Principal & Leadership Archives

Today we celebrated the 115th May Procession with our Waverley community here on campus, on a Friday morning.

The event was graced by special guests, including Fr Bernie Thomas ofm, Parish Priest of Mary Immaculate Church Waverley, and Francis Sullivan AO who is a respected educator, administrator, and leader in the health care and public service sectors.

He served as Chief Executive Officer of Catholic Health Australia from 1993 to 2007, followed by his role as Secretary-General of the Australian Medical Association from 2008 to 2011.

From 2012 to 2018, he was appointed CEO of the Catholic Church’s Truth, Justice and Healing Council, leading the Church’s response to the findings of the Royal Commission into Institutional Responses to Child Sexual Abuse.

In recognition of his service to the community, Francis Sullivan was appointed an Officer of the Order of Australia (AO) in 2020.

Mr Sullivan brought with him a powerful message for our students – a call to carry their values into the world beyond school.

He urged students to be active in the pursuit of justice: “Show up, speak up, and get serious about becoming political.”

He also encouraged students to reflect deeply and ask themselves important questions: “Why are we still silent in our community? Why do we not want to get uncomfortable? Why have we not got the courage to speak truth to power?”

His message was a thoughtful reminder that meaningful change begins with each of us.

“The responsibility is yours. It’s not someone else’s,” he said. “The key is building momentum and a movement for change.”

We were very honored to have him speak at the May Procession, and his words reminded us that tradition and action must go hand in hand.

During the procession, the Banners were carried, followed by the Marian Statue, into the Gym.

The honor of carrying the Marian Statue was bestowed upon members of the Year 12 class of 2024, known as the ‘new Old Boys.’

The dedication of the Rosary was led by representatives from various groups within the inclusive community, including Old Boys, the teaching community, and the Parents’ Association.

It’s wonderful to see different languages being included, such as Italian, Spanish, and Gaelic, further emphasising the diverse and inclusive nature of the event.

A lot of time and effort goes into the staging of the May Procession, and I would like to thank all the staff who contributed in making the May Procession such a wonderful occasion.

Lastly, a heartfelt thank you goes out to all the students, parents, carers and Old Boys who attended the event.

Your presence and active participation made the May Procession a truly memorable occasion.

Congratulations to Our Rostrum Semi-Finalists

Congratulations to Dante Fearn (Y11) and James Peate (Y12) for making it to the Rostrum semi-finals! James won and is off to the next round, and Dante gave a fantastic performance too.

We were the only school with two students in the semi-finals. A special thank you and congratulations also go to Ms Maisie Gordon, Ms Allison Fullman and Ms Alice Curtis for their invaluable support and contribution

Sydney Writers’ Festival

On Wednesday, a number of Y11 Advanced English students made the journey to Carriageworks to attend the annual student day at the Sydney Writers Festival.

This is an incredible opportunity to listen to some of the most well-known, intelligent writers share their wisdom about the art of reading and writing. Well done to our students who embraced all that the day had to offer.

Session 1: The Craft of Poetry with Lemn Sissay

The first talk of our SWF Experience was from Afro-English autobiographical poet Lemn Sissay. Sissay’s poems speak to his wealth of life experience, exploring themes of identity, belonging, and emotion.

Sissay is a dynamic performer, and his eccentric personality bountifully engaged the inner poets in all of us. His ability to thrill yet captivate his listeners, jumping from comedic action to beautiful lyricism, paired with unique creative advice lit a poetic spark in myself—and the entire audience.

Session 2: Spotlight on Shakespeare’s Women with Harriet Walter

In the second talk of the Sydney Writers festival, we were introduced to Dame Harriet Walter. She is an English actor famous for her Shakespearean acting and roles in Ted Lasso and Succession and the author of She Speaks! What Shakespeare’s Women Might Have Said.

Walter captivated the audience of students with her beautiful and sophisticated readings of soliloquies, written by her own hand, from Shakespeare’s women.

In doing so, she gave a voice to the female characters that are not adequately heard–an experience she observed playing many of these roles.

To me, her most profound words were on the effects her subconscious has had on her writing process. Walter mentioned how a thing she observes, such as a painting, subtly weaves its way into her writing.

My most valuable takeaway of the festival was, that, to write and create better, we ought to elevate our inputs for better outputs.

Ultimately, Dame Harriet Walter left us all with a greater understanding and deeper appreciation of the women in Shakespeare as well as practical advice for enhancing our writing.

Session 3: The Craft of Short Fiction

At the Sydney Writers Festival last Wednesday, I had the opportunity to hear from acclaimed short fiction writers Melanie Cheng and Debrah Adelaide. Both authors had their own unique backstories and approaches to writing.

Melanie Cheng, a practising GP, shared how she only discovered writing later in life, after finishing her university degree in medicine. Melanie had to balance writing as a hobby with her career in medicine.

She achieved her first major prize, which helped launch her professional career, after ten years of part-time writing.

Debrah Adelaide described how she spent all of her childhood reading, but confessed she never thought she was bright enough to be a writer. It was only after the disappointment of a post-doctoral fellowship rejection that she turned to creative writing, drawing inspiration from her time managing a country hotel.

Both writers emphasised the importance of reading, writing from your personal experiences, editing, and always revisiting your work to make sure every word serves the story.

As Melanie said, “If writing a short story is like a party, you arrive late and leave early.”

Overall, the day was a fantastic experience that provided some great advice and left us all more motivated to read and write for ourselves.

Indigenous Round – Saturday, 31 May

Join us next Saturday (31 May) for our annual Indigenous round of sport against Cranbrook School.

Ahead of each 1ST fixture we will be holding an acknowledgement of Country. Ahead of the 1ST XV Rugby game we will be holding our Indigenous Opening Ceremony from 3pm, consisting of a traditional smoking ceremony & welcome to country.

‘Kids Giving Back’ – Not For Profit Organisation

We are very proud of the following students who elected to spend part of their Easter holidays volunteering to help provide over 5,000 meals, snack packs, care packages and wrote heartfelt messages to support 15 charities across Sydney.

Their kindness rippled through 15 partner charities and, just as importantly, through our team and the community they supported.

If you would also like your son/s to experience meaningful opportunities to give back to disadvantaged people in our community, consider the Kids Giving Back Community Programs www.kidsgivingback.org. July School Holiday programs bookings open in June and fill quickly.

FREE Parent Screening – SEEN The Film

Join us on Thursday, 29 May at the Br. R.J. Wallace Performing Arts Centre for an inspiring evening exploring how our own stories shape the way we parent.

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parents and reflect on the shared journey of raising children.

Manchester City Football School Holiday Clinics with Waverley College, July 2025

Manchester City coaching clinics will give girls and boys the opportunity to develop their skills and learn how to play ‘beautiful football’ in the playing style of Manchester City, utilising the football club’s coaching and playing methodology.

Players of all abilities will be challenged to develop in a safe, fun and authentic environment that reflects how Manchester City train and develop football players.

Players will learn how to master the ball, play with style, dominate the game and achieve their goals.

Tuesday 1 & Wednesday 2 July 2025 (2 days)
Years 7 and 8, boys only.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Thursday 3 & Friday 4 July 2025 (2 days)
Years 5 and 6, boys and girls.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Monday 7 & Thursday 8 July (2 days)
Years 3 and 4, boys and girls.
CLICK HERE TO BOOK

Legends Coaching Week

This week, our school proudly hosted the annual Legends Coaching Week, a highlight of our sporting calendar that celebrates the strength of our Old Boy, Parents and local community network.

Through this initiative, students had the unique opportunity to train alongside experienced and professional players and coaches, gaining invaluable insights into the world of elite sport.

These sessions provided tailored feedback on both individual and team skills, helping students sharpen their abilities while also learning about the dedication, discipline, and mindset required to succeed as a professional athlete.

Beyond the technical knowledge, the week fostered a deeper connection between our current students and the broader school community.

We were privileged to welcome an exceptional group of legends this year, including Brad Burke (Wallaby and Old Boy), Shaun Berne (Professional Rugby Union Player and Coach, current Randwick 1st Grade Coach), Morgan Turinui (Wallaby and Old Boy), Owen Finegan (Wallaby and Old Boy), Henry Patterson (Australian Men’s Rugby 7s captain and Old Boy), Jonas Dowling (Professional Rugby Player and Old Boy), and Joel Ellis (Current 1st Grade Randwick Captain and Old Boy).

Their willingness to share their time, expertise, and experiences made a lasting impact on our students and staff alike.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to all the Old Boys, parents and community members who contributed to the success of this week.

Their ongoing involvement enriches our programs and reinforces the enduring bonds that make our school community so special. We look forward to continuing to build on these relationships in the years to come.

Congratulations to our swimmers!

I’m thrilled to share the outstanding achievements of our students at the recent All Schools Swimming Championships.

Ollie Moclair made history by winning the 17 years and over 50m freestyle event, shattering the Championship record by a mere 0.01 seconds.

Notably, Ollie’s win follows a four-year gap since a Waverley student took individual gold, with Stuart Swinburn last achieving this in 2019.

In another remarkable performance, the 4x50m freestyle relay team consisting of Zoltan Szabo, Lincoln Tanner, Nick Hoering, and Ollie Moclair secured second place while setting a new College record.

Congratulations to these talented students on their exceptional teamwork and dedication!

Free Parent Webinars – Teen Mental Health Matters

The Black Dog Institute offers free 60-minute online webinars for parents entitled “Teen Mental Health Matters”. The webinar is delivered by a Clinical Psychologist facilitator, and Black Dog Institute lived experience presenter.

It explores how parents can support adolescents through tough times. The findings from the Future Proofing Study inform these presentations.

Parent/carer strategies specifically for supporting teens to navigate their online world can be found in the attached guide. Link

Waverley College App

A friendly reminder that the Waverley app is our primary communication channel, so it’s essential to stay connected and informed through it.

To help streamline your experience and avoid unnecessary notifications, please ensure you’re only subscribed to the groups and tags that are relevant to you and your son.

We’re also aware of a bug that is automatically resubscribing some parents to all groups – our team is actively working with developers to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, you can click the PDF here for a simple step-by-step guide on how to manage your subscriptions. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Father/Son Dinner

We are looking forward to welcoming you all to the Waverley College Parents’ Association Father/Carer & Son dinner in just 2 weeks time! Below is some useful information about the night.

Please enter via Gate D and proceed through to the QEII Grandstand using the centre escalators up to Level 2.

On arrival, please make your way into the Ballroom where you will be met with a complimentary welcome drink.

Table plans will be set up at the two entrances however we ask that you please familiarise yourself with your table details ahead of the night. The table plan for the night is attached below.

Taxis, ride share services, and private vehicles can enter Royal Randwick Racecourse through either Gate 1 on Alison Road or via the Ascot Street entrance. Drop off is at Gate E. Parking attendants will be there to guide guests to the drop off point.

There is limited complimentary parking available in the Main Drive or Taxi Rank area, accessed via Gate 1 on Alison Road or Ascot Street. This parking is on a first come, first serve basis. Upon arrival, please follow the instructions given by parking attendants on where to park.

The multi-deck Ascot Street car park is available for paid parking. The car park is accessed via Ascot Street off Doncaster Road. The parking fee is a flat rate of $10 per day and is a cashless payment only.

Little Shop of Horrors

I had the pleasure of attending the school production of Little Shop of Horrors and was thoroughly impressed!

The performance was outstanding, showcasing the incredible talent of both the cast and crew. A huge congratulations to the students for their hard work and dedication.

The direction, set design, and costumes were all exceptional, and it was clear that a lot of effort went into making this production a success. A special thank you to the staff who supported and guided the students through every aspect of the show.

Ecology Week Blooms at Waverley College

Waverley College celebrated a truly successful Ecology Week! The enthusiasm and engagement from students and staff alike were fantastic, making it a memorable and impactful event focused on awareness and action for our land, sea, sky AND people.

Throughout the week, students had the opportunity to participate in a diverse range of activities, including our newly formed Students of the World Ecology Group (SOTWEG) Juniors, made up of Year 6 students.

A highlight of the week was undoubtedly the College assembly where we heard from SOTWEG Seniors and Juniors.

We also had Afonso Firmo who was our guest speaker who inspired us by telling us how we can all make a difference. One of the key messages was around the fact that failure can fuel your passion, so embrace it.

The success of Ecology Week would not have been possible without the incredible support of Ms Silvia Baylie, Ms Lynsey Porter, Mr Luke Burns, as well as our SOTWEG Seniors and Juniors. Their dedication and hard work ensured a meaningful and engaging experience for everyone involved.

Ecology Week at Waverley College has not only raised awareness about crucial environmental and social issues but has also empowered our students to become active agents of change.

The momentum generated this week will undoubtedly continue to foster a culture of ecology within our school community. We look forward to building on this success in the years to come!

Edmund Ignatius Rice Senior Essay and Speech Competition

During this week’s assembly, we presented the winners of our inaugural Edmund Ignatius Rice Senior Essay and Speech Competition.

This competition was championed and supported by 1970 College Captain, Dr David Curran.

The aim of the competition is to encourage and recognise academic excellence in both the written and spoken word.

It also provides students with an enriching opportunity to explore the EREA Touchstones in our contemporary world.

David has a love of language, oratory and the humanities and has dedicated his life to serving others in the medical profession and by teaching others at university.

The students from Year 11 and 12 who participated in the competition, submitted writing of the highest calibre in the essay round.

Of these entrants, three finalists were selected by the judging panel to transition their work into a speech to deliver in front of a judging panel and discerning audience.

I would like to thank the judges Ms Catherine Stewart (Head of Religious Education), Ms Martina Cooper (Director of Curriculum), Dr Michael Couani (Head of English) and Dr David Curran.

Congratulations to the following students for their outstanding contribution to the competition:

University of Sydney Academic Achievement Awards

Congratulations to Ben Cromer (Y10) for receiving the prestigious University of Sydney Academic Achievement Award at the recent College assembly.

This award recognises Ben’s dedication, hard work, and enthusiasm for his learning journey.

St John’s College, within the University of Sydney tour and dinner

This Monday a group of our Year 12 students experienced a tour and dinner at St John’s College at Sydney University.

Greeted by a group of friendly alumni faces (Jake Perks and Conor Andrews), our students had the opportunity to explore the facilities, community and have an inside glimpse of life at St John’s.

IDAHOBIT Day – 17 May

At this week’s College assembly, Year 11 student Adam Curran delivered a powerful and heartfelt message about the significance of IDAHOBIT Day – the International Day Against LGBTQIA+ Discrimination.

His words served as a timely reminder of the role we all play in building a kinder, more inclusive community. IDAHOBIT Day calls on us to stand up against homophobia, biphobia, and transphobia, not only through grand gestures, but in the everyday language we use and the choices we make.

At Waverley, we want every student to feel safe, seen, and proud to be themselves. Creating that kind of environment starts with each of us.

This day invites us to pause, reflect, and act. To consider how we speak to one another, how we show respect, and who we choose to include.

Because whether we realise it or not, we are all shaping the fabric of our community every single day.

We are not just individuals passing through, we are threads in something greater. At Waverley, we are a tapestry, rich in colour, texture, and story. Each of us brings something unique.

And when these threads are woven together with courage, kindness, and mutual respect, we create something strong, resilient, and beautiful.

But discrimination, whether it’s a joke, a slur, or even silence, weakens that fabric. It isolates, erodes trust, and unravels the very bonds that hold us together.

When one thread is pulled loose, the whole weave is at risk. That’s why IDAHOBIT Day matters.

When we stand up for one another’s dignity, we’re not just protecting individuals, we’re safeguarding the strength of our whole community.

So let’s be intentional with our threads. Let’s speak in ways that stitch people in, not push them out.

Let’s choose compassion, inclusion, and courage, and continue weaving a Waverley that’s strong enough to hold everyone.

MAY PROCESSION – Friday 23 May

A reminder that the May Procession will take place this Friday, 23 May 10:30am-12pm.

Following the conclusion of the May Procession at 12:00pm, students may go home.

Father/Son Dinner

Association Father/Carer & Son dinner in just 2 weeks time! Below is some useful

On arrival, please make your way into the Ballroom where you will be met with a complimentary welcome drink. Table plans will be set up at the two entrances however we ask that you please familiarise yourself with your table details ahead of the night. The table plan for the

National Road Safety Week, 11-18 May

Year 11 students attended a Road Safety Presentation with Paul Turley on Tuesday, in recognition of National Road Safety Week.

Paul spoke to the students about a fatal accident which occured in 2004, in which he was the perpetrator.

Paul visits high schools, sporting clubs, community groups, mining companies and correctional facilities and shares his story so that young people understand that it can happen to them and that they need to be respectful, patient and tolerant on the roads, or risk their own lives or that of others.

Paul educates road users to encourage a shift in attitudes toward alcohol, drugs, distraction and general road behaviour while modelling accountability for our youth, the road users of tomorrow.

Travel to school Survey 2025

In T1 we undertook our annual travel to school survey, all students in the Senior School were invited to participate and provide feedback.

The data collected provides us with information we pass onto other agencies to help improve transport options for our students. We also use the data to identify areas of the campus that can be improved.

61% of our students use public transport to get to and from school. Students reported issues with bus crowding (41%) and frequency (40%) as factors that cause them the most pain.

We will be sharing this information with TfNSW. With such a high percentage of students using public transport highlights the importance of tapping on/off when boarding public transport as each tap will give TfNSW the correct data of students using their services and better understand where the capacity issues are.

18% are walking to school with 24% then walking home which is an increase from 2024. Students again provided some great feedback regarding narrow footpaths, delays at pedestrian signals and lack of bus shelters as problems during their journey.

We encourage any student encountering problems like these to use the SnapSendSolve app and get them reported to the most appropriate agency. Information on SnapSendSolve can be found at:

Students riding to school increased 3 fold in 2025 with 15% of those students who live within 2km of the school riding, this increase has been seen mostly with e-bikes.

This data will help the school to develop better facilities for those students who choose to ride rather than drive. Bicycle NSW have some info on safe riding and also offer insurance with membership, information at https://bicyclensw.org.au/

We plan to undertake a similar exercise with the Junior School Students later in Term 2.

E-lab Rugby Sponsor

We’re excited to welcome E-LAB on board as the official sponsor of Waverley College Rugby.

Known for their tailored approach to strength and conditioning, E-LAB’s team of expert trainers is already working closely with both students and staff, offering support both on and off the field.

As part of their commitment to the College community, they’re extending exclusive rates on small group training—making personally programmed sessions more accessible than ever. Students and staff of Waverley College are eligible for a 20% discount on fees for any group training between 2-4 people.

The Conclave of 133 eligible Catholic Church cardinals have identified the next pontiff to replace the late Pope Francis. Cardinal Robert Prevost, 69 years of age, will be the 267th Pope and be known as Pope Leo XIV.

Pope Leo XIV is the first American to fill the role of Pope, although he is considered as much a cardinal from Latin America because of the many years he spent as a missionary in Peru.

Born in Chicago in 1955 to parents of Spanish and Franco-Italian descent, Pope Leo XIV was ordained as a priest in 1982.

He moved to Peru three years later and returned regularly to the US to serve as a pastor. He has Peruvian nationality and is fondly remembered as a figure who worked with marginalised communities and helped build bridges.

Pope Leo XIV will be the first Augustinian Pope. There are two Augustian schools in Australia, Villanova College, Brisbane, and St Augustine’s College, Sydney.

The core values of this order are to ‘live together in harmony, being of one mind and one heart on the way to God’.

Mother’s Day

Thank you to all Mothers, Stepmothers, Grandmothers and significant female carers who joined us for a Mother’s Day Breakfast in the senior school and a beautiful Junior School Mass at the newly restored Mary Immaculate Church today.

May you feel truly appreciated for the vital role you play in your children’s lives, for your unwavering care and support, the wisdom you impart, and the many skills you so generously share.

We hope our students, especially the boys, take a moment to reflect with gratitude on all that you have done and continue to do for them. Your sacrifices, love, and guidance shape their lives in lasting ways.

The College also extends heartfelt thanks for the invaluable contribution mothers and female carers have made to Waverley over its 122-year history. Your impact on our students, our culture, and our strong sense of community is deeply appreciated.

We lift up all mothers today and thank them for their guidance and love. We ask you to bless them, with your own special love, today, tomorrow, and always.

Wishing all our Mothers, Grandmothers, Aunts and Guardians a very happy Mothers’ Day!

I would like to thank you and the school community for making us all so welcome for the last few months in the College’s Chapel whilst Mary Immaculate Church has carried out restoration work.

Thank you to the many staff that assisted on the weekends. The church has now reopened and the reaction has been extremely positive. You are all welcome at any time.

Once again, thank you to the Waverley College Community for your support during our restoration.

Blessed Edmund Rice Feast Day – 5 May 2025

We wish a blessing upon all that have worked in Christian Brother Schools and Catholic Schools in the Edmund Rice Tradition, for the lasting legacy of schools across Australia and the world, which all began in 1802 with the establishment of the first school in Waterford, Ireland by our Founder Edmund Rice.

Please find an EREA Feast Day message from the Chair of the EREA Council, Dr Michael Slattery HERE

Notable co-curricular performances

Congratulations to James Peate (Y12) who placed second in the prestigious Lawrence Campbell Oratory competition last Friday.

This is the first time in the 90 Year history of the competition that a Waverley student has placed and James’ public speaking performance in a very tough competition was exemplary.

Congratulations to Darcy Dawson (Y10), James Wynyard (Y9) and Finley Mulligan (Y9) who competed this week at the NSWCIS diving competition at Homebush.

Darcy finished second in his division and will now compete at the NSW All Schools competition.

Congratulations to Ollie Moclair (Y12) who backed up his success at the National titles with a win in the NSW CIS.

Ollie also anchored the U18 4 x 50m Freestyle relay with Zoltahn Szabo (Y12), Lincoln Tanner (Y12) and Nick Hjorring (Y12) and finished second that also qualified these students for the NSW All schools swimming titles.

Musicals

I had the pleasure of attending St Catherine’s School’s production of The Addams Family last night, and it was a truly fantastic evening filled with outstanding performances.

A special congratulations to Oliver Isaac (Y10), who shone in one of the lead roles and also Luke Ibrahim (Y10) who was part of the chorus.

I am looking forward to watching the Waverley College production of Little Shop of Horrors next week.

App Reminder

A friendly reminder that the Waverley app is our primary communication channel, so it’s essential to stay connected and informed through it.

To help streamline your experience and avoid unnecessary notifications, please ensure you’re only subscribed to the groups and tags that are relevant to you and your son.

We’re also aware of a bug that is automatically resubscribing some parents to all groups – our team is actively working with developers to resolve this issue as quickly as possible.

In the meantime, you can click the PDF here for a simple step-by-step guide on how to manage your subscriptions. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Get Ready for Ecology Week!

Next week, Waverley College will be celebrating Ecology Week, a fantastic opportunity for all students and staff to engage in sustainability and social justice.

Organised by the Students of the World Ecology Group (SOTWEG), this year’s Ecology Week promises a range of engaging and informative activities designed to raise awareness and encourage positive environmental action within our College community and beyond.

We encourage all members of the Waverley College community to actively participate in the Ecology Week activities. This is a chance to learn, engage, and contribute to a more sustainable Waverley and a healthier planet for all.

Congratulations to Dr Panos Diamidis

Dr Diamidis will be launching his new book which he has co-authored with Prof. David Treloar called Genocide to Regeneration: the photographs of George Devine Treloar on Monday, 19 May.

The book is a culmination of years of research into the life and work of the League of Nations’ Commissioner for Refugees in northern Greece between 1922 and 1924.

The book launch will be commemorated at the Parliament House of New South Wales, 6 Macquarie Street, Sydney and may be of interest to some of our history students and their parents or carers, particularly in terms of how the book was produced.

Beanstack Reading Challenge Update: Read a book Inside or Outside

As you are probably aware, the Literacy and Library team launched our first Beanstack Reading challenge just before the holidays (our official launch date was 20 April).

The aim – to continue to build a vibrant reading community at Waverley by reaching a community goal of 100,000 minutes.

Setting a goal like this motivates students to read more for fun, which research shows makes a huge impact on student outcomes.

Students have already reached almost 20,000 words (mid-Week 2) so we are well on our way to smashing this goal.

Challenges with rewards yield double the participation of challenges without rewards!

Thanks to the Library team and the IT Department for successfully registering all staff and students on the platform.

We have set a school-wide Reading Challenge for Years 7-10 running from April 10 to June 10!

Using the Beanstack platform, students are discovering the wonders of a two-month reading adventure where they log their reading in the hope of winning prizes.

This challenge is the perfect opportunity to discover new worlds through books while building valuable reading habits. Remember, just 15 minutes of daily reading can significantly improve vocabulary, comprehension, and academic performance across all subjects!

Stay tuned for more details about prizes and special recognition for our most dedicated classes and individual readers. Get ready to turn those pages and let your imagination soar!

Opal Cards

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.

Please note, students over 16 need to apply for a Transport Concession Entitlement Card to prove they are still in full time education. Please CLICK HERE to learn more.

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 7pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

Building Stronger Family Bonds: The 7 Habits (including practical strategies) of Happy Families Insights from Dr. Justin Coulson

We all want our families to be happy. But with the demands of everyday life – juggling work, school, sport, activities, screens, and more – staying connected as a family isn’t always easy.

In his recent article, Dr Justin Coulson, leading Australian expert on parenting, shares valuable insights into fostering happiness and connection within the family unit.

Drawing from his extensive experience working with thousands of families, Dr. Coulson identifies seven powerful habits that contribute to happier and more resilient families.

These habits focus on enhancing communication, empathy, and emotional well-being, providing practical strategies for families to implement in their daily lives.

To find out more about the seven habits and how you may practically apply them with your own loved ones, you can access the article HERE.

Dr Justin Coulson holds a PhD in Psychology from the University of Wollongong, and is a leading Australian expert on parenting; sharing his insights and research as founder of Happy Families, co-host on Channel Nine’s Parental Guidance, and host of Australia’s leading parenting podcast, The Happy Families Podcast.

If you are interested in learning more, you may access a range of free resources via Dr Coulson’s website: https://happyfamilies.com.au/

If you have any concerns about your child’s mental health or wellbeing, you are welcome to contact our psychology team:

Rugby

We’re excited to welcome E-LAB on board as the official sponsor of Waverley College Rugby.

Known for their tailored approach to strength and conditioning, E-LAB’s team of expert trainers is already working closely with both students and staff, offering support both on and off the field.

As part of their commitment to the College community, they’re extending exclusive rates on small group training—making personally programmed sessions more accessible than ever.

Students and staff of Waverley College are eligible for a 20% discount on fees for any group training between 2-4 people.

Are you interested in STEM and robotics? UNSW EMU Robotics, a student-led team participating in the First Lego League/First Robotics competitions, is excited to invite you to their Open Nights.

The UNSW team offers hands-on experience with robotics, catering to two age groups:

Senior team: Design, build, and code a robot from scratch using materials like aluminium and timber

Pope Francis

At the College Assembly this week, we remembered the life of and the many blessings of Pope Francis. Born in Buenos Aires, Argentina, Pope Francis rose from humble beginnings to become the first Latin American pope. His early experiences in Argentina shaped his deep concern for the marginalized and his commitment to social justice, which became hallmarks of his papacy.

Throughout his papacy, Pope Francis initiated significant reforms within the Church, emphasising transparency, accountability, and a renewed focus on serving the poor and vulnerable. His approach to leadership was characterised by simplicity and a desire to bring the Church closer to the people. He rejected many of the trappings of the Vatican, choosing to live a more simple life.

Pope Francis consistently encouraged people to choose love over indifference. He taught that love is an active force that compels us to reach out to others, especially the marginalised, and to build bridges of understanding and compassion.

One of Pope Francis’s most notable statements, “Who am I to judge?” highlighted his commitment to mercy and non-judgment. He emphasised the importance of understanding and compassion over condemnation, reflecting the inclusive nature of his ministry. This of course aligns perfectly with the Edmund Rice Touchstone of inclusive community.

Inspired by his namesake, Saint Francis of Assisi, Pope Francis championed peace and interfaith dialogue. His historic visit to the United Arab Emirates and meeting with Muslim leaders underscored his commitment to building bridges between different faiths and promoting global harmony.

“Rivers do not drink their own water; trees do not eat their own fruit; the sun does not shine on itself and flowers do not spread their fragrance for themselves.

Living for others is a rule of nature. We are all born to help each other. No matter how difficult it is…life is good when you are happy; but much better when others are happy because of you.”

Prayers

Please keep in your thoughts and prayers Year 11 student Kaiasi Talakai, his mother Katalina and his family. Kaiasi’s father Petani sadly passed away over the recent holiday period. May Petani rest in peace.

Staff Update

Welcome back to term 2 and I hope your sons had a lovely break and are ready for a great term ahead. I acknowledge that many of our Year 12s would have done many hours of study over the break as they prepared for mid semester examinations. I wish them the very best on their continued preparations.

I’d like to take this opportunity to welcome some new staff members to the College. We look forward to them sharing their experience, wisdom and perspectives with both colleagues and students.

ANZAC Day

Congratulations to our cadet unit who represented incredibly well at the Coogee and Waverley Anzac Day Dawn services and also at the College’s Anzac ceremony on Wednesday this week.

We were honoured to welcome back Old Boy General Sir Peter John Cosgrove, AK, CVO, MC, who delivered a powerful address on the importance of embracing change while remaining grounded in our shared values:

“Change in this nation is inevitable. Indeed, vital. Never to change is never to grow… Anzac Day is part of that heritage. It’s a time of reflection and, if we wish it, reaffirmation.”

Year 12 and College Vice-Captain student Archie Godby also shared a heartfelt speech about an ANZAC close to him, his great uncle, Flight Sergeant John Charles Roper who attended Waverley College. Archie reminded us that:

Bravery isn’t always about heroic acts – it’s often found in quiet moments of resilience, in standing up for what’s right, and in showing up for others even when it’s hard.”

HSC Examinations

Congratulations to our HSC students who commenced their Mid Yearly Examinations this week. Whilst examinations conclude on Monday, we know that our students will use the experience and feedback from teachers wisely as they set goals to refine their approach.

The 2025 HSC written exam timetable is available on the NESA website from 10am today:

Parents Association Meeting

All parents and carers are welcome to join us for the Term 2 Parents’ Association Meeting.

This is a wonderful opportunity to connect with fellow parents, share ideas, and discuss important matters related to our school community.

There is parking in the Grange Carpark and light refreshments will be available.

Consensual: Join the Conversation

Woollahra Municipal Council and Ascham School are proud to present an evening of open discussion with Chanel Contos and the filmmakers and preview the work-in-progress documentary Consensual – as they discuss their plans for the film, with an opportunity to share ideas.

Don’t miss being a part of this important conversation about consent in our culture and envisioning a world where normalised sexual violence is eradicated.

University of Sydney Update

Learn everything you need to know about HSC subject selection, university applications and admissions with our information evening, designed to help Year 10 students and their caregivers navigate the journey to university with confidence. Our speakers, including a UAC representative, university staff and students, will cover key information including:

Explore our iconic campus and learn more about university entry, scholarships, study options and more at this information evening for Year 12 students and their caregivers.

Hear about entry schemes, student support, campus life, and applying through UAC.  The on-campus event will include a tour, a course advice exhibition and information sessions, including a dedicated medicine/dentistry talk. Don’t miss this opportunity to discover your options and ask any questions you have about joining the Sydney student community in 2026. 

Congratulations

Waverley College’s own Ollie Moclair is making waves in the swimming world after being selected for the Australian Junior swim team competing in the World Junior Championships in Otopeni, Romania, from August 19-24, 2025.

What’s truly remarkable about Ollie’s talent is evident in the numbers: if he’d swam just 0.86 seconds faster at the recent Australian Swimming Championships, his time would’ve secured a bronze medal in the 50m freestyle at the Paris Olympics.

We are thrilled to see him represent Australia on the world stage. Good luck, Ollie!

The Australian Army Cadets’ Adventure Training Award (ATA) is a physically and mentally demanding field activity for senior cadets, considered the most challenging competition they face during their time with the Australian Army Cadets. Congratulations to the below students who achieved this over the break:

Easter Message

As the liturgical season of Lent draws to a close, we prepare to enter Holy Week, beginning with Palm Sunday and the joyful commemoration of the Lord’s entrance into Jerusalem, when the crowds acclaimed him with the words: “Blessed is he who comes in the name of the Lord.”

As the week unfolds, we journey with Christ through the Sacred Paschal Triduum, which begins on Holy Thursday with the celebration of the Mass of the Lord’s Supper, continues through Good Friday and Holy Saturday, and reaches its climax with the celebration of the Resurrection at the Easter Vigil on Easter Sunday.

The Easter Triduum is the high point of our liturgical year. It is a time of profound reverence and spiritual renewal. After forty days of prayer, penance, and reflection, we enter into the mystery of Christ’s passion and death with solemn devotion. Yet it is with joy and hope that we celebrate His triumph over death and rejoice in the new life of His Resurrection.

Our hope rests in a Love stronger than death. Through the wounds of Christ, our wounds are healed; through His death, we are raised to new life; and in His Resurrection, we are promised the gift of eternal life. Following His Resurrection and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost, Jesus assured His disciples and assures us that He would remain with us always, even to the end of time. This liturgical season shines with the light of that promise, radiant with hope.

As our community begins the Easter holidays, my thoughts and prayers are particularly with our Year 12s who are looking ahead with both anticipation and anxiety, thinking of upcoming exams and their future paths. At the heart of a Catholic education in the Edmund Rice Tradition, is our commitment to nurturing the whole person: intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and pastorally. We seek to form young people who are not only well educated but who also live with faith-filled hope, ready to meet the world with courage, compassion, and conviction.

In this Jubilee Year, Pope Francis calls us to be Pilgrims of Hope. This call echoes the message of Easter and Pentecost: that our lives are not governed by fear or despair, but by the sure and certain hope that flows from Christ’s victory over the grave.

Father Bernie Thomas prays God’s blessing upon all our students, parents, carers, alumni and staff. May this sacred season deepen our trust in God’s love, strengthen our hope, and renew our mission to walk always as children of the Resurrection.

Essay/Speech Prize

Congratulations to our Edmund Ignatius Rice Senior Essay and Speech finalists, Lachlan Hoy, Taj Lynn and James Peate, who presented their speech on how the four EREA Touchstones are integral to a student’s education and how they inspire a vision for contributing to a better world.

The audience consisted of the judging panel, special guest, Old Boy, Dr David Curran and our Year 11 Advanced English students. With fierce competition, the final places will be announced in one of our assemblies early in Term 2.

Rostrum Public Speaking Regional Finals

Congratulations to Year 12 students Dante Fearn and James Peate who have successfully made it through to the Regional finals of the NSW Rostrum Public Speaking finals.

James Peate is the current NSW Champion from 2024 and we wish both boys all the very best with the next stage of competition.

Little Shop of Horrors Production

It’s almost here! The Waverley School musical, Little Shop of Horrors will be on stage from 13 – 16 May in the Performing Arts Theatre. A show about a man-eating plant; who knew botany could be so entertaining?

Purchase tickets here!

Starring the students of Waverley College and supported by the students from Bradfield College, Brigidine College and Kincoppal Rose Bay, hear what some of the students have to say about the show!

Hooper Negus (Year 11): “I think the audience will be excited about the ingenuity of the set.”

Harry Lentfer (Year 11): “My favourite song is Skid Row; it provides the context for what the musical is about and how each character shares their point of view of what it is like to live on Skid Row.”

Sophie (Kincoppal Rose Bay): “The revolving set is cool, just to see how it can turn into different places.”

Klara (Brigidine College): “The amount of effort that people have put into the show across all aspects, from singing, costume, set and all the people behind the scenes is astounding.”

Kenya (Bradfield College): “I love how the show is quite supernatural and how different the characters are from other shows.”

Reading Challenge Launch: Read a book Inside or Outside

We’re thrilled to announce our school-wide Reading Challenge for Years 7-10 running from April 10 to June 10!

Using the Beanstack platform, students will embark on a two-month reading adventure that continues right through the holiday break.

This challenge is the perfect opportunity to discover new worlds through books while building valuable reading habits.

Remember, just 15 minutes of daily reading can significantly improve vocabulary, comprehension, and academic performance across all subjects!

Stay tuned for more details about prizes and special recognition for our most dedicated classes and individual readers. Get ready to turn those pages and let your imagination soar!

Parent Webinar

Last week Wellio, one of our partners in providing wellbeing resources to our students and community, ran a parent Webinar on the topic “Owning Your Role as a Parent: Knowing When to Step In and Step Back”.

Waverley College was one of the highest represented schools in attendance, with over 100 parents logging onto the webinar. Well done parents and carers!

You joined parents from schools across Australia as part of this online session.

The webinar dealt with navigating the difficult balance between when to step in, when to guide, and when to create space for your children in order to develop their independence and help build resilience.

It provided practical strategies on “When to Interrupt”, “Leading by Example”, as well as “Advocating & Escalating”.

If you were unable to attend the session, a link to the recording can be found HERE, and a link to the resources provided HERE.

Each session is free to attend for all Waverley parents/carers and registration details will be sent out via Nurrunga and the Waverley App as they become available.

2025 Australian Junior Athletics Championships, Perth

A number of Waverley students, accompanied by Mr. Jeremy Roff, competed this week at the National Athletics titles in Perth. Some of the notable results include:

School Fees

Payment 1 was due on 12 February 2025, payment 2 due date is 14 May 2025, and payment 3 due date will be 6 August 2025.

The next Fee Statements will be issued on the week beginning 28 April 2025. We require Fee Statements to be paid in full by the due date.

Where this is not possible, a financial arrangement must be agreed with the Business Services Team by the due date.

Withdrawal Notice

As per enrolment contract and as indicated on the College website, the College require one full Term’s notice in writing to the Principal if you wish to withdraw your son’s enrolment at Waverley College.

As an example and for the avoidance of doubt, if you wish to withdraw your son at the end of Term 2, the notice must be given no later than the first day of Term 2.

If this notice period is breached, a penalty equivalent to one Term’s tuition fee will be payable as per enrolment contract.

Cadet AFX

Earlier this week, I visited the Cadet Annual Field Exercise (AFX) at Holsworthy Barracks alongside the Headmistress of St Catherine’s School, Ms Deb Magill.

It was a great opportunity to see our combined 400 Cadets in action experiencing a wide range of activities, team building exercises and leadership challenges.

Holsworthy Base has state of the art human created spaces along with extensive dense bushland to provide our cadets with many different environments to experience.

I am sure many will be looking forward to returning home to their bedroom and other creature comforts, but am also sure that many will have a greater appreciation of the simpler things in life and the great outdoors.

European Football Tour

The Football tour will see a squad of 34 students and 4 staff spend 4 days at Manchester City’s facilities being put through their paces by Manchester City Coaches.

They will then travel on to London, Lisbon and Madrid playing a number of games and watching some of the world’s best footballers play and train whilst immersing themselves in different cultures along the way.

NZ Rugby Tour

The Rugby tour will see a squad of 38 students and 5 staff spend 5 days at the Canterbury Crusaders Academy with some world class coaches.

They will then play two schools in 4 matches in Christchurch and Dunedin before finishing the tour in Queenstown.

The development tour is aimed at developing player skills, preparing for the rugby season ahead, and providing cultural learning experiences in one of the best rugby playing nations in the world.

Aussie Surf Lifesaving Titles

Waverley had a number of students from a range of Sydney Branch Surf Clubs competing in the Aussie titles over the past week. We had some impressive results including;

Bart Carmody (2 x Gold and 1 x silver medals Board race, Cameron Relay and surfing)

Congratulations to all competitors for their efforts at this highest of levels for surf lifesaving.

National Swimming Titles

Best wishes to the following students who are attending the National Swimming titles this week:

ANZAC Day

I’m pleased to confirm that Sir Peter and Lady Cosgrove will be joining us for the College ANZAC Day Commemoration on Wednesday, April 30.

Sir Peter will be delivering the address. All parents and carers are welcome to join us.

Exchange Program

Waverley College recently had the pleasure of hosting four Japanese students as part of an enriching International exchange program. The students stayed with a Waverley College family and immersed themselves in school life by attending regular classes and participating in a variety of co-curricular activities.

A highlight of their visit included attending an Open Day at the University of New South Wales (UNSW), where they explored domestic and international study pathways. This valuable experience offered them insight into future academic opportunities in Australia and abroad.

The aim of this student exchange program is to provide participants with global educational opportunities, enabling them to gain firsthand experience in diverse academic environments. Through cultural immersion, students learn about different traditions and perspectives, helping foster greater intercultural understanding. The program also focuses on developing key interpersonal skills such as adaptability, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration, essential traits for success in an increasingly interconnected world.

Waverley College is proud to be part of such meaningful global engagement and extends its sincere thanks to the host family and broader community for their support in making this experience so impactful.

Term 2 Canteen Volunteers Needed

Can you volunteer to assist us in our daily operations from 9.30 am till 1.45 pm?

We greatly value the assistance of our volunteer workers as it allows us to be more efficient in our services for students and staff.

We welcome all members of the Waverley College Community – mothers, fathers, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and carers. Lunch is provided for all volunteers.

We are happy to take on any availability, whether it’s once a week, month, or even once a Term – it all helps.

The Term 2 2025 volunteer roster is online, so if you are interested, please volunteer as soon as you can by clicking here.

Year 7 and Year 10 NSW 2025 School Vaccination Clinic

If your child is in Year 7 or Year 10 in 2025, you can provide consent online for school vaccinations.

In Year 7, students are offered free vaccines for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) and human papillomavirus (HPV). The year 7 vaccination clinic will be held on 24 November, 2025.

In Year 10, students are offered the meningococcal ACWY vaccine. The year 10 vaccination clinic will be held in Term 2 on the 11 June, 2025.

Vaccination will only be provided at school if consent has been received. Online consent will only be accepted if provided through the NSW Health School Vaccination Program portal. Consent should not be provided to the school via email or other electronic form submission.

you may already use to renew your driver’s licence. If you do not have a ServiceNSW

Detailed instructions can be found on the NSW Health website. If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper consent form from the school.

REELise Film Festival

The REELise Film Festival—a nationally recognised platform for young filmmakers—is now accepting entries for its 2025 competition. Now in its 12th year, REELise has launched the careers of emerging Australian filmmakers, giving them the chance to gain industry recognition, showcase their work on the big screen, and connect with top film professionals.

REELise Film Festival alumni have gone on to create award-winning films, secure film school scholarships, and kickstart their careers in the industry.

Year 9 Parent/ Student Information Evening Week 1 Term 2

An information evening has been organised for Year 9 parents/ carers and students at the College Gym on Thursday 1 May at 6pm.

The focus of the evening will be Understanding the Year 9 Experience, from a holistic perspective.

This will include wellbeing, spiritual and curriculum issues and a guest speaker Mac Jenkins (College Old Boy, business owner and elite cricketer) will discuss how he has achieved success in his academic pursuits while also pursuing an elite sporting career and managing his own business.

The Cardoner Network Information Evening Monday 5 May 6pm

Would you like to volunteer at an Immersion or Service Year Placement in 2026? There is an opportunity for your Year 12 students, and their parents, to learn more about a Cardoner experience.

Ideally, volunteers will be young people who are both passionate about service and keen to have new cultural encounters. Does this sound like you?

And finally….

I want to acknowledge the busyness of the past 11 weeks and the tremendous efforts of everyone in our community.

Together, we’ve created a wonderful environment to learn, teach, listen, grow, connect, and build friendships.

It’s been inspiring to witness many stepping out of their comfort zones and realizing they are capable of so much more.

During the upcoming April holidays, I encourage students and families to take time to connect, reflect, recharge, and most importantly, have fun! I wish all those traveling a safe and inspiring time away.

A special wish for our Junior School Rugby team—safe travels and an exciting, successful competition in Armidale!

World’s Greatest Shave

This year, Lacey House has raised over $24,000 for the World’s Greatest Shave, smashing all previous fundraising records! The Senior Boys led the charge with passion and purpose, showing what a determined house spirit can achieve. A huge thanks to Kate Carey for her inspirational address to the College that has inspired this incredible effort.

Blood cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in Australian children, affecting families and school communities nationwide. Every dollar raised goes directly toward supporting those affected and funding life-saving research to bring us closer to a future free of blood cancer.

We are so proud of everyone who participated, donated, and cheered us on. This is what true leadership and compassion look like. Congratulations to Mr Damien Thompson on leading this great cause.

National Swimming Titles

Good luck to Year 12 student Ollie Moclair who will be competing at the upcoming Swimming Nationals (10th – 19th April) with the aim of making the junior world championship team who are competing in Romania in August this year.

Ollie recently came 3rd in the State Open with a time of 22.92 for the 50m freestyle. We wish students attending upcoming CIS and NSW All Schools events well in their goals to qualify for the nationals.

30th National Schools’ Constitutional Convention

Congratulations to Year 12 student Archie Godby who participated in the 30th National Schools Constitutional Convention at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra with 120 Year 11 and 12 students from around Australia.

As a national delegate, Archie travelled with 29 other students to represent NSW at the Convention. The topic for the 2025 Convention was, ‘Revisiting Sections 51ii and 90 to Reimagine Australia’s Fiscal Federalism’.

Outcomes from the Convention will be incorporated into a Communiqué that will be presented to the President of the Senate, Senator The Hon Sue Lines, for tabling in Parliament and recording in Hansard.

The program included a visit to Parliament House, a meeting with the Governor-General, Her Excellency the Honourable Ms Sam Mostyn AC at Government House, and an official dinner at the National Press Club.

Measles alert for Easts Basketball League

We have been informed by NSW Public Health that a person with measles attended the Easts Basketball League at the gymnasium on Sunday, March 30 between 9:10am and 10:30am. Please note that this individual is not a member of the Waverley College community, and the risk of exposure to our students and staff is considered low.

As always, we recommend that families take routine precautions to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.

Finish Term 1 strong

Please encourage your son to finish the term on a high note! We have had a strong and productive term, with students engaging in meaningful learning, impressive co curricular activities, and personal growth.

As we approach the final week, maintaining focus, self control and completing all work requirements will be key to ending the term successfully and enjoying a well earnt Easter break. Your support at home encouraging these attributes is appreciated.

AFX Cadet Camp

Cadet AFX – Wishing Julie-Ann, Jess and all staff an enjoyable, safe and action packed AFX cadet camp with advance party leaving today and the majority leaving Sunday morning.

Staff Update

Welcome back to Mr Adam Wallington who has returned from long service leave two weeks early to cover Ms Michelle Joyce who has commenced maternity leave early.

Thank you to Mr Jonathan Phillips who has been the Acting Business Manager for the past 18 months covering both the 1IC and 2IC roles in finance.

Jonathon will return to his substantive positive as 2IC Business Manager. We welcome Mr Andre Airola, the new Business Manager who starts on Monday 7 April and comes to us from St Catherine’s School.

Welcome to Mr Kwang Soo Lee who joins the IT team today as a Network Engineer. Kwang comes to us from SMC Corporation (Australia) Pty Ltd. Kwang has more than 20 years’ work experience in the field of computing infrastructure environment including education and manufacturing industry.

2025 Mother’s Day Breakfast

Dear Mothers, Grandmothers and significant women in the lives of Waverley College Students.

Please join us to celebrate Mother’s Day where you can enjoy a light breakfast with your sons.

Blue & Gold Ball 2025 – Tickets on Sale!

Tickets are $220 per person which includes pre-dinner drinks and canapés under the stars followed by a formal gala dinner with drinks, dancing and live music.

The success of this event is made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and partners, whose support ensures a memorable evening for all. This year, we are seeking two Gold, four Silver, and six Bronze Sponsors, as well as donations of high-quality auction items to contribute to the evening’s fundraising efforts.

We invite those interested in supporting this event to contact our Foundation Manager, Billy Nicolas, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Our Lady of Fatima Procession

The Catholic Archdiocese of Sydney invites all schools and families to participate in the Our Lady of Fatima Procession. This event provides a meaningful opportunity for staff, students, and families to come together in prayer and honour Our Lady.

We would greatly appreciate your assistance in promoting both the Mass and the Procession to your staff and school communities.

Turtle Conservation

We’ve joined the 1 Million Turtles Program, working to safeguard these amazing creatures.

We were thrilled to attend the PLC Sydney event at Oatlands Golf Course, where they released ten baby endangered turtles that they had incubated over the last few months.

School Bus Travel

If your son already has an Opal Card – great! Tapping on and off every trip shows Transport for NSW the importance of our school routes, this helps with their planning by providing additional services to cope with increased demand. Please ask your son to tap on/off whenever they use public transport.

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

Jazz Collective Concert

Congratulations to our Music students and staff on an amazing night of Jazz last night. The Performing Arts Centre foyer was transformed into a Manhattan Jazz Club and set the scene for an amazing evening.

The student performances supported by professional Jazz musicians the Ben Daley Quintet were exceptional.

Thank you to the following staff: Mr Jesse Johnston, Mr Timothy Walsh, Mr Alexander Lee, Mr Daniel Williams, Mr Jonathan Cleeve, Mr Angus McPherson, Ms Jaz Johnston, Ms Keiran Kossenberg, Ms Jazz de Witte, and Mr Chris Balkizas. And, thank you to our Music Supporters Club for their ongoing support of our program: Mrs Chantal Hughes, Mr Joe Rede, Ms Meg Pounder, Mr Greg Isaac and Ms Naomi Isaac.

Japanese Exchange

We currently have four students from Kokugakuin Kugayama High School (Tokyo) visiting us and staying with four Waverley families. Our students will reciprocate later in the year and visit their high school.

We will also be hosting 90 students next year for two days. The aim of this student exchange program is to provide participants with global educational opportunities, enabling them to gain firsthand experience in diverse academic environments.

Through immersion in a different culture, students will learn about cultural elements, traditions, and perspectives that foster greater intercultural understanding. Additionally, the program seeks to develop interpersonal skills, such as adaptability, communication, and cross-cultural collaboration, preparing students to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.

Blue & Gold Ball 2025 – Tickets on Sale!

Tickets are $220 per person which includes pre-dinner drinks and canapés under the stars followed by a formal gala dinner with drinks, dancing and live music.

We invite those interested in supporting this event to contact our Foundation Manager, Billy Nicolas, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au to discuss how you can be part of this important event.

Year 12 Mother & Son Luncheon

Last Sunday, Ms. Sue Walsh and I had the pleasure of attending the Year 12 Mother and Son Luncheon at Dockside. It was a wonderful afternoon filled with warmth and connection, highlighted by an inspiring talk from our guest speaker, James Castrission.

James, an accountant, and his close friend, Justin Jones, a scientist, have made history with their record-breaking expeditions, including kayaking across the Tasman Sea and completing an unsupported round-trip ski journey to the South Pole.

James captivated the audience with powerful stories of adventure, perseverance, and gratitude – moments that moved many to tears. A heartfelt thank you to Ms Jade Stapleton, our Year 12 Parent Representative, for her dedication in organizing such a memorable event

Generations Breakfast

On Tuesday, we had the pleasure of hosting the Generations Breakfast in the Senior School Library.

This gathering provided a meaningful opportunity for past and present generations to connect – allowing Old Boys to rekindle their bond with the College community while giving students valuable insights into the school’s rich history and traditions.

The 2025 Old Boys Muster

Last Friday marked a special evening for the Waverley College Old Boys’ Union (WCOBU) as they welcomed back Old Boys from across the decades for the 2025 Old Boys Muster.

The College rooftop provided a great backdrop for the evening, with the Sydney skyline offering a picturesque view as the sun set. Old Boys reconnected over food, drinks and warm company, sharing laughter and memories that echoed across the terrace.

Speeches from WCOBU President Salvatore Riolo and Deputy Principal Ms Gabby Smith reflected on Waverley College’s rich tradition and the strength of its alumni network. The event highlighted the importance of staying connected and giving back to the College community.

Deep Learning: A Global Partnership

As we continue to build on our collaborative work with the Association of Independent Schools (AIS) on Design for Deep Learning and embedding the 6 Global Competencies (Character, Citizenship, Collaboration, Communication, Creativity and Critical Thinking) into our programs, our teachers are embracing a range of opportunities to lead in this pedagogy.

Congratulations to Ms Helen Barrie, our Head of Academic Enrichment and English Teacher for being recognised on the Deep Learning International Stage for her work in teaching Year 7 Poetry earlier this year. In an article on how to, ‘take time to get to know our students, their interests and needs,’

Ms Barrie’s poetry unit was recognised as an exemplar and thus she was invited to present in a Deep Learning TeachMeet on how her students in Year 7 English were obsessed with playing chess and that she made a decision to view this as a learning opportunity rather than as a distraction. What followed was the significant work she undertook to create a unit of work linking poetry to chess.

Mosman Youth Art Prize

Congratulations to the following students who have been selected as Finalists in the Mosman Youth Art Prize for 2025:

Zach Jones, Dante Fearn, Oliver Isaac, Louis Cockerill, Oliver Teh Howell, Leonardo Marino and Oliver Lorimer.

The prize supports young artists in the metropolitan area, accepting entries from hundreds of artists across a range of drawings, paintings, sculptures, ceramics and photographs.

Since its foundation by local artist Ken Done AM in 1988, numerous Australian artists have started their careers winning the Mosman Youth Art Prize.

All finalist works will be on exhibit at Mosman Gallery, 1 Art Gallery Way, Mosman, from Saturday 29 March – 4 May, 2025.

Passata Day: A Celebration of Italian Culture and Hospitality

Year 11 VET Hospitality students recently participated in a unique cultural day, making fresh passata (tomato sauce) and exploring its significance in Italian culture. The day combined academic and cultural activities, enhancing the students’ skills in teamwork, commercial cooking and serving.

The event featured a special guest, Italian language teacher Lucia Krejci, who shared her personal connection to Passata Day and its importance in Italian families. The timing coincided with Harmony Day, reinforcing the theme of cultural diversity and celebration.

The day provided hands-on experience with commercial-grade food preparation appliances and real-world applications of industry terminology. Students set up bain maries, buffet service styles and served teachers and peers, receiving excellent feedback.

The event also highlighted environmental sustainability, with students learning about reduced food waste solutions and preserving the passata in reusable jars.

A huge thank you to the Y11 VET Hospitality students, Mrs. Beverley McCarthy and Georgina Weaver for their support and contributions to the day’s success.

School Bus Travel

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.

The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

Harmony Day

This week, Waverley College came together to celebrate Harmony Day – a significant event that highlights the importance of inclusivity and diversity within our community.

As an Edmund Rice community, we pride ourselves on being a place where ‘everyone belongs’, and Harmony Day serves as a poignant reminder of the value we place on embracing our differences. Our student body is made up of a vibrant tapestry of cultures and on Harmony Day, we acknowledge and celebrate it.

In mentor groups at CCC time, pupils shared food that reflected their cultural heritage, learning about and appreciating the traditions of their peers.

The College also hosted a range of activities, including an Amazing Race, swimming, maths quiz, riddles, push-up competitions, three-point shooting, and relay sprints. It was a wonderful display of teamwork, camaraderie, and school spirit.

St. Patrick’s Day Mass

Ms Martina Cooper, accompanied by students Luca Green (Year 10), Henry Goldrich (Year 10), Luke Ibrahim (Year 10), and Axel Stapleton (Year 10), represented Waverley College at the Sydney Catholic Schools St. Patrick’s Day Mass, held by Bishop Brady at St Mary’s Cathedral on Monday.

Year 7 Information Evening

The Year 7 Parent/ Student Information Evening on Thursday 20 March was facilitated by Dr Prue Salter.

She is an expert in helping students develop the skills they need to be effective and efficient with their learning and her presentation provided a range of invaluable strategies to help Year 7 students become powerful learners.

Parents and students are reminded that Waverley College has access to Dr Salter’s resources and students can log in to the Enhanced Learning Educational Services Online Study Skills Handbook that complements the information evening.

Passata Day

Congratulations to our Stage 6 Hospitality classes who engaged in our inaugural Passata Day on Tuesday as a part of their course competencies.

The students prepared all elements of a passata and meatballs pasta from scratch to cater for lunch for our entire staff.

From grinding their own meat to make the meatballs to simmering a flavourful passata sauce, they should be really proud of their lunch service.

Beanstalks Reading Challenge and our Reading Ambassadors

In Thursday’s Assembly, Mr. McCoy, Mr. Walker, Mr. Lamb, and Year 12 Extension 2 English student Lieme Chan captivated their audience with readings from Jaws (Peter Benchley), The Hobbit (J.R.R. Tolkien), Dune (Frank Herbert), and The Body (Stephen King).

Adding a personal touch, Mrs. McCarthy shared her own poem, Oh My Giddy Aunt – A Snapshot of a Class, a vivid reflection on life as a teacher at the college. Both students and staff were thoroughly entertained.

The event served to celebrate our vibrant reading culture while also launching the college’s new Reading Challenges.

As part of this initiative, all students will be registered with Beanstack, an interactive online platform used by libraries and schools to foster reading habits through challenges, progress tracking, and rewards.

At a time when creativity and the arts face growing challenges—from AI disruptions to book bans—engaging with both fiction and nonfiction is more vital than ever. Our college library remains a treasure trove of novels, picture books, magazines, biographies, ebooks, graphic novels, study guides, and much more.

All students from Years 7 to 10 will be registered on Beanstack before the holidays, and Year 11 and 12 students who wish to participate are warmly invited to do so. Further details will be provided in the coming weeks to help students get started before and during the holidays.

Exciting prizes—including canteen vouchers, local eatery gift cards, and surprise book-related rewards—await those who take up the challenge.

Students eager to get started should see Ms. Ryan, Mr. Russell, or Ms. Bliznjakovic in the library. Stay tuned for more details!

Earth Hour

I encourage you and your family to support Earth Hour this Saturday which has grown to become much more than switching your lights off.

Millions of participants around the world will switch off their lights at 8:30 pm local time on Saturday, 22 March 2025 to demonstrate support for the environment that is in obvious crisis.

This action is symbolic and is not an action to save power. It is about bringing awareness to the issue and demonstrates your commitment to help protect the planet.

Blue & Gold Ball 2025 – Sponsorship Opportunities

It is with great anticipation that we prepare for one of Waverley College’s most significant annual events, the Blue & Gold Ball.

Last year, more than 700 members of our community came together for this special occasion, and we look forward to an even greater celebration in 2025.

The success of this event is made possible by the generosity of our sponsors and partners, whose support ensures a memorable evening for all.

This year, we are seeking two Gold, four Silver, and six Bronze Sponsors, as well as donations of high-quality auction items to contribute to the evening’s fundraising efforts.

We invite those interested in supporting this event to contact our Foundation Manager, Billy Nicolas, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au to discuss how you can be part of this important event.

I look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an outstanding evening in support of Waverley College.

World’s Greatest Shave

Our World’s Greatest Shave Campaign was launched at the CAS Swimming & Diving Assembly on Thursday by a moving address from Year 12 parent, Mrs Kate Carey and the Prefects of Lacey House.

This cause is held very close to the hearts of the Waverley College community and has been at the forefront of our Social Justice initiative for the past ten years.

The World’s Greatest Shave Foundation is one that I know many in our community cherish and support graciously every year and one that has directly supported some of our past and present families at the college.

While our campaign is led by Lacey House – the Lacey students, families and staff showing unwavering support since its inception at the College – the Lacey Leadership Team would like to thank you for your support.

Tens of thousands have been raised in the past but the need grows as the years go by.

Thank you for your support and if you would still like to make a donation please click on the following link:

School Bus Travel

2026 Term Dates

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.

The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

St Patrick’s Day

Next Monday, we celebrate St Patrick’s Day which is a time of joy, reflection, and community as we celebrate the rich heritage of Ireland and the values that St Patrick himself embodied of faith, resilience, and compassion. This day holds special significance because of our deep ties to our Irish Founder, Edmund Rice and the 55 EREA schools operating across the nation.

St Patrick is revered as the patron saint of Ireland, known for his unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to spreading Christianity. His life story is one of perseverance, having been taken as a slave to Ireland as a young boy, he later escaped, only to return as a missionary to teach and serve the very people among whom he had once been enslaved. His message of forgiveness, faith, and service continues to resonate today, reminding us all of the power of compassion and purpose in overcoming adversity.

We also acknowledge the significant contributions of Irish culture to our school and society. Beyond the religious and cultural observances, St Patrick’s Day is an opportunity to celebrate the diversity of our community. It is a reminder that traditions and heritage, when shared with openness and respect, bring us closer together. Students will have the opportunity to engage with some Irish cultural activities on Monday including a staff vs students Gaelic Football game and a cake stall.

“May your troubles be less and your blessings be more, and nothing but happiness come through your door.”
Irish Blessing

Swimming and Diving Championships

Congratulations to our Swimming and Diving Teams who performed admirably at the 95th CAS Championships, held last night at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC). Thank you to our Year 8, 11 and Wavecrew students who supported our teams.

Well done to Knox Grammar and Trinity Grammar who won the swimming and diving competitions respectively. We placed 5th in swimming and 3rd in diving.

Whilst many personal bests were achieved, special mention to the following team members:

Ollie Moclair (Year 12) won both the Opens 50m Freestyle and 100m Freestyle championships. It has been a very long time (20+ years) since a Waverley student won these races. Ollie also finished 2nd in the Open 50m Butterfly

The 4 x 50m Opens Freestyle relay finished 2nd – Nick Hjorring (Year 12), Zoltahn Szabo (Year 12), Lincoln Tanner (Year 12), Ollie Moclair (Year 12)

Competition was tough and close in both competitions and we’re very proud of all our competitors. Thank you to Ms Nicola Silsby, Mr David Parnell, Mr Nick Nezval, Ms Kath Knowles, the assistant coaches, and all the staff who contributed to the success of the evening. Your dedication and support, whether it was on the field, helping with hospitality, managing the buses, or ensuring a positive crowd presence, were truly appreciated.

Year 7 Study Skills Information Evening – Thursday 20 March

We’re looking forward to welcoming Year 7 parents and students to the Year 7 Study Skills Information Evening with Dr. Prue Salter, taking place on Thursday, 20 March at 6pm in the College Gymnasium.

Open Day

The College held its first Open Day of the year this week, showcasing the very best of Waverley College. With over 400 families visiting both the Junior and Senior schools, the event provided a fantastic opportunity for prospective students and their families to experience firsthand the College’s impressive community, facilities, broad curriculum and culture.

A highlight of the day was the guided tours, led by our Year 11 leaders. These student leaders did an exemplary job of representing the College, sharing their knowledge and passion for Waverley with enthusiasm and pride. Their dedication and commitment to showcasing the College’s spirit and values were evident throughout the morning, and I extend my sincerest gratitude to them for their efforts.

Throughout the day, families were able to explore the College’s state-of-the-art facilities, meet with teachers and staff, and gain a deeper understanding of the College’s values and mission. The feedback from visitors was overwhelmingly positive, with many families expressing their admiration for the College’s warm and welcoming atmosphere.

We are thrilled with the success of our Open Day and look forward to welcoming many of the visiting families to our community in the future. Thank you to Ms Kylie Anderson (Registrar), Tessa Holt (enrolments) and Mr Angus McPherson and Ms Krista Thomas and for their organisation and running of the open day.

Blue & Gold Ball 2025 – Sponsorship Opportunities

It is with great anticipation that we prepare for one of Waverley College’s most significant annual events, the Blue & Gold Ball. Last year, more than 700 members of our community came together for this special occasion, and we look forward to an even greater celebration in 2025.

We invite those interested in supporting this event to contact our Foundation Manager, Billy Nicolas, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au to discuss how you can be part of this important event.

I look forward to welcoming you to what promises to be an outstanding evening in support of Waverley College.

2026 Term Dates

Farewell to Science Teacher

After six years at Waverley College, we bid farewell to Mr Harry Lind as he embarks on his next chapter as a Science Teacher at Scots College. Mr Lind has been a passionate and dedicated Science and Physics teacher, inspiring his students with his enthusiasm for the subject. Beyond the classroom, he has made a lasting impact through his involvement in the co-curricular program, in particular last year as Rugby Convenor. We wish him all the best in his new role.

And we welcome Mr Jake Batters who will be taking over his science classes until the end of Term 1. Mr Batters has taught at St Luke’s Grammar School, Sydney and previously at the Canadian Rockies Public Schools, Canada.

Year 11 Galmatic Car Workshops

On Monday 10 March, our Year 11 students participated in the Galmatic Car Maintenance Workshops. The workshops covered;

These are practical life skills that our students will take with them into the future. The Galmatic trainers commented on how polite, attentive and engaged our students were.

World’s Greatest Shave

Our World’s Greatest Shave Campaign was launched at the CAS Swimming & Diving Assembly on Thursday by a moving address from Year 12 parent, Mrs Kate Carey and the Prefects of Lacey House.

This cause is held very close to the hearts of the Waverley College community and has been at the forefront of our Social Justice initiative for the past ten years.

While our campaign is led by Lacey House – the Lacey students, families and staff showing unwavering support since its inception at the college – the Lacey Leadership Team would like to thank you for your support.

Tens of thousands have been raised in the past but the need grows as the years go by.

Thank you for your support and if you would still like to make a donation please click on the following link:

50th Year Reunion – Class of 1975

Our Foundation Manager Mr Billy Nicolas and myself had the pleasure of attending the Class of 1975’s 50-year reunion at The Icebergs Club in Bondi—a milestone celebration marking half a century since their time at Waverley College.

It was fantastic to connect with this remarkable cohort and hear the stories and memories that have stayed with them for five decades. The sense of camaraderie and lifelong connection was truly inspiring.

A heartfelt thank you to Mr Paul Gillian for the kind invitation and to Mr Bob Tate for organising such a memorable evening. We also appreciate the opportunity to share the school’s vision for the future and our philanthropic initiatives that will help bring it to life.

This is their year, and we look forward to welcoming them back for Back to Waverley Day in November!

School student travel information – A message from Transport for NSW

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.

Please note, students over 16 need to apply for a Transport Concession Entitlement Card to prove they are still in full time education. Please see link below:

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 7pm 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.

National Schools Constitutional Convention (NSCC) 2025

Congratulations to Archie Godby in Year 12 who will be representing Waverley College at the 30th National Schools Constitutional Convention which will be held at the Museum of Australian Democracy at Old Parliament House, Canberra from 24 – 27 March 2025. As a national delegate, Archie was selected from hundreds of students from government, independent and catholic schools, most of whom took part in feeder conventions in their home state or territory.

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.

The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

Ash Wednesday

We celebrated Ash Wednesday this week, which was a student run liturgy supported by Ms Sue Walsh (Director of Identity), Mr Tom Kennedy (Spirituality and Mission Coordinator) and Ms Cath Lipman (Social Justice Coordinator) and Fr Bernie. Over 20 students were involved.

College Vice Captain – Archie Godby delivered an impressive Gospel reflection which I include below:

As we begin this season of Lent, we’re called to reflect on our lives and the choices we make each day. When a lot of us think about ‘Lent’ we associate it with giving up material matters, chocolates, Netflix or social media. But today, I want you to think deeper. What could you give up that really matters? What could you sacrifice that would impact someone other than yourself?

In Matthew’s Gospel, Jesus warns us of the hypocrisy in performing actions for praise. “When you give alms, do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing”. In other words, when we behave in class or help a teacher we shouldn’t start asking for positive notes or believe that participating in social justice initiatives entitles us to leadership positions.

When we are sacrificing in Lent, or donating to Project Compassion we shouldn’t seek praise. Obviously this is a big ask. As humans we innately and naturally feel that our actions should be recognised, even rewarded. But Jesus reminds us that when we feel no one is watching, God sees our actions. ‘Your Father who sees in secret will reward you’. Jesus is encouraging us to use our right hand to lift up our mate from the floor and not even consider raising our left hand for praise.

Today, you will have the opportunity to have ashes sprinkled on your head, it will be unlike other experiences you’ve had where a prominent cross is placed on your forehead. The ashes will be hidden in your hair and you will be told to ‘turn away from sin and be faithful to the Gospel’. Essentially through the power of the sacrifice Jesus made for us we are encouraged to be virtuous. The practice of concealing the ashes is not new but can be traced back to Pope Urban II in 1099 who believed that concealing the ashes in your hair fulfilled Jesus’ message of humility. The knowledge that we have practiced our faith is beautifully only known by you and God. Our faith, our actions are not performances. They are not measured by how loudly we pray, how many people see our kindness, or how much we give for the sake of recognition. True faith is quiet, sincere, and rooted in the unseen moments—when we forgive without being asked, love without seeking praise, and pray without needing an audience. We live in a world obsessed with visibility. Likes, followers, and public approval often seem more important than private integrity. But Jesus calls us to a deeper way of living. He asks us to give, to pray, and to fast—not for applause, but because it shapes who we are.

This Lent, let us turn inward. Let us seek change that is real, not just seen. Let us trust that the God who sees in secret is the only one whose approval truly matters. This idea is echoed in our school motto “Virtus Sola Nobilitat” (Virtue is its own reward). Virtue can be defined as behaviour that exhibits high moral standards, kindness, compassion, service, love, with the idea that displaying such ideals is a reward in itself. These are virtuous qualities that each of us can adopt during this time of Lent and hopefully carry them through. What is something that you can sacrifice this Lent that truly matters? This Lent, consider giving up hatred, abstaining from judgment or turning away from the fear of failure. When you perform these actions, do not raise your left hand for praise. Make kindness a second nature in which you do not even consider praise necessary. Allowing the kindness shown to you at this school by your teachers, your friends or anyone you meet will create a butterfly effect, perpetuating a cycle of kindness. Be inspired to serve one another. Consider performing random acts of kindness simply because they are acts of kindness. Help your mate because they are your mate. Be kind to one another, because it’s the right thing to do.

International Women’s Day

Yesterday, we came together as a College community to celebrate International Women’s Day, embracing this year’s powerful theme: “Accelerate Action.” We began the assembly with a powerful Welcome to Country led by local elder Aunty Barb Simms, followed by a moving smoking ceremony conducted by some of our Walawaani students and their sisters. To help share the day’s inspiring message, Elka Whalan joined us to discuss her trailblazing journey in women’s swimming. Through her reflections on the importance of education, community, and faith, our students gained valuable insights into the significance of working in equal partnership with girls and women leaders in their lives. Thank you to both St Clare’s College and St Catherine’s School who both sent representatives along for our assembly.

International Women’s Day is a vital occasion to acknowledge, as gender equality remains an ongoing challenge in Australia, particularly in business, corporations, pay equity, safety, and opportunities. In many other countries, the gap is even greater, with women still lacking the fundamental rights afforded to men.

Year 10 Information Evening

Thank you to the large number of parents and carers who attended the Year 10 Information Evening this week and were updated on our Wellbeing program and the HSC patterns of study, subject selection, post school options and Service Week.

All of the subject selection requirements and prerequisites are on the Waverley College website:

Further information on Student Based Apprenticeships and Traineeships can be found here:

Upcoming Parent Webinars

Toolbox Education is running a ‘Thinking Traps’ Parent Workshop via Zoom on Monday 10 March. This workshop gives parents a set of tools to help young people catch their unhelpful thoughts before they spiral. See Flyer attached for more details.

This is a network wide session, with parents from other EREA schools also invited to attend.

NAPLAN

This is a further reminder that students in Years 5, 7 and 9 will be participating in NAPLAN Online between 12 and 24 March.

Year 7 students will sit their test in Periods 1-2 and Year 9 students will sit their test in Periods 3-4 on the following dates:

There will be an opportunity for students, absent on those days, to do a catch up test between Friday 14 March and Monday 24 March.

Talking Mental Health Parent Webinar

Please find attached an invite to a webinar for Parents and Carers on Tuesday, 18 March from 2-3 pm. The focus of the webinar is on how to talk with young people about mental health. There will also be a focus on the Future Proofing Study and their findings.

A recording of the webinar will be sent to all of those who register for the webinar to accommodate people who can’t make it at the allocated time.

SchoolTV Digital Media Literacy & Safety Parent Webinar

Parents and carers are invited to attend a webinar run by SchoolTV regarding digital media literacy and safety (Part 1), to support primary and secondary school students.

WEBINAR: Digital Media Literacy & Safety (Part 1)
DATE: Wednesday, 19 March 2025
TIME: 7 pm

Join us for an exclusive session with two of Australia’s leading experts in youth wellbeing and cybersafety, Dr Michael Carr-Gregg and Susan McLean. Gain invaluable insights on how to empower young people to navigate the online world safely and responsibly.

Please note, this webinar is a one-off event and will not be available to replay later.

Healthy Masculinity – A Parent and Teacher Webinar

Join us online for an inspiring and practical discussion on promoting healthy masculinity among teenage boys and young men. Designed for parents and teachers, this webinar offers valuable insights and actionable tips from the experts at Top Blokes Foundation to help foster emotional intelligence, effective communication, and positive behaviors in young men.

Healthy masculinity is about recognising the incredible role men play in creating a more equal, compassionate world. When men embrace empathy, respect, and authenticity, they enrich their own lives, strengthen their relationships, and support women in meaningful ways. This webinar is also a timely opportunity to spotlight these contributions as part of the International Women’s Day conversation—celebrating the power of men and women standing together for a brighter future.

Don’t miss this chance to gain tools to empower the next generation and contribute to a more inclusive environment for all. Register using the QR code attached.

Generations Breakfast

After the success of past editions, we are delighted to bring back the Generations Breakfast, taking place in our Senior School Library on Tuesday, 25 March.

This special event celebrates the enduring legacy of Waverley College families—where past students remain an active part of our community through their children, grandchildren, nephews, and other family members. It’s always inspiring to see generations of Waverlians continue their connection with the College, shaping each other’s educational journeys and strengthening our shared history.

We look forward to welcoming you to this wonderful morning of connection and tradition. If you haven’t RSVP’d yet, please do so here.

Old Boys Muster

We are thrilled to host the 2025 Old Boys’ Muster in partnership with the WCOBU on Friday, 21 March, atop the stunning Centenary Building rooftop. This year, we’re making the most of daylight savings and the warm autumn evening to welcome our esteemed alumni back to Waverley.

Join us for a complimentary Brazilian barbecue, refreshing drinks, and an evening of great company as we reconnect, reminisce, and celebrate the stories that have shaped Waverley College for generations.

If you still haven’t RSVP, please do so by clicking here. We look forward to seeing you!

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.

The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

As many of you may have heard, Pope Francis has been facing health challenges in recent days.

As a faith-filled community, let us keep him in our thoughts and prayers, asking God to grant him strength, comfort, and healing. Pope Francis has been a guiding light for our Church, reminding us of the power of compassion, mercy, and service to others.

In this time of need, let us unite in prayer for his well-being. May God continue to bless Pope Francis and our entire school community.

Lent

Next week, we begin the season of Lent, a sacred time in the Church’s calendar that invites us to reflect, repent, and renew our faith in preparation for Easter.

Lent lasts for 40 days, mirroring the time Jesus spent fasting and praying in the desert before beginning His public ministry. It is a time for us to grow closer to God through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving (acts of charity and kindness).

Shrove Tuesday – A Day of Preparation

The day before Lent begins is known as Shrove Tuesday. Traditionally, this was a day for confession and preparation before the fasting of Lent. It is also commonly called Pancake Tuesday, as people would use up rich ingredients like eggs and butter before the Lenten season of fasting and simplicity. The College will be selling pancakes on Tuesday before school at the Junior School and at lunch at the Senior School and all proceeds will go towards Project Compassion, Caritas.

Ash Wednesday – The Beginning of Lent

Lent officially begins with Ash Wednesday, a solemn day of reflection. During our Ash Wednesday liturgy on Wednesday 5 March 12pm, we will receive ashes by sprinkling them on our heads.

This is an ancient practice and the fact that the ashes are not readily visible to others reminds us that our Lenten observance should be something personal known only to God and ourselves.

It also reminds us of our need for repentance and our journey back to God. The words spoken, “Repent, and believe in the Gospel” or “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return”, call us to reflect on our faith and how we can live it out more fully.

Parents are warmly invited to attend our 12 Noon liturgy or the Ash Wednesday Masses, led by Father Bernie for the local Parish, in our College Chapel at 7am and 6pm.

Throughout Lent, we will have opportunities as a school community to pray together, take part in charitable initiatives, and reflect on how we can grow in faith.

We encourage you to take this time seriously, setting personal goals to make Lent a meaningful and transformative season. Lent isn’t just a time of fasting but a time of taking up things like gratitude, kindness, compassion and forgiveness as we strive to follow the examples of Jesus and Blessed Edmund Rice.

May this Lent be a time of grace and renewal for us all. Let us journey together in faith, keeping our hearts and minds focused on the hope of Easter.

EREA NSW Student Leadership Networking Day

Yesterday, we had the privilege of hosting the EREA NSW Student Leadership Networking Day welcoming students from CBC Lewisham, Edmund Rice College Wollongong, St Dominic’s College Penrith, St Edward’s College Gosford, St Patrick’s College Strathfield & St Pius X College Chatswood.

Beginning with a meaningful Smoking Ceremony led by our Walawaani students and a welcome liturgy in the Chapel led by Ms Sue Walsh and students from all 7 NSW EREA schools.

Students then had the privilege of hearing from Waverley College alumnus, Sir Peter Cosgrove, who shared his insights on leadership.

He emphasised the importance of compassion, care, communication, and honesty, encouraging students to embody the core values of their school in all aspects of life. The questions from the floor were impressive to Sir Peter!

He certainly got the audience thinking deeply about their positive impact on others and the energy leadership requires.

This was followed by some group sessions from mental health workshops with ‘Talk to Me Bro’ (Mental Health provider) and some enlightening sessions from EREA alumni on the importance of lifelong leadership and seeking to make a difference:

Jack Brown – Former Vice Captain Edmund Rice College & ‘Talk to Me Bro’ founder

Adam Hegedus & Alexi Piovano – Waverley College 2015 & Educating the Future founders

A final workshop explored the need to “fill your own well” while supporting others. The day concluded with a powerful exchange of ideas, as each leadership team shared their one big plan for the year ahead.

Year 9 Ballroom Dancing

As part of our PDHPE and student wellbeing program, every Year 9 student took part in the Ballroom Dancing program, led by the esteemed Joan Carmody Dance Academy.

In collaboration with students from St Clare’s College, they attended lessons in preparation for a special evening of dance on Wednesday.

Congratulations to our Year 9 cohort for their outstanding presentation, manners, and enthusiastic participation.

It was truly impressive to witness 400 students listening, observing, and embracing this new challenge with such positivity. A heartfelt thank you to the staff who assisted in supervising this wonderful program from both schools, and to Mr. Patrick Darvill for his excellent coordination of the experience.

House Swimming Carnival

Today, students from Years 7 to 12 took part in our first-ever House Swimming Carnival & Events Day. They competed in a round-robin format, engaging in swimming, tug of war, basketball shooting, dodgeball, and kick tennis.

A big congratulations to Brennan House for taking the top spot with 588 points. It was fantastic to see everyone having a great time under the beautiful sunshine!

Our school will participate in NAPLAN Online from March 12-24, 2025. Students in Years 5, 7, and 9 will take the national literacy and numeracy tests. Students must bring fully charged laptops and headphones.

No excessive preparation is needed, as NAPLAN is not about keyboard or handwriting skills.

Students are not expected to study, and parents can support by encouraging their child to do their best and to read each question carefully. Teachers will ensure students are familiar with the test format.

Open Days March 2025

Whether you’re interested in our Junior or Senior School, this is your opportunity to experience life at Waverley College first-hand. We encourage all friends, family members, and prospective students to come and see the incredible opportunities available at Waverley.

To secure your spot, simply register via the link provided. We look forward to welcoming you!

Generations Breakfast

After the success of past editions, we are delighted to bring back the Generations Breakfast, taking place in our Senior School Library on Tuesday, 25 March.

We look forward to welcoming you to this wonderful morning of connection and tradition. If you haven’t RSVP’d yet, please do so here.

Old Boys Muster

If you still haven’t RSVP, please do so by clicking here. We look forward to seeing you!

Download the College App

As part of our efforts to streamline internal communications, we encourage all parents, carers, staff and students to download and use the Waverley College app.

The app provides a convenient and secure way to stay informed about college news, events and updates. You can:

By using the app, you’ll be able to stay connected and up-to-date with college life, wherever you are.

The 2025 NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge is now open!

The NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge aims to encourage a love of reading for leisure and pleasure in students, and to enable them to experience quality literature. It is not a competition but a challenge to each student to read, to read more and to read more widely.

The Premier’s Reading Challenge (PRC) is open to all NSW students in Kindergarten to Year 10, in government, independent, Catholic and home schools.

Please ask your sons to see Ms Mary Ryan (Literacy Coordinator) located in the Senior School Library to get started or to continue!

Waverley College School Vaccination Program

Every year NSW Health works in partnership with Waverley College to offer the vaccines recommended for adolescents by the National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) in a school-based vaccination program.

In Year 7, children are offered the human papillomavirus (HPV) and diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) vaccines and in Year 10 they are offered the meningococcal ACWY vaccine.

Since 2023, Waverley College has experienced a drop in vaccination coverage rates for both Year 7 and Year 10 students. There was a 5% decrease in the number of dTpa vaccinations in Year 7 and a 3% drop in HPV vaccination and Meningococcal ACWY vaccination in Year 7 and Year 10, respectively.

By getting your child vaccinated, it protects them and also protects the broader community from diphtheria and whooping cough, and particularly vulnerable people such as babies who are too young to be vaccinated, by helping to limit the spread of these diseases. The more people who are vaccinated in your community, the less likely the disease will spread.

Your child is likely to have received vaccination against diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis at their last childhood immunisation, around the age of four years. The adolescent dose of the dTpa vaccine is offered as part of the secondary school-based program, and is an additional booster dose to maintain effective immunity into early adulthood.

These are the dates that the NSW Health vaccination team will come to school and vaccinate your child, providing you have given consent.

Please find the step by step guide to complete online consent for your child to receive the vaccinations onsite at Waverley College:

May Procession

Congratulations to Our Rostrum Semi-Finalists

Sydney Writers’ Festival

Session 1: The Craft of Poetry with Lemn Sissay

Session 2: Spotlight on Shakespeare’s Women with Harriet Walter

Session 3: The Craft of Short Fiction

Indigenous Round – Saturday, 31 May

‘Kids Giving Back’ – Not For Profit Organisation

FREE Parent Screening – SEEN The Film

Manchester City Football School Holiday Clinics with Waverley College, July 2025

Legends Coaching Week

Congratulations to our swimmers!

Free Parent Webinars – Teen Mental Health Matters

Waverley College App

Father/Son Dinner

Little Shop of Horrors

Ecology Week Blooms at Waverley College

Edmund Ignatius Rice Senior Essay and Speech Competition

University of Sydney Academic Achievement Awards

St John’s College, within the University of Sydney tour and dinner

IDAHOBIT Day – 17 May

MAY PROCESSION – Friday 23 May

Father/Son Dinner

National Road Safety Week, 11-18 May

Travel to school Survey 2025

E-lab Rugby Sponsor

Mother’s Day

Blessed Edmund Rice Feast Day – 5 May 2025

Notable co-curricular performances

Musicals

App Reminder

Get Ready for Ecology Week!

Congratulations to Dr Panos Diamidis

Beanstack Reading Challenge Update: Read a book Inside or Outside

Opal Cards

Building Stronger Family Bonds: The 7 Habits (including practical strategies) of Happy Families Insights from Dr. Justin Coulson

Rugby

Pope Francis

Prayers

Staff Update

ANZAC Day

HSC Examinations

Parents Association Meeting

Consensual: Join the Conversation

University of Sydney Update

Congratulations

Easter Message

Essay/Speech Prize

Rostrum Public Speaking Regional Finals

Little Shop of Horrors Production

Purchase tickets here!

Reading Challenge Launch: Read a book Inside or Outside

Parent Webinar

2025 Australian Junior Athletics Championships, Perth

School Fees

Withdrawal Notice

Cadet AFX

European Football Tour

NZ Rugby Tour

Aussie Surf Lifesaving Titles

National Swimming Titles

ANZAC Day

Exchange Program

Term 2 Canteen Volunteers Needed

Year 7 and Year 10 NSW 2025 School Vaccination Clinic

REELise Film Festival

Year 9 Parent/ Student Information Evening Week 1 Term 2

The Cardoner Network Information Evening Monday 5 May 6pm

And finally….

World’s Greatest Shave

National Swimming Titles

30th National Schools’ Constitutional Convention

Measles alert for Easts Basketball League

Finish Term 1 strong

AFX Cadet Camp

Staff Update

2025 Mother’s Day Breakfast

Blue & Gold Ball 2025 – Tickets on Sale!

Our Lady of Fatima Procession

Turtle Conservation

A Catholic School for boys in
the tradition of Edmund Rice