Deputy Principal - Students, Ms Gabby Smith
As we reflect on our Tech Free week and begin to collect data to assess the benefits of the week, I thought you would appreciate being able to unpack the positive research and stories stemming from the mobile phone ban that was introduced in Term 4 2023. We hope that with the banning of mobile phones and tougher restrictions on social media we will continue to see more positive outcomes for our students.
A recent article in Education Daily looks at the impact of banning mobile phones in schools. School principals and parents have given mobile phone bans at Australian schools almost universal support – and more restrictions are on their way for children using technology outside of school hours. Please read the article here.
I also draw your attention to the latest discussions amongst some Independent Schools in regards to banning smartphones. I recently heard that Frensham (Boarding School in the Southern Highlands) is banning smartphones from 2025 for Year 7 – 9. Waverley is not planning on moving in this direction at this point in time, however, I have included an article here for your interest as we continue to navigate this fast paced world.
Donations Required
As we move towards Christmas, we are reminded to reach out to those less fortunate than ourselves.
St Canice’s is a Jesuit parish in Elizabeth Bay, just behind Kings Cross, and their outreach centre works to provide weekly health, legal and employment clinics, daily showers with access to toiletries and personal care items and brand new clothing, along with daily meals and a coffee shop to those experiencing homelessness and social exclusion.
These services are entirely funded by donations from generous parishioners, local residents, businesses, schools and the Waverley College community.
They are currently seeking donations of hamper items for Christmas, including:
- Bag of Lollies
- Sweet and Savory Biscuits
- Muesli Bars
- Can of Tuna/Chicken
- Baked Beans/Spaghetti
- Deodorant
- Lip Balm
- Socks
- Tea/Coffee
- Undies – Neutral colours (Unisex)
- Journals
- Soap
If you are able and willing to, these donations would be greatly appreciated. All donations can be dropped to the Senior School reception. We will be making regular deliveries to St Canice throughout Term 4.
Once again, your kindness and generosity is very much appreciated.
School Student Travel – Information for parents and students
Please find below information from Transport for NSW regarding School Travel Passes.
School Travel Passes
Applications are now open for 2025 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.
Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2025.
Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply or update their details as soon as possible.
In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.
Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.
Terms of Use
Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.
This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.
All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.
