Term 3 Professional Learning (PL) Day focused on enhancing student success through Collaborative Group Work, Constructive Feedback, and Formative Assessment.
Education is an ever-evolving process, and to ensure that teachers are equipped with the latest tools and pedagogies to foster student success, Waverley College continues to commit to providing quality PL experiences for our staff. These dedicated days allow us to come together, share our experiences, and learn from one another. One crucial aspect of such experiences is to explore evidence-based innovative teaching practices that have proven effective in enhancing student engagement and achievement. The day enabled us to enliven the principles of our T&L Framework.
Session 1: Collaborative Practice
This session was facilitated by the Collaborative Action Research team (Helen Barrie, Alice Curtis, Stephanie Falk, Oliver Knight, Nicholas Sposari, Gemma Stead, Margaux Walker and Elizabeth Watson). The team shared what they had learnt when exploring, designing and engaging in a variety of group work activities with their classes during Semester 1. The aim of the research project was to establish how to best implement collaborative practices in our school context to foster dynamic learning environments.
Collaborative group work has become a hallmark of progressive education. Gone are the days of passive learning, where students sit in silence, absorbing information without actively engaging with the material or their peers. Educators recognise the immense value of effective group work. When students work together in groups, they can share ideas, challenge one another’s perspectives, and develop essential teamwork and communication skills. Moreover, collaborative group work nurtures a sense of community within the classroom, encouraging students to support and learn from each other. By embracing this approach, educators not only empower students to become active participants in their education, but also prepare them for the collaborative demands of the modern workforce.
Session 2: The Power of Effective Feedback
This session was facilitated by Ms Mary Ryan, Mr Angus MacAuslan, Mr Barry Smith, Mr Ben Shorthouse and Mr Rob Tall. They highlighted that effective feedback plays a pivotal role in the learning journey of students.
Constructive feedback serves as a compass, guiding learners towards improvement and growth. During this session, staff delved into the art of giving effective feedback, emphasising the importance of being specific, timely, and encouraging. When students receive feedback that is tailored to their individual progress, they gain valuable insights into their strengths and areas for development. Additionally, constructive feedback instils a growth mindset, where students learn to perceive challenges as opportunities for improvement rather than obstacles to success. By consistently providing meaningful feedback, educators can empower students to take ownership of their learning, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the classroom.
Session 3: Formative Assessment as Learning Checkpoints
The final session was delivered by Mr Nicholas Brophy, Mr Mark Neale, Ms Lynsey Porter, Mr Ben Shorthouse, Ms Jade Sparks, Mr Nicholas Sposari, Ms Charlotte Stephens and Ms Jenna Turnbull.
Formative assessment – an ongoing process of evaluating student understanding and progress – is critical in empowering students to take an active role in their learning journey. Learning checkpoints allow for regular feedback on student performance and enable individuals to track their progress, identify their strengths, and address their weaknesses, fostering a sense of autonomy and accountability in their academic pursuits. Hattie suggests that students should consistently ask themselves (1) Where am I going?, (2) How am I going?, and (3) Where to next?. He considers these to be the ‘Holy Trinity of Learning’ which guide learners towards a future of success and lifelong learning.
As we embark on the second half of 2023 after a three-week break, we return to routine and focus. I reminded the students at our Assembly on Tuesday that it is the little things that make a big impact. I asked them to start by tucking in their shirts, wearing their blazers, and ensuring we arrive at class on time.
These seemingly small actions reflect our commitment to excellence and create an atmosphere of respect and professionalism. They demonstrate that we value our education and the opportunities it presents. So, let’s embrace the details, uphold high standards, and set the stage for a successful Semester 2.
In Term 2 this year, we sought your assistance in encouraging our students to Tap On and Off with their School or Child/Youth Opal Cards. While there has been some improvement, unfortunately, the majority of students are still not using their Opal Cards.
This is concerning, as it puts several school bus routes at risk of being redistributed by Transport for NSW to areas that have demonstrated a greater need.
It is a condition of the Student Code of Conduct when travelling, that students must Tap On and Off with their School Opal Card or Child/Youth Opal Card every time when using public transport. This is so that Transport for NSW can understand customer travel patterns and adjust the services provided, if necessary.
What can parents and carers do to help?
We kindly ask that all parents/carers ensure that their children have a valid Opal card for travelling to and from school each day. We also ask that you please encourage them to Tap On and Off every time they use a bus service.
To be eligible for a School Opal Card the student must:
*Years K-2 (Infants) – No minimum distance.
*Years 3-6 (Primary) – 1.6km straight line distance or 2.3km walking or further.
*Years 7-12 (Secondary) – 2km straight line distance or 2.9km walking or further.
If you do not meet these criteria, your child will need to carry a Child/Youth Opal card with funds loaded onto it.
If your child’s School Opal Card has expired or been damaged, lost or stolen, please visit transportnsw.info/school-travel-apply to reapply.
If you are still waiting for your School Opal Card to arrive, please follow up with OPAL directly by calling 131 500.
The Council of Catholic School Parents NSW/ACT, in partnership with the eSafety Commissioner, is offering all parents, carers, teachers and support staff the opportunity to join a free webinar designed for parents and carers of students in secondary school.
The 30-minute webinar is designed for parents and carers of young people in secondary school.
It will cover:
Webinar details
Tuesday 15 August, 7:30pm-8pm
On 29 June 2023, the Criminal Legislation Amendment (Knife Crimes) Bill 2023 passed the NSW Parliament. As the Attorney General noted in his second reading speech, the legislation responds to serious knife‐related incidents across NSW and recognises the significant risk posed by the possession/use of knives in public places and schools.
Being in possession of or brandishing a knife in public or at school is already an offence under the Summary Offences Act 1988, but with the passage of this new legislation, the offences will move to the Crimes Act 1900 with increased maximum penalties:
The legislation provides for reasonable excuses for possessing a knife, including when it is necessary for:
While these reforms represent significant increases and the toughest penalties of all Australian jurisdictions for such offences, the NSW Government has indicated that children and young people “will still remain eligible for diversion options under the Young Offenders Act 1997”, including “cautions and referrals to youth justice conferences” (second reading speech). The Government has also promised to monitor how these reforms impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Our onsite Uniform Shop is currently out of stock of the Waverley backpack. These should be back in stock by September. The Uniform Shop sincerely apologises for any inconvenience.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
2023 Fees
*As per the updated conditions of enrolment and as indicated on the College website, all Years 5 and 7 enrolments, Term 1 tuition fees are charged in Term 4, in the year prior. This includes continuing Year 6 (2023) students into Year 7 (2024). This replaces the “continuing confirmation deposit” usually charged in the 3rd Payment to Year 6. Year 5 and 7 will still receive an invoice in Term 1, 2024 for any applicable sundries, sibling discounts, excursion fees and camps. Please be advised that if this payment is not made by the due date, your son’s enrolment will be forfeited, and his place will be offered to a waitlisted candidate.
2024 Fees
Discounts and Additional Fee
Fees paid before 4pm on the Prompt payment date attract a $25.00 discount.
Any payment received after the due date will attract an administrative fee of $110.00.
Please be advised that some financial institutions need more than 48 hours to process their payments (e.g. Internet/BPay/BPoint).
Please see the last page of your account for payment method and contact details.
Enrolment Withdrawal Notice
You are reminded that if you wish to withdraw your son from enrolment at Waverley College, you are required to give one Term’s notice in writing to the Principal that your son’s enrolment will cease.
The last day you can give notice that your son’s enrolment is finishing at the end of a school Term, is the first day of the same Term. If not received by that date, a penalty equivalent to one Term’s tuition fees will be payable. The relevant dates for 2023 are below:
The Sacrament of Confirmation for students in Years 5 and above will be celebrated in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Woollahra, on Tuesday, 5 September 2023 at 7pm by Bishop Richard Umbers.
The Parent Information Evening will be held in the Holy Cross School Hall on Tuesday, 1 August at 6pm. Please enter the school via the Fletcher Street entrance.
Preparation classes for students and accompanying parent/carer, not attending Holy Cross School, will be in Holy Cross Community Centre on:
For more information, please contact the parish on 02 9389 3156 or email holycrossbj@gmail.com
We are delighted to announce that ICAS will return to Waverley College this year for English and Science. We encourage you to consider entering your child for either ICAS assessment.
This fantastic assessment program allows students to challenge themselves and be recognised for their academic efforts. The assessment is now fully online with the sitting dates below:
Please visit the link below to register for either the English ICAS, Science ICAS or both! Applications close on Monday, 31 July 2023.
You now pay for ICAS individually online. To confirm your child’s participation, visit https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/pps and enter our unique school code GBG887 to make a direct payment to ICAS Assessments.
Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go to the family, friends and Marcellin College community of Zenn Pemberton. Zenn tragically lost his life last weekend in a motocross accident. A number of our students were good friends with Zenn and have had a tough week. Our psychologist team has reached out and met with many of our students.
There is no perfect map of how to deal with grief and loss and it affects people differently. It involves the movement between the poles of loss and restoration and this takes time.
We have encouraged the boys to speak to their friends about how they are feeling, to celebrate Zenn’s life, to talk with parents, carers, mentors, Heads of House and Father Bernie. Please let our psychologist team know if you would like your son to see one of them.
Alexsandra McCredie amccredie@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9387 0774
Dawn Young dyoung@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9387 0774
Samantha Jessen sjessen@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0635 – Conlon, Green, Lacey, Quinn
Greg Cameron gcameron@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0645 – Aungier, Brennan, O’Connor, Tevlin – Monday to Wednesday
Olivia Stelling ostelling@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0645 – Aungier, Brennan, O’Connor, Tevlin – Thursday to Friday
A tribute and GoFundMe page has been created. Please click here if you would like to support https://gofund.me/71b22f9e
May Zenn rest in peace.
This is my first week back at the College this Term, after attending the EREA World Principal’s Congress that was held in Ireland with representatives from across the globe.
In my absence, I would like to thank and congratulate the following staff who stepped up and acted in their respective roles. I am grateful for their leadership, care and work throughout this time, and I acknowledge their fine efforts.
The College and Old Boys’ Association hosted a Cadet parade this week in recognition of two Old Boys and past staff members who were awarded the prestigious Federation Star for significant and dedicated service to the Australian Cadet Forces.
Special guests included:
General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired), Lady Lynne Cosgrove, Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP (Member for Coogee), Br RJ Wallace cfc, A.M. (Former Headmaster, Waverley College), Mr Sam Hardjono (Sam Hardjono, Board Chair of EREA NSW Colleges), Colonel Nicholas De Bont (Commander of NSW 2nd Brigade), Major (AAC) David Clancy (Waverley College Cadet Unit Liaison Officer to NSW 2nd Brigade), Mr Pasquale Guerrera (Chair, Waverley College Advisory Council), Mr Salvatore Riolo (President, Waverley College Old Boys Union), Colonel Brett Courtenay OAM (Chair, Waverley College Foundation), Associate Professor Mark Davies (Former Chair, Waverley College Advisory Council).
Congratulations to:
The service of these gentlemen is particularly noteworthy and unparalleled to any Commanding Officer or 2IC in any Cadet Unit across the country since 1906 and the Army Cadets nationwide foundation. They have both been instrumental in shaping the Unit to what it is today whilst instilling values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence. They have inspired and led countless young men to become leaders within their own communities, and beyond for decades.
Peter’s first introduction to Cadets dates back to 1960, when the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Unit at the time, Brother Frank Farrell announced to ‘2nd Class’ (now better known as Year 8), that they were invited to join Cadets a year early with the promise that they would all be Officers by their final year. 15 impressionable young men took up that offer, of that 15, there were three Peters, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Frost, Sir Peter Cosgrove and CAPT The Honourable Peter Collins, all of whom were present at this week’s parade.
Peter Frost’s dedication to Cadets commenced that day, he then graduated in 1964, became an Officer of Cadets at Waverley College in 1965, and then commenced employment as an English Teacher at the College in 1969. He held numerous positions during his 50-year tenure at the College, most notably Assistant to the Headmaster on the College Executive and as the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Unit from 1977 to 2019, where Peter single-handedly reformed the Unit following its disband under the Whitlam Government in 1975.
Anthony joined the College in 1973, as a Year 5 Student and was heavily involved in Cadets from Year 8. He was the Cadet Unit’s Head of Medics during Year 10, 11 and 12 and received the CUO Officer’s Staff Award in his graduating year, 1980. When Anthony left the College, the skills he learnt as a Cadet Medic assisted in his chosen occupation, becoming an Ambulance Officer with St John’s Ambulance and the NSW Ambulance Service, whilst serving as an Officer of Cadets within the Unit from 1982.
Anthony commenced employment at the College in 1994 as the Student Administration Officer and Cadet Unit 2IC, contributing tirelessly to the Cadet Program as well as the overall leadership, development and medical care of young men at the College for almost three decades, helping to shape many young men who have walked through our gates.
These two summaries, whilst brief, show why dedication and service are two terms synonymous with both Peter and Anthony, and are a testament to their character and ongoing, unwavering commitment to excellence. As we celebrate Peter and Anthony’s decades of distinguished service, we are reminded of the profound impact that they have had on the lives of others.
Thank you to the Waverley College Old Boys’ Association for hosting a wonderful celebration and evening which was attended by over 350 people.
Yesterday Sam Stewart, Lachlan Grant, Connor Andrews and Bert Cottell ably led our Years 7-12 College assembly in the Brother JP Lacey Gymnasium. After singing the National Anthem, Brock Smith presented the Acknowledgement of Country with Sam Stewart introducing our special guests: Dr Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee; Mr Col Blake, Council Member of the Waverley College Old Boys’ Union; Ms Sophie Smith, Founder of Running for Premature Babies, and the Honourable Michael Cleary, AO.
At the lectern, College Captain, Lachlan Grant spoke clearly and compassionately about Refugee Week (Sunday, 18 June – Saturday, 24 June 2023). He encouraged students to both acknowledge and learn more about the journey that refugees have taken to reach Australia. The theme this year is ‘Finding Freedom.’ Lachlan posed this question: what does it mean to be free? He thoughtfully unpacked some examples of what this might mean:
“Everyday millions of people across the world embark on dangerous journeys for the sole purpose of finding safety and freedom. From Australia to nations across the globe, settling into a new environment after experiencing the perils of a refugee’s journey, can also provide the opportunity to live, to love and to dream … Let us pray that here in Australia we will welcome refugees who come to us seeking a new home with open arms and open hearts. Let us show compassion and celebrate the resilience that makes up parts of our wider community. For freedom should not be an ask, it should be a way of life.” – Lachlan Grant.
Image: courtesy Refugee Week website
Connor and Sam led us in prayer about peace, compassion, equality, love, freedom and acceptance, and we contributed in response: “Change us Lord, so that we may change the world.” Lachlan prayed that through the example of Jesus, we may help bring healing and hope to refugees who come to Australia, seeking a new home.
We were delighted that Dr Marjorie O’Neill devoted time out of her busy schedule to present the 2023 Young Archie Award. This Art Gallery of NSW award is open to students aged between 5 and 14 who submit a portrait for its Young Archie competition. This portrait must be of a person who is special to the student, is known to the student, and who plays a significant role in the student’s life. We heartily congratulate Harvey Smith for his ‘Honourable Mention’ for his portrait of his Perth-based grandfather. Dr O’Neill also mentioned Harvey’s achievement in Parliament:
“I congratulate Harvey Smith in year 6 Red at Waverley College on receiving an honourable mention in the Young Archie competition for 2023 with his portrait My Poppy. Harvey has really captured his Poppy’s sense of humour in his portrait as he portrayed his Poppy very much enjoying himself on Christmas Day.” (15:28): Legislative Assembly Hansard – 10 May 2023.
‘Honourable Mentions’ are currently exhibited at the SH Ervin Gallery in the historic National Trust Centre on Observatory Hill until 23 July, alongside the Salon Des Refusés. I encourage you to visit to support the younger generation of Australian artists.
Ms Sophie Smith, Waverley parent and Founder of ‘Running for Premature Babies’ and Mr Col Blake, Council Member of the Waverley College Old Boys’ Union, also addressed the assembly. Inspiring all of us, she spoke passionately about her registered Australian charity supporting neonatal units in Australian hospitals, alongside Mr Blake, veteran City2Surf participant. I hope more students than ever, will take up their challenge to join this year’s City2Surf ‘Running for Premature Babies’ team.
Will you help give thousands of premature babies a better chance of survival by being part of this important medical research initiative? Run to save a baby’s life!
Click here to pledge your support for the City2Surf Running for Premature Babies Team
Enthusiastic Waverlian runners – previous City2Surf
We also thank the Old Boys’ Union for their generous cheque for $750 to Lachlan Miranda (Year 11) to attend a NSW Youth Parliament Program camp. We are proud that Lachlan Miranda, elected current Youth Minister for Mental Health, will represent Waverley by attending a Youth Parliament Forum camp in July, and we acknowledged this prestigious achievement with applause. We thank Mr Blake and the Old Boys’ Union for supporting our students to reach their goals.
Next, Mr O’Donnell, Director of Co-curricular, presented the Track & Field captains for 2023:
We look forward to learning from their leadership.
Lachlan then introduced our guest speaker, The Honourable Michael Cleary (Class of 1958), Triple International athlete, Order of Australia recipient, Australian Sports Hall of Fame member, and the Former Sports and Tourism Minister for NSW (Labor). Lachlan had numerous thoughtful questions for Mr Cleary, touching on his favourite memories, his title as a Triple International athlete (both rugby codes and athletics!), his involvement in the local community, his 1962 Commonwealth Games Bronze medal for the 100-yard sprint in Perth, and his Order of Australia.
Mr Cleary was clearly very comfortable on the stage and rather than participating in a traditional Q&A session, quickly launched into ‘storytelling’ mode! He spoke of his achievements conversationally and presented as a most humble person. He was philosophical when touching on moments in his life when he had ‘missed out’ on opportunities.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
This year, the daVinci Decathlon makes its return as an in-person event after the last few years of being held via Zoom. The essence of the daVinci Decathlon lies in its ability to provide an immersive experience, and this is amplified when participants, up to 600 students, come together to compete under one roof.
The excitement of exploring diverse subjects, solving complex problems, and engaging in hands-on challenges becomes even more palpable when shared in real-time. For a lot of our students, this will be their first in person daVinci experience.
This all-day event will be taking place at Knox Grammar School, Wahroonga, on the following dates:
We wish our students all the best for their preparation for this extraordinary event!
As I reflect on my last seven weeks leading the College, I can honestly say I have thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity, as the (Acting) Principal of Waverley College. There have undoubtedly been many memorable experiences. I’d like to share with you a few of my favourite moments:
I was thrilled to be involved in the amazing variety of community events at Waverley including the ANZAC Day commemorative service, Edmund Rice Day celebration, May Procession, Reconciliation Week Assembly, Mother’s Day Breakfast and Mass. These events gave me valuable opportunities to engage with our entire College community, promote unity and legacy, whilst honouring and celebrating important occasions.
Such intergenerational opportunities foster tradition and connectedness, and celebrate our faith and the achievements of individuals in our College community. Most recently, our assembly dedicated to National Reconciliation Week, where students and staff came together to learn about Indigenous culture, highlighted the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and respect.
These are just a few of the moments that stand out, but every day and every interaction with students, staff, community, alumni and stakeholders was truly significant in its own way. The opportunity to build positive relationships, and lead and support our talented educators and support staff, was a very gratifying experience. I thank everyone for their support.
It has been a busy week in the Cadet Unit, with our CAS Drill Team performing brilliantly at the CAS Drill Competition on Wednesday, 31 May.
Followed by a very special day in the Cadet Calendar as we farewelled our graduating Year 12 Cadets on Sunday. The Annual Passing Out Parade and Awards Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity to bring our parents, carers and community together to celebrate the successes of the year.
Later that evening, Year 12 cadets and their parents/carers joined AAC and College dignitaries and Cadet staff in a formal Military Mess in the Gym. Our stewards transformed the room into an elegant dining space and we were blessed to come together to celebrate our Year 12s’ five years of service to the Cadet Unit.
An emotional time for them, our Year 12 cadets are ready to say goodbye and to embrace the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
>>> Click here to view the Cadets article by WCCU, MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow.
Local author Will Kostakis spent a day at Waverley College as ‘Writer in Residence.’
Will answered student questions about what it is like to be an author, the challenges faced by local Australian authors, and outlined what it takes to publish a book (a two-year process in general, earning on average $15,000 a year)!
Will also shared writing tips for students, getting students to write a joint story starter where boys did not tell the reader, but showed readers how a character felt or how a scene felt.
Will also outlined to staff and students the power of reading and how developing this skill will help in all facets of life.
The library and Head of Literacy, Ms Mary Ryan, will continue to work together to provide opportunities for boys to develop their reading and writing skills through special events and curriculum enrichment.
Will also spent time with Mr David Parnell (Head of Learning Support), Ms Sam Jessen (College Psychologist) and Ms Elizabeth Watson (Deputy Principal – Teaching & Learning), and worked with a group of senior students through questions of identity and belonging.
Mr Bill Roberts and Ms Mary Ryan
Literacy Team
In his meeting with the Year 11 and Year 12 students, from the Waverley College Student Pride group, William Kostakis spoke about his story of coming out to his parents and grandparents, in the context of a conservative Greek family. Growing up in the closet, Will faced the challenges of restrictions placed on his expression as a young gay author, continuing into his career, in a time when conservative publishers controlled the content of material that made it to print.
Will challenged the Waverley Student Pride students to reach out and support peers, who would benefit from connecting with others on similar journeys. As leaders in the school, they have the opportunity to leave the school a place that will continue to grow as a welcoming and inclusive community, valuing growth and strength through diversity. “Courage is fake. Be strong, even when you don’t feel it, and your courage will grow.” (William Kostakis)
“I loved meeting Will, he was super nice, very easy to talk to, and great fun to chat with. I learned tons about all sorts of things, from politics, to dealing with homophobia, and even the writing industry.” (Year 11 student)
“I think it was very interesting to hear about Will’s experiences overcoming discrimination as a queer author.” (Year 12 student)
Students, including allies, wanting to join Waverley Pride should email joinpride@waverley.nsw.
“Together Always. United in Diversity.” (IDAHOBIT 2023)
Mr David Parnell
Head of Learning Support
One of the biggest negative effects on student wellbeing is mobile phone usage. Waverley College has clear policies around mobile phone usage and from Term 4, most State schools will be implementing a ban on all mobile phones during school hours. We will be reviewing our current policy before that time.
This week on School TV there is a great episode on mobile phone separation anxiety that all students, parents and carers can access:
The use of mobile phones and technology in schools has been a highly debated topic internationally, including in Australia. Almost all states and territories in Australia, have implemented full bans on mobile phones during class, recess, and lunch times, while allowing students to carry their phones during travel to and from school.
Critics argue that there is no evidence supporting the effectiveness of such bans, but this is a mischaracterisation. Studies have shown the positive impacts of mobile phone bans in schools. One study conducted in 2016, found that banning mobile phones led to an increase in student performance, with test scores improving by 6.4% of a standard deviation. Similar studies from Spain and Norway also supported these findings.
For parents/carers concerned about mobile phone separation anxiety in their children, it is important to acknowledge it as a real issue and discuss the negative effects of phone addiction, such as sleep problems and mental health issues. Gradually introducing phone-free periods at home, setting clear expectations and boundaries and modelling healthy behaviours can help your child cope.
It is also crucial to establish a support network and seek professional help if needed. Implementing mobile phone bans in schools allows for better focus on teaching and learning, minimising distractions and interruptions.
This Special Report will help address mobile phone separation anxiety and provide guidance on supporting your child’s wellbeing during this transition period. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.
Click here to view the Special Report
Today students and staff celebrated our Reconciliation Week assembly, which began with a traditional smoking ceremony led by Mr Kevin Heath (Aboriginal Liaison Officer) and our Walawaani students, followed by an Acknowledgement of Country. Kevin taught us about the meaning of a smoking ceremony and its importance in cleansing, reminding us that Indigenous culture is built on truth-telling and one of shared histories, culture and heritage which has survived for more than 65,000 years. He explained that the smoke was to cleanse our location, and encourage us to be present and slow down. His tapping clapsticks were to help us to settle.
We welcomed guest speaker Mr Dylan Booth (Co-lead NSW Uluru Statement From the Heart Youth Network and Member of National Dialogue), who shared his life story. Dylan has accomplished much in a short space of time. Living on campus at the University of NSW helped him complete his successful degree studies in Commerce, and he then confidently built a career at KPMG. As a Management Consultant in their Indigenous Consulting Business, he advised NSW and Federal Government organisations, and helped them solve some of their problems. A keen Rugby League player, he toured New Zealand in the National Indigenous Oztag team and later won a NSW State title in Boxing.
In a frank dialogue with Kevin, Dylan generously shared his learnings and revealed that he had made many mistakes, and encouraged students to approach life with an open mind, and embody humility, which he said was a big part of his cultural learning. He advised: “It’s okay to make mistakes but you must learn from your mistakes.” When asked what he was most proud of leaving behind for the next generation, he named his strong and proud Aboriginal family and setting a good example for his younger siblings. He mentioned his important recent work with the Royal Commission into Violence, Abuse, Neglect and Exploitation of People with Disability where he put forward structural recommendations for reform and access to critical services needed. He remains committed to being the best person he can.
He inspired us with his current work with the ‘Uluru Statement From the Heart’ and his selection as part of the Uluru Youth Dialogue, reminding us of the hard work of political activism and campaigning since 1900 by older Indigenous people.
Waverley College thanks Dylan and Kevin for their storytelling and genuine dialogue whilst unpacking this year’s theme, ‘Be a Voice for Generations.’
The OBU AGM was last Friday after the May Procession. I would like to congratulate the elected members, both the Executive and Council Members for 2023/2034:
Congratulations to the following students who were successful in attaining Mid-Year Prefect appointments.
Congratulations to Hendrix Brown from Aungier House who has been elected as the Year 7 SRC representative.
These students were presented with their badges at the College Assembly on Thursday, 1 June.
The Board of EREA Ltd is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr Liam Smith as the National Executive Director of Edmund Rice Education Australia commencing in
mid-June. Dr Smith is currently the inaugural Regional Director for a new Brisbane Metropolitan South Region and has led a whole of state reform and realignment of regional
service delivery across the Department of Education (Queensland). Recently, Liam has undertaken the role of Acting Deputy Director General for People, Information and
Communications, with direct oversight of the Department of Education’s Human Resources, IT and Media/Communications teams across Queensland, and the role of Acting
Deputy Director General for First Nations Strategy and Partnerships.
Ms Gabrielle Smith, Acting Principal, cordially invites Year 12 Students and their partners to the Year 12 Formal.
Venue: Doltone House, Jones Bay Wharf, Pyrmont
Time: Formal photos from 6pm. Seated by 6:30pm. Dinner/Dancing 6:30pm – 10pm.
Who: Student and Partner
Cost: $160 per person
Dress: Formal attire for all guests
Ticket sales open at 6pm on Friday, 2 June and close on Thursday, 15 June 2023.
Please note, students will be able to leave at lunchtime to enable them to get ready for the Formal.
We understand that as parents and caregivers, you face unique challenges in guiding your children through the journey of adolescence. That’s why we’re thrilled to invite you to our upcoming event, where we aim to provide valuable insights and practical strategies to navigate this particular aspect of your children’s lives.
Connect and Share:
This event brings together parents, educators, and community members, providing a platform to share experiences, exchange ideas, and address concerns. By coming together, we can support one another in our collective mission of fostering the wellbeing of our youth.
Wisdom from Former Students:
One of the highlights of the event will be the privilege of listening to former students as they share the advice they would give their 17-year-old selves. Gain valuable insights from those who have experienced the challenges of youth firsthand and discover the valuable guidance they received from their parents. Their stories will inspire and empower you as you navigate the intricacies of parenting.
Expert Guidance:
We are delighted to announce that Yasmin London, Director of Education & Wellbeing, ANZ at Linewize ANZ, will be joining us once again to share her expertise. Yasmin is a renowned expert in the field of safeguarding, and her insights will provide you with valuable tools and strategies to support your children’s journey.
Panel Discussion:
Join a panel of deputies and other school leaders as they engage in a thought-provoking discussion on how schools can effectively support parents and students. Gain a deeper understanding of the collaborative efforts necessary to ensure a safe and nurturing environment for our youth.
Join us at ‘After the Bell’ as we empower parents and caregivers with the insights and strategies needed to support our youth in making safe and informed decisions.
When: Thursday, 15 June 2023, 6pm
Where: Cranbrook School at 5 Victoria Road, Bellevue Hill
Book your tickets HERE
We’d be delighted if you could also follow Waverley College Social Media pages to support our student, staff and community successes. Please follow @waverleycollege on Instagram and Facebook
The increased prevalence of vaping in schools and broader society has been an ongoing concern for parents, carers, staff and students. Vapes or eCigarettes have made their way into popular culture with young people believing the marketing hype and pressure from their peers that vaping is not as dangerous as cigarette smoking.
At Waverley College, we have clear expectations with all students in regards to vapes. We also provide many opportunities within our Wellbeing and PDHPE programs for our students to have personal development experiences in many areas, so that they are able to make good decisions if they are ever in a situation where they are being pressured into trying something like vapes. These opportunities are numerous in number, which also include guest speakers who work alongside the staff at the College to reinforce our Wellbeing programs.
As a College, Waverley is committed to the safety and wellbeing of all students. In order to mitigate the prevalence of vape use amongst our students, we have installed vaping detectors in the student bathrooms. These detectors are monitored on an ongoing basis.
Students who are caught bringing vapes to school/ using these will be instantly suspended. Please be aware that the College has a zero tolerance for this behaviour. Please see below some additional information regarding vapes and their danger. I urge you to please discuss this information with your son/s.
The use of recreational vapes by Australian school students has been rising in recent years and last week, it was announced that the Australian government will ban the importation of non-prescription vaping products – including those that do not contain nicotine. Minimum quality standards for vapes will also be introduced, including restricting flavours, colours and other ingredients.
Vapes are not water. The main ingredient in vapes is propylene glycol, vegetable glycerine or glycerol. Vapes can contain the same harmful chemicals found in cleaning products, nail polish remover, weed killer and bug spray. They just don’t put it on the pack.
Vapes come in a number of flavours such as blueberry or bubble gum that make them appealing to young people. Many vapes also contain nicotine, the same highly addictive substance found in tobacco cigarettes. Vapes labelled ‘nicotine-free’ can still have high nicotine levels. People can think they are using nicotine-free vapes and can unknowingly quickly develop a nicotine addiction, particularly children.
Better regulation of the supply of vapes is part of the solution, however many students may already have developed an addiction to nicotine by using vapes and will need assistance in identifying triggers to vaping and developing strategies to quit.
Continual education on this issue for teens is critical, so we ask all parents/carers to have an open conversation with your child today about whether they have used vapes in the past, and why it is important not to, or if they are using vapes at present, that you can get support for them to quit through your GP.
Quitline counsellors are also available to answer any questions about vapes on 13 7848 (13 QUIT) from parents/carers or young people, including how to start that conversation with your child.
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation who are the traditional Custodians of the land on which Waverley College is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual connections to the land, waters, seas and sky and their rich contribution to society.
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