As we near the end of term 2, all senior students are encouraged to remain focused and dedicated to achieving their learning goals for the year. The final weeks of term are packed with important activities and opportunities designed to support students in their academic journey and post-school planning.

Year 12 Mid Year Exams

In week 10 (Monday 30 June – Friday 4 July), year 12 students will be undertaking their mid year exams. These will be held under formal exam conditions in H Block. All students have been briefed with the necessary information, and a detailed schedule is included in this newsletter. These exams are a valuable opportunity for students to assess their progress and prepare for their final exams later in the year.

Year 11: Australian Business Week

In week 10, the year 11 cohort will be participating in the annual Australian Business Week (ABW) program. Parents and caregivers should have received an information letter, and further details can be found within this newsletter. ABW is a compulsory unit, where students engage in a hands-on learning experience that gives students insight into the world of business and teamwork.

Flinders University Inspire Program

Flinders University continues to support our students through the Flinders University Inspire mentoring program. This initiative connects interested students with current Flinders students studying in their field of interest, offering valuable insight and guidance for those considering university pathways.

University Planning and SATAC Support

Next term, we will begin supporting students with their SATAC applications as more information becomes available. In the meantime, we strongly encourage all students considering university to research potential courses, scholarships, accommodation, and support services via university websites.

University Open Days

Open Days provide an excellent opportunity for students and families to explore campuses, meet staff, and learn about course offerings. Below are the key dates for upcoming Open Days:

• Adelaide University
• Adelaide City Campus – Sunday 27 July, 9.00am–4.00pm
• Magill Campus – Wednesday 13 August, 3.30pm–7.00pm
• Mawson Lakes Campus – Sunday 17 August, 11.00am–3.00pm
• Roseworthy Campus – Sunday 17 August, 11.00am–4.00pm

For more information on Adelaide University Open Days visit: https://adelaideuni.edu.au/about/events/2025/open-day/? 

• Flinders University
• Bedford Park Campus – Friday 25 & Saturday 26 July
• City Campus – Sunday 27 July
• Riverland Campus – Tuesday 5 August
• Tonsley Campus – Saturday 9 August

For more information on Flinders University Open Days visit: 
https://www.flinders.edu.au/study/events-key-dates/open-days 

We encourage students to visit these university websites to learn more about specific Open Day activities at each location.

Resume Support and Career Preparation

We continue to assist our senior students in updating their resumes and preparing for employment opportunities. Whether students are aiming for university, TAFE, apprenticeships, or local employment, we are committed to ensuring every Renmark High School student transitions successfully into their next stage of life.

Upcoming Events – Term 3

• Riverland Career Expo – Wednesday 23 July
  Held at the Riverland Field Day site, this combined Career Expo is hosted by RSSA. Year 11 students will attend during the day as a cohort. Year 12 students are encouraged to attend in the evening with their parents. A flyer with more details is included in this newsletter.
• Taste of Training – Friday 1 August
  This event allows year 10 and year 11 students to try a VET course before selecting subjects and the course they are interested in for next year. Students must complete an expression of interest form, with an Edsmart form to follow.

As always, we thank our students and families for their continued commitment and engagement. Term 2 has been a busy and productive time, and with so many exciting opportunities ahead. I look forward to sharing more senior news and student success stories throughout 2025.

Marina Pater
Assistant Principal
Director of Operations

For the second year, Renmark High School have braved the shave to fundraise for the Leukaemia Foundation. SRC worked with Mrs Dunn to organise the World’s Greatest Shave, with students Lachie K, Rex K, Jacob C, Stephen F, Jacob H, Kieran N, and teacher Mr Clark, who all shaved their heads on Friday Week 8 on the COLA. SRC ran a BBQ, selling bacon and egg sandwiches to further fundraise for this important cause. This has totalled to over $2000 in donations for the foundation just this year alone! Congratulations to all involved, and a huge thankyou to all those that donated.  

Rachel Dunn
Science and Mathematics Teacher

Renmark High School recently participated in the Regional Hospital's Prevent Alcohol and Risk-Related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y) Program. This valuable initiative provided our year 11 students with a unique opportunity to gain first-hand experience in understanding the consequences of risky decisions.

On Friday 23 May, a group of our year 11 students visited Berri Hospital, where they explored what happens behind the scenes in a hospital setting when risky behaviours lead to trauma. This immersive experience aimed to educate and empower our students to make safer choices.

We are grateful for this opportunity and are confident that it has positively impacted our students' understanding of risk-related trauma and decision-making.

Over the past four weeks, Mrs Keynes' year 7 and year 10 Physical Education classes have been taking part in 'Boxing for Fitness' sessions with Riverland Fitness Centre's Boxing Coach, Iris – both at school and at the Riverland Fitness Centre. The students have been working hard, building strength, and having a great time learning new skills!

Bec Keynes
Physical Education Teacher

In week 7, Mr Lindner and Mr Camplin's Stage 1 Outdoor Education classes embarked on a two day bushwalk expedition at Mt Crawford. Students have been learning about navigation, organisation and group development to prepare for the trek.

On Thursday 5 June, the year 8 Performing Arts class captivated their peers with a dynamic and original performance of Time Travel. Performed in front of a full audience of year 8 students, the production showcased impressive creativity, energy, and teamwork.

From the talented cast who brought the story to life, to the expertly crafted lighting and sound effects by Ollie and Henry, every element of the show reflected the students’ hard work and dedication. It was a truly outstanding performance that highlighted the incredible talent within the year 8 cohort.

Wendy Matulic
Drama Teacher

In year 8 science, students are exploring the theory of plate tectonics. They have studied how the molten mantel of Earth allows tectonic plate movement, and in doing so had to learn about convection currents. They modelled these convection currents in the lab using the Bunsen burners and confetti, where they could see the circular motion of hot and cold water moving in the beaker. This visual provided a clear explanation of convection currents and how they impact the way our Earth moves.

Rachel Dunn
Science Teacher

This term in Science, Tailored Learning students have completed a range of engaging investigations exploring hygiene, bacteria, and chemical reactions found in everyday life. Through practical activities like Intentional Colour Change in Foods, the 10 Second Rule test, Wound Sterility Investigation, and How Dirty is My School, students learned about food safety, cleanliness, and how chemical and biological processes affect our health and environment. These hands-on experiments encouraged critical thinking, teamwork, and real-world scientific inquiry.

Martine Turnbull
Student Learning Support Coordinator

Over the past eight weeks, our SAASTA Connect students have been involved in a variety of activities, building on their connection to culture and developing the 6 SAASTA KPIs. Last week, students reflected on the term, and wrote short paragraphs describing the success they’ve had as part of the program. Here are a few of our students responses:

One important thing I did during SAASTA Connect was the Reconciliation Breakfast. This involved cooking cakes and making breakfast for the Elders. I enjoyed this because I could connect with my community and be myself. It helped me learn about how easily Blak fellas could recognise each other. I found it meaningful because I could connect to my elders and make them laugh. This experience made me feel good because I could make the elders have a good time. One thing I will remember about this is how one of the Elders recognised me from my nan. Because of this, I now know how easy it is to get recognised by Elders. Overall, this experience was important to me because I got to make the elders laugh and I could connect to community - Chance M, year 8 

One important thing I did during SAASTA Connect was going to Nunga Screen and seeing the exhibition during Reconciliation Week. This involved watching short films at the Chaffey Theatre and looking at some beautiful art. I enjoyed this because I saw the artwork and learnt about the artist who painted them. It helped me learn about the backstories of their drawings and their meaning behind them. This experience made me feel good because I saw good art and it taught me about culture. One thing I will remember about this is the postcard I was given by the artist of one of their paintings, which was my favourite. - Mason B, year 8

One important thing I did during SAASTA Connect was going to the Chaffey Theatre, and watching the Nunga Screen and looking at some art. I enjoyed this because I got to see other peoples’ understanding of reconciliation. It helped me learn about what reconciliation means, and it was meaningful because it makes people think about others’ feelings about reconciliation. This experience made me feel happy that reconciliation applies to everyone. One thing I will remember is the artist Helen Stacey and because of this, I now have a better understanding of reconciliation. -Amalia R, year 9

What fantastic reflections of deep learning from our students. We look forward to sharing more with you next term.

Alistair Ward
Aboriginal Education Teacher

On Monday, SAASTA Connect students from Renmark High School and Berri Regional Secondary College had a connection day down at Martin’s Bend in Berri. The goal of the day was for students to get to know each other, build connections and participate in a day of team building and competition. The morning began with a fishing competition where many students were able to catch a carp (or four!). After a shared lunch, students participated in a football and rugby competition with all students getting involved. This was a fantastic day for all students, and we can’t wait for next semester when we have another catch-up all together.

Alistair Ward
Aboriginal Education Teacher

Seasons for Growth - Young People’s Program is a curriculum-based initiative designed to support young people as they navigate the challenges associated with grief, loss, and significant life changes. The program helps participants to understand and articulate their experiences while fostering resilience and emotional well-being. Through structured activities and discussions, young people learn about the grief process, how to name and care for their feelings, and develop practical strategies to cope with change. Delivered in a safe and supportive group setting, the program encourages connection, self-expression, and the development of healthy coping mechanisms to build confidence and hope for the future.

We have a group of students currently participating in this program following success with a group who participated last year. We are able to provide a safe and supportive space for students to explore their feelings around grief and change. The students genuinely enjoyed the program, engaging in activities and discussions that allowed them to better understand their emotions. Many shared how the program helped them realise they’re not alone in their struggles and that others also face challenges, even if they don’t show it outwardly. This newfound perspective fostered a sense of connection and empathy, making the experience deeply meaningful for everyone involved.

Maria Dowzard
Student Wellbeing Support

Renmark High School will be hosting students from France, who are arriving mid-term 2 and departing mid-term 3.

Experience a unique cultural exchange by hosting an international student! Share your home, make lifelong connections, and provide a supportive environment while learning about another culture. Enrich your family's life today!

For more information, contact us at dl.0794.info@schools.sa.edu.au

If you have any further general enquiries or questions, please contact our front office administration. 

From 1 March 2024 new regulations will extend the smoke-free and vape-free areas to within 10 metres of site boundaries.

This includes:

• school drop-off and pick-up zones that are within 10 metres of the school fence, gate or boundary
• school ovals and sporting fields and within 10 metres of the boundary of the oval or sporting field
• footpaths, roads, public nature strips and public recreation areas that are within 10 metres of a school boundary.

E-cigarettes

E-cigarettes, or ‘vapes’, are not safe for young people. They come in many shapes and sizes and can be hard to spot as they can look like everyday items including highlighters, pens, USB memory sticks or watches.

Key vaping facts

• Many e-cigarettes contain nicotine despite being labelled as not. Nicotine can cause long-lasting negative effects on young people’s brain development, including impaired learning ability and altered mood, and can increase the risk of depression and anxiety.
• E-cigarettes can contain the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray, which can lead to serious lung diseases.
• Young people who vape are 3 times as likely to take up smoking cigarettes.
• E-cigarettes are harmful to the environment as they contain single-use plastics and lithium batteries, cause pollution and can start fires.

The laws around selling e-cigarettes

It’s illegal to sell or supply e-cigarettes to anyone under the age of 18 years. Young people often purchase vapes online, from retail stores, or from friends and contacts on social media. There are a number of retailers who sell e-cigarettes to young people. This is a crime.

Talk to your child about vaping

It’s important to take the time to talk to your child about the risks of vaping. Try to start the conversation in a relaxed easy-going way, and remember your goal is to have a conversation, not deliver a lecture. Parenting SA provides a Parent Easy Guide on talking with children and young people about drugs and alcohol – visit parenting.sa.gov.au.

Get the evidence and facts about vaping at www.sahealth.sa.gov.au/vaping.

Find out more about how we manage alcohol, tobacco and other drugs in schools at www.education.sa.gov.au/vaping