04 July 2025

A Word from the Principal…

Dear Smithton High School Community,

As we end Term 2, I’d like to take a moment to share some exciting updates and important reflections on our school’s progress.

👋 Welcome to Mr Omar Mahmoud

We are delighted to welcome Mr Omar Mahmoud, who joins us as our new Maths teacher, replacing Miss Anderson while she is on maternity leave. We’re eagerly awaiting news of her baby, which is due any day now! Mr Mahmoud comes from Philadelphia, USA, and brings a wealth of experience and enthusiasm to our team.

👋 Farewell to James Riley

We also say a heartfelt farewell to James Riley, who has been a valued member of our IT team for several years. James is heading to the mainland to be with his partner and begin a new professional chapter. We thank him sincerely for his dedication and contributions to Smithton High and wish him all the very best for the future.

📈 Improved Attendance

We’re pleased to report an improvement in student attendance this term. Attending school every day is vital—not just for academic success, but for building strong relationships, routines, and resilience. Everyday counts, and we thank families for their continued support in ensuring students are present and engaged.

📚 Reading Priority: Tier 2 and 3 Vocabulary

Our literacy focus for the remainder of the year is on strengthening students’ understanding and use of Tier 2 and Tier 3 vocabulary. These words are essential for deeper comprehension across subjects and for developing confident, articulate learners. Teachers are embedding the explicit teaching of vocabulary straight into lessons and we encourage families to support reading at home.

😊 Student Engagement and Wellbeing

We continue to prioritise student engagement and wellbeing. Feeling safe, connected, and supported is the foundation for thriving in school. Our staff are committed to creating inclusive, respectful learning environments where every student can succeed.

Thank you for your ongoing partnership in making Smithton High School a place of growth, care, and excellence.

🏅 Student Achievements and Events

Our students continue to shine across many areas:

• Sporting success, with strong performances in school competitions, such as our cross-country event and Inter High
• LARF awards recognising students who demonstrate leadership, achievement, respect, and fairness.
• Classroom excellence, with students showing great progress and commitment to their learning.

A big thank you to our SEC and SRC for organising recent fundraising events including the Greatest Morning Tea and Beanie Day—both were fantastic community-building efforts. We also extend our gratitude to the SRC for their thoughtful gesture in distributing ‘gratitude mugs’ to staff, recognising the important work they do every day.

🗣️ Parent/Teacher Interviews

Communication with Families – Reporting and Evidence of Learning

It has been wonderful to see so many families engage with parent/teacher conversations about their children’s reports this week. Evidence of learning for all core subjects have been shared along with the mid-term report. The work samples are intended to capture what is happening as part of the normal teaching and learning. The work samples provide opportunities for feedback to both students and families. If you have not organised a time to meet with your child’s teachers this week, you can book to meet them first week back in Term 3. These dates are Monday 21st of July, Tuesday 22nd of July and Wednesday 23rd of July (3pm-5pm). Phone conversations are possible as well through the booking app. Please click the link below to set up a time to meet your child’s teacher or contact the school office on 64529222.

http://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/ and enter the code 7qu7b

Nikki Clark
Principal

Our Average Daily Attendance Rate so far this year is

Attendance-Every School Day Matters:

Every school day matters. Even just missing one day a fortnight can mean your child misses up to a year and half of their education, between Kindergarten and Year 12.
See what happens when your child misses just…

1 day each fortnight

That equals 20 days per year
Which is 4 weeks per year and therefore, from Kindergarten to Year 12, that is nearly 1½ years of school.
This means the best they can achieve is equal to finishing Year 11

1 day a week

That equals 40 days per year
Which is 8 weeks per year and therefore, from Kindergarten to Year 12, that is nearly 2½ years of school.
This means the best they can achieve is equal to finishing Year 10.

2 days a week

That equals 80 days per year
Which is 16 weeks per year and therefore, from Kindergarten to Year 12, that is nearly 5 years of learning missed.
This means the best they can achieve is equal to finishing Year 7.

3 days a week

That equals 120 days per year
Which is 24 weeks per year and therefore, from Kindergarten to Year 12, that is nearly 8 years of learning missed.
This means the best they can achieve is equal to finishing Year 6.

We know that many students are unwell at this time of year, and we would prefer they stay at home to recover when they are sick. However, we still need you to inform the school every day they are away.

If your child has been absent from school, can you please contact the office on 64529222 to explain their absence(s) if you haven’t already. It also easy to reply to the SMS message sent on the day. Thank you for your support.

Year 6 Transition Day

Cross Country

2025 Cross Country Results

And the winner is...... WALKER!

Congratulations to Walker House on an outstanding performance! Our students demonstrated excellent participation and effort across all year levels throughout the event. A fantastic effort!  

Champions - Runners-up

Inter High Cross Country

Wednesday 4^th June, 25 excited students travelled to the Penguin Athletics Track to compete in the Inter-High Cross Country Carnival against students from schools across the North-West.

All students gave it their all and represented our school with pride. A special congratulations goes to Jett Sweetman, who delivered an exceptional performance and placed 1st in the Year 7 Boys division—an outstanding achievement! Congratulations also to Lucas Furphy who finished 8^th in the Year 8 Boys and Ruby Lardner who finished 9^th in the Year 9 Girls.

Of course, no Inter-High trip is complete without a celebratory stop at McDonald’s, where the team enjoyed a well-deserved treat after a big day of racing.

Well done to everyone involved!

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Congratulations Jett!

Following on from his recent success in the North-West event, Jett placed 14th out of 110 students in the U14 Boys division of the State All Schools Cross Country!

Well done Jett - awesome result!

Year 7 News

Week 4 LARF awards winners.

Week 5 LARF awards

Celebrating Jaiden for achieving 5 LARF awards!

Jaiden has set the standard high as he achieves every week.

Congratulations Jaiden on your special award and congratulations to all students who were awarded LARF certificates.

Week 6 LARF Awards

Week 7 LARF Awards

Week 8 LARF Awards

Week 9 LARF Awards

On Friday 13^th June, our 7.1 class welcomed a visit from one of the 5/6 classes at Smithton Primary School. Our students showcased the math games they created and shared a video highlighting the sense of belonging at our school, along with the various classes and places. We all had a fantastic time together and can’t wait for the visit from the other 5/6 class next week.

Year 7 Cooking – Speedy cheese muffins

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Fruity French Toast

7.1 Art

7.1 have been working on bottle birds and bottle creatures in art. They have been very creative.

Year 8 News

Celebrating student success in week 4

Celebrating student success in week 5

Celebrating student success in week 6

Celebrating student success in week 7

Celebrating student success in week 8

Celebrating student success in week 9

Year 8 Gets Cyber-Savvy with ThinkUKnow!

Our Year 8 cohort had the privilege of welcoming Constable Noalan Blake and Paul Murray to deliver the ThinkUKnow program — and what a session it was!

ThinkUKnow is an Australian initiative led by the Australian Federal Police, in partnership with state and territory police and industry experts. It’s all about keeping young people safe online by educating them how to navigate the digital world responsibly.

Big thanks to our presenters for empowering our students with knowledge that truly matters. Stay safe, stay smart, and ThinkUKnow!

Year 10 News

LARF Awards

Celebrating Year 10 student achievements in Week 5!

Congratulations to all students, particularly those who have recently received one or more LARF Awards for their effort towards learning, achievements, respectful behaviour and fairness in their interactions in and out of class.

We are very proud of your developing work habits, co-operation and respectful communications.

Science

The Year 10 science classes spent their afternoon in the sun exploring water rockets and learning about the laws of motion, some rockets exceeding 50metres in height!

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Year 11/12

LARF awards for 11/12 students

School Football

Smithton High School Football Report – Rounds 1 to 4

Round 1 vs Burnie High School (Away)

The season kicked off with a trip to Burnie High School. Spirits were high, but unfortunately, the day started with a setback as Austin Goodger dislocated his pinky finger during the warm-up and had to head to hospital before the first bounce.

On the field, Burnie proved too strong, defeating us 23.11 (149) to 1.1 (7). Our lone goal came from Taj Gent in the third quarter with a brilliant long-range effort from just inside 50.

Best Players:

• Taj Gent – Midfield craft and goal
• James Hampson & Aidon Popowski – Solid in defense
• Robert Flint & Derek Talamaivao – Drive off half-back
• Kobi Walker – Strong ruckwork

Round 2 vs Mountain Heights School (Langley Park, Somerset)

In cold and windy conditions, the boys bounced back with a strong performance. A dominant first quarter set the tone, and despite a second-quarter fightback from Mountain Heights, Smithton pulled away in the final term to win 12.13 (85) to 6.6 (42).

Goal Kickers: Ben West (2), Lewis Sheehan (2), Macklen Ollington, Kobi Walker, Taj Gent, Austin Goodger, Derek Talamaivao, Ezra Stewart, Iniego Gonzalez, Ryder Griffiths (1 each)

Best Players:

• Austin Goodger – Intercepting off half-back
• Derek Talamaivao & Iniego Gonzalez – Run and agility
• Ethan Zoontjens – Ruck efforts
• Ezra Stewart – Midfield skill
• Aidon Popowski – Defensive strength and sportsmanship (played 3 quarters for the opposition!)

Round 3 vs Wynyard High School (Home)

Our first home game at Smithton Rec Ground saw another windy day and a strong start. Despite some inaccuracy, we led from start to finish, eventually winning 8.15 (63) to 6.6 (42).

Goal Kickers: Taj Gent (3), Logan Moles (2), Lewis Sheehan (2), Ben West (1)

Best Players:

• Taj Gent & Ezra Stewart – Midfield dominance
• Logan Moles & Lewis Sheehan – Forward pressure
• Nathan Moran – Speed on the wing
• Robert Flint – Strength in defense and ruck

Round 4 vs Marist Regional College (Home)

Facing a powerhouse in Marist, the boys showed great spirit and managed to score in every quarter. Despite the 155-point loss (4.4-28 to 26.27-183), the team enjoyed the game, especially with some familiar faces on the Marist side.

Goal Kickers: Derek Talamaivao, Iniego Gonzalez, Taj Gent, Aidon Popowski (1 each)

Best Players:

• Taj Gent, Ezra Stewart & Nathan Moran – Midfield effort
• Kobi Walker – Ruckwork
• Elvis Van Der Laan – Speed on the wing
• Aidon Popowski – Versatility at both ends

A huge thank you to:

• Mr. Davies – For organising, coaching and umpiring
• Mr. Billing – For goal umpiring, scoring and ball retrieval
• Jordan Williams & Aaron Moles – For coaching support and motivation

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Outdoor Ed

The Outdoor Ed students went on the first camp of the year. The students packed their backpacks and walked to Trawmanna in a mild sunny day. The students decided to set the tents in a circle and worked together to overcome the tent pitching challenges. In the early afternoon the students participated in a smoke ceremony hosted by Jack from CHAC. In the late afternoon the students went to the Duck River to try and catch dinner. Congratulations to Ryan Walsh for catching a fish, unfortunately the fish had to be returned to the water as it was undersized. Back in camp the students worked in groups to organise and cook dinner, spaghetti bolognaise was on the menu. After the washing up it was time to for the bonfire, where students roasted marshmallows and shared stories; some of the students cooked marshmallows for Ms Clark who came for a visit. After their sugar rush the students played several rounds of 'spotlight' which turned very serious and competitive. Lights went out by 10pm. 

The following day, students organised breakfast together and woke up around 7:30 am, thanks to Savannah for cutting the fruit for the crew. After breakfast, the students participated in a cultural dance organised by CHAC, where students learnt the Emu dance. Thanks to the members of CHAC for their support. After packing up the camp, the students went back to the river in the hope of catching lunch, unfortunately no fish were caught. 

The Outdoor Education students went on a field trip to the Rocky Cape National Park accompanied by CHAC. The students visited both caves and learnt about their history. They also discussed the geological formations of the area. 

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The Outdoor Ed students finished the Term with a hike at Sisters Beach. They visited two caves and learnt about the area. The day was finished nicely with a BBQ and a walk along the beach. SHS would like to thank Jack from CHAC for his assistance.

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Preparation for Work

Our Year 9/10 Preparation for Work class had an unforgettable experience at the University of Tasmania’s Cradle Coast Campus last week, diving into the world of university life and future careers.

We kicked things off with a hands-on session in the Nursing department, where students got a taste of what it’s like to be a nurse. From learning how to take a pulse to understanding the incredible cardiovascular system, it was a heart-racing start—literally!

Next stop: Pharmacy! Students explored the many roles’ pharmacists play in healthcare. From community pharmacy to hospital settings and research, we discovered that pharmacists do a lot more than just count pills!

Then came a highlight of the day—Uncle Beau’s campus tour and cultural walk. With stories that brought the land to life, Uncle Beau shared the rich cultural history of the area, including the fascinating fact that Burnie was once a volcano! His storytelling helped us see the campus and its surroundings through a whole new lens.

A huge thank you to Justine for helping organise this amazing opportunity. Your support made this day possible, and we’re so grateful for the chance to explore, learn, and dream big.

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Marrawah Kelp: From Beach to Global Business

Students recently had the exciting opportunity to visit Marrawah Kelp, where they learned how this unique Tasmanian resource is transformed into organic fertiliser used around the world.

Saxon began the tour with an explanation of the kelp collection process. Students discovered that the kelp is gathered directly from the beach, then transported to the processing sheds. There, it’s hung and dried, allowing the natural moisture to evaporate. Once dried, the kelp is mulched into granules, creating a nutrient-rich fertiliser that’s sold globally.

It was fascinating to hear Saxon share the story of how the business began—from a couple of mates with a vision to becoming a thriving international operation. Students gained valuable insight into sustainable practices, local entrepreneurship, and the science behind organic fertiliser production. We thank Marrawah Kelp for their time.

Work Placement at Australia Zoo

In Week 9, I was thrilled to be accepted for a work placement at Australia Zoo, a lifelong dream come true! As someone who’s always been passionate about animals, this opportunity means the world to me. This experience gave me a clear understanding of the steps I need to take to pursue a future at Australia Zoo.

Day one I met passionate zookeepers and students, learned vital safety procedures, and got hands-on experience feeding giraffes and preparing the food for the rhinos. I explored behind-the-scenes areas, attended a reptile talk and tour, and got to watch the Wildlife Warrior Show at the Crocoseum.

Day two I got to train the lemurs and cared for their enclosures on Bindi’s Island. I attended two sessions on zoo operations and conservation, and toured the Wildlife Hospital to see how injured animals are treated and rehabilitated.

Day three I got to prepare food for birds, helped maintain the cool rooms, and cared for the dingoes, even getting the chance to give them a pat. I also toured the tiger and elephant habitats and watched wombat training in preparation for the wildlife warrior show.

Day four I helped identify individual koalas and maintained their enclosure and walk-through area. I explored off show areas, cleaned gumtree bins, fed the echidnas and cleaned their off show pens and even walked a wombat and when he got tired, we put him in his wagon.

Each day wrapped up with a debrief session, a great opportunity to reflect on what we’d learned, ask questions, and build connections with the keepers. This experience was everything I’d hoped for and more. I’m grateful to Australia Zoo for deepening my knowledge of animal care and conservation, and even more excited to pursue a future working with animals.

By Madeline Edwards

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9/10 Foods

9/10 Food students have been making some delicious meals this term. Check out their creations!

Healthy Mexican Fried Rice

Baked Spaghetti

9/10 Art

Hellyer College Taster Day

On the 23rd of June a large group of Smithton High’s Year 10 students had a chance to experience college life at the Hellyer College Taster Day.

They joined hundreds of students from high schools along the North-West coast, giving the wide variety of subjects available a test run to help them plan the next steps in their educational journey. On the day everyone got to choose four options from a list of around 50 classes, with popular choices including Visual Arts, Musical Theatre, English, Sociology and Psychology. Between lessons students enjoyed a free barbeque in the school cafeteria and made the most of opportunities to meet people and make new friends.

They also met helpful staff and students already studying at the college as they helped the visitors find their classes for the day. “It was a fun and educational experience,” said Savannah Swan, who tested out subjects including Photography and English. “It really helped me confirm that I want to study there next year.”

By Hayley Harrisson and Amber Ainslie

Hellyer College

Year 10 Health Careers Program

Recently, a group of our Year 10 students attended the annual Year 10 Health Careers Program at the UTAS Rural Clinical School in Burnie.

RCS staff and students ran four different practical sessions: a Patient's Journey, Deductive Diagnostics, Chronic Disease Management and Emergencies for around 60 students from schools around the region.

This is an account of the day from Amber Ainslie and Hayley Harrisson -

"On the 28th of May eight students from Year 10, a teacher aid and a teacher went down to Burnie Hospital to attend a health careers day hosted by the University of Tasmania.

Across the day, students participated in sessions about fractures, chronic disease, emergencies and “The Art of Deductive Diagnostics”.

In the “Fracture Journey” activity, students had to save a mannequin that had fallen on a hiking trail far from any civilization. Each participant played a specific medical role, including ward nurse, anaesthetist, surgeon and GP, and learned a huge amount about the actions taken in such a scenario.

When learning about chronic diseases such as diabetes, students got the opportunity to take each others’ blood pressure and to experience what it is like to draw blood from a patient – well, from a fake vein full of dyed water, anyway.

Next, students learnt about the DRSABCD response to emergencies: danger, response, send for help, airway, breathing, CPR and defibrillation. They then practiced CPR on training dummies to the tune of “Stayin Alive” and “Baby Shark” to make sure they were completing compressions at the correct rate.

Finally, students got to play a medical Sherlock Homes in Art of Deductive Diagnostics, which required them to diagnose Mr X’s illness.

“It was a really fun day that gave us an insight into the sorts of jobs available in health,” said Hayley Harrisson.

“I’m considering a career as a nurse or a midwife,” added Amber Ainslie."

The day provides a great opportunity for students to gain insight into what future studies could look like, focusing on generic skills and experiences common to many health professions.

Thank you to the University and the Rural Clinical School for continuing to offer this awesome program.

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Beanie Day for MND

Smithton High School worked hard to raise money for Motor Neurone Disease (MND) by wearing our favourite beanies and donating a gold coin.

Our Year 7s and 8s really stood out, with the highest beanie participation across the school, but staff also did their part.

“Smithton High School has a long history of raising money for MND and we are very pleased to keep the tradition going.” Susan Bishop - Asst Principal

Written by Savannah Swan from our Journalism team.

Well done everyone who participated for such a great cause - you raised $232.70

Photographs by Savannah and Alexis

Community News

Dates to Remember…

Term Dates 2025

Student Free Days 2025

Year 7-10
Friday 6^th June
Friday 31^st October

Years 11/12
Friday 6^th June

Office Hours

8.30am – 3.30pm daily
School Starts: 8.50am
School Finishes: 3.00pm

School Office Ph: 6452 9222
Trade Training Centre Ph: 6452 9288

SMS: 0418 220 201
Email: smithton.high@decyp.tas.gov.au
Web: http://education.tas.edu.au/smithtonhigh/Pages/Home.aspx
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pages/Smithton-High-School/219062138251149