Welcome to

FERNY GROVE

STATE HIGH SCHOOL

International Student Information Booklet

Student Name: ____________________________

Buddy Name: __________________ Buddy Mobile: ____________

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McGinn Road, Ferny Grove 4055 TEL: (07) 3550 5777

FAX: (07) 3550 5700

INTERNATIONAL STUDENT PROGRAM TEAM

Head of Department International Programs

Fi Hudghton TEL: (07) 3550 5785

International Student Program Manager

Karen Magnussen TEL: 0484 635 953

International Student Coordinator

Murray Belkin TEL: 0484 265 580

Homestay Coordinator

Ana Lagazzi Baggio TEL: 0401 808 924

PRINCIPAL

Executive Principal

Mr Mark Breckenridge

DEPUTY PRINCIPALS

Satwant Padhy (Years 7 & 10)

Scott Shorten (Years 8 & 9)

Maree Schuh (Year 11)

Garrath McPherson (Year 12)

FERNY GROVE STATE HIGH SCHOOL

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“Always Aim High”

Ferny Grove State High School is located in a

beautiful bush land setting in the suburb of Ferny

Grove, just 12 km from the center of Brisbane. The

area is well serviced by both train and bus lines. First

established in 1980, the school has developed a

reputation for the provision of excellence in

educational opportunities across spheres of

academic studies, sporting, cultural and citizenship.

While the school population has grown to over 1800

students it has retained its ability to treat each

student as an individual who is encouraged and

supported to “Always Aim High”. The school has a

positive reputation within the community and is

acknowledged as one of the most respected State

High Schools in Queensland.

The German Immersion Program, Information

Communication Technologies, Greater Brisbane

Schools Sporting Membership, Agricultural Science

and Instrumental and Vocal Music Programs are

distinctive features of the school. These programs

expand on the extensive formal curriculum and

extracurricular programs offered.

Students participate in – Swimming Carnival, Athletics

Carnivals, regular inter-school sport competitions,

debating, drama performances, musical concerts,

competitions in Mathematics, English and Languages

and exchanges to Germany and Malaysia.

Our greatest successes and fondest memories are not

of the buildings but of the students who have passed

through the gates since 1980. Collectively, they have

accounted for outstanding successes on the sporting

field, in professional and trade careers, in musical and

dramatic performances and in citizenship.

Individually, many have come to the public’s

attention for outstanding performance in their

chosen field.

FERNY GROVE STATE HIGH SCHOOL

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Welcome to Ferny Grove State High School. Our

school is a vibrant and exciting place where all our

students are encouraged to “always aim high”.

Students are provided with opportunities to achieve

their personal best across the areas of academic,

sporting, cultural and citizenship development. We

have a clear vision with strong values which are

embedded in all aspects of our learning. We seek to

provide a supportive environment where students,

staff and parents respect the roles that each

contributes to the development of tomorrow’s

leaders.

Our diverse curriculum is designed to provide

opportunities for all students to pursue their interests

and gain a strong foundation for further study or

preparedness for the world of work. There is a focus

on the integration of information technology across

the curriculum. Resources are maintained to

maximize these opportunities.

The school is recognized for offering distinctive

opportunities in Languages study, Agricultural

Science, Technology, Instrumental and Vocal Music

and Sports. Extension opportunities are provided for

students across all curriculum areas as well as

through an extensive range of co-curricular activities.

We are fortunate in that we have highly qualified and

experienced teaching staffs who works

conscientiously with students to achieve their best.

Student results are consistently of a high standard.

Partnerships exist with Universities, Technical and

Further Education Institutions and Employers which

maximize the opportunities available for our students.

Our relationship with our local community is

important and opportunities to be involved with our

community are valued.

I trust that you enjoy reading about our great school

and the diversity of opportunities available to all the

students of Ferny Grove State High School.

Mark Breckenridge – Executive Principal

Ferny Grove State High School

FROM THE EXECUTIVE PRINCIPAL

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Year 11 and Year 12 students attend before school classes and on Wednesdays there are tutorials. International students are required to attend these tutorial sessions (all day) on Wednesdays.

On Wednesday afternoon, Year 7 and 8 students are involved in interschool sport in which they compete in a variety of sports against other schools in the region.

Monday Tuesday Wednesday Thursday Friday

Years 11 and Year 12

only Before School 8:00 – 9:10 8:00 – 9:10 8:00 – 9:10

All stu

den

ts

Form 9:10 – 9:20 9:10 – 9:20 8:45 – 8:55 9:10 – 9:20 9:10 – 9:20

Period 1 9:20 – 10:30 9:20 – 10:30 8:55 - 10:05 9:20 – 10:30 9:20 – 10:30

Morning tea 10:30 – 11:00 10:30 – 11:00 10:05 – 10:35 10:30 – 11:00 10:30– 11:00

Period 2 11:00 – 12:10 11:00 – 12:10 10:35 – 11:45 11:00 – 12:10 11:00 – 12:10

Period 3 12:10 – 1:20 12:10 – 1:20 11:45 – 12:55 12:10 – 1:20 12:10 – 1:20

Lunch 1:20 – 2:00 1:20 – 2:00 12:55 – 1:35 1:20 – 2:00 1:20 – 2:00

Period 4 2:00 – 3:10 2:00 – 3:10 1:35 – 2:45 2:00 – 3:10 2:00 – 3:10

BELL TIMES

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FERNY GROVE STATE HIGH SCHOOL MAP

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The purpose of the Student Support Services is to assist young people facing a range of barriers to learning to achieve their educational and developmental potential through the provision of a range of strategies and

specialised support at individual, group, school and network levels.

Guidance Officers Maree Peppin

Personal, educational and career counselling

Emotional, wellbeing , physical and mental health

Tertiary and alternative pathways

Relationship issues, family concerns

Study skills, time management skills

Child safety concerns

Referral to external agencies when required

Youth Health Nurse Paula Hale

Available for individual health consultations for young people, carers and school staff

Support with health-related issues

Provides health information, advice and referral to appropriate community and health agencies

Chaplains Sam Green

Pastoral care and support for students

Enhance their personal wellbeing (voluntary participation)

Enhance their spiritual wellbeing (voluntary participation) Joey Judge

Defence Transition Mentor Jackie Shiel

Transition for Defence students and their families

Support and assist Defence students to integrate into the school community

Provide advocacy and negotiation support

Provide information and appropriate referral to support services

Act as a link between home and school

Vocational Education Coordinator Donna Manley

School-based traineeships I apprenticeships

Work experience

Certificate courses (TAFE or private provider)

Assist with resume writing , application letters, interview tips

STUDENT SUPPORT

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' Year Level

Coordinator

Year coordination

Orientation of new students

Work for students on leave or unable to attend school

Uniform and truancy issues

Form Teacher Student social and emotional wellbeing and attendance

Head Of Department/s

Specific Subject Areas Subject specific education, learning, behaviour issues

and concerns

Junior Secondary (Years 7 - 9)

Curricular issues: scaffolding, study, individual learning

programs

Senior Secondary (Years 10 to 12)

Queensland Core Skills Test

Queensland Curriculum & Assessment Authority

requirements

Vocational Education and Training pathways

Academic outcomes

Special provision

Head of Special Education Services

Students with a verified diagnosis : Educational Adjustment Profile, Individual

Education Plan, Individual Curriculum Plan

Learning Support - students with appraised learning difficulties requiring support

and/or individual curriculum plans

Closing the Gap (tutors of Indigenous students)

Deputy Principals

Discipline

Student welfare

Academic outcomes

Executive Principal

Discipline

Student welfare

Academic outcomes

STUDENT SUPPORT

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Most people outside Australia do not realise the extreme dangers posed by the Australian sun, especially in Queensland. This includes skin cancer, sunburn, dehydration and heat-related illnesses. Please be sun safe by

following these steps: • Minimise your time in the sun between 10am and 3pm. • Seek shade and avoid direct sun where possible. • Wear suitable clothing that protects you from the sun including UV protective sunglasses. • Choose a broad-brim, legionnaire-style or bucket hat which will protect your face, neck and ears. • Apply SPF 30+ water resistant sunscreen 20 minutes before you go out into the sun. • Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

Keep hydrated by drinking plenty of water.

If there is an emergency at school, an alarm will signal the type of emergency. Students will then be told what action to undertake as directed by their teacher.

Fire Drill and Evacuation Procedure • A loud easily distinguishable alarm sound including the words “Evacuate” will be heard across the school. • A staff member will also announce over the school intercom that school is undergoing an ‘Evacuation’. • Leaving all books & equipment, students will walk to the nearest evacuation area or designated evacuation

spot as defined by the staff member. • Students then will sit in the evacuation area while the teacher marks the roll. • Once the ‘All Clear’ signal is given, students can return to their classrooms/activity.

Lock Down Procedure • A loud easily distinguishable alarm sound including the words “Lock Down” will be heard across the school. • If students are in the classroom, the staff member will get students to sit on the floor away from the

windows and doors. • Doors and windows will be locked, lights turned off and curtains drawn. • Students will be requested to remain quiet and out of sight until the ‘All Clear’ signal is given. • If students are outside the classroom, students will proceed to the nearest permanent building contained a

staffroom. • No student should remain in a room without a teacher in attendance. • Once the ‘All Clear’ signal is given, students can return to their classrooms/activity.

SUN SMART POLICY

Did you know?

Australia has the highest rate of skin cancer in the world?

EVACUATION, FIRE and LOCK DOWN PROCEDURES

Emergency outside school?

In an emergency outside school dial

000 any time day or night for Fire,

Police and Ambulance.

The operator will ask you: the town

(Brisbane) and State (Queensland) you

are calling from.

Wait to be connected and calmly

explain the situation to the operator.

EMERGENCY EVACUATION PLAN

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Assessment includes any assignment, exam, practical, oral, individual or group presentation that is a measure of

student’s performance.

Ferny Grove State High School wishes to ensure fairness and equity is maintained across the school and support

students to achieve to the best of their ability.

If English is your second language (ESL students), special provisions may be needed to ensure equitable

assessment practices. This can provide ESL students with the opportunity to demonstrate the extent and depth of

their learning. These should enable students to have the opportunity to achieve success and produce the best

work they are capable of. You may receive:

• Additional time to complete assignments (one week with discussion with your teacher).

• Additional time to read, translate and formulate responses to test questions

• Assessment instructions that have been adapted in all listening/viewing assessment activities.

• This may include repetition of instructions, opportunity to preview listening/viewing question forms, multiple

opportunities to hear/view the text.

• Bilingual dictionaries for use during an assessment task.

• Special vocabulary lists.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY – ASSESSMENT

Assessment Due? Follow these key steps to help you complete your assessment on time and to the best of your ability.

• Record assessment due dates in semester planners included in their Study Planner.

• Ensure all assessment tasks submitted are the original work of the student.

• Use allocated in-class time effectively to begin assessment tasks and to receive feedback on drafts.

• Present a rough draft to teachers for each assignment before the due date (if applicable).

• Submit assignments on the due date

• Plan ahead for assessment tasks. Excursions, camps, and sporting activities are not legitimate reasons for applying for

extensions.

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Students are notified of exams for each of their subjects through the assessment calendar at the beginning of

each term/semester. As students are given notice when exams are scheduled, they should avoid all

appointments/absences that clash with exam dates.

Exam block (a formally constructed exam timetable) will be used for Years 11 at the end of semester one and two,

and each term for Year 12. Exam schedules are emailed to all parents and students prior to the exam block. All

other examinations for each year level will be held in class time.

In preparation for the exam, ensure you are prepared ready to achieve your best. Some of the protocols when

sitting an exam include:

• Have the correct materials needed to complete the exam.

• Follow the instructions of the exam supervisor without question;

• Communication with other students is not permitted;

• Actions leading to ‘cheating’ or suspected cheating are not permitted.

• Raise your hand and wait silently if they need assistance;

• No form of personal media/electronic device is to be used;

• If a calculator is required, it must be a dedicated calculator;

Any violation of these conditions may result in the cancellation of the result for that examination.

Away for an Assessment? If you are absent on the due date, you can submit the assessment prior to the due date or submit a copy by electronic means (email).

If you can’t submit it before the due date or via email, present the assignment to the class teacher at the beginning of the first day you

return to school with appropriate documentation.

Usually an extension will only be granted of genuine illness or exceptional circumstances.

If you are going to submit a piece of work late, you must complete an extension form and give it to the Head of Department before the

due date.

The application should be supported with appropriate documentary evidence, such as a medical certificate or a note from a

parent/guardian with a legitimate reason.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY – ASSESSMENT

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• It is a condition of your visa that you attend school every day unless you are sick. • Medical certificates (from the doctor) must be provided to the school. The school keeps records of your

attendance. • If you are absent for two-three days in a term, you will be requested to attend an interview with a member

of the International Student team. • If you are absent for four-five days, you will be issued a warning letter and have a meeting arranged with the

Head of the International Student team, the Guidance Officer or the Principal. • If you are absent for seven-eight days, you will be issued with a second warning letter and this will be

reported to the Director, International Student Programs, Education Queensland International. • Your form teacher will mark attendance at the beginning of your form class. • Additionally, your classroom teacher will also mark attendance during each lesson.

Academic Progress • Your attendance can have a major impact on your academic progress. • You will be expected to maintain satisfactory progress in all subjects as part of your VISA conditions. • A failing grade (D or less) will result in a warning letter and an interview with the Principal. • If your results do not improve and you still obtain unsatisfactory progress, this will result in the Director, International Student Programs, Education Queensland International being notified.

STUDENT RESPONSIBILITY – ATTENDANCE

Going to be absent? • Ask your homestay parent/guardian to telephone the school absence line on 3550 5760 and leave your full

name, form class and reason for your absence.

• Bring a note the next day you return to school (or medical certificate from the doctor) signed by your

homestay parent/guardian explaining why you were absent.

• Give this note to your form teacher at the beginning of the lesson.

Any further questions? Here is a link to the Education Queensland International Terms and Conditions. This provides further information on

your responsibilities as an International Student.

http://eqi.com.au/PDFs/eqi-standard-terms-and-conditions.pdf

In order to be enrolled in a school or stay in Australia, you must have a current VISA.

All international students must meet important VISA conditions.

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Lesson Timetable

• One of the members of the International Student team will explain how to read your timetable.

• It is important you ask your teachers if there is anything you need clarification with.

School Reports

• As an international student, at the end of each term you will receive a School Report.

• Your parents, agents and you will obtain a report.

Textbooks

• Should you require any textbooks for your subject, the cost of hiring these books has been included as

part of your school fees.

• If you have any textbooks, you must return these on completion of your enrolment in good condition.

• Otherwise, you may have to pay the cost of these textbooks if they are in poor condition.

Excursions, camps and trips

• As an international student, you will not have to pay for compulsory excursions, camps or trips.

• However, you may have to pay for the excursion, trip or camp if the travel is optional and not a

compulsory part of your academic program.

School Internet Use

• As a requirement of your enrolment, you must sign an Internet Access Agreement Contract.

• This will enable you to use the school’s facilities in a responsible and safe manner.

• If you misuse any of the digital equipment your access to such technology will be withdrawn.

• Students are only permitted to use the internet for educational purposes.

• It is important to check your school email on a regular basis as staff will communicate important matters

and information to you

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – SCHOOL

Do you have a Mobile Phone? Having a mobile phone at school is your responsibility. It is

important you keep your valuables safe at all times.

Make sure you have your phone fully charged, always have

credit on your phone and if you need to make an urgent call at

school, come and see the International Students Team in their

office.

You should not have your phone turned on or visible at school,

not answer, make call or text during school hours or leave your

phone unattended in your school bag.

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Smoking

• You must comply with Australian laws and school and EQI rules and not smoke.

Driving

• You may only drive a vehicle if you obtain a driver’s licence and you get permission from your parents or

legal custodians.

• If you hold a learner’s licence, you may, with permission from your parents or legal custodians, get

lessons from a professional driving instructor.

Bicycles

• You must wear a helmet if you are riding a bicycle (otherwise you will be fined).

Drugs and Alcohol

• You must comply with Australian laws and school and

EQI rules and not drink alcohol or use illegal drugs.

Work

• You are permitted to work; however, it must not

impact on your school participation or results.

• If you are in year 8, 9 or 10, you must work in

accordance with the Queensland Child Employment

Regulation 2006

• It is strongly encouraged to not to apply for work until

you are settled with school and living in Australia.

I arrive late to school…

• Report to the office with a note from your homestay

parents/guardians for a late slip.

• This late slip must be presented to your classroom

teacher upon arrival.

I am absent for part of the day…

• If you are arriving late or leaving early from school,

you must have a note from your homestay parents/guardians.

• This note must request the time you would like to leave school early or the time in which you arrived late

to school.

• This note must be presented to the office at the beginning of the day or at your arrival to school

I have lost or misplaced something at school…

• Check with the classroom teacher as to whether anything has been handed in.

• If nothing has been handed in, check with Luana at the office or with your Year Level Coordinator.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – SCHOOL

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I am not feeling well…

• In class, inform your teacher who will give you a note to report to First Aid in the office.

• If you are outside, speak to the teacher on duty and they will direct you to First Aid.

• In cases of serious injury, have someone notify the office immediately and they will make suitable

arrangements for you.

I need to see a member of staff…

• Make an appointment at Student Services or with the specific staff teacher.

I am not wearing the correct school uniform…

• If you are wearing an item of clothing that is not part of the student uniform, you should bring in a note

from your homestay parents/guardians.

• Present this note to your form teacher who will then issue you with a pink slip.

I need to make a payment to the school…

• All payments must be made to the office at either

before school, recess, lunchtime or at the completion

of the school day.

I am having issues with my laptop…

• You must go to I.T. at either recess or lunchtime.

I want to go out with friends on the weekend…

• The school, Education Queensland International and

DIBP must know your contact details at all times.

• You must inform your homestay and always leave a contact number if you are going out.

• Changes of address and holiday plans must be checked by the school, Education Queensland International

and the DIBP.

Curfew times: Sunday to Thursday Friday and Saturday

Year 7 to 10 – 6pm Year 7 to 10 - 9:30pm

Year 11 & 12 – 7pm Year 11 & 12 – 10:30pm

(unless for a school-approved activity)

I am having a problem or difficulty with something…

• If you don’t understand something, get advice quickly so it does not become a big problem.

• Remember, the International Students Team are here to help you in any way we can so you have a

fantastic and beneficial experience here at Ferny Grove State High School.

Don’t forget if you want to use public transport in Brisbane, purchase a ‘Go Card’.

Top it up with money and don’t forget to tap on and off after each journey.

These cards can be brought from rail stations, fare machines at busway stations or at 7-Eleven.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – SCHOOL

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It is expected that you your homestay family will warmly welcome you in a friendly and supportive manner. It is also expected you will be an active and involved member of their family.

Living with an Australian Family

This is a fantastic opportunity for you to experience a different culture,

customs and etiquette living with an Australian family.

• It is also an excellent opportunity to practise and improve your language

understanding and English speaking skills.

• Your homestay will provide you with a bedroom where you can store

your belongings and an area for you to study.

• You will have access to the remainder of the home, including kitchen,

laundry and living areas.

• Your homestay will discuss important matters with you such as

chores/tasks and meal times.

• It is expected all household members help out at home.

Some tasks may include helping with washing/ironing, cleaning rooms in

the house and food preparation.

Let your homestay know if there are certain foods you like or dislike so they have some idea of what to buy when shopping for groceries.

Australian Food and Meals

It is important you start each day with a healthy breakfast. Make sure

you wake up early enough to eat breakfast before leaving for school.

Students should take lunch from home or they can buy it from the school

canteen.

Dinner is usually the largest meal of the day and shared. This is a great

time to get to know your homestay family/guardians.

Australian families eat a wide variety of food, and this may require an

adjustment to your usual diet.

You may wish to go grocery shopping with your homestay

parents/guardians and choose some food you like to eat.

One of the activities you may like to do during your homestay is to cook

food from your country to share with them.

Please avoid spending all of your time at your computer or in your room. Make the effort to get to know your family.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – HOMESTAY

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – HOMESTAY

Manners in Australia

Your family has received information about you and your culture,

and is always interested to learn more about you and your

country.

Manners are very important in Australian culture.

Please ensure you are polite in your dealings with your homestay

and teachers.

Homestay accommodation provides a safe and supportive

environment while you are studying in Australia.

Be patient in your early days in your homestay as you try and

settle as quickly as possible.

Bathrooms and Toilets

Australian families do not like to waste water, and some families

may limit the amount of water use in the household.

When Australians bathe, they usually do so in the shower or

bath, so water does not splash on the floor.

Your homestay will discuss how to use the shower, and provide

you with towels.

You will need to buy your own soap, shampoo, toothpaste and

other personal toiletry items.

It is expected that you your homestay family will warmly welcome you in a friendly and supportive manner. It is also expected you will be an active and involved member of their family.

Keeping your host family informed.

It is very important that if you are going out, that you let your

homestay know.

You must communicate with them where you are going, what

you are doing, what time you will be home and a number to

contact you on.

This is to ensure your safety and wellbeing in case you have any

problems or issues

If you are having any difficulties, it is important you communicate

this with your homestay.

If you spend most of your time in your room with the door

closed, the homestay may think you are unhappy or do not like

them.

Make the effort to spend some time each day with the homestay

family/guardians and tell them a bit about your home, family or

culture.

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IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – HOMESTAY

It’s normal to feel nervous meeting your host family for the first time. Talking to them about any worries or questions will help you.

Some other advice…

Consider the family you are living with as they are responsible for

you and your wellbeing.

Please contact your homestay family and let them know if you

are going to be home late on evenings.

It is polite to let your homestay family know if you will not be

home for meals.

It is also polite to ask your homestay family if you can help with

household tasks.

Please give your homestay family your mobile phone number.

When you are not home with your homestay family, your mobile

must be on at all times (excluding school time).

Make sure you keep your bedroom neat and tidy as well as the bathroom. Make sure you pick up all your towels and belongings.

Etiquette in Australia.

Find out if you need to ask before making any telephone calls.

If making a call from your homestay’s phone, keep it short, as

talking on their phone for a long time is impolite, expensive and

not acceptable.

Do not use the internet all night, as this can also be quite

expensive.

If you’re allowed to use the family’s computer and internet, be

polite and ask before using it.

Restrictions will be put in place if you abuse your internet usage.

Students should not use any phones late at night, as it can disrupt

other members of the household.

As a general rule, do not take food into bedrooms or eat on

couches unless given permission.

Permission to travel/stay at other accommodation.

If you wish to travel within Australia, go home for the holidays or

stay overnight at a friend’s house, you must complete a Travel

and Activities Form.

The Travel and Activities Form is available from our Homestay

Coordinator or you can find it on the EQI website.

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• If you are not confident speaking English, there are a number of ways you can still communicate. • You could use Google Translate, draw pictures, use hand gestures or ask another student to interpret for

you. • Please remember the International team at Ferny Grove State High School are

always willing to assist you at any time. • An adjustment period is very normal and during the initial stages you may

experience some ‘culture shock’. • This may include poor sleep, issues with food, illness, homesickness, loneliness,

boredom, isolation, hostility and withdrawal. • Do not worry if you experience culture shock! There is lots of support available

to support you as you adjust to a new life in Australia. • Some of the things that may help you adjust are:

o to talk to your host family or contact home o meet with the International Student Team and/or Guidance Officer, o meet you people and find out what there is to see/do o talk to other International students.

Here are some helpful questions to ask during your homestay:

Here are some helpful tips on how to communicate in Australia:

What would you like me to call you?

What do you expect me to do daily/would you like me to help with chores?

Where do I put my dirty washing?

Can I use the washing machine to do my own washing or iron at any time?

Can I help myself to food and drink at any time?

Are there any ‘private’ areas in the house?

Can I move my bedroom furniture around if I wish?

Is there a special getting up time during the week/on weekends?

Is there a bedtime?

What are the rules for using the telephone/computer?

What time am I expected home on the weekends?

Can I use the household appliances when I wish?

When and how loud can I play music?

What are the procedures with keys, access and security?

How do use the appliances?

Talking politely: • Excuse me (before you do or ask something) • Sorry (to apologise) • Thankyou (to express gratitude) • May I please have… (when asking for something) Offering to help or do something: • Do you mind if I…? • May I…? • Would you like me to…? Asking for help: • Excuse me, can you help me…? • Excuse me, could you explain…? • Excuse me, I need some help with…? Examples of things you may ask your teachers during class: • Excuse me, may I go to the toilet please? • Excuse me, can I please come and see you at second

break about my assignment? • Excuse me, I didn’t understand that. Can you please

explain it to me again? • Excuse me, what equipment must I bring to class? • Excuse me, what is the due date of the task?

Grievance Procedures

If you are unhappy with any aspect of your program, please speak to a member of the International Student team or the Guidance Officer.

If problems continue or you continue to be unhappy with the situation, you can contact the Director of Education Queensland International.

For more information, here is the link for the Complaints and Appeals Procedure, which provides information on who you can speak to further.

https://eqi.com.au/for-students/policies-procedures/complaints-appeals

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – COMMUNICATION

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Once you have settled into your life as a student at Ferny Grove State High School, you may want to see some more of Brisbane and perhaps Australia.

Education Queensland International organise some fantastic trips during the school holiday period. This information can be found at: http://www.eqi.com.au/programs/adventure-programs.html

These programs are all approved by Education Queensland International and are a fantastic way to see Queensland and Australia as well as meet other International Students studying in Australia.

Here are some other useful websites for you to check out during your time studying in Queensland.

http://www.studybrisbane.com.au/ The Brisbane City Council put this wonderful guide

together for our visiting International Students.

http://www.sunnybankplaza.com.au/ Described as the ‘Chinatown’ of the Southside and is easy to get to from the city. Lots of places to eat and

see.

https://www.brisbane.qld.gov.au/ This is the Brisbane City Council website. It is a wealth

of information including parks, libraries, free entertainment, markets and festivals.

http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/ The best guide for all the things you can see in and

around the beautiful city of Brisbane.

http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/brisbane-greeters?sc_lang=en-au

This is a free service run by volunteers who love Brisbane. They will meet and greet you and pride themselves in showing you Brisbane’s best spots.

http://www.visitbrisbane.com.au/south-bank?sc_lang=en-au

A wonderful part of Brisbane for you to visit on the weekends. Walk, talk, shop at the markets, visit the

Gallery of Modern Art, as well as see some of the free entertainment and festivals showcased.

https://translink.com.au/

Providing all the information you need to travel around Brisbane. Here you can plan your journey,

check timetables and see how much it will cost you on your Go Card.

https://fernygroveshs.eq.edu.au/Pages/default.aspx

The website of Ferny Grove State High School provides all the information you need about the

school, including news, key dates, helpful resources and programs on offer.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR YOU – KEY WEBSITES

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Population: 5,609 (2011 census)

Postcode: 4055

Area: 3.8 km² (1.5 square miles)

Location: 11 km (7 miles) from Brisbane

LGA: City of Brisbane

State District: Ferny Grove

Federal Division: Brisbane

Suburbs around Ferny Grove: Ferny Hills, Keperra, Upper Kedron, Keperra

Ferny Grove is a residential suburb in north-west Brisbane, Queensland, Australia. It lies entirely within the

Brisbane-metropolitan area administered by the Brisbane City Council.

General Information

The size of Ferny Grove is approximately 4 km². It has 8 parks covering nearly 13% of the total area. There are

three schools and one childcare centre.

Ferny Grove is bounded by Kedron Brook in the north, Samford Road in the east, Upper Kedron Road and a line

running continuous of Upper Kedron Road in the south, and the Moreton Bay Regional Council area in the west.

Ferny Grove was named to describe the area as it was originally - forest and fern filled valleys. It was originally

known as Ferny Flats

Settlement of the area dates from the 1860s, although population was minimal until the mid-1870s. Land was

used mainly for crop and dairy farming. Industrial development took place in the late 1800s and early 1900s.

Significant residential development did not occur until the 1960s. Rapid growth took place during the early 1990s,

with growth slowing considerably during the late 1990s. The population was relatively stable between 2001 and

2006, a result of some new dwellings being added to the area, but a decline in the average number of persons

living in each dwelling.

History

Before the Second World War, Ferny Grove was mainly known for its pleasant picnic grounds along the banks of

Kedron Brook and large areas of forest and fern filled valleys, one of which gives the suburb its name.

Before large-scale residential development,

Ferny Grove was primarily industrial, containing

a large clay pit and tile factory operating south

of the railway station. When this factory ceased

operation in the 1960s, Ferny Grove was

redeveloped for housing.

After the war, while the area was still largely

residentially undeveloped, the Brisbane City

Council operated a nightsoil sanitation depot beside Cedar Creek. The depot closed in the late 1960s as more of

Brisbane was laid with sewerage infrastructure and the need for nightsoil treatment ended. After lying vacant for

some years, the depot was leased by the Council to the Brisbane Tramway Museum Society, and is now the home

of the Brisbane

INFORMATION ON FERNY GROVE DISTRICT

22

Tramway Museum.

The City Council continued to use the area south of the former nightsoil depot as a large refuse tip until the late

1980s. Ironically, the ferny grove from which the suburb took its name is no longer there; for, situated at the

present site of rubbish dump 40 years old, the grove was buried under a large hill, upon which the City Council

now operates a waste transfer station and sports playing fields.

One historical landmark in Ferny Grove is the site where

Cassimaty's store was for many years which is now the BP

Service Station. There is a picnic ground opposite this site

named after Bob Cassimaty.

Years ago this was a resting place where teamsters would

rest and change their horses that dragged loads of timber

from Upper Kedron.

Grapes, oranges and vegetables were grown in the area

and dairying flourished for early settlers of 1870's. Among

these were the Stokes, Pickerings, Marshalls and McGinns.

In 1900 a new industry began with the building of Tile

Works by Mr R. Shannon. This was to be bought out 28 years later by Wunderlich Ltd. The excavation of clay for

the tiles was done manually for many years and provided employment for many locals.

R. McGinn donated Land on the present Upper Kedron hall site for the original provisional school opened in 1875.

In 1940 the school was shifted to its present site a short distance from Ferny Grove Station that was constructed

around 1918. A more recent building "the Tavern" now dominates the area.

Transport

The Ferny Grove railway station is now the terminal of the train line of the same name. Until 1955 the railway line

continued to Dayboro and Ferny Grove was merely a minor station on the line.

Ferny Grove Station is a railway station on the Ferny Grove Line of

Brisbane, Australia. It is part of the QR Citytrain network. It is the

terminus for the Ferny Grove Line.

It is in Zone 4 of the TransLink integrated public transport system.

The Brisbane Tramway Museum is a short walk south of the

station.

The line formerly extended to Dayboro, but was cut back to Ferny

Grove in 1955, as part of a larger rationalisation by the

Queensland Government of its railway lines. The line now

terminates here with bus services running to Samford during peak times.

The Camp Mountain train disaster occurred in 1947 west of Ferny

Grove on the Dayboro stretch of the line. It is Queensland's worst

railway accident. 16 people were killed when a picnic excursion

train failed to negotiate a bend on the line between Camp

Mountain and Samford. A small memorial marks the site of the

accident

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SCHOOL CAPTAINS: Olivia Bell & Sanjay Razik

VICE-CAPTAINS: Veronica Keevers & Ray Easton

SRC EXECUTIVE: President Claire Ewer Secretary Carrie Shea Treasurer Kyle Warman

SPORT CAPTAINS: Eliza Henry & Peter Roborg-Sondergaard

HOUSE CAPTAINS:

ITCHIKA: Red Captains: Angus Newman & Jade Larsson

KARA KARA: Yellow Captains: Evan Devoy & Samantha Ryan

OURAPILLA: Black Captains: Jessica Morrison & Jack Retallick

WOORKARIN: Blue Captains: Kelsey Hartnett & Angus Ash

MUSIC CAPTAIN: Claudia Anderson, Rebecca Armour, Christie Arndell, Tim Nick, Skylar Sansome

MUSIC AMBASSADOR: Neacail McMillan, Savannah Stewart CHAPLAINCY AMBASSADOR: Kelsey Bailey

TECHNOLOGY STUDIES AMBASSADOR: Harry Teed

DRAMA CAPTAIN: Lachlan Jover, Meg Price, Jordan Reimers

DRAMA AMBASSADORS: Madison Beresford, Hannah Bradford, Eilish Cook, Ella Janetzki, Fynlay McGavin,

LANGUAGE AMBASSADORS: Raelee Beevers, Xaviere Downey, Erin Groombridge, Padraig Hannan, Lachlan Rose

TECH & MEDIA AMBASSADOR: Sam Neil

MATHEMATICS AMBASSADOR: Joshua Hedges

ENGLISH AMBASSADOR: Kelseigh Wrigley

SCIENCE AMBASSADOR: Emily Rose Robinson & Phillip Todd

SPORT AMBASSADORS: Jett Bryant, Jerome Leong, Nicole Richards

HOME ECONOMICS AMBASSADOR: Mikaylah Rainbow

E-LEARNING AMBASSADOR: Zac Bower

FITNESS AMBASSADOR: Phoebe Bailey

BUSINESS AMBASSADOR: Kate Marciano

HUMANITIES AMBASSADOR: Taumai Araisuru, Savannah Spalding

GRAPHICS AMBASSADOR: Ebony McNaughton

HOSPITALITY AMBASSADOR: Ashley Chapman

AG SCIENCE AMBASSADOR: Amelia Blake, Alistair Wilson

VISUAL ARTS AMBASSADOR: Emily McCosker, Arjun Rix

Useful contacts during your stay at Ferny Grove State High School

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Queensland Government

EQI International Student Orientation Checklist for School Personnel

Schools should ensure the following procedures are explained shortly after student's arrival.

Once completed a copy of this checklist should be kept on each student's file.

Please refer to the Orientation for International Students for recommended timeline.

Schools should continue to monitor student assimilation and welfare regularly throughout

their course of study.

TOPIC STAFF NAME DATE

DELIVERED RESOURCES/

COMMENTS

Introduction to the EQ International Student Program

• Objectives

• Enrolment Agreement (policies)

• Procedures – EQI website

• Emergency contact details - EQI, School, Homestay family

Student Visa Conditions

• Visa - School staff to sight and copy visa and passport details for student file and entered into OneSchool/ISMS (schools to monitor visa expiry date)

• Course Progress and Attendance - School staff to explain student visa conditions and EQI course progress and attendance policy (school to monitor student's progress as per EQI policy)

• Work rights - School staff to monitor students' part-time work (student academic progress should be monitored in this regard)

• Welfare - EQI/school are responsible for student welfare and must approve homestay (school to enter student's homestay details in ISMS)

• Change of address (Private/homestay) - School staff to record/approve and notify EQI (DIAC requirement)

Introduction to School Program

• School Tour

• Student ID card

• School calendar of events

• Assistance with subject selection and timetabling requirements

• School policies, procedures, expectations and rules (including responsible behaviour plan)

• Library

• Assessment and school reports

Trading Name: Education Queensland International CRICOS Provider Number: 00608A © The State of Queensland (Department of Education. Training and Employment) 2016.

TRIM Ref: 16/385728

25

TOPIC STAFF NAME DATE

DELIVERED RESOURCES/ COMMENTS

• English as a School Subject

• ESL support (if applicable)

Orientation of student to local area surrounding the School and their Homestay

• Map

• School transport

• Local transport

• Costs

• How to access information (Living and Learning in Queensland)

• Extra-curricular activities

• Local amenities - shopping centre, library, post office, banks

Health and Safety

• OSHC - School to monitor cover (especially in relation to extensions)

• Copy of OSHC card number and expiry date to be kept on student file and record details in ISMS

• Provide students with details of medical services in their area

• Provide student with details of how to get a prescription filled

• Assist students to make claims when necessary

• Ensure students know what to do if there is a critical incident at school and who to call if a critical incident happens away from school

Money and Banking

• Assist students in setting up a bank account

• Accessing money from account

• Safety with carrying money

• Shopping/cost of living

Travel

• Enrolment Agreement - Travel and Activities

• Note where to find the Travel and Activities form on the website

• Information about the EQI Holiday Programs and how to access them

Trading Name: Education Queensland International CRICOS Provider Number: 00608A © The State of Queensland (Department of Education. Training and Employment) 2016.

TRIM Ref: 16/385728

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TOPIC STAFF NAME DATE DELIVERED

RESOURCES/ COMMENTS

Communication

• Strategies to use with students

• Cross cultural communication o Australian Language o Conversational English

• Telephone and mobile phone usage

• Internet use/email access at school

• Post

Homestay Adjustment

• The process

• House rules

• Support people in the school and contact details, referral processes

• Strategies to assist and support students in terms of: o Food and Social Activities o Cultural and Family Background

Differences

• Regular meetings to check adjustment by both students and homestay family

Personal Safety

• Emergency services (police, fire, ambulance, SES, Lifeline, Poisons Info Line, emergency translation)

• Using ATM's

• Hitchhiking

• Avoiding Dangerous Areas and activities

• Swimming

• Sun protection

• Road rules

• Awareness of cultural differences in making new friends

Law (perhaps this session could be delivered by local police)

• Illegal activities (breaking the law and consequences of same)

• Alcohol and tobacco

• Customs/Quarantine restrictions

• Airport Security and Requirements

• Illegal drugs, dangerous drugs and banned substances including synthetic cannabinoids

• Driving

• Discrimination/Racism

Trading Name: Education Queensland International CRICOS Provider Number: 00608A © The State of Queensland (Department of Education. Training and Employment) 2016.

TRIM Ref: 16/385728

“A different language is a

different vision of life.”