7 September 2016

Newsletter Articles

Principal's Report

Dear Parents

What a busy term we have had and it has certainly lived up to our expectation of it being the "Business Term" of the year. During the past month, we held very successful Year 10 into 11 and Year 9 into 10 Subject Information evenings and the level of parent and student involvement was significant.

Our focus next term will clearly be around planning and strategy of school priorities for 2017.

Staff News

Mrs Barratt is on long service leave for the remainder of term. Mrs Creasey will be acting as Head of Department - The Arts during this time.

Mrs Jackson is also on leave for the remainder of term to fulfil her duties as Team Manager for the Australian Youths Life Saving Team. Mrs Kistemaker will act as Deputy Principal – Junior Secondary during this time.

South East QLD 2016 School – Based Traineeship Finalists (Gold Coast, Logan, Scenic Regions)

The South East Queensland 2016 School Based Traineeship Awards will be held this Thursday night at the Logan Entertainment Centre. I'd like to take this opportunity to wish our finalists (listed below) the very best of luck.

Claudia Aguis (Year 12) – Certificate III in Business, working at Classic Holidays Head Office in Varsity Lakes.

Beatrice Valek (Year 11) – Certificate III in Business Administration, working at the Gold Coast Arts Centre.

The Department of Education and Training received 80 Applications, 8 applicants were interviewed, 3 finalists were chosen for the Traineeship category and I was very pleased to learn that two of these finalists were Miami High students.

Tournament of the Minds

Well done and congratulations to our triumphant Tournament of the Minds Teams including Social Science, Languages and Literature, Maths/Science and Technology who have all made it through to the finals to be held at Griffith University in the coming weeks. A big thank you to Michelle Flynn for organising and coordinating our entries and thank you to the following staff who mentored the teams: Paula Andre, Cheryl Yamazaki, Danielle Stewart, Lee Wilkinson, Jenni McCarthy, Jill Pead and Deborra Kirwan.

Gold Coast Teacher of the Year

Congratulations to Kasey Hardman of the Maths/Science Department who was our Miami High Teacher Nominee for the Gold Coast Teacher of the Year Awards. Kasey was a fine representative of Miami High and did himself and the school proud throughout the selection process. Well done Kasey.

Subject Selection Forms

Parents of current Year 8 and Year 9 students are reminded that subject selection forms for 2017 are now overdue. The return of these forms will ensure that your student is able to select their preferred subject choices, so I encourage you to return this form along with payment as soon as possible to the Finance Window.

Student Safety

Cyber Safety

Our school's highest priority is the health and welfare of our students including health and welfare in the online environment. This year we have put in place a number of proactive educational activities for both students and parents providing advice in regards to remaining safe and positive online. If you have concerns regarding your child or their online behaviours, I encourage you to contact one of our many support personnel. The Department has also published a Cybersafety page containing general Cybersafety and Cyberbullying information for parents and students:

Recent events in the media are a timely reminder for parents to be mindful of their child's online behaviours.

Bike Safety

I ask all parents to also be vigilant in ensuring your child's safety whilst riding to and from school. Students should be well aware of road safety and traffic rules including the use of helmets. Helmets are a necessary protection against skull injury and brain damage in the event of an accident.

I take this opportunity to wish you all a safe and relaxing holiday. Best wishes to all our folk travelling to Japan, Sayonara.

Alison Fahlbusch
Acting Principal

Dates to Remember

Important Information from TransLink

From January, use TransLink's online journey planner to find the best travel options for your child to travel to and from school. Our helpful tips for journey planning for school services makes planning your child's school journey even easier.

Alternatively, you can also use the school timetables search if you already know your bus route number.

Travel to school with go card

When your child travels to and from school on public transport with go card, they can save at least 30% compared to the cost of a single paper ticket. That's in addition to the 50% discount that school students pay compared to adults. These savings quickly add up!

Grab a go card for your child online or at selected retailers today.

Visit the TransLink website for full details on school transport, tickets and fares.

Is your child eligible for STAS?

The Queensland Government provides eligible school students travelling to and from primary and secondary schools with assistance via the School Transport Assistance Scheme (STAS).

Find out if your child is eligible and beat the rush – apply now and pick up your child's travel pass from your local operator today!

Kind regards
TransLink Customer Relations

Finance Office/Uniform Shop hours of operation

REMINDER: The finance counter DOES NOT operate on Fridays for receipting. This closure coincides with the current arrangements in place with the uniform/bookshop closed each Friday. Hours of operation are 8.00am to 2.00pm Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday each week.

Kellie Johnston
Business Services Manager

Payments Via Internet Banking

Paying for Miami High School excursions and/or fees is possible using Internet Banking.

The traditional payment methods are still available (Cash/EFTPOS/Credit Cards), but some people find Internet Banking much quicker and easier – especially because you can make payments 24 hours a day, 7 days a week from the comfort of your own home or office.

INTERNET BANKING DETAILS

Account Name: Miami State High School General A/c
Bank: Commonwealth Bank of Australia
Branch: Burleigh Heads
BSB: 064-404
Account Number: 00090020

PAYMENT REFERENCES

Each child has a unique Education Queensland Identification number (EQ ID). For all internet payments we will require you to use your child's EQ ID number to identify your payment, e.g. 0011223344W.

Please ensure each payment sent through has the following details within the Payment Reference so that we can clearly identify your payment.

Excursions:

>>Student EQ ID Excursion>> e.g 0011223344W Seaworld

Please ensure only one payment per student per excursion – If you have multiple students/excursions to pay for, please put each one through individually, unless otherwise arranged with the school office. As internet banking payments are not instant, please ensure internet payments are done 48 hours prior to payment cut-off date.

School Fees:

<<Student EQ ID Fees>> e.g. 0011223344W 2013 Text

If you have any questions relating to payments, please contact the payment office on 07 55540333 or email Angie Johnson on ajohn543@eq.edu.au.

Kellie Johnston
Business Services Manager

Update your Contact Details

ARE YOUR CONTACT DETAILS UP TO DATE – INCLUDING EMERGENCY CONTACTS?

We have been experiencing a number of students presenting to sick bay with serious illnesses/injuries to warrant the school needing to urgently contact a parent/guardian or an emergency contact but with no success. Could you please make sure that your contact details are up to date and ensure your emergency contacts are available if you're not able to be contacted. This is especially important for when parents are travelling away during the school term and leaving students with guardians. Please feel free to contact the school either by email admin@miamishs.eq.edu.au or telephoning 5554 0333 to confirm your current details.

Parent Contact

NOTE TO PARENTS/CARERS

The school database program can only allocate ONE address per student. If a student is residing equally between two addresses, the parents/carers must decide which address will be allocated as the main address for the student. The second address can be noted on the student's hardcopy personal file.

If a second report is required to be emailed, please contact the school in order for us to record this.

Helen O'Brien
Human Resources Manager

RTC SMS Text – Home Communication

To improve the communication between parents and the school, Responsible Thinking Classroom (RTC) SMS text messages will be sent daily for all students referred to the RTC. This will provide immediate feedback for parents allowing them to discuss issues with their student, and if they have any concerns, contact the school for clarification. The following texts will be used:

SMS text for daily RTC referral.

Dear parent, please be advised your student was referred to RTC today. Please discuss with your student and contact Miami SHS 55540333 if concerned.

SMS text for student reaching RTC Level 3.

Dear parent, your student has reached Level 3 on RTC. Please support by discussing this with your student. Thank you from Miami SHS.

SMS text for student reaching RTC Level 5.

Dear parent, your student has reached Level 5 on RTC. Please contact Miami SHS on 5554 0333 to arrange an intervention meeting time asap. Thank you.

SMS text for student reaching RTC Level 7.

Dear parent, your student has reached Level 7 on RTC. One more referral may result in suspension. Your urgent support is appreciated. Thanks Miami SHS 5554 0333.

Please take the opportunity to discuss this with your student, should you receive a text message regarding RTC. Your support is greatly appreciated.

Glenn Smits
Positive Behaviour Coach

Drama Performance

On 12 August 2016 Coalface Theatre Company came to Miami State High School and performed Martha's War on War to Year 9, 11 and 12 Drama students as well as Year 9 History students. The performance was a one-person show which explored the rich history of the McKenzie's during World War 1. Through a series of personal diary entries and letters the injustices of war were revealed from many perspectives including soldiers, their family members and the media propaganda. This was a very engaging and powerful piece of theatre that educated students on an important historical topic.

Mrs Creasey
Teacher – Drama Performance

Photo of the Performance - Martha's War on War

7C Chimeras

What has three heads, four legs, one body, a horned head, 5 eyes and a lot of attitude? 7C students have researched traditional chimeras and created modern versions of composite animals to strike fear into the hearts of those who go down into the woods today. Normally timid animals have morphed into specimens from a galaxy far, far away with interesting and bizarre characteristics, unique appendages and downright weird protuberances. It's all in the name of art and innovation and is designed to test the inventiveness of predominantly left brained thinking. These new animals would receive the same disbelief from naturalists today as the truly paradoxical Ornithorhynchus did back in the early 1800s. See the whole gamut of these contemporary chimeras in their quarantined quarters under "More Images".

8B Claymation

Up in the Art Block, look: It's a bird. It's a plane. It's a superhero.

Faster than a speeding wheelchair to the back door? More powerful than a rock hard cold un-warmed chunk of modelling clay! Able to twist tough armature wire in their bare hands!

Yes, it's super students making super heroes to star as the protagonists in their upcoming stop motion movies. Students have written stories and almost completed their claymation figurines which they will then photograph, move, photograph, move, photograph, move, photograph, move, photograph, move and so on until they have enough poses to combine and animate in a movie with sound effects, voice overs and lots of red runny modelling clay.

(Or maybe it was a bird; that fearless young magpie which flew into our classroom in the first lesson in the first week and disrupted the learning by trying to fly back out without a superhero cape).

Instrumental Music News

The Instrumental Music department had their annual Music Retreat at Mt. Tamborine this term. This year the program saw all five ensembles attend the three day camp with 60 students and five staff attending. The retreat was also joined by prominent music educator, musician, composer and adjudicator Mr Mick Morgan who gave the students two days of inspired instruction, conducting and a woodwind masterclass that will go down as one of the finest seen at our school.

Busy long days and frenetic activities including our annual Talent Quest made for a wonderful three days culminating in a massive amount of work being achieved by all students involved.

A special thank you must go to Ms Stacey Bolton, Miami SHS's String Teacher for once again producing great results with our String students, Glen Barratt, Head of Arts for her tireless work behind the scenes in assisting the staff, Mr Cassidy Wilson for being a fantastic team player and mentor for the students, Mr Alex Burgess for assisting in a number of roles over the time and to Mr Scott King for his work with our two concert and two Jazz bands.

Congratulations to our students all for a wonderful and productive camp.

Instrumental Music Team

Gold Coast Eisteddfod Results

Miami SHS Chamber Strings – 3rd place in Secondary String Ensembles C Grade
Miami Sound Machine Big Band – Highly Commended in Secondary Stage Bands A Grade
Stella Maris Symphonic Band – Highly Commended in Secondary Stage Bands A Grade
Zephyr Jazz Ensemble – Excellent performance but unfortunately no award in Secondary Stage Band B Grade
Nova Adva Wind Ensemble – Performed well but no award in Secondary Concert Bands B Grade.

Miami Sound Machine Big Band before they went on stage for the A Grade Stage Bands section of this year's Gold Coast Eisteddfod

Year 10 Visual Art Studies

Congratulations Year 10 Visual Art Studies class who concluded their semester by creating a collaborative art work using paper weaving. Each student prepared their own "art strip" using mixed media and emphasising the art elements of colour, line and pattern. The strips were then woven together like a fabric to create a bright and colourful group artwork that will be displayed at the back of their art classroom for future art students to enjoy!

Karen Wilbur-Smith
Teacher - Visual Art

Photo of the beautiful Paper Weaving by Year 10 last Semester

2016 – Can't Stop the Feeling - Miami State High School Dance Excel Showcase

"The dance is over, the applause subsided but the
joy and feeling will stay with you forever."
- W. M. Tory.

The 2016 Dance Excel Showcase held on 10 August was a stunning dance spectacular, showcasing everything that is Miami Dance Excellence!

Involving over 130 students, it was the culmination of many months of work from students in the Years 7 and 8 Dance Excellence, Years 9, 10, 11, and 12 Dance, MDC, MGC Junior and Senior, MDA and Dance Xtreme, who performed before a full house in the Miami Great Hall.

The evening included the ever popular Miami High Dance Excellence Primary Links performance where 30 students from a number of state and private schools danced alongside our Dance Xtreme students. The Grand Finale was also a huge hit concluding the night with all of the performers taking to the stage with their Teachers and Director, Ms Miranda van't Hof for their final bows. Congratulations to all involved especially, the performers for their dedication and commitment.

A special thank you must go to Miami's Technical Production Crew, the Arts Staff and the many Miami staff who assisted both prior to and on the night and finally to the many staff and students who came to support the evening.

Miranda van't Hof
Experienced Senior Teacher - Dance

A wonderful selection of images taken at the Miami Dance Showcase in August

Film and TV students "Race around Ekka"!

What better way to spend a sunny Tuesday than at The Ekka! Rides, animals, lumberjack shows, junk food and of course show bags galore. On Tuesday, 9 August, six of our finest Year 10 and Year 12 film and television students packed up the film equipment and headed up to The Ekka to compete in the 2016 Race Around Ekka. Students were given 48 hours to film and edit a 30 second advertisement displaying the finest this year's Ekka had to offer. Although neither of the teams were awarded a place, they produced some great work and presented themselves as very professional in their approach to the competition on the day of filming. They made me very proud to say that I teach at Miami High. If you would like to see the entries from this year's competition, either look up The Ekka on Facebook or Race Around Ekka 2016 on YouTube. We had so much fun, we are definitely returning next year.

On a side note, don't forget that tickets for The M'Oscars Miami High Film Festival are now on sale at the finance office. $6 each of $20 for a family of four. We look forward to seeing you there.

Lucy Carr
Film and Television Teacher

Poster for Maniac at the M'Oscars and Film and Television Students with Lucy Carr - Teacher

Dance Extreme Do Miami Proud at Gold Coast Eisteddfod

Miami High can be very proud of the Dance Xtreme students and their achievements in the Secondary Schools Sections of the Gold Coast Eisteddfod held Friday, 12 August at the Gold Coast Arts Centre. On Friday morning, the dancers reset positions and rehearsed for 2.5 hours before heading to the Arts Centre to compete, with the evening finishing at approximately 11.00 pm. Miami competed in the All Genres section performing Beautiful People and in the Contemporary Lyrical section performing Hello and achieved Honours for both routines. Although missing out on placings this year, the girls danced with heart and soul and proved that the benefits of dance extend far beyond competition. Congratulations Dance Xtreme, you are all stars!

Miranda van't Hof
Artistic Director – Dance Xtreme Program

Dance Xtreme students at the Eisteddfod

Languages – Miami SHS Competes in the Gold Coast Language Competition

In the Language department we have been busy in Term 3 with many classes involved in preparing for listening and speaking assessments in Japanese and Spanish. On Sunday, 14 August, we had 10 students compete in the Gold Coast Language Competition at Griffith University. For weeks prior to the event our Language students were preparing and rehearsing their speeches with the guidance of our Language teachers during lunch breaks.

The following students are to be congratulated on their participation in the event:

Bianca Williams, Kyla Parke, Xavier White, Luke Robinson, Aaron Bryant, Ryan Cook, Lucinda Graham, Grace Hassell, Cory Harrison-Jones and Lily West.

In Japanese, five of our students received highly commended awards - Luke, Aaron, Ryan, Cory and Lily. This is a great result and we are very proud of our language student's efforts. A big thank you to the Language teachers, Mel Wilson, Rachael Lebeter, Amy Nishijima and Tasha Damon, who assisted the students in preparing for this prestigious competition.

Throughout Term 3 our Language students have had opportunities to practice speaking their Japanese with a number of Japanese schools visiting Miami SHS. Being able to have a conversation with guests from Japan has been a highlight for our students and we are grateful for the continuing opportunities to use our language skills with native Japanese speakers.

Sayounara – Hasta Luego

Matt Smith
Language Teacher

Students using their language skills with native Japanese speakers

Green Thumbs - Agricultural Practices Update

The Miami Agricultural Facilities have seen an incredible makeover this year, thanks to the hard work of the Agricultural Practices and Manual Arts students and teachers.

At the beginning of 2015, the Miami Agriculture Compound was re-opened after two years of being off-limits due to the construction of I-block. It was waist-high with weeds, and the in-ground gardens suffered from severe drainage issues. Over the course of 2015, the then Year 11 students worked tirelessly to clear the gardens and re-establish a propagation program in the nursery.

This year, work has continued to create a garden space that we can be proud of:

The flood-prone garden areas have been cleared out and replaced with 15 raised garden beds made of recycled materials. A special mention goes to Luke Harrison for his help with the design, construction and installation of the beds – the project would never have gotten off the ground without him!

Our stock-plant beds are being edged with pine sleepers in order to allow us to improve the soil and establish fruit trees along with our ornamentals and succulents.

The amazing Robin Thomas and his Year 12 Construction students have water-proofed our tool shed and installed tool racks.

And the wonderful Kurt Howell and Johnno have helped us to fix the sprinkler system for our propagation nursery.

Agricultural Practices students should be exceptionally proud of their efforts this term. They have moved over 20 cubic meters of soil, and top-dressed all of our existing garden beds with high-quality compost. Already, the difference to the facilities is amazing, and students are looking forward to eating their own healthy produce in the near future. The area is truly unrecognisable and the improvements will make possible the establishment of a market garden, as well as the extension of our propagation programs.

Miami Agriculture would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has been involved with the project!

Agricultural Practices Students hard at work with the garden beds

Gold Coast Show Horticulture Competition

Congratulations to all of the Year 11 students who entered their succulent displays in the Under 20s Horticultural Division of the Gold Coast Show. All the entries were recognised as being of a very high standard. Well done to Blade Robinson, who placed second with his 351 Chevy Rocker Cover!

Rachael Lebeter
Teacher - Agricultural Practices

Photo of the 2nd Place Succulent winner – Chevy Rocker Cover

Miami Makes a Difference in Africa

Earlier this year the Healthy Lifestyles class at Miami State High School, along with the Interact Club, hosted a trivia night in support of Immanuel Afrika (I Afrika), a boys' orphanage in Nairobi, Kenya that provides rehabilitation and a future to Nairobi's street boys. The night was extremely successful and the school raised $2300 dollars for this very worthwhile cause, based thousands of kilometres away from the Gold Coast.

I Afrika is a grassroots organisation which provides holistic care for boys who had been left to fend for themselves on the harsh, unforgiving streets of Nairobi. Directed by Peter Nduati, the centre is a registered Kenyan charity and works in close collaboration with the Kenyan Children's Office, the Kenya police force and numerous other children's centres.

"I Afrika was able to use the money to purchase 'Miami' a beautiful cow who was approximately eight months pregnant with calf (the gestation period for a cow is approximately 10 months) so it was likened to two for the price of one for the orphanage," said Danielle Gardner, Health and Physical Education teacher at Miami State High School.

"As well as purchasing 'Miami', I Afrika also purchased school shoes for the boys as well as some much needed school supplies."

Director Peter Nduati from I Afrika said, "We would like to say a huge thank you to Miami State High School on the Gold Coast, Australia, for donating the money they raised from their fundraising efforts to purchase 'Miami', the cow. Miami will help us to mooove forward with not only supplying our boys with milk, but allow us to sell excess milk to earn profits, which help us sustain our centre. We really appreciate your generosity Asante Sana."

I Afrika aim to take street boys out of this hopeless situation, providing detox, shelter, and food, clothing, schooling and Christian family. I Afrika give street boys a second shot at a safe and productive life, with hope for their future. With more than 80 young men rescued since it started in 2008, the centre is currently home to boys between 5 and 18 years old.

Miami the Cow was purchased with funds raised from the trivia night hosted by the Miami Interact Club and Healthy Lifestyles class.

Dedication Pays Off with Dream Trip to Japan

Dedication and a passion for Japanese culture and STEM subjects at school has paid off for Year 10 student, Mia Hori, who has been selected as the only Gold Coast student to take part in the 2016 STEM Student Study Tour to Japan in December this year.

The 2016 STEM Student Study Tour to Japan is a pilot program targeting high-performing Year 10 students who are currently studying Japanese and at least one STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Maths) subject. The tour provides students with a unique international learning opportunity to be immersed in a language and cultural environment and experience how STEM subjects are taught internationally.

Mia, a shining light to the school, is an exceptional student with many talents. Not only is she top of her class, an excellent student of Japanese, she also plays the saxophone in the Miami Sound Machine Big Band and she also has a love for swimming.

As a diligent, confident and exemplary student who takes responsibility for her learning, she has a keen interest and academic ability in all her subjects. Mia has been studying the Year 11 Japanese program, topping her entire class despite being a Year 10 student. Mia is also on an accelerated pathway in Mathematics.

"Mia's top results for Japanese are a credit of her hard work, commitment, discipline and passionate interest in her Japanese studies, and not due to her background as many people are likely to assume," says Liz Mahon, Deputy Principal of Miami State High School.

"Going on this trip is going to be an amazing way to learn about and feel the culture (beyond food, baths and removing your shoes) and would also incorporate my passion for science, technology, engineering and mathematics."

Through Advancing education - an action plan for education, the Queensland Government plans to prepare students for the challenges of tomorrow. The Department of Education and Training in collaboration with the Hiroshima Prefectural Board of Education and Kyoto Prefectural Board of Education, have selected 11 students from across Queensland to undertake this exciting offshore opportunity. On the tour, students will see real world examples of the importance of STEM and partnerships between schools and the industry.

Miami State High School, a proud independent public school, was identified through a selection process to be a part of the STEM Student Study tour pilot program for its advancement in its educational STEM curriculum, student exchange program and the language program on offer. This program aims to create the opportunity for Queensland students to go overseas with Department of Education and Training's International partners.

Year 12 Information for Parents and Students

Please find below important information relating to important events for Year 12 students.

FORMAL EVENING:

Where: SeaWorld Theme Park, Southport
When: Tuesday, 15 November 2016
Cost: $125.00 per student (to be paid by 27 October, 2016)
Time: Students will start arriving from 6:30pm. The formal proceedings will begin at approximately 7:30pm and conclude at 11:00pm.
Dress: Formal

Family are invited to watch the Red Carpet Arrival of their students between 6:30pm and 7:30pm. Immediately following arrivals and photographs, parents will be asked to leave and the students will begin dinner. Students are expected to stay for the duration of the evening.

A professional photographer will be available on the evening to take individual and group photos. Photos can be purchased at a later date and information regarding this will be issued on the night.

Parents are reminded that the Year 12 Formal is an extra-curricular activity and tickets will be issued on an invitation only basis to students who are current holders of the Year 12 Senior Badge and have no outstanding school fees.

GRADUATION EVENING:

Where: Miami SHS Great Hall
When: Thursday, 17 November 2016
Cost: $10 per student (to be paid by 27 October, 2016)
Time: 7:00pm – 9:00pm
Dress: Full Formal School Uniform (no senior jerseys)

Family members are welcomed to attend free of charge. Guests and students are invited to stay at the end of the night for Graduation cake and tea/coffee.

All textbooks, library books, technology equipment to be returned prior to Graduation and outstanding school fees must be finalised prior to the Graduation Ceremony.

Please don't hesitate to contact the Dean of Senior Students, Mr John Maitland on 5554 0396 for more information.

Year 12 QTAC Applications and Scholarships

On-time QTAC applications to study at TAFE or University close September 30th 2016. Applications are $37 if students apply before 30 September. From 1 October, applications will cost $137. Even if students have not determined their final preferences they should apply before September 30 as they can change their preferences at a later date.

Scholarship applications will begin closing in Term 4. All institutions offer various scholarships that many students can apply for. Please refer to each institutions scholarship page for details.

The Educational Access Scheme (EAS) is another bonus students might apply for. The EAS can help you if students have experienced circumstances that negatively affected their most recent studies. If they are eligible for EAS, they may get bonus OPs or ranks that improve their chances of getting an offer.

Mr Atkins will continue to run weekly QTAC sessions in Term 4 as well as offer individual appointments to ensure every student has the opportunity to submit the most competitive application possible. Parents are welcome to attend individual appointments with their child.

Mr Josh Atkins
Guidance Officer

SEP Rock Climbing

During Term 3 Year 11 and 12 students from Health Studies participated in a five week Rock Climbing program at Tallebudgera Recreation Camp. The students had a choice of completing a climb independently or climbing the wall with assistance from their peers and staff members.

This was a challenging experience for all students involved. Every week the students' confidence and teamwork improved and they challenged themselves physically and mentally. Highlights from the group were Lachlan Firth who climbed to the top of a variety of walls and Chris Muffett who independently climbed to the top for his first time.

Congratulations to all the students who participated.

Nicole Locke
Teacher - SEP

Students at the Rock Climbing Program at Tallebudgera Recreation Camp

Year 11 Aquatic Practices Fishing Rod Construction

Last term in Year 11 Aquatic Practices students were given the opportunity to make a fishing rod from start to finish. Once given the plain black rods, students completed a series of steps such as finding the spine of the rod, assembling the handles and binding the guides. This term students have been testing their finished rods down at the local canals and waterways.

Myles Jewell
Student - Year 11

Students constructing their fishing rods in class.

Senior Physical Education – Swing Dance

This term in Senior Physical Education, one class of Year 11 and two classes of Year 12 students have been rehearsing for their final swing dance assessment. Over the last five weeks, a local community dance group, the Heart Beat Rockers have taught the students a complex swing dance routine for their Term 3 assessment. The students have been busy preparing and rehearsing their routine and are looking forward to performing in front of their peers over the next few weeks. This unit of work has allowed students to build confidence, meet new people and challenge themselves. This practical element links perfectly to their theoretical assessment, which looks at how different barriers and enablers can have an effect on individual's access and equity in sport. Good luck to all the students for their assessment.

Pippa McGinniskin and Danielle Gardiner
PE Teachers

U14 Girls AFL Make Final

The Miami SHS Junior Girls are now onto the preliminary and grand-final at Maroochydore Multi- Sports Centre on 14 and 16 October. The girls beat Saint Theresa's College, 28 to 15 in the semi-final on 11 August at Yeronga AFC. The girls proudly represented Miami SHS and fought hard until the end. It was a tough match overall, but the girls dug deep to take out the win. An outstanding performance by all girls, but the most valuable player went to Jyrah Bradfield. An honourable mention goes to Bianca Perry for the greatest goal of the game. The girls are now busy preparing for the upcoming competition and are determined to walk away with the Queensland Premier State wide Schools crown. Good luck Miami SHS!

Pippa McGinniskin
Coach – Under 14 Girls AFL

Under 14 Girls AFL Team Photo

Miami High Touch Teams On Track for QLD All Schools Championships

With only six weeks until the QLD All Schools Touch Football Championships, Miami High Touch teams have been hard at training since early in Term 2. On 25 August, the U13 boys, U15 boys and Open Mixed teams hosted St Andrews Lutheran College for some highly contested trial matches. With all Miami teams successful in their matches, it is a great indication that teams are on track for a successful championships.

Good luck to all players and coaches that have been involved Miami High Touch Football this year!

Photos of the students playing Touch

Rugby 7s Results

Miami's Rugby 7s U15 Girls kicked off round two with two wins and one loss against Marymount's A and B teams, and All Saints Anglican College. The Outstanding Players were Shay Ngati and Jyrah Bradfield. The Open Girls played two games and won both. The Outstanding Player was Beryl Crompton. The U15 Boys had one win and one loss on the day. Josiah Burgess was the Outstanding Player in the boy's team. The next round is scheduled for Tuesday 13 September at 3:30pm at All Saints Anglican College. Parents welcome.

Wellbeing Update

Gratitude has been the focus of our wellbeing days recently. Random Acts of Kindness (RAK) week was held this term. Students are asked to think about what they are grateful for and, as part of that gratitude, perform a random act of kindness for someone. Doing some small act of kindness has been known to improve one's general wellbeing. The old adage of "giving is far more rewarding that receiving" was the theme for RAK. During Vibes, students were issued with RAK cards for them to write a message of thanks to someone they know. There was plenty of positive feedback from staff and students.

On 18 August we had our Year 8 Wellbeing Day covering topics such as puberty and relationships, self-defence, grief and loss, cyber safety and a special guest, Matt Speakman. Matt delivers his message of resilience and the importance of not giving up. Matt was a race car driver that was hit by a drunk driver and is now a paraplegic. He tells his story about how he came to be in a wheel chair, what he has achieved since the accident and how he has never given up on his dreams. It is a remarkable story of an amazing man. Each presenter is personally thanked and treated with a lovely lunch supplied by our hospitality students and staff. Our next wellbeing day is for the Year 12s on 13 September.

WELLBEING TIP

Challenge yourself. Learn a new skill or take on a challenge to meet a goal. You could take on something different at work; commit to a fitness goal or learn to cook a new recipe. Learning improves your mental fitness, while striving to meet your own goals builds skills and confidence and gives you a sense of progress and achievement.

TAKE CARE OF YOURSELF ONLINE

Recently in the news there has been some concerning news about students sharing inappropriate photos of themselves. A message was released by the Australian Federal Police with some information to assist parents and students.

1. Google your name to check what might be out there.
2. Keep evidence of inappropriate images or abuse by taking screenshots and noting the web address of the content. You can also use another device to take photos of the content.
3. Contact all websites it is hosted on and ask them to delete it.
4. Contact the person who has shared the photo or video and ask them to remove it and delete all copies.
5. Google can stop specific revenge porn pages appearing in Google search results. This will only help with Google searches. The photos will still exist with other search engines such as yahoo.
6. Make sure web cams are covered when not in use and make sure social media profiles and the apps you use are set to 'private'.
7. Offensive and illegal content can also be reported to the Office of the Children's safety Commissioner. They can investigate and take action on content that is likely to be prohibited under law.

Many students are unaware of the legal and ethical consequences of sexting. Under Commonwealth law severe penalties can be issued.

International News

We took our International students on excursion to Tangalooma Resort, Moreton Island from 4-6 August. The students participated in a Desert Safari which included sand tobogganing, feeding wild dolphins, snorkelling the shipwrecks, paddle boarding and kayaking. Despite the weather being a bit cold, all students were able to participate in all activities and a very enjoyable time was had by all!

Students enjoying their excursion to Tangalooma Resort

Miami High's 39 new International students had the opportunity to attend the Bond University day for all International students on the Gold Coast.

International Birthdays

Happy birthday to our International students – Maja Krogh, Martin Moehle, Joaquin Caviedes Paul, Vivian Telles and Marina Mateos. We hope you all had a lovely birthday.

Photos of International Students who celebrated their birthdays

Iwakura Study Tour – 15-28 August – their first visit to Miami SHS.

Iwakura - Melissa Wilson, Alison Fahlbusch, Kensaku, Teacher from Japanese Group, Iwakura and ESL Teacher, Ildi Nagy Cox. Acting-Principal Alison Fahlbusch presenting the teacher, Kensaku with a farewell gift from Miami SHS.

English for International Students

This term we have a new cohort of international students in our English class. The class is vibrant and large with 24 students from all corners of the globe, with varying language abilities and confidence levels but with a common drive to improve their language skills. Students have analysed, illustrated and recited an Australian poem of their choice. The classroom has been alive with recitations of traditional poets like Dorothea MacKellar and William Ogilvie, but also challenging indigenous works by poets such as Kevin Gilbert. It has been a pleasure to work with such motivated students. Congratulations for taking the step to come and share in our Australian experience!

Community News

Class of '96 – 20 Year Reunion

The 20 year reunion for the Class of 1996 will be held at the Burleigh Bears Club in Miami on Saturday 12 November 2016 from 3:00 – 5:00pm. Families are welcome to join in the fun. The cost per adult is $25 and $10 per child. A welcome drink and finger food is included in this price. The invitation is also open to past and present staff who taught at Miami State High between the years of 1992 and 1996. For more information or to book please contact Jessica Dean on 0402 720 800 or email miamiclassof96@gmail.com. The reunion group also has a closed group Facebook page https://web.facebook.com/groups/1844797095806376/ Graduating Class of 1996 students are encouraged to join.

Scoliosis National Self-Detection Program Info

Scoliosis (spinal curvature) is an important health problem for adolescent girls to check and 25 per thousand are at risk of developing a significant curve. Early detection is a preventative health measure. Girls in Years 7 - 9 are advised to check. The Spine Society of Australia has introduced a Self-Detection Program and has comprehensive information on their website.

Tips for a healthy headspace!

Business Directory

Miami State High School would like to invite our families and community to be a part of our Miami Valued Partners (MVP) Program. Join the MVP's business directory for $50 per calendar year to promote your business to our community. For more information about how you can sign up your business to the program please contact Mr Jason Cross, Deputy Principal on jcros40@eq.edu.au or Marketing Officer, Regan Verwey on rverw0@eq.edu.au. The new MVP website will be launched soon.

Tennis Central

Tennis Anyone?

Tennis Central is offering tennis for all standards after school each day. We have Hot Shots, Elite Program, Miami High School Squad, Adult lessons, Competition and much more!

Tennis Director, Sophie Letcher, is a Grand Slam tennis professional, come down to the courts and say hello.

First Lesson is free.

For further information contact info@tenniscentralmiami.com or 0479 159 533.

Tennis Central has a Tennis Holiday Camp at Miami in the 2nd week of holidays from 26 – 28

September. For more information or to book the Tennis Holiday Camp please contact Sophie on 0479159 533

Introducing Tennis

We have also started a new Intro Tennis this term. The lesson is only $10 and goes for an hour starting at 3:30 on Mondays. There is no term fee so why don't you try out your hand at tennis. Free t-shirt.

Gold Coast Oral Health Services

Gold Coast Oral Health Services are offering free dental check-ups to children in years 7, 8, 9, 10

This service will be provided off-site by either Broadbeach or Burleigh Dental Clinic. Hours of operation for this clinic are Monday to Friday, 8 – 4pm.

To arrange an appointment for your child telephone:

The Oral Health Client Service Centre
1300 300 850
Monday – Friday 8.00 am – 4.30 pm
Excluding Public Holidays

Child Dental Benefit Schedule Vouchers are accepted. When your child's $1000 cap is reached, there will be no out-of-pocket expenses provided your child meets *eligibility criteria.

* Eligibility – All Queensland resident children aged four years or older who have not completed year 10 of secondary school.

Managing Head Lice

Click here to find out how to treat and manage head lice treatments in the home. This announcement brought to you by the Queensland Department of Health.