From the Head of O’Connor House, Matthew Barr
Term Two proved to be another busy but fruitful term starting off with fundraising at the end of Week 1 for the College Lenten Appeal. The House raised $546.55 from our Cake Stall. A massive thank you for the large array of treats provided by staff, parents and students from O’Connor. A special mention to the staff and SRC representatives that gave up their recess and lunch to sell the items. The money raised will go along way in helping provide resources to the Ruben Centre in Nairobi.
The 107th May Procession took place on Sunday the 7th of May. I would like to thank all O’Connor students and parents for their attendance, respect and reverence on display. It is a great tradition and one that remains very important and central to College life.
Throughout Week 3 the O’Connor Community came together for our inaugural House Breakfast in the Cosgrove Centre. It was a great opportunity for parents, staff and students to meet and greet in a relaxed and informal setting and get to know one another over a coffee, hot chocolate and some delicious pastries and muffins.
Due to vertical Year meetings and the exam period we did not have the opportunity to have as many House Assemblies as Term 1. However, a highlight was an assembly organised and presented from Mr Roberts’ and Ms Green’s mentor groups focusing on War on Waste and Climate Change. Another memorable House Assembly had the students compete against each other in a basketball shoot out in the Gym. A fun experience and great chance for the Junior school students to mix with the Senior students.
O’Connor Basketball shoot out
Week 8 was a short one with the Queen’s Birthday holiday but proved to still be busy with the College Athletics Carnival. Unfortunately, we could not repeat our second place or higher finish like the Swimming Carnival. Whilst there was some great individual performances and a large number of students trying their hardest on the track and in the field events, there were too many students spectators from O’Connor in the stands. I hope future Carnivals all students are involved and have a go on the day regardless of their ability.
Also in Week 8 was the O’Connor House Mass in the College Chapel. It was a perfect time for staff and students to reflect on special achievements and moments during the term. I would like to thank Mr Phil Davis for his efforts and organisation of the Mass. It was a very significant occasion as this was the last Mass celebrated by Fr Milani as College Chaplain. On behalf of O’Connor house we wish Fr Milani all the very best in the next chapter of this life and thank him for his contribution to Waverley College. O’Connor House Spirituality Prefect, Angus Mattick reflected on the true meaning of our Yr 12 School motto, ‘Strength through Diversity.’ His reflection gave everyone a meaningful opportunity to truly reflect and think about theirs and others gifts and talents, and at the same time further challenged us to shine these gifts and talents in our everyday lives.
O’Connor House Mass
As we move towards the midpoint of the school year, I would like to wish everyone a restful and recharging break and especially wish those Year 12 students preparing for their HSC Trial examinations strength and motivation to stay focused on the task at hand.
I look forward to continuing to build on the strong start made by everyone under the new Wellbeing structure and thank the O’Connor mentors and students for their support and hard work during the First Semester.
