During the school holidays Stuart Swinburn, Year 11, competed at the Australian National Age Swimming Championships in Sydney. Based on his performance at the championships Stuart was selected to join two Junior Australian swimming teams.
Stuart is one of 15 boys and 15 girls who have qualified to represent Australia at the Championships. The Pan Pacs Championships is held every two years and is one of the premier international swimming competitions for both junior and open swimmers. The countries that compete at Pan Pacs are all countries associated with the Pacific Ocean including the strong swimming nations of the USA, Canada, Japan and Australia.
Stuart has also been selected in a small team of 8 swimmers (4 boys and 4 girls) to compete for Australia at Youth Olympics in Buenos Aires. The Youth Olympics are based on the same program as the Olympics with 28 sports held in the summer games. Stuart will be part of a larger Australian team who will enjoy the experience of living in a games village, mixing with athletes from different sports and different countries. He might even learn some Spanish.
There were five Waverley swimmers competing at the National Age Championships in Sydney this year, a significant achievement to qualify, these were:
The season started in fine fashion with the Waverley First XVIII (83) defeating St Joseph’s XVIII (48) on Saturday May 5th. Waverley started well in the first quarter with a quick flurry of goals. Unfortunately, a few Waverley errors saw St Joseph’s finish the quarter strongly and the game was evenly poised going into the second quarter. Baxter Oleksyn and Steve Morrissey got Waverley off to a great start with 3 goals between them in the opening minutes. However, obvious early season skill errors and a series of free kicks to St Joseph’s kept them within reach with the score 42-30 at half time. The third quarter was a real arm-wrestle with spirited efforts from Xavier Slezak, Toby Renshaw, Ashley Backlund and Darcy Mullins. This combined with clean skills and many defensive efforts to give Waverley the edge going into the final quarter. St Joseph’s played very well all day although a strong last quarter from Waverley lead by Thomas Tysons, Harry Whitaker and Max D’Agostino’s 4 goal performance gave Waverley their first win of the season by 35 points.
Waverley 12-11-83 defeated St Joseph’s 7-6-48
Goals:
Max D’Agostina – 4,
Darcy Mullins, Baxter Oleksyn – 2
Toby Renshaw, Will Davison, Tommy Tyson, Steve Morrissey – 1
After a much anticipated first clash of the season, Waverley 9/10’s (136) defeated Riverview 9/10’s (21) on Saturday May 5th. Waverley came out of the sheds with a bang, converting almost every chance they had at goals. Waverley kept Riverview scoreless for the first quarter and cleared the ball on every opportunity possible, this was due to the ability for Waverley’s mid’s to stream back and assist the back men. Waverley once again came out hard in the second quarter with the midfield taking control of the game and handing it off for the forwards to convert opportunities. Waverley made good use of their wing players to run the ball, the quarter was filled with more goals from Waverley and by the end of the first half Reid McNamara had bagged a handful of goals, once again Waverley kept Riverview scoreless. During the third quarter Riverview began to fight back and provided an arm-wrestle for the premiership quarter, scoring 20 of their 21 points during this quarter. Meanwhile Waverley’s scoring was quickly reduced and we were restricted to only 3 goals and a few behinds. Just as Waverley came out of the sheds with a bang, they also went into the sheds with a bang and drove Riverview into the ground, making good use of skills through the midfield and used a few long bombs and runs to energise the team. Zac Murphy and Bodhi Reiners finished the game with a few snags each and showed the competition that Waverley is a team to be feared. Waverley showed they have potential from the start of this season and they must capitalise on what they have done well and tweak a few parts of their game in order to have a shot at the premiership.
Notable performances were, Bodhi Reiners, Xavier Ruppert, Zac Murphy, Reid McNamara, Ollie Rinder, Jack Harris and Will Mazor.
7/8A’s Waverley V St Aloysius
Round one of the year brought us out to ELS Hall oval in North Ryde. A good pre-season training had the boys eager and determined to start the round right. The way they played made them look like a team that had been together for years, but this was the first time most of them had played together which was very impressive. St Aloysius had packed a respectful, tough side to take on Waverley playing a very similar brand of footy the Waverley boys like to play. The first quarter was tightly contested and very tight for most the duration, but a few handy goals gave us a lead that would only grow. As the game progressed the heat of the contest lowered, and the boys really started to take control and play the way they like to play, fast and skilled football. By 3-quarter time there was talk of mercy rule being put in place but St Aloysius never seemed to go completely away. The game eventually closed out giving Waverley a convincing win to start the regular season. All the boys had put in respectful efforts. The structured and clever backline often had to play with one man down as St Aloysius brought their wingers into the forward line, this was no problem for the boys as in attack they would shift up the field and help the rest of the team and when the ball turned over they would quickly transition into defence. The midfield was tough, they tackle hard, put their head over the ball and run all day. The forward line also had a good day in the office, with minimal behinds and the ball being used for scoring in the best possible positions, they played for the team not themselves.
Waverley 79 defeated St Aloysius 10
Best Players: Luke Higgins, Louis Kitto, Angus Anthony, Max Murphy, Sam Stewart
This week the 7/8B’s Waverley boys came up against a strong Cranbrook team in their first game for the season. The game started off evenly with both teams trading goals and behinds throughout the first two quarters however, Cranbrook was beginning to gain control as the half came to a close. With some key performances from the midfield group, the Waverley boys were able to storm out of the gates into the second half and quickly gain back the lead. Waverley ended up continuing these efforts throughout the rest of the game and as a result started the season off with a comfortable win. All up it was an excellent effort from all players on the field and we hope to see the same in the next game when the boys come up against Shore on Saturday.
Waverley 45 Defeated Cranbrook 33
Best Players: Jude Duckman, Jay Palm, Tobias Malzard, Charley Roberts, Charles Hudson
This week saw our annual AFL umpire course start for the third consecutive year. It’s a great course with all participants being registered and having their AFL umpire qualifications at the conclusion of the course. The boys learn and experience plenty of ‘on field training’ while also respecting the Umpires final decision. The boys are also able to earn money for umpiring actual games which is all organised and run by AFLNSW.
If there are any students interested in completing this free course, which runs each Wednesday morning from 7am at the Queens Park Pavilion, please feel free to email your interest to Mr Riordan, the College’s AFL coordinator via email ariordan@waverley.nsw.edu.au.
As textbook prices continue to rise, many university students are having to choose between buying textbooks and covering their daily living expenses. With the average cost of a textbook at Australian universities exceeding $100, and many courses requiring multiple textbooks, the Capstone Editing Textbook Grant can seriously reduce the financial burden associated with the start of semester. The $3,000 Capstone Editing Textbook Grant for Undergraduates is provided in the form of one $1,000 gift voucher per year for three years in the form of gift vouchers to the Co-op bookshop (or another bookshop chosen by the recipient).
It is aimed at first-year university students and is awarded on 1 February every year. Applications are open all year, thus most students apply in Year 12 so they can access the first $1,000 instalment for the first year of their tertiary studies. Applications can be made online here
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.
Join us on campus for a fun and informative evening. You will hear from a range of speakers including University staff and students.
Camperdown/Darlington Campus – University of Sydney Thursday 17 May 2018, 6 – 8pm
June 5 | John Niland Scientia Building, UNSW Kensington
The Scholarships Information Evening provides depth and detail on the range of scholarships at UNSW and the application process.
The evening is aimed at Year 11 and 12 students and their parents.
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.
May 29 | Sydney Nanoscience Hub
Join us for the Faculty of Engineering and Information Technologies’ Year 11 and 12 Information Evening to find out everything you need to know about studying engineering, computing, technology or project management at Sydney University.
Sutherland Tuesday, 15 May
Kogarah Tuesday, 26 June
Find out more
Tuesday, 15 May 8:30am to 3:30pm
UNSW Engineering’s High School Information Day is designed to give year 11 & 12 students the opportunity to sample several fields of engineering through interesting and stimulating hands-on activities over a day at UNSW Kensington Campus.
Thursday 14 June 5:00 pm – 8:30 pm
Hear from industry professionals about future tech careers and the skills you need to get there. Follow with key course information for engineering and IT and UTS.
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.
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
Tuesday 22 May, 6pm
160 Oxford St, Darlinghurst
Get to know what it’s really like at Notre Dame’s Getting to Know Nursing event.
Attendees will have the opportunity to meet academic staff and hear from our guest speaker who will provide information on a current innovative nursing topic.
Places are limited. Please register here or contact us on 02 8204 4404 or sydney@nd.edu.au for further information.
Tuesday 19 June 2018
Discover why studying at UTS will give you an edge! This event is open to Year 11 and 12 students, and their parents. Careers advisers and teachers are also welcome to attend. Registrations will open here in February.
Saturday 16 June
Applications for 2019 Bachelor & Diploma Courses are open from 2 July to 30 September.
Sydney 30 May
During the Hotel School Info Evening event prospective students have the unique opportunity to experience ‘The Hotel School Advantage’, meet academics and other key support staff and find out about studying at The Hotel School.
Saturday May 26
Are you serious about studying overseas? Don’t miss this opportunity to meet students from around Australia who have recently gained admission to Harvard, Stanford, Yale, Oxford, Columbia and more! Hear how they planned their journey, how they picked the universities to apply to and their tips for acing the academics, essays and interviews.
Use this link to get 50% off your ticket exclusive to MHS subscribers:
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.
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
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.
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.
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.
Applications for the Business Cadetships Program opened on 5 March and close on Wednesday 16 May. The 2018 Program provides Year 12 students with the opportunity to apply for a cadetship at UBS, a top-ranking global bank.
Applications for the 2018 Engineering & Technology Cadetships (ETCAD) Program open on Monday 30 April. Under this Program, Engineering Cadets are placed at Cubic Transportation Systems and Technology Cadets are placed at Macquarie Group.
For details of these programs and for the Business Cadetships online application form, go to www.professionalcadets.com.au
Previously known as “Meet the Business Leader”. Year 12 students are invited to attend to meet with and hear from business leaders in Industry. Students will also learn about work experience and scholarship opportunities. Registrations will open in the coming weeks.
It’s a unique opportunity for your students to try out a career in Navy, Army or Air Force and get a feel for a military life without committing for a longer period.
In 2019 there are 14 roles to choose from ranging from admin to artillery and even flight crew, plus this year we’re offering 30 Army Officer roles – places are limited.
Army Infantry Soldier – Closes 14 May 2018
Army Driver – Closes 21 May 2018
Army Administration Assistant – Closes 21 May 2018
Army Warehouse Assistant – Closes 21 May 2018
Army Air Defence Operator – Closes 21 May 2018
Air Force Warehouse Storeperson – Closes 28 May 2018
Air Force Aviation Support Technician – Closes 28 May 2018
Air Force Airbase Protection and Security – Closes 4 June 2018
Air Force Administration Assistant – Closes 4 June 2018
Closing dates are driven by demand and may close sooner than listed.
May 15 Parramatta: Comms, It & Intelligence Roles Info Session
May 16 Parramatta: Gap Year Information Session
May 17 Parramatta: Trade Careers Information Session
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
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 .
May 23 – Sydney
AIT’s Info night is perfect for those wanting to explore the endless opportunities available in the growing creative industry.
Find out more
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.
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.
This workshop provides students with an introduction to desktop Special Effects compositing and motion graphics using Adobe After Effects.
These workshops will run every Thursday for five weeks beginning on May 3rd 2018 in Ultimo.
Upcoming course dates for RePL training in Sydney:
21 May (Monday) – 25 May (Friday)
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
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.
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.
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.
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
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.
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!
2-4 June ICC Darling Harbour
Skills Show Australia 2018 provides visitors with an opportunity to discover future careers through interactive events, demonstrations and competitions. It aims to equip young Australians with the knowledge to make an informed choice about their future career options. The Skills Show also provides them with a unique chance to network with the hundreds of industry and educational experts.
There are robotics competitions, and Try’aSkill events, plus much more.
Register to attend (it’s free)
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
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
Get your copy of the Career Guide by downloading it here
Sunday 17 June 2018 | 10am to 2pm | UNSW Sydney
Examinations are a great source of stress for students, but it doesn’t need to be this way. With the right advice and a solid study plan, you can reduce stress levels, cut down on study time and significantly improve examination marks!
Valued at over $150, this lecture is FREE when you make a $10 donation to The Fred Hollows Foundation on the day.
Book now
Start the new school year off right with these great tips for staying focused while studying.
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.
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
Top Tips from Past Year 12 Students
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.
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
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.
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.
Worried about robots stealing your job? Find out the chances of your chosen field becoming automated in the future.
https://www.mskills.org.au/media-centre/news#NewsHint=14168
https://upto.com/embedded/detail/5HQ1O?pt=a1SO
https://www.skillsroad.com.au/parents/career-planning/stemsubjects
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.
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.
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.
Welcome back for the new term. We finished Term One with a significant event (ANZAC Ceremony) and we start this term with another (May Procession this Sunday). Our Anzac Ceremony was beautifully constructed, rich in symbolism and emotionally moving. This service is always well supported by the presence of many Parents and Old Boys because of the extensive and proud history of Waverley College men serving their country.
ANZAC Ceremony 2018
This Sunday at noon is one of the few times in a year our entire College comes together, stops and prays as a community with a devotion to Our Lady and our founder, Edmund Rice. The College celebrates our 108th May Procession this year. Please take the opportunity to congratulate past Head of College, Br Paul Oakley, on his 50 years of service as a Christian Brother. The Parent Association are seeking donations of cakes, slices, muffins or other baked goods and also volunteers to help set up and serve the afternoon tea that is traditionally held at the conclusion of the Procession. If you are able to assist or donate please email passociation@waverley.nsw.edu.au or contact Ms Linda McGuiggan on 0411 316 954. The Old Boys AGM also follows the procession in the PAC.
Students were reminded on assembly that this term is short and very busy, which requires them to be well organised from day one. To mention just a few of the events scheduled for this term: Year 12 have already started their half yearly examination block; Years 7-10 start half yearly examinations in five weeks; Years 8 and 10 will have important subject selection evenings; NAPLAN tests will occur in two weeks for Years 5,7 and 9; Year 10 Allwell testing; ICAS Science Competition; da Vinci Decathlon; Music Showcase evening; and drama production ‘Stories in the Dark’ by Debra Oswald. Tickets for the drama production are now available via the events page on the website, or by clicking this link; Book Tickets for Stories in the Dark
I would like to thank all of the teachers who assisted our Year 12 students to prepare for their examinations. There were many lectures, tutorials, practice examinations and classrooms opened up over the break to assist the boys prepare to the best of their ability.
Congratulations also to the coaches, parents and students who attended the various football (St Andrew’s Cup), rugby (Narrabeen and Armidale) and cadet camps, competitions and courses conducted over the holidays.
At our first assembly for the term, I spoke to the students about the research of Professor John Hattie on improving academic outcomes. His research showed the following four factors have the most influence on academic outcomes:
With this short term, the above four areas would be a great place for your son to focus in order to improve his academic outcomes.
Our Sustainability Committee under the leadership of Ms Patricia Alborough is starting to gain some momentum. Clearly marked recycling and waste bins have been installed across the campus. More water distribution points have been installed and students have this term only to transition away from plastic water bottles as we aim to be a zero plastic water bottle school from second semester. The College already has significant solar panels on the Kenny Building and the Performing Arts Centre now also has solar panels installed. We have also implemented vegetable gardens and compost worms in our TAS Faculty and in the Junior School as part of the new Agriculture curriculum.
On the Senior Campus a permanent BBQ facility has been built near the fig trees. It will particularly service tennis and basketball events, along with House and College functions.
More handball courts have been installed in Centenary Quadrangle and more seating in the Junior School.
The senior campus perimeter has been strengthened with the installation of fencing. This will allow the College to lockdown the campus throughout most of the day and evening. Gates will be open at key times, otherwise please note that access will only be available via our main entry points – Carrington Road and Birrell Street reception.
We have initiated a new auto attendant answering service for the Senior School Campus to assist in directing calls more efficiently. When a caller dials 02 9369 0600 they will be given six options to direct their call. The options are as follows:
Traditionally the College has had official Supporter Duty scheduled to attend only football and rugby programs. This has been now been opened up to all sports. For the first time this weekend, our Year 7 students have the option of supporting their preferred team across AFL, Volleyball, Tennis, Football, Rugby or Debating.
Well done to all of the following students.
Luke Harris was the recipient of a University of Sydney Year 10 Academic Excellence Award on Tuesday 10 April.
Professor Pip Pattison Deputy Vice Chancellor (Education) presents to Luke Harris
Mac Jenkins captained the U16 Australian Team against Pakistan over the holidays. After six games, the series ended in a tie. On top of Old Boy Jason Sangha (Class of 2017) captaining the Australian U17 and U19 teams last year, this is a great achievement for both boys, their coaches and the College. Two national captains within a year from the one school is a great achievement.
Mac Jenkins
Noah Harvard competed at the recent Australian Surf Life Saving Championships held at Scarborough Beach, WA. Noah won five Gold Medals from five events:
Dylan Quirk’s 2017 HSC Art Express work is now hanging in the reception foyer. It has recently been featured in the NSW Art Gallery for the HSC showcase, ArtExpress. His work is creative, reflective and quite unique. We intend to display more student artwork across the campus.
First Waverley Recipients in over a decade….
During the holidays, Warrant Officer Fletcher Duff and Warrant Officer Tim Waring from Year 11 attended a nine day Australian Army course along with more than one hundred cadets from all over Australia. Both students were successful in passing all of the requirements and achieving an Adventure Training Award. These are the first Waverley recipients for over a decade to achieve the award, which was presented by the Governor-General (and Waverley College Old Boy), Sir Peter Cosgrove.
Ned Weiland, Will Davison, Nicholas Quinn recently competed at the Aussie Surf Life Saving titles in Western Australia.
Luca Holmes and Stan Wilson, Year 7, recently travelled to Spain to represent Sydney FC at the Mediterranean International Cup.
Congratulations to Old Boys Ben O’Donnell Rugby 7’s and Tom Fuller U20’s rugby for representing Australia.
Congratulations to the following students on their appointment as Winter Co-curricular Captains:
Just a reminder that all students are expected to attend the May Procession this Sunday. Students are required to be in full winter uniform (blazer and tie) and to have their names marked off by their Wellbeing Mentor by 11.30am.
This is a compulsory event for all students and is an important part of our devotion to Mary and our formation as a Catholic school.
All members of the College community are welcome to attend this event.
On Monday this week, Maurizio Vespa, an expert in restorative justice spent time with staff to further boost their skills when dealing with our students. Maurizio is passionate about the benefits that restorative practices can deliver to improving the quality of human relationships
Conflict and mistakes are inevitable in all relationships and working environments, including schools, however we need to explore positive ways of resolving them.
Restorative Justice is an alternative approach to manage negative behaviour without using punishment or retribution as the motivation. Restorative philosophy provides a framework, which helps to guide our actions and responses to situations where there has been a poor decision made by one of our students.
Restorative Practice utilises intervention strategies that enhance learning, repair relationships and build wellbeing and resilience:
A restorative approach is about healing relationships and replacing inappropriate actions and choices with socially acceptable options. A restorative interaction does not set out to judge, blame or prove guilt.
Boys will always make mistakes but the restorative process allows them to reflect on their behaviour and the impact it has had on those around them. It teaches them to accept a consequence and, importantly, formulate a strategy for behaving in a more appropriate manner next time.
College staff will be involved in further training programs on these techniques in the future.
As part of our commitment to sustainability, the College is phasing out plastic water bottles. Although water will still be sold during Term 2, the canteen will also stock and sell reusable water bottles. Boys are encouraged to transition to reusable bottles during this time, either bringing their own to school or purchasing one from the canteen.
The College has installed a number of water filling stations to meet the extra demand come Term 3 when no water bottles will be sold on campus.
At our assembly on Tuesday, I spoke to the boys about this initiative which includes the introduction of new recycling bins across the campus. To support this, the College requests that when making recess and lunch for your son(s), you please keep the disposable packaging to a minimum. We all know that this is a tough endeavour in a world that has become so addicted to plastic packaging, but anything that you can do to reduce the amount of single use plastic in your son’s recess and lunch will be significant in supporting our goal of caring for our environment.
A reminder that students will be required to wear the College blazer and tie to and from the College during Terms 2 and 3. As was the case last year, students failing to do this will be placed on a Saturday detention.
The College has high expectations of our students whilst in public, particularly when travelling to and from school on public transport. The positive message we give to the public though our uniform and grooming is another extension of the ongoing cultural change we are seeing at the College.
The 2018 HSC Timetable has been published.
To view the 2018 HSC written examination timetable download a PDF version (222 KB).
See what exam equipment you can and can’t take into the exam room, including approved calculators, and other exam advice and resources.
Students can also view their personalised timetables via Students Online
NAPLAN starts on Tuesday 15 May. Over a million Year 3, 5, 7 and 9 students across the country will participate in the annual literacy and numeracy assessments.
NAPLAN is a point-in-time assessment to help parents see how their child, compared with the rest of Australia’s children, is progressing in the fundamental skills of literacy and numeracy. The information NAPLAN provides supports conversations between parents, teachers and schools, working together to help children achieve their full potential.
In 2018, Waverley’s Year 5, 7 and 9 students will sit NAPLAN online. The goal of the Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) is to have all students undertake NAPLAN online by 2020.
Watch a video that explains the substantial benefits NAPLAN Online provides for students and teachers including more precise information and a more engaging experience.
Check out the public demonstration site to become familiar with the types of questions and related functionalities available in the NAPLAN Online assessment.
Watch a video that explains tailored testing, where the test automatically adapts to student performance and asks questions that match the student achievement level, allowing the student to demonstrate their knowledge.
| 2018 | Prompt payment date | Due date |
| 2nd Payment | 04/05/2018 | 11/05/2018 |
| 3rd Payment | 20/07/2018 | 03/08/2018 |
Fees paid before 4.00 pm on the prompt payment date attract a $25.00 discount.
Any payment received after the due date will attract a penalty fee of $110.00.
Please be advised that some financial institutions need more than 48 hours to process their payments (e.g. internet/BPay).
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 dates for 2018 are below:
| Finishing at end of | Notice by |
| Term 2, 2018 | Tue 1 May 2018 |
| Term 3, 2018 | Tue 24 Jul 2018 |
| Term 4, 2018 | Mon 15 Oct 2018 |
In 2017 with the support of Channel Nine and the NRL Footy Show, Matt Callander the late father of Year 5 student Digger Callander, helped to raise over $2.3 million through the Beanie for Brain Cancer week.
The Mark Hughes Foundation (MHF) was formed in 2014 by former Rugby League footballer Mark Hughes following his diagnosis with high-grade brain cancer, to raise much needed awareness and funds to promote research into this terrible disease and provide patient support. Brain cancer is the biggest cancer killer of children under 10, and adults under 40. It is also the most underfunded. In conjunction with Channel Nine and the Mark Hughes Foundation, Round 12 of the NRL season has been identified as the Beanie for Brain Cancer Round. All funds raised are going directly towards brain cancer research and to support the victims of this terrible condition and their families.
To launch the NRL Beanie for Brain Cancer Round on Thursday 24 May, Channel Nine’s Today Show sports segment with Tim Gilbert will be broadcasting live from 5:30am on Bondi Beach, Sydney. During the course of the morning Waverley College students and their families are invited to take part in a World Record attempt to have the largest gathering of people wearing beanies.
We are asking for your participation in this momentous event. It’s easy, just send your student in full winter school uniform and an accompanying family member (in their Beanie of choice or purchase a MHF Beanie online or at the location) to Bondi Beach from 5.30am to be counted in the record, which will be finally tallied at 8.00am. To find out more about Beanie Day, make a donation of purchase a beanie online please go to https://beanie.markhughesfoundation.com.au/about/about-beanie-day/
Year 10 parent, Rachel King, founder of Translational Neuroscience, has kindly volunteered her time to share knowledge and expertise on the developing brain in adolescence with her fellow Year 10 parents. Rachel has a B.A. (Psych.), a Master of Education (Educ. Psych.) UNSW and is near completion of a Master of Brain & Mind Sciences, Sydney University. Rachel’s special interest is the neurobiology of stress and its impact on brain development, behaviour and cognition and she has also researched emotional-behavioural problems with kids and teens.
The night is designed to meet other Year 10 parents, provide an opportunity to share experiences with other parents, gain knowledge of what’s happening internally for your son and walk away with some practical strategies for supporting your son and yourself during these teenage years.
Places will be limited to 50.
The Royal North Shore Hospital (RNSH) is conducting the Prevention of Alcohol and Risk –Related Trauma in Youth (P.A.R.T.Y.) Program on 31 May 2018. This is an innovative in-hospital trauma injury prevention program targeting students in Year 11. Spaces are limited to 45 students only, if you would like your son to be involved please email mporter@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The aim of this program is to reduce the over representation of young adults in injury and trauma statistics. Young people are particularly vulnerable to risk taking behaviors. International studies showed a decline in risk related injuries after exposing students to the often devastating consequences of their actions. The P.A.R.T.Y. Program was first established in Canada in 1986 and is now successfully operated by staff at established trauma hospitals at over 100 sites around the world including Australia. The program is kindly being sponsored by AAMI Skilled Drivers.
The P.A.R.T.Y. Program is a one day program which allows students to see first-hand the consequences of risk- taking behaviors in everyday life whilst learning how to recognize and mitigate risk. The program starts at 9:00am and finishes at 3:00 pm. On each program day the students will:
Given the intense nature of the program, the students may find this program very confronting. The P.A.R.T.Y. team advises you as a parent to discuss the program with your child to help prepare them prior to their participation.
Please refer to the RNSH P.A.R.T.Y. Program Website for more detailed information: https://www.nslhd.health.nsw.gov.au/HealthInformation/party.
God of love,
We give you thanks for bringing us to this day, where we begin our journey together again, for Term 2, here at Waverley College Junior School.
We thank you for keeping us safe and for giving us the opportunity to rest and spend time with our family and friends.
We ask you to send your Spirit upon us all, so that we can make the right choices this term to be the best that we can possibly be.
We also pray for all people throughout the world who have been victims of tragedies over the last couple of weeks.
May you give them the strength and courage they need to begin to rebuild their lives.
This we pray in the spirit of Edmund Rice.
Amen.
St Mary of the Cross: Pray for us
Blessed Edmund Rice: Pray for Us
Live Jesus in our Hearts: Forever
Welcome back to Term 2. I hope everyone had a great break and have settled into the routine of school again.
I am very honoured to be given this opportunity by the school executive to serve the Junior School in the absence of Tony Banboukjian. Tony has done a wonderful job in his eleven years as Director and twenty-seven years at the school. I have been lucky enough to have shared all that time in leadership with him as his Assistant Director to learn and be guided by him. If anyone needs a good break from the school it is Tony, whose tireless efforts; calm and gentle leadership and his ability to get the best out of his staff and boys, has guided us expertly for many years. We look forward to his return rested and invigorated for all that is to follow.
Congratulations to all the staff who have stepped up into Executive Roles due to Tony’s absence. For Term 2 Matt Ryan will take on the Assistant Director’s role, along with Y5 Mathematics Group 1 (for Mr Harris) and Y6 Computer Studies. Mr Tony Proudfoot will replace Mr Ryan in 6 Green. Mr Gill will take on the Assistant Director of Mission for Mr Ghattas who is on leave after the birth of his son Zane. We congratulate both he and his wife Kristy on this special moment in their lives. Mr Gill will stay in 6 Blue and Mr Jack McCarthy, an Old Boy of the college, will take on 5 Blue for Mr Ghattas. Mr Meadley steps into Mr Ryan’s role as the Head of Sport – Junior School and stays on his 6 Red class. This makes for an exciting term of change and challenge in the Junior School. I ask all for their support and patience with us as we attempt to make the changes as seamless as we can.
We also welcome Shauna Kristen who will be working on 5 Gold each Wednesday when Ms Bransby is absent. She will also work with Mr Gill in 6 Blue on occasions throughout the term as part of here graduate teaching induction as part of her degree. We hope all make her feel welcome.
With the Parent Teacher/Student/Interviews having taken place this week I stress that communication is only effective if you read the emails sent home; check the Skoolbag App on a regular basis and read the weekly Nurrunga. Waterford entries on Skoolbag App will always have a ‘JS’ for easy reference of messages that concern the Junior School. All school information is sent to all families at the same time. If you are not receiving information please contact Mrs Coupe so that we can we have your correct contact details.
I thank the teachers for all their efforts in preparing for the interviews and hope your son has been given some clear direction on what he needs to do to continue to grow and succeed at school. I hope all work hard to keep the partnership and communication between school and home strong and beneficial for all.
| Area | Issue | Steps | Contact Person |
| Curriculum | My son’s progress in a subject / the content of a subject / his performance in assessments / his conduct in class | 1st contact
2nd contact 3rd contact |
Class teacher
Learning Support Junior School Director |
| Pastoral Care | My son’s academic, social, physical and spiritual development, including discipline, peer relationships, attendance | 1st contact
2nd contact 3rd contact |
Class teacher
Junior School Director If needed, School Counsellor |
| Sport | Matters relating to training sessions of my son’s team / team expectations / selection and venues / times | 1st contact
2nd contact 3rd contact |
Team coach
Sports master Junior School Director |
| Fees / Finance | For payment of fees and general enquiries. | 1st contact
2nd contact |
Assistant Business Manager
Business Manager |
| Travel | Travel pass applications / replacements, etc. | 1st contact
2nd contact |
Administration Secretary
Assistant Director |
| Contact details | Change of address / phone number / email | 1st contact | Enrolment Officer (Ph: 93690632) |
| Other | For general information / absences / illness | 1st contact
2nd contact |
Administration Secretary
Junior School Director |
The 108th Annual May Procession and Celebration of the Feast of Blessed Edmund Rice will take place on this Sunday 6th May starting at 12:00 noon in the Centenary Quadrangle at the High School.
This is a compulsory event for all staff and students and parents and relatives are most welcome to attend. In the event of a student illness a doctor’s certificate is required.
Students need to be present no later than 11.30am where they are to meet their class teacher to have their attendance recorded.
The Parents’ Association will be selling refreshments in the cafeteria at the conclusion of this event.
Thanks to all the boys and teachers for their involvement in the excursions held over Thursday and Friday this week to the State Library and Museum of Contemporary Art. This is a new excursion we are trialling and I thank Mrs Bransby and Mrs Coupe for organising all the details for the day. We will get the boys to report on this for next week’s Nurrunga.
In 2018 the National Assessment Program – Literacy & Numeracy (NAPLAN) will again be conducted for all students in Years 3, 5, 7 & 9 in all government and non-government schools. The program will assess the literacy and numeracy learning of all students in all Australian schools.
The results of the tests will provide important information to schools about what each student can do and will then be used to support teaching and learning programs. Parents will receive a report indicating their child’s level of achievement. Each student’s level of achievement will be reported against the agreed national minimum standard of student achievement.
This year all boys in the school will be doing their NAPLAN online. We had a successful practice test last term that all the boys were involved in. Whilst ALL the WRIITTEN tests will be conducted across Australia on the same days for all students. The schedule for the online is left to individual schools to coordinate over a 9-day window in Weeks 3 & 4 of this term. The Junior school boys will be tested as follows:
Additional information for parents about the National Assessment Program can be found on this website:
https://www.nap.edu.au/naplan/parent-carer-support
In week 4 from Tuesday May 22 to Thursday May 24 all of Year 6 head will off to Canberra for their annual excursion as part of our HSIE unit on government.
During this tour they will participate in a variety of educational programmes focused on Australia’s history, culture, heritage and democracy.
The Australian Government recognises the importance of all young Australians being able to visit their National Capital as part of their civics and citizenship education. To assist you in meeting the cost of the excursion the Australian Government is contributing funding under the Parliament and Civics and Education Rebate (PACER) programme toward the travel expenses incurred.
Activities undertaken as part of the educational tour include the tour of Parliament House, visit to the War Memorial and a session at the Electoral Education Centre. We would like to thank the Australian Government for their support of this program.
We hope that the excursion will be a rewarding experience for all students.
Special thanks to Mr Meadley for the tireless effort he has put in over the past 12 months to ensure the boys have a great three days in our nation’s capital. No sooner does one trip end then he is busy sorting out details for the next year.
A reminder to all parents that all forms required for the upcoming Year 6 Canberra trip should be returned to the office by the end of week 2.
Homework Club will continue in the Junior School Library in Term 2, with a minor change. Hours of operation are Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, but not Wednesday due to the fact that all boys will be involved in Sports Training on each Wednesday throughout the term. Parents are asked to strictly adhere to the 4.30pm pick up time. The expectation of the boys attending the Homework Club is that they study quietly on work required to be completed for school. There will be a teacher on duty each day.
Winter training goes until Week 3 of Term 3. At this point Homework Club will run again from Monday to Thursday inclusive.
Next Tuesday the first of the ICAS Competitions for the year begins. More will come up both this Term and in Term Three. This will be run for those boys in Year 5 & 6 that have paid for their involvement. The first is the Digital Technologies Competition and boys will need to be at school for an 8:00am start in the Library. These Competitions are all run before school to prevent class interruptions due to the small numbers who choose to participate. I will advise you when it is time for the next one when it is due.
DATE: Friday 11 May
TIME: 12 noon (Term 2 Week 2)
VENUE: Lacey Gymnasium in the High School – This is a whole school function this year for the first time.
LUNCHEON: Free luncheon immediately after Mass at the Senior School basketball courts. Boys from the Junior School will be allowed to go home with their parents at the end of the lunch (approx. 2pm).
Please RSVP for this event by 10am, Monday 7 May.
Learn to be a chess champion! Coaching for students at Waverley College (Junior School) is held on Tuesdays from 12:30pm to 1:30pm, starting on 8 May 2018.
Learning and playing chess helps children develop their logical thinking and problem-solving skills, improves their concentration and focus, while also being a great source of enjoyment. Activities include group lessons on a demonstration chess board or interactive whiteboard, puzzle solving and fun practice games.
Students earn merit awards by making checkmates, or by displaying skills and positive qualities, which all good chess players strive to develop.
If your child is interested in taking part, you can collect an enrolment form from the school office, or email enrol@sydneyacademyofchess.com.au for a copy. For all enquiries, please contact Sydney Academy of Chess on (02) 9745 1170.
Congratulations to Ben Pignatelli, from 5 Green, who was acknowledged as the Aungier Student of the Week at his combined House Meeting in the High School at the end of last term. Ben was commended for his great efforts as part of a group of Junior School boys who did fundraising for Project Compassion in the lead up to Easter. Well done Ben and what a lovely acknowledgement from the whole Aungier House.
A reminder to check your Skoolbag App for all the information sent out by Mr Ryan last term, about the Winter Saturday Sports Season which begins this Saturday. All training began on Wednesday this week and we will have a full week of training next week. Boys should know all their team info by the time you read this.
A reminder that Wednesday training starts right after our Sports Program at Queens Park concludes for all teams. Boys will be dismissed at 3:30pm. All other training days finish at 4:30pm. Please make sure your son knows how he is to make his way home. Boys not picked up or uncertain of their plans will be walked back to school no later than 15 minutes after training concludes.
I was recently contacted by Old Boy, Lindsay Jordan, who administers the Waverley Sport Facebook Page and Waverley Sport Messenger. Lindsay did a great job supporting our boys and parents who were taking photos at the recent Armidale Rugby Tour, by ensuring we got some great acknowledgement on the page. He is keen to have more parents use this site to promote sport at Waterford. You can contact him through the Facebook Page, Facebook Messenger or on his email: lindsayjordan1122@hotmail.com
Hi 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.
Best of luck to the following boys who will be attending the IPSHA Rugby Trials on Thursday 3rd May. We wish them well and will report on their success in progressing to the NSW CIS Trials in early June – Hugo Schneider, Hugo Kulcsar, Ethan Ginnane, Eden Byrd, Aston Owens, James Nestor and Christian Robbins.
Just before the holidays four of our boys swam in a relay team at the NSW PSSA Swim Meet representing the NSW CIS. The CIS Senior Relay team finished 3rd in the State after plenty of controversy just to make the final. This ended up making it a longer day than expected as protests were heard and won. Congratulations to our Waverley students Oakley Lamb Tristan Lee, Zoltahn Zsabo and Jack Kerves on their success, persistence and determination on the day and the stoic parents who stood by them through the highs and lows of the day.
Before reporting on the Armidale Rugby Tour I wanted to mention a story from the weekend that shows the great generosity of some of our boys. Whilst staying at our accommodation we met some of the players, coaches and managers from other schools in attendance. In chatting to the coach of Brothers, a club team from Queensland we found they had arrived with only two reserves to get through the weekend. We asked if they needed any help. This came by the way of one of our Gold Squad players in Tom Park who turned up to every game for them and also for us on the weekend. Sometimes Tom played and sometimes he waited patiently, but he took it upon himself to turn up and help in every game. Not a bad effort to say you represented both NSW and Queensland in the one weekend.
Congratulations to all the following boys who worked hard over the last few weeks of Term 1 pre-season to earn a place in the one of two rugby squads who competed at the TAS Rugby Carnival over the 1st weekend of the school holidays.
| WAVERLEY BLUE SQUAD PROP – Tom McKenna HK/8/Fl PROP – Christian Robbins 2R/P PROP – Luke Crosson P/2R HOOKER – Aston Owens HK/FL 2 ROW – Angus Sullivan 2R/FL 2 ROW – Jett O’Halloran P/2R 2 ROW – James Dyson-Merwe 2R/8 FLANK – Edward Lyons FL/8 FLANK – Tom Edwards FL/2R/Hooker FLANK – Tex Filipek FL/FLY No8 – James McGreevy OC/IC/2R HALF – Hugo Schneider HF/FLY FLY – James Nestor FLY/Flanker FLY – Liam Gabriel FLY/FB CENTRE – Hugo Kulcsar FB/OC/IC/FLY CENTRE – Krystian Gardner OC/IC/W CENTRE – Ethan Ginnane IC/OC/2R WING – Eden Byrd W/OC WING – Louis Etournard OC/W FULLBACK – Zachary Duane W/FB/OC |
WAVERLEY GOLD SQUAD PROP – Marcus Kastrissios P PROP – Jack Sammut P PROP – Alexander Sideris P HOOKER – Hunter Eldridge HK/P 2 ROW – Christian Elfes P/2R 2 ROW – Jack Kerves 2R/8 2 ROW – Ben Stahl 2R/8 FLANK – Jock Edwards FL/2R FLANK – Will Whitaker FL/2R FLANK – Tom Park W/Flanker No8 – Brock Randall 2R/8 HALF – Sean Foley FL/HF HALF – Joe Mohi HF/FLY/W FLY – Jack Kearney FLY/HF CENTRE – Archie Perkin FLY/IC CENTRE – Jack George HF/FLY/No.8 CENTRE – Tristan Lee OC/W WING– Daniel Velder W/OC WING – Dylan Scott-Terrie W/OC/Flanker FULLBACK – Campbell Porteus W/OC/FB |
Gold Squad: SATURDAY RESULTS 14/4
THIRD Division – 14 teams
G1 – Riverview 1sts: FT 0-52 Loss
G2 – South Toowoomba: FT 5-32 Loss – Campbell Porteus Try
G3 – Shore: FT 0-49
G4 – St Joseph’s Nudgee 2nds: FT 0-12 Loss
Finished FOURTEENTH from FOURTEEN (Saturday)
WON 0 – LOSS 4
SUNDAY FINAL v. Inverell Highlanders for 13th or 14th spot – TIME: 9:00 @ Adam’s East
GOLD SQUAD – Sunday Final Lost 21-31 after leading 14-12 at Half Time – Campbell Porteus x2, Jack George Tries; Jack George, Hunter Eldridge x2 Conversions
Armidale always offers a tough weekend, but in terms of results this was one of the toughest with one win from ten games between the two squads. Still today’s finals for placings were wonderful spectacles for all involved with two high scoring and see-sawing games played by both squads.
The Gold Squad got the morning started with a 9:00am start on the small Adams East field. The boys got off to their best start by racing in two converted tries early in the half to lead 14-nil. Campbell Porteus’ try was a sensational effort as good team work had got the ball out to his wing. He set off down the sideline as the desperate Inverell defence were left grasping at air. With only the full back to beat Campbell shaped to beat him on the outside only to step him on the inside to completely bamboozle his attempted tackle. A second try from close range to Jack George secured a good lead.
The Inverell boys fought back and reeled in the score to go to the break down 12-14, with Waverley hanging onto a slender lead.
The boys did not respond quickly enough after the break and surrendered their lead as Inverell raced away to 14-19-point lead. The Waverley boys had got bogged down with too many forwards handling the ball and not enough variety in attack. Inverell had them easily covered with this tactic and it was not until the ball made its way to Campbell’s wing that the boys claimed back the lead at 21-19. Unfortunately, a poor restart gifted the ball back to Inverell and they dominated the final stages to claim two tries and a 21-31-point win.
This was a highly entertaining game and there was some real improvement seen in the boys play. They competed well and showed plenty of promise for the season ahead. Ben Stahl was a worthy winner of the TAS Jersey for his consistent and wholehearted effort in every game.
Well done Mr Stanton, Mrs Ryan and Mr Ryan for your management of the team.
Blue Squad: SATURDAY RESULTS 14/4
SECOND Division – 6 teams
G1 – St Laurence: HT 0-7 & FT 7-14 Loss – Hugo Schneider Try, Hugo Kulcsar Con
G2 – Flinders: HT 0-0 & FT 0-7 Loss
G3 – St Pius: HT 12-0 & FT 12-0 Win – Eden Byrd, Ethan Ginnane Tries, Hugo Kulcsar Con
G4 – Scots College: HT 0-19 & FT 0-34 Loss
Finished FOURTH from SIX (Saturday) on count-back
WON 1 – LOST 3
19 FOR & 55 AGAINST
SUNDAY FINAL v. Flinders for 3rd or 4th spot – TIME: 10:40am @ Wakefield North
BLUE SQUAD – Sunday Final – Lost 17-26 after trailing 12-19 at Half Time – Eden Byrd x2, Christian Robbins Tries, Hugo Kulcsar Conversion
Our final farewells to boys and parents were done between the two finals. With Gold Squad parents getting the chance to get on the road early. This gave us the chance to congratulate the boys and their efforts through a character building, but certainly gruelling weekend.
Awards and thanks were given to Poppy Elfes for her amazing efforts in managing information and social events for the parents. All were very grateful for the way this brought the parent body together. We also acknowledged the wonderful assistance given by Jasper Doyle and Noah Kulcsar from Year 8 who had come up with families for the weekend. They assisted with the warm up and water bottles for every game, whilst proudly donning their Prep 1st/Armidale jerseys from two years ago. They did think this might give them free passage into a game or too from the bench, but we resisted the temptation. We gathered the boys for a combined photo and then it was time for the Blue Squad final.
By 10:15am we were all heading to Wakefield North for the 2nd Division final for 3rd or 4th spot (7th or 8th for the whole 47 team carnival). We found ourselves up against the Flinders club side from Buderim in Queensland. We had lost 0-7 to them yesterday in a game we dominated for long periods but failed to take advantage of the opportunities on offer. This unfortunately was the case again today in yet another highly entertaining game of rugby.
We started well despite down a player after Angus Sullivan broke his wrist on Saturday. Plenty began with lots of knocks and bruises from Saturday and a few not sure they would survive a 40 minute game today after the shorter 22-minute versions from yesterday.
A great team effort saw a sweeping back line put Eden Byrd away. He scored a great try and was clearly becoming the go to man in the backs with speed and deception making him a hard man to pin down. This put us up 5-0 and all was looking good. Unfortunately, this advantage disappeared quickly off some undisciplined play from the kick off. Flinders hit back, not once but three times in this time to lead 5-19. Luckily, we found some fight and claimed back some ball and territory before the boys sent Eden on another spectacular run to the line. Hugo Kulcsar converted and at 12-19 at the break we were still alive in the contest.
The boys came off whining about illegal play and poor refereeing before being silenced about these aimless excuses. These unconstructive comments were nothing but a distraction from what was required and that was to worry less about the things they could not control and more on the things they could.
A more focused team left the huddle to make more of the game than seen so far. Christian Robbins crashed over and we were back in the contest at 17-19. We fought really hard and created some great opportunities to win from this point, but for some poor passes; slow hands and an increasing injury toll our opportunities disappeared. A final try to Flinders to go to 17-26 ended the revival and the game concluded.
It has been a much-improved effort; some good fight to get back into the contest and many positive moments spelt out plenty of promise for the season to come.
Much thanks to the assistance of Ms Hoare and Mr Proudfoot in their management of the team. Special mention to our U11s who drop back to their age group after the break and also to those who have chosen to stay in the U12s.
It had proven to be a really tough weekend in terms of results, but a worthwhile exercise in terms of rugby education. The boys and parents expressed their love for the weekend; the experience; the efforts of staff and the new friendships they had formed. We thank all for their effort and support in making the weekend a success.
This week we presented our Winter 2018 co-curricular captains and 1sts teams. Congratulations to all who were presented. I am confident these fine young men will be great role models for all other students. At the assembly a number of expectations in regards to the season were mentioned. This included appropriate attire at all venues, punctuality to training and games and most importantly respect for the opposition, all officials, coaches and staff. This season is another great opportunity to continue to grow the positive culture in all areas of the college, including co-curricular. Our convenors and coaches have already done some amazing work in regards to setting up the season. All activities were recognised at the assembly and all activities are just as important as any other in regards to the delivery of our co-curricular program.
This is a busy term and there are a number of important events coming up, including the Drama Production on May 22 and 23, the Music Festival in preparation for the Music Tour at the end of term and the commencement of the CSDA Debating competition this Friday evening against St Clare’s Waverley.
CAS will also be trialling a different winter tennis competition this term with boys playing opposition students of a similar ranking rather than in year groups. Hopefully, this provides all players with more competitive matches. This also means that some players may be at a venue without Waverley staff present but will be under the duty of care of the host school’s venue manager.
This Saturday is the first Supporter Duty for the year, with Year 7 expected to attend. Traditionally whichever year group on Supporter Duty would support either the 1st XI or the 1st XV however we have adjusted the policy to include 1sts AFL, 1sts Volleyball and 1sts Debating. Students can attend any 1sts game to cover their duty and need to have their name marked off by the coach or convenor. We are expecting a good crowd to watch the 1st XI Football play their first ever CAS game on QP1 against Knox, as well as the 1st XV playing Riverview, which will commence with an Indigenous Ceremony and Acknowledgement of Country prior to the match. Any student supporting these teams needs to be behind the rope on the pavilion side (Southern side) of the field please. Positive cheering for all teams is also essential. We have also put the challenge to all teams and students to have no more red cards for the rest of the season.
We invite all Chess players in Years 7-12 to join our Chess group who practice in the Library area most lunchtimes. We have also employed an International Chess Master to work with our Chess players in E24 every Wednesday during lunch to develop this activity towards another co-curricular option. Any student at any level is welcome to join this group.
I wish all teams and competitors the very best for the 2018 winter season. Go the Waves!
Welcome back to a big term of rugby at Waverley College! I hope all students and families had a restful holiday break and are looking forward to getting into the continued preparations for the CAS Competition which commences late in Term 2. Prior to the CAS, we have a number of challenging rounds against some strong GPS and ISA sides.
This weekend Waverley College faces up against St Ignatius College, Riverview. This is sure to be a very competitive fixture for all teams as Riverview has strong depth through each age group. Our 1st XV will have their first home game for the year at Queens Park, as will all Opens, 16s and 13s teams. Our 14s and 15s will head over to Riverview for the day. Please note that the fixtures (particular for the 15s age group) has been changed on several occasions this week. The most up to date draw has been posted on the Waverley Rugby Team App.
To make the community aware, Waverley College will meet the same opposition each week as Sydney Boys High School (SBHS) during the CAS/GPS/ISA trial fixtures. This ensures that when playing against some of the larger GPS schools, teams match up evenly and are graded appropriately. This weekend, for example, our 1st XV and 2nd XV will match up against Riverview. SBHS 1st XV will play against Riverview’s 3rds XV (at SBHS’s home ground). Our 3rd XV will play against Riverview’s 4th XV and the match ups continue down the grades. This applies to most age groups with some slight variations. The positive of this system is that it allows students at schools with smaller playing numbers to still be involved in competition rugby. It allows a school like ours, who might not be able to match up in all grades against some GPS schools, to have more appropriate contests in the lower grades.
In the holiday break Waverley College had a number of students and teams involved in friendly games and camps. Thank you to the parent body for all the support of these activities. I would particularly like to thank all the parents of students in the 14As and 15As who provided an outstanding after match function for our visitors. Our visitors were very appreciative of the delicious food offered, as was our Convenor. Thank you!
Our 14As played against Southern Districts coached by Old Boy Lachlan Drew-Morris. This was a tight match but Waverley came away with the win in the end, 32-19. Jack Rigg was voted as Man of the Match, and Lachlan Smith, who stepped up from the 14Bs played an outstanding game. Thanks to all the 14As and 14Bs players involved in this match, Mr Bryant & Mr Davis for their coaching efforts and Mr O’Donnell who refereed the fixture.
Our 15As played Canberra Grammar. Canberra Grammar has produced some great rugby minds over the years such as Rod Kafer and Andy Friend. In the driving rain, the Waverley side proved too strong winning 70-7. Christian Smirnotis was voted as Man of the Match. Thanks to all the 15As and 15Bs players involved in this match as well as Mr Donaldson and Mr Smith for their coaching efforts.
To end of the first week of holidays, our 1st XV, 2nd XV and 16A squad travelled to Narrabeen to participate in a three-day camp at the Sydney Academy of Sport and Recreation. This was a time for the squad to come together for important preparations ahead of the season. The camp gave the squad a chance to bond together, reflect on the challenges which lay ahead and put in place some goals for the season. Thanks to Mr Coleman, Mr Cornish, Mr Newbury, Mr Horrocks and Mr O’Donnell who gave up their holidays to assist with the camp. Thanks also to the Sydney Rooster Coaching Staff, Mr James Cummins from the Positivity Project and Old Boy Mr Paddy Delohery who took the boys through a character building boot camp on Narrabeen Beach.
Our Waterford boys represented Waverley College at the TAS Rugby Carnival. This is the largest Under 12s rugby tournament held in Australia. Congratulations to all players involved, as well as the dedicated coaching staff including Ms Hoare, Mrs Ryan, Mr Proudfoot, Mr Ryan, Mr Stanton and Mr Harris. Special mention to Liam Andrews and Ryan Foley who gave up their holidays to help support the TAS Rugby Carnival by refereeing the junior matches. Thank you for your contribution.
The tournament was a tough encounter for the boys, but from all reports was a worthwhile exercise in terms of the friendships that were established (players and parents) as well as the lessons taken away from the rugby played. Well done players, coaches and parents!
Congratulations to Old Boys Ben O’Donnell and Tom Fuller who have both reached the highest level in rugby, representing Australia. This is a wonderful achievement and both Old Boys will be honoured by having their photos placed in the T & M Hayes Pavilion at Queens Park.
Ben O’Donnell (Class of 2013) is involved in the Australian Sevens team, who unfortunately fell short of gaining a medal in the Commonwealth Games. O’Donnell, in his first season playing sevens has really made a mark on the competition. O’Donnell was awarded DHL Impact Player of the Round in the Sydney Sevens, Las Vegas Sevens and well as the recent Singapore Sevens. The DHL Impact Player Award recognises standout players by using a statistical analysis of individual player performances measured against Off-Loads, Carries, Line-Breaks and Tackles. A wonderful achievement and a player to follow!
Tom Fuller (Class of 2016) was called into the Australian 20s at the Oceania Championships. Fuller who currently plays for Randwick (1st Colts) in the centres, is another up and coming player to watch. The Junior Wallabies had a strong first up win against the Fijian U20s side 51-5 and a big win against Tonga, 91-7. The test will be this Saturday evening when Australia meet New Zealand. Congratulations Tom and good luck!
The Waverley College Rugby Supporters Club, thanks to the efforts of Mrs Deb Johnson, has set up an online roster for parents willing to assist at Queens Park throughout the season.
Parents and friends can simply go to the link below to register your interest:
We are looking for support on the BBQ and Canteen this coming Saturday 5 May, as we are expecting huge numbers at Queens Park. Also listed in the roster are the other games if any parents and friends may not be able to help this weekend, but can help in future.
Thanks in advance for all those who volunteer their support throughout the season and make all visitors to Queens Park feel so welcome.
Finally, a reminder that the May Procession is on this Sunday 6 May. In recent years, a number of students have misplaced items of uniforms on Saturday prior to the May Procession. It is particularly important that all students double check that they have all their uniform packed away before leaving Queens Park or Riverview this weekend, as full school uniform is a requirement for the May Procession.
Good luck to all teams this weekend against Riverview! WAVERLEY TO WIN!
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation who are the traditional Custodians of the land on which Waverley College is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual connections to the land, waters, seas and sky and their rich contribution to society.
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