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From the Convenor of Football – Stephen Wilmot

With the second half of the CAS competition starting on the weekend the Waverley teams were back up against the very strong Knox team that they had versed in round 1. With many teams having disappointing results on the weekend, they were improvements on results from round 1. Even though they may not have been wins it was still great to see that the Waverley teams had improved. As we continue towards the end of term and into round 8, I would like to remind players that their expectations on the field remain high and if a decision doesn’t go there way from an official they shouldn’t argue with the referee or the other team they should focus on winning the game.

This weekend will be CAS Round 7 against St Aloysius. Year 7, 10 and Opens will be away at various locations so please ensure that you check the fixtures for the locations of the games. Year 8 and 9 will again be at Queens Park. If it continues to rain into the weekend updates will be put out on the Skoolbag app and the wet weather line.

Next week there will be no training except for 1st and 2nds players as we lead up to the holidays. Training will resume on Tuesday the 24th July of next term. I wish all players an enjoyable break before we return for CAS round 8 against Cranbrook.

CIS Selections

Congratulations to Jack Hardwicke-Owen and Mario Rebollo on their selections into their NSWCIS Opens and Under 16s teams respectively. They will both be playing next Monday and Tuesday. I wish the best of luck to both of these players and congratulate them on their great achievement.

Save the Date – Football Presentation Night

The Football Presentation night will be held on Saturday the 11th of August at Waverley College. More details will come out at the start of next term with the time and how to secure your tickets.

1st XI report

From the Captain of 1st XI – Jack Hardwicke-Owen

Round 6 marked the start of the second half of the season, with Waverley making the long, formidable journey to Knox. After round one’s unfavourable result, Waverley were looking for redemption. The first half began with Waverley absorbing a lot of pressure from the quick Knox attack. Waverley looked to counter attack with Ben Scarf almost snaring an early goal. Knox’s relentless pressure eventuated with them scoring a late first half goal, putting them ahead at the break.

The second half resumed and Knox extended their lead early through a contentious penalty. Two then became three for the hosts when their talented number 11 latched onto the end of a through ball, before finishing well. Waverley continued to work hard and never gave up. Waverley created a number of chances throughout the match although a lack of finishing ultimately lead to Knox winning 3-0. Knox were the better side on the day and were deserving of the three points. Other favourable results mean that Waverley still sits only 2 points behind leaders Barker. The upcoming match away at St Aloysius is extremely important and the team will be sure to put in a strong performance, just as they did against ‘Aloes’ earlier in the season.

2nd XI Report

From the Captain of Football Anthony Candi

The second half of the season began with a trip north to Curagul to face Knox in a hostile environment. The 2nd XI were ready to build upon and improve from last weeks 1-1 draw to Trinity. From the outset, Waverley looked the more likely of the sides to score, but that would not be the case. Waverley wasted five great chances and gave Knox some great opportunities where they made no mistake netting with fifteen to go in the half. From that point Waverley struggled to show a response looking extremely sluggish which saw many holes open up in their defensive lines. This gave Knox another opportunity before the break extending their lead to two.

The second half saw Knox continue to gain confidence as they began to put on a show for everyone watching. Their third goal forced Waverley to make a change bringing on Dan Brown and setting up a 4-4-2 formation. This change had an instant impact to the game as Dan tapped home after a maze run by Olly Haupt. With 20 minutes to go Waverley gained hope and began to bombard the Knox goal with constant attack but their efforts would go begging when a bad challenge by centre back Jack Lloyd saw him sent to the sheds. Knox were not done yet scoring another on the stroke of full time. A disappointing performance from the 2nd XI will be used as a learning experience as they prepare to face St Aloysius away in next week’s final game of the term.

Waverley AFL First XVIII

From Coach, Matthew Porter

After the long weekend Waverley looked to get back to their winning way against St Ignatius 2. After a strong start Waverley kicked two early goals but poor goal kicking towards the end of the quarter meant Waverley only went into the break with a 29-point lead. The second quarter began much the same way as the first with Waverley dominating possession however we were unable to make the most of this. Kicking only one goal in the quarter and a late St Ignatius 2 comeback lead to them kicking two late goals meaning Waverley went into half time with a four goal lead. Going out into the third quarter, Waverley went out knowing they needed to take advantage of their possession, and after a few early goals they extended their lead to six goals. Goal of the season contenders from Tyler Holding and Harry Whittaker capped off a dominant performance in the third quarter going into the break with an eight goal lead. To begin the last quarter St Ignatius 2 came out looking to reduce the margin and kicked an early goal followed by a Waverley goal. Some inaccuracy in front of goal denied Waverley the chance to hit a 10 goal lead and a late goal for St Ignatius 2 meant Waverley won by 42 points, a margin which could have been bigger if not for some poor goal kicking.

Best on ground: Harry Whitaker, Xavier Slezak, Henry Stanfield, Kyle Goulding and William Davison

Goal kickers: Harry Whittaker 3, Steve Morrissey 2, Max Curry 1, Tyler Holding 1, Isaac Batholomaeus 1, Ash Backlund 1, Nicholas Buckingham 1

Final Score: Waverley: 10-14-74 defeated St Ignatius2: 5-2-32

Waverley AFL 9/10’s

From Coach, Fred Pawle

Running into the wind for the first quarter, Waverley was struggling to maintain the quality level of footy they are used to playing. Without scoring a single point, Waverley were down by the end of the first quarter for the first time this season.

The second quarter began and Cranbrook came out once again dominating through the midfield and defence causing issues for Waverley, Waverley was able to begin their comeback and by the end of the first half were only down by a single goal.

The premiership quarter was well fought between the two teams and Waverley were able to further cut down on the lead in front of them. A few quick goals helped cut the lead to a single point at the end of the third.

The fourth quarter was where Waverley took control heading with the wind behind them, Waverley booted a quick two goals matched by Cranbrook when Reid McNamara kicked a decisive goal swinging the momentum of the game. After this, Waverley kicked a further three goals from Zac Murphy which sealed the game giving Waverley a two goal lead. Cranbrook then had a swing of momentum but defender Ryan Breslin came in with clutch defensive plays giving Waverley a crucial edge.

Notable performances: Reid McNamara, Zac Murphy and Ryan Breslin

Final Score: Waverley – 34 defeated Cranbrook – 25

Waverley AFL 7/8A’s match report

From Coach, Billy Tyson

Finally, the boys got to play a game close to home at Pioneer Park. From the get go Waverley were all over them, being first to the ball and making good use of it. Last time we played Trinity we were restricted to a tiny field and the game was one of metres. This week however, we had the full football oval, which the boys capitalised on very quickly. The game was played on our terms, fast and classy. As the game was concluding we had the rare opportunity to move players around into different positions to explore new opportunities. This proved to many players that they can step up to any task so for the backend of the season we will have plenty of depth and infantry to beat the best teams.

Best on ground: Kai Bremmer, Louis Kitto, Aodan, Max Murphy, Maddox Grebert and Toby Longmire.

Final Score: Waverley- 66 defeated Trinity – 6

Waverley AFL 7/8B’s Match report

This week Waverley’s 7/8B’s boys game up against St Ignatius. They came out of the gates firing and starting off with an early lead as the first quarter came to an end. Waverley however was able to pull up and keep them scoreless for the next 3 quarters. Some particularly good efforts from Jarryd Garwood, Lang Curran, and James Armstrong helped boost the rest of the team into completely taking over the game and taking out a comfortable 3 goal win. Overall it was a great effort from the Waverley boys and we hope to keep up this form for the rest of the upcoming games.

Best on ground: Campbell Groves, James Armstrong and Kai Jones.

Final Score: Waverley – 34 defeated Knox – 14

From the Convenor of Rugby, John McCoy

1st XV Match Report – Waverley College Vs Knox Grammar School

The CAS season had finally arrived! Waverley’s first away assignment was to be against Knox Grammar. Knox and Waverley had been involved in many competitive encounters in recent years, with both schools producing Australian Schoolboys in 2017. As both schools had met different opponents during the GPS/CAS/ISA trial period, it seemed difficult to predict exactly how the match would play out.

1st XV Vs Knox

Knox kicked off to Waverley and forced an early error, which put the visiting side under pressure early. Knox showed intentions to test the Waverley defensive line with power up front and speed out wide. Knox held the ball well but struggled to convert possession into points.

Ronald Volkman and Daniel Andrews kicked the Waves out of trouble, and Tadgh Murphy was able to run his side into a point scoring position. Murphy showed plenty of speed as he collected a loose ball off the back of a wayward Knox lineout throw. With metres to run, Murphy was pulled down short but a terrific offload to Captain Conor Molloy ensured the Waverley side would be the first to post points in the match.

For a majority of the first half, the scoreboard remained the same. Waverley held the lead with an unconverted try. The match did not to seem to flow, as the ball seemed to find the turf more often than was desired. Both sides fought hard to secure territory through strategic kicking, but keeping the ball in hand proved to be the more effective way of progressing forward.

Molloy was the next to score, to make it two tries in the match after 30 minutes of rugby. This was on the back of a penalty which had been awarded after Waverley was able to put a series of phases together. It showed the value of being patient and building pressure, rather than looking to score off the first play. At halftime, the scoreboard displayed 12 to 0 in favour of the Double V.

Waverley kicked off in the second half, running into the breeze. While the Waves were in front on the scoreboard, the feeling was that the match could still go either way. It would be the side who capitalised on the key chances that would move ahead and possibly take control of the match. Knox definitely had pace out wide to threaten, as well as some strong forwards to control the middle.

Waverley were awarded a penalty in front of the posts and decided to play the safe option by taking the three points on offer to put the score beyond two tries. This move seemed to remove the nervousness from the Waverley attack, and paid dividends quickly as Volkman charged away for a try just two minutes after the penalty was taken. This was on the back of some excellent work by Aisea Aholelei, Luca Moretti and Harley “Magic Hands” McGuiggan who threw a Sonny Bill Williams like pass to get Volkman in space.

Soon after, Waverley were reduced to 14 men following an infringement at the tackle. This gave the home side a big chance to get some points on the scoreboard. Waverley were determined in defence and would not let Knox through. It was ugly rugby, but it seemed to be effective and at the same time was chewing up the clock.

Following a significant chuck of time inside their own half, Waverley finally got into good field position through a nice break by fly half, Daniel Andrew. Luca Moretti also helped with a good charge, but it was Harley McGuiggan who found the tryline after outpacing the Knox winger.

To put the icing on the cake, a quick tap taken by Reece Thorn found its way to Jacob Tomasiello who raced away down the right wing. A nice offload back to Ronald Volkman, put the inside centre in for the final points of the match. The final score, Waverley 32 to Knox Grammar 0.

It was a very pleasing start to the CAS season. While it was not the most exciting match to watch, Waverley will take a great deal out of the defensive effort and the fact that they kept the opposition to nil. Waverley now meet St Aloysius College at Willoughby. Schoolboy commentators have ranked Aloys as big chances in the 2018 season, especially coming off a nice win against Trinity in Round 1. Waverley will need to be ready and focused going into the final week of rugby for Term 2.

Tadgh Murphy and parents

Above is Tadgh Murphy with parents Tracey and Terry Murphy. Tracey and Terry Murphy made their final trip up to Knox after 21 years of support for their sons in Waverley Rugby. A nice way to end with a win – and Tadgh having a terrific game.

Around the Grounds

What a fantastic day to be a Waverlian! Waverley managed to win a total of 17 matches with just the 5 losses. This is possibly the best start to a CAS season in some years. Congratulations to every player who ran out on the weekend as well as all the coaching staff who had the boys ready to go and the parents who cheered hard on the sidelines! A real team effort!

Reeve Smith charges forward

The 2nd XV managed to come back to post a nervous win against Knox. This was the first time a Waverley 2nd XV side had defeated Knox at Knox since 2003. Ben Daley was outstanding and scored a marvellous try, as was Chase Hardaker who threw a cheeky ‘dummy’ to sneak past the Knox defenders close to the ruck to secure the win. Marco Moretti made his return from injury in the 3rd XV, and made a big impact as he contributed to most of the tries scored. The 4th XV enjoyed an excellent 26-7 win, and the 5th XV just managed to hold on – holding up the opposition over the line in the final seconds to make it a clean sweep for the Opens age group.

Emmanuel Di Bartolo was incredible in the 16As victory. Manny’s kicking game and work at fly half resembled Waverley Old Boy Ben Donaldson who went on to play Australian Schoolboys in 2017. It was a pleasing team effort for Coaches Horrocks and Foley, as this 16As team is proving to be an exciting group to watch. Jack Gillard scored a nice time in the 16Bs win. The 16Cs had a narrow loss, with the Fadel boys trying their hearts out as always. The 16Ds were down 21 to 0 at halftime, but managed to come back to win 33-28. Thomas McMahon had his best game for the season.

The 15As had their best win of the season according to Coaches Stuart Donaldson and Deon Smith. This side has had players ruled out each week due to injury and illness, but the age group continues to support each other and play entertaining rugby. Well done boys! The 15Bs went down 3 tries to nil and the 15Cs also went down narrowly 34-17 in a tight match.

14As

The 14As started off the CAS season in winning form, defeating Knox 37-7. The 14Bs and 14Cs were also able to record CAS Round 1 wins. The 14Ds met a determined Knox team and just fell short of tasting victory in a good effort, and the 14Es played a very entertaining match winning by a conversion 32 to 30.

The win for the 13As meant it was a clean sweep for all A teams against Knox. Max Brooks was superb in the centres scoring some outstanding tries and proving very hard to stop. The 13Bs were too strong running out as 48 to 14 winners. The 13Cs won a thriller 20-19 with Luca Latinovic making some strong contributions at the lineout. The 13Ds also recorded a nice first up win against Knox. The 13Es played against Newington at Queens Park and although they defeated Newington during the trial season, they finished the match in second place on the day.

CAS Round 2 Vs St Aloysius College

This weekend Waverley College faces up against St Aloysius College. As St Aloysius do not match up with Waverley in all grades, a number of teams will be playing against a variety of opponents (other CAS and GPS schools) this Saturday. St Aloysius will be strong and determined to do well after they had some pleasing results against Trinity Grammar last weekend. All Waverley teams will need to be ready for this encounter, particular those team playing away.

Please note that with wet weather dominating most of the week, all players are to ensure they check the Waverley Rugby Team App to make sure they know what team they are playing in as well as any other key announcements. Please also note that the recent wet weather may result in some ground closures, however, all players should be prepared to play. To check if your game is still on please call the Wet Weather line on Saturday morning (Ph: 02 8250 3780).

Upcoming Schedule – End of Term 2, Start of Term 3

This Saturday is the final Saturday of rugby for Term 2. Students will still be expected to attend training in the final week of term, but should continue to check announcements and student emails with wet weather again predicted next week.

Training will resume on the first day back in Term 3. 16s and Opens teams will resume training on Tuesday 24th July and 13s, 14s and 15s will resume training on Wednesday 25th July. The first game back for Term 3 will be CAS Round 3 against local rivals Cranbrook. Our 13s, 16s and Opens will be playing at Cranbrook, while our 14s and 15s will again play at home.

Waratahs Tickets

A reminder that the NSW Waratahs are offering free tickets (family passes for 4 people) to members of the Waverley College Rugby Community for the following matches:

Saturday 7th July – Waratahs Vs Sunwolves

Saturday 14th July – Waratahs Vs Brumbies

Please feel free to contact Mr McCoy (jmccoy@waverley.nsw.edu.au) if you are interested in taking up the offer, prior to the school holiday commencing.

Good luck to all teams this weekend! Let’s put in one more big effort ahead of the school holiday break!

WAVERLEY TO WIN!

From the convenor of Rugby, John McCoy

NSW Rugby recognises the significant contribution of schools, not only to future professional players, coaches and administrators, but to the broader rugby community and the culture and values that are integral to the game.

Over the last 12 months NSW Rugby has made significant steps to better work with schools, one being the creation of the NSW Positive Rugby Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to:

As a thank you for the ongoing support of Waverley College, NSW Rugby would again like to offer students and their families the opportunity to attend the last two home games of the season vs the Sunwolves on the 7th of July and the Brumbies on the 14th of July for FREE!

WHAT: NSW Waratahs vs Sunwolves
WHEN: 7.40pm Saturday 7 July
WHERE: Allianz Stadium, Moore Park
OFFER: Complimentary family pass (4 tickets) for each student and staff member.

AND

WHAT: NSW Waratahs vs Brumbies
WHEN: 7.40pm Saturday 14 July
WHERE: Allianz Stadium, Moore Park
OFFER: Complimentary family pass (4 tickets) for each student and staff member.

Please contact me before the end of term for more information and to take up this offer on jmccoy@waverley.nsw.edu.au
or jdivall@waverley.nsw.edu.au if you need more information during the school holidays.

From the Convenor of Volleyball, Belinda Buchan

This weekend we are playing at St Ignatius College at Riverview.

2nds play at 10am (9:30am arrival for warm-up)

1sts play at 11:30am (11am arrival for warm-up)

To try and boost the profile of Volleyball within schools and across GPS/CAS schools, Riverview have decided to introduce afternoon-tea for all 1st and 2nd Grade volleyballers.

From the Convenor of Volleyball at Riverview:

“We would like to extend the invitation to Waverley college to join us at the conclusion of the 1st Grade match. It will take place across the road and our families will provide food and drinks for the players, coaches and families.

The event will consist of the MIC giving a brief thank you and the 1st Grade captains will be expected to say a few words as well. It will last for about 30 minutes. Our boys will be wearing their playing uniform and school blazer on top.”

I am therefore asking for Waverley 1st and 2nd teams to arrive wearing their correct Waverley playing uniform and their Blazers over the top so we look professional and ready for the competition and after match function.

There have been a number of boys wearing non-Waverley attire (track pants, tour hoodies, etc.) and this gives the impression that we do not respect or care about our College or the competition.

Thanks for your support and understanding with this endeavor.

I look forward to seeing you all at Riverview on Saturday.

From the Director of Co-Curricular, Stephen O’Donnell

The College’s House Athletics Carnival will take place on Friday 29th June, 2018 at ES Marks Athletics Field.

The emphasis of the day is participation and friendly House competition. The day is also an excellent opportunity for boys to display their talents (hidden or known) in order to gain selection in the College Athletics Team. Boys will compete in their age category.

Do not let your son stay at home even if he does not like athletics. The day is a great community and house team building occasion. Resilience is built at times when we sometimes do not want to do something.    

Dress to and from school:          College tracksuit

Dress at the arena:                       House shirt, College shorts, House coloured garments, College cap, Sunscreen.

Details:

Or

Any boys interested in participating in Javelin or 3K run must be at ES Marks by 8am

Please note:

Or

 

Canteen facilities are available at the venue but please be warned they are not cheap. Boys are encouraged to bring their lunch/drink with them.

In the event of rain, boys will come to school in their College tracksuit, but are also asked to bring books/equipment for normal lessons (Friday Week B). The wet weather phone number is 8250 3780. This information will also be available on the Skoolbag app.

We are sure the day will be enjoyable for all. Parents are most welcome to attend.

From the Head of Careers and Senior Studies, Kath Knowles

TAFE NSW Information Week

June 18 – 29 | Various Locations

Come along to our open week to join our interactive information sessions, gain career advice, explore our state-of-the-art facilities and get help with enrolments. Check the website for more information on info sessions and locations.

Find out more

Advice for choosing HSC Courses from NSW Education Standards Authority

Your aim is to attain the best HSC result you can. So, you should choose courses that you are good at, interested in and may use in the future.

When considering which courses to study, explore the content of a course. For example, what are the course outcomes? Will you be required to submit a major work, or perform, as part of your exams? Talk with your teachers about your strengths and weaknesses, as well as individual course requirements, before making your selections.

Read the advice

A Day with Macquarie – Sydney

June 27 | Macquarie Head Office, Sydney

In partnership with Explore Careers, Macquarie Group would like to invite year 11 and 12 students to our Global Headquarters to find out more about the Banking and Financial services industry.

Find out more

Cadetship Season is on now

Lots of accounting firms look for cadets at this time of year. These cadetships pay you to work full-time while you study part time. You’ll get lots of support from your employer to continue and excel in your studies. And we often get told that companies can’t find enough applicants to fill the roles, so you’ve got a great chance if you meet the criteria.

For most of them you must be in Year 12 and planning on going to uni in 2019.

Here are some we found, but if you google cadetships in your area you’ll find many many more:

Pitcher Partner Accounting Cadetships – Sydney

Applications close Friday 6 July

Find out more

Thomas Nobel & Russell Cadetships – Sydney

To find out more please contact the HR Team on (02) 6621 8544 or submit your application through Seek today.

Bachelor of Advanced Computing Information Evening

June 21 | University of Sydney

The Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies at the University of Sydney is launching its new Bachelor of Advanced Computing degree in 2018. Join us at an information evening where you will learn more about this new degree and the opportunities that it brings to our students.

Find out more

Discover Nursing @ UTS

Thursday 21 June 5:30 pm

Wednesday 18 July 5:30 pm

There’s more to modern nursing than meets the eye. Whether you’re in high school, TAFE, working as an AIN or EN or looking to embark on a change in career, this session is for you. Hear from nursing academics and current students before touring our world-class clinical laboratories and taking part in a hands-on workshop.

Find out more

Macquarie Global Leadership Entry Program Expansion

We recognise students who are engaging with their school and community in service and leadership have diverse interests. So, we’ve decided to open the Global Leadership Entry Program (GLEP) to almost all Macquarie degrees.

Your students can now:

Applications close Monday 27 August, but apply now and you could receive an offer as early as NEXT MONTH

Find out more

Macquarie Uni Co-op Programs

In 2019 we’re excited to offer two Co-op programs:

Actuarial students will receive a scholarship of $18,200 p.a. and accounting students will be paid by our partners while they are on each placement.

These highly competitive courses will see students alternate between classroom studies and placements throughout their four years of study. Students will undertake three placements, totalling 15 months.

Applications are now open for both programs. We encourage students to commence their applications as soon as possible.

Find out more

University of Notre Dame Sydney – Early Offer/Parent Info Evening

June 26 | Broadway Campus

Applications for Notre Dame’s Early Offer Program close on 31 July 2018. This event provides a great opportunity for students to find out tips and advice on submitting a comprehensive application. Students who gain an Early Offer are notified before they sit their final Year 12 exams.

Find out more

University of Notre Dame Sydney – Careers in Law

July 12 | Chippendale

Join us at our Careers in Law day to explore all programs in Law, and where this profession can take you.

Find out more

University of Notre Dame Early Offer Program – Sydney

Applications close Tuesday 31 July

Are you motivated, forward-thinking and eager to get a head start on your future? Secure a place at Notre Dame before you sit your final Year 12 exams with the Early Offer Program.

Apply here –

Contact (02) 8204 4404 or sydney@nd.edu.au

Early Offer and Parent Information Session – Tuesday 26 June at Chippendale

Find out more

Applications for 2019

Applications for 2019 Bachelor & Diploma Courses are open from 2 July to 30 September.

Apply here from July

ACU Teacher Selection Statement Advice

As part of your online application you need to submit a Teacher Selector Statement which consists of a concise (approximately 1000 words) statement demonstrating your suitability to teaching. There is some great advice to help you write this statement here

NOTE: the advice could help you write similar statements required by other universities, not just ACU.

Australian Catholic University – University Experience

July 10 – North Sydney Campus

University Experience is a free program that gives you the opportunity to sample the degree of your choice. Get a taste of life at ACU by meeting academic staff and current students and trying out the course you’re interested in.

Find out more

ACU Early Entry Program

Regular volunteer work in your community – through a social justice organisation, sporting, performance, cultural or religious group – may be rewarded through our Community Achievers’ Program with entry into an undergraduate degree.

A successful CAP application means you could receive an offer as early as August to study at ACU. Being part of this CAP group also offers unique opportunities to enhance your leadership and volunteering skills, while you study with us.

Applications open Tuesday 1 May 2018 and close Tuesday 31 July 2018

Find out more

Australian Catholic University – University Experience

July 12 | Strathfield Campus

University Experience is a free program that gives you the opportunity to sample the degree of your choice. Get a taste of life at ACU by meeting academic staff and current students – and trying out the course you’re interested in.

Find out more

ACU Passion for Business – Early Entry Program

ACU’s new Passion For Business (P4B) program is not just about your ATAR – it’s about providing a unique opportunity for student’s with a passion for business. Are you a current Year 12 student studying a business related subject at school and want to gain an early competitive edge?

ACU believes passion and commitment to learning are important. Passion for Business is a guaranteed early entry program designed to nurture your learning passion and give you a step up in your future business career.

Find out more

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.

Future Student Applications are open year round.

Find out 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.

Find out more 

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.

You can find out if you meet the tests here

HSC Maths Course Selection Advice from UNSW

How to make the right choice at High School to prevent issues later.

Read the advice

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.

Read the guide here

Find out more here

From UAC – How to get into Medicine

Entry into undergraduate medicine degrees is highly competitive. Take these steps to make sure your application is considered.

Read the article

UMAT 2018

Thinking of studying medicine, dentistry or health sciences? You need to know about UMAT.

UMAT stands for the Undergraduate Medicine and Health Sciences Admission Test. It’s a test that’s designed to help select students for undergraduate medicine and health science programs for participating universities.

If you’re in your final year of secondary school and want to enter a medicine or health science degree next year then you need to sit UMAT in 2018. It’s only held once a year.

In 2018 it will be held on Wednesday 25 July , 2018

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 .

AIT Open Day

July 28 – Sydney

Join us at our Open Day in July and learn all about AIT, the creative industry and amazing opportunities available to you.

Find out more

Academy of Interactive Entertainment – Industry Experience Day

July 13 – Sydney & Canberra

AIE’s Industry Experience Days are a great opportunity for students in Years 10, 11 and 12 to learn about the local and international game development, 3D animation and visual effects industries. Students will get the opportunity to learn about the different pathways to get into the industry, what should be in a portfolio and will be able to get creative in practical workshops using industry-standard 3D animation and game development tools.

Find out more

AFTRS Upcoming Courses

Our courses are the perfect way to learn new skills, have fun and make new friends and are taught by industry professionals at AFTRS’ state-of-the-art film, TV and radio studios in Sydney.

Jul 02 The Real Filmmaking Workshop: 13-17

Jul 09 AFTRS Trop Jr Filmmaking: 10-15

Rio Tinto Apprenticeships – 2019 Intake Applications Open July

Applications open soon for Rio Tinto’s incredible apprenticeship program. If you’re interested, then do your research and start putting your documents together to apply.

The 4 year program offers qualifications in the following areas – electrician, heavy duty diesel mechanic, mechanical fitter, and light vehicle maintenance.

Applications will be advertised here – www.riotinto.com/careers

Find out more

 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.

Apply here

Check out their infographic

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.

Find out more

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.

NSW Police Recruitment

The police force is recruiting, and they’ve launched a new Facebook page.

They’re also running info sessions and practice sessions for the Physical Capacity Test.

Recruitment Information Session – Parramatta COMING SOON
Saturday 16 June 9.00am – 12.00pm

Find out more

Real Estate Training Reforms

NSW Parliament has passed reforms which increase the training requirement for Real Estate Agents. The previous course took 5 days (or less), but now recruits will need to complete more units and undergo 12 months industry experience before they can become a Licence holder.

Read more here 

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.

Find out more

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!

 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.

For information on how to apply

TAFE NSW 2018 Career Guide

Get your copy of the Career Guide by downloading it here

Breaking bad study habits

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

Check them out

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 Exam/Study Tip 3 & 4

Find out more

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

TSFX: HSC Study Tips 

 Top Tips from Past Year 12 Students

Tips for note-taking

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.

Read more

Find out which occupations have skills shortages

Choosing a job in an industry where they need more workers is usually a smart decision. Right now, most professions are adequately supplied with large numbers of qualified candidates competing for vacancies. There are shortages for architects, surveyors, sonographers, audiologists and veterinarians, and many trades need more qualified people.

Find out where more people are needed here

 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.

How an engineering degree can build your future

This article from Deakin explores what an engineering degree can lead to in the current environment where what we know about manufacturing, business and career paths is all changing.

Read it here

HSC Trial Prep Lectures July Holidays

Our subject-specific lecture program will enable you to learn essential content and methods from the most qualified teachers in NSW.

Held at Macquarie University, UTS, University of Newcastle, and UOW.

Find out more and book now

How to Help Your Child Prepare For Their HSC Exams – from HSC in the Holidays

Want to help your child prepare for their best possible marks, but not sure where to start? This guide was written with you in mind…

Download it here

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.

Download it here

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.

Australian Jobs 2018

Australian Jobs is one of the country’s foremost jobs publications. It provides an easy-to-read overview of industry and occupation trends in the labour market, and is designed to meet the needs of students, career advisers, people looking for work and those involved in the national employment service, jobactive.

This year’s edition has identified four key trends:

The full report and a series of data snapshots is available on the Australian Jobs page.

Download the Report

FYA – The New Work Reality

The Foundation for Young Australians have just released a new report, Preparing young people for the new work reality

Following the journeys of 14,000 young people over a decade, the New Work Reality report reveals the factors that accelerate the transition to full-time work, including the skills, mindset and confidence young people need to navigate our changed world of work.

Download Report

Find out more

From the Development Office

The response to the Waverley College Blue & Gold Ball has been overwhelming with tickets almost sold out. Thank you to the generous families and friends of the college, who have already contributed their time and a number of exciting auction items.

Waverley College is very excited to announce our major event sponsor – McGrath Estate Agents.

McGrath has a legacy of providing high quality customer experiences and superior results, all delivered through a team of dedicated, high calibre professionals.

One such professional is Waverley College Old Boy Adrian Bo, who we are privileged – and proud – to call our auctioneer on the night.

Adrian Bo has been in the real estate industry for over 30 years. He was hand-picked and personally trained by John McGrath and is now recognised as one of Australasia’s top agents, auctioneers, real estate trainers & public speakers.  Adrian was named the Number 4 agent in Australia, industry wide, and Number 1 agent nationally at McGrath.

It is with great pleasure that we welcome Adrian Bo and McGrath’s expertise and commitment to making the Waverley College Blue & Gold Ball a truly remarkable social event.

McGrath is set to make an announcement very soon that promises to make this year’s ball indeed the most spectacular fundraising event Waverley College is yet to host.

Sponsorship packages are still available. Please send your enquiry to Agi Lebek alebek@waverley.nsw.edu.au or call 9369 0656.

FROM THE ACTING DIRECTOR OF THE JUNIOR SCHOOL, GREG HARRIS

Prayer of the Week – For our Community

This term we have come to learn of the sufferings and illnesses of both our staff and students.  May we offer the thoughts and prayers to both the families and friends of all those in need.

Jesus, you’re with us.

Although you are not seen, we know that you are by our side.

Jesus, you love us,

More than we could know,

And we know that you feel each tear that we cry.

Jesus, we trust you,

To take hold of our hands,

Until we are recovered and well.

Jesus, you promised,

To comfort and care for us,

Until we are playing and laughing again.

Thank you, Jesus

Amen

(nursebuff.com)

 

St Mary of the Cross: Pray for Us

Blessed Edmund Rice: Pray for Us

Live Jesus in our Hearts: Forever

 

Student Illness – Hugo Kulcsar (6 Gold)

It is with great sadness that I inform you of the devastating news that one of our students, Hugo Kulcsar, has been diagnosed with Leukaemia last week – Wednesday of Week 6.

Staff have already visited Hugo and his family in hospital and have spoken with Hugo’s parents, Frank and Denai. They are happy for this information to be shared. Hugo has already had his bone marrow biopsy and some other procedures to prepare him for his Chemotherapy, which began this week. Hugo’s treatment will begin now and it will be intense. He will be mostly in and out of the hospital, for most of the next 6 months in the hope of getting all this under control. He will have time when he can join us at school for a few hours on different days and we will really look forward to having him back.

The family are in good spirits but understandably upset. Denai (mum) lost her father to Leukaemia, so they are shocked that they are going through it all again, despite it being a different type of Leukaemia.

We know this news will be very difficult for the boys at school to cope with and as a school community, we will all be very sensitive to their reactions and feelings. Support will be offered with our counsellors, Mr Fleming and Mrs Schmitz, to reassure the boys that Hugo is being very well looked after. We are all shocked by this terrible news.

We will look after all the boys at school as they cope with their dear friend’s illness. As a class 6 Gold are already planning ways to show their love and care for Hugo. We have been in touch with one of the Oncology Nurses, in Donna Drew, who will speak with the staff this week and we will work out a time she can also talk with the boys next week. Donna is Lachlan Drew-Morris’ mum (Former College Captain) and one of the Oncology Nurse Consultants at Sydney Children’s Hospital. She has been a wonderful support to the College for many years.

She met with us today to layout Hugo’s treatment and what we can do to help over this time. She made it very clear to us that Hugo is in the best of care; that a lot can be done to help him and they are having very good success rates with this cancer. Still we must all be aware that the treatment is intense for Hugo and all involved. 

We are already receiving many sincere messages of support for Hugo and his family. Your kindness and your generosity in offering to help is greatly appreciated. Close friends of the Kulcsar Family are setting up a website to plan meals to show their support. This will be finalised soon and we will send you the link when it is ready. 

I ask you all to keep Hugo and the family in your thoughts and prayers at this time.

If you feel you would like to discuss this further with your son here is a great link to a 35-minute Podcast from the Cancer Council on how to talk to children about cancer. You may find it beneficial.

Rugby Representative Weekend – State Championships

Many of our rugby boys were off representing their local districts at the various state carnivals being held across NSW over the long weekend.

The U12s, including quite a number of our Waverley boys, ended up out at Camden and this is the team that Hugo Kulcsar is in. If not for his stay in hospital, Hugo would have been out with his mates playing too.

Mary Ryan (James Nestor’s mum) kindly shared some details of the weekend.

“The boys thought of Hugo all the time. The boys played out of their skins but they certainly did miss Hugo’s fiery passion against some of the bigger sides, like Paramatta and Penrith.”

Stiles Science Program – Initiatives in Curriculum at Waterford – Ms Bransby and Ms Stephens – Tuesday 5th June

Last week we had a visit from a company promoting a new Science Program that has been purpose built to fit the Australian and NSW Curriculum. This program is already being trialled in some classes.

Stile was founded in 2012 by entrepreneur, educator, and scientist Dr Alan Finkel (currently serving as Australia’s Chief Scientist) out of a desire to inspire kids and spark a lifelong interest in science and the world around them. Since then, a passionate group of teachers, scientists and engineers have come together around this mission, building compelling, professionally curated science content, and cutting-edge lesson delivery technology that makes teaching easier and more effective.

Today, they partner with leading science organisations and schools in their continuing mission to enliven science, support teachers, and rethink our approach to STEM education as a whole. If you want to know more here is the website about this interactive and hands on science program.

We thank Gaby Bransby and Charlotte Stephens for yet another great initiative being introduced into the Junior School.

Edmund Rice Theme Day – Thank you Mr Ghattas – Thursday 7th June

On Thursday 7th June the boys at Waterford participated in our Annual Edmund Rice Day.  Boys arrived full of energy dressed in an array of mufti clothes and began the morning in their own classrooms, completing activities that were based on the life on Edmund Rice.

5 Gold then led us in a beautiful Prayer Service that highlighted some of the important events of Blessed Edmund Rice’s life. After recess, the boys watched a movie that delivered a powerful message about the importance of treating one another with the respect that they deserve, despite any differences that we have.

The day was capped off with fund-raising activities at lunchtime, basketball, rugby and AFL games where the boys were encouraged to play for prizes.  There was plenty of excitement on the playground and all boys participated with great enthusiasm.

All in all, the boys had a great day and managed to raise $830 for The Smith Family.  The Smith Family will use this money to assist families in our local communities to ensure that their children have access to quality education and resources.  I know that the Smith Family are very grateful of the boys’ generosity.

The Cyberbully Incursion – Year 5 – Tuesday 12th June

As part of the Y5 Computer Studies Program the boys got to experience a drama production on Tuesday afternoon called the ‘Cyberbully’. Not a bad time to discuss with your son what he learned and how they can better control their use of technology at home in a positive way.

The play tells the story of Zoe and her cousin Edward who have a lot of time on their hands. They are always online. One day Zoe discovers she can torment the girls she doesn’t like in her class using her favourite social networking sites and her mobile phone. She and Edward let loose thinking its harmless fun. Neither realises the impact of their actions. Things get a little crazy and Zoe starts suffering textiety, post traumatic texting disorder not to mention post text depression. Eventually Edward and Zoe face the consequences of their actions.

The Cyber Bully is an entertaining play that explores the serious issue of cyber bullying among young people. The play looks at the misuse of texting, social networking sites and unauthorized use of pictures and footage. There will be a de-brief session offered after the performance where the actors will address important issues that are raised during the play and occur due to cyber bullying.

Men’s Health Week – Thursday 14th June

The theme of this week’s Men’s Health Week is Men and Family: Making Healthy Connections. Sharing a common interest and spending time together with friends and family is a huge protective factor in terms of Mental and Emotional Health and Wellbeing. With men in general, and Australian men more specifically, sport often provides a common interest and a shared experience from which our Wellbeing can grow and flourish. 

In the Junior School we took this theme and looked at some of the things that we thought would help our boys grow in their families and in the school family. Mrs Schmitz took on the Men’s Health Week Assembly on Thursday and challenged boys to be true to themselves. Our weekly Wellbeing Sessions challenged the boys to be true to themselves even when they make mistakes and that the mistakes we make in life are the times when we learn the most about ourselves. Our mistakes are opportunities to grow in resilience.

Some groups also prepared themselves breakfast to celebrate healthy eating and celebrate their House Family. Either way the boys finished the week with many positive messages to celebrate Men’s Health Week.

Confirmation – St Mary’s Cathedral Sunday 17th June

The final Confirmation Lesson for the term is this Friday (Week 7) in the 5 Blue Classroom from 7:30am to 8:15am with Mr Ghattas. Once this is done all the boys in the local parish will be ready to make their Confirmation and become full and active members of their church. We wish all boys well in their preparation and congratulate them on taking this big step forward with their faith. Enjoy the ceremony at St Mary’s Cathedral. Take it in and make your commitment sound and true.

Much thanks to Mr Gill and Mr Ghattas who have worked together to bring the boys to this point of their preparation and giving up so much of their time to attend meetings, classes and masses all in their own time.

Cantores – City of Sydney Eisteddfod for Schools – Next Week – Monday 18th June

Next Monday Mrs Rollins and Mr Ryan will be accompanying the boys in the Cantores as they head to The Concourse Concert Hall – 409 Victoria Ave, Chatswood, NSW 2067, Australia to attend the 2018 City of Sydney Eisteddfod. This is our first time back at this event after many years of absence due to it clashing with other school events. It is great to have this back on the Music Calendar of the school and a great opportunity for our boys to perform in public.

Parents are invited to join us and tickets can be purchased at the door or online if you choose. 

The boys will be singing a selection of at least two items, which may include sacred & gospel. The total performance time for each group is up to 10 minutes, which includes time taken between items. The boys will be competing for a Winner Prize of: $500 – 2nd Prize: Shield and a 3rd prize: Shield

Wakakirri 2018 – Term Three – Coming Soon Tuesday 7th August

Mrs. Rollins is in full swing with preparing for the 2018 Wakakirri performance at NIDA – 215 Anzac Parade Kensington NSW 2033 on 7th August 2018 (Performance 1). Mrs. Rollins and three Junior School staff members will be with the boys all day as well as during the performance. The performance starts at 7.15pm sharp. Until the evening we are not advised of the performance order. That means we could be performing first, last or anywhere in between – so please be punctual.

Other Information:

Tickets: A limited number of tickets will be sold through the school. These will be sold on a first come, first served basis. These tickets are available through the Waverley College website at a cost of $37.50 each (this is a flat rate – no concession price is available).

Tickets will be on sale from 9.00am Friday 15/6/2018 until 3.00pm Tuesday 19/6/2018.

If tickets sell out before Tuesday 19/6/2018, you will be able to place your order on a waiting list. Please be aware that all orders placed on the waiting list will need to be paid for in full if extra tickets are released to the school.

Sumdog Competition Victories

Congratulations to all the Maths Groups who have involved themselves in the Sumdog Competitions in Mathematics this year. We have had a number of contest wins in a number of classes and our school has picked up some great prizes. We won 4 x 3-month prize subscriptions and 2 x 6-month subscriptions to the value of $390

As we already have Sumdog subscriptions across the school, the company has allowed us to redeem the prize as a discount of $390 against our 2019 renewal costs. Great work boys. Your efforts have given your parents a small discount per boy off your Sumdog subscription for the New Year.

Term One Interim and Mid-Year Reports

Apologies for the time it has taken, but technical difficulties with the Term One Interim Report have taken a lot of time to rectify. We are nearly there and hope to have these reissued to you through the Parent Portal very shortly.

In the meantime, I ask that you understand we are moving into a very busy time for staff with late nights and busy weekends trying to finalise the Semester One Mid-Year Reports. Staff are working particularly hard as they try to ensure boys have lessons prepared; work corrected; sports teams coached and reports marks checked and verified and comments written. I ask you to be patient with your demands of staff at this time.

CBCA Eastern Suburbs Sub-Branch – Wed 20th June

This flyer is from Mrs Tunks, who is on this committee, for the launch night for the Children’s Book Council of Australia Eastern Suburbs Sub-Branch. There will be Children’s authors speaking so it may be of interest for some parents. This night is for adults (it isn’t a Children’s event)

PSSA Hockey State Championships – Campbell Scally (6 Blue)

This week Campbell Scally was given permission from the school to represent the NSW CIS at the PSSA State Hockey Championships. We don’t get a lot of requests for hockey through the junior school, so it is a great honour to give such an opportunity. The CIS team played 6 round games where they won 4, drew 1 and lost 1. That loss will be a big talking point in the Scally household, as Campbell’s younger twin brothers earned bragging rights over their big brother, as they were in that team representing one of the catholic divisions of Mackillop. Despite that loss the NSW CIS had done enough to make it through to the Semi-Finals securing a 2-1 win. The team then played in a very tight and nail biting final. They were down 2-1 with 30 secs to go but with some great team play they managed to equalise for a final score of 2-2. Both teams were declared joint winners. Campbell had the privilege of scoring the first goal for the CIS. This is the second year that Campbell has been permitted to play for NSW CIS in this competition and twice the squad has finished first.

PSSA Cross Country State Championships – Jack Johnson (5 Green)

We wish Jack Johnson well at the NSW CIS Cross Country Championships being held this week. Many tried, but only Jack was successful in making it to the State level. Run like the wind young man.

Team App for Winter Sport

Sport at Waverley College is an exciting activity that involves every student at all different levels.  We are now up to our sixth game of our Saturday Winter Sports Program and the excitement and energy is clearly visible.

Waverley College’s Co-Curricular Directorate is using a free app again this winter for all football and rugby teams and their supporters. ‘Team App’ is a platform that will allow our football community to improve communication by integrating everything one needs to know about football at Waverley College including:
• News
• Fixtures
• Competition Ladders
• Selection News
• Player Profiles
• Live Scores
• Photos
So, if you would like to access this information on your device or smart phone simply download this free App. Team App is available on both Apple and Android devices. Once you have done this search for Waverley College Football or Rugby. The College will then authenticate you giving access.

Homework Club at the Junior School

A reminder that Homework Club is held in the Junior School library each Monday-Thursday from 3.00pm-4.30pm. It is the expectation that boys using this service are working or reading.

Armidale Rugby Tour 2019 – Expressions of Interest

All Year 5 boys had a Google Doc shared with them this week to list down their interest in the 2019 Armidale Rugby Tour. We are looking for 40 players to fill the positions listed. We will choose from both current YEAR 5 U10 & U11 Rugby Squads for the U12 Tournament in Armidale in 2019. U10 boys will need parent permission to play in an U12 Tournament. A detailed permission note will be coming home shortly. To be up for selection you must:

Selection is being carried out NOW by ALL COACHES as you play your 2018 season on both Saturday School Games and Wednesday Colour Competition. We select only 40 players so there is no guarantee that by having your name on the list you will make the squad.

We do this now as to leave the selection to 2019 would not allow interested parents to organise accommodation as this weekend is always University Graduation and Rugby Tournament in Armidale in the one weekend.

If there are any boys CURRENTLY playing rugby outside of school who would be interested we will let you have a trial at Colour Comp Rugby in WEEK 8 and 9. Please come prepared with boots and mouthguards. If selected then you would be expected to play rugby in 2019. Squad announcements will not take place until the end of the 2018 season.

Waverley Sport on Facebook

Please remember the details to get pictures on the Waverley Sport Facebook Page and Waverley Sport Messenger.

You can contact Lindsay through the Facebook Page; Facebook Messenger or at his website: lindsayjordan1122@hotmail.com :This email is best to use if you have many photos to share with him – Please let him know via Messenger if you have emailed him as he only uses this address for photos. If you have just small numbers of photos then attach them directly to Messenger Service with a message.

It would help if as many parents as can LIKE the page as Lindsay wants to put a lot more focus on the Junior School teams this year. He will also add any reports we send about games.

Thought for the Week

I’ve missed more than 9000 shots in my career. I’ve lost almost 300 games. 26 times, I’ve been trusted to take the game winning shot and missed. I’ve failed over and over and over again in my life. And that is why I succeed – Michael Jordan

From Director of Student Wellbeing, Matthew Porter

Chances are if your son is anywhere between 10 and 20 you already know about “Fortnite – Battle Royale”  and some of the potential pitfalls of online gaming. For those who haven’t come across it yet, the mid-year exam period may be an opportune time to ask “is my son really studying quietly in his room or is he really shooting at his mates?”

The technological landscape is very much the norm for how the youth of today interact, socialise and entertain themselves and each other. In my previous Nurrunga article I shared some tips and strategies to ensure that technology and gaming could be enjoyed in moderation. The DSMV has recently identified “Internet Gaming Disorder” as a mental health condition, however, the degree to which these compulsions can be controlled and established habits modified is still subject to debate.

What is “Fortnite” and why does he love it?

Basically Fortnite is a live action, first-person, multiplayer shoot-em-up game. The concept is relatively simple, up to 100 players enter a game to either compete as an individual or a member of a squad of up to 4 players. The objectives include; shoot other people, don’t get shot yourself, build fortifications and hiding places to avoid detection or add protection. Similar to the “Hunger Games” films, as the match progresses the arena gets smaller and smaller which draws players together. There are bonus items, weapons and ammunition to collect along the way.  Once you are dead you are out, last man standing wins.

There are a lot of positives and potential benefits from game play as long as we keep things in perspective. Teamwork, cooperation, problem solving and strategy are all essential elements in order to be successful. The social side of things means that players can communicate either via the in-game text-window or game console headsets. Like it or not, this is likely to be a big part of your son’s social scene and a topic that he and his mates will love to talk about. Those boys who consistently make it to the final stages become sort of cult-heroes and demigods and have bragging rights until the next time. The game is free to download and can be played almost anywhere.

The graphics are mostly cartoonish and the violence isn’t particularly gory as in some other action games. The age recommendations seem to be either 12+ or 13+. Games can vary in length from a few minutes up to about 20 mins. Due to it’s live, interactive, real time player format there is no way to pause or save or go back. Once a game starts you are in it to the death, well the death of your character anyway.

So what can you do to avoid “Fortnite” becoming problematic in your home?

Situate your game systems in a public and open area of the house, try to avoid gaming in bedrooms or other areas unsupervised.

As the game is social and players can interact with one another there is no way to “quality control” the content of their conversation. Agree upon some rules and expectations for appropriate language and conduct.

When I asked my Year 8 class about the game, I posed a hypothetical scenario that I was a member of their crew but I was no good and led to the whole squad getting blown away. Would they ask me to join their crew next time? They all politely declined; so there is potential for exclusion or isolation if a particular person isn’t up to scratch.

The game is web-based which means that your son could potentially play with strangers or people that he doesn’t know. They would then be able to communicate via chat facilities.

In-game purchases and add-ons

Be careful which credit card is connected to your online accounts. There is always the temptation and allure of purchasing a costume for your character or a “skin” covering for your weapon. These small innocent purchases can add up quickly. Especially if you have more than one gamer at home.

As the action is live, there is no way to pause or save during a game. Instead of saying “you need to be off in 5 minutes or I’m disconnecting the modem”… Try saying ”this is your last game for tonight” and then sit with them and watch while they play.  Understand the game and why boys love it so much. Ask questions about the game, such as, what happened, how did you go, what do you like about it, etc. You may be surprised how much your son opens up and how much they appreciate you taking an interest.

Setting some boundaries and agreed upon checks and balances is the first step in avoiding problematic online behaviour. Try to aim for at least one game free day per week. No screens 30 mins before bed time, 30 mins before dinner and 30 mins after dinner, as a guide.

Establish acceptable practices that fit in with your family’s routines and your core values in the home.

Make sure that they have plenty of real life face to face social interactions with a variety of friendship groups away from the game.

Make sure that Fortnite or technology in general is not interfering with sleep, diet, study, exercise and other healthy lifestyle choices.

For more info on Fortnite specifically and problematic gaming in general, see below for some useful links.

A parents’ guide to popular online games from The Guardian

School TV: Internet Addiction

What to do if your child is addicted to online gaming

Family Zone: Is Fortnite okay for my child?

Psychology Today: Internet Gaming Disorder

Waverley College: Monitoring internet usage and online conduct

Parents’ Ultimate Guide to Fortnite

News.com: Everything you need to know about Fortnite

Office of the eSafety Commissioner: Staying Safe Online

From the Director of Student Wellbeing, Matthew Porter

The health status of males in Australia, is generally poorer than that of females.

More males die at every lifespan stage than females. More males have accidents, more males take their own lives and more males suffer from lifestyle-related health conditions than females at the same age. The sad news is that in most cases these conditions are manageable if not preventable.

Meanwhile, men are less likely to visit their general practitioners and are less likely to access specialised support services such as counselling.

This poster provides a nice visual representation of 10 simple steps that we can all take each day to address these alarming trends.

All of the students, staff and fathers who attended our Sunrise Pilates session on Thursday morning made a significant step in getting their day started on the right track. Long may it continue.

A huge thank you goes to Mark Mitchell and his team at Advanz Therapies for supporting this event. For more information on his physiotherapy, pilates and exercise services go to: advanztherapies.com.au

For any of our students or their families struggling with mental health help is always available. A range of support services is listed in the A-Z of Wellbeing in the student diary or contact the relevant Head of House.

From the College Registered Nurse, Adele Cutbush

The Public Health initiative for the Meningococcal ACWY Vaccination is fast approaching. The date of vaccination for the Year 10 & 11 students is Wednesday 27th June, 2018.

The Parent Information Kits for all Year 10 & 11 students have been handed out to the students. Unfortunately, the numbers of returned vaccination consent forms is very low this year. In comparison to previous years at Waverley College and schools in the same Public Health area, this is not an accurate reflection of how many parents would like their sons vaccinated against Meningococcal ACWY.

If your son has misplaced his vaccination consent form he will need to collect a new pack from the Health Centre. The vaccination consent form must be completed and returned to the Health Centre before this Friday, 15th June, 2018.

If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the Health Centre acutbush@waverley.nsw.edu.au