Book Week 2025

ABHS hosted another exciting Book Week in 2025! Events ran every day during Week 5, with enthusiastic participation from both students and staff.

Library Scavenger Hunt – Monday
Book Week kicked off with a thrilling Library Scavenger Hunt where students followed clues to hunt for specific books. Congratulations to the winner, Year 12’s Andrew Tuovinen, who claimed victory in a close race. Special mention to runners-up, Year 8 students Amy Nguyen and Emily Zhang, who gave Andrew some strong competition.

Costume Parade – Tuesday
The highlight of Tuesday was the Book Week Costume Parade, hosted once again by the charismatic Elliot Hoskin with a panel of four staff judges. Students embraced this year’s theme, “Book an Adventure”, showcasing an incredible range of literary-inspired costumes.

First prize went to Angus RS (Year 10) for his whimsical Mad Hatter from Alice in Wonderland. Second prize was awarded to Max M (Year 9) for his ingenious Leonardo Da Vinci costume, complete with a flying machine strapped to his back! Third prize celebrated characters from Little Women—Year 10s and 11s Lily K, Cadence F, Nova K, Kelsey D, and Edith AK came dressed in authentic nineteenth-century costume.

Harry Neale won the staff prize for his charming Paddington Bear costume, complete with marmalade sandwich! A huge thank you to the Year 8 Synergy team for their invaluable support in organising and running this event.

Book Fair – Wednesday
On Wednesday, the Burger Bar was transformed into a treasure trove, with Cygnet Books hosting their annual Book Fair. Students and staff eagerly browsed the displays, helping select a fantastic array of new titles for our library collection.

Story Telling – Thursday
Thursday introduced a new Book Week activity: Story Telling. Staff and students read aloud, sharing their favourite picture books with groups of attentive listeners. It proved quite a success and may become a semi-regular library event.

Library Book Sale – Friday
The week concluded with the ever-popular Library Book Sale. Students scooped up cancelled library books for $1 or less, leaving the event with big smiles and arms full of books. It was a perfect way to end a fantastic week.

Competitions
Entries have just closed for the Design a Bookmark and Creative Writing competitions. Winners will be announced in Term 4, so stay tuned!

A massive thank-you to all students, staff, and particularly the Year 8 Synergy team, for making Book Week such a success. Your enthusiasm continues to make this celebration of books and reading a major event in the ABHS calendar.

Kerrin White
Library Manager

Ethics In Science - EASPN Challenge Day

Two teams from ABHS recently participated in the Ethics in Science Day at Glenunga International High School. Students worked in two teams of 5 (Chloe C, Khwaish S, Saiki S, Zara N, Vathsocheata H, Ben F, Omar K, Oliver J, Adiraj P and William C) to explore ethical dilemmas in science and present research and proposed solutions based on their dynamic interactions with stakeholders across the day. It was a great way to build empathy through ethics and engage with students from across schools. The teams presented a range of well-developed solutions to the ethical exploration of the development of viruses and gene editing.

Maylin Evanochko and Glen Arthur
STEM Leader and Health and STEM Pathways Manager

Music to Our Ears

This term has been filled with energy, creativity, and celebration in the Music Department. From student-led ensembles bringing colour to our school events, to outstanding performances at state competitions, our young musicians continue to showcase their passion and dedication. We are proud to share some highlights from the term so far, as well as a look ahead at the exciting opportunities still to come this year.

Balaklava Eisteddfod

In Week 2, over 50 students travelled to the Balaklava Eisteddfod. Throughout the day, Adelaide Botanic High School bands and ensembles competed in the Stage Band, Orchestra Percussion, Rock, and Choral divisions. We are very proud of our groups for representing ABHS on stage. A special congratulations goes to our Percussion Ensemble and Rock Band, who won silver and bronze, respectively.

ABODA

In Week 4, the Percussion Ensemble and Big Band competed in the South Australian Band and Orchestra Festival. We are extremely happy to announce that both groups achieved silver. Each division is highly competitive, so well done to all the students involved.

After School Choir

Sarah Bradley and Lauren Scarfe have begun facilitating a school, after school choir – where we have everyone from beginners to some of our friendly music intense regulars. From the success of the School musical, the group have formed to connect through teamwork and music. We’re Excited to see what repertoire they come up with and wish them the best for the rest of the semester! The doors are always open for new singers, so please reach out to one of the choir directors or our music team for further details!

Primary Years Student Mentoring

A group of Music Intense students recently mentored primary school students as part of the Department for Education’s Beginner Band Workshop, which concluded with a performance from our very own Big Band. It was a fantastic opportunity for our students to share their skills and encourage the next generation of musicians.

Looking ahead, we are excited to host our annual Music Intense Information Evening. This event gives students the opportunity to perform for prospective families of our incoming 2026 cohort, showcasing the talent and creativity that thrives within our program. We also extend our thanks to our hardworking instrumental teachers and supportive families, whose dedication ensures our students continue to grow and shine through music.

Josh Cowley
Music Program Manager

Year 11 Outdoor Education Kayaking Camp

Recently, our Year 11 students embarked on a memorable Outdoor Education camp at Ral Ral Creek, just outside of Renmark. Over four days, students immersed themselves in nature, honed kayaking skills, and explored personal growth in a beautiful and inspiring environment.

Students were engaged in a range of activities integrating knowledge and skills, including:

• Ecosystems and Sustainability: Exploring the unique flora and fauna of Ral Ral Creek and discussing the importance of environmental sustainability.
• Technical Kayaking Skills: Developing proficiency in paddling techniques and navigating various water conditions.
• Camping Expertise: Learning practical skills such as setting up camp and cooking in the great outdoors.

One of the highlights of camp was the opportunity for self-discovery and teamwork, carefully incorporated into activities throughout the experience. Students took part in:

• Solo Kayaking Adventures: Reflective journeys through backwater creeks, fostering independence and mindfulness.
• Mini Kayaking Games: Fun, collaborative challenges that strengthened group dynamics.
• Navigation Challenges: A practical test of leadership skills and decision-making under pressure.
• Daily Cooperative Activities: Small group tasks that encouraged communication, problem-solving, and teamwork.

Students also gained a deeper understanding of the First Peoples of the River Murray and Mallee Region. They explored the Aboriginal heritage of the area, learning about the Erawirung people’s deep connection to the land and waterways. Guided by cultural knowledge and traditions, students were introduced to sustainable practices that continue to protect the cultural and ecological legacy of the river systems.

These experiences gave students insight into leadership styles, group work strategies, and their own resilience. Congratulations to our Year 11 students for embracing every challenge with enthusiasm and a growth mindset. This was an unforgettable experience that combined physical activity, learning, and personal reflection, setting students up for continued success in their studies and beyond.

Phoebe Rowberry and Jake Blunt
Lifestyle Choices Teachers