for each year group.

We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:00:54 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Our Anti-Racism Contact Officer

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

The NSW Department of Education and Communities rejects all forms of racism and is committed to the elimination of racial discrimination.

Miss Bowen is currently undergoing ARCO (Anti-Racism Contact Officer) training via online modules, video conferences and phone call interviews. This training requires ten hours or more of self-paced study over a six-week duration as well as two 1.5-hour VC group sessions with a trained tutor.

The role of the ARCO is to assist any member of the school community who wishes to bring a complaint of racism. The ARCO may assist in putting the complaint into writing and explaining to the complainant their rights and responsibilities in relation to the procedures contained in the Responding to Suggestions, Complaints and Allegations policy. The key role is to respond professionally as a mediator to any suggestions or complaints regarding racism at school and to contribute together with other members of the staff to promote anti-racism education.

We would like to promote the DET website link that has translations (more than 35 languages) of many relevant educational PDF documents. The link allows you to choose your language then browse documents in that language:

http://www.schools.nsw.edu.au/languagesupport/language/index.php

The following websites provide useful information in relation to anti-racism strategies: www.racismnoway.com.au

www.multiculturalaustralia.edu.au

www.harmony.gov.au

www.myplace.edu.au

I extend a reminder to all that if at any time you find that you have a concern about the school,
you are encouraged to come to the school and tell someone so that your concern can be
resolved. It is our aim to work with all of our school community to ensure that we do the very
best we can to ensure a productive, safe and enjoyable experience for our students. Should you
feel that you must raise a concern formally, the NSW Department of Education has procedures
for ensuring that complaints are handled fairly. Information about how to lodge a complaint
is available from the school office. Further information is also available in the Department's
Complaints Handling Guidelines which you can find on the Department's website at: http://www.dec.nsw.gov.au/detresources/about-us/how-we-operate/how-we-handle-complaints/printabledocs/printguidelines.pdf

Dr Michael Carr-Gregg

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

PARENT/CARER WORKSHOP

Proudly presented by the Cudgegong Learning Community

"Building happy and resilient young people"

Date: Sunday 23rd April

Time: 4:00pm

Location: Mudgee Public School Hall

Dr Michael-Carr (docx 14 KB)

CLC Flyer (pub 124 KB)

Victor Chang Award Recipient Georgia Reddish

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Georgia Reddish, the 2016 Victor Chang School Science award recipient, had the opportunity yesterday to attend the Victor Chang research institute.

For the first time, Year 11 students from 21 schools in the Illawarra and South-East region have been awarded the prestigious Victor Chang School Science Award.

The Award ceremony was held at the University of Wollongong's Innovation Campus, with students presented the award in front of their teachers, families and friends.

Nominated by their teachers as demonstrating the highest achievement in scientific studies throughout the year, the students will now have the opportunity to visit the Institute, and carry out scientific experiments under the supervision of leading researchers at the Victor Chang.

Year 10 Alternate Program Continues

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

The Year 10 Alternate Program continues this week. They have had two days attending "taster lessons" of the classes they have chosen for Year 11 and 12; this is aimed at giving them an introduction to each of the subjects and providing them with an understanding of what to expect next year. Fiona from UNE conducted a My Future Finder session, in which students learnt about their personality, strengths and weaknesses and how these may link to certain careers. We then had Angie from TAFE Western also talk with them about all the different options and pathways that can be pursued through TAFE.

Year 10 Alternate Program Continues

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Year 10 students have worked with Year 6 students from Gulgong Primary and All Hallows primary schools to develop their confidence in the high school environment. The day focused on the Year 10 students leading a series of games and activities that encouraged interaction and getting to know each other.

Whilst Year 10 students developed their leadership, communication and teamwork skills, Year 6 students developed relationships aimed at giving them some friendly faces for when they come to high school next year. It also gave Year 6 students the opportunity to ask questions about what high school is really like to those who have made the transition from primary to high school themselves.

Students started the day with some get to know you activities, moved on to a Q and A session, worked on reading and filling in high school own timetables, went on a journey to less familiar destinations around the high school, and finished with some trust building activities.

A fabulous day with Year 10 as fantastic role models, showing hard work and dedication to the Year 6 students.

Year 10 Wet'n'Wild Excursion

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

What a day! A day Year 10 will not forget in a hurry. So much fun, so many stairs climbed to reach the top of the slides, so many screams, so lucky to have such fantastic weather and such a quiet day at the park. No lines=no waiting! The students were fantastic and it was so great to see them all interacting and getting along with each other so well.

Under 15s Netball

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Congratulations to the Under 15s Netball team who went through their pool undefeated in Dubbo and progressed to the regional finals in Orange at a later date. Special thanks to Tracy Lucas who helped with transport and umpired all our games today. As always the girls were outstanding ambassadors for GHS. Good luck in future games girls!

Year 10 Alternative Program

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Year 10 students started their end of year alternate program after their ROSA Yearly Examinations. The program has been designed around increasing their knowledge and abilities, enabling them to develop their resumes showcasing their additional skills. They have undertaken interview preparation including a fun way to look at what to and not to wear to an interview. They have prepared and undertaken Mock-Interviews with an external panel. They also did some more training for their Year 6 into 7 buddy program. Year 10 should be commended for their attitudes and behavior the last couple of days which has been fantastic!

CSU University Day

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

A great two days was had by Year 10 and 11 students at the CSU University Day. Students got to experience uni' life first hand, staying overnight in university accommodation, attending lectures, participating in activities on the library lawn, eating college food, interacting with new friends from other schools, campus tours, and so much more. Well done to all students who were an absolute pleasure for staff and organisers throughout the two days!

Power of Engineering

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

In November 24 girls from years 8, 9 and 10 travelled to Lithgow High School for what was a very big day indeed. Leaving bright and early they headed to the Power of Engineering day.

At the event students were given first hand interactive experiences to see what it is like to be an engineer for the day. The day also touched on the many many different fields of engineering.

Activities the girls participated in included: a challenge game based on a shutdown period on a boiler, making their own wind powered turbine, and constructing a bridge taking in to account many restraints. We then finished our day off with a site visit to the Mt Piper Power Station.

All of the girls should be commended on the way they represented GHS, with several comments passed on about how well-behaved and well-mannered they all were.

French Food Day!

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Students love learning about the culture and language of a distant place. The activities are always fun and exciting, and a particular highlight is French Food Day.

Each year the subject culminates with this class party where students eat a range of French cuisine. Escargot is usually a big winner!

The Happiness Mission

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

Carly and Tresne (former contestants on Channel 7's My Kitchen Rules) from the Happiness Mission visited for an outstanding presentation about creating a happier you! The health and wellbeing program is based on positive psychology and neuroscience and motivated our students to strive to be the best version of themselves.

Scone Beef Bonanza

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

The GHS Cattle Show Team had a fantastic 4 days away at the Scone Beef Bonanza in October. A huge congratulations to all the students on the enormous effort they put in not only at Scone but in the weeks preparing the cattle leading up to the event.

Term 4 Has Begun

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

Welcome to the final term of the 2016 school year. I trust all students and staff had an enjoyable break.

Term 3 concluded with the Final Assembly for our Year 12 students. Thank you to all the family members who attended this important event to support their students in celebrating the end of their secondary education. Congratulations to Saschkia Baldaccino and Kellie Hendry on receiving the Principal's Gold Medal and to Victoria Birt who was this year's recipient of the Lion's Club Scholarship. Year 12 conducted themselves commendably in their last week of schooling and successfully raised $1200 for the Gulgong MultiPurpose Service. Congratulations to Year 12 on this outstanding result. Thank you to Mr Stanley and Mr Hughes who assisted with the organisation of Year 12 end of term functions and activities. Year 12 have now commenced their HSC Examinations and we wish them every success during this time

Artichokes Growing in the Hospo' Garden

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:20 AEST

We have exciting news in the kitchen garden! Artichoke hearts are starting to form after patiently waiting for several years on our slow growing plants to produce! Yum! Grilled, marinated and stuffed artichokes coming up on the menu.

Mathematics Challenge

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

On Tuesday 18th October, eight students from Year 9 and 10 participated in the M3 Mathematics Challenge at St Matthew's High School in Mudgee today.

Ag' News

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:20 AEST

Mrs Rohr and the Ag' farm's little lamb Crystal, who enjoyed a stroll in the playground today.

SRC Presidents 2017

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

GHS Presidents and Vice Presidents for 2016-2017 in their new official formal attire. From left to right: Olivia Slevin, Grace Hensly, Ms Linda Macleod, Josh Gauci and Harrison Woods.

Native Visitor to GHS!

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

Gulgong High School is no stranger to an array of local creatures of all varieties. As Spring has sprung, we have been lucky enough to spot an echidna outside the Science rooms. Students were very respectful of the little fella as they caught a look and a couple of shots.

Chinese Dragon at GHS!

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

For many months our Special Ed' unit have been toiling away to create a beautiful Chinese Dragon for the Chinese Gold Festival. Mrs Heidi Maskill-Hardy and Ms Catherine Moran handed over the majestic dragon to the Gulgong Chinese Festival Committee, who were very impressed by the monumental feat.

Year 9 Cupcake Stall

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:27 AEST

Year 9 ran a cupcake day to help them raise funds for their school excursion later in the year. The stall was a great success with just over $350 raised. Well done and thank you so very much to all who baked the yummy treats.

GHS Athletes

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Some impressive GHS students recently represented Western Region at the recent State Athletics. GHS came away finishing 4th overall out of all the schools involved. Well done guys, you should all be very proud of your achievements.

University of Newcastle's Girls' Choices Summer School Recipients

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Congratulations to the Year 9 students who have been selected to participate in the University of Newcastle's Girls' Choices Summer School. Gabrielle Canellis, Roma Mani, Felicity Davis, Chloe Lasham will experience uni' life for 5 days and participate in a variety of activities to help them explore the different types of careers that they could pursue in the future. The activities have a strong focus on Maths, Science, Engineering and Health. The students will be using university theatres, laboratories and workshops.

Hospitality Excursion to the Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

Year 12 Hospitality students got the opportunity of a lifetime on Tuesday 13th September when they visited The Emirates One&Only Wolgan Valley Resort. The students were given a guided tour of the property including staff accommodation, the horse stables, main guesthouse, the fully restored original homestead and the kitchen garden. The resort is one of a kind with guests paying from $2000 per night with a minimum 3 night stay. An opportunity that the students will not soon forget.

Footy Colours Day

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

On Friday, 9th September, GHS held Footy Colours Day. Students came in their favourite sport team's colours and donated a gold coin to raise funds for the Fight Cancer Foundation.
In conjunction, the SRC also cooked a mean barbie, selling sausage sandwiches to increase the donation to this worthy cause.

Year 9 Gulgong Geographical Excursion

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:27 AEST

On Monday, 5th September, Year 9 Geography students picked the perfect day to explore Gulgong. Students used their Geographical skills to understand how communities change and grow.

Photo Credit: Redhill Environmental Education Centre, Gulgong

Principal's Morning Tea

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:24 AEST

On Tuesday 6th September, students, parent and carers, and staff celebrated the achievements of students from years 7-12 for our school's Merit System at the Principal's Morning Tea. Students achievements were recognised by receiving Silver and/or Gold Awards. Congratulations to all of the recipients, it was lovely to see so many students receiving awards and so many family members presents to support our students.

Ag' Beef Bonanza Prep' Day

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:20 AEST

Our Ag students participated in their first Scone preparation day on the 8th September with their steers, Cracker and Stark. The activities involved with preparing their steers are grooming, washing and parading. The students are preparing the cattle for the Upper Hunter Scone Beef Bonanza in October.

Year 7 Introduction to Shakespeare

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Year 7 are currently being introduced to the Bard, the world's greatest playwright, and his comedy A Midsummer Night's Dream. This is the story of the Duke of Athens, a group of young Athenians stuck in a love triangle, six amateur actors, and the trickery of a

bunch of fairies in the woods, where the majority of the play is set. The students are dramatising mini-scenes from the play, and while the Elizabethan language is certainly challenging, the hilarity of the play is certainly replicated in classroom performances.

Turning Points Guest Presenter Visit

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

On the 9th August, 2016 all Year 10 as well as Year 11 Work Studies students participated in a career workshop with guest presenter Kathryn Taylor from Turning Points. The workshop was aimed at getting students to identify their strengths and weaknesses, learn about interview skills and techniques and starting to gather information to develop a resume which they will be working on further in upcoming Career lessons.

New additions to the GHS Poll Dorset stud- 3 ewe lambs

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

Education Week

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Education Week runs from the 1st through until the 5th August.

Gulgong High School would like to invite parents, carers and the community to our Open Classroom Afternoon. All classes will be open Period 5 and 6 (1:45-3:30 pm) for visitors to peruse the subjects undertaken on a regular basis at GHS.

Walk through the school and visit any of our classrooms, join in on lesson activities and see the students hard work.

Year 9 History Visitor

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:27 AEST

On Friday 29th July, Year 9 had a visit from Mrs Beryl Hayley who spoke of her father's experiences of the Boer War, World War I, and a little of World War II. The students were able to see photos, medals and other memorabilia and see the local, personal side of war. A big thank you to Mrs Hayley for giving up her time and sharing her memories.

Year 11 CROSSROADS 2016

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

Year 11 spent the last two days at Red Hill Environmental Education Centre completing the

Crossroads course. Focusing on mental health, risk and personal safety strategies and maintaining positive personal health and relationships, the students were involved in a variety of activities. Congratulations to all for your excellent effort and participation.

National History Challenge 2016

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

Applications for the National History Challenge available from Miss Bowen in Staffroom 1.

This is a research competition with free entry.

Students from all years are invited to participate. Entries are judged at school, State and National levels.

The theme is Triumph or TRAGEDY.

Prizes are available to student who excel.

For more information see Miss Bowen or go to historychallenge.org.au

Photography Competition Winners

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

Three of our talented students entered photos in the Sandy Smith Memorial Photography Competition held during the Henry Lawson Festival on the June long weekend. All students were successful with their entries.

NAIDOC Day 2016

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

GHS celebrated NAIDOC week on Thursday 30th June with a special assembly combined with Gulgong Public School, All Hallows and Happy Days Pre-School. The assembly was then followed by a BBQ and Johnny Cakes. To finish off the day the students enjoyed a variety of Aboriginal focused activities.

Brain Cancer Research Fundraiser

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Year 12 student Tiara Simpson cut off her very long hair today in order to raise money for Brain Cancer Research. She is also donating her hair to kids with alopecia. Well done Tiara! Students also helped to raise money by wearing beanies for brain cancer and making a gold coin donation, as well as selling cupcakes.

Special Education Food Technology

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

Special Ed's last practical lesson of the term, they made individual pepperoni pizzas. They were a huge success!

University of Sydney Health Career Options Seminar

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:26 AEST

On Tuesday 28th June, students from years 10, 11 and 12 were involved in a visit from The University of Sydney Mirage Rural Health team. The Mirage team is a group of university students who are from rural areas themselves and have gone on to study health related courses at The University of Sydney. The visit was very hands on and GHS students were given the opportunity to experience first hand a variety of day to day activities of an Occupational Therapist, Nurse, Dentist, Doctor, Physiotherapist, and pharmacist. The activities saw students testing each other's reflexes, experiencing what it's like not being able to use a hand for everyday tasks, giving a friend a plaster cast, packing a Webster pack, examining X-rays, testing lung capacity, testing grip strength and carving teeth out of soap. A presentation was also given to students about the barriers rural students face when it comes to going to university and how to help overcome these. The students got a great deal out of the morning and you can see from the pictures they really enjoyed themselves.

Fundraiser for Gulgong RFS

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Gulgong High School's SRC ran a Cupcake Day, where all funds raised went to the Gulgong RFS.

Pilliga Pottery Excursion

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

Year 11 English Studies and Work Studies classes travelled to Pilliga Pottery and Barkala Farm where they students had a fantastic day learning all about the property, how it operates as a farm stay, unique pottery, as well as a "Wwoofing" (willing workers on organic farms) farm. We were given a guided tour of the property and dwellings, all of which are made from materials on the farm. We were also fortunate enough to witness the potters at work. The students enjoyed wood fire pizzas made at the property's own café for lunch which was followed by an afternoon of stick picking and talking to some of the Woofers about their travel experiences. Overall a fantastic day, that was enjoyed by all.

Moolarben Spirit Award Night

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

On the 4th of April Moolarben Coal held a dinner at The Wine Glass Bar and Grill Mudgee to congratulate winners of the Moolarben Spirit Award in 2015 and announce a finalist from all five schools who participate - Gulgong High School, Kandos High School, Mudgee High School, Dunedoo Central School and St Matthew's Catholic School.

The 2015 winner of the Gulgong High Junior Moolarben Spirit Award went to Brooke Apap and the Gulgong High Senior Award went to Kellie Hendry, who were then interviewed by representatives from Moolarben Coal. From these interviews of the ten winners from across the five participating schools, Moolarben then selected an overall winner in each Junior and Senior category to be announced on the presentation night in Mudgee for winners and their guests.

The Moolarben Spirit Award recognises students who display a positive attitude towards their schooling and community and have a positive impact on their school and wider community, in keeping with Moolarben's motto for their employees who demonstrate the "Moolarben Spirit". At Gulgong High, teachers nominate students for the award and then vote for the selected student who is awarded a certificate, plaque and cheque on presentation day by a representative from Moolarben Coal.

Both Kellie and Brooke attended the dinner with their parents and school representative Ms Sewell. Brooke Apap was announced the overall winner in the junior category, which is a fantastic achievement. Well done to both girls for their contributions to the school, wider community and positive attitude, all of which they should truly be very proud of.

POSITION VACANT - CANTEEN MANAGER

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:21 AEST

Gulgong Public School and Gulgong High School Parents and Citizens Association are actively seeking an energetic and hard-working person to fill a casual position of 13 hours (2 days) per week to manage a canteen catering for both schools. The successful applicant must be able to manage staff and volunteers and have excellent communication and decision-making skills. The successful applicant must have or be willing to obtain a Working with Children Check and a Certificate in Food Safety.

Applications close Monday 30th May at 3.00 pm, and are to be submitted to be submitted to Gulgong Public School. For further information please contact Kathy Cuthel on 0458 280 474. Interested persons should submit their application to either Gulgong Public School office or Gulgong High School office during school hours.

Motorbike Course

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

On the last two days of last term, our Year 11 Primary Industries class attended Mrs Rohr's property at Piambong to complete a motorbike course. Our trainer was Pete Hickey from Dubbo Tafe, he was very friendly and was patient with the students who had never ridden before. The two days consisted of trail rides, brake testing, practising balance while riding, learning about maintenance and conducting safety checks before riding.

Thank you to Mrs Rohr for hosting the course and having us at her home, we all appreciate it.

By Olivia Slevin

Aboriginal Education Camp

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:20 AEST

From 4^th to the 6^th April students went on an Aboriginal Excursion to Bourke and Brewarrina. Ten Aboriginal students from years 9 to 12 and Ms Field, Mr Bennett, Mrs Bowden and Mrs Ratcliffe accompanied students. They went on the excursion to learn more about their culture.

The group were supposed to leave from the High School at 6 am but Tyee woke up late and everybody had to wait until he arrived 15 minutes later.

The group set off for Bourke and stopped at Nyngan to take photos at the Big Bogan and stop at the Bogan River for morning tea.

Just as the group arrived at Bourke they realised they were low on fuel and refuelled and stretched their legs. Back on the bus, the group headed to the Wharf on the Darling River to have lunch and meet up with "Big Phil". Big Phil talked to the students about how Aboriginal culture worked and the different tribal groups on each side of the river. Phil's tribal group was on the town side of the river.

To get the perspective of the other tribe, we picked up Phil's friend, Michael, who took the group to Toorale on the other side of the river. Michael's tribal land was there. The group stayed there that night in the shearer's quarters. Before it got dark they took the students on a tour around Toorale. They observed at the old homestead, and went to one of the meeting points. After this the group headed back to where they were staying. Tyee cooked a BBQ dinner and made a fire to sit around. The group had a yarn while cooking Johnny cakes for dessert.

By Tyee Lambert-Ellis

NSW CHSSA U15s Touch Football

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:23 AEST

On Saturday 30^th April and Sunday 1^st May, Nic Hensley (Year 9) and David West (Year 7) represented Gulgong High School as part of the Western Region Under 15s Touch Football Team. The boys were part of a 12 man squad that played in the rain all weekend and faced teams from all across the state. They had some close matches and really enjoyed testing their skills against some of the best young players in NSW. Congratulations Nic and David.

Representative Sport - NSW CHSSA State Swimming

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:24 AEST

Congratulations to Summer McPhail (Year 7) and Arley McPhail (Year 9) on their outstanding representation of Gulgong High School and the Western Region at the State Swimming Championships. Arley and Summer travelled to Sydney towards the end of Term 1 and competed against other students from across the state. Arley swam in the 100m Butterfly and Summer swam in the 100m Breaststroke, Backstroke and Freestyle. Both girls had excellent times and are to be commended for this exceptional effort.

Boys' Squash

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:20 AEST

Congratulations to Logan Scrivener (Year 7) who was invited to attend the Western Region Open Boys Squash Trials. While Logan did not make it into the representative team, he played really well against much bigger and older boys from across the region and is heavily involved in many squash competitions outside of school.

GHS Careers Website

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

Gulgong High School has launched a new website www.ghscareers.com.au

This site is a one stop shop for all things career and post school related. You will find information on the HSC, Universities, UAC, ATAR, work experience, TAFE, tax file number, post school information and loads of other important topics. Students can also register an account and develop resumes, cover letters, complete career quizzes, identify strengths, skills and abilities and create their own portfolio. I encourage all students and parents to get on and explore the site, there is an abundance of information that is relevant to school students and their families.

Over the coming weeks I hope to run some classes with year 9-12 to show them the site in more detail and to assist students in creating an account and starting to use the fabulous features that this site has to offer.

Below are some screen shots of the home page of the site and just a couple of the menus from the categories that can be selected from the top menu on the home page to give you an idea of the topics the site covers. You can see just how much information the site can offer. If you would like any more information about the new site please feel free to contact me at the School.

Careers Website Doc (pdf 258 KB)

GHS SCHOOL MAGAZINE RECALL!

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:25 AEST

Attention to all students and parents who have purchased a 2012 school magazine!

Print Storm have had a problem with the glue in the binding and will replace all magazines that have a problem with pages coming loose. They will need to receive these magazine by end of school term on Friday 21st December, however, the replacements will not be available until after the 17th January 2013.

Many apologies for the inconvenience.

Homework centre available at school!

Sat, 11 Aug 2018 23:53:22 AEST

To support students experiencing difficulties in completing assessment tasks and homework the school will continue to operate a homework centre. This ran very successfully last year with many students taking the opportunity to receive assistance with their work. The homework centre will run in the school library on Monday afternoons during periods 5 + 6 for seniors that may like to stay back rather than leave at lunch on their early finish day. It will continue after school until 4.30pm for all students. Many staff have donated their time to support this initiative and it is hoped that students, like last year, will take advantage of this service. Parents are more than welcome to come and work with their children after school utilising the library's facilities at this time.

Parents or students planning to attend the homework centre must register their interest by contacting the school office before 11am on the day they plan to attend.