Letter from The Principal
Over the past week our Ipswich State High School community has been experiencing a very difficult time following the tragic passing of one of our Year 12 students. Our thoughts continue to be with the student's family, friends and all members of our school community who have been affected by this loss. As a result, we made the decision not to publish last week's newsletter as scheduled on Friday 13 March, recognising that it was important to allow our community the time and space to process the events of the week and to focus on supporting our students and staff.
At times like this we are reminded of the strength and compassion that exists within our school community. I would like to thank our staff, students, families and the wider Ipswich community for the care and support that has been shown to one another during this challenging time.
In the midst of these difficult circumstances, I would also like to share some personal news. Over the past year I have had the privilege of serving as Acting Principal of Ipswich State High School, and I am pleased to share that I have now been formally appointed as the permanent Principal. It is an honour to be entrusted with leading such an outstanding school community.
Ipswich State High School has a proud history and a strong reputation for providing high-quality educational opportunities for our students. I feel extremely fortunate to continue this work alongside our dedicated staff, enthusiastic students and supportive families. I would also like to acknowledge the significant contribution of Mr Simon Riley, who served as Principal from 2005 and established strong foundations for the school.
I look forward to continuing to build on these foundations as we work together to support every student to succeed.
Looking Ahead
Upcoming Events
ISHS Cross Country
Our Ipswich State High School Cross Country will be held on Friday 27th March during Period 4, taking place across the school grounds and surrounding footpaths.
Students who would like to participate must complete the permission form via QParents and add their name to the sign up sheet outside the HPE staffroom in A Block by Friday 20th March.
On the day, normal timetabled classes will run for Periods 1 to 3. Students who have submitted their QParents permission and signed up will move to the Dome at the end of second break to prepare for the event. Students who are not participating will attend their regular Period 4 class as normal.
We look forward to seeing our students challenge themselves, show great sportsmanship and get involved in one of our school's key sporting events.
P&C Annual General Meeting
Parents and carers are invited to attend the upcoming Ipswich State High School P&C Annual General Meeting.
Date: Thursday 26th March 2026
Time: 7.30am
Location: Principal's Office, Administration Building
The AGM provides an opportunity for members of our school community to come together and hear updates about the P&C and the work it continues to do in support of Ipswich State High School and our students.
All parents and carers are welcome to attend.
National Close the Gap Day & Harmony Day
On Friday 19th, Ipswich State High School will recognise National Close the Gap Day and Harmony Day. These important days encourage us to reflect on respect, inclusion and understanding, while celebrating the diversity and strength of our school community.
Year 7 Challenge Days Postponed
Students will attend Challenge Day at Walloon State School on Monday 30th March and Tuesday 31st March, departing at 8.30am.
This day is focused on building confidence, resilience and courage as our students step from their comfort zone into their courage zone. We are seeking 100% participation in Year 7.
Any concerns, please contact Mr Waugh at mwaug3@eq.edu.au
SRC & Senior Induction Ceremony postponed
The SRC and Senior Induction Ceremony scheduled for Last Friday, the 13th March, has been postponed until further notice.
Further communication will be sent to families and students shortly to confirm the new date and event details.
School-Based Vaccinations for Year 7 and Year 10 Students
Year 7 and Year 10 students are offered free school-based vaccinations as part of the National Immunisation Program. Clinics will be held on 22nd April 2026 for both year levels, with a follow up clinic for Year 10 students on 30th July 2026. Vaccinations protect young people from serious illnesses and are delivered at school for convenience. Consent forms will be sent home and must be returned, even if you choose not to vaccinate at school. Read more here
Anzac Day Family Portraits
As we prepare for our ANZAC Day Ceremony next term, we are asking our current ISHS students and parents to share their family defence story with us.
See our Deputy, Mrs Penny Worthington. Her submission is the example of what we are seeking.
If you have a family connection to the Air Force, Army or Navy, please send us a photo to be included in our ANZAC Day montage. This could be a photo with your family member, a service photo, or a photo of them in uniform.
Help us honour the service stories within our ISHS community.
Please email photos to:
Kayla Lawson – klaws100@eq.edu.au
Sabrina Goodingham – sgood192@eq.edu.au
Fortnightly Focus
This fortnight our focus is Respect
At Ipswich State High School, respect means looking out for one another and protecting the privacy of our school community.
Students are reminded that taking photos or videos of themselves or others while in school uniform is not permitted. This helps ensure everyone feels safe and respected both at school and online.
By making responsible choices with our phones and social media, we show respect for ourselves, our peers and our school.
Respect and Responsibility guide everything we do at Ipswich State High School, helping every student stay focused on their future, right here, right now.