On Tuesday 26th February we hosted an Open Afternoon for prospective parents and students. We welcomed around 300 families to the school. I wanted to share with you excerpts from the speeches two Year 6 Waterford students Lachlan Marzol and Kayden Baker shared with families visiting our wonderful school.
“At Waverley we are lucky enough to participate in Saturday sports and do not worry if you are not an Olympic Athlete, that is what is great about the College. The teachers encourage you to do YOUR best and be YOUR best. It does not matter if you are in the highest sports team or the lowest, all that matters at Waverley is that you try and all the boys play together as a team” Lachlan Marzol – Year 6
“I started at the College in Year 5 and have loved every eventful and memorable day at the Junior School. The thing I love most about the College is the inclusiveness between the Senior School and the Junior School. One of my most treasured things about the College is the Mother’s Day and Father’s Day Masses, when you get to make something for your loved ones and express to them how thankful you are about going to Waverley and how much you love them” Kayden Baker – Year 6
Year 5 have been working on an exciting STEM competition, the Toyota Dream Car Art contest. This competition is a chance for tomorrow’s engineers, designers and creative thinkers to let their imagination run wild by drawing an image of their ‘Dream Car’. We started by investigating the concept of adaptation and we looked at how animals adapt both physically and behaviourally to suit their environments. Year 5 were set a challenge to design a car that was adapted to an extreme environment. Below are examples of some of the most creative entries. We look forward to seeing if any of our entrants will win the grand prize of a trip to Japan! Congratulations to all of the boys who submitted entries for consideration, your creativity and design thinking is very impressive, you are the problem solvers of the future.
Miss Charlotte Stephens – Year 5 classroom teacher and ileader
‘Cactus Car’ by Sam Brader 5 red
‘Car of Dimensions’ by Samuel Lennon 5 Red
Thanks to Year 5 Green and their support of Clean Up Australia Day. They armed themselves with gloves, tongs and and bags and headed to Waverley Park where they picked up litter that had been left behind.
Congratulations to everyone who competed in the NSW Surf Life Savings Championships held at Swansea Belmont over the weekend. From all reports the Waverley boys were successful in a wide range of events and presented themselves as positive role models for the school. I also wanted to show my appreciation to the boys who were not competing in this event and had to play Saturday sport. Many teams were short on players and some boys played two games for their particular sport. It was wonderful to witness this level of school spirit amongst the boys. Well done Waterford!
Well done to the students from both Years 5 & 6 who attended the Brothers Swimming Carnival at St Ignatius College as a warm up in preparation for the IPSHA Carnival at Homebush. The boys were selected based on their results from the swimming carnival.
Under 10’s – Charlie Coutts, James McDonald, Nick Scerri, Owen Patient, Jethro Jensen
Under 11’s – Aidan Lee, William Tate, Parker Campbell, Digger Callander,
Under 12’s – Lincoln Tanner, Nate Devereux
The swimming squad then competed at the IPSHA carnival on Tuesday. The Senior Relay Team consisting of Fred Carmody, James Finegan, Oakley Lamb and Zoltahn Szabo made it through to compete for IPSHA at the CIS Carnival on Wednesday 20th March at Sydney Aquatic Centre, Olympic Park.
There have been increased concerns with traffic and parking on Henrietta St of a morning and afternoon, this includes people parking in the no stopping zone out the front of Waterford. Please ensure that traffic and parking regulations are followed at all times, in both Henrietta St and Victoria St especially during the busy drop off and pick up times. This is to ensure not only our students’ safety, but also the safety and needs of our local community.
Transfer students are accepted on a case-by-case basis throughout the year. Places are subject to availability and can be discussed with our Registrar.
Applications for our waitlist are welcome, please discuss availability with our Registrar.
After our closing date, applications for our waitlist are still welcome. Please discuss availability with our Registrar.
Applications are open.
To view our enrolment procedure, please click here.
To view our admissions criteria, please click here.
On Wednesday, 27 February, the Year 10 and Year 5 Waverley students met up for their first Big Brother, Little Brother encounter. The Big Brother Little Brother program aims to engage and partner our Senior students as mentors with our Junior school students. It provides a series of opportunities for them to engage with each other throughout the year.
Games such as Basketball, Dodgeball, Soccer, Touch Football and Tug of war was enjoyed by all the students. A great time was had by all and a special thank you to all the teachers from both Waterford and the Senior school that helped facilitate this event. We look forward to many more enjoyable experiences.
Extra-curricular – Sustainability Group
‘Be the change you want to see in the world’ – Ghandi.
If you have an idea on how to improve our schools impact on the environment or want to get involved in Waverley College’s movement towards being a more sustainable school.
You are invited to join the Sustainability Group.
Meetings will be held every Friday before school at 7:45am – 8:30 am in K2L3 – starting 22nd March. Ms Alborough will be helping you develop and run campaigns for the school and the community that you are passionate about.
If you have any questions/want to sign up please see Ms Alborough in the science staffroom by the 14th March.
Canteen
In an aim to reduce the plastic used in the school we are slowly removing single use plastics such as straws, plastic cutlery and bottled water.
Students can soon purchase a ‘Waverley College’ stainless steel reusable water bottle from the canteen for $15. As a one off, students may forget their water bottles. Students can still purchase water bottles in the vending machine outside the weights room and they can use the newly installed water bubblers and water bottle fillers across the school.
This year, the canteen will be trialling different eco friendly containers. This will be an ongoing process to identify containers that are cost effective and still encourage student purchase. As a result of these changes to provide for a better environment for the future of your sons and the young adults of tomorrow, a small cost increase may need to be passed on by way of a price increase in 2020.
BetterCups
In 2018, we bought and disposed of roughly 1000 single use cups for school events. By launching our re-useable plastic cups from BetterCup at the Parent Association Welcome Cocktail Party we had a 90% reduction in single use plastic waste. These cups will be used at all College events in place of disposable cups, for hot and cold drinks. They will also be available to purchase.
Recycling batteries, phone and print cartridges
Waverley College will be installing a permanent waste station in the Senior Campus Recepion to allow for the safe disposal of some ‘hard to get rid of’ products.
These include:
Students will be allowed to bring in these items from home to prevent these products from entering landfill and leaching toxins into our soil.
Reminders will be on Nurrunga throughout the year.
If you have any suggestions or concerns, feel free to email palborough@waverley.nsw.edu.au
It has been an exhilarating and hectic start to the year for the Music Faculty as usual. The Choir and Brass ensemble were in full force leading the singing at the Commencement Mass in week 2. It was great to see the senior students being involved with the planning and leading the music at the recent and up and coming House Masses.
In Week 4 a number of boys, including some new Year 7’s attended the camp for the musical ‘Guys and Dolls’. Apart from working hard, students and staff thoroughly enjoyed the experience. We are all looking forward to a great show on May!
Private music lessons are well under way. Boys are to be reminded to check their schedule, be punctual to their lessons and inform the teacher at least the day prior to their lesson if they are unable to attend. We have excellent, well qualified peripatetic teachers at Waverley College and lessons are available on a large variety of instruments. Any new student to the college who wishes to learn an instrument or join the Rock Band program are welcome to visit the PAC and speak to Mrs Kossenberg or any of the music staff.
All Music Ensembles have now commenced. Please check the following schedule for days and times. All new members are welcome, especially year 7 students and those students who are new to the school! Visit the Music Faculty at any time to discuss or join an ensemble.
Music Ensemble Rehearsal Schedule (click on link)
Beginner Band at Waterford (Years 5 and 6) commences next Tuesday, March 12, 7.30am. Please contact Mr Blenkinsopp for any inquiries. cblenkinsopp@waverley.nsw.edu.au.
Saturday evening saw over 560 parents and staff celebrate the new school year at the annual Waverley College Parents’ Association (WCPA) Welcome Cocktail Party. It was a great opportunity to welcome all our new parents and carers to the school as well as catch up with old friends. Photos of the evening are on the Waverley College Facebook page.
The WCPA holds meetings once a term and all parents are warmly invited to attend. Graham Leddie, the Head of College, usually attends and presents a report on College activities and developments. The first meeting of 2019 was held this week. Please note some key dates for the remaining meetings this year – and other Parents’ Association events:
We look forward to seeing you at our next Parents’ Association event.
University of Sydney Year 10 Info Evenings
Join us on campus for a fun and informative evening where we will answer the important questions: How does scaling work? What should you consider when selecting your subjects for Year 11 and 12? What are prerequisites and assumed knowledge? What is university really like? You will hear from a range of speakers including University staff and students.
If you’re a Year 12 student in NSW, or an interstate student planning on applying in 2020 to a Uni in NSW through UAC, there’s some good news.
You can now start the undergraduate admissions process from 9am on 3 April 2019 (in previous years you had to wait until August). So if you know what you want to study and where, you could get your Uni applications done early in the Year, leaving more time to focus on study near to your exams.
Understanding University Early Entry
Early entry is a system that some universities or tertiary admissions centres (TAC) use to help them select students before the normal application process takes place. You apply through a special system and get an offer earlier than if you waited and used your ATAR to apply normally.
ACU – Community Achiever Program (CAP)
Move forward by giving back. Our Community Achiever Program (CAP) is open to people who volunteer for local community, social justice, sporting or cultural causes. In return, you’ll gain early entry and tap into leadership and development opportunities.
OPEN DATE May 2019
CUT OFF DATE End of July 2019
NOTIFICATION DATE End of August 2019
LOCATION
NSW, SA, VIC, QLD, ACT
VTAC fees may apply
ANU – Early Conditional Offers
ANU could make you an early or priority offer of admission based on your Selection Ranks, if you are a talented student, or have varied life experiences. Early offers are open to students from all backgrounds, from every town and city of Australia. All of them deserve the opportunity to access the life-changing benefits of a tertiary education.
OPEN DATE 4 March 2019
CUT OFF DATE 31 May 2019
NOTIFICATION DATE
August 2019 (Conditional Offer)
LOCATION
ACT (but open to all Australian Students)
Application Criteria
– Co-curricular or service requirement – Academic requirements
– Yr 11 results for conditional offer
– Yr 12 (ATAR/OP) results for final offer
– Pre-requisites or portfolios applicable to chosen course
University of Wollongong’s early offer program for Year 12 students.
The results you’ve got so far will be assessed and can reward you with an early offer for your chosen degree (or degrees) before you sit your first exam.
You’re eligible to apply if you are completing your final year at an Australian high school.
OPEN DATE 1 August 2019
CUT OFF DATE 30 August 2019
NOTIFICATION DATE Before your exams
LOCATION
New South Wales
Assessment Criteria
– Current academic performance
– Personal traits and skills
They have a list of the indicative criteria for entry into each degree on their site.
HSC True Reward is Western Sydney University’s early offer program.
Get an early offer into a University degree based on your HSC results and corresponding HSC subject band outcomes, not your overall ATAR.
Check their website regularly for the dates (they’re not out yet).
OPEN DATE TBC
CUT OFF DATE TBC
NOTIFICATION DATE
Before the ATAR release date
LOCATION
New South Wales
Global Leadership Entry Program (GELP)
For students who are kicking goals at school and making a positive change in your community through leadership and service.
Fill out an expression of interest form, and check the website as details are updated (early 2019) for 2020 applications
OPEN DATE TBC
CUT OFF DATE TBC
NOTIFICATION DATE TBC
LOCATION
New South Wales
Notre Dame’s Early Offer Program
Are you a high-achieving Year 12 student who wants to study at a leading Australian university? Do you want to get a head start on your future? If so, you may be the ideal candidate for The University of Notre Dame’s Early Offer Program.
This exclusive program is open to Year 12 students who have demonstrated academic excellence and/or are making a significant contribution to their school or community.
OPEN DATE
Once you’ve received your Semester 1 Year 12 results
CUT OFF DATE End of August 2019
NOTIFICATION DATE End of September 2019
LOCATION
New South Wales & Western Australia
Assessment Criteria
– An application form completed by yourself and your school – A personal statement of 300 words
– Your Year 11 school reports
– Your Year 12 Semester 1 reports
– Any other supporting documentation such as awards and certificates
It’s free to apply
UNE’s Early Entry recognises that your story is not best told by a number and ensures that you have the best opportunity to go to university.
OPEN DATE Open now
CUT OFF DATE
27 September 2019
NOTIFICATION DATE Early November 2019
LOCATION
New South Wales
Assessment Criteria
Early Entry relies on your school’s assessment of your attributes and abilities to determine your suitability for entry to University.
Application is free
The University of Newcastle’s Year 12 Subject Spotlight is where your ATAR doesn’t define who you are – it is your unique passions, abilities and ambitions that matter.
The Year 12 Subject Spotlight program rewards you with an early offer for your hard work and strong results in one or more subjects related to your degree. So, you can take some of the stress out of your final school exams, knowing your ATAR isn’t all that matters. There is no separate application for the program – simply apply through UAC and have UON listed as your first preference to qualify.
OPEN DATE 9am on 3 April 2019 (UAC admissions open)
CUT OFF DATE TBC (as per UAC schedule)
NOTIFICATION DATE TBC (as per UAC schedule)
LOCATION
New South Wales
Assessment Criteria
Year 12 Subject Spotlight program rewards you with an early offer for your hard work and strong results in one or more subjects related to your degree
See the marks you’ll require for your chosen degree at the link –
University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT ANZ)
The University Clinical Aptitude Test (UCAT) is an admissions test used by the UCAT ANZ Consortium of universities in Australia and New Zealand for their medical, dental and clinical science degree programmes.
The UCAT ANZ test will replace the UMAT (Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test) from 2019 (for university entry in 2020).
The test helps universities to select applicants with the most appropriate abilities and professional behaviours required for new doctors and dentists to be successful in their clinical careers. It is used in collaboration with other admissions processes such as interviews and academic qualifications.
It is also an opportunity to stand out from other applicants and demonstrate aptitude for a demanding programme of study.
The UCAT ANZ is a computer-based test delivered in Pearson VUE test centres throughout Australia, New Zealand and at some overseas locations.
Please note that some pathways to medicine / dentistry / clinical sciences will not require the UCAT. For some applicants a different test may be required. For details candidates should refer to the websites of the universities to which they intend to apply.
Find the dates for 2019 here – https://www.ucat.edu.au/ucat-anz/dates-and-fees/
UCAT has now replaced UMAT as the admissions test for entry into medical, dental and clinical science degree programmes in Australia and New Zealand.
The UCAT is a 2 hour computer-based test that will run throughout July 2019. You can download a brochure here – UCAT Handbook
We also have UCAT guides and a free full-length UCAT practice exam available for download on our website: www.matrix.edu.au/beginners-guide-to-ucat/part-8-ucat-practice-paper/
Find out about the UCAT Masterclass here – https://www.matrix.edu.au/ucat-courses/
Candidates taking the UCAT in 2019 for entry to universities in Australia and New Zealand in 2020 should note these key dates:
| Registration and booking opens | 1 March 2019 |
| Registration closes | 17 May 2019 at 11:59pm AEST |
| Final booking deadline | 17 May 2019 at 11:59pm AEST |
| Cancellation deadline | 17 May 2019 at 11:59pm AEST |
| Testing begins | 1 July 2019 |
| Last testing date | 31 July 2019 |
| Results delivered to universities | Early September 2019 |
Find out more here – https://www.ucat.edu.au/ucat-anz/dates-and-fees/
A Day in the Life of a Surgeon
9 March | UTS Sydney
MedView’s “A Day in the Life of a Surgeon” will cut through the fat and give you a gross-anatomical view of what it’s like to be a surgeon, and how to excise the relevant information to become one.
Understand the complex pathway on training to be a doctor, and ultimately a surgeon (including UCAT, Medical School and specialty training)
Learn basic Surgical and Suturing Techniques
Understand the human body with an Anatomy Masterclass
Hear from an inspiring Surgeon , and junior doctors from Queensland’s best hospitals.
Find out more – https://www.eventbrite.com/e/a-day-in-the-life-of-a-surgeon-sydney-tickets-54791981291
Sydney to Silicon Valley & Beyond | Where Will Your ATAR Take You
27 March | 6pm | Sofitel Sydney Wentworth
Join a growing number of Sydney students studying at the world’s top universities!
If you want to know what life might be like as a freshman at a US college or as a first year student in the UK, then this event is for you.
If you want to find the university that is perfectly suited to you – with the most inspiring professors, cutting edge facilities and global opportunities at your feet, then this event is for you!
US & UK University Experts from Crimson Education will cover:
This event is for students in Year 9 and up (yes, forward planning helps when applying overseas!). Parents are encouraged to attend and can register for free.
Book now and use code STUDYWORKGROW for $10 off – https://www.eventbrite.com/e/sydney-to-silicon-valley-beyond-where-will-your-atar-take-you-tickets-56078126185
A Gap Year in the Australian Defence Force
Get the opportunity to experience what a career in the Navy, Army or Air Force could be like.
Have a year full of adventure, make new friends, gain new skills, leadership, and travel.
An ADF Gap Year is a truly unique opportunity for you to grow and figure out what next step you’ll take in life.
Find out more or sign up for information about 2020 places here.
Cadetship opportunities in business, engineering and technology
A cadetship is an effective way of launching your career from the start of university rather than after you graduate. For twelve years, Professional Cadetships Australia (PCA) has provided opportunities for Year 12 students to apply for a cadetship and during that time, 185 cadets have been placed under our programs.
There are two programs: Business Cadetships and Engineering & Technology Cadetships (ETCAD).
By studying and working at a leading company from the start of university, cadets earn a competitive advantage over students who delay work until after they have graduated. Compare the outcomes for a university student and a cadet in the table below:
Year 12 students apply online to Professional Cadetships Australia. We run the application process and conduct first-round interviews in order to determine which candidates will be referred to participating companies.
Applications for the Business Cadetships Program open on 4 March and close on 15 May 2019.
Applications for the ETCAD Program open on 29 April and close on 21 June 2019.
Only current Year 12 students can apply for our cadetship programs. It is not possible to apply once you are attending university. So, if you would like to take advantage of these opportunities, make sure you apply by the due deadlines.
Find out more – www.professionalcadets.com.au
The New HSC Syllabus Explained & How to Ace It!
11 February I Sydney
With the New HSC Syllabus starting for the HSC 2019, Year 12 students will be the first students to sit this new syllabus for their HSC!
To help you get your head around all the changes + ace your HSC, in this 1.5 hour workshop led by CEO of Art of Smart Education you’ll learn what you need to know about the new HSC syllabus.
In February and March we have weekend introductory courses in Directing , Screenwriting , Documentary and Producing which will give you insight into key career paths in the screen industry and are open to students 16+. We also have skills-based two-day courses in Premiere Pro , Budgeting and Camera and Sound and Online courses in Radio and Podcasting . Also just scheduled for April is John Collee’s one-day Writing for Hollywood , a great insight for all aspiring feature film writers.
Find out more here or here – https://www.aftrs.edu.au/courses/
How to register for the SAT internationally
Test dates for 2019 are coming up in March and May. You can sit it multiple times but you need to register!
Learn how to put your name down for the exam in this comprehensive article
University of Sydney – Year 10 Subject Selection Guide
To get into some of our courses, you’ll need to choose certain elective subjects in Years 11 and 12. That’s why it’s important for you to start preparing in advance. This guide will help you prepare and provide you with
some key things you should know about studying at uni.
Read Guide – https://sydney.edu.au/content/dam/corporate/documents/study/resources-for-career-advisers/UniSyd-Year-10-Guide.pdf
If you want to study education at uni next year then you’ll possibly need to sit the CASPer test. It’s a test designed to assess traits like professionalism, empathy, communication and ethics. Find out more about it here.
ACU is using CASPer results for 2019
Find out more and take the test here – https://takecasper.com/
In a new scheme designed to diversify the university’s ranks, school leavers will be asked to meet a minimum threshold of community service and extra-curricular activity such as working part-time, playing sport or volunteering, on top of achieving the right score for their degree.
ANU vice-chancellor Professor Brian Schmidt said students were more than “just a score” and had unique skills on offer from time spent volunteering, working part-time, excelling in sports or performance or participating in student leadership.
You can find out if you meet the tests here – http://www.anu.edu.au/study/apply/new-admissions-for-2020/co-curricular-or-service-requirement
EducationUSA
This U.S. Government Website provides advice to students interested in applying to U.S. colleges and universities. Information includes how to apply, testing, financial aid, visas, and more. The U.S. Consulate General in Sydney has an EducationUSA Centre, and students, parents and career advisers can make appointments to visit the centre.
https://www.educationusa.info/australia
Changes to Police Officer Recruitment Process
The main changes to the recruitment process include no minimum academic requirement, introduction of a University Certificate in Workforce Essentials, the entrance exam is now known as the Police Entrance Exam, copies of transcripts and other mandatory documents need to be certified by a Justice of the Peace, online application via JobsNSW and a case office will contact applicants once applications are received.
http://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment/home
Our students are provided with a unique study experience, access to custom-built facilities and resources, outstanding industry networks, and graduate with a degree from one of the top universities in the world.
Find out more – http://www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/study
Five tips to help year 12 students set better goals in the final year of school
A great article for Year 12’s, with useful advice about how to avoid anxiety and perform your best in the year ahead. Read it here.
Breaking bad study habits
Start the new school year off right with these great tips for staying focused while studying.
Check them out – http://learningfundamentals.com.au/blog/breaking-bad-study-habits-16-effective-habits-for-success/
Smartphone Apps to Help with Studying
This article features some smartphone apps that can help students to improve their study habits.
Think Education Surviving Year 12 eBook
Think Education have produced a free eBook with tips on how to master your final year of school.
http://beyou.think.edu.au/surviving-year-12
TSFX Edge Online
Edge Online is an online resource portal that provides exclusive resources designed to provide students with the best opportunities to optimise their Year 11 and 12 scores.
http://www.tsfx.com.au/resources/
Tips for volunteering
Volunteering is a great way to give to your community, meet interesting people, and learn new skills. It can also be a great way to get some experience on your resume before you get a job. Youth Central have some tips on finding a volunteering position and making sure you’re not being exploited in the role.
http://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/jobs-careers/volunteering-work-experience/volunteering
Support from family and key people in their life is important in helping young people through the process of thinking about and planning for their career.
As a parent or carer, four areas where you can provide practical support are self-awareness, opportunity awareness, decision making and transition support.
Read more at – https://myfuture.edu.au/career-insight/details?id=supporting-your-child-s-career-development – /
Find out which occupations have skills shortages
Choosing a job in an industry where they need more workers is usually a smart decision. Right now, most professions are adequately supplied with large numbers of qualified candidates competing for vacancies. There are shortages for architects, surveyors, sonographers, audiologists and veterinarians, and many trades need more qualified people.
Find out where more people are needed here – https://www.employment.gov.au/occupational-skill-shortages-information
Careers in Sport
This website is for anyone interested in a career in sport and fitness. There is information about recommended qualifications and pathways, along with a list of available positions and courses.
http://www.sportspeople.com.au/
TSFX Free HSC Survival Guide
The School for Excellence (TSFX) have put together a 36 page guide to help year 12 students achieve the best possible marks in end of school exams. The guide has advice about goal setting, managing stress and procrastination, time management skills, effective learning techniques, planning study timetables and more.
Download it here: http://www.tsfx.com.au/hsc-survival-guide-edge-teachers
“It’s easy to have faith when everything is working out. It’s much harder to have faith when you are facing challenges in your life but that’s exactly when you need to apply it.” Dominic Augoustis – Class of 2018
Inspiration, commitment and hard work was personified on Thursday 14th February as students, staff, parents and members of the Waverley community gathered together to welcome back and celebrate our high achievers from the Class of 2018.
These assemblies set the tone for the Academic year ahead. They inspire hope and propel us to strive toward something better, greater and higher.
Waverley is a diverse learning community and in 2018, 173 boys chose their own path to complete Year 12. Whether our boys selected an ATAR, non ATAR or nationally recognised qualification through Vocational Education, each boy’s journey was unique. Their chosen learning path played to their strengths. It engaged their interest and passion to help them succeed.
A common theme among our Class of 2018 was the resilience and determination shown throughout their learning journey. We commend the grit that many of them drew upon to make significant and impressive progress throughout their time at Waverley College.
We were delighted to hear two of our 2018 Graduates speak at the assembly. Thank you to both Dominic Augoustis and Andre Vumbaca who shed light on their experiences and offered some wonderful words of encouragement and advice to our student body.
Dom spoke passionately about his time at Waverley College, highlighting the importance of setting goals;
“My goal was written on my whiteboard for two years. It had a big 90 in the corner representing my ideal ATAR, my university course and the words ENCORE and OnStage.”
Dom contributes his success to the support of his family, friends and teachers, setting goals and keeping faith when things didn’t go to plan. He shared his story of breaking his hand three days before his final HSC guitar performance. He had a choice to not perform and get a substitute mark but he chose to cut off his cast, push through the pain and play with a broken hand. Not only for his performance but for an additional six pieces accompanying his peer’s HSC performances.
Dominic did successfully reach his target ATAR. He was accepted into his University course of choice where he will be studying a double degree in Business and in Innovation and Intelligence at UTS. Dominic also made the SMH Distinguished achiever list for Drama and Music and achieved his ultimate goal of a nomination for Drama OnStage and Music Encore.
It was with great pleasure to award Andre Vumbaca with the plaque of Highest ATAR 2018 (98.85). In addition to that, Andre made the Premiers All Rounder list and SMH Distinguished Achiever in Chemistry, Physics, Advanced English, Extension 1 Mathematics and Studies of Religion II.
Andre reflected on his time at Waverley highlighting the importance of choosing subjects that you enjoy.
“I remember all the teachers saying “pick subjects that you enjoy”. That was some of the best advice anyone can get about the HSC and life in general…..that was the key to my success; enjoying what I do five days a week.”
Andre commended his peers on the cohort’s collective efforts and hard work, reinforcing the importance of collaboration. He also spoke of the power of determination and persistence. He encouraged the students to never give up and admitted that
“for the first half of Year 12 I was well behind everyone else. It’s never too late to start playing catch up if this does happen along the way.”
We wish Andre every success as he heads to Canberra to embark on a double degree in Business and Science at the Australian National University.
It is safe to say that the Class of 2018 found their success in very different ways. Whatever path our Year 12 boys chose, it is important to remember that they leave the College with much more than just a number, mark or rank. The journey that brought each student to this point has been far more valuable.
I congratulate the entire HSC Class of 2018 on their fine results and wish them all the best in their future endeavors. I would also like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and give thanks to the outstanding commitment of staff and the tireless support of parents during their son’s learning journey.
Extract from the Head of College’s High Achievers Assembly Speech
“On behalf of the College, I would like to congratulate all of our High Achievers on their fine results. I thanked them at last week’s High Achievers Assembly for finding the time to come back. I believe it says a lot about who they are, because I do not believe they came back for themselves. They came back to recognise some of their teachers who helped them along their journey, and they came back to inspire the younger students. This desire to give back, to care for others, give others a helping hand and inspire excellence, is what we want of every graduate that goes through the College.”
Most of the high achievers did a couple of key things that assisted them to achieve.
Firstly, they set themselves some goals for their senior year. However, setting yourself a goal and then setting about achieving it are two different things, but they are interlinked.
A study by the University of California divided participants into five groups.
Group 1 – had to think about their goals, and rate them according to various factors, but not write them down. This group achieved a 43% overall success rate.Group 2 – did the same, but this group wrote the goals down.
Group 3 – did the same as the second, but also wrote down their action commitments.
Group 4 – did all of that, and also shared their action commitments with a friend.
Group 5 – did everything the others did, but also sent their friends updates. This group had the highest success rate, at 76%.
What we learn from this study is that writing down your goals, and more importantly the actions you are going to take to achieve them, and then sharing these and your progress with a friend, parent, teacher or wellbeing mentor, gives you the best chance of success.
Every boy from Year 5 to Year 12 should have already done this, or be in the process of filling in their goals for 2019 on page 3 of the College Diary. Copies should go up around your house – fridge, desk, garage etcThe second important element that I believe each of these boys did, was fail at some point. They set a goal and may not have got there on the first attempt. However, they did something in response to this, they failed forward.
I remember watching Michael Jordan growing up and thinking he is the best the world has ever seen. I did not know he has missed 9000 shots, lost 300 games, and on 26 times he was trusted to take the game winning shot, but missed. Jordan was considered the best of the best and yet failure was his constant shadow. Jordan however understood what was the difference between long term success and failure was, it is the reaction to it that counts, he failed forward.
Thomas Edison conducted 1000 failed experiments, but the 1001st experiment was pretty good, the lightbulb, he failed forward.
Novelist Stephen King submitted his first book, Carrie 30 times and it was rejected. On the 31st submission, someone liked it. The rest is history for the world’s most successful horror author, he failed forward.
What is failing forward? Firstly it is recognising that with every failure, you are one step closer to reaching your goal. Secondly, it is through sheer hard work and perseverance that you achieve your goals. It is not easy, but you have to keep trying and have faith that it will turn your way soon.
Nothing comes easy even for even the world’s best in their respective fields, but if your sons want to ensure they have good options when they leave Waverley, they should:
- work hard
- write down their goals
- write down the actions to achieve their goals
- share these goals
- give someone a progress score
And, fail forward like Jordan, Edison, KIng and our Waverley High Achievers and success will come your way.”
As we come to the middle of our summer season (for Years 8-12 anyway), it’s a timely reminder of the behavior expected when we as a College community attend co-curricular events.
Co-curricular sports and activities is a critical time where our behavior and sportsmanship are on display to other schools and members of the general public. At times unfortunately, a minority undo a lot of the positive cultural change the majority of our boys, teachers and parents have achieved in recent years.
We encourage all supporters to positively support their school teams and require boys to be dressed in the school’s uniform while doing so.
We expect barracking to be enthusiastic but not to be fanatical or designed to heckle, belittle or disturb the opponents. For example, barracking, for or against, during a free throw or a kick at goal is always bad sportsmanship. Boys should be encouraged to barrack for their school rather than for an individual team member. Booing, whistling, playing or beating musical instruments are in bad taste and wholly unacceptable.
It is never acceptable to express disapproval of a referee’s or umpire’s decision – no matter whether the referee be adult or schoolboy.
We expect our players to be modest in success and generous in defeat, not showing in either case undue emotion. Good play, by our own school and by the opposing school, should be applauded willingly and openly.
At all times spectators should leave the area tidy and free of rubbish when they leave.
We look to adults (parents, Old Boys and other spectators) to set an example by their self-control at matches.
I look forward to our next fixture on February 16th against Knox.
The full CAS Code of Conduct is as follows:
PLAYERS
PARENTS
SPECTATORS
The Australian health and medical research council suggests one in five of us experience a mental health condition in any given year. Waverley College’s wellbeing program acknowledges this and supports the research which shows the benefits of good nutritional habits (including adequate hydration), regular exercise and healthy sleep patterns in reducing the stress which is an inevitable part of our lives. Of these three variables, diet is often overlooked as a way of combatting daily stress and ultimately, more serious mental health conditions.
Psychological problems such as anxiety, depression and low self-esteem can also be linked to a bad diet. While nutritious foods alone are not a silver bullet in terms of mental health, the vitamins in what we eat do have the ability to positively impact our mood, clarity and cognitive ability — ultimately improving our performance at work and school, and the quality of our personal lives. There is a range of foods that can be used to address mood-related issues like sleep, anxiety and depression.
Serotonin, dopamine and the lesser known gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) are chemicals in the brain that affect mood. They are not only key to brain function and producing healthy sleep patterns, but may also have a role to play in reducing depression. So what foods will give us these benefits?
You can boost serotonin levels by eating foods that contain tryptophan (an essential amino acid). Foods high in protein and iron in combination with foods such as eggs, cottage cheese, turkey, seafood, chickpeas, nuts and seeds with healthy carbohydrates such as sweet potatoes and quinoa will achieve this. Carbohydrates cause the body to release more insulin, which promotes amino acid absorption. This short-term insulin response drives tryptophan into the brain increasing your serotonin levels.
A good breakfast improves mental performance, and kicking off the work/school day with a full stomach can reduce anxiety. For greater focus and motivation, consider making a dopamine-rich breakfast may include a morning cup of green tea, scrambled eggs or an omelette with high protein veggies (such as broccoli and spinach) that is sprinkled with nuts and seeds (such as pumpkin and sesame) or even just a protein smoothie.
Gamma-aminobutyric acid is an inhibitory neurotransmitter that has a calming effect on the body. It plays a powerful role in reducing anxiety and depression. Like serotonin and dopamine, GABA is not directly available in food. But the amino acid, glutamine, which can be found in food converts to GABA.
GABA-rich foods include almonds, walnuts, lentils, beef, brown rice, gluten-free whole oats, oranges, bananas, broccoli and spinach.
Combined with exercise and adequate sleep (for a triple hit of dopamine), a good diet could be the key to bouncing back from mental health challenges.
In recent years the College has reviewed its canteen menu, removed sugar drinks from campus and installed additional hydration stations but more needs to be done. This week tuna is being trailed as a lunch option in the canteen.
Parents can assist our drive for a healthier food consumption by visiting healthylunchbox.com.au. This Cancer Council initiative provides parents with snack ideas, sandwich alternatives, recipes, tips and easy healthy swaps for those common lunch box items that are not the best for our kids. Parents can also get their kids involved in choosing lunch box foods they will actually eat and enjoy using the interactive healthy lunch box builder.
Last week the Year 12 Marine Studies students flew to Lady Elliot Island, a coral cay in the southern Great Barrier Reef.
The students snorkelled with a variety of rays, sharks, turtles, fish and coral, but the highlights were manta rays and a 3.5m tiger shark.
We are incredibly proud of the way these boys represented the College. The behaviour and respect they showed each other and the other guests on the island was impeccable.
It is hard to grasp that we are already well into Term 1 at Waterford. It has been lovely being able to visit classrooms over the past weeks and see that the boys are settling in so well to new environments and routines.
A huge thank you to the parents who have already volunteered to help in the tuckshop. We still need help filling up the roster for Term 1. If you are able to give up some of your time, please sign up using the link below:
Thank you to all the parents who took the time to attend the information evening on Monday night. I hope you appreciated all the information and are now better prepared to assist your son on his journey at Waverley.
Special thanks as well to all the Junior School staff for their support throughout the evening.
Once again, Waverley College Pool was the scene of the Waterford Swimming Carnival held on Friday, February 15th. The House spirit and enthusiasm from all participants went a long way to making the carnival a success.
The support of the parents was very evident with the great turn out on the day. Special thanks to all the staff who ensured the carnival ran smoothly. A big thank you to the Assistant Director of Co-curricular Waterford – Mr Matt Ryan – who again organised and ran such a successful carnival.
Congratulations to Brennan House on an excellent win followed closely by Tevlin in second place with Conlon placing third.
Age Champions – special congratulations to the following boys who won places in their respective age groups.
| 2019 | Prompt payment date | Due date |
| 2nd Payment | 26/04/2019 | 10/05/2019 |
| 3rd Payment | 19/07/2019 | 02/08/2019 |
N.B The first payment due date has now passed, 1 February 2019
Please see the reverse side of your account for payment method and contact details.
Fees paid before 4.00 pm on the “prompt payment date” attract a $25.00 discount.
Any payment received after the “due date” will attract a penalty fee of $110.00.
Please be advised that some financial institutions need more than 48 hours to process their payments (eg internet / bpay).
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation who are the traditional Custodians of the land on which Waverley College is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual connections to the land, waters, seas and sky and their rich contribution to society.
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