A principal from down south recently remarked, “News about TAS achievements seems to pop up everywhere.” This comment made me pause and reflect on the incredible community we have at Trinity Anglican School. 

As the Principal, I am constantly inspired by the achievements and resilience of our students. Equally, I am inspired by our dedicated staff and supportive parents, who go above and beyond to provide every opportunity for our students. Despite being a mid-sized regional school, our accomplishments, innovative programs, and outstanding student outcomes reflect our unwavering commitment to excellence and innovation. 

Earlier this term, some of our Year 7 and 8 students competed in the 2024 University of Queensland/QAMT Mathematics Problem Solving Competition. Our Year 7 students placed 6th and our Year 8 students 5th overall in Queensland, making TAS the highest-ranked regional school in both year levels. Additionally, 40% of all highly commended awards in regional Queensland were earned by our students, placing them in the top 10% of their year level across the state. 

Our commitment to early childhood education is evident in the outstanding ratings our Early Learning Centres have achieved. Both centres have been awarded an ‘Exceeding’ rating, a testament to the exceptional care and education provided to our youngest learners. 

Last term, secondary students had the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to attend Space Camp at the Kennedy Space Centre in Orlando, USA. This experience ignited their passion for science and exploration, providing them with hands-on learning in a unique and inspiring environment. The community also came together to celebrate the Arts at TAS has gone M.A.D (Music, Art, Drama Festival) and the Primary School Variety Night. 

Participation in Round Square conferences allows our students to engage with peers from around the world, fostering global citizenship and leadership skills. Our sports tours further enhance their development, promoting teamwork, resilience, and a love for physical activity. Our international study tours provide unique learning experiences and cultural exposure. Later this year, a group of students will participate in the World Challenge, travelling to Nepal to engage in cultural experiences and service projects. 

We are proud to have an award-winning outdoor education program that encourages students to learn and grow in natural settings. In fact, we have one of the best programs in the country, capitalising on our incredible natural landscape and fostering independence and resilience in our students. The accreditation of our Kewarra Beach Campus as a Nature Learning school and Primary Outdoor Learning school reflects our dedication to providing innovative, hands-on learning experiences that connect students with nature. We are one of only four schools in the state to earn this accreditation. 

Our school’s excellence has been recognised with several Australian Education Awards each year for the past few years, highlighting our achievements in various areas of education and our commitment to maintaining the highest standards. Additionally, White Rock Primary has been awarded the Australian Innovation Award two years in a row for its innovative and engaging programs. 

TAS is renowned for its consistently outstanding academic outcomes. An impressive 95% of our students go on to study at university, with many pursuing careers in conservation, sustainability, engineering, medicine, and other STEM fields. 

Notably, the participation rate of female students in advanced STEM subjects at TAS is extraordinary. We boast a remarkable 61% participation rate among girls, compared to the state average of 23%. This trend is mirrored across other advanced STEM subjects, showcasing our commitment to encouraging and supporting female students in these critical areas. We are incredibly proud of this achievement. 

One of our much-loved Prep teachers, Shannon Brischke, has not only written a children’s book but has also been recognised as a Highly Accomplished Lead Teacher (HALT) and has played a key role in implementing TAS’ innovative Prep reading program. Incoming 2025 school captain, Max Lauchlan, has been recognised by the University of Queensland for the Best National Science Week Plan in Queensland. 

This year, 28 Year 12 students raised over $35,000 for the Cancer Council and donated their hair for cancer patients. The Ponytail Chop has become a cherished annual tradition, and TAS students have raised well over $100,000 in recent years. Additionally, our Secondary School students regularly make over 1,500 sandwiches as part of the Eat Up Initiative, which provides lunches for students in need at local schools. 

Shelby Munford (Primary School Teacher) has just won the Noreen Wilcox Award for Excellence in Education. Darren Osmond (Head of Co-curricular) and Kim Rheuben (Primary School Teacher) have recently been nominated for Teacher X Awards. 

I could go on, as the above achievements, programs, and initiatives are just scratching the surface, but I’m sure you get the point. TAS is more than just a place of learning; it is a community dedicated to nurturing and inspiring our students. Our achievements, from academic excellence to innovative programs, demonstrate that we are indeed exceeding expectations. 

Thank you for being a part of our journey. Together, we are shaping the future and making a difference in the lives of our students. A special thank you to our students, who continue to amaze me with their hard work, determination, and eagerness to embrace every opportunity.