23 May 2025

Our School Values

From the Principal

Dear Helensvale State High School Community

One of the highlights for me this term has been re-connecting with some of our past students, who are now a part of our Alumni.  Our Alumni students are giving back to the school community by engaging with our current students, sharing their stories about their journeys since graduating from high school and challenging our students to pursue their goals and dreams.

With subject selection fast approaching for all of our students, it is important to have conversations with our students, your children, about their future goals.

Recently, we welcomed back Lily Beth Morgan, Jackson Duncan and Will Spark, from the class of 2024.  Lily, Jackson and Will were joined by Nate McMullen from the class of 2023.

These high performing Alumni attended our ‘Distinguished Minds’ event, where they were able to share their learnings with our current like-minded students and their parents.  This is what our Alumni had to say:

Lily Beth Morgan

What have you done since graduating?

Since graduating I’ve been working a lot and started Uni.  I’m doing a double degree of Law Honors and Psychological Sciences.

Jackson Duncan

What have you done since graduating?

Since graduating, I have gone on to study a Bachelor of Law and Psychological Science at Southern Cross University. I was offered the Vice-Chancellor’s Regional Leadership Scholarship, which was offered to only ten students in total on the basis of their ATAR scores. I have connected with many like-minded students throughout my first term of study and have achieved outstanding results so far and will strive to keep this up in the future.

Since I am studying online on a full-time basis, I have had to balance my studies with my responsibilities at home as well as my social life. The online format of learning makes this a lot easier, as I tend to learn better in my own personal space and can juggle all of my different priorities more effectively. I find that this also allows me to spend more time with my family and to catch up with friends. When I am not studying (which is pretty rare nowadays), I have been trying to improve my art skills and read a book or two wherever I find time.

Will Spark

What have you done since graduating?

I’ve started university, spent a week camping in the Scenic Rim, had plenty of time to attend more live events, not only to enjoy them but to see their inner workings, and made more memories with friends.
I am studying a bachelor of sport management at Bond University. The course covers a wide range of topics providing me with knowledge over a variety of facets of the sports industry I hope to work in. This semester I’m beginning an elective subject on sound production, and I hope to be able to make this a hobby of sorts using what I learn.

Nate McMullen

What have you done since graduating?

Since graduating I have completed my first year of university at QUT, started tutoring, and began working part time. I was accepted into a double degree at QUT, Bachelor of Information Technology / Bachelor of Business. Balancing a full time Uni workload and part time work as a software developer has been challenging but I have benefited from the time management habits I established for Year 12 study. Tutoring has been a great opportunity to retain my knowledge from school, and also further my understanding in university where I volunteer for their peer-to-peer support program.

Currently I am studying hard for finals and working through my assessments as I approach the end of the Uni semester. For my work, I am currently expanding my skill set from web development into embedded software, which has synced up neatly with my courses in university. When I am not studying or working, I volunteer as an instructor for martial arts at a local club and go hiking and travelling with my friends.

Some very wise insights from our Alumni (regarding study tips and life skills):

• I would lock myself in my room, put on music and studied as long as I could. When I couldn’t concentrate any more, I would get up, go get a drink, then come back again.  I was close to losing motivation, but I knew I just had to get the results.
• There is always at least one person who gets you and will support you. I have more than one person in my life that does that for me. That’s how I got through mock exams.
• I would write pretty, neat notes, then realised I knew nothing and this wasn’t working for me. For content heavy stuff is to get a blank sheet of A3 paper, brain dump everything, get everything out onto the paper. Don’t try and make it perfect. Do the textbook questions, exam insights, study buddies.
• Don’t aim for a high ATAR because it’s what you need to get into uni. There are so many other ways to get to where you want to be that goes beyond your ATAR.   Aim for the high ATAR because you want to challenge yourself and just do the best you can.
• Having fun in your last year is important. Our chemistry class was so much fun. If you actually like the subjects you’re going to do better.
• I remember crying at Clap Out, but I’m still in touch with the people who matter. Since graduating I haven’t missed anyone because I’ve made the effort to stay in contact.
• It's important to succeed for yourself, not anyone else. Find what makes you feel good in yourself. If you feel good, you’ll make the people around you feel good. It takes a lot of pressure off. Just be positive about things.
• It’s important to remember you’re only 18 and you have so much more time to do things and get better.

Our Alumni students have been visiting a number of other classes in other year levels to help motivate our students to see what endless opportunities they have.

Are you an Alumni from Helensvale State High School?  Please contact Chauntel, who has an article in this newsletter.

Kind regards

Karen Lindsay
Principal
Helensvale State High School

Year 12 Visual Arts in Practice

Year 12 Visual Arts in Practice students recently showcased their creativity and skills in a captivating product photoshoot, featuring stunning artisan furniture from their client project. The images from this shoot highlight both their artistic vision and attention to detail, offering a glimpse into the unique craftsmanship behind the designs.

Autism Awareness Month

"April is Autism Awareness Month—a time to honor neurodiversity and learn how we can better support our autistic students. Let’s commit to creating learning environments where every student feels seen, valued, and included."

  "Autism affects how individuals perceive the world, communicate, and interact. As educators, deepening our understanding of autism helps us connect with our students in meaningful and supportive ways."

  "Inclusive education benefits everyone. This month, let’s reflect on our teaching practices and identify small, intentional changes we can make to better accommodate the needs of autistic learners."

  "Autistic students bring unique strengths, talents, and perspectives to our schools. During Autism Awareness Month, let’s celebrate these contributions and ensure they feel empowered to be their authentic selves."

  "Let’s use this month to challenge assumptions, seek understanding, and listen to autistic voices—especially from our students, families, and community members. Awareness leads to empathy, and empathy leads to meaningful change."

  "Creating autism-friendly classrooms doesn’t require perfection—it starts with awareness and a willingness to adapt. This month, let’s explore strategies that promote structure, predictability, and flexibility."

  "Autism is a spectrum, and each student’s needs and strengths are different. Let’s approach this month with open minds and a commitment to personalized, student-centered learning."

  "This Autism Awareness Month, consider how sensory needs, social expectations, and communication styles impact autistic students. Small adjustments can have a lasting positive impact."

  "Fostering a truly inclusive school means recognizing that different ways of thinking, learning, and expressing are not deficits—but differences to be respected and supported."

  "Let’s work together to make our classrooms and schools more welcoming, understanding, and empowering for students with Autism—not just during Autism Awareness Month, but all year long."

Football Academy

Last Thursday, a team of Under-13 girls and boys proudly represented Helensvale at the FQ Regional Futsal Titles. We faced some tough competition that really challenged us and helped us grow stronger as a team. The boys were able to overcome Kings College in a penalty shootout to reach a Semi-Final, an outstanding effort. Overall, it was a fantastic day of learning, development, and teamwork.

Last Friday, a group of talented Under 14s Football Academy students proudly represented our school at the SFL Futsal Gala Day. It was a successful outing for both teams, with strong performances and great teamwork on display throughout the day.

Their efforts have paid off, as our school has now qualified for Gala Day 3, which will take place later in the year. Congratulations to all players involved — we’re looking forward to seeing you continue your impressive run!

Vale Learning Alliance

Sponsor Spotlight: Welcome Medland Orthodontics!

We’re proud to introduce Medland Orthodontics as a Sponsor and Alliance Member of Helensvale State High School! Located in Upper Coomera, Medland Orthodontics are committed to creating beautiful, confident smiles — and they’re now supporting our school community in more ways than one.

Special Offer for Helensvale SHS Families:

Mention the code VIPHEL25 to receive $250 OFF an orthodontics treatment plan!
(Terms & conditions apply. Offer valid for Helensvale SHS students and their families.)

Thank you to Medland Orthodontics for partnering with us and supporting our students' futures — both inside and outside the classroom!

Ourschool Alumni Program – Term 2 Events Update

Our Alumni Program continues to grow, creating exciting opportunities for current students to connect with former graduates and gain real-world insights into life beyond school.

Here’s what’s happening this term:

📣 Student Council Meeting

We’ll be introducing the Alumni Program at an upcoming Student Council meeting – a great way to spark student interest and build awareness across year levels.

🎓 Distinguished Minds Event

We’re thrilled to welcome back several high-achieving members of the Class of 2024 to this special QCE celebration. Jackson Duncan, Lily Beth Morgan, Nate McMullen, Will Spark, and Jessica Bunker will share their post-school journeys and advice with current students.
This event is by invitation only for both parents and students. If you haven’t yet RSVP’d, please do so at your earliest convenience for catering purposes. We look forward to seeing you there!

🧮 Year 10 Maths Essentials Q&A

Alumnus Brad Wheldon returns to speak with students about his pathway from school to a career with Queensland Motorways. He’ll also be supporting upcoming work experience and VIP programs linked to the transport industry.

🧪 Year 8 Excite Classes

Alumnus Amity Seston, currently studying a major in Molecular Biology, will visit both Year 8 Excite classes to inspire students with her academic journey and love of science.

🎓 Futures Expo – Alumni Panel

Recent graduates will return for this year’s Futures Expo to share their experiences and advice, helping students understand the diverse opportunities available after graduation.

🔍 What’s Coming Up

We’re continuing to grow our alumni database and expand the program across even more areas of school life. From offering real-world work experience placements to building a strong network of past students, there are exciting opportunities ahead.

Also in the pipeline are two special events: a Sporting Alumni Event, bringing past students back to connect through sport, and an Emergency Services Alumni Showcase, highlighting former students now serving on the frontlines of our community. Stay tuned!

These initiatives wouldn’t be possible without the support of our incredible alumni who volunteer their time and experience to give back. We’re so grateful!

✨ Know a past student who might like to be involved? We’d love to hear from them!

TAFE Queensland Online Open Day

Open day, your way. Join us for our Online Open Day and explore everything TAFE Queensland on the Gold Coast has to offer. Experience our on-demand video content and explore the study areas that spark your interest. Take a virtual tour of our state-of-the-art facilities, reserve your spot for an in-person campus tour, read first-hand experiences from our students about their TAFE Queensland journey, and much more.

WHEN: Launching 20 August 2025
REGISTER NOW: tafeqld.edu.au/openday and we will send you your exclusive link to join when we launch!

Link and Launch

It’s an exciting time of the year for our Grade 12’s here at Helensvale State High School!

It’s Link and Launch time!

Our Link and Launch co-ordinator Elaine Braniff will be organising face to face interviews with our Grade 12’s very soon to discuss their plans for leaving school – whether that’s getting a job – part time whilst they’re studying or full-time, commencing an apprenticeship or traineeship or engaging in further study pathways. We recognise that for some students leaving school can be quite daunting and its sometimes difficult to take that ‘next step’.  

Some students, after 13 years of making their way through school, might not have any idea what that ‘next step’ can look like for them. And guess what? That’s totally ok and that’s why this program was developed by the Department of Education/Queensland Government to assist graduating Grade 12 students – and it’s free.

Elaine can assist with:

• Career planning/guidance
• Career assessments
• Skilling Queenslanders for Work and Trade Taster programs
• Assistance with job applications, resume writing and interview preparation
• Alternative entry to university
• Additional support with further training via TAFE or other accredited training providers
• Whatever the individual requires……………….

Where can you access Link and Launch?

Elaine can be contacted on:
Mobile: 0401 127 905
Email: ebran61@eq.edu.au
2^nd Floor, Karangbah

Dolly’s Dream

You are not alone, we're here to help

Like you, we believe that no child or family should have to face the devastating impact of bullying alone. When you take part in Do It For Dolly Day, you spark important conversations - and speak up for those who can’t- because we know bullying devastates lives, families, and communities. 

Parenting Programs

The Gold Coast Cycling Club

The Gold Coast Cycling Club is having a come and try day for juniors to come and check out riding track bikes on the velodrome, we would love for you to put the details in your newsletter.

Event is Sunday the 25th May @ 11am.

Students and Parents may not be aware how lucky they are to attend a school in close proximity to velodrome, the velodrome is situated 1 Hope Street at Nerang.

We will have track bikes available for riders to have a go, and demonstrations.

Qparents

Enjoy convenient and streamlined engagement with your child's school.

QParents offers a convenient, safe and private app to help parents & caregivers manage important details of their children's journey.

Support Staff

As part of our Learning and Well-being framework, we have created a Well-being Hub for students and parents, which can be accessed through the Helensvale State High School webpage. The hub includes links to other websites and apps which can help to support student well-being, as well as provide information on career pathways. To access these ‘well-being hubs’ c go to the HSHS website 

We Would Like to Thank Our Sponsors

Acknowledgment of Country

Helensvale State High School as one community, acknowledges the Kombumerri Peoples, the Traditional Custodians of the land on which our school is built.  We respect their long history, ancestry and culture.  We pay our respects to the Elders, past, present and emerging for they carry the memories and traditions of past times. 

We would also like to extend our acknowledgment to other First Nations Peoples: those hailing from the Torres Strait Islands and those belonging to other Aboriginal Language Groups.

We acknowledge the strength and resilience of Kombumerri peoples.  We respect their enduring connection to the local wetlands and the cultural responsibility they uphold to preserve wildlife.  Together, we go forward, learning in the spirit of these values.