Filter Content
Debbie SpannerPrincipalprincipal@indooroopillyss.eq.edu.au |
Equity and Excellence
Through the Alice Springs (Mparntwe) Education Declaration we, as a nation, committed to equity and excellence in education as our first goal– that all children and young people are confident, creative lifelong learners, active in their community. The focus of this document includes the following:
- provide all young Australians with access to high-quality education that is inclusive and free from any form of discrimination
- recognise the individual needs of all young Australians, identify barriers that can be addressed, and empower learners to overcome barriers
- ensure that young Australians of all backgrounds are supported to achieve their full educational potential
- encourage young people to hold high expectations for their educational outcomes, supported by parents, carers, families and the broader community
- ensure that education promotes and contributes to a socially cohesive society that values, respects and appreciates different points of view and cultural, social, linguistic and religious diversity
- ensure that learning is built on and includes local, regional and national cultural knowledge and experience of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples and work in partnership with local communities
- promote a culture of excellence in all learning environments, by providing varied, challenging, and stimulating learning experiences and opportunities that enable all learners to explore and build on their individual abilities, interests, and experiences
Achieving this vision in Queensland state schools requires a collective understanding of what we all stand for and how we will make it a reality. At Indooroopilly State School, Equity and Excellence underpins our strategic plan, which is translated into Empowering Learners, Connecting Community and Harnessing Diversity. We have reviewed processes, invested in resourcing and updated roles and responsibilities in our efforts to enable all students to reach their full potential. Additional resources including a social worker, additional teacher aides, additional support teacher and a DP with a fraction of their role invested in Culture, Connection and Community, to help build community engagement, have been some of the ways we have added value in the first 18 months of our strategic plan.
Excellence at ISS is the aim of every classroom learning environment as we truly believe that it is what happens in every classroom every day that makes a difference for our learners. It is the differentiated opportunities that are provided in class that make the biggest impact for our learners. Investing in staff capacity building and professional learning and collaboration is key to helping teachers provide varied, challenging and stimulating learning experiences to enable all learners to reach their individual potential. The new Australian Curriculum V9 has enabled us to review teaching and learning practices to include Science of Learning principles. Research-informed and evidence-based learning underpins the daily practice that occurs in our classrooms.
We know that strong partnerships with our parent body also underpins the success our learners experience. Thank you for your ongoing support and investment in our school to help your learners be successful. I appreciate those of you who take the time to acknowledge the support given to help your children reach their potential.
Connected Parenting Webinar – 6pm Monday 12 May
There is an opportunity for all ISS parents to participate in the Connected Parenting Webinar, presented by The Resilience Project on Monday evening. This seminar, hosted by Lael Stone, will support you to build stronger relationships with your children through positive communication. I encourage you to register for this online webinar, which is included as part of your TRP subscription. The Indi Incidental emailed to parents on Friday 2/05/2025 contains the registration link.
School Photos
Ordering envelopes were sent home with students this week. School administration can assist if you did not receive an envelope. If you have any ordering questions please contact MSP directly 3865 4291. Remember to place your orders before photo days are over to avoid incurring late fees. If your child is absent on photo days, please contact MSP.
If you order sibling photos, please remind your students to go to the hall before school from 8am on photo days or on Tuesday during the second break.
Students must be in full school uniform. Please refer to the school Uniform and Appearance policy. We encourage you to contact your sector DP if you have any queries or concerns.
Week 3 |
Upcoming Events |
Location |
Times |
Monday 12/05/2025 |
Connected Parenting Webinar |
Online |
6pm |
Tuesday 13/05/2025 |
Year 3 Beginner Strings Day |
||
Tuesday & Wednesday 13 & 14/05/2025 |
School Photographs; Sibling photos before school from 8am |
School Hall |
|
Thursday 14/05/2025 |
Prep Hearing Screening |
|
|
Thursday & Friday 14 & 15/05/2025 |
Year 4 Bush Neighbours Incursion |
STEAM Room |
|
Friday 15/05/2025 |
Year 5 & 6 Interschool Sport |
|
|
Week 4 |
Event |
Location |
Times |
Tuesday 20/05/2025 |
Prep Rural Discovery excursion |
|
|
Friday 23/05/2025 |
Free Dress Day Fundraiser for the Cancer Council |
|
|
|
Year 5 & 6 Interschool Sport |
|
|
Colour Run
Monty's Colour & Slime Fun Run - 31 May 2025
FUNDRAISING UPDATE
We have raised an incredible $6,876 towards our $10,000 fundraising goal - how awesome is that!!
If you haven’t started fundraising yet it’s not too late! Start fundraising today. Register now at www.myprofilepage.com.au. and share your fundraising link – personalise and post it on socials, text it to friends, scan the QR code – whatever gets the word out!
This year, we’re raising funds to enhance learning spaces at our School and upgrade infrastructure- New AV systems, Pool Shade sails, Playground upgrades, A stunning art installation … and more!
Term 2 Date Claimers
- 26/05/2025 P&C Meeting
- 27/05/2025 Year 6 UPP Positive Peer Workshop
- 28/05/2025 Regional Cross Country
- 29 & 30/05/2025 Year 1 incursion – Reptiles
- 29 & 30/05/2025 Year 4 excursion – Moore Park, Bush Neighbours
- 30/05/2025 Year 2 excursion – Planetarium
- 30/05/2025 Student Council Meeting
- 31/05/2025 P&C Colour Run
- 4/06/2025 Pancake Breakfast
- 12/06/2025 TBC Year 3 & 4 Athletics Carnival
- 13/06/2025 TBC Year 5 & 6 Athletics Carnival
- 16/06/2025 IGT Live
- 20/06/2025 Student Council Meeting
- 23/06/2025 P&C Meeting
- 26/06/2025 Under 8s morning
Culture, Community and Connection
Amy HowkinsDeputy Principal,Culture, Connections & Communityahowk1@eq.edu.au |
ANZAC Parades
It was wonderful to share our ANZAC Day parades with our special invited guests, including Wing Commander Jesson (RAAF), Penny Wolff (councillor for Walter Taylor Ward), James Mackay (Toowong RSL), Leila Coulter (2024 ISS School Captain) and friends from Journey Early Learning Centre. We appreciate your meaningful contributions to this important event.
![]() |
Chappy Jaida |
Hello!
Can you believe we’re already in May? The year is flying by, but it’s been valuable to pause and reflect on the moments – big and small – that have shaped the term so far! As we move forward, it’s worth taking a moment to look back and appreciate how far we’ve all come.
Pancake Breakfast – You’re Invited!
Mark your calendars – Wednesday 4 June we’ll be flipping pancakes and serving up smiles! This is a great way for families and students to come together and start the day with some warm food and great company!
Looking forward to the rest of the term as we continue to grow and learn together!
Chappy Jaida
|
Premier’s Reading Challenge
The Premier’s Reading Challenge is back, encouraging a love of reading in students across the state! The challenge began on Tuesday 6th of May and ends on 22nd of August.
Students record their books using the Individual Reader Record Form provided by their teachers. Those who complete the required number of books during the reading period will receive a Certificate of Achievement to celebrate their efforts.
- Prep to Year 2 — read or experience 20 books
- Years 3 to 4 — read 20 books
- Years 5 to 6 — read 15 books
We encourage parents and carers to support their child by helping them select books, setting aside regular reading time at home, and celebrating their progress along the way. Your encouragement makes a big difference!
Changes to Reporting in 2025
With the introduction of Version 9 of the Australian Curriculum, there will be minor changes to reporting in 2025.
Prep Reporting
Under the new curriculum, Prep has an achievement standard for every learning area. In 2025, Prep students will either ‘experience’ or be ‘provided’ with these learning areas. The concept of 'experiencing' ensures the curriculum is delivered in age-appropriate ways for our youngest learners, while still covering essential skills needed for Year 1.
- Experiencing: At ISS, Prep students will experience Science, HASS, The Arts, and Technology. This means they will be taught curriculum content, and teachers will monitor their progress to support their learning. While students won’t receive an achievement level on their reports, they will still receive a comment and an effort grade.
- Providing: In English, Mathematics, and HPE, Prep students will be taught, assessed, and reported against achievement standards.
Benefits of This Approach:
- Focus on Literacy and Numeracy: More time is dedicated to foundational skills.
- Early Identification of Learning Needs: Teachers use ongoing assessment to tailor their teaching.
- Play and Inquiry Learning: Hands-on, engaging activities make learning meaningful for young students.
Achievement Scale Updates
From 2025, Queensland schools will use a new five-point achievement scale for Prep to Year 2:
- Applying (AP), Making Connections (MC), Working With (WW), Exploring (EX), and Becoming Aware (BA).
This scale gives a clearer picture of each child's progress and allows teachers to provide more targeted support.
For Years 3–6, the A–E achievement scale will continue.
![]() |
Kyle WaltersDigital Coachkgwal0@eq.edu.au |
NAP ICT
This week, 20 Students in Year 6 took part in The National Assessment Program – ICT Literacy (NAP ICT). The test assesses students’ ability to use digital technologies effectively and responsibly. It looks at how well students can access, manage, evaluate, and create information in digital environments. Tasks in the assessment may include activities like creating a presentation, using search tools to find reliable information, identifying safe online behaviour, or interpreting data from digital sources. The results help schools understand how students are developing essential digital skills for learning and life in a digital world.
Cassi ZanderMusic Teacherczand4@eq.edu.au |
![]() |
Julie BlissDeputy Principal, Years 3 & 6jmbli0@eq.edu.au |
Year 6 Science – exploring virtual circuits
In Science, students have been exploring how electrical circuits function, including the directional flow of electrons and the role of components such as switches, bulbs, wires, and resistors. This learning has helped consolidate their understanding of how these parts work together within a complete circuit. Students have particularly enjoyed practical investigations where they built circuits, tested various materials, and solved real-world challenges.
To complement their hands-on learning, students used an online resource called Virtual Lab, which allowed them to design, build, and test circuits in a simulated environment. This engaging tool offered an interactive way to experiment with electrical concepts and share their creations with classmates.




3H Visit Indooroopilly’s ANZAC Memorial Church
Last Wednesday 3H walked to Indooroopilly’s ANZAC Memorial Church on Station Road. 3H had developed enquiry questions during their HASS lessons. They had the opportunity to find answers to these as they explored the significant site which is the only memorial church in Australia. Students discovered why Indooroopilly has an ANZAC Memorial Church, how it has changed over time and who are some of the members of the community it commemorates.






|
Steve BoxActing Deputy Principal, Years 4 & 5sbox6@eq.edu.au |
Year 5 Interschool Sport Kicks Off
Last Friday marked the first of four exciting interschool sports days for Term 4. Students proudly represented Indooroopilly State School in a variety of sports, travelling to local venues for cricket, touch football, soccer, basketball and competitive tennis. Back at school, our table-tennis, tennis participation and school-based sports groups made the most of the quieter grounds, showing great sportsmanship and teamwork. It was wonderful to see so many students engaged in physical activity and enjoying the chance to connect with peers across the district. We look forward to building on this great start in the upcoming rounds of competition.
“In School Based Sports, we played 3 different sports (Soccer, Kickball, and T-ball), and it was very fun running around with my friends.” -Sophie L
“Last week I played 2 games of soccer. My team played 2 games. Overall there were 4 Indooroopilly Year 5 teams that did soccer for interschool sports. It was very fun and this week I am looking forward to playing against other schools.” -Liam O’M
4E Informative Texts
This term, 4E has kicked off an exciting new English unit focused on reading and comprehending informative texts. As part of their assessment, students will be sharing information with an audience. This week we’re putting a strong focus on articulation and projection.
To build these speaking skills, we’ve been having fun practicing tongue twisters and projecting our voices all the way across the tennis courts! Through these engaging activities, students are learning how important breath control is for strong projection, and how paying attention to letter sounds improves clear articulation.
Ask your child to show you some of our wacky tongue twisters at home, be ready for a giggle or two!
![]() |
Wendy FenderDeputy Principal, Years 1 & 2wfend1@eq.edu.au |
Year 2 Journey
Exploring the world of numbers in 2G is a journey filled with wonder and excitement. Through a series of carefully crafted experiences, young learners are introduced to the joy of mathematical problem-solving, vividly illustrated through a "canvas of thought." The classroom comes alive with visual aids, hands-on activities, and collaborative learning, fostering a deep understanding and love for mathematics. As students work through problems, they develop critical thinking skills and a growth mindset.










Year 1 Living Things
This term in Science and English we are reading, researching, observing and investigating information about living things. Last Thursday the students of 1F walked around our school grounds discovering living things and their habitats. This is what we found…
Bee, spider, tree, ant, lizard, plant, tadpole, dragonfly, bird, butterfly, flower, wasp, hollow log, wasp nest, spider’s web, garden, bird’s nest, muddy puddle.











![]() |
Amy HowkinsDeputy Principal, Prepahowk1@eq.edu.au |
A super start for Prep D!
Prep D has had a fantastic start to the term, with students learning how to write complete sentences using capital letters, finger spaces, and punctuation. They’ve begun creating their own simple sentences with growing confidence. In Science, we are exploring the life cycle of a plant, learning how seeds grow into seedlings and beyond. This links perfectly with our English learning, where we are comparing a narrative text, The Bad Seed, with an informative text, From Seed to Plant. Through this, students are beginning to understand the difference between stories that entertain and texts that teach us real facts. It’s been wonderful to see them make connections across subjects and apply their learning in creative ways.








Prep drop off and pick up
Just a reminder to parents – if you bring your child to school before 8:30am (and they are not with before school care), you (or an older, responsible sibling) must remain with them and actively supervise them until staff begin their duty at 8:30am, at which time students can play, and parents are able to leave.
Prep pick-up time is 2:50pm. Please be mindful of signage and parking if you leave your vehicle to collect your child/ren.
Prep parent reading workshop
Thank you to the many parents who attended the workshop, presented over two days last week. We hope this gave you a deeper understanding of the elements of reading as per the Australian Curriculum and provided you with some useful strategies to assist your children develop their literacy skills outside the classroom.
For those unable to attend, Prep teachers have sent a link to videos of this presentation.
Physical Education & Sports News
HPE team email- pestaff@indooroopillyss.eq.edu.au
Congratulations to our 35 students who attended district cross country on Tuesday 29th of April at Limestone Park. This was a tough course however the Indooroopilly students all displayed such grit, competing with over 70 other students in each race!
A further congratulations to Isabella E (4D) who came 2nd, and Aaron M (5B) who came 6th in their races and have been selected in the Northern Eagles Team to compete at the Met west Trials.
Interschool Sport
Week 1 of Interschool Sport was a success. With multiple sports played across multiple locations, against a variety of schools, we are proud of how Indooroopilly students conducted themselves.
2025 Athletics Trials Information (Year 3 to 6)
These trials are ONLY for students who would like to participate in DIVISION 1 (competitive events) during our athletics carnivals in week 8. All other participants will be collecting points for their houses through a range of different novelty events and fun games during our carnivals.
Only the top 10 students of each year level will compete in DIVISION 1.
Trials will allow students to complete 2 attempts ONLY for each event, except for running where students will only have 1 attempt.
Important note: Students will be able to participate in these trials during PE lessons, except for High Jump. Trialling for High Jump requires more time and it will not be in PE lessons. Trials for this event to be held over weeks 6 and 7, Days and times to be advised.
Once our athletics carnivals have concluded, the top 3 boys and girls from the following age groups: 2015, 2014 and 2012/13, will be able to be nominated to go to the district track & field trials in July to represent Indooroopilly State School.
Long jump trials will be ONLY over weeks 9 and 10 this term during PE lessons. We will give an opportunity to students to trial for this event at the end of the term. Top 3 students for each age group and gender that meet the highest qualifying distance will be nominated to compete at the district track & field trials.
Track & Field District Nominations – Northern Eagles Trials (23rd and 24th July)
As mentioned before, we are in the process of having trials at school for our athletics carnivals for shot put and running events. High jump will be during weeks 6 and 7 ONLY.
LONG JUMP TRIALS: Only for students born in 2015, 2014, 2012/13 at school during weeks 9 and 10. Students interested in trailing for long jump should contact our PE Team before Monday 22nd June.
Nominations for all other disciplines will be based on 2025 ISS athletics carnival results and compared to the district qualification marks accordingly. Parents from students that are nominated for any track and field district trials events, will receive an email with all the information/paperwork at the beginning of term 3.
DISCUS PAPER NOMINATION: If students wish to be nominated for discus, parents need to email our PE Team with their PB and a letter from coach attached. Nominations are due by Monday 22nd June.
If you have any questions about the district nomination process, please do not hesitate to contact us by email.
Celebrating success in sport 
Congratulations to Cassidy M (5C) for being selected to be part of the Northern Eagles Girls Soccer team and compete at the coming regional trials.
District Sport
Please see below the 2025 District Trials calendar.
If your child is interested in attending any district trials throughout the year, please email us as soon as possible. We will record their name and send out more information when we receive this from the district. Please note, we can only send a limited number of students from Indooroopilly State School to each trial. If we have many students interested, we will have to hold a trial within the school first. If your child is selected to attend the district trials, we will send paperwork home which will need to be filled out and signed and then sent back to us before the trials. If we do not receive this paperwork on time, we will not be able to nominate your child for the trials. This is a new process from the district going forward this year.
ISHS Musical
Calling all musical fans! Indooroopilly State High School students and staff have been working hard rehearsing for this year’s exciting stage production, The SpongeBob Musical. Our fabulous production will be performed on:
Thursday 8 May - 7:00pm (Auslan Interpreted)
Friday 9 May - 7:00pm
Saturday 10 May - 12:00pm Matinee & 7:00pm
Tickets sales via Trybooking.
Ticket prices – Concession (Student or Senior) $18, Adult $25, Family Bundle (Two Adults & Two Concessions) $80.
Mark your diaries now and don't miss this bubbly and rumbling opportunity to watch our talented Indro students in action!
The ISHS P&C Tuckshop will be open during all performances, offering a variety of delicious food and refreshing drinks to enhance your experience. Don't miss the chance to grab a bite while you enjoy the show!
QACI Musical
Get ready to dance, sing, and laugh along with QACI’s sensational production of Mamma Mia! — an unforgettable night of musical theatre magic! Set on a sun-drenched Mediterranean Greek island, Mamma Mia! follows the heartwarming and hilarious story of a young bride-to-be, Sophie, who secretly invites three men from her mother Donna’s past in hopes of discovering which one is her father. What unfolds is a whirlwind of love and relationships, set to ABBA hits like “Dancing Queen,” “Super Trouper,” and of course, “Mamma Mia!” This widely-celebrated musical features a vibrant and energetic performances by an ensemble of talented QACI students that’s sure to leave you smiling and singing all the way home.
Under the expert direction of QACI’s very own theatre experts teachers Brad Jennings and Tony Brockman, with dazzling choreography by Jess Briskie and powerful vocal direction by Ella Macrakonis, this production is a celebration of youth, joy, and theatrical excellence. Produced by Lauren Smith, Mamma Mia! at QACI promises a high-energy, professionally staged experience that will captivate audiences of all ages.
Prior to the start of the musical come and enjoy delicious Mediterranean inspired refreshments provided by the QACI P&C and be sure to dress in your best Mamma Mia! inspired outfit! — it's the perfect way to make your musical night even more special.
Don’t miss out — tickets are selling fast! 4 Performances only!
Tickets $25.00 per person
Performance Times
Thursday 19 June, 6:30pm
Friday 20 June, 6:30pm
Saturday 21 June, 2pm
Saturday 21 June, 6:30pm
Considerations:
Adult Themes, use of theatrical haze.
Tickets are non-refundable and booked within a limited context of availability.
QACI P&C Refreshments will be served from 5:45pm for evening performances and from 1:15pm for the matinee performance in the Level 2 QACI Entrance.
Orienteering Event
On Sunday 22nd June at ANZAC Park Ugly Gully Orienteering Club is hosting "Uncharted Paths: Connect & Explore through Orienteering", a one-of-a-kind event that brings together mothers, daughters, sisters, and best friends for a day of bonding, mindfulness, and adventure in nature. The event is built to incentivize more women to exercise and introduce them to the world of orienteering while having a fun morning altogether.
Event Overview:
This special day offers participants the opportunity to disconnect from their busy lives and reconnect with each other. The event features a combination of yoga & stretching, an orienteering workshop, an engaging scavenger hunt, all accompanied by uplifting music to create the perfect environment for fun and relaxation.
Why Should Your Students Join?
This event is designed to:
- Promote wellness and mindfulness, particularly to women
- Encourage teamwork and connection through nature
- Introduce participants to the exciting world of orienteering
- Provide a fun, family-friendly atmosphere with activities that cater to all ages and fitness levels
We believe your students will enjoy a memorable day, filled with adventure, relaxation, and opportunities to strengthen relationships. Whether they come as a group of friends, family, or colleagues, it’s the perfect way to spend quality time outdoors.
How Can You Get Involved?
We invite you to join us at this special event. Here is the link to get the tickets:
https://events.humanitix.com/uncharted-paths-connect-and-explore-through-orienteering
Are You a Parent of a Child Between 0 to 12 Years Old?
Researchers from the University of Southern Queensland and The University of Queensland, are conducting research into parents’ opinions about parenting and climate change.
If you are a parent (18+ years) of a child aged 0 to 12 years and live in Australia, we would love to hear your views. You will need to complete a short online survey. To find out more or to participate, please visit https://surveys.unisq.edu.au/index.php/526111
This research has been approved by the UniSQ Human Research Ethics Committee (ETH2024-0126)