How did we get to Term 4 already? It is a busy time of the year with students finishing their studies at various times throughout the term and many activities planned throughout.  We are looking forward to a strong finish to the year for all of our young people.

Staffing

As communicated via Daymap at the start of the term, there have been a few staffing changes in Term 4 as we cover Mr David Szular who is on Long Service Leave for the term. I’d like to thank Miss Schubert, Mr Prasanna and Mrs Sharman who are taking over different classes in Term 4. I’d also like to welcome the following staff members:

• Miss Liao who will be teaching Mathematics throughout the term.
• Miss Philips who will be working in Special Ed for the first 4 weeks.
• Mr Vincent who will be covering a science class and all our relief lessons throughout the term.

Please be aware of the following changes to subject teachers for Term 4.

• Year 11/12 Physics – Miss Schubert
• Year 11/12 Mathematics/Methods - Miss Schubert
• Year 11 Mathematics C – Mr Prasanna
• Year 10A Mathematics - Miss Schubert
• Year 10B Mathematics – Mr Prasanna
• Year 9/10 Digital Engineering Studio – Mr Prasanna
• Year 9B Science – Mr Vincent
• Year 9C Mathematics – Miss Liao
• Year 8B Mathematics – Miss Liao
• Year 7A Science – Mrs Sharman
• Year 7B Mathematics – Miss Liao
• Special Options Cooking & HPE – Miss Philips

I look forward to announcing more of our leadership positions and consolidating our teaching staff in the coming additions of the newsletter.

2025 Confirmation of Enrolment

Parents and carers would have received an EdSmart email regarding your child’s enrolment for 2025. Thank you to parents and carers who have already completed this form. 

Preparation for the 2025 school year is underway and we are beginning to explore possible class structures for next year. It is essential to have accurate student numbers to determine the number of classes, their configurations and teacher allocations. If you know that your child(ren) are likely to transfer from our school, please inform us as soon as possible to assist in our planning. 

• My child (ren) will be attending BHS in 2025
• I am unsure at this stage – please follow up with our family later in Term 4
• My child (ren) will not be attending BHS in 2025

As part of the 2025 class allocation and structure process, we invite parents/carers to submit any concerns or requests in writing that you believe should be considered and may impact your child(ren)'s educational outcomes. Please note that we are unable to accommodate requests for specific class teachers and in some cases, we may not be able to meet all requests.

Sally Cowan

In the holidays, I was lucky enough to attend the Department for Education’s Length of Service celebration ceremony at the Adelaide Convention Centre to see Sally Cowan be honoured for 50 years of service to education. Take a moment to reflect on the significance of this accomplishment! To work 50 years of your life is an achievement in itself, let alone in one industry and more amazingly, one school. Sally has been a stalwart at Balaklava High School and the Balaklava community and I am looking forward to honouring her 50 years of service at BHS with a celebration dinner later in the term.

Hats must be worn in Term 4

This is another timely reminder that as we are in Term 4, hats are compulsory and must be worn when out in the sun at break times and while participating in activities outdoors, including HPE.

Students who do not wear a hat will be asked to seek appropriate shade. Appropriate shade is not a small thin strip of shade provided by a shed or building. Appropriate shade should cover your whole body with shade.

Being SunSmart is an important issue in the harsh Australian sun and the risk of melanoma which is referred to as ‘Australia’s National Cancer’ is real! These statistics demonstrate just how real the risks are:

• In 2023, 18,257 Australians were diagnosed with melanoma.
• 11% of all new cancer cases diagnosed in 2023 were melanoma.
• Melanoma of the skin is the third most prevalent form of cancer in Australia.
• Melanoma is the most common cancer for Australians aged 20 to 39 

It is not too much to ask to wear a hat when you are out in the sun or seek appropriate shade when you do not have one. I will also make sunscreen available at the front office for students who wish to use it.

Year 12 Farewell

What a journey it has been at Balaklava High School! As we get set to bid farewell to our Year 12 students and class of 2024, I cannot help but feel a mix of PRIDE for what they have achieved and a touch of nostalgia that they are about to complete their high school journey and depart us for the big wide world.

To our graduating class: you’re almost there. Take a moment to soak it all in and enjoy your achievements and what is to come next. From the nerves of stepping foot into High School for the first time and forming new friendships to the stressful moments and hustle and bustle of completing assignments and upcoming exams, you’ve shown grit, determination, plenty of resilience and a lot of heart. As a cohort, you have certainly faced your share of challenges, particularly the interruptions that COVID presented. Your achievements, both in and out of the classroom, have been nothing short of impressive.

However, it's not just about acing tests and handing in assignments (although I’m sure you did that remarkably well), but also about the laughs shared, the challenges faced and the growth you've experienced. You have shown us that anything is possible when you put your minds to it and there is no mountain you cannot climb when asked.

To the parents and guardians, a big shoutout! Your support and encouragement have been a crucial part of our Year 12 student’s success. Thank you for being their rock and our partners in shaping these wonderful individuals.

We acknowledge all of the work staff have done to support you over your journey along with your parents and caregivers. I’m sure you’ll go on to be great ambassadors and graduates from Balaklava High School.

Now, to our Year 12s as they are about to embark and set sail for the next chapter—whether it's university, work, travel, or whatever their hearts desire—remember this: the end of high school isn't the end of a lifetime full of learning. Keep shining bright, dreaming big and making waves in this world. You have left an indelible mark on our school and we can't wait to see the incredible things you achieve.

Next Wednesday is the last day of scheduled lessons for our Year 12 students and Thursday at 9am we will hold a formal assembly to wish them well as they complete final assessment tasks and/or prepare for exams. Parents of Year 12 students will have received information about the upcoming celebrations of the graduating dinner and Presentation Night and we look forward to each of these events.

Year 12 Results

The SACE Board have announced that Year 12 results will be available via Students Online from 8.30 am on Monday 16th December with hard copy documentation arriving from this date onwards. This will include an official certificate (if eligible) and Record of Achievement.

Student Free Day

A reminder that our final Student Free Day for 2024 is next Friday 1^st November (Week 3). This day will be used to work on site learning priorities for 2025. Balaklava Primary School also has a Student Free Day on this date and as such, buses will not run.

Australia will celebrate the teaching profession on World Teachers’ Day on Friday 25 October 2024.  

Let’s celebrate Australia’s teachers for their skilled work in educating, inspiring and supporting our young people.

At Balaklava High School, we are very lucky to have a team of close to 40 teaching staff and whilst we aim to thank them each and every day for their passion and hard work, World Teachers' day is a day to formally recognise the amazing work they do - thank you!

Hats off to teachers this World Teachers’ Day!

We are looking for expressions of interest for the 2025 Canberra Trip. This trip is available to all students in Year 10 and 11 in 2025. For more information and to express your interest please head to the following link: https://forms.office.com/r/zD64R6ZFyt

or contact Hannah Marshall: hannah.marshall830@schools.sa.edu.au

Express your interest before the 25th of October.

On the 25^th of September, a group of Year 11 and 12 students had the incredible opportunity to visit the International College of Hotel Management (ICHM) in Adelaide. The visit offered a glimpse into the dynamic world of hospitality and hotel management, giving students the chance to explore career pathways in this thriving industry. Students participated in a guided tour of the campus, interacting with industry professionals and discovering the hands-on learning experiences ICHM provides. The visit included presentations on course offerings, international career opportunities, and insights into the skills required for success in hospitality. Many students walked away inspired, eager to explore further education and career possibilities in hotel management. The visit was not only educational but also a reminder of the diverse career paths awaiting them after school.

Louise O'Halloran & Deanne Bowden

Budburst Music Festival – Saturday Oct 26, 5pm-9pm

Three of our talented Year 12 singers, Bligh Wilson, Sarah Davies and Thea Podiotan will be performing 3 sets each at this music festival in the Barossa Valley, Chateau Yaldara (See full details in poster).  You are all invited to come along and enjoy the family friendly festival which showcases local young artists.  Bligh, Sarah and Thea are among 8 young performers providing entertainment.  The event is free.  They would love to see you there. We wish them all the very best!

Festival of Music – Caitlin McLean

We congratulate Caitlin on completing her 2 weeks of concerts in the Festival of Music orchestra, playing the cello.  It was a wonderful experience for her and she is keen to be part of it all again next year. Well done, Caitlin.  Here are some photos of her in action, playing at the Festival Theatre.

Year 7/8 Cricket Match Report

On Thursday of Week 1 the Year 7/8 cricket squad ventured along Traeger Road to face off against Xavier College at Two Wells in a T20 blockbuster!

Xavier called correctly at the toss and decided to bat first in overcast conditions ideal for bowling. Harvey Cay and Jackson Stone had the Kookaburra moving at right angles, creating plenty of opportunities. However, it was Taylor Harkness who did the damage, collecting a tidy 3/10 from his four overs. Special mention to Riley Michalanney for collecting a sharp run out assisted by wicketkeeper and Captain, Henry Reinke.

Xavier finished their innings on 92, a very chaseable target with the short boundaries on offer.

With willow in hand, it was a fantastic start… for Xavier! A wicket fell on the very first ball, however, skipper Henry and Vice Captain Harvey Cay were able to steady the ship and led us from 1/0 to 2/47 at the 10 over mark. Harvey lit up the Two Wells oval with 38 runs which included five boundaries, Henry showed grit and determination to notch up 15 runs featuring two 4s.

Unfortunately, the rest of the batting order struggled to negotiate the tricky conditions and we were bowled out 25 runs short of our target.

Credit to all players for their terrific sportsmanship and effort throughout trainings and on gameday, thanks also to Mr Parsons for scoring.

Hudson Noack

Year 9/10 Cricket Match Report

Thursday of Week 2 saw the 9/10 Cricket Studio battle it out against Maitland Lutheran School. The boys from the Yorke called correctly and elected to bat first in Balaklava’s finest conditions.

Corbin Branson and Angus Lemon opened the bowling and were on the money early. At the halfway mark, Maitland were in a handsome position on 3/71. The Piping Shrikes needed a hero and who else but Iggy ‘Byron Bay’ Stodart. Iggy had the ball on a string, turning them both ways to collect a tidy 3 wickets for only 9 runs off his 6 overs. Angus Lemon also collected a trifecta of catches alongside his one wicket with the ball. Hamish Wildbore collected a pair of wickets, whilst Jedd Taylor and Will Young also snared a wicket. Maitland finished their innings on 9/135 after 35 overs.

With bat in hand, Corbin also led the way with a destructive 24 runs and Hamish can hold his head high with a swashbuckling 14 not out. Some inpatient batting led to our demise, ultimately falling 81 short of our target. 

Hudson Noack 

2025 VET Enrolments

Enrolments for 2025 VET courses are happening now! There are still a few spots available in the following courses hosted at Balaklava High School:

• Certificate II in Construction Pathways
• Certificate II in Engineering Pathways

Additionally, there are places available in other courses, such as Automotive (Horizon or Riverton), Agriculture (BHS) and Electrotechnology (Clare).

If your child is interested in pursuing a VET course in 2025, please contact Luke Clark (VET Coordinator) via email at Luke.Clark269@schools.sa.edu.au or by calling the school on 8862 0600.

2025 VET Fees

Due to rising costs, all VET courses from 2025 onwards will include a fee for families. We are working hard to keep these fees as low as possible.

The exact course fees are being finalised with Registered Training Organisations (RTOs) and will be communicated as soon as possible. All VET students in 2025 will receive a Commitment to Pay document early in the year, which must be completed, signed and returned to the school for participation in their chosen course.

Further details on payment methods and negotiated payment plans will be provided along with the Commitment to Pay documents in early 2025.

Apprenticeship and Work Experience Opportunities

Looking for a hands-on career? There are some fantastic apprenticeship opportunities currently available, or becoming available soon. Check out the details below:

Fabrication Structural Steel / First Class Welder Apprenticeship (Certificate III in Engineering)

Company: Acromat
Location: Mile End South

Acromat is Australia’s leading supplier of high-quality gymnasium and sporting equipment, often used at top-level competitions, including the Olympic Games. In addition to manufacturing, Acromat works closely with architects, builders and project managers to provide innovative seating and staging solutions. This apprenticeship is a fantastic opportunity for students interested in engineering and fabrication to learn from an industry leader.

How to Apply:

• Call Acromat on (08) 8352 2288
• Email the Manager at acromat@acromat.com.au

Plumbing Work Experience (Potential Apprenticeship: Certificate III in Plumbing)
Company: Catford Plumbing
Location: Balaklava

Catford Plumbing is a trusted and reliable local plumbing service provider with over a decade of experience. They pride themselves on providing timely and efficient solutions to a wide range of plumbing issues. This apprenticeship offers an excellent pathway for students looking to pursue a career in plumbing, with a chance to learn from a team known for their expertise and customer satisfaction.

How to Apply:
Start by organising some work experience with Catford Plumbing to explore this opportunity.

• Call 0477 686 071
• Email catfordplumbing@gmail.com

Flooring Apprentice (Certificate III in Flooring Technology)

Company: Balaklava Stitch Joint
Location: Balaklava

Balaklava Stitch Joint is a small family-owned business in South Australia’s lower Mid North, specialising in all types of flooring, including Carpet, Floating Floor, Vinyl and Vinyl Planks for both residential and commercial projects. They currently have an exciting opportunity for a Flooring Apprentice to join their team and work towards a Certificate III in Flooring Technology.

Requirements:

• Basic knowledge of hand tools
• Enthusiasm, punctuality and reliability
• A willingness to learn

Preferred (but not essential):

• Drivers Licence
• White Card

How to Apply:

• Email your resume and cover letter to bsjamy@rbe.net.au
• For more information, contact Colin “Stitch” Jenner on (08) 8862 1074

These opportunities provide a fantastic chance to develop skills and begin your career in the engineering or plumbing industries. If you're interested, contact the companies directly to find out more about these exciting opportunities!

Getting a USI (Unique Student Identifier)

A USI (Unique Student Identifier) is required for all students undertaking training with a Registered Training Organisation (RTO). This number will follow your child throughout their life and track any accredited training or qualifications they complete, including courses like First Aid, Barista, White Card, RSA and VET courses.

If your child does not already have a USI, you can apply online quickly and easily. Visit the following link to get started:
https://www.usi.gov.au/students/get-a-usi

Luke Clark

VET Coordinator

Welcome to Term 4 and thank you for your contributions this year!

Please see attached the canteen roster for this Term.

We understand that we already ask a lot of our volunteers and we don’t like to have to ask more but new Food Safety Standards require all food handlers to have food safety training – this is a free online short course which we hope to walk you through during your next shift with us Home - DoFoodSafely (health.vic.gov.au) 

Our mandated RRHAN (Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect) training is also due to be renewed by December this year and again, we regret having to ask this of you but if you have a moment, please consider updating your RRHAN or come and spend some time with us here at school and we will walk you through it Fundamentals course: Responding to Risks of Harm, Abuse and Neglect – Education and Care

Thank you to those who have already sent through their updated certificates. Thank you for all that you do – we could not continue to offer this wonderful service to our students without your support!

With the December 2024/January 2025 Summer holidays fast approaching, so is the Royal Life Saving SA's Holiday Swim Program.

Now is the time to get those last-minute enrolments in!

Online enrolments will be closing soon, and we don't want you to miss out on booking your children in for Holiday Swim!

The main aims of the program are 

• Teach children critical life-saving skills
• Teach basic swimming skills
• Equip kids with the knowledge to stay safe in, on and around the water.

The program is AFFORDABLE so that it remains ACCESSIBLE to families and communities that might otherwise miss out on the opportunity to participate in swimming lessons.

Royal Life Saving also offers pathways into the aquatic industry with their ICONIC Bronze Awards.  The Bronze Star, Bronze Medallion, Bronze Cross, Award of Merit and Distinction levels are designed for those wanting to further their knowledge and skill set, before moving into the aquatic industry as Lifeguards and Swim Teachers within their local communities.

The program is returning in December 2024 and January 2025 with the Royal Life Saving Swim and Survive program.

PROGRAM FEES
$41.50 per child ( additional pool entry fees may apply) 

Higher awards from $50

LENGTH/DURATION

5 days ( may vary based on location)

5yrs+ 45-minute lessons

Under 5s 30-minute lessons.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us by phoning 08 8210 4500 

or email holidayswim@royallifesavingsa.com.au

More information can be found on our website:  www.holidayswim.com.au

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ANTIQUE & COLLECTABLE VALUATION DAY AT

URLWIN PARK BALAKLAVA MUSEUM

Saturday 23rd November, 11am - 4 pm

Tickets $20 gives you 1 entry and 1 valuation with tea/coffee

60 tickets only

Ph: 0461 491 160 

Museum open to the public on the day - $5 adult and $1 children

Valuations by Reg and Colleen Dobay

This will be a fundraiser for a new shed.

Your item for valuation must be something that you can carry and look after. Please do not bring your kitchen table or Grandma's big miners lounge. You are responsible for your own property.