The annual National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) assessments provide a snapshot of student achievement in key areas. At Parklands, the recent NAPLAN assessments for Years 7 and 9 were conducted with a notable level of student engagement and responsibility. This report highlights the excellent attendance rates and the positive attitude displayed by Parklands students during this assessment period. Teachers and staff observed a positive and focused atmosphere during the NAPLAN sessions. Students approached the assessments with diligence and a willingness to demonstrate their skills. This positive attitude contributed to a smooth and efficient testing process. Congratulations to all Year 7 and 9 Students, especially our Year 9s who celebrate their final NAPLAN assessments for their Education. 

Mr Wells 

Assistant Principal

Year 7 Term 1 Highlights – A Positive Start to High School Life

Term 1 has flown by, and what a fantastic start it’s been for our Year 7 students at PHS! From new friendships and exciting challenges to hands-on learning experiences, it’s been a term full of growth and connection.

Living Our Values – and Being Recognised for It
Our Values Ticket system has been a huge success, with students consistently demonstrating courage, respect, responsibility, growth and connection. It’s been great to see so many Year 7s stepping up and living by our values each day – and even better seeing them reap the rewards. Whether it’s been through small acts of positivity or consistent effort in class, students have truly set the tone for a respectful and supportive school culture.

Camp at Paton Park – A Memorable Experience
One of the major highlights of the term was our Year 7 camp at Paton Park. Students challenged themselves, supported one another, and deepened their connections with peers and staff. From high-energy games to campfire conversations, it was a great way to kick-start the year and build a strong sense of belonging within our school community.

Hands-On Science – Growing Crystals and Curiosity
Science lessons this term have had a hands-on focus, with one of the standout activities being crystal growing. Students have been fascinated by the process and enjoyed watching their creations take shape over time. It’s been exciting to see their curiosity and enthusiasm light up the classroom.

Looking Ahead
Term 1 has been all about building strong foundations – in friendships, learning habits, and school culture. As we move into Term 2, we’re looking forward to continuing this momentum and seeing Year 7 continue to grow in confidence and capability.

Well done to all our Year 7 students on a fantastic first term!

he Grade 8 cohort have settled into their second year of high school with a focus on our school values; Connection, Courage, Growth, Respect, and Responsibility. Pastoral Care lessons and Home Group sessions this year are being utilised to gain an understanding of what our values are and how we can embed them through our ways of working. Grade 8 class captains were chosen after students made values-based speeches to their Home Groups.  

In Grade 8, students participate in three Option Subjects per Semester; Digital Technologies, Sports, Fitness, Outdoor Education, Music, Visual Art, Drama, and MDT. Students also have access to an array of Alternative Learning Programs.  

In Health, students have been exploring the 7 essential nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy; learning how each nutrient contributes to overall wellbeing and how to make balanced food choices. In Physical Education, students have engaged in minor games focused on fair play, inclusion, and teamwork, to develop important skills such as communication, cooperation, and respect for others in a fun and active environment. They ended the term with fitness testing. 

In Math, students have been learning about negative numbers, including going on a hypothetical plane trip from the tropical heat of Honolulu to the cold of Alaska. In Science, students have been learning about the Rock Cycle--this photo shows them playing a boardgame that models the changes that rocks go through. Also, they have learned about Plate Tectonics. The Week 9 excursion to Fossil Bluff showed students evidence of how Tasmania used to be joined to Antarctica. 

English classes have been reading the novel Ironbark and developing their skills in structuring their writing, using evidence to support and expand on their ideas. History classes learned about Medieval Europe, discussing the social structure of the time and the power of the church. They have also worked on identifying and analysing primary and secondary sources. Civics and Citizenship classes have explored democracy and levels of government, including what it means to be an active citizen. 

It has been a busy Term 1 in Year 9. We have been encouraging students to live and reflect on our school values of of Connection, Courage, Growth, Respect and Responsibility. Pastoral Care teachers have been working with students on self worth and identity this term.  

Year 9 students completed NAPLAN assessments in Week 6 and 7, with assessments in Writing, Reading, Conventions of Language and Numeracy. Teachers were extremely pleased with the way that students conducted themselves and their efforts. We look forward to utilising the data collected to evaluate the effectiveness of our teaching and learning programs and to celebrate student growth and success.  

In Mathematics this term, students started the year with the measurement unit, investigating relationships between the surface area of objects and their volume. The second unit for the term has been exploring linear (straight line) graphs and how they can be created and used.  

In English, students started the term with a series of small writing and reading comprehension tasks.  Since then they have been learning about how to persuade and influence people, looking at advertisements in particular.  Their major task for the term has been to create their own advertisement, complete with a written justification. 

In History students have been learning about the Industrial Revolution and Agricultural Revolution.  They have learned about significant changes in society that happened as a result of these major developments, and particularly about the impact of such changes upon children.   

In Science, students have been investigating a range of chemical reactions. The Term commenced with students learning about the periodic table and what happens to atoms when they become unstable. They researched the effects of radiation by investigating the events of the Chernobyl disaster, the radium girls in US and the contributions of scientists to the discovery of radioactivity. They also learnt about carbon dating, a process that assists scientists in determining the possible age of an organic material.  

At the time of writing Year 9 camp is still underway at Paton Park. Students have been engaging in activities in the outdoors with a focus on connection, growth and courage. Activities have included abseiling, shelter building, fire-lighting, with students earning Parklands Pounds they can exchange for rewards. Layla enjoyed the abseiling so much she went down the tower 3 times.  

If you believe there is any information that the school needs to help your son or daughter be happy and achieve their best inside the classroom, please do not hesitate to call or email their Home Group teacher or myself.  

This term, our Year 10 students have settled in well to the C-Block grade area, and the learning journey is in full swing. It’s been fantastic to see how quickly the students have adjusted, and we are pleased with the positive atmosphere in the classroom and beyond. 

In Pastoral Care, we began with a focus on learning styles and the various supports available to help each student succeed. As the term has progressed, we’ve shifted gears into a more career-focused curriculum. Students are now actively engaged in exploring career options and pathway investigations, setting the foundation for their future planning and starting their year 10/11 transition plans. Transition plans are a significant priority for our year 10’s this year as they will assist with their enrolment at Hellyer College next year or with exploring potential trades, traineeships and apprenticeships. This transition process is designed to ensure every student feels well-prepared as they move forward in their educational journey. 

We are fortunate to offer a wide range of exciting opportunities this term. Several students have already engaged in alternative learning programs (ALPs) that provide valuable hands-on experiences. These include completing white card training, gaining insight into the roles and responsibilities of a hairdresser through our Hair and Body ALP, and enhancing their numeracy skills through the Hellyer College Math Methods Program. Additionally, Year 10 students are continuing to develop their skills in a variety of elective subjects, many of which are designed with career pathways in mind. These electives include Workskills, Construction in MDT, Catering and Hospitality, Sport and Recreation, Outdoor Education, Theatre and Performance (Drama), and many more. 

This year we have opened up a Year 10 council where a number of students from each Year 10 HG meet every few weeks to discuss matters relevant to our grade, these topics include: the design for our leavers shirts, what supports are required in our grade and learning areas, identifying where the student body requires more clarification or support, sharing areas of improvement for our grade, and areas of success. Throughout the year all grade 10’s will have the opportunity to attend a council meeting and we look forward to hearing how we can make this year the best yet. Thank you to all who have been in attendance thus far! 

We are thrilled to see our Year 10 students thriving and are eager to see what the rest of the year holds as they continue to explore and develop their passions and skills. The Year 10 teaching team is genuinely excited about working with this year’s cohort and supporting their growth. We also look forward to maintaining open communication with all parents and guardians throughout the year. If there is any information that would help the school support your child in achieving their best and being successful, please don’t hesitate to reach out to their Home Group teacher or myself. 

Miss Devlin and the Year 10 Team 

Student Achievements in Work Skills Training

This term, students have been diligently honing their work skills, focusing on essential aspects such as interview techniques and obtaining their White Card certification, which is crucial for those aiming to work on construction sites. As they gear up for work experience in the upcoming term, they have gained valuable insights and experience that will aid them in their future careers.

Mastering Interview Techniques

Students have dedicated time to learning the do's and don'ts of interviews, ensuring they are well-prepared to present themselves confidently and professionally. They have practiced answering common interview questions, understanding the importance of making a good first impression, and learning how to communicate effectively.

White Card Training and Assessment

Kaleb's Journey

Kaleb has been focusing on obtaining his White Card, a mandatory requirement for anyone wishing to participate in work experience on a construction site. He has diligently practiced using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) specific to construction environments, completed his online learning modules, and is now prepared to take his final assessment.

Luke's Success

Luke has successfully completed his White Card training. Initially feeling a bit nervous, he found the Zoom call with his assessor to be a positive experience. Luke is extremely proud of his achievement and encourages other students by emphasising that, although it might seem daunting at first, the process is manageable and rewarding.

Flynn and Caleb's Accomplishments

Flynn and Caleb have also completed their White Card training. Both students aspire to become electricians and are enthusiastic about starting their work experience early next term. Their achievement in obtaining the White Card is a crucial step in their journey toward their chosen career path.

Looking Ahead to Work Experience

As these students prepare for their work experience in the next term, they carry with them the skills and certifications they have worked so hard to achieve. Their dedication and perseverance serve as a testament to their commitment to their future professions, and they are well-equipped to take on the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.

Geology Excursion

During Week 9 of Term 1, the Grade 8 students visited Fossil Bluff and Doctors Rocks to learn about different types of rocks, Aboriginal culture, and to explore both locations.

At Fossil Bluff, we enjoyed breathtaking scenery and a fascinating variety of rocks, including sedimentary, conglomerate, and metamorphic types, each with its own unique story of formation. Mrs. McPhee guided us in exploring how these rocks came to be, and we learned about Aboriginal culture through ancient fish traps that showcased the ingenuity of Indigenous peoples in gathering food. The area is over 275 million years old and is home to the oldest marsupial fossil discovered in Australia! Our adventure included climbing to the Fossil Bluff Lookout, where we took in stunning views and appreciated the incredible geological history surrounding us. We also had four student photographers with us, and some of their captivating photos are included in this section, capturing the beauty and essence of our experience.

When we arrived at Doctors Rocks, Mrs. McPhee welcomed us and shared fascinating insights about how the rock was formed. She explained its history as a lava flow and the remarkable transformations that create metamorphic rocks. As we explored the area, we found numerous trilobite-like fossils scattered around in the underlying sedimentary rock, which was incredibly exciting! These tiny remnants provided a glimpse into a vibrant underwater world from long ago. To our delight, we even spotted live relatives of trilobites buried in the cracks of the rocks. It was an amazing experience that truly deepened our appreciation for the geological wonders and ancient life preserved at Doctors Rocks.

Doctors Rock is a rock that earned its PhD in medicine!

Mayson and Mia 

The Japanese class used the ‘Sushi making kit’ to make their own maki rolls, sushi or onigiri.

They displayed great teamwork, responsibility, and resilience and enjoyed the rewards of their hard work well!

Team Spirit in Action: The Annual Easter Egg Hunt

Each year group had the opportunity to demonstrate some great teamwork during our Annual Easter Egg Hunt. This event is more than just a fun-filled day; it encourages collaboration, strategic thinking, and camaraderie among students. As participants worked together to find the hidden treasures, they not only enjoyed the thrill of the hunt but also developed skills that are essential both in and out of the classroom.

The success of our first term celebration is a testament to the hard work and enthusiasm of both staff and students. As we look forward to the coming terms, let's continue to embrace the spirit of teamwork and the value of every single day at our school.

During Term 1, in our nursing space we have had a year 9/10 option of Health and Community Services, and our year 11/12 class of Introduction to Health Services Industry. Both these classes have been working hard on health concepts and learning new items relevant to the health industry.  

Year 9/10 have learnt how to take some basic vital signs, as well as some theory regarding various health careers and how public health works for Australian’s.  

Year 11/12 have also worked on basic vital signs and practically completing functional assessments. They have completed units relating to workplace health and safety, maintaining beds and how to communicate effectively in a health care environment.  

Both groups of students have attended an excursion to the University of Tasmania to discover career options that can be studied at our local Cradle Coast Campus.  

I can’t wait to see what Term 2 will bring for this space!! 

Mrs H.  

Join Alex the Lion, Marty the Zebra, Melman the Giraffe, Gloria the hip hip Hippo and, of course, those hilarious, plotting penguins as they bound onto your stage in the musical adventure of a lifetime. Based on the smash DreamWorks animated motion picture, Madagascar – A Musical Adventure JR. follows all of your favourite crack-a-lackin’ friends as they escape from their home in New York’s Central Park Zoo and find themselves on an unexpected journey to the madcap world of King Julien’s Madagascar. Alex the lion is the king of the urban jungle, the main attraction at New York's Central Park Zoo. He and his best friends – Marty the zebra, Melman the giraffe and Gloria the hippo – have spent their whole lives in blissful captivity before an admiring public and with regular meals provided for them. Not content to leave well enough alone, Marty lets his curiosity get the better of him and makes his escape – with the help of some prodigious penguins – to explore the world. Filled with outlandish characters, adventure galore and an upbeat score, Madagascar JR. will leave audiences with no choice but to “Move It, Move It!”