Principal & Leadership Archives - Page 2 of 57

Great communities, great culture – respect, responsibility – shirts tucked, ties up, College cut

From the Deputy Principal, Students – Mr John Allen

In an address to the students last week I spoke about a feature of three unique communities. These were related back to respect, responsibility and consequence. The reflections were used to encourage our students about their actions and their impact on our community – good, bad and indifferent.

Below are some excerpts from the address.

Three unique community features that highlight respect and responsibility:

Tokyo, Japan: there are virtually no bins in public but there is also no litter. Why: respect (for others, the community and guests) and responsibility. There are consequences for non-compliance: social and legal.

Oxford University: students are required to wear a particular “uniform” called sub-fusc clothing to their annual exams. Sub-fusc is formal attire including an academic gown and, for men, a white bow tie. WHY: respect (for tradition and the institution) and responsibility. The consequences for non-compliance: excluded from the exam, failure to complete the degree.

New Zealand All Blacks: all players, regardless or age, position and level of seniority are required to buy into a culture that requires them to “sweep the sheds” (tidying their change room and training facilities) and treating others, coaches, players and the public, with respect and leading through service. WHY: responsibility and respect for others, the jersey, the privilege, the players past and for the legacy they aim to leave for the players of the future. Consequences of non-compliance: damages to the reputation (self and team) and non-selection.

How does this apply to the Waverley community?

It’s great to see our community at its best: on immersions, HSC students sharing resources, at CAS T&F, helping people in the public, demonstrating respect, humility, kindness and gratitude. Here are a few focus points for the term ahead:

Respect your teachers, all members of staff, each other, and members of the public. Demonstrate kindness and respect in the way you listen, respond and interact. ⁃ In public: remember your interaction with someone on the bus, at Bondi Junction or at the beach, may be the only one a member of the public has with a Waverley student – they will remember what you did and how they felt, good or bad. Be your best. Act with good character and integrity, showing respect and upholding your responsibility to our community.
Uniform: “Shirts tucked, ties up and College cut” especially upon entry and exit from school, formal settings the classroom and in the public.
Haircuts: “College Cut”: not too long (collar, ears, eyes), not too short (below a 2 blade), no great contrast between short and long hair, required to be of natural colour.
Put your litter, or litter your see, in the bin.
As you enter the College: ear pods away, phones off and away into your locker.

I encourage you to bring your best, today and everyday. Demonstrate respect and take on your responsibility for yourself, others, the learning and the College. We will continue to encourage and remind you. But it is expected that you do your part, there will be consequences for those who don’t meet these reasonable expectations.

I wish you a great term and look forward to seeing you bring your best, here at school and in public.

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

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

This year we will be joined by guest speaker, Gabrielle Mace, founder of ProReading Solutions and well-known literacy expert. Gabrielle is a literacy consultant and library services specialist who works with schools and communities across Australia and internationally to foster a culture of reading. In 2025, responding to the growing literacy crisis, she co-founded The Detective Experience – a global literacy initiative designed to bring young people and families back to reading through the power of story and mystery. The program is now shared worldwide at no cost to schools and families. Gabrielle has presented most recently at the International Boys’ Schools Coalition Conference in the UK and the World Literacy Summit in Oxford, and is a sought-after speaker on boys and reading, digital distractions, and student voice.

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

Junior School Aladdin Production

Congratulations to all our Year 6 students, along with a number of students from St Catherine’s School, who performed brilliantly in Disney’s Aladdin JR., held in our Performing Arts Centre throughout the week. The level of performance, energy, and enthusiasm displayed by the students was outstanding, and the show was a truly magical experience for everyone involved. It provided our Junior School students with a wonderful opportunity to perform, step outside their comfort zones, and be part of something unforgettable.

A sincere thank you must go to Junior School Music Teacher and Director of Aladdin JR., Mr. Jonathan Bowden. His creativity, passion, and tireless dedication were the driving force behind this incredible production. Through his leadership, guidance, and inspiration, he brought this musical vision to vibrant life.

We would also like to extend our sincere thanks to David Thomas at Crystal Productions for his impeccable AV support, and to Peter Musserad for his phenomenal costume and set design. Our gratitude also goes to the Junior School staff, particularly the Year 6 teachers, whose hard work, flexibility, and positivity ensured that the production ran smoothly from start to finish. From coordinating rehearsals to managing costumes and supporting students both on and off the stage, their efforts were invaluable.

Finally, congratulations once again to the entire cast and crew of Disney’s Aladdin JR – a brilliant testament to the talent, teamwork, and spirit of our Junior School community. What a truly unforgettable experience!

Please feel free to view photos from Aladdin JR. HERE

Summer Co-Curricular Captains and Teams

Congratulations to the captains and teams who were presented at assembly this week.

View the full list HERE.

Parents’ Association Meeting and AGM – Monday 10 November

Our next Parents’ Association (PA) Meeting and Annual General Meeting (AGM) will be held on Monday, 10 November.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

The award will be presented after the AGM on Monday 10 November.

Research Project – Consent and Respectful Relationships Education Project

As part of the Phase 2 consultation process for the Consent and Respectful Relationships Education (CRRE) Project, our School and System Leaders completed a survey in March 2025. This survey was to gain a better understanding of the types of programmes being implemented in schools, as well as the goals these programmes aim to achieve. The next stage of this research is to gather insights from two additional stakeholder groups: parents and students.

Catholic Schools NSW (CSNSW) has commissioned the Australian Catholic University (ACU) to conduct the research on our behalf. The parent and carer survey is now live and will be open to complete until Friday 14 November. The purpose of this survey is to seek parent feedback about their experience of their child’s CRRE education, and to gain insights about the challenges they face. We also ask what support parents need to continue this important education at home.

The more parents who participate in the survey, the greater the insights we will gain, thus ensuring a strong parent voice contributes to this important work.

Parents can participate in the survey by simply clicking on this link.

As for the student engagement component of this research, we acknowledge that this is a more sensitive area due to the ethical considerations of research involving minors. We anticipate that this research will take place in Term 1 2026 and will only be made available to Year 10 to Year 12 students

The purpose of completing research with students is to give them a voice and gather insights about their experience of CRRE in Catholic schools. It will provide students with an opportunity to reflect on their experience, as well as an avenue to recommend what they would like to see in a Catholic CRRE programme.

U16 Social Media ban – How will this impact the classroom?

As of 10 December the Australia government will empower social media companies to provide age verification before allowing them to login to their sites. This will mean that it is the responsibility of the social media companies to show they are taking reasonable steps to ensure that anyone under the age of 16 will be prevented from authenticating and potentially being exposed to inappropriate content. The initiative is being led by the eSafety Commissioner and is to “help protect young Australians at a critical stage of their development, through world-first social media age restrictions.”

Waverley College fully endorses this approach and any initiative that helps to protect young people whilst online.

More information relating to the U16 Social Media ban can be found on the eSafety Commissioner website. https://www.esafety.gov.au/about-us/industry-regulation/social-media-age-restrictions

There are also a number of excellent resources relating to being safe online which can be found here:

https://www.esafety.gov.au/

What does the ban cover?

In essence the ban is at the point a young person attempts to create an account and login to a platform when they are under the age of 16, these platforms need to provide a method to identify the age of that person. It is not a block of the website or a web filter to prevent access to the site. This is important to understand in the context of YouTube.

Which sites will be included?

Whilst there is not a definitive list of the platforms covered by the ban, platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, X (formerly Twitter), and Snapchat are included with YouTube having also been recently added. This list is not exhaustive and the Commissioner has asked tech companies to self-assess to see if they meet the threshold to be included in the ban.

How will this impact us in the classroom ?

The biggest potential impact would be with the addition of YouTube to the ban, this platform has been used widely to provide resources to students for many years. Since mid-Term 3 we have been briefing our teaching staff on looking at alternatives to YouTube particularly in the younger years, we have been trialling a YouTube block in the Junior School since the end of Term 3 and this will remain in place. One word of caution is that the mechanics of YouTube mean that a student under 16 would still be able to view content from a direct link but would not be able to login to the platform and by not logging in they would be prevented from accessing age restricted content or inappropriate content.

We will continue our existing blocks on social media sites whilst students are in school and these will not change and that we will continue to explore options for teacher to deliver more content via providers such as ClickView etc

Waverley College 60 Year Reunion

On Saturday, 18 October, 30 Old Boys gathered at the Royal Automobile Club in Sydney to celebrate their 60-year reunion. It was a wonderful afternoon of laughter, memories, and reconnection. Special guests included Deputy Principal Lynsey Porter and Foundation Manager Billy Nicolas, hosted by Old Boys Walt Jervis, Peter McLean, and John Hilton. Lynsey shared updates on the College and spoke about the impactful Percy Watson Fund for Teaching Excellence, which invests in the professional development of staff. To date, 26 teachers have received this prestigious award, a scholarship that benefits not just one educator, but an entire generation of students.

The reunions are a great way for Old Boys to continue the connection with the College and we look forward to being a part of many more reunions in the future.

Cyber Awareness Month – October 2025

October is Cyber Awareness Month- a great reminder for our students and families to review safe online habits. At Waverley we want our students to be thoughtful, responsible digital citizens; together with parents and carers, we can help young people stay safe, secure and respectful online.

What you can do at home (quick wins)

Use strong passphrases and a different one for each important account (email, banking, school apps). Aim for a simple sentence with spaces.
Turn on Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) wherever it’s offered – especially for email, social media, and gaming accounts.
Update devices and apps promptly to patch security flaws (set “automatic updates” on).
Talk about phishing: remind children (and adults!) not to click unexpected links or attachments – even if a message looks urgent or “official.”
Check privacy settings on social platforms and gaming profiles; keep accounts private and location sharing off.
Back up photos and schoolwork (cloud or external drive) so a lost phone or locked device isn’t a disaster.
Report scams and cyberbullying early. Encourage students to save evidence and speak to a trusted adult or the school.

On Wednesday Students will take part in an activity during Wellbeing encouraging them to recognise potential Cyber issues and promoting a conversation with their peers about how they can stay safe online.

Helpful resources for families

eSafety Commissioner (Australia): practical guides for parents and reporting tools

https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents

ACSC (Australian Cyber Security Centre): alerts and step-by-step security advice

https://www.actnowstaysecure.gov.au/

Protect your self online (ASD)

https://www.cyber.gov.au/protect-yourself

Scamwatch (ACCC): current scam examples and how to report them

https://www.scamwatch.gov.au/report-a-scam

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 3 events, please refer to the College calendar.

Welcome Back!

A warm welcome back to all our families as we begin the final and exciting push of the academic year.

After a restful holiday, the energy on campus has been positive this week. This is a crucial term where effort and focus truly pay off, and we want to ensure every student finishes the year feeling proud of their growth and achievements.

Setting the Tone for the Final Stretch

To help our boys embrace this important period, we gathered at our full school assembly on Tuesday morning. We framed Term 4 as “The Final Quarter”, like the end of a great game where everyone needs to bring their best effort, focus, and teamwork.

The core of our message focused on three non-negotiable values for all of our students, which are essential for a successful learning community: Being Safe, Being Respectful, and Being Compassionate.

We shared the following points with the students and encourage you to discuss these values with your son at home:

1. Be SAFE (Protect Your Team)

We reminded the boys that being safe is not just about following rules. It’s about being a great teammate. We asked them to think of safety in a few ways:

2. Be RESPECTFUL (Honor the Game)

Respect is the foundation of our community. We stressed that showing respect this term means:

3. Be COMPASSIONATE (Be the Best Teammate)

We highlighted the power of empathy and kindness, especially during a busy final term. Compassion means:

Partnering for a Strong Finish

We are looking forward to the term ahead. By focusing on these three core values of Safety, Respect, and Compassion, will support every student to have the best possible environment to thrive.

As we enter this final quarter, your partnership is invaluable. Please encourage your son to apply himself fully, to be a positive influence on his peers, and to truly enjoy the experience of finishing the school year strong.

Uniform Expectations – Shirts Tucked, Ties Up, College Cut

Taking pride in our College uniform is an important way for students to show respect for themselves, their peers, and the College community. A well-presented uniform reflects an understanding of our shared standards and a commitment to personal discipline.

We ask all students to actively demonstrate this pride by ensuring their Shirts Tucked are always neat and secure, their Ties Up are worn correctly to the knot, and that their hair adheres to the specific standards of the College Cut. Upholding these simple expectations reinforces a positive, professional image for every student and contributes significantly to the strong reputation of our school.

Aladdin the Musical

We are very excited to perform our Junior School Musical for you next week. Please refer to the communication sent this week regarding logistics and organisation. Also, there are still tickets available to the matinee performance on Thursday 23 October at 12pm via this link. Thank you for your support and cooperation with this exciting event!

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

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

Year 6 Graduation – Request for Photos

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

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

Assessments in Term 4

Term 4 is always an exciting time of year, filled with rich learning opportunities and a chance to celebrate the growth our students have made across the year. It is also a time when we complete a range of assessments to measure student progress and gain accurate data that helps us identify each child’s strengths and areas for future development.

This term, students will complete their Common Grade Assessments in Mathematics (Measurement and Space, Number and Algebra, and Statistics and Probability) and English, as well as ACER PAT testing in Spelling, Reading, Maths, and General Ability (AGAT).

Our students are well prepared for these assessments through the high-quality teaching and learning experiences provided at the Junior School. Our focus is not on pressure or competition, but on using assessment as a tool to celebrate success and guide each learner’s next steps in their educational journey. Your son’s class teacher will communicate with you directly regarding when these assessments will take place.

A huge congratulations to Oscar Loebenstein (Year 5) and Spencer Murphy (Year 6), who did Waverley proud at the IPSHA Speakers’ Challenge on Tuesday, 14 October.

The boys competed against 70 students from across NSW and showed their strong speaking skills and exceptional manner. Their journey from Round 1 and the Junior School finals to this major challenge shows impressive growth and dedication. Well done, boys!

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Three boys from the Junior School played several rounds of Chess against fellow schools on the last Friday of Term 3, Week 10 (this first day of holidays!). We are very proud of the boys who ranked 11th with a total score of 67.0 points (winners had 87.5 points). These students have been working hard on their plays and strategies in Chess Club at lunchtimes on Tuesdays and it was great to be able to see them use their skills in a friendly competition.

On Saturday during the holidays, the Water Polo A team, along with their parents and myself, attended the Newington Junior Water Polo Festival. It was a big, action-packed day, with the carnival running from 9am to 3pm and the boys playing six exciting matches against teams from Cranbrook, Newington, and St Augustine’s, as well as some strong mixed club teams. It was an absolutely phenomenal day, the boys gave 100% effort in every game, showing outstanding teamwork, respect, and sportsmanship throughout. They won most of their matches and finished an impressive third overall. Most importantly, they had a fantastic time representing Waverley and playing the sport they love!

If you have not already done so, please discuss the below choices with your son/s and use the below link to nominate first and second preferences for 2026 Summer and Winter Sports.

Please read all instructions on this form carefully. It will close on November 1, 2025. No changes will be accepted after this date. Thank you for your understanding.

Welcome back

Welcome back to all families, colleagues and students. I hope you enjoyed a restful break and return with renewed energy for the term ahead.

A special welcome to the eight new students who have joined our community this week. We’re delighted to have you with us and look forward to seeing you settle in, form new friendships, and embrace the many opportunities that life at Waverley offers.

Over the break, a number of students and staff represented the College on immersions in Timor-Leste and Fiji, and our STEM students travelled to Osaka, Japan, to attend the World Expo. These experiences provided rich opportunities for learning, cultural exchange, and service. They also help our young people to see the world through different eyes and to grow in compassion, curiosity and global understanding.

Many students were also involved in a range of sporting programs and camps, including Basketball camps and trials, Cricket training and trials, Swimming and Water Polo training and camps, as well as the Manchester City Football Camps. These opportunities not only developed skills and teamwork but also reinforced the values of discipline, commitment and personal growth that we celebrate at Waverley.

Expressions of Interest are being sought for Waverley College’s first ever Languages/Art Tour to Spain in December 2026 later in the newsletter.

This week also marks the beginning of the HSC examinations. We wish our Year 12 students every success as they embark on this important milestone. Your hard work, resilience and preparation have brought you to this moment. Stay calm, do your best, and know that your teachers, families, and the entire Waverley community are right behind you.

At this week’s assembly, I spoke about the idea that how we finish often says more about us than how we start. Whether you’re in Year 5 or have just started your final year, this is your chance to close the year in a way that reflects who you truly are, not just how you began, but how you’ve grown.

As we begin this final term, let’s approach the weeks ahead with purpose, gratitude and care for one another, striving to finish well, together.

Staff Update

We also wish Ms Martina Cooper all the best for a speedy recovery following recent surgery. Martina will be on leave until the end of the year. During her absence:

Listening to the Spirit: The Archdiocesan Synod Consultation

Earlier this week, Mr Tom Kennedy and I had the privilege of attending the Synod called by Archbishop Anthony Fisher OP, held at St Mary’s Cathedral. The gathering brought together clergy, religious, and lay representatives from across the Archdiocese of Sydney to prayerfully discern how we can renew the life and mission of our Church today.

The Synod was not about quick decisions, but about listening deeply to the Holy Spirit, to one another, and to the signs of the times. Through prayer, reflection, and discussion, participants explored how our Church might respond to the hopes and needs of Sydney Catholics.

These conversations were shaped around three longings, which have emerged from years of consultation across parishes, schools, and communities:

Archbishop Fisher encouraged us to see this Synod as a moment of renewal, a time to listen for where God’s Spirit is leading us next. The discussions were filled with hope, realism, and a shared desire to make the Church in Sydney more prayerful, connected, and outward-looking.

As these themes are further discerned and shaped into practical directions for the Archdiocese, we are all invited to take part in this renewal. Whether through our schools, parishes, or communities, we can each respond to these longings by deepening our prayer, strengthening our sense of belonging, and serving others with faith and generosity.

Staff Professional Learning Days Friday 26 September and Monday 13 October

Our College staff recently participated in two dedicated Professional Learning days on Friday, September 26th, and Monday, October 13th, marking a significant investment in our staff and, ultimately, our students. These days were meticulously tailored to ensure alignment with our College’s Strategic Plan, address essential compliance needs, and, most notably, launch our reinvigorated Teaching and Learning Framework.

Our first day focused on essential compliance around safety and the effective use of our learning platforms via tailored small group sessions focusing on the practicalities of our platforms such as Canvas.

The start of this term saw the major focus shift to the launch of our refreshed Teaching and Learning Framework. This is the culmination of extensive review, driven by our new Strategic Plan, feedback from our EREA Renewal, staff and student data collection, and the NESA Curriculum Reform.

Our framework is now designed both to operate in synergy with the new Wellbeing Framework and continue building momentum with our culture of deep learning and the explicit teaching and learning of Michael Fullen’s 6 Global Competencies – Character, Creativity, Communication, Collaboration, Critical Thinking and Citizenship.

Here you may note that the student exists at the core of the framework, with the inner circle now focusing on Deep Learning, Purposeful Learning and Visible Learning. The redesign of these elements ensures that we privilege key skills that our staff and student data indicated were not seeing enough of such as Critical Thinking, Curiosity, and Creativity.

Our small group sessions celebrated the wealth of expertise within our own staff and allowed for practical, role-specific professional learning aligned with our Strategic Commitments. Key themes and sessions included:

A bespoke session was also run for our dedicated support staff, focusing on “Mindsets and Building great relationships through great communication.” This session moved beyond merely satisfactory communication to explore the fundamental building blocks of truly effective engagement with parents, carers, teachers, and colleagues.

Participants delved into why “satisfactory” is no longer an option, examined common communication pitfalls, and discussed how underlying human needs profoundly impact responses to our messages. The overall learning intention was to equip staff with a toolkit of effective communication practices, improve their understanding of the “customer experience” in a school setting, and develop strategies for crafting and delivering more impactful communication across Waverley College. This initiative aims to foster a signature communication experience throughout our community.

By tailoring these two Professional Learning days to our specific strategic goals, compliance requirements, and the launch of our refreshed Teaching and Learning Framework, our staff share expertise and are prepared to lead their students into Term 4 and beyond.

Complimentary Diagnostic SAT Test for your students

We are pleased to share that we will run three upcoming SAT Diagnostic Tests for students interested in US College Admission. These tests will be held at our CBD office, 191 Clarence Street, Floor 6, from 9AM to 12PM on the following dates:

Flyer below that includes a QR code. Students can scan this code to access the registration form.

Only 2 Pavers Left – Don’t Miss Out on Your Chance to Be Part of the Waverley Walk!

Help us lay the foundations for the future of Science and Innovation at Waverley College.

By purchasing a personalised paver on the Waverley Walk, you’ll create a lasting legacy that celebrates your connection to the College while supporting the creation of our state-of-the-art Science & Innovation Centre, a space where creativity, sustainability, and discovery will thrive for generations of Waverley students.

Each engraved paver forms part of a meaningful pathway that symbolises the enduring spirit of our community and our shared commitment to education, innovation, and legacy.

EOI – Spain Tour

Expressions of Interest are being sought for Waverley College’s first ever Languages/Art Tour to Spain in December 2026 (28 November – 13 December).

This is a unique opportunity for students to develop their language and artistic skills through first hand cultural learning experiences.

To indicate your ‘Expression of Interest’, please use the hyperlink at the bottom of this page. There will be an information evening held on Monday 10th of November in the Library at 6pm. This information session will cover costs and inclusions, dates and proposed itinerary, policies and procedures as well as other items. There will also be an opportunity to ask questions.

As part of the selection process, teaching staff, Heads of House, and the College’s Finance Department will be consulted and asked to provide feedback and suitability information on each candidate in terms of wellbeing record, academic performance, and school fee status. This information will be used to determine the final touring group. Please be aware that Years 9 and 10 (2026) students are prioritised for participation in the proposed tour that are currently or will be selecting Spanish or Art as part of their pattern of study for 2026/27.

To ensure the tour proceeds to the next stage, a ‘non-refundable’ deposit of $2,500 is payable on behalf of any interested student by 5 of December 2025. Information regarding payment will be communicated promptly.

A minimum of 24 deposits must be paid for the tour to proceed. If more than the required number of deposits are paid, a decision will then be made if extra students will be offered a place on the tour. Any student who is not selected to tour will be placed on the waiting list and their deposit will be refunded.

In our preliminary discussions with the tour provider, it is estimated that the tour will cost $9,000. This is subject to change with confirmation of the final itinerary. Currently, the following payment plan is in place:

A list of successful candidates selected to tour will be notified once all tour spots have been filled.

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

If you have any questions please contact Daniel Best, the Head of Languages – dbest@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Summer Art Club

Summer Art Club for 2025/26, our young artists will celebrate the theme “Waverley Wins” expressing teamwork, school pride, and achievement through the dynamic world of printmaking.

Students will be introduced to a range of techniques, including linocut, monoprint, and stencil work, as they learn how to carve, ink, and press their own unique designs.

They’ll explore composition, mark-making and colour layering discovering how art can tell stories of teamwork, resilience, and success.

Students will take home a collection of bold and expressive prints but also collaborate to create a group piece expressing the creativity and school spirit of Waverly college.

Term 4 2025 Swim School – Enrolments Now Open!

Enrolments for Term 4 2025 are now open! Secure your spot early to avoid missing out.

School student travel information for parents and students

Applications are now open for 2026 School Student Transport Scheme (SSTS) travel.

Students in the Opal network applying for an Opal card (including a Term Bus Pass) for the first time will receive their School Opal card at their nominated postal address from mid-January 2026.

Students who require a School Opal card or travel pass but have not yet applied need to apply for a new card or update their existing card as soon as possible. Students who receive a notification that their School Opal card is expiring need to re-submit their details.

If a student has lost their School Opal card, they will need to apply for a replacement card. Note: a new card will not be issued if an existing School Opal card is updated online – you must submit a replacement application if a School Opal card is lost.

In the Opal network, students should travel with a Child/Youth Opal card until they receive their valid School Opal card. If outside Greater Sydney, parents should contact their local bus operator to discuss their travel needs.

Students living in rural and regional areas will receive their travel pass from their nominated transport operator. It may be issued via their school or be sent directly to them at home. Note: some rural and regional operators do not issue travel passes. Students/parents should confirm with their nominated operator if they do not receive a pass.

Students using School Opal cards must tap on and tap off in line with the Opal terms of use.

This includes travel within the approved times between 6.30am and 7.00pm from Monday to Friday on school days only. Students must use their Child/Youth Opal card for any travel outside these times.

All students are required to comply with the Student code of conduct. The code of conduct aims to ensure the safety and well-being of school children and other passengers. It is important that parents ensure their child is aware of this, as failure to comply with the code of conduct can result in a suspension from travel.

As another busy term draws to a close, I find myself reflecting on the incredible journey of learning and growth we’ve shared. The past few months have been filled with a range of academic, sporting, and cultural activities that have truly enriched our students’ learning opportunities.

This term, our students have continued to engage in our full and diverse program, showcasing their talents in many areas.

We celebrated the power of communication with the Year 5 Public Speaking competition. Our students demonstrated remarkable confidence and poise, delivering thoughtful and engaging speeches that were a true testament to their developing communication skills. We also saw our students’ intellectual curiosity on display during the IPSHA Debating competition, where they showed impressive critical thinking and collaboration.

Our athletic program also had a standout term. Our boys ran, jumped, and threw with spirit and determination at the IPSHA Athletics carnival. The camaraderie and sportsmanship on display were a source of great pride for our community.

The literary world came to life during Book Week. A highlight was our engaging guest speaker and the writing workshops that followed, which inspired our students to unleash their creativity and find joy in storytelling.

We’ve also been able to offer enriching co-educational experiences. Our students enjoyed a fantastic opportunity to collaborate with St. Catherine’s during both the Aladdin the Musical and National Health and Physical Education Day. These shared experiences are invaluable, helping our students develop important social skills and broaden their horizons.

I want to extend my sincere gratitude to our dedicated staff for their tireless efforts in creating these wonderful opportunities. Their commitment to fostering a supportive and challenging learning environment is what makes Waverley College such a special place. I also want to thank you, our parents, for your continued support and partnership. It is through our combined efforts that we can help each child reach their full potential.

As we look forward to a well-deserved break, I hope our students can rest, recharge, and enjoy quality time with their families. We can’t wait to see what they accomplish next term!

Youtube Block

At Waverley, we are committed to preparing our students for a fast-paced, technological world while also ensuring they have a healthy balance away from screens. As a part of this commitment, and in response to the national ban on social media platforms set for December 10, we have made a change to how students can access YouTube.

Effective immediately, YouTube is blocked on all school devices while students are on campus.

We understand that YouTube can be a valuable educational tool. To ensure students still have access to engaging and relevant video content, we will be using an alternative platform: ClickView. This curated educational video library offers a wealth of safe, ad-free, and curriculum-aligned content for all year levels.

This decision aligns with our strategic plan to “Reimagine our Relationship with Devices” and foster a healthier balance for all students.

Looking ahead, we are exploring the introduction of charging stations in the Junior School from 2026. This would allow laptops to remain at school unless they are needed for special projects or assignments.

If you are interested in blocking YouTube on devices at home, please contact your internet service provider for guidance.

It has been both a pleasure and a privilege working with the Junior School debating team and their dedicated Year 10 mentors, Carter Hughes, Alex Avdalis, and Henry Goldrich. Our debaters have shown remarkable commitment and perseverance throughout the season.

On Monday, the team attended the IPSHA Debating Gala Day at Pymble Ladies’ College, facing an intense schedule of four back-to-back debates. Under considerable pressure, the boys rose to the challenge, showcasing their skills, teamwork, and determination across each round.

Aladdin the Musical

We appreciate your cooperation in purchasing 2 tickets per show for our upcoming performance of Aladdin the Musical. There are still tickets available, so if you would like to purchase additional tickets, please use the link below.

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

On Saturday, the A’s basketball squad went to Barker College to play other teams in the Barker Mini Showdown. The Barker Mini Showdown is an invitational basketball tournament where there is a series of games against opposing teams.

The first game was our hardest game. It was against Knox. Knox was a tough game. The score was neck and neck, but Knox pulled away with it. The next game was Barker. The game should have been easy, but the score only ended up at one point.

It was definitely a stressful game, but we pulled away with a win. Mosman was next. Mosman was an easy game, but our next game, Trinity, arguably our biggest rivals, was a cliff-hanger.

The score in the end was a tie at 39 all. Even though the refs were not on our side, it was a very good tournament. We ended up coming in second place in our pool, so we played Thornleigh in a 3rd place match.

We lost the match, but it was very fun, and the boys and I enjoyed the experience.

Attention: Current Year 5 Parents

It is that time of the year where sports preferences are collected in order to create draws and plan for 2026. Please discuss the below choices with your son/s and use the below link to nominate first and second preferences for 2026 Summer and Winter Sports.

Please read all instructions on this form carefully. It will close on November 1, 2025.

VALE – Brother Robert (Bob) J Wallace cfc, A.M.

It is with deep sadness that we announce the passing of Brother Robert (Bob) J Wallace cfc, A.M., who died peacefully on 22 September 2025, just shy of his 88th birthday.

Br Bob was Waverley College’s longest-serving Headmaster, leading the College with distinction from 1992 until 2004. His time at Waverley was marked by growth, renewal, and a steadfast commitment to the holistic education of young men. The Performing Arts Centre proudly bears his name in recognition of his lasting contribution to the life of the College.

A member of the Christian Brothers for more than forty years, Br Bob also served as Headmaster of St Edmund’s College, Canberra for 18 years. He also served at Christian Brothers High School, Lewisham, before moving to St Pius X College, Chatswood, where he discovered his passion for coaching rugby union. His passion for the game saw him serve as President of Australian Schoolboy Rugby for nearly three decades, helping to shape the national game and inspire generations of players.

Br Bob will be remembered for his unwavering faith, humility, and dedication to education, as well as for the values he instilled in those he taught and led – discipline, courage, and service. His impact will be felt for years to come in the lives of all who knew him.

Spring Break

As our students begin their spring holiday break, I’d like to extend my warmest wishes to all families. I hope this time offers our students a chance to rest, recharge, and pursue some interests in areas that they may not normally have time for.

We extend our best wishes to our Year 12 students as they make their final preparations for the HSC examinations. For some, this period also marks the beginning of exciting new pathways through apprenticeships and vocational training. Thank you to our dedicated Year 12 teachers who continue to support students over the break through tutorials and by providing valuable feedback on draft essays and responses.

We also send our best wishes to the students and staff travelling on Immersion experiences to Fiji and Timor-Leste, as well as those participating in the STEM tour to World Expo in Osaka, Japan. We hope their journeys are safe, enriching, and filled with meaningful learning.

Fiji Appeal

Thank you to all families who have donated items to the Fiji appeal which will be taken over with our immersion staff and shared across the village that we visit. Your generosity is greatly appreciated!

Celebrating Excellence in Music – Congratulations to our ENCORE nomination

Year 12 student Lieme Chan has been nominated for possible inclusion in ENCORE, the annual HSC showcase that features the very best music performances from across New South Wales.

Celebrating Excellence in Industrial Technology – Congratulations to our SHAPE Nominees

Year 12 students Charlie Cooke, Jackson Lorimer and Dominic Riegler have had their Industrial Technology Major Projects nominated for possible inclusion in SHAPE, the prestigious HSC showcase celebrating the very best in Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, and Textiles and Design from across New South Wales.

Celebrating Excellence in Design and Technology – Congratulations to our SHAPE Nominee

Year 12 student Montgomery Armstrong has had his Major Design Project nominated for possible inclusion in SHAPE, the prestigious annual HSC showcase celebrating outstanding student projects in Design and Technology, Industrial Technology, and Textiles and Design from across New South Wales.

Year 10 Market Day – A Lunchtime Success!

On Tuesday, 23 September, the quad came alive with energy and excitement as our Year 10 students hosted their much-anticipated Market Day during lunch.

A wide variety of food was on offer, from sweet treats to exotic savoury meals, all prepared and sold by Year 10 students as part of a hands-on learning experience. The stalls were a hit with both students and staff, and the atmosphere was vibrant and festive throughout the break.

Not only did the day showcase creativity and teamwork, but it also gave students a real taste of entrepreneurial life. Thank you to all the students, staff, and supporters who helped make the event such a success!

Respect for self, others, the learning and the College – uniform and hair – Mr John Allen

The College encourages all students to rest, reflect and re-energise over the break. They are reminded that in preparing for the commencement of the new term it is timely to check their uniform and prepare to wear it well. This includes tucking shirts in, wearing their ties up and ensuring shoes are polished and faces are shaven.

Blazers are not required to be worn each day in Terms 1 and 4, however, they are required for formal occasions during that time. Full details of the uniform requirements are published on Page 29 of the College Diary.

It is important that students also return with a haircut that complies with the College’s expectations. Full details about expectations for haircuts are published on Page 28 of the College Diary and published below.

Presenting well, being polite and courteous in our interactions with others, and engaging well in class and co-curricular activities demonstrates respect for self, respect for others, respect for the learning and respect for the College.

We hope students have a wonderful break and we look forward to the commencement of lessons Tuesday 14 October.

The Principal or Deputy Principal of the College (at their discretion) may make an exception for a student from complying with the haircut policy. Such grounds for exception may be due to the student’s health, religious beliefs, cultural grounds or gender identity.

Parents/ caregivers of the student who are seeking an exception, are required to make an application in writing to the College Principal or Deputy Principal. Students who fail to meet the above standards, may be subject to a range of disciplinary consequences, including but not limited to being removed from class or being sent home, to return to the College once the breach has been addressed.

Announcing our Term 4 Literary Evening and Book Club

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

This year we will be joined by guest speaker, Gabrielle Mace, founder of ProReading Solutions and well-known literacy expert. Gabrielle is a Library and Research Executive with over 14 years of experience in the independent education sector. She has achieved significant milestones as the Head of Libraries and Information Services at St Augustine’s College, Queenwood School For Girls, and Pittwater House School.

Just back from presenting at the World Literacy Summit, Oxford University, Oxford, Gabrielle is looking forward to sharing insights into boys and reading as well as discussing trends in the world of Young Adult fiction and non-fiction.

Summer Reading Challenge on Beanstack starts 25 September – Keep Reading and logging over the holidays

HSC plus Vocational Update

Towards the end of August, the Year 12 Hospitality students ‘took over’ Bistro on the Greens at South Coogee bowling club. Being exposed to a hands-on, authentic real catering experience provides the students with valuable skills (culinary, teamwork and communication skills), practical and theoretical knowledge, and opportunity for those sitting the HSC Exam to incorporate real industry examples in their HSC answers (necessary to achieve the higher Bands).

The students catered for 80 parents/family members and staff on the night. Dishes on offer included arancini balls, grilled barramundi with a saffron infused risotto and home made tiramisu.

The service period highlighted how well the students work well together, how professional and hard working they can be, and how far they have come in terms of commercial cookery skills since starting their course at the beginning of last year.

Thanks to Bistro on the Greens for providing Waverley College with this opportunity and we hope to see you next year!

The Year 12 Hospitality students were given the opportunity to obtain a Responsible Service of Alcohol qualification which covers the skills and knowledge required by law to work in a licensed venue (like pubs, clubs, and restaurants) in Australia where alcohol is served. The training teaches the students how to serve alcohol responsibly, prevent alcohol-related harm, handle difficult situations and meet legal obligations. Having the RSA qualification also makes students more attractive candidates to employers in the hospitality industry.

CAS Track & Field Records Update – Outstanding Performances Across Age Groups!

Congratulations again to the whole Track and Field Team on their wonderful performances. Several athletes have delivered incredible performances, breaking multiple School, CAS, and even Australian records.

Everybody Has a Book Campaign

‘Screen-Free Week’ at Waverley College will take place from 16th to 22nd October, spanning Weeks 1 and 2 of Term 4. In conjunction, we will be launching the Everybody Has a Book Campaign. All students will be required to carry a reading book with them throughout the school day. This campaign reinforces the importance of having constant access to quality literature and encourages students to use any free moments for reading. We will provide students with the opportunity to visit the school library to borrow a book or students can bring a book from home.

As we know, reading habits are declining globally and yet the benefits are well-documented. Regular reading provides numerous benefits:

Renowned literacy researcher Maryanne Wolf, Director of the Center for Dyslexia, Diverse Learners, and Social Justice at UCLA, has found that digital reading fundamentally alters “the quality of attention” required for deep learning, while there are measurable changes in “sequencing of information and memory for detail” – and these changes are not always for the better.

Physical books offer something “both psychologically and tactilely tangible” that enhances the learning experience. Wolf emphasises that “Deep reading is always about ‘connection’: connecting what we know to what we read, what we read to what we feel, what we feel to what we think, and how we think to how we live out our lives in a connected world.”

In addition, recent research highlighted in the Sydney Morning Herald warns of Australia’s reading decline, with experts calling it “a ticking time bomb.” The research emphasises that if we develop an established reading habit in our younger years, we are much more likely to become lifelong readers – making initiatives like ours crucial for our students’ futures.

Parents and carers exert the single most powerful influence on their son’s reading habits. Here’s how you can help:

This initiative represents our commitment to providing a balanced, research-informed education that prepares students not just for digital literacy, but for deep thinking and creativity. We believe that by temporarily stepping away from screens and into the world of books, our students will gain valuable skills and perspectives that will enhance their overall educational experience.

We appreciate your support in making the ‘Everybody has a Book’ campaign a success.

Music Tuition Enrolment for Term 4 is now open

Help your son unlock his full potential and build confidence through the joy of music—enrol him in music lessons and watch his talent shine!

Tuition is available for Guitar (Electric/Acoustic/Bass), Drums, Piano, Strings, Voice, Trumpet, Saxophone, Clarinet French Horn, Flute.

Once your son has reached a level of competency they will be encouraged to join our large and small ensembles, and/or Rock Bands.

Please fill out the expression of interest form below for more information on starting lessons:

(Please note if your son is currently enrolled then you do not need to fill out the form, enrolment will roll over into Term 4)

EOI- Tour of Spain

Expressions of Interest are being sought for Waverley College’s first ever Languages/Art Tour to Spain in December 2026 (28 November – 13 December).

This is a unique opportunity for students to develop their language and artistic skills through first hand cultural learning experiences.

A list of successful candidates selected to tour will be notified once all tour spots have been filled.

To register your student ‘Expression of Interest’, please complete the attached Google Form, attached here.

If you have any questions please contact Daniel Best, the Head of Languages dbest@waverley.nsw.edu.au

Summer Art Club

During Summer Art Club for 2025/26, our young artists will celebrate the theme “Waverley Wins” expressing teamwork, school pride, and achievement through the dynamic world of printmaking.

Students will be introduced to a range of techniques, including linocut, monoprint, and stencil work, as they learn how to carve, ink, and press their own unique designs.

They’ll explore composition, mark-making and colour layering discovering how art can tell stories of teamwork, resilience, and success.

Students will take home a collection of bold and expressive prints but also collaborate to create a group piece expressing the creativity and school spirit of Waverley college.

Ahoy! Auditions open for Treasure Island!

Get ready to set sail on an exciting new adventure – our next middle school production of Treasure Island, and we want YOU to join the crew!

Based on Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic tale of pirates, buried treasure, and daring adventures on the high seas, there’s a role for everyone—whether you want to play a fearless adventurer, a swashbuckling pirate, or even get the chance to yell “ARRR!” really loudly on the stage then this is the show for you!

Audition Details:
Dates: TERM 4 WEEK 1: Thursday 16th October and Friday 17th October
Location: PAC THEATRE
Time: LUNCHTIME

No previous acting experience is needed – just bring your enthusiasm and a willingness to try something new. Auditions will include reading a short scene, some group improvisation, and maybe even a chance to show off your best pirate accent!

So hoist the sails, sharpen your cutlass, and join us for Treasure Island! Who knows, you might even find some buried treasure along the way.

Volunteers Needed – Second Hand Uniform Shop

We’re also looking for enthusiastic helpers to take on the Coordinator roles – perfect for a pair of mates! This involves working one shop shift each week plus a little extra admin (such as a few minutes of email checking per day). Full training and lots of support provided.

By volunteering, you’ll be helping families access affordable uniforms while giving clothes a valuable second life.

The Secondhand Uniform Shop can only stay open 3 times per week thanks to the help of many volunteers.

If you can lend a hand, please get in touch by email on clothingpool@waverley.nsw.edu.au, we would love to hear from you!!

Upcoming seminars and information for parents

Waverley Council is hosting Effective parenting strategies for teen and family wellbeing on Tuesday 28 October 6 – 7.30pm at Waverley Library.

The seminar is aimed at parents and carers of young people 10 – 17 years and offers practical information for effective communication, healthy relationships, and practical tips for managing challenging adolescent behaviour. It will also provide information about how parents/ carers can seek additional information and support if needed.

The session will be delivered by WAYS Youth & Family clinical psychologist Terri Said and adolescent psychologist, Luke Cox, and is free. Registration is open and bookings can be made via this link

As part of Mental Health Month this October, the Black Dog Institute is offering a series of free webinars for parents and carers:

Webinar 1: Parents/carers helping teens thrive online
Join us for a live Zoom webinar on Wednesday 29 October, 4.00–4.45 pm. This session will explore key strategies for parenting in the digital age. You can view the flyer (with registration details) here and you can also register directly via this link: Helping Teens Thrive Online

Webinar 2: Teen Mental Health Matters
These regular live webinars feature a clinical psychologist discussing how parents/carers can support adolescents experiencing mental health difficulties. Upcoming webinars are scheduled for 7.00 pm on 9 October, 20 October, and 30 October.

The eSafety Commissioner makes available a range of evidence-based webinars, information and resources for parents, and young people including:

Webinars for parents and carers | eSafety Commissioner – free webinars designed to give parents and carers the knowledge, skills and tools to support their children to have safe online experiences, covering topics such as:
– Recognising online coercive control in young people’s lives
– Understanding AI companions: What parents and carers need to know
– Understanding and using parental controls to help protect your child online
– Sexual extortion: What parents and carers need to know

Young People | eSafety Commissioner – a wide range of information to help young people stay safe online, covering topics including:
– Bullying online
– Someone is threatening to share my nudes
– Unsafe contact and ‘grooming’
– Fake news
– Online dating

The eSafety Guide | eSafety Commissioner – provides advice about protecting personal information and reporting harmful content on social media, games, apps and sites.
Report cyberbullying | eSafety Commissioner – articulates the steps to report cyberbullying content to eSafety if the specific platform or service is not responding, as well as information on the other support eSafety can provide.

Social media age restrictions – this link provides information on the upcoming restrictions that come into effect in December this year. Details about how the age restrictions will operate, how and when they will be enforced, which services will be affected and other relevant information is being developed throughout this year and is updated on the eSafety website.

The City of Sydney offers a range of courses for bike users. Information can be accessed via their website here.

Diary Dates

It was a true pleasure to see so many students celebrated for their achievements at Monday’s Winter Co-Curricular Awards. This event was a wonderful opportunity to acknowledge the dedication and hard work of our students across a wide range of activities, from sports teams to debating. The success of our co-curricular programs is a testament to the passion of our students and the commitment of our staff and community.

A special thank you goes to Jade Sparks for her tireless efforts in organising these events and for her leadership of our co-curricular programs.

Beyond the awards ceremony, I had the privilege of watching the Year 6 Maths Enrichment class presentations. Students worked both independently and collaboratively to develop a question related to sport, and then apply mathematical thinking to either prove or disprove their wonderings. I was incredibly impressed by the depth of their work, which showcased their developing critical thinking skills, communication, and collaboration skills.

The boys’ ability to use evidence, statistics, and research to support their findings was a testament to their commitment to learning and their ability to apply mathematical concepts in a real-world context. A big ‘thank you’ to Mr McKimm for his dedicated support and for enriching the boys’ learning experience throughout this process.

A wonderful example of our school values in action was the recent performance by our Junior School Waterford Band at St Vincents Aged Care in Bronte. This visit was a powerful demonstration of our commitment to ‘acting in the interest of the common good’ by giving back to our community and caring for others. The boys’ exceptional musical talent and respectful manners truly made the day for the residents and staff. It was a heartwarming reminder of how our students can use their talents to bring joy to others.

A Strong Finish to the Term

As the term draws to a close, it is important that we all remain focused on our high standards. I spoke to the boys at our recent assembly about the importance of finishing the term strong. This means continuing to maintain our high expectations for behaviour and uniform. Our school community thrives when we all commit to being safe, respectful, and compassionate in our interactions with peers and staff.

Aladdin the Musical

We are thrilled to announce that tickets for this year’s production of Aladdin the Musical are officially on sale.

Our Year 6 students have been working incredibly hard, and we can’t wait for you to see their amazing performances.

To ensure that all families have the opportunity to see their son perform on stage, we kindly request that you initially purchase a maximum of two tickets per show. This helps us to provide access to everyone, and we will notify you if more tickets become available closer to the performance dates.

Please remember this is a compulsory event for Year 6 students. Further information regarding costumes and logistics will be shared next week.

Home Learning Club

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

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

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

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

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

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

At CAS Athletics this Thursday night, 18 September, Jagger Michael (6 White) set himself a new PB and broke a Junior School Record from 1974 in the 1500m race! Jagger ran 4 minutes 42 seconds at CAS Athletics, placing 4th in the Under 13s 1500m race, earning 6 points towards Waverley’s first CAS Athletics win in 30 years. We are so proud of him and the rest of the Junior School boys who were on the Athletics Team and Reserves:

Jack Forde (6 White), Kai Hess (6 White) and Hugo D’Amours (6 Gold) competed at State Championships in Swimming last weekend. We are so proud of the boys and all their achievements in Swimming, especially the hours of training they have put in to get to these competitions. Go Waves!

Jack won a Gold medal in the 200m butterfly and came in the top 10 in the 3 other events he entered that day! He was thrilled to win such a big race and has been training hard for it. Jack is a humble achiever but we are so proud of his diligent efforts and his incredible achievements! He has now qualified for Senior State Championships in April next year. He’s also aiming to qualify in most events for Freestyle and Butterfly strokes. Jack will swim his first 1500m race this Friday night which he is excited about. Best of luck to Jack and we are backing you! Keep up the amazing dedication.

Attention: Current Year 5 Parents

Please read all instructions on this form carefully. It will close on November 1, 2025.

From the Prep 1st Football Captain

In the Prep 1st Football this season we played amazingly. From the Grammar Cup to the last game of the season we left everything we had on the field. We had some great games and even better outcomes, but we also had tough games and some disappointing outcomes. Our team, led by Mr Burns and coached by Mazza, had a team spirit that I will never forget, even if there were times we missed a shot or let one in. Our whole team always had each other’s backs. I will remember this season with Waverley for many years to come and I think most of my teammates will too.

Farewell to Year 12

This week our Year 12s have had a number of opportunities to connect and reflect with each other and staff of the College as their journey at Waverley as a student draws to a close. They have had one eye on what they have achieved throughout their secondary education journey, and the other an optimistic gaze toward what lies ahead.

We started graduation day with a special mass in St Mary’s Cathedral, where parents, grandparents, siblings, and other significant caregivers joined in the farewell. During the service, the graduates were presented with a Celtic Cross. The Celtic Cross to remind them of God’s love for them and a reminder of the Gospel values that have been interwoven throughout their educational journey at Waverley.

This was followed by the Graduation Assembly in Centenary Quad where both the College Captain and Principal delivered their addresses. Each student received their graduation certificate and academic achievers were recognised along with their old boys tie and ring. In the final moments of the ceremony, 202 graduates took their place in a giant circle. The circle symbolises harmony, unity and life without beginning or end. It reminds its members that when their circle is under pressure, others need to help out, by either expanding and distributing the load, or bringing the circle into dialogue to solve a problem.

In the final memorable moments and tribute, the graduates exited the Quad for the last time as a cohort to the moving sounds of ‘Auld Lang Syne,’ performed by our College Brass Band and Choir.

Congratulations to the Class of 2025! May your journey ahead be guided by respect and integrity as you step confidently into the future. The Waverley College community extends its best wishes to each graduate as they take their final steps towards the HSC examinations or start of an apprenticeship.

Montgomery Armstrong: The Ray Aston Memorial Prize for Biology; Design & Technology

Digger Callander: Old Boys Union Edmund Rice Award for Leadership of Social Justice

Fox Stapleton: Music Course I; College Vice Captain; Waverley Council Award for General Proficiency

Kayden Baker: Br P Oakley Prize for PDHPE; College Captain; JJ O’Brien Award for Leadership, Study & Involvement

Archie Godby: College Vice Captain; Archbishop’s Award; Max Coleman Memorial Award for Living Out the Touchstones; The Abram Landa Prize for Advanced English; The Alice & Mildred Thomas Prize for English Extension I; English Extension II; The Barry McDonald Prize for Legal Studies; 3rd in Overall Academic Performance

Liam Coughlin: Business Studies; The Br PA Conlon Prize for Economics; The Catherine Smithurst Prize for Standard English; 2nd in Overall Academic Performance

Max Sheehy: Music Course II; Mathematics Standard Course II Equal First; Spanish Beginners; Bishop Patrick Dougherty Prize for Studies Of Religion II; Br LB Tevlin Memorial Prize for Dux of the College

CAS Track & Field Competition

Congratulations to the Track and Field Team, Track & Field Head Coach Mr Jeremy Roff, Convenor Ms Rebecca Gair, and the Track & Field Coaches on a wonderful season and performance at the 94th CAS Track & Field Competition. It was an amazing atmosphere to be part of with many personal bests achieved throughout the afternoon and evening by our athletes. It has been 30 years since we won this competition. Well done to all!

Term 4 ‘Screen-Free Week’

We are excited to announce our upcoming ‘Screen-Free Week’, which will take place from 16th to 22nd October, spanning Weeks 1 and 2 of Term 4. This initiative aims to foster a healthier and more engaging

learning environment for our students. During this week, students will not be using laptops or devices across all classes. All work will be completed with pen, paper or via other non-digital mediums. Below are

The primary goal of Screen-Free Week is to enhance the health and learning outcomes for our students.

Research indicates that reducing screen time can significantly improve concentration, reduce stress, and

promote better sleep patterns. According to a study by the American Academy of Pediatrics, limiting screen time can lead to improved academic performance and social interactions. By encouraging students to engage more with their peers and teachers, we aim to create a more dynamic and interactive learning environment.

Current Australian research also supports these findings. A 2019 study by the University of Southern

Queensland highlights that excessive screen time is linked to negative health outcomes, such as increased risk of depression and poor sleep quality. Additionally, the Growing Up Digital Australia study found that excessive screen time has a profound impact on students, making them more distracted and less ready to learn. By reducing screen time, we aim to mitigate these negative effects, break unhealthy habits and support students’ overall wellbeing and academic performance.

During Screen-Free Week, students are required to bring the following items to school:

In conjunction with our ‘Screen-Free week’, we will be launching the ‘Everybody Has a Book Campaign’.

All students will be required to carry a reading book with them throughout the school day.

This campaign reinforces the importance of having constant access to quality literature and encourages students to use any free moments for reading. We will provide students with the opportunity to visit the school library to borrow a book or students can bring a book from home.

As we know, reading habits are declining globally and yet the benefits are well-documented. Regular reading provides numerous benefits:

Parents and carers exert the single most powerful influence on their son’s reading habits. Here’s how you can help:

We appreciate your support in making the ‘Everybody has a Book’ campaign a success.

Year 10 Market Day – Tuesday 23 September

This is a reminder that our Market Day will be held on Tuesday, 23 September, during lunch in the quad. There will be a variety of food on sale at lunch time and it will be cash only.

Year 10 Mental Fitness Presentation

On Wednesday, 17 September Year 10 students attended the AIS Mental Fitness presentation, delivered by Anna Cripsey, an elite national windfoil sailor.

The presentation highlighted the importance of mental health and its positive and negative impacts on teenagers, with a particular focus on the influence of social media and internet use. Drawing on her personal experiences and examples, Anna outlined signs to look for and strategies for managing these issues, while engaging the boys in discussion about the impact of mental health on their lives.

She also provided the students with contacts for further support. We thank Anna for an informative presentation that addressed significant issues important for students to be aware of.

Music Tuition Enrolment for Term 4 is now open.

Help your son unlock his full potential and build confidence through the joy of music—enrol him in music lessons and watch his talent shine!

Tuition is available for Guitar (Electric/Acoustic/Bass), Drums, Piano, Strings, Voice, Trumpet, Saxophone, Clarinet French Horn, Flute.

Once your son has reached a level of competency they will be encouraged to join our large and small ensembles, and/or Rock Bands.

Please fill out the expression of interest form below for more information on starting lessons:

(Please note if your son is currently enrolled then you do not need to fill out the form, enrolment will roll over into Term 4)

End-of-Lease MacBook Air Laptops – Year 6 & Year 9 (2025)

MacBook Air laptops currently in use by students in Year 6 and Year 9 will reach the end of their lease in 2025. As per the iLearn agreement, families now have the choice of the following two options:

Option 1 – RETURN the unit
No payment will be required. Devices must be returned damage-free with no graffiti or stickers. Chargers must also be returned with the unit. Insurance forms will be issued for damaged devices, and students will be asked to clean units that have graffiti or stickers.

Option 2 – PURCHASE the unit
Families may nominate and pay the residual amount to take ownership of the device. This option is only available if school fees are up to date.

If you have any questions regarding the end-of-lease process, please contact us.

Summer Art Club

During Summer Art Club for 2025/26, our young artists will celebrate the theme “Waverly Wins” expressing teamwork, school pride, and achievement through the dynamic world of printmaking.

Students will be introduced to a range of techniques, including linocut, monoprint, and stencil work, as they learn how to carve, ink, and press their own unique designs.

They’ll explore composition, mark-making and colour layering discovering how art can tell stories of teamwork, resilience, and success.

Students will take home a collection of bold and expressive prints but also collaborate to create a group piece expressing the creativity and school spirit of Waverly college.

Ahoy! Auditions open for Treasure Island!

Get ready to set sail on an exciting new adventure – our next middle school production of Treasure Island, and we want YOU to join the crew!

Audition Details:
Dates: TERM 4 WEEK 1: Thursday 16th October and Friday 17th October
Location: PAC THEATRE
Time: LUNCHTIME

So hoist the sails, sharpen your cutlass, and join us for Treasure Island! Who knows, you might even find some buried treasure along the way.

R U OK? Day

To mark R U OK? Day, we had the privilege of welcoming Alex Noble – a remarkable young man whose story of resilience, courage and connection deeply reflects the very heart of the R U OK? message: “Ask R U OK? – Any Day.”

At just 16, Alex’s life changed forever when a rugby injury left him with a severe spinal cord injury and a diagnosis of C4 quadriplegia. Told he would never regain movement from the neck down, Alex chose to fight.

In his hospital bed, just four days after emerging from a coma, his first words were to his brother: “Zac, if I fight… you fight.” That moment of brotherly connection sparked the IFIGHTYOUFIGHT movement, which has since inspired hundreds of thousands of people around the world.

Through grit, determination, and the unwavering support of those around him, Alex has defied the odds – learning to breathe again, stand with assistance, walk using an exoskeleton, and rebuild a life filled with purpose.

Now 22, he is a bestselling author, public speaker, university student, law firm employee, and runs his own boat charter business. His story is a living reminder of what’s possible when resilience meets connection and how vital it is to have someone by your side during life’s toughest moments.

That’s exactly what R U OK? Day is about: reminding us that we all have the power to support each other through life’s ups and downs. A single conversation, a caring question, or a quiet moment of listening can be life-changing. Alex’s journey began with one sentence of support which lit a spark.

Waverley College is proud to support R U OK? Day and the powerful legacy of its founder, Gavin Larkin, whose sons Gus and Van are former students of our College. If you’re unfamiliar with their story, we encourage you to watch the moving Australian Story episode “Beyond OK” (Season 22, Episode 30), available on ClickView or ABC iView.

Alex’s message and the message of R U OK? are ultimately the same – that through resilience, connection, and a willingness to ask and listen, we can lift each other up, change lives, and remind one another: you’re never alone in the fight.

Winter co-curricular Award Winners 2025

This week we celebrated some of the amazing achievements of individuals and teams over the 2025 winter co-curricular season.

Year 12 Drama Showcase

On Tuesday evening, I was lucky enough to attend the Year 12 Drama Showcase. The event highlighted the impressive talent within our Year 12 Drama course and students. Their dedication, creativity, and skill were on full display and truly captivated the audience.

Today we heard from NESA that the following students have been nominated for individual inclusion in the HSC Showcase ‘OnSTAGE’

And in the Group Performance category of ‘On STAGE’, the following students were nominated for their performance of ‘Signal Lost’

Supporting Children After Disturbing News

The news of Charlie Kirk’s assasination in the USA has been widely reported, and some students may have seen or heard about it, especially online. Exposure to real-life violence can leave students feeling worried, sad, or unsafe.

Waverley College is here to support the safety and wellbeing of your son/s. If your son shows signs of ongoing distress (e.g., nightmares, clinginess or withdrawal), please reach out to external support (GP, Headspace) or our Wellbeing Team to provide additional support.

VET Excellence Award – Noah Anderson (Hospitality Year 12)

The VET Excellence Awards is a prestigious annual event held at Parliament House and organised by The Youth Partnership, dedicated to recognising and celebrating the exceptional achievements of students who are undertaking Vocational Education and Training (VET) studies as part of their Higher School Certificate.

The VET Excellence Student Award for Hospitality highlights the dedication and excellence exhibited by Noah: classwork, industry commitment, professionalism, and motivation during his work placements.

Schools can only put forward one student from all VET subjects combined, and right from the start of Year 11, Noah has consistently worked hard in all aspects of the course and is well deserving of this recognition.

Reminder: Parent Feedback Survey – Thank You

Thank you to the many families who have already completed the MMG Education parent survey, and thank you in advance to those still planning to do so. We appreciate that your time is precious and that the survey is quite detailed, but your insights are vital in shaping the future of our College.

Your voice matters. By sharing your perspectives, you help us understand what we do well and where we can grow, ensuring the best possible learning, wellbeing and formation opportunities for your sons.

The parent survey remains open until Monday, 15 September. Once the review period concludes, MMG will prepare a detailed report and we will share the key findings with our community.

If you have any questions, please contact info@waverley.nsw.edu.au. Thank you for your valuable contribution to the future of Waverley College.

Educating The Future – 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner

Waverley College is proud to host the Educating The Future 10-Year Anniversary Gala on Saturday 29 November, 6–11pm in the College Gymnasium.

This youth-led, volunteer-run NGO founded by two Waverley Old Boys after a 2015 Timor-Leste immersion has since built and supported seven public preschools, giving early education to more than 2,000 children.

The evening will feature keynote addresses from Co-Founder Cirilo Soares and Kirsty Sword Gusmão AO, live music, DJs, dancing, raffles, a silent auction and more.

Tickets are $150 per person, including a three-course meal and entertainment, with all proceeds contributing to the $100,000 fundraising goal (just $53 educates a child for a year). Join us in celebrating a decade of impact and shaping the future for Timor-Leste’s youngest learners.

App Reminder

A friendly reminder that the Waverley College App remains our primary communication channel, so it’s essential to stay connected and ensure you’re subscribed only to the groups and tags relevant to you and your son. This helps streamline your experience and avoids unnecessary notifications, which is particularly important as we head into the start of the Co-Curricular Summer Season in Term 4.

To further improve communication, we are introducing Clipboard as a built-in feature within the Waverley App. Clipboard is a platform that many CAS schools already use successfully to manage co-curricular information. It was originally developed for schools as a way to bring all sport and activity details into one place, making it easier for families to keep track of fixtures, team lists, venues, and cancellations. Importantly, it also personalises notifications, meaning you will only receive updates relevant to your son’s activities, rather than a stream of general alerts.

This integration has been mandated by CAS, but it also aligns with our own goal of making communication with parents clearer, more consistent, and easier to navigate. Clipboard links directly with our existing IT systems, which allows information to flow seamlessly, reducing duplication and ensuring greater accuracy.

From this term, you will notice that all parents now have access to Clipboard via the Co-Curricular button in the Waverley App. Simply log in with your Parent Lounge credentials to explore the platform. Over the coming months, Clipboard will become the central point of communication for all Co-Curricular Sport & Culture activities, gradually replacing some of the functions currently delivered through App Notices.

We appreciate that this is a change, and there will be a short transition period where both systems run in parallel. In the long run, we believe this shift will make receiving accurate, timely information about your son’s co-curricular activities far simpler and more personalised.

Please see the below PDF for a step-by-step guide on how to manage your app subscriptions. Thank you for your patience and understanding.

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 3 events, please refer to the College calendar.

RUOK? Day

This week, our Junior School boys took part in a special CCC (Connection, Culture and Communication) lesson to mark R U OK? Day.

The session was designed to help our students understand the importance of asking others if they are okay, recognising the signs when someone may not be feeling their best, and knowing how to respond with care.

Through engaging activities and discussion, the boys explored the value of listening, taking action, and checking in on one another. R U OK? Day provided a meaningful opportunity for our students to reflect on the power of kindness and the role they each play in supporting the wellbeing of their friends and classmates.

A personal highlight for me was being on the gate in the rain Thursday morning, and having the boys walk through the gate asking ‘Are you okay, Miss?’. I assumed they were referring to being out in the pouring rain, but no.

Our boys were checking in, not focused on themselves, but on others. They were asking how I was feeling; being compassionate and kind. I was incredibly proud at this moment, and reminded of the importance of asking the question ‘Are you okay?’, not just on RUOK? Day, but everyday.

Laptops – Striking the Right Balance with Technology

At Waverley College, we are committed to ensuring that our students are well prepared for an ever-changing, fast-paced technological world, while also recognising the importance of time away from screens.

One of the key pillars of the College’s new Strategic Plan is Healthy People, which includes a commitment to “reimagine our relationship with laptops and devices Yr 5-12.”

This work is already underway, with a focus on finding the right balance between technology as a powerful learning tool and the need for students to develop healthy, sustainable habits.

Refining Our Practices

Recent changes have strengthened our IT and access controls. Known gaming sites have been blocked (though we know students are quick to discover new ones – so this remains a priority for our IT team).

While YouTube is currently still accessible, we are reviewing its future use following the national YouTube social media ban beginning on 10 December. Our goal is to block YouTube within the school environment, while still enabling teachers to access approved educational content when required.

To support this flexibility, we are rolling out Saasyan, a tool that gives teachers more direct control over students’ online access. Teachers are currently being trained in its use and will soon be able to unlock specific sites (such as an approved YouTube clip) for the duration of a lesson, while keeping all other sites restricted.

Building Responsibility and Good Habits
While the College continues to strengthen systems and controls, we also expect students to take responsibility for their laptop use. Learning to make good decisions, respect boundaries, and use technology responsibly is a key part of their growth.

Screen-Free Initiatives
We are excited to have a Screen-Free Week in Week 1 of Term 4. In the Junior School, this will become a regular feature each term. While laptops remain essential for many lessons, these weeks provide valuable opportunities for students to practise balance, work collaboratively, and engage with alternative tools and approaches to learning.

Looking Ahead
From 2026, the Junior School is exploring the introduction of charging stations on campus, allowing laptops to remain at school unless needed for special projects or assignments.

The use of technology in the Junior School will continue to be a focus area as we work towards a healthier balance for all students. Our approach is guided by data, best practice, and parent feedback. We encourage all parents to complete the MMG Survey to share their perspectives and help shape the future of technology at the College.

Our ultimate goal is to ensure that our boys are not only skilled and confident users of technology, but also capable of making balanced, thoughtful choices to best prepare them for High School and beyond.

ICAS Assessments 2025

Congratulations to all the students who participated in the 2025 ICAS Assessments.

A special congratulations to the following students who received a credit or above in Mathematics.

Home Learning Club

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

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

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

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

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 3 events, please refer to the College calendar.

Father’s Day Mass

Our Father’s Day Mass was a special celebration that brought together fathers, father figures, and their sons in a meaningful way. It was a wonderful opportunity to pause and reflect on the important role these relationships play in our community, while sharing in prayer and connection.

Following the Mass, families gathered for a sausage sizzle, which provided a chance to continue the celebrations in a relaxed and joyful atmosphere. We extend our sincere thanks to the Waverley Old Boys Union for their generosity and hard work in preparing and cooking the barbeque for everyone to enjoy.

We are also most grateful to Father Bernie and Mr Ghattas for their leadership and organisation of such a memorable and uplifting event. Their efforts ensured the celebration was a fitting tribute to the fathers and father figures who guide, support, and inspire our students each day.

Staff vs A’s Basketball

On Wednesday, our Junior School As played against a tough opposition during a lunchtime competition in the spirit of World Health and Physical Education Day. The As put up a fight against the Staff Team, but in the end were outplayed! While the staff were (humbly) victorious, the A’s should be very proud of their efforts and everyone certainly had a lot of fun.

Aladdin Save the Date

Year 6 students have been working hard rehearsing for our upcoming musical production, Aladdin Jr, and they can’t wait to share their performance with you!

Attendance and participation in all performances is expected for all Year 6 students.

Tickets will go on sale starting Week 8 – be sure to look out for more details soon. Costume information will also be sent out in the coming weeks.

We look forward to seeing you at one of the shows!

BOOK WEEK Competition Winners

There was an incredible number of submissions, and it was wonderful to see such a wealth of creativity and imagination on display.

In the Poetry Competition, a special thank you goes to Mrs Mary Ryan, English Teacher and Literacy Coordinator, who had the very challenging task of judging such an outstanding collection of poems.

For our Visual Arts Competition, thank you to Ms Jenna Turnbull, our Acting Head of Visual Arts, and Mrs Rebecca Lawrence, who judged the creative pieces that interpreted this year’s Book Week theme, BOOK AN ADVENTURE. The artworks showcased not only skill but also deep imagination and unique perspectives.

Poetry Writing Winners

L-R Matthew Pereira, Spencer Murphy, Luca Robinson, Samuel Loughrey, Jakob Svensson & Lachlan Smith

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded Outstanding Achievement in Poetry Writing.

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded Highly Commended in Poetry Writing.

L-R Oliver Starkenburg, Samuel Loughrey, Oscar Loebenstein, Leo Sager, Henry Avenell & Lachlan Rose

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded Outstanding Achievement in Creative Arts

Congratulations to the following students who were awarded Highly Commended in Creative Arts

This week, we had the Year 5 Public Speaking Competition. All the boys put in an incredible amount of effort, with one stand-out student taking home the trophy!

Well done to all the finalists, and thank you, Mr Jack Wachtel, Ms Emma Halpin and Dante Fearn for adjudicating the finals.

Congratulations to our finalists Spencer Russell, Cameron Singson, Beckham Bolder, Rex Wagner and our Public Speaking Champion 2025, Oscar Loebenstein.

Home Learning Club

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

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

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

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

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

In Week 9, we will be holding our Junior School Winter Co-curricular Awards Assembly during Period 1 on Monday 15th September.

This assembly is for students only due to capacity in our Auditorium. Students who missed presentation nights will receive their trophies here. We will also acknowledge other co-curricular activities that students have participated in, and announce Athletics Age Champions.

We are looking forward to celebrating the achievements of our students over the Winter season.

Fitness Club has been a success this term, keeping students active and busy between Co-curricular seasons. Students have been working on stair runs, endurance training and body weight exercises. Strong and energised, students have been enjoying this club and smashing their fitness goals! We are grateful for the preparation and coaching of our wonderful staff trainers.

Attention: Current Year 5 Parents

Please read all instructions on this form carefully. It will close on November 1, 2025.

Father’s Day Breakfast – Celebrating the Men Who Shape Our Boys

Thank you to the many fathers, grandfathers and significant male role models who joined us for this morning’s Father’s Day Coffee and Breakfast. Your presence means a great deal to our community, and we value the time you set aside to share these moments with your sons. A special thank you also to our Year 5 and 6 fathers who attended Mass at Mary Immaculate, followed by a BBQ lunch generously cooked by our Old Boys which is a wonderful way to connect across generations of the Waverley family.

During the gathering, our new Deputy Principal – Students, Mr John Allen, reflected on his own upbringing as one of seven children in a large Catholic family. He spoke about the lasting influence of his father, emphasising how positive role modelling, storytelling and strength of character can help shape young men into compassionate, responsible adults.

We are grateful for the commitment and example you continue to provide for the boys of Waverley College and I offer this prayer for you this weekend.

God our loving Father,

We give you thanks and praise for the gift of fathers, grandfathers and all father-figures who guide us with wisdom, patience and love.

Bless young fathers, newly embracing their vocation; grant them courage and perseverance to balance work, family and faith with joy and sacrifice.

Strengthen fathers who work quietly and faithfully, like St Joseph, protecting, providing and leading with steady hearts.

Comfort fathers who are far from home, fathers who carry burdens or sorrow, and those whose children are lost or suffering.

We remember with gratitude the fathers, grandfathers and great-grandfathers who have gone before us; may their love continue to nourish us and their legacy inspire us.

For men who are not fathers yet mentor, coach and care for the young, thank you for their fatherly presence among us.

May every dad be a living reflection of your fatherly care, bringing light, faith and blessing to their families.
“The righteous man walks in integrity – blessed are his children after him.” (Proverbs 20:7)

Parent Feedback Survey – Thank You

As part of Waverley’s ongoing commitment to continuous improvement, we are undertaking a comprehensive review of the College experience for students, staff and families. All NSW schools in the Edmund Rice Education Australia (EREA) network participate in this independent and confidential feedback process every 2–3 years. MMG Education, a respected external consultancy, conducts the survey to ensure honest, anonymous and de-identified responses.

The parent survey remains open until Monday, 15 September. Once the review period concludes, MMG will prepare a detailed report and we will share the key findings with our community.

If you have any questions, please contact info@waverley.nsw.edu.au. Thank you for your valuable contribution to the future of Waverley College.

SSDA Approval Secures Waverley’s Future

I am delighted to share the news that our State Significant Development Application (SSDA) has been formally approved. This milestone provides Waverley College with a clear and confident roadmap for the next few decades and beyond.

Securing an SSDA is no small task. It is an extensive, highly regulated process requiring vision, persistence and collaboration across many months. This approval gives us long-term certainty and the flexibility we need to respond to a rapidly changing educational landscape. It also ensures that the College can continue to deliver exceptional learning and wellbeing opportunities for our students in facilities that match our ambitions.

With this approval in place, we now have a framework to schedule a suite of campus improvements as resources allow. Planned works over the coming years include:

These developments will not only enhance learning, sport and wellbeing, but also create a safer, more cohesive and future-ready campus for our young men.

The SSDA approval marks a new chapter for Waverley College. One that honours our heritage while embracing an ambitious, student-centred future. We look forward to sharing more detailed timelines and staging plans as projects commence.

Thank you for your continued partnership as we shape the next 30+ years of excellence at Waverley.

Commissioning of New Principal at St Dominic’s College

This week I had the pleasure of attending the commissioning of Ms Natalie Devenish as the new Principal of St Dominic’s College, one of our fellow EREA schools in New South Wales. The ceremony was led by the Most Reverend Vincent Long, Bishop of Parramatta, and was a wonderful celebration of leadership and faith within our Edmund Rice network.

Ms Devenish brings a wealth of experience to her new role, having served as Assistant Principal at both CBC Lewisham and St Mary’s Cathedral College.

Her connection to Waverley is also a special one, her brother, Mr Gary Kennedy, is a highly valued member of our Science Department. We warmly congratulate Natalie and wish her every success as she leads the St Dominic’s community into an exciting new chapter.

Legacy Badge Fundraiser

On Wednesday, members of our Senior Cadet Rank proudly supported Legacy Day, selling badges at school, Charing Cross and Bondi Junction to raise vital funds for veterans’ families. Thanks to the generosity of the Waverley and wider community, we raised over $4000, directly assisting Legacy in its mission to provide ongoing care, guidance and financial support to over 40,000 partners and children of those who have given their lives or health in service to our country.

We sincerely thank Ms Julie-Ann de Kantzow and Ms Jessica Stanley for coordinating this meaningful initiative, and all who contributed to continuing Legacy’s century-long promise of hope and stability.

Educating The Future – 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner

Waverley College is proud to host the Educating The Future 10-Year Anniversary Gala on Saturday 29 November, 6–11pm in the College Gymnasium. This youth-led, volunteer-run NGO founded by two Waverley Old Boys after a 2015 Timor-Leste immersion has since built and supported seven public preschools, giving early education to more than 2,000 children.

The evening will feature keynote addresses from Co-Founder Cirilo Soares and Kirsty Sword Gusmão AO, live music, DJs, dancing, raffles, a silent auction and more. Tickets are $150 per person, including a three-course meal and entertainment, with all proceeds contributing to the $100,000 fundraising goal (just $53 educates a child for a year). Join us in celebrating a decade of impact and shaping the future for Timor-Leste’s youngest learners.

Literacy Update

It was an honour to welcome back Gary Lonesborough as guest speaker at our ‘Wear It Purple Day’ Assembly last Friday. Since his previous visit on 25 July, Gary’s YA novel I’m Not Really Here has gone on to win the CBCA Book of the Year Award for Older Readers.

The CBCA is an annual literary competition for Australian children’s books, established by the Children’s Book Council of Australia (CBCA) to promote high-quality literature for young Australians. The awards celebrate Australian authors and illustrators and encourage contributions to children’s literature, recognizing outstanding books for young people aged 0 to 18. To win this award is a remarkable achievement. In a time when creativity and originality are being threatened, we are very grateful to Gary for reminding us of the joy of simply writing for the love of writing.

At Waverley, we are committed to building a strong reading and writing culture – one that equips our students with skills that will serve them for life. In a time when global and local research highlights a concerning decline in reading, we are proud to see our students bucking the trend through their dedication along with the support of our library and literacy programs.

Our library improvements and the tireless work of English teachers, Learning Support, and library staff ensure that students have access to engaging books, vibrant reading spaces, and ongoing encouragement to make reading part of their daily lives.

Two of the platforms that have become cornerstones of our literacy journey are Writer’s Toolbox and Beanstack.

Through Writer’s Toolbox, students are developing their writing with enthusiasm and determination. To date this year, they have written an extraordinary 1,021,475 words, sought feedback 155,556 times, and made 214,699 improvements to their drafts. As students continue to master the twelve sentence styles, we are excited to see their writing fluency and confidence grow.

On the reading front, Beanstack has motivated students to read with both joy and purpose. Since July alone, students have logged over 48,072 minutes of reading. Our ongoing Reading Challenge has created a buzz of excitement, with prizes to inspire every reader. During Book Week, we also launched the ‘Top Reader – Teacher’s Choice’ awards for Years 7 and 8, celebrating students who have demonstrated consistency and commitment to reading.

These achievements are a testament to the combined efforts of students, teachers, and library staff, and they underline our school’s strong commitment to literacy. Together, we are building not only skills but also a deep, long lasting engagement with reading and writing that will help our students thrive and succeed beyond the school gates.

On Wednesday morning we were delighted to launch our new Waverley Exchange Breakfast series with guest speaker and Waverley College Old Boy, Dr Sam Lackey. The event brought together a group of engaged Year 11 and 12 students who had the opportunity to hear firsthand from Dr Lackey about his fascinating global career spanning civil engineering, mining, infrastructure, government, and corporate finance.

Dr Lackey shared practical insights and inspiring reflections on the opportunities that come with engineering, and encouraged students to choose subjects and career paths they enjoy, emphasising that passion, hard work and the ability to work with different people are just as important as qualifications.

He also strongly encouraged the boys to continue extra curricular activities whether it is sport, music, surf life saving or debating as well as charitable works as it helps to build a network and can open up doors. We thank Dr Lackey for generously giving his time and for offering such thoughtful and motivational guidance to our senior students.

Our next Waverley Exchange Breakfast will be in Term 4 with another successful Waverley Old Boy and we encourage students in year 11 to attend.

HSC Drama Showcase

The Y12 Drama class completed their final HSC performance exams last week. Now it’s your chance to see the fabulous results of all their efforts!

We invite all friends and family of Y12 Drama to come to the 2025 HSC Drama Showcase at the PAC on Tuesday 9 th September, from 5pm to 7pm. The performances are the culmination of many months of focus and dedication. The boys will perform two excellent Group Performances. Signal Lost (devised by Taj Lynn, James Peate and Lachlan Hoy) imagines a dystopian future where the only thing keeping society together is the worship of the mysterious ‘interweb’ and the ‘Doge-King,’ Elon Musk.

Turbulence (created by Renzo Walker, Harry Bowcock, Finn Jones and Harrison Thorpe) examines the way in which our headlong pursuit of an idealised life can stop us from truly appreciating each moment.

An eclectic selection of the boys’ Individual performances will also be on offer, ranging from black comedy, through the lyrical, heightened-realism of Tennessee Williams, to the dark quasi-absurdist theatre of Mark Ravenhill.

Diary Dates

Please find below some reminders about upcoming events. For all Term 3 events, please refer to the College calendar.

This week has been a positive and uplifting one for our Waverley community, with lots of sunshine. Our Open Day was a wonderful celebration of learning, with students proudly sharing their experiences and achievements.

Their enthusiasm and confidence shone as they guided visitors, showcased their work, and demonstrated the vibrant spirit of our school. It was a joy to see families and guests witness firsthand the engaging and supportive environment that makes Waverley so special.
In addition, our boys represented the school with pride at the IPSHA carnival. Their dedication, teamwork, and sportsmanship were evident throughout the day, and we congratulate them on their efforts and achievements.

It was a proud moment for Waverley, with students demonstrating not only their talents but also their commitment to giving their best.
This week also included a Whole School Assembly in the Senior School, where we heard from Edmund Rice Beyond Borders and Edmund Rice Foundation representatives, Jason Bongers and Sam Karanja.

Their inspiring words reminded us of the strong Edmund Rice tradition at Waverley, highlighting the importance of Liberating Education and encouraging our boys to grow in their understanding of service to others.

The assembly also saw the induction of the 2026 student leaders, a significant moment for our community. These leaders now step into roles of responsibility and service, setting an example through their actions and character for younger students to aspire to and follow.

Together, these events highlight the rich opportunities available at our school and the wonderful ways our students continue to grow, both in and out of the classroom.

Father’s Day Stall

Next Wednesday 3 September, our Year 5 and Year 6 students will have the opportunity to

choose a special gift for their father, or father figure, from a range of gifts at our annual Father’s Day Stall.

The boys will enjoy a shopping experience where they will select a gift sourced from our Waverley and local community. Gifts will be under $30 and boys will be able to pay with cash or card and take their purchase home with them that day.

Boys will be able to purchase just one gift to begin with and if numbers of gifts permit, they will be invited back if they wish to purchase a second gift.

6 Blue Science

This week, students enjoyed an outdoor science lesson focusing on chemical reactions!

Home Learning Club

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

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

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

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

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Please read all instructions on this form carefully. It will close on November 1, 2025.

IPSHA Athletics Carnival

On Wednesday, 27 August, twenty Junior School athletes went to Sydney Olympic Park to compete at the IPSHA Athletics Carnival.

IPSHA (Independent Primary School Heads Association) is the umbrella organisation that we play sports under.

Students ran, jumped and threw against the top athletes from our fellow competitor schools.

It was a fun day for students supporting their Wave mates, with some of our athletes even smashing their PBs.

Congratulations to Liam Morrissey (Year 6) and Sonny Milis (Year 5) for progressing through to CIS Athletics next week.

On the 5 of Sep, Liam will be competing in Long Jump and Sonny running in the 1500m. We wish them all the best!

Great communities, great culture – respect, responsibility – shirts tucked, ties up, College cut

From the Deputy Principal, Students – Mr John Allen

Term 4 Literary Evening and Waverley Community Book Club

Junior School Aladdin Production

Summer Co-Curricular Captains and Teams

Parents’ Association Meeting and AGM – Monday 10 November

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

Research Project – Consent and Respectful Relationships Education Project

U16 Social Media ban – How will this impact the classroom?

Waverley College 60 Year Reunion

Cyber Awareness Month – October 2025

Diary Dates

Welcome Back!

Setting the Tone for the Final Stretch

1. Be SAFE (Protect Your Team)

2. Be RESPECTFUL (Honor the Game)

3. Be COMPASSIONATE (Be the Best Teammate)

Partnering for a Strong Finish

Uniform Expectations – Shirts Tucked, Ties Up, College Cut

Aladdin the Musical

Year 6 Graduation – Wednesday 26 November 2025

Year 6 Graduation – Request for Photos

Assessments in Term 4

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Welcome back

Staff Update

Listening to the Spirit: The Archdiocesan Synod Consultation

Staff Professional Learning Days Friday 26 September and Monday 13 October

Complimentary Diagnostic SAT Test for your students

Only 2 Pavers Left – Don’t Miss Out on Your Chance to Be Part of the Waverley Walk!

EOI – Spain Tour

Summer Art Club

Term 4 2025 Swim School – Enrolments Now Open!

School student travel information for parents and students

Youtube Block

Aladdin the Musical

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Attention: Current Year 5 Parents

VALE – Brother Robert (Bob) J Wallace cfc, A.M.

Spring Break

Fiji Appeal

Celebrating Excellence in Music – Congratulations to our ENCORE nomination

Year 10 Market Day – A Lunchtime Success!

Respect for self, others, the learning and the College – uniform and hair – Mr John Allen

Announcing our Term 4 Literary Evening and Book Club

Summer Reading Challenge on Beanstack starts 25 September – Keep Reading and logging over the holidays

HSC plus Vocational Update

Everybody Has a Book Campaign

Music Tuition Enrolment for Term 4 is now open

EOI- Tour of Spain

Summer Art Club

Ahoy! Auditions open for Treasure Island!

Volunteers Needed – Second Hand Uniform Shop

Upcoming seminars and information for parents

Diary Dates

A Strong Finish to the Term

Aladdin the Musical

Home Learning Club

Co-curricular Update from Ms Sparks

Attention: Current Year 5 Parents

From the Prep 1st Football Captain

Farewell to Year 12

CAS Track & Field Competition

Term 4 ‘Screen-Free Week’

Year 10 Market Day – Tuesday 23 September

Year 10 Mental Fitness Presentation

Music Tuition Enrolment for Term 4 is now open.

End-of-Lease MacBook Air Laptops – Year 6 & Year 9 (2025)

Summer Art Club

Ahoy! Auditions open for Treasure Island!

R U OK? Day

Winter co-curricular Award Winners 2025

Year 12 Drama Showcase

Supporting Children After Disturbing News

VET Excellence Award – Noah Anderson (Hospitality Year 12)

Reminder: Parent Feedback Survey – Thank You

Educating The Future – 10-Year Anniversary Gala Dinner

App Reminder

Diary Dates

RUOK? Day

A Catholic School for boys in
the tradition of Edmund Rice