Newsletter - Term 3, Week 5 2025
Principal's Update
Peter Kuss
Term 3 is always a very busy time with many significant school events taking place. The term began with the highly successful Snow Trip where 42 Year 10 and 11 students and 6 staff travelled to Falls Creek in Victoria for 5 days of skiing or snowboarding. I was lucky enough to be one of the staff and we were extremely impressed with the students’ skills, determination, and resilience. We had some challenging weather but great snow conditions. Everyone came home experiencing a great deal of success on the slopes. A really delightful group of young people to spend the week with.
Koishikawa Study Tour
During week 3 and 4 we hosted another hugely successful study tour for 20 Year 9 Japanese students from Koishikawa Secondary School Study in Tokyo. The study tour was led by Charlotte Franz, Elnora Schmocker and Kate Thorn and we thank them for the countless hours they spent planning and leading this program. Huge thanks also to the large number of teachers who took an enrichment lesson with the Japanese students and to our wonderful homestay families, without them this study tour would not be possible. Our program has received extremely positive feedback from the Koishikawa leaders and staff, so much so, we have been invited back to visit their school in September next year, with an offer of their families once again hosting our students for up to 6 nights. This is a testament to the mutual respect and friendship our schools have established over many years, but particularly during the post covid period. This is extremely exciting news. Information and expression of interest forms for our study Tour to Japan in September 2026 will be available later this term.
Farewell Shane Matei (VET Leader)
Shane Matei has been successful in winning a Program Leader role at the new Technical College at the Heights. Shane begins his new role at the beginning of term 4. Shane has been a teacher and/or leader at GGHS for 15 years. He will be sorely missed but we wish him all the best for this exciting new challenge.
We advertised earlier this term to replace Shane and Casey Roe was the successful applicant. Casey is currently the VET, Student Pathways and Careers Coordinator at Mark Oliphant College and will join GGHS at the start of next term. We are very excited about Casey’s appointment and look forward to welcoming her to our wonderful school.
Welcome Jacqui Romanelli
It is my pleasure to welcome Jacqui Romanelli to the GGHS Wellbeing Team. Jacqui joins us as a Youth Worker. Jacqui with many years of experience working with young people in the juvenile justice system. Jacqui is excited to be working in a school. Her role is totally dedicated to working with young people who are experiencing challenges and need a friendly face and some support. Jacqui can be found in the Hub and is really enjoying meeting and working with our students.
Quadrangle Update
I am so excited seeing this long-term project coming to fruition. In the next school holidays, the remaining 5 shade sails will be removed and replaced with 15 brand new sails in the colours of the recently repainted Dame Roma Mitchell Centre (DRMC). In the Christmas holidays the existing pavers and planter boxes will be removed and replaced with brand new paving and the old metal lockers will be recycled and replaced with brand new green and yellow plastic lockers. The total cost of this project is just over $300,000 and represents great value for money. The transformation of this space will be significant, and the good news is we still have some remaining budget to purchase new furniture and plants. This should all be completed and in place ready for the start of the 2026 school year. Below is an AI render of what the transformation will look like.
Ancillary Week Celebrations
In week 6 we officially celebrated our ancillary staff, a team of over 60 wonderful people. They are the glue holding our school together and make everything run so smoothly. If there is a special ancillary staff member who has made a positive difference in your child’s life, and you would like to say thanks, you can do this anytime by visiting our website, scroll to the bottom on the home page, and click on the tile named “Thank a Staff Member” and tell us why that person deserves recognition for the great work they do every day.
Only a few more days of winter to endure and then we can all begin to enjoy the beautiful spring weather.
Peter Kuss
Principal
Meet GGHS Family
My name is Zak Martin, I am a year 7 maths & science teacher, and our year 7 Sub-School Manager.
I went to Banksia Park International High School, and UNISA to study a Bachelor of Primary Education. I specialised in Maths, and wellbeing, a topic I'm passionate about.
Outside of work, you'll find me doing some type of physical activity, whether that be in a gym, on the footy field or going for a run/ walk. I spend as much of my time as I can on the hunt for a good restaurant, some of my favourites so far include The Hidden Pig, Golden Boy and the Fox n Firkin.
If I could go to dinner with anyone I'd have trouble picking between Ronnie Coleman, Olivia Rodrigo, Mark Hoppus and Ben Wilson. My proudest achievements are; my back-to-back (2022 & 2023) grand final win for North Whyalla Football Club (reserves) and being a Pies fan through their 2023 (and maybe 2025 🤔?) flags.
Senior School
Year 10 News
Program ID
With subject selection day this term, our students have used ID program time on Mondays to identify subjects that lead to a pathway beyond school. Discussions with Grove teachers have provided our young people an opportunity to reflect on their achievement from first semester, set goals for the current semester and plan a pathway that links with their future. This is a great time for parents/caregivers to discuss this information with your child and support them with their direction both through and post school. Support is available through the Grove Teacher, Sub-school leaders and other specialist such as Shane Matei – VET leader, Linda DeBoer – Careers, and Simon Illingworth – Career Strategy leader.
In the first lesson of Program ID this term, the Year 10 UNO championship got underway. Games will be played in ID lessons in week 1/6 and in addition to this there will also be a mystery round where double points can be scored. The grand final will take place in week 10, where one person from each Grove will play off against each other for the title of the 'Year 10 UNO champion'. Hopefully this will add a bit of fun to the term ahead and encourage students to attend HG and have the opportunity to score points and win some prizes.
It is important for students to attend these lessons and arrive to school on time at the start of each day. Grove time is used to share important information with students and participate in our week-to-week challenges.
Grove Time Quiz – Winner
In Term 2 our students took part in a weekly challenge to generate a bit of friendly competition between our different Groves. Each week a ‘minute to win it’ challenge was provided, points were scored and a weekly ladder generated.
Congratulations to 1004 who ran out comfortable winners and they enjoyed a well-earned pizza party.
Tim Potter
Year 10 Sub-school Leader
Celebration Assembly – Term 3
In week 3 we held our termly celebration assembly for the Year 10 students. During this assembly we celebrated several things from Term 2 such as Academic achievement, Positive Behaviour Points, 100% attendance, school sport and subject awards.
Positive Behaviour Points are awarded when students demonstrate a behaviour linked to a school value in the classroom or in the yard. They can also be awarded for being on time and prepared for all lessons and anything positive that occurs in the classroom or around the school.
Congratulations to the students who earned the most points, pictured below.
PAFC – Power to end power against women and empowered program.
In week 2 the Year 10’s participated in the Power to End Violence Against Women & Empowered programs which are primary prevention programs developed to raise awareness around the issue of violence against women and promote respectful relationships to young men and women across schools in South Australia. We were lucky enough to have players from both the men’s and women’s teams to speak with the students and touch on some important topics of conversation in this space.
Year 10 Leadership Day - PAFC
On Thursday of week 4 we took 8 students down to Port Adelaide Football Club for the Leadership Day, which was a follow on to the program delivered @ GGHS in week 2. The sun was shining, and students were given the opportunity to meet AFL/AFLW players. Hopefully these young people can take away a few things they heard/learnt on the day and put it into action. Leadership is not about a badge, it's about 'doing' and activating change in the community. These young people all have the capacity to do this, and I was impressed with how they participated on the day.
Middle School
Celebrating Middle School Excellence
Over the first few weeks of this term, our school community came together to celebrate the outstanding efforts and achievements of our Middle School students. Across our Year 7, 8 and 9 celebration assemblies, we proudly recognised the hard work, determination, and commitment shown throughout Semester 1.
As well as celebrating academic achievement, we were thrilled to acknowledge students who have demonstrated excellent attendance, a consistently positive approach to their learning and behaviour, and outstanding sporting accomplishments. Whether representing our school in competitions, showing great sportsmanship, or achieving personal bests, these students have showcased the value of dedication and teamwork.
Each award recipient has demonstrated what it means to live our school values of pride, respect, equality, integrity, and resilience, whether through success in the classroom, contributions to our community, or accomplishments on the sports field.
Following the assemblies, we hosted our Middle School Celebration Morning Tea - a special event for students who achieved an impressive Grade Point Average (GPA) of 13 or above. This was more than just a well-earned treat; it was a chance for high-achieving students to share their learning journeys and connect with peers who share a strong commitment to academic excellence.
Events like these remind us that success isn’t just about results. It’s about effort, perseverance, and making the most of every opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive. Congratulations once again to all of our award recipients. We look forward to seeing what you achieve next!
Kirsty Ujhelyi
Assistant Principal for Middle School
Finance
Reminder to families: Final notices were sent out at the beginning of August to finalise Material and Services charges for 2025. If you believe you may be eligible for a School Card (a government scheme to assist low-income families or those experiencing hardship), it is not too late to apply. Please click here for more information or contact our finance team for assistance.
Semester 2 subject invoices were sent out in mid-August, and payment is due by October 31, 2025.
The preferred method of payment is via the QKR! App. Alternatively, payments can be made by calling or visiting the finance window between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm.
Discovery Centre
This term has been full of growth, achievement, and new opportunities in the Discovery Centre. Students have been developing their skills, building independence, and working together in meaningful ways.
🌱 Horticulture – Growing Skills and Confidence
Our senior students have made an excellent start to their Certificate I in Horticulture. It has been wonderful to see them looking so grown up and professional in their work gear as they learn practical skills for the future. Their enthusiasm and commitment are setting a strong foundation for further success.
🍪 Graze / Catering – Cooking Up Success
The Graze/Catering group has been hard at work in the kitchen, producing biscuits and cookies in large numbers for the upcoming football showdown and show bags. This real-world experience is giving students a taste of catering at scale, while also building teamwork and organisation skills.
♻️ Sustainability – Sharing Knowledge
Our Sustainability group has been working closely with mainstream classes, passing on their skills and knowledge about recycling, gardening, and caring for the environment. It has been inspiring to see them step into leadership roles and make a positive impact across the school community.
🚌 Community Access – Building Independence
Groups 3 and 4 are growing in maturity as they explore and develop important life skills during Community Access. Their experiences travelling around Adelaide, visiting workplaces, and engaging with the wider community are broadening their understanding of the world and preparing them for greater independence in adult life.
💙 Group 5 – A Strong and Supportive Team
This term, Group 5 has welcomed Mike back to the Discovery Centre, joining Toula and the dedicated team of teachers and SSOs. Together, they make a caring and professional team, focused on developing students’ personal skills, resilience, and participation in school life. With extra swimming sessions, regular community access, and the tireless support of staff, students have achieved astonishing results and shown wonderful growth this term.
📅 What’s Coming Up
We have more exciting things planned for the rest of the term, providing students with rich opportunities to learn beyond the classroom. Highlights include:
- Football Showdown in Week 8 – where our Graze/Catering students’ baked goods will feature in the show bags.
We are excited to see students continue to participate, contribute, and enjoy these experiences.
✨ Looking Ahead
There have been many gains and hopes for the future this term, especially for our seniors as they prepare for adult life. Their growing independence, confidence, and practical experience show us just how capable they are. We are very proud of all our students and look forward to seeing what next term will bring.
Cherie Dawkins
Discovery Centre Leader
Tailored Learning
In a recent meeting with the Tea Tree Gully Council, Aiden and Ayla played a key role in shaping the draft goals of the new Community Action Plan. Bringing the perspectives of young people to the table, they provided extensive and thoughtful feedback on what the community truly needs and wants.Aiden and Ayla highlighted important issues impacting youths, including better employment education, safety, mental health support, and opportunities for skill development. Their insights helped council members understand how to create a more inclusive and supportive environment for all ages.
The council expressed appreciation for their contributions, noting that involving young voices is essential to building a vibrant and connected community. This collaboration marks a positive step toward ensuring that the Community Action Plan reflects the hopes and needs of all young people.
Patricia Lambert
Tailored Learning Program Teacher
Sport
School Sport Australia Games 2025
GGHS students Peyton, Chelsea, Annelise and Mia pictured in action, proudly representing South Australia at the School Sport Australia Girls 15 Years & Under Championship in Moreton Bay.
A special congratulations to Mia, who was selected by her teammates to take on the role of vice-captain, and to Olivia, who earned a spot in the squad of 30 as an emergency, an impressive achievement as a bottom-age player.
The SA side now set for an almighty clash against NSW, with a bronze medal on the line. Best of luck to the team as they fight hard to bring it home!
School Life
Year 7 Planting Day
As part of our ongoing commitment to the plants and animals of Kaurna Country, all our Year 7 students were invited to plant a flowering native shrub, grass or ground cover amongst the trees in garden beds throughout our school.
It was a wild and wonderful day, filled with leadership of some year 8 and 9 students, and positive energy and pride from our year 7 Groves.
709 won a bag of Smarties for being the most collaborative, planting the most successfully, and being the best at recording their learning about the native plants on their tree guards.
We hope their efforts bring back the butterflies and birds like the icilius blue butterfly and superb fairy wren to Golden Grove High School!
Laura Carrington
Sustainability Coordinator
Faculty
Mathematics
On Wednesday 13th August, 18 of our students participated in a Mathematics Quiz Night, competing against other high schools in the area.
Our Year 10 boys emerged victorious, while the other teams narrowly missed out on top positions. All participants demonstrated exceptional teamwork and problem-solving skills across a range of mathematical concepts.
Congratulations to the following students for their outstanding efforts and for representing Golden Grove High School at the 2025 MASA Quiz Night. Well done!
Dani Martin
Mathematics Leader
Year 10 Active Citizenship Convention
On Wednesday this week, our whole Year 10 Law and Society Class had the opportunity to attend the South Australian Active Citizenship Convention with the theme Our Voice / Our Impact. We had an amazing day, meeting students from all over the state with some having made an 8-hour drive to be there. Students participated in a range of workshops looking at democratic decision-making processes, leadership and how to actively participate in our local, state and national community. We met Tony Armstrong, spoke to Blair Boyer, saw Dem Mob perform live and voted in an election run by the South Australian Electoral Commission. Our students were amazing! They actively contributed to the massive group discussions and went out of their way to meet new people and form new connections.
Chantel Lee
Humanities and English Teacher
Science Week
Golden Grove High School has just wrapped up an extraordinary Science Week, filled with curiosity, creativity, and plenty of fun!
Our themed Grove Quizzes were a highlight of the week, bringing out the inner scientist in students across all year levels. Congratulations to 1204 for taking out Tuesday’s Biology quiz, 703 for triumphing in Wednesday’s Psychology/Nutrition quiz, and 1010 for securing victory in Thursday’s Physics/Chemistry quiz.
Each competition was closely contested, and we thank all Groves for their enthusiastic participation. Even the staff got in on the action with their own quiz! Beyond the quizzes, students engaged in a range of hands-on science activities. From whipping up sherbet and slime to immersing themselves in the natural world with David Attenborough screenings, the week offered something for everyone to enjoy. A special highlight was when four Year 8 classes attended a fascinating presentation on dark matter, delivered by the Dark Matter Road Trip team — an experience that inspired plenty of big questions about Physics.
A heartfelt thank you goes to all staff, students, and helpers who contributed to making Science Week such a memorable celebration of discovery. The excitement and energy shared throughout the week truly reflected the spirit of science at Golden Grove High School.
Steph Sunter
Science Leader
¡Bailamos! Let’s dance!
Our Year 8–11 Spanish students stepped outside their comfort zones and into the vibrant world of Latin music, dance, history, and culture with visiting teachers from Cuba, El Salvador, and Colombia. With energy and open minds, they gave it their all—whether it was warming up to the rhythm of Merengue, shaking it out Reggaeton-style to Shakira’s “Hips Don’t Lie”, mastering Salsa timing with the clave and its paso básico (1, 2, 3… 5, 6, 7), moving with the smooth flow of Bachata from the Dominican Republic, or exploring the powerful traditions of Afro-Cuban Orisha dances.
What shone through most was their willingness to embrace something many had never experienced before—taking risks, having fun, and celebrating culture through movement.
Señorita Carrington
Spanish teacher
Spring Carnival
Spring Carnival – Tuesday 23rd September Week 10
We’re excited to announce that our annual Spring Carnival will be held on Tuesday 23rd September Week 10! This is a wonderful opportunity for our school community to come together to celebrate the end of term with fun, food, and festivity.
Event Details:
Cost: $20 per student- Includes lunch, popcorn, fairy floss and unlimited rides and activities Date: Tuesday 23rd September Location: Golden Grove High School Time: 9am- 3pm Participation: Year 7- Year 10
Our spring carnival will feature:
- Arcade
- Inflatables
- Water games
- Raffles and prizes
- Snacks and drinks available for purchase at the canteen
- And much much more!
We encourage early payment to help with catering and planning of $20 which covers delicious lunch and a fun-filled day.
We would also recommend students to bring spare clothes if participating in the water games!
We look forward to seeing you there!
Student leadership team
Wellbeing
Bullying No Way! Week at Golden Grove High School
Golden Grove High School proudly joined the National Week of Action Against Bullying and Violence with three days of meaningful celebrations under the theme Be Bold. Be Kind. Speak Up.
- Be Bold – Badge Making
Students had the opportunity to design and create their very own Be Bold badges, encouraging everyone to show courage in standing up for themselves and others. - Be Kind – Kindness Bingo
Our community came together to spread positivity through Kindness Bingo. - Speak Up – Chain Pledge
To finish the week, students participated in the Speak Up Chain Pledge. Each pledge formed a link in a paper chain, symbolising our collective commitment to stand against bullying and support one another.
These celebrations highlighted our school’s ongoing dedication to building a safe, respectful and supportive community for all.
Old Scholars Association
Register Now!
Download The Compass App!
Have you downloaded the Compass app yet?
Easily accessible from your app store, the Compass parent portal app is the ultimate tool for parents and caregivers. It connects you directly to your child's learning, assessment and timetable. This is also where you can read all about the positive behaviour Chronicles their teachers have awarded them. It is also a useful portal to check our calendar, report on any absences or communicate with your child's teachers.
Using the app you can stay in the loop as we will often send push notifications to your phone for daily updates and reminders.