March 16, 2026 | updates

Term 1: Update 1

Adelaide Botanic High School students engage in learning tasks which are about connecting, creating, communicating, co-ordinating and collaborating.

March 16, 2026

Updates
Archive

EMBRACING YOUNG PEOPLE’S CURIOSITY

Update from the Principal

As we settle into the rhythm of the year, I have been thinking a great deal about why the beginning of a school year feels so significant. It is not just the new timetables or fresh uniforms. It is the sense of possibility. The quiet understanding that this year could shape who a young person becomes.

To the families and students who are new to Adelaide Botanic High School, welcome. I know that choosing a school is never a small decision. I hope that very quickly your child feels what so many of our students describe when I ask them about their experience here. They feel known. They feel supported. They feel that they belong. That is not accidental. It is built deliberately, day by day.

Over the past few weeks, I have found myself pausing to watch learning unfold. At Port Noarlunga, our Year 10 and 11 students were navigating real coastal conditions, thinking hard, working as teams and stretching themselves beyond what felt comfortable. In those moments, you see capability growing, but you also see courage growing. At St Kilda, our Year 10 STEM students were applying their learning in authentic contexts, asking questions that only make sense when you are standing in the place itself.

I have stood in the atrium as the Lion Dance welcomed Lunar New Year with colour and joy, a powerful reminder of the richness of our community. I have watched House Communities Day strengthen connections across year levels. I have seen our sporting teams represent the school with pride and quiet determination. These moments matter because they shape culture. They tell our young people that this is a place where they are part of something bigger than themselves.

We have also celebrated excellence. Our Dux Assembly and the SACE Merit Ceremony were deeply proud moments for me. High achievement is never about a single test or a single year. It is built on hundreds of small choices over time. Choosing to revise when it would be easier not to. Choosing to ask for help. Choosing to persist. Behind every award is a web of support from families, teachers and peers who have created the conditions for success.

Thank you to the record number of families who attended our Evening to Connect. When families and school work in partnership, young people thrive. Please also save the date for our Showcase Evening later this term. It will be a celebration not only of achievement, but of growth, creativity and courage.

As the term continues, I want to gently reinforce what underpins everything we do. Wellbeing matters. If your child is struggling, please reach out early. Attendance matters because every day builds both learning and belonging. Our uniform matters because it signals that we are part of a shared community with shared standards.

What gives me confidence about the year ahead is not simply the programs we offer. It is the people. The small daily choices to greet one another, to hold high expectations, to offer support and to keep showing up for each other. Those are the choices that shape who we become.

Thank you for entrusting us with your children. I feel that responsibility personally, and I value it deeply.

Sarah on behalf of our whole team

Upcoming Dates - Term 1

Wed 11 - Mon 23 March WEEK 7-9 NAPLAN Testing Period	Friday 3 April WEEK 10 Good Friday Public Holiday
Mon 16 - Sun 22 March WEEK 8 Harmony Week	Monday 6 April WEEK 10 Easter Monday Public Holiday
Wednesday 1 April WEEK 10 Showcase Evening	Friday 10 April WEEK 11 Last Day Term 1

Upcoming Dates - Term 2

Monday 27 April WEEK 1 First Day or Term 2	Wed 27 May - Wed 3 June WEEK 5-6 National Reconciliation Week
Wed 29 April - Fri 1 May WEEK 1 Yr8 AFL Max Camp	Thur 4 - Fri 5 June WEEK 6 Yr12 Camp
Friday 1 - Sunday 3 May WEEK 1 Generations In Jazz	Monday 8 June WEEK 7 Kings Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday 19 May WEEK 4 Student Free Day	Friday 3 July WEEK 10 Last Day Term 2
Thursday 28 May WEEK 5 Yr10 Student Immunisation First Visit

Showcase Evening 2026

We are pleased to let our families know that our Showcase Evening is coming up on Wednesday, 1 April 2026.

This event is designed to welcome prospective families who are considering joining our school community. Throughout the evening, visitors will explore the school on a self-guided tour and experience our dynamic, futures-focused learning environment in action.

Our leadership team, staff and students will be available across the school to share their experiences and provide insight into what makes Adelaide Botanic High School such a vibrant and innovative place to learn.

If you know families who may be considering Adelaide Botanic High School in the future, we would greatly appreciate you sharing this event with them and encouraging them to attend.

Doors will open at 5:30pm, with the evening concluding at 8:00pm. Booking are essential and can be made via the link below.

Book Tickets

Responsible Behaviour at Adelaide Botanic High School

Adelaide Botanic High School’s Responsible Behaviour Expectations are based on the key attributes of our DNA: Curiosity, Community and Excellence.

Predictable but flexible consequences
At ABHS we believe in maintaining a learning environment that aligns with our expectations. If a student’s behaviour is not in line with these expectations, a predictable consequence will be ensured. However, the type of consequence is flexible, allowing teachers to select from a range of options spanning Tier 0 to Tier II. In situations where leadership is involved, Tier III consequences may be considered.

Our Emphasis on Restorative Practices
If a student’s behaviour in a learning session does not meet ABHS Responsible Behavioural expectations, a teacher may direct the student to a different learning area to Refocus. Subsequently, the student is scheduled for a restorative conversation with the teacher. This conversation allows both the student and the teacher to Restore their relationship. Through this dialogue, both parties can share their perspectives, and agreed actions are established to enable the student to Reconnect with their learning. We have termed this process. Refocus, Restore, Reconnect (3R).

Parents will be notified if their child is scheduled for a restorative conversation, and we kindly request your support in ensuring your child’s attendance. Restorative Conversations are held at 9.10am each day (10.00am Wednesdays).

A teacher may choose to schedule a Restorative Conversation without relocating the student to another learning area. If this option is selected, the same 3R process is followed.

Eden McEwen
Assistant Principal – Conditions for Learning (Middle School – Year 7)

Andrea West
Assistant Principal-Conditions for Learning (Middle School – Years 8-9)

Brad Stubing
Assistant Principal-Conditions for Learning (Senior School – Years 10-12)

Why attendance matters

One of Adelaide Botanic High School’s Responsible Behaviour Expectations relates to the Excellence component of the school’s DNA. At ABHS, it is expected that students are able to be punctual and regular in attendance.

Attendance is a key part of the government’s Public Education Strategy, and it is expected that all young people should achieve at least 90% attendance. Underpinning this strategy is the belief that every day matters in the school life of a young person and every day they are at school is a step along the pathway towards future success.

One or two days of absence a week doesn’t seem like much but…

If your child misses…	That equals…	Which is…	And over 13 years of school that is…
1 day a fortnight	20 days per year	4 weeks per year	Nearly 1.5 years
1 day a week	40 days per year	8 weeks per year	Over 2.5 years
2 days a week	80 days per year	16 weeks per year	Over 5 years
3 days a week	120 days per year	24 weeks per year	Nearly 8 years

A whole year has 365 days, a school year has 190 days. That leaves 175 days to spend on family time, visits, holidays, shopping and other appointments.

Did you know?

A two week holiday during term time means that the highest attendance a student can achieve is 94.7%.

What can parents can do?

Make school attendance a priority.
Talk about the importance of coming to school every day and make this an expectation.
Help your child make daily routines including completing +Time and getting a good night’s sleep.
Try not to schedule medical and dental appointments during the school day.
Ensure your child comes to school every day unless they are truly sick. Complaints of headaches or stomach aches may be signs of anxiety.

Help your teen stay engaged

Find out if your child is engaged with their classes and feels safe at school.
Stay on top of academic progress and seek help from teachers if necessary. Make sure you know how to contact teachers if you are concerned.
Stay on top of your child’s social contacts. Peer pressure can lead to skipping school, or skipping classes.
Encourage meaningful afterschool activities, but be mindful of how many hours a week students are engaged in after school commitments, and support them to balance these with their +Time and downtime.

Communicate with the school

Support the school’s expectations that students should be punctual and regular in attendance.
Talk to teachers if you notice sudden changes in behaviour. These could be related to something happening at school.
Check on your child’s absences in the Daymap portal and make sure they are not piling up.
Respond to SMS requests asking for an explanation for your child’s absence.

Governing Council

The ABHS Annual General Meeting was held on 16 February, during which time the election for x5 Governing Council parent members was conducted.

We would like to thank Craig Harrison for his many years of service, working with purpose and in partnership as Chairperson of the ABHS Governing Council. Craig has decided to retire from his role on Governing Council.

We also farewelled the following Parent Representatives, Jane Haley and Sarah Haylock-Jacobs; Staff Representatives, Hannah Darling and Ashley Hailstone, as well as Student Representatives, Samaira Gudipati and Tilda Kilsby. Their work and time spent on Governing Council is much appreciated. We are pleased to welcome back Mel McDowall, Lana Blazujevic, Simon Langsford and Dasha Kolesik, who are continuing on Governing Council in 2026. We also announced and welcomed our newest Governing Council parent members, Belinda Mai; Tristan Francis; Susan Kim; Nicole Stephanos.

Staff Representatives for 2026 are Phoebe Rowberry and Louisa Langsford

Student Representatives are Olive Carlaw and Patrick Hall.

The 2026 ABHS Governing Council is made up of the following parent representatives:

Mel McDowall – Chairperson

Lana Blazujevic – Deputy Chairperson

Belinda Mai – Treasurer

Tristan Francis – Secretary

Susan Kim

Dasha Kolesik

Simon Langsford

Nicolle Stephanos

A reminder that you can reach out to your Governing Council via dl.1919.govcouncil@schools.sa.edu.au

SplashOut!

Students in Years 7-9 participated in the annual Splash Out carnival at the Marion Outdoor Pool. The carnival provides students with the opportunity to qualify for State Interschool competitions. As a result of their outstanding performances at Splash Out, 24 of our best swimmers were selected to represent ABHS at the School Interstate Competitions, held just one week after the carnival.
A particular highlight from this year’s event was witnessing three of our community members achieve remarkable success by breaking existing records.

Ariella R	7	F	50m Freestyle LC	32.88
Ariella R	7	F	25m Butterfly LC	18.68
Ariella R	7	F	50m Breaststroke LC	44.22
Ariella R	7	F	50m Backstroke LC	37.75
Hugh L	7	M	50m Freestyle LC	43.82
Hugh L	7	M	25m Butterfly LC	32.13
Hugh L	7	M	50m Backstroke LC	52.20
Ilya House	7		6x25m Relay LC	2:17.73
Ayumi C	8	F	50m Breaststroke LC	47.71
Tidli House	8		6x25m Relay LC	1:55.80
Tidli House	9		6x25m Relay LC	2:03.70

Splash Out placed a strong emphasis on fostering our vibrant house culture. As well as the traditional swimming events, students had the chance to compete in a range of novelty events, including tyre tube relay, rubber duckies, tunnel ball, noodle relay, kick board relay, water cup relay and sponge toss. These engaging events, along with lawn games ensured there was something for everyone, further building a sense of our school community.

Congratulations to Ilya house, who emerged as the overall winners on the day with 480 points. Tirntu followed in second place with 406 points, with Kalta taking third with 311 points. They were trailed by Tidli (283 points), Tantutiti (218 points), and Wilampa (205 points)

A special thank you goes to our Senior House leaders, who brought exceptional energy to the event. Their efforts decorating house tents, designing house banners and fostering enthusiasm among their house communities added to the day’s fun and togetherness.
Splash Out was indeed a community event enjoyed by all!

The SplashOut Team

Hook Line and Sinker keeps reeling in success!

Each term, our studio grows stronger as we explore new fishing spots and perfect our techniques. This term, Happy Valley Reservoir proved a winner, with several large European carp landed on light gear—serious fun for everyone involved! Glenelg Jetty brought us a haul of smaller Tommies and Salmon Trout, adding plenty of excitement to the mix. This week, we stepped out of our waders and into the kitchen to cook up a real Aussie favourite: Salt and Pepper Squid. Delicious! Next up, we’ll be back on the water at Wet Lakes, targeting Brim and ready for more adventures.

Jake Blunt
Lifestyle Choices Teacher and Tailored Learning Leader

SACE Merit Ceremony and Dux Assembly

Congratulations to our 2025 SACE Merit Awardees, who were recently honoured at Government House for their outstanding academic achievements. This recognition celebrates the dedication, perseverance and excellence our students demonstrated throughout their SACE journey.

A special congratulations also goes to Lily J, who received a Governor of South Australia Commendation – Excellence Award. This prestigious commendation recognises students who have demonstrated exceptional achievement and commitment to their studies.

We were also delighted to welcome these students back to school for a special assembly and morning tea, where our community had the opportunity to celebrate their achievements together and recognise the hard work that led to this success. It was particularly meaningful for our younger students to hear from them directly — seeing and listening to their experiences helps show what can be achieved through dedication, curiosity and perseverance.

We are incredibly proud of these accomplishments and the way our students continue to represent our community with excellence.

Wellbeing Matters - When Getting to School Feels Hard: Understanding Barriers to Attendance

Welcome back to Wellbeing Matters, where we continue to share insights, strategies, and reassurance to support the wellbeing of our students and families.

For most young people, getting to school is part of the daily routine. But for some students, attending school can feel overwhelming, distressing, or simply not possible, even when they want to be there. This experience is often referred to as school refusal or school can’t, and it is more common than many families realise.

What Is “School Can’t” (School Refusal)?
School Can’t is not about laziness, defiance, or a lack of motivation. In most cases, it is a response to distress. A student may genuinely want to attend school but feel unable to cope with what school currently requires of them.

This distress can build gradually or appear suddenly, and it often reflects an unmet need rather than a behaviour that needs punishment.

What Might This Look Like?
School refusal can look different for every student, but common signs include:

Heightened anxiety or panic, particularly in the mornings
Physical symptoms such as headaches, stomach aches, or nausea
Emotional distress at drop-off or before leaving home
Withdrawal, shutdown, or avoidance behaviours
Increasing absences that are difficult to explain

These responses are very real for young people, even when there is no visible physical illness present.

Common Barriers to Attending School
There is no single cause of school refusal. Barriers often overlap and may include:

Anxiety (including social anxiety or separation anxiety)
Low mood or depression
Neurodivergence, such as ADHD or autism
Learning difficulties or academic overwhelm
Friendship challenges, bullying, or social stress
Sensory overload, fatigue, or burnout
Previous experiences of stress or trauma

A helpful way to think about this is considering the behaviour as communication. When a student is struggling to attend school, they are telling us that something doesn’t feel safe, manageable, or supportive for them right now.

Why Early Support Matters
The longer school refusal continues, the harder it can feel for students to return. Early, compassionate support can make a significant difference. Helping students rebuild confidence, connection, and a sense of safety at school.

Support is most effective when it is:

Collaborative – involving the student, family, and school
Individualised – based on strengths as well as needs
Flexible – recognising that small steps are still progress
Non-judgemental – reducing shame for students and families
How Families and Schools Can Work Together

If your child is finding school attendance challenging, you are not alone, and you don’t need to have all the answers before reaching out.
Open communication allows us to better understand what’s happening and explore supports. Our aim is not just attendance, but engagement, belonging, and wellbeing.

A Final Thought
School refusal is not a failure, it’s a signal. With patience, understanding, and the right supports in place, most students can reconnect with school in a way that feels achievable and safe.

If you have concerns about your child’s attendance or wellbeing, we encourage you to reach out to the school. Working together, we can support young people not just to attend, but to feel that they truly belong.

Phoebe Rowberry
Student Wellbeing and Engagement

Women’s and Children’s Hospital Foundation – Research Week

Supported by Hospital School and the Women’s and Children’s Hospital, students from the Year 11 and 12 Health-STEM Pathways cohort, those interested in allied health and medicine pathways were invited to attend a Research Focus Day at Adelaide oval.

Students were introduced to Research Director Professor Helen Marshall AM, while working collaboratively in the morning with current medical researchers from across the world in the to deconstruct and develop research questions encountered in medicine. The following session exposed student to keynote speakers in medical research at the forefront of challenges faced in Australian hospitals. The final panel provided an insight into how current medical students presented their research to the critique and review of peers and supervisors. A fascinating insight. With beautiful views of the surrounds, engaging and thought-provoking exploration of health and medicine pathways made for a valuable experience.

Many students shared how much they enjoyed the challenge! More HSP opportunities will follow this term and beyond.

Aija Mee – Assistant Principal – Curriculum and Pedagogy Innovation and Active Community Partnerships
Glen Arthur – Health-STEM Pathways Manager
Clare Yau – STEM

DNA Action Days

Across Week 5, our Year 7 students stepped beyond the classroom and into an exciting milestone of their transition to Adelaide Botanic High School as they participated in the DNA Action Days at West Lakes Aquatic Centre.

These extended days support students as they settle into our school, providing opportunities to strengthen friendships, connect with their Connect teachers, and experience learning in a new environment. Throughout the week, each Connect Group participated in a full day of aquatic activities designed to bring our school DNA of Curiosity, Community and Excellence to life.

I am incredibly proud of the way our Year 7 students supported one another, embraced new challenges, and continued to build a strong sense of community and belonging. I commend them for the positive attitude they have demonstrated throughout what has been a busy and rewarding start to the year.

Thank you to our Connect teachers and staff who supported the program and helped create such positive and memorable experiences for our students.

Eden McEwen
Assistant Principal – Conditions for Learning Year 7 and Transition

Amy N Awarded Harding Miller Scholarship

Adelaide Botanic High School is proud to congratulate Year 9 student, Amy N on being awarded a Harding Miller Scholarship over the next 4 years, a fantastic recognition of her dedication, potential and commitment to learning.

The Harding Miller Education Foundation Scholarship Program supports high-potential girls across Australia by providing resources and opportunities that help them thrive throughout their secondary schooling. The scholarship aims to ensure that talented students have the tools they need to pursue their academic goals with confidence.

As part of the scholarship, Amy will receive a package of support designed to enhance her learning experience. This includes access to technology, learning resources, mentoring opportunities, and a national network of fellow scholarship recipients. The program also offers workshops and experiences that encourage leadership, academic growth and personal development.

Being selected for this scholarship is a significant achievement. Recipients are chosen based on their academic promise, motivation to succeed, and willingness to embrace new opportunities. Amy’s selection reflects her strong work ethic and enthusiasm for learning, qualities that make her a valued member of the Adelaide Botanic High School community.

Over the coming year, Amy will have the opportunity to connect with students from across the country, develop new skills and further explore her interests through the support provided by the program.

Congratulations, Amy, on this wonderful achievement — we look forward to seeing all that you accomplish during your scholarship year and beyond

Update from the Wellbeing Team

As we move through Term 1, the Adelaide Botanic High School Wellbeing Team would like to warmly acknowledge all our students and families. We hope the year has started positively and that students are settling into their learning and school routines.

The purpose of the Adelaide Botanic High School Wellbeing Team is to support students’ social, emotional, and mental wellbeing so they can feel safe, connected, and ready to learn. We work alongside students, families, and staff to provide support, guidance, and early intervention when needed.

Research consistently shows that students who feel connected to at least one trusted adult at school are more engaged in learning, attend school more regularly, and experience better wellbeing outcomes. Feeling known, supported, and listened to makes a powerful difference.

Please remember that support is always available. Students and families are encouraged to reach out to the Wellbeing Team at any time if they need assistance, have concerns, or simply want to talk things through. We are here to help and to work together with you.

Thank you for being part of our school community. We look forward to a positive and connected term ahead.

This term, we are excited to celebrate the following events:

International Women’s Day on Friday, March 8 (Term 1, Week 7), recognising the achievements, contributions, and strength of women and girls in our community and beyond.
Harmony Week in Term 1, Week 8 (March 16–20), a time to celebrate cultural diversity and reinforce the message that everyone belongs. This is an important opportunity to highlight respect, inclusion, and connection within our school community.

Nina Tanner
Wellbeing Leader

Lunar New Year - Lion Dance Celebration

Adelaide Botanic High School recently came together in the Atrium to celebrate the arrival of Lunar New Year, marking the beginning of the Year of the Horse with a vibrant and fun performance.

The celebration featured an energetic lion dance that quickly filled the space with colour, rhythm and excitement. Students and staff gathered to watch as the lions leapt and danced through the Atrium, bringing traditional movements and playful charm to the performance. There were plenty of laughs from the crowd as the lions cheekily “pinched” a few water bottles along the way.

The event provided a wonderful opportunity for our community to experience and celebrate cultural traditions while recognising the rich diversity that makes Adelaide Botanic High School such a vibrant place to learn. Moments like these help foster understanding, connection and appreciation across cultures.