Principal & Leadership Archives

As the school year draws to a close and the Christmas holidays fast approach, the staff would like to extend our deepest gratitude to our wonderful parent community for your incredible kindness and generosity.

We were truly touched and overwhelmed by the thoughtful gifts received through the Group Together cards. The generosity shown to the teaching staff and support team has brought immense joy, and these gifts will certainly help us celebrate the festive season.

We want to give a huge and special thank you to Samantha Mott for her tireless efforts in coordinating, arranging, and managing the Group Together cards and the subsequent gifts for all staff members. We truly appreciate the time and effort that went into this process.

While thoughtful presents are incredibly appreciated, please know that the greatest impact is made not by the gifts themselves, but by the words and sentiments shared by you and your children. Thank you. We wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a safe, restful holiday period!

Year 6 Graduation

Last week we gathered to celebrate the Year 6 Graduation, a truly special milestone marking our students’ transition from Junior School to the exciting next step of Senior School.

This event is more than just a farewell, it is a profound acknowledgment of the growth, resilience, and success of each student as they prepare for the next chapter of their educational journey.

Ready for the Next Chapter

Throughout their time in the Junior School, our Year 6 students have not just learned, they have developed strong foundations that will serve them well in the years to come. Every experience, every lesson, and every challenge has been a vital part of this preparation:

We have watched them evolve into bright, capable, and compassionate young men, and we are confident that their Junior School experiences have positioned them for success in Senior School.

Special Thanks and Recognitions

We extend our sincere gratitude to Father Charlie for celebrating a beautiful and meaningful Graduation Mass. His spiritual guidance and uplifting words provided a truly special and reflective start to our celebrations, setting a wonderful tone for the day.

A tremendous thank you must go to Mr. Ghattas and the Year 6 staff for their tireless efforts and hard work in preparing and coordinating the entire event. Their efforts ensured that the graduation ceremony ran smoothly, allowing all students and families to fully enjoy the significance of the occasion.

Finally, we are deeply grateful to the Old Boys Union for their fantastic contribution in preparing and serving a delicious sausage sizzle. This wonderful gesture allowed our graduating families to relax, mingle, and celebrate together on the playground.

We wish the graduating class of Year 6 every success as they step into the next phase of their schooling. We look forward to seeing the great things they will achieve in the Senior School, knowing they are ready and prepared to embrace all the opportunities ahead.

Year 6 Raging Waters

The Year 6 Excursion to Raging Waters was a huge success with all the boys enjoying their end of year celebration. The boys entered the park with plenty of excitement and energy as they took to the various attractions the park had to offer.

Everyone had plenty of fun as they raced around the park venturing down the many different waterslides, lazed around in the dinosaur lagoon or swimming in the wave pool. Their behaviour throughout the day was exceptional and I am sure they will hold onto some extraordinary memories.

Year 5 House Cup

What a tremendous House Cup Final Day it was! Beyond the exciting competition, our boys truly embraced the spirit of the event, showcasing not just their athleticism and knowledge, but their incredible character.

The day’s structure was designed to teach invaluable lessons, with points heavily awarded based on a special rubric focused on how they treated one another: Respect for peers and officials, Heartfelt Gratitude , Being Humble in Victory , and demonstrating genuine Graciousness in Defeat.

Our students spent the morning rotating through challenging Knowledge Kahoots and skill-based activities like Basketball Shooting and Cricket Throwing. The afternoon took them to Waverley Park for dynamic team challenges such as Tug of War and Dodgeball.

Every boy learned the profound lesson that success is measured not just by the score, but by the maturity, sportsmanship, and positive influence they brought to their team and the competition. A big thank you to Mr Olds and Mr McKimm for organising the day, and all of the Year 5 teachers and staff for running such a great event. It was a wonderful celebration of our community and core values!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

At the heart of the holiday season, often hidden beneath the lights, decorations, and wrapping paper, lies the one world-changing moment we gather to remember:

That night in Bethlehem, in a simple manger, was so wondrous that it’s hard to imagine it ever being forgotten or overshadowed amid our celebrations.

God of Light,
Turn our hearts to the wonder of Christ’s birth.
Let the joy of the angels, the faith of the shepherds,
and the hope of the manger fill us again.

Open our hands to kindness,
our words to peace,
and our lives to Your transforming love.
May Your blessing guide us
and Your presence renew the world.

Long Serving Staff Members

I would like to acknowledge several long-serving staff members whose dedication, passion, and commitment have profoundly shaped our community.

Thank you to Mr Nathan Brown who has been the Acting Head of HSIE and taught senior Economics for the past two years. Mr Brown has a accepted a position at Mount St Joseph Catholic College, Milperra.

Thank you to Ms Tamara Bliznjakovic who has worked in our Senior Library for the past 3 years as a Library Technician and Bookhire Coordinator. Tamara has accepted a position at St Vincent’s College.

Thank you to Mr Sam Douglas who has worked at the College as a PDHPE teacher for 4.5 years and coordinated the Mountain biking. Mr Douglas has accepted a position at Trinity Grammar School.

Thank you to Mr James Horrocks who has worked at Waverley across two stints. Mr Horrocks has been the Director of Student Wellbeing and served on the College Leadership team with distinction for the past two years. We congratulate him on his appointment as Dean of Students at St Joseph’s Nudgee College, Brisbane.

Thank you to Fr Bernie Thomas for his 9 years of service as College Chaplin and his partnership as Parish Priest. Bernie has contributed to the faith and spiritual life of the College and supported our retreat, Kairos and liturgical program. Bernie is moving to a large parish in Ipswich QLD where he will support many city and country parishes. We wish him all the very best.

Thank you to Mr Adam Wallington for his service to the College over 10 years, his contributions to the HSIE department as Head of Department and his development of Sailing and Surfing at the College. Mr Wallington has been appointed to a position at Brigidine College Randwick.

And thank you to Ms Kaitlyn Downey for her 11 wonderful years of service as PDHPE teacher and Head of Brennan House. Ms Downey has been appointed as the Assistant Principal Students at St James College in Brisbane.

Presentation Day Awards

Yesterday we celebrated the successes of Waverley College Years 5-11 students at our annual live-streamed Presentation Days in the Brother Lacey Gymnasium.

On days like this, we pause to acknowledge the efforts, talents, gifts and achievements of selected students who have made remarkable gains during their 2025 learning journey.Presentation Day is not simply a ceremony of medals and certificates; it is an acknowledgment of the character, resilience, courage, and hard work each young man has brought to this year.

2025 has been a year of purpose – a year in which our students embraced new challenges, deepened their learning, and strengthened their connection to each other and to our mission as an Edmund Rice school. It has been a year in which our staff offered extraordinary care, expertise and passion, and a year in which our parents and carers provided unwavering partnership and trust.

It was rewarding to see our well-deserved Junior and Senior School students receive their awards in the presence of their peers, parents, carers, teachers and support staff. Thank you to all performers and bands that presented and showcased their amazing musical and artistic talents.

To the students receiving awards today across academics, creativity, sport, culture, faith, service, and leadership: your success is never accidental. It grows from disciplined effort, from listening and trying again, from being open to feedback, and from surrounding yourselves with people who genuinely believe in you. We honour not just your achievements, but your journey.

And to every student – award or not – remember this: there should be no ceilings on what you believe you can achieve.

Congratulations to our Award Winners

35th Edition of Wavelength

The 35th edition of Wavelength has arrived! This issue celebrates the many vibrant achievements of the Waverley College community – from claiming the Andrew Reid Cup for the first time in 30 years, to honouring a legend, Br Bob Wallace, to powerful creative arts showcases, global tours, and the lasting impact of our Old Boys.

Waverley College Literary Evening and Community Book Club

Our second annual Literary Evening and Community Book Club took place on Tuesday, 25 November, marking another significant milestone for our school’s Literacy and Library team.

The evening brought the Waverley College community together to celebrate a shared love of reading and writing. We were privileged to welcome special guest Gabrielle Mace, who shared invaluable insights into fostering a genuine reading culture. Gabrielle encouraged us to build a ‘reading ecosystem’—a network of relationships connecting students, peers, families and the school—and challenged us to consider how reading can become a natural part of daily life. She also highlighted the value of audio and eBooks in engaging students who don’t always connect with physical books. It was an inspirational presentation for all in attendance.

We were also delighted to hear from our 2025 Extension 2 English students, Archie Godby and Lieme Chan, who spoke passionately and sincerely about the role reading has played in their academic and personal development.

Thank you to the parents, students and staff who joined us to share in our love of reading, and special thanks to Ms Bliznjakovic for transforming our library into Murakami’s ‘Strange Library’ – a truly atmospheric touch.

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 4 events, please refer to the College calendar.

THANK YOU

As the academic year draws to a close, it is a moment to pause and reflect on the truly remarkable 12 months we have shared at Waverley College Junior School. This year has been defined by energetic learning, meaningful action, and abundant fun, all made possible by the incredible support and engagement of our entire community, students, staff, and families.

The school grounds and classrooms have been buzzing with activity, offering enriching experiences that have extended far beyond the core curriculum. We have seen our students embrace challenges and discover new passions through a diverse range of events:

These moments of learning, action, and fun are not isolated events. They are the threads that weave together the rich tapestry of a Junior School education, preparing our boys to be well-rounded, compassionate, and capable young men.

A special farewell must be extended to our magnificent Year 6 students. This group has been an exemplary cohort, demonstrating leadership, resilience, and a fantastic spirit throughout their final year in the Junior School.

You have set a high standard for effort, manners, and engagement, and you have played a crucial role in mentoring the younger boys. We know you are ready to make the move to the Senior School, armed with the knowledge, friendships, and values instilled during your time here. We are incredibly proud of the young men you have become. We wish you every success on the next chapter of your Waverley journey and look forward to watching you thrive.

None of this would be possible without the unwavering dedication of our teaching staff, who continuously go above and beyond to inspire and nurture every student, and the tireless efforts of our support staff.

Most importantly, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to you, the parents and caregivers. Your partnership, encouragement, and commitment to the Junior School community, whether through volunteering, attending events, or simply supporting your son’s learning at home, is the bedrock of our success. Thank you.

We look forward to welcoming many of you back next year for another year of growth and excitement. Until then, we wish all members of the Waverley College Junior School community a safe, restful, and joyous holiday period!

Staffing Update

In staffing news, we are sad to farewell Year 6 teacher, Ms Tara O’Sullivan at the end of this year. Ms O’Sullivan has been part of the Waverley community for two years, and is going to be heading overseas to travel. We thank Ms O’Sullivan for her contribution to our school and wish her all the best on her adventures.

Next year we will be welcoming two new staff members to Waverley Junior School. Ms Anita Serret will be joining us from St Charles and brings with her a wealth of experience and knowledge around curriculum and enrichment, along with a passion for Music and the Performing Arts. We also welcome Mr Paul Turner who is passionate about building relationships with students and families, as well as supporting the co-curricular aspect of the school. We look forward to welcoming our new members of staff to the Junior School for 2026.

Hampers of Hope

On behalf of everyone at Hampers of Hope 2025, part of the Addison Road Community Organisation based in Marrickville, I would like to thank the entire Waverley College Junior School community. Your generosity in bringing in chocolate donations has been truly overwhelming.

This wonderful treat will be included in our hampers which contain food essentials and other festive goods, distributed to those experiencing hardship in the wider community, just in time for the Holiday Season.

We are truly grateful to have partnered with such a kind and giving school who thinks and cares for others. Without your support we could not make these hampers.

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Congratulations to all our Junior School students on finishing the Summer season so strong! I am so proud of the growth, teamwork, positivity and sportsmanship our players have demonstrated this season and over the whole year.

Sport not only helps students learn vital skills, develop their fitness and increase motivation, but it also brings the community together. I would like to say a huge thank you to all families, friends, staff and coaches who have come down to support our players this year. I wish everyone a safe and restful (but active!) summer holiday break.

The Coming of Advent

This Sunday marks the beginning of Advent, a deeply meaningful season in our Catholic tradition. Advent invites us into a time of anticipation and preparation for Christmas. The celebration of Christ’s birth and the Nativity of Our Lord. It is a moment in the year when we are encouraged to pause, breathe, and ready both our homes and our hearts for the mystery and joy that Christmas brings.

Across the four weeks of Advent, we journey together through a season rich in symbolism: the lighting of candles, the deepening of purple hues, and the steady rhythm of scripture readings that remind us of God’s promise and presence. It is a time of quiet reflection, of expectation, and of renewed focus on what truly matters being hope, peace, joy, and love.

Advent also marks the beginning of a new liturgical year for the Church. As we bring Ordinary Time to a close, we are invited to step into the year ahead with patience and an openness to God’s unfolding work in our lives. This season encourages us to slow down amidst the busyness of school and family life and to prepare ourselves spiritually for the coming of Christ at Christmas.

As a community, may we use this Advent season to reflect on our blessings, strengthen our relationships, and embrace the hope that guides us into the Christmas celebration.

Success at the State Theatresports Grand Final 2025

Congratulations to Cooper Firth (Year 8), Sebastian Karhan (Year 8), Rafferty Mulligan (Year 7), Ethan Storie (Year 7) and Gabriel Wright (Year 8), who placed 5th in the State at the Theatresports School Challenge Grand Final. Their commitment was exceptional with three team members arriving straight from camp. The boys delivered an impressive performance, full of creativity, collaboration and energy.

Sincere thanks go to our supportive parents, the Drama and Co-Curricular teams, and especially to Mr Stewart Firth for assisting with transport from camp to ensure the boys could compete.

The College looks forward to growing its Theatresports program in 2026, with plans to enter both the Junior and Intermediate divisions.

Interested in Joining?
Students of all experience levels are welcome. Theatresports is all about creativity, confidence and learning from mistakes in a supportive, high-energy environment.
For more information, please contact Mr Steven Hall, Coach and Convenor, via email at shall@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Congratulations to Ms Silvia Baylie

We are delighted to share that Ms Silvia Baylie was honoured last Saturday with the EREA Justice and Solidarity Touchstone Award, presented by Dr Michael Slattery, Chair of the EREA Council.

This prestigious recognition celebrates members of EREA communities who consistently embody the values of justice, service, compassion, and a commitment to supporting individuals and communities in need. Ms Baylie’s work at our College has exemplified these principles through her tireless advocacy for environmental initiatives, her leadership in promoting ecological sustainability, and her deep commitment to forming young people who are empathetic, socially aware, and motivated to make a positive impact.

I extend my sincere congratulations to Ms Baylie on this well-deserved achievement. Her leadership and dedication are not only an asset to Waverley College but also to the broader community.

Choral & Chamber Music Concert

Last week, the College community gathered in the Chapel for the annual Choral & Chamber Music Concert. The evening proved to be a wonderful celebration of musical talent, highlighting the dedication and artistry of our students.

The program featured an impressive array of soloists alongside performances from several of the College’s key music ensembles. Audiences were treated to beautiful and expressive pieces by the College Choir, Chamber Choir, Senior Guitar Ensemble, Flute Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, and Clarinet Ensemble.

Each ensemble brought its own unique sound and character to the Chapel, and the combination of choral harmonies, instrumental textures, and individual solo performances showcased the depth and diversity of our music program.

Thank you to all students, staff, and families who contributed to and supported this memorable evening.

Step Up, Speak Out

Last week, our Year 12 cohort was joined by a number of junior school students as they walked from High Cross Park to Grant Reserve, Coogee, raising awareness about domestic violence and encouraging our community to stand up and say no.

The annual walk is organised by NSW Police Eastern Beaches Local Area Command and Randwick City Council, with support from the SES and our Junior School.

A special thank you to Mr Luke Burns for accompanying the students on the walk, and to Mr Lachlan Drew-Morris for coordinating this meaningful opportunity for our Senior students.

Presentation Day -Tuesday 2 December

We are looking forward to celebrating our successes in 2025 as a College community at our Presentation Day events on Tuesday 2 December, 2025.

It is compulsory for all students from Years 5-12(2026) to attend the Presentation Day Ceremony for their respective Year Group. All students are to wear their full academic summer uniform. Students should arrive 15 minutes before the event begins to have their attendance recorded and be seated.

After the Years 5-8 Presentation Day ceremony, students in Years 7-8 will be dismissed from the Senior School at the conclusion of the event at 10:30am. Junior school students will be dismissed from the Senior School with parental permission, otherwise they will return to the Junior School for supervision for the remainder of the day.

After the Years 9-12 Presentation Day Ceremony, students in Years 9-12 will be dismissed from the Senior School at the conclusion of the event at 1:30pm.

The Presentation Day events will be live streamed, see links below. The links will be shared via the Waverley App on the morning of Presentation Day.

The Presentation Day will be a wonderful celebration to conclude the school year.

Reminder: Update Your App Notification Preferences

As we approach the end of the school year, please check and update your Waverley College app notification preferences to ensure communication remains accurate heading into 2026.

Students will move into new year groups in the new school year, but app settings do not update automatically. This means some families may still receive notices intended for year groups that no longer apply to their son, or may miss important information meant specifically for him.

To avoid this, please take a moment to check your app settings and make sure your son’s correct year group is selected before Term 1, 2026 begins.Updating your preferences ensures that you:

Salvation Army Christmas Appeal

The Salvation Army continues to play a vital role in supporting individuals and families in our state and city who are experiencing homelessness, family violence, substance addiction, poverty, and social isolation.

As Christmas approaches, they are running their annual Christmas Appeal, which provides much-needed assistance to those doing it tough during the festive season.

If you are able, we warmly invite you to contribute by donating any of the items listed below at either the Senior school or Junior school receptions.

Foundation Appreciation Drinks

It was a pleasure to welcome our donors and supporters to the 2025 Waverley College Foundation Appreciation Event on 26 November. Joined by our Foundation Patron, General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Mil) CVO MC (Retired), we gathered under the Braidwood tree for an evening of canapés, drinks, and live music, with a special pre-event moment to view the newly installed Waverley Walk pavers.

I was delighted to share an update on the Science and Innovation Centre, now fully approved, with $2.6 million raised of the $5 million needed to commence Phase One, aiming for a $10 million final target. Special thanks to the Coorey family ($409,000) for funding an entire floor, Max and Joan Connery OAM ($200,000) for a laboratory, and a generous family foundation for another laboratory.

Sir Peter Cosgrove spoke eloquently about the strength of our community and the opportunities we provide students. A particularly memorable moment was inviting Year 6 student Tristan Francis forward, still in his graduation uniform, and presenting him with his Waverley College tie. A moment that perfectly captured why we invest in the next generation.

We extend our sincere thanks to everyone who attended for their support and hope to see this generous group grow in the coming months, helping us make this project a reality. If you would like to have a conversation on how you can support the Foundation in any capacity, please feel free to contact our Foundation Manager, Billy Nicolas, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au.

Strengthening our Partnership with Sydney BMW and Sydney MINI Garage

Waverley College was delighted to host its Teaching and Learning Strategic Planning Day on Wednesday, 26 November, at the Sydney BMW boardroom, an inspiring offsite location that provided the

perfect environment for reflection, collaboration, and future-focused planning. Deputy Principal of Teaching and Learning Lynsey Porter and Heads of Department spent the day reviewing the achievements of their previous strategic plan before mapping out the next two years using the College’s refreshed framework. The change of setting fostered rich discussion, clear direction-setting, and a renewed sense of purpose across all faculty areas.

The hospitality shown by BMW Sydney and Sydney Mini was exceptional, and the opportunity to meet offsite underscored the strength of the developing partnership between Waverley College and BMW. We look forward to continuing to build this partnership in ways that benefit our students, staff, and broader community.

Gratitude Lunch for Waverley Staff – Your Help Needed!

We’re excited to announce that on Tuesday, 2 December, we’re hosting a Gratitude Lunch to show our appreciation for the amazing work of the Waverley staff. We know many families would love to contribute, so we’re inviting you to drop off food items to help create a special feast for them.

Items can be dropped off at Reception between 8am – 9am on Tuesday 2nd December.

If you would like to contribute, please click here to complete this form and specify what you’d like to bring. If you’re bringing a platter, please use a single-use plate to avoid needing it returned.

Thank you for helping us create a memorable and delicious celebration for the staff. Your generosity makes all the difference!

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 4 events, please refer to the College calendar.

As we draw closer to the end of what has been a great term, it’s wonderful to reflect on the outstanding efforts and achievements of our Junior School students. This week, in particular, has been a testament to their dedication, the commitment of our staff, and the vibrant spirit that makes our school such a special place.

A particular highlight was our Year 5 students sharing their speeches for House Captain and Vice Captain voting. They spoke of their leadership qualities, their passion for their Houses and their alignment to our school values. Thank you to our Heads of House from the Senior School who joined for these speeches, and well done to the nominees for having the courage to speak and challenge yourself.

We are seeing a strong finish across all year levels, with students maintaining their focus and enthusiasm right up to the final lessons. This is exactly what we mean by upholding high expectations, not just in academic pursuits, but in every aspect of school life. Our young learners have continued to engage actively in their studies, embracing new challenges and consolidating their knowledge with admirable resilience.

A part of this success is having high expectations of respectful behaviour shown by our students towards their peers and teachers.

As we head into the final days, we also want to give a reminder about our uniform expectations. A smart and well-presented appearance contributes to a sense of pride and belonging within our college community. Please ensure shirts are neatly tucked in, ties are worn correctly, and that the “college cut” hair standard is maintained. These small details make a big difference in presenting a united and polished front as we complete the term.

Looking ahead, we are excited for a positive end to the term for all our students. It is a special week for our Year 6 students in particular as they participate in their Year 6 Graduation Mass and Raging Waters excursion. We encourage everyone to finish strong, reflect on their growth, and look forward to a well-deserved break. We are incredibly proud of each and every one of our Junior School students and the journey they have undertaken this term.

Step Up, Speak Out

This morning, four of our Waverley Junior School Green House students joined the Year 12 cohort and staff to walk from High Cross Park, down to Grant Reserve, Coogee to raise awareness about domestic violence and ask everyone to stand up and say no to domestic violence. The annual walk is organised by NSW Police Eastern Beaches Local Area Command and Randwick City Council with support from the SES and the Juniors. Thank you to Luke Burns for walking with our students, and Lachlan Drew-Morris for organising this opportunity for our students.

Presentation Day – Tuesday 2 December

We are looking forward to celebrating our achievements in 2025 as a College community at our Presentation Day events on Tuesday 2 December 2025. Please refer to the correspondence sent via email today.

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

You are all invited to the Year 6 Graduation on Wednesday 26 November to acknowledge the end of your son’s primary school years. Please see the invitation below.

Hampers of Hope

Waverley Junior College is supporting the Hampers of Hope charity drive, based out of Addi Road Community Organisation, Marrickville. This is an annual initiative that plays a vital role in fostering community spirit and support during the holiday season – providing over 2000+ holiday hampers to a wide variety of disadvantaged members of the community (eg domestic violence, orphanages, fire/flood victims, etc).

To support this important charity we ask students to donate either a 180g block of chocolate (eg Cadburys) or a box of chocolate (eg Cadburys, Lindt, Ferrero Rocher) to be included as a treat in the hampers. Canned goods are also very appreciated! Thank you for your generous support and know that you are making a difference at a time disadvantaged community members often find quite difficult.

HSC Showcase Nominations and Selection for Music

We are delighted to announce that two of our talented students have been nominated for HSC ENCORE which is the top musicians in the state. A nomination is a wonderful achievement as the competition is very tough.

We received news this afternoon that James Peate has been included in ENCORE which will be held at the Sydney Opera House next year. Congratulations James!

And congratulations to Head of Music Mr Chris Balkizas and the Music Department on these wonderful achievements.

Farewell Fr Bernie Thomas, OFM

It is with mixed emotions that we announce the farewell of Father Bernie Thomas, OFM, who will be concluding his ministry at Mary Immaculate Church and also as our College Chaplain. Father Bernie has been an integral part of our College community for the past eight years, conducting Masses, liturgies, retreats, and offering spiritual guidance, pastoral care, and unwavering dedication to our students.

During his time with us, Father Bernie has been a source of inspiration and support, enriching the College with his wisdom, compassion, and commitment to faith. While we will miss him, we are excited for his new appointment to serve in Ipswich QLD, where we are confident he will continue to make a meaningful impact.

Below is the official letter from the Provincial Minister, Stephen Bliss, acknowledging Father Bernie’s service and contributions. We encourage you to read the letter and join us in expressing our gratitude and best wishes for Father Bernie in this next chapter of his ministry.

Olympic Boxer Harry Garside Inspires Students at Assembly

This week we had the privilege of welcoming Olympic boxer Harry Garside to our Assembly. Harry spoke with openness and honesty about his journey, from growing up as the youngest of three boys, to the persistence and discipline that shaped his boxing career, to the period of deep personal growth that followed his experience at the Tokyo Olympics.

Throughout his address, Harry encouraged students to stay curious, stay connected to their values, and recognise their own self-worth. He spoke about the importance of becoming the person you genuinely want to be, even when that path challenges you or feels uncomfortable.

His message was a powerful reminder that growth often requires vulnerability, reflection, and stepping into discomfort with purpose.

We thank Harry for inspiring our students to pursue personal excellence, nurture their inner “flame,” and approach each day with intention and resilience.

Salvation Army Christmas Appeal

As Christmas approaches, they are running their annual Christmas Appeal, which provides much-needed assistance to those doing it tough during the festive season.

If you are able, we warmly invite you to contribute by donating any of the items listed below at either the Senior school or Junior school receptions.

NSW 24hr Swim by Ocean Heroes

Last weekend Year 9 student Dylan Duque-Llorente completed the NSW 24hr Swim by Ocean Heroes. Over the 24-hour event, Dylan’s relay team covered an extraordinary 35 kilometres, contributing to a collective total of 820 kilometres swum by all participating teams. Together, the event has already raised $60,000 to support free surfing experiences for autistic young people.

For many autistic and neurodiverse people, opportunities for outdoor, physical, and social activities are limited. Even more concerning, drowning is the leading cause of death for children on the autism spectrum in Australia.

Ocean Heroes changes this by offering a safe, supportive way for participants and their families to enjoy the beach, build confidence, develop resilience, and most importantly have a lot of fun!

Dylan reflects that his time at Waverley College has taught him the value of community, service, and looking out for others. Balancing early-morning swim training from 4:55 to 7:00 am with academic and co-curricular commitments, he felt a strong personal connection to supporting Ocean Heroes and the young people they serve.

Donations remain open, and any contribution large or small will help Ocean Heroes continue delivering life-changing surf programs for young people on the autism spectrum.

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting our annual Literary Evening and Community Book Club on 25 November at Waverley College Library.

This year we will be joined by guest speaker, Gabrielle Mace, founder of ProReading Solutions and well-known literacy expert. Gabrielle is a literacy consultant and library services specialist who works with schools and communities across Australia and internationally to foster a culture of reading. Gabrielle has presented most recently at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference in the UK and the World Literacy Summit in Oxford, and is a sought-after speaker on boys and reading, digital distractions, and student voice.

Our pick for Book Club is the wonderful novel ‘The Strange Library’ by Haruki Murakami. This is a fantastical illustrated short novel about a boy imprisoned in a nightmarish library. Readers will find themselves immersed in the strange world of best-selling author Haruki Murakami’s wild imagination. We will also have lucky door prizes and light supper.

Success in the Theatresports Junior Semi-Final

Our Theatresports team, Cooper Firth (year 8), Sebastian Karhan (year 8), Rafferty Mulligan (year 7), Ethan Storie (year 7), and Gabriel Wright (year 8) achieved 2 nd place at the Theatresports School Challenge semi-final on the 14 November at Sydney Girls High School. We were only a single point behind the winning school of the evening, Cedar College. With such strong performances at the heat and semi-finals, we are optimistic (and will find out soon!) that we will make the grand-final this year!

This competition was significantly more challenging than the heat. The category scores (Narrative, Entertainment, and Technique) were more critical – 5 out of 5s and even 4s weren’t handed out lightly. The other schools had been training hard too – something our boys immediately picked up on. They met their competition with spirit, and kindness, applauding both their own success and that of the other teams.

Our team chose a wide variety of games to showcase their talents. This round, we started the 1-minute round by improvising an I Love You scene, where Cooper gave Ethan a shocking new hairdo. For the 2-minute round, we scored 4 out of 5 across the board from Inner Song, where characters in the scene are asked to step forward and create an original song on the spot with keyboard accompaniment, called out at various points in the improvised scene. The work students in the team had put in during Little Shop of Horrors had no doubt paid off, as they could keep a tune beautifully (thank you Music faculty!). For 3-minutes, the team selected Typewriter.

They improvised a post-apocalyptic story where Rafferty and Cooper were mutated by the mutants from the sewers – oh, and they gained superpowers! My personal favourite part of the story was the fact that Rafferty gained foot talons and Cooper gained the ability to smell 5 metres in front of him.

Thank you again to the support of Theatresports from our parents who came and watched, the students who make it happen, and to everyone involved in Drama and the Co-curricular team.

Interested in Joining us?
If you / your son is interested in being in the Theatresports group, we would love to have you. We are particularly interested in building our junior team from the incoming year 7s of 2026 – aspiring actors from the junior school come and join us!
Please email Mr Steven Hall (Theatresports Convenor) – he can also be found on campus in the Maths staffroom or putting the “fun” in “functions” in E32.

Theatresports Grand Final

The Theatresports Grand Final will be held next week, on the 27 November, 7pm, at St. Andrew’s Cathedral School (tickets can be purchased at the door). We warmly invite any parents or students to watch this event and cheer on our team.

We are especially interested in recruiting current year 6 students at the Junior School to join our 2026 Year 7 and 8 team.

A Fresh Chapter for Our Senior School Library

Our library has a brand-new look and it’s more inviting than ever! Over the past couple of weeks, the space has undergone a refresh, bringing in new furniture and a fresh layout designed to make reading, studying, and collaboration even more enjoyable.

The new furnishings include comfortable reading chairs, flexible study tables, and mobile shelving that allows the space to adapt to different learning needs. The refreshed design creates a warm, modern environment that encourages students and staff to linger a little longer whether diving into a good book, working on a project, or simply enjoying a quiet moment.

The goal of the redesign was to make the library not only a place for books, but a true hub of creativity, curiosity, and connection. A huge thank-you to everyone involved in the planning and setup and to our community for their continued support. We can’t wait to see how this new chapter in our library’s story inspires even more learning and imagination!

Student-Led Social Cohesion Roundtable

On Monday 17 November five Waverley College students attended the student-led Social Cohesion Roundtable at Rosebay Secondary College. The focus was student voices ensuring our diverse, multicultural community continues to be a place for everyone.

The event was convened by Allegra Spender MP, Member For Wentworth, in partnership with Together for Humanity and the NSW Jewish Board of Deputies. It provided a forum for thoughtful discussion on how we can better foster a sense of belonging among young people in our community.

It brought together students from a range of schools, diverse in their gender, culture and faith positions. All students contributed to meaningful activities and respectful discussion proving that we have much more in common than there is difference. It is also heartening to witness the commitment of our young people to fostering a community that values respect for others.

We were wonderfully represented by, left to right in the photo below, Roman Leilua, Lachlan Jones, Cy Preketes, Will Elliott and Will Solomon.

Volunteers Needed – Second-Hand Uniform Shop. We need your help!!

Help us sort, stack and sell!! Full training and ongoing support provided. Grab a friend and work a shift together, its great opportunity to get involved.

If you’d like to join our friendly team or find out more info, we would love to hear from you! clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Basketball Holiday Camps

We are thrilled to announce the details for our upcoming Waverley College Basketball Holiday Camps – an exceptional opportunity for your son to elevate his game during the school break!

These intensive and fun camps are designed to provide high-level skills training, tactical understanding, and a deep passion for the game, all within the familiar and supportive environment of Waverley College.

HSC Showcase Nominations – Visual Arts and Drama

We are delighted to announce that two of our talented students have been nominated for consideration in prestigious HSC Showcase events which is a testament to their creativity, skill, and dedication to the arts.

Xavier Robert Gemmola has had his HSC Visual Arts body of work nominated for consideration in ARTEXPRESS 2026.

ARTEXPRESS is an annual exhibition that celebrates outstanding student artworks from across New South Wales. The exhibition will be displayed in various galleries and venues throughout the state during 2026, showcasing the remarkable talent of HSC Visual Arts students.

Harry Bowcock has had his HSC Drama Individual Project nominated for possible inclusion in OnSTAGE 2026 for his original scriptwriting project Detritus.

For the Scriptwriting Individual Project, candidates must write a complete play intended for live performance. Harry’s Detritus is a darkly powerful new play that borrows conventions from Ancient Greek Theatre and takes inspiration from Steven Berkoff’s potent style of physicalised storytelling. The work explores the unending cycle of violence and war, offering a haunting perspective from the point of view of the victims.

OnSTAGE is an annual showcase of exemplary HSC Drama performances and projects, which will be held at the Seymour Centre from Saturday 7 February to Friday 13 February 2026.

Rock Concert

Congratulations to all our young performers who took part in last Friday’s Rock Concert! The evening was alive with energy, music, and excitement as our talented students took to the stage and delivered incredible performances.

Their hard work, teamwork, and passion for music truly shone through each song, captivating the audience and filling the night with rhythm and joy. From powerful guitar riffs to soulful vocals, every performance reflected the dedication and enthusiasm our students have shown in developing their musical skills.

A huge thank you to our music staff for their guidance and support, and to the families and friends who came along to cheer.

Junior School Music Festival

Congratulations to all our young performers who took part in last night’s Junior School Music Event! Your hard work, talent, and passion for music lit up the stage, leaving us all inspired. We are immensely proud of your confidence and enthusiasm, as well as the dedication you’ve shown in mastering your skills.

Remembrance Day

On Tuesday this week, we paused at the 11th hour, on the 11 November, to remember and honour our service personnel who died or suffered in wars, conflicts and peace operations in the service of Australia.

Remembrance Day was originally called ‘Armistice Day’ to commemorate the end of WWI. At the end of WWII, the Australian government changed the name to honour personnel killed in both world wars.

Commemorating Remembrance Day is vital to honour the sacrifices of those who served in wars, preserve history, and teach students the value of peace and freedom. It fosters gratitude, empathy, and reflection, helping our students understand the human cost of conflict and the importance of resolving issues peacefully through dialogue, negotiation, and compromise.

Supporting Our Students – from Deputy Principal, Students, Mr John Allen

In last week’s edition of Nurringa, we shared information and resources about the impending social media restrictions for children under 16. This week our attention shifts to preparing and supporting our students through the changes by messaging through House meetings, Kanyini lessons, and Assembly. The eSafety Commissioner’s Social media age restrictions: Get-ready guide for under-16s can be found here. The eight point preparation and support guide is listed below. Parents and carers are encouraged to explore the content on the website and to discuss these changes regularly in the lead up to 10 December. Parents should also continue to check-in with their child(ren) routinely over the summer break. This is a time when the loss of connection through social media may prove very challenging for some young people. The emphasis should be on replacing the lost connection through social media with other meaningful opportunities for connection.

The eSafety Commissioner’s Social media age restrictions: Get-ready guide for under-16s encourages us to assist our children to:

Students are permitted to cycle to school with the permission of their parents or carers. However, safety is paramount, especially as the roads around Waverley are very busy, with few bike lanes that connect to the College. A couple of reminders:

Excerpts from the NSW Government legislation relating to e-bikes, as published on the the Transport NSW website here, are listed below.

The rider must primarily propel these bikes – a motor can’t be the only source propelling it. The motor should only help the rider, like when going uphill or facing strong winds.

An electrically power-assisted cycle has a maximum continued rated power of up to 500 watts. This power output must be:

All petrol-powered bicycles are illegal on NSW roads and road-related areas such as footpaths, shared paths, cycle ways and cycle paths.

Police and educators alike are finding the addition of throttles on e-bikes to be a challenging matter. At Waverley College, we continue to be guided by advice from the Police and our commitment to safety for our student riders, and others in our community and beyond, especially in light of the number and nature of injuries associated with e-bikes that are being reported in hospitals.

The advice we have received continues to be that bikes with throttles should not be allowed. Many are either not legal for riding on public roads, have an easily reversible isolation switch (that enable riders to quickly oscillate between public road and private property only modes), or can be modified to enable higher speeds. This makes it difficult to ascertain which, if any, may be considered permanently legal for use on public roads. As such, bikes with throttles are not to be ridden to the College. It is great to see that many of our e-bike users have had their throttles removed to ensure that they are compliant and, most importantly, are safer.

Given Christmas is only weeks away, parents should carefully consider the above information when considering purchasing an e-bike for their son.

The NSW Government is working closely with NSW councils to enable trials of shared e-scooters. However, personal e-scooters remain illegal on NSW roads and road-related areas, including footpaths, shared paths and bicycle lanes.

Parents Association AGM – Congratulations

I would like to thank all parents/carers who have been involved in the work carried out by the Parents’ Association throughout 2025. Particular thanks to the tireless work of the Year level representatives, past parents representatives, clothing pool representatives, canteen volunteers, co-curricular supporters groups and the executive, for all of their organisation, support and efforts in organising events and communicating across our community.

A heartfelt thank you to all the parent volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to supporting our Second-Hand Clothing Pool. Your hard work helps our school community immensely. A special congratulations to Camille Owen and Kirsten Hott for their six years of outstanding service in the Clothing Pool. You were there right from the start of the new uniform changeover, and your commitment has made a lasting difference.

From the recent November AGM, I would like to congratulate the following parents/carers on their elections to the Parents’ Association Executive for 2025-26, and I look forward to working with them in the new year.

2025 Parents Association Impact Award

We are delighted to congratulate Paula McCabe, the recipient of the 2025 Parents Association Parent Impact Award.

Paula has made an extraordinary contribution to the College community through her tireless work with our Snow Sports teams. Over the past few years, she has unofficially taken on the immense task of managing and coordinating the College’s Snow Sports program – from registrations and family communications to overseeing the teams’ activities at Perisher.

Her efforts, all voluntary, have made it possible for students to represent the College and even achieve selections at the NSW level. Paula’s consistent dedication, warmth, and enthusiasm have inspired students, families, and staff alike. The College’s Snow Sports program simply wouldn’t be what it is today without her leadership and commitment.

Congratulations, Paula, on this well-deserved recognition!

Call for Year 9 Parents Association Representative – 2026

As we look ahead to the start of the 2026 school year, the Parents Association is seeking a parent representative from the Year 9 cohort.

The Year 9 representative will play an important role in helping to build a strong sense of community among families, while also supporting communication and collaboration between parents and the College.

If you are interested in volunteering for this rewarding role, or would like to learn more about what’s involved, please contact Parents Association President Louise Lakomy at papres@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Becoming a Parent Representative is a wonderful way to stay connected, strengthen our community, and contribute to a positive and supportive experience for all families in 2026.

Secondhand Uniform Shop Coordinator Roles – Join the Team!

After five years, our current Coordinators are stepping down, and we’re looking for a pair/team to take the reins. This is your chance to put your own stamp on the role and help keep this valued service running for our school community.

Regular volunteers are also needed – even one shift every couple of weeks makes a huge difference!

If you’d like to join our friendly team or if you’re in need of more information (either as a coordinator or a volunteer) please email clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting our annual Literary Evening and Community Book Club on 25 November at Waverley College Library.

2025 Sydney Commemorative Service for General Sir John Monash

On the 7 November, ten of Waverley’s year 10 Cadet leaders represented the college at the 2025 Sydney Commemorative Service for General Sir John Monash at SHORE. Held at the Smith Auditorium in the beautiful grounds of the college in North Sydney, the service was attended by students from the host school, Pymble Ladies College, Abbostleigh, Knox and Riverview.

The service covered the significance of Monash to the Australian experience in World War 1 and his importance as an exemplar of servant leadership, presented by Brigadier Robert Calhoun. Further Monash’s characteristics as a role model were highlighted. Presented by Dr Trung Nghia Ton, a recipient of the prestigious Issac and Susan Wakhil John Monash Scholarship (2017), emphasised Monash’s respect for education, hard work, and on having a diversity of interests, all characteristics we would like to uphold. It was a somber commemoration that our students greatly appreciated.

Thank you to Mr Neale and Mr Brophy for accompanying the following students to the presentation:

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 4 events, please refer to the College calendar.

Musical Recital

On Thursday, November 13, the Junior School hosted its annual Music Festival, treating students, staff, and families to an incredible evening that showcased the remarkable talent within our music program.

The night began with a powerful set from the Year 6 Rock Band, who immediately set a high-energy tone with their renditions of “Livin’ on a Prayer” and “Sweet Child O’ Mine.” This energy carried through the entire program, which was a fantastic reminder of the power and value of learning an instrument. Beyond the musical skill, students demonstrated remarkable discipline, confidence, and the ability to work together as a cohesive unit.

The performances across various instruments and genres highlighted the depth of student passion. We were treated to several standout soloists, including Sam Loughrey on the flute performing “Gone Troppo,” Oliver Starkenburg on guitar with “Yesterday,” Mikell Sales delivering a heartfelt rendition of “Someone You Loved,” and Winnie Cross on the trumpet playing “We Are The Champions.”

The Year 5 Rock Band brought the house down with “Seven Nation Army” and “Blitzkrieg Bop,” followed by Jack Morahan Saliba performing “It’s A Raggy Waltz.”

The evening also featured a wonderful theatrical element from the Cantores and Aladdin Jr Cast, who performed a scene titled “The Marketplace.”

For those involved in the rock and concert bands, the festival underscored the invaluable lesson of teamwork, learning to listen closely to peers and combine individual efforts to create something truly magnificent. The evening closed out with the rousing sounds of the Waterford Concert Band, lead by band director Dan Williams, performing “Panther Rising” and “Born To Be Wild.”

The success of the evening was a direct result of the commitment shown by our dedicated staff. A massive thank you is owed to all the instrumental music tutors who dedicate their time to nurturing this young talent. Special gratitude goes to our wonderful Music Teacher, Mr. Bowden, whose enthusiasm and leadership of the entire music program continues to inspire all our students.

Year 6 Excursion

Last Wednesday, Year 6 took part in a remarkable combined Science and Art excursion, “Observing Buriburi’s Country,” where they spent the day learning from Country at Bondi Beach. This experience went far beyond the classroom, offering an invaluable opportunity to connect with the local Indigenous history and environment.

The day began with a rewarding walk to Bondi, providing the boys with a chance to observe the landscape, including a stop to view a significant rock carving near Mackenzie’s Bay, setting a thoughtful tone for the day ahead.

Upon arrival, the boys were formally welcomed by Aunty Barb, followed by a captivating Whale Story shared by Ms Sparks. This introduction immersed them directly into the cultural and historical significance of the land and sea country.

The core of the excursion involved a rotation through three incredible hands-on learning experiences:

The day was a powerful example of Learning from Country, demonstrating how science, art, and culture are intrinsically linked through the Indigenous perspective. The Year 6 students gained an extraordinary understanding of the local ecology and the deep, enduring connection of the traditional custodians to this special place. It was an inspiring and unforgettable experience for all involved! A big thank you to Ms Sparks for all of her hard work in organising such an engaging experience for our Year 6 students and staff.

Hampers of Hope

Lunchtime Talk – Sam Coombes

The final Lunchtime Talk for 2025 went off with a bang, thanks to Sam Coombes, Dad of Ziggy in Year 6. In an energetic and creative session, Sam inspired the boys to design their own brands, collaborate in teams, and communicate their ideas, bringing every aspect of the 6Cs of education to life through this hands-on activity.

Sam Coombes is an Australian brand specialist, entrepreneur, and co-founder of several successful consumer brands, including Critical Slide, Batlow Cider, Will & Co, and Capital Brewing Co. Renowned for his expertise in branding, marketing strategy, and product innovation across the apparel, beverage, retail, and media industries, Sam has also collaborated with many international partners throughout his career.

It was the perfect way to finish the year on a creative high. The Junior School extends its sincere thanks to Sam for his invaluable contribution to our 2025 Lunchtime Talk series. His passion for inspiring creativity and critical thinking, and his dedication to encouraging the next generation of brand founders, producers, and innovators, were truly appreciated.

We look forward to welcoming a diverse range of inspiring guest speakers and student learning opportunities in 2026.

2027 ACER Academic Scholarship Exam

The Academic and Senior Academic Scholarship is available to students entering Year 7 or Year 10, 2027. The scholarship is open to both existing and new enrolments.

An Academic Scholarship is awarded based on the outcome of the ACER scholarship examination and following an assessment by the Academic Scholarship Panel.

Please visit the College website, or email the Registrar, Ms Kylie Anderson at registrar@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

You are all invited to the Year 6 Graduation on Wednesday 26 November to acknowledge the end of your son’s primary school years. Please see the invitation below.

As part of the Year 6 Graduation, we will be putting together a slideshow presentation. It would be appreciated if you could send through a photo of your son’s Kindergarten photo (or their first day of Kindergarten, or similar), as this will form part of the presentation. (Please just one photo only)

If you could please send a labelled photo through to liturgy@waverley.nsw.edu.au by no later than Friday Week 5. Picture format as a JPEG or PNG file would be preferred. Please do not send through pdf files.

Co-Curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Congratulations to Jack Buxton and Oliver Tharenou who trialled for the CIS Cricket team on Monday. Both boys represented Waverley with pride and Jack is to be especially congratulated on his selection in the CIS Primary Boys Cricket team. Well done Jack!

Well done to all our Junior School teams for showing commitment each Saturday and doing their best at training. Our Tennis As had their first win in Round 10, against Scots – a milestone to be celebrated! Gold As also had a great win against Knox.

Home Learning Club

We offer all students in Year 5 and Year 6 the opportunity to receive free additional support after school for the completion of home learning tasks. The afternoon sessions also provide a quiet, supervised study space for students who want to complete their assigned tasks.

Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm – on Mondays & Wednesdays, and in the 6 Gold classroom on Tuesdays & Thursdays.

The club runs during the school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting or school event and the club will be closed.

Only register his name once to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.

Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave; a parent’s signature will be required.

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 4 events, please refer to the College calendar.

Year 7 Orientation

What a fantastic day we had welcoming our Year 6 students to their Year 7 Orientation Day! The senior school grounds were buzzing with energy and excitement as our future Year 7s spent the day experiencing a taste of life beyond primary school. We want to sincerely praise all the students for their genuinely positive attitude and their enthusiastic willingness to “give things a go”.

Stepping into a new environment can be daunting, but their respectful behaviour and maturity throughout the day truly shone. They navigated the new campus, met new teachers, and engaged with senior students with remarkable confidence.

The day was packed with opportunities for the students to dive into a variety of high school subjects. This hands-on approach allowed them to see what makes the senior curriculum so engaging. From science labs to art studios, the students got a feel for the diverse learning on offer.

A highlight for many was their session in Food Technology, where they got creative and had fun icing their very own cupcakes! We also held swimming trials, giving students a chance to demonstrate their skills and learn about the competitive and recreational sports programs in the senior school.

A crucial part of the transition is easing any anxieties about the big move. We facilitated a special Q&A session where our Year 6 students had the opportunity to ask older students questions about life in the senior school. Our current Year 7 and 8 students provided valuable insights on everything from lockers and class changes to making new friends and managing homework.

Their advice was practical, reassuring, and greatly appreciated by the younger students. The success of the orientation day is a wonderful indicator of the positive year ahead. We are incredibly excited to welcome this talented and respectful group officially next year!

SOTWEG

We are absolutely thrilled to celebrate a huge achievement by a group of our talented students who took part in the Jack the Super Prawn (JTSP) ‘Pollution Solution Students Conference Day’ 2025. Not only did they participate with dedication and enthusiasm, but Waverley College, Team 1 also secured 1st Place, bringing home the prestigious Gold Medal!

The conference day challenged students to collaborate and develop practical, imaginative solutions for a cleaner, more sustainable future. Our winning team embraced this challenge head-on, demonstrating remarkable creativity and critical thinking. The judges were impressed by their inventive concept: Vehicles powered by solar panels and wind turbines.

This forward-thinking idea was specifically selected for the Gold Medal because it was deemed the most impactful, creative, futuristic, and solution-focused project presented at the conference.

We want to sincerely congratulate all our participating students. The team at JTSP was delighted to present our school with an official ‘Participant Certificate’, acknowledging each student’s valuable contribution to the event. It was special to acknowledge these students at our whole school assembly on Thursday.

This victory is a testament to the hard work, collaborative spirit, and commitment to sustainability shown by our students. Their success highlights their ability to engage with complex environmental issues and propose bold, tangible solutions that could genuinely impact our world. We are incredibly proud of their success and their dedication to being environmental stewards!

Lunchtime Talk Erin Michael

Erin, Mum of Jagger (Year 6), was our inspiring Lunchtime Talk Guest Speaker last week, sharing her experiences as a high-performance Sports Dietitian and her impactful work with elite teams.

After completing five years of study in Sports Science and Nutrition at university, Erin has played an integral role in supporting female athletes’ health, energy needs, and overall well-being, emphasising the importance of good nutrition in both training and match performance.

She assists players with fuel checks, food diaries, and fluid balance monitoring to help prevent injuries and optimise game-day readiness. Erin’s work spans organisations such as the Sydney Swans AFLW, Cricket NSW Breakers, Sydney Sixers, Sydney Thunder, AIS, and the University of Sydney, where she helps athletes achieve their best through targeted nutrition and holistic care.

Having spent three seasons as the Sports Dietitian for the Swans AFLW team, Erin described her journey with the squad, from their challenging first season to recent successes. Her practical advice, scientific insights, and passion for supporting player wellbeing were truly inspiring. Thank you for inspiring our Junior School students to dream big!

2027 ACER Academic Scholarship Exam

The Academic and Senior Academic Scholarship is available to students entering Year 7 or Year 10, 2027. The scholarship is open to both existing and new enrolments.

An Academic Scholarship is awarded based on the outcome of the ACER scholarship examination and following an assessment by the Academic Scholarship Panel.

Please visit the College website, or email the Registrar, Ms Kylie Anderson at registrar@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

You are all invited to the Year 6 Graduation on Wednesday 26 November to acknowledge the end of your son’s primary school years. Please see the invitation below.

Year 6 Graduation – Request for Photos

Home Learning Club

Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm – on Mondays & Wednesdays, and in the 6 Gold classroom on Tuesdays & Thursdays.

The club runs during the school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting or school event and the club will be closed.

Only register his name once to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.

Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave; a parent’s signature will be required.

Back to Waverley Day

Yesterday, we celebrated Back to Waverley Day and warmly welcomed back more than 100 Old Boys from the graduating years 1950-1975. It was a wonderful opportunity to honour our alumni who graduated 50 years ago, particularly the Class of 1975.

Memories flowed easily as our Old Boys joined us for Mass, morning tea, assembly, and lunch. There was a strong sense of connection, pride, and gratitude as stories were shared about their school days, the friendships formed, and the enduring values that have shaped their lives since leaving Waverley. Father Bernie reflected on his nine years interacting with alumni from Waverley and their sense of community spirit and

We were privileged to hear from Dr Michael Holland (Class of 1975) – Member of the Legislative Assembly, Member for Bega, Parliamentary Secretary for Health and for Regional Health, and proud member of the Australian Labor Party. Dr Holland gave a heartfelt address reflecting on his time at the College, the influence Waverley had on his character, and the values of community spirit, compassion, and service to others that continue to guide his work today.

It was a day of deep reflection and gratitude for the foundations laid by those who came before us and for the living legacy of the Waverley spirit that continues to inspire our students and community.

Registrations Open: 2027 ACER Academic and Senior Academic Scholarship

The Academic and Senior Academic Scholarship is available to students entering Year 7 or Year 10, 2027. The scholarship is open to both existing and new enrolments.

An Academic Scholarship is awarded based on the outcome of the ACER scholarship examination and following an assessment by the Academic Scholarship Panel.

Please visit the College website, or email the Registrar, Ms Kylie Anderson at registrar@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Waverley Joins Randwick Council’s Step Out Speak Out Walk

Next Friday 21 November 2025, Waverley College is proud to continue its long-standing involvement in the annual Step Out Speak Out Walk, organised by Randwick City Council and NSW Police Eastern Beaches Local Area Command. This vital event raises crucial awareness about domestic violence, urging everyone in the community to take a stand and say no to this pervasive issue.

Leading Waverley’s participation will be our dedicated Green House Prefects, guiding a cohort of Year 12 students in a powerful display of solidarity and support. Our students will join with the SES, the Juniors and other local schools to demonstrate their commitment to fostering a safer community. Waverley’s consistent presence at this walk underscores our dedication to and belief in the importance of speaking out against all forms of violence. We encourage our entire community to reflect on the message of the Step Out Speak Out Walk and support initiatives that promote respect and safety for all.

HSC Examinations conclude today

Congratulations to our Year 12 2025 cohort and our Year 12 2026 Accelerated Mathematics students as the HSC examinations conclude today. Over the last four weeks, we are extremely proud of the way our students have worked diligently and showed up as their best selves across over 30 different subject examinations. We look forward to sharing their successes as HSC results are released on Thursday 18th December.

Year 12 Student Fred Garcia Takes on Movember for Men’s Health

This November, Year 12 student Fred Garcia and his father are stepping up to the challenge of Movember, growing a moustache to raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health. Fred is dedicating his efforts to supporting research and initiatives focused on prostate cancer, testicular cancer, mental health, and suicide prevention – issues that significantly impact men globally. He has been selected as the student representative for 2025 to take part in this initiative.

Fred’s commitment to this important cause exemplifies the Waverley spirit of community and compassion. We encourage everyone to support him in his Movember journey. His fundraising link is included below, so please keep an eye out for how you can contribute to this meaningful campaign. Let’s stand with Fred and help make a difference in men’s health!

Waverley Students Help Lead NSW Waratahs U16s to Super Rugby Title

Congratulations to Kaiasi Talakai and Payton Tarau, who played pivotal roles in the NSW Waratahs U16s team that claimed victory in the Super Rugby title earlier this month.

The Waratahs remained undefeated throughout the tournament, finishing their campaign in style with an emphatic 57 – 34 win over Queensland in the final. Both Kaiasi and Payton made significant on-field contributions, showcasing the talent, teamwork, and discipline that define Waverley rugby. And both boys have been selected in the Australia U16 Squad.

A special mention also goes to Mr Drew-Morris who coached the side to success. His guidance and commitment have been instrumental in helping these young athletes perform at such an elite level.

Protecting Our Students: From Deputy Principal, Students, Mr John Allen

The social media age restrictions taking effect 10 December 2025 are designed to protect young Australians during a critical stage of their development. The restrictions mean that children under 16 are not able to create or maintain an account on the platforms that are included in the legislation. The law is designed to reduce the likelihood of young people being exposed to the pressures and risks associated with social media design features, which can encourage excessive screen time and serve up content harmful to their health and wellbeing.

The eSafety Commissioner has launched a comprehensive package of new resources to help parents, carers, educators, and young people prepare for this change. These resources, some of which are provided below, explain what is changing, why it matters, and how to support young people through the transition.

The Council of Catholic School Parents is hosting a webinar for parents and carers of primary and secondary students, presented by the eSafety Commissioner team. This 45-minute webinar will equip you with practical knowledge to support your child in the fast-changing digital world.

There are many benefits to using e-bikes. There are also many considerations required to maximise the safety of the rider and others. The combination of speed, potential rider inexperience, risk taking, and physical limitations, along with the heavier weight of e-bikes, increases crash and injury risk.

This risk is exacerbated for riders and others in the community when e-bikes are ridden recklessly, the e-bike or the way it is ridden is in breach of the law, and when helmets are not used. Students must apply to ride an e-bike to the College, have their bike checked by Mr Horrocks and registered with the school. Application forms can be collected from the main Reception. This process enhances the safety of our e-bike users, members of our community and those in the public.

Have Your Say: New Public Park and Golf Course at Moore Park South

The NSW Government has committed $50 million to create a brand-new 20-hectare public park and a minimum 9-hole (par 36) public golf course at Moore Park South over the next three years.

A draft Establishment Plan outlining the vision for this exciting project is now on exhibition, and community feedback is invited. The plan delivers on the NSW Government’s promise to provide more open green space and recreation opportunities to meet the needs of nearby growing communities.

The reconfiguration of the existing golf course is scheduled to begin from mid-2026, following the expiry of the current operating agreement.

This is a great opportunity for families, residents, and community groups to have their say on how this important new public space should take shape.

School Bus Service Changes from Monday 17 November 2025

We are writing to inform you about upcoming changes to bus services that may impact some students’ commute from Monday 17 November 2025.

Transport for NSW has recently announced changes to bus routes in our Waverley area see link here. As a result, many regular bus and school services will be adjusted to provide improve reliability and additional capacity on busy bus routes to better meet the needs of our community.

We encourage parents, caregivers and students to review the updated school timetables or their regular route service times as they may have changed.

To ensure dedicated school services appear as a travel option for students, click ‘refine’ and select the ‘school bus’ option. Students are reminded to tap on and off on all trips

Changes to school bus routes include 602e, 604e, 607e, 608e, 609e, 612e, 670e, 671e, 673e, 681e, 682e, 687e, 691e, 693e, 694e, 695e, 696e, 705e, 710e, 711e, 712e, 717e, 726e, 750e, 756e

Languages/Art Tour to Spain Information Night

An Information Evening for the proposed Languages and Art Tour to Spain (November–December 2026) will be held on Monday, 10 November at 6pm in W24–W25.

This exciting tour will offer students the opportunity to develop their Spanish language and artistic skills through immersive, first-hand cultural experiences across Barcelona, Madrid, Granada, Córdoba, and Seville.

The information session will outline costs and inclusions, proposed itinerary, policies and procedures, and provide an opportunity for families to ask questions.

Expressions of Interest are now open for students who will be in Years 9 and 10 in 2026, particularly those studying Spanish or Art.

To register your interest, please complete the Expression of Interest Form. Please note: The google form can only be accessed with student Waverley email addresses.

For further details, please contact Mr Daniel Best, Head of Languages, at dbest@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Year 9 & 10 Drama Students Review Sydney Theatre Company’s The Talented Mr Ripley

Earlier this year, Year 9 & 10 Drama students viewed Sydney Theatre Company’s production of The Talented Mr Ripley. The show was wonderfully performed and stunningly designed. Students were required to write reviews for this production and here is what some of them had to say:

Tom Ripley, both the protagonist and antagonist of the story, was played by Will McDonald, from the TV show, Heartbreak High. His performance was nothing short of incredible. The character of Tom Ripley is, on the outside, a charismatic, charming and cunning man who will effortlessly lie and craft false identities with precision. (Max Wilson – Y9)

Raj Labade’s portrayal of Dickie Greenleaf complemented McDonald’s to make a stellar production. Labade knew his character inside and out, using his body language to capture Dickie’s confident and careless attitude, in sharp contrast to Tom Ripley. Labade’s upright posture and open hand gestures helped cement the idea of Dickies relaxed lifestyle, and his sense of entitlement. (Blake Taylor – Y10)

The best elements were the acting, lighting, and symbolic use of props like the descending boat. These created a sense of constant transformation that mirrored the themes of identity and deceit … I would rate this performance 9 out of 10. It was one of the most compelling plays I’ve seen, combining excellent performances, creative design, and powerful storytelling. (Axel Stapleton – Y10)

The boys all enjoyed the experience and look forward to their next theatrical excursion!

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

We are delighted to announce that we will be hosting our annual Literary Evening and Community Book Club on 25 November at Waverley College Library.

This year we will be joined by guest speaker, Gabrielle Mace, founder of ProReading Solutions and well-known literacy expert. Gabrielle is a literacy consultant and library services specialist who works with schools and communities across Australia and internationally to foster a culture of reading. In 2025, responding to the growing literacy crisis, she co-founded The Detective Experience – a global literacy initiative designed to bring young people and families back to reading through the power of story and mystery.

The program is now shared worldwide at no cost to schools and families. Gabrielle has presented most recently at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference in the UK and the World Literacy Summit in Oxford, and is a sought-after speaker on boys and reading, digital distractions, and student voice.

Our pick for Book Club is the wonderful novel ‘The Strange Library’ by Haruki Murakami. This is a fantastical illustrated short novel about a boy imprisoned in a nightmarish library. Readers will find themselves immersed in the strange world of best-selling author Haruki Murakami’s wild imagination. We will also have lucky door prizes and light supper.

Parents’ Association Meeting and AGM – Monday 10 November – Senior Library

Our next Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday, 10 November, 6pm, followed by the Parents’ Association (PA) Meeting at 6:30pm.

As part of our annual process, we are now calling for nominations for PA representative roles, including Treasurer, as our current Treasurer will be retiring from the role at the end of this term. We warmly thank them for their dedicated service and valuable contribution to our school community.

If you’re interested in getting more involved or know someone who would be a great fit, please email Parents Association President Louise Lakomy at louisel@bdhl.com.au or Ms Robin Ball at rball@waverley.nsw.edu.au.

The Treasurer role is a vital part of the PA, supporting the ongoing success of our initiatives.

More information about the roles and nomination process will be shared at the upcoming meeting. All parents and carers are welcome to attend.

Waverley College 2025 Parent Impact Award – Recognising the outstanding contribution of parents and carers

A strong sense of community, service and faith has shaped the life of Waverley since its foundation. Each year committed families give their time and skills to consistently enrich, inspire and enhance our school community. Many individuals and families have made outstanding contributions through their voluntary support and participation in college life during and often beyond their sons schooling, enriching the lives of many students, and having an enduring impact on the Waverly College community.

The Parent’s Association is delighted to open nominations for the Waverley College Parent Impact Award. The award recognises the outstanding achievement of a particular parent/carer who has gone over and above in supporting the College through their commitment to our mission and values, and who is an inspirational role model within our Waverly College family community.

Nominations are open to individual parents/carers or families with sons currently or previously enrolled at the school (with the exception of current members of the Parents Association and selection committee)

We warmly invite nominations and encourage parent nominations across all year groups. Parents/carers and current Waverley College staff are eligible to make a nomination. See below link to the nomination form https://forms.gle/juFPZzjg9a28cjF47

Secondhand Uniform Shop Coordinator Roles – Join the Team!

Regular volunteers are also needed – even one shift every couple of weeks makes a huge difference!

If you’d like to join our friendly team or if you’re in need of more information (either as a coordinator or a volunteer) please email clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Auditions Now Open – Ascham’s 2026 Senior Production: Julius Caesar

Calling all performers! Auditions are now open for Ascham’s 2026 Senior Production of Julius Caesar. This is your chance to take the stage in one of Shakespeare’s most gripping political dramas – a timeless story of power, loyalty and ambition.

No previous experience is required, just enthusiasm, creativity and a willingness to collaborate.

Free HSC Kickstart Seminars

In partnership with Macquarie University, the University of Sydney, and the University of Newcastle, are hosting Free HSC Kickstart Seminars this November to help students and parents prepare for success in 2026.

Presented by senior HSC markers and counsellors, these 45-minute sessions reveal what markers look for, how to manage anxiety, and strategies to boost performance in the HSC.

Waverley Walk – Paver Update

We’re thrilled to announce that all 120 pavers on the Waverley Walk have now been sold!

The final pavers will be laid in early November and we’re excited to invite all our generous donors to join us for drinks and a special viewing of their pavers at the end of November.

A heartfelt thank you to everyone who purchased a paver and, in doing so, made a meaningful contribution to the Science and Innovation Centre. Your support helps bring this vision to life!

Also, a huge thank you to Ed Mott and Ben Starr from Starr Landscapes for their generous contribution in laying the pavers.

There are still many ways to support the Science and Innovation Centre. If you’d like to get involved, please contact Billy Nicolas, Foundation Manager, at bnicolas@waverley.nsw.edu.au or (02) 9369 0656.

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 4 events, please refer to the College calendar.

Happy World Teachers’ and Support Staff Day

Today, Friday, October 31, 2025, we proudly join the global community in celebrating World Teacher’s Day. This is a deeply meaningful occasion for our school community to officially acknowledge and honour the immense hard work, tireless effort, and profound commitment our teachers bring to the lives of our students every single day. Being an educator is a challenging and dynamic role that goes far beyond the curriculum. It requires patience, adaptability, empathy, and a true passion for nurturing potential. We recognise the dedication involved in planning engaging lessons, providing one-on-one support, creating a safe and inclusive classroom environment, and constantly striving to meet the diverse needs of every young person.

To all of our teachers here at Waverley College, we want to express our most sincere gratitude. We see the long hours you dedicate to preparation and marking, the creative energy you pour into making complex topics understandable, and the emotional support you provide to students navigating their social and academic lives. You are not just teaching subjects, you are acting as mentors, role models, and guides who help shape the character and future trajectory of our students. Your consistent efforts and commitment make an invaluable impact that extends well beyond the classroom walls.

We encourage every student and family today (or any day) to take a moment to personally thank the teachers in our community. A small, heartfelt expression of appreciation, whether it’s a simple smile, a thank you note, or a word of recognition, can be a powerful acknowledgment of the tireless work they do. Let us celebrate our remarkable educators and show them how much their dedication means to the entire school community on this special World Teachers’ Day.

St.Catherine’s School Science Lesson

This week, some of our Year 6 students ventured up Henrietta St to participate in an engaging Science lesson with St. Catherine’s School. This exciting co-educational opportunity focused on innovation and teamwork, challenging students to tackle complex STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) problems in a dynamic, inter-school environment.

The lesson was dedicated to hands-on learning, focused on active, collaborative problem-solving. Students were intentionally paired across schools to encourage fresh perspectives and diverse skill-sharing. Working in these joint teams, they engaged in a series of design and engineering challenges that required them to apply scientific principles, think creatively, and manage resources under time constraints. The energy in the labs was electric, filled with spirited debate, focused planning, and shared “aha!” moments as the students collectively devised and tested innovative solutions.

Opportunities like this are invaluable. They not only deepen our students’ understanding of core scientific concepts but also develop essential skills such as communication, negotiation, and leadership, all crucial for future academic and professional success. We extend our sincerest gratitude to the staff and students of St. Catherine’s School for their enthusiastic participation and for making this co-educational event so enriching. Our ongoing partnership allows us to offer unique and high-quality experiences that enhance our educational offering. We look forward to many more collaborative projects that continue to inspire our students to pursue innovation in STEM and beyond.

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

You are all invited to the Year 6 Graduation on Wednesday 26 November to acknowledge the end of your son’s primary school years. Please see the invitation below.

Year 6 Graduation – Request for Photos

Home Learning Club

Home Learning Club operates in the Learning Hub from 3:00 pm until 4:00 pm – on Mondays & Wednesdays, and in the 6 Gold classroom on Tuesdays & Thursdays.

The club runs during the school term unless there is a scheduled Professional Development meeting or school event and the club will be closed.

Only register his name once to allow other students the opportunity to attend. The session is limited to 20 spots. There will be a roll call to ensure attendance.

Students are required to stay for the full session unless there is a message in the student diary requesting early leave; a parent’s signature will be required.

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

We have had fantastic recent news regarding our students’ involvement and success in their co-curricular activities and external sporting clubs! It’s truly inspiring to see so many boys representing the College with distinction and earning various achievements and awards across different clubs. This external engagement provides a great secondary space for students to hone their sporting skills and develop their passions, and it’s wonderful to see Waverley so well-represented.

As our school year concludes and co-curricular activities continue, we want to offer a gentle reminder to families about the importance of our students upholding the core values at training and in games. We expect every student to consistently demonstrate Respect for officials, opponents, and peers, embrace Resilience when facing challenges, and show Compassion for everyone involved.

Thank you for supporting these important learning opportunities and for ensuring our boys continue to represent the College with pride and integrity. It is to see Waverley being represented with pride each Saturday.

Year 5	Seeking nomination
Year 5	Seeking nomination
Year 6	Kim Gould
Year 7	Samantha Mott
Year 8	Daniella Strbac
Year 8	Nicole Draper
Year 9	Kim Gould
Year 10	Daniella Strbac
Year 10	Anne Clerc-Johnson
Year 11	Claire McGaffney
Year 11	Eileen Trinca
Year 12	Camille Owen
Clothing Pool	Seeking nomination
Clothing Pool	Seeking nomination

Key Dates for 2026

Thank you

Year 6 Graduation

Ready for the Next Chapter

Special Thanks and Recognitions

Year 6 Raging Waters

Year 5 House Cup

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

Long Serving Staff Members

Presentation Day Awards

Congratulations to our Award Winners

35th Edition of Wavelength

Waverley College Literary Evening and Community Book Club

Diary Dates

THANK YOU

Staffing Update

Hampers of Hope

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

The Coming of Advent

Success at the State Theatresports Grand Final 2025

Congratulations to Ms Silvia Baylie

Choral & Chamber Music Concert

Step Up, Speak Out

Presentation Day -Tuesday 2 December

Reminder: Update Your App Notification Preferences

Salvation Army Christmas Appeal

Foundation Appreciation Drinks

Strengthening our Partnership with Sydney BMW and Sydney MINI Garage

Gratitude Lunch for Waverley Staff – Your Help Needed!

Diary Dates

Step Up, Speak Out

Presentation Day – Tuesday 2 December

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

Hampers of Hope

HSC Showcase Nominations and Selection for Music

Farewell Fr Bernie Thomas, OFM

Olympic Boxer Harry Garside Inspires Students at Assembly

Salvation Army Christmas Appeal

NSW 24hr Swim by Ocean Heroes

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

Success in the Theatresports Junior Semi-Final

Theatresports Grand Final

A Fresh Chapter for Our Senior School Library

Student-Led Social Cohesion Roundtable

Volunteers Needed – Second-Hand Uniform Shop. We need your help!!

Basketball Holiday Camps

HSC Showcase Nominations – Visual Arts and Drama

Rock Concert

Junior School Music Festival

Remembrance Day

Supporting Our Students – from Deputy Principal, Students, Mr John Allen

Parents Association AGM – Congratulations

2025 Parents Association Impact Award

Call for Year 9 Parents Association Representative – 2026

Secondhand Uniform Shop Coordinator Roles – Join the Team!

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

2025 Sydney Commemorative Service for General Sir John Monash

Diary Dates

Musical Recital

Year 6 Excursion

Hampers of Hope

Lunchtime Talk – Sam Coombes

2027 ACER Academic Scholarship Exam

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

Co-Curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Home Learning Club

Diary Dates

Year 7 Orientation

SOTWEG

Lunchtime Talk Erin Michael

2027 ACER Academic Scholarship Exam

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

Year 6 Graduation – Request for Photos

Home Learning Club

Back to Waverley Day

Registrations Open: 2027 ACER Academic and Senior Academic Scholarship

Waverley Joins Randwick Council’s Step Out Speak Out Walk

HSC Examinations conclude today

Year 12 Student Fred Garcia Takes on Movember for Men’s Health

Waverley Students Help Lead NSW Waratahs U16s to Super Rugby Title

A Catholic School for boys in
the tradition of Edmund Rice