eNews Archive Issue 19 - 15 June 2017

I would like to take the opportunity to thank Mr Pinnick, Ms Schinckel and Ms Devine for their outstanding work in support of our students. They will be missed and we wish them well for this next phase of life’s journey.

Mr Evan Chia will be going on long service leave until 4 August next term. During this time, Mrs Marguerite Erasmus, who is well known to the girls as one of our regular supply and contract teachers, will be taking Mr Chia’s classes. 

Ms Sue Cullum returns from long service leave next term and I thank Mrs Angela Darvall for completing this long service leave contract and we wish her all the best for the birth of her baby next term.

I also thank Mr Gary Butner who has been Acting in the role of Head of Business and Pathways. Mr Butner has secured a position overseas as a Principal in China. We congratulate Mr Butner on his appointment and wish him all the best. Mr John Walsh, who many of the girls will know as he has been one of our supply teachers, will begin in this role in Semester 2.

Mrs Stacey Kelly (Biology PAR) is returning to work in Semester 2 after 12 months’ Maternity leave and we welcome her back.

Mr Bruce Bullpitt is also returning to us in Semester 2 from extended sick leave. Thank you to both Mrs Jenny Dodds and Mrs Kate O'Neil who have been taking Mr Bullpitt's classes in Semester 1.

Replacing Mr Pinnick as Assistant Head of Mathematics is Mrs Esther Latimour. Mrs Latimour is an experienced Teacher Leader and Netballer. She has been most recently teaching in Victoria. We have appointed as Head of Netball, Ms Hayley Mann, and Mrs Hetal Raniga will be taking over Ms Devine’s classes until the end of the year. 

We also welcome into the Primary Reception role, Ms Alex Kemp while Elise Martin (formerly Primary Reception) is enjoying her new role in the Secondary school, supporting the Dean of Students as an Administrative Assistant.

I wish all students a restful and enjoyable holiday. For families travelling, stay safe. The year has gone very quickly already and I look forward to working with all of you again at the start of Semester in July!

Ros Curtis 

A lot of thought and discussion goes into creating the subject lines and the initial subject preference submissions, with data from previous years as well as staffing and student numbers all taken into account. Families are encouraged to read these Curriculum Handbooks and consider their subject choices.

In 2018 we will be introducing subject minors and majors as elective choices in Years 9 and 10. This will allow students to continue to get a taste of various subjects within these year levels, whilst also providing the opportunity for depth of skill and understanding that will be required before entering a new Queensland education system in Year 11 2019. Students will be remaining in these subjects for 2 years (Years 9 and 10) before choosing their subjects for senior study from Year 11. Our Dean of Studies, Nicole Devlin, and our Dean of Pedagogy, Samantha Bolton, will have more information on the process of subject selection in her article this week.

Parents and students are encouraged to come to the Subject Selection Evening so that they feel confident when making their selections. This will be a great opportunity for all parents to also learn of the changes we are making to our courses to bring us in line with the requirements of the new ATAR system for tertiary entry.

Karen Gorrie 

‘Be Excellent to Each Other’

My apologies to all parents, but on Assembly this week I encouraged those who were old enough to watch the 1989 movie “Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure” (PG) sometime over the holidays. I have always thought that the simple message of treating others kindly and fairly was worth a mention amongst the complications of our daily lives. ‘Be Excellent to each Other’ sums up treating others with love, respect, kindness and care. It reminds us to treat others the way we too would wish to be treated. The St Margaret’s Way is much like this message, asking us to lift others, support and build community.

The School Chapel and the Sisters’ Chapel

Our School Chapel belongs to our whole community. I love to have past students in congregations, at baptisms in particular, where I can welcome the Old Girls ‘back home’. It is a place for personal reflection and contemplation, to joyous singing and foot stamping. Our Chapel welcomes all, and all are welcome to consider joining a service, seeking baptism or Confirmation, a wedding, memorial or funeral. The Sisters’ Chapel is also available to Old Girls for baptisms and weddings as well. Feel free to contact me at any time for more information: ncolledge@stmargarets.qld.edu.au or 3862 0716.

Reflection

As the breath of wind is felt on the cheeks, as the warmth of the sun rest gently on our arms,

We feel the presence of our Creator.

As the sounds of laughter falls to our ears, as the memory of embraces remain,

We know the company of the Creator.

As life draws our gasps, tenderly taking us by the hand,

We are at one with our Creator.

Holy. Alive. In Wonder.

Amen.

With every blessing on you and the holiday time ahead,

The Reverend Nicki Colledge 

Some of the issues raised at the conference included the need to attract and retain quality teachers in rural areas, expanding virtual learning opportunities, connectivity and more support for students that are gifted and talented or those with learning difficulties.

The ICPA conference brings together members from all over Queensland. Attending these conferences allows us to better understand some of the difficulties faced by our families from rural and remote areas. By gaining a better understanding of the issues faced by students we are able to put strategies in place to support them when they attend St Margaret's. Ms Curtis and I also had the opportunity to catch up with current and prospective families and gain personal insights into the many issues that were raised at the conference.

At St Margaret's we are determined to support students and families from rural and remote areas and ensure that their transition to St Margaret's Boarding is as smooth as possible. With a thorough understanding of their educational background we can ensure that we are providing an environment where the girls feel safe and are surrounded by people who are willing to help them achieve their best educational outcome.

Lesa Fowler

During this time parents are invited to browse through the subject stalls, speak with teachers and attend the presentation relevant to their daughter’s year level. The format of the evening is outlined in the table below:

We hope that you and your daughter will attend this evening and take the opportunity to gather important information relating to selecting subjects.

Samantha Bolton 

Holidays remove the seriousness of study and examination from the minds of the students. They have the opportunity to pass their time visiting their friends, spend time with family, relax, read, go to the movies or just sleep. Such activities are important for their spirit to refresh for study in the next term.

The end of Semester 1 marks the time when we begin significant organisation for the next school year. A substantial part of this process is the construction of the timetable. This process is detailed and guides the set-up of classes and staffing for the following year.

To begin this process, students in Years 8, 9 and10 need to select their course of study for the following year. To assist you and your daughter with this decision Curriculum Handbooks for each new year of study, plus any relevant subject selection forms will be uploaded to the school website for your perusal over the holidays. Please note all Boarders will bring home a copy of their relevant Curriculum Handbook to assist Boarding families or they will be mailed home if your daughter has left early.

Along with the Curriculum Handbook as a guide, in Term 3 the Years 8, 9 and 10 students will be addressed by each Head of Faculty during Year Level Assembly times. The curriculum details and requirements of each elective subject will be outlined. Students will have the opportunity to ask questions about the subjects they may be interested in pursuing next year.

In addition to these information sessions, the School will conduct a Parent Information Evening on Monday 7 August. This event will incorporate a Subject Expo where parents and students can speak with staff about subject offerings.

Following the Information Evening, students will be required to select their subjects through an online process during Form time. More information about this process can be found in the Curriculum Handbooks.

Semester 1 Reports

End of Semester Reports will be available on Parent Lounge by 5pm on Friday 23 June. Each student’s report will consist of a comment from her Head of Year, as well as a page for each subject. The final page of the report shows the Grade Point Average (GPA) graph which records the student’s overall level of achievement and tracks this from semester to semester.

For each subject there is a list of the course content, marks for the criteria assessed, a table showing the distribution of achievement levels within the subject, an assessment of your daughter’s attitude to her learning and a comment from the teacher (for Year 12 only). The academic ratings are based on the assessment completed throughout Semester 1.

As girls from Years 7 to 11 have been part of the Continuous Reporting process there are no comments for each subject. For specific comments please refer back to assessment activities in Parent Lounge. Girls in all years levels are encouraged to read their comments carefully. These remarks contain advice designed to assist the girls to develop their skills and improve their outcomes in the future. Ideally, students should review their reports with their parents just prior to beginning Semester 2. In this way, they can use them to set some specific learning goals.

The GPA graph contains a number which is rounded down to the nearest 0.2 increment. It is also important to be mindful of the fact that curriculum becomes more demanding from year to year and that a decline in outcomes in Semester 1 can be quite usual. This is particularly the case from Year 10 to Year 11. The most significant information about a student’s learning progress can be gained by comparing outcomes from Semester 1 to Semester 2, within a calendar year.

Should you have any questions regarding your daughter’s report please contact the Dean of Studies’ office on 3862 0826 when school resumes in Term 3.

Nicole Devlin 

The need to relax and enjoy during the holidays

The cumulative effect on young minds of the ongoing obligations required to complete a semester of study can result in a loss of enthusiasm and energy for learning if the trend seems to go on for too long. Continually tired students are more susceptible to illness. Ironically this can have a negative impact where the more time they spend on their studies, the less effective they may become.

All students do need a mental break from the feeling of pressure from work commitments. I believe it is important though, particularly for senior students to make personal decisions about the amount of schoolwork they do in the holidays. There may be a need to revise or to read over content for the next unit of work. We are now preparing our senior students to be independent learners who are able to make capable and intelligent decisions regarding their study.

The holiday period represents a real opportunity to take a break where students can spend time with family and friends and engage in other activities. The holiday is a time to have fun, get lots of sleep, exercise and eat properly which I strongly encourage. If students return to school well rested, fitter, healthier and more alert they will perform to their optimum. I would like to take this opportunity to wish all in the Secondary School a safe, happy and warm holiday.

Nikki Townsend 

A holistic education addresses social and emotional, cultural, academic, physical and faith development. These are addressed daily in the classroom, but special events address certain areas of development and in different ways.

The students’ social development was particularly supported in Years 5 and 6 when the girls said goodbye to their families and independently headed away to camp. Years P-2 celebrated “being a kid” (as was told by a Prep student) during Under 8’s day. Not only did they develop socially as they interacted with other year levels, they were also challenged in other areas of development. Through tinkering with recycled materials, girls were cognitively challenged as they created. They were offered physical activities that they would encounter on the beach. All girls also had the opportunity to develop socially when they were hosts to visitors at the Mother's Day Breakfast and today for the many proud Grandparents, Godparents and parents.

Culturally, the girls developed through their music and art lessons. Students who participate in Private Speech and Drama and Music lessons developed as they participated in exams and music recitals. On Tuesday night, the girls who play a string instrument performed for an appreciative audience. The Year 3 girls made their debut to a wider audience and played with older students in the finale. Today, the Verse Speaking Competition allowed for the girls to learn a poem and perform as part of a verse speaking choir for many visitors. It was such a wonderful cultural experience for the students.

Health and Physical Education aims to develop each child physically. The Andrews Cup sporting competition also contributes to this development. This term, forty-four girls represented our school as they competed in Andrews Cup Cross Country. Many girls are now training for Netball and Athletics next term. The Primary school has nine teams in the Downey Park Club Netball competition. It was wonderful to see the girls play on Saturday and hear from their fiercest supporters; parents, coaches and managers, who share their observations about how the girls have improved over the season. In Semester 1 we had seventeen girls make the City District teams for six different sports and six girls make a Metropolitan North Team for Swimming, Hockey and Netball.

The students develop their Faith in their weekly Religious and Values Education and by attending Chapel. This term, a service was offered to all family members. It was affirming to see some of the Years 3 and 6 girls admitted to Communion and share our faith with students and their families.

These events each identify the opportunities your daughter has participated in and that have contributed to their development on a more global level. Each student’s individual development will be shared in their report. You will find details regarding this below (please refer to Trudi Edwards’ article).

I would like to thank each of the teachers for providing these experiences and a classroom program that caters for your child so she may reach her potential.

I wish everyone a safe and happy winter holiday and it will be a great time to stay in bed and curl up with a book. Research has shown that the amount of independent reading a child does outside of school relates to their growth in vocabulary, verbal fluency, reading comprehension and general knowledge. Children who read on their own improve their reading skills, have greater content knowledge and score higher on achievement tests than children who do not open a book outside of school. Food for holiday thought!

Happy reading.

Angela Drysdale

Week 9 - Continuous Reporting

The following assessment results and feedback will be available after 3:30pm on Friday this week:

Year 5 English Reading Assessment

Year 5 History Assessment

Year 5 HPE - The Human Body Assessment

Year 5 Maths Assessment

Year 5 Scientific Experiment Assessment

Year 5 Chinese Directions Assessment

Year 5 Music Assessment

Year 5 French Reading Assessment

Year 6 English Reading Assessment

Year 6 Oral Presentation Assessment

Year 6 HPE ‘Confident Me’ Assessment

Year 6 Humanities Written Test Assessment

Year 6 Chinese Directions Assessment

Year 6 Science Short Answer Assessment

Year 6 French Reading Assessment

A reminder that End of Semester Reports will be available through Parent Lounge during the school holidays. You will receive an email to advise you of the date that these will be made available. For students in Years 5 and 6, the overall grade for each subject strand is assigned based on the assessment tasks undertaken. These tasks are NOT all equally weighted, and the overall result is based on the grades achieved and the weighting assigned to specific assessment tasks.

Trudi Edwards

Assistant Head of Primary 

Thank you to our amazing string staff Mr Ng, Ms Williamson, Ms Streatfeild and Ms Brown for all their hard work in preparing the girls for the evening. Special thanks also to the Music Support Group for their provision of refreshments and raffles at the event.

Congratulations to Meleia

Congratulations to Meleia Richardson (Year 8) who was awarded the Runner-up in the recent BPAC (Brisbane Performing Arts Challenge) Musical Theatre Scholarship. The competition process was a very intensive one that required Meleia to perform a number of pre-prepared dances and songs in a variety of genres, as well as learn and perform new musical theatre excerpts on the day. As part of the award, Meleia won a summer intensive in Melbourne with Jason Coleman's Ministry of Dance which is a musical theatre intensive plus a cash prize. This is an outstanding result Meleia. Well done!

All the best to Rena Mori

All the best to Rena Mori (Year 9) who will be participating in the Australian Chamber Orchestra Academy in Sydney over the school holidays for an inspirational week of intensive rehearsals and performances with ACO musicians. The academy is for outstanding Secondary school students who play violin, viola, cello or double bass and gives young musicians the opportunity to be challenged and inspired in a professional learning environment, working side by side with ACO musicians and ACO Emerging Artists throughout the week. This will be a wonderful opportunity for Rena and we look forward to hearing of her experiences when she returns.

Thank you to Akari Komoto

Thank you to Akari Komoto (Year 8) who is performing at the Brisbane Club this Friday evening at a Youngcare fundraiser. Youngcare is an amazing organisation committed to helping young people with high care needs live life with choice, independence and dignity. We wish Akari all the best and thank her for her involvement and support of Youngcare.

Community Choir 2017

We will once again be offering family and friends the opportunity to sing in the St Margaret’s Community Choir this year. This is always a fantastic way of engaging with the St Margaret’s community through the medium of music. This year the Community Choir will participate in our annual Classics in the Cathedral concert held in St John’s Cathedral as well as in the whole of school Choral Concert held in Eton Hall at the end of Term 3. Please find attached a letter (PDF 222.1KB) with further details, and feel free to advertise the information to family and friends!

Music Support Group Meeting

The next MSG meeting will be held on Tuesday 11 July at 5:00pm in the Primary Music Room (second floor of Chaseley). Parents from both the Primary and Secondary Schools are welcome to attend.

Brad King 

“Charlotte’s work is conceptually very interesting and has included an interesting range of media. The bold but monochromatic colours make the work intriguing and also gives the work impact; it is amazing!”

Lisa Smith 

There was an overwhelming turnout from the Year 9 cohort to the information evening where they had the opportunity to ask the panel of students and staff questions about their exchange experiences. We also had a past parent share her experience which was of great value to the families.

Information packs with the Global Exchange Application Form were handed out to all Year 9 attendees. Feedback from the evening was very positive and it was great to see the active participation from the audience as well as the staff and panel. I would like to take this opportunity to thank the following for their support in making the information evening a success: Ms Karen Gorrie (Deputy Principal), Mrs Kelly Alford (Head of Year 9) and members of the presentation panel (Lily Devereaux, Isabelle Cox, Natasha Licina, Isabel Haqqani, Penelope Crothers, Lily Shugg, Jondayah Martin, Eve Parry-Jones (visiting exchange student from LVS, UK) and Mrs Warby (2016 parent).

The information evening was recorded and the link will be forwarded to all Year 9 families by Monday 19 June 2017. I would like to encourage all Year 9 students to apply for the 2018 Global Exchange Program as this is an enriching opportunity to appreciate the diversity of learning, cultural experiences overseas and life-long friendships.

IMPORTANT:

• Applications for the 2018 Global Exchange Program close on 21 July 2017
• If you require further information or need an application pack, please contact Ms Achari via Main Reception, phone 07 3862 0861 or email: aachari@stmargarets.qld.edu.au
• Panel interviews will occur during the weeks of 7-11 and 14-18 August and each applicant is required to do a 2 minute PowerPoint presentation
• Applicants will be informed of outcome via email at 3:30pm on 12 September

Term 2
We farewell our visiting exchange students this week; Anna Willis, Jessica Parker and Demi Talmage from South Africa, Eve Parry-Jones, Teigan Godfrey and Georgia Harwood from England. The girls will be leaving us with fond memories of their time at St Margaret’s and taking away life-long experiences and friendships.

Term 3
We will be welcoming twelve visiting exchange students in Term 3. From Germany (five), Japan (two), South Africa (three) and New Zealand (two). Two St Margaret’s students, Sophie Cosgrove and Imogen Morison, will be away on their exchange to South Africa and we wish them well.

The following St Margaret’s students will be returning from their exchange: Lillyana Bowden, Emily O’Neill and Skye Littlewood (St Anne’s, South Africa), Olivia Trempus and Chloe Bloomfield (Shawnigan Lake, Canada), Laura Manly and Gabriella Sedgwick (St Stephen’s, Hong Kong), and Claudia Bosworth and Tessa Sprott (Crofton House, Canada).

Angelin Achari 

In the most recent round of the QDU heats, the girls handled a range of interesting and complex topics. Some of these included:

• That we should ban phones in schools (Year 8)
• That we should ban competitive eating competitions (Year 9)
• That people on unemployment benefits should pay back the government (Year 10)
• That we should cap the income of the highest earning employee of a company to 20 times that of the lowest earning employee (Year 11)
• That we should limit the number of years that a person can be a member of parliament (Year 12)

Overall, it has been a successful season across the board, both in the results that have been achieved and the skills that the girls have developed along the way. Congratulations must go to the four St Margaret’s teams that will be progressing to the finals: the 8.1, 9.1, 11.2 and 12.1 teams.

Well done to all the debaters and their coaches on such a rewarding season, and good luck to the Year 7 girls who are about to commence their season!

Hannah Lane and Charlotte Traves

Debating Captains 

Normal trading hours will resume Tuesday 11 July 2017
Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday: 8am - 2pm
Wednesday: 10am - 5pm

Please note the winter uniform requirements for Term 3:
Optional with Middy uniform (Primary and Secondary)
School jumper and/or blazer (sports tracksuit top must not be worn with Middy)
School tights, scarf and gloves

Optional with sports uniform
Pre Prep - Year 2: School fleecy tracksuit or jumper
Year 2 (Andrews Cup participants), Years 3-12
Tracksuit Jacket and Pants must be worn as a set
Jumper can be worn with sports uniform but not with tracksuit pants

Terisa Arnold 

Join us for breakfast and hear one of Australia’s leading advocates for the social and economic empowerment of women who believes that the key to success will be converting awareness into meaningful change.

Tickets are available for sale via Flexischools. Please click on this link to purchase your ticket.

ST MARGARET’S P&F ASSOCIATION

P&F General Meetings

The P&F invites the school community to share their views and ideas at the General Meetings, held in the Arts Centre Foyer from 6:30pm on the following dates:

Monday 31 July 2017
Monday 30 October 2017

P&F Event Dates 2017

Our next Event is the Fathers’ Dinner. This an annual event and is a wonderful opportunity for all Fathers and male role models to meet and enjoy a sumptuous two course dinner and drinks.

Date: Friday 28 July 2017

Time: 6:30pm pre-dinner drinks in Eton Courtyard, 7:00pm Dinner

Venue: Eton Hall

Cost: $95.00 per person

Includes: Two course dinner and drinks

RSVP: Wednesday 26 July 2017

In the event the online ticket sales reach room capacity prior to this date, the opportunity to purchase tickets will cease and the event will be considered SOLD OUT.

Please click on this link and book your ticket today.

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

Upcoming Events

10 Year Reunion - Class of 2007 - Friday 21 July 2017

20 Year Reunion - Class of 1997 - Saturday 22 July 2017

30 Year Reunion - Class of 1987 - Friday 21 July 2017

40 Year Reunion - Class of 1977 - Saturday 22 July 2017

50 Year Reunion - Class of 1967 - Saturday 22 July 2017

60 Year Reunion - Class of 1957 - Saturday 22 July 2017

Chapel Service and Morning Tea - Sunday 23 July 2017

1938-1956 (60+) Year Reunion - Monday 24 July 2017

AGM - Tuesday 28 November 2017

Luanne Wishart 

After the presentations, students will have the opportunity to speak first-hand to current students and staff, who will provide detailed information on degrees offered, opportunities available and what life’s like on campus at UNSW.

Presentation schedule for the night

• 6:30pm - 6:50pm Presentation by UNSW Law
• 7:00pm - 7:30pm Presentation by UNSW Business School

Students can register via whatson.unsw.edu.au.

Art and Design Student Parent Information Evening - 22 June
The Art and Design Student Parent Information Evening is a chance for students and parents to come along and hear about what it means to be a practicing contemporary artist, designer, digital creative, animator, filmmaker or curator.

Our knowledgeable staff, industry graduates and current students will provide insight into the experience of being a UNSW Art and Design student, share information about high school subject selection, the admissions process and portfolio entry.

Students can register via whatson.unsw.edu.au.

UNSW Open Day
Save the date - Saturday 2 September. Open Day is an opportunity for your students to get their first taste of university life. Attend lectures, chat with current staff and students, explore the campus and find out if UNSW is the right place for them.

Registration will open later this month. Visit openday.unsw.edu.au for more information.

QTAC:Selection guidelines for initial teacher education courses (pre-service teachers)
As part of the Australian Institute for Teaching and Leadership (AITSL) revised Standards and Procedures (2015), all applicants to initial teacher education courses (pre-service teachers) must satisfy both academic and non-academic entry criteria for selection to the course. This requirement applies for the 2018 tertiary admissions period onwards. Details may be found at: http://www.qtac.edu.au/courses---institutions/initial-teacher-education.

University of Queensland
2017 Engineering Futures Evening by Women in Engineering
Years 10, 11 and 12 students, their parents and teachers, are invited to UQ St Lucia to discover the possibilities of engineering.

Join us at our Engineering Futures Evening and be inspired by the journeys of three female engineers: 

• Monan Zang, Electrical Engineer - Powerlink
• Rebecca Newby, Structural and Materials Engineer - ALS Global
• Alison Stoakley, Civil and Environmental Engineer - Engineers Without Borders

Presentations will be followed by a networking session with engineering societies and industry representatives. A light dinner will be provided.

Continuing Professional Development credits are available for teachers attending this event.

Date and Time: Thursday 20 July 2017, 4:30pm - 7:30pm AEST
Location: The University of Queensland, Level 2, Advanced Engineering Building (49), Jocks Road, St Lucia, QLD 4072
RSVP by Monday 17 July
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/2017-engineering-futures-evening-tickets-34059773700

Engineering and Technology Careers Evening 2017
Do you want an exciting and, fast-paced career, qualifications that will enable you to work around the world, and the skills to solve both local and global challenges? You can have all this and more with a career in Engineering and Technology!

At UQ's 2017 Engineering and Technology Careers Evening, you will have the opportunity to:

• Hear from recent Engineering and Information Technology graduates about their experiences in industry
• Talk to academic staff and current students about the study options available at UQ
• Ask practicing engineers and technology innovators about job opportunities available in industry
• Discover why UQ provides students with the best foundation for careers in Engineering and Information Technology

The event will be held on Thursday 17 August from 6:00pm - 8:00pm in the GHD Auditorium, Advanced Engineering Building (#49), The University of Queensland, St Lucia campus https://uqfuture.custhelp.com/rd?1=AvMo~wrADv8S~xb~Gv9S~yJNYPcr0C77Mv~A~z7~Pv8J&2=11497

Audition Information for Bachelor of Music (Honours) Applications
The School of Music has released its audition information for Year 12 students wanting to enter the Bachelor of Music (Honours) Program in 2018. Written applications for entry are due by Monday 14 August, with the on-campus audition process occurring Saturday 16 - Saturday 30 September. Auditions are limited to students performing using classical orchestral instruments, classical guitar, piano and classical voice. For more information visit: https://music.uq.edu.au/about/auditions.

Law scholarship for disadvantaged students
The TC Beirne School of Law Leadership, Excellence and Diversity (LEAD) Scholarship offers students $7,000 towards living expenses during their undergraduate law studies, and one-on-one academic support. Eligible students are those who are currently completing senior schooling in Australia at a non-selective government school, have demonstrated significant educational, social and/or financial disadvantage, and are intending on studying a Bachelor of Laws (Honours) at The University of Queensland in 2018.

In addition to the scholarship, students can apply for the UQ Special Admissions Scheme (SAS) for undergraduate law programs. The scheme offers eligible students access to support services and considers the level of hardship they may have experienced, as well as their OP/Rank.

Applications for the LEAD Scholarship and SAS will open online from 3 August until 8 September 2017. https://law.uq.edu.au/lead-scholarship

School of Economics Scholarships
Applications are now open for two invaluable scholarship opportunities at the UQ School of Economics: The Year 12 Domestic Australian Scholarship and the Year 12 Equity and Diversity Scholarship.

The Year 12 Domestic Australian Scholarship is for outstanding Australian domestic students who are completing Year 12 studies. The successful candidate will receive a $5,000 bursary each year for three years. Applications close 3 November 2017.

The Year 12 Equity and Diversity is for students who can demonstrate a very keen interest in economics but who have faced educational disadvantage during high school. The successful candidate will receive a $5,000 bursary each year plus a mentoring scheme. Applications close 28 November 2017. https://economics.uq.edu.au/

Support for international students under 18 years of age
If you have international students who will be aged 17 at the time they will commence their studies at UQ, The University of Queensland Student Services offers a supervision program which approves the accommodation, support and general welfare of unaccompanied international students under 18 years of age.

Applicants under the age of 18 will be identified in the admission process and an offer of admission will be conditional on the applicant submitting a completed International Student Supervision registration form signed by the applicant and their parent/legal custodian.

If the University accepts responsibility for accommodation and welfare arrangements, a Confirmation of Appropriate Accommodation and Welfare (CAAW) alongside a Confirmation of Enrolment (CoE) letter will be issued, so applicants can then apply for a student visa. http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/u18-supervision

James Cook University (JCU)
JCU is excited to announce a new offering at the TSXPO for 2017. Running concurrently with the expo, we will be offering personalised one-on-one consultations at Rydges Fortitude Valley. Students can meet us at the expo to gather information, or pre-book a personalised consultation.

Some topics that can be covered in the consultations include:

• Study at JCU;
• Application Based Programs;
• Accommodation;
• Study pathways
• Scholarships; and/or
• Student Support Programs

Appointments are being offered on 15 and 16 July from 10:30am - 3:00pm. Appointments will be on the hour and half hour for the duration of the event. To book an appointment, students must utilise the following form: https://www.jcu.edu.au/events/events-listed/future-students/jcu-expo

Bond University
You can apply direct to Bond University right now. Applying online to study at Bond University is free and easy. We encourage you to lodge your application as soon as you have decided what you would like to study. There’s no application fee - no obligation to accept a place if it is offered - it simply gives you another option when it comes to making a decision about your future.

Applying for a scholarship is as simple as completing an additional section of the general Bond application form. In other words, there's no need to submit multiple applications. Your application acts as both an application for a scholarship as well as an application to study at Bond University all in one form. Before you start an application, read our top scholarship application tips: https://bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/how-apply

University of New South Wales (UNSW) Registrations for the 2017 LAT are now open and must be completed online via the ACER website.

The Law Admission Test or LAT is a written test that is used to demonstrate your aptitude and suitability for studying undergraduate Law at UNSW. Your LAT score, in addition to your academic results (e.g. ATAR + additional points), will be used in our selection process to allow us to better differentiate between the many high achieving applicants to Law. The LAT was introduced in 2016 for entry to UNSW Law dual degree programs from 2017 onwards.

If you are interested in studying Law at UNSW in 2018 then you should sit the LAT in 2017. Visit www.law.unsw.edu.au/lat?mc_cid=25e128ec7f&mc_eid=ccf114835f for more information.

The University of Queensland: Accommodation guarantee for new students
For students commencing study at UQ and looking for accommodation, UQ's accommodation services is providing guaranteed accommodation for eligible students before they arrive!

Students who will be studying as an international, regional or interstate student at the St Lucia or Herston campuses will receive guaranteed accommodation through the UQ Colleges and UQ's external partners.

Upon application, students will receive an offer within five days, allowing them to plan and prepare for their move to Brisbane. For information, contact Andrea Strachan: Phone: 07 3365 1720, Email: a.strachan@uq.edu.au, Web: http://www.uq.edu.au/student-services/guaranteed-accommodation

QUT For Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students
QUT’s Oodgeroo Unit offers the Centralised Assessment Selection Program entry pathway from mid-October for QTAC applicants who identify as Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander and place QUT within their top three preferences. Applicants need to have their Confirmation of Australian Indigenous Heritage from a registered Indigenous corporation and as this process can take time, we recommend students and/or their parents start this process early.

QUT Additional entry requirements and scholarships in creative industries
For creative industries courses with additional entry requirements such as auditions, portfolios or interviews, students must apply online to QUT by 5pm on Friday 15 September as well as applying through QTAC. Students interested in creative industries can also access generous scholarships, ranging from $10,000 to $30,000, many of which are awarded based on creative ability.

QUT Open Day program now available - register your interest
Mark the date in your diary! Visit us on Sunday 30 July to find out everything you need to know about studying at QUT. Register your interest to receive event updates and go into the draw for a MacBook.

Early Entry Schemes to University:
Several Tertiary Institutions offer early entry schemes that require you to apply directly to the University:

UNE: http://www.une.edu.au/study/study-on-campus/get-early-entry

• Apply directly to UNE through the Early Entry Scheme
• No application fees
• Know in early November
• ATAR or OP not required
• No UAC/QTAC applications
• Currently open and available to all Year 12s (OP and non-OP)

USC: http://www.usc.edu.au/learn/how-do-i-apply/pathways-to-study/pathways-from-year-12/early-offer-guarantee

The Early Offer Guarantee enables Year 12 students to be offered an early and guaranteed place at the University of the Sunshine Coast in November. These offers are made prior to the release of Year 12 results, rather than students having to wait until the main QTAC offer round in January. Early and guaranteed offers will be made to students based on the recommendations of their school Principal. Applications open 3 August.

ACU: Early Achievers' Program (EAP) http://www.acu.edu.au/study_at_acu/pathways_And_entry_schemes/year_12_student_entry/early_entry

We believe students should be recognised for their contribution and leadership potential, and this is why we grant them status as Early Achievers. One of the biggest benefits of the program is that successful applicants receive an offer well ahead of the usual tertiary admissions announcements.

You can apply if you are currently in Year 12. Both domestic and international students can apply if you hope to enrol in a course at ACU.

EAP applications to study in 2018
Open - Wednesday 26 April 2017
Close - Monday 17 July 2017
Offers released by end of August 2017

Griffith University - Queensland Conservatorium of Music
Stand out from the pack at the tertiary music auditions with Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University's Tertiary Preparation Workshop (TPW) program. TPW prepares students (in Years 10, 11 and 12) to approach the theoretical and practical aspects of their university audition process with confidence. Now in its fourteenth year, the workshop runs Monday 26 to Friday 30 June and provides prospective instrumental and vocal students with an opportunity to work closely with Queensland Conservatorium staff and music industry professionals in state-of-the-art facilities at South Bank in Brisbane, Queensland. For more information visit: https://www.griffith.edu.au/music/open-conservatorium/tertiary-preparation-workshop/tertiary-preparation-workshop-information.

When: 26 June - 30 June 2017 - Enrol Now for 2017
Where: Queensland Conservatorium Griffith University, South Bank
Cost: $495

UMAT Preparation
MedEntry: If you are interested in studying Medicine or a career in health that requires sitting the UMAT Test, visit the MedEntry website for assistance in your preparation: www.MedEntry.edu.au. MedEntry is the only government accredited training organisation for UMAT preparation.

MedStart: is an organisation that assists students to prepare for UMAT. Courses are available in Brisbane. Check the MedStart website: http://www.medstart.com.au/#home for more details.

NIE: UMAT Workshops Australia

Students in Years 10, 11 and 12 interested in medicine or dentistry will probably need to sit the UMAT (examination). On 28 June 2017, The National Institute of Education (NIE) will be conducting a full day UMAT preparation workshop. Places are strictly limited. All details are available via: www.nie.edu.au.

KEY DATES:
JUNE
Saturday 17 June
10am - 1:30pm, Endeavour College Of Natural Health Open Day
https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/natural-health-open-day-brisbane-17-june-2017-registration-33605135866?aff=google&aff=google

Saturday 17 June
10am - 12pm, New York Film Academy Open Day
https://www.nyfa.edu.au/nyfa-events/

JULY
Saturday 15/Sunday 16 July
10am - 4pm, Tertiary Studies Expo TSXPO Brisbane Showgrounds, Bowen Hills
http://www.careersevent.com/tsxpo/

Saturday 22 July
9am - 2pm, Australian Catholic University (ACU) Banyo Open Day
http://www.acu.edu.au/student_experience/student_life/experience_uni_before_you_start/Open_Day

Saturday 22 July
2pm - 6pm, Bond University Gold Coast Open Day
www.bond.edu.au/future-students/study-bond/see-yourself/open-day

Sunday 23 July
Griffith University Nathan, Gold Coast, Southbank Open Day
www.griffith.edu.au/open-day

Sunday 23 July
10am - 2pm (TBC), Sunshine Coast University Sippy Downs

Sunday 30 July
9am - 3pm, Queensland University of Technology (QUT) Gardens Point
https://www.qut.edu.au/study/events/qut-open-day

Elizabeth Johnston