Principal's Report

And just like that, we have reached the end of another productive and successful year at Pinjarra Senior High School. Once again, the school community has worked together to overcome challenges, embrace opportunities and celebrate some amazing achievements. Terms three and four have been filled with important events for our students, many of which will be shared in this bumper edition of our newsletter.

Term four started with celebrating and farewelling our Year 12 students, who were sent off in style with a ‘Breakfast and Boast’, a whole school assembly and wonderful Awards and Presentation evening. This was quickly followed by our first exhibition-styled parent evening, titled ‘Pinny on Show’. This was a great opportunity for our students to proudly share their experiences and learning achievements at school with families and carers, in a more relaxed and interactive environment. Those visitors who came along were impressed with the work and activities that the students and staff presented and enjoyed a first look at our new Performing Arts and Sports Hall facilities. Of course, there has also been numerous Summer Carnivals, interschool PFNA games, camps and excursions scattered across the term, not to mention the myriad of similar events that ran in term three! This week rounds out the school year with reward days for our lower school students who have maintained their good standing. I am sure that those students attending will be grateful to finish 2023 in such a positive manner and I commend them for their efforts to be recognised in this way.

During term four we have also welcomed our incoming year 7 students and their families to Pinjarra Senior High School, through transition visits and orientation days where they had a taste of things to come when they officially join our school community. This incoming group of new students will be the largest group enrolled in the past few years and it will be exciting to see them begin their secondary school journeys next year. We also look forward to welcoming back our returning staff and students, to what I am sure is going to be a wonderful school year in 2024.

While it is great to be welcoming new people to our school community, it is always sad to say goodbye to those who are leaving us. To all the students and staff who are moving on in 2024, we wish you well in your future endeavours. Special mention to Mr Darryl Spargo, who is retiring (for the second time!) after serving our school community as an outstanding teacher for 47 years. Mr Spargo will be deeply missed by his students and colleagues, along with those in our community who have worked with him for the betterment of our school and young people. Mr Spargo is an example to us all of dedication, professionalism and genuine care for students, which is a valuable legacy to leave for our school community.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank our students, parents and carers, along with our incredibly dedicated staff for your collective commitment to Pinjarra Senior High School. Have a safe and happy festive season and relaxing holiday break. See you all in the New Year.

Merry Christmas!
Jan Stone

Chappo & Chappie's Column

MERRY CHRISTMAS! Well almost… We love term 4 because it’s full of great programs and activities for our students, which also provide us (Chaplains) with lots of opportunities to walk alongside the students, building positive relationships and mentoring. I (Justin) had the great pleasure of helping out with a 3 day camp at Woodman Point with our Year 8 & 9 Academic Extension Program (AEP) students, where amongst other things, we went kayaking, bike riding, rock-climbing, toured Fremantle and the Perth Zoo, and received some Halloween frights whilst doing the Fremantle Prison night tour and an Escape from Quarantine spotlight game!

The Year 6/7 Transition Program has been in full swing with visits to the primary schools, an Activity day for the smaller primary school Year 6 students (Pictured: Team-building with Chappo), two full days of Orientation at the high school and a parent information evening which was the first event held in our new school auditorium!  It was particularly great to see our Year 9/10 student leaders leading groups of Year 6 students (140 in all) through various activities and presentations (Pictured: Science – tower building).

Breakfast Club is now winding down after serving about 6000 breakfasts to students throughout the year! We’d like to thank all of our staff volunteers as well as Foodbank and especially Pinjarra Coles for their generous donations of food to make Breakfast Club possible. If you are finding it hard to make ends meet financially please don’t forget we can assist by paying for booklist items and school uniforms for 2024 – please just contact either of us on 9531 7099 and rest assured, it’s all confidential. The Pinjarra Community Kitchen is also providing wonderful, big, food hampers for Christmas so please contact them if you would like to receive the gift of a hamper! We hope you have a wonderful Christmas full of joy and hope, and a safe holiday, and we look forward to seeing everyone in 2024,


Justin Hill & Jackie Greene
School Chaplains

 

Pinjarra/Waroona YouthCARE Supporting school Chaplaincy

On behalf of our Chaplaincy committee thank you for all your support! If you would like to be involved in supporting our Chaplains in 2024 please contact our Chairperson Sheryl Gangell on 0424 239 367.

The Pinjarra/Waroona YouthCARE Committee

P&C Update

Year 12 School Ball

The much-anticipated Year 12 School Ball took centre stage, transforming the Dawesville Cut Golf Course into a dazzling realm of glitz and glam. This year’s theme, aptly named ‘Glitz and Glam’, set the stage for an unforgettable evening of elegance and celebration.

The students, dressed to the nines in their glamorous attire, embraced the theme with enthusiasm. From flowing gowns to sleek suits, the Year 12 cohort showcased their style and sophistication as they posed for photographs against the backdrop of the beautifully decorated venue. The red carpet entrance added an extra touch of Hollywood flair, making everyone feel like a star for the night.

The dance floor came alive with energy as the DJ spun a mix of the latest hits and classic tunes. Students reveled in the joy of dancing the night away with their friends, creating memories that will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

One of the highlights of the evening was the crowning of the Belle and Beau of the Ball. The nominees, selected by their peers, stood proudly as the winners were announced.

The success of the Year 12 School Ball was a testament to the hard work and dedication of the organizing committee, teachers, and volunteers who worked tirelessly to ensure every detail was perfect. Their efforts paid off, and the event provided a fitting send-off for the graduating class of 2023.

Year 12 Final Assembly

Our Class of 2023 students were presented with their statement of results at their Final Assembly.

Year 6 Activity Day

In Week 5 we hosted an Activity Day for all Year 6 students from the smaller primary schools (not including Pinjarra PS) and any out of area students planning to come to Pinjarra SHS in 2023, with the aim of giving them the chance to build new friendships in a smaller, fun and casual setting. The students enjoyed team-building games, sports and kayaking on the beautiful Mandurah Estuary and were keen for more Pinjarra High School interactions by the conclusion of the day.

Year 6 Orientation Days

The final part of the transition program for this year was two full Orientation Days at the high school for all 140 Year 6 students enrolled for Year 7 in 2024. These days were jampacked with class rotations through the different learning areas, team games, a scavenger hunt/tour around the school, staff introductions and a drama performance presented by some of our year 9 students. The overall sentiment amongst the year six students following these transition events is that they feel a lot more comfortable and excited about the move to Pinjarra SHS, and we look forward to seeing them in the new year!

Justin Hill

School Chaplain

Engagement - Bike Program

As part of one of the Engagement Programs at Pinjarra Senior High School, Mr Beswick and 9 of his Year 8 students started a project refurbishing some old bikes.

Over the span of 10 weeks, the students stripped back the bikes and got them back in great condition!

Engagement - Skippers Ticket

This term the Year 9 Boys Engagement Program have been working towards their Recreational Skippers Ticket. This includes the completion of both a theory and practical test around boat safety, rules and regulations when on the water and appropriate handling and maintenance of a boat. Please congratulate Lachlan C, Tyson A, Levi G and Isaac G on achieving their licences. This was a very intensive process and all the boys put in 100% effort!

NAIDOC Week

In Week 8 of Term 3, from 4th – 8th September, we celebrated NAIDOC Week at PSHS.

NAIDOC week is always a special celebration in our school community and this year certainly provided our students, staff, parents and caregivers and special guests a wonderful opportunity to come together to recognise and appreciate the unique culture of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples. This year, Pinjarra Senior High School embraced the NAIDOC 2022 theme, ‘For Our Elders’ by sharing in many cultural experiences designed to showcase the invaluable contributions of First Nations people.

Throughout the week, students participated in many different activities, including boomerang throwing, face painting and lessons about Aboriginal history. Our Science teachers worked with different groups of students to use fire, kangaroo poo, grass tree resin and charcoal to make ‘bush glue’, which they then used to make traditional tools, and a team of helpers made kangaroo stew and damper, which was enjoyed by everyone who tried it.

The highlight of the NAIDOC week celebrations was no doubt the performance by Noongar rapper ‘Flewnt’. Josh Eggington is an award winning, proud Boorloo rapper who put on an absolutely fantastic performance.

We also had the pleasure of hosting Noongar Radio for majority of the day. Some students and teacher were even live on air doing an interview!

A special thank you to Class of 2022 student Anthony Hansen, who performed the Didgeridoo.

Deadly Koolinga Chef Program

A number of students have had the opportunity to be involved in the DKCP fortnightly program with a variety of Live Lighter meals such as Spaghetti Bolognese, Sausage Casserole, Seared Steak with Corn and Couscous Salad, Sweet and Sour Chicken, Tofu Vegetable Stir Fry and Salmon with Rice Salad all being cooked over the weeks. The groups have been enthusiastic and involved; even washing and packing up has been sorted without much grumbling. Students and teachers moving through the canteen area on the Monday are drawn to the amazing smells and wander over to see what the group is creating. The students have sampled crunchy kale chip treats and dehydrated garlic beans. I look forward to discovering each new meal over the program.

As part of the DKCP Program the Year 9 and 10 students involved in DKCP were given a presentation looking at the pathway options and new opportunities opening in both Health and Nursing and food based industries.

The DKCP supported the school’s NAIDOC Week with Caroline Nielson, Tania Herbert and two University students working with our Aboriginal students from Year 7 to Year 12 to produce 16 pots of Kangaroo Stew. Staff members Helen Hurst, Tash Sidi and Teagan Choky ably assisted in the making of the stew.

As part of the Live Lighter campaign, the Kangaroo Stew recipe was sourced from the Deadly Tucker cookbook (Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander FOODcents manual, 2006), North Metropolitan Health Service, Department of Health WA, reproduced with permission.

The students who made the stew were pleased to serve it at lunch time to a large number of students and staff many of whom came back for another helping!

To compliment the program, students attended a presentation on the pathway opportunities available to them through food preparation, nutrition and Nursing.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Deadly Koolinga Chef Program

Some students attended Curtin Uni for an exursion. The Yoka explored their future pathways. Passion for fashion was a key component of the day and the yoka were also inspired by the Centre of Aboriginal Studies and cant wait to go back for another excursion to learn about the other study options available. The Yoka group have already considered their future regarding pathways into university and will be yarning with support staff to make this happen. They also met the Dean of Indigenous Futures Mandy Downing, and she shared her experience in the yarning circle. We are very proud of the Boordiya Yoka group this year and look forward to seeing their future growth.

Perth Skills West Career & Employment Expo

Mrs Gray, Mrs Boardman, Mr Crock and Ms Atkinson accompanied 50 Year 9 students to the SkillsWest Careers and Employment Expo at the Perth Convention Centre.

The Expo promotes an awareness of broader career opportunities in WA. With over 100 training organisations and employers exhibiting in the one place it was an exciting opportunity for the Year 9 students to discover a career they did not even know existed! The Expo gave the students the opportunity to network with and ask questions of company representatives and industry experts. Although this is daunting for many Year 9 students the group were amazing as they discovered what is required to be involved in a huge range of careers. Students gained free career advice, discovered jobs of the future, or enjoyed the WorldSkills Trya’Skill Zones.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Serpentine Jarrahdale Career Expo

Onto the bus trekked 40 students for the trip to Byford. With a range of industries and local groups all on display the students had the opportunity to ask questions, be involved in activities, learn more about a diverse range of industries and career paths available and discover opportunities available in the Peel area. Students had the opportunity to network, see latest technologies, listen to guest speakers, and attend masterclasses in interview preparation and resume building. Notes, information, and contact names could all be popped into the Student Handbook designed for the event. The industry clusters on show were:

Finally, imagine you have just a few seconds to grab someone’s attention, what’s your Elevator Pitch?

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner and Mrs Lelaine Boardman, VET Manager.

Year 9 Career Taster Program – Early Career Discovery

South Metropolitan TAFE delivered to 12 of our students a Unit of Competency. Students had to organise their Unique Student Identifier (USI) to be a student of TAFE. All Year 9 students will need to apply for their USI as part of their Pathway Planning that commences in Term 2. The TAFE lecturer had a range of activities and some websites for the students to explore. The students had a great tour of all the campus facilities and saw the huge range of hands-on learning opportunities available. The Mandurah Jobs and Skills Centre had students look at their interest areas and skills sets that they already have to build on. Early Career Discovery was a great way for students to experience a TAFE student logon, their Blackboard system and the work requirements of a Certificate program at TAFE. The group was engaged and showed respect to the presenters over the day.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner and Mrs Lelaine Boardman, VET Manager.

Year 9 Career Taster Program – Ecosystem Management

In week 6 a group of Year 9 students attended South Metro TAFE Conservation and Ecosystem Management Career Taster. Students got to engage in activities including bushwalking, making insect hotels, racing native seeds, planting and burning Banksia fruits to release seeds. There was lots of discussions around Conservation of our land, land management for fire prevention and different horticultural practices. Students advised that they enjoyed being in the TAFE environment and their favourite part of the day was building of the insect hotels.

Alcoa Updates

Alcoa Aboriginal Student Mentorship

Aboriginal students from Year 9 and Year 10 have used the school’s Cultural Space (Dem 0) – to meet a couple of times with a support team from Alcoa. Students had a yarn with Craig Watts (Apprentice Supervisor/Coordinator), Bevan Whitby (Aboriginal Engagement Lead) and were given the opportunity to speak with a representative from HR.

Students discussed pathways, course selections and local opportunities as well as life-long learning opportunities. Alcoa showcased what they are looking for in an employee and the importance of reports, workplace experience, extra-curricular activities (e.g. Community Service) and training certificates in setting up opportunities to position themselves for future employment.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Alcoa Community Information Day


Excursion – Alcoa Community Information Day: 17 Year 9 & 10 students

At this event, students had a unique and invaluable chance to interact with a diverse array of workers spanning various roles at Alcoa, including Mark Zaborowski (Pinjarra Refinery Manager). The Information Day offered a valuable platform for networking and gaining insights, from those that work in the positions, about potential career paths with the company.

One student stood out during the event showcasing ingenuity and proactive self-promotion in front of the Apprentice Supervisor. He seized the occasion to make a lasting impression after using the “create a headband’’ area, to fashion a personalized headband with the compelling message “Future Alcoa Apprentice!”

The enthusiasm, polite demeaner and insightful questions of the students left a positive impact on the Alcoans who were impressed by the way the students approached the opportunity. Thank you to Alcoa who provided the bus so the students could take full advantage of the time allocated for them to participate.

Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Alcoa CME Inspiring Girls Career Forum


Thank you to Alcoa and Glencore who sponsored the tables that enabled our students to attend. The CME Inspiring Girls Careers Forum is a unique careers event designed to showcase the resources industry to female secondary students and to inspire them to follow in the footsteps of women who have achieved great personal and career success in the resources sector. The students this year were hosted by both Alcoa and Glencore.

Students heard from inspiring, female, industry guest speakers; participated in a fun, hands-on resources related activity where they mined for gold, listened to the experiences of a range of employers in the resources sector in a ‘speed careering’ session and interacted with industry representatives hosting exhibition booths.

The forum is designed to assist the students to understand the diverse university and VET career pathways available to them in the resources sector, be inspired to pursue different courses and new career options and build connections and networks with potential future mentors and employers.

The students represented themselves with excellence and were encouraged by the role models in the room. The students were impressed and would recommend it for next year … in fact, they wanted to attend again next year!

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Alcoa Prospects Graduation

The Prospects Graduation Ceremony marks the culmination of a diverse array of events designed to enrich our students understanding of various career pathways and industry insights. Throughout the year, participants engaged in a series of dynamic activities that offered practical tips aimed at honing their employability skills and fostering personal growth.

The program has included: the Prospects Program Launch (group) – set the stage for the exciting experiences to follow, Site and Refinery Tour (group) – observation of industry operations up close, Chamber of Minerals and Energy Inspiring Girls Forum (invitation event) – tailored to inspire and empower young women to consider the resources sector, Speed Careering (group) – facilitated meaningful conversations, Cover Letter, Resume and Mock Interview session (group) to equip students with essential skills to navigate the job market and the Women in Mining WA Summit (application event) – an opportunity to hear guest speakers and  engage with industry professionals.

Students involved over the program have received a Certificate recognising their participation. The program coordinators evaluate student involvement, questionnaire responses, and overall student interest and enthusiasm to identify outstanding individuals. Congratulations to the four Outstanding Student Award winners – Harmony Alchin (Earth/Boodja), Summer Butterly (Towns/Karlak), Olivia Dyer (River/Bilya) and Chevelle Hamilton (Forest/Djarlma). These four individual exemplified dedication, curiosity, and excellence throughout the program.

The Graduation serves as a reminder of the impact the Prospects Program has on our student’s career journeys and PSHS and Alcoa are thrilled to announce that the Prospects Program will continue in 2024.

Alcoa Prospects WIMWA Summit


2023 15th Annual WIMWA Summit – Festival of Ideas.

Congratulations to Harmony Alchin (Earth), Ailie Burns (Forest), Summer Butterly (Towns), Olivia Dyer (River), Chevelle Hamilton (Forest) and Zara McGuigan (Earth) who were selected, through application, to attend this event. The students participated in three sessions with various speakers. Hot topics such as:

  • Change isn’t only possible it is inevitable,
  • Leadership,
  • Our mindset shapes our world… and we can make it a better place,
  • Curiosity – no bounds – there’s always a next chapter,
  • If you can change your mind, you can change anything,
  • PsychoSocial safety.

The event concluded with “Standing out in a Crowd” presented by Luc Longly AM, iconic West Australian, Australian Basketball coach and MBA Champion standing 2 m 18 cm. Luc certainly had an interesting story to share and insights into success.

 

“Hi, I would like to share my experience of the WIMWA Festival of ideas, women and men who are in mining. l was one of the students selected to attend this event on behalf of Pinjarra SHS as part of the opportunities offered by the Year 10 Alcoa Prospects Program. l got to talk and meet people from amazing businesses, leaders in their fields and ex-Basketball player Luc Longly. One of the most incredible moments was hearing Luc Longley talking about his career and how during his career he learnt how to work together, help others, be involved but also how you make the most amazing memorable moments in his life.” Ailie Burns

Alcoa Prospects Speed Catering

A range of career avenues within Alcoa were presented to the Year 10 Girls as part of the Alcoa Prospects Program. The interactive learning experience allowed students to actively engage with speakers. Students had the opportunity to listen to individual back stories, gain valuable insights into various pathways and the real-world challenges and triumphs that shape a career, ask questions and network over muffins at the end of the session. The session allowed casual and insightful career conversations and inspired students to continue exploring diverse career paths and consider meaningful connections for their career journeys.

A huge thank you to the Alcoa workers that generously gave up their time to share their career stories to contribute to our student’s understanding of career paths.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

SCASA Endorsed Programs

The School Curriculum and Standards Authority (SCSA) recognises significant learning programs completed outside of the school environment. Programs such as: Bronze Medallion, Cadets, Music, Elite Sports, Community Service, Dance, Bush Rangers, Department of Fire and Emergency Services Cadets, Equestrian WA, Girl Guides, Leeuwin Youth Explorer, Leo Club, Pony Club WA, Diving, Duke of Edinburgh Awards, Scouts and WA Recreational Skipper’s Ticket all have quality assured certificates or awards and, through the school, these can be recognised and be a part of a student’s Western Australian Statement of Student Achievement (WASSA) and may contribute towards the C grade requirement of a student’s Western Australian Certificate of Education (WACE). These are just a few of the huge number of programs recognised.

Please see me at any time if you have completed programs within this list or if you wish to discuss alternative activities that you have been involved in to see if they can be accredited.

Mrs Julie Gray, Career Practitioner.

Unique Student Identifier

A USI is yours for life – much like a Driver’s Licence or Passport. A USI links your information from certificates, diplomas or training records. ALL students should request a USI and there will be some fantastic opportunities in Year 9 and Year 10 that will require a USI for you to participate. A USI will be required in Year 10 to make Year 11 course selections. The USI is very simple to obtain – please refer to the Student Quick Guide. Get organised… sort your USI now and bring it into school ASAP. Your USI information may be handed into the Front Office or at the Links Office to Mrs Lelaine Boardman, VET Manager.

Year 8 AEP Author Visit

The Year 8 AEP Class had a visit from author Sheryl Munday.

Sheryl asked the class to review her manuscript of her novel and give feedback before she submitted it to her publisher. They spent time in class reading the text, having book club meetings once a week to discuss what they read and any questions they may have had. Students then wrote synopsis for the book covers they created. They also wrote a review with recommendations and have worked on creating a study guide.

Sheryl was really happy with the constructive feedback she got from the students. The students demonstrated a good understanding of the text and what was needed from them to help the author. She went on a gallery walk to look at all the book covers created and was impressed with their work.

Sheryl then answered question from a jar that students had prepared earlier. A great experience and opportunity for these students.

AEP Innovators Conference

Sian – At today’s West Tech Festival and Innovators Conference, we as a group embraced the wonderful opportunity to experience the many inventions from students across WA. Students from neighboring schools had presentations by their innovative students, some of the inventions were pretty surprising. Throughout the day we participated in panels, booths and networked with the inventors and presenters. There was a 14-year-old student who last year invented a nail polish pen for guys, he took his idea to The Shark Tank, and they invested in his company. This year he is making so much money that he has employees. We also spoke with two girls who developed an online app, we saw drones flying in programmed performance and we got to play with robot-animals. We met with youngsters who have a passion to solve world hunger problems by boosting food production and developing a pill to stop hunger. Each of these projects were unique and advanced. We enjoyed the event and are grateful for the opportunity.

AEP Draft Day

On the 17th of October, the Year 9 AEP Class hosted the Year 7 Draft Day. They had been planning it for the latter half of Term 2 with minimal involvement from their teachers. The following perspectives are from the AEP Coordinator, Year 9 students and finally the Year 7’s.

Mrs. Mouton (AEP Coordinator): Thinking I could ease my way calmly into the new position I’d only just been entrusted with, I was totally shocked to realise that there was no time to sit around contemplating life. The first event for the AEP was scheduled in Week 2 and I knew nothing! I jumped into action (metaphorically speaking) and checked that we had the official green light. By the end of Week 1, I had designed and distributed personalised invitations for each Year 7 applicant, and I had also successfully given myself an ulcer from worry. The event was literally days away and I had no clue how it was going to play out. The two young ladies (Bree and Sarah) who briefed me on what had been planned seemed unnaturally calm and eager, I attributed this to their youth. By Monday, I realised this thing was bigger than me and I had to just trust that the Year 9’s were capable of pulling it off. Boy, was I in for a surprise! Not only did the day run smoothly but the Year 9’s ran it like a well-oiled machine and all I had to do was watch the magnificence that is this group of youngsters.

Bree, Sarah, and their team (Year 9): On Tuesday, Week 2, Term 4, the AEP Draft Day took place. This day was designed to test the minds, ability, teamwork, and resilience of the Year 7 contestants. We started with 46 naïve Year 7 students and one kid with a broken foot (shout out to Ethan). We split them into 7 groups and gave each one a clue to their next destination and off they went. The Year 9 students waited at each destination with a variety of fun and interesting challenges. They were presented with activities such as obstacle courses, mazes, quizzes, music making, cookie mining and solving a murder. At each station they raced against the clock to solve the challenge. They showed amazing skill and teamwork and impressed the Year 9 students and assisting staff. Overall, it was a great day with the Year 7’s having a fun time. Thank you to the Year 9 AEP class for their hard work in making the day happen despite a few minor setbacks. A big thanks to Mrs. Mouton for helping us despite the stress of suddenly being the new AEP coordinator. Finally, good job to all those who tried their best and completed the amazing race.

Year 7 – One student: The AEP Draft Day was really fun. My favourite part of the day was the cookie digging. We had to dig chocolate chips out of cookies using only the tools they gave us. Sometimes the Year 9’s didn’t explain what we had to do very well, and we struggled to understand but we managed to figure it out and get our next destination clue.

Year 7 – Another student: My experience of Draft Day was enjoyable however, after completing the tasks my team and I were challenged with, I realised we had not been given all of the puzzle pieces. One of my friends from another team thankfully told me the coordinates, so my team could find where we had to go. My favourite activity was probably the one with multiple fun things to do in the library because I got to eat a donut and see what other people enjoy doing. My least favourite activity of the day was the obstacle course because the basketball court was hot. Overall, my experience was very enjoyable.

The day was on all accounts a resounding success, thank you to Pinny Pantry for supplying lunch and to Professor Lee, Mr. Kirby, and Mr. Hawthorn for volunteering on the day. You are all very much appreciated.

AEP UWA Race Around Campus

Lexie – On the 16th of November, the Year 9 AEP class attended a race around the UWA campus. At the beginning of the day, there were a few pop-up booths where they told us about different courses available at the University and various places where students could live. After this, we were taken into a lecture hall where the host, who was a lecturer at the Uni told us what to expect on the day and how everything was going to work. He introduced us to our team-leaders and then told us about all the exciting things the University had to offer. We left the lecture hall and went to our first activity which was an entrepreneur class. We had to build a bridge or a bike with pop-sticks, pipe cleaners and rubber bands. During this activity we also had to come up with our own business idea. When we finished our first activity, we went for a rather long walk right across the entire campus to get to the Sports Department. The second activity was a serious game of dodgeball with a few teaching students, they kept changing the rules. It was really so much fun. Finally, we got to sit down and have lunch. Lunch was supplied by the University, and it was delicious. We all sat around on the lawn and chatted. There were other schools there too, but we didn’t get to talk with them. After a 30-minute lunch break, we had to catch up with UWA students and professors or other staff. We had to ask the students what they were studying and what their major subject was. This was fun because I got to find out about many other courses that I didn’t know the Uni had. Overall, the Race-around-campus was very fun, and held a lot of eye-opening opportunities for us.

Devan – The Race-Around-Campus was a day full of activities, that was held at UWA (University of Western Australia). Although, the name of the event suggests a lot of running, none happened. There were three activities that were scattered around the campus. The ‘Entrepreneurs’ lectures had us come up with an idea for a bike or a bridge. Each idea was unique and solved a different issue. We then had to come up with an idea to help a person with a particular problem. Some ideas were funny, some were logical, some were lackluster. We then moved on to the Sport Science Faculty. The professor had us play different variations of Dodgeball. The class was divided into two teams, with upcoming teachers on each team. The games were intense, and a lot of fun. We then had lunch and moved on to our final activity. The last activity had us move through the campus answering questions and interviewing students and staff alike. Once we finished that, it was time to hop back on the bus and head back to school.

AEP Camp - Woodman Point

Erina Maika, Hope Shaw, Sarah Jones, and Sophie Watson report on the Year 8/9 AEP Camp to Woodman Point, Fremantle.

Hope writes: On Monday morning the 30th of October, we all met on Camp Road at 7:30am to get briefed about what would happen on camp and the rules. Some of the rules were that there would be no purple (a mixture of pink and blue in the dorms), nor any swearing. We left school and headed to Woodman Point, the ride wasn’t too long, and I mainly listened to music and chatted to Shantay. Erina continues: When we arrived, we threw our bags into our dorms and got straight into it. We ventured to the Maritime Museum and explored in groups and watched an amazing movie in a dome-shaped room. When we got back to camp, we immediately started our activities. My group had kayaking first up, sadly my trio and I didn’t win the relay race. We did archery next where we were taught by Stu how to make the perfect pizza on the target. Fast forward to teatime, we all gathered in the dining hall and had some Beef Lasagna, juice, and sweet lemon cake. Sarah picks up the story: After dinner we went to Fremantle Prison for the night tour, which was so scary, we screamed at every jump scare and sometimes even for no reason. On the way back to camp we stopped at Maccas for a feast.  When we got back to camp, we went straight to sleep because we were so tired, except for a few people from Dorm 5. The next morning, we woke up before 5am to use the bathrooms before everyone else. At 6am, the rest were woken up by Mrs. Mouton’s singing… she sang her lovely ‘wake-up-song’ as loudly as she could. We were grateful that we were already awake! Sophie Watson writes: Day 2 and we were already knacked, got up a bit late and went straight to breakfast, we knew we had a full day of activities which included rock climbing and a bike ride, I was pleasantly surprised with my abilities and had lots of fun. The bike ride was a wonderful experience, lots of stops to look at beautiful horizons – I put those places on my bucket list so that I could go back. We ended the crazy day with a trip to the Roundhouse (oldest building in WA), ice-cream at Cicerello’s, a great time at the beach and a massive scavenger hunt after dark. This is one of my favourite school experiences and makes me even more excited for future camps.

AEP Astronomy Incursion

Year 10 AEP Students attended an incursion with Astronomer Tim Young. Students were able to take images of space. Tim was pleased with the results and told the students at least 5 were good enough to enter an astrology competition called SPIRIT image of the year award.

Pinjarra Football & Netball Academy Updates

PFNA South West Camp

In Week 9, 71 of our Pinjarra Football & Netball Academy students embarked south to partake in a number of activities and some quality time getting to know one another on our annual Busselton trip.

First stop was Eaton Community College to play them in a football match and two netball games. Coach Cooper’s performance may be under review as the result didn’t go our way. Once again, our PFNA girls saved the day coming away with two convincing wins. Arriving in Busselton at our amazing accommodation located 50m from the beach, students were mixed and divided into 3 groups to participate in SUP boarding, volleyball, cricket and beach competitive games. A quick walk to the skate park where the famous teacher Vs student ‘streetball’ basketball games were played under lights.

Day 2 was an early rise at 5:45. This saw the kids split into their year groups to rotate through archery, mini golf and surfing down in Margaret River. The swell was pumping and students were loving it. Our Pinjarra kids all came back feeling like ‘locals’ after catching some gnarly waves. The afternoon was then filled with more beach activities, sporting games and fishing. A walk along the famous Busselton jetty and it was that time again to head back to camp to cook dinner. A sit down dinner and debrief to discuss the day was much needed.

Day 3 – after breakfast it was everyone down to the beach for the last of the camp’s activities. Morning fitness, SUPing, beach cricket and a swim to wrap up a jam-packed camp. Cleaning and packing to follow and saying goodbye to another successful PFNA camp, with no injuries, behaviour issues or sickness.

A massive thanks to the team of staff that volunteered their time away from home to give our students a memorable experience with many laughs and good times. To see our students ‘out of the classroom’ and behaving like young adults and representing the school in high regard, is a pleasure.

PFNA Melbourne Tour

Back in Term 3, 39 of our Year 10 & 11 PFNA students headed off on the highly anticipated PFNA Melbourne Tour.

Students were lucky enough to head off on a tour of the MCG and Australian Sports Museum, where they dusted up on their knowledge of sporting history and worked up a sweat in the interactive games room.
Ex-Pinjarra student Kamdyn McIntosh was kind enough to take our students for a tour through the Richmond club rooms and training facilities and experience what life is like as an AFL player.

4 AFL games over the weekend and what felt like 1000km of walking later, the students enjoyed some shopping at DFO before they headed back to the West.

A huge thank you to Mr Beswick and the PFNA team for their organisation of this excursion. The Melbourne Tour is a huge event that took many hours of dedication and planning to organise for our students. Aside from one small ‘fiesta’ hiccup, the Tour went very smoothly and has been a highlight of many of the student’s time in the PFNA.

PFNA Awards Ceremony

In Week 9, our Pinjarra Football & Netball Academy students and their families were invited to our annual Awards Ceremony, where we celebrate the incredible achievements of the students in the Academy.

The award winners were;

Anthony Pittman Spirit of the PFNA Award
Year 8: Karly Goncalves
Year 9: Brandi Froehnelt
Year 10: Chase Miller

Most Improved
Year 8: Lachlan Watson
Year 9: Devan McBride
Year 10: Tayte Regler

Coaches Award
Year 8: Sophie Watson & Jaiden Morrison
Year 9: Amelia Drummond & Kyan Lloyd
Year 10: Kai-Raina Walker

Netballer of the Year
Year 8: Ashtyn Pippin
Year 9: Rylee McShane

Footballer of the Year
Year 8: Tatum Hammond & Luke Bidewell
Year 9: Jeniah Dick & Colton Entz
Year 10: Remi Hey & Charlie Bowling

Congratulations to the award winners. A huge thank you to Ms Van Lit, Mr Beswick and the PFNA teachers for the organisation of the events night, and their contribution to the PFNA throughout 2023.

 

Community News, Events & Promotions

Thank You to the Shire of Murray


Pinjarra Senior High School would like to express our sincere gratitude to the Shire of Murray for their constant support throughout the 2023 school year.

Thank You to Coles Pinjarra

The Pinjarra Senior High School would like to extend a HUGE thank you to Coles Pinjarra for all of their generous and cheerful support with food donations this year! It has been simply amazing and has made our Chaplain’s job of sourcing donations SO much easier, and we know other local School Chaplains have been just as appreciative. And that’s without mentioning how grateful the students receiving the food have been!

Bendigo Community Bank Pinjarra Treasure Hunt

Charges and Contributions

YEAR 7 – 10 VOLUNTARY CONTRIBUTIONS

Thank you to those families who have already paid Contributions and Charges for 2022. We appreciate your support very much.  Your assistance helps us to work towards our whole school targets and priorities.

YEAR 11 & 12 CHARGES AND YEAR 8 – 10 HIGH COST ELECTIVES

Please be reminded that Year 11 & 12 charges are compulsory as well as Year 8-10 High Cost electives. Thank you to those that have already paid.

Payment options are listed below. Alternatively, to assist in lessening any financial burden a payment plan can be negotiated.  Bank deductions can be set up and we can accept amounts as little as $10 per week. In order to arrange this, please contact the school on 9531 7000.

Proposed Charges and Contributions were included in your child’s 2023 Info Pack.

2024 Payment Plans

If you would like to look at starting deductions for next year, please contact our friendly administrative team at the school office for assistance either by phone (9531 7000) or email (pinjarra.shs@education.wa.edu.au).

PAYMENT OPTIONS

  • Internet Banking:
    BSB: 633000      Account No: 120445655
    Description: (eg Student Name (John Smith) Yr8, CC (Contributions & Charges), Yr10Camp etc).
  • By telephone using credit card facilities on 9531 7000.
  • In person during office hours (8.30am – 3.30pm), all EFTPOS/Credit Card options are available.
  • Negotiate a Payment Plan.
  • Post in a cheque.
  • Centrepay – this can be set up by parents contacting Centrelink

Thank you in advance for your continued support.

Traffic Wardens Needed!

WA Police is reporting a shortage of Traffic Wardens in the local area, and is currently looking to recruit.

To become a Traffic Warden, applicants require access to email, a full driving licence with access to a vehicle, and the ability to work 10 shifts per week.  The shifts will be an hour in the morning and an hour in the afternoon.

If you are interested in becoming a Traffic Warden, please call 6274 8731 regarding any queries or if you would like an application pack.