Newsletter

Dear Parents and Caregivers

Welcome to Term 4! I hope that the holiday break brought some moments to recharge and relax. Perhaps the break already seems to be in the distant past as Term 4 rushes by! In the coming weeks, we look forward to new challenges, celebrating achievements, and ending the school year with enthusiasm.

Knitted Squares and Blanket Donation to Ronald McDonald House

During Term 1, our Year 5 students began to develop an understanding of what it means to live out our School Values in their daily lives.  We introduced them to the values of Respect, Compassion, Integrity, Joy, Service, and Justice, and shared what Mercy Action looks like at All Hallows’ School.

At our Year 5 Retreat Day in February, they began the project to contribute to Mercy Action, and they invited family members to join us in assisting the girls to learn to knit, as well as to knit squares on the day. Many parents and grandparents joined in for the afternoon and supported the girls as they learned a new skill.  Some of the girls found it challenging; however, they used the character strength of perseverance, and each student knitted at least one square, which they completed mid-Term 2. Many family members also knitted squares to contribute to our project. Over the past term, each class has had parents or grandparents volunteer to sew our squares together to make beautiful blankets.

On our last day of Term 3, Mercy Day, several Year 5 students went on a special excursion with their teachers to Ronald McDonald House (RMH) in South Brisbane and donated our blankets and affirmation cards that we had made. The staff at RMH were honoured to receive our blankets, and we were proud to know that they will be given to families in need in our community, bringing some comfort and joy to their lives.  When we arrived at RMH, Team Leader Hailey took us on a tour of the building and shared with us the facilities families use throughout their stay to make their stay more comfortable.  We found out that there are 84 rooms for families to stay in, a kitchen and large dining area, playground and outdoor space, offices for parents to work in, playrooms, and a function space on the top floor.  Patients who need to stay longer can also access distance education through the hospital.  RMH is a much-needed facility within our community, and it was great for us to learn more about how families and children in need of medical care are looked after during their stay.

Our Year 5 students are so proud of how their contribution of knitting one square has made a difference, providing warmth and showing others that they are cared for and loved. This is one way we have demonstrated hope this year with compassionate hearts!

Dear Lord,

We thank You for the gift of these blankets, lovingly created by our newest AHSisters, along with their parents and grandparents. May these blankets bring comfort, warmth, and hope to the families at Ronald McDonald House who receive them. Let each person who is wrapped in them feel the love, care, and prayers of our community, and be reminded that they are never alone.

We ask this through Christ our Lord.

Amen.

In more knitting news, over the last month students have had the opportunity to support a new initiative by Commonkind through some relaxing knitting. We have been delighted by the response, with one student knitting 100 squares to be made into blankets for newborn babies.

We received the following thank you email from Commonkind's CEO, Carolina Puleston: 

We’re sew grateful to students from All Hallows' School for joining our commonkind 2025 All You Needle Is Love community knitting project! Your creativity, care, and countless stitches of kindness have helped weave warmth and connection across our community. Your beautiful squares will now be lovingly stitched together with squares from other local changemakers to create colourful and cosy baby blankets to keep vulnerable Australian newborns warm and wrapped in love.

Thank you for helping us prove that when it comes to kindness… all you needle is love!

Carolina Puleston, CEO

During the recent break, our School and Social Justice Captains visited the ADAWS unit at the Mater Hospital to assist with the renovations to the community space, which our Whole School Project is funding this year. These students have been part of the planning of the space since the start of the year, and in a tangible way, they added to the beautiful, welcoming atmosphere of the space by working on a mural.

Volunteer artist Hue Nguyen designed a concept for the mural featuring a tree, blooming flowers, butterflies, and birds. Her concept aims to reflect the belief that those who access the support services at the Mater are being offered an opportunity to grow and flourish—and even take flight!

Our students were given a brush and a tub of paint and tasked with bringing Hue's vision to life. After some nervous planning, they produced a vibrant mural and some planter boxes, which now sit proudly in the courtyard of the ADAWS unit. This facility accommodates young people with addiction problems while they undergo therapy.

The collaborative effort has been a wonderful addition to our fundraising which continues this term. The final amount raised will be announced at the Year 12 Final Assembly in November, so keep buying your coffee beans, keep bringing in your gold coins on dress-up days, and keep running those sausage sizzles!

To see a time-lapse video of the mural creation, you can follow Hue The Artist on Instagram or Facebook.

October is Mission Month in the Catholic Church, and we will mark it with a week dedicated to the Church's Social Justice mission imperatives and the Mercy Charism. The program for next week is as follows:

• Monday: Pledge how you plan to make a difference in the world; also, the start of the Containers for Change Challenge
• Tuesday: Green Thumbs will be selling dried herbs that they have grown, as well as seedlings to plant
• Wednesday: Eco-Justice Rummage Sale - day 1
• Thursday: Black Shirt Day - with a focus on homelessness
• Friday: Eco-Justice Rummage Sale - day 2

Black Shirt Day

Black Shirt Day will take place on Thursday 23 October. The theme for the day is: "Let's End Homelessness".

We wear black shirts on this day to raise awareness about homelessness, driven by housing affordability and housing shortages in Australia. By wearing black shirts, students will stand in solidarity with those experiencing homelessness or difficulty keeping a home. 

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR, 1948) states:

"Everyone has the right to a standard of living adequate for the health and well-being of himself and of his family, including food, clothing, housing and medical care and necessary social services…" Article 25 (1). This means housing (or shelter) is recognised as a basic human right, essential for dignity, security, and well-being.

Students are invited to come to and from school in appropriate-length and style bottoms with a plain black top with covered shoulders. Normal school rules apply regarding closed-in shoes, no make-up, and hair needing to be tied back.

Ms Jensen's two Year 9 Religious Education classes came together in prayer to reflect on our dignity and to challenge the prevailing narrative which privileges appearance over substance. They reminded us that as followers of Christ, our challenge is to look past the surface, to notice the real people behind the social media profiles and to move beyond the screen to connect in ways that are genuine, respectful, and real.

Through Paul's words to the Philippians we were reminded, "to nothing from selfish ambition or conceit, but rather with humility" and to "Look not to your own interests, but to the interest of others". (Philippians 2:3-4). This focus away from "me" to "we" is also the essence of Pope Francis's encyclical Fratelli Tutti, which promotes connection, friendship, and relationships.

I share with you their final prayer:

God of all goodness,

As we leave this place,

Help us to be authentic in our relationships

And humble in our hearts.

May we create spaces where everyone feels valued, seen and loved.

May the light we carry today remind us that compassion and justice begin with us.

Amen.

Monday 20 October 2025

The 2026 Leadership Commissioning Mass will be celebrated in Loretto Hall at 4:30pm. 

Year 11 students, their families, and all staff are welcome.

Please note there is no on-site parking.

Wednesday 29 October 2025  

Liturgy will be celebrated in the Chapel at 8am.

The prayer will be led by Ms Gatt's Year 11 Study of Religion and will focus on the theme "All Saints and All Souls Day." 

All are welcome.

Please note there is no on-site parking.

Parents can contribute to our fundraising efforts while satisfying their coffee cravings! 

Each bag 1kg bag costs $38, and $10 from each bag goes toward our whole school project, Project THREADS. 

Please place your orders here.

Below are a few statements from Bush & Watson (2019) regarding Retrieval Storage (how well information is embedded in long-term memory) and Retrieval Strength (how easily a piece of information can be brought to mind when required):

“Almost all information stored in short-term memory that is not rehearsed is lost within 18 to 30 seconds!"

“Using your memory shapes your memory”

“The closer you are to forgetting a piece of information, the more likely it is that you will benefit from revisiting it”

The ‘forgetting curve’ hypothesises the decline of memory retention over time, representing the theory that humans start losing their recall of learned knowledge over a matter of days or weeks, unless consciously and regularly reviewed. There are several variations of this curve, one of which is captured below.

The curve suggests the need to engage with and review work on multiple occasions. There is a subtle message also in the chosen graph. The period of time between learning and review is actually quite narrow. For example, if a student learned something this week and did not review it for another 4 weeks, the amount of retained knowledge would likely be lower. It is the regularity and frequency of revision that yield the best results.

To establish a more durable memory, we need to prevent incoming information from being ‘dumped’. We accomplish this by associating it meaningfully with knowledge that already exists. If the information is important and is rehearsed, it moves to another part of the brain to be coded and then eventually stored in our long-term memory.

There is more than one way to store a given memory, just as there are often multiple routes to drive to a destination. One person may prefer to remember a list by singing it, whereas another person may prefer to visualise an association. There is no one correct way.

One technique suggested for attending to retrieval storage and retrieval strength through regular, spaced practice is the TRAP method:

Translate: translate the information or ideas into your own words.

Repeat: rehearse the information immediately and relate the new to the old idea.

A picture: a picture is worth 1000 words; visualise the information.

Practice: the more information is practiced, the better the recall.

The arrival of generative artificial intelligence (GenAI) in education and society more broadly is one of the most significant changes of recent years. At All Hallows’ School, we take very seriously both the opportunities and the challenges that these tools present. While AI can enrich learning, it also has limitations and risks. Our responsibility is to ensure our students grow into discerning, critical, and ethical users of such technology—well prepared for the world beyond school.

As a Microsoft Showcase School, we have chosen to prioritise platforms that align with our values and our commitment to safety, privacy, and educational purpose. From Semester 2 of Year 8 through to Year 12, our students now have access to Microsoft Copilot Chat within Microsoft 365 (Word, PowerPoint, Teams, and more). This education-specific version of Copilot provides age-appropriate safeguards, protects privacy, and ensures that conversations are not used for personalised ads or model training. We also support the responsible use of Google Gemini, giving students a broader understanding of how different platforms work while maintaining strict adherence to our digital safety guidelines.

For our younger learners, from Year 5 through to Semester 1 of Year 8, we take a carefully scaffolded approach. Here the focus is on teacher-led modelling, guided exploration, and critical discussion rather than independent use. This ensures students build a foundation of digital literacy and ethical awareness before transitioning to more independent engagement with GenAI in Year 8 and beyond.

Our approach to GenAI is guided by a set of principles that place student safety, critical thinking, and authentic learning at the forefront:

Critical use, not dependence: Students are taught to use GenAI to support their learning, not replace it.

Human-centred learning: Assessments and classroom activities continue to emphasise original thinking, creativity, and reasoning.

Ethics and integrity: Students are explicitly taught about accountability, transparency, bias, and misinformation, supported by the QCAA Academic Integrity course.

Safe and guided use: Tools like Microsoft Copilot Chat are managed within school systems, ensuring security and privacy for all users.

Support and guidance: Teachers tailor the use of GenAI to students' age and maturity, so that it complements rather than undermines the learning journey.

We know that parents and caregivers are vital partners in this space. Our guidelines encourage families to talk with their children about the strengths and limitations of AI, to be curious about how it is being used, and to help emphasise that these tools should support, not replace, their own creativity and problem-solving.

What tools are students using?

Microsoft Copilot Chat (Years 8–12, from Semester 2) within Word, PowerPoint, and Teams.

Google Gemini (Years 8–12) for responsible exploration.

Teacher-modelled demonstrations (Years 5–8 Semester 1).

Why are we using them?

To prepare students for a world where AI is everywhere.

To build critical thinking, creativity, and ethical decision-making.

To ensure students learn to use AI responsibly, whilst not depending on it.

How do we keep students safe?

Age-appropriate safeguards are built into Microsoft Copilot Education.

No personalised ads, no personalised experiences, no use of conversations for model training (ages 13–18).

School-managed settings that protect privacy and security.

What values guide us?

Respect, Integrity, Service, Compassion, Joy, and Justice.

AI use is always aligned with our teaching and learning framework and academic integrity guidelines.

What is the role of parents?

Talk with your child about AI’s strengths and limitations.

Reinforce that AI should support—but not replace—their own thinking and creativity.

Be curious: ask them to show you how they’re using AI in their learning.

As a school, we remain confident that our balanced, values-based approach will prepare students for both the opportunities and responsibilities of this rapidly evolving technological landscape. Together—students, parents, and teachers—we can ensure our young people develop the enduring skills they need to thrive in life and learning, with and beyond AI.

As our Year 12 students move into their final school term, we are pleased to outline the support available leading up to and during the external assessment period.

September Break – Study Hub (Week 2 of Holidays)

Our Year 12 Study Hub was open in the second week of the holidays, providing exam-style spaces. Collaborative and independent learning locations and sessions. Attendance was optional, encouraged, and extremely well received. Supported also by student study group assistants, our Year 12s took full advantage of the opportunities to learn and to lead (and to prepare themselves for their External Assessment period).

As I had recently climbed Mount Gower earlier in the break, I themed my Day 2 wrap up as below. Perhaps there is something in here for all of our climbers (I mean learners!).

As you move past Day 2 and look ahead to the next stages of this ascent, here are a few strategies to help you climb higher:

Climb together, not alone: Collaboration is like roping yourself to others on the mountain—hearing how others solve problems gives you more tools for the tricky spots ahead.

Train for the altitude: Timed practice is often overlooked, but building resilience under pressure is like acclimatising—it will make the final climb far smoother. Tip: Do a couple of afternoon exam sessions to acclimatise.

Take the lead: Try explaining a concept to friends as if you’re the guide on the mountain. Speaking like an expert helps secure those big ideas in your memory.

Rest stops matter: Shout out to those who took short walks today. Just like climbers pace themselves, these brain breaks help sustain the energy needed for the long haul.

“The expert in anything was once a beginner.” (Helen Hayes)

“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” (Theodore Roosevelt)

Year 12 Term 4 Weeks 1–3

Week 1 & 2: Normal classes continue as per the timetable.

Week 3: Students may attend discretionary tutorials with their subject teachers for targeted support.

Year 12 Term 4 Weeks 4–7 (External Assessments)

Once external exams begin, classes will cease. Instead, teachers and Heads of Department will run scheduled tutorials and support sessions aligned with each exam. The full program will be shared with Year 12 students later this week.

We are delighted to share that almost all Year 12 internal assessment results have now been confirmed by the QCAA, providing assurance and confidence for our Year 12 students as they prepare for their external assessment. This process reflects the professionalism and care of our teachers, whose expertise supports every student from Year 5 through to Year 12. We thank our Year 12 teachers for their commitment to quality assurance and accuracy—this reflects approximately 20,000 individual marking decisions that have been supported and confirmed. We thank our families also for their ongoing encouragement of their daughters during this important final stage of demonstrating their learning.

We’re excited to announce a small but meaningful update to our school uniform policy that will help distinguish our students by year level and consistent with our school structure.

Sock Colour Change – Effective 27 January 2026

Starting from Term 1 2026, students will wear socks according to their year level:

• Years 5 and 6 – Blue socks
• Years 7 to 12 – White socks

Why the change? This change has been introduced to support the structure of our school which identifies our Primary (Year 5 and 6) in blue socks and our Secondary (Year 7-12) in white socks.

What stays the same? All other uniform items remain unchanged. Students should continue to wear their designated school shoes and uniform pieces as outlined in the current policy.

Reminders for Families Please ensure your child has the correct sock colour for their year level by the start date. Uniform suppliers have been notified and will have enough stock available from the Uniform Shop.

Thank you for your continued support in helping our students feel confident, connected, and proud of their school.

All Hallows' Shop – All Hallows' School Limited Shop

Our partnership is crucial

As part of our ongoing commitment to student wellbeing and a safe, respectful learning environment, I want to clarify expectations around mobile phone usage by students during school hours. Our partnership is vital in ensuring that all AHS students are connected to one another and have an opportunity to disconnect from their phones, and in particular, social media. As we are all aware, our young people don’t have too many opportunities in their day to disconnect from social media and instant communication online.

Why This Matters

Recent increases in mobile phones being used during school hours highlight the need for clearer boundaries around phone use and the disruption it causes to learning environments. These behaviours not only breach our school’s ICT and Student Code of Conduct but also undermine the respectful culture we strive to maintain.

School Expectations

Students are expected to:

• Keep phones off and away during school hours.
• Not filming or photographing others without consent at any time on school grounds and in school uniform.
• Mobile phones must be stored in lockers for the entire school day.
• Students must not engage in social or personal communication via mobile phones during school hours.

These expectations are aligned with our broader Student Code of Conduct and Positive Behaviour Support System, which prioritise safety, respect, and responsibility.

Supporting Healthy Habits

We encourage families to support healthy technology habits at home. Research shows that excessive screen time can impact emotional regulation and social development, while mindful use can foster empathy and connection. Setting boundaries around phone use before school, during meals, and at bedtime can help reinforce positive routines.

Working Together

We ask for your partnership in reinforcing these expectations. If your child experiences or witnesses inappropriate phone use, please encourage them to speak with their teacher, Head of House, Head of Primary, and any other staff member.

I have communicated this expectation again to our students and the consequences if they use their mobile phones during school time and/or cause harm to others.

Together, we can ensure mobile phones are used responsibly and respectfully, fostering a safe, focused school environment for all.

Hi guys, it’s Katherine and Bella checking in for our FINAL. EVER. NEWSLETTER! 

We’ve talked to you about an endless series of topics: taking breaks, Christmas, past pupils, Galentine's day, inspirational women, AFLRED, maths tests don’t matter, little moments, choosing kindness, importance of music, sport, halfway moments, Harry Styles, poems, what gets us through "those days", birthdays, and being yourself. 

Really, over the year, this newsletter column became our own personal journal. So, from the bottom of our hearts, thank you so much for reading about whatever it was we were freaking out over that week—whether it was natural disasters or lack of Harry Styles albums. 

But secretly, our favourite part of each newsletter was picking a song. As frequent Spotify users, more often than not, the songs came before the articles.

So, we’ve put together the full 2025 Playlist—a collection of every song we’ve shared this year. Each song reminds us of something—late-night study sessions, morning drives, that one assembly that went completely off-script, sending GIFs to Gabby Hines, or our weekly Monday morning meetings.

Together, they tell the story of our year. 

These newsletters will always be something we will look back on, something we have learnt from, and something we will continue to carry with us. And although there were so many different rants we went on this year, if there is one thing we want you to take from these newsletters, it is to: 

Keep being kind – to yourself and others. Keep finding the little moments. And keep playing good music—especially loud enough for your whole homegroup to hear.

So, for one last time…

This week’s song choice is: 'Landslide' by Fleetwood Mac.

With so much love,

Katherine and Bella xx

P.S. Here is the playlist 🧡 

https://open.spotify.com/playlist/4FxEADW8lKc689UHFq41vV?si=ce15eca5e6bb4575

In Term 3, the library was abuzz with creativity as it hosted the Crochet Critter Contest, a crochet competition celebrating the art of yarn and imagination. Students submitted a delightful array of handcrafted creatures—from tiny turtles and cozy crustations to book dragons, teddies, and even an ibis. The entries have been on display at the library’s counter, where many students have been admiring the craftsmanship. The contest winners were chosen by our special judge, Mrs O'Kane, who had the difficult task of selecting a winner from such a charming and diverse collection.

After much deliberation, the winners were: Vittoria Muscillo’s (Y9 WH4) Teddy, Eloise French’s (5.3) Yellow Dragon, Matilda Vella’s (Y8 CO3) Blue Lobster. However, all participants are to be commended for the hard work, creativity, and skill.

Interest in crochet has been underpinned by the Mercy Action Group, Crochet4Care, which occurs on Wednesday lunchtimes at the top of the Potter Library Reading Stairs, where students create squares to make rugs. All students are welcome, and instruction and materials are provided. The rugs are distributed to AHS partner ministries, including women’s shelters, Vinnies, and the Romero Centre.

The school has partnered with Box of Books to provide home delivery of the start-of-school stationery list. Purchasing stationery from Box of Books is optional; and stationery requirements can be purchased from any supplier/shop. For a list of required 2026 resources, see the Stationery and Booklist section of the Parent Information page at (Section: Stationery & Booklists | Parent Information | AHS).

Box of Books stationery will be provided via Officeworks for 2026. The online portal will open soon for orders, if not already open at time of reading this, for stationery to be delivered to your home. 

Step 1: go to the website https://shop.boxofbooks.com.au/

Step 2: sign in with your email or phone number

Step 3: Add each student (nominating school and year group)

Step 4: Select items you wish to purchase, pay and check out

To ensure all items are delivered before the start of the 2026 school year to your home, orders should be placed by Sunday 7 December 2025. Any queries about the use of this stationery option should be directed to the help systems provided by Box of Books; and deliveries need to go to home addresses.

Year 12 will soon be completing school, so the library will send out emails with details of library loans. We ask that all items be returned before Tuesday 18 November. If you or your student has any concerns or questions about the listed resources, please reach out to the library as early as possible on 3230 9531 or library@ahs.qld.edu.au.

Looking even further ahead, the Potter Library is open 7.30am to 5pm every school day except the last day of the school year for students. On Friday 28 November, Potter Library closes at 1pm.

The Term is already busy in Potter Library with Year 5 using QLD Museum kits to assist study of flooding and soon moving to making green screen news videos about a flood event, Year 6 welcoming First Nations author Gregg Driese, Year 9 studying biographies in English, and jigsaws being busily completed.

Wishing everyone a joyful Term 4 filled with an abundance of reading.

Eiryn D'Silva (Y9 MC1)

At the end of Term 3, my Year 9 Japanese class took a trip down to the kitchens to immerse ourselves in Japanese cuisine. In Japanese culture, sharing a meal brings people together and fosters a sense of community. In pairs, we worked together to prepare three dishes: tamagoyaki (rolled fried egg/omelette), yakisoba (fried noodles) and oyakodon (chicken and egg rice bowl).

Our respected Sensei let us taste and experiment with making our own sauce out of mirin and soy sauce to use in our dishes. All students were given a select amount of ingredients they could use so we could all get a chance to make each dish at least once. We all got to share a small frying pan called makiyakinabe. The pan is rectangular or square and specifically designed for making the rolled Japanese omelette, known as tamagoyaki.

As a class we came together and helped each other prepare, cook, clean and wash up at the end. Getting to learn more about the Japanese language and the rich cultural heritage in a more hands-on way proved fun for all of us students. The cooking lesson was an amazing way to end a tiring term and have a bit of fun while still learning.

The Science Department is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievement of Scott Adamson (Dean of Teaching and Learning), Shanee Conran (Curriculum Leader Science), and Matt Lourigan (Teacher), who have authored the newly published Nelson QCE Physics series for senior students across Queensland.

These textbooks represent the pinnacle of professional expertise, drawing on the deep experience of accomplished QCE teachers and examiners. The inclusion of our staff in this prestigious statewide project is a testament to their subject mastery, their thorough understanding of curriculum requirements, and their exceptional ability to transform complex scientific concepts into engaging and accessible learning experiences.

Authoring a textbook demands extraordinary dedication, precision, and creativity. Our colleagues have not only demonstrated their expertise in Physics but also shared their insights into effective teaching practices that empower students to succeed. Their contributions ensure that learners across Queensland benefit from resources shaped by years of classroom experience, assessment leadership, and a genuine passion for science education.  This achievement is a powerful endorsement of the quality and impact of our Science Department. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and thanks to our staff for their exceptional commitment and professional influence—both within our school and far beyond.

The first volume, QCE Physics Units 1 & 2, was published in November 2024, followed by the second volume, QCE Physics Units 3 & 4, released in September this year. These updated syllabus texts are designed to support exam preparation and equip students with the tools they need for success. Each book features a wide variety of question types that encourage students to make connections across syllabus topics and units. By actively applying their knowledge to diverse contexts, students develop a deeper understanding of the key concepts and skills outlined in the 2025 Physics General Syllabus. With a clear focus on exam readiness and optimising learning outcomes, these textbooks are an invaluable resource for students and teachers alike and a wonderful demonstration of the expertise, dedication, and collaborative excellence within our Science Department.

At the end of last term, our talented Year 11 and 12 Hospitality students hosted a beautifully styled Italian-themed luncheon for teachers of their choice. After weeks of planning, trialling, and perfecting their recipes, the students delivered a formal dining experience that was both delicious and memorable. The event was a great success, showcasing not only their culinary skills but also their creativity and professionalism. A huge congratulations to the girls for their fabulous work!

The Non-State Schools Transport Assistance Scheme assists eligible families with the cost of travelling to school, with applications for Semester 2 2025 now open online and closing on 31 October. 

For more information regarding the Students with Disability Travel Rebate, please read the memo or visit the website.

Join Madonna, Grace & Jonty for an informative discussion on Australia's upcoming social media ban for under 16s.

Attend the eSafety Forum and hear directly from representatives of the eSafety Commission. This in-person event is to update parents on what the new laws mean for them and their families.

Date: 21 October 2025

Time: 5:45 PM - 7:30 PM

Venue: Kelvin Grove State College - School Hall

Cost: Free

Don't miss this opportunity to hear from the eSafety Commission as well as other experts. Tickets are free but limited, so mark your calendars and secure your spot today!

eSafety Forum w/Madonna Jarrett - Member for Brisbane, Grace Grace - Member for McConnel & Jonty Bush - Member for Cooper

The Careers Moodle Page provides information and resources, as it becomes available, for students and their families. Please sign in through the AHS Hub, parent lounge, then select the course ‘Curriculum’ and followed by the Career Development and Vocational Studies Course Tile.

The Options Careers Information website provides detailed information on pathways. Sign in using the password: AHS.

Study Work Grow provides weekly career news and the latest career information and resources for students and parents. Our School Code is: AHS2019

Please click here to peruse the latest Career Bulletins for more detailed information, which provides students and parents with up-to-date careers, tertiary, and training information.

Key points in the Careers Bulletin #10

Announcements: P7 – Learn for Credit and Explore learning Programs Yr 9-11

Apprenticeships & Traineeships: P9

ADF: P11

Careers Exploration: P12

Competitions: P14

Disabilities: P15

Employment, Job and Labour Market: P16

Financial Assistance & Scholarships: P19

First Nations People: P22

Interstate and International Information: P24

Post School Information: P34

Private Provider Updates: P27

QTAC, Key Dates & Tertiary Entry: P36

QCAA: P39

TAFE & Universities and Early Offers: P42

Universities: Interstate and QLD: P43

Using VET qualifications for competitive entry to Uni & Subject Adjustments: P46

Upcoming Events: P56

FitforLife - Career Education Program Lessons Year 7 and Year 9 Term 4

Career Education Programs in Years 7 and 9 play a vital role in supporting our students as they begin to explore their interests, strengths, and future possibilities early in their secondary education journey. These programs introduce students to a broad range of career clusters and paths while helping them develop essential skills, fostering self-awareness, and encouraging effective goal setting. By building a strong foundation of knowledge about the world of work, decision-making, and personal development, Career Education empowers students to make thoughtful choices about their subjects and extracurricular activities as they progress through school.

Specifically, the Year 9 program is designed to spark students’ interest by connecting classroom learning to real-world careers. It encourages curiosity and invites students to explore diverse subjects and career options they may not have previously considered. By fostering a willingness to discover and try new things, all students become more engaged and motivated in their learning.

During the lessons, students in years 7 and 9 will complete individual aspiration quizzes and receive personalized reports that serve as valuable platforms for further exploration. We encourage parents and caregivers to actively engage in discussions with your daughter about her report, supporting her as she gains a clearer understanding of her strengths and passions. This early exploration makes it easier for students to make informed decisions about their education and future pathways as they continue through secondary school.

Thank you for partnering with us in supporting your child’s journey of self-discovery and preparation for the future.

Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize 2026

The Australian Stockholm Junior Water Prize is an annual water science competition for high school students. Students are challenged to create solutions for water challenges, with the national prize awarded at Ozwater. The winner of the Australian competition is invited to participate in the Stockholm Junior Water Prize. The competition is open to high school students who have conducted water-related projects of environmental, scientific, social, or technological importance. Students may enter as individuals or groups of two. Submissions close 27 March 2026. Click here for tool and information kits and entry details.

Real Futures Grant

The Real Futures Grant is an annual Australian program that has been running since 2016. The Real Futures Grant provides the winner with a $5,000 grant and is awarded to a student studying for a Certificate, Diploma, Degree, or Traineeship in one of the following fields:

• Business
• Finance
• Healthcare
• Medicine
• Health Care
• Specialist healthcare 

Click here for more information and how to enter. Entries close on 31 October.

Young Indigenous Women's STEM Academy - CSIRO

CSIRO’s award-winning Young Indigenous Women’s STEM Academy is a national program for young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women from high school through to higher education, tertiary pathways, and graduate employment. The Academy engages and mentors young Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander women who are interested in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). There is no cost to schools, students, parents/carers and no additional workloads are expected for busy teachers. The Academy is delivered by over 85% Indigenous staff, with the support of exemplary and Child Safe screened STEM Professional mentors and industry leaders. Click here for more information.

Fee-Free TAFE in 2026

New funding has been announced for Fee-Free TAFE courses commencing in 2026. High-priority areas including aged care, blockchain, community services, cyber security, early childhood education and healthcare. With a range of skill sets, certificates and diplomas available, now’s the time to get job ready with Fee-Free TAFE. Click here to see the TAFE courses that are included in the Fee-Free funding package.

Power of Engineering

QUT encourage female students in Years 7–12 to explore Engineering and STEM-related careers through their Power of Engineering workshops, presentations from industry professionals, and where possible, site visits to showcase the real-world applications of Engineering and its potential to solve global challenges. These events will be run between Sunday 16 to Thursday 20 November. Click here to find out more and to apply.

AHS ended the Theatresports year with a win! Yes, with the only school to have two teams in the Grand Final, up against Nudgee, Padua, St John Fisher, St Patrick’s College, and Gregory Terrace our team Ham Sandwich won the trophy. It was such a great night, with great teamwork and storytelling all around. Saved by The Bell took us on extraordinary journeys from the seas to the circus to secret passages under the palace with quirky characters and a final dance battle. Ham Sandwich plunged us into a thrilling radio play reminiscent of yesteryear and serenaded us with rhymes, Shakespearean tropes, and opera ballads. 

Congratulations to both teams for an outstanding season, ably led by our 2025 captain, Kat Lewis. Thank you to Ada Lukin (2020) for her coaching assistance and to all those amazing supporters who came to cheer our teams on.

The Performing Arts ensemble season runs from Term 4 through to Term 3 the following year.

All students interested in joining an ensemble audition for a place towards the end of Term 3. Over the holidays, over 750 ensemble offers for 36 ensembles were sent. These 36 ensembles will all start rehearsing for the new season in Week 2, Term 4.

The primary ensembles (Novizio Choir, Dance Primary Blue, Dance Primary White, Year 5 String Orchestra, Year 5 Concert Band, Year 5 Percussion Ensemble) did not need to audition. These ensembles run from Term 1 through to the end of Term 4. Mezzo choir (Year 7 choir) runs from Term 1–3, and there will be auditions at the beginning of Term 1 2026.

Below is a breakdown of the numbers of the ensembles that will be starting new in Term 4:

• 4 Choirs
• 6 Dance Ensembles
• 6 Percussion/Piano Ensembles
• 7 String Ensembles
• 5 Bands
• 8 Instrumental Ensembles (Brass/Clarinet/Flute)

Audrey Ross & Lucy Chaffey (2025 Tennis Captains)

Congratulations to our Knowles Cup squad on a fantastic start to the season in Round 1! Our teams will be competing at Churchie this Saturday from 8am–12pm, and we’d love to see our Tennis community there to show their support.

For students in Years 5–7, AHS Tennis is excited to offer a 3-week Development Program. This program provides new players with the chance to try tennis, while returning players can continue building their skills ahead of the 2026 CaSSSA trials. More information can be found on the School APP under Tennis.  

 Dates to note:

• Season Registrations Open: Friday 17 November
• Season Registrations Close: Friday 14 November
• CaSSSA Trials: Saturday 15 November

 How to Register:

• Development Program: Parent Lounge → Extra Curricular → Tennis Come ‘n’ Try
• 2026 CaSSSA Season: Parent Lounge → Extra Curricular → CaSSSA Tennis

Isla Dennell & Sophie Tew (2025 Volleyball Captains)

Congratulations to Georgina Watkins (Y7 MC7) on Representing QLD at the 2025 Australian Youth Volleyball Championships in Perth over the school holidays.

Georgina was a member of the U14 Girls Maroon team who finished in 2nd place at the tournament. Congratulations Georgina!

It was an honour to present 18 students with a beautiful teacup trio, courtesy of the Mothers' Network at the Celebration of Excellence on Thursday evening at QPAC.

The award recognises students who exemplify the All Hallows' School values in the spirit of Catherine McAuley.

Congratulations to:

Year 5: Emma Robertson (5.1)

Year 6: Clara Shillington (6.4)

Year 8: Aurelia De Macedo (AD8), Lucinda Hanrahan (CO8), Lily Heming (GO3), Yun-Ah Sanders (LO3), Georgina Buttrum (MC2), Isabel Mugaba (ME5), Sienna Dooley (TI7), Christine Kiosoglous (WH3).

Year 10: Ellen Bassingthwaighte (AD7), Emma Scanlan (CO3), Giordana Frare (GO5), Nathara Jayaweeraarachchi (LO4), Maria Churchward (MC6), Claire Williams (ME8), Daniella Ryan (TI6), Jemima O'Brien (WH7).

We extend an invitation to our school community parents and caregivers to join us at our upcoming AGM on Wednesday 29 October from 6pm. If you have been considering joining our committee to assist throughout the year, feel free to email or give me a call or and chat about how you can be part of the supportive community within AHS at justine.douglas30@gmail.com.au or on 0431 412 168.

Please join us for our final centenary celebration event - annual Past Pupils' memorial mass, morning tea, and milestone reunions.

This is the one day of the year when we throw open those iconic green gates for past pupils of all ages and life stages to reunite and reminisce on campus. 

Reunion Day is for all past pupils – and we cordially invite all members of our past pupil community, including those from the ‘milestone’ Classes of 2015, 2005, 1995, 1985, 1975, 1965, 1955, to join us for this special opportunity to re-connect, remember and celebrate the AHSisterhood, especially as the fabulous 100th anniversary year of the Past Pupils' Association draws to a close.

Annual Past Pupils’ Memorial Mass at 9:30am

Morning Tea at 11:15 for 11:30am

In addition to a beautiful 100th Anniversary inspired Mass and Morning Tea, there will be opportunities for official group, family, and friendship group photographs, self-guided campus tours, to visit the new Heritage Centre, and to purchase Past Pupils’ merchandise. 

Registration and ticket sales are now open here. 

It is a tradition for many graduation years to ‘kick on’ with an afterparty or private event after the Reunion Day activities on site at AHS. Please find further details of these events here:

20 years/Class of 2005

Riverland, 167 Eagle Street from 12:30pm

Book here

Contact: ahs2005reunion20@gmail.com

30 years/Class of 1995

Babylon, 145 Eagle Street from 12:30pm

Book here

Contact: Caroline Brumby (Rosengren) caroline.brumby@originenergy.com.au; Angela Clive (Pauley) angela.clive78@gmail.com; or Eloise Dudley (Lunney) eloisedudley78@gmail.com 

35 years/Class of 1990

Story Bridge Hotel from 3:00pm. Casual with a cash bar.

Book here

Contact: annewaldby@mac.com 0413 584 984

40 years/Class of 1985

Blackbird Bar and Grill, 123 Eagle Street from 12:30 PM

Book here

Contact: Alison Nicol on 0421 365 585

50 years/Class of 1975

From 12:30pm - 4:30pm at the home of Louise Watson. 

Contact: louisemwatson58@gmail.com 

If you are organising a separate event for any other milestone cohort, please let us know so we can share on socials and in forthcoming newsletters. 

Contact: Maree.Nugent@ahs.qld.edu.au 

Don’t miss this opportunity to add your name to the Patchwork of Sisterhood quilt — a bespoke legacy piece celebrating the Centenary of the Past Pupils’ Association. 

This unique ‘artwork’ will be gifted to the School and permanently displayed on campus. The quilt features a bookshelf inspired theme and will be custom created by award winning artisans from hundreds of hand embroidered book spines personalised with the name and graduation year of past pupils.

All members of the AHS past pupil community who graduated between 1925 and 2025 are invited to purchase a patch here – Patchwork of Sisterhood: Buy Your Book Spine and become part of this enduring tribute and memento of the Past Pupils’ Association 100th anniversary. 

Patch numbers are limited, so we encourage you to secure yours now!