Principals Blog - Week 4, Term 1 2025
20/02/2025
Term 1 - There is much more to come this term.
Week 4 has arrived with both pace and purpose, Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology is already alive with energy.
Our Year 7 students have settled into IB life with admirable maturity. They are navigating new routines, expectations and friendships with a confidence that speaks to both their character and the support around them. It has been a strong, steady and positive beginning.
Thank you to our Year 7 and new Year 10 parent’s and carers who joined us for Parents’ Evening. The partnership between home and school is not simply important; it is transformative. Your presence, your thoughtful questions and your ongoing encouragement make a genuine and lasting difference to our students' growth and achievement. 
Access our latest eNewsletter, for Five Ideas for Parents to Support a Positive Start to 2026 via our website: Queensland Academy for Science Mathematics and Technology eNewsletter
Premier’s QCE Student Awards
On Saturday 14 February, I had the privilege of attending the Premier’s QCE Student Awards, where our Academy Dux, Mido, received the Distinguished Academic Achiever Award. 
These awards recognise students who demonstrate exceptional breadth and depth of learning across the Queensland Certificate of Education. With eight award categories, the program honours academic excellence, commitment and sustained achievement across Queensland’s senior schooling framework. We are immensely proud of Mido. This recognition reflects not only outstanding intellect, but also perseverance, discipline and a quiet determination to excel.
Harmony Week & Festival of Creativity
Term 1 brings with it one of the most vibrant and anticipated events on our calendar; our annual Festival of Creativity, held as part of Harmony Week.
This year’s theme, Twilight Traditions, invites us to celebrate diversity, inclusion and belonging. At QASMT, difference is not merely acknowledged; it is valued. It strengthens us.
Throughout Harmony Week, students will enjoy:
• International-themed food from the Refectory
• International Karaoke
• Traditional cultural dress
• Cultural performances
• Henna, face painting and nail art stalls
• Bracelet making
• Picnics with friends.
There is something powerful about a community that pauses to celebrate who it is.
Valentine’s Day Stall – Share the Love
Our Valentine’s Day Stall and Photo Booth brought colour, kindness and just the right amount of sweetness to the week. Small gestures matter. They remind us that joy often lives in simple things.
National Lunchbox Week (9–15 February)
National Lunchbox Week served as a timely reminder that wellbeing underpins learning. Balanced nutrition, hydration and healthy habits allow our students to bring clarity, focus and energy into their classrooms each day. When students feel well, they learn well!
Battle of the Bands
Our students brought courage, creativity and confidence to this year’s Battle of the Bands.
The auditorium pulsed with energy - guitars, drums, laughs and unforgettable moments, with even a touch of Belinda Carlisle magic woven through the set list.
Over five days in Week 2, thirteen bands competed in a live lunchtime concert series filled with talent, and audience support. Judging criteria ranged from instrumental skill and musicianship to stage presence and crowd engagement.
I am delighted to announce Infinite Knot as the 2026 winners, with The Spires named Runner-Up. Both bands have earned the opportunity to perform as headliners at our Festival of Creativity on Friday 20 March 2026.
My congratulations extend to every performer who stepped onto the stage. Courage matters. Creativity matters. And to our Arts Ambassadors, guest judges, production teams and staff who supported the event, thank you for making it possible.
Country, Culture and Connections
Mr Aspland recently worked with our Year 9 students in a session titled Country, Culture and Connections.
Students explored the importance of speaking respectfully and thoughtfully about First Nations peoples, writers and creatives. They reflected on the power of language, the significance of connection to Country and the responsibility we share in honouring the world’s oldest continuing cultures.
It was reflective, respectful and deeply meaningful learning.
Academic Awards Ceremony
We recently celebrated our Academic Awards Ceremonies, recognising Junior and Senior students for their Semester 2, 2025 achievements.
Excellence deserves acknowledgement. So too does consistent effort. We are proud of the diligence, discipline and intellectual curiosity shown by so many of our learners.
In Closing
Week 4 reminds us why QASMT is such a remarkable community.
We value scholarship and creativity in equal measure.
We celebrate diversity and belonging.
We honour culture and connection.
We foster courage - on stage, in the classroom and in conversation.
And much more to come this term.
Warm regards,
Kath Kayrooz
Principal
Queensland Academy for Science, Mathematics and Technology