Emma Laurence, Author at Waverley College

Students will meet and interact with professional engineers employed by government, private companies, researchers and academics in a wide range of engineering disciplines. They will gain valuable insight into career opportunities available to men and women in engineering.

Universities Admission Centre – ATAR & Offers Live Q & A

Join us for an ATAR, applying and offers Facebook Live stream. We’ll be talking about what the ATAR is, how it’s calculated, how to apply, entry pathways and how the whole preferences and offers system works. Post a comment letting us know what you want us to discuss during the stream.

CCUSA Job Fairs

Up to 25 US & 1 Canadian camp hiring in ALL activity areas at camps in the USA & Canada. Over 400 jobs available. CCUSA Camp Job Fair offers the Most Camps giving you access to the Most Jobs!

Macquarie University – Explore Your Options Week

We’re showcasing what’s on offer when you study at Macquarie. During this time, you can chat one- on-one with our team about our flexible courses and pathways to uni, visit our campus and check out our facilities. It’s a great opportunity to get your questions answered and know you’re making the right uni choice.

Australian Catholic University – Know Your Options Info Session

Come along to Know Your Options, our information sessions where you can talk to experts about your course and career path, learn about alternative entry and admission pathways, explore our campus, and meet staff and students.

The Australian National University – Advisory Day

At the Advisory Day, you will have one-on-one access to advisors, as well as representatives from our academic Colleges. We will be there to answer your questions, no matter how general or detailed, so we encourage you to come along to learn more about why ANU is the right choice for you.

Torrens University – Results Day

Our courses are designed to place passionate people into careers they love. Torrens University offers courses in a variety of disciplines; design and technology, business, health and hospitality. Our diploma and bachelor’s degrees have different entry requirements. Speaking with a course and career adviser on campus will give you the opportunity to explore university options now that you have your ATAR.

UTS – Info Day

UTS Info Day is your last chance to visit the campus before UAC preferences close the following day. Attend an info session or chat with staff and students. Ask those last-minute questions before you lock in your uni choice.

University of Sydney Info Day – Save the Date

Info Day allows you to get answers to all your questions below finalising your main round preferences.

UNSW – Info Day

Attend lectures, explore the campus and chat to academics and current students in the Advisory Centre. Come and see what studying at UNSW is all about.

University of Melbourne – Course Information Day

After you’ve received your ATAR, come and talk to our friendly staff about your study options in 2019. We know your parents will have questions too, so bring them along and imagine yourself at Melbourne as you tour our beautiful Parkville campus, residential colleges and other accommodation options.

TAFE NSW – Information Week 2019

Come along to TAFE NSW’s Information Week from 21-25 January to explore your course and career options for 2019. Our program of events includes info sessions, campus tours, and live demos – program to be released soon. Talk to our teachers, career counsellors, find out about scholarships, support services, and much more.

AIE – Information Evening

The evening will include presentations on different areas of industry to get into as well as information about AIE full-time and part-time courses and entry requirements. Student work will be on display and our teachers will be available to speak with you one on one about our courses and how AIE can get you into a creative career.

MedView– Uncovering the UCAT

Unsure about changes in medical school admissions testing? Come decipher the shift from UMAT to UCAT for Australian med school admissions.

Career Pathways

Microsoft – Traineeship Program

Microsoft is proud to launch the Microsoft Traineeship Program, which aims to support over 150 people take their first steps into a technology career. Commencing with a pilot in Sydney in 2019, the Program will combine a Certificate IV in Information Technology and Microsoft Certifications with paid work experience. This combination of knowledge and experience will set students up to embark upon a successful career, as well as help address the technical skills shortage in Australia.

NIDA – Holiday Workshops

These workshops are for all ages, Drama School, Acting 101, Improvisation and more.

ACU Bachelor of Sport and Outdoor Education

Commences in 2019. The Bachelor of Sport and Outdoor Education degree has core studies that provide an extensive knowledge and skills base in human health, wellness and performance, with a specific focus on the role of sport, exercise and outdoor education.

Studying at TAFE – Myths Debunked

Is TAFE really that bad? Is university really that good? Studying is studying. Isn’t it? Here are five of the most common myths about TAFE debunked by those in the know.

Disclaimer: I have a feeling this post was sponsored by a VET provider, so take the information with a pinch of salt.

Teach.nsw Get Paid to Study

Want to become a teacher? You could get paid to study and have a guaranteed job on graduation. Subscribe to their mailing list to find out more – https://www.teach.nsw.edu.au/get-paid-to-study

TAFE NSW – Fee-free Apprenticeships

There are 100,000 funded apprenticeship positions available. The NSW Department of Industry will pay the student fee on behalf of any apprentice who commences their apprenticeship training on or after 1 July 2018.

NSW Smart and Skilled

Now’s a great time to look for fee-free training through the Government’s Smart and Skilled package.

Sydney Trains – 2019 Apprenticeship Program

You will get the opportunity to be part a program that combines paid work and structured training, allowing you to learn a trade and gain a nationally recognised qualification.

How To Get a Builder’s License – from HIA (Housing Industry Association)

To work as a builder or tradesperson in Australia you must have a licence or be registered (depending on your state or territory). A licence or registration may require a combination of technical qualification, experience, skills and knowledge prior to application.

NECA Electrotechnology Apprenticeships

At NECA we’re here to help you complete a national qualification that supports a career in data/ communication, home automation, renewable energy, construction, the installation of lights, power, air conditioning, fire protection, building management systems and more.

They pay for everything, including your tools, and you’ll get a nationally recognised qualification.

80% of their apprentices graduate and 99% of graduates find a job in the first 3 months, with up to $91k starting salary.

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.

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.

Pathway to a Career in Aviation – Sydney Flight College

Then you start with regional airlines before moving to business jets or international airlines

There are 3 ways to study at UNSW Canberra (ADFA)

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.

ADFA

Australian Defence Force Academy applications are now open. To avoid having to do the application when you are busy with year 12 exams, think about starting your application soon!

CCUSA Summer Camp Jobs & Info Sessions

Attend one of our exciting free information meetings and learn first-hand about working, living and traveling overseas. At these sessions, CCUSA staff, through a fun and informative presentation, will walk you through the program, benefits, responsibilities, and application process. You can hear former participants relate their memorable program experiences, and ask them questions to gain insight into camp and the USA.

Our aim is to give you an honest and straightforward view of CCUSA and the programs we offer. We want you to learn about the total experience and the commitment required so you can decide which program is the right fit for you.

Western Sydney University – HSC True Rewards

Our unique program makes an early offer into a University degree based on corresponding HSC subject band outcomes, not the ATAR. Why? Because at Western we recognise that too often, the ATAR system overlooks natural strengths and talent.

CASPer Test – New Requirement for Teacher Entry in 2019

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 Bachelor of Education Studies

The Bachelor of Educational Studies has been designed for students who are passionate about becoming teachers, but do not achieve the entry requirements.

Students who successfully complete their first year of study (subject to meeting certain progression and non-academic requirements) will be guaranteed entry into the second year of the Bachelor of Education (Primary) or the Bachelor of Education (Early Childhood and Primary).

University of Wollongong – College Pathways Programs

Maybe you didn’t get the ATAR to get straight into university but our pathways p[program at our college will set you up to succeed.

ACU Elite Athlete and Performer Program

We understand you might need support to maintain sporting or performing excellence while studying. The Elite Athlete and Performer Program (EAPP) is designed to give you that support, and encourage excellence in both your sport/performing and academic life.

HSC Programs

Good Careers Guide

A resource that provides students and career advisers access to the relevant tools to explore career, education and employment options.

The 400+ job descriptions covered by the guide include information about personal requirements, education and training, employment opportunities and related jobs.

ATO Tax File Number Applications

A tax file number is a unique nine-digit number issued to individuals and organisations to help administer tax and other Australian Government systems. Students need a TFN before they can start any type of paid work.

TAFE NSW 2018 Career Guide

Breaking bad study habits

Start the new school year off right with these great tips for staying focused while studying.

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.

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.

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.

My Future – Supporting your Child’s Career Development

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.

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.

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.

Surviving Year 12

This article from Youth Central has some great tips on surviving and succeeding in Year 12. Start your year off right by thinking about how you’re going to balance your year.

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.

Good Universities Guide Resources

This page has electronic resources on a number of topics, including comparing universities by state or by degree. The information is all sourced from The Good Universities Guide 2018.

Community service as important as ATAR for Year 12s in ANU overhaul

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.

HSC Maths Course Selection Advice from UNSW

Studying Math for the HSC and Beyond – Year 10 Students Subject Selection

The Mathematical Association of NSW has put together a guide to selecting maths subjects for the HSC.

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF GREEN HOUSE, SCOTT COLEMAN

As we reflect on a meaningful and encouraging year, each student in Green house should think deeply about how their approach to learning, mentoring and relationships at Waverley have shaped their experiences. Through their approaches to learning we hope that students build on their knowledge, skills, attitudes, perspectives and character.

Most of the current research demonstrates that the key attributes to success for the 21st century learner are:

Here at Waverley, social learning and emotional intelligence underpins what each student engages in at the start of each day. Learning together, sharing information and supporting each other are key facets for students as they engage in student lead initiatives empowering students to create change within their community. We see examples of this with the Green House White Ribbon Day March. When Waverley became advocates for White Ribbon Day, the students embraced the opportunity to stand up and be counted for a cause that matters.

Our Wellbeing program was developed in line with the needs of 21st century learners and constructed to help each boy understand their strengths and how to value them. They have been taught skills and attitudes to overcome setbacks under the concept of a ‘Growth Mindset.’ This will allow them to be patient and persistent in achieving their goals. While this learning takes time, the long-term goal is life changing for students that welcome this way of thinking. I would recommend further reading in this area for parents or students alike, especially from the researcher Carol S. Dweck.

As I see it, in partnership with parents, it is our role as teachers to shape the minds and hearts of our young people to be contributors and active citizens of the world of tomorrow. I believe strongly that we at Waverley are providing education designed to encourage the growth of our young men who will ‘act justly, love tenderly and walk humbly with God’ (Micah 6:8) and build an even better world before them. And hopefully, through all these lessons, each student learns that ‘the manly thing’ will always be defined by integrity, compassion, faith and wisdom. Because Waverley boys will all eventually discover, that ‘Virtue is its own reward.’

Green House has enjoyed a rewarding 2018, with students enthusiastically engaging in a wide variety of House and College events. All Green students from Years 5 to 12 and their Wellbeing Mentors can be congratulated for the way they have developed relationships and challenged themselves. The end of the term in particular has seen some wonderful examples of friendship and leadership from within Green House as boys of all ages have engaged in a variety of exciting experiences.

During term 4, Ms Gemma Brown was Acting Head of Green House, we thank her for taking this role. During that period, my wife and I were lucky enough to welcome a new member to our family, Cooper Gregory Coleman. Thanks for all the parents, staff and students for their well wishes.

Farewell to Green House class of 2018 – Always have strength in unity

As we farewell our Year 12 Green students class of 2018, I can’t help but look back at the journey they have travelled in their time as Waverley College Students. For some it is a journey that began in 2011 at the Junior School, while welcoming many others at the start of Year 7 in 2013.

It has been a journey of many triumphs, adversity and success. The men they have become is a testament to the support the students have received from parents, guardians, teachers, friends and multiple other influences in their life. We have been lucky, as a school, to be an important part of their story so far, and know they will have success wherever they seek to travel and wish them all the best in their future endeavours.

They do this with the support of their parents, providing them with the opportunity for the quality education by attending Waverley College. By choosing Waverley College, the boys have become learners, social justice advocates, sportsmen, debaters, friends, and transitioned to adulthood.

Dominic Augoustis
Tom Bower
Daniel Brown
Anthony Candi
Allan Cannes
Daniel Chow
Max Coleman
Louie Cosgrove
Lucas Dedes
Johnathan Edwards
Nathan Higgs
Nicholas Kalitsis
Kye LLewellyn
Charles McGrath
Thomas McMah
Baxter Oleksyn
Ben Scarf
Benjamin Stopic
Thomas Wood
Jamie Worthington
Mitchell Zervos

Congratulations as well to our 2018 Year 12 leadership team. We were lucky to have 6 leaders in Green House this year. They were exceptional in their support of the programs we ran and we were very lucky to be blessed with such capable young men that will no doubt be future leaders in their careers/lives after year 12. Thank you very much gentleman for your incredible work this year.

We welcomed our 2019 Prefects at the end of term 3. Congratulations to the following students who will be leading the house:

Junior School

Our program in 2018 saw Green house Junior School students and Senior School students spending more time together. It was fantastic to get to know our Junior School cohorts who we know in the coming years will be outstanding members of Green.

I would like to thank our Junior School staff for 2018 – Stephen Ghattas and Gabrielle Bransby – for all their efforts. They have been integral to ensuring the Junior School Green students are a part of Green House and they went above and beyond what is expected of them consistently this year. Thanks for your support. We are lucky to have such amazing junior school staff working with Green House.

2019 Year 7 Orientation Day

The Year 7 orientation day took place during November. It was great to see so many faces from the junior school and other primary schools around Sydney. While they started out nervously, some fun games and activities managed to bring them closer together. Our 2018 students have set the bar high and I look forward to next year’s group taking this mantle and improving it even more.

Green Year Group Activities

Congratulations to our Years 7 to 10 students for completing their exams in such a determined way this year. While there may have been some trepidation and anxiety beforehand, it was impressive to see the students apply themselves in preparation for their senior exams. All students should work on getting into good study habits early in 2019. A study timetable is highly recommended and if students need support for this process, I ask them to come and see myself or our Green House Academic Prefect.

Our year 7 students were involved in an outdoor learning program during term 1, the focus was on team building and for the boys to step outside their comfort zone. It was a great chance for students to get to know each other as they started their journey at Waverley. As their Head of House, it was also a great chance to get to know each student. It was a very enjoyable experience, and each boy will have gained valuable friendships from their time away.

The Waverley College Cadet Unit took part in another valuable camping experience this year. Thanks to all the teachers that took part as well as our year 8 students that had their first experience at what the WCCU has to offer.

Year 9 and 10 students successfully completed their outward bound learning experience at Somerset Camp. The students were met with some outstanding weather, and while there was some slight drizzle, the evenings were perfect as students sat around the campfire to discuss the daily activities and to laugh with friends. Our theme for our camp was ‘Stepping up, Stepping out,’ and it was overwhelming to see the cohort take this on board with each activity. Students managed to step up into leadership and step out of their comfort zone, lessons we hope for the cohort to take into their senior years.

The students took part in a variety of activities, ranging from high ropes, to kayaking and canoeing, with everyone being provided with a chance to overcome adversity and face hardship along the way. The highlights were varied and many, from the groups that paddled 30km along the Colo river, to the group that trekked close to 100km, each opportunity created a great sense of achievement for all the students involved. Several of the camp leaders and teachers commented on the way the students collaborated together in difficult situations and developed an understanding about respect towards others as the week progressed.

In 2017, Waverley College introduced a Duke of Edinburgh program under the guidance of Ms Brown, Ms Alborough and Mr Brophy and this continued in 2018. We had one group endeavour to complete part of their bronze award during the year 10 camp. When visiting the Duke of Ed group, it was great to see them working together as a team in planning the activities for the next day. Each student was required to map their trek using only the coordinates that had been provided. It was fantastic to see the leadership and drive by each of the students involved in the program as they pushed towards completing their Duke program for the year.

I would like to congratulate both cohorts, who demonstrated incredible resolve and character throughout. Each student faced their own difficulties on camp and hopefully the lessons they learnt will be lifelong and rewarding.

I would like to thank all the Waverley families, for allowing the students, to take part in such an important part of their learning experience. Some lessons can only be taken outside the classroom and camp provides those.

Thanks must also go to year 9 and 10 students for the mature and focused way they approached the year. It was a great way to end the year for this cohort who continue to show their exceptional potential as our college leaders of the future.

Year 12 students started their HSC courses this year and it was been encouraging to see the focus and determination of the students. They have matured significantly since the start of the year and should be commended for their personal growth and application in the classroom.

Green House Events

At a whole school assembly Green House launched our White Ribbon awareness campaign for 2018. A giant white ribbon made by our TAS teachers(Mr Kyle Newbury and Mr Richard Bryant) enabled the boys to sign their support for standing up against domestic violence. It was a great start to our annual White Ribbon campaign.

On Friday 23 November, Green House took part in the annual White Ribbon Day walk from Randwick to Coogee. It was overwhelming to see the students, parents and staff taking a stand and making their voices heard. Talking to the students in Green House during the walk, they mentioned they felt part of something bigger and that by taking part they were making an impact on social issues in the community. Each student in Green has been able to take part in an important social justice initiative and this will be the focus for Green House for years to come.

I would especially like to thank our Green Prefects for coordinating, fundraising and advocating for this cause so passionately. For the boys in our younger years, look to our leaders for inspiration and motivation when you need it, they have been monumental.

We also had quite a few parents that came to walk with their sons. Their involvement shows the importance of the students taking a stand on this issue and the support behind us from our parents at Waverley. It was inspiring seeing parents taking part in such a significant event.

I would like to thank the following staff for their attendance on Friday and for taking part in the event, their involvement allows students to see the importance of these events in the college community. We are lucky to have such motivated staff at Waverley and again, these staff members went above and beyond with their participation on Friday morning.

Our Wellbeing Prefect, Alex Bayas spoke to school at an assembly in November, and I will use his powerful words to encourage the young men of Waverley to stand up and take action:

“We can change this public health issue through respect. Respect is the foundation for which we can build a society, where violence against women is eliminated. Therefore We must all, do everything we can to create a culture of respect and that starts with the men and boys standing here today and in our wider community.

I challenge you; Men and boys to stand beside women to deliver the change we all need. Remembering that All of us can make a difference, and White Ribbon Day is an opportunity for us to stand up and speak out to end violence and disrespect towards women.

We must understand that young men form opinions and often use language based on the influences surrounding them whether that be sporting heros, music they listen to, or the language used by their mates. The actions of these various influences and the language young people hear can often be dehumanising, and objectifying towards women.

If This language breeds a culture that disrespects women, it is clear to me that in order to eradicate domestic violence men must change this type of language when talking about women.”

After the launch of our white Ribbon Campaign we held a BBQ at the start of November.

Prefects and SRC members organised and set up the event and should be congratulated for their efforts. I would like to thank all the other students that gave their time to support this event.

Thank you to all the students that helped to set up this inaugural event and students that put their hands at up various times through term 4 to make this event so successful.

Green Leadership

I want to thank the exceptional work of our new House Prefects. The tireless work they have done has been consistently above and beyond what is expected of them. They should be commended on their incredible work. All Green students should look to them for motivation and inspiration over the next 12 months. Congratulations on the work you have done so far.

Green Prefects: Wellbeing Alex Bayas; Community Luke Marshall; Academic Remi Defina-Sperando, Spiritual Rocco Evans.

I would like to congratulate the following Green students for their leadership roles in our summer teams:

2019 Green House Events

While 2018 is over, we are already looking forward to our 2019 program with excitement.

Green House will host a breakfast in term 1 as a starting point for the year, more information will be provided next year, but I look forward to meeting many parents again or for the first time at a special coming together.

Our big brother/little brother program has been redesigned for 2019. Year 10 students will be expected to take part and will be integral supporters of our junior school students. They will have time allocated to them during enrichment periods to spend some time supporting junior school students through a variety of activities and events. Hopefully this enables year 10 students to take on some leadership roles as they push to become Prefects and leaders further down the track.

Green House will continue its empowerment committee in 2019 under the guidance of our Wellbeing and Spiritual Prefects. Student applications will be sent out early in term 1.

Green House will also continue our study group in 2019 under the guidance of Green House Academic Prefects. Green House will yet again participate in the White Ribbon Walk in 2019 and all parents will be invited to attend the day. It is one of the highlights of the year seeing so many boys becoming advocates for such a significant cause.

Thanks

Green House would not be the place it is without the support we have from our incredible mentors. Through the development of the wellbeing program this year, it has been exciting to see our Green mentors developing and engaging with the wellbeing curriculum. Our students are lucky to be greeted by your smile every morning and I sincerely wanted to thank you all for your work this year.

I also want to thank every student for embracing our wellbeing focus this year. Everyday I make it my aim to talk to as many Green students as possible. I enjoy these conversations because the students in Green have welcomed me as their mentor and leader throughout their time at Waverley. Thanks for our daily conversations and discussions about the day ahead, they are one of the highlights of my role as Head of Green House.

Finally I want to thank all the parents of Green students. Your support is consistently overwhelming and we are so lucky to have you as part of the Green family. I wish the best of luck to those parents that are moving on or to a different school and look forward to making memories with parents and students in 2019.

A MESSAGE FROM THE JUSTICE AND ADVOCACY COORDINATOR, GERALDINE CULLEN

It’s hard to believe that we are coming to the end of another school year. It’s important at the end of every year to reflect on what we’ve achieved and assess how we can do better. The most fulfilling part of being involved with Social Justice is that no two years are the same. We are constantly adding and culling the program. It’s been very exciting for me to see all the junior students run an advocacy campaign for the first time. I hope that this dimension of social justice at the college continues to flourish.

The Year 11 students did us proud with their involvement in community outreach. I am always very impressed at how reflective the students are after their various experiences, whether that be with homeless people, young disabled people or the elders of our community. Sometimes we don’t credit boys with this trait but I’ve come to understand that they may not always articulate their emotions but it doesn’t mean that they are unaffected. One of the most rewarding parts of my job is listening to the senior boys recount their experiences to Year 7.

I think this has been instrumental in changing the culture towards social justice at the college, from one of complete negativity in the early years to total acceptance today.

The outreach programs finish up this week. I want to thank Trish Alborough and Martina Cooper who help make the program run smoothly. I also want to thank parents who remind their sons to attend various activities and often act as chauffeur. Finally, thanks to the staff who fill in at various venues in the holidays and who attend immersions. We couldn’t run such a dynamic program without your help.

I will be on leave next year. I’m returning to Ireland in December to spend time with my mum. Mr Richard Bryant is replacing me and he is contactable on rbryant@waverley.nsw.edu.au

From Head of College, Graham Leddie

Matthew Talbot Hostel Christmas Appeal

The College is again supporting the Matthew Talbot Hostel Christmas appeal again this year. Our support enables the Hostel to be able to make up gift packs for hundreds of homeless and marginalised individuals whom they support. In our Wellbeing Mentor Groups, we are asking students to bring in a couple of items from the list below. Your son should know what particular item his group has been assigned.

All donations of the above can be dropped off at the Wellbeing Centre. Thank you in advance for your support of this worthy cause.

White Ribbon Walk

On Friday 23 November, Green House staff and students will be taking part in the annual White Ribbon Day walk from Randwick to Coogee. Each year, it is overwhelming to see the students, parents and staff taking a stand and making their voices heard.

I would like to thank our Green Prefects for coordinating, fundraising and advocating for this cause so passionately. For the boys in our younger years, look to our leaders for inspiration and motivation when you need it, they have been monumental. Tomorrow, Green House Prefect Alex Bayas will be speaking on behalf of Waverley College at the event in front of the thousands in attendance.

Our involvement shows the importance of the students, staff and parents taking a stand on this important issue as we endeavour to end the disrespect and violence towards women.

Domestic Violence Shelter

One of our parents, Ms Ann Armstrong volunteers for the Bayside Women’s shelter. The first dedicated domestic violence shelter is about to open on 12 December in the Eastern Suburbs. They are trying to get the house fitted out with some last minute items for the kitchen and outdoor space. Please click on the below websites if you are able to assist.

Staff Update

On behalf of the College I would like to thank Ms Jennifer Divall for her distinguished service to the College over the last 8 years. Jen started at Waverley as the College Registrar and then took over the position of Marketing Manager. She has left her mark across the College’s marketing, communications, alumni, publications and more recently in the area of development. Jen has accepted the position of Marketing and Development Manager at Kinross Wolaroi in Orange. We wish Jen the very best of success.

The College welcomes Mr Greg Cameron who is a trained psychologist and joins our counselling team. Greg has both school and private practice experience and has been trained in both Positive psychology and a Strengths based approach and programs.

A MESSAGE FROM THE DIRECTOR OF WATERFORD, GABRIELLE SMITH

“When educating the minds of our youth, we must not forget to educate their hearts.” Dalai Lama

It is our goal to educate, to build students’ confidence, and create capable, empathetic, intelligent life-long learners. It is essential we teach the boys to look outside themselves to a larger world view. To think of others, to be compassionate, and to realise everyone’s impact on society and one another. The boys have had many opportunities this week to immerse themselves in meaningful activities outside the classroom environment that contribute to the rich education offered at Waverley.

Debating Day

Last Friday Waverly hosted the Catholic Schools Debating Association State Finals and Waterford was fortunate enough to hold one of the debates. The boys watched a Year 7 debate in which Mt. St. Patrick, Murwillumbah competed against St Mary’s Catholic College, Gateshead. The boys gained valuable exposure to debating as they watched senior students challenge themselves to conceive, articulate, and evaluate an argument.

Science Incursion

Last Friday all of year 5 were lucky enough to go up to the High School to have an exciting Science experience. Each class went up to the Science labs, for lots of us it was the first time we had ever been in a proper Science lab before. We were greeted by Miss Alborough who taught us about the water cycle and explained all about how particles behave in solids, liquids and gasses. After some strict safety chat we donned our goggles, lit our matches and turned on the bunsen burners. You will all be happy to know that Science labs are still standing and no casualties occurred! We used the bunsen burners to demonstrate the water cycle. The ice melted from the heat of the flame and became water, then it evaporated into steam, it condensed at the top of the glass to make “clouds” and then water dripped from the roof of the glass back down, it looked like it was raining. It was so cool.

It was a day full of new experiences such as lighting matches, discovering all about Bunsen Burners and learning about the water cycle. We want to say a huge thank you to Miss Alborough for letting us use her Science lab and giving us a really exciting lesson.

Languages Day

I woke up on Tuesday morning in a panic. What am I going to wear to impress the judges? Tuesday was Languages Day… THE BEST DAY OF THE YEAR! I put together as inventive a French costume as I could and rushed to school ready for all of the special activities that awaited me. This year was particularly exciting because we had two great languages and cultures to celebrate, French and Spanish. We began the day in our wellbeing groups, listening to French and Spanish stories, some of us were even lucky enough to have parents from our community come and share their language skills with us. For the rest of the day the year fives got to take part in a lot of scintillating Spanish activities such as; creating their own Spanish memes, salsa dancing with Miss Downey, sampling churros and bocadillos in the Spanish cafe, to name but a few. The year fives really outdid themselves with their creative costumes, Waverley has never hosted so many matadors and Spanish soccer players there was even a taco!

After my tough decision, (I went with a French artist in case you were wondering) my day got A LOT more enjoyable.

It started off with a miming activity with Ms Rollins, we may still need to work on keeping quiet during our mimes. We hurdled obstacles in the playground with Mr Ryan in our parkours session, cooked and sampled crèpes and pain au chocolats, researched French trivia and even did a scavenger hunt around the school. My favourite part of the day by far was the scavenger hunt, it was so fun to be able to run around the school and learn new facts about French monuments. Miss Stephens and Miss Iturietta did such a great job decorating the school and organising the day. Thank you to all of the teachers who made such an effort dressing up and making it a fantastic day.

FROM THE HEAD OF GREEN HOUSE, SCOTT COLEMAN

Just a reminder about the Green House social justice initiative taking place this Friday, 30 November. The White Ribbon walk is designed to raise awareness about Domestic Violence and asks men to stand up and say “NO” to Violence Against Women.

Leading up to this event, Green House has spent the month of November raising awareness around Domestic Violence and discussing the horrifying statistics that 1 in 2 women in Australia will experience sexual harassment in their lifetime, 1 in 4 children are raised in a household exposed to domestic violence and 1 woman is killed each week by a current or former partner.

We believe these horrifying statistics cannot be ignored. Men and boys in each community need to stand beside women and girls to deliver the change we all need. All of us can make a difference, and White Ribbon Day is an opportunity for Waverley College to stand up and speak out to end violence and disrespect towards women.

Green House staff and students will be taking part in the walk as representatives of Waverley College. All parents are welcome to attend this event. Please note this event is compulsory for all Green House students and a role will be marked. Students will need to make their own way to school after the event has finished at Coogee.

Green House Wellbeing Prefect Alex Bayas will be speaking at the event on behalf of Waverley College. Congratulations to Alex for his work leading up to this event.

More information can be found at this link.

The Year 10 Reflection Days will take place on Monday 3 December and 4 December Tuesday 2018. These days will consist of: students attending a seminar where Mr Sam Clear (from Walk4one) will present stories and activities based on his walk around the world, a visit to the Sydney Jewish Museum, and presentations by a range of guest speakers at Waverley College.

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF DRAMA, ALISON JINGA

On Tuesday 30 October 2018, Year 9 and 10 Drama students attended a performance of the play ‘Macbeth’ at the Sydney Pop-Up Globe. Prefacing Year 10 and 11 studies in Drama, the event provided an experiential mode of reflecting upon the craft of performance. The Pop-Up Globe itself is the first full-scale working replica of the theatre built by Shakespeare and his company in 1614. This historical backdrop, made evident by the building’s architectural framing, meant students could observe and revel in a slice of history, while delighting in the production’s unique and transformative experiences.

The production itself was largely immersive. With several variations of the actor-audience relationship at play, our boys could appreciate the ways theatre could work to create intimacy or aesthetic distance. This included moments, for instance, where actors would acknowledge or directly address the audience, as well as times where the audience themselves became visually implicated in the play’s conflicts. As one boy at interval exclaimed, “I’ve never seen an audience cleaning their clothes from fake blood before!” To witness a play dragging us beneath the tide of blood and evil in broad daylight was a true testament to the Globe’s ability to recreate the horrors of Shakespeare’s tragedy without modern illumination technologies. With an atmosphere shifting between the dark, the ordinary and the outright comical, the boys had the pleasure of going on a journey with these actors to achieve some resolution.

Waverley College offers a fun multi-sports and activities school holiday camp for boys and girls 9-12 years.

There are three camps to choose from across a three week period. Casual individual days are also available

Location: Br R J Wallace Performing Arts Centre, Waverley College, 131 Birrell Street, Waverley

As part of the Year 11 Entertainment program, students undergo an external one-week work placement to gain invaluable experience in the industry. Throughout Term 4, our students participated in a diverse range of practical experiences, some of which included: The Look, Showtime Productions and Sydney Props Specialists. Below are some of the exciting things our boys got up to:

The Look

The Look specialises in drapery hire and installations for large-scale events, which includes but is not limited to theatre productions, television sets, weddings and company conventions like the ICC.

“During my time at The Look, I was given two opportunities to go out on location to assist with the installation of a drape for the back of the My Kitchen Rules set. It was a very memorable experience that generated some insight into how sets are decorated. While I did not have very much to do on the first day, the second day had me in an observational role- I went into the city and sat in a truck while I watched other people load it. The third and fourth day really encompassed my experience with seeing how the My Kitchen Rules set came about. On other days, I completed little tasks like tying ropes to drapes, with the whole experience really developing my teamwork and communication skills.”

Showtime Productions

Showtime Productions is a private company based in Moorebank, which hires out equipment to other companies and functions, including speakers, mixing desks, control systems, cables, vision screens and other technological apparatus. Showtime operates as both a sales and hiring company oriented towards making entertaining events happen. During my time at Showtime, I was taken to a hotel to help set up mics, speakers and lights. I also got to test returned equipment (such as subwoofers) while receiving advice from people in the company as well as business professionals. This was useful in helping us understand the relevant equipment and skill sets needed to make certain things happen, as well as the importance and stresses associated with dealing with clients and customers.

“Both Finn and I learned a great deal from the experience. Whether it was three metre trussing, audio and lighting equipment tests, truck loading or bump-in, we became well acquainted with how lighting and sound worked. I recommend that people participate in this experience as it was amazing.”

“I learned about the type of industry that Showtime is part of, and how to use and test all of the equipment. I met new people, and entered the field to have a hands-on experience with lighting up a wedding venue.”

Sydney Props

Established in 1983 with a focus on event theming, styling, prop hire and photography, Sydney Props Specialists offers a range of services to the general public. With the largest collection of props in Australia, and an extensive supply of backdrops, furniture and staging elements, Sydney Props can design, source and produce events from scratch. Additionally, they might, upon request, create models and take photographs to bring digital imaginings to life.

In our Marrickville placement, we were introduced to 8 multi-purpose photographic studios that could be hired around the clock. This, along with our direct access to prop making and staging services, meant we had the creative advantage of seeing how different elements worked. Prop makers and scenic artists spoke to us about this process, as well as the process of creating individualistic visions, meaning we came to see how props could be modified to suit certain needs, specifications and interests.

“Sydney Props was extremely fun and the jobs I was given were not too difficult and slowly increased in complexity. This meant I was given more trust and developed confidence in my own abilities. Some of these tasks included painting the studio white, lifting and moving tables, rearranging and organising the storage space and delivering and collecting pieces from different venues.”

Activedge

“Activedge is a wireless system that allows roaming photographers to capture and instantly share photographed/videoed moments to online social media platforms. An interactive platform allowing people to engage with photography, video and gif, Activedge is a smart and engaging tool. During my time at Activedge, we had the opportunity to edit a video to be posted on Instagram. The event we were given the privilege to participate in was the Friday Rugby League, which saw passersby jump on the spot with a football in their hands, all the while being in front of a green screen. This was then altered by the technicians to look like a goal post, so that when integrated with movement, gives the impression that the person has scored a try.”

Ultimately, work placement provides an enriching opportunity for students to engage with industry in a hands-on experience. It is no surprise, then, that most students return to school with a clearer sense of the type of experience they would like to pursue further. I am happy to report that a selection of my students are generally offered casual or part time work once they leave school. Their talent and hard-work has allowed them to flourish!

A MESSAGE FROM THE HEAD OF LANGUAGES, SEÑORA RICHARDS

On the 1^st and 2^nd of November the whole of Mexico and other countries that have Mexican communities celebrate ‘Day of the Dead’. It has become widely known across the world, even featuring in the James Bond movie ‘Spectre’, as a festival that is an explosion of culture and a celebration of those family members who have passed.

With the boom of Mexican culture around the world, especially with food and movies, I thought that the boys would enjoy learning about this aspect and appreciate the real-life application. I approached the Head librarian, Mr Bill Roberts, about doing a collaboration with him and his staff and then using the library space for an exhibit at the end of the project. It took place over three weeks.

We spent half of the lessons in the library and the boys worked in small groups with their Spanish teacher and the library staff, who generously gave up their time. This meant that we were able to have wonderful discussions in which the boys shared their insights and observations. One of my students made a fabulous comparison between the ‘ofrendas’ (the offerings) that the Mexican people place on the graves or on the altars in their houses and the daily offerings that the Balinese place outside their houses or place of work. It was a great opportunity to move between cultures and to think critically about this topic.

I also learnt, along with the boys, about the plethora of resources that we have to hand in the library and online. We were also fortunate to have the library staff assisting us when it was time for the boys to get writing and they were provided with helpful scaffolds.

In addition to the exhibit put up in the library as a culmination of the Year 8 Spanish classes hard work, on the actual day (2^nd November), we had a screening of the Pixar animation ‘Coco’ in the PAC. The boys who had done an excellent job and had worked consistently hard throughout the duration of the project were rewarded with VIP treatment. Judging by the silence and the booing at the end, as I had to finish it 2 minutes before the end, the boys thoroughly enjoyed the film. I believe that due to covering the content in advance they were able to gain a lot from the movie. It comes highly recommended.

I applaud the Year 8’s for their level of engagement with the project and hope that someday they get the opportunity to travel to ‘Méjico’ and experience it first hand. Qué guay!

The Bayside Women’s Shelter is seeking last minute donations to help celebrate the opening of the first dedicated domestic violent shelter for women in the Eastern Suburbs.

The Bayside Women’s Shelter is seeking donations of household items including:

University and Careers Info Sessions:

Engineers Australia – Honeywell Engineering Summer School