News

Year 7 Camp Information

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 10:31:20 AEDT

Dear Parents, Carers and Year 7 Students of 2020

It is with pleasure that we announce the Year 7 Camp

Date: Tuesday 10^th – Wednesday 11^th March 2020

Venue: Yarrahapinni Adventist Youth Centre, Stuart’s Point

Please see all the below attachments for consent forms. payment plan and general camp information. This is a very rewarding experience for Year 7 and teachers.

Year 7 Camp Note

Excursion Consent Form

Aquatic Consent Form

Payment Plan

Packing For Camp Information

Year 7 Vaccinations

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 14:06:06 AEDT

NSW School Vaccination Program will begin for Year 7 on Friday 28 February 2020. .There will also be some catch up vaccinations for year 8. Please read the attached sheet for more information. Parent information kits will be mailed out in the next few weeks.

Year 7 Vaccinations

Further Vaccination Information for Years 7, 8 and 10

Best Start Year 7 Assessment 2020

Thu, 06 Feb 2020 15:30:05 AEDT

Coronavirus - Department of Education statement

Tue, 28 Jan 2020 20:19:12 AEDT

The department is working with the Ministry of Health to monitor and respond to the unfolding international novel coronavirus situation.

Get up-to-date information about the department's response to novel coronavirus.

Are you #Ready2020?

Tue, 21 Jan 2020 15:39:30 AEDT

Hints, tips and resources to make a great start to the new school year – whether it’s your first day of high school or you’ve been here a while.

We work hard to make sure every student is known, valued and cared for – even before they walk into the classroom on Day 1, Term 1.

We’ve got great advice and resources for high school, no matter what year you’re heading into...

For families of students starting Year 7:

download our Getting ready for high school booklet
read our top tips for a smooth transition.

For families of returning students:

visit the back to school checklist to make a hassle-free start to the year
download the 2020 calendar to stay organised all year
check out our hints for setting up a study space.

Video – #Ready2020: First day at high school

Duration – 1:00

Staying healthy into the new school year

Tue, 07 Jan 2020 12:49:26 AEDT

Immunisation is a simple, safe and effective way to protect your family from harmful diseases this holiday season and into 2020. Visit your doctor for general health and vaccination advice.

Immunisation not only protects you and your family but also others in your community, by reducing the spread of preventable diseases.

Children starting school in 2020 must have up-to-date immunisations to enrol.

These vaccinations help protect children from highly infectious and severe diseases including whooping cough and measles.

Travel health

If you’re travelling overseas during the school holidays, you may need vaccinations or medication – both for general health protection and for region specific diseases.

If you’re travelling to the Northern Hemisphere, you may even need a flu shot.

Find out more about staying healthy while travelling.

Rural and Regional Bus Pass Information

Thu, 28 Nov 2019 15:26:24 AEDT

For information regarding application for bus passes please see the attached document link below.

Rural and Regional Buss Pass Information

KHS Students attend the Bowraville Memorial Cup

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:34:41 AEDT

Several KHS students attended the fourth Bowraville Memorial Cup, a day organised by ReadyMob from the Galambila Aboriginal Health Service. This day is an initiative that came out of the recommendations from the Parliamentary Inquiry into the Bowraville Murders and is in loving memory of the three children.

Over 200 kids from several schools in the Macleay Valley participated in friendly games of touch football and basketball, including KHS students and staff, Grant, Uncle Dicko and Mrs Burton. All participants were gifted with a jersey and stainless steel drink bottle to mark the occasion, and were randomly split into teams which broke through age, skill-level, gender, racial and geographical barriers. This is a great day for the community and a day to work together. All KHS students and staff enjoyed the day immensely.

NSW schools respond to bushfires

Mon, 11 Nov 2019 17:00:40 AEDT

Many schools are responding to the catastrophic fire rating that is affecting communities across the state this week.

We are continuously updating the School safety page with a list of government and non-government schools, as well as TAFE NSW campuses that are currently non-operational.

While some schools are temporarily non-operational due to localised fires, many others in high-risk areas are non-operational as a precautionary measure.

Schools in some areas are being used as emergency evacuation centres at the direction of the Rural Fire Service.

For schools that are currently operational, school pickups and dropoffs will continue as usual. If your school is currently non-operational, it will likely remain so tomorrow.

Large scale distressing events affect our school communities in many ways. Headspace’s mental health support resource (PDF 100.52KB) is available to help students, teachers and school staff respond to the bushfires.

Visit the School safety page for updates. The department’s Facebook and Twitter accounts will also provide updates during this period.

KHS Students Igniting the Way

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:28:38 AEDT

An enthusiastic group of Kempsey High Students were very fortunate to attend the recent Ignite event on Tuesday November 6 at the Slim Dusty Centre.

Several of our students received awards on the day in recognition of their work and achievements in STEM related subject areas. The students also produced an engaging display of their work samples as part of the interactive exhibit on the day.

There were some fantastic opportunities to engage with Industry Professionals, training and local business people. Students gained incite as to how our region might be positioned in a rapidly changing world with a captivating talk by Futurist keynote speaker Steve Sammartino.

Thanks to Mr Hinchcliffe for organising the students involvement and to Mr Steve Montgomery and his ongoing work with the school through the STEM Industry School’s Partnership Program. We are excited to see where these students are headed in 2020 and beyond with some exciting new partnerships and career paths on the horizon.

Noah selected for Rotary Youth in Marine (RYMARINE) Course

Thu, 21 Nov 2019 15:24:49 AEDT

Year 9 student Noah Kyle was selected to attend the RYMARINE course in Coffs Harbour recently. Noah’s participation in the program was supported by the school and the local Kempsey West Rotary Club in recognition of his consistent efforts in the Marine Studies course at Kempsey High School.

The program was run over 3 very busy days and saw 20 students from several North Coast schools engage in a fantastic variety of activities from Marine Biology labs at the National Marine Science Centre, to first hand snorkelling investigations and whale watching in the Solitary Islands Marine Park. Students were exposed to all manner of Career pathways and possibilities in Marine and Maritime sectors including the National Parks and Wildlife Service and NSW Water Police.

The event culminated in a dinner at Opal Cove Resort where students and guests were treated to a captivating presentation by joint Australian of the year Dr Richard Harris, anaesthetist and cave diver who played a crucial role in the Tham Luang cave rescue. Noah was a great ambassador for our school throughout the RYMARINE program and we are looking forward to see where this journey might take him next.

Year 9 students get a taste of university life

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 12:42:44 AEDT

Year 9 students had the opportunity to travel north and visit the Southern Cross University Campus at Coffs Harbour. It was a chance for students to explore their interests in a university setting and consider their future pathways. The university provided lunch as well as a variety of activities to keep them busy. The students who attended must be commended on their participation and the respect they showed to staff at the University.

KHS and Clontarf Foundation graduate excels in chosen career path

Thu, 31 Oct 2019 12:55:54 AEDT

Mitchell (third from left in the back row), a recent graduate of KHS and the Clontarf Foundation program attended a morning tea at Parliament House, Canberra to celebrate 70 years of Snowy Hydro. Mitchell is now a mechanical apprentice with Snowy Hydro. Congratulations Mitch and all the best in your future career.

Grab a ticket to Schools Spectacular 2019

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 17:20:57 AEDT

Will you be joining us at Schools Spectacular 2019? Tickets are on sale now. Experience our live show featuring a cast of thousands of public school students from across metropolitan, rural and remote regions of NSW.

Students from different ages, cultures and backgrounds will share the spotlight as they dance, play and sing for you. Choose from one of our four massive performances at Qudos Bank Arena on Friday 22 November and Saturday 23 November.

This year's events will feature:

more than 380 schools
5,500 performers
a 3000-strong choir
2,300 dancers
an 80-piece symphony orchestra
a world-class stage band.

Group bookings

Need to make a group booking for over 10 people? Complete the Schools Preview Order Form 2019 (PDF 110KB) to attend the discounted 11am Friday matinee. The Friday matinee is discounted for school students and accompanying teachers.

If you’d like to grab a spot at one of the other three remaining shows complete the Group Booking Form 2019 (PDF 110KB).

Tickets for you and your family and friends

Save you and your family a spot online or by phone on 132 849.

Video – Schools Spectacular 2019

Duration: 0:26

KHS Under 14's Girls rugby league team play at State level in the Katrina Fanning Cup

Thu, 26 Sep 2019 14:32:19 AEST

KHS Under 14’s Girls Rugby League Team was one of 20 high schools from NSW competing on Thursday 19th September in the Katrina Fanning Cup, held in Western Sydney. The KHS team made their way to Sydney on Wednesday afternoon with Misty Kelly from Girls Academy and Georgie Murphy, KHS AEO. Although extremely excited the girls spent a restful night before the finals on Thursday.

The girls first game was against Cowra High School, which proved to be a tough game with Cowra winning the match 12 to 4. The next game was against West Wyalong and whilst the girls fought hard the West Wyalong Team proved too strong on the day. The final game was against Endeavour High School and the KHS team battled it out in a very tight game, eventually winning the game 16 to 14.

Getting the girls to Sydney has been a combined effort from not only Kempsey High School’s staff members Misty Kelly (Girls Academy Development Officer) and Georgie Murphy (Aboriginal Education Officer) but the wider community. KHS would like to pass on their sincere thanks to the following community organisations and businesses who provided financial support to make the trip to Sydney possible: Burrun Dalai, RMLA KHS Girls Academy, Clontarf KHS, Amcal Kempsey, Real Futures and Coles (Kempsey and South West Rocks).

Well done to the team and all who were involved in this outstanding opportunity.

Book yourself in for Reading Hour

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 12:12:31 AEST

This Australian Reading Hour, encourage your child to discover or rekindle their love of a good book. Take the time to learn, escape and relax on Thursday 19 September and read for one hour.

Reading has been shown to reduce stress by 68% more than listening to music, going for a walk, or having a cup of tea.

Take the Book Swap Challenge

We all have favourite books that we come back to again and again.

To help celebrate Reading Hour take our Book Swap Challenge. We want students, teachers, staff and parents to try reading something new on the day. To get involved, simply pair up with someone and swap your favourite books.

Take a photo and tag it with #ReadingHour so we can see how you got involved.

Video – Ben Law asks students about their favourite author

Duration: 1:18

Author and #ReadingHour ambassador Benjamin Law talks with some of our students about their favourite books.

How to be smart and safe on social media

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 11:27:43 AEST

Use our new Digital Citizenship toolkit to empower your child to understand how their online behaviour affects themselves and others.

You and your child can find information on:

how to ‘be positive’ by understanding online behaviour and its effect
'be smart’ by thinking critically and being digitally aware
'be safe’ by protecting your security, privacy and wellbeing.

A toolkit to empower you and your child

You can find articles and videos to equip and empower your child to minimise the risks and maximise the opportunities in our digital future.

We’ve partnered with leading researchers to produce a curated toolkit – aligned to the curriculum – which teachers and you can share with the young people in your lives.

Guide your child through important concepts such as:

managing privacy settings in social media
collaborating online
avoiding scams and hoaxes
understanding the law when it comes to online speech
Internet banking, shopping online and much more.

Keep your child safe and happy online

Visit and bookmark the Digital Citizenship website. We’ll continue to add articles and resources to ensure the best possible tools are available to help you guide your child to be positive, smart and safe online.

What’s next after high school?

Fri, 30 Aug 2019 11:26:01 AEST

Is your child in Year 9 to 12 curious about their career choices? Now they can use LifeLauncher, a free online tool to explore and simplify their career choices.

Your child can explore courses and careers in-depth, at their own pace, anytime, anywhere and on any device. The tool includes 4,000 careers and 1,500 course options, all in one place.

How does it work?

Encourage your child to jump online and complete the 5-minute personality and subject quizzes to be matched to a range of career options that suit their passions and strengths.

If they take both quizzes, they’ll get more refined suggestions. They can even create free online pinboards to shortlist the courses and jobs that interest them.

When your child creates an account, they can save their searches and build a real understanding of the opportunities and pathways open to them.

What can your child learn about their career options?

Your child can explore the weekly salary of the career options they’re interested in. They’ll also find the employment and growth rates of those careers and the number of workers currently in those fields in Australia.

Each career option shows them the education they need as well as other related careers. They can follow links to other sites to find out more about a course to help them find the best provider for them.

Launch into the future today

Use this tool to chat with your child about their post-school options in a meaningful way.

Inspire your child to find their career match today at LifeLauncher.nsw.gov.au.

Students Perform at Bandbox Theatre

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:11:24 AEST

Centre Stage Drama Festival occurred last Thursday evening at The Bandbox. Centre Stage is a Drama Festival that showcases the talents of students in public high schools in the area.

This year, presenting schools included Kempsey High School and Westport High School Campus. Together, they presented the audience with over two hours of thrilling performances.

Students from years 7 to 11 presented an array of acts ranging from intense monologues through to hilarious ensemble pieces.

“Centre Stage has been running in various forms for over twenty years in the Hastings-Macleay areas,” said festival producer, Chris Dockrill. “This year, we were thrilled to have the opportunity to use the Bandbox as our venue.”

“The festival is not a competition. It is all about participation. The energy and talent the students displayed was amazing,” he added. The festival gave the students an unforgettable experience of performing on a proper theatre stage under the glow of stage lights. They’re all looking forward to next year’s production.

Australian Poetry Slam Workshop

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:09:48 AEST

On Thursday 8 August, 2019, KHS Library hosted Spoken Word poets Jesse Oliver and Emily Crocker as part of the travelling Australian Poetry Slam competition. Jesse and Emily performed their poetry and conducted a writing workshop with students from years 7-12.

Isaac Freeman and Kai Pettit then went on to attend the Kempsey heat of the Australian Poetry Slam at the Kempsey Shire Library. Isaac wrote his poem about his life in Borroloola in the Northern Territory. The audience loved Isaac’s poem and it won him the “People’s Choice” award. Well done Isaac.

KHS Under 14's Girls Rugby Leage Team win Katrina Fanning Cup

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 15:11:43 AEST

After three consecutive wins at the Katrina Fanning Cup, held in Port Macquarie on July 24, the KHS girls team progressed to the next level. Girls rugby league continues to grow in the region and the Katrina Fanning Cup, named after an ex-Jillaroo player attracted teams from around the Hastings, Manning and Macleay regions.

The next round of the Katrina Fanning Cup was held at Coffs Harbour on the 7 August and the KHS girls team came away with the overall win in their age division. They are now the Northern NSW regional champions and will represent the region at the State Finals, held in Sydney on the 19 September.

Well done to the team and team managers and good luck at the State finals!

Girls Academy students attend National Year 12 Summit in Sydney

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 15:32:20 AEST

4 year 12 students attended the national year 12 summit in Sydney during the first week of the holiday break.

The summit is a yearly event for graduating year 12 students, held by the Role Models & Leaders Australia Foundation.

Academies from around Australia connected for a 4 day schedule of events.

The girls were fortunate to participate in a variety of activities at the Barangaroo precinct, listened to inspiring, high achieving guest speakers at the Australian Maritime Museum, met celebrities Indigenous model Samantha Harris and Home & Away Stars at the filming set at Palm Beach.

We were treated to a cultural harbour cruise, and an extensive careers Expo at the carriage works Redfern, where girls were able to speak with our major sponsors re employment opportunities.

A little bit of shopping in the city and then up to the Sydney Eye Tower for a birds eye view of the city and harbour.

Girls were able to dress up and let their hair down, enjoying a gala dinner together at the prestigious Dolton House in Hyde Park, at the end of an intensive weeks program.

Education Week – Every student, every voice

Thu, 01 Aug 2019 12:54:14 AEST

We are celebrating our students and their powerful voices this Education Week Monday 5 August to Friday 9 August. Every year Education Week celebrates the achievements of public schools, our students and the value of public education.

This year, the theme is Every student, every voice.

Join us for #EdWeek19 as we celebrate our students and their power to shape the world.

Video – #EdWeek19 – Every student, every voice

Duration: 0:34

Matsushige Junior High visits KHS

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 14:13:01 AEST

Our friends from Matsushige Junior High School have visited us once again. Several students accompanied by staff from Matsushige Junior High School spent five days in Kempsey in early August, including days at KHS with students in classes to get an experience of Australian schooling.

A formal assembly featured an exchange of gifts and students singing each others’ national anthems, before being taken to Riverside Park, Kempsey for a BBQ lunch. Sight‐seeing occupied the weekend with a dinner at the Kempsey Macleay RSL and a visit to the Sculpture in the Gaol, at South West Rocks on Sunday before their departure. A special thanks must be extended to the staff at KHS, in particular Mr Beard, who looked after our Japanese friends so well.

Kempsey Eisteddfod

Thu, 22 Aug 2019 14:59:48 AEST

At the Kempsey Eisteddfod held in early July, students in the music program achieved some great results. Paris Casey won first places in the under 16 and open divisions of the solo vocal section and second place in the under 18 section. Reuben Hollows achieved a third place in the Instrumental section with a great solo performance. Paige Malloy took second place in the under 14 secondary contemporary vocal solo and Indiana Spicer scored 3^rd place in the under 14 solo pop song. Peter Mc.Phillips scored well in instrumental under 14 section. Raven Baker, Madison Dimmock, Izzabella Lennard, Alice McNee, Paige Malloy and Naomi Yates won first place in the secondary small group bands section. The boys group which included James Anderberg, Carlin Dunbar-Rudd, Reuben Hollows, Preston Kelly, Jack McAlister, Peter McPhillips and Evan Orgill won 3^rd place in secondary small group bands section. We thank the Kempsey Eisteddfod Society for their tireless work and the adjudicators for the constructive feedback provided to our students.

NAIDOC Assembly

Thu, 25 Jul 2019 14:02:44 AEST

The NAIDOC assembly was held just prior to the holidays and featured a showing of the short film “Nulla Creek” and performances by Buddy and Goori Knox. The “Nulla Creek” film included students Freddie Quinlan, Sam Riley and Casey Russell and is part of the Yarning Culture Through Film project delivered by the Saltwater Freshwater Arts Alliance. Buddy and Goori led workshops for students from Kempsey High and our partner primary schools on the final three days of term 2. Several NAIDOC awards were presented at the assembly. Recipients included Preston Kelly (Leadership). Urshula Clark-Jacky (Senior Academic), Natoya Quinlan (Junior Academic), Njaree Quinlan (Creative & Performing Arts), Isabel Jordan (Sport), Jayden Griffen (Citizenship & Community Service), Katherine Honess (Vocational Education & Training), Ms Anissa Petersen (Staff Excellence) and Mr Fred Kelly (Community Excellence). Encouragement awards were presented to Reuben Hollows, Izzabella Lennard, Pheoby Morris, Kai Pettit and Casey Russell.

Girls Academy attend Bangarra Dance and Vivid Sydney

Thu, 29 Aug 2019 14:36:13 AEST

Selected students from the Kempsey High Girls Academy had a very special experience in June.

The group travelled to Sydney Opera House to see the Bangarra Dance Company perform, during the vivid lights festival.

Some of the girls had previously participated in the dance workshop, Bangarra presented in term 1, at Nambucca High, so seeing this performance is an inspiring experience for those girls.

Lower North Coast Dance Festival

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 11:29:23 AEST

Our Year 10 girls performed 2 dances at the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie. They must be congratulated on the amazing effort they have put into their commitment, teamwork, rehearsals and of course their performance. We couldn’t be prouder. A big thank you goes out to Madison Sinclair who choreographed the dance ‘Sweet Dreams’ and worked her magic on the second dance ‘A Place to Hide’.

Their amazing effort got them a place in the final showcase. These young ladies have really displayed what it takes to perform at a top class venue, in front of hundreds of people, in the spotlight and under intense pressure.....well done!

Creative and Active Kids vouchers now available

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 11:28:11 AEST

Creative kids can now put a $100 voucher towards extra-curricular creative activities outside of school.

Together with Active Kids, this program aims to encourage more NSW children to participate in a range of extra-curricular activities such as coding, languages, circus, performing arts and visual arts.

Parents can apply for one $100 voucher for each child enrolled in school on the Creative Kids website and use it towards the cost of registration, participation or tuition. You just redeem the voucher with a registered provider in your area when making your payment.

This is a great opportunity for your child to become involved in a range of activities that will build on their education, growth and development.

Service NSW is working with industry bodies to deliver the program.

For more information, contact Service NSW on 137 788 or creativekids@service.nsw.gov.au.

Aboriginal Careers in Health Expo

Thu, 20 Jun 2019 15:10:32 AEST

Students from KHS recently attended the Aboriginal Careers in Health Expo at the Slim Dusty Centre in Kempsey. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to gain valuable insight into health careers and pathways.

The day featured a variety of hands-on activities and demonstrations by healthcare professionals.

The Game Changer Challenge is back

Fri, 31 May 2019 11:42:24 AEST

It’s not too late to become a Game Changer with applications for the Education Week challenge due by 7 June.

The Game Changer Challenge brings 16 teams from public schools across NSW – eight from primary and eight from secondary – to Sydney during Education Week in August for a three-day, intensive design-thinking workshop.

The Game Changer workshops, which start on Tuesday 6 August, includes teacher training in the use of design thinking as a teaching methodology and its application for school planning.

It also includes a team competition where schools will work under the guidance of experts from industry and academia to develop a solution to this year’s critical question: How might we humanise technology?

Department of Education Secretary Mark Scott has encouraged students and teachers to get behind the event as it highlights the critical thinking students will need to develop to succeed in the future.

“The Game Changer Challenge is an exciting initiative that helps educate and inform our students and teachers on how to integrate the problem-solving methodology of design thinking into the classroom,” Mr Scott says.

“It embraces the 21^st century skills our students will need to thrive in a globalised world such as collaboration, creative thinking and communication.

“This is a wonderful opportunity for our students at all levels to be involved in discussing and addressing a real-world issue that will affect their future lives. I encourage every school to get involved.”

The challenge is designed to make strong learning and teaching connections to the NSW syllabus specifically in the area of developing general capabilities such as critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, communication and problem-solving.

The challenge also provides teachers with an opportunity to gain exposure to the design thinking process and includes teacher resources to introduce this creative problem-solving methodology into the classroom.

Finalists will be selected based on a 60-second video that showcases your team’s vision around the question of humanising technology.

For more information email edweek@det.nsw.edu.au or visit the Game Changer Challenge page.

Science and Engineering Challenge at KHS

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:08:09 AEST

2019 is the 20^th year that the Science and Engineering Challenge has been held in Kempsey. Kempsey High School is a proud participant and provider of the venue for the Challenge. Twenty Kempsey high School students from Years 9 & 10 competed in various activities on Tuesday 21^st May. They spent the day designing and building items such as moving fingers for a bionic hand in Grasping Straws, an earthquake-proof apartment building in Helter Skelter Shelter, a suspension system for a buggy to explore the surface of Mars in Return to Mars, a high speed rail network in Stringways and encoding messages for a secret spy organisation in Confounding Communication.

Our team was running second in the morning activities and while we didn’t win the day, a fun and engaging time was had by all participants.

We would like to thank the following people and organisations: Newcastle University for presenting the challenge to all 29 participating schools in cooperation with the NSW Office of the Chief Scientist and Engineer, Kempsey Advisory Training Enterprises, Engineers Australia Mid North Coast, Gordon & Heather Chirgwin, Kempsey Shire Council and the Rotary Clubs of Kempsey West, Kempsey and South West Rocks. We also had a huge number of volunteers including Steve Montgomery our Industry Liaison Officer - STEM Industry Schools Partnerships (S.I.S.P) and the Youth Pathways Officer - Regional Development Australia Mid North Coast (RDAMNC), one of our industry partners Ben Granger a Civil Engineerfrom GHD Engineering, staff from Kempsey Shire Council and Charles Sturt University and our tireless volunteers from Rotary.

A big thank you also to our Year 9, 10 & 11 students who volunteered as mentors for students on the Wednesday and Thursday. Well done Kempsey High School!

See the Gallery for more photos of the day.

NSW Rural Fire Service Secondary Schools Cadet Program

Fri, 24 May 2019 10:31:22 AEST

The NSW RFS Secondary Schools Cadet Program provides Year 9 and 10 students with an insight into fire safety and prevention whilst developing practical life skills and a general appreciation of community service and volunteering.

KHS are almost half way through the program and are part of the Lower North Coast Team. They have enjoyed learning many practical skills along the way.

See more photos of KHS students in action in the Gallery.

Girls Academy attend Women's Day Festival

Thu, 16 May 2019 15:24:34 AEST

KHS Girls Academy students with 90% and above attendance had the privilege to attend the Women's Day Festival at Port Macquarie, on Friday 10 May, 2019.

It was a fantastic day for the students with cultural workshops, weaving, language, dance, a healing hub (massage ,facials, energy work, manicures), card reading, a photo booth, face painting, meditation and several provider stalls. The students really enjoyed themselves and were involved in a number of activities. There was a strong connection to culture and country which the girls embraced .

Your NAPLAN questions answered

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:57:40 AEST

The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment for students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9. The tests assess the foundational skills in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy that are essential for every child to progress through school and life.

This year NAPLAN takes place between 14 and 16 May for paper tests and between 14 and 24 May for schools participating in NAPLAN Online.

NAPLAN data is used to help monitor student progress over time against a national measure and to identify areas of strength and improvement. It is used in combination with other school assessments to guide and support student learning.

Watch students ask an expert the tough questions about NAPLAN.

Homework Centre

Thu, 09 May 2019 14:47:22 AEST

Kempsey High School offers a no cost, after-hours Homework Centre to assist students in their studies. Students can seek help doing homework, get extra tuition with class work or seek guidance in completing assignments and projects. Regular users of the Homework Centre report that their grades improve and they are happier at school. The centre is staffed by Ms Jeni D’Aubert and Mr Robert McAulay, two former Kempsey High teachers with expertise across all subject areas.

The Homework Centre operates on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 3:30 until 5pm in the library. Food and drink are provided for all students who have put their name on the sign on sheet available at the canteen.

Transport home upriver along the Armidale Road to Bellbrook is offered on Tuesday. Transport home to Frederickton, Collombatti and Clybucca areas is offered on Thursday. Students must sign the Transport Sheet available at the canteen and in the library if they require a ride home. Mr McAulay provides transport on these days.

Year 7 students are welcome to come along and check it out for themselves.

Apply now for My Community Project funding

Mon, 29 Apr 2019 15:12:25 AEST

Do you have a great idea to improve your area?

My Community Project is a new NSW Government funding program that is all about local ideas, local projects and local decisions.

You can apply now for grants from $20,000 - $200,000 for projects that will make a difference to your community. Projects could include new playground equipment, sports facilities, paths or ramps to improve access, public art or a community service.

The local community can vote for their favourite projects in July and successful projects will be announced in September.

Project applications close 15 May 2019.

Apply for My Community Project funding

Girls Academy NRL Trip

Thu, 16 May 2019 15:08:54 AEST

Students in the Girls Academy whose attendance was 85% and above for Term 1 went on a reward outing to Newcastle to watch an NRL game. The game was between Newcastle Knights and Parramatta Eels.

It was an amazing experience for the students who attended, having seats close to the action near the try line. The atmosphere was intense.The students were also lucky enough to get a few photos with players from the teams. This made their night.

Bring back memories, not measles

Thu, 11 Apr 2019 14:23:50 AEST

With school holidays just around the corner, it’s time to visit your doctor to check that you and your family are fully protected against measles, before you travel overseas.

Measles is a serious, highly contagious, viral illness that is easily spread through the air when an infectious person coughs, sneezes or breathes. If you and your family are not fully vaccinated, or have never been vaccinated, you are at risk of contracting measles.

Not sure if you’re fully protected?

In Australia, the measles vaccine (MMR) consists of 2 doses. If you’re not sure whether you’ve had 2 doses of the measles vaccine, visit your doctor. It’s safe to receive another dose.

Children born in Australia

If your children were born in Australia, they may have received the measles vaccine at 12 months old and the second dose at 18 months, in accordance with the National Immunisation Program.
If you have a baby under 12 months old, consult your doctor about getting their measles vaccination.

Adults born in Australia

Born before 1966 – you were most likely exposed to measles as a child and are generally considered to be immune. If in doubt, ask your GP.
Born between 1966 and 1994 – you may not have received 2 doses. Talk to your doctor about the free vaccine if you’re unsure.
Born after 1994 – the National Immunisation Program offers 2 doses, and you can check your vaccination status using the Australian Immunisation Register.

For more information about the measles vaccination, visit NSW Health or consult your local doctor.

Vaccination program at KHS

Thu, 27 Jun 2019 11:28:46 AEST

The vaccination program in schools has been a success and this year our school is participating in the NSW Adolescent Vaccination Program 2019. This program is free to all students when vaccinated in the school. Please see the attached letter for more information.

8STEM - Cars of the Future

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:07:26 AEST

Here are some of the amazing drawings from 8STEM entered into the Toyota Dream Car Competition. Drawing were focused on two subject areas, Sustainability and Biomimicry, which were used to help guide ideas and designs. Well done 8STEM! Again thank you to Kempsey Toyota for providing us with inspirational ideas and a fun activity for all.

KHS hosts First Lego League Challenge

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:04:55 AEDT

KHS hosted a number of students from across the region on Friday 22 March for the First Lego League Challenge. Year 7 STEM robotics students represented KHS in the challenge and were judged on their core values, research project and robot design. It was fantastic to see so many students engaging in the challenge and putting their skills to the test, fostering innovative thinking for future careers. The challenge is a joint project between First Australia and Stemshare Community.

Kipling House takes first place in Cross Country

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 14:01:33 AEDT

Cross Country

The annual Kempsey High School Cross Country run was held in great conditions at Hat Head last Thursday fortnight. After the run around the outskirts of Hat Head and along the beach, the students and staff enjoyed a BBQ lunch before participating in a range of sporting and recreation activities including fishing, touch football, cricket, soccer, lawn bowls, sand modelling and beach volleyball. In the house competition, Kipling House took first place, followed by Lawson House (2^nd), Barrie House (3^rd.) and Masefield House (4^th.). The age champions are:

12 Years: Caleb Smith-Edwards and Isabel Jordan

13 Years: Mekhi Kelly and Mariyah Cutmore

14 Years: Freddie Quinlan and Naomi Yates

15 Years: Andrew Jordan and Emily Moore

16 Years: Joel Crockford and Kirri-Lee Cutmore

17+ Years: Sean Bruce-Smith and Brooke Bruce-Smith

Check the website gallery for plenty of photos of the day.

Girls Academy celebrate International Women's Day with a High Tea

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:14:16 AEST

On Friday 8th March Kempsey High Girls Academy (GA) hosted a high tea in the GA room, for female teachers, family members and the girls to celebrate International Women’s Day.

The teachers were thrilled to receive a beautifully decorated personal invitation from each girl, aimed at strengthening relationships between teachers and students. Approx. 20 teachers attended and enjoyed a variety of buffet foods, the girls had prepared with GA staff.

A badge making and native flower posies were the activities on the day and the flower arrangements were gifted to teachers via 3 lucky door prizes.

Program manager Juli Morris presented the group with some facts regarding the situation for women in the world in 2019. Misty Kelly and a few of the GA girls spoke beautifully about the Girls Academy and the importance of International Women’s Day.

A special thanks also goes to Nancy Patterson who also spoke on women’s issues and presented GA with a gorgeous pottery women. Thank you to all involved.

Kempsey High Girls Football NSW CHS Knockout

Thu, 09 May 2019 15:04:54 AEST

On Thursday 7^th March the Open’s Girls Football team competed in the NSW CHS Knockout competition which was held at the Dangar Street fields, with seven teams competing on the day. It was an early start with all the players there before 8am, ready to warm up and kick off at 0830. Our first game was against Wauchope who were the much fancied team for the day. With a young side and lots of enthusiasm, the girls took to the field nervously after no real lead up as a team. However good team work and communication saw them shut down many of the Wauchope chances, whilst also creating a few at the other end. At the end of the first half it was still 0 – 0 with both teams creating chances only to be prevented by good saves or tireless defence. The girls were quite proud of the way they were gelling together and working well with the many changes to keep players fresh.

The second half was also a titanic battle with Wauchope being able to gain some body position and some penalties which wore down the girls. Eventually Wauchope were able to slot one home, giving them a slight advantage. However the Kempsey girls dug deep and seemed to step up a level in all areas of their game which had Wauchope on the back foot. Some great work across the park saw the girls create some more chances, whilst not being able to find the back of the net.

With only five minutes to go, Wauchope were able to squeeze home another goal, which made the task of getting through that little bit tougher. The girls continued to fight with all they had, but in the end were unable to stop the more experienced side who finished victors 3 – 0.

The performances saw a number of the girls in consideration for the Lower North Coast Representative side, which was also being selected on the day. These included Urshula Clark-Jacky, Kirri-lee Cutmore, Kirra Davison and Maddison Kerr.

These girls were then asked to assist Macksville who were only able to field seven players on the day to which they gladly took up the opportunity to impress. Many of the other Kempsey girls also offered their services which is a credit to the girls and their ‘can do’ helping attitude. Such a delight to see.

We then had a second opportunity against Hastings Secondary College Westport Campus with both teams eager to showcase their talents. With some fast plays from the Westport girls, we were quickly shocked to be two nil down early in the first half. But the girls did not want to go out like this, and kept pushing as hard as possible in all areas of their game. Naoki made a number of wonderful saves in the first half to keep us in the game, with all players running and scrambling for every ball. After a few close chances from Kirrilee, we were able to fight back with a goal from the corner by Maddison Kerr, which inspired the girl’s spirits.

Kirrilee then followed up with two of her own and we were in the lead 3 – 2 early in the second half. Madyson French continued to run wonderful angles and lines to create space and chances for Kirra, Kirrilee and Maddison, and was aptly supported by Taya and Urshula through the midfield. Maddison was able to complete her hat trick whilst Westport fought two back to have the game at 5 – 4. Some tired legs and lucky bounces saw Westport claw back to 5 – 5 with only about 5 minutes to go.

Continued presses by the Kempsey girls saw a number of great chances, with no result, whilst at the other end, many great run downs and continuous pressure kept Westport out. Some slick running and passing saw Kirrilee break the deadlock and put us ahead 6 – 5, which was the final score.

An excellent day from all the players, with wonderful support work and continuous rotations of players allowing shared player time on the field, finishing with a well-deserved win.

Some players were then asked to again support Macksville (as other teams were not able to supply extras) to which again, all our girls jumped at the chance. A credit to their attitudes and commitment. Brilliant to see such enthusiasm in all the girls representing today.

From all the games we were lucky to have so many girls considered for the Lower North Coast Representative team, and in such a tight selection process this year Maddison Kerr was selected in the team, with the other girls getting an honourable mention. Congratulations to Maddison.

Looking forward to this team going places in the future with such a young group being able to mix it with the seniors from all the other schools. They stand in good stead for the future where, with a bit more practice as a team, the girls will make stronger links and be able to take it beyond the next level.

Year 7 off to a great start

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 15:11:31 AEDT

All the preparations by primary teachers and the Kempsey High School Transition team came successfully together last Wednesday when another group of eager Year 7 students had a great start of high school. The transition program involved extensive consultations with partner primary schools, primary school visits by the transition team of Jarryd Hensley (Coordinator), Deanne Hughes (Year 7 Adviser), Sue Ring (Head Teacher Special Education) and Georgie Murphy (Aboriginal Education Officer) and two full day visits to Kempsey High School. It did not take long for many of the Year 7 students to find the farm, and in particular, Olivia the pig (pictured).

Follow your heart, not the herd

Mon, 25 Feb 2019 13:28:55 AEDT

We spoke with a group of Kindergarten students to find out what they had to say about going against the herd. They had some wise words for us on how we can care, respect and support each other in our schools.

Let’s start the year off right and prevent student bullying happening in our playgrounds, classrooms and online. If a group of 5-year-olds know the difference between right and wrong, shouldn’t everyone?

Video – Wise at 5

Duration – 1:08

Toyota Kempsey visit Year 8 STEM

Thu, 05 Sep 2019 12:51:48 AEST

Oh What a Feeling … Toyota!

Craig, Ally and Chelsea from Kempsey Toyota visited KHS Year 8 STEM students on Monday, to discuss the engineering design and technology of two of Toyotas best cars, the ‘Rogue’ Hilux and the Prado. The Toyota representatives spent time explaining the technology incorporated into each vehicle and how each piece related to its functionality. As part of the visit students have entered the 2019 Toyota Australia Dream Car Competition to design and draw their dream car under the topics of Sustainability or Biomimicry. The Toyota ‘Rogue’ Hilux was the class favourite and students demonstrated their appreciation with an enthusiastic ‘Toyota’ jump. Keep a look out for some inspirational drawings from our Year 8 STEM students.

Back to school

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 15:21:52 AEDT

The first day of high school and the return to school in the new year are busy times for your child – and for the entire family. To help you and your child get organised and enjoy the experience we've compiled some useful tips for each year group.

We want every student to be known, valued and cared for in our schools.

KHS Student Jarno Dolezal wins the Macksville Gift

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 13:29:06 AEDT

Congratulations to Jarno Dolezal who won the Macksville Gift last fortnight. 16 year old Jarno competed in the Men’s Division to take out the major prize.

Jarno won by 2-3 metres. The Macksville Gift is the longest Continuous Foot Race in NSW and is celebrating its 65 Year. This is a major achievement and Jarno should be extremely proud of his success.

2019 school budget allocations

Mon, 12 Nov 2018 12:00:33 AEDT

Like all NSW public schools, this week we will receive a School Budget Allocation Report with our funding for 2019. The report will help us manage our total budget delivered through the Resource Allocation Model (RAM).

The RAM supports schools through needs-based funding to ensure a fair, efficient and transparent allocation of funds. Our school has the flexibility to make local decisions based on the specific needs of our students.

We will use our 2019 funding to support students and improve educational outcomes. The school executive will continue to work with the school community as we implement the school plan using this needs-based funding.

Learn more about the 2019 RAM funding.

Winners of KHS agriculture program announced

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:44:54 AEDT

Kempsey High School was one of seven schools chosen Australia-wide to participate in an entrepreneurial program in partnership with Agrifutures Australia and Startup.business. 22 students worked individually or in groups to develop an innovation to improve some aspect of agriculture. At then end of this program they pitched their ideas to a panel of industry judges.

Year 7 student Ellie Pryor and Year 8 student Freya Weismantel were awarded first place for their Frellie Feeder, a sensor for a cattle feed bin that will monitor and advise a grazier about the amount of feed in the bin. The industry judges believed that the feeder was very viable, added value to an agricultural business and had the potential to be developed further.

Ellie and Freya will represent the school and will travel to Sydney to present their idea to a panel of judges at Sydney University on 25 November 2018. Congratulations everyone.

Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:06:01 AEDT

Kempsey High School dominated at the Junior Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging competition held at Scone’s Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza over the weekend.

Beef Extravaganza

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 11:48:31 AEDT

Colin Say & Co Beef Extravaganza, Glenn Innes
Kye Ashman, Hayden Carter, Flynn Kerr and Blade Smith competed with “Fanta” a Limousin x Droughtmaster steer donated by Stephen and Tracy Saul. “Fanta” was the champion lightweight and champion trade steer and reserve champion steer overall.

Port Macquarie District Dance Eisteddfod

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 11:33:15 AEDT

Congratulations to the Year 9 girls who performed at the Port Macquarie District Dance Festival. The girls danced beautifully and received a Highly Commended on the night. Well done to the students and teachers involved.

Bright Minds Compete in STEM Challenge

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 14:07:06 AEDT

Paige, Hayley, Raven, Brett, Evan, Ezra and Ruvish completed the STEM Challenge at this year’s Tournament of the Minds. The Challenge involves students solving a problem using knowledge and skills from a variety of disciplines. All students worked really hard and showed commitment and teamwork to meet the Challenge.

Year 12 Industrial Technology

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 11:27:51 AEDT

Year 12 Industrial Technology students demonstrated their talents with their completed HSC major works. KHS wish all of our Year 12 students great success in their future HSC exams and for the exciting next stage of their journey.

Clontarf Foundation Mid North Coast Employment Forum

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 12:57:07 AEDT

The Clontarf Foundation Mid-North Coast Employment Forum 2018 brings together the community and partners to develop work ready skills of the students. Participation levels of both current and previous KHS Clontarf students attended the forum and found it a valuable experience in readying themselves for future employment. A number of previous and current KHS Clontarf students who are about to graduate or have graduated have found employment with large organisations such as Essential Energy, Bunnings and Officeworks.

KHS team represent at State Bowls Tournament

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 13:10:16 AEDT

Callum Clarke, Lachlan Cooper, Cody Griffin and Adam Hudson represented the North Coast in lawn bowls at the State bowls held in Warilla, in late August. All of the Boys played with respect and pride and they should be very proud. Lachlan Cooper was voted most valued player for North Coast, whilst Cody Griffin was selected as a reserve for the NSW team that will be playing Victoria later in the year. Congratulations to the boys and their coach, Mr Clarke.

Lower North Coast Dance Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

Science and Engineering Challenge

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

During May Kempsey High School hosted the Science and Engineering Challenge over three days. This was an exhilarating day of science based competition between schools, both primary and secondary in our region. The challenges introduces students to the world of hands on engineering and encourages students to study chemistry, mathematics and physics during their school years.

NAIDOC celebrations

Thu, 01 Nov 2018 12:34:48 AEDT

Thank you to all the students, staff and community members who helped to celebrate NAIDOC week at Kempsey High School. This year the focus was on celebrating the achievements of indigenous women.

Barrie House Wins KHS Athletics Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:50 AEST

Barrie house won Kempsey High School Athletics Carnival which was held in good conditions on Services Clubs Park. The final results were: Barrie House 1167, Lawson 1023, Kipling 759 and Masefield 656 points. 92 students have qualified for the Lower North Coast Carnival being held in Nambucca Heads on 19^th. June 2018. The Age Champions are:

12 Years: Jessica Donovan and Beau Spiteri

13 Years: Raven Baker and Caleb Richards-McKenzie

14 Years: Naokii Frail and Jayden Kennedy

15 Years: Kirri-Lee Cutmore and Ruvish Udawatta

16 Years: Kaitlin Hutley and Ivan Madden

Open: Katie Barnett and Thanakorn Phakphai

KHS - One of seven schools in new agriculture program

Thu, 21 Feb 2019 12:31:33 AEDT

Kempsey High School is one of seven nation-wide secondary schools chosen for a new agriculture program.

The program is created through a partnership between AgriFutures Australia and Startup.business and is designed to teach the next generation of agriculture students how to overcome problems in the industry as well as including learning modules to increase their understanding of innovation and entrepreneurship in the field.

Being one of only seven schools in the country chosen for the program has put Kempsey High School to the forefront of agriculture innovation in education.

The program brings students and local businesses together and highlights a future in agriculture.

The program will run at Kempsey High School over the next two terms and will include pitching sessions for students to showcase their ideas to businesses as well as a national pitching competition between the seven schools involved with the hope to include local and federal Government as well.

Lower north coast dance festival test

Thu, 26 Jul 2018 11:27:37 AEST

Opera House Sydney

Y-PEP Child Protection program

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Earlier this term, students in years 7 to 10 participated in the Y-PEP Child Protection program. The program was jointly designed by YWCA NSW in collaboration with the Department of Education. The highly interactive workshops in the program aim to strengthen the existing child protection education delivered by school teachers. It is aligned to the Personal Development, Health and Physical Education syllabus. As a result of this program, students will have more awareness of safe and respectful relationships; more knowledge and understanding of rights and responsibilities in relationships; and more skills in recognising, assessing risk and responding to unsafe situations. The experienced and professional facilitators delivered workshops suitable for varying levels of skills and used age appropriate and engaging content for students to feel safe.

Lawn Bowls Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

The Kempsey High Lawn Bowls team of Callum Clarke, Lachlan Cooper and Cody Griffin have progressed through to the major semi finals and will be playing Coffs Harbour Senior Collage to make the North Coast final series to be held in Sydney later this year. These boys plus Adam Hudson were all successful in being selected for the North Coast Lawn Bowls team which will bowl against the other regions in the State Championships to be hosted at Warilla on the South Coast.

Author Visit

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

Byron Bay Writers Festival author Belinda Morrell and illustrator Tony Flowers visited Kempsey High last week. Belinda and Tony each presented workshops on aspects of the creative writing and illustration processes to students in years 7 to 12. The students were eager for more and commented on what they had learned and how easy Belinda and Tony made the process look.

Wingham Beef Week Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

Congratulations to the Agriculture Team who celebrated more success at this years Wingham Beef Week. Well done to the teachers and the team.

Year 11 Biology Field Trip to Shelly Beach

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Year 11 Biology travelled to Shelly Beach Port Macquarie to conduct a first-hand study of the intertidal rock platform. Students sampled the ecosystem using quadrats, with a focus on identifying and counting Mollusc Species and estimating the coverage of different types of Algae (seaweed). The field study was conducted as the first part of the Year 11 Depth Study that will culminate in the creation of an Environmental Management Plan for the area.

Merit Assembly - Friday 4th May, 9:30-10:30am

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:06 AEST

Merit Assembly Invitation (docm 31 KB)

Excursion Information

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

Information for parents and guardian's regarding school excursions and activities will be updated on the website and also on our Facebook site. KHS will endeavour to upload relevant information regarding up coming events, so that students, parents/guardian's will have up to date information.

You can find these documents either as an attachment in the website calendar, on the day that the event is run/starts or within the "Publications and Videos" tab on the homepage of the website.

We hope that you find this information useful.

Success at Sydney Royal Easter Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:18 AEST

Royal Easter Show

Royal Easter Show successes have come to the Kempsey High School livestock teams. In pig judging Liam Whalen was named overall Reserve Champion and Katie Barnett took out 4^th position. The task involves judging 2 pens of four pigs in order of quality and public speaking about the merits of the respective beasts. The school exhibited pigs from Stephen and Arleen Scott's Millbank Piggery to take 4^th position for a pen of 3 pigs and 5^th position in competition for best pig of the show.

In cattle, Liam Whalen took 2^ndplace in his heat with a Charolais heifer from Kel Bridge's Stud while Katie Barnett was 3^rdwith a school Santa Gertrudis steer. Thank you to these and all the supporters of the Kempsey High School farm as we turn our attention to the local shows.

Kempsey High Schools Facebook site

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:00 AEST

Kempsey High School now has a Facebook site and we encourage all students, parents, caregivers, staff and community members to take a look. This will be used as another tool to improve and maintain communication with school members, parents, caregivers and the wider community.

Please check the site for updated information about what is happening at the school. We welcome feedback, and this will be used to improve the site and ultimately the school and its members.

To access the site follow the link here https://www.facebook.com/KempseyHigh/ or at the bottom of this web page.

Agriculture Team at the Sydney Royal Easter Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

Kempsey High Agriculture Students are showing cattle at the Sydney Royal Easter Show. Two KHS students, Darby and Callum were asked by some of the shows agents and judges to assist with the selection of the top show steers, of which there were 30. Well done team and enjoy the experience.

Bangarra Dance Workshop

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:49 AEST

On Monday March 19, eleven year 7 and 8 Aboriginal students participated in the Bangarra Dance Workshop held at Coffs Harbour High School. These students included Naokii Frail, Tessarna Cora, Tameeka Cora, Kyara Maher-McLeod, Alana Montgomery, Jayden Griffen, Creedence Donovan, Tyriek Morris, Preston Kelly, Freddie Quinlan and Yaaron Ward.

Students were led through a warm up and taught men's and women's dances created by dancers from Bangarra Dance Theatre. Several students were selected from the workshop to be a part of the Aboriginal Dance Company which will perform at the School's Spectacular in November.

Special thanks goes to Dicko from Clontarf and Jamie-Lee from the Girls Academy for assisting with transport and supporting the students on the day.

Mrs Parker – Dance Teacher

Yr 12 SLR Barrington Tops Excursion

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:28 AEST

Early in March, several Yr 12 SLR students enjoyed a trip to Barrington Tops to experience Kayaking and bushwalking in the beautiful World Heritage Barrington Tops National Park. Conditions were perfect for kayaking and students got to experience first hand skills needed to kayak such a beautiful waterway. This was a wonderful experience for KHS students.

Cross Country at Hat Head

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:53 AEST

The annual Kempsey High School Cross Country run was held in great conditions at Hat Head last Thursday. After the run around the outskirts of Hat Head and along the beach, the students and staff enjoyed a BBQ lunch before participating in a range of sporting and recreation activities including fishing, touch football, cricket, soccer, lawn bowls, sand modelling and beach volleyball. In the house competition, Lawson House took first place with 613 points, followed by Barrie House (541 points), Kipling House (449 points) and Masefield House (399 points). The age champions are:

12 Years: Beau Spiteri and Mariyah Cutmore

13 Years: Freddie Quinlan and Ellie Prior

14 Years: Kon Somthip, Cassandra Marklew and Makayla Stackman

15 Years: Joel Crockford and Kirri-Lee Cutmore

16 Years: Blade Quinlan and Kaitlin Hutley

17+ Years: Darm Phakphai and Katie Barnett

Netball NSW Schools Cup

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:08 AEST

On Wednesday March 21, ten year 7 and 8 students competed in the Netball NSW Schools Cup in Kempsey. The team performed well and just missed out on making it through to the 2^nd round, placing 3^rd overall. They competed against Melville High School and numerous St Pauls teams in their division and demonstrated exceptional sportsmanship and team work.

Team members included Sally Goodchild, Jessica Donovan, Jessica Lynch, Lewina Donovan, Hayley Andrews, Bridie Supple, Naokii Frail, Mariya Cutmore, Emma Kerr and Claire Haywood.

Lewina Donovan received Most Valuable Player for her impressive performance as GA, GS and WD.

Thank you must also go to Kaitlin Hutley for umpiring, Mrs Parker who was the girls team manager and Georgie Murphy for her assistance on the day.

Interschool Chess Challenge

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

203 students descended on Westport Public School last Monday for the local heats in the Interschool Chess Challenge run by Sydney Academy of Chess. After seven rounds, the Kempsey High School team of Bailey Burgin, Jason Clarke, Ruvish Udawatta and Jackson White took third position and have qualified for the regional semi finals to be held in term 3. The day was intense, fast-paced and highly engaging with each player limited to 15 minutes play per game. The team is pictured below warming up before the competition commenced. Thank you to Mr Bruce Sinclair for the coaching, organising and travel.

NEW - Student and Parent Handbook 2018

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

This handbook contains much of the information that you will need as a student and a parent/caregiver. Some of the information inside the booklet includes:

Principal's Welcome: School Leaders for 2018: Bell Times:Kempsey High School Rules:Kempsey High Achievement Program:Attendance:Uniform:The Curriculum:Buses:School and Course Fees.

You can find the handbook in the Publications and Videos section on this webpage.

Information regarding various excursions/events for Year 10

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

As a consideration to Parents/Guardians with regards to the many possible excursions/events that your Year 10 student may choose to be involved in, KHS's Principal has put together a list of these and their associated costs. This is available to you so that you can make an informed decision about whether your student will be participating in these excursions/events.

Year 10 Excursion List (pdf 406 KB)

KHS Students participate in Centenary of Anzac

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:00 AEST

School Leaders Dion Thompson-Stewart, Katie Barnett, Tom Reed and Anna Thornton joined the Hon. David Elliott MP, NSW Minister for Veterans Affairs and Sub Branch members on 16^th. February 2018 at the Kempsey-Macleay RSL Sub Branch Memorial. A sample of soil was collected so that it could be included in an artwork at Sydney's Hyde Park Memorial alongside soil samples from 1,698 other NSW localities. The soil was collected to recognise First World War enlistees from Kempsey at the new extension of the Sydney Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park.

University Roadshow

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Year 12 students participated in the Regional University Roadshow which was hosted this year by St. Pauls College. The annual event brings together representatives from the University of New England, Charles Sturt University and Southern Cross University to talk with HSC students. The presentation provided students an insight to the university application processes, university and living costs, early entry and alternate entry programs, scholarships and what life is generally like at university. Students had the opportunity to see how regional universities provide the personalised support to their students with high employment outcomes for their graduates.

Clontarf Induction

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

Eleven boys attended the Year 7 Clontarf Academy Induction Camp last fortnight. The camp was held in Port Macquarie with the Taree, Port Macquarie and Melville high schools Clontarf Academies. The boys participated in a range of recreational activities and the Austag Carnival. The Clontarf Academies seek to maintain students' high attendance and completion of their education through to Year 12 and assist them to graduate to jobs and further training.

Creative Arts Excursion 4th-6th April

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

KHS Students, Sydney and the Arts

This is our annual excursion to Sydney for students studying one or more of the Creative Arts – Art, Photography, Drama and Music.

Students have the opportunity to view top scoring HSC artworks, experience live theatre, participate in workshops led by experts in particular fields of Art, Photography, Drama and Music and visit galleries, theatres, cinemas and music venues. This excursion is an extremely valuable part of your child's learning experiences for the year. We urge you to support it.

See the attached information sheet for more details.Creative Arts Excursion (doc 400 KB)

School Photos

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

School photos will be held for the whole school on Friday 9th March. Forms have been sent home with your child. If you need another form these are available at the front office. If you would like a sibling photo taken you can get one of these forms at the front office as well. You can order and pay online. Please bring in the order form with the money or with your online order receipt number. Please follow the link in the calendar or on Facebook for more information.

2018 Dash with a Splash

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:43 AEST

2018 Dash with a Splash - Thursday 12th April, Verge St & Eden Street Ovals. Start at 10am. Walk, Run and have fun in either a 1.5km or 3km colour run. Cost is $10 and registration closes on the 29th March. Contact Natalie Riley 6560 2362 or Tanya Roberts 6560 2350 for further information

Parent Teacher Night - Wednesday 14th March, 4-6pm KHS Hall

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:12 AEST

Meet your child's teachers

Come and meet your child's teachers to discuss their progress and the year ahead. Fill out the booking sheet with your time preferences and return it to the front office via your child by the 13th March, at the latest. The booking sheets will be sent home Thursday 22nd February, with your child. Booking sheets can also be found on our website calendar for downloading. Refreshments will be available during this time.

Commonwealth Games Baton comes to Kempsey High School

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

The Queen's Baton Relay is a Games tradition that celebrates the Commonwealth's diversity, inspires community pride and excites people about the world-class festival of sports and culture to come.

The Queen's Baton carries a message from Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II that calls the Commonwealth's athletes to come together in peaceful and friendly competition.

Kempsey High School was very privileged to have the Baton carried through the school grounds by our ex-student Drew Walsh. Staff and students lined the temporary route to welcome the Baton and cheer on Drew.

For photos of the event have a look at the Gallery album.

For more information on the Commonwealth Games Baton go to https://www.gc2018.com/qbr

Healthy Cold Water

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:56 AEST

Filtered cold water unit installed

Over the last holidays Plumber Frank Evill and Electrician Peter Duyker installed two refrigerated filtered water coolers to encourage Kempsey High students to drink more water. They've certainly been getting a workout by students and staff in the warm weather and have been given the thumb-up.

The units were bought with the savings made through the recycling program. Last year the school reduced the quantity of waste going to landfill from 376,000 litres (2015) to 73,440 litres (a reduction of 80.4%), saving the school about $12,000 in waste removal. This assisted Kempsey Shire to reduce its NSW Government Waste Levy charges by over $1,600. Well done to all who are involved in this fantastic school initiative.

Going green

Swimming Carnival 2018

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

Barrie House Wins Swimming Carnival

Barrie House won the 2018 Kempsey High School Swimming Carnival with a huge 797 points last Thursday, 1^st February.

Lawson House came in second with 645 points
Kipling House followed with 393 points;
Masefield House with 361 points

It was a day of great participation and fun with some good times recorded for a host of students who will move through to the Lower North Coast Carnival to be held at Macksville on 21^st February. The day saw the re-emergence of the House War Cries which have been dormant for years. The elected House Captains were presented with their badges at the start of the carnival.

Year 7 off to a great start

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Welcome to Year 7 at Kempsey High School

Just over 100 Year 7 students commenced at Kempsey High School on the 30^th. January 2018. Their first day follows an extensive transition program which involved teacher visits to partner primary schools and student and teacher visits to Kempsey High School.

The Year 7 students were involved in two days of lessons and playground activities to familiarise them with high school routines.

This is a fantastic program and allows for a smoother transition into their next stage of schooling.

Girls Academy Awards

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:56 AEST

In the final week of 2017, the Girls Academy held their award ceremony to recognise the efforts and achievements of Aboriginal girls involved in the Girls Academy programs. The night which included a dinner and disco was well attended by parents and community members. The awards night was attended by the NSW Regional Manager for the Girls Academy, James Madigan and hosted by the Girls Academy staff: Aunty Juli Morris and Jodie Fowler. Fifty-five girls are involved in the programs aimed at increasing school attendance, advancing academic and personal achievement, improving Year 12 graduation rates and transitioning into jobs and further training.

Kempsey High celebrates Naidoc Week

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

Prior to the holidays, elders, special guests, parents, students and staff came together for the NAIDOC assembly in preparation for the celebration of NAIDOC 2017. To open the event, Aunties Esther Quinlan, Gladys Atkinson, Caroline Bradshaw and Juli Morris with students from the Girls Academy sang "I Am Australian" in Dunghutti language. Those assembled learnt more about the deep spiritual significance of Aboriginal languages which enables Aboriginal people to maintain their connection with their ancestors, land and law. Seven students were honoured with NAIDOC Awards: Dominic Hearne and Connor McKelvie (Leadership), Sarah Honess (Vocational Education), Genevieve Dunn (Creativity), Teesha Spearpoint (Academic), Ivan Madden (Sport) and Trent Fernando (Citizenship). Leon Thompson, Natoya Quinlan and Katherine Honess received Encouragement Awards. Georgie Morris received a NAIDOC staff award.

Southern Network Dance Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:53 AEST

Southern Network Dance Festival - Kempsey High Students perform

Students from twenty-three schools participated in a the three day Southern Network Dance Festival at the end of term 2. It was a magnificent display of talent and skill and a tribute to the teachers and students who put their heart and soul into the event. Sixty-two items were performed. Kempsey High School presented two items, Love Runs Out performed by years 9-11 and Disconnect performed by years 7 and 8. Disconnect was presented at the Glasshouse event which showcased the best of the festival. Well done to everyone involved.

Matsushige Visit

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

It's that time of the year again when our friends from Matsushige Junior High School come to Kempsey High School for their annual visit. Twenty students are visiting with staff from the Matsushige Town Council and the school. The students are being billeted with our families and the students and their parents are always so grateful for this opportunity to experience Australian life first-hand. The students and their Kempsey High School student hosts will visit Timbertown and spend time together in classes to get an experience of Australian schooling. A formal assembly will feature an exchange of gifts and students singing each others' national anthems. Family time and sight-seeing will occupy Saturday before the visit comes to an all too soon end on Sunday morning.

State Bowls Championships

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

State Bowls

Prior to the holidays the Kempsey High School bowls team comprising of Cody Griffin (lead), Tre Ingleby (2^nd) and Lachlan Cooper (3^rd) travelled with Mr Richard Dixon to Temora to compete in the State Bowls Championships. The boys had won their way to the state finals by becoming North Coast Champions. In the finals, the team was defeated by Hunter River (8-19), however they experienced a number or wins against Port Hacking (22-4), Epping Boys' (16-5) and Coonabarabran (11-7). The final match against Nyngan was lost 11-10. In that match Cody drew the shot only to have the Nyngan skip thunder down the final bowl to carry the jack. The team took 7^thplace in the 16 team championships. Well done boys and thank you to Mr Richard Dixon.

Medieval times

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

History Alive!

The end of semester one was an opportunity for students in Years 7 and 8 to experience a little of what it was like to live in Medieval times. Ray and Colin from Celtic Thunder took over the school hall for a presentation of medieval artifacts and costumes. It made history fun and provided a highly engaging and student-centred learning experience.

Girls Academy

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:56 AEST

This week sees the Official Opening of the Kempsey High School Girls Academy in the School Hall on Tuesday night 27th. June 2017 at 5pm. The Program Manager Juli Morris, Development Officer Jodi Fowler and the girls have been working non-stop to get the Girls Academy room and surrounds just right for the opening. It is a special space in the school where Aboriginal girls will be involved in cultural experiences, community events and leadership activities. The program aims to increase school attendance and participation and enhance the girls' achievements and support them to Year 12 and beyond. Girls Academies are a national initiative of the RMLA – Role Models & Leaders Australia Foundation. Their aim is to develop a girl and change a community.

P&C support

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

At its meeting last fortnight the Kempsey High School Parents & Citizens Association donated $40,000 to purchase a range of teaching and learning materials for students. English novels, musical instruments, cameras, sporting equipment and technology resources were among a range of equipment to be purchased for students. The funds come from the operation of the Kempsey High School Canteen (pictured below) by a small dedicated band of parents and grandparents of students and former students. We sincerely thank the P&C and the Canteen Committee for their ongoing hard work for the students.

Wollotuka

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:24 AEST

The Wollotuka Institute at the University of Newcastle is committed to the advancement and leadership of Indigenous education. Last fortnight, six year 10 students made the journey to Wollotuka with Kempsey High's Mr Bruce Sinclair and Aunty Sharon Kelly from St. Pauls College. In a day full of activity the students learnt about the degree courses that can be studied through the university. The students were able to engage in hands-on activities as they learnt about the Nursing and Midwifery courses and courses to train primary teachers. Students from schools in the Port Macquarie and Taree area also attended the day.

Macleay Public Schools

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:02 AEST

62 student leaders from ten Macleay Public Schools came together at Kempsey High School last fortnight for the annual leaders training day. 14 student leaders (see photo) from Melville and Kempsey High Schools prepared and delivered the extensive program with guidance from Ms. Christine Negus (Melville High) and Mrs Linda Sneddon (Kempsey High). The program comprised a range of leadership training activities including team building, public speaking, serving as a leader and running successful meetings.

Model United Nations Assembly

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:06 AEST

Model United Nations Assembly

The Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA) took place at Kempsey High School last Saturday and Sunday fortnight. 66 students represented 33 countries at the annual event. Students came from as far abroad as Coffs Harbour, Inverell, Quirindi, Armidale and Tamworth. The students wore clothing and brought artifacts to represent their countries. The students spoke for or against 38 "resolutions" about global issues, including environmental care and equality. Jessica Baker and Sarah Honess from Kempsey High School represented Canada. The assembly was organised by the Rotary Clubs of Kempsey, Kempsey West and South West Rocks.

Athletics Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

Athletics Carnival

Lawson house won Kempsey High School Athletics Carnival which was held on the 31st May in mild sunny conditions on Services Clubs Park. The final results were: Lawson 1454, Barrie 1140, Masefield 852 and Kipling 815. 94 students have qualified for the Lower North Coast Carnival being held in Nambucca Heads this Friday.

The Age Champions were:

12 Years: Tanisha Roggensack and Caleb Richards-McKenzie

13 Years: Margaret Roberts and Ricky Sohier

14 Years: Kirra Davison and Kai Dunbar-Rudd

15 Years: Kaitlin Hutley and Jarno Dolezal

16 Years: Olivia Moore and Sean Bruce-Smith

Open: Letea Dunn and Thanakorn Phakphai

Kempsey High hosts Science and Engineering Challenge

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

The University of Newcastle and Rotary Club of Kempsey West once again brought the Science and Engineering Challenge to Kempsey High last fortnight. It is the 18th Year of the event in Kempsey. Over 600 primary and high school students visited Kempsey High School during the Challenge to engage in activities involving critical thinking, design and building. Among a range of highly engaging hands-on activities, students had to build a hovercraft, wire a virtual city for power, design a suspension buggy, and construct a catapult. The annual event aims to lift students' interest in studying Science, Mathematics and Technology courses to address the skills shortage in industries reliant on these disciplines.

Rugby League - Macquarie Cup Winners

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

The Kempsey High School under 15's Rugby League team defeated Macksville High, Melville High and St. Pauls College in the Macquarie Cup played recently. They advance to the North Coast Final to be played in Port Macquarie on 15th June. Ivan Madden was awarded the Best and Fairest award which was selected by Country Rugby League representatives.

Wingham Beef Week

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

A 30 – strong Cattle Team returned from Wingham Beef Week last fortnight full of excitement about some great results. Callum Clarke was named Champion Parader out of 385 students. When the parading came down to the final four paraders, Kempsey High had three of the four positions with Clayton Dries and Liam Whalen joining Callum. Clayton Dries was named Herdsperson and was also the Reserve Champion Retail Judge on Carcass. William Saul was named Champion Meat Grader. Cooper Gray, Katie Barnett and Clayton Dries along with William took out the Overall Reserve Meat Grader Team of 4. Ashlee Stanton was 3rd out of 27 schools in the Allround Contributor by School On the Hoof. The school took second place out of 60 steers in the middle weight section with an Osborne & Dowling donated steer. There were five first places in the heats for parading and numerous placings. In the Younger Beef Appreciation section, Blade Smith, Tom Harwood and Jonti Mottee were placed. Kempsey High School won the ultimate award being the Team of Four Champion Beef Appreciation School. Thanks to all for your support.

Science

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

Here's what Year 8 Science students are doing in class at the moment! Click on the link to view a presentation by one of our students.

Making paper from grass.

Bangarra Dance Workshop

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:49 AEST

Back in March six Kempsey High School students travelled to Chatham High School in Taree to participate in a full day workshop conducted by dancers from Bangarra Dance Theatre. The day consisted of a thorough warm up, progressions, learning a sequence from a Torres Strait Islands dance, being taught a women's dance and a fun hip hop dance to finish. All students enjoyed the day immensely and look forward to future Bangarra workshops. A special thank you goes to Georgina Murphy and Melville High School students and parents for joining us and helping out on the day.

Wauchope Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Only a week after some successful competition at the Royal Easter Show, the school holidays was no barrier to loads of enthusiasm for the cattle team. 28 students including a number from partner primary schools, accompanied by several parents made the trek with two truckloads of stock and trailers packed to the roof with gear. According to Agriculture & Primary Industries teacher Gavin Saul, the success was not about the many ribbons that were won but rather about the cooperation, teamwork and mentoring of younger students by the older experienced ones. And it truly is an impressive undertaking.

Beginning with the morning briefing the day before by Mr Saul (pictured), the team swung into action with experienced students working with younger ones to manage the preparation of livestock, packing, checking of trailers, repair of equipment, organization of food, cooking, personal and sleeping gear and all the paperwork that accompanies it. Well done to all involved and thanks to the parents – it can't be done without your help. And you too Mr Saul!

State swimming for Trent Fernando

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Trent Swims at State

Just prior to the holidays, Year 9 student, Trent Fernando competed in the 50 metres freestyle (AWD) at the State Swimming Centre at Homebush. It was Trent's first time competing at this level and he took it all in his stride. Trent had some good support too because he is an integral member of the cattle team which was competing not too far away the Royal Easter Show. So at the appointed time, cattle team members quickly became the Kempsey boy's swimming supporters. Well done Trent.

Sporting success for KHS students

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

Sporting Success

Jackson Korn has been called up to the NSW Combined High Schools side to play at the All Schools Cricket Championships early in March. Trent Fernando broke the zone swimming record in the 50 metres freestyle AWD. Ivan Madden and Ethan Cooper have been selected in the under 15s Lower North Coast Zone Rugby League team and Khalil Hammond has been selected in the Opens side. Congratulations to these boys.

Rocketing into STEM at Kempsey High

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Rockets

Year 7 and 8 students are designing, building and testing rockets. The paper rockets are propelled with air expelled into a launcher from a plastic drink bottle. The highly engaging unit is part of the program integrating Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM). Students have to design and test their rocket and then modify the design to enable the rocket to more accurately land in the landing area. This process of design – test – redesign is the essence of STEM. Students work with each other to find solutions to problems.

Clontarf Boys at Work

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

Clontarf Boys help out at the South West Rocks Surf Lifesaving Club.

Ten boys from the Kempsey High Clontarf Academy helped out at the South West Rocks Surf Lifesaving Club at the start of February, 2017 as they prepared for the Country Championships. The boys set up tents, signs, fencing and bunting for the competitors and officials. They also specialised in pushing the working vehicles out of the many bogs they found themselves in throughout the day. It was all in a day's work for the Clontarf boys.

Their program includes community work along with sport training, games and camps to maintain attendance and school engagement.

Study Skills Camp

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:18 AEST

Focus on managing the next two years for Year 11, during Study Skills Camp.

Year 11 Adviser Mrs Louise Hopkins led her year group through a great Study Sills Camp at Scott's Head Christian Youth Centre. Tanya and Bronwyn from Charles Sturt University got the students to reflect, re-orientate and restart their plan to create a healthy HSC and this was followed up in workshops presented by Mr Hensley, Ms Ruitenberg and Mr Rix. The workshops included managing the mix of school, homework, part time work, sport and social life; developing a study plan; creating meaningful study notes; exam preparation; and information about the ATAR and University/Post School Options. A variety of recreational activities including kayaking, swimming, surfing and bike riding, as well as some creative activities were included. The camp provided students with a sound introduction to their two senior years of high school as well as bonding the group into a great team.

White Ribbon Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

White Ribbon Day support.

Kempsey High's student leaders attended the White Ribbon Day Breakfast at the invitation of the Mid North Coast Local Health District. The breakfast was attended by student leaders from the Port Macquarie and Kempsey high schools, universities, TAFE and community groups to raise awareness about the prevention of violence against women. The students and other guests present were addressed by Port Macquarie Mayor, Peter Besseling and the CEO of the Mid North Coast Local Health District, Stewart Dowrick. During the breakfast the audience were shown a short film of Kempsey High School students and staff pledging their support of White Ribbon Day: "I will stand up, speak out and act to prevent men's violence against women". We thank St. Pauls College for enabling our student leaders to travel to and from the breakfast with them in their new bus.

Kempsey High - a finalist in Keeping our Environment Clean category

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

The Kempsey High School Recycling team was named a finalist in the 2016 Premier's Awards for Public Service. The program was named in the Keeping Our Environment Clean category along with major projects including the Sydney Trains Cleaning team, the Broken Hill Lead Clean Up and the Newcastle Steelworks site remediation. The program reduced the annual quantity of waste to landfill from 376,000 litres to 73,440 litres (a reduction of 80.4%). The program saved the school $12,000 in waste collection annually and Kempsey Shire Council $1697.49 in NSW Government waste levy charges. This saving has been directed to the provision of more playground seating and refrigerated filtered water bubblers as an incentive for students to recycle.

Awards, Awards, Awards for Kempsey High School students

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

North Coast Aboriginal Achievement Awards

Congratulations to Katie Barnett and Merinda Kyle who were awarded North Coast Aboriginal Achievement Awards in Taree recently. Katie's award was for outstanding student participation and Merinda's award was for Student Leadership. Well done ladies!

John Lincoln Youth Award for Drew Walsh

Earlier in Term 4, 2016 School Captain Drew Walsh received a John Lincoln Youth Community Service Award from the NSW Order of Australia Association. The award was presented by Vice Chancellor of Macquarie University, Professor S. Bruce Dowton.

The association formally recognised twenty-three young people including Drew who do so much for their communities across NSW.

Drew received his award for his service to young people and the community through his leadership at school and in agriculture, sport and scouting.

His service work as School Captain and as a leader in these fields has empowered other young people. Drew has assisted other students to build their skills, self-confidence, sense of worth and character.

The school will long remember Drew's days of arduous voluntary participation in the 2013 Macleay Valley flood recovery effort repairing fencing and clearing debris for farmers in need.

His huge commitment of time given to coaching sporting teams, leading groups of scouts and enabling fellow students to achieve in agriculture has been extraordinary.

Citizenship Award - Ashlee Staunton

At the Rotary Club of Kempsey West annual Citizenship Awards, Kempsey High School's girl captain, Ashlee Staunton was awarded for her outstanding service which has continued since Year 7. As a year 7 student, Ashlee gave freely of her time in the school's Macleay flood relief program helping farmers with the clean up. Ashlee gives hundreds of hours of voluntary time to maintain various school farm enterprises. She was elected the current president of the Kempsey High Agriculture Students Association (KHASA) and has led her peers in supporting the farm programs and fellow students in being able to participate in major cattle and meat judging events through numerous fundraising BBQs. Ashlee was elected the girl Captain of Kempsey High School for 2017 and is pictured with Kempsey West Rotary President, Sue Gorman.

Beef Bonanza in the Upper Hunter

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

Students success at the Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza, Scone.

For the second year running, Year 11 student William Saul came away with the Champion NSW School Student Intercollegiate Meat Judging Award at this year's Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza held in Scone. A team of 25 students took 7 steers to the five day event which saw a first, third and fifth place won in various weight classes of the carcase competitions. The results in parading include: 13 years

Paton Simpson (3^rd.), 14 years Charlie Supple (4^th.), 15 years Cooper Gray (6^th.), 17-18 years William Saul (1^st.), Lachlynd Byrne (3^rd.) and Drew Walsh (4^th.). William Saul was named Reserve Champion Parader. 900 students and 350 steers were involved in this year's event.

2016 Rec YA Short film festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:43 AEST

"WINNER WINNER CHICKEN DINNER" GETS ENCOURAGEMENT AWARD AND GOPRO FOR KHS

A team of seven Year 7 students won an Encouragement Award at the 2016 Rec YA Short film festival shown at the Slim Dusty Centre. Joel Berry, Declan Dries, Jason Herbert, Clay Hickson, Ben Lever, Nicholas Murray and Mitchell White were awarded the ETC Encouragement Award and received a GoPro for the school.

The boys' short film is called " Winner Winner Chicken Dinner " and follows the adventures of three boys who have run out of cash and hatch a plan to feed themselves with a chicken dinner.

School Leaders for 2017

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

Introducing the new school leaders for 2017

The 2017 school leaders have taken the reins of leadership following their induction at a formal assembly held towards the end of term 3. The new leaders are:

CAPTAINS VICE CAPTAINS PREFECTS

Sean Groth Ashlee Stanton Cooper Wilson Kate McMillan Jack Powick Jessica Welsby

Voting by students and staff followed a nomination process which included speeches by all candidates to the assembled school. All eleven candidates spoke well about their future role as school leaders and are to be congratulated for standing for a leadership position. During the ceremony, the outgoing leaders invested the new leaders with their badges and were thanked for their service to the school over the past year. The outgoing leaders were Drew Walsh, Merinda Kyle, Kyle Willhite, Kate Harwood, Abigail King and Jennifer Mitchell. It was straight down to business for the new leaders . They met to prepare to lead groups of the Students Council in various school projects. They represented the school at the Remembrance Day commemoration, led school assemblies, chaired the Year 12 Farewell Assembly, the Year 12 Formal and Presentation Night.

Strong Girls Raise $1133

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

The Strong Girls Group led by Ms Rowena Gilbett contributed $1133.15 to the $50,000 raised locally for the Cancer Council in the 2016 Relay For Life. They also won the "Most Energetic Team" Award, probably related to their early morning hours dancing under the stars. Eighteen girls along with Year 11 Adviser Mrs McMahon and Maths Head Teacher Mr Sinclair participated in the fundraising effort and had an immense amount of fun in the process. The 2pm Saturday to 9am Sunday effort saw a lot of Sunday naps being taken at the conclusion of the event. The school leaders led the remembrance part of Saturday evening – an opportunity to pause and remember those in the community who have passed away due to cancer. Congratulations to all those involved.

Video Game Design - Integrating Maths with Engineering

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Creatively integrating Maths, Design and Engineering has taken a new turn for students at Kempsey High School's Animation and Game Design Studio. As part of their 2016 Vocational Educational and Training HSC pattern of study, 12 students have now put down their controllers and are collaborating with The Academy of Interactive Entertainment (AIE), Australia's most awarded 3D animation, video game design and visual FX educator. By the end of 2017 the students can complete their Certificate III in Video Game Design. In 2016, the students will be introduced to the many career opportunities available for 3D artists, animators and designers while they complete AIE's Certificate II in 3D animation.

2016 Debutante Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:42 AEST

Sixteen debutantes and their partners walked the red carpet last Saturday evening to make their debut at the 2016 Kempsey High School Debutante Ball. The debutantes and their partners were presented to guests of honour Bob and Ayleen Jopling by Matron of Honour, Mrs Linette Baker. Then it was into the dancing which saw parents and grandparents joining in for a great evening. Some of the boys' dance moves were extraordinary! A sumptuous meal was served to complete a great night. We sincerely thank dance teacher Mr Neil Muncton, Dj Mr Paul Wood, Mrs Louise Ryan, Mrs AnnetteMayhew, Mrs Lyn Kesby, Mrs Pam Wills, Mrs Lisa Hall, Mrs Sue Ring, Jessica Ryan, MCs Mr Rob McAulay and Dakota English, Ms Rowena Gilbett, Mr Jarryd Hensley, Mrs Liz McMahon, Mr Steve Dewhurst, Mr Kevin Sinclair and their classes. The debutantes and their partners included: Kate Barnett & Mitchell Bubb-Edwards, Samantha Campbell & Matthew McAllister, Holli Cashin & Hayden Nutt, Rose Collins & Jack Goodchild, TashayaCosstick & Matthew Dunn, Jasmin Jones & Dion Thompson-Stewart, Rheanna Meade &Cody McPhillips, Tisana Millar & Noah McKelvie, Olivia Moore & Emmanuel Barker, Erin Miles-Gavin & Allen Ehsman, Tanisha Nixon & Cooper Gray, Stephanie Pettinato & Daniel Konieczny, Amber Piercy & Julian Corcoran, Elizabeth Porteous and Thanakorn Phakphai, Chloe Surma & Clayton Parsons and Anna Thornton and Tom Reed.

2016 Winter Warriors

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:43 AEST

Four teams of Kempsey High School students participated in the 2016 Winter Warrior hosted by Lake Keepit Sport & Recreation Centre. The boys team of Kyle Barclay, Blake Carmady, Lachlan Clarke and Clayton Dries took first place overall, successfully defending their 2015 title. The girls A team of Kate Barnet, Kate Harwood, Emily Henry, Kate McMillan, Millie Mickle and Adele Schofield, took second place and were unlucky not to make it three wins in a row. The girls B team of Tahli Passfield, Abby Sohier and Ashlee Stanton and the girls C team of Leah Bexon, Jessica Kings and Emily Montignie added depth to our contingent. 320 competitors in 50 teams from across the state competed in this gruelling 18 kilometre cross country run through mud and obstacles which required stamina and problem solving.

Second Place at the Ekka!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

The Kempsey High School Cattle Team's first venture to the Royal Queensland Show saw them take second place in the school's judging. Thirty one schools including some of Queensland's largest schools with extensive agriculture programs competed in the event. It was a great opportunity for the students to see these teams in action and even more thrilling to take second place for their first time at the Ekka.

This term the cattle team will compete in the Taree Show on the weekend of 10th. and 11th. October 2015. They will also compete in the Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza at Scone from 22nd. To 25th. October 2015

2015 Debutante Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:42 AEST

Seventeen beautifully presented young ladies and their partners made their debut at the Kempsey High School Debutante Ball on 29^th. August 2015. The debs were presented to Guests of Honour Mrs and Mrs Roy Rowsell by Matron of Honour Mrs Linette Baker. It was a wonderful family night and the many parents, grandparents and friends couldn't hide their pride. The debs were well prepared by Mr Neil Monckton and danced to music by Mr Paul Wood. We sincerely thank the organising committee of staff and parents led by Mrs Liz McMahon and Mrs Louise Ryan.

Pictured left to right: Chelsea Perrin and Clifton Cameron, Ashlee Stanton and Aidan Tilmouth, Emily Thomson and Clayton Dries, Tayla Dickinson and Thomas Rooimans, Kaila Strong and Jake Davison, Erin Taylor and Jaydan Collins, Alisha Cooper and Cooper Wilson, Melanie Nutt and Samuel Welsh, Tahli Passfield and Sean Groth, Gracie Allen and Connor McKelvie, Sharon Cheeseman and Jack Mason, Tiffany Selley and Cody Harris, Breanna Denning and Nicholas Apps, Jillian Stanton and Dominic Trees, Emma Schlenert and Harry Moore, Jess Welsby and Jarrod Smith, Alycia Zapata-Woods and Ty Williams.

The group and individual photos are available from Jane Walsh phone 65 668 530.

Women of the Future

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:24 AEST

Dame Quentin Bryce, a former Governor-General of Australia, has announced our own Ms Rowena Gilbett (pictured left in inset photo) as the People's Choice Winner in the Australian Women's Weekly Women of the Future 2015. Ms Gilbett is the founder of Strong Girl Fitness, the after school program that incorporates cardio and strength training with positive body image classes, plus teamwork and leadership building workshops. "Governments spend a lot of money trying to keep adults healthy," Ms Gilbett says. "If we can educate girls while they are young, that's the real key to creating a happy and healthy community." Congratulations Ms Gilbett.

North Coast Cricket Champions

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

Last week the Opens and Under 14s Cricket teams made KHS cricketing history by both being named North Coast Cricket Champions in the Allen Davison shield and National Bank Shield respectively. Both achieved the title with gripping finishes. The wins spoke loudly about their steady persistence and teamwork.

The Opens played Maclean High at Kempsey in the final. Kempsey batted first and made 110 on a slow Verge Street field. Maclean started their innings steadily and with wickets in hand looked to have the upper hand. However the Kempsey boys kept the pressure on, never gave up and the wickets began to fall. Maclean were all out for 103 with 8 balls to go. The victory was a credit to the team's fighting qualities and ability to remain calm under pressure.

In the lead up to the final, the opens had a bye against Nambucca Heads and played Port Macquarie in the second round. Port were bowled out for 135 after 26 overs. Kempsey reached 4/136 in 22 overs with Jacob Mickle player of the match with a stylish 67. Against Macksville in the third round, Kempsey made 6/205 off 40 overs with Brock Larance making 74. Macksville were bowled out for 100 in 23 overs. Sean Groth took 4/25.

The win against Orara High in the semi final was a great spectacle. Brock Larance and Jack Powick combined for a partnership of 77 with Brock making 50 then being caught. The Kempsey High tail wagged to make 152 off 38 overs. Orara needed 29 runs off of the last 35 balls to win. The match progressed to Orara needing 12 runs off 18 balls, but then wickets fell. Orara needed 7 off the final over. On the last ball, Orara needed 1 to draw and 2 to win, but Kempsey High won the game by taking a wicket.

The team will next have a road trip in early 2016 to play the western division winners in a state quarter final. We wish the boys best of luck.

The 14s defeated Byron Bay High in their final played at Grafton. The team had won their way to the final after receiving a forfeit from Bowraville and defeating Port Macquarie, Melville, Camden Haven and Woolgoolga Highs. In the final, Byron Bay elected to bat and were all out for 80 after 19 overs. Leon Thompson took 6/27 in an impressive bowling display. A highlight was the brilliant fielding by Oscar Kerr who threw the ball 40 metres from mid-on, taking middle stump resulting in a run out at a crucial time in Byron Bay's innings. Michael Lynch and Oscar Kerr opened for Kempsey High, wearing the bowlers down before Connor-John Pierpont, Brock Larance and Jackson Korn inflicted the damage to the Byron Bay bowling. In fact, Jackson Korn played all five games without his wicket falling. Teamwork was the hallmark in the side's consistent effort as was coaching by Mr Adam McCormack. Well done boys!

The warm-up had occurred long before in the T20 competition which saw Kempsey High win their first round match against Melville High and St. Pauls College. With several players new to cricket, coach Mr Greg Taylor commented on the team's disciplined performance which saw great teamwork with players backing-up and following through with the coach's instructions.

As an added bonus, Sean Groth, Jackson Korn, Brock Larance and Jacob Mickle made the Lower North Coast Cricket side.

Football Ends on a High Note

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:55 AEST

The 14 years boys ended Term 3 on a winning note reflecting their strong participation in the Targeted Sports Program. The team won both their games in the Taree Secondary Schools Rugby 10s Tournament when they defeated Wauchope 38-22 and Manning Valley Anglican College 32-19. In a countback following their equal place with St Pauls College, Kempsey High won the Macleay Valley Rugby League tournament. These wins were a fitting reward for the boys who have put a lot of work into the program which is aimed at building good attitude and character.

Year 7 Sports Gala Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:27 AEST

Hundreds of Year 7 students from district schools converged on the Verge Street fields prior to the holidays for the Year 7 Gala Sports Day hosted by Kempsey High School. The Year 9 Physical Activity and Sports Studies students and their teachers organised the day and used it to build their coaching and sports management skills. The Gala Day consisted of a series of round robin matches in netball, t-ball, touch football and soccer. The weather was kind and all the students had a great day that focused on participation and fun. Sportsmanship and enjoyment of physical activity were the winners on the day.

Success in Dance Eisteddfod

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:19 AEST

After presenting some stunning dances at the Macleay Schools Dance Festival, the Kempsey High School dance group went on to compete in the Port Macquarie Dance Eisteddfod at the end of last term. The group took 3^rd. place in this competition. Well done and congratulations to all the students for the time and effort they put into this event with their teacher Mrs Hopkins. This was the final performance for Megan James and Beau Millar who have been key members of the dance group since Year 7. They took time to rehearse from their busy Year 12 schedules. The 3rd place in this competition is a nice way for them to finish their final year. We extend a big thank you to Mrs Hopkins and Jaimie Kliendinst for all their time and effort to get the dance to eisteddfod standards.

Meet the new student leaders

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:05 AEST

Six Year 11 students have taken up their leadership responsibilities following their election by students and staff. The Captains, Vice Captains and Prefects were inducted into their roles at a formal assembly held last term. Outgoing Captains Courtney Dowling and Alfred Davis pinned the badges of office on the Captains for 2016, Merinda Kyle and Drew Walsh. The Vice Captains Kate Harwood and Kyle Willhite received their badges from outgoing Vice Captains Bianca Miller and Bradley Hayward. Prefects Abigail King and Sarah Mitchell received their badges from outgoing prefects Sky Jarvis and Rachael Bednarz. After reading the pledge of office, the new leaders, parents, friends and staff enjoyed morning tea at the Red Onion Café.

92 Students visit Great Barrier Reef

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

For nine days in the holidays and the first week of term 4 ninety-two students achieved their ambition to experience the Great Barrier Reef. The group travelled out to the reef and were able to snorkel in the tropical waters. Visits were made to all the major attractions around Cairns as well as into the hinterland. On the return journey the students visited the Gold Coast and saw the Australian Outback Spectacular. We extend our sincere thanks to Mrs Ruitenberg whose vision for students to see one of the world's great natural wonders was realised.

Awards of Excellence

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:47 AEST

Kempsey High School hosted the Macleay Educational Community of Schools Excellence Awards during this year's Education Week. Six Kempsey High students received Excellence Awards: Courtney Dowling (Year 12), Jennifer Mitchell (Year 11), Sean Groth (Year 10), Leah Bexon (Year 9), Grace Mason (Year 8) and Elye Stackman (Year 7).

2015 Matsushige Visit

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:42 AEST

In late July / early August twenty students from Matsushige Junior High School spent four nights with the families of Kempsey High School students and had opportunities to really see life on the Macleay Valley. A highlight was the formal assembly when the visitors presented the Awa (Friendship) Dance which saw a large part of the assembled students and staff dancing around the outskirts of the hall. The assembly ended with the singing of the Japanese National Anthem by the KHS choir, "Indigo Velvet" and the singing of "Advance Australia Fair" by the students from Matsushige. We sincerely thank our students and their families for inviting the Matsushige students into their homes and showing them great hospitality.

Winter Warriors

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:24 AEST

The Kempsey High School boys, girls and mixed winter warriors teams returned home victorious from the gruelling Winter Warriors camp at Lake Keepit recently. The boys and girls teams took first place while our mixed team came in third.

Winter Warriors is a team event through a 20 km obstacle course which includes commando style feats and mental challenges. Well done warriors!

Awards of Excellence

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:47 AEST

Kempsey High School hosted the Macleay Educational Community of Schools Excellence

Awards during this year's Education Week. Six Kempsey High students received Excellence Awards: Courtney Dowling (Year 12), Jennifer Mitchell (Year 11), Sean Groth (Year 10), Leah Bexon (Year 9), Grace Mason (Year 8) and Elye Stackman (Year 7). We congratulate these students.

We Welcome Year 6 Students

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Year 6 students from Aldavilla, Bellbrook, Frederickton, Kempsey West and Willawarrin public schools visited Kempsey High School for their Term 3 Transition Day last fortnight. The students did practical lessons at the school farm, completed a drama workshop,cooked in the food technology lab and did a range of physical education activities. The year 6 students broadened their awareness of the school layout and got to know some of the staff. Students had the opportunity to catch the buses that they will use to travel to and from Kempsey High next year. A highlight of the day was a huge impromptu game of soccer on the school oval which saw students from years 7, 8, 9 and 10 all join in together with the year 6 students. The day concluded with milkshakes at the Red Onion Café.

Drama Eisteddfod Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

Great success was had at the 2015 Kempsey Drama Eisteddfod by Kempsey High School students who enjoyed performing in many of the sections offered. Students spent plenty of Semester 1 preparing mimes, monologues, duologues and group plays, as well as learning skills of improvisation.

Year 11 students Annalise Beecham, Carley Honeybrook, Cassandra Willis, Domonic Pietsch, Gabrielle Thornton, Kesia Chabros, Lily Collins, Maddison Whalen and Sharni-Lea Kenah all received Highly Commended for their Monologues. In this Open Monologue section Abigail King was placed third, Rachel Peters second and Megan O'Brien first.

Holli Cashin and Rose Collins were first in Duologue, Anna Thornton and Kyrine Ennis were second and Jessica Baker and Julian Corcoran were placed third. Anna Thornton, Kyrine Ennis, Tanisha Nixon and Holli Cashin were second in the Impromptu play section which proved to be highly entertaining. Cody McPhillips, Tanisha Nixon and Anna Thornton also received second place in the Short Play section with their presentation of "Jimmy Harris."

The Monologue section was hotly contested with Jessica Baker being placed third, Kyrine Ennis second and Anna Thornton first.

Kempsey High School is very grateful for the many volunteers who make the Eisteddfod possible. We encourage any parent who could help to step forward for the 2016 Eisteddfod, and invite interested people to attend a presentation of Year 9 Eisteddfod Drama performances to be held at KHS early next term.

In the Open Duologue section Highly Commended was awarded to Annalise Beecham and Gabrielle Thornton, Sharni-Lea Kenah and Scott Fuller and Domonic Pietsch and Cassandra Willis. Third place in this section went to Rachel Peters and Maddison Whalen, Jake Sydenham and Lily Collins were second and first place went to Abigail King and Megan O'Brien.

Year 9 Drama were also very successful in many of the Eisteddfod's sections. In Mime Holli Cashin and Tanisha Nixon were placed first, Anna Thornton and Kyrine Ennis second and Rose Collins and Felicity Detloff third, while Cody McPhillips and Jessica Baker and Chance Cochrane and Rose Collins were Highly Commended.

Six Medals Presented at 2015 NAIDOC

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

Elders, parents and community members helped to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Kempsey High last term. The theme: We all Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate was explained to students and staff with talks and slides presented by the Years 9 and 10 Gooris On The Job and Gooris In Business classes. The special guest was former student Steven McLeod who told of his work since leaving school. Naidoc Medals were presented to staff member, Mr Nathan Barker for services to students and staff, Joshua Donovan and Jeremy Morris for achievement in vocational education, Hank Barker for academic achievement, Katie Barnett for achievement in sport and Khatia Roberts for achievement in the creative arts. The assembly was followed by a BBQ for all students and lunch for guests at Burranba Ngundakang (Dream About Tomorrow), the Aboriginal Centre.

2015 Dance Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:42 AEST

Kempsey High School presented three superbly polished performances at the recent Southern Network Dance Festival. Year 7 and 8 students presented a jazz performance of We Run the Night and Year 9 students presented a beautifully choreographed contemporary performance of Some Boys. A highlight was the item Breath Of Life presented by Years 7-12 dancers. It was a superb performance: innovative, energetic and seamless in its choreography. The three day and night festival was an extravaganza of dance featuring hundreds of performers from twenty-one public schools.

Year 10 Students attend Careers Market

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Year 10 students recently attended the Mid Coast Careers Market at Port Macquarie where 60 stallholders showcased career and study options available to young people. Among the exhibitors were Charles Sturt University, North Coast Local Health, North Coast Institute of TAFE, Mid Coast Connect, Charles Sturt University, Engineers Australia, the University of New England, Tocal Agricultural College and MEGT Apprenticeship Centre. More than 1000 high school students attended. Students had the opportunity to explore pathways into careers and participate in hands-on interactive activities. Brendon Dowling won a tool kit for the quality of his workmanship at the TAFE construction exhibit.

Students excited by Dobell Art School expereince

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Kate Harwood, Kacey Jackson and Jade Konieczny attended the four day Dobell School sponsored by the Sir William Dobell Art Foundation with 21 country Year 11 students in the last holidays. They relished a unique experience working in a tertiary setting in a visual arts program conducted by artists of the National Arts School. They were chaperoned by two art teachers during their stay, walking to and from the art school in the heart of Sydney and enjoying the company of fellow regional students and activities during the evening. An exhibition of their work was held on the final night where parents and teachers celebrated the talent of the students. Kacey, Kate and Jade had an awesome time, finding the experience very worthwhile. Each student attended a different workshop: Jade - nude life drawing; Kacey - The Nude in Context; and Kate - Portraiture. They were praised for their work and behaviour. We are proud of them.

Kempsey High reaches North Coast Bowls Final

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

We are so proud of our Bowls team: Lachlan Clarke, Cody Griffin and Ben Wynter. The boys played a home game in the North Coast Regional Final recently. At one stage the team was down by nine points but the boys came back. On the last bowl Kempsey High was up by one point but in the end Coffs Harbour Senior College was victorious, winning 21-20. Cody was selected in the North Coast team. Well done boys and congratulations Cody!

UNE Booster Program

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Twenty Year 12 students accompanied by Ms Hall, Ms Hoffman and Mr Mayhew attended the HSC Booster Program hosted by the University of New England last fortnight. The program enabled the students to receive tuition from university teachers and extend their understanding in a variety of courses. The live-in four day program also gave the students an excellent insight into university life. They came away much more aware of the quality of the facilities and the support available to students. It enabled students to put themselves in the university scene and see possible future further education and career pathways. Thanks to UNE for a great program.

Barrie Wins Athletics Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:50 AEST

The light rain lifted into a great sunny day for the 2015 Kempsey High School Athletics Carnival which saw Barrie House (1163 points) take 1^st. place honours, a mere 12 points ahead of Kipling House (1151). Lawson came in 3^rd. (1026) and Masefield took 4^th. place (827). The Age Champions were:

12 years Kevin Sines and Kirra Davison

13 years Ivan Madden and Summer Henry

14 years Jackson Korn and Olivia Moore

15 years Darm Phakphaiand Katie Barnett

16 years Chris Sines, Cooper Wilson and Katie McMillan

17+ years Daniel Gurney, Jade Konieczny and Kate Harwood

NAIDOC 2015

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:07 AEST

Elders, parents and community members helped to celebrate NAIDOC Week at Kempsey High School. The theme: "We all Stand on Sacred Ground: Learn, Respect and Celebrate" was explained to students and staff with talk and slides presented by the Years 9 and !0 Gooris On The Job and Gooris In Business classes. The special guest for the assembly was former student Steven McLeod who told the assembly about his work since leaving school. Steven excelled with a natural talent in cartooning at school and went on to use this talent in a number of publications. Seven Naidoc Medals were presented to staff member, Mr Nathan Barker for services to students and staff, Joshua Donovan and Jeremy Morris for achievement in vocational education and training, Hank Barker for academic achievement, Katie Barnett for achievement in sport and Khatia Roberts for achievement in the creative arts. The assembly was followed by a BBQ for all students and lunch for guests at Burranba Ngundakang (Dream About Tomorrow), the Aboriginal Centre.

Cross Country Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:53 AEST

The annual Kempsey High School Cross Country run was held in great conditions at Hat Head recently. After the run around the outskirts of Hat Head and along the beach, the students and staff enjoyed a BBQ lunch before participating in a range of sporting and recreation activities including fishing, touch football, cricket, soccer, surfing, lawn bowls, sand modelling and beach volleyball. In the house competition, Barrie House took first place with 394 points, followed by Lawson House (356 points), Masefield House (210 points) and Kipling House (154 points). The age champions are:

12 Years: Chais Schlenert and Kirra Davison.

13 Years: Ivan Madden and Kaitlin Hutley.

14 Years: Jackson Korn and Emma Mitchell.

15 Years: Thanakorn (Darm) Phakphai and Katie Barnett.

16 Years: Kyle Barclay and Jennifer Mitchell.

17+ Years: Drew Walsh and Jade Konieczny.

Victoria Avenue Calls In

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Country Pop band Victoria Avenue called into Kempsey High a few weeks ago during their trip to the CMC Rocks Qld festival. The girls put on a great lunchtime performance in the hall and delivered perfect harmonies which delighted the students. The concert featured songs from the girls' latest self titled EP including "Quit You" which went to the top of the itunes Country Charts when it was first heard last year. Thank you Holly Moore, Tiara Maceri and Peta Ingleton, the girls which make up Victoria Avenue.

Bradley Wins Mid North Coast Heywire

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

In 2014, Bradley Hayward wrote a story for the ABC Mid North Coast Regional Heywire competition about an aspect of his life and where he lived. Brad wrote about his involvement in the school's Sound and Lighting Crew and the School Farm and described how this involvement lifted his confidence and participation in school and enabled him to enjoy school and be elected the school's vice captain. Bradley won the Mid North Coast Regional Heywire competition and he worked with the ABC producers to have his story featured on ABC Radio. It was heard nationally and internationally. Along with 36 other regional winners from around Australia, Bradley spent one week in Canberra to develop ideas to make positive change in communities at the Heywire Regional Youth Summit. During the summit, the regional winners talked with members of parliament and community leaders, participated in leadership training and had their ideas heard in the national capital. You can hear and read Bradley's story at http://www.abc.net.au/heywire/stories/2014/12/4148286.htm#.VQ5bm2f9nIU

Kipling Wins Swimming Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

House captains Jade Koniecny and Scott Fuller steered Kipling House to a win in the 2015 Kempsey High School Swimming Carnival which was held in perfect conditions last fortnight. The Kipling team topped the point score on 441 points followed by Lawson (392), Masefield (332) and Barrie (253).

The age champions are:

12 Years: Kirra Davison and Tom Harwood.

13 Years: Maddison Sydenham and Jaymin Kerr.

14 Years: Sara Flew and Jesse Perrin.

15 Years Alexandria McIntyre and Jake Davison.

16 Years: Jennifer Mitchell and Jake Sydenham.

17 Years: Jade Konieczny and Daniel Gurney.

Horse Husbandry

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Twelve students took advantage of the opportunity to extend their horse husbandry skills during the January holidays. Highly experienced trainer, River Martin swapped the school lawn mower for the saddle to offer the workshop to the students. The workshop follows the very successful workshops held on the beach at North Haven last year (see photo). Students learnt very useful skills in sensitively working with the horse by developing an understanding of the behaviour, temperament and personality of the animal. Thanks to River for his time given to help students.

Welcome Ms Lindsay Peters and Rachel

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

The school has welcomed Ms Lindsay Peters and her daughter Rachel to Kempsey High School. Ms Peters has exchanged her teaching position at North Park School in Colorado USA for 2015 with English teacher Mr Rob McAulay. While Mr McAulay is learning to cope with zero degree days in the high country of Colorado, Ms Peters is "learning the lingo" and settling into the Kempsey lifestyle despite the humidity and last week's rain. Rachel is making new friends in Year 11 and has secured part time work at Lou's Café.

Honour for Chris Dockrill

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:57 AEST

Retired Head Teacher of English and Drama, Chris Dockrill was presented with a plaque naming the Drama Room the "Chris Dockrill Drama Studio" by Marilyn Preston representing the Reunion of the first form class of 1972. The reunion was held in early November and the group wanted to show their appreciation to Chris for his huge contribution to the school over many years. Chris was still catching up on sleep after the successful opening season of his production of "The Island of Doctor Moron" in Sydneyand was able to be presented with the plaque on the last day of school, 19^th. December 2014.

New Bouldering Wall

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:08 AEST

A grant from the Sidney Myer Fund was used to construct a bouldering wall in the Kempsey High School gymnasium at the end of last term. The bouldering wall had some fairly rigorous testing just before the holidays and will be ready for action when school begins next week. The bouldering wall will be incorporated into several existing physical education activities as well as being the centrepiece of several new activities to build agility and problem solving. The grant was applied for by Jenny Hammond, the Kempsey High School Student Support Officer. It was constructed by Constructive Access Solutions, a specialist company for this type of construction.

Meet Our New School Leaders

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

Six Year 11 students have taken up their leadership responsibilities following their election by students and staff. The Captains, Vice Captains and Prefects were inducted into their roles at a formal assembly held earlier in the term. Outgoing Captains Sarah Mitchell and Thomas Bryon pinned the badges of office on the Captains for 2015, Courtney Dowling and Alfred Davis. The Vice Captains Binca Miller and Bradley Hayward followed by the Prefects Sky Jarvis and Rachael Bednarz received their badges and then all six new leaders read the pledge of office.

Red Onion Cafe at the Real Futures Launch.

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:12 AEST

Students from the Red Onion Cafe with their Hospitality teacher, Mr Michael Davidson catered for the launch by Minister Nigel Scullionof the Hunter North Coast VTEC (Vocational Training Employment Centre) at Riverside Park last fortnight. The centre will be located and managed by Real Futures in Verge St Kempsey. With Mr Davidson, the students devised a menu featuring local bush flavours including a Lemon Myrtle Cheesecake that had guests coming for seconds in droves!

Winter Warriors

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

Earlier in the term, a busload of Kempsey High students travelled to Lake Keepit Sport & Recreation Centre to join 100 competitors from across NSW for Winter Warrior, an adventure style 15km obstacle race for teams of about six students. It aims to promote fitness as a fun and challenging activity and build teamwork. The girls prepared for the event by attending Girls Gym and most students had selected Bootcamp for their Wednesday sport in the lead up to the event. Our students were fantastic ambassadors for Kempsey High through their good behaviour, friendliness and the encouragement they gave to other teams.

Experimenting at the Science Hub Launch

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

Year 10 students Tayla Powick and Cheyenne Darby conducted a Rocky Road sedimentary rock story experiment at the launch of the Mid North Coast Regional Science hub in early September. The were rewarded with Science Week caps and tee-shirts. A collaborative network of businesses, councils, schools, universities, Rotary, the Australian Museum, the AECG, Mid North Coast Health and Mid Coast Connect will plan future events to promote Science . The first event will be a Science Festival to be held in Port Macquarie on 12^th and 13^th. November to inspire primary and secondary school students, teachers, businesses and community with a range of high interest hands-on Science activities.

2014 Year 7 Sports Gala Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

Over 500 Year 7 students from mid north coast high schools attended the annual Sports Gala Day hosted by Kempsey High School last fortnight. The event has run annually since 2007. The school's Year 9 Physical Activity and Sports Studies classes prepared and organised soccer, touch football, tee-ball and netball games for the day. The events are run in a round robin format so that each school was able to play every other school in each sport. The day focused on fun, sportsmanship and participation. Well done to everyone who organised, coached and participated.

Targeted Sports Program: Newcastle Knights Trip

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

Twenty-one boys saw the Newcastle Knights play the New Zealand Warriors and toured the stadium, training and rehabilitation facilities during the recent Targeted Sports Program excursion. The students met several Knights players and were given insights into the game day preparation of the players and what weekly sessions and a yearly program involved. Former NRL player Anthony Quinn and Knights great, Danny Buderus talked to the group about life as an NRL player. The duo described the personal sacrifices that they made and the importance of school and education in pursuing their NRL ambitions. Anthony and Danny also talked about their humble beginnings, coming from regional NSW and working hard to achieve their goals. The excursion was made possible through NRL advocacy and the Dream, Believe and Achieve program which fosters the aspirations of rural young people and encourages healthy lifestyles and making positive choices. The students and teachers thank the parents for their ongoing support of the Targeted Sports Program.

Zone Bowls Championships

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:28 AEST

Cody Griffen and Ben Winter recently represented the North Coast in the zone bowls championships held at Wollongong recently. The boys were playing in the under 18 seven-a-side division against some much older opposition. Well done boys!

Goodooga Indigenous Games

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:56 AEST

Nineteen students returned from the annual Goodooga Indigenous Games with some great memories of outback life and experiences with students from several other schools that also travelled to Goodooga for the traditional indigenous games. The group met up and had dinner with Beck Arthur, our former Chaplain, who is now working at Lightening Ridge. The games incorporate a memorial to Kane Mason, a Goodooga boy who played for Manly who was tragically killed at Macksville some years ago. At the games, several Kempsey High students received medals and trophies for sportsmanship and participation.

Senior Students attend Careers Expo

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

A busload of senior students attended the recent Camden Haven Careers Expo which attracted a large number of employers and tertiary education providers.

Our Careers Teacher, Mr Rix has for many years had a major role organising the Careers Expo which attracted hundreds of students from district high schools.

And who else did we see there? None other than Kinne Ring from the class of 2013. Kinne who now attends the University of Newcastle was able to give students some first hand information.

Accolades for Business Awards Dinner

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

Kempsey High School again hosted the Macleay Argus Business Awards in early August. The function received rave reviews last year and the 200 tickets to the Gala Formal Dinner were sold out a week before the event.

Over 100 Kempsey businesses were nominated for awards in a range of categories. The event featured a tribute to Milo which was first invented in 1934. Milo featured in the menu specially prepared for the occasion.

The function enables Hospitality students to gain experience to complement the 70 hours structured workplace learning required for their Certificate II qualification.

Assembly of Excellence

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

At the Assembly of Excellence to mark Education Week, six students from Kempsey High School were honoured for their academic excellence and commitment to their studies with an award from the Macleay Educational Community of Schools. The assembly was held at Frederickton Public School where high achieving students from the seventeen Macleay Valley public schools received awards. We congratulate Jesse Perrin (Year 7), Leah Bexon (Year 8), Sean Groth (Year 9), Jennifer Mitchell (Year 10), Courtney Dowling (Year 11) and Sarah Mitchell (Year 12).

Kempsey High Homework Centre

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

HOMEWORK AND TUTORING CENTRE is held in the KEMPSEY HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY from 3.30 pm to 5.00 pm on TUESDAYS and THURSDAYS and ALL STUDENTS ARE WELCOME

Light refreshments are provided and so come along and get help with your homework, assignments and assessment tasks.

Transport is available for out of town students:

TUESDAYS – Armidale Road to Bellbrook

THURSDAYS – Frederickton, Collombatti Road & Clybucca

Parents may need to meet their students at the drop off points.

Students who live in town and need transport can also be accommodated.

The Homework and Tutoring Centre provides support to any student who is having difficulties in any subject or those who simply want some extra help and consolidation.

Computers, internet access and printers are available in this time. Bookings are essential for catering so please register your name on the ‘Sign In' sheet in the Library by Recess two (2) if you are attending that afternoon's session.

An Excellent Design

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:45 AEST

Julian Kesby, Courtney Dowling and Haydn McIlwain have won second place in the competition to design a new Science Centre and Observatory in Port Macquarie. The competition was run by the Port Macquarie Astronomical Association. The presentations were made by Port Macquarie-Hastings Mayor Peter Besseling at a ceremony on Sunday 9^thFebruary 2014 at the Observatory on Rotary Park at Town Beach. Comboyne Public School won the competition. The Kempsey High design also won the People's Choice Award which was judged by visitors to the display of design entries set up in the Port Macquarie Library during January.

Justin and Bianca represent at CHS State Swimming

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Justin Crockford and Bianca Roberts have both returned from the Combined High Schools State Swimming held at Homebush with very pleasing results. Bianca placed 4^th. in the 50m breaststroke and 6^th. in the 100m and 50m freestyle. Justin was ranked 15^th. and 16^th. in his numerous events including the 200m, 100m and 50m freestyle, 100m backstroke, breaststroke and butterfly and the 200m medley. Congratulations to Justin and Bianca on competing so well for the North Coast team.

James and Mitchell represent Canada at MUNA

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Year 12 students James Flatley and Mitchell Taylor attended the Rotary sponsored Model United Nations Assembly (MUNA) held at Inverell recently. James and Mitchell represented Canada and had the opportunity to debate world affairs in a fun event with senior students from across northern NSW. Rotary has been running MUNA for 50 years across the world to promote international understanding and friendship. Several social events were provided over the weekend and the boys were billeted with Rotary families in Inverell.

Barrie House wins Athletics Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:50 AEST

In the best attended and most closely fought Athletics Carnival in many years, Barrie House won the 2014 Kempsey High School Athletics Carnival with 909 points. Only nine points separated the first three positions with Lawson House taking second place on 903 points, Kipling coming in third with 900 points and Masefield coming fourth with 860 points. Services Club Park was a hive of activity in glorious conditions which were just perfect for the carnival.

The Age Champions are:

12 Years: Dean Herbert and Kaitlin Hutley.

13 Years: Kolya Hilan and Olivia Moore

14 Years: Thanakorn (Darm) Phakphai and Kourtney Veenstra

15 Years: Blake Clayton and Kacey Jackson

16 Years: Daniel Gurney and Kate Harwood

17 Years: Solomon McElroy and Claudia McGarry

Targeted Sports Program

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

Targeted Sports

Twenty boys in years 7 and 8 have been selected in the 2014 Targeted Sports Program. The students successfully nominated for the program and completed assessments in skills and fitness. The program focuses on the development of rugby league skills and promotes respect, responsibility, commitment and positive behaviour. The students in last year's program gave it full marks. It included training sessions with the Newcastle Knights and a range of excursions to enrich students' skills and understanding. Some of the 2014 squad are pictured just prior to undertaking some conditioning work using the bikes and helmets provided through the NRMA Insurance Community Grants Program.

Tamara named VET Student of the Year

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

Year 12 student Tamara Baker has won the North Coast TAFE TVET / VET in Schools Student of the Year Award at the 2014 North Coast TAFE Student Recognition Awards for her achievements in the Certificate II Business Services course. Tamara attends TAFE after school and works at the Westpac Bank each Wednesday. She completed the two year course in one year and has enrolled in the next level of Business Administration. Congratulations Tamara!

Visiting from Louisiana

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Kempsey High School Agriculture and Marine Studies students came away totally enthralled from lectures offered to them last fortnight from visiting Rotarians from Louisiana. Team Leader of the vocational visit, Mark Shirley from Louisiana State University gave an astonishing account of his work as a commercial alligator harvester and farmer. He conducts programs for crawfish, shrimp and crab farmers, alligator farmers and harvesters and fishermen. Mindy Hotard talked to an overflow audience about cattle reproduction and her research in using reproductive technology. She brought extensive experience from her family's crawfishing, alligator trapping, commercial cattle and abattoir businesses. The visiting team also included Keith Normand who works in retirement as an agricultural extension associate with Louisiana State University and Nick Simoneaux who worked at the Louisiana State University Rice Research Station. Keith and Nick have extensive industry experience – Keith in working in grain cropping, sugarcane, cotton and forage crops and Nick in a farm supply company and later in a landscape business specialising in construction, renovation and maintenance of athletic turf.

NRMA Supports Bike Riding Program

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

A $2500 grant from the 2013 NRMA Insurance Community Grants Program has supplied bikes and safety helmets for the new Wheels Safety and Maintenance program at Kempsey High School. The bikes had their first outing at the Year 11 Study Skills Camp in February and are now in constant demand for the school's sports programs.

Royal Easter Show Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

A Limousin steer has given Kempsey High School third position at the Royal Easter Show.

The 422kg. steer was entered in the very competitive 400-500kg section of the carcass competition against over 80 other industry and school competitors. The steer met all specifications to a high level and had an ideal fat coverage.

It was a very successful Royal Easter for Kempsey High.

In the Royal Agricultural Society Schools Parading open division for 12 to 18 year old students, Merinda Kyle took 3^rd. position in her heat and Jennifer Mitchell took 5^th. position.

About 150 students competed. Merinda and Jennifer along with Joshua Heuston were among the ten selected representatives chosen to compete from the North Coast. Drew Walsh was also selected as first reserve in the judging for this year's Royal.

Pictured is the 2014 Kempsey High School Royal Easter Show Cattle Team with Courtney Dowling and steer following the schools parading competition.

Supporting the Kempsey Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:19 AEST

Students from Kempsey High School used some of their holidays to get along to a showground working bee.

The old wooden cattle yards have now been replaced with some brand spanking new steel posts and rails and they really add value to the ring.

Under the watchful guidance of Bob MacKenzie and assisted by Agriculture teacher Gavin Saul and parent Kurt Supple, seven students dug the holes and mixed cement to set the posts in place.

The volunteer work is part of the Agriculture course, designed to instil rural values of cooperation and giving support to the farming community. Thanks to Bob, Gavin and Kurt and to the students: Kyle Barclay, Rachel Bednarz, Lachy Byrne, Blake Carmady, Clayton Dries, Cooper Gray, Caitlin Lee and Charlie Supple for their efforts.

Anzac Day Commemoration

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:45 AEST

Representatives of the Kempsey and South West Rocks Sub Branches of the RSL, along with Counsellors Lou Kesby and Dean Saul and Mr Richard Archibald were the official guests at the Kempsey High School Anzac Commemoration Service held prior to the holidays. Members of TS Culgoa, the South West Rocks Naval Cadets formed the Catafalque Party which was performed with precision and respect. The service was led by School Captains Sarah Mitchell and Thomas Bryon. Both Sarah and Thomas gave well researched and quite moving speeches on the subjects: A Proud Tradition Begins and The Courage and Audacity of Australia's Servicemen and Women.

What devices can students bring to school?

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

Students can bring a laptop or tablet to school. The laptop or tablet must follow the required specifications below. Students currently bringing their own devices to school find iPads, Macbooks and Chromebooks the easiest to work with.

Device specifications

Wireless connectivity - Devices must support 5GHz dual band, 802.11 a/b/g/n wireless so that they can connect to the school Wi-Fi. Android devices must be able to connect on all channels in the 5GHz range. Do NOT purchase Android devices if they cannot connect to all channels in the 5GHz range. Currently, most Android devices cannot connect to the school Wi-Fi.

Battery life - Devices must last at least 5 hours without charge so that it can last the whole school day.

Memory and RAM - Devices must have a minimum 16 GB storage and 2GB RAM so that students have enough space to save their work and have a device that is fast to work with.

Operating system - Ideally devices should have the current version of any operating system (E.g. iOS7, Windows 8.1) so the device can access the latest software/apps and updates. If this is not possible, a previous version of any operating system should be installed on devices (E.g. iOS6, Windows 7).

Hardware features - Devices must have a camera and microphone to allow students to participate in 21st century learning. Students may also find a mouse and stylus helpful.

Software and apps

Devices must have software or apps that allow for:

Internet browsing (E.g. Internet Explorer, Chrome, Safari)
Note taking (E.g. Evernote, OneNote)
Word processing (E.g. Microsoft Word, Pages)
Creating spreadsheets (E.g. Microsoft Excel, Numbers)
Creating presentations (E.g. Microsoft PowerPoint, Keynote)

Note that Chromebooks will have the above software via Google Apps.

Students can also download free Microsoft and Adobe software for laptops here

Active antivirus software must be installed on laptops and Android devices.

Second and Third Place in PITCH Awards

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

Kempsey High School students took out second and third place in North Coast Medicare Local's latest PITCH (Practical Ideas to Improve Health Care). Our students presented videos on the prevalence of otitis media (middle ear infection) in the Aboriginal population and a light-hearted video titled The Evil Tooth Fairy about the importance of eating well and looking after young teeth. Two other videos were entered about choosing the right foods to eat and a boisterous romp called Fast Food Race which demonstrated the perils of eating too much junk food. Kempsey High took out the Chairman of the Board Award for their efforts which was presented at the University Centre for Rural Health in Lismore.

Kempsey High Hosts Trucking Club Dinner

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

Kempsey High School senior Hospitality classes dished up a five star meal to the North Coast Trucking Social Club last week.

The Hospitality Trade Training Centre was in full swing as all the components of the meals came together to be served by a procession of waiters and waitresses.

The patrons were particularly impressed not only with the food and its presentation but also with the ways that their old school had changed.

The verdict: "We'll be back!".

2014 School Swimming Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

The Kempsey High School Swimming Carnival was held on Friday 31^st January 2014. Lawson House defended their comprehensive 2013 win but the day went to Kipling House. The House Captains were elected at the end of 2013 and they stirred up their teams for maximum participation which that was the key to a good result. Last year's carnival saw some fast times and numerous students progress to the zone carnival. This year's carnival saw new records made and astrong team to contest the Lower North Coast Zone Swimming Carnival that is scheduled for 21^st February in Kempsey.

Immunisation Program for 2014

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Each year NSW Health offers the vaccines recommended by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) for adolescents as part of the school vaccination program.

In 2014 the following vaccines will be offered:

Years 7 – all students

HPV(human papillomavirus) vaccine – 3 dose schedule at 0,2 and 6 months(students who commence HPV vaccination in Year 7 but do not complete the course may be offered catch-up doses at school into Year 8)

Chickenpox (varicella) vaccine – 1 dose

Boostrix – (Diphtheria, tetanus and whooping cough) – 1 dose

Year 9 – boys only

HPV vaccine – 3 dose schedule at 0,2 and 6 months

These vaccines are only free for the year.

Parents who want to vaccinate their child after they have finished their school year (ie Year 7 and Year 9 boys) can do so at their GPS but it will not be free.

Parent Information Kitswill be sent home to parents/guardians. To consent to the vaccination of their child, they are advised to:

-read all the information provided

-complete the consent form by ticking(ü) thevaccines they would like their child to receive

-return to their childs school

-ensure that their child eats breakfast on the day of the school vaccination clinic.

Parents/guardians who wish to withdraw their consent for any reason may do so by writing to the school principal or phoning the school. The procedure for Withdrawal of Consent is available on the NSW Health website at www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation.

A record of vaccination will be provided to each student vaccinated at the clinic. Parents/guardians should ensure that this record is kept for future reference and should not assume that their child has been vaccinated if they do not receive this Record of Vaccination.

Vaccines missed at one school visit will be offered at the next visit. Parents will receive a letter at the end of the year only if their child's vaccinationsare not complete.

Parents with any questions or concerns can ring Bernadette atthe Public Health Unit on 66 207503

KHS Men Swear on White Ribbon Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:00 AEST

At a special White Ribbon Day assembly held on 27th November, the men of Kempsey High swore to support anti-violence to women.

Belvoir Theatre Drama Workshops

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

On Thursday 21st November Michael Piggott and Shannon Murphy from Belvoir Theatre came to Kempsey High School as part of their Theatre Regional Access program and conducted two workshops for our Drama students, one in Group Devising and one in Monologue Development.

Belvoir offers this program that is readily available to their city counterparts to regional students and KHS students were so lucky to receive the benefit of such expertise. All learned so much and had great fun in the process.

Thank you Belvoir!

Year 12 Artworks 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Our homepage gallery images showcase the talents of this year's Year 12 Art students. Please take the time to savour these outstanding works of art.

Art Excursion to the Glasshouse

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

Last week, 17 very fortunate visual arts students attended a drawing workshop and toured the exhibition of renowned Australian artist Arthur Boyd, currently on show at the Glasshouse in Port Macquarie. The morning began with a drawing workshop led by Jim Birkett, Education Officer from Bundanoon. Under the structured guidance of Jim, the students constructed an artwork exploring the concept of movement through time and the journey. They used a variety of materials including graphite, ink, collage and old maps. The resulting works were exceptional and students responded enthusiastically and thoughtfully to the artistic process. Afterwards they toured the exhibition of Boyd's works where they learnt about the content and structure of the artworks through critical analysis. Feedback from the students:"That was excellent, I really enjoyed that!"

Macleay River Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:03 AEST

On the 7^th September the ‘Light the Way' Lantern parade and competition was held on the banks of the Macleay River. This was part of the Macleay River Festival designed to promote the diversity of arts and cultural activities taking place in the region. Students were asked to create a lantern boat that could be floated on the river at Riverside Park as part of the festival.

The year nine Gooris on the Job class at Kempsey High decided to construct a large turtle for the Lantern parade. It was made from irrigation pipe and tissue paper. All members of the class were involved with the construction which took over five weeks to complete. The turtle was then decorated with traditional patterns and handprints.

Students involved were Henry Davis, Kyah Griffin, Lionel Lockwood, Tyla McKenzie, Chris Sines, David Toby Griffin and Josh Donovan and Kia Roberts.

Gaol Birds

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:55 AEST

Gaol Birds is a collaborative work created by Year 7 Visual Arts students at Kempsey High School. History tells us an inmate of a prison was often referred to as a ‘gaol bird' and so we thought we would use the term literally. Students were influenced by the ceramic artist Bev Hogg of Canberra. Each student created a bird and had the freedom to glaze it in black and white with their own interpretation of the patterns and symbols of prison uniforms worn in the past. The students enjoyed this project and can't wait to take them home after they have served their time.

Rescued Words

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

This is a collaborative work made by year 10 aboriginal students who took the ‘Gooris in Business' course at Kempsey High. It is a cultural project inspired by the artist Richard Bell. We chose words from the Dunghutti dictionary that reflect the environment of this area: water, wave, wind, swim, dolphin, bush turkey, crab, flathead, coast, fishing net, bream, sand……..

The surf rescue board is not only a reflection of our beach culture but symbolic in its purpose. Used as a rescue device, it is ‘saving' the Dunghutti language.

"…language is not just simply a means of communication; it also provides a means through which the culture, social values and world view of a particular language group can be identified and understood." (FATSIL)

Year 10 – ‘Gooris in Business' students

Year 11 & 12 Exam Schedule 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Year 11 Preliminary and Year 12 Trial HSC examinations will start on Monday 2nd September 2013 and finish on Thursday 12th September 2013. The exam schedule has been published under the Publications and Videos tab. Students are reminded to arrive at least 15 minutes prior to the commencement of each examination. All absences need to be covered by a doctor's certificate.

Rugby: 2013 Coast to Country Cup

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

In late July, two boys' teams (under 14 and under 16) travelled to Coffs Harbour to play at BCU stadium in the annual Coast to Country Cup. Despite the short turn around period between the start of term and the event, Kempsey High School were able to field two competitive teams and challenged several private schools from Coffs Harbour to Port Macquarie.

Both teams are to be congratulated on their outstanding sportsmanship and behaviour on the day. North Coast Rugby development officer, Bruce Frame commented on the ability of our players and said "the behaviour and the way in which Kempsey High School conducted themselves on the day was outstanding".

The under 14 will now travel to Foster in week 10 for the Coast to Country Cup regional final, which will see some of the best school teams from the coastal and country areas of NSW play off.

A big thank you to Mr. Shannon for his time preparing the boys during lunch times and his organisation of the teams leading up to the event and to Mr. McCormack for his work with the under 16's.

Mr. Peisley

PDHPE Teacher

Year 12 Drama Performance

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Year 12 Drama invites you to a presentation of HSC Drama Performance pieces in B4 on Wednesday, 21st August from 6:30pm. A light supper is being provided. Entry is by gold coin donation. All welcome!

Dance Festival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:53 AEST

Kempsey High students presented a jazz / hip hop performance called ‘Insomnia' and a contemporary piece called ‘Hearts Cry" to huge audiences at the Southern Network Dance Festival last term. There were four performances over two days. We commend the group for the creativity and effort they put into their preparation and the performances. Many extra hours were spent refining the pieces. We extend our thanks to Jaimie from Empire Dance Schoolfor her help with the choreography and fine tuning performances, costumes and use of her studio facilities throughout the term. We also thank Katie James and Krystal Millarfor their help with hair and make-up and dance teacher Louise Hopkins.

2013 Zone Athletics

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

Thirty-two students participated in the Zone Athletics Carnival held at Nambucca Heads. Fourteen students were selected to represent the lower Mid North Coast at the regional carnival to be held in Kingscliff on Friday 2^nd. August 2013. The qualifying results are:

13 years: Talha Awan 1^st. Javelin; Justin Crockford 2^nd. Javelin; Erin Miles-Gavin 2^nd. Javelin; Kourtney Veenstra 2^nd. 100m.

14 years: Mark Toby 1^st. Shot Put.

16 years: Antwinette Dunn 2^nd. Long Jump; Solomon McElroy 1^st. High Jump, 1^st. Javelin, 1^st. 1500m, 2^nd. 800m; Brodie Mayhew 1^st. 200m, 2^nd. 100m; Jarrod Witheridge 2^nd. 400m; Boys Relay: Aidan Finnegan, Solomon McElroy, Brodie Mayhew, Jarrod Witheridge; Girls Relay: Antwinette Dunn, Kacey Jackson, Suzanne Griffen, Kourtney Veenstra.

17+ years: Rachel Gurney 1^st. 400m; Clayton Wilson 110m Hurdles.

We wish these students all the best at Kingscliff.

Rock Climbing

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

The end of the Outdoor Recreation unit of the Sports, Lifestyle and Recreation course saw students undertake climbs of varying difficulty at Centre of Gravity, the indoor rock climbing facility at Port Macquarie.

NSW Country Schools Rugby Championships – The Armidale School 7th-9th June

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

Over the June long weekend, Jesse Wade travelled to Armidale as a part of the Mid North Coast under 16's Rugby Union team to compete at the NSW Country Schools Rugby Championships. Jesse was selected for this team as a result of his strong performance at the Buchan Shield at Coffs Harbour whilst representing Kempsey High School. The championships are renowned for showcasing some of the best schoolboy rugby talents in the NSW country region with teams coming from Far North Coast, New England, Central North, Southern NSW and Mid North Coast. This is a fantastic achievement for Jesse, having only played a few games of Rugby Union and being identified by Australian Rugby Union staff, Harrison Witt, as having ‘great potential'. Jesse represented Kempsey High School and himself to the highest standard and Mid North Coast team management were incredibly impressed by his sportsmanship and performance for the team. Well done Jesse!

Macleay Valley Country Cup - Rugby League

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:03 AEST

Several members of the Targeted Sports group have been working hard in their lessons and during lunch time on Monday and Wednesday afternoon in preparation for the Macleay Valley Country Cup carnival which was held at Verge Street oval, Kempsey.

In the first match against Macksville High School our boys came out with plenty of enthusiasm and opened the try scoring with a damaging run by hard running front rower, Sam Tribe-Skinner. Not long after the boys were in again courtesy of a fantastic ball from Warren Cochrane-Smith to winger Jake Davison, scoring in the corner. Kempsey High delivered a final blow with Jermaine Sines crossing the chalk right before full time to wrap up the game 16-0 (2 conversions to Chris Holten).

The second match was against St. Paul's College Kempsey who were the ‘red hot' favourites for the carnival. Although our boys gave it their very best against a very well drilled squad, St. Paul's ran out the eventual winners 18-0.

In game three, a local derby match of the public schools against Melville High School, our boys came out firing! The first 10 minutes of the match appeared to be anyone's game with possession being quite even. After completing a solid set out of our own half and gaining good field possession, Jermaine Sines was able to cross for a try under the posts, making this his second try for the day. The boys appeared as though they would hold the opposition scoreless, however, a ‘shifty' run from Melville High School led to them scoring just before full time to tie the game up at 6-6. As Kempsey High scored first we were awarded the game.

In the grand final, we were up against St. Paul's College again, but this time, we went out confidently after our 2-1 score card from the day. ‘Tall timbers' Thanakorn Phakphai and Matthew McAllister really muscled up in defence and made the opposition question whether our Kempsey High line could be broken. Chris Holten provided great ball to the outside backs, creating several scoring opportunities out wide with flying winger, Jakum Cubby. Unfortunately, St. Paul's scored two lucky back-to-back tries taking the score to 10-0. Before the final whistle, a fantastic cut-out ball from Chris Holten to Jake Davis scoring out wide. The game finished up 10-6 with the boys making a huge improvement to their first game against the eventual winners.

The boys are to be congratulated on their outstanding sportsmanship and behaviour on the day. Country Rugby League officials commented on the ability of our players and said "we are always pleased with how Kempsey High School participates in the spirit of the day".

Mr. Tolman was given the duties of selected the ‘rising star' award, which was a Bulldogs player issued jacket from his son Aiden (Front Rower for NRL Team – Bulldogs) and this award went to Cody Griffin. Well done!

Australian Junior Open Squash Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

Over the last Easter weekend Year 11 student Claudia McGarry played in the Australian Junior Open Squash Tournament. A total of 280 players from all over Australia took part in the tournament. After some hard matches, including a 5 set second last game, Claudia finished in 6^th place which is a tremendous achievement. Well done Claudia.

NAIDOC 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:07 AEST

The school celebrated NAIDOC Week in the last week of Term 2 at a formal assembly chaired by Tykea Dunn and Shianne Austin.

Pastor Claude Roberts gave the Welcome to Country after a great opening by the Drumming Group. Year 10 Gooris In Business students Cassandra Squires and Tiara McKenzie explained the history and meaning of the 1963 Yirrkala Bark Petitions, the theme of this year's NAIDOC Week.

A video which was entered in last year's Generation One competition illustrating the theme ‘Moving Forward' was shown. It was produced by English Head Teacher Sue Tassell and Music teacher Karen Thrush and featured students, Troy Barker, Henry Davis, Ben Fisher, Melody Latham, Lionel Lockwood, Matt Lovering, Lucas Mayhew and Tegan Walsh.

These students workshopped with local singer and songwriter Amos Morris in singing Amos's original soundtrack "Come My Brothers". Pastor Claude entertained students with two songs before the assembly ended to the powerful video clip of Yothu Yindi performing at the 2012 Aria awards singing ‘Treaty'. Thank you to the parents and elders who attended and the staff and students who worked behind the scenes to make this year's NAIDOC Assembly a memorable experience.

2013 Debutante Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Thirteen young ladies made their debut with their partners at the Kempsey High School Debutante Ball just prior to the holidays. The debs and their partners looked resplendent being presented to Kempsey Shire Mayor Liz Campbell and her husband Ray. It was a wonderful night with proud parents, grandparents and families coming together for a great occasion. The night got underway after a warmly received Welcome to Country that was given by Dunghutti Elder, Bob Smith. The debs and partners were prepared by Neil Monckton and the music was supplied by Noble Groove. We extend our thanks once again to the staff of the Kempsey-Macleay RSL Club who catered for the event and to the organising group led by Mrs Lisa Reed and Mrs Louise Ryan.

David Peachey Visit

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

Former NRL, NSW and Australian rugby league player David Peachey visited Kempsey High School on Friday the 14^thof June. He delivered a workshop as an NRL ambassador on Dream, Believe and Achieve to our students. Quite simply, he was outstanding. David spoke to students about his own life experiences and what it takes to become successful in life no matter what your chosen path, gender, culture or background. He delivered a strong message to our students that they should have dreams and believe anyone is capable of chasing and striving to achieve their goals and dreams.

After the presentation David answered student questions, signed autographs and was happy to pose for photographs. In all, it was a great experience for the students who attended and we thank Davidfor his time.

ANZAC Memorial

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:45 AEST

Several students participated with Elders and community members in the 7^th. Annual Commemoration Service honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Servicemen and Servicewomen at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park, Sydney on 31^st. May 2013.

The ceremony is held each year to recognize the contribution that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Veterans have made to Australia's freedom. A Smoking Ceremony was performed by Uncle Steve Williams to the sounds of the didgeridoo played by Leon Burchill.

Travel was funded by Transport NSW and the students were taken down to Sydney by Mavis Symonds from the South Kempsey Community Centre and volunteer bus drivers. We sincerely thank everybody for giving the students the opportunity to attend.

Cyberbullying Talks

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:53 AEST

School Liaison Officer Senior Constable Steve Jeffery visited Year 7 and 8 students in June to present the dangers and consequences of cyberbulling. Senior Constable Jeffery will speak to other year groups this term.

Anti-Bullying Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:45 AEST

Schools throughout NSW held their annual Anti Bullying days in March this year. Due to a lot of prior commitments we postponed our day to Wednesday 17^th June and held Take a Stand against Bullying Day. The day started with a school assembly where School Support Officer, Jenny Hammond and the SRC students addressed the students and staff about Bullying. They showed a video featuring Ruby Rose and others with their thoughts, testimonials and ideas to stamp out bullying in schools. A lunch time sausage sizzle and music added to the wonderful ambiance of a great day albeit a little windy! We thank the SRC and Jenny Hammond for planning a great day.

Year 8 UNE Mathematics Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:27 AEST

Attending the 2013 Year 8 UNE Mathematics Day, Talha Awan, Kyle Fry, Sean Groth and Jacob Mickle were able to embrace the challenge of a whole day of mathematics, in comfort, at the University of New England.

With 59 teams in the competition the day was a great eye-opener for students from a rural school. The day was filled with mathematical challenges and an opportunity to work in a team. It also gave the chance to work with students from other schools. The activities included answering complicated questions and a construction activity at the end. All of it was done under pressure of time. For more details ask the boys.

In an atmosphere of great learning the boys enjoyed the activities and participated to the best of their ability. They did not take out any prizes but were champions in their own way and hopefully the experience has left them with an enthusiasm for continued challenges.

Jacob, Kyle, Sean and Talha are well-mannered and great ambassadors for our school. They also have a sense of fun and comradeship. It was a pleasure to offer them this opportunity and participate in their experience.

MUNA 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:06 AEST

Model United Nations Assembly

This is an annual event held at St Columba Anglican College, Port Macquarie organised by Rotary to allow year 11 student to experience a taste of the way the United Nations assemblies work. It involved students from 13 different schools in the northern region.

Our students,James Flatley and Mitchell Taylor, represented China and were impeccably dressed for the flag parade. Much fun was had and new friendships were formed. In fact through bribery and corruption many alliances were made and then broken. There were many eloquent speakers and our boys argued logically and with confidence on topics like cricket becoming the international sport for peace, fossil fuel free vehicles, recycling superseded products, weapons of mass destruction and third world debts.

I would like to thank Rotary for funding this activity. Thanks to Mitchell and James for donating their weekend to represent our school so well and to their parents for supporting them.

Lisa Hoffman

2013 School Athletics Carnival

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

Pull on those running shoes. Its time for our annual School athletics carnival so get training and be prepared to do your best on Thursday 30th May 2013. With a 9am start at Services Park, all the usual events, both individual and team, will happen. A great BBQ is planned and the canteen will be open for all your food needs. Parents and carers are invited to enjoy this day with the staff and students of Kempsey High.

Parent-Teacher Night - All Welcome

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Dear Parents / Carers,

On Wednesday 29th May 2013, Parent /Teacher Night will be held in F Block from 4:00pm tp 6:00pm for Years 7 to 12. Please come and discuss your child's progress with their teachers. Formal reports will be sent home at the end of this term.

The P&C will be running their Sausage Sizzle during this time and all visitors are invited to indulge. Tea and coffee will also be available.

Interviews will be scheduled for you and booking sheets have already been posted home. If you have more than one child attending Kempsey High School, please fill in the additional booking sheet to enable us to coordinate times for you.

If you are unable to attend but would like to speak with your child's teachers, telephone conferences can be arranged so please send in your details and the preferred times for contact.

Further details can be obtained from the School Office on 6562 6166.

We are looking forward to meeting with you on this evening.

School Photographs - 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

School photographs will be handed out to students during Assembly on Wednesday 1st May 2013. Students who are absent on this Wednesday are to pick up their photographs from their Year Adviser.

KHS Farm Service helps Local Farmers

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:00 AEST

A number of local farmers are allowing the Kempsey High Agriculture Students Association (KHASA) to provide opportunities for young farmers to give hands-on help to the industry following last week's floods. The school has been planning opportunities for farm service for some time and the backlog of work facing many district farmers has provided an ideal opportunity to launch the program.

Slim Dusty Mateship Award winner, Agriculture teacher Gavin Saul, has planned the program to instill farming values into his students. A lot of the organisation work will be shared by assistant Mrs Shannon Dowling, volunteer parents and senior student leaders in KHASA.

Regional Swimming 2013

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:12 AEST

Three Kempsey High students represented the lower North Coast zone at the regional swimming carnival held in Coffs Harbour last week. Justin Crockford was the LNC zone 13 years boys champion (by 40 points) after winning all his events. He represented in the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle and the 100m breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly as well as the relay. Jake Davison swam in the 50m freestyle and Bianca Roberts represented in the 50m freestyle and breaststroke. Justin was second in the 13 years boys pointscore and will represent North Coast region at the Combined High Schools State Carnival in the 100m freestyle, 100m backstroke, 100m butterfly,100m breastroke and 200m freestyle. Bianca Roberts will swim in the 100m breastroke at the state carnival.

Kempsey Floods

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

We sincerely thank the staff and volunteers whose hard work kept the school running when many staff were unable to get to school because of flooded roads. This thanks extends to the emergency service workers and volunteers who worked to prevent damage to property and looked after all of us including those who had to leave their homes and stay in the evacuation centre.

Links To Learning

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

The Links to Learning Program provides support and mentoring to students in Years 9 and 10. Students are supported in gaining and sustaining part time employment and entry into TAFE programs, apprenticeships and traineeships. The students' participation in retail operations training and exposure to presentations made from a range of community members has increased their knowledge about work preparation and life skills. The students refined their resumes, undertook work experience with local businesses and learnt about how to access future support. Links to Learning is a joint initiative of the Department of Education and Communities, ETC Training and local high schools. We thank David and Pauline Rees, Sarah McAulay and the many community and business supporters of this program.

Traineeship for Tamara

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Congratulations to Tamara Baker who is one of three local Aboriginal high school students undertaking a school based traineeships in the banking industry. The traineeships are organised through the Aboriginal Employment Strategy (AES) in Kempsey, and the students are allocated with a host employer to gain industry experience. Tamara is doing her two year traineeship with the Westpac bank.

The traineeship requires students to work every Tuesday from 8.30am to 4.30pm at their designated bank and full-time, Monday to Friday, in the school holidays.Tamarahas been under supervision working as a bank teller and with customers face-to-face. Tamara said the job gave her the opportunity to further her job skills. "It's been a good opportunity. It's something different, not many people get this type of opportunity and I'm glad we have," she said.

Lachlynd wins Memorial Award

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

A highlight from the recent Camden Haven Show was the award of the Ross Graeme Nelson Memorial Award to Year 9 student Lachlynd Byrne for passion and commitment to the agriculture industry. The award is of special significance because it highlights the work of a farmer who was always there for his neighbours, the industry and his fellow farmers. It reflects the values the school is trying to instill into its young farmers – a quality product developed in partnership with fellow farmers.

Bangarra

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:50 AEST

Students from Kempsey High and other district high schools including Taree participated in a gathering at the PCYC last fortnight for selection into Rekindling. The program will choose 24 young Aboriginal people from Kempsey and other regional centres.

With the support of elders, the students will research and gather stories and develop performance and creative skills to enable them to produce their own dance theatre. Rekindling will be provided through the acclaimed Bangarra Dance Theatre. Bangarra will provide inspirational role models for the program to enable these young people to take on an important leadership role within their communities.

2013 Zone Swimming

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

Zone Swimming

A team of 18 students qualified for the Lower North Coast (LNC) zone swimming team. From the zone carnival held in Kempsey, three students have qualified to represent the school and zone at the Regional Swimming Carnival to be held in Coffs Harbour on Thursday 7^th. March 2013. Justin Crockford was the LNC zone 13 years boys champion (by 40 points) after winning all his events. He will represent in the 50m, 100m and 200m freestyle and the 100m breaststroke, backstroke and butterfly as well as the relay. Jake Davison will represent in the 50m freestyle and Bianca Roberts will represent in the 50m freestyle and breaststroke.

P&C AGM

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

The Annual General Meeting of the Kempsey High School Parents and Citizens Association will be held in the School Library at 7.15pm on Thursday 14^th. March 2013. Positions to be elected are: President, Senior & Junior Vice Presidents, Secretary, Treasurer, District Council Representative, Auditor, P&C Annual Conference Delegate, Canteen Committee President, Secretary, Treasurer and two committee persons.

2013 Year 11 Study Skills Camp Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

It wasn't all study at the Year 11 Study Skills camp held last fortnight. One academic highlight was the visit to the camp by former students who are now studying at Southern Cross University. They attended with academic staff to outline their own stories of life after the HSC. The session covered topics such as scholarships, the Higher Education Contribution Scheme (HECS), university lifestyle and alternate entry modes. Study Skills methods, the Australian Tertiary Entrance Rank (ATAR), Board of Studies requirements, being organised and setting up your study environment were all covered.

Kayaking, surfing, team challenges, hip hop dancing, beach sports and a range of recreation activities rounded off the program. The camp is a key way of building teamwork and support in the year and strengthening a sense of belonging for the students.

Many thanks are extended to the conference centre staff and Kempsey High staff who made the camp so successful.

Kempsey High School Council

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

There are parent vacancies on the School Council. Nomination forms have been mailed to parents with the school newsletter. Forms are also available from the school office. Nominations close at 4pm on Monday 25^th. February 2013. If an election is required, it will be held from Monday 4^th. March to Friday 8^th. March 2013.

New Japan Club

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

The Japan Club will have its first meeting on Thursday 21^st. February 2013 in the library at Kempsey High School from 3.30pm to 5pm. After this it will meet twice weekly on Tuesdays and Thursdays. Bus transport along the Armidale Road to Bellbrook is available on Tuesdays and to Collombatti, Frederickton and Clybucca on Thursdays.

The club will use a specially written workbook, an online language community, internet resources and other media to learn to read, write and speak Japanese. The group will learn about food, religion, customs, theatre, art and literature. Participants will need earphones with a microphone, patience and good humour. Interested students and adults should contact Bill Shannon on 6562 6166. The club is open to everyone without charge.

Competition Success for Karl!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:19 AEST

Congratulations

Year 8 student Karl Russell-Dunn has won an Encouragement Award in the Patrick White Young Indigenous Writer's Competition. The competition is run through the NSW Aboriginal Education Council. For his work Karl received a gift certificate and special congratulations from Beverly Baker, Executive Officer of the AEC. Entries in the competition can be viewed on the AEC website at www.aec.org.au

2013 Swimming Carnival Results!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:41 AEST

Lawson House won the Kempsey High School Swimming Carnival last Friday with a staggering 1113 points, 200 points clear of Masefield house which placed second on 869 points. Lawson House showed their form early by also winning the March Past that was held to start the day. Kipling House took third position on 670 points with Barrie House 4^th on 512 points.

The carnival was held in ideal conditions and as usual the pool was in top condition for good racing and swim times.

It was a fun day with high levels of participation, particularly in the novelty events. A Salmon Relay was introduced this year with the team swimming the highest number of laps in five minutes being declared the winner. The belly flop competition was won by Merinda Kyle. Mr Shannon did well too, making it through to the final.

Special thanks to the pool staff and to parents Leanne Sydenham and Robert Crocford for all their work at the carnival.

Age Champions:

12 Years Jermaine Sines and Amber Piercy

13 Years Justin Crockford and Erin Miles-Gavin

14 Years Jake Sydenham and Katie McMillan

15 Years Drew Walsh and Jade Konieczny

16 Years Jarrod Witheridge and Rebecca Holten

17+ Years Zac Arnott and Bianca Roberts

The Pen is Mightier than the Soccer Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

It has been a very successful year for Year 12 graduate and vice-captain Joshua Ryan. At the Year 12 Formal Joshua was presented with the very prestigious national Pierre de Coubertin Award, an award named after the founder of the modern Olympic movement. The award recognises sporting achievement and made special mention of Joshua's endeavours that were consistent with the aims of Olympism: his participation in a wide range of sporting activities, his exemplary efforts to achieve his personal best, and his obvious quality of fair play that has inspired the involvement of others. Joshua has involved himself in sport at Kempsey High School and in the wider community for many years and has always been an excellent ambassador for the school of whom we are very proud.

More congratulations are in order for Joshua who again has achieved national recognition for his skills, this time his writing skills. Joshua's short story, "The Ocean My World", originally composed for his HSC English course, was entered into the Charles Sturt University Creative Writing Competition. Joshua has just received news that he is one of the four National winners of this competition for 2012. Quite clearly, this has been a very successful year for Joshua, who has worked hard academically and acted with great sportsmanship on the sporting fields. Congratulations on both of these amazing and well deserved achievements, Joshua.

You can read Josh's story, "The Ocean My World" at http://www.csu.edu.au/study/cwc/ Good one Josh!

Schools Spectacular 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

Last weekend year 7 and 8 students Brianna Denning, Sarah George, Kyle Harris, Kiah Roberts and Mikayla Wheatley had the time of their life rehearsing and performing in the four performances of this year's Schools Spectacular held at the Sydney Entertainment Centre. The students were part of a bigger troupe of drummers drawn from several public school across NSW.

The students were billeted by Sydney families from Darlington Public School who had their generosity rewarded by seeing the show with the complimentary tickets provided to Kempsey High. We sincerely thank these families and teachers Louise Keogh and Penny Secomb. Mrs Keogh taught the students their drumming segments. The students then learnt the group segments from pre-recorded instructional films. Mrs Secomb took the group to Sydney

Beef Bonanza

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

A team of Kempsey High students competed in the Australian Intercollegiate Meat Judging Competition during the recent Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza. The on-the-hook competition includes light and heavy domestic beef carcass judging, primal identification and beef short loin identification.

In the oral judging, which requires students to describe and judge cattle, Ayla Holmes was 3^rdin the 14 years, Rachael Bednarz was 5^thin the 15 years and Josh Heuston was 5^thin the 16 years. Kempsey High won the prize among the 32 school entrants for adding the most weight to our steer. Over 126 days, Scone put on 211kg or the equivalent of 1.67kg. / day.

We would like to thank Joy Kirkpatrick, Waverley Station, Osmond & Dowling Builders and Lance & Tanya Byrne for donating steers. Thanks also to Robert & Maureen Osmond for their donation of hay and Coal & Allied for donating one tonne of feed.

Orientation

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

Year 6 students will have their third and final orientation day at Kempsey High next Wednesday 5^th. December 2012. Students will be able to travel to and from high school by bus. Parents are encouraged to attend and will have the opportunity to tour the school after meeting key staff. Morning tea will be available at the Red Onion Cafe.

Further information is available from the Transition coordinator, Mr Kevin Sinclair or Year 7 Advisor, Mr Jed Peisley.

Remembrance Day 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

School Captains Sally Evill and Ricky Sharp represented the school at the Remembrance Day Service held at the East Kempsey Cenotaph last Sunday. Ricky Sharp provided a youth perspective when he spoke about "What Remembrance Day Means to Me". He outlined how the youth of today have the deepest respect for the ex-service men and women and the growing understanding of the challenges they faced in defending freedom when they were the same age as today's youth.

Lest we forget.

SCU Unibound

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

This week 10 Year 9 students accompanied by the Careers teacher Mr Rix, will be participating in Unibound, an initiative of Southern Cross University. The students will visit the Lismore Campus from Tuesday to Friday. They will have the opportunity to hear thought-provoking presentations by university researchers and the chance to investigate their future career and further education choices. The residential program offers the bonus of staying in university accommodation to experience campus life.

Inter-School Debating Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

On Friday 2^ndNovember, Kempsey High School hosted the Year 7 & 8 junior debating day for students from Melville High, St. Paul's College and Kempsey High. Nearly 100 students took part as debaters or officials in twenty-four debates. The emphasis of the day was on participation and it provided an excellent opportunity to develop the skills of debating, thinking on your feet and argument. This annual event has been going for eleven years. Well done everyone.

Drama Experience for local Public Schools

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

Next week, Drama students in Year 8 will be visiting Fredrickton, Kempsey West and Aldavilla Public Schools with Mr Macaulay to present various drama pieces and plays in a 45 – 60 minute program. They students are very excited at the prospect of visiting their old schools and performing drama for the year five and six students and teachers.

Upriver Learning

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Millbank Public School Principal, Arthur Bain and teacher Vivian Harris led eleven Kempsey High staff on an upriver experience to learn about the Upper Macleay and meet the students, staff and parents of Bellbrook and Millbank Public Schools.

The staff caught the school bus at 6.15am – spending a similar length of time on the road as our students from Five Day Creek and Lower Creek. At the bus stops that they got to meet many parents. At Bellbrook Public School, Vivian demonstrated the usefulness of several online professional development tools on an Interactive Whiteboard. At Millbank Public School, Arthur taught a multi-stage numeracy lesson and the students showed off their perspective illusion photos on the iPads and their Glogsters. Then it was back to the Bellbrook Health Outpost for lively conversation with parents Lisa, Bernadette, Linda and Lena before returning to Kempsey High at 5.45pm.

We want to sincerely thank the ex-students, parents, students, staff, Auntie Annette and especially Vivian Harris and Arthur Bain for such a valuable professional learning experience that other staff will experience in the future. Read more and see photos at the Millbank Public School blog

https://www.det.nsw.edu.au/blog/351527-millbankpublicschoolblog/entry/khs_teacher_upriver_visit

World Teachers Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Retired Kempsey High School teacher Joan Sedgmen was one of fifteen north coast teachers to receive a World Teachers Day Award last Thursday. The awards were presented in Port Macquarie by the Australian College of Educators, a national body representing all levels and sectors of the teaching profession. Mrs Sedgmen was recognised for her talented and dedicated work with students across a range of subjects. Mrs Sedgmen's very focused classroom structure enabled her to build the basic skills, confidence and self esteem of her students. An annual highlight of her work was the end of year formal dinner she hosted for her students. Her students miss her very much. We wish Mrs Sedgmen a long and happy retirement and congratulate her on a very well deserved World Teachers Day Award.

Year 11 Interviews

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

As part of the career and transition support program at Kempsey High all year 11 students will be individually interviewed by the Careers Adviser and Transition Adviser commencing this week.The interviews provide the opportunity to track the performance of each student following their yearly exams, review subject selections for the HSC in 2013 and explore and map the future options for further education and employment. We would like parents to attend and letters have been sent to each parent. Please phone the school office to obtain a suitable appointment time.

Farewell Mr Fitzpatrick

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:55 AEST

One of the last teaching duties for Kempsey High's Year 9 Adviser, Mr Chris Fitzpatrick was to take his year group on the Gold Coast excursion. It was a great trip. Highlights of the excursion included White Water World and Dreamworld. Mr Fitzpatrick finishes up this week to take up a promotion as Head Teacher at Port Macquarie High School. We sincerely thank Mr Fitzpatrick for his eleven years of work at Kempsey High, particularly for being such a great Year Adviser. We wish him well at Port Macquarie High.

Winners in Waste into Art

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

Kempsey High Visual Arts students have been rewarded by Kempsey Shire Council for their creativity and imagination in the recent Waste into Art Competition held at the Macleay Valley Community Art Gallery. The criteria this year was to show the concept of reusing waste products and materials as a creative resource. The artwork was to reflect a message of environmental sustainability or an environmental concern. Entries were also judged on innovation, quality, creativity and aesthetics.

Congratulations to the prize winners and entrants. Ricky Sharpe-1^stwith his E Waste sculpture ‘The World is in Your Hands', 2^ndin E waste Year 8 with ‘Consumer Vac', 1^st in Mixed Media Year 7 with ‘Fishy Flotsam' and second in Mixed Media ‘Future Birds' by Year 9 Girls.

Generation One Film Competition

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:55 AEST

Your Support for Our School is Needed.

Local artist, Amos Morris, has joined with 15 KHS students to create our entry into the 2012 Generation One Film competition.

Attached is the poster that advertises the competition. Could you PLEASE vote yourself and get everyone you know to vote for Kempsey High School's entry into this competition. The film will be on the website from Monday 29th October and voting will open then too. Help us win the People's Choice Award and to show what great things Kempsey High is capable of!

Peoples Choice Poster (pdf 2756 KB)

2012 Debutante Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Eleven young ladies and their partners made their debut on Saturday 8^thSeptember 2012 at the Kempsey High School Debutante Ball. It was a very special night with everyone looking their best among a group of close family and friends. The debs were presented to Mrs Elizabeth McMahon and danced to music supplied by the Kempsey and District Silver Band. The debs and their partners were well tutored by Mr Neil Monckton and we sincerely thank him, the Kempsey Macleay RSL club and the Deb Ball Committee for another great ball.

Year 7 Gala Day 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Over 700 students from nine district high schools attended the recent Year 7 Gala Day. The Year 9 Physical Activity & Sports Studies class put in a very long day of preparation, organising and running the events. Fun and sportsmanship were the winners on the day and we acknowledge the stack of thankful emails received from other schools. The day was held in warm, dry and windy conditions in stark contrast to last year's event which was washed out during the morning.

State Athletics

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Brodie Mayhew and the Boys Open Relay Team (Andrew Lewis, Brodie Mayhew, Lucas Mayhew and Jarrod Witheridge) have returned from the Combined High Schools State Athletics after great performances. Brodie took 5^thposition in his heat of the 100m sprint and in the final was the eighth fastest runner. The open boys relay team that were regional champions were placed overall in 15^th. position. Well done boys, we're very proud of you.

Year 12

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

On Friday of this week Year 12 will have their final assembly. It will be an opportunity for the school to bid the Class of 2012 good luck as they begin their study vacation. The formal assembly will begin at 12.15pm in the hall and parents are especially invited. It will be followed by a light lunch in the Red Onion Cafe. The Year 12 Farewell will be held at the Kempsey Macleay RSL Club on Tuesday 13^th November 2012 at 6pm for a 6.30pm start.

The first HSC exam is English (Standard and Advanced) Paper 1. It will begin at 1.50pm on Monday 15 October. To ensure it starts smoothly students need to be at the examination centre 30 minutes prior to the start, which is 1.20pm on Monday 15 October.

New Uniform for KHS Girls

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

The Student Council requested that a dress be added to the school uniform and following meetings of staff and parents, a design has been approved. The dress is now available from the Uniform Shop in the Centerpoint Arcade. Sizes 6, 7, 8 and 10 cost $50, size 12 $52, size 14 $54 and size 16 $56. The dress is able to be worn by senior and junior students. For the girls it will be an alternative to the navy blue skirt or shorts and polo shirt (white for years 7-10 and blue for years 11 and 12). The boys uniform is the white or blue polo shirt and navy blue shorts (not denim).

Holidays

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:57 AEST

Students and staff begin the spring vacation at the close of school on Friday 21^st. September 2012. We wish all students and staff a safe and happy holiday. All students and staff return for the final term on Monday 8^th. October 2012.

Thinking of a Christmas Gift? We have Billy Carts for Sale

Techno Push Challenge 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

Twenty Year 7 and Year 8 students have returned from the NRMA Techno Push Challenge held at Raleigh Raceway with an Encouragement Award (Year 7) and an Excellence In Engineering Award (Year 8). The students built billy carts through the Practical Maths program which is designed to improve students' understanding about Maths through practical learning. The students had to undertake six challenges: putting together the cart which they had made; sprinting; braking; surviving the obstacle course (actually carting a litre of water to test the cart's design) and presentation of the cart and how it was built using recycled materials. Thanks to Ms Cater, Mr Cooper, Mr Hinchcliffe and Mrs Rossiter for all their work in this great program.

New Student Leadership Team

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:39 AEST

As we move towards the HSC exams, the Year 12 student leaders have handed over the reins of student leadership to our new Captains, Vice Captains and Prefects. The induction took place at a formal assembly last Wednesday. The outgoing leaders pinned the badges of office on the new leaders before the new leaders recited the pledge. The ceremony was a fitting conclusion to the month long process of nomination and election. A highlight of the process was the excellent presentation of the candidates' speeches to the school prior to voting on election day. The new student leadership team is:

Captains: Sally Evill and Ricky Sharp

Vice Captains: Tiffany Kirkwood and Riley Sohier.

Prefects: Troye Barker, Rachelle Gurney, Erin James and Glenn Miles.

Online Safety

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:10 AEST

The Australian Communication and Media Authority (ACMA) will be conducting a workshop for parents in the library on Wednesday 22^nd August 2012 from 5.15pm to 6.30pm. The workshop will give parents the opportunity to learn about online threats to young persons' safety and how this can be managed.

The workshop is free. Please ring the school office if you would like to attend (6562 6166).

Brain Bee Challenge - 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

Twenty Kempsey High students participated in the Australian Brain Bee Challenge. Round one involved 10,000 students from 390 schools. Sam Harwood qualified to participate in the Individual Challenge section of the Round 2 NSW State finals with students from 35 other schools. It was held at the University of Western Sydney. Sam commented that the challenge was fun and interesting, particularly watching the team challenge and participating in the tours of the laboratories. Well done everyone and congratulations Sam!

Teaching Award to KHS Teacher

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:20 AEST

English teacher, Jeannine Kennedy-Thomas was honoured at last week's Education Week celebrations with a Regional Director's Award for Excellence in Teaching. In presenting the award, relieving School Education Director Mr Ian Latham said that Mrs Kennedy-Thomas had "a deep knowledge of her subject. Her sensitivity to individual students and the provision of engaging lessons ensured students achieved positive learning outcomes". Mrs Kennedy-Thomas has taught at Kempsey High for 32 years and thousands of local students have experienced her skill and care. Congratulations Mrs Kennedy-Thomas!

State Athletics 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

The KHS Open Boys Relay team have won their way to the State Athletics to be held at Sydney's Homebush Stadium on 6^th-8^th. September 2012. The team comprises (as pictured left to right) Brodie Mayhew, Lucas Mayhew, Andrew Lewis and Jarrod Witheridge. Ten students competed for regional representation at the North coast carnival held in mid-July. The other students are Talha Awan, Kathleen Brauer, Jake Davidson, Daniel Gurney, Julian Kesby and Kieran Wade. Well done everyone!

National Tree Day

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:07 AEST

Nine Kempsey High students joined students from other Macleay schools and 250,000 students from across Australia in learning how to plant and care for native trees at Boyters Lane, Jerseyville on National Schools Tree Day, the 27^th. July 2012.

The project, organised by Planet Ark in partnership with Toyota, is supported by Kempsey Shire Council, Macleay Landcare and several local businesses

Youth Parliament

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:27 AEST

Kempsey High students, Tiffany Kirkwood and Ricky Sharp were appointed Minister and Shadow Minister respectively for the North Coast at the YMCA Youth Parliament held at State Parliament House during the last school holidays. Ricky and Tiffany spoke to the bills they presented to the parliament about Coal Seam Gas and Conditional Cautions for Youth Crime.

Ricky reports: "The Youth Parliament ranks alongside the SRC State Conference as the best week of my life. Everyone was amazing. The experience of sitting and speaking in the chamber was awesome. I just loved the whole program. We got a formal invitation to a reception at Government House and we met with Her Excellency, Professor Marie Bashir AC, Governor of NSW.

The face book site for Youth Parliament, has many photos of the program - http://www.facebook.com/ymcayouthparliament".

Parent-Teacher Meetings

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Parent-Teacher meetings will be held on Wednesday afternoon 25^th. July 2012 from 4 to 6pm in F Block.

Booking details were mailed to parents during the holidays.

Late bookings can be made by phoning the school on 6562 6166.

Drama Evening

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Following the Parent-Teacher meetings and beginning about 6.30pm, Year 11 and 12 students will present a series of light drama performances that they have been developing this year. Some of the pieces were presented at the recent Kempsey Eisteddfod.

Matsushige Visit

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

Look out for our Japanese visitors later next week.

Twenty students and two staff from Matsushige will be here for their annual home-stay.

They arrive Wednesday afternoon 1^st. August 2012 and during their stay they will attend classes, study English, demonstrate traditional dance to students at Willawarrin Public School, travel to important landmarks over the valley and stay in the homes of our students to learn more about the Australian way of life.

Buchan Shield Rugby Union

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

The first three rounds of the 15 Years Combined High Schools state-wide Buchan Shield was held as a
Gala Day recently in Coffs Harbour.

An under-strength Kempsey High team faced numerous setbacks against Grafton and Macksville in the first two games and learnt a great deal about Rugby. By the third game against Dorrigo, a now more experienced team had to be content with a 10-all draw.

There were several fine individual performances on the day with the team playing with more composure as the day progressed.

Our thanks to Mr Shannon and Mr Thomson for taking the team.

2013 Year 11 Course Selections

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

The Year 11 course selection process has begun for students currently in Year 10. Information outlining the process and course handbooks were issued to Year 10 students this week. Additional copies are available from the school office. A series of workshops and talks will be provided to students over the next four weeks.

These include information about specific courses, school-based traineeships and apprenticeships, the rules of the HSC and the ATAR. Questions will be answered for parents at the Parent-Teacher Night on Wednesday 25^th. July 2012.

For two weeks beginning 30^th. August, individual interviews will be held for parents with their young person with the Careers Adviser, Mr Rix and the Transition Coordinator, Mr Sinclair.

Merit Assemblies - July 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:05 AEST

Special assemblies were held last Friday to present Merit Awards to students in Years 7 to 10. 385 awards were presented. The awards included 247 Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards and 138 Meritorious Awards.

Meritorious awards are presented to students who have no behaviour reports and who have high attendance. Performances by Years 9, 10 and 11 Drama students entertained the audiences.

NADIOC 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:07 AEST

The school celebrated NADIOC week in the last week of term 2 with a formal assembly, awards presentation and BBQ. The theme for this year's NAIDOC celebrations was Spirit of The Tent Embassy ... 40 Years On.

Special guests for the occasion were Uncle Claude Roberts and Aunties Cheryl Blair, Alana Roberts, Veronica Smith and Marge Vale. Aunty Veronica Smith spoke the Welcome To Country which was responded to by Principal Mick Eller.

Several students presented information about the Tent Embassy before Uncle Claude spoke to the students. Uncle Claude played his guitar and sang several songs and was joined on stage by the Aunties. Student Warren Cochrane-Smith gave an impromptu dance performance.

The 2012 Performance Eisteddfod

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Forty Kempsey High School students submitted 49 entries in this year's speech and drama eisteddfod. Awards were won in each of the eight sections entered comprising 4 first places, 7 second places, 3 third places, 8 highly commended awards and 1 encouragement award. The adjudicator commented that Year 9 student Rhys Zapata-Cole was "a most outstanding actor".

The Year 10 Short Play received the highest mark in any section of the eisteddfod and Jasmine Detloff-Rowsell, Mitchell Taylor and Martin Ussher were invited to perform at the Eisteddfod Great Concert.

We once again congratulate all the students and the staff and we thank the eisteddfod volunteers for their tireless efforts to promote the arts in the valley.

The drama students presented several of the eisteddfod items among a program of twenty-one pieces at the B4 and Beyond drama night on the Thursday prior to the holidays to an appreciative audience of parents, staff and students.

Belvoir Street Theatre Excursion

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

Forty-five Kempsey High students saw Eugene O'Neill's play Strange Interlude at the Belvoir Street Theatre in Surry Hills at the end of May. The free travel and entry was made available through the Theatre Enrichment and Arts Access Program which allows regional students the same opportunities that their city counterparts have.

The trip was preceded by a Pre Show workshop run by Belvoir actors a week before the show. It was a wonderful opportunity and we extend our thanks to Belvoir Street Theatre for the experience.

Sports Competition Update

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

The Kempsey High Open Soccer team met local rivals, Melville High in the first round of the Public Schools Knockout during term 2. It was a high scoring game with Melville High winning 6-5. Kempsey won the consolation game against Westport 3-1.

In the under 15's Bill Turner Cup, Kempsey High took a very young team this year with most of the side made up from Year 7. Kempsey High eventually won after being forced into extra time. The next game saw them take on St. Pauls Port Macquarie and against an older and bigger side, Kempsey High played hard to the end but were beaten by a better team 6-0.

Thanks to our school's supporters

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Kempsey High School would like to sincerely thank Ross McManus, Robert Osmond and Ian Weir for their generous donations of a total of 50 bales of hay. Ross, Robert and Ian said that they wanted to make the donation to support the great work being done on the farm – specifically, the successes of the cattle team which is preparing for the Upper Hunter Beef Bonanza to be held at Scone in early November. The cattle have got big appetites and the donation has come at just the right time when pasture growth slows and we wait for spring.

2012 Zone Athletics

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

A squad of 35 students participated in the Mid North Coast Zone Athletics held in Nambucca Heads last week. From this group,12 students qualified to compete in the North Coast Regional Athletics Carnival to be held in Kingscliff on 25^th. July 2012. This is a great result – well done to all involved.

Vietnam Vet Visits

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:22 AEST

Vietnam Veteran Dave Murray visited Kempsey High recently to talk about his experiences in the Vietnam War. Dave is riding a bike around Australia to raise funds for the Mivac Trust which works to fund the clearance of landmines and unexploded bombs. He explained that there are huge numbers of unexploded bombs and mines still in Vietnam, Cambodia and Laos. The effects on local people and children are devastating and people are still being killed and injured today. You can follow Dave around Australia on www.mivactrust.org

2012 Zone Cross Country

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Congratulations to Bradley Osmond, Deanne Smith and Jarrod Witheridge who were selected from the Zone Cross Country to compete in the North Coast Cross Country carnival held at Lismore recently. We want to sincerely thank the families who provided billeting for our students in Lismore.

Semester 1 Drama Night

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

The Year 9 and 10 Drama Night will be held on Thursday evening 28^thJune 2012 from 6pm. The night will comprise a selection of drama pieces from work prepared for the Kempsey Eisteddfod.

2012 Year 8 Semester 1 Reports

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Year 8 reports will be posted home this week to complete the semester one reporting process. All parents should have their child's reports by the end of this week. A parent-teacher afternoon is scheduled for Wednesday 25^thJuly 2012 and information about this will be mailed home with the week one Newsletter at the beginning of term 3.

Colourful Creations

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

Even if we could include a colour photograph with this story it would not do justice to the colourful quilts that have been created by Year 10 Textile and Design students in their exploration of the principles of design. The students experimented with colour through patchwork with the intention to create a cushion. However enthusiasm overtook the girls and a series of quilts were the result. One student has made a quilt for her younger sister to take to hospital in the near future for an operation and another is going to give it to her Nan as a birthday gift. Visitors are able to see the quilts on show in the school foyer.

Stage 5 PASS Camp 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

Year 10 students in the Physical Activity and Sports Science course completed 1 three day camp at South West Rocks last fortnight. The camp involved kayaking, snorkelling and surfing and students put into practice the skills they had learnt previously in the course. We thank staff members Sandy Jackson, Louise Hopkins, Dave Mayhew and Mark Tolman for putting together a great camp that built teamwork and further developed the skills of the students.

Scientists in battle of skills

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:15 AEST

SCIENTISTS and engineers of the future pitted their wits at Kempsey Showground over the past three days in a bid to claim regional bragging rights.

The Science and Engineering Challenge was launched on Tuesday, with schools from the Macleay Valley competing in a series of projects.

On Wednesday teams of students from Kempsey and further afield - Camden Haven to Bowraville - stepped up to engage their problem-solving skills and get creative.

Among the eight challenges devised by the University of Newcastle, in conjunction with the Rotary organisation, were building a catapult, a balloon-powered car, a helium airship, a model earthquake-proof building and a bridge.

Kempsey High School and Macleay Vocational College were the two local representatives of an initiative that has run in the town since 2000.

Challenge director Terry Burns, from the university, said the aim was to give the years 9 and 10 students practical experience of the kind of work carried out by real scientists and engineers.

"Kempsey has been involved in the challenge since it started," he said.

"Since then, it has become a national initiative."

The winners will go on to meet others from around NSW at the Super Challenge in Newcastle, with State winners competing at the Grand Challenge for the national title.

Rotary Club of Kempsey West was heavily involved, as the local organiser.

Rotarian Richard O'Leary said it tied in with the worldwide organisation's philosophies on education and community engagement.

"It's all about delivering opportunities and helping young people to engage their passion for science," he said.

Each school sent 32 students who were divided into eight groups - one for each activity. The groups then set about building prototypes or models, which were then tested and judged.

Kempsey High School year 9 student Muhammad Malik said: "I'm very excited about being able to face other schools in this kind of challenge.

"I plan to study science and I want to be an engineer."

Kempsey High School finished fourth overall in Wednesday's activities.

Win for Tyrone at the Careers Market

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

We congratulate Tyrone Waind who won the construction competition at the recent Mid Coast Careers Market. The competition task involved accuracy in the measurement, cutting and simple fabrication of timber. Tyrone wins a quality tool kit. The competition was part of the North Coast Institute of TAFE information stand held at the careers market organised by Mid Coast Connect.

Wingham Beef Week 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:23 AEST

Nineteen students attended the Wingham Beef Week. The four day hoof and hook competition saw several junior parading ribbons awarded to William Saul (2^nd. Under 12), Drew Walsh (1^st. Under 13) and Emily Saul (1^st. Under 17). In the junior judging, Shailee Brown was 2^nd. in the Under 12 and in the Under 15, Rebecca Lee took 1^st. position and Courtney Dowling came 3^rd. Emily Saul was selected as KHS herdsperson and Courtney Dowling received the KHS Encouragement Award. In the hook section, the school earned 5^th. place in the 450-520kg category from 30 entries.

Romeo & Juliet at the Glasshouse

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

Forty Year 9 students were part of the 600-strong audience at Port Macquarie's Glasshouse last week to see a live digital performance of the Bell Shakespeare production of Romeo and Juliet. The play was performed at the Sydney Opera House and beamed direct to the Glasshouse. The play was set in modern day Central Australia and included Australian pronunciations and accents. The verdict was that it was a wonderful experience, timed just right to coincide with the students' planned study of the play. The production is part of a new partnership between the Glasshouse and the Sydney Opera House which will present further performing arts opportunities to students.

Indigenous Veterans Commemoration

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Scott McKenzie, Latisha Nicholas and Louise Nicholas represented Kempsey High at the Indigenous Veterans Commemoration held at the Pool of Reflection at the Anzac Memorial in Hyde Park last Friday. Scott, Latisha and Louise laid a wreath at the memorial. They were among a number of Macleay students who attended the commemoration. The visit to Sydney was organized by Mavis Symonds from Kempsey Family Community Centre and we thank Mavis and the helpers for the opportunity for Kempsey High students to be involved.

Lawson Wins 2012 Athletics Carnival!

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

Lawson House won last week's athletics carnival run in near perfect weather before the late week rain. The carnival started with superb singing of the National Anthem by Mr Murphy. A great day was had by all. The point score was Lawson house 337 points, followed by Kipling (307 points), Barrie (266 points) and Masefield (257 points). The age champions for 2012 are:

12 Years: Amy-Lee Nixon and Jake Davison

13 Years: Kacey Jackson and Haydn McIlwain

14 Years: Courtney Dowling and Daniel Gurney

15 Years: Deanne Smith and Solomon McElroy

16 Years: Kirralee Faulkner and Elwyn Toby

17+ Years: Alisha Kesby, Logan Mitchell and Andrew Lewis

2012 ANZAC Day Service

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:39 AEST

Anzac Day was commemorated in a special oobservance at Kempsey High on the 24th April 2012. A moving ceremny was led by the school captains Kinne Ring and Jack Duncan. It featured the recital of a poem 'Bury Me With Soldiers' by vice captain, Josh Ryan and singing by the choir, Indigo Velvet. It was attended by deputy mayor, Dean Saul, P&C President Ray Davis, parents and returned service men from the Kempsey-Macleay and South West Rocks sub-branches of the RSL.

Photo:

SWR RSL sub-branch member, Bill Jackson presents a book for the library to Kinne and Jack.

School Leaders meet the Governor of NSW

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

On Friday 27th April, Captains Jack Duncan and Kinne Ring accepted the invitations of Her Excellency, Marie Bashir, AC,CVO, Governor of NSW and the Presiding Officers of the Parliament of NSW to participate in the leadership program for school captains. The program acknowledges their leadership role and furthered their understanding of constitutional and parliamentary proceedings and the role of the governor.

A Water Station for KHS

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

We thank an unknown benefactor for the donation of a filtered water station which has been installed and is proving a popular addition to the sports facilities. The supply and delivery was made available through the efforts of teacher, Mark Baxter. It was installed by Mr Chris Cooper and Mr Paul Korin with help from Paix Plumbing. Again, many thanks from students and staff.

Maths Skills Grow in the Garden

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:03 AEST

AN innovative partnership between Mid North Coast TAFE and two Kempsey High schools is teaching year 10 students real work skills and how to apply mathematics to practical situations, as well as providing credits toward further education.

The 15-week horticultural training program for Kempsey High School and St Paul's College students is mentored by TAFE teachers Kosta Delimihalis and Sandy Brain. It is held every Friday at Kempsey High's Enterprise Centre in Tozer St.

"It is called amenities horticulture, for parks and gardens and that sort of thing," Mr Delimihalis said.

"We give the students practical experience in planning a garden, picking types of plants, landscaping and that sort of thing. ‘We even have them doing a bit of formwork and concreting a border around the garden.

"I look after the horticultural side and Sandy does the applied learning side of things."

Mrs Brain said most of us used some maths skills in our everyday lives, even if we did not realise it.

"Things such as working out how much soil is required to cover the garden deals with areas and volumes," she said.

"How much of the different materials are required to build the garden beds and figuring out a budget for the job are all practical maths skills.

"The students also learn how to work as a team and value what skills the other team members can bring to the project that they might not have.

"It also teaches the kids the value of further education after they leave high school."

Participation with our Local RDA group

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:12 AEST

Each Tuesday, Kempsey High students assist at the weekly Riding For The Disabled classes held at Kempsey Showground. Students learn about the essentials of horse handling involving correct preparation and saddling of the horses and working with disabled riders. The day starts well before the riders arrive when the horses are caught and prepared. Following the riding session the horses are warmed down and groomed. Riding For The Disabled is an important component of the Equine Studies course run at Kempsey High which assists students to obtain their horse handling qualification.

The Latest Soccer & Rugby Participation

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Kempsey High School Open Boys soccer team recently competed in the Public Schools Knockout. In a high scoring first round game, Melville High were eventual winners 6-5. After being down 5-1 Kempsey High gave the opposition a scare dominating the last quarter to get back within a goal. Kempsey won the consolation game against Westport High 3-1. All players represented the school well, best on the day were the year twelve students, many of whom have represented the school every year since Year 7.

In the under 15's Bill Turner Cup, Kempsey High hosted the gala day held at Wayne Richards Park, Port Macquarie. Kempsey High took a very young team this year with most of the side made up from Year 7. An injury to Jarrod Witheridge early in the first game against Wauchope didn't help the cause. To the team's credit they outlasted their opponents when scores were locked at 1 all after normal time. Shaun Heuston scored the golden goal early in extra time to put Kempsey through to round two. The next game saw the boys take on St Pauls Port Macquarie. Against an older and bigger side Kempsey fought to the end but were beaten by a better team 6-0. It looks good for the next few years in this age group with most of this year's side eligible for the next two years of competition.

Showtime for KHS

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:16 AEST

It's Show Time!

The agriculture staff and students are gearing up for the local shows following the initial cattle team

success in winning 14 ribbons at the Camden Haven Show last month. Over these holidays about

20 students attended workshops at the school farm to prepare for the Wauchope, Kempsey and

Macksville Shows. Wauchope Show is on this weekend. Students will be parading Trevor and Howard Lee's dairy heifers on the first day of each show. A number of students will again be acting as stewards at the Kempsey Show and completed their induction during the holidays.

We'll see you at the Kempsey Show. The school will have a stall in the main pavilion with some honey

for tasting and for sale.

2012 Youth Environmental Council

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

KHS Students Tiffany Kirkwood and Ricky Sharp attended the Youth Environmental Council Leadership Camp at Cascade Environmental Centre at the end of March. The camp was particularly useful to Tiffany because she will be representing the electorate of Oxley at this year's YMCA NSW Youth Parliament. She is a member of the committee investigating environment and heritage and will write a Bill with other young people from across NSW which seeks to solve an important issue. The Bill will be presented to the Legislative Assembly in July 2012.

Parent Focus Group

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Parents are welcome to join the focus group to give their points of view into school programs. Any parent who would like to be involved is asked to contact Mrs Louise Ryan who assists in the organisation of these meetings. Future meetings are planned for Willawarrin, Millbank and Bellbrook. Advice will be mailed to parents of Kempsey High Students and future students soon.

International Women’s Day 2012

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:58 AEST

Congratulations to KHS Captain, Kinny Ring who spoke to a gathering of women as part of a ‘Women in Educational Leadership' (WIEL) event last fortnight. Kinny had previously attended the 2011 WIEL Conference and the 2011 Equity Conference where she spoke about student engagement. Kinny has worked had to fine tune her public speaking skills and her address was particularly well received.

2012 State Swimming

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Having qualified to represent the North Coast Region in swimming, Bianca Roberts and Jake Davison have now qualified to compete in the NSW CHS State Swimming Carnival to be held on 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd April 2012 at the State Swimming Centre in Sydney. Jake was Lower North Coast Zone Age Champion (12 Years) and both Bianca and Jake have recorded great times. We wish Bianca and Jake good luck!

yLead

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:27 AEST

On Monday 19^th March, eleven members of the Student Council (SRC) worked with the staff from yLead and local teachers to deliver leadership training to students from Aldavilla, Fredrickton and Kempsey West Public Schools. 120 Year 6 students were involved in yLead where students workshopped the theme of Leadership is Action. It was a good opportunity for the Kempsey High's SRC Adviser, Linda Sneddon and next year's Year 7 Year Adviser, Natalie Cater to get to know many of the students in the 2013 Year group. It doubled as a transition activity and will be built on in the remaining transition visits this year.

AECG Youth Forum

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

Taylor Kelly-Scholes, Shari Roberts and Filisha Smith attended the 2012 Aboriginal Education Consultative Group Youth Forum. The forum was held in Parramatta and it was a great opportunity for the girls to contribute to the opinions from Aboriginal youth about improving education and employment outcomes for Aboriginal people. Delegates also had the opportunity to hear from the Ministerial Taskforce on Aboriginal Affairs which has improved employment and education as two of its terms of reference.

2012 Seniors Luncheon

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:40 AEST

Year 11 Hospitality students Lucas Mayhew, Glenn Miles, Thomas Pead, Brianna Pitt, Rose Rench, Tamara Thompson, Tegan Walsh, Carly Ward, Clayton Wilson and Shannon Winkler gave their time and skills for the recent seniors' luncheon held at the Kempsey-Macleay RSL Club. The students very much enjoyed the opportunity to put their learning into action with such a wonderful group of seniors.

Year 12 SLR Canoeing Camp

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

The Year 12 Sport, Leisure and Recreation class paddled the mighty Macleay River between Bellbrook and Temagog last fortnight on their three day canoe camp. The camp put into action all the canoeing skills the students had been practising over the previous weeks in the river at Riverside Park as well as their first aid and bush orienteering skills. After all the rain, the river is in great shape with plenty of water to lift the canoes over obstacles and make for a faster downriver trip. We would like to thank the property owners who allowed access to their properties for the overnight camps and parking for support vehicles.

Parent-Teacher Meetings

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Kempsey High School Parents & Citizens Association President Ray Davis and his wife Nita are no strangers to the BBQ and kept the parents and staff fed at last week's Parent Teacher meetings. The meetings were very well attended and we thank Mrs Mayhew for organising the appointments. The meetings were held in the refurbished Technology building and it was a great opportunity for parents to see the facilities and equipment that have been installed for a range of technology subjects on the three levels of the building and the attached outdoor workshop.

Respecting Transistions Through FCR

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Watch our video about Kempsey High School's 'Values' and what they are teach us about moving around the school.

Year 12 look to the future

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Year 12 students and their parents / carers are participating in interviews with the Careers Adviser Mr Rix, Transition Adviser Mr Sinclair and Year Adviser Mrs Secomb. The interviews track each student's progress following the half yearly exams and provide access to support strategies. It is an opportunity to further develop the students' future options for employment and further education in a process that began many years ago with the first careers lesson.

Year 12 students have recently visited the University of New England in Armidale to experience Life At Altitude, the UNE Open Day. In this taste of university life, the students took part in academic, cultural and sporting activities to help them make informed decisions about their future. A number of Year 12 students will be attending the Newcastle University Senior Schools Day which will be held on Thursday 30^th. June 2011.

Claudia 4th. in National Squash

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:52 AEST

National Junior Squash

Kempsey High's Year 9 student, Claudia McGarry has finished 4^th. in her age group from over two hundred competitors representing all states and territories in the recent National Junior Squash series. Competitors included forty international players from as far away as Hong Kong. This year Claudia will be playing in eighteen tournaments as well as a number of state squad training camps. Claudia trains for two hours three days a week and plays competition squash two night a week. Claudia in currently ranked No. 1 on the north coast, No. 2 in NSW and No. 5 nationally.

Begin your page with a strong opening sentence that summaries the main point/s about the information below. The font is set at a larger size so readers can scan this information and decide to read on.

The next few paragraphs should address the most relevant points in order of importance. Stick to one idea per paragraph and get to the heart of the matter straight away using an active voice (where the subject goes before the verb. For example: The library is now open every lunchtime). Don't include every piece of information on the subject you are writing about - only use information that is central to the topic. On the Web, less is more.

It helps to have a clear purpose in mind - what is this page really about? Consider who your audience is and what they really want to know. Pitch the information from their perspective.

As always, plain language will help improve readability and comprehension. Avoid jargon or terms you might use at school every day that may not be understood by your audience.

Add strong sub-headings

By breaking up the text on your page into readable chunks, you are helping the reader to scan the content and digest the detail.

Short sub-headings help to separate different topics and guide people through the page. Use clear and unambiguous sub-headings that mention the subject matter.

You should also consider using bulleted lists where appropriate but limit your bullet points to around five per list.

Item 1..
Item 2..
Item 3..

Quotes are a great way to add flavour and reinforce a point. Always write exactly what the person said and mention their name.

If background information is critical, place it at the bottom of the page in the final paragraph.

Finish with a 'call to action'. This is a link that guides the reader to more comprehensive information without cluttering the page and distracting them from the key information. For example: book a library computer not Click Here or More. To insert a link use the 'insert link' icon in the toolbar above.

Kempsey High at MUNA

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

Kempsey High at MUNA

Kempsey High's Keagan Yarnold and Riley Sohier played the role of Ethiopia in the recent Model United Nations Assembly held at Woolgoolga High School. They were sponsored by Kempsey Rotary Club. The Australian Ambassador to the UN in New York, His Excellency, Gary Quinlan, welcomed the students via a DVD message. The hall was decked out with the flags of over 100 countries and students used their acting skills, humour, entertainment and serious argument to win over the assembly. Keagan and Riley argued Ethiopia's views on a range of world issues and had to lead debate on the subject of assistance for developing countries.

Kempsey Show Success

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:00 AEST

Kempsey Show Success

Kempsey High shared in a number of school successes at the recent Kempsey Show. The cattle team led several dairy cows and heifers for Howard and Trevor Lee and brought back numerous ribbons. One highlight was the junior champion ribbon awarded to Lachlynd Byrne for the under 12 months brangus heifer. A second highlight was Rachel Hill's equal second out of 16 competitors in the dairy judging section. The school also won a first prize for honey and several students won prizes for art and textiles. The school is particularly proud of the many students who volunteered time to be stewards in the cattle and poultry sections. Many students and several staff helped on the school's stall which featured a see through bee hive constructed by Chris Cooper. The school's historical records were again a popular attraction. A fitting conclusion on the second night was a display of Mr Saul's Camel riding skills – dressed in a Kempsey High footy jersey with whip in one hand and belt in the other.

Parent Meetings

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:11 AEST

Community Meetings

The School Council will be conducting parent focus groups later this term and next. Opportunities will be provided for parents to come together at a number of venues throughout the valley to talk about the school and how it can be improved. Parents will receive a letter requesting information about suitable dates, times and places for these focus groups. The letter will outline what we will do with the information provided and how we will feed back what we have done as a result of the advice received.

Neil's Secret

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:07 AEST

Neil's Secret

Year 9 students Noel Trees, Shawn Rowsell, Heather Laird, Monica Hewitt and Krystal Spring, have had their entry in the Oovie Student Film Project shortlisted. "Neil's Secret" is an intriguing story, set in the 1950s, which explores the challenges of conflicting interests between parents and teenagers. The story is set against the beautiful scenery from the Macleay including our wonderful rivers, farmland and beaches. The project has given the students a unique chance to develop a creative story written specifically for the film industry.

Work Placements

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:25 AEST

Work Placement

This week several students studying Primary Industries and Construction are undertaking a work placement. Through these placements with local employers, students achieve competencies required for their Certificate II qualification. An increasing number of students are preparing for work placement through projects and work studies conducted in the new Enterprise Centre. Preparation is important to ensure that students participate in work placement with the enterprise skills that employers want to see. The school particularly thanks the large number of local employers who continue to support the students' training.

News story

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

Christmas Groove, Kempsey High School's singing group performed at the Kempsey Carols by Candlelight just prior to Christmas. The trio (pictured at back Tegan Walsh, teacher Kelly Bryant and Alex Borger) sang Deck The Rooftops while dancers (pictured at front Chalyce Jackson, Beccy Stevens and Nadia Reed) wowed the audience with their dancing.

Gooris in work experience

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:56 AEST

This semester, four students from the Gooris in Business class experienced work place learning in the local community.

Hospitality, Hairdressing and Dental work were the chosen areas for work experience. All students declared it to be a positive and rewarding experience.

Catering for Nightgrooves

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:51 AEST

As part of the Nightgrooves phenomenon, students from Mr Davidson's year 11 Hospitality class, Mr Hinchcliffe's year 9 Food Technology class and Mr Marshall's year 10 Food Technology class were asked by Mrs Tassell and Mr Dockerill to cater for the three shows that were offered to the public. A number of students participated and were able to prepare and serve high class restaurant food.

Maths Online Trial

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:03 AEST

Next year our senior students will have access to the fabulous resource the DER netbooks. This resource gives us a chance to extend and differentiate our curriculum for broader student accessibility.

Three teachers, Ms. Revell, Mr. Barnett and Mr. Sinclair have offered their own time to trial the mathsonline resource (sponsored by McDonalds restaurants Australia). Students in year 11 in all three classes have been enrolled in mathsonline and have been able to access the lessons on the topic "Credit and Borrowing".

Students have been impressed by how the resource delivers teaching and learning on demand. Students have more ownership of their learning as they can learn at their own pace. When they enter their results they get instant feedback as to their success.

Teachers also have acess to running records of student achievement. This is a tool to monitor student progress that would otherwise be time-consuming. This allows our teachers to isolate individuals with experiencing difficulty and provide necessary supplementary support.

mathsonline.com.au

Year 7 gets a feel for chemistry

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:26 AEST

Students in year 7 are using their understanding of the properties of matter to develop suitable procedures to separate mixtures of different chemicals. The mixtures contain unknown proportions of named substances.The students investigate the physical properties of these substances and identify a suitable method to perform the task.

One of the major employment avenues for chemists is in anaylicital chemistry which invloves the dectection of impurties in mixtures. For example, our students will soon be able to tell you if Brine Water ( sea water) has to much of the pure compounds Sodium Chloride, Magnesium Chloride and Sodium Iodide for fish to survive.

Nightgrooves Rock Musical

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

Nightgrooves is a new rock musical premiering at Kempsey High School.

It s the story of Robbie Taggard, an escaped convict who returns to his home neighbourhood in the suburbs of a big city. He has come back to settle a few scores and try to right the wrongs he has done to his girl, Bella Talbott.

The show is what writer/director/Head Teacher, Chris Dockrill describes as a ‘hybrid' school production because it utilizes the skills and participation of not only the dedicated teachers at the school but also many adult members of the Macleay community who are working alongside students on all aspects of production, performance, catering and construction.

The band for the show, The Nightgroovers, is a collection of professional musicians drawn from the Macleay Valley, all of whom have close links with Kempsey High School. Chris says, "These guys will rip paint off the walls with their hot rock and funky blues and jazz". All songs are originals written and composed by Chris and his wife, Lyn, who is principal of West Kempsey Public School.

The cast for the show consists of dedicated Drama students from Kempsey High. Each one has had to go through a rigorous audition process and demanding rehearsal schedule. The show will be catered for by the students studying Hospitality at Kempsey High. The set has been made by students studying construction. Administration, technical support, front of house and back stage duties will be done by students from the school.

Nightgrooves has brought together the school's Drama, Art, Hospitality and Construction students in a huge project. Teachers, parents, community members and students have been worked in top gear and will have their efforts rewarded with sell out shows.

9 English Compose Picture Books

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

2010 will see our students take the great opportunity to help other students for the local Primary school excel in literacy. They are currently creating Picture books and will eventually go to the local schools and read them with younger students.

If students from Year 9 have forgotten their Permission Note it can be downloaded and printed off from the link below.

excursion note for picture books (doc, 23 KB)

Stay Tuned for more information...

See Mr Greg Taylor for details

Debutante Ball

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

The Kempsey High School Debutante Ball was held recently at the Kempsey Macleay RSL Club. Over the ten weeks leading up to the ball excitement had been progressively building as the debs and their partners learnt the dances and organized their outfits. Twelve debutantes made their debut in front of a packed auditorium of families. It was great to see up to three generations of families coming together to celebrate the big occasion at this annual Kempsey High event. (Photo courtesy of Hydro Photographics Shop 4, 51 Jindalee Rd, Port Macquarie, NSW, 2444. AUSTRALIA www.hydrophotographics.com.au phone 02 65814700).

Rotary Public Speaking

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:13 AEST

Rotary Public Speaking

Kempsey High School Year 10 students Jason Beard and Kelsea Staden competed in the first round of the Rotary Public Speaking Competition last week. They had to prepare and deliver a five minute speech to the dinner meeting of the Rotary Club of Kempsey. Both Kelsea and Jason performed very well judging by the poll of the audience, with Jason winning by a narrow margin. He will go into the cluster competition to be held in October and the winner of this will go to the cluster final to be held in Walcha in February 2011. The overall winner will travel to New Zealand and be hosted by Rotary clubs there.

MECS Award for Chris Boyd

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

Kempsey High School's Science Assistant, Chris Boyd (left) receives her

Macleay Educational Community Award from Chairperson of the Macleay

Educational Community of Public Schools, Janice Newton. Chris has worked in

the Science faculty at Kempsey High School for 29 years. She was among 18

staff, parents and grand parents receiving awards at this years ceremony which

took place at the Macleay Regional Gallery in Gladstone. The MECS Spring Into

Art exhibition opened at the gallery on the same evening.

Music & Photography Evening

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:06 AEST

Kempsey High's HSC Music and Photography students presented their works to a full audience of parents, fellow students and staff recently in the new Language Centre. A range of musical items were presented. A superb range of photographs were also displayed which demonstrated the talent nurtured by the teachers, Karen Thrush, Pamela Garstang and Howard Piggott.

Questacon

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:12 AEST

Questacon.

Students in years 9 and 10 had the opportunity to participate in some exciting science on Friday the 13^th of August. These students had some wonderful learning sessions with the visiting Questacon team from the National Science and Technology Centre. The program was designed to intrigue and extend students' learning and encourage more students to study towards careers in science and engineering.

News story

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:09 AEST

Year 12 Drama.

Year 12 Preparing for the final act.

Year 12 Drama students are busily preparing for their HSC performances later this term. The students are performing two group pieces and six individual performances.

One group is performing "Slickers" a spoof on the American oil leak disaster. The other group is performing "Who said that?" Set in an asylum, their piece explores the notions of appearance and reality. Six of the students are performing monologues for their HSC. Kim Hutley is performing a piece based on the character of Hannah which she developed from Tennessee William's, "Night of the Iguana". Rebecca Pappalii is performing "Gris Gris" from Sam Shepard's "Back Beast Bog Bait". Gabby Miranda is performing "Martha" from Whos afraid of Virginia Woolf by Edward Albee. Laura Evans is performing "Holly Hepburn", a composite character developed from her reading of Audrey Hepburn's biography and her famous film, "Breakfast at Tiffany's". Tiffany Haber is performing "Mandy" from John Marsden's "Letters from the Inside". Cassie Harris is performing Vicki from "Long Gone Lonesome Cowgirls" by Phillip Dean.

The students presented their pieces in our Drama room to family and friends at 6:00 pm, on Tuesday 31^st August.

Chris Dockrill

Two Aboriginal Education Awards

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Year 10 student Kelsea Staden and Head Teacher (Visual Arts & Music) Howard Piggott have received awards in the inaugural North Coast Region Aboriginal Education Awards. The awards were presented at the Yarrawarra Cultural Centre, Corindi. Kelsea received a well deserved encouragement award which highlighted her excellent behaviour, hard work and achievements. Howard Piggott's award recognised his leadership in Aboriginal Education, in particular the two courses he wrote (Gooris On The Job and Gooris in Business) that have students learning from members of the Aboriginal community that are role models for youth.

School Leaders 2010-2011

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:14 AEST

The school leaders for 2010 – 2011 were inducted at a formal assembly last week following voting by students and staff prior to the holidays. Nineteen senior students stood for office and the principal, Mr Eller thanked all the students who put themselves forward for election. The new leaders are:

Captains: Jessica Ryan and Brendan Williams

Vice-Captains: Tori Mayhew and Ryan Sliwinski

Prefects: Tim Hodgman, Katie James, Annika Henderson – McDonald, Steven Stewart.

Students visit flood display

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:18 AEST

Many geography students from Kempsey High visited the SES Flood Display held at Kempsey Showground recently.

Geography students viewed pictures, models and flood diagrams showing the devastation caused by floods on the Macleay over many years.

Kempsey High commemorates Anzac

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

Anzac Day

The School paused last Friday to commemorate Anzac Day. We were joined for the commemoration service by ex-service personnel from the South West Rocks and Kempsey sub-branches of the Returned and Services League.

Once again, the school choir, "Indigo Velvet", presented songs which dignified the occasion and respected the fallen.

On Anzac Day itself, several students represented Kempsey High School at remembrance services in Bellbrook, Crescent Head and Fredrickton where wreaths were laid. At the main service in Kempsey, school captains, Jimmy Miller and Emma perks, laid a wreath and our girl captain, Emma Perks, led the Prayer For The Nation.

Kempsey High at the Kempsey Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

At the Kempsey Agricultural Show held last week (20th & 21st April 2010), Kempsey High School's 80th Anniversary was marked by a stall full of past magazines and photographs which proved most popular with patrons. It was an opportunity for many of the old stories to be retold and memories re-kindled.

Information was also available on courses being provided through the new Enterprise Centre.

A number of very enthusiastic students worked hard during the two day Show - in the ring, in the cattle judging, as stewards and on the Kempsey High Stall.

UBS Womens Academy

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:21 AEST

Annika Henderson-McDonald spent a good part of her holidays at the Women's College, Sydney University. She was among 50 young women who had been selected for this year's UBS Young Women's Academy.

Annika writes: "It raised my awareness of the potential that women have to contribute and lean the professions. We heard from some wonderful women who have overcome obstacles and shown tremendous leadership in their field. We were billeted with women undertaking university degrees at Sydney University and it gave all the participants a good insight into university life. We also learned about etiquette and public speaking. We had to make a presentation and we met a lot of people who have achieved highly at the USB dinner. it was inspiring."

Student Equity Advisory Team

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Student Equity Advisory Team (pdf, 19 KB)

Kempsey High 80th. Birthday

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:59 AEST

Kempsey High 80th. Birthday (pdf, 16 KB)

Apex Public Speaking Runner-Up

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:46 AEST

Apex Public Speaking Runner-Up (pdf, 14 KB)

KHS students visit OnStage

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:01 AEST

KHS students visit OnStage (pdf, 33 KB)

Students help in local clean up

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:17 AEST

Students help in local clean up (doc, 21 KB)

Enterprise Education

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:54 AEST

New Enterprise Centre (docx, 13 KB)

2010 winning Harmony Day Poster

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:39 AEST

Winning Poster for Harmony Day (doc, 22 KB)

Medieval & Celtic Times

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:04:04 AEST

Year 8 students were recently entertained and educated by Celtic Thunder, a Medieval and Celtic performance group. This interactive, action packed show combined humour, education, drama, combat and full audience participation. It was based on the 1066–1166 AD time frame of medieval Europe and was a realistic look at the challenges of daily life during this period.

7-8 Science Show

Wed, 05 Sep 2018 14:03:44 AEST

On Friday the 21st of August, years 7 and 8 will be given the opportunity to attend the Science Show. All students are welcome and are required to bring $5 to assist in paying for the performance. When asked what will be in the show, the answer is simply 'You will get to see stuff I'm not allowed to show you in class!'

You need to be there to see what this means.