During the winter holidays we travelled to Samoa for two weeks to complete the Residential Project component of our Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award. It was particularly terrifying prior to departure as we were the first Waverley students to complete this component as well as independently travelling to a foreign country, knowing that the way of life of the Samoans is completely different to ours.
We were fortunate to stay with an incredibly welcoming family in a small village named FasitooTai. Yese, Sifu and Taele were the names of the father, mother and 14-year-old son who taught us much about their lifestyle. Our main project consisted of refurbishing and repainting the computer room down at the local primary school – Fasitoo-tai Primary. This was a really enjoyable project as the school’s principal allowed us to plan and paint whatever we felt would become an engaging environment for the students to learn in. During our project we were accompanied by many eyes peering through the windows of the classroom. We were never bored either as the children at the school were always around to give us a break from the project whether it be to play a bit of sport outside, talk and interact or just do our job for us.
The entire village made us feel like we were a part of it by providing delicious, fresh Samoan meals, playing with us in the village pool or on the sporting field and teaching us about how their culture was built on respect and honesty. We weren’t just working on the project the whole time, our supervisor took us all over both of the islands so that we could truly see the stunning natural formations Samoa had to offer such as the beautifully clear beaches to the tremendous rainforests. Samoa was an amazing environment to volunteer in. From it’s marvellous natural features to the kind-hearted people, it was an incredible experience that we will never forget and hope many of you consider in the future.
This nation could definitely use your support, with many families being unable to afford the annual $50 AUD to send their children to school. On our travels, we noticed that the schools are in need of books – any books. So we will be hosting a book drive, where you can donate any old books that others may need more than you.
Date: Week 4 Monday – Friday
Location: Please drop them into the Wellbeing Centre
Donate: Any old books in good condition, suitable for children aged 0-12
For any further information please contact us or Ms Brown.
Thank you in advance for your generosity. We know the children of FasitooTai will benefit immensely from the donations we provide them.
On Friday we recognised World Teachers’ Day. We took this opportunity to thank the teachers of Waterford for their hard work, skill, kindness and commitment to supporting the students in their care. It was lovely reading some of the heartfelt messages the boys had written to their teachers.
It is always wonderful to see teachers’ recognised for the work they do. I wanted to share an excerpt from a letter sent to Mr Ben Meadley (Year 6 classroom teacher) from a past pupil of his who is currently completing Year 12. ‘Thank you for teaching me humility. You were honest and fair to every boy in our class, instilling these values in each of us over the four terms we shared. You taught us to put our hand up when we made a mistake, but most importantly to learn from them.’ Teachers play an extraordinary role in the lives of children, teaching them important life lessons and values in order to help them succeed beyond school.
The excitement is building for the Year 5 camp being held at Vision Valley next week. The theme is ‘Let’s Get Together’ which supports the boys in building relationships with their teachers and fellow students. They will have opportunities to experience a sense of achievement as they take on leadership roles and work together as a team to encourage positive decision making. This all being achieved within a supervised, safe and positive environment. We look forward to hearing the many stories upon their return.
2017 Year 5 Camp
On Tuesday morning, the TODAY SHOW presented an inspiring story on how Hugo Kulcsar is staying connected with his friends and class with an ‘educational robot’ while he continues his treatment for Leukaemia. When Hugo was first diagnosed in June this year, his Oncology Nurse, Donna Drew (a former Waverley parent), organised a robot for Hugo through a not-for-profit organisation ‘Missing School.’ The story focussed on how Hugo uses his laptop from home, when he is not well enough to attend school, to connect to his robot, named ‘Christopher’, in the classroom. Hugo demonstrated how easy it was to move the robot around the classroom using specific keys on his laptop. It was wonderful to see Hugo’s friends engaged in conversation with him and enjoy his company. The robot has enabled Hugo to continue his learning from home and participate in the daily lessons with his classmates.
Hugo’s robot – ‘Christopher’ is named after the son of one of Missing School’s founders. The real life Christopher is a two time Leukaemia survivor who is now is now 18 years old. In February 2012, three Canberra mothers met to celebrate their children’s recovery from long illnesses. They all expressed their concerns about the impact of those illnesses on their children’s friendships and schooling. From that meeting, Missing School was born and their goal was to explore ways of supporting children, families and teachers through very difficult times.
Hugo’s Mum, Denai, expressed her gratitude by acknowledging how blessed she feels that Hugo has the robot as this opportunity is not given to every sick child. She can see how the robot has given Hugo wonderful support, encouragement and a positive state of mind during this very challenging time of his life.
Watch the story on the Today Show Facebook feed.
Hugo on the Today Show
During Week 2 this term, students from the Year 9 and 10 PASS (Physical Activity and Sports Studies) classes participated in a range of activities in relation to the Invictus Games and adaptive sports. On Wednesday 24 October, students were lucky enough to have the Wheelchair Basketball Roadshow come and talk to them about disability sports and about the causes of spinal injuries. They were also able to take part in a game of wheelchair basketball. Although they enjoyed this experience thoroughly, they also took away with them an appreciation of how lucky they are to have full use of their own bodies.
On Thursday 25 October, the students also ventured out to Sydney Olympic Park to watch the athletics at the Invictus Games. It was out here that they were able to marvel at mental and physical strength of our service personnel who were injured in the line of duty. Many students commented throughout the day about the resilience shown by these athletes and how impressive their spirit and perseverance was.
These students also spent the week participating in a range of adaptive sports in their PASS classes. These activities included seated volleyball and goal ball. Learning to play sport without their sight and without the use of their legs was an experience the students will not soon forget.
Invictus Games visit – Volleyball
Invictus Games excursion
To promote reading to your sons we have a ‘Reading Wall’ in the library. On this wall we display photos and book reviews of what our staff are reading. Books displayed and chosen are books that would appeal and at times stretch teenage boys’ usual reading choices. It is a great way as well, for boys, to get to know the wider teaching staff via learning a little bit more about the staff member displayed. Often conversations are initiated from these displays. Our latest review is from Mr David Parnell, Head of Learning Support. We thank David for sharing this review and for promoting reading through the College via the library ‘Reading Wall’. As well, ask your sons to look out for my review, on display as well. I have reviewed the science fiction classic, A Wrinkle in Time.
Jandamarra and the Bunuba Resistance is a true story of a remarkable Bunuba Aboriginal man’s fights to defend his people’s sacred land. While assisting the local police, to protect himself from unlawful incarceration, he becomes a proficient marksman. Finally, when forced to turn against his own family, who are chained to a tree and perishing in the sun, he returns to his community. Jandamarra initially struggles to be accepted, due to past disruptions in his ceremonial rituals essential for him to grow into a Bununba man; Jandamarra is caught between two cultures. Nevertheless, Jandamarra’s unrivalled skill in leading his people in protecting their land against settlers enables him to stall the loss of cultural land, until the inevitable happens.
The lies and corruption practised by Western Australian Police, was scrutinised by the British Government; Nonetheless, murders and incarceration, including imprisonment on Rottnest Island, of Aboriginal people in the Kimberley were numbered in the hundreds. Banjo Woorunmurra and Howard Pedersen have scripted a history based on prolonged and extensive research of events, often deliberately inaccurately reported for selfish financial gain and power, which are indescribably brutal. Struggling to justify how these actions could have gone on for so long, former Prime Minister of Australia, Paul Keating states, “It was our ignorance and our prejudice, and our failure to imagine these things being done to us.” The honest history was kept from the public for so many years. Few authorities challenged dishonest reports; actions of the Western Australian Government, described in the Catholic Record (1895), “The operation of the police against the natives will remain forever as an indelible blot on the present administration.”
Jandamarra and the Bunuba Resistance is a thrilling readable story, punctuated with exerts from journals, transcripts of yarns and images, making it a must read.
The 1st XI had a fantastic win in the CAS Twenty20 match midweek – defeating the defending Premiers Trinity in a momentum-building performance. All sides have had a productive week training and last Saturday saw some great team performances with the bat. One factor in the creation of batting confidence comes from quality training, and all boys can be commended with the work ethic they are demonstrating. The additional small-group specialist batting sessions in our weekly Batting Club are also providing boys more opportunities to develop skills and enjoy the growing confidence.
Two sides to work through some tricky periods in their batting innings to finish Day 1 of matches against Knox were the 2nds and 10A sides. Being 6/60, the 10As kept belief that developing partnerships was the key to a good score, and all then was built around Dylan Brown as he compiled a strong 66 not out. This includes key partnerships with Murray Shearer (24) and Nick Quinn and Matt McAlpine to end the day with a solid 8/179. The 2nds had a number of great middle-order contributors in a determined performance to score 160. Ridley Owens looked classy scoring 56 runs, and had tremendous support from Flynn Wild with 32 and Charley Howell 23.
The 10B side bowled Barker out for 242, with Jesse Sonego taking 2/8 with clever bowling. Edward Sullivan led the chase with 41 in the Waverley total of 131- not enough on the day however. The 9As are in a strong position in their first 2-day match for the College, bowling Knox out for 199 and are 2/42 in the chase. William Dodd took a fearless approach to end the day very strongly on 31 not out and ready to lead the boys in the 158 required to win. Ed Regan, Max Brooks and Patrick Abrahams all took 2 wickets apiece with excellent bowling.
The 8As need to find the gaps in the field more frequently in order to score more than their total of 96 In future innings. Will Hickey scored a fantastic 62 in holding the innings together, but more support in changing the momentum with extended partnerships is needed In this age group. Barker chased the totals in the 8A and 8B matches, while the 8Cs topped the team totals in the age-group with 107 in response to Barker’s 145. Best of luck to all Waverley sides this weekend against Knox
Waverley made the journey up to Currugal Oval to take on Knox, with captain Alex Ferrara losing the toss and the Waves were sent into field. Harry Schultz and Brock Preston started off the day well and applied pressure with the new ball by bowling tight lines, and grew in confidence throughout the spell. The first breakthrough came from Ryan Smith who was able to take a sharp caught and bowled chance and followed it up with a successful LBW . Further pressure was then applied to create a run out to midwicket, a good throw above the stumps by Harry Whitaker allowed for Rory Doyle to whip off the bails in time. Knox were 3/38 at drinks.
Then entered J Naganayagam from Knox, whilst we knew what he was going to be produce, it was a matter of taking our chances against him. He managed to score 83 of 55 deliveries and was caught out by the off-spin of Ferrara to the long off boundary and neatly taken by Whitaker. This took the score to 4/131.
Liam Andrews was then given the ball and was able to get the next break through whilst at the same time notching up his first wicket in the baggy blue. Smith (3/34) and Ferrara (3/50) bowled extremely well to take six wickets between them. However, special mention must go to Lachlan Forrest who came back from an initial onslaught to have respectable figures of 1/86 off 21 overs. He created all the pressure for second part of the innings, which allowed the other bowlers to reap the benefits. All credit to Knox as they were able to rebuild at the loss of each wicket and build partnerships throughout their innings. Knox reached a total of 297 with half an hour’s play in the day to go.
This meant a very tricky period for our opening batsman to navigate. Out walked L Forrest and R McNamara. First ball of the innings, Forrest dropped at gully by playing a wide one. Not the ideal start to the innings, but they were able to compose themselves and be 0/22 at the end of play. All in all, the game is nicely posed for a big second day. With 275 remaining to chase down, the team is full of confidence in getting the first win of the season next week.
Liam Andrews steaming in.
Brock Preston steaming in.
Lachlan Forrest rips one through.
Last Tuesday saw the first official T20 fixture of the season. Waverley batted first and scored a formidable 154 off the 20 overs. Reid McNamara 27 (31), Mac Jenkins 42 (51) and Harry Whitaker 35 (31) all played valuable innings to set a tough ask for Trinity to chase.
In reply, Trinity were bowled out at the 16th over for 117. Lachlan Forrest 3/27 and Alex Ferrara 4/21 created the pressure to win the game for the team. Congratulations to all for the first win of the season!
Coaches – Mr G Elliot and Mr R Bryant
The opening round of summer season saw a difficult matchup between Waverley and Barker, who asserted their dominance throughout all of the teams. Despite the tough matchups, numerous Waverley Boys were able to achieve some outstanding results.
The Barker boys where an unstoppable force in the opens, dominating the 1sts 7 sets to 1 and triumphing in the 2nds 7 sets to 1. The two highlight matches of the day were Nikita Nikitenko who demolished his opponent 6-1 and Charlie Farrington who came out victorious 7-5 in his match, both results proving Waverley’s up and coming young talent.
Waverley’s woes continued in 3rds and 4ths fixtures as Waverley was unable to fell to Barker 6 sets to 0 in both the 3rds and 4th teams. Matthew Gallagher displayed his fighting spirit narrowly losing to his opponent 6-4 in his singles match. Furthermore, the highlight for Waverley came in 3rds team from a nail-biting match involving James Ritchie in which he lost in a thrilling 5-7 set.
It was a tough day on the court for the 10a’s and Bs, with both teams suffering heavy defeats, with both teams going down 6 sets to 0 in the hands of the Barker team. Although the heavy defeats Daniel Promes was able to show his potential closely losing his singles match 4-6.
Charley Roberts singles performance was the highlight in for the 9A’s team superbly beating his opponent from Barker 6-1 in a masterclass performance. Adian Trovato was also exhibited his tennis skills winning 6-3 in a thrilling match. Despite the excellent results, Waverly still when down 5 sets to 1 in both the 9a’s and b’s teams. Unfortunately, once again Waverley lost 5 sets to 1 in the Year 9 c’s and d’s teams, although Toby Ryan and Harry Fox achieved excellent results coming out victorious.
Although the many defeats across the year groups, Waverley’s winning ways prevailed in the 8a’s a b’s with superb victories across the board, with the a’s only dropping 2 games in total, coming out victors 36 games to 2 over Barker. This fine form continued in the b’s team with excellent performance in from Bellino with a 6-0 victory. Waverley continued their fine form in the C’s with a 3-3 draw to Barker.
After a Typically strong performance from Barker, the Waverly boys will be focusing on achieving better results in the future when returning to training this week.
Being the first round of the CAS Summer Season, the junior teams were all looking forward to posting wins to start their seasons strong. Unfortunately, the 8A, 9A and 10A teams were all unsuccessful in Round 1 falling short against Barker. While, the 10A’s lost by only one point in a 30-29 loss, their newest member, Fritz Jahnke-Tavana, lead the team with his defensive presence. The 8A’s were defeated by a small margin of 9 points and the 10A’s were beaten by 13.
With an overall successful pre-season camp, followed by a pre-season tournament, the 1sts and 2nds squads were looking to build momentum on their paths towards success for the 2018-19 season. Motivated from a team get-together the night before, both teams could not wait to play against the defending CAS Premiers.
The 2nd V got their season off on the right track, getting past Barker in a nail-biting 51-47 victory. An all-round effort from the team was able to get them over the line, improving on their one point first half lead to take the game by four in the end. Darcy Mullins was able to spark a fourth quarter run, scoring 6 points in the quarter, along with Keilan Grace, who contributed a game high 14 points. Keilan was also able to ice the game with two clutch free throws with 6 seconds remaining, getting the 2nd V off to a 1-0 start.
Unfortunately for the 1st V, they suffered a 63-57 defeat at the hands of Barker. Once again, the boys got off to a confident start unlike the prior encounter with Scots the weekend before. With a jump shot from Thomas Deakin-Bell to an electric fast break dunk from Ryan Abbott, the team was becoming extremely intriguing to watch going into the break with a 4-point lead. The second half did not start off exactly as planned with Barker quickly distinguishing the lead and taking the 3rd quarter 19-11, to go into the 4th with their own 4-point lead. Fortunately for Waverley, 11 points from Christian Diaz including three 3’s during the quarter, kept them in the fight. The fourth quarter was constantly back and forth with a clutch shot from Dion Hatziandreou with little time remaining to put the game within 2 points, but it was not enough. Ash Backlund starred for the blue and gold in the loss, coming off the bench to score 19 points on 11/15 free throw shooting, 6 rebounds and 4 steals. Although a disappointing loss, there were several positives to take out from the game, particularly towards the end, cutting an 11-point deficit to just 2 with 40 seconds remaining. Despite this, it was too little too late for the boys and Barker were able to hold on. The 1st V squad will be leaving this game with their heads held high and looking forward to next week’s encounter against CAS premier contenders, Knox.
Last weekend saw Waverley take on Barker in the first round of the 2019 CAS basketball season. For the 1st and 2nd squads basketball did not stop following the end of the 2018 season, as many players continued training in the off-season program offered during Terms 2 and 3, which included strength and conditioning and a basketball skills session each week.
In the July holiday break, 4 staff members and 19 students travelled to Brisbane to participate in the EREA Basketball Tournament, hosted by St James College, who were celebrating their 150-year anniversary. Twelve schools from around Australia participated in three days of competitive basketball. Our senior team was highly competitive in their division winning two games against St Patrick’s (45-36) and St Laurence’s (62-54) and narrowly losing their other three games by 5, 7 and 16 points. Our junior team, comprised of mainly Year 8 students, while not achieving any wins, played with a lot of heart and enthusiasm and all members came away better for the experience, despite having competed in the U16 division. Apart from the tournament, the group enjoyed staying in the boarding facilities of St Joseph’s Nudgee College, sightseeing in Brisbane, playing mini-golf and ten-pin bowing, seeing Ant-Man and the Wasp at the cinema and watching Game 3 of the State of Origin with a large group of Queenslanders, who were also boarding at St Joseph’s. On the final day, the group travelled to Warner Bros Movie World, spending the day enjoying the rides and attractions.
It was a very successful tour with players thoroughly enjoying themselves, making new friends and playing the game they love. Thank you to staff members, Mr Richard Chen, Mr Johnny Jovine (1st V coach) and Mr Linden Smith-Hyde (2nd V coach), our junior players (Cameron Abbott, Aodan Byrne, Jonathan Chen, Isaac Diaz, Freddy Hunt, James Jones, James Kort, Reuben Maree, Roman Mellis, Hugo Roles, Jacob Smith and Alejandro Zanapalis) and our seniors (Ryan Abbott, Ash Backlund, Christian Diaz, Clem Halaholo, Kyle Goulding, Patrick O’Sullivan and Ben Walton). Thank you also to Head of College, Mr Graham Leddie, and Head of Co-curriculum, Mr Stephen O’Donnell, for their support of the tour.
During the last month of Term 3 the pre-season program for the 1st, 2nd and all A/B teams commenced. The 1st and 2nd squads played a series of trial games against regular pre-season opponents Marcellin, Shore, St Patrick’s and Sydney Grammar and, for the first time, Marist College North Shore. The 1sts were able to snatch a 2-point win against Marcellin in their opening trial game of the season, while the 2nds played the Marist’s 1st team, going down 56-44. The following week, the 1sts posted another win, this time against St Patrick’s (83-79), while the 2nds were also victorious (39-30). Shore was next up and proved to be very tough opponents, with the Shore 1st V being one of the favourites to take out the GPS competition this season. Waverley were unable to match Shore in the 1sts, losing heavily 98-46, while our 2nds were very competitive in their game, going down 39-30. The last series of trial games before the holiday break were against Sydney Grammar. The 1sts game was a tightly contested affair, however Waverley was unable to come away with the win, narrowly missing out with the final score being 66-64. The 2nds played well to enjoy a morale boosting win 73-52 after their previous two losses.
Waverley 2nd V opened their 2019 CAS campaign with a hard-fought 51-47 win over Barker. Coach Mr Smith-Hyde reports that after a sluggish start, Waverley were able to take the lead back midway through the first half on the back of some big defensive plays from team captain Joey Lyons. Both teams traded baskets and the lead to eventually head into the halftime break with just one point separating the two sides. While the game remained tight during the early part of the second half, Waverley were able to pull away from Barker through another strong team defensive effort that led to easy fast break points on the back of some big plays from Ben Walton and Darcy Mullins. To Barker’s credit, they fought back and the sides were once again neck and neck heading into the final few minutes of the game. However, Waverley’s hard work in the preseason showed down the stretch as the team came up with some big stops and executed offensively to take back control of the game. Kelian Grace hit two big free throws to seal the victory in the final seconds. It was a great team effort by all the players with Ben Walton, Keilan Grace and Joey Lyons excelling.
Coming into the game, the 1st V were optimistic of their chances against last year’s CAS premiers. Coach Mr Johnny Jovine thought that Waverley began strong, however, was unable to handle the pressure as the game progressed, turning the ball over too much. Up until the second half, the game remained close with neither team able to pull away from the other, however in the fourth quarter with 3:30 left on the clock, Barker was able to move out to a 12-point lead. With little time left in the game, the 1sts lifted to take control and reduce Barker’s lead to 2 points with less than a minute to go. However, with Barker’s next possession they were able run down the shot-clock and come away with a basket to stretch their lead to 4 points, leaving Waverley with 22 seconds left on the clock. On Waverley’s final possession, they were unable to score, turning the ball over and sending Barker to the foul line. The game ended with Barker eventual winners 63-57 and while the 1st V will take heart from the way they played in the last few minutes of the game, they will rue their missed opportunities and lack of composure in a game that was winnable. Ryan Abbott, Ash Backlund and Tom Deakin-Bell were the standouts on the day.
In other games, Waverley were successful across many teams against Barker. The following teams recorded wins: 5th V (35-28), 10C (31-20), 10H (32-16), 9C (26-18), 9D (41-23), 9E (36-12), 9F (33-19), 9H (34-6), 8B (23-21), 8C (28-19), 8D (23-21), 8E (20-10), 8F (14-13) and 8H (22-17). The 4th V (39-39) and 9F’s (15-15) drew their games with the 5th V (35-28), 6th V (34-33), 10th V (24-22), 10A (30-29), 10B (39-32), 9B (25-24) and 9G (26-24) playing well despite losing in close games.
Waverley Basketball welcomes new staff member, Mr Matthew Johnston, to our coaching ranks. Mr Johnston is a full-time staff member and an experienced basketball coach. Among other achievements, he has coached state and representative teams in NSW and QLD, worked for Basketball Australia on their development camps and been a development coach for an NBL team. Waverley is fortunate to have a coach of Mr Johnston’s experience on staff. Mr Johnston is taking the 10A/B’s this season and we wish him the best of luck.
Waverley Basketball is now using Team App to publish information such as scores, news, fixtures, team lists and announcements. Download the app and search for ‘Waverley College Basketball’ to receive notifications and updates.
Good luck to all teams this weekend against Knox!
UTS – Discover Nursing
November 14 | UTS Building 10. Ultimo
Open to High School Students and parents more than welcome to attend.
Find out more – https://www.uts.edu.au/future-students/health/why-health-uts/events-and-brochures/discover-sessions
UTS – Info Day
December 15 | UTS
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.
Find out more – https://infoday.uts.edu.au/
University of Sydney Info Day – Save the Date
Saturday 15 December | 9.30am—3pm
Camperdown/Darlington Campus, University of Sydney
Info Day allows you to get answers to all your questions below finalising your main round preferences.
More information to come.
Find out more – https://sydney.edu.au/study/admissions/events-for-students/undergraduate-events.html
The Australian National University – Advisory Day
December 14 | International Convention Centre, Darling Harbour
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.
Find out more – https://www.eventbrite.com.au/o/the-australian-national-university-4847694979
December 13 – 14 | North Sydney Campus
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.
Find out more – https://www.acu.edu.au/connect_with_acu/events/north_sydney/know_your_options_information_sessions_-_north_sydney2
January 21 – 25 | TAFE NSW
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.
Find out more – https://www.facebook.com/events/477772419408283/
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.
Find out more – https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/study/application-pathways/hsc-true-reward.html?icid=fs-omc-hsctruereward
November 3 | Parramatta. December 1 | Parramatta
Attend an information session to find out more about being a NSW Police Officer and the recruitment process. Sessions are generally run at Police Headquarters.
Find out more – https://www.police.nsw.gov.au/recruitment/news/information_sessions
Sunday 18 November | 9am to 5pm | University of Technology, Sydney
For students in Year 11 or 12 in 2019
Proven advice. Top HSC Teachers. Industry Specialists. A+ Notes.
Valued at over $250, “Mastering the HSC” is *FREE when you make a $10 donation to The Fred Hollows Foundation on the day.
Download Brochure
Find Out More
December 2 – 7 | Sydney University
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.
Find out more – https://www.engineersaustralia.org.au/sites/default/files/Honeywell Engineering Summer School 2018 Interim.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/
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).
For more information about pathways into ACU early childhood, primary or secondary teaching courses, see our website – https://www.acu.edu.au/about_acu/faculties,_institutes_and_centres/education_and_arts/schools/study_areas/education_pathways
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.
Read more – https://www.uowcollege.edu.au/getin-getahead/
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.
Future Student Applications are open year round.
Find out more – https://www.acu.edu.au/student_experience/student_life/elite_athlete_and_performer_program
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.
Find out more – https://www.acu.edu.au/courses/undergraduate/exercise_science/exercise_science/bachelor_of_sport_and_outdoor_education
November 23 | Sydney. Join us for an upcoming Info Session to learn about our mission, watch an interactive demonstration of design software and creative thinking techniques, meet teachers, chat with graduates, view a wide variety of student portfolios.
Find out more – https://www.shillingtoneducation.com/au/graphic-design-course/info-sessions-and-graduation/
November 22 | Sydney
If you’re considering studying creative media, Animation, Audio, Design, Film or Games, now is the time to speak to our experienced team, your future mentors, and discover how you can pursue your passion in these dynamic and expanding industries.
Find out more – https://sae.edu.au/news-and-events/events/
The workshops are a great opportunity to check out the JMC Academy campus while getting a taste of what studying your passion with Australia’s leading Creative Industries provider is like at this fun, engaging and hands-on program!
These workshops are strictly for high school students in years 9 – 12.
Film & Tv Workshop | Wednesday 10th October 2018
Character Design Workshop | Wednesday 10th October 2018
From Studio To Stage Workshop | Friday 12th October 2018
Discover Visual Communication Workshop | Friday 12th October 2018
Find out more – https://www.jmcacademy.edu.au/sydney-high-school-workshops
NIDA’s three-year practice-based Bachelor courses provide an intensive and immersive experience, as students work together to create, perform and stage full theatrical productions, films, events and exhibitions.
Applications are now open and close September 30
Find out more – https://apply.nida.edu.au/undergraduate
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.
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 – https://www.anu.edu.au/study/apply/new-admissions-for-2020/co-curricular-or-service-requirement
How to make the right choice at High School to prevent issues later.
Read the advice – https://www.maths.unsw.edu.au/highschool/hsc-course-selection
The Mathematical Association of NSW has put together a guide to selecting maths subjects for the HSC.
Read the guide here – https://www.mansw.nsw.edu.au/documents/item/320
Find out more here – https://www.mansw.nsw.edu.au/resources/public-resources/mathematics-hsc-subject-choice-for-year-10-students
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
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.
Find out more – https://bit.ly/ASA-Sydney-Trains-2019
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.
Find out more – https://hia.com.au/Training/builderLicence
If you would like to express your interest in our 2020 Apprentice intake, we can keep you up to date on when applications open.
Find out more – https://www.essentialenergy.com.au/careers/apprenticeships
We’re looking for talented people who are eager to learn and develop in various career paths through our unique apprenticeship programs.
Applications will close on the 9th of November 2018.
Apply here – https://au.indeed.com/viewjob?jk=2a54ba3c7b29bd1f&tk=1cqn8p0t18220803&from=serp&vjs=3
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.
Apply here – https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/
Check out their infographic – https://www.necatraining.com.au/electrical-apprentices/career-paths/#infographic
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
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.
https://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 – https://www.unsw.adfa.edu.au/study
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!
https://www.defencejobs.gov.au/education/adfa/how-to-apply/
Then you start with regional airlines before moving to business jets or international airlines
See the full flowchart – https://www.sfcaero.com.au/pdf/college/16129_Aviation%20pathway%20sheet_FOR%20DIGITAL.PDF
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.
https://goodeducationbookshop.com/products/the-good-careers-guide
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.
For information on how to apply visit: https://www.ato.gov.au/Individuals/Tax-file-number/
Get your copy of the Career Guide by downloading it here – https://www.tafensw.edu.au/contact?rto=Hunter%20%26%20Central%20Coast
Start the new school year off right with these great tips for staying focused while studying.
Check them out – https://learningfundamentals.com.au/blog/breaking-bad-study-habits-16-effective-habits-for-success/
This article features some smartphone apps that can help students to improve their study habits.
Think Education have produced a free eBook with tips on how to master your final year of school.
https://beyou.think.edu.au/surviving-year-12
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.
https://www.tsfx.com.au/resources/
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.
https://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 – /
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
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.
https://www.sportspeople.com.au/
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.
Read the tips – https://www.youthcentral.vic.gov.au/studying-training/secondary-study/6-tips-for-surviving-vce
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: https://www.tsfx.com.au/hsc-survival-guide-edge-teachers
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.
https://australiancareersservice.com.au/resources/ – good-university-guide-downloadables
Sustainability and web-based services seem to be driving the change – how does this fit in with your post-school plans?
Watch the video – https://www.facebook.com/SheFliesAu/videos/1306917866105503
Last week we celebrated the newly announced College Captains and Prefects. One of their responsibilities is to consult and develop a theme that they would like the College to focus upon for the year ahead. Part of that consultation is to look for inspiration from the four Edmund Rice Touchstones 1) Liberating Education 2) Gospel Spirituality 3) Inclusive Community 4) Justice and Solidarity. As a reminder, the last two Year 12 cohorts chose the following themes:
2017 Strength through Diversity
2018 Speak though Action.
We look forward as a community to embracing theme chosen by our 2019 Leaders.
There are many opportunities across a myriad of activities for boys at the College to demonstrate, experience and develop their leadership capabilities. This week we acknowledge another group of leaders that can have significant influence on others in our community and beyond – our captains of co-curricular. Each Captain receives a letter from the Head of College encouraging them to exercise leadership through their example and encouragement of others in their respective co-curricular pursuit.
Basketball Co-Captains: Dion Hatziandreou & Angelo Di Bartolo
1st V Basketball Captain: Kyle Goulding
Cadets CUO: Fletcher Duff
Cricket Captain: Ryan Smith
1st XI Cricket Captain: Alex Ferrara
Cycling: Nicholas Lane
Diving: Marco Coleman
Judo: Michael Gatto
Lawn Bowls: Jesse Muscat
Media Group: Bradley Marzol
Music Co-Captains: Oliver Ruse & Remi Defina-Sperando
Swimming Co-Captains: Will Davison & Sturt Swinburn
Tennis Captain: Marco Dundovic
1st IV Tennis Captain: Patrick Smith
Water Polo Captain: Billy De Luca
1st VI Water Polo Captain: Liam Faulkner-Hogg
Congratulations to Nikita Strbac and Mark Brbot who have been selected in the CAS Waterpolo Team. A fine achievement!
Leadership can also be demonstrated throughout our core business of learning at the College. Students need to see others excel so that they can lift their own expectations and challenge themselves to be better. Students can also see how others study, learn and develop their skills and embed some of those skills and attributes in their own practice.
In recognition of their hard work, fine example and leadership shown, the following boys have been awarded the distinguished Head of College award, Australian Mathematics Competition, Mathematics Olympiad and ICAS English respectively.
Jack Crotty – Aungier
Xavier Scally – Brennan
Campbell Groves – Conlon
Jack Preller – Lacey
Michael Richmond – Lacey
Daniel Risk – O’Connor
Caleb Urquhart – O’Connor
Matthew Wong – Quinn
Jack Crotty – ICAS English – Distinction
Felix Gardan – Mathematics Olympiad -Top 10% in Australia
William Gibson – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction Top 4% in NSW
Kieran Hozack – ICAS English – Distinction
Tom Johnson – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction
Joshua King – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction
Lachlan Muir – ICAS English – Distinction / Australian Mathematics Competition – High Distinction Top 2% in NSW
Ben Stirling -ICAS English – Distinction / Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction Top 6% in NSW / Mathematics Olympiad – Top 10% in Australia
Jake Torsellini – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction
Toby Unsworth – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction
Jake Weinstein – Australian Mathematics Competition – Distinction
Hayden Wild – ICAS English – Distinction
Bronze Award – Maksymilian Klimczak and Lachlan Cunningham
Congratulations to the Waverley College Cadet Unit who took out the CAS Military Skills Championship trophy last weekend. It was a real team effort that saw the boys compete across many disciplines and utilise a multiple of skills and leadership. I know Mr Frost would have been very proud in his 50th year as a teacher at the College.
The WCCU Presentation of Rank was held last Friday. Congratulations to all of the new appointees.
SUO1: CUO Fletcher Duff
RSM: WO1 Bradley Marzol
SUO2 OPS: CUO Nicholas Lane
SUO2 TRG: CUO Joshua Gleeson
SUO2 SPT: CUO Angus McPherson
SUO2 LOGS: Hugh Marshall
CUO: Mark Brbot, Cameron Dawson, Fletcher Duff, Nikhil Dulat, Liam Faulkner-Hogg, Adam Femia, Cooper Flynn, Lachlan Forrest, Cabriel Zander, Michael Gatto, Joshua Gleeson, Joshua Hamilton, Jaime Jackson, Carter Killigrew, Nicholas Lane, Hugh Marshall, Mackenzie Martin, Bradley Marzol, Angus McPherson, Stephen Morrissey, Caillan Porter, Logan Ryan, Henry Standfield, Andrew Tinellis, Timothy Waring, Nathanial Yarrow.
WO2: Cullen Di Mattina, Benjamin Elder, Aidan Korpar, Samuel Markert, Hugh McSweeney, Joseph Simonella, Emile Stephenson.
SGT: Dion Sinodinos,Jasper Anderson, James Brenchley, Jake Burns, Patrick Chan, Joshua Cornelius, Matthew Douglas, Joshua Drevon, Lucas Giordano, Heath Jackson, William Mazor, Kai Moonen-Narita, Ryuji Moone, Luca Paolella, Brock Preston, Noah Ratcliff, Christopher Salem, Samuel Tasaousis, Valentius Wirjana, Alexander Woods.
CPL: Charlie Adonis, Finn Anderson, Nathan Barry, Ethan Blesson, Dante Bryan, Thomas Cahill, Joseph Collins, Thomas Colman, Alexander Elder, Baxter Flynn, Mark Gaponov, William Gibson, Spencer, Kapos, Isaac Kopsiaftis, Tobias Malzard, Oscar Mason, Lachlan Muir, Tobias North, James Occhiuto, Harrison Palmer, Bryn Parry, Jack Priddis, Byron Scott, Jacob Swann, Sebastian Van de Hoel, George Vouros, Hayden Walker, Darcy Widdowson
Congratulations to the following boys on their personal leadership in collecting and supporting the very worthwhile work of and organisation CanTeen:
Matt Stopic
Joshua Cornelius
Xavier Ruppert
Zac Witherspoon
Mitchel Eyles
Zach Karim-Smith
Reeve Smith
Liam Andrews
Maksymillian Klimczak
Luke Fadel
Nakita Strbac
Sebastian Richardson
Adam Hegedus and Alessandro Piovano (WCOB 2016) are the co-Founders of Educating the Future. They are proud to share with us their Annual Report for 2017 – 2018) This report showcases their founding story, achievements to date, organisation structure, audited financials and their future strategic objectives. If you are interested in further supporting Educating the Future, there are still seats available for their 3rd Annual Gala Dinner that will be held Saturday 27 October evening at on at Kambala School, Rose Bay. You are also able to purchase raffle tickets if you are unable to attend and still wish to provide a donation.
A significant part of the evolution of the College has been the focus on student wellbeing. Our vertical house system across Years 5 to12 is at the core of this. Each boy will have the same wellbeing mentor and Head of House throughout their time at the College, and each morning, all boys engage in a structured wellbeing time with their mentor in small groups.
We have established a Wellbeing Centre which houses the Heads of House and the wellbeing team. We also set up a Health Centre and employed a College Nurse. The Deputy Head and Head’s office are in visible locations adjacent to the Centenary Quad and provide students with easy access. Many of the hard surfaces have been softened with grass and plants, and we aim to give boys ample time outdoors to exercise during break time.
A recent addition to our wellbeing focus has been the engagement of a consultant who specialises in restorative practice.
From time to time, boys will may make a poor decision whilst at school. At Waverley College we focus on specific behaviours without blaming. Teachers use relational questions to draw out who was affected and how they were affected. Staff look to move forward by directing questions towards problem solving and what needs to be done to make things right.
Restorative practice involves questioning which is respectful, promotes learning, develops autonomy, builds resilience, emotional literacy, empathy, self-esteem and self-image. All of which are key ingredients for enhancing wellbeing.
Our staff are confident in this process and work through a structured flowchart which engages with the students respectfully and encourages students to come up with suggestions which will make the situation right.
Consequences should be a part of any restorative process. Indeed, boys education is paramount if fair and reasonable requests are surrounded by clear and consistent boundaries and subsequent consequences. The level of genuine engagement of the student in the process will ultimately determine the extent of any consequence.
The following flowchart is an example of the script teachers now use to draw out who was affected and how they were affected as a result of a poor decision:
Restorative practice takes longer than traditional methods of wellbeing management however all of the research points to better outcomes.
School Fees for the 2019 school year are due on the following dates:
You are reminded that if you wish to withdraw your son from enrolment at Waverley College, you are required to give one term’s notice in writing to the Head of College that your son’s enrolment will cease.
The last day you can give notice that your son’s enrolment is finishing at the end of a school term, is the first day of the same term. If not received by that date, a penalty equivalent to one term’s tuition fees will be payable.
The relevant dates for 2018 and 2019 are below:
Finishing at end of |
Notice by |
Term 4, 2018 | Mon 15 Oct 2018 |
Term 1, 2019 | Wed 30 Jan 2019 |
Term 2, 2019 | Tue 30 April 2019 |
Term 3, 2019 | Tue 23 July 2019 |
Term 4, 2019 | Tues 15 October 2019 |
Congratulations to the following students who were presented with awards at this week’s assembly.
Head of College Awards – Accumulation of 3 gold awards
Jack Crotty – Year 7
Campbell Groves – Year 7
Jack Preller – Year 7
Caleb Urquhart – Year 7
Matthew Wong – Year 7
Michael Richmond – Year 8
Daniel Risk – Year 8
Xavier Scally – Year 8
Patrick Healy – Year 8
ICAS English – Distinction
Jack Crotty – Year 7
Ben Stirling – Year 7
Kieran Hozack – Year 8
Hayden Wild – Year 9
Lachlan Muir – Year 9
Australian Mathematics Competition
Lachlan Muir – High Distinction Top 2% in NSW
William Gibson – Distinction Top 4% in NSW
Ben Stirling – Distinction Top 6% in NSW
Joshua King – Distinction
Tom Johnson – Distinction
Toby Unsworth – Distinction
Jake Weinstein – Distinction
Jake Torsellini – Distinction
Mathematics Olympiad
Ben Stirling – Top 10% in Australia
Felix Gardan – Top 10% in Australia