September 8, 2026 | updates
Term 3: Update 1
Adelaide Botanic High School students engage in learning tasks which are about connecting, creating, communicating, co-ordinating and collaborating.
September 8, 2026
Table of contents
- Update From The Principal
- Upcoming Dates - Term 3
- Upcoming Dates - Term 4
- World's Greatest Shave is back for 2026!
- MASA Quiz Night
- SAASTA Connect Students Shine at North Eastern Nunga Tag
- Generations in Jazz Mount Gambier
- Big Band Performance at ABODA Festival
- Active Citizenship Convention
- Host Families Wanted for the 2026 Ritsumeikan Study Tour
- Learning Pathway Conferences
- 2026 Languages Alive Week
- Adelaide University Engineering Day - Mawson Lakes Campus
- Alumni Medicine, Dentistry and Health Experiences
- A night of Light, Creativity and Connection
- Inclusive Education Life Skills: Let's go cafe hopping!
- Wellbeing News
- IXL-ent literacy learning in Year 8!
- China Town Scavenger Hunt Excursion
- Ushiku High School Study Tour
- Book Week Round-Up
- Sports
EMBRACING YOUNG PEOPLE’S CURIOSITY
Update from the Principal
As we reach Week 8 of Term 3, this edition captures the breadth of opportunities our young people have to learn, contribute and discover more about themselves. Across classrooms, performances, sporting competitions, excursions and community experiences, we see students developing their interests, extending their capabilities and taking the next steps in their journey through school.
That journey should bring growing challenge. As our young people move through the years, we ask them to engage with more complex ideas, take greater responsibility for their learning and become more independent in their decisions. Along the way, they will encounter things that do not come easily. They will need to practise, reconsider, seek feedback and sometimes begin again.
These are important experiences. Confidence grows when young people discover, through their own efforts, that they can do something they once found difficult. Independence develops when they have meaningful responsibility and learn to manage it. A sense of purpose can emerge when they commit to something that asks more of them than they initially thought they could give.
As a school, we have a responsibility to provide these opportunities. We want every student to experience both the support that helps them feel they belong and the challenge that enables them to grow. This means knowing our learners well, holding high expectations and designing learning that stretches them, with the teaching, encouragement and guidance they need to make progress.
The stories in this update show some of the many forms this can take. The MASA Quiz Night and our Year 8 literacy learning ask students to think carefully, build their knowledge and persist. Performing at Generations in Jazz or the ABODA Festival requires preparation, responsiveness to feedback and responsibility to an ensemble. Sporting experiences, including Nunga Tag for our SAASTA Connect students, create opportunities to work as a team, respond to setbacks and keep contributing when things become difficult.
Challenge looks different for each learner. It might be performing in front of an audience, speaking with someone new, navigating an unfamiliar place or learning to manage an everyday task independently. Our Inclusive Education café experiences remind us that meaningful growth is personal. What matters is that each young person has opportunities to take a genuine next step.
Experiences such as the Adelaide University Engineering Day and our alumni connections in medicine, dentistry and health help students imagine where those steps might lead. Our cultural and language experiences broaden their perspectives, while the Active Citizenship Convention and World’s Greatest Shave invite them to consider their responsibility to others. Alongside the joy and connection of occasions such as Book Week, these opportunities help students explore who they are and who they might become.
This work depends on a strong partnership with families. We share a natural desire for our young people to feel happy, confident and successful. We also know that growth can involve uncertainty, frustration and discomfort. At these moments, our response matters. Together, we can help students understand what is being asked of them, identify the support they need and stay with a challenge long enough to experience progress.
There will be times when we need to adjust an approach or remove a barrier. There will also be times when the most helpful thing we can do is encourage a young person to persevere, have the difficult conversation, act on feedback or honour a commitment. Knowing the difference requires us to listen carefully, share what we are noticing and work together.
Thank you to the families who joined us for our Subject & Pathways Expo and Learning Pathway Conferences. These conversations are an important part of building that shared understanding, with students taking an increasingly active role in identifying their strengths, aspirations and next steps.
I believe every act of education is an act of hope. Part of that hope is seeing the potential in our young people before they can fully see it themselves, and being prepared to ask something meaningful of them. Our responsibility, together, is to provide the care, opportunity and real challenge through which they can become the best version of themselves.
Sarah on behalf of our whole team
Upcoming Dates - Term 3
| Monday 7 September WEEK 8 School Closure Day | Monday 14 September WEEK 9 Governing Council |
| Tues 8 - Fri 11 September WEEK 8 Yr12 Stage 2 Trial E-Exams | Friday 18 September WEEK 9 Worlds Greatest Shave & Bubble Tea |
| Thurs 10 - Thurs 17 September WEEK 8-9 Operation Flinders | Sun 20 - Sat 26 September WEEK 10 Yr7 Canberra Trip |
| Thursday 10 September WEEK 8 R U OK DAY? | Wednesday 23 September WEEK 10 Yr10 RAA Street Smart High |
Upcoming Dates - Term 4
Please note some of these dates are subject to change, and additional events may still be added. Please refer to the Parent Page on the FROG Portal for updates.
| Monday 12 October WEEK 1 First Day Term 4 | Mon 16 - Fri 20 November WEEK 6 Stage 1 Exams |
| Mon 12 - Fri 30 October WEEK 1-3 Stage 2 Languages Exams | Tuesday 17 November WEEK 6 Deadly Start |
| Mon 12 - Fri 16 October WEEK 1 Stage 2 Trial Exams | Wednesday 18 November WEEK 6 Yr12 Graduation |
| Wed 14-16 Oct WEEK 1 Yr11 Outdoor Education Camp Berry Bay | Wed 25 Nov - 3 Dec WEEK 7-8 Ritsumeikan Study Tour |
| Friday 16 October WEEK 1 House Communities Day | Thursday 26 November WEEK 7 DNA Awards |
| Monday 19 October WEEK 2 Yr12 Celebration Week | Thursday 26 November WEEK 7 Yr8 Global Twilight Fair and Senior Arts Showcase |
| Wednesday 28 October WEEK 3 Yr12 Gratitude Breakfast | Friday 27 November WEEK 7 Student Free Day |
| Wed 28 - Fri 30 October WEEK 3 Yr10 Outdoor Education Camp | Tuesday 1 December WEEK 8 Start Well Parent Evening |
| Thursday 5 November WEEK 4 Yr7 Immunisation | Thurs 3 - Fri 4 December WEEK 8 Welcome Days Year 6 into Year 7 |
| Wednesday 11 November WEEK 5 Remembrance Day |
World's Greatest Shave is back for 2026!
This year, the World’s Greatest Shave will be hosted by SYNERGY on Friday of Week 9.
We’re taking on the Leukaemia Foundation’s World’s Greatest Shave to raise vital funds and awareness for blood cancer, helping to fuel life-changing research projects and support services for patients and their families.
We’re incredibly proud to share that, thanks to the generosity of our school community over many years, Adelaide Botanic High School will surpass $50,000 in total fundraising for this incredible cause in 2026.
Last year, our community raised more than $16,000, and this year we’re aiming even higher with a target of $20,000.
Students have been eagerly awaiting one thing in particular… the staff shave reveals! Throughout the fundraiser, we’ll be announcing the names of brave staff members who have agreed to shave their heads as we reach each fundraising milestone. The higher we climb, the more staff names will be revealed, so every donation counts!
On the day, there will also be bubble tea available for purchase, with pre-orders now open on Qkr! Grab a drink, support a great cause, and help us reach our goal.
Let’s come together once again to make a difference for people living with blood cancer and their families.
MASA Quiz Night
ABHS recently hosted the fifth iteration of the inner-city maths battle that is the MASA Maths Quiz Night. Joined on the night by teams from Adelaide High Schools, University Senior College and St Peters SC, 176 students in teams of up to 4 grappled with challenging maths and demanding general knowledge tasks in a classic quiz format. A great time was had by all, with many snacks consumed and many, many questions answered correctly.
In the Junior division our Year 8 team of Jade S, Andrea C, Gauravie T and Fiona L won the Best General Knowledge prize and in the Intermediate division our Year 10 team of Patrick H, Yanik B, Max M and Miles H took out the coveted Best Mathematics award. In the highly competitive Senior division, our Year 11/12 team of Inudith J, Michael D, William C and Adiraj P performed commendably, coming third out of a field of 19 in the Mathematics category. Also worthy of commendation was the other Year 8 team of Barbod F and Marcus R who, despite being two maths warriors doing the work of four, tied with a full-strength St Peters team in the mathematics category, missing out on the prize on the tightest of countbacks.
Well done to all to all who turned out and did themselves, their school, and mathematics, proud!
Alastair Lupton
STEM Teacher
SAASTA Connect Students Shine at North Eastern Nunga Tag
Our SAASTA Connect students proudly represented Adelaide Botanic High School in our first year competing in the North Eastern Nunga Tag event, a wonderful gathering that brought together more than 600 First Nations students from Adelaide and surrounding areas to celebrate culture, community, and the spirit of Rugby League.
The carnival featured a round-robin Nunga Tag tournament, alongside an expo where students could engage with schools, services, and community organisations. The event commenced with a moving Welcome to Country and smoking ceremony delivered by Petiola Wilson, a proud Ngarrindjeri, Kaurna, Narungga, and Tongan man. This significant opening reminded us of the importance of respect, heritage, and connection to Country.
Former NRL and UK Super League player, and current NRL Indigenous Programs Manager, Dean Widders, attended the event alongside Avenues College to help co-host the day. Our team competed in four matches, demonstrating outstanding teamwork, determination, and sportsmanship throughout the day. We are especially proud that event organisers and staff from other schools commented positively on the exemplary conduct of our students, both on and off the field.
Adelaide Botanic High School’s team emerged victorious in three out of four games, showcasing not only their talent on the field but also their positive attitude and collaborative spirit. Participants each received a complimentary shirt and lunch, and as always, took the opportunity to grab some goodies from the expo stalls. Free sunglasses were a major highlight for many students.
We extend a warm thank you to all those who helped organise the event. Congratulations to our SAASTA Connect students for representing our school so proudly and for truly embodying the values of teamwork, respect, and cultural celebration. We look forward to another round of Nunga Tag in 2027.
Nick Kimber
Aboriginal Education Teacher
Generations in Jazz Mount Gambier
What a way to kick off the term! In Week 1, ABHS students travelled to Mount Gambier for the Generations in Jazz festival, the largest gathering of its kind in the Southern Hemisphere, with more than 5,000 students and teachers from across Australia and New Zealand.
Our four ensembles, Big Band, Mixed Combo, Small Jazz Combo, and Vocal Plus, competed, attended workshops, and experienced performances from international artists including the legendary Tower of Power. Mixed Combo and Small Jazz Combo made their festival debut, while Vocal Plus and Big Band delivered their strongest performances yet.
Behind it all were months of before-school, after-school, and lunchtime rehearsals. What our students showed wasn’t just musical talent. It was grit, courage, and discipline.
A huge congratulations to the Big Band for claiming 2nd place among 28 competing bands, and a very special well done to Saanvi and Joakim, who were selected for the Super Band, just 18 spots from a field of over 400 students. An extraordinary achievement.
We are so proud of every student who represented ABHS with such heart and dedication.
Josh Cowley
Music Manager
Big Band Performance at ABODA Festival
The ABHS Big Band recently performed at the 2026 ABODA South Australian School Bands Festival, hosted by Westminster School. Students enjoyed an exciting afternoon of performance, and competition, as well as the chance to listen to a wide variety of school ensembles across the festival. The ABHS Big Band performed with energy, confidence, and professionalism, achieving a bronze in the Intermediate Big Band section, against a strong field of other schools. Their performance showcased the hard work and dedication of the students, as well as their growing musicianship and ensemble skills.
Special mentions to Saanvi Modi and Stanly Liu who featured as soloists during the performance. Thank you to Joshua Cowley for his commitment and hard work in preparing the Big Band, and to all students for their enthusiasm and effort throughout the day.
We are proud of their achievement and look forward to returning again next year.
Justin Daughtry
Music
Active Citizenship Convention
A select group of Year 10 students were invited to attend the Active Citizenship Convention. This event has been developed as a part of the SA Government’s Safeguarding Democracy initiative aimed at encouraging students to learn more about their role in society, how change is made and how they can be an active part of that change making. Students heard from guest speakers including the Leader of the Opposition Ashton Hurn and Minister for Education Lucy Hood as well as inspiring stories from SA Young Australian of the Year Chloe Wyatt-Jasper. Students engaged in youth led activities which encouraged democratic dialogue between small student groups made up of young people from across the state. In these diverse groups students discussed and negotiated solutions to a hypothetical issue in a small regional town. Throughout the day students were able to meet and share ideas with MPs, Olympians and leaders in business and the community to grow their understanding of how they can be engaged and an active part of their society.
Ben Tymukas
Global Perspectives
Host Families Wanted for the 2026 Ritsumeikan Study Tour
Adelaide Botanic High School is seeking families to host visiting students from Ritsumeikan Junior High School, Japan, from 25 November to 3 December 2026. These students, aged 14 to 15 years, will be visiting Adelaide as part of our international study tour program.
Hosting is a wonderful opportunity for families to experience Japanese culture firsthand, build lifelong friendships, and share the South Australian lifestyle with a visiting student.
What’s involved?
- Providing a bedroom for a visiting student
- Supplying three meals each day
- Assisting with transport to and from school
- Welcoming a student into your family for the duration of their stay
Host families receive a small reimbursement, and students at Adelaide Botanic High School have the opportunity to act as school buddies and participate in some excursions and cultural activities alongside our visiting guests. Please complete the expression of interest by using the link below.
Contact Nicole Strydom on 8214 7700 or ABHS.Enrolments30@schools.sa.edu.au if you have any queries.
Learning Pathway Conferences
Recently our community came together for the Learning Pathway Conferences (LPC). Students confidently presented evidence of their learning, the goals that they had set for themselves in the Term 2 LPC as well as discussing the behaviours that allowed for to achieve these goals. The Conferences culminated as students discussed how these behaviours, learning and interests were informing their future pathway and subject choices for students from Year 7 to 12.
All up it was a great opportunity for staff and parents to hear almost a thousand students talk about their learning and future aspirations. If you would like to give some feedback about the LPC’s you can do so via the button below.
Justin Kentish
Assistant Principal – Innovation and Equity in Conditions for Learner Success and Agency
2026 Languages Alive Week
Languages Alive Week returned to ABHS for another year, bringing our school community together to celebrate the diversity of languages and cultures represented across our school.
Students had the opportunity to share their languages, cultures, and talents while learning from and engaging with others. Throughout the week, students participated in a range of activities, including:
- Connect Program Video highlighting the importance of language learning and promoting the week’s events.
- Cultural Dress Day, celebrating students’ cultural backgrounds through dress.
- Talent Show performances in students’ first and additional languages.
- Arts and Crafts activities, including French tongue twisters, Japanese origami, Chinese calligraphy, and Kaurna language experiences.
- Cultural Foods at Café B, featuring croissants, croque monsieur, strawberry matcha cupcakes, and dumplings.
- Library Display and Language Quiz, encouraging students to explore languages through books and test their language knowledge.
A special thank you to Kerrin in the Library for supporting our displays and activities, and to Abigail for coordinating the marketing and logistics behind the scenes.
We also extend our thanks to the Languages Team for bringing the week together, and to our wider school community for supporting and encouraging student participation.
Most importantly, thank you to all the students who shared their languages, cultures, and talents. Your enthusiasm and pride made Languages Alive Week another wonderful celebration at ABHS.
Tania Zebian
On behalf of the Languages Team
Student Reflections
Shrestha (Year 7)
“I enjoyed performing at Languages Alive because it was fun, engaging, and gave me a chance to express myself confidently. I also learned a lot of new Japanese words. I would recommend Languages Alive to others because it is a great way to showcase the cultural diversity of our school.”
Naira (Year 7)
“I really enjoyed performing at Languages Alive because it allowed me to express myself through dance and represent my culture. It gave me the opportunity to share my culture with others and helped everyone experience different cultures.
One thing I learned is that you do not need to be an amazing dancer or singer to participate. You simply need the confidence to represent your culture and be proud of who you are. I would definitely recommend Languages Alive to others, whether they want to perform or simply celebrate and share their culture.
ABHS is a very diverse school, with students from all around the world. I was really glad that this event brought everyone together to celebrate the diversity of our school. Thank you to Tania and the Languages Alive Team for hosting this wonderful event.”
Adelaide University Engineering Day - Mawson Lakes Campus
Forty-five students from across Year 8/9 Health STEM Pathways and students identified for their interest and engagement in STEM subjects were invited to attend for a day at the Mawson Lakes Campus of Adelaide University. Students worked in teams with academics and support staff to explore three alternating sessions focusing on civil, electronic and computer systems engineering. Students engaged on Arduino coding activities, competed through team engineering challenges, and individually soldered and built circuit-based electronics. It was a fantastic opportunity to explore some of the many branches of engineering in practical hands-on activities. Students left the day with their projects and insights into the many disciplines. It was enlightening to see them thrive in an academic environment. More opportunities to explore engineering will be developed in the future.
A huge thankyou to Antigony and Amy for their support and connection with students on the day.
Glen Arthur
Health-STEM Pathways Manager
Alumni Medicine, Dentistry and Health Experiences
We had the pleasure of hosting a group of our ABHS Alumni from across 2022 to 2025 who have all flowed a trajectory to Medicine, Dentistry and Health Sciences. The Health STEM Pathways forum was curated to expose our current students from years 10-12 the experiences and advice of others who have waked the same path. The Alumni shared journeys were rich in powerful recounts of their approaches in navigating school and academia through challenge and inspiration.
Sasha Saulwick (Class of 2022) described the importance of “exploring the real world” while working in an outdoor education focussed school in Victoria, prior to studying engineering and realising it was not the right fit, pivoting to data analysis with a uniquely human and environmental perspective, that has now led to pre medical science at ANU and will eventually evolve into studies of medicine.
Kriti Kalyanasundaram (Class of 2022), highlighted the importance of resilience and determination when not quite reaching the summit on the first attempt and pushing a second time to achieve med entry at Adelaide University. Kriti highlighted the importance of connecting with like-minded individuals during study and how rural health has sparked a true passion to serve others in the community.
Sofia Dzulkipli (Class of 2023) discussed her intentional approach and determination to reach med at Flinders through their undergraduate program, providing advice that you must “really ask yourself if you are studying med for yourself … at the end of the day only you can live the experience not others around you”.
Dat Hong (Class of 2023) discussed the torment of reaching a critical fork in the road and having to make the decision between becoming a fighter pilot in the Airforce or studying dentistry at Adelaide after both offers materialised.
Shayne Turner (Class of 2023) provided the perspective of an indigenous student entering medicine at Adelaide, highlighting the retention rates and underrepresentation of indigenous students in the field. His perseverance and perspective were inspiring.
Lily Jacobs (Class of 2025) provided a recent perspective on the importance of having a Health-STEM Pathways program and academic core of students who are all sharing the same experiences with the same lofty aspirations that led to her acceptance at Adelaide University med. She endorsed the gap year as a chance to travel and experience the world prior to many years of study.
We are truly grateful to our Alumni for sharing their unique and valuable experiences; especially after a gruelling examination period. Their commitment to continue to work in support of our students and their futured was also galvanised.
Glen Arthur
Health STEM Pathways Manager
A night of Light, Creativity and Connection
In late Term 2, Adelaide Botanic High School came alive after dark for its first-ever WinterFEST, an evening celebrating student creativity, light, performance and connection through The Arts. With more than 500 people attending, the event brought together students, families, staff and friends to experience the vibrant creative culture of our school and to celebrate the outstanding work taking place across Visual Arts, Media Arts, Drama and Music.
Throughout the evening, more than 450 unique student works, performances and creative contributions were showcased across the school. Exhibitions, installations, projections, film, photography and live performances transformed familiar learning spaces into dynamic creative environments. Guests were invited to explore the Atrium and Level 2 precincts, discovering student work in classrooms, performance spaces, the gymnasium, corridors and unexpected corners of the building. Some works were large and bold, others quiet and reflective. Some were polished and refined, while others were experimental and exploratory. Together they reflected students’ willingness to take creative risks and bring their ideas to life.
A particular highlight of the evening was the Senior Drama Ensemble’s sold-out performance of Eurydice, marking the first time an Adelaide Botanic High School Drama production has sold out. Music also played a significant role in the event, with performances from soloists, student bands, choir, vocal ensembles, studio orchestra, jazz combo, percussion ensembles and the big band. The Drumline helped mark the official opening of Level 2, creating a memorable moment of energy, excitement and celebration that set the tone for the evening.
WinterFEST strongly reflected the Adelaide Botanic High School values of Curiosity, Community and Excellence. Curiosity was encouraged as families explored different spaces and encountered unexpected creative moments. Community was strengthened by bringing together students, families and staff through a shared celebration of learning and artistic expression. Excellence was evident not only in the quality of the final works and performances, but also in the care, courage, collaboration and imagination students demonstrated throughout the creative process.
What began as a small proof of concept quickly grew into something much larger than originally imagined. The success of the evening has created exciting opportunities for future development, including stronger links to curriculum, expanded student-led curation and presentation opportunities, and even greater student agency across Years 7 to 12. WinterFEST demonstrated the power of providing authentic audiences and meaningful platforms for students to share their learning and creative achievements.
A sincere thank you goes to the Arts Team, the broader staff support team, student helpers, performers, exhibitors, families and community members who helped bring WinterFEST to life. Thank you also to the students and staff supporting Café B, with food and drink sales contributing to the Hukarere Ski Trip. An event of this scale is only possible through the generosity, creativity and commitment of many people working together across our school community.
Most importantly, congratulations to our students. WinterFEST existed because of their ideas, creativity, performances and willingness to share something of themselves with an authentic audience. It was a special inaugural event and a wonderful foundation for what we hope will become an ongoing annual tradition at Adelaide Botanic High School.
James Almond
The Arts Leader
Inclusive Education Life Skills: Let's go cafe hopping!
As part of the Inclusive Education Life Skills program, students Jack and Alex participated in an excursion to the Adelaide University Food Court recently.
The excursion provided students with an opportunity to develop important everyday life skills in a bustling, food court environment. During the visit, students observed social interactions within the food court environment, explored a range of food outlets, and practised purchasing food independently (and eating those delicious purchases too!).
Experiences such as these help build confidence, communication skills, decision-making abilities, and independence. By engaging with the wider community, students are able to apply their learning in authentic situations and strengthen their readiness for future study, work, and daily living.
This excursion is one of many exciting opportunities planned for our Inclusive Education students, with more experiences to come as we continue supporting students to develop practical skills for life beyond the classroom.
Inclusive Education Team
Wellbeing News
Already in Term 3, our school community has come together to celebrate a number of important wellbeing events that highlight kindness, inclusion and connection. Students engaged in Bullying. No Way! Week, promoting respect, kindness and the creation of safe, inclusive communities. We also marked Wear It Purple Day, celebrating diversity and reinforcing our commitment to ensuring all members of our LGBTQIA+ community feel safe, valued and included.
In Week 8, students will in R U OK? Day and the ABHS Wellbeing Expo, exploring a wide range of wellbeing services, supports and practical strategies designed to help them thrive both at school and beyond.
These events provided valuable opportunities to build awareness, strengthen connections and encourage meaningful conversations about wellbeing. Most importantly, they reinforced the message that looking after our wellbeing is a normal and important part of everyday life. We thank our students, staff and community members for their enthusiastic involvement in making these initiatives such a positive and impactful part of Term 3.
IXL-ent literacy learning in Year 8!
IXL is a research-backed, online learning program that we began using in Term 1 this year to support all middle school students at ABHS to practice and develop their English literacy skills – in the areas of reading comprehension, grammar and text structures, literary devices, and punctuation. IXL is able to ‘meet students where they are at’ in their literacy confidence and give them targeted support. It also lets students choose the level of challenge that is right for them.
Through building and committing to regular routines of practice in class and at home, our Year 8EB class is growing their confidence with literacy, reading and writing, and being able to engage in new learning they encounter in Global lessons.
To celebrate the end of Term 2, we challenged the students to a learning sprint: how much time could they commit in 1 week to practicing Year 8-level literacy skills? Their practice efforts were so good that our leaderboard (and our chocolate bar prize budget!) was overflowing.
A hearty congratulations to all our certificate achievers in 8EB, and an outstanding effort by Adel S, Sophie K, Sebastian L, Liam M, and Fiona L.
If your child is in Years 7, 8 or 9, IXL is available to them to use. It is a good way to start conversations about literacy challenges, but also to establish positive study routines at home that will help them manage their time and effort as they move into the senior years.
Russell Taylor and Amy Waters
Global Perspectives
China Town Scavenger Hunt Excursion
Year 9 Chinese students recently embarked on an excursion to Chinatown, where they put their language skills to the test.
Students participated in a structured scavenger hunt designed to challenge their translation skills. Working in small groups, they were tasked with locating, reading, and accurately translating a series of sentences written in Chinese. The activity required careful attention to characters, tones, and context, providing a valuable opportunity to apply classroom learning in an authentic environment.
As students explored Chinatown, they encountered signs, menus, and shopfronts that helped deepen their understanding of the language and culture. The scavenger hunt also encouraged teamwork, problem-solving, and communication as groups worked together to compare translations and determine the most accurate meanings.
After completing the challenge, students had time to purchase lunch and explore the variety of food options available, further enriching their cultural experience.
Overall, the excursion provided a practical and engaging way for students to develop their Chinese language skills while connecting with the local community and experiencing aspects of Chinese culture beyond the classroom.
Pei-Chi Wang
Global Perspectives
Ushiku High School Study Tour
During Term 3, Adelaide Botanic High School was delighted to welcome students from Toyo University Ushiku High School for a two-week cultural exchange program. Throughout their visit, our guests were immersed in Australian school life, participating in classes alongside their ABHS buddies and building friendships with students across the school community.
The program featured a wide range of experiences designed to showcase Australian culture and learning. Students enjoyed visits to Cleland Wildlife Park, the Art Gallery of South Australia, the South Australian Museum, Rundle Mall and the Adelaide Central Market. Back at school, they took part in activities including AFL sessions, art workshops, cooking gnocchi, Aboriginal art and dance experiences, English language lessons, and classroom integration across a variety of learning areas.
A highlight of the exchange was the opportunity for students to connect with one another through learning, cultural activities and homestay experiences. The generosity of our host families helped create a genuine home-away-from-home experience, allowing visiting students to gain valuable insights into Australian life while sharing their own culture with our community.
We extend our sincere thanks to the staff, students and families who supported this year’s program. Their enthusiasm, hospitality and willingness to embrace cultural exchange continue to make the Ushiku partnership a valued part of the ABHS community.
Book Week Round-Up
Book Week 2026 was another fantastic celebration of storytelling, creativity and reading at Adelaide Botanic High School, with students and staff enthusiastically taking part in a range of activities across the week.
The festivities began on Monday with the annual Book Fair, hosted by Cygnet Books. Students and staff enjoyed browsing a wide selection of titles, with many new books selected for the library collection. The most popular genres included fantasy, romance, mystery, graphic novels and recipe books, ensuring there will be plenty of exciting new additions to the shelves.
On Wednesday, more than 30 students participated in the annual Book Week Scavenger Hunt, scouring the library in search of clues and hidden challenges. Congratulations to this year’s winning team of Year 10 students Ashley E, Aarchi S and Khue L, who successfully solved the clues and claimed first place.
Thursday’s Costume Parade once again proved to be a highlight of the week. Held in the gym, the event featured a colourful cavalcade of literary characters, showcasing the creativity and enthusiasm of both students and staff.
The week concluded with Friday’s Library Book Sale, which proved hugely popular. With no book priced above $1, many students left carrying stacks of books and exciting new reads. Funds raised from the sale will be used to purchase additional resources for the library collection.
Book Week continues to be a major event on the ABHS calendar, bringing our school community together through a shared love of literature. It is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate student creativity while fostering a lifelong appreciation of books and reading.
Kerrin White
Librarian
Sports
Yr9-10 Girls KO Volleyball
The Year 9–10 Girls Knockout Volleyball team recently competed at The Lights Community and Sports Centre, taking on a number of strong schools from across the competition. The girls represented Adelaide Botanic High School with enthusiasm and determination, producing some excellent volleyball throughout the day. After several closely contested matches, the team finished with a couple of impressive wins and a couple of hard-fought losses. Their teamwork, resilience and positive attitude were on display in every match, making for a successful and enjoyable day of competition. A special thank you goes to Arielle T for volunteering her time to coach the team throughout the day. Her support, encouragement and guidance were greatly appreciated by all involved.
Lachie Christie
Lifestyle Choices
Yr9-10 Boys Knockout Football
The Year 9–10 Boys Knockout Football team faced a challenging draw, coming up against strong opposition from Banksia Park High School and Blackfriars. The boys opened the day against eventual winners Banksia Park High School. Despite the tough result, the team showed plenty of determination and resilience, competing hard until the final siren against a quality outfit. In their second match, the boys produced an impressive performance against Blackfriars. The contest was highly competitive throughout, with our students displaying excellent teamwork, effort and composure. While the result didn’t fall our way, the group can be proud of the way they responded after their opening match and the improvement they showed across the day. A special mention goes to standout performers Aboudy E, Seb K, Reece H and Lachie Y, who consistently led by example with their work rate, skill and commitment. Congratulations to all students who represented the school with pride, sportsmanship and determination throughout the competition.
Lachie Christie
Lifestyle Choices
Yr 7/8 Boys Basketball Competition
Yr7/8 K/O Boys Basketball travelled to Golden grove to comp in the Yr7/8 Boys Basketball Comp . The boys were a talented team coming up against tough competition in the first game. The students started getting good flow on the court and working well together showing good collaboration and skills. The second game showed improvement and cohesion with the team. St Paul’s were a strong side but the team showed competitiveness, leaving it a close loss at the end. The final game was close, the students showed commitment and followed game plays to get a win over Golden Grove High. Jackson S coached the boys with good leadership skills helping the boys across the day.
Holly Cunningham
Lifestyle Choices
Year 9/10 Girls Soccer
Year 9/10 Girls soccer came up against Pembroke college in the first knockout round. The team had undertaken trials, however, were a new team with limited experience playing together. Regardless, the girls showed excellent resilience and teamwork, showcasing some great play. With Ava and Asha being among some of our talented stand out players, stepping up from Year 7 and Zia finishing some exciting attacking plays, the team displayed some great potential. Adelaide Botanic fought hard but were up against a skilful and experienced team, who dominated on the scoreboard in the end. A big thank you to our student volunteers Elise and Celeste for running the lines and taking on some coaching roles.
Aidene Parr
Lifestyle Choices
Secondary Road Cycling Championships
Three students proudly represented ABHS at the Secondary Cycling Championships held at Victoria Park. Despite our small team size, our riders delivered outstanding performances, punching well above their weight against much larger teams from across the state. The team demonstrated determination, resilience, and excellent sportsmanship throughout the competition, with the school finishing an impressive 4th overall in the team standings. Congratulations to Henry and Milla, who both achieved podium finishes in their respective age groups. We are incredibly proud of all three students for their efforts and the way they represented our school.
Lachie Christie
Lifestyle Choices
Mountain Bike Championships
Students represented ABHS at the Secondary School Mountain Bike Championships, competing against schools from across South Australia. The event provided students with the opportunity to test their skills on challenging trails while demonstrating determination, sportsmanship, and resilience throughout the day. Our riders achieved several strong results across the various age categories, with many students recording personal best performances against high-quality competition. While the racing was competitive, the event was also a valuable opportunity for students to further develop their mountain biking skills, gain race experience, and build confidence on technical terrain. Beyond the results, students should be commended for their positive attitude, teamwork, and encouragement of one another throughout the competition. We congratulate all 16 riders on their efforts and look forward to seeing their continued growth and success in future mountain biking events.
Lachie Christie
Lifestyle Choices
Year 11/12 Boys & Girls K/O Futsal
Years 11-12 Boys and Girls Futsal teams competed in the School Sport SA Knockout Competition at The ARC in late in Term 2.
The girls’ team, coached by Jack Ward, faced a challenging draw to begin the day, taking on a strong Gleeson College side in their opening match. Despite a determined effort, they were unable to secure the result.
The team responded brilliantly in their second game, defeating Playford International College with an impressive all-round team performance. In their final pool match, the girls battled hard against Trinity College but were unable to come away with the win. Finishing third in their pool meant they narrowly missed progressing to the next round of the School Sport SA Statewide Futsal Competition.
The girls finished the day on a high, winning their playoff match to claim third place overall.
A special congratulations to all students involved. The squad was made up predominantly of Year 11 students, with one talented Year 10 student earning selection in the team. The girls represented Adelaide Botanic High School with outstanding sportsmanship, effort, and teamwork throughout the competition.
The boys’ team also competed strongly throughout the day against quality opposition. Their campaign began with a challenging match against Roma Mitchell Secondary College. After leading late in the game, the team was unfortunately unable to hold on and narrowly missed the win.
In their second match, the boys displayed excellent teamwork and determination to secure a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Unley High School, one of the teams that ultimately progressed to the next round.
Their final pool match was against Thomas More College, another strong side that advanced through the competition. Although the boys fought hard and led at stages of the game, they were unable to secure the result and finished the day with a loss.
Overall, both teams demonstrated excellent commitment, resilience, and sportsmanship throughout the competition. The victory against Unley High was a highlight of the day, showcasing the boys’ teamwork and determination.
Well done to all players on their efforts and for the way they represented Adelaide Botanic High School.
Jack Ward
Lifestyle Choices