Forging practical pathways for students

Clontarf Beach State High School offers a range of programs to prepare students for future study, work and life after school.

Principal Cath Pfingst, who is a Clontarf graduate herself, returned to the school in the role last term and is passionate about setting up her students for success.

Ms Pfingst grew up in Clontarf and attended the school from 1984-88.

She has worked in education for 32 years, starting at Bribie Island State High School, before taking on the role of Head of Department Maths at Narangba Valley State High School where she became the deputy principal.

During her career she has been Principal at Keebra Park State High School and Wynnum State High School.

“I’m really excited about being able to have an impact on my local community, seeing the children of the Peninsula going on to great futures - be that in a trade or university, professional careers or whatever direction. I really want to make an impact to help our community to be the best it can be,” Ms Pfingst says.

“I’ve certainly seen it change over my lifetime. There are so many more opportunities for our kids, and I just want to make sure that they’re best prepared leaving here to take those opportunities.”

Clontarf Beach State High School offers a diverse range of programs, catering to students’ strengths and aspirations.

“There are opportunities for whatever you want to do. If you’re a student who wants to go to university, the general programs that we offer are great, they stand up to the quality of any other school,” Ms Pfingst says.

“At the other end, you have VET subjects across everything from Industrial Technology & Design (IDT) to Hospitality and Health Services.

“For some of our students who require more support, there are other certificates that give them a little bit more of a boost to go into the community such as volunteering and adult education certificates that set them up for success as well.”

The areas of focus for Vocational Education and Training (VET) students include Health Sciences, Fitness, Construction, Engineering and Hospitality.

Clontarf Beach State High School also offers Marine Science and Aquatic Practices and Dance as subjects.

Ms Pfingst says support for students extends beyond Year 12 graduation.

“We also have a Link and Launch co-ordinator here. They provide support after school, so once our kids finish Year 12 … any child in our local community can access our Link and Launch Co-Ordinator,” she explains.

“If they’re struggling with what their next step is, she is here to help.”

Clontarf Beach State High School is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, with celebrations planned on October 19. Past and present students and staff will be involved, and are encouraged to follow the school’s Facebook page for updates.

Industrial Technology & Design

The faculty aims to become a Centre of Excellence in the region for students and staff. The school has a Welding Club, open to students in Years 10, 11 and 12.

The club runs on Tuesdays and Fridays from 7-8am; Thursday during first lunch and after school from 2.30-3.30pm, and Wednesday period four to maximise opportunities for students to access the workshop. They focus on TIG, MIG and stick welding, and are looking to expand to include oxy-acetylene and spot welding.