Dear Parents, Carers and Community Members

Campbell Town District High School is nearing the finalisation of our staffing for 2025, and we are pleased to confirm the planned organisation of our primary classes into straight grades. This structure includes one class per grade level, from Kindergarten to Year 6, with the exception of Year 3, which will have two classes to accommodate student numbers. Aligning with the Department for Education, Children and Young People's (DECYP) lifting literacy priority, this model allows us to focus on delivering a more targeted and differentiated curriculum for our students. By reducing the range of year levels within each classroom, teachers can better address the individual learning needs of students, enhancing literacy and ensuring every student receives the support necessary to thrive. We look forward to seeing the benefits of this approach for both students and staff, as it will further support Campbell Town District High School in fostering strong academic growth and meeting the educational needs of all learners.

Our students have recently completed the PAT (Progressive Achievement Tests) in both reading and mathematics, and we are very encouraged by the initial results. An early look at the data reveals very pleasing growth in reading across all grades. This progress is a testament to our focus on explicit instruction in key areas such as word recognition, fluency, and comprehension, which are essential to developing strong literacy skills. We look forward to continuing this growth trajectory as we work to support every student's reading journey, ensuring they have the skills necessary for success across all areas of learning. We are seeing particularly pleasing results in Mathematics in the early years.

Our Year 5-10 teachers are currently undertaking professional learning in the Maths Pathways program bringing a new approach to Mathematics learning at Campbell Town District High School. Maths Pathways is designed to provide individualised learning pathways, allowing each student to progress at their own pace and focus on areas where they need the most support. This program offers a tailored experience, with regular assessments to guide students through targeted learning modules that build on their strengths and address any learning gaps. This does not replace explicit instruction by the teacher but aims to increase student confidence, and ensure that they are mastering essential skills for future academic success.

Last week’s athletics carnival was a fantastic success, filled with excitement, teamwork, and school spirit. A huge thank you goes to Mrs Lowe for her outstanding organisation, which ensured the day ran smoothly and that students of all ages could participate and enjoy the event. The spirit of competition and sportsmanship displayed by our students was remarkable, with each participant giving their best effort and cheering each other on. It was especially heartwarming to see the older students supporting and encouraging their younger peers, creating an atmosphere of inclusiveness and camaraderie. This display of encouragement and mentorship truly embodied our school values and made the days memorable for everyone involved. We are incredibly proud of all our students for their efforts and positive attitudes.

Our new agriculture building is set to be completed this month. Our Year 11 and 12 students will be based in this facility, providing them with an adult learning environment that supports their transition into further education or the workforce. This dedicated space will not only enhance learning opportunities for our senior students but will also serve as a valuable resource for agriculture education across all year levels. The new building will support a range of hands-on activities and projects, fostering practical skills and knowledge in agriculture for students of all ages. We look forward to seeing our students thrive in this fantastic new learning environment.

Finishing on an great note, we are proud to announce that Liz Webber has been honoured as one of three statewide recipients of the Outstanding Early Career Employee in DECYP's Bright Futures Awards. Liz is an amazing teacher who supports her students to grow personally and academically. She is an outstanding colleague, nothing is too much trouble and nothing is a fuss. This award is thoroughly deserved.

Regards

Mike

The Kinder students have been very busy this term exploring their 5 senses – making popcorn, going on a sensory walk, tasting different foods, determining different sounds and playing with peppermint scented playdough (just to name a few of the activities). 

We have also become pen pals with the Jillem Jillem kindy group in Brisbane. We have exchanged drawings, asked questions about their kindy and talked about the differences between city and country. 

We loved participating in the Athletics Carnival, putting all our skills into practice on the day and trying our best. 

Amanda Luke

Teacher

The 2024 Athletics Carnival were two fantastic days filled with exciting events, record-breaking achievements, and team spirit. Congratulations to Elizabeth House, crowned this year’s winning house, and to all students who participated with enthusiasm, resilience, and sportsmanship. We are incredibly proud of everyone’s efforts!

Some highlights from this years carnival were as always the relays, it is such an exciting event and always great to see the team spirit. The addition of a staff vs 3/4's vs 5/6's vs 7/8's vs 9/10's relay was a great way to end the day! It has also been really nice to include more novelty events for our older grades the past 2 years including the sack race and egg and spoon race for Year 2-10 students, these events are always a lot of fun. 

Record-Breaking Performances
Several students excelled in their events, setting new school records:

• 200m:
• Archie (Grade 3 Boys)
• Thomas (Grade 4 Boys)
• Long Jump:
• Rupert (Grade 4 Boys)
• High Jump:
• Stella (Grade 4 Girls)
• Shot Put:
• Rex (Grade 6 Boys)
• Mitchell (Grade 8 Boys)
• Rosa (Grade 8 Girls)
• Gemma (Grade 10 Girls)
• Darcy (Grade 10 Boys)
• Javelin:
• Xavier (Grade 7 boys)
• Makayla (Grade 7 girls)
• Ava (Grade 8 Girls)
• Gemma (Grade 10 girls)

Each record-breaker displayed outstanding skills and dedication, showcasing their hard work and commitment to personal excellence. 

We look forward to seeing even more impressive achievements at our representative carnivals - NHSSA Inter-High later this term and NMPSSA Northern Midlands early next year. 

Ashlee Lowe

PE Teacher