This coming Saturday, 17 September we have internal sports trials for Basketball, Cricket, Tennis, Touch Football and Water Polo. The fixtures and Term 4 training schedule are now available via the fixtures link above or on the College website.
All year Groups are labelled by their 2023 cohort (Year 7 are now Year 8, Year 10 are now Opens). All students in these activities are expected to attend these trials unless permission has already been given for leave. Any student who fails to attend will be selected accordingly.
We will celebrate the successes and awards for the CAS Track & Field team next week, but I want to congratulate all of the athletes, staff and coaches who have done a tremendous job. I also want to thank all of the Track & Field squad parents for their wonderful support, this Athletics season.
In the upcoming holidays, the University of Wollongong and Tottenham Hotspur are offering another ‘Elite Development Program.’ The program is open to senior school students in Years 9, 10, 11 and 12, who are looking for an intensive football training program which covers more than just the on-field components of the game. Mr Robert Gold has been working closely with Waverley College this year to establish a strong relationship, and it was great to see Year 10 student James Medland be a part of this program recently.
Mr Robert Gold can also be emailed for further information: robert.gold@tottenhamhotspur.com
Best wishes to all of Year 12 in their final week of school, as well as for their HSC preparations.
Mr Steve O’Donnell
Director of Co-curricular
E: sodonnell@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Last week, the Leaders of Learning and Wellbeing across the 55 EREA Colleges and Flexible Learning Schools came together in Melbourne for the launch of the EREA Learning Statement: Implementing Liberating Practice to Co-create a Better World.
I was joined by Ms Lynsey Porter (Director of Curriculum) and Ms Rebecca Gair (Head of Quinn House) for this special occasion. It was wonderful to collaborate with our colleagues from across the network to workshop the Learning Statement and also learn about pedagogical and wellbeing initiatives underway in our other schools. It was rewarding to see how well the Waverley College Learning Framework aligns to the Learning Statement.
The EREA Learning Statement respects and honours the unique stories and celebrates the diversity of individuals and learning communities within EREA. These learning communities are inclusive of Indigenous, early learning, primary and secondary, boarding, all-boys and co-educational schools; diverse needs and flexible learning schools; inner-city, urban, rural and remote schools.
The statement has been a pivotal strategic action for EREA, giving life and language to our vision for learning. It sources its inspiration and structure from four liberating educators and practitioners: Jesus of Nazareth, Edmund Rice, Paulo Freire and Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann.
Faithful to his tradition, Jesus of Nazareth interacted with a range of diverse learners in a variety of contexts. He challenged structures in the way in which he created learning opportunities which recognised the dignity of each person and connected with the lived experiences of each one.
Edmund Rice challenged political and social structures by providing an education which recognised the dignity, potential and wellbeing of the individual, empowering each learner to participate more fully in society.
In articulating a Pedagogy of the Oppressed, Paulo Freire proposed that dialogue, partnership and engagement, within the learning context, created an atmosphere of hope, love, humility and trust. This approach is key to individual learners being equipped to critique their own lives and, in collaboration with others, to experience mutual liberation.
Miriam-Rose Ungunmerr-Baumann addresses the importance of cultural awareness and sensitivity to ensure that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples have a voice in the sharing of knowledge. Her concept of Dadirri, a way of life emphasising deep listening, provides an ancient insight into contemporary, transformative educational practice.
EREA commits to implementing liberating practices to build a better world by ‘explicitly co-creating the learning conditions, dispositions and relationships to enable deep listening, confidence, agency and freedom.’
This dynamic intent and these actions are articulated through six practices which in themselves require our ongoing engagement, but also inform and have an impact on the other within a learning community.
Liberating Pedagogies
Within safe and flexible learning places, supported by positive relationships, the learner is free to participate in and lead experiences grounded in collaborative processes, critical thinking and creative problem solving.
Liberating Achievement
When excellence and improvement are viewed in a variety of ways and evidence of success is gathered, interpreted, and celebrated holistically, the learner is free to pursue a strengths-based learning pathway informed by high expectations and personal ambitions.
Liberating Voice and Agency
When individual voice is deeply listened to, respected, and included in decision-making processes, the learner is free to develop the confidence, resilience, optimism and agency to fully determine their learning aspirations.
Liberating Potential
When learning experiences are informed by each person’s story, strengths and passions, the learner is free to contribute to and participate in challenging, individualised learning plans that orient their goals towards personal growth.
Liberating Learning Design
Where schools design and develop innovative learning environments, whether physical and/or virtual, the learner is free to access and engage in multiple pathways and contribute to a dynamic, connected educational community.
Liberating Spiritualities
In exploring meaning and purpose in life, the learner is free to grow in their understanding of themselves, and their relatedness with God, others, Earth and creation, through experiences grounded in wonder, awe, contemplation, and action for justice and the common good.
>>> Click here to view the full document.
Ms Elizabeth Watson
Deputy Principal – Teaching and Learning
E: ewatson@waverley.nsw.edu.au
4th Payment – Only applies to current Year 6* students continuing into Year 7 in 2023; due date 14/10/2022
*As per the updated conditions of enrolment and as indicated on the College website from 2023, for all Years 5 and 7 enrolments, Term 1 tuition fees are charged in Term 4, in the year prior. This includes continuing Year 6 (2022) students into Year 7 (2023). This replaces the “continuing confirmation deposit” charged in the 3rd Payment to Year 6. Year 5 and 7 will still receive an invoice in Term 1, 2023 for any applicable sundries, excursion fees and camps. Please be advised that if this payment is not made by the due date, your son’s enrolment will be forfeited, and his place will be offered to a waitlisted candidate.
Fees paid before 4pm on the prompt payment date attract a $25.00 discount.
Any payment received after the due date will attract an administrative fee of $110.00.
Please be advised that some financial institutions need more than 48 hours to process their payments (e.g. Internet/BPay/BPoint).
Please see the last page of your account for payment method and contact details.
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 Principal that your son’s enrolment will cease.
The last day you can give notice that your son’s enrolment is finishing at the end of a school term, is the first day of the same term. If not received by that date, a penalty equivalent to one term’s tuition fees will be payable. The relevant dates for 2022 are below:
Mr Bryn Gregerson
Director of Business Services
E: bgregerson@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Last week, thirteen Year 11 and Year 12 students identifying as LGBTQIA+ and allies heard from a panel of NAB employees from the NAB Pride group. All members of the panel identify as part of the LGBTQIA+ community, and had invaluable advice for our students as a result of their lived experiences. The panel answered questions on a range of topics and actively engaged in a Question and Answer session.
| How NAB earned their gold employer diversity status.
How LGBTQIA+ employees are supported in the NAB Workplace. What support networks are available to LGBTQIA+ through their journey from school to university and employment. |
Panel: Kim Lee, Max Filshie, Scott Bradford, Tegan Acton
Hosted by Anthony Lo
Experiences of improved success and confidence in the workplace, as a result of being confident to bring your whole self to work. Feeling comfortable with who you are, so you are able to enjoy strong and respectful relationships with colleagues. In the face of challenges, focusing on your own journey.
Educating our young people to know that at times, challenges in a workplace may arise, such as incorrect assumptions about the gender of your partner or spouse. Empowering the students to understand that making time for conversations, and feeling confident in addressing these issues, can result in better long-term outcomes.
Diversity in the workplace makes companies successful. Workplaces, like NAB, where employees feel comfortable to bring their whole selves to work, offer clients better service. Employees from the LGBTQIA+ community are valued employees; our community has a particular understanding of the diverse backgrounds of clients and the challenging life experiences they may face.
Our student group was inspired by each of the members of the panel for their articulate presentations, good humour and compassion. The panel—great role models for our students—shared the message, that it is the uniqueness of each individual that is their strength.
We are grateful to the members of NAB Pride for sharing their personal experiences and messages of support for our students, who will soon be starting their own journeys entering the workforce and, we too, aspire to the same goal – “Celebrate all people for who they are.”
“It was amazing to see the perspective of those workers who spoke to us from NAB. It is comforting knowing that people from all places and walks of life are able to find community and be safe within their workplaces. As a student soon to be graduating and moving into university, then the workforce, it meant a lot to have this conversation and interaction to truly feel comfortable with my journey going forward.”
Achilles Zanapalis (Year 12)
“It is so wonderful to hear such a courageous journey from a transgender man working for such a supportive company like NAB. I would just like to say a huge thanks to everyone who spoke at the event and a special thanks to Kim for his incredible story.”
Michael Richmond (Year 12)
Mr David Parnell
Head of Learning Support
E: dparnell@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Ms Tessa Prior
College Psychologist
E: tprior@waverley.nsw.edu.au
As the Commanding Officer, I base my Commander’s Intent on the aims and values of the Australian Army Cadets and the priorities of both schools. While our core values reflect those of all Australian Services, namely Service, Courage, Respect, Integrity and Excellence; it is Respect that is very dear to my heart, and indeed informs the basis of all we do in Cadets.
Over the past few weeks, all recruits have been presented with the Defence Youth Safety package and the Code of Conduct discussion, which reminds our students that respectful relationships ensure all members feel safe and accepted in this inclusive co-curricular activity.
From time to time, though, our young people need a little reminder, and so I would encourage all members of our community to read the Commander’s Intent below, and to be courageous in supporting their fellow cadets when they see or hear inappropriate behaviours. We are a diverse community, spanning year groups, cultures, genders, interests and rank appointments, and this context allows us to practise and develop the skills and character traits required of professional working relationships; skills that our cadets will take with them into their adult lives beyond Waverley College and St Catherine’s School.
Friday, 16 September is the last Cadets of the term, and I congratulate our newest recruits on their engagement with the program, and their positive response to their rank, as they take command of their sections, platoons and companies from week to week.
Cadets returns on Friday, 14 October in Term 4. The Routine Orders will continue to be distributed from week to week by our rank, informing cadets of the dress, equipment and locations of the various Company activities. Next term, we have some exciting external providers, both in house and at local venues, providing an engaging context in which to learn Cadet skills.
A reminder to parents that Cadets is a required co-curricular activity of all Year 8 Waverley boys from Term 3 until the end of AFX (Cadet Camp) in Term 1. Please schedule medical and dental appointments on alternative days. We have a duty of care for our cadets until 5:30pm each Friday. Should your son be unwell, please apply for leave through cadets@waverley.nsw.edu.au. If your son needs to be collected early from training, please apply for an Early March Out through the same email.
I wish everyone a safe and restorative school holiday break.
MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow
Commanding Officer – WCCU
E: jdekantzow@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The University of Sydney hosted several schools on Friday, 9 September to compete in three rounds of debates. Students were given half an hour to prepare their arguments and were expected to deliver a speech of five minutes.
The topics:
Waverley was represented by two teams, the first comprising Lachlan Miranda, Ewan McDonald, Campbell Porteus, and Charlie Murphy. The second senior team was Harrison Rimmell, Tom Hughes, and Hugh McDonald.
The students debated with poise and precision, the Year 11 team remaining undefeated, whilst the Year 10 team won two of their three debates. All speakers were complimented on their ability to clearly and persuasively articulate their arguments, whilst successfully rebutting the opposition.
It was a fantastic experience for all students involved, as they were able to immerse themselves in the academic surrounds of the university, whilst demonstrating their intelligence and rhetorical skills.
Ms Melanie Stephens
Senior Debate Coach
E: mstephens@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Year 9 students, James Peate and Kayden Baker, had their first meeting as part of the ERA for Change National Student Executive Leadership Group on Tuesday, 13 September. They were introduced to the five most common responses to injustice and the best ways to bring about change. James and Kayden represented not only Waverley College but also NSW Edmund Rice Colleges. Student executive leaders attended from across the Edmund Rice Australia network.
This first meeting was an introduction to the ethos of ERA for Change, and a chance for each student leader to discuss the advocacy and activism occurring in their own Colleges. A significant highlight was the recognition by Amy Cutter, ERA for Change Intern and organiser, of Waverley College’s commitment to strengthening our Indigenous connection via our native planting project. This project is to take place in early Term 4 under the guidance of Mr Kevin Heath (Indigenous Coordinator) and Uncle Dean Kelly (Indigenous Elder), in collaboration with our Walawaani students.
Meetings will take place throughout each term. James and Kayden are looking forward to what they can bring to, as well as learn from, this forum.
For more information about previous campaigns by ERA for Change, view the links below to their social media networks:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eraforchange/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eraforchange
Website: http://www.eraforchange.org/
Ms Rebecca Sutcliffe
Geography Teacher and Ecology Coordinator
E: rsutcliffe@waverley.nsw.edu.au
On the weekend of September 10-11, Waverley College students participated in the Sydney round of the World Scholar’s Cup. Held at Queenwood School at Balmoral, the students participated in four main events: collaborative writing, team debate, Scholar’s Bowl, and Scholar’s Challenge. Participating in teams of three, all students demonstrated fantastic collaborative skills and academic rigour.
Congratulations to the following students:
Mikayl Keshavarz, James Peate, Nick Zanapalis, Thomas Jackson-Whitlock, Campbell Porteus, Ewan McDonald, Charlie Murphy, Ricardo Zanapalis, Tashi Harrison, Jock Edwards, Harrison Rimmell and Jamie Khov.
At the closing ceremony, Waverley students earned several accolades, with all students receiving medals in a variety of categories. Special mention to Campbell, Ewan, and Charlie, who were the first placed senior team of the event. All teams who represented Waverley qualified to attend the global round, to be held overseas.
Scholars were also invited to participate in a talent show, where Waverley was represented with two performances. James Peate played a moving piece on the acoustic guitar. Afterwards, Campbell, Ricardo, Tashi, and Jock performed a musical and dance number, which successfully blended Queen with Debussy. Both acts were thoroughly enjoyed by the audience and met with deafening applause.
Thanks to Ms Emma Halpin for organising our participation in the event, and parents for facilitating the students to attend.
Ms Melanie Stephens
English Teacher
E: mstephens@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The College Choir and Brass Ensemble will be rehearsing for and performing at St Mary’s Cathedral for the Year 12 Graduation Mass. The rehearsal will take place on Tuesday, 20 September and Mass on Wednesday, 21 September.
Students will travel via bus on both days, departing the College at approximately 1:30pm and returning to the College at approximately 4:30pm. Students in Years 10 and 11 may depart directly from St Mary’s Cathedral, if they have a signed letter from a parent/carer.
Lunch will be provided on Tuesday, 20 September, however students must bring their own lunch on Wednesday, 21 September.
Please complete the permission slip below by Monday, 19 September, if your son is in either of these ensembles.
>>> Click here to view and complete the permission slip.
Mr Chris Balkizas
Head of Music
E: cbalkizas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The Australian Government has an initiative for schools for mobile Dental clinic services, such as NSW Dental Care.
NSW Dental Care is offering free dental screenings to students at Waverley College from 24- 28 October, 2022.
The dental screening is a free of charge for eligible students aged 2-17 and provides benefits for the child for basic dental services that includes:
This service is provided under the Child Dental Benefits Scheme of the Australian Government. Early detection of decay and other dental disease is vital in preventing bigger, more painful and expensive problems in the future. Left untreated, dental disease is progressive and will result in greater discomfort and is likely lead to permanent problems, such as tooth loss or lasting pain.
Please ensure the form is completed by 21 September, 2022.
This falls under the Medicare – Child Dental Benefits Scheme. Parents will need to provide their child’s Medicare number on the form. Waverley College encourages our students to benefit from this service.
This service is free for eligible students. Payment of benefits under the Child Dental Benefits Schedule is administered through the Department of Human Services. If your child is eligible there will be no cost to you and no gap fee.
NSW Dental Care will provide these dental services within Waverley College on both the Junior and Senior School campuses. NSW Dental alongside Waverley College will ensure each student’s safety, comfort, and wellbeing.
NSW Dental Care arrives with fully mobile state-of-the-art equipment and follows strict COVID-19 safety regulations, including the staff being fully vaccinated before visiting the school. Once the check-ups are completed, reports will be mailed to parents regarding the outcome. This enables early diagnosis and preventative treatment.
Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to email healthcentre@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Ms Adele Cutbush
Registered Nurse, Waverley College Health Centre
E: healthcentre@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Eastern Suburbs School Leaders for Youth present After the Bell 2022, an evening aimed at parents and carers of students in Years 7-12. It is a combined schools initiative focusing on the safekeeping and wellbeing of our youth.
Date: Thursday, 13 October 2022, 6pm
Location: Brother Lacey Gymnasium, Waverley College, 131 Birrell Street Waverley
Tickets: $10 per person (plus a 50 cent TryBooking fee) with all proceeds donated to Headspace
>>> Click here to book tickets.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Mr Patrick Brennan
Deputy Principal – Staff and Student Wellbeing
E: pbrennan@waverley.nsw.edu.au
>>> Click here to view the weekly Careers Newsletter.
Please see me if you require any further assistance or information.
Ms Kath Knowles
Senior Studies & Careers Coordinator
E: kknowles@waverley.nsw.edu.au
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.
Watch our video
