National Science Week
What an extraordinary week it has been at QASMT as we celebrated one of the biggest events on our school calendar: National Science Week! This year's theme, “Decoding the Universe - Exploring the unknown with nature's hidden language", captured imaginations across the campus, inviting students and staff to think deeply about the mysteries of the universe, mathematics as a language, and the rapidly advancing world of quantum science.
The courtyard was alive every lunchtime with activities designed to spark curiosity, creativity and critical thinking. One of the highlights for me was our Years 7 and 11 Collaborative Science Project Action Day. The Year 11s embraced their leadership roles wholeheartedly, running hands-on workshops for our Year 7 students.
From colourful light refraction experiments, fruit-powered batteries, and the ever-entertaining egg-drop challenges, to rubber-band powered cars zipping across the floor, the sense of excitement and discovery was palpable. It was wonderful to see our Year 11s step up as leaders at this pivotal stage, particularly as they begin preparing to take on the mantle of senior leadership next year.
Our annual Brunch with a Scientist was another highlight. Students had the rare opportunity to sit face-to-face with experts across diverse STEM fields, from quantum physics to engineering and even brewing science!
The atmosphere in the Research Centre was buzzing as students rotated through tables, asking thoughtful questions and soaking in advice about pathways, careers, and the importance of curiosity. The brunch itself then allowed these conversations to flow more freely, building connections that I know will inspire our students long after the plates were cleared.
The week culminated in our STEM Showcase and Science Colloquium, one of my favourite traditions. Year 9 students proudly displayed their Community Projects, showing just how deeply they are engaging with inquiry-based learning and the IB attributes.
We also recognised our STEM Research Project students, who have not only pursued ambitious independent research but also represented our school at both interstate and international science fairs. That evening, I was truly moved hearing our senior students present their research, seeing the sparks of innovation and perseverance that make this community so special. It was a week that left me feeling both proud and inspired.
Year 10 Ski Trip to Perisher
While science took centre stage here in Brisbane, our Year 10s were off chasing snowflakes and carving their way down the slopes of Perisher. This trip is such a memorable part of their SMT journey that fosters resilience, teamwork, and plenty of laughter. The updates filtering back to campus were full of stories about triumphs on skis, some spectacular tumbles, and the joy of being together in such a beautiful, unique environment. Next week, our Year 9 students will swap in for their turn on the mountain, and I cannot wait to hear about the adventures they'll bring back with them.
While I didn't get to enjoy hitting the slopes of Perisher, the stories they and staff members bring back with them always makes me smile. I love knowing that our students are making memories that will stay with them long after they've left our classrooms. These experiences outside of school play such an important role in shaping who they are as individuals.
Bullying No Way Week
This week was also Bullying. No Way! Week, and our courtyard became a space of hope and kindness thanks to the thoughtful initiative of our Chappie and Service Team. A long paper chain began to grow across the walkway, each link carrying messages of positivity, encouragement, and pledges to stand against bullying. As I walked along and read some of the student contributions, I felt deeply moved by their honesty and compassion.
Moments like this remind me how important it is for us to continue fostering an environment where every student feels safe, valued, and supported. It was a simple activity, yet incredibly powerful, with each link representing a voice in our community coming together to say: we will not tolerate bullying here.
Student Achievements
I am absolutely delighted to share that a team of our Year 11 boys took out the EKKA League of Legends High School Cup on the public holiday this week! With Ms Hur, their ever-dedicated Maths teacher, cheering them on as she has for many years with this competition, the team dominated the competition and brought the trophy back to SMT. This achievement is not only a testament to their skills, teamwork and perseverance, but also to the guidance and encouragement of staff who go above and beyond to support their passions.
Congratulations to the whole team! What an incredible achievement to add to our already rich tapestry of student successes this year!
Looking Ahead
Looking to Week 6, the Year 9s will be heading off to Perisher to swap out with our Year 10s, ready for their own snowy adventure. Meanwhile, back on campus, our Year 12s begin their mock IB exams, stretching across Weeks 6 and 7. This is such an important step in their journey, and I know our students will rise to the challenge with grit and determination.
Week 7 will then bring Wear It Purple Day, one of my favourite ARC Uniform Free Days, as our school community dresses in purple to stand together in support of inclusivity, respect and belonging. It's always such a powerful, affirming sight.
In Week 8, we'll see the Hawking Eat Up Charity Event, and of course, the much-anticipated departure of our Europe and Japan STEM Tours. As always, I'll be accompanying the Europe Tour, something I look forward to every year. The opportunity to travel with our students, visit world-class institutions, and share in the excitement of international STEM exploration is simply extraordinary. I cannot wait to see the inspiration our students will bring back with them.
Warm regards,
Kath Kayrooz
Principal