It is
a pleasure to welcome students, staff and families back to the Academy as we
commence Term 3. The beginning of a new term always brings a renewed sense of
purpose, fresh opportunities for learning, and the promise of the many
experiences that lie ahead. Throughout the first week, students settled quickly
into their learning, reconnecting with peers and teachers while embracing the
opportunities that make life at QASMT so rewarding.
Our
Commencement Assembly provided an opportunity to officially welcome everyone
back and reflect on the many successes of Term 2, celebrating the outstanding
achievements of our students across academics, the arts, sport, leadership and
service. It was wonderful to acknowledge the breadth of opportunities embraced
by our students last term and the many accomplishments that continue to make
our Academy community proud.
The assembly also celebrated the outstanding success of our Instrumental Music Ensemble, who were announced as finalists in the Instrumental Fanfare 2026 State Finals following their exceptional performance at the Metro North Regional Final last term. This achievement is a testament to the dedication, talent and countless hours of rehearsal demonstrated by our student musicians and the unwavering support of their teachers.
We congratulate every member of the ensemble on this outstanding accomplishment and wish them every success as they prepare for the State Finals at the Griffith Conservatorium Theatre on Friday 14 August.
We look forward to cheering on our talented musicians as they once again proudly represent QASMT on the state stage.
During the school holidays, two of our Year 12 Science Ambassadors, Caleb and James, proudly represented QASMT at The University of Queensland's Science Ambassador Celebration. The Academy was honoured to receive a commemorative trophy recognising 17 years of participation in the program, acknowledging the long-standing partnership between QASMT and The University of Queensland in fostering student leadership and engagement in the sciences.
This recognition reflects the dedication of the many Science Ambassadors who have represented our Academy over the years, inspiring younger students and promoting a passion for science both within our school and the wider community. We thank Caleb and James for representing QASMT with professionalism and pride.
This week, our Academy community also joined in recognising NAIDOC Week, acknowledging the milestone of 50 years of the NAIDOC movement. The week provided an opportunity to celebrate the voices, cultures, achievements and enduring contributions of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, while honouring the Elders, organisers, artists and communities whose leadership has shaped the movement over the past five decades.
Our International Mindedness team hosted a lunchtime collaborative art activity, inviting students and staff to contribute to a shared NAIDOC Week artwork. It was wonderful to see members of our community come together to reflect on this important occasion through creativity, conversation and collective participation. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this meaningful initiative and to International Mindedness Coordinator, Vanessa Ngarae and students who organised the event.
Demonstrating the Academy's strong commitment to service and community, our ARC Student Leadership Team hosted a successful sausage sizzle during the week to raise funds in support of the Academy's Chaplaincy Program. Funds raised will contribute to the weekly CAS Breakfast Project, an initiative that provides students with a nutritious breakfast each week while fostering a welcoming and supportive environment before the school day begins. We thank our student leaders for their initiative, teamwork and willingness to give back to the Academy community. Their efforts reflect the values of compassion, leadership and service that are central to life at QASMT, and we are grateful to everyone who supported this worthwhile cause.
During the July school holidays, Year 12 students Jemimah and Alea successfully completed the UQ Women in Engineering Work Experience Program. Through their placement with Thermo Fisher Scientific and The University of Queensland Women in Engineering program, they gained valuable firsthand experience of engineering in practice while exploring future career pathways within STEM.
Programs such as these allow students to connect classroom learning with real-world applications while building confidence, professional skills and industry knowledge. We commend Jemimah and Alea on their commitment to extending their learning beyond the classroom and thank our partners for providing such valuable experiences that inspire the next generation of STEM leaders.
Continuing this focus on future pathways in engineering, on Thursday a group of invited Year 9 female students participated in The University of Queensland's Women in Engineering Explore Engineering Day. Throughout the day, students took part in interactive workshops and presentations showcasing the diverse engineering disciplines and study opportunities available at UQ. They also had the opportunity to network with like-minded students from across Queensland who share an interest in engineering,
The experience provided valuable insight into future study and career pathways, encouraged greater participation of young women in STEM and highlighted the many ways engineering can address real-world challenges. We thank The University of Queensland Women in Engineering team for providing this engaging and inspiring opportunity for our students.
Building on these experiences that foster curiosity and a passion for STEM, we are also looking ahead to one of the highlights of the Academy calendar.
Science Fair Week is always a highly anticipated celebration of discovery, innovation and scientific inquiry, and we are excited to once again showcase the vibrant learning culture that defines QASMT.
Throughout the week, our students will have the opportunity to take part in a range of engaging STEM activities in the courtyard, presentations, workshops, and special events that showcase the passion, creativity, and expertise of our Academy community. It is always wonderful to see our students sharing their knowledge, exploring new ideas, and connecting with scientists, mentors, and each other.
We warmly invite families to join us on Monday 10 August for our Science Week Poster Presentation Day. This is a wonderful opportunity for parents and carers to visit the Academy, view the impressive work of our students, and celebrate the research, ideas, and projects they have developed.
Science Week will continue throughout the week with a range of student-focused events and activities. We are currently inviting Expressions of Interest from students in Years 7, 8 and 9 who would like to attend our Brunch with a Scientist event on Thursday.
This special event provides students with the opportunity to meet and engage with scientists, hear about their experiences and career pathways, and be inspired by the possibilities within STEM.
Further information about Science Week activities and opportunities will be shared with students and families as details are finalised.
We look forward to welcoming our community to QASMT as we celebrate the incredible achievements, curiosity, and passion of our young scientists.
As we begin another exciting term, I would like to thank our students for the positive and enthusiastic way they returned to learning, our dedicated staff for their ongoing commitment to supporting student success, and our families for their continued partnership with the Academy.
Term 3 promises to be filled with many opportunities for learning, leadership, service and achievement. I look forward to sharing the many successes of our students throughout the weeks ahead and wish everyone a rewarding and successful term.
Warm regards,
Kath Kayrooz
Principal
Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology