Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is key to a good education??
The key to education is not merely teaching students, but rather helping them to learn and develop their skills, knowledge, and abilities. Education is not simply a process of transferring information from teachers to students, but rather a complex and multifaceted process that involves active participation, critical thinking, and problem-solving.
Effective education requires creating an environment where students feel motivated and engaged in the learning process. This involves taking into account their individual needs, interests, and learning styles, as well as providing them with opportunities for exploration and discovery.
Moreover, education is not just about acquiring knowledge or skills but also about developing the whole person. Students need to learn how to think critically, solve problems, communicate effectively, work collaboratively, and adapt to new situations. They also need to develop a sense of personal responsibility, ethical values, and cultural awareness.
In summary, the key to education is not simply teaching students but helping them to learn, grow, and develop as individuals. This requires a holistic approach that takes into account their individual needs, interests, and strengths, and provides them with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in life.
Why should I send my child to Redbank Plains State High School?
With over 34 years of experience in educating young people in Redbank Plains and the surrounding communities, we have a deep understanding of the needs of our students and are committed to helping them achieve their full potential. Our experienced teachers are passionate about inspiring and guiding our students towards creating better futures for themselves.
Our school is focused on maximising student outcomes in a safe and supportive learning environment. We believe that academic success is important, but we also encourage our students to explore and develop their abilities in cultural and sporting areas. We understand that social skills are essential for success, so we work hard to enhance our students' ability to interact effectively at school and in the wider community.
At Redbank Plains State High School, we believe in developing optimistic, dynamic young people who have positive values and a commitment to the good of society and the environment. We strive to create a positive learning community where students can thrive, feel supported, and achieve their full potential.
Who can enrol at Redbank Plains State High School?
There are a number of options to enrol at Redbank Plains State High School, including:
- live within the Redbank Plains State High School catchment
- have a sibling that currently attends the school
- receive a scholarship
- apply for an out of catchment enrolment (contact the Administration team, phone 3432 1222 or email: principal@redbankplainsshs.eq.edu.au.
Enter your details to find out more about enrolling at our school!
How do I prepare for an enrolment interview?
Please bring all the completed documentation to your interview. Please phone the school Administration team to book an enrolment interview on 3432 1222.
Click here to discover more about enrolling at our school.
An interview with families joining our Redbank Plains State High School community is required for all students in Years 7 -12. This interview is an opportunity to discuss the students' learning levels and to ensure a smooth transition into the school community by all members of the family.
Interview preparation:
- both parents (if possible) or a guardian are encouraged to attend
- student must be in attendance.
The Student Resource Scheme participation fee.
What the Scheme covers?
- All textbook hire and online text resources
- Any other subject related expenses (Excursions not included)
- ID Card
- School Diary
- Internet Access
- Printing Credit
Purpose of the scheme
- In accordance with the Education (General Provisions) Act 2006, the cost of providing instruction, administration and facilities for the education of students enrolled at State schools who are Australian citizens or permanent residents, or children of Australian citizens or permanent residents, is met by the State.
- Parents/carers are directly responsible for providing textbooks and other personal resources for their children while attending school. In recognition that these costs can be high, the school operates a Student Resource Scheme (the “scheme") that enables a parent/carer to enter into an agreement with the school that, for a specified annual participation fee, provides for the temporary use by the student of prescribed textbooks and/or other resources, and/or the purchase of consumables and materials for the student.
- A Student Resource Scheme is separate to and distinct from a request for a voluntary financial contribution.
* A parent/carer who chooses not to participate in the scheme is responsible for providing the student with all items that would otherwise be provided to the student by the scheme.
School payments
Payments can be made in person at the Student Office on Tuesday and Thursday between 8:15am until 12 noon.
Online payment options include:
Other payment options include:
Requirements for subjects are included on the year level Stationery list, to allow all students to engage with the curriculum.
Stationery lists
Parents/Carers are required to purchase the compulsory and relevant subject stationery items listed to ensure their child is prepared for school each year. Click here to view the year level stationery lists. Stationary costs will vary based on your child's year level and can be ordered from any good stationery supplier.
* All students will require access to personal (BYOx) or rental laptop from 2024.
What is the BYOx Program?
Bring Your Own 'x' (x - Device) is a new pathway supporting the delivery of 21st century learning at Redbank Plains State High School.
The Bring Your Own 'x' (BYOx) term is used to describe a digital device ownership model where students or staff use their personally-owned or rental mobile devices to access the department's information and communication (ICT) network.
BYOx is mandatory at Redbank Plains State High School for specific year levels. In 2024, all students in Years 7 - 12 are to bring their own learning device to school.
Why introduce BYOx?
- To support and enhance student e-learning capabilities
- To enable staff to teach in innovative, more interactive and engaging ways
- To challenge students to work independently, collaborate with one another, and extend their learning beyond the classroom
What is the BYOx Laptop4Rent program alternative?
The Laptop4Rent program, provides your child with the best device for their needs for a 12 month period with a small hire fee of $200 (2023). This hire program removes the huge pressure on your budget with the school's IT Department supporting your student and the usage of the device. A laptop is mandated for all year levels from Years 7-12.
The school rental laptop fee provides:
- A computing device (laptop)
- Full access to the school wireless network
- Monitored Access during School hours
- Secure, filtered and monitored work environment
- Accidental damage, loss and theft insurance at home and school (Conditions apply)
- A sturdy carry case (When the laptop is not being used it MUST always be in the school-issued carry case)
- School licensed software
- Technical Support
- School multi-function print device access (printing, copying, scanning).
Click here for more BYOx program information.
What are the facilities like at Redbank Plains State High School?
The school has a well-equipped Resource Centre (Library) which is open for students during study periods, breaks, and during the Homework Club. Students have access to new industry-standard catering kitchens, science labs, music studios, art studios, and outdoor multi-purpose courts which cater for a wide range of sports.
What scholarships are available for high-achieving students?
Redbank Plains State High School is proud to offer a select number of scholarships to students each year. These scholarships are available to incoming Year 7 students as well as internal and external student candidates in Years 8 through 11.
Our scholarships aim is to celebrate exceptional achievements and potential in a variety of areas that are crucial to our school. We hold all scholarship recipients to high expectations of participation and accomplishment, and every scholarship is subject to an annual evaluation.
As a bonus, successful recipients of our scholarships will receive a complimentary Laptop4Rent hire device for 12 months, valued at $200. This device can be utilised both in school and at home to support and enhance the learning experience.
Click here for more information on the scholarship program.
What are the scholarship categories on offer?
- Arts Scholarship
1 Available Per Year Level - Instrumental Music Scholarship
1 Available Per Year Level
- Sirius Academic Scholarship
1 Available Per Year Level – 7, 8 & 9 - Senior Academic Scholarship
1 Available Per Year Level – 10, 11 & 12 - Sports Scholarship
1 Available Per Year Level
What are the signature excellence programs on offer for high-achieving students?
Our Signature Programs provide extension in their field beyond the mainstream classroom. The program allows students to become autonomous learners who are actively engaged in the development of their skills and talents.
- Sirius Academic Program: Targets students with high academic ability to develop their critical thinking, problem solving and independent learning skills.
- SIGNATURE SPORTS Programs: Targets students who have a keen interest in competitive Volleyball, Soccer and Basketball.
Click here for more information on the signature excellence programs on offer.
What are the extra-curricular programs on offer at Redbank Plains State High School?
Sports Program
At Redbank Plains State High School we offer a number of sport development programs: Basketball, Soccer and Volleyball. To be considered for inclusion in these programs, students attend trial sessions and are chosen on their experience and ability. While students study the Australian Curriculum—HPE, the aim of the sports development program is to develop specialist skills in these particular sports while improving their fitness levels, playing techniques and game play.
Trials occur throughout the year for students interested in the program.
Arts Program
Redbank Plains State High has a proud extra-curricular Arts program providing opportunities for students to participate, learn, develop and excel. The program is open to all students in Years 7 - 12 and includes:
- Instrumental Music
- Dance Troupe
- Drama Troupe
- Choir
What subjects are on offer?
Redbank Plains State High School has a proud history for providing students with the skills and capabilities to become active global citizens. The school has a reputation for strong academic achievement with a high percentage of students entering tertiary education or the workforce. Click here to read more about the Junior Curriculum and the Senior Curriculum.
What student services are on offer?
We pride ourselves on having a range of services to support our students during their time at Redbank Plains State High School. Supports starts with our dedicated team including our:
- Chaplaincy Services
- Community Education Counsellor
- Community Liaison Officer
- Community Liaison Officer for African Students
- Deans of Students
- English as an Additional Language Dialect Teacher
- Guidance Officers
- Learning Support Teachers
- Link and Launch
- Pacific Islander Liaison Officer
- School Based Youth Health Nurse
- Special Education Program
- Year Coordinators
- Youth Support Coordinator
Click here for more information about our student services team.
We also offer students access to specialist staff and programs to meet their needs, including:
- Access to the school's TAFE Queensland programmes
- ARTIE Academy
- Beyond the Broncos program
- Certificate I through to Certificate III
- Development Program
- Life skills, Values, Career Preparation
- Multi-literacy program
- Queensland Curriculum and Assessment Authority (QCAA) subjects
- Special Education Program
- Traineeships and Apprenticeships
- University of Queensland Outreach Program
- Vocational Education courses
School communications and COMPASS School App
Communication is integral to the sense of community we strive to foster at Redbank Plains State High School, with our main communication method being via the Compass App, emails, the school website and social media. We encourage all families to download the Compass App for all iPhone and Android phones. With a single tap, you have access to up-to-date information. Features include:
- School Notices
- School Calendar
- School Events
- School Newsletter
- Student timetable and attendance information
- Staff Contacts
Other contact methods include telephone calls, parent-teacher conferences, curriculum nights and school tours; just some of the other effective form of communications between the school and families.
Keep up-to-date by following us on Facebook (@RPSHS) and Instagram (Redbank Plains State High School) or via Twitter (@RPSHS). Please refer to our website for Responsible use of Social Media.
What if my child has to leave the school early?
Students requiring an early departure during the day must present a note signed and dated by their parent/guardian which includes:
- the student's full name and year level
- the required departure time
- the reason for early departure
- where you will be collecting the student
- the name of the person collecting the student.
An additional email informing the Student Office, is always appreciated.
The student presents the note to their classroom teacher at the required time to be released from class and then immediately goes to the Student Office. The Student Office staff will sign the student out through the school's attendance system, Compass, and provide an early departure pass.
If the time of departure is during a break time, the student is to go to the Student Office at the required time. It is the student's responsibility to follow the correct process.
Need more help?
Call our Administration team to help you with your enquiry, phone: 3432 1222.