Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all of Term 1 events, please refer to the College calendar.
After-school Spanish classes will begin on Monday, 27 February.
There are two sessions:
If you are interested, there are still some places available. Please email our receptionist ssanchez@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The Junior School Parent Information Booklet is intended to inform you of the more detailed aspects of life at Waverley College Junior School. The first section deals with overall aspects of the College and the second section is more class specific. I hope that you get involved in the many facets of life at Waverley College and enjoy being part of our great community.
>>> Click here to view the Year 5 2023 Parent Information Booklet.
>>> Click here to view the Year 6 2023 Parent Information Booklet.
As of next week – Week 4B – the vending machines in the Junior School will be cashless. Unfortunately, students can’t use Flexischools but they accept EFTPOS cards, this can also be prepaid EFTPOS cards.
Ms Gaby Bransby
Director of the Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Enrolments for the Sacrament of Confirmation at OLR Kensington will close on Thursday, 23 February. If your son is in Year 6 and previously attended OLR Primary, you are encouraged to enrol before this date to avoid missing out.
Click here for more information
In Week 5, students who wish to take on the role of Class Captains are encouraged to give a speech in front of their peers. They will have the responsibility of carrying out many different duties around the College, as well as attending important assemblies and meetings throughout the year.
You may wish to encourage your son, if you feel this is something he is interested in.
Some things for him to consider as part of his speech would be:
The first of several fund-raising and awareness raising initiatives begins with the sale of pancakes on Shrove Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday. All proceeds will go to Caritas Australia, our chosen organisation for the Lenten period. Pancakes will be sold within class for $2. We hope that the boys are able to enjoy this whilst supporting such a worthwhile cause.
Mr Steve Ghattas
Assistant Director of Junior School/Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
It was a great start to the Summer Co-Curricular season last weekend, with no weather or group closure interruptions and some outstanding results from teams. Round 2 continues tomorrow, Saturday, 18 February. I wish all teams the best of luck and ask them to please represent Waverley proudly.
Please ensure you refer to the Waverley College app announcements each week, as I will continue to send out the weekly Sports Fixtures for each round. Families can also locate all relevant Junior School Co-Curricular information through the College website by clicking the button below.
Click here to view all Junior School Co-curricular information on the College website
This past Monday, 13 February, Waverley Junior School chose four students to compete at the CIS Cricket trials at The King’s School in Parramatta. The students nominated included Oscar and Thomas Tindall, James Draper and Taj Gadd.
These students gave it their absolute all to impress selectors, and demonstrate their level of talent and experience in the sport of Cricket. Each student just missed out on making it through, but were truly proud of their efforts on the day. Waverley is very proud of all four students for representing the College so highly.
Oscar and Thomas Tindall, James Draper and Taj Gadd
I want to thank all families who signed up their son for any of the Extra Co-Curricular activities, for your patience on it all being finalised. It has been a busier start to the year than expected, which has made the process longer to finalise groups and get information out to those families.
All students who have been successful in making it into a group for Term 1, and continuing groups for last year, should now have been informed. This will have included any further information regarding the specific clubs and next week’s beginning date.
If your son does get selected, and it clashes with one of their sports training sessions, please let me know so that it can be recorded, and also so that their coach is informed.
To all families with a son attending the Armidale Rugby Tour in the Easter holidays, please see the below information regarding when training will commence prior to the tour.
All relevant information regarding the tour will begin to be distributed towards the end of the term, once training has begun.
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-Curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
What a wonderful start it has been in the classroom. Our students have come back from a long break with enthusiasm to learn, and have already embraced the challenges we have set for them academically.
Students have started to set SMART goals with their classroom teachers this week. Goals that are specific, measurable, achievable, realistic and timed will set our students up for success.
Students will set SMART goals each term, and I encourage you to sit down and discuss what your son wants to achieve this term. We know that having it recorded allows them to revisit their goal throughout the term, and build on strategies to make sure they achieve their goal/s. These goals can be found on Page 59 in the College Diary.
At the beginning of each term, I will provide a Curriculum Overview of what your son will be learning in the classroom. It is clearly set out so that you can see the subject and the topics being taught across the curriculum. I hope you find it a useful tool to support your son and encourage conversation around the learning that is taking place in the classroom.
>>> Click here to view the Year 5 Term 1 2023 Curriculum Overview.
>>> Click here to view the Year 6 Term 1 2023 Curriculum Overview.
Ms Charlotte Stephens
Assistant Director of Curriculum
cstephens@waverley.nsw.edu.au
We offer all students in Year 5 and Year 6 the opportunity to receive free additional support after school for the completion of home learning tasks. The afternoon sessions also provide a quiet, supervised study space for students who want to complete their assigned tasks.
Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3pm until 4pm – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays – during school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting and the club will be closed.
Click here to register your son
Only register his name once, to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.
Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave, a parent/carer signature will be required.
As it is important to respect the rights of others to learn and work, all students are expected to settle to work in the Learning Hub and not cause a disturbance for others.
If you require any further information, feel free to email us.
If afternoon training sessions are cancelled, unfortunately, you cannot send your son to Home Learning as an alternative plan, students are registered for the afternoon sessions in advance and the capacity is always reached. Try to avoid messaging your son during this period, unless it is urgent.
Two of our readers are featured this week. This initiative has taken a positive uptake of students eager to share their reading habits, favourite books and their most recent book read. A nice reading atmosphere has been created in the Learning Hub as a result of this initiative.
Noah Nunn and Thomas Brown, our very own Junior School Waverley students, presented at our Lunchtime Talk on Tuesday.
The 3D print managers gave valuable tips on 3D printing, key elements for 3D design; simplicity, structure, size and recommended websites for creating your own designs.
The boys loved every minute of the presentation and had many questions for our 3D printing gurus.
A huge thank you to Noah and Tom for giving up their time to inspire the next generation of designers.
If you would like to volunteer to do a presentation, please email me directly at nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The Learning Hub’s creative space helps students think critically and creatively. Additionally, it encourages student collaboration as they plan and construct their works.
I enjoy seeing the boys work in this area and listening to the students’ comments for design advice and methods, especially when their designs are completed successfully.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Dear Parents and Carers,
The National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) is a point in time assessment of literacy and numeracy skills that are essential for every child to progress through school and life. Students in Years 5, 7 and 9 participate in the annual NAPLAN tests in writing, reading, conventions of language (spelling, grammar and punctuation) and numeracy.
Our school will be participating in NAPLAN Online between 15 and 24 March 2023.
Years 5 and 7 students will sit their test in Periods 1-2 and Year 9 students will sit their test in Periods 3-4.
Students must bring their fully-charged laptops and headphones to this session.
Excessive preparation for NAPLAN Online is not recommended. Students do not need to be able to touch type to complete NAPLAN Online as the tests are not about keyboard skills (just as the paper test is not about handwriting skills).
Students can use the public demonstration site to familiarise themselves with the types of questions and tools available in the NAPLAN Online tests.
Please click on this link 2023 NAPLAN Online – Information for parents and carers sheet for further information.
If you have any questions regarding this practice test, please contact either Ms Lynsey Porter (Director of Curriculum), Ms Charlotte Stephens (Assistant Director of Curriculum) (Junior School), or Mr David Parnell (Head of Learning Support).
Additional resources:
Furthermore, if parents or carers are interested in learning about strategies to support their son through NAPLAN, our Head of Academic Enrichment, Ms Helen Barrie, has prepared an informative webinar below.
Please take the time to view our impressive new nine-minute webinar where Ms Barrie outlines the Waverley College strategy for supporting student confidence in the lead up to NAPLAN testing.
https://youtu.be/rTeOj2PrVbU
Ms Lynsey Porter
Director of Curriculum
lporter@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all of Term 1 events, please refer to the College calendar.
Dear Parents and Carers,
Below is an invitation to a webinar presented by Elephant Ed on Puberty and Embracing Change.
When: 6pm – 7pm, Tuesday, 21 February 2023
Topic: Puberty and Embracing Change
Elephant Ed is a leading sexuality education provider to hundreds of schools around Australia. Elephant Ed’s workshops are evidence-based, age-appropriate and mapped to State and National curriculum guidelines. Elephant Ed is endorsed by the eSafety Commissioner as a Trusted eSafety Provider.
In advance of Elephant Ed’s workshops with Waverley College students, this webinar will include discussion around the physical, social and emotional changes associated with puberty, as well as strategies for starting open and effective conversations at home.
You are required to register in advance for this webinar:
After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the webinar.
Packaging a healthy and tasty lunch each day can become challenging. The Cancer Council Healthy Lunchbox website is a great resource that will hopefully give you some great ideas and inspiration.
Click here to view the Healthy Lunch Box website
Click here to view a 3-minute video on How to Pack a Healthy Lunch Box
On average, children eat two to three snacks every day, so it’s important to make them as healthy as possible. Here’s a guide to snacks that will power their brains and fuel their muscles throughout the day.
If you have not already signed up, you can sign up to receive our FREE Nutrition Snippets (five snippets every five weeks of the school term).
How to pack a health lunch box nutrition snippet
We have a number of school buses that leave from the Senior School each afternoon and in the mornings from our local areas. If you would like your son to catch these buses and are unsure of which one, please click the button below.
How to plan your school bus trip
The company that runs these buses is called ‘Transdev.’ They have provided instructions for you to easily plan a bus trip.
In the case your son misplaces their bag or another item please see the contacts below:
As of next week, classroom teachers will allow time for students to eat in the morning to ensure they are set up for a productive learning day. We understand that due to sports training in the mornings and full schedules, that some students miss breakfast. If your son would benefit from this, please pack extra healthy food for him. Some examples include: a sandwich, fruit, cereal or a breakfast bar.
Ms Gaby Bransby
Director of Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
On Wednesday, 15 March, both 5 Gold and 6 Gold will attend Mass at Mary Immaculate Church beginning at 9:15am. Parents/carers are warmly invited to attend.
Enrolments for the Sacrament of Confirmation at OLR Kensington will close on Thursday, 23 February. If your son is in Year 6 and previously attended OLR Primary, you are encouraged to enrol before this date to avoid missing out.
Click here for further information
Mr Steve Ghattas
Assistant Director of Junior School/Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The big week of Co-Curricular sport continues with Round 1 commencing from tomorrow (Saturday, 11 February). Having had such a big few weeks of sporting events and the commencement of co-curricular training, students are extremely excited about getting the Summer season underway.
Please ensure your refer to the Waverley College app announcements each week, as I will continue to send out the weekly Sports Fixtures for each round. Families can also locate all relevant Junior School Co-Curricular information through the College website below.
Click here to view Junior School Co-curricular Information
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-Curricular
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
We offer all students in Year 5 and Year 6 the opportunity to receive free additional support after school for the completion of home learning tasks. The afternoon sessions also provide a quiet, supervised study space for students who want to complete their assigned tasks.
Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3pm until 4pm – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays – during school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting and the club will be closed.
Click here to register your son
Only register his name once, to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.
Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave, a parent’s signature will be required.
As it is important to respect the rights of others to learn and work. All students are expected to settle to work in the Learning Hub and not cause a disturbance for others.
If you require any further information, feel free to email us.
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
If afternoon training sessions are cancelled, unfortunately, you cannot send your son to Home Learning as an alternative plan, as students are registered for the afternoon sessions in advance and the capacity is always reached.
Try to avoid messaging your son during this period, unless it is urgent.
The Waverley Reading Challenge will begin in Week 3. This Challenge implements important strategies to assist your son to engage in reading in a positive manner.
The boys are challenged to read different genres, read nonfiction, listen to audiobooks, give recommendations to their friends and develop a love of reading.
Giving boys choices, also plays an important role in them developing a love of reading, as does making sure they have access to the books they would like to read, providing a welcoming, flexible and comfortable space, and lastly, time to read.
The Learning Hub is continually working to support young readers in the Junior School.
Developing a love of reading in boys can be challenging for some. Children’s attention spans can become short due to the constant allure of technology, especially as they get closer to adolescence. As a result, it’s crucial to instil good reading habits in children, early on. A Junior School reader will be highlighted each week. The purpose of these weekly spotlights is to recognise kids who like reading, and encourage reluctant readers to find the same love of reading.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A big welcome to 2023 and a very warm welcome to our new families who have joined Waverley this year. We have already had such a busy start to the year!
It was so lovely welcoming our new Year 5 students and parents/carers this week. It is such a special day for the students, who looked smart in their new uniforms and keen to start their journey at Waverley College.
This week, the boys were involved in Sports Trials for the upcoming summer season. This is always a highlight of the year for the boys, as they meet new friends and enjoy being active.
Our ‘Meet and Greet’ interviews were a huge success this week, and I hope you all enjoyed meeting your son’s new teacher. We hope this gave you a chance to discuss any concerns, as well as being able to set goals for the year. Please keep open communication with your son’s teachers as we progress through the year.
We welcome three new classroom teachers to the Junior School this year. Mr Oliver Knight, Ms Elise Hunt and Mr Luke Burns. We welcome Mr Max Mancinelli who is our specialist Science teacher, and Ms Samara Sanchez who is our new receptionist. We also welcome back Mr Kendall Robinson from his year’s leave.
This year, we have made the decision to move Spanish to an after-school program. We have made this decision for a variety of reasons and apologise to those families who are unable to attend the sessions on offer. We are currently still recruiting for the position, and look to commence the program at the end of the month.
The Spanish program will be the same program that was taught at Waverley throughout 2022. We believe it will provide a richer learning experience for those students who are motivated and keen to learn a language. We are currently looking at holding two sessions per week.
Over the holidays, we converted the old canteen space into a state-of-the-art Science Laboratory. This is a new specialist area, which will focus on providing a rich learning experience for our students in the area of Working Scientifically. This is an important skill that will provide greater understanding of, and engagement in, the Science and Technology curriculum.
Working Scientifically challenges students to imagine and pose questions, develop processes that can be used to solve problems and, explain observations and phenomena. These scientific processes are informed by the unexpected. An unexpected result, or no observable change, does not necessarily indicate that an investigation was unsuccessful, but rather can be used to direct further questioning and scientific investigation. Having this skill set will set students up for the future, and provide wonderful opportunities in latter years of their education.
We are very excited to have our specialist Science teacher Mr Max Mancinelli run this program, alongside our specialist Science teachers from the Senior School. We are hoping the laboratory will be completed by Week 3.
Please see below the new contact details for reporting your son’s absence. If it is for a long period of time, please contact me for approval by emailing ssanchez@waverley.nsw.edu.au
1st contact: Waverley College App
2nd contact: Ms Danielle Brown | attendance@waverley.nsw.edu.au | absentee line: 02 9369 0632
Please have a discussion with your son about always having a Plan B for when plans change. This is very important for our students, especially around sport and co-curricular activities. At times, these activities will be cancelled due to wet weather and other unforeseen circumstances. Please put together a plan so your son knows exactly what to do when circumstances change.
For those new to Waverley, there is a drop off and pick up space in front of the school, but it is very limited. Most students have organised alternative spots to meet their parents/carers, spots that don’t cause chaos on Henrietta Street.
Please organise an appropriate pick up spot that works for you. Please also be mindful of the neighbouring houses. Show your special brand of Waverley respect by not blocking their driveways and not parking in ‘No Stopping’ areas.
Below are some reminders about upcoming events. For all of Term 1 events, please refer to the College calendar.
Ms Gaby Bransby
Director of the Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Throughout the year, you will receive notifications within the Parent Lounge and via email regarding Pastoral Care incidents.
These include:
Information and the reasons behind these notifications are given within the Parent Lounge, so it is important that you check details before contacting teachers.
Should you have any questions or concerns about any of these matters, please reach out to your son’s class teacher first, and then if you wish to discuss these matters further, please email me.
As part of our Catholic faith, the Junior School students will attend Mass at Mary Immaculate Church, with the regular parishioners throughout the year. These Masses begin at 9:15am and parents/carers are warmly invited. Dates of when your son’s class will be in attendance will be sent to you by your son’s class teacher in the coming weeks.
Additionally, each House will have a Mass throughout the year. This Mass is held in the College Chapel, beginning at 6pm and followed by a light supper. Once again, parents/carers are warmly invited to attend. Dates for these Masses are published in the College Diary, and information will be emailed to parents/carers and students from the Heads of House.
At the end of 2022, Noah Nunn (now in Year 6), spoke to the school about organising a charity drive to assist ‘Kids Giving Back.’ Through the support of the Waverley College Junior School community and Claremont College (his brother Riley attends there), 199 care packages were distributed to the disadvantaged people of Sydney who are living on the streets and doing it tough.
Well done, Noah, for showing empathy and compassion, and taking the initiative to support such a worthwhile cause.
Mr Steve Ghattas
Assistant Director of Junior School / Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Training begins from next Monday, 6 February. Please refer to the schedule to be prepared in advance.
Regarding the summer draw, please be aware that games can change from week to week, due to various uncontrollable reasons. This is why I send out a weekly fixture for each round in the first half of each week, beginning from Week 2.
Please refer to the weekly fixtures as the correct details for games.
A warm welcome to all new families and returning families in our Waverley community. We are so thrilled to have you join us at the Junior School, and I look forward to getting to know you more as the year progresses.
Below is the important Co-Curricular and PDHPE information shared at the information session on day one, for all new Year 5 families:
Judo with Ms CJ Tweedie
Brilliant House spirit at the Junior School House Swimming Carnival 2021
Highest-achieving swimmers, athletes and players of each sport are chosen to represent Waverley at IPSHA Carnivals and Sport Trials. If successful, they progress to trialing for NSW CIS representative teams (combined independent schools).
Students/families select two sport preferences for both summer and winter season – ensuring students are given the opportunity to play one of their chosen sports.
Undertaken before each season to help place students into teams fairly and equitably.
Summer (full day and half day) / Winter (three sessions – separate afternoons)
In 2023, midday Chess classes will be offered in the Learning Hub for Junior School students on Tuesdays 12:30-1:30pm starting from Tuesday, 7 February. These stimulating classes will again be operated by Sydney Academy of Chess, and deliver multiple educational benefits.
Chess helps to enhance memory, develop problem solving skills, encourage creative thinking and accelerate emotional development.
If your child is interested in taking part, you can collect an enrolment form from either the school office or email enrol@sydneyacademyofchess.com.au
For all enquiries, please contact Sydney Academy of Chess on (02) 9745 1170.
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
(NO HOME LEARNING Thursday, 9 February – Swimming Carnival)
We offer all students in Year 5 and Year 6 the opportunity to receive free additional support after school, for the completion of home learning tasks. The afternoon sessions also provide a quiet, supervised study space for students who want to complete their assigned tasks.
Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3pm until 4pm – Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays – during school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting, and then the club will be closed.
Click here to register your son
Only register his name once, to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.
Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave, a parent’s signature will be required.
As it is important to respect the rights of others to learn and work, all students are expected to settle to work in the Learning Hub and not cause a disturbance for others.
If you require any further information, feel free to email us:
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
An important note to remember: if afternoon training sessions are cancelled, unfortunately, you cannot send your son to Home Learning as an alternative plan, because students are registered for the afternoon sessions in advance, and the capacity is always reached.
Please try to avoid messaging your son during this period, unless it is urgent.
As we welcome a new group of students to Waverley in 2023, the Learning Hub aims to nurture and guide them in their social, creative and academic development.
This week, we saw the boys use this space in many different ways before school and during lunch.
Over the next few weeks, different initiatives will be on offer for the students to join.
As an educator, I believe it is vital for our boys to have a strong understanding of the advantages of reading. The boys were asked to use the thinking routine ‘Think, Pair, Share’ to answer the question ‘What are the advantages of reading?’
Reflecting on this question is an important part of their learning journey.
The boys’ reflections were exceptional. Here are some examples:
Next week, the boys will set personal reading goals for themselves. Goals are an important part of Waverley and of successful learning. These goals are specific to them, measurable, achievable, realistic and timely. I am looking forward to working with the boys and their reading journey.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
In Week 2, Junior School boys will be asked to fill out the 2023 Performing Arts Survey, as part of their Home Learning. This will give boys a chance to share information about their previous experiences in Performing Arts, and also allow them to express interest in being involved in co-curricular activities in the Junior School.
These activities include:
Ms Michelle Rollins
Music and Drama Teacher
mrollins@waverley.nsw.edu.au
What a year 2022 has been! It is hard to believe school has now finished and we are about to enter the Christmas break. I would like to thank Mr Stephen Ghattas for the beautiful celebration of graduation held at Mary Immaculate Church last Friday, for our Year 6 students. It was a wonderful celebration and we wish our Year 6 cohort all the best as they enter into their next learning journey – high school.
This week, we said our goodbyes to three staff members in our community – Ms Tanya Buttling (2 years), Ms Jenny Hoare (12 years) and Ms Audrey Coupe (37 years). There were plenty of tears and celebrations this week, and we wish them all the very best in whatever journey lies ahead for them.
I want to thank all parents and carers for your support through such an amazing year. The College and our students operate at their best when there is a strong connection between the College and the community. I am so proud of our students and their growth this year, and I can’t wait to see what next year brings.
Have a fantastic Christmas break, stay safe, enjoy the sun, and take care of one another. Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Ms Gaby Bransby
(Acting) Director of the Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
What a delight it was to take the Year 6 students to Raging Waters and share in their end of year celebration. We were blessed with a beautiful sunny day, and the boys were full of excitement as they boarded the buses.
Plenty of fun was had by all, as they raced around the park venturing down the many different waterslides, lazed around in the Dinosaur Lagoon, or swam in the beach wave pool.
Their behaviour throughout the day was exceptional, and I am sure they will hold onto some very special memories.
Mr Stephen Ghattas
Year 6 Indigo Classroom Teacher
(Acting) Assistant Director of Junior School/Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A massive congratulations to all students who received a Summer Co-Curricular award at the assembly at the beginning of the week. An uninterrupted Term 4 of sport truly made up for all the cancellations in Term 1.
It was a fantastic term of sport, and I commend all students for their dedication and participation in their chosen sport and selected team.
Summer Sport Award Winners – Water Polo
Summer Sport Award Winners – Years 5 and 6 Cricket
Summer Sport Award Winners – Touch Football
After the State Cup Oztag Tournament in Coffs Harbour early this year, based on skill and performance, Marcus Strbac was very lucky to be selected to represent the Under 12s Southern City Seahawks team. This representative team was made up of players from Cronulla, Sutherland, East Hills, Easts and Souths.
The one-day tournament was played in Shellharbour. The Under 12s boys played four games, all of which they won, and went into the Grand Final Undefeated. With teamwork, determination and amazing talent, the boys won the Grand Final 3-2, taking home the gold medal.
Marcus had an amazing experience, along with meeting a whole new bunch of friends! We congratulate him for his achievements.
Marcus Strbac – Southern City Seahawks
Hugo Bindner and Charles Carrano made the qualifying times to compete at the NSW Junior Metropolitan Swim Championships at Homebush.
Hugo had two top-10 finishes, and we’re very proud of the achievements of both students.
Charles Carrano and Hugo Bindner – NSW Junior Metropolitan Swim Championships Trials
Hugo Bindner – NSW Junior Metropolitan Swim Championships Trials
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Year 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The Waverley College Uniform Shop will operate with different trading hours during the December/January school holidays. It is open to all families.
* ‘Appointment Only’ time slots are available for 2023 new students/parents/carers. New parents/carers need to make an appointment for their son to be fitted for his uniform.
Please check the trading hours carefully, so that your son can be fitted before his first day of Term 1, 2023.
Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours
We look forward to assisting you with your uniform.
Waverley College Uniform Shop
Level 3 Centenary Building
Senior School Campus
(Enter via reception and take the lift to the 3rd Floor)
131 Birrell Street Waverley
(02) 9369 0709
waverley@noone.com.au
We are slowly rebuilding stock levels and are pleased to offer lots more items for sale.
Please email us to check size and stock availability clothingpool@waverley.nsw.
If your son has outgrown his uniform, please consider donating it to the Secondhand Clothing Pool. This provides someone else with the opportunity to purchase a secondhand uniform well below the new price, whilst at the same time, raising funds for the students at the College through the Parents’ Association.
The Secondhand Clothing Pool will gladly accept the donation of all clean and wearable current uniform items for resale.
There is a $30 ‘buy back scheme’ for the donation of Blazers and All Weather Jackets in excellent condition.
Email us for more information or visit us on Monday mornings or Wednesday afternoons during term.
Where Can Donations Be Left?
At the Senior School campus reception in the blue Secondhand Clothing Pool donation box. (If leaving Blazers and All Weather Jackets, please include name and phone number inside the bag, and we will contact you to arrange ‘buy-back.’)
Contact
For more information on stock availability or to make an appointment, please email the Secondhand Clothing Pool.
clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.
(02) 9369 0703 — please leave a voicemail, and one of our volunteers will get back to you.
Location
We are in the main building on Birrell Street. Enter via the Senior School campus reception, and take the lift to Level 3. The Secondhand Clothing Pool is next door to the Uniform Shop.
Opening Hours
Mondays, 8:20am-9:30am and Wednesdays, 2:30pm-3:30pm during Term.
Secondhand Clothing Pool donation box in Senior School Reception
Camille and Kirsten
Secondhand Clothing Pool Coordinators
clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.
Please find below key event dates you need to be aware of for the Junior School in Term 4. For all of the College events, please refer to the College calendar.
Semester 2 reports will be available at 5pm today. These will be accessible via the Parent Lounge in TASS. To access your son’s report, please click the Waverley College Parent Lounge button below.
Well done to 5 White and Ms Tweedie on a wonderful class assembly this week. It was lovely to see the last assembly of the year filled with enthusiasm, joy and Christmas spirit. The students shared their acting, writing and dancing skills and sent us off to class singing Christmas songs.
Marlow Moffit completed the Overland Track in Tasmania with his Dad (Andrew) and Uncle (Mark) last week.
In a rugged and wild country under some testing weather conditions (including sun, rain and snow!) Marlow pushed through 70 kilometres of ancient forests, steep mountain ranges, raging rivers and towering waterfalls with pure grit and determination.
It was an amazing experience, and we are incredibly proud of him and his effort. The beautiful photos capture their unique experience.
Ms Gabrielle Bransby
(Acting) Director of the Junior School
gbransby@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Last Friday, 18 November, both Ryan Loughrey (5 Orange) and Sebastian Karhan (5 Indigo), were invited to attend the Wentworth Youth Forum with the Federal Member of Wentworth, Ms Allegra Spender.
They were joined by other student leaders from schools within the local area, to share what they see are the greatest concerns of young people in Wentworth. They were also given an insight into what it is like being a Federal representative.
Both boys represented the College with pride, and I look forward to attending future forums with them in 2023.
With Ms Allegra Spender MP, Member for Wentworth
Climate Summit – Climate Summit: Powering Wentworth to Net Zero – a Message from Ms Allegra Spender MP, Federal Member for Wentworth
“The Wentworth Community has called for strong climate action, but what does it mean to reduce emissions to Net Zero and how long will this take? On Sunday, 27 November, Federal MP Allegra Spender is convening Wentworth’s first ever Climate Summit: Powering Wentworth to Net Zero in collaboration with local State MPs, Councils and the Smart Energy Council. Register here to learn about the wide range of local initiatives currently underway from local councils, businesses, innovators and community groups.”
Mr Stephen Ghattas
Assistant Director of Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Well done to all Summer Co-Curricular teams for finishing the uninterrupted season on such a high. I’d like to thank all coaches, students and parents/carers for their continued commitment throughout the year to all levels of Co-Curricular.
Zero interruptions allowed our students to enjoy a full calendar year of sport and extra co-curricular activities, which is undoubtedly important for their physical, mental and emotional wellbeing.
I wish all current Year 6 students the best of luck in Senior School in 2023, and I look forward to welcoming back our current Year 5 students as Junior leaders of our College.
Enjoy the restful break, stay active, and I wish all families a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.
Please enjoy some team photos from the final round of Summer Co-Curricular sport last weekend.
Basketball D
Basketball G
Tennis A
Touch Football Gold B
Water Polo A
Cricket 5A
Cricket 5A and 5B
Cricket 6A
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
There will be NO Home Learning in Week 8.
As the College year comes to an end, I would like to acknowledge all the students who immersed themselves in the many activities the Learning Hub offered.
The Learning Hub aims to inspire, engage and empower students through critical and creative activities, plus allow students to retreat, explore and collaborate with others, whether that be before school, Learning Hub sessions, or during lunch.
All these activities and more will be on offer in 2023.
I hope you enjoyed viewing all the vibrant Learning Hub photos at the top of the screen.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A big thank you to all the boys who performed at the Junior School Music Festival on Thursday night. I am very proud of you. The boys also got an opportunity to perform some of the items from the Music Festival to the whole Junior School on Thursday afternoon.
I know they felt like stars, thanks to the very positive response they got from their peers from the Junior School.
Keep an eye out for our Junior School singers again, when they join the Senior School choir in a performance for the Presentation Day celebrations.
It’s not too late! If you have enjoyed watching and listening to some of the performing groups from the Junior School, all groups will be be running again in 2023. Please see Ms Rollins if you are interested.
So, as you can see, there is something for everyone.
If you have any questions at all regarding any of the music activities in our College, please email:
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Junior School Music Festival
Ms Michelle Rollins
Music and Drama Teacher
mrollins@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Please find below key event dates you need to be aware of for the Junior School in Term 4. For all of the College events, please refer to the College calendar.
Ms Gabby Smith
Director of the Junior School
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A final reminder about our Year 6 Graduation next Friday. Looking forward to seeing you all there to celebrate this special occasion for your son.
The Junior School is supporting the following two charities in the period leading up to Christmas. The Matthew Talbot Hostel, specialising in supporting the homeless men of Sydney and Kids Giving Back, supporting victims of both domestic violence and homelessness.
Toiletries (preferably small travel size items), underwear, socks, chocolates, notepads, pens.
Wet wipes, lip balms, roll-on Sunscreen, bandaids, emery boards, pocket tissues, hand sanitiser – small bottles, travel-size shampoos and conditioners, men’s combs.
Donations for both of these charities can be handed in to Ms Coupe at the Junior School front office. We will be collecting donations up until Friday Week 7 (25 November). Your generosity and support is very much appreciated.
Mr Stephen Ghattas
Assistant Director of Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
It is the final summer sport round for 2022. I wish all teams the best of luck for their Round 12 fixtures tomorrow morning. Thank you to all coaches, students and parents/carers for their commitment to the entire year of Co-Curricular sport.
Good luck to all students moving onto the Senior School in 2023, and I look forward to seeing the current Year 5 students competing next year as Year 6s.
Please click the button below to ensure you are up to date with fixtures and venue maps for Round 12 (Saturday, 19 November), and keep a close eye on the Waverley College app for any further adjustments due to weather conditions or ground closures.
On Tuesday, 15 November we had the privilege of welcoming two highly-accomplished Table Tennis professionals, and also our Senior School coaches Paul Sheehan and Peter Masen. They were here to run an exhibition to promote Table Tennis in the Junior School, as it will become an extra Co-Curricular in 2023.
Table Tennis is a religion at the Junior School already, with a number of groups across Years 5 and 6 competing each and every school day during recess and lunches. The exhibition was an opportunity to showcase our best junior players against professional coaches.
It was a spectacle with students mesmerised by their skills and abilities with the small wooden paddles. It has created a much-deserved buzz that will remain in 2023 when sessions get started.
‘Sign up’ information for your son will be communicated to you at the beginning of the 2023 College year.
Summer holidays are fast approaching, and I know it is a large break, which does give plenty of time for students to work on their skills across all sports. In the final weeks, I will be recommending holiday sport camps for Junior students.
The College is releasing some sport camp options, exclusively for Waverley College students, so please keep your eye out for those via app announcements over the coming weeks.
The Team at Pro Performance Cricket are excited to announce their upcoming Holiday Cricket Camps. They are offering an additional Youth aged (Ages 5-12) / Representative Level Camp for players aged 12 and over.
>>> Click here to book Pro Performance East Sydney Holiday Cricket Camps.
>>> Click here to book Pro Performance Pro Youth Aged Cricket Camps Ages 12+
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Click here to register your son
If your son is unable to attend, please email the College at nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au or call Reception.
*There will be no Home Learning Club in Week 8.
Byron and Cormac did Waverley proud on Friday, 11 November. These boys represented Waverley at the IPSHA Speakers’ Challenge, competing against 80 students from a variety of schools in NSW.
Both boys showed strong speaking skills, and their matter, manner and method were exceptional. I’m extremely proud of the growth both boys made since Round 1, the Junior School finals, and now the challenge.
Congratulations, Byron Thomas and Cormac Maher
The holidays are fast approaching, and the current Year 5 students will have the opportunity to borrow books from the Learning Hub for the Christmas holidays. This initiative aims to encourage boys to read more and spend less time on their screens.
Happy Reading!
This week, the Drawing Club artists brought in their birthday gifts, which happen to be art resources.
I adore the enthusiasm the students have for the Art and Drawing Club. I believe that creativity – being able to use your imagination or original ideas to create something – is a tough skill to master. These students do it seamlessly.
I’m looking forward to our last Drawing Club session in Week 7, and I’m already planning our sessions for 2023.
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
As we approach the final weeks of the College year, it is a wonderful time to reflect on all of the exciting learning experiences and fun-filled days the students in 5 Red have thoroughly enjoyed.
Each boy steps into the classroom with a vital role to play in the success of each day, with unique perspectives, personalities, skills and talents all on display. It is extra special to witness some lifelong friendship brewing, with daily acts of kindness, compassion and respect.
Here is a snapshot into some of the events and learning experiences occurring this Term and during the year.
Commemorating Remembrance Day in a moving ceremony held on the Senior College Campus, the boys also learnt about the history of Armistice Day and paid their respects in more ways than one.
Our Art lesson was inspired by Remembrance Day, with ‘Diggers at Sunrise.’
Our Geography unit in Term 4, explores the features of places and spaces within Australia. The names of some suburbs are spelt using images of natural and synthetic features of each of their respective suburbs.
We also explored features of Australia in 2022, and compared changes over time to both synthetic and natural features. This included a field trip to the Senior School and streets of Waverley, to compare changes from Then to Now.
As part of our Earth and Space unit in Science, we explored galaxies and planets in outer space, and looked closely at our solar system. Using play-doh, the boys replicated their own solar systems, by constructing each planet based on its features and characteristics.
We also used the Visual Arts learning space to experiment and learn about outer space.
Did you know that 5 Red is also home to its very own galaxy of Dwarf Planets? There are 28 tiny Dwarf Planets, one of which resembles the sun, with scientists still in awe of the new additions to the universe.
Legend has it, that there was once a 29th planet that existed in the 5 Red universe, but is now no more… some say the planet never actually existed in the first place and was just a myth.
Others say the planet couldn’t survive because it was made out of 30kg of play-doh, and subsequently, too heavy and dangerous to display in the classroom… one thing for certain, is that the atmosphere in 5 Red is phenomenal!
In Term 3, the entire Year 5 partook in Activism Day, where they endeavoured to make a difference to our local community and surroundings. Our English unit was Stand Up and Be Counted, and the boys acted on their persuasive writing skills to construct posters and speeches to make a difference in the world.
Activism Day involved heading to Tamarama Beach, Waverley Park and Queens Park to clean up the environment, as well as representatives chosen from each class to deliver their speech in front of the entire Year, Ms Gabby Smith, and a very special guest judge.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my exceptional 5 Red Class for all of their hard work, and for all the knowledge and joy shared throughout the year. As a collective, we have shared many laughs, stories and perspectives.
We’ve shed blood, sweat and tears inside and outside of the classroom walls, and I feel truly grateful to have been the teacher of a group of fine young gentlemen.
As the boys complete their first year at Waverley College, we reflect on the many positive experiences that have occurred in what has been an exciting and eventful year. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing friendships flourish across the entire cohort, from the classroom learning environment to all the fields, courts and swimming pools.
To the Learning Hub, auditorium or playground, it has been a pleasure to be a part of such a vibrant and exciting community. I am very much looking forward to what the future brings.
We set the bar high in 5 Red, with a set of values and standards to aspire to. We have goals for where we would like to be, and the men we would like to become. I am excited for each of them for what their bright future brings, and will be sure to follow their journey through Waverley.
Thank you to all the lovely parents and carers of 5 Red. Your ongoing support is greatly appreciated, and all of your kindness, care and generosity means a great deal to me.
Thank you as well to all of the staff at the College, who too are responsible for the successful year we have had.
Wishing the entire Waverley Community a happy, healthy and successful end of year and ‘Seasons Greetings’ over the upcoming holidays.
Mr Alon Horry and 5 Red
Classroom Teacher 5 Red
ahorry@waverley.nsw.edu.au
The Art Gallery of New South Wales invites budding artists between the ages of 5 and 18 to submit a portrait for the Young Archie portrait competition.
The portrait must be of a person who is special to you – someone who is known to you, and who knows you, and plays a significant role in your life.
There are four age categories:
If you wish to enter the portrait prize, please collect a drawing pack from the Visual Arts staffroom. You may have begun your portrait over the Summer holidays!
The College will submit your work on your behalf. Please return your works no later than Monday, 20 February 2023 to the Visual Arts staffroom, with your name, age category and House attached to the back of your drawing sleeve.
Ensure you follow the entry guidelines and criteria set out by the Art Gallery of NSW when creating your portrait.
To celebrate the end of primary school for our boys, the Year 6 Parent representatives have organised a catch-up at Coogee Beach on Friday, 25 November from 3pm at Goldstein Reserve in Arden Street, Coogee.
Whilst not a College event, Ms Gabby Smith and College representatives will be in attendance, and cake will be served!
Parents/carers, please bring a plate to share with other parents/carers.
There is a $17 cover charge for pizza, a drink, and snacks. Please clearly indicate your son’s name in the booking.
In the event of inclement weather, the event will be cancelled and cover charge returned, otherwise the charge is non-refundable.
Payment by close of business, Monday 21 November at the latest, would be appreciated. The earlier, the better, as it will assist immensely with logistics.
Please also contact Anne at frozzie69@gmail.com if you are able to assist prior and on the day.
Daniella and I look forward to celebrating this momentous occasion with you all.
Anne Clerc-Johnson
frozzie69@gmail.com
Please find below key event dates you need to be aware of for the Junior School in Term 4. For all of the College events, please refer to the College calendar.
We look forward to the Junior School Music Festival next Thursday evening. The event will showcase the Year 5 and Year 6 students’ abundant talent in creative arts.
The event will take place in the Performing Arts Centre Theatre located at the Senior School campus. Commencing at 6pm. Parents/Carers and friends are welcome to attend.
The event is unticketed.
*Our Music Supporters’ Group have organised a supper service and will be selling pizza and drinks from 5:15pm in the PAC Foyer. EFTPOS available.
Click here for more information
The Junior School was buzzing on Tuesday, as we welcomed our 2023 Year 5 students. They had a great time participating in drama, STEM and PDHPE activities. The ice blocks were a real treat too!
Ms Gabrielle Smith
Director of Junior School
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
A final reminder to please send through your son’s Kindergarten photo (or their first day of Kindergarten, or similar), as this will form part of the slideshow presentation at the Year 6 Graduation.
Please send a labelled photo through to liturgy@waverley.nsw.edu.au by no later than Friday Week 5. Picture format as a jpeg or png files would be preferred. Please do not send through pdf files.
In last week’s edition of Nurrunga, we highlighted two charities that the Junior School would like to support in the period leading up to Christmas: the Matthew Talbot Hostel, specialising in supporting the homeless men of Sydney, and Kids Giving Back, supporting victims of both domestic violence and homelessness.
Toiletries (preferably small travel size items), underwear, socks, chocolates, notepads, pens.
Wet wipes, lip balms, roll-on sunscreen, bandaids, emery boards, pocket tissues, hand sanitiser (small bottles), travel-size shampoos and conditioners, mens’ combs.
Donations for both of these charities can be handed in to Mrs Coupe at the Junior School front office. We will be collecting donations up until Friday Week 7 (25 November).
Your generosity and support is very much appreciated
Mr Steve Ghattas
Assistant Director of Identity & Student Formation
sghattas@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Only two more rounds of summer sport for 2022! I wish all teams the best of luck for their Round 11 fixtures tomorrow morning.
I ask for students to please give their full participation to training and Saturday games, in this final week of sport. There have been consistent unexplained absences lately, which does make it difficult for coaches to manage their teams.
Please click the button below to ensure you are up to date with fixtures and venue maps for Round 11 (Saturday, 12 November), and keep a close eye on the Waverley College app for any further adjustments due to weather conditions or ground closures.
Below is information about upcoming EPC (Every Point Counts) Tennis Events. Tennis is currently the only Saturday sport played within IPSHA for which we do not have modified formats to facilitate inter-school sport for students of all abilities.
The EPC format addresses the current deficiencies in IPSHA Tennis.
It would be very encouraging to have some Waverley Junior School students at these Sunday events, to further develop their tennis skills heading into 2023.
EPC Tennis at Queenwood 13 November
EPC Tennis at Barker 4 December
Congratulations to Eamon and Bartram Esperanca, who won first place in all styles last Friday night at DRLC Maroubra Swimming Carnival. What an outstanding achievement for them both.
Congratulations, Eamon and Bartram Esperanca
Mr Jack Wachtel
Assistant Director of Co-curricular (Years 5-8)
jwachtel@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Click here to register your son
If your son is unable to attend, please email the College at nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au or call Reception.
Our guest speaker last week, Matt Galanos, wears two hats – Chief Financial Officer at the Australian Turf Club, and author.
Matt gave up his time to come in and inspire the Waverley boys to follow their passion for writing. He is currently writing a series of fantasy books, the fourth coming out in early 2023.
This inspirational lunchtime talk driven by many student questions, was exciting. Not only did it encourage writing, but also reading. Two very valuable life skills students need for the future.
A huge thank you to Matt for giving up his time to inspire the next generation of writers.
If you would like to volunteer to give a lunchtime talk in 2023, please email me directly at nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Guest speaker, Matt Galanos
As we come to the end of a productive year of Drawing Club, I allowed the students to work on their mini drawings for the final sessions. Observing the students think critically about their drawings and watching them work creatively, is a highlight for me.
I have watched the boys make new friends, and discuss and appreciate each other’s drawings.
There are only two sessions left in 2022, and I look forward to seeing what they produce.
Fred Cross
Yianni Lambropoulos
Tom Brown
James Ganson (Year 5) has a passion for reading and writing. James was inspired to write and illustrate his own book, Imagineers Guide Book to Creatures, after reading one of his favourite books, Flanimals by Ricky Gervais, Rob Steen (Illustrator).
His book is now printed and in the Learning Hub for all to read. Well done James!
Student author, James Ganson
Ms Natasha Zivanovic
Literacy & Innovation Teacher
nzivanovic@waverley.nsw.edu.au
As we approach the final weeks of the College year, it is wonderful to reflect on the exciting learning experiences and fun-filled days the students in 5 Gold have thoroughly enjoyed. Watching their dynamic personalities, different learning styles, creative and exceptional talents, and daily acts of kindness, made this year one I will always cherish.
Here is a snapshot of the happy days in 5 Gold.
At the end of Term 3, Ms Rollins prepared our class for their entertaining and dramatic performance of the play, Vulga the Vampire. Each student was given the opportunity to be an actor or to take on the role of lighting, sound, stage effects, backstage or narrator.
Their performance was brilliant, showcasing their passion, humour and exceptional acting skills. Oscar Litchfield stole the show, as Vulga the Vampire.
In Health this term, we have been exploring the unit, Healthy Communities, which investigates the Australian Dietary Guidelines for healthy eating. The students learn the importance of eating a nutritious diet for growth and development, and preventing lifestyle diseases.
Their study of carbohydrates, proteins, vitamins, minerals and fats allowed them to break their food plate into different groups, to demonstrate their understanding of the types and amounts of nutritious food and drinks to meet their energy needs.
By creating a food plate of their choice, they presented a wide variety of healthy foods from the Five Food Groups.
Brynn Speirings
Harvey Smith
James Ganson
Earth and Space have been the focus in Science, where students have developed their understanding of the Earth and its position in the Solar system. This term, students are investigating the changes that occur on the Earth’s surface, caused by extreme weather events. Their presentations in class will include ways in which scientists can predict severe weather, and design solutions to help those affected by natural disasters.
Earth and Space
Drought
Floods
Volcanoes
This week, the students have focused on the important tradition of Remembrance Day. They have learnt that Remembrance Day allows people to remember those who fought and lost their lives during all wars, and honour their memory.
During World War One, there were around 20 million deaths and 21 million wounded in both the armed forces and civilian communities. In class, they have learnt how we commemorate Remembrance Day by wearing poppies, attending ceremonies, and listening to stories to ensure we never forget the past.
Lachlan Wright
Remembrance Day Poem
I would like to take this opportunity to thank my beautiful 5 Gold Class for their hard work, positive attitude, school spirit and kindness throughout the year. I feel truly blessed to have been part of the Waverley College Community for the last 12 years.
5 Gold, 2022, has made my final year very special, happy, and memorable. I am very sad to say goodbye.
Watching the boys experience their first year at Waverley College has been a privilege. I have thoroughly enjoyed seeing their friendships flourish and sharing their achievements and disappointments. I know they have set their goals high for their future years. I am excited for each of them and will be sure to follow their journey through Waverley.
Most importantly, I would like to thank the beautiful parents and carers of 5 Gold. Words cannot describe how grateful and overwhelmed I am by the kindness, care, thoughtfulness, and generosity they have constantly shown me throughout the year.
It makes me appreciate how much I love being a teacher. I am truly grateful for my incredibly happy years at Waverley College, where I have come to know so many wonderful families. Thank you with all my heart.
Ms Jenny Hoare
Birthdays in 5 Gold
5 Gold 2022