Principal & Leadership Archives - Page 2 of 56

After years of near misses and determined efforts over 34 years, Waverley College has finally triumphed in the prestigious inter-school CAS Debating competition.

The team delivered a commanding performance in the final round, combining sharp reasoning, confident delivery, and seamless teamwork to secure a long-awaited victory.

Their success marks a historic moment for the school, reflecting not only the talent and dedication of this year’s debaters but also the hard work of coaches and past teams who laid the groundwork.

Congratulations to our 1st Debating team, (Y12) James Peate, (Y12) Tom Jackson-Whitlock, and (Y12) Nick Zanapalis who won the CAS debating competition (tied with Knox Grammar and St Aloysius College).

Congratulations and thank you to their respective coaches and convenors for all of their continued support and guidance of the team – Mr Christian Kitas (WCOB 2022), Ms Maisie Gordon, Ms Emma Halpin and Ms Alice Curtis.
James Peate was selected to captain the Seconds in the CAS rep team.

I would also like to acknowledge the work of Ms Natasha Zivanovic who introduced debating in Year 6 seven years ago, and facilitated participation in the IPSHA tournament.

Natasha reports that 42 students trialled for the Junior School Debating Team this year!

Wear it Purple Day – Bold Voices and Bright Futures 2025

Today we celebrated Wear it Purple Day, an annual LGBTQIA+ awareness day that Waverley College proudly supports. The day is about celebrating diversity and fostering supportive, safe, empowering, and inclusive learning environments.

As an EREA school, we value diversity and have clear policies in place to support this commitment. This is a day for everyone, both the LGBTQIA+ community and allies to stand together in solidarity.

We were honoured to welcome as guest speaker on assembly acclaimed author Gary Lonesborough who is a proud Yuin man from the far south Coast of NSW. Gary’s latest novel I’m Not Really Here has gone on to win the CBCA Book of the Year Award.

Gary shared his story of identity, cultural heritage, grief, resilience, community and youth justice with the audience. He reminded us that storytelling can be a powerful way to celebrate identity, foster understanding, and create safe spaces for young people.

2026 College Leaders

After an extensive process of interviews, presentations, and staff, year level and house voting, the 2026 College Captains have been chosen. Congratulations to the following students:

Father’s Day Breakfast

We warmly invite all fathers, grandfathers, and significant men in the lives of our Waverley College students to celebrate Father’s Day with a special breakfast alongside your sons. This occasion is a wonderful opportunity to share time together, enjoy a light meal, and strengthen connections within our Waverley College community.

With Father’s Day fast approaching, why not give a gift that lasts a lifetime? A personalised paver on the Waverley Walk, located just inside the iconic Carrington Road gates, is a unique way to honour the fathers and father figures in our community.

Your paver will not only serve as a permanent reminder of your family’s connection to the College, but it will also support the construction of the new Science & Innovation Centre, ensuring future generations of Waverlians have access to world-class learning facilities.

With only 19 pavers remaining, now is the time to secure this meaningful and enduring Father’s Day gift.

All pavers purchased from December 2024 onwards will be installed in early Term 4. Secure your customised paver today by clicking here.

10-Year Reunion – Class of 2015

The College was delighted to welcome back our Old Boys from the Class of 2015 for their 10-Year Reunion.

It was a special occasion filled with stories, laughter, and fond memories, as classmates reconnected and reflected on their journeys since leaving Waverley. It was also inspiring to hear about the diverse professional pathways they have pursued over the past decade.

A special thank you to Tom Miletich and former College Captain Ruairi Biollo for organising such a memorable gathering. We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2015 back to Waverley again soon.

The Waverley Exchange Breakfast

One of Waverley’s greatest strengths is the intellectual wealth within our Old Boys community, a resource we have not fully drawn upon in the past. That is about to change.

Next week we are launching The Waverley Exchange Breakfast, a new series of mentoring and networking sessions designed to connect accomplished Old Boys with our senior students. These gatherings will give Year 11 and Year 12 students the chance to hear first-hand from Waverlians who have excelled in their chosen fields, and to build supportive networks that extend beyond the College gates.

We are honoured to welcome our first guest speaker, Dr Samuel Lackey (Class of 1964). With an extraordinary career spanning mining engineering and finance, and international experience in countries such as Canada, Saudi Arabia and Iraq, Dr Lackey brings a wealth of knowledge and insights. His story will no doubt inspire our students as they prepare to chart their own paths.

This initiative marks the beginning of a stronger tradition at Waverley – one where the experience and expertise of our Old Boys becomes a guiding light for the generations who follow.

Archbishop of Sydney Awards for Student Excellence 2025

Congratulations to Archie Godby (Year 12) as Waverley College’s recipient of the Archbishop of Sydney Awards for Student Excellence 2025. A medal and certificate were presented to Archie by Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP at St Mary’s Cathedral College Hall earlier this week.

Established in 1999 by Edward Bede Cardinal Clancy, the Archbishop’s awards are an annual recognition of some of the outstanding young men and women in Catholic schools.

They have been an important way of highlighting the very positive contribution that young people make to their local communities. Specifically, these awards recognise those young people who give witness to their Christian values and who actively contribute to the faith life of their school.

Recipients of the award are practising Catholics who show responsible participation in the life, mission, and work of the Catholic faith community.

Parent Education Session with Dr Judith Locke

On Tuesday evening we had the opportunity for staff and parents to hear from Dr Judith Locke, a registered clinical psychologist with expertise in modern parenting, family wellbeing, and educational settings. With a background as a teacher and school counsellor, Judith is also a bestselling author of The Bonsai Child, The Bonsai Student and Raising Anxiety.

She gives practical and effective strategies to build children’s resilience, confidence and capability in the home and in their schooling. Judith also explains how good intentions may inadvertently make children more anxious, and offers practical strategies to turn this around. For further information, please consider one of Judith’s books.

Outstanding Debut: Ollie Moclair Breaks 17yrs National Record in Europe

We are proud to share the wonderful achievements of Year 12 student, Ollie, who recently represented Australia in his first international swimming competition.

Ollie’s journey began with a staging camp in Slovakia before heading to Romania to compete against some of the world’s toughest swimmers in challenging European summer conditions. In his heat, Ollie swam a personal best of 22.41 seconds in the 50m freestyle, placing him 6th overall and securing a place in the semi-final. Although he narrowly missed a spot in the final, finishing equal 9th, the story didn’t end there. A swim-off was required to determine the reserve finalist – and Ollie rose to the occasion.

That evening, he produced an extraordinary swim of 22.11 seconds, smashing his own PB and breaking the National All-Time 17 Years Record, previously held by Olympic champion Kyle Chalmers. While he remained reserve for the final, Ollie’s time would have placed him 3rd overall – an incredible achievement at this level of competition.

Ollie now proudly holds the National Age Record in both the short course and long course 50m freestyle (17 years), a remarkable milestone in his career. We congratulate him on this outstanding achievement and look forward to following his continued success in the pool

VET Hospitality Takeover at Bistro on the Greens – A Night to Celebrate

Thank you to our Hospitality teachers, Ms Bev McCarthy, Mr Mark Neale, and Ms Georgie Weaver, for organising the VET Hospitality Takeover at Bistro on the Greens on Tuesday night.

The evening was a fantastic opportunity to showcase the value of VET in a setting that was social, enjoyable, and truly impactful for everyone involved. Sixty parents and twenty staff members attended, creating a strong sense of community and support around our students.

For the boys, this event was more than just a dinner service, it was a culmination of two years of dedicated training in Hospitality. It gave them the chance to demonstrate their skills in a professional environment and, for many, to shine in an area where they’ve found genuine passion and success. Events like this allow students to represent their school with pride and confidence.

Thank you again to everyone who attended and supported the event. We are proud to promote the strength and importance of VET in the Waverley community through authentic and meaningful experiences like this.

Waves Wednesday: Students Recreate Iconic Moments from the Archives

As part of this week’s Waves Wednesday initiative, mentor groups were invited to step back in time and recreate two significant moments from the school’s historical archives. The challenge aimed to foster school spirit, creativity, and a deeper connection to our rich heritage.

The second photograph reimagined Prime Minister John Gorton’s 1970 visit with the Cadet Unit.

These visual homages served not only as a fun and engaging activity but also as a meaningful opportunity for students to connect with the school’s legacy.

Helping Hands

Year 11 Engineering Studies students put their biomedical engineering skills into practice this week by constructing mechanical prosthetic hands for donation to landmine victims overseas. These recipients, often living in low-resource settings, would otherwise be unable to access or afford a prosthesis.

The project offered students a meaningful opportunity to apply design and mechanical principles to a real-world humanitarian need. Each prosthetic was carefully assembled to ensure functionality, comfort, and durability, reinforcing the role of engineering as a tool for social impact.

This hands-on initiative not only developed technical competencies but also encouraged empathy and ethical problem-solving.

This week, we were pleased to welcome Year 12 back to classes following their HSC Trial Examinations, HSC plus Vocational workshops and Work Experience placements.

On Tuesday evening, I had the privilege of attending the Year 12 HSC Music Recital.

Our Music 1 and Music 2 students presented their final practical performances before an audience of staff and parents. T

he standard of musicianship was truly outstanding, and I congratulate each student on their artistry, dedication and courage. We wish them every success as they continue refining their performances ahead of the HSC.

This special occasion showcased the exceptional Major Works of our Year 12 Industrial Technology, Visual Arts and Design & Technology students, alongside impressive contributions from Year 11 Technologies and Years 9–11 Elective Visual Arts classes.

The creativity, innovation and skill on display were a wonderful reflection of the students’ passion and commitment.

A sincere thank you also goes to our Hospitality students, whose professionalism and effort in catering for the event added so much to the evening.

Welcoming New Staff

This week we are delighted to welcome several new staff members to Waverley College, each bringing a wealth of experience, talent and enthusiasm to our community.

Mr John Allen has joined our Leadership Team as Deputy Principal – Students. John comes to us from Trinity Grammar School with over 20 years of senior leadership experience and a deep commitment to student wellbeing, holistic education and Catholic values. His leadership background includes roles as Acting Deputy Headmaster and Head of Middle School. An Oxford graduate with a Master of Science, John has extensive experience teaching across both the HSC and IB programs. He is a dedicated educator, mentor and leader, and we are excited for the expertise and vision he will contribute to the College.

Mr Tom Ritchie has joined our Learning Support Department until the end of Term. Tom comes to us from Haggerston School, London, and holds a Bachelor (Honours) in Sports Studies and a Graduate Diploma in Education from Stirling University, UK. Beyond the classroom, Tom is a qualified swimming and rugby coach, and has worked with the Scottish Rugby Talent Identification program.

Mr Conor De Courcey has joined our TAS Department from Tanglin Trust School, Singapore. Conor brings over 11 years of experience in Design and Technology, holding a Bachelor (Honours) in Graphics and Media Design and a Bachelor in Design and Visual Communication. His expertise will greatly enrich our students’ learning in this field.

Mr Oliver Knight, who many of you will know from the Junior School, has transitioned to the Senior School to join our PDHPE Department. Ms Chloe-Jane Tweedie will take over Oliver’s Year 6 class in the Junior School, and we thank her for stepping so capably into this role.

Mrs Narelle Moore has joined our Wellbeing Team, assisting with administration and student attendance. Narelle is also a dedicated community member, volunteering actively with Bondi Surf Bathers Life Saving Club.

Finally, congratulations to Mr Lachlan Drew-Morris, who has been appointed Acting Head of Green House until the end of the year, replacing Mr Scott Coleman. We wish him every success in this important leadership role.

Please join me in warmly welcoming John, Tom, Conor, Oliver, Chloe-Jane and Narelle to their new roles, and congratulating Lachlan on his appointment. We look forward to the energy and expertise they will bring to our community

Blue and Gold Ball a huge success!

Thank you to everyone who joined us at the Blue & Gold Ball last Saturday. The feedback has been very positive, and it was brilliant seeing the dancefloor packed all night thanks to the amazing Furnace and the Fundamentals.

Thank you to our incredible sponsors and suppliers who contributed resources and their time. We’re also deeply grateful to everyone who generously donated items to the silent auction, and a big congratulations and thank you to all of our lucky auction and raffle winners!

Special thanks to Michael O’Loughlin for opening the evening with a heartfelt Acknowledgement of Country, and to our MC, Anthony “Harries” Carroll, for keeping the laughs and energy flowing all night.

Thanks to your generosity, we raised an incredible $282,127 in gross proceeds towards our new Science & Innovation Centre. What a result!

The journey doesn’t stop here. There are still fantastic ways to support the project, from naming rights for the building, a floor, or a lab, to sponsoring the fit-out and equipment. If you’d like to get involved, our Foundation Team – Billy Nicolas and Kash O’Hara – would love to hear from you.

We were lucky enough to have the event captured by some very talented photographers. You can view the Blue and Gold Ball Gallery HERE and the Media Wall Photos HERE – enjoy reliving some of the magic!

We’re also delighted to share that some of the generous contributors to this year’s Blue & Gold Ball have extended their support beyond the event, offering exclusive discounts for the Waverley College community.

Whether you’re planning a weekend escape, a family adventure, or some high-speed fun, take advantage of these special promotions:

Enjoy an exclusive 20% off any stay of 2 nights or more at the beautiful Osborn House, located in the Southern Highlands.

All Waverley College families are eligible for 10% off their next African holiday!* Perfect for those dreaming of a bucket-list adventure. Click here to book.

Get your adrenaline fix at HyperKarting with 15% off your next session. Use promo code Waverley15 at checkout to redeem. Click here to book.

Father’s Day Breakfast

College Community Feedback Review – 2025

As part of our ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, we will soon be offering all parents, students, and staff the opportunity to share their feedback on various aspects of College life.

This research will be conducted by MMG Education, a specialist consultancy that supports schools through strategic reviews and stakeholder satisfaction studies.

Parents will be invited to complete an online questionnaire during a two-week period beginning Monday, 1 September 2025. Staff and students will also participate during this timeframe.

On Monday, 1 September 2025, MMG Education will send you an email invitation with a secure and confidential link to your questionnaire.

At the end of the review process, MMG Education will provide me with a comprehensive report. I will then share key findings with the College community and provide opportunities to reflect on and discuss the outcomes.

If you have any questions regarding the project, please contact my assistant Robin Ball rball@waverley.nsw.edu.au.

I look forward very much to the valuable contribution you will be making to this important

HSC Final Push: A Critical Period for Year 12

As our Year 12 students approach the final phase of their school year, it is imperative that they dedicate themselves to maximising the remaining five weeks. Please note the following key messages:

Finalising Competencies and Assessments: for students in the HSC Plus Vocational courses, it is essential that all competencies and assessment tasks are finalised. This is not a mere formality; your teachers must verify your work and submit a final mark for your HSC credential. The timely completion of these tasks is a key requirement for successfully attaining the HSC.

Preparing for Apprenticeships and Work Experience: we strongly recommend that students begin drafting their resumes and cover letters. The English Studies teaching staff are available to provide support with this. Many of you will soon transition into apprenticeships or work experience. This is an opportune time to demonstrate your skills by being proactive, reliable, and diligent. Please remember that your reputation in your chosen industry is powerful, and the impression you leave now could significantly influence future career opportunities.

Making the Most of Trial Feedback: commencing this Thursday, teachers will start returning your Trial Examination papers. We urge you to use the feedback wisely to facilitate improvement. The feedback provided in examiners’ reports and on your individual scripts is highly valuable, and it is important to respect the considerable effort your teachers have invested in this process.

HSC Tutorials and Final Preparations: In the final week of this term, following your graduation, teachers will conduct HSC tutorials during scheduled class periods. These sessions are critical for consolidating knowledge, particularly in subjects such as the Sciences, where content may still be in the final stages of completion. We trust that our students will seize these opportunities for preparation.

Supporting Each Other and Sharing Resources: With the competitive aspect of school rankings now complete, it is more important than ever to support each other. Contributing to the shared Year 12 Study Notes folder and participating in study groups can be incredibly beneficial for everyone.

Finally, we extend our best wishes to all students completing their Major Performances and Works. Your hard work is about to culminate in these final submissions. Let’s ensure these last five weeks are a period of focused and productive effort.

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

This week is National Homelessness Week across the country, and this Winter period is particularly difficult for those members of our society experiencing homelessness.

Tevlin House is leading the Winter donation drive during Weeks 3,4,5 and 6 in August to support the Matthew Talbot Hostel. Matthew Talbot Hostel helps over 40,000 Sydney men each year in providing accommodation, health, counselling and employment assistance.

Waverley has had a long history of boys volunteering in its kiosk in Woolloomooloo.

All items can be brought to either the Senior School Wellbeing Centre or Junior school reception during the month of August.

Feast of the Assumption

Today, we celebrated the Feast of the Assumption with Year 7 and 8 students gathering for Mass in the College Chapel. The Assumption is the Church’s teaching that Mary, the mother of Jesus, was taken body and soul into heaven at the end of her earthly life. This belief has been part of Christian tradition since the earliest centuries and was formally declared as dogma by Pope Pius XII in 1950.

For Waverley College, the Assumption carries special meaning with Mary central to our identity and mission, with her statue standing at the highest point on our campus and our celebration of the May Procession. The Assumption inspires us to live with hope, to trust in God’s promises, and to strive for lives marked by compassion and integrity.

My sincere thanks to Fr Bernie Thomas, Ms Sue Walsh, Ms Cath Lipman, Ms Rosanna Varicca, Mr Tom Kennedy, and Mr Stephen Ghattas for their work in preparing the Assumption Mass, and to our talented musicians and choir for their beautiful contribution to today’s celebration.

Senior School Attendance

The below are a couple of reminders regarding the procedures for students arriving late to school or departing early.

If a student is late to school, they must sign in at the Wellbeing Centre to confirm their attendance, regardless of if the parent has submitted a note in Orah. This is so we have an accurate record of what time the student arrived at school.

If a student arrives to class late in Period 1 and the roll has already been marked, teachers will send them to the Wellbeing Centre to have their attendance corrected. Otherwise the student will be marked absent for the day. This will result in an sms notification being sent to the parents advising the student has been marked absent-unexplained.

Likewise, if a student is leaving early, they must sign out at the Wellbeing Centre before departing, regardless if a parent has submitted a note in Orah.

If a student falls ill at school, he must present to the Health Centre to be assessed by the nurse. The nurse will then make the decision as to whether the student should be sent home. The nurse will then sign the student out at the Health Centre and the student will wait at reception to be collected by a parent. Under no circumstances should a student be calling their parents directly to pick them up if they feel sick.

Leadership Forums

Ms Allegra Spender MP, Member for Wentworth, hosted a Leadership Forum recently in the Eastern Suburbs which includes 18 local schools. Charlie Carter (Y11) and Louis Oxenham (Y11) had the opportunity to attend and ask Allegra Spender about her life in politics before taking part in activities to identify both the challenges and positives of being a leader. The forum finished with a discussion on the use of AI, exploring its potential benefits as well as the concerns it raises.

AFL Grand Final wins

Our Year 7/8 Division 1 team had a strong win over Knox Grammar School, 63–12.

Meanwhile the Year 9/10 Division 1 team secured a 48–36 victory against St Ignatius College Riverview.

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

This week is National Homelessness Week across the country, and this Winter period is particularly difficult for those members of our society experiencing homelessness. Tevlin House is leading the Winter donation drive during Weeks 3,4,5 and 6 in August to support the Matthew Talbot Hostel. Matthew Talbot Hostel helps over 40,000 Sydney men each year in providing accommodation, health, counselling and employment assistance. Waverley has had a long history of boys volunteering in its kiosk in Woolloomooloo.

All items can be brought to either the Senior School Wellbeing Centre or Junior school reception in weeks 3-6 during August.

2026 St Clare’s Musical Production – looking for students to take part!

St Clare’s School is currently looking for boys to be a part of our 2026 musical ‘Bring It On’ to be performed at the Seymour Centre in May 2026. I am hoping that some boys from Waverley may be interested in taking on lead roles or being a part of the dance ensemble. For further information please see the information pack.

All students must submit an application form to be a part of the show. The application form must be submitted by Friday, 29 August, 3 pm. Please submit audition videos via email to verity.cash@syd.catholic.edu.au The application form can be accessed here: Application Form

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Closes tomorrow!

With an incredible range of prizes from luxury getaways and exclusive experiences, there is something for everyone.

You don’t need to attend the Ball to bid! All members of the Waverley community, their friends, and extended networks are welcome to join in and support this important fundraiser for our new Science & Innovation Centre.

Your bid will help create a world-class learning facility for the next generation of Waverley students.

Sydney Uni HSC Masterclass

This offers a $50 saving per subject for those who register before the deadline.

Years 7, 8 and 9 Academic Award Winners

Congratulations to our Year 7, 8 & 9 students who were recognised with academic awards at this week’s College Assembly. I compliment them on their hard work, strong work ethic and their desire to learn from mistakes. Their pursuit of excellence raises the bar for all and enriches our learning culture. I encourage every student to take inspiration from their efforts and challenge themselves to strive even further in Semester 2.

As we recognise these successes, we are also reminded this week of an important moment in world history. August 6 and 9 mark the 80th anniversary of the atomic bombings of the Japanese cities of Hiroshima and Nagasaki by the United States of America. These events brought about immense human tragedy, and ultimately the end of World War II. In split seconds, tens of thousands of lives were lost, with generations traumatised and impacted by radiation sickness and grief.

The world was forced to reckon with the destructive power of technology when it is not guided by humanity, ethics, or wisdom.

Because education, your son’s education, is not just about marks and medals. It is about learning how to think critically, act ethically, and use knowledge responsibly. The lessons of Hiroshima and Nagasaki remind us of the importance of peace, compassion, diplomacy, and the deep responsibilities that come with power and knowledge.

As young men, as future leaders, scientists, engineers, financiers, doctors, builders, business owners, writers, and citizens, your son’s learning journey is also a moral journey. In partnership with the College, we are assisting his capabilities to not just to solve problems, but to ask the right questions. Not just to understand the world, but to make it better.

Thank you to the large number of parents who attended the assembly and to the support that all parents give to their sons. And thank you to the staff and teachers for their commitment to teaching and learning. The achievements of our students are a reflection of your guidance and professionalism.

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

All items can be brought to either the Senior School Wellbeing Centre or Junior school reception in weeks 3-6 during August.

Sydney Synod 2026: Catholics Called to Shape the Future of the Church

Catholics across the Archdiocese of Sydney are being called to take an active role in shaping the future of their church through the upcoming Sydney Synod 2026. Sydney’s first diocesan synod in more than 80 years will be held from 30 April to 3 May 2026 and is the fruit of years of listening, discernment, and prayer.

Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, Auxiliary Bishop Daniel Meagher and the Synod Working Party warmly invite the Waverley College community to the upcoming regional consultations for next year’s Sydney synod.

Author Gary Lonesborough Visit

Last week, a group of students gathered for a special event with prize-winning author Mr Gary Lonesborough. A proud Yuin writer, Gary works across Indigenous health, disability services, youth justice, and the film industry. Students took part in authentic and meaningful conversations and Writers’ Workshops, exploring themes of creativity, culture, identity, sexuality, self-belief, and love.

It was a privilege to have Gary share his messages of hope and achievement in the face of adversity, highlighting the power of allyship and the importance of embracing diversity.

While visiting Waverley, Gary also ran two creative writing workshops with some of our Year 10 and Year 11 English classes, where he led students through his own drafting process when beginning any short story. His knowledge and expertise shone through as he simplified the writing process for the boys, breaking the task into manageable steps.

In a time when creativity and originality are being threatened, it was wonderful to see that the imagination is very much alive and well within our young men. We are very grateful to Gary for reminding us of the joy of simply writing for the love of writing.

‘Has the smartphone killed reading?’, ‘A ticking time bomb: How Australia’s reading slump is making us stupid’, ‘Is the decline of reading poisoning our politics?’, ‘Your brain isn’t what it used to be!’.

These are just some of the headline grabs taken from the Sydney Morning Herald in the last month alone. There is a real concern, not just among teachers and parents in Waverley College, but in fact nationally and globally about the decline in reading ability and reading for pleasure.

In response, in March we launched our first reading challenge using the new Beanstack platform, where students have the capacity to log their reading. Thank you to the library staff and the English faculty who promoted this challenge with our Year 7-10 students. The results have been astonishing. This week, we achieved our community goal of reaching 100,000 minutes. In fact we reached 119, 209 minutes this week and we are well on our way to reaching our next 100,000.

Our Beanstack Winners for Challenge 1 who received a Principal’s Award and a prize of a $40 book voucher at this week’s Academic Assembly were:

A reminder to all that our current reading challenge “Books to Screen” is well under way. Students should continue to log any book they are reading and there will be an extra prize if their books are eligible for the challenge.

2026 St Clare’s Musical Production – looking for students to take part!

All students must submit an application form to be a part of the show. The application form must be submitted by Friday, 29th August, 3pm. Please submit audition videos via email to verity.cash@syd.catholic.edu.au The application form can be accessed here: Application Form

Ollie Moclair Prepares for World Championships with Record-Breaking Swim

Last weekend, Ollie Moclair (Year 12) delivered an outstanding performance breaking a long-standing Australian record. Competing in the 17 years freestyle short course, Ollie clocked a blistering time of 21.69, surpassing the previous national record held by Cameron McEvoy for the past 14 years.

This incredible swim makes Ollie the fastest 17-year-old in Australian swimming history. He departs today to represent Australia on the world stage, carrying strong momentum into the upcoming world championships.

Ethan Uncle on the World Stage at U12 Baseball World Cup

Congratulations to Ethan Uncle (Year 8), who proudly represented Australia at the U12 Baseball World Cup. Ethan delivered an outstanding performance throughout the tournament, playing a key role in helping Team Australia secure its best-ever finish at the event. He led the team in both hits and batting average, a remarkable achievement at such a high level of competition.

US College Admissions Seminar

If your son is thinking about studying at University in the USA, you may want to consider attending a free event being held at Pymble Ladies’ College cohosted with the Princeton Review on the 4th September from 6pm – 8pm.

What the Ivy League is really looking for: Lessons from Inside Harvard Admissions

Ms Devery Doran, Chief College Admissions Counsellor at The Princeton Review Australia — and former Admissions Officer at Harvard and UC Berkeley — will be joined by experts from EducationUSA and AmCham Australia to share insider insights into the US admissions process.

Get a candid, behind-the-scenes look at what top US colleges truly want — and how Australian students can stand out. Students from Year 7-12 are welcome to attend.

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Now Live!

The Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction is officially open! With an incredible range of prizes from luxury getaways and exclusive experiences, there is something for everyone.

Your bid will help create a world-class learning facility for the next generation of Waverley students.

Staff Update

Today we farewell Mr Mohit Khadgi, who is moving on to a new IT support role closer to home. Mohit has been a valued member of our IT and Helpdesk teams over the past 1.5 years. We thank him for his dedication and wish him all the best in his future endeavours.

As mentioned earlier this term, Mr Scott Coleman leaves us to take up the role of Head of Campus at City East College from 11 August. Over his eleven years, Scott has served as PDHPE teacher, Rugby 1st XV Coach, Head of Year, and most notably, Head of Green House. His contributions to our wellbeing and pastoral care programs, as well as his impact in cocurricular and teaching, have been exceptional. We wish Scott every success in his new role.

Congratulations to Mr Lachlan Drew-Morris, appointed Acting Head of Green House for the remainder of the year.

Following this appointment, Mr Oliver Knight (Junior School 6 Red) will join the PDHPE Department for the remainder of the year, teaching Stages 4 & 5, effective from the beginning of Week 5. Ms CJ Tweedy will take over 6 Red from the beginning of Week 5.

Congratulations to Mr James Horrocks (Director of Student Wellbeing) who has accepted the position of Dean of Students at St Joseph’s Nudgee College from the start of 2026. Across two separate stints, James has worked at the College for ten years in our student wellbeing and pastoral care space. He has been a significant contributor to our new wellbeing framework and student care and development programs. We will farewell James later this year and begin the recruitment process to replace this position.

Years 10, 11 and 12 Academic Award Winners

Congratulations to the following students who were recognised with academic awards at this week’s Senior School College Assembly.

These awards reflect not only strong academic performance, but also the dedication, perseverance and high-level skills each recipient brings to their learning.

Their pursuit of excellence raises the bar for all and enriches our learning culture. I encourage every student to take inspiration from their efforts and challenge themselves to strive even further in Semester 2.

Thank you to the large number of parents who attended the assembly. I look forward to recognising our Year 7-9 academic award winners at next week’s assembly.

Year 12 HSC Guide / Trials

HSC Study Guides were distributed this week to all Year 12 students sitting the HSC this year. The Study Guides include exam advice from teachers and past students along with tips on looking after students’ mental health and wellbeing in the lead up to exams.

Senior Teaching & Learning staff also went through the Trial HSC protocols this week, in preparation for the Trials which begin on Monday 4 August and conclude on Monday 18 August 2025. We wish all Year 12’s the best of luck with their Trials examinations.

NAPLAN 2025

Individual student reports have now been published and are accessible via the parent portal. Hard copies of these reports are being sent to parents of students of Years 5, 7 and 9.

At this stage, available information shows results for the interquartile range (IQR or middle 50%).

In Year 5, IQR scores fall within the Strong Level for Reading and Spelling. For Grammar and Punctuation, Year 5 IQR scores fall mostly within the Strong Level. Year 5 Numeracy IQR scores fall into the Strong to Exceeding Level.

In Year 7, IQR scores fall within the Strong Level for Writing, Grammar and Punctuation and Spelling. IQR scores for Reading and Numeracy fall into the Strong to Exceeding Level.

Year 9 IQR scores fall within the Strong Level for Spelling and Numeracy. Year 9 IQR Grammar and Punctuation scores fall mostly within the Strong Level. While, the IQR of Year 9 scores for Writing and Reading fall in the Strong to Exceeding Level.

The Australian Curriculum, Assessment and Reporting Authority (ACARA) will publish the national results later in August and then we will have an understanding of how our students performed compared to others.

We will now be analysing the data to determine what priority areas need to be addressed for each of the groups. Students sit in Years 6 and 8 and 10 for the Academic Assessments Services (Allwell) so we are able to track the progress of each student from their commencement at the Junior School to the time they seek advice regarding senior subject selection in Year 10. These tests are standardised to match NAPLAN testing in Years 5, 7 and 9.

We are pleased to see such strong improvements in students’ scores, particularly Reading and Writing where we have been implementing innovative strategies over a number of years. This test data has already been used to offer additional support to students. Additionally, the data assists us in prioritising literacy and numeracy development in reading, writing, spelling and numeracy programs.

Lizard Island Coral Reef Study Tour

Congratulations to Charlie Carter, a Year 11 Biology student, who applied for and has been accepted into the Lizard Island Coral Reef Study Tour. Only 16 Biology students in Australia are chosen to go on this tour which is an immersive, live-in educational experience in coral reef science on the Great Barrier Reef led by marine scientists.

Charlie had to create a two minute video presentation and complete a written application along with a recommendation from the school. This is an excellent opportunity for Charlie to further explore the concepts we have been learning in Biology and his passion for the ocean and diving!

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Now Live!

The Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction is officially open! With an incredible range of prizes – from luxury getaways and exclusive experiences – there’s something for everyone.

Your bid will help create a world-class learning facility for the next generation of Waverley students.

Parent Education Session with Dr Judith Locke

We are delighted to welcome renowned Clinical Psychologist Dr Judith Locke to present a special parenting seminar on August 25 in the Performing Arts Centre from 6-8pm.

In this practical and engaging seminar, Dr Locke will share research-based strategies and her extensive clinical experience to help parents support their tween and teen children through the school years and beyond.

This session is exclusive to Waverley College parents. Please note that students will not be permitted to attend.

From the Director of ICT, Campus and Innovation

For our Students that reside in the Randwick Council area this recently came across my desk. The Council are seeking expressions of interest for new members to join their Youth Advisory Committee.

This is open to young people aged 14-25 who reside in Randwick and provide input on issues to Council such as transport, issues around bus shelters or any other challenges young people face living in Randwick.

It’s an opportunity for young people to have a voice on the things that matter to them.

Waverley’s Matt Talbot Winter Appeal – Looking for Donations!

Next week is National Homelessness week, and this year for the month of August, Tevlin House will help lead the whole school in a Matthew Talbot Winter Appeal.

Matt Talbot Hostel are in dire need of warm clothing, toiletries and kitchen pack items. Please bring the donations to the Senior School Wellbeing centre or Junior School Reception.

Parents’ Association Meeting – Come and Join us in Person!

All parents/carers are warmly invited to attend the Waverley College Parent Association (WCPA) meeting which are normally held once per Term.

Cadets Rank Induction Parade

The choice to become a leader takes courage and commitment and 125 of our cadets demonstrated they have what it takes to look after our recruits by giving a week of their school holidays to the Promotions Course Camp in the July holidays.

Learning skills in servant leadership, personnel management, lesson delivery, activity planning, risk analysis, field skills and drill, the successful candidates celebrated their new postings as Corporals, Sergeants, Warrant Officers and Cadet Under Officers at the Rank Induction Parade on Friday 25 July.

We are looking forward to a successful year as the senior ranks take on the challenge of leading a Unit of 460 cadets.

Honouring the Generosity of Max and Joan Connery

We are proud to acknowledge and celebrate the generous support of Waverley College Old Boy, Max Connery, and his wife, Joan, whose recent philanthropic gift has secured the naming rights to one of the laboratories on the Coorey Family Floor in our forthcoming Science & Innovation Centre.

Max and Joan Connery are no strangers to making a lasting impact in our community. In 1989, they founded Stepping Stone House, a not-for-profit organisation that has provided safety, stability, and hope to more than 500 young people at risk of or experiencing homelessness. Their ongoing dedication to creating meaningful change continues to inspire.

Through their support of this transformative project, Max and Joan are helping to shape the learning environment for our current students, while also leaving an enduring legacy for future generations. Their gift will directly support the advancement of STEM at Waverley College.

We are deeply grateful for their belief in the power of education and their commitment to shaping a brighter future. We warmly invite other members of our community to join them in supporting this transformative project and helping us bring it to life.

Exciting New Partnership with Sydney BMW & Sydney Mini Garage

As brands synonymous with innovation, excellence, and performance, BMW and Mini are a natural fit for our Waverley community. This collaboration will not only support key College initiatives, but also create meaningful learning experiences for our students.

Through this partnership, students will have the opportunity to engage with BMW’s cutting-edge sustainability programs and gain insights into their advancements in STEM. Sydney BMW will also be delivering mechanical workshops and road safety sessions on campus, equipping our young people with valuable life skills and industry exposure.

In addition, Sydney BMW and Sydney Mini Garage are proud to support the Blue & Gold Ball in helping us reach our fundraising goal for the new Science & Innovation Centre. As part of this partnership, they are also offering our parents, Old Boys, and the whole Waverley community the following exclusive benefits:

Our community will also have access to a dedicated sales and service executive team. If you’re interested in taking advantage of these benefits, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the contacts listed below:

I am proud to welcome Sydney BMW and Sydney Mini Garage to our family of partners and look forward to the many ways this relationship will benefit our students and wider network.

Bula Week activities with our Visiting Fiji Students

This past week has been nothing short of incredible as we welcomed our visiting students from Fiji for a vibrant and memorable Bula Week celebration. With a packed itinerary full of education, sport, culture, and exploration, the Fijian students dove straight into the heart of our school community and the best of what Sydney has to offer.

It has been an action packed week as our visitors joined in friendly games of touch football and rugby, showcasing both their talent and great sportsmanship. Our students relished the opportunity to learn from and play alongside them on the field, creating bonds that extended well beyond the try line.

In the classroom, the Fijian students took part in language and cultural exchange sessions, bringing their warmth, traditions, and stories into our school while gaining new insights into Australian life and learning.

Our Fijian guests also explored the wonders of Wildlife World, the stunning marine life at the Aquarium, and the thrills of Centrepoint. These excursions offered unforgettable moments and a chance to experience the diversity and energy of Sydney firsthand.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Quinn family for billeting our students and the Charing Cross Hotel for providing accommodation for their pastor chaperone. We especially thank the Waverley College Rugby Supporters Club and generous sponsors Sydney Wyde (The Stoyles family) for making this visit possible. Their passion and commitment helped bring this exchange to life. We are also deeply grateful for the generous donations from many families who supported the Fijians whilst they were here, including those who provided football boots and gear to ensure our Fijian friends had everything they needed.

Bula Week has been a celebration of friendship, learning, and cultural exchange, and we are so proud to have welcomed such a wonderful group of friends into our Waverley family. Vinaka vaka levu to our Fijian friends Luke, Avisai and Taivesi — we hope your time here has been as meaningful to you as it has been to us and we look forward to seeing you in September when our Fiji immersion returns to Navosa.

1ST AFL v Riverview

Congratulations to the 1st AFL team on a fantastic win against St Ignatius’ College Riverview in the highly anticipated top-of-the-table clash over the weekend.

The boys delivered an outstanding performance, combining skill, determination, and teamwork to secure a commanding 68–31 victory.

This result is a testament to their hard work on the training field and the strong leadership within the team.

Welcome back!

I hope your son/s had the opportunity to recharge and engage in some recreational activities over the winter break.

I took 11 days away to trek Iceland’s famous Laugavegur trail and the Hornstrandir traverse in the westfjords.

A geography teachers’ heaven with volcanic and glacial landscapes whichever way the eye looked, not to mention the inquisitive arctic foxes.

The second semester provides the opportunity to reset goals, refine habits, and bring new energy.

In Assembly this week, I challenged the boys to take pride in their pursuits, keep supporting each other, and to remember that every day is a chance to build up and enrich people’s lives. I wish everyone a great Term 3.

At the end of Term 2, our staff gathered for a professional learning day with the aim to introduce and unpack our new Strategic Plan. Resulting from significant consultation with our staff, students, parents, and community, our plan recognises 3 significant forces:

We mapped all of our staff professional learning sessions to these 4 pillars where we integrated staff expertise, external experts and feedback from a range of professional conferences where our staff have represented the college.

For our Support Staff, an external expert in communication led engaging sessions on building great communication.

These sessions explored how understanding human needs can transform interactions with parents, teachers, and colleagues, aiming to create a “signature communication experience” across Waverley College.

Our Teaching Staff engaged in diverse sessions directly aligning with our strategic pillars:

Leading Boys’ Education: Sessions explored “Visible Leadership” in the classroom and the crucial role of positive, intentional relationships in fostering boys’ success. Insights from the recent International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference were key in these discussions.

Purposeful Learning: We focused on enabling deep learning for every student. Sessions presented strategies for building resilience and shifting fixed mindsets in high-ability learners. Another session focused on explicitly teaching Tier Two and Tier Three vocabulary to enhance students’ expression of complex ideas. For new staff, there was an introduction to our Deep Learning Framework and the 6 Global Competencies, particularly how we map these across our Teaching and Learning and Wellbeing programs.

Healthy People: A practical session on the ethical and effective use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the classroom fostered collaboration and confidence in this evolving area.

The impressive energy and commitment of all our staff during these sessions are vital in ensuring we deliver the very best educational experience for our boys, embodying the goals of our new Strategic Plan.

As a community, we would also like to acknowledge the significant work of our Wellbeing Team, particularly Mr James Horrocks and Ms Gabby Smith, who presented on an international stage at the recent International Boys’ Schools Coalition global conference.

They shared our significant work with the Association of Independent Schools (AIS) on the building and launch of our new Wellbeing Framework as an aspirational story for leaders at boys’ schools across the world.

NAIDOC Assembly

With NAIDOC week occurring during the holidays, we took the opportunity to recognise and honour the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples at our first Term 3 assembly.

NAIDOC week provides a focus and time for all Australians to learn about and celebrate the rich heritage of the First Nations peoples, the oldest continuous living culture on earth.

Thank you to Ms Jade Sparks (Assistant Director of Cocurricular JS) and Mr Kevin Heath (Indigenous Liaison Officer) for organising such a meaningful and dynamic NAIDOC assembly.

I was impressed with our Walawarni students who started the assembly with a smoking ceremony that they led and performed independently. The 2014 Australian of the Year, Mr Adam Goodes was an inspirational guest speaker whose powerful conversation left a lasting impression on students, staff, and families alike.

Adam shared his journey of identity, resilience, and cultural reconnection – reflecting on growing up disconnected from his Aboriginal roots and the impact of rediscovering them.

“I didn’t know how I was connected to my Aboriginal community”, he said, “but once I understood who I was, my life and career began to thrive”.

“If I’m only ever remembered as a footballer, then I’ve failed in life”.

Adam spoke about building legacy through education, cultural pride, and leadership.

“What got me through was knowing who I am, where I come from, and the values I stand for.”

“I encourage all of you to embrace the values of this great school now and throughout your life. I try to bring similar values to every situation, every day.”

Adam Goodes might be best known as one of the AFL all time greats with 2 brownlow medals, 2 premierships, 4 X All Australian and named in the Indigenous Team of the Century.

He has however gone on to co-found the GO Foundation along with Waverley parent Michael O’Loughlin which supports young Indigenous education.

He also works with the Australian Literacy & Numeracy Foundation (ALNF), the Indigenous Defence & Infrastructure Consortium (iDiC) and approximately 165 Indigenous Business startups. Two amazing careers achieved already for a 45 year old!

Stepping Beyond Comfort: Cambodia Immersion 2025

During the first week of these holidays, a group of 13 of our students and 3 staff had the life-changing opportunity to take part in our Cambodia Immersion Program – an experience that left lasting impressions not just on those we met, but on every one of us who took part.

The journey began in Phnom Penh, where we visited the Light and Mercy Home for deaf and blind students. Here, we witnessed incredible resilience and joy as young people navigated their world with grace, despite the challenges they face every day.

It was a powerful reminder of the strength of the human spirit and the importance of connection beyond words.

Our visit to the Killing Fields and Tuol Sleng was sobering. Standing on the ground where such atrocities once occurred reminded us of the importance of peace, compassion, and justice.

It gave students a deepened appreciation of the freedom and safety we so often take for granted.

In Siem Reap, our team helped build a toilet for a rural village without access to basic sanitation – a simple structure that will make a significant difference in daily health and dignity.

Alongside this, we distributed 150 kilograms of rice and essential supplies to local families.

One of the most moving moments of the trip was presenting a wheelchair to a man who had been unable to walk for many years – an act that restored not only his mobility but also his hope.

Throughout the immersion, students also volunteered in disadvantaged schools, leading activities, teaching English, and connecting with children who welcomed them with joy and curiosity.

In an orphanage, our team assisted with daily care, and offered companionship – bringing light and laughter to children who have known great hardship.

More than a service trip, this immersion was a journey of transformation. Students were encouraged to step far beyond their comfort zones, to think of others before themselves, and to gain a deeper sense of gratitude for the lives they lead.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, “The best way to find yourself is to lose yourself in the service of others.”

This became a living truth for many of our students, who returned home with broader perspectives, softer hearts, and a renewed desire to make a difference – both locally and globally.

We are incredibly proud of the way our students embraced this opportunity, and grateful to all the communities in Cambodia who welcomed us so warmly.

The Cambodia Immersion 2025 has left a profound and lasting impact on the entire group.

Fundraising Update – Supporting Local and Global Initiatives

We are pleased to share the success of our recent fundraising initiatives, particularly our Immersion cake stall, which received an outstanding response from our community at Queens Park.

These proceeds will help contribute to all the Immersions Capital Works Projects, supporting the development of facilities that enhance student experiences and provide wonderful support for the communities we visit.

Additionally, we extend our sincere thanks to the Brennan House families for their generous support of the Lokahi Pantry.

Their contributions are helping to provide essential supplies for women and children escaping domestic violence. These collective efforts reflect our shared commitment to compassion, justice, and meaningful action.

Warm Bula Welcome to Our Fijian Visitors!

This week, we’ve had the privilege of welcoming two students and a teacher from Navosa Central College in Fiji – our partner school through the Fiji Immersion Program – into our school community.

For 10 days, our guests have the opportunity to experience life at school in Australia, taking part in classes, co-curricular activities, and exploring all that our wider community has to offer.

Our visitors are being graciously billeted by the Quinn family, who have opened their home and hearts to provide a true Aussie home-stay experience.

During their stay, they’ll also enjoy some of Sydney’s most iconic highlights – from the Harbour Bridge and Opera House to Bondi Beach – offering a mix of cultural, educational, and fun experiences.

This special opportunity has been made possible thanks to the generosity of our Rugby Supporters Club, who have funded the visit. Their support reflects the strong spirit of connection and community that sport fosters – both on and off the field.

Navosa Central College, located in the rural highlands of Fiji, is a school our students have come to know and love through our Fiji Immersion Program.

Our relationship with Navosa continues to deepen, and we look forward to visiting them again later this year.

This exchange visit has allowed us to bring that partnership full circle – giving our Fijian friends a first-hand glimpse into our school and culture, while giving our students the opportunity to learn from theirs.

It has been a joy to witness the friendships forming and the cultural exchange happening in classrooms, on the sports field, and in everyday conversations.

Moments like these remind us how enriching and powerful cross-cultural connections can be. To our friends from Navosa: vinaka vakalevu – thank you for being part of our community.

We hope your time here is filled with wonderful memories and lasting friendships.

Cadet Promotion Course

We had a very successful week last week at the Promotions Courses Camp – 128 cadets across the Junior Leadership (55), Senior Leadership (45) and the Cadet Under Officers’ Course (28).

Each course had 3 days in the Barracks at Winbourne Conference Centre, Mulgoa and 2 days in the field (freezing!) at Douglas Park.

The Promotions Course Parade with 300 parents on Saturday was a great success. The following major appointments have been made:

We start this term with a new Recruit Company (Foxtrot) and our Alpha Company becomes the Senior Recruit Company with the 80 continuing Year 8 cadets. Posted strength for the new term is 450 cadets and 45 staff.

Snow Sports

During the July holidays a number of Junior and Senior School students represented Waverley in competing at the annual Interschool Snowsports Championships in Thredbo.

Thank you to Ms Paula McCabe for all of her organisation and well done to all students who competed. Patrick Palmer (Year 10) and Rory Palmer (Year 8) have each qualified for, and will represent the College at, the NSW State Championships to be held in Perisher in mid August 2025.

Rory Palmer placed 1st in Alpine and 4th in Skier X for Division 3 (boys in Year 7 & 8).

Patrick Palmer placed 2nd in Alpine and 3rd in Skier X For Division 2 (boys in Year 9 & 10).

Congratulations also to Leo Innes (Year 10), Max Broadhead (Year 8) and Jago Guelfi (Year 7) from the senior school, and to our junior school cohort of Samual Kanak, Maxwell Radnedge, Harry Taylor and Jake Turner for their highly commendable races throughout the championships.

Wavelength

The latest issue of Wavelength magazine with the front cover featuring Mary Fowler welcoming Waverley students to Manchester City is now available! Parents and students can collect their copy from reception.

HSC Update

As our HSC students approach the Trial HSC Examinations, we would like to acknowledge the tremendous work of our teachers who led HSC tutorials during the holiday period and will be offering opportunities during the start of the term before and after school.

Also, the support staff who ensured that the Library was available as a study space during this time.

We would also like to celebrate the tremendous number of students who embrace these opportunities. In his seminal work on Hidden Potential: The Science of Achieving Greater Things, Adam Grant challenges us to “Redefine success.

The most meaningful form of performance is progress. The ultimate mark of potential is not the height of the peak you’ve reached, but the distance you’ve traveled – and helped others travel.”

As our senior students put in the hard work and work with each other to drive their individual and cohort progress, we are reminded of the positive impact of setting these goals and bringing others with us.

In Weeks 3-5, we will be offering our inaugural HSC plus Vocational program during the HSC Trial period.

While we are aware that some of our students will be embarking on work experience, we will be offering a range of workshops that our HSC plus Vocational students can sign up for in the space of mentoring, life skills such as budgeting and character traits, social justice, nutrition and marketing to name but a few.

The program will be shared next week and students will be required to sign up to ensure that workshops run.

Staff Update

Congratulations to Mr Jean-Paul Boumelhem has accepted the position of Assistant Head of Year Level at our fellow EREA school, St Patrick’s College Strathfield.

John-Paul has worked at Waverley for 7 years in the Religion Department and done a wonderful job as Assistant Head of Department, Conlon Mentor and within the cocurricular area of Rugby.

John-Paul has started this week at his new school and I thank Ms Martina Cooper for taking over his senior class.

Congratulations to Mr Scott Coleman who has accepted the role as Head of Campus at the City East College from 11 August.

Scott has worked at Waverley for the past 10.5 years as a PDHPE teacher, Rugby 1st XV Coach, Head of Year and predominantly as the Head of Green House.

Scott has led his House with distinction and made a significant contribution to the College’s wellbeing program, framework and pastoral care culture.

In Rugby he has coached 10 seasons at 1sts level, coached CAS and been the Australian Schools Coach. He has been a collegial and supportive PDHPE faculty member and has always been willing to share pedagogical and innovative practice across departments.

Fittingly, Green House took home the House Shield last year for the first time in 20 years. We wish Scott all the very best in this exciting new role.

The College has advertised internally for an acting Head of Green House for the remainder of 2025, whilst at the same time advertising for the substantive position externally for a 2026 start date. I will keep you updated as these processes progress.

Ms Kathleen O’Hara who joins us for three days a week as our Foundation Coordinator.

Kathleen will work alongside Mr Billy Nicolas (Foundation Manager) seeking to develop the College’s philanthropic pursuits to support our Master Plan.

Kathleen joins us from O’Hara Group Hotel Management and Consulting and holds a Bachelor of Commerce – BCom, Marketing | Human Resources | Corporate Law

Ms Katie Phelan who joins our Visual Arts Department and comes to us from St Aloysius College.

Katie holds a Bachelor of Arts in Fine Art Print Contemporary Practice – Honours Degree, and a Professional Graduate Diploma in Education, Secondary Art, and Design – Honours Postgraduate Diploma.

Her areas of expertise include: Art and Design – Drawing, painting, 3D sculpture/ceramics, graphics, textiles, photography, photoshop and printmaking with monoprint, woodblock, screenprint, lithography, etching and cyanotype.

Ms Nicole Dunbar who joins our Religious Education Department and comes to us from Colaíste Bríde in Enniscorthy, Co. Wexford.

She holds both a Graduate Diploma of Secondary Education and a Bachelor of Religious Education and History.

Nicole has coached junior and senior basketball teams and led green school initiatives to promote recycling and environmental awareness.

Ms Brianna Saunders who joins our PDHPE Department and comes to us from Sydney Girls High School.

Prior to this she worked in England at the Twyford Church of England School, London and the Oasis Academy Brislington, Bristol.

She holds a Bachelor of Arts Teaching Secondary Health and Physical Education (hons) and enjoys coaching many sports.

We also welcome back Ms Chloe-Jane Tweedie to our Junior School Team from leave.

Save the Date – Dr Judith Locke Parent Session

We are excited to announce that Clinical Psychologist, Dr Judith Locke, is offering a session for parents of students in Year 5-12 at the school.

Judith will deliver latest research and clinical experience to show positive, practical and effective strategies parents can use to help their tweens and teens continue to develop their confidence and capabilities.

Further information about the session and registration details will be shared separately.

Year 12 Valedictory Dinner

Ticket sales for the Year 12 Valedictory Dinner will open on Monday, 28 July 2025.

Year 12 Parents/Carers will receive email correspondence from Ms Lauren Ryan with a purchase link and all other relevant information.

Thank you

Thank you to staff, parents, alumni and students who have made Term 2 a successful and productive one across the boys’ spiritual, cognitive, social, emotional and physical dimensions.

School Reports for Year 7-10 should have been received this week which provide an opportunity to celebrate successes and review areas of development.

Remember for tougher conversations, boys are better moving whilst discussing. Go for a walk or head to a local park and chat about strategies for the term ahead.

Write them down later and then do not harp on about them. Bring it up again at the start of Term 3.

Reminder – Parent/Carer/Teacher/Student Interviews

A reminder that bookings for Term 3 Parent/Carer/Teacher/Student interviews opened 9am Friday, 27 June, and will close Friday, 18 July at 3pm.

An app notice and an email has been sent to each family with instructions on how to book.

Year 12

Please keep our Year 12’s in your thoughts and prayers at this busy and crucial time of the year, as they continue their preparation for their upcoming trial and then HSC examinations.

Thank you to our staff who continue to offer extra tutorials throughout this Term, and through this upcoming holiday period.

Please ensure your son maintains good exercise, relaxation time, reduced screen time, good sleep patterns and a healthy diet during this time.

Please do not allow your son to change his normal sleep patterns drastically and sleep in. A consistent approach to his day over the next few months is what is required.

Noah Anderson Yr 12 – VET Excellence Award for Hospitality

Noah has been nominated for consistently working at a high level in all class activities, completing all competency tasks to a high standard and displaying a positive attitude and an interest in Hospitality.

This is especially exciting as Noah intends to pursue a career as a Chef, and has secured an apprenticeship at Catalinas (following one of his work placements there) which he’ll take up at the end of the year.

Congratulations James Peate!

Last Saturday I had the privilege of watching along with Ms Alice Curtis (Debating Convenor), James’ parents and a couple of his peers, our own James Peate (Y12) compete at the NSW Rostrum Speaking competition.

Over 400 students compete in this competition and the final comprises just 6 students. The competition was fierce across all competitors and James’ performance was very impressive.

Congratulations to the Baulkham Hills High School student who won the senior competition. Thank you to the Rotary Club of Northbridge and Easts Leagues who sponsor this event.

Congratulations to James on his commitment to public speaking and his successful representation of the College.

James won this competition last year, came second at this year’s Lawrence Campbell competition and made this year’s final in the Rostrum. Fantastic results and effort!

CAS Opens AFL team – Congratulations

Congratulations to our Open 1st XVIII who wrapped up an undefeated CAS AFL season last week.

Noah Bowler (Y10), Matt Borgelt (Y10) Charles Coughlan (Y12), Thomas Coughlin (Y12), Robbie Csavas (Y11), Adam Cutten (Y12), Dominic Dametto (Y10), Joseph Dametto (Y12), Dash Delaney-fielding (Y11), Zinzan Delaney-Fielding(Y12), Stellan Dymond (Y11), Marcus Hammoud (Y10), Zac Jones (Y10), Henry Lamond (Y11), Ned Larkin (Y11), Alex Marshall (Y12), Hayden McAusland (Y10), Jonathan McDonald (Y12), Toby McDonald (Y12), Ricky Meyrick (Y12) , Ryan Murphy (Y11), James O’Loughlin (Y12), Hugo Perks (Y12), Ben Pignatelli (Y12), Alexander Smith (Y12), Zoltahn Szabo (Y12), Oliver Trosti (Y12), James Tucker (Y10), Clancy Walsh (Y10) , Liam Walsh Y12), Oscar Wilson (Y12).

Well done to the following boys/coach on their selection for the CAS Opens AFL team.

Ben Pignatelli, Thomas Coughlin, James O’Loughlin, Dash Delaney- Fielding, Hugo Perks, Jonathon McDonald, Joseph Dametto, Ricky Meyrick, Liam Walsh, Oscar Wilson, Alex Marshall, Hayden McAusland

CAS Opens and U16 Rugby – Congratulations

We also had a number of students this week selected in the CAS Opens and U16 Rugby sides to compete this week against GPS and ISA teams as part of the NSW selections process.

Well done to the following students as well as Mr Lachlan Drew-Morris as one of the CAS coaches:

CAS1 Payton Tarau, James Finegan, CAS2 Kai McDermott, Nate Devereux, Joshua Barr, Archie Godby, Cooper Stewart, U16s Kaiasi Talakai, Uteisoni Tauheluhelu, Taoko Samson, Tom Burke, Solomone Penitani, Riley Kolster, Lior Barhaim

Beanstack Challenge Winners

Our first Reading Challenge ‘Read a Book Inside and Out’ drew to a close on 18 June.

We are delighted to say that we have almost reached our community goal of 100,000 minutes. At the time of writing, we have logged over 91,000 minutes in just two months.

This is an incredible achievement and validates the importance of reading in our students’ lives.

Congratulations to all our winners, especially our individual winners in each year group. Some of the winning classes have already enjoyed a well-deserved celebration pizza party prize.

Individual prizes will be available on our return in Term 3 and will be delivered to students by their English teachers.

Class winners: Nicholas Heavener (7.01), Boyd Green (7.02), Jack Kodomichalos (7.03), Buddy Ross (7.04), Conor Tharenou 7.05, Ethan Storie 7.06, Mel Spears 7.07, Jake Saad 7.08

Class Winners: Remy Garvey (8.01), Hudson Callum (8.02), Tallis Merriweather (8.03), Max Lester (8.04)

Mika Dadic (8.05), Sean McCarthy (8.06), Jonathan Tyler (8.07), Sebastian Riegler (8.08), Max Garcia (8.09)

Our Next Reading Challenge Begins today

This new reading challenge will ensure students are actively reading over the holidays and continue to log.

Parents are encouraged to engage with student logging on Beanstack. Why not read the same book and watch the movie version too.

ICAS Science and English Applications 2025

We are delighted to share that Waverley College will again be taking part in the world-renowned ICAS competition this year, giving our students the opportunity to showcase and celebrate their talents.

ICAS is an online academic competition that gives students the opportunity to challenge their higher order thinking and problem-solving skills in English and Science. Every student who participates is celebrated and recognised with a printed certificate and an online results report to track development each year. Top performers are eligible for one of the highly coveted ICAS medals. 

To learn more about this year’s exciting ICAS competition, please visit the ICAS website.

The assessment will be carried out at school and sitting dates will commence in Term 3. English will be set in the week of 11 – 15 August and Science in the week of 18 – 22 August.

Please visit the link and use our school code RXV933 before 28 July to register and pay for for either the English ICAS, Science ICAS or both!

Waverley College and St Catherine’s School Collaborate for a Cleaner Ocean Future

On Monday, the spirit of environmental stewardship shone brightly as our dedicated Students of the World Ecology Group (SOTWEG) travelled to St Catherine’s School to host an insightful and engaging “Ocean Waste Workshop” for over 150 of their junior Year 5 and Year 6 students.

This collaborative initiative aimed to raise awareness about the pervasive issue of ocean pollution and empower younger students to become active participants in protecting our marine ecosystems

Led by enthusiastic senior students from both schools, the workshop was a fantastic demonstration of cross-school cooperation and peer-to-peer education.

The workshop delved into the origins of ocean waste, exploring how everyday actions on land contribute to the pollution of our seas.

Through engaging presentations and hands-on activities, the senior students illustrated the detrimental impact of plastic and other debris on marine life and the broader environment.

“It was inspiring to see how quickly the St Catherine’s School students grasped the seriousness of the issue”, commented one of the SOTWEG members. “They were really keen to learn about what they could do to make a difference”.

This successful collaboration not only educated the junior students at St Catherine’s School but also provided an invaluable leadership opportunity for the senior students from both schools.

It reinforced their commitment to environmental advocacy and showcased their ability to communicate complex issues in an accessible and engaging manner.

Both schools are looking forward to exploring further opportunities for collaboration on environmental initiatives, fostering a stronger community of young environmental champions dedicated to a cleaner and healthier planet.

SOTWEG is committed to promoting environmental awareness and action within the school community and beyond. For more information or to get involved, please contact our Ecology Coordinator, Ms Silvia Baylie.

School Fees

Payment 1 of the 2025 school fees was due on 12 February, and Payment 2 was due on 20 May.

Payment 3 is scheduled for 6 August 2025. The next Statement of School Fees will be issued during the week beginning 21 July 2025 and will be sent via email.

For your convenience, they will also be available on the Parent Portal under the Accounts and Payments tab.

If you’re unable to do so, please ensure a financial arrangement is made with the Business Services Team by the due date.

If you’re planning to withdraw your son’s enrolment from Waverley College, the College requires written notice to the Principal at least one full Term in advance, in line with the enrolment contract and as outlined on our website.

To help clarify, if you intend to withdraw your son at the end of Term 2, notice must be given by the first day of Term 2. Similarly, to withdraw at the end of Term 3, notice must be received by the first day of Term 3, and so on.

If this notice period is not met, a fee equivalent to one Term’s tuition will apply, as specified in the enrolment contract and on our website.

For over 120 years, Waverley College has been shaped by the generosity and spirit of our community. Since 1903, the support of families, Old Boys, and friends like you has helped make Waverley College one of the most trusted and respected schools in Sydney.

As we approach the end of the financial year, we’re asking for your continued support during a time of increasing financial pressure, including reductions in government funding. Your help is more important than ever as we prioritise our most important project to date: the upcoming Science & Innovation Centre.

This facility will provide our students with world-class learning opportunities in Science, Technology, and Innovation. Your donation to the Building Fund will help bring this visionary project to life.

We’re also offering exclusive naming opportunities – from individual laboratories and classrooms to entire floors or the building itself – so your family’s contribution can leave a lasting legacy.

You may also choose to support the Bede Kenny VC Scholarship Fund, giving students in need the chance to access a Waverley College education, or leave a longer-term impact through our bequest program.

All donations are fully tax deductible, making this the ideal time to this financial year.

Post a cheque to: Waverley College Foundation, 131 Birrell Street, Waverley NSW 2024

Thank you for standing with us and helping secure Waverley’s future for generations to come.

Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours

The Uniform Shop has closed for the school holidays but will be open the following times during the

Wishing you a safe and happy break

Wishing all students, staff and parents a safe and enjoyable winter break. We look forward to welcoming back your sons on campus on the 23rd July (parent/carer/teacher/student zoom meetings on 21st & 22nd July)

God of all seasons,
the winter months are hard for those who cannot escape the cold.
I cannot clothe the world,
but I can offer this prayer to those who are without four walls
to protect them from the season.
May this prayer find those who struggle to fight the cold,
that they may feel the warmth of your love.
Jesus wrapped his arms around those who struggled.
Let me do my best to follow that example.
Amen.

NSW Public Speaking Final

We wish Year 12 student James Peate all the very best as he competes in the final this weekend of the NSW Rostrum Public Speaking Competition.

James is the defending champion of this competition winning it as a Year 11 student last year. We also congratulate Dante Fearn (Y11) for making it through to the semifinals. Waverley was the only school in NSW to have two students competing.

Date: Saturday, 21 June
Location: The Independent Theatre, Wenona School, 269 Miller Street, North Sydney
Time: 2pm to 5:30pm
Spectators (family, friends, teachers) are welcome – Admission is free.

A special thank you and congratulations also go to Ms Maisie Gordon, Ms Allison Fullman and Ms Alice Curtis for their invaluable support and contribution.

Titration Competition

On Friday, 13 June, eight of our Year 12 Chemistry students competed in the State Titration Competition at UTS.

Working in teams, they accurately determined the concentrations of three unknown ethanoic acid solutions and performed exceptionally well against schools from across Sydney.

They also had the opportunity to work in the UTS Superlab and hear from current university students about their research, inspiring thoughts about future pathways.

Reminder: Subject Selection Evening for Year 8 – Tuesday 24 June

Students and parents are invited to attend the Stage 5 Subject Selection presentations on Tuesday, 24 June, from 6pm to 7pm in the Kenny Building Classrooms.

This is a valuable opportunity to explore the courses available in 2026 and to speak directly with Heads of Department or their representatives.

The room schedule will be emailed to you next week. Students can wear either PDHPE uniform or casual clothing.

Reminder: Subject Selection Evening for Year 10 – Tuesday 24 June

A reminder that the Stage 6 Subject Selection Evening will take place next Tuesday, 24 June.

Students and parents are encouraged to attend, with the evening commencing in the Gym at 6pm, followed by individual subject presentations in the Kenny Building Classrooms from 7pm to 8pm.

This is a great opportunity to gain insights into the courses available for 2026 and to speak directly with Heads of Department or their delegates to ask any questions you may have.

The room schedule will be emailed to you next week. Students can wear either PDHPE uniform or casual clothing.

Reminder – Parent/Carer/Teacher/Student Interviews

A reminder that bookings for Term 3 Parent/Carer/Teacher/Student interviews opened 9am Friday, 27 June, and will close Friday, 18 July at 3pm.

An app notice and an email has been sent to each family with instructions on how to book.

Industry Careers Night

This week we hosted an Industry Careers Night. The evening offered students and parents real-world insights into the diverse paths available after school.

A group of Alumni returned to the College to share their unique career journeys. Not only did they share their experiences, but their challenges and successes. The audience heard from individuals who have forged careers in a wide range of fields, including engineering, construction and project management, real estate, the police force, finance, entrepreneurship, and physiotherapy.

It was a fantastic opportunity to ask questions, gain inspiration, and explore the many exciting possibilities that lie ahead. Thank you to Ms Kath Knowles and Mr Billy Nicholas for coordinating the evening.

Alumni Connecting

Back to Queens Park Day was a fantastic celebration of Waverley spirit with more than 150 Alumni returning to both Queens Park and then sharing a meal on the Centenary Building Rooftop.

It provided an opportunity to reconnect with classmates and reminisce. Alumni travelled from across Australia and New Zealand and one student returned from his work in Saudi Arabia to make the night.

Faith In Action Week

This week was packed with meaningful activities that celebrated community, compassion, and inclusion.

On Monday, Mental Health Day, students participated in the Push-Up Challenge, with representatives from each house gathering in the Centenary Quad for a fun and energetic event.

During Connection, Culture and Communication (CCC) time, a Kahoot competition was held, with prizes awarded to the winning wellbeing groups.

Tuesday’s Diversity Day was a vibrant celebration of our school’s diverse community, featuring a captivating performance by our Pasifika students in the Centenary Quad.

On Wednesday, Social Justice Day, students designed and created cards for people in need, which were later distributed to clients of the Salvation Army in Surry Hills.

A guest judge from the Salvation Army awarded prizes for the most inspiring cards. During Connection, Culture and Communication (CCC) time, a thought-provoking slideshow on homelessness from the Salvation Army was shared with the students.

Thursday’s highlight was the Wheelchair Basketball session, where students and teachers participated in an inclusive game and heard from guest speakers from Wheelchair Sports in the gym at lunchtime.

Over the week our students, parents, alumni and staff contributed to raising an impressive $1700 to support our major immersion works projects which includes – building a toilet block, painting classrooms, and constructing wheelchairs. Thank you!

Prefects Afternoon Tea

Students from schools around Sydney gathered in the College Library on Wednesday afternoon for our annual Leaders Gathering.

Prefects and Student Representative Council members engaged with leaders from other schools and discussed the challenges and opportunities that they have navigated this year.

Waverley Old Boy and current parent, Mr Owen Finegan, was our special guest. Owen spoke of his experiences playing for the Wallabies, further study after sport, professional coaching, and his last ten years as the CEO of The Kids’ Cancer Project.

His story and leadership insights were inspiring, and reinforced the importance of servant leadership, and the transformative impact that a single person can make.

Thank you to Owen for sharing his story, and to the Year 12 leaders who put this fantastic afternoon tea together.

Year 12 Cadets Passing Out Parade

On Sunday morning, we proudly farewelled our Year 12 cadets at their Passing Out Parade — a special occasion marking the end of five years of dedication to the Australian Army Cadets program.

Before an audience of family, staff, and peers, the cadets delivered a flawless performance for Reviewing Officer Major Michael Lange, showcasing the discipline, leadership, and teamwork they’ve developed throughout their time in the unit.

We warmly congratulate the graduating cadets from Waverley College and St Catherine’s School on their achievements and thank them for their service and commitment. We wish them all the best in the future.

Cadets Dining In Night

On Sunday evening, alongside Ms Deb Magill, Headmistress of St Catherine’s School, we farewelled the Senior Ranks of 2025 at the annual Dining In Night – a formal military mess to conclude their time in Cadets.

I would like to acknowledge Ms Magill and the team at St Catherine’s for generously hosting us in the Multi-Purpose Hall of their Performing Arts Centre.

Thank you also to our Dining Stewards for preparing the venue and providing professional service throughout the evening.

School Fees

Payment 1 of the 2025 school fees was due on 12 February, and Payment 2 was due on 20 May.

The next Fee Statements will be issued during the week beginning 21 July 2025 and will be sent via email. For your convenience, they will also be available on the Parent Portal under the Accounts and Payments tab.

We kindly ask that all fees are paid in full by the due date. If you’re unable to do so, please ensure a financial arrangement is made with the Business Services Team by the due date.

Withdrawal Notice

If this notice period is not met, a fee equivalent to one Term’s tuition will apply, as specified in the enrolment contract.

Beanstack Reading Challenge Update

Read a book Inside or Outside – Winners will be announced on Monday, Week 9

As you are aware, students and teachers have all been registered with the Beanstack Reading platform to track our reading.

Our aim is to continue to build a vibrant reading community at Waverley by reaching a community goal of 100,000 minutes. Students have almost reached this target and at the time of writing, we are sitting on an incredible 87,000 minutes.

We also set a Reading Challenge for Years 7-10 running from April 10th to June 18th. Using the Beanstack platform, students have been logging their reading in the hope of winning prizes and gaining recognition.

The winners of our reading challenge will be announced early next week (Week 9) and posted in next week’s Nurrunga. We will also acknowledge the incredible efforts of some of the students in our Academic Assembly next term.

Stay tuned for more details about our next Reading Challenge – Books to Movies which will be launched next week.

This will ensure students are actively reading over the holidays and can continue to log. Parents are encouraged to engage with student logging on Beanstack. Why not read the same book and watch the movie version too? Happy reading!

Surfing Success

The Waverley College Senior Surfing team achieved an impressive 3rd place finish out of 21 teams at the Sydney Surftag surfing competition held at Urbnsurf Wavepool.

The team, comprising of Years 10-12 students Fred Carmody, Hunter Norburn, Jacob Sheehan, Jet Corte, and Noah Bowler, showcased exceptional skill and teamwork.

Highlighting their performance, Fred Carmody scored an impressive 8.1/10 for a standout right-hander – one of the highest wave scores of the event.

A Legacy of Learning: Help Build Tomorrow Today

All donations are fully tax deductible, making this the ideal time to this financial year.

Post a cheque to: Waverley College Foundation, 131 Birrell Street, Waverley NSW 2024

Thank you for standing with us and helping secure Waverley’s future for generations to come.

Farewell and Thank You – Ms Gabby Smith

We extend our heartfelt thanks and warm congratulations to Ms Gabrielle Smith, who concluded her outstanding seven-year tenure at Waverley College on Thursday, 19 June.

Ms Smith leaves us to take up the role of Deputy Principal – Students at St Ignatius’ College, Riverview. Her time at Waverley has been marked by unwavering dedication, professionalism, and a deep commitment to the wellbeing and development of our students.

Fittingly, in her final week, Ms Smith will co-present Waverley’s Wellbeing Framework at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition (IBSC) Conference in Boston, alongside Mr James Horrocks, Director of Student Wellbeing. This presentation reflects the lasting impact of her work in this vital area.

Our incoming Deputy Principal – Students, Mr John Allen, will also be attending the conference, providing an excellent opportunity for a professional handover and meaningful time together as we prepare for the next chapter in student leadership.

We wish Ms Smith every success and happiness in her new role and thank her sincerely for the energy, compassion and expertise she brought to our College community.

“What does Men’s Health mean to you?”

Yesterday, the student-led Year 7-12 assembly was an impressive event, thoughtfully organised by our College Captains.

Their leadership and initiative brought together a meaningful and engaging program centred on the theme: “What does Men’s Health mean to you?”

The captains started with a multiple choice and true or false section that each student engaged with across men’s health topics which proved that there was quite a range of opinion and knowledge about men’s health.

They also shared a youtube clip from Norwich City Football Club reminding everyone to check on those around them frequently.

A highlight of the assembly was guest speaker Mr Richard Tombs, who was introduced by our own Mr Paul Cornish who played against Richard in the same Wallabies era of the 1980/1990s.

Post rugby, Richard had a life changing accident in 2018 in a social football (soccer) game that left him a quadriplegic.

Remarkably, Richard held no anger toward the player involved. His focus was entirely on healing.

He spent seven days in intensive care, facing the uncertainty of whether he would walk again.

Spinal injuries of this kind take years to fully understand, with progress measured slowly.

Richard had to relearn everyday tasks like eating, dressing and living independently.

Richard had to call upon the resilience he developed growing up in a family of four boys (all within 5 years of each other) and the love of his three daughters to work his way through this life changing challenge.

Richard also spoke about Men’s health and his own journey with mental health and coming to terms with the loss of one of his brothers in the 1996 SAS Blackhawk helicopter training accident in Townsville.

Richard is currently working with Hearts in Rugby Union, a charity supporting those affected by serious rugby injuries, he channels his experience into helping others.

“Resilience is getting up when you don’t want to. You will face challenges in your life, but you don’t have to face them alone. Asking for help is not a weakness. Even when plans are shattered, life can still hold purpose”.

Beanies for Brain Cancer

Both Digger (Year 12) and Archie (Year 10) Callander spoke poignantly and inspiringly at assembly this week about their family’s journey.

Matt played a big part in launching the Beanie for Brain Cancer initiative in the NRL to support the Mark Hughes Foundation.

The Beanie for Brain Cancer NRL round will take place this week to raise much needed awareness and funds to promote research into this disease and provide patient support.

Support for Women and Children in Crisis – Lokahi Foundation Donation Drive

In last week’s newsletter, we sought support for the Lokahi Foundation Donation Drive to support women and children experiencing domestic violence.

Thank you for the generous donations we have received to date. A collection box is available at the Senior School Front Office and Junior School Reception.

Your generosity, big or small, can make a meaningful impact on families rebuilding their lives.

Year 10 Dinner Cruise

The evening presented the opportunity to host a guest to a formal dinner and enjoy the beautiful vistas of Sydney harbour with VIVID as a backdrop.

Over 380 students had a great evening and night out with their peers and friends and I congratulate them for their positive energy and behaviour.

Music Festival 2025

This spectacular evening will showcase the incredible talent of our musicians, featuring a dynamic range of performances from our Concert and Jazz Bands, as well as the College Choir, Chamber Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Rock Band, Brass Ensemble and Clarinet Ensemble.

Whether you’re a music lover, a proud family member, or a supporter of the arts, this is a night not to be missed!

Experience the passion, precision, and creativity of our students as they light up the stage in an exciting celebration of musical excellence.

Doors open at 5.30pm.
Drinks and nibbles available for purchase from 6.00pm.
Concert commences at 6.30pm.

Educating The Future – 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner

Join us on Saturday, 29 November from 6-11pm in the Waverley College Gymnasium for a special evening celebrating a decade of impact with Educating The Future, a youth-led, volunteer-run NGO supporting preschool education in Timor-Leste.

Founded by two Waverley College Old Boys after a school immersion in 2015, the organisation has since built and supported seven public preschools, providing early education to over 2,000 children across Timor-Leste.

All funds raised will go toward our $100,000 goal – just $53 educates a child for an entire year.

Tickets are $150 pp and include a three course meal and entertainment for the evening.

George W Rummery Scholarship 2025 – Closing date 16 June 2025

Waverley College invites applications for the George William Rummery Music Scholarship – an award that supports talented music students with a passion for performance and growth.

Created in memory of George Rummery, a Waverley student who passed away in 1982, this scholarship offers full or partial remission of music tuition and instrument hire fees.

It is open to both current and prospective students, with a focus on those entering Year 7, though applicants from other year levels will be considered.

Applications for the 2025 scholarship are due by Monday, 16 June 2025, with auditions scheduled for 23–25 June 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

For details or to apply, see the link below or contact Mr Chris Balkizas, Head of Music:

Don’t miss this opportunity to develop your musical talent at Waverley College!

Congratulations to our basketballers

On the King’s birthday long-weekend, Waverley senior boys Rory Donnellan (Y12), Xavier Miconi (Y12), Petris Kalpouzanis (Y11) and Nico Palacio (Y11) attended the popular Nunawading Spectres Basketball Tournament in Melbourne.

Their team Marrickville Spirit U18 Boys Blue came home with a tournament win in A Grade.

Parents Association Update

It was wonderful to see so many dads and sons in attendance at the Inaugural Father/son dinner held at Randwick racecourse recently.

The Pasifika boys danced and sang to introduce the evening and one of the dads participated in the Hakka, demonstrating the strength of the bond between father and sons.

Steven Bradbury stole the show as a crowd favourite, bringing the house down with his hilarious and inspiring life story.

From grueling early morning training sessions with his National speed ice-skating dad, to becoming Australia’s first Winter Olympic gold medalist, Steven’s journey had everyone captivated.

Who would have thought those pre-dawn training sessions would pay off in the most epic way?

Huge thanks to the amazing mums who made this event possible: Susie Rakoczy, Davina Greenberg, Rozy Dorias, and Ivana Roberts.

Appreciation also goes to the dedicated teachers who joined us: Alanna James, Cath Lipman, Lynsey Porter, and Graham Leddie.

And the best part? The mums’ turn again next year, with planning already in full swing!

Pentecost

This year in the midst of the King’s Birthday long weekend Pentecost Sunday is commemorated.

Pentecost marks the events following 50 days since Jesus triumphs over death and when the Holy Spirit descends on the fledgling group of Apostles and other followers of Jesus Christ while they were in Jerusalem for a festival.

In the Roman Catholic liturgy, Pentecost marks the end and completion of the Easter season, and the birth or “great beginning” of the church.

Prayers

Please keep in your thoughts and prayers Year 7 student Phoenix Hedderman and family.

Phoenix’s father Slade sadly passed away earlier this week. We extend our deepest sympathies to the Hedderman family during this incredibly difficult time.

Indigenous Round of Sport

Last weekend as part of Reconciliation Week, we proudly hosted our annual Indigenous Round of Sport against The Cranbrook School – a meaningful celebration of culture, community, and respectful competition.

Across a full schedule of fixtures and ceremonies, our community came together to honour the enduring strength and wisdom of First Nations peoples and to reflect on our shared journey toward reconciliation.

The weekend began with a Friday evening AFL match at Blackman Park, followed by Saturday’s fixtures in tennis, volleyball, football, and rugby at Queens Park and the College.

Each 1sts match was preceded by an Acknowledgement of Country, while two of our key fixtures – the 1st XI Football and 1st XV Rugby matches – featured Indigenous Opening Ceremonies, including a traditional smoking ceremony and Welcome to Country.

Local Elder Aunty Barb Simms delivered a powerful Welcome to Country, followed by a traditional smoking ceremony and cultural dances performed by our Walawaani students.

These moments provided an opportunity for all in attendance to pause, reflect, and celebrate the richness of Indigenous culture.

We extend our sincere thanks to the students, staff, and families of Cranbrook School for joining us in this important tradition, and to all those who helped bring the event to life.

Thank you to everyone who supported this year’s Indigenous Round – your presence and participation helped ensure these moments of cultural recognition and reconciliation remain a vital part of school life.

Support for Women and Children in Crisis – Lokahi Foundation Donation Drive

One of our Waverley parents is currently completing her Masters of Counselling placement at this local charity and seen first hand the great work the Lokahi Foundation are doing and the real need for assistance.

Lokahi Foundation is a local Bondi Junction-based charity service that helps women, youth, and children escaping domestic and family violence.

Many of Lokahi’s clients arrive in emergency accommodation with few or no belongings.

To support them, the foundation operates a Community Pantry, providing essential items like food, toiletries, baby supplies, and clothing, free of charge.

Brennan House are going to take this on as their charity focus and we invite our school community to contribute by donating new or unused essential items. A collection box will be available at the Senior School Front Office and Junior School Reception.

Your generosity, big or small, can make a meaningful impact on families rebuilding their lives.

Year 10 Vaccinations

The South Eastern Public Health Unit is visiting Waverley College on June 11 2025 to provide the Meningococcal ACWY vaccination to Year 10 students.

Vaccination will only be provided at school if consent has been received. Online consent will only be accepted if provided through the NSW Health School Vaccination Program portal.

How to provide consent:
1. To complete online consent for your child’s school vaccinations, visit:
engage.health.nsw.gov.au
2. Follow the steps to log in to your existing ServiceNSW account.
3. Update or confirm your personal details as required.
4. Complete the School Vaccination Consent Form for your child/ren. You will need to:
a. Enter your child’s personal details
b. Provide the Medicare card details for you and your child
c. Read the linked Parent Information Sheet and privacy statement
d. Provide consent
Detailed instructions can be found on the NSW Health website. If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper consent form from the school.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Waverley Nursing Team on (02) 9369 0644.

Year 12 Engineering Students Soar into Aerodynamics at Bankstown Airport

Our Year 12 Engineering students recently embarked on an exhilarating and highly educational excursion to Bankstown Airport, providing them with invaluable real-world insights into the principles of aerodynamics and aviation.

The day’s highlight was undoubtedly the one-hour flight training session. Under the guidance of experienced instructors, students had the incredible opportunity to take the controls of a light aircraft, experiencing firsthand the forces of lift, drag, thrust, and weight. This practical application brought their classroom studies of aerodynamics to life, offering a unique understanding of how aircraft are controlled in three dimensions. The hands-on experience of adjusting pitch, roll, and yaw provided a profound appreciation for the intricate engineering behind flight.

Following their time in the cockpit, the students also gained exclusive access to the Bankstown Air Traffic Control Tower. This visit offered a fascinating glimpse into the complex world of air traffic management, demonstrating how critical communication, precise navigation, and continuous monitoring ensure the safe and efficient movement of aircraft. While not directly about aerodynamics, understanding the air traffic environment provided crucial context for the operational aspects of aviation, highlighting the culmination of aerodynamic design with ground control.

“Flying a plane for our school excursion was an unforgettable experience that not only gave us the thrill of soaring above the clouds, but also deepened our appreciation for the principles of aeronautical engineering that make flight possible” commented one student, and another said “You read about aerodynamics in textbooks, but actually experiencing it in the air truly cemented my understanding”.

This immersive experience at Bankstown Airport served as a powerful complement to the students’ engineering curriculum. By connecting theoretical knowledge with practical application in a dynamic aviation environment, our Year 12 aspiring engineers have undoubtedly deepened their understanding of aerodynamics and gained a heightened appreciation for the complexities and innovations within the aerospace industry.

CAS Drill Competition 2025

Congratulations to our Cadet Unit on their win at the CAS Cadet Drill Competition on Wednesday this week. For only the second time, and the first since 2010, the Cadet Unit brought home the trophy with fierce competition from:

Well done to everyone involved, and recognition for the months of hard work from the Cadets, MAJ (AAC) de Kantzow, and her team.

We congratulate the 2025 CAS Drill Team members from St Catherine’s School / Waverley College;

WO1 Renato Rovacchi, WO2 Oliver Bracic, WO2 Chiara Marshall, WO2 Finnian McCarthy, WO2 Luke Nezval, WO2 Ethan Ooi, WO2 Nicholas Scerri, SGT Tristan Bates, SGT Zoe Ngu, SGT Emily Plowman

SGT Lauren Sheehan, SGT Thomas Vanderkemp, SGT Chris Wellington, SCPL James Grant, CPL Maggie-Kate Allman Powell, CPL Madeline Aston, CPL Harrison Boden-Taylor, CPL Emily Freedman, CPL Praman Gandhi, CPL Oliver Isaac, CPL Carter Kennedy, CPL Claudia Lynam, CPL Florence Vinnell, CDT Evie Messiter

Surfing Success for Jacob Sheehan

Congratulations to Jacob Sheehan (Y10) who achieved an impressive result at the U16 State Surfing Championships, held in Coffs Harbour.

Jacob made it to the finals and placed 4th overall in NSW for U16, earning him a coveted spot on the NSW U16 Short Board Surf Team for the National Championships in South Australia this November.

Music Festival 2025

Join us for the Waverley College Music Festival on Friday, 20 June 2025 at 6.30pm in the PAC Theatre. This spectacular evening will showcase the incredible talent of our musicians, featuring a dynamic range of performances from our Concert and Jazz Bands, as well as the College Choir, Chamber Choir, Guitar Ensemble, Rock Band, Brass Ensemble and Clarinet Ensemble. Whether you’re a music lover, a proud family member, or a supporter of the arts, this is a night not to be missed!

Experience the passion, precision, and creativity of our students as they light up the stage in an exciting celebration of musical excellence.

Doors open at 5.30pm.
Drinks and nibbles available for purchase from 6.00pm.
Concert commences at 6.30pm.

House Athletics Carnival

Today our Year 7-12 students gathered at E.S. Marks for a great day of competition, spirit, and sunshine at the annual House Athletics Carnival.

The energy was high, the weather was perfect, and the students gave it their all across a range of events.

Congratulations to Brennan House, who took out the overall win with an impressive team effort! A big thank you to all staff and students who made the day such a success.

A Legacy of Learning: Help Build Tomorrow Today

All donations are fully tax deductible, making this the ideal time to this financial year.

Post a cheque to: Waverley College Foundation, 131 Birrell Street, Waverley NSW 2024

Thank you for standing with us and helping secure Waverley’s future for generations to come.

Staff News

We are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr John Allen as Waverley College’s new Deputy Principal – Students, commencing Monday, 18 August 2025. John joins us from Trinity Grammar School with over 20 years of senior leadership experience and a strong commitment to student wellbeing, holistic education, and Catholic values.

He brings a wealth of expertise from roles including Acting Deputy Headmaster and Head of Middle School. An Oxford graduate with a Master of Science and extensive teaching experience in both the HSC and IB programs, John is a dedicated educator, leader, and mentor.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to Mr Jesse Johnson for his outstanding contribution to the Waverley College Music Department over the past seven years.

Jesse has played a pivotal role in nurturing the talents of our students, particularly through his passionate leadership in the development of our rock bands across the Junior and Senior School, the guitar program, HSC accompaniment and performances across most scheduled music events throughout the year.

As Jesse embarks on a new career path, having accepted a full-time position at Jands Australia, we reflect with gratitude on the creativity, enthusiasm, and collegial spirit he brought to his teaching. His positive influence has shaped the musical journeys of many budding performers and enriched the life of our Music community.

We wish Jesse every success in this exciting next chapter and thank him for the legacy he leaves behind at Waverley.

Replacing Jesse, we welcome Mr Ben Daley who joins us from Loreto Kirribilli and brings with him a wealth of teaching and professional playing experience.

Ben is a highly regarded musician with over 20 years’ experience performing, accompanying and teaching in Australia and overseas. Ben holds a Bachelor of Music from the Sydney Conservatorium of Music and Grade 5 AMEB classical guitar.

Mr Steve Ghattas – 2IC Junior School & Assistant Director Identity & Global Advocacy

George W Rummery Scholarship 2025 – Closing date 16 June 2025

Waverley College invites applications for the George William Rummery Music Scholarship – an award that supports talented music students with a passion for performance and growth.

Created in memory of George Rummery, a Waverley student who passed away in 1982, this scholarship offers full or partial remission of music tuition and instrument hire fees. It is open to both current and prospective students, with a focus on those entering Year 7, though applicants from other year levels will be considered.

Applications for the 2025 scholarship are due by Monday, 16 June 2025, with auditions scheduled for 23–25 June 2025. Late applications will not be accepted.

For details or to apply, see the link below or contact Mr Chris Balkizas, Head of Music:

Don’t miss this opportunity to develop your musical talent at Waverley College!

National Reconciliation Week – Bridging Now to Next

National Reconciliation Week, which begins on the 26 May each year with Sorry Day and ends with Eddie Mabo Day (Tuesday, 3 June), is an opportunity for Waverley College to recommit to understanding, respecting, and preserving Aboriginal culture and heritage within our community.

It is an event that is essential to who we are as a College, not only because it celebrates the enormous contribution of Aboriginal students to Waverley life, but also because it recognises the wounds of invasion and dispossession, acknowledging the fact that we live on and are nourished by Gadigal land.

Perhaps most importantly it recognises the need to work towards improved relationships between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians as well as better health and educational outcomes for Aboriginal people in a country as well-resourced as ours.

It is with that in mind that Waverley held its Reconciliation Week Assembly this week.

In the Acknowledgement of Country and Welcome, Waverley students Buddy Ross and Stirling Quinn reminded us of the strong relationship between people and country.

The assembly was then addressed by Matilda and Sydney FC Footballer Ms Kyah Simon, who is a proud Indigenous woman of Anaiwan and Biripi descent.

In her interview with Mr Kevin Heath, Aboriginal Liaison Officer she discussed her decorated career – including being the first Indigenous player to score a goal at the FIFA World Cup as well as the obstacles she overcame along the way.

Her advice, ‘Don’t be scared to fail. If you fail, you learn to be resilient’, resonated strongly with our Students.

Mr Luke Burns (Year 5 Teacher) delivered an account of an excursion with our Junior School Sport Captains that involved a walk on country with local Indigenous elder Aunty Barb, learning about the rich cultural and natural heritage of the area now known as La Persouse.

This day culminated in Kevin presenting student Billy Keogh with the inaugural Gily Medal for his engagement in Captain’s Day on Country.

Earlier this week, Mr Stephen O’Donnell along with our Co-Curricular Leaders took part in the same Captains on Country experience with Aunty Barb, Mr Kevin Heath and Mr Richard Chan-Hampton.

During the assembly, Kevin also spoke of the importance of our Walawaani group to the College and thanked Ms Gabby Smith for her work in the Indigenous space, presenting her with the traditional gift of a coolamon.

All presenters and organisers are to be congratulated for their contribution to what was a wonderful opportunity to continue to learn about and celebrate Indigenous culture.

Old Boys’ Union AGM

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 2025/2026:

Council Members: Mr Warren Boyd, Mr Peter Frost, Mr John Karas, Mr Brandon Perry, Mr Col Blake, Mr Garry Marin, Mr Michael da Roza, Dr Charles New, Mr Jason Taylor

Music Festival 2025

Whether you’re a music lover, a proud family member, or a supporter of the arts, this is a night not to be missed!

Experience the passion, precision, and creativity of our students as they light up the stage in an exciting celebration of musical excellence.

Doors open at 5.30pm.
Drinks and nibbles available for purchase from 6.00pm.
Concert commences at 6.30pm.

George W Rummery Scholarship 2025

Waverley College invites applications for the George William Rummery Music Scholarship – an award that supports talented music students with a passion for performance and growth.

Created in memory of George Rummery, a Waverley student who passed away in 1982, this scholarship offers full or partial remission of music tuition and instrument hire fees.

It is open to both current and prospective students, with a focus on those entering Year 7, though applicants from other year levels will be considered.

Applications for the 2025 scholarship are due by Monday, 16 June 2025, with auditions scheduled for 23–25 June 2025.

For details or to apply, see the link below or contact Mr Chris Balkizas, Head of Music:

Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize – Entries are now open for the 2025

The Woollahra Small Sculpture Prize 2025 continues its legacy as Australia’s leading award for small-scale sculpture.

Established in 2001 as the first national acquisitive prize for works up to 80 cm, it celebrates innovation and creativity in compact form.

Presented by Woollahra Municipal Council and hosted at Woollahra Gallery at Redleaf, the Prize showcases original freestanding or wall-mounted sculptures across all media.

Sydney University – Year 12 Information Evening (online)

An online information evening designed for Year 12 students and their caregivers.

You’ll hear about entry schemes, student support, life as a Sydney student, accommodation options, interstate-specific information and the application process through UAC.

This online event will also feature a presentation from UAC and a University of Sydney alumni, and a live Q&A.

NCCD Data Collection – Supporting Students with Disabilities

Waverley College, along with all Australian schools, will be submitting information to Catholic Schools NSW for the Nationally Consistent Collection of Data for Student with Disabilities: A count of the number of students with disabilities who are supported under the school’s obligations to comply with the Disability Discrimination Act 1992, Disability Standards for Education 2005 and The Australian Education Act 2013.

The count is based on the professional judgment of teachers and their knowledge and understanding of students.

The process assists the school in identifying and supporting students with disabilities by implementing adjustments to enable them to access and participate in education on the same basis as their peers.

Information collected relates to: the total numbers of students involved; the types of adjustments provided, including curriculum delivery, medical support, health and safety, social skills and communication; the level of adjustment provided and the categories of disabilities.

In the first instance, the information is submitted to the Catholic Schools NSW then forwarded, as non-identifiable data, to the Australian Government Education Council (ie student NCCD Website and names will not be captured).

The information collected is protected by the privacy act. The information collected may be used for the school’s future funding and policy requirements.

Please feel free to contact Mr David Parnell (e) dparnell@waverley.nsw.edu.au, if you have any queries in relation to this process.

May Procession

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations to Our Rostrum Semi-Finalists

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

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

Sydney Writers’ Festival

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

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

Session 1: The Craft of Poetry with Lemn Sissay

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Session 3: The Craft of Short Fiction

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Indigenous Round – Saturday, 31 May

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

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

‘Kids Giving Back’ – Not For Profit Organisation

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

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

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

FREE Parent Screening – SEEN The Film

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Legends Coaching Week

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Congratulations to our swimmers!

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

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

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

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

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

Free Parent Webinars – Teen Mental Health Matters

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

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

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

Waverley College App

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

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

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

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

Father/Son Dinner

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Debating Triumph After 34 Years

Wear it Purple Day – Bold Voices and Bright Futures 2025

2026 College Leaders

Father’s Day Breakfast

10-Year Reunion – Class of 2015

The Waverley Exchange Breakfast

Archbishop of Sydney Awards for Student Excellence 2025

Parent Education Session with Dr Judith Locke

Outstanding Debut: Ollie Moclair Breaks 17yrs National Record in Europe

VET Hospitality Takeover at Bistro on the Greens – A Night to Celebrate

Waves Wednesday: Students Recreate Iconic Moments from the Archives

Helping Hands

Welcoming New Staff

Blue and Gold Ball a huge success!

Father’s Day Breakfast

College Community Feedback Review – 2025

HSC Final Push: A Critical Period for Year 12

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

Feast of the Assumption

Senior School Attendance

Leadership Forums

AFL Grand Final wins

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

2026 St Clare’s Musical Production – looking for students to take part!

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Closes tomorrow!

Sydney Uni HSC Masterclass

Years 7, 8 and 9 Academic Award Winners

Waverley’s Winter Appeal 2025: Supporting Matthew Talbot Hostel and Homelessness

Sydney Synod 2026: Catholics Called to Shape the Future of the Church

Author Gary Lonesborough Visit

2026 St Clare’s Musical Production – looking for students to take part!

Ollie Moclair Prepares for World Championships with Record-Breaking Swim

Ethan Uncle on the World Stage at U12 Baseball World Cup

US College Admissions Seminar

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Now Live!

Staff Update

Years 10, 11 and 12 Academic Award Winners

Year 12 HSC Guide / Trials

NAPLAN 2025

Lizard Island Coral Reef Study Tour

2025 Blue & Gold Ball Silent Auction – Now Live!

Parent Education Session with Dr Judith Locke

From the Director of ICT, Campus and Innovation

Waverley’s Matt Talbot Winter Appeal – Looking for Donations!

Parents’ Association Meeting – Come and Join us in Person!

Cadets Rank Induction Parade

Honouring the Generosity of Max and Joan Connery

Exciting New Partnership with Sydney BMW & Sydney Mini Garage

Bula Week activities with our Visiting Fiji Students

1ST AFL v Riverview

Welcome back!

NAIDOC Assembly

Stepping Beyond Comfort: Cambodia Immersion 2025

Fundraising Update – Supporting Local and Global Initiatives

Warm Bula Welcome to Our Fijian Visitors!

Cadet Promotion Course

Snow Sports

Wavelength

HSC Update

Staff Update

Save the Date – Dr Judith Locke Parent Session

Year 12 Valedictory Dinner

Thank you

Reminder – Parent/Carer/Teacher/Student Interviews

Year 12

Noah Anderson Yr 12 – VET Excellence Award for Hospitality

Congratulations James Peate!

CAS Opens AFL team – Congratulations

CAS Opens and U16 Rugby – Congratulations

Beanstack Challenge Winners

Our Next Reading Challenge Begins today

ICAS Science and English Applications 2025

Waverley College and St Catherine’s School Collaborate for a Cleaner Ocean Future

School Fees

Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours

Wishing you a safe and happy break

NSW Public Speaking Final

Titration Competition

Reminder: Subject Selection Evening for Year 8 – Tuesday 24 June

Reminder: Subject Selection Evening for Year 10 – Tuesday 24 June

A Catholic School for boys in
the tradition of Edmund Rice