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“When people share their personal story, change happens. Being brave enough and courageous enough to put yourself out here [at Youth Parliament] is one of the most powerful things you can do.” Hon Rose Jackson MLC (NSW Government Minister including Minister for Mental Health and Minister for Youth).
The Hon. Lachlan Miranda, Youth Member of Parliament for the electorate of Coogee, was fortunate to be selected to be part of the YNSW Youth Parliament 2023. This annual event brings 90 students from across New South Wales together, representing all electorates across the State, to participate in civic leadership, policy development and nuanced debate.
Lachlan represented Waverley College and the wider electorate of Coogee with aplomb.
The generosity of the Old Boys Union (OBU) in gifting Lachlan $750.00 to participate in this flagship youth leadership program was greatly appreciated. As was the time of Dr Marjorie O’Neill (Member for Coogee) who met with Lachlan and discussed youth leadership, mental health and his time at Waverley College.
Congratulations, Lachlan!
During the training Camp in April, Lachlan was elected leader of the Youth Mental Health Committee, an incredible honour. He is passionate about mental health, advocating for his peers and supporting boys who silently struggle with the stressors of school and socialisation. Lachlan intends to be a psychologist post-school, and the opportunity to lead the committee has proven a great launchpad for his future endeavours.
Being a Youth Parliamentarian was an honour. I represented Waverley College and my electorate (Coogee). Through an intense week, filled with late nights writing speeches, I was able to learn more about the parliamentary process and how advocacy works on a larger scale. It was an emotional and insightful week, hearing everyone’s private members’ statements. The mental health debate was intense with the government pushing for amendments to the bill (to strengthen existing mental health legislation to better support youth) and the opposition attempting to publish it in its present condition. Then, moving to open floor debates which were filled with personal anecdotes about how an individual was touched by mental health.
Throughout the week I made new friendships with people from all over the state and from all backgrounds. Moving forward I wish to raise awareness for some of the issues that were addressed within the chamber as well as continue to advocate for mental health. Throughout my time as a Youth Parliamentarian, I displayed the skills and behaviours expected of leaders representing their school. Whether it was through collaborating with my committee or attempting to provide solutions to international issues through critical thinking, I am eternally grateful for this opportunity and will continue to display the skills I was able to develop through this program.
Image: courtesy YMCA NSW – YNSW Youth Parliament 2023
His success is of his own making. On a personal note, I want to congratulate Lachlan on his application, commitment and energy he brought to the Youth Parliament Program. I was privileged to attend the Mental Health Debate at NSW Parliament House and I was in awe of Lachlan’s ability to debate challenging and complex issues with such empathy and understanding. Witnessing the leaders of tomorrow in action assured me that we are in incredibly capable hands.
We can’t wait to see the next generation of leaders make meaningful change.
Week 1 has started with a buzz of activity and energy throughout the College. We celebrated NAIDOC Week at assembly and launched Men’s Health Week. Each student should fill in their SMART Goals (page 111 of College diary) for Term 3 to assist them in achieving their strategic goals for the Term. Learnings and reflections from parent/student/teacher conferences should guide this goal-setting process.
A reminder that on Monday, 24 July the Years 7 – 10 Student Parent Teacher Interviews will be held online from 8.30am to 6.30pm and there will be no classes that day for the Senior School.
We celebrated NAIDOC at this week’s assembly and the celebrations will continue at our Indigenous Round tomorrow. The 2023 theme ‘For Our Elders’, illuminates the importance Elders play in our lives and showcases the rich culture and knowledge of Indigenous Australia. NAIDOC Week, which is in the first week of July, is an important event in Australia that celebrates the history, culture, and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
The traditional smoking ceremony performed by the Walawaani students involved the burning of native plants to produce smoke, to cleanse and purify the surroundings and participants, and show respect to the land and ancestors.
The “Welcome to Country” was delivered by local elder Aunty Barbara Simms acknowledging the ongoing connection between the Indigenous peoples and the land.
Mr Michael O’Loughlin was our NAIDOC week guest speaker and he spoke passionately about sharing his culture with all Australians and the NAIDOC theme “For our Elders”. Michael spoke about the significant role that Elders and in particular his Nanna had in his life, and the important role they played in preserving culture, passing down knowledge, and guiding the younger generations.
The cultural performance by Aunty Kerry and her Burrundi Theatre was a captivating experience, showcasing the rich traditions, history, and art forms of the First Nations peoples through song and dance.
Such events and activities contribute to fostering understanding, respect, and appreciation for Indigenous culture and the contributions of Elders to the community and society as a whole. It’s heartening to see schools and communities coming together to celebrate and learn about Australia’s First Nations heritage.
Congratulations to Mr Kevin Heath (Aboriginal & Torres Strait Islander Liaison Officer) for coordinating our NAIDOC assembly and thank you to the many families that joined us on the day.
Across the world, Men’s Health Week is celebrated in June each year to promote the overall wellbeing of men, and raise awareness about issues that are particularly related to men’s health. Term 2 at Waverley was quite busy, so we chose to celebrate Men’s Health Week this week.
We are grateful to our Parents’ Association who have generously funded a wonderful array of activities throughout the week along with organising some amazing speakers that included Dr James Roy – Cardiologist, Mr Anthony Minichiello – Kangaroo, NSW and Roosters, Mr Morgan Turinui – Wallaby, Reds, Rebels, Commentator, and Ms Caitlin Reid – sports dietitian and yoga sports coach.
Anthony Minichiello
Caitlin Reid
Some of the activities included guidance from personal trainers, physiotherapists, dieticians, weight lifting, and some free healthy giveaways. The week focused on physical health, mental and emotional wellbeing. Congratulations and thank you to the following parents and grandparents who assisted Daniella Strbac, Camille Owen, Damien Kelly, Sue Purnell and Jade Stapleton for coordinating the week. It was an impressive set up with many interactive activities for the boys to engage with.
Dr James Roy
Morgan Turinui
As some of you may be aware, there has been some very sad news in our community about the brother of Kosta Reed in Year 5, Nicholas. Seven-year-old Nicholas had a liver transplant at the age of five months and has struggled with his health ever since. Devastatingly, he has just been diagnosed with a rare and very aggressive type of post-transplant cancer.
Our prayers and thoughts go out to his family as they navigate through this heartbreaking journey. A parent in our Waverley Community, Kerren Hosking, has set up a GoFundMe page to help support Elena Reed and their family. If you would like to support this family please follow the link below.
https://www.gofundme.com/f/help-nicholas-fight-cancer-post-liver-transplant
Please keep this family in your prayers.
ICAS sitting dates will take place in English and Science in Term 3. The questions are engaging and fun and have been designed by psychometricians, education measurement experts and experienced teachers to push students to their academic limits, as well as test higher-order thinking and problem-solving abilities. Applications close on 31 July, 2023. Please read the newsletter article co-authored by Ms Andrea Fernandez and Ms Emily Pace for more information.
On Wednesday, 16 August, students have the opportunity to engage in dynamic discussions about careers, skills, and studies with Waverley College alumni. For more information please read the newsletter article authored by Ms Kath Knowles.
Wonderfully, 101 people have signed up to our Waverley team in the City2Surf on 13 August in support of the charity Running for Premature Babies, raising funds for a lifesaving humidicrib for The Children’s Hospital at Westmead.
It’s not too late to register. Join the Yellow start wave to run/walk with Lachy from The Wiggles!
Click here to register: https://www.registernow.com.au/secure/GroupAcceptance.aspx?E=48647&G=174145
Term 3 Professional Learning (PL) Day focused on enhancing student success through Collaborative Group Work, Constructive Feedback, and Formative Assessment.
Education is an ever-evolving process, and to ensure that teachers are equipped with the latest tools and pedagogies to foster student success, Waverley College continues to commit to providing quality PL experiences for our staff. These dedicated days allow us to come together, share our experiences, and learn from one another. One crucial aspect of such experiences is to explore evidence-based innovative teaching practices that have proven effective in enhancing student engagement and achievement. The day enabled us to enliven the principles of our T&L Framework.
Session 1: Collaborative Practice
This session was facilitated by the Collaborative Action Research team (Helen Barrie, Alice Curtis, Stephanie Falk, Oliver Knight, Nicholas Sposari, Gemma Stead, Margaux Walker and Elizabeth Watson). The team shared what they had learnt when exploring, designing and engaging in a variety of group work activities with their classes during Semester 1. The aim of the research project was to establish how to best implement collaborative practices in our school context to foster dynamic learning environments.
Collaborative group work has become a hallmark of progressive education. Gone are the days of passive learning, where students sit in silence, absorbing information without actively engaging with the material or their peers. Educators recognise the immense value of effective group work. When students work together in groups, they can share ideas, challenge one another’s perspectives, and develop essential teamwork and communication skills. Moreover, collaborative group work nurtures a sense of community within the classroom, encouraging students to support and learn from each other. By embracing this approach, educators not only empower students to become active participants in their education, but also prepare them for the collaborative demands of the modern workforce.
Session 2: The Power of Effective Feedback
This session was facilitated by Ms Mary Ryan, Mr Angus MacAuslan, Mr Barry Smith, Mr Ben Shorthouse and Mr Rob Tall. They highlighted that effective feedback plays a pivotal role in the learning journey of students.
Constructive feedback serves as a compass, guiding learners towards improvement and growth. During this session, staff delved into the art of giving effective feedback, emphasising the importance of being specific, timely, and encouraging. When students receive feedback that is tailored to their individual progress, they gain valuable insights into their strengths and areas for development. Additionally, constructive feedback instils a growth mindset, where students learn to perceive challenges as opportunities for improvement rather than obstacles to success. By consistently providing meaningful feedback, educators can empower students to take ownership of their learning, fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the classroom.
Session 3: Formative Assessment as Learning Checkpoints
The final session was delivered by Mr Nicholas Brophy, Mr Mark Neale, Ms Lynsey Porter, Mr Ben Shorthouse, Ms Jade Sparks, Mr Nicholas Sposari, Ms Charlotte Stephens and Ms Jenna Turnbull.
Formative assessment – an ongoing process of evaluating student understanding and progress – is critical in empowering students to take an active role in their learning journey. Learning checkpoints allow for regular feedback on student performance and enable individuals to track their progress, identify their strengths, and address their weaknesses, fostering a sense of autonomy and accountability in their academic pursuits. Hattie suggests that students should consistently ask themselves (1) Where am I going?, (2) How am I going?, and (3) Where to next?. He considers these to be the ‘Holy Trinity of Learning’ which guide learners towards a future of success and lifelong learning.
As we embark on the second half of 2023 after a three-week break, we return to routine and focus. I reminded the students at our Assembly on Tuesday that it is the little things that make a big impact. I asked them to start by tucking in their shirts, wearing their blazers, and ensuring we arrive at class on time.
These seemingly small actions reflect our commitment to excellence and create an atmosphere of respect and professionalism. They demonstrate that we value our education and the opportunities it presents. So, let’s embrace the details, uphold high standards, and set the stage for a successful Semester 2.
In Term 2 this year, we sought your assistance in encouraging our students to Tap On and Off with their School or Child/Youth Opal Cards. While there has been some improvement, unfortunately, the majority of students are still not using their Opal Cards.
This is concerning, as it puts several school bus routes at risk of being redistributed by Transport for NSW to areas that have demonstrated a greater need.
It is a condition of the Student Code of Conduct when travelling, that students must Tap On and Off with their School Opal Card or Child/Youth Opal Card every time when using public transport. This is so that Transport for NSW can understand customer travel patterns and adjust the services provided, if necessary.
What can parents and carers do to help?
We kindly ask that all parents/carers ensure that their children have a valid Opal card for travelling to and from school each day. We also ask that you please encourage them to Tap On and Off every time they use a bus service.
To be eligible for a School Opal Card the student must:
*Years K-2 (Infants) – No minimum distance.
*Years 3-6 (Primary) – 1.6km straight line distance or 2.3km walking or further.
*Years 7-12 (Secondary) – 2km straight line distance or 2.9km walking or further.
If you do not meet these criteria, your child will need to carry a Child/Youth Opal card with funds loaded onto it.
If your child’s School Opal Card has expired or been damaged, lost or stolen, please visit transportnsw.info/school-travel-apply to reapply.
If you are still waiting for your School Opal Card to arrive, please follow up with OPAL directly by calling 131 500.
The Council of Catholic School Parents NSW/ACT, in partnership with the eSafety Commissioner, is offering all parents, carers, teachers and support staff the opportunity to join a free webinar designed for parents and carers of students in secondary school.
The 30-minute webinar is designed for parents and carers of young people in secondary school.
It will cover:
Webinar details
Tuesday 15 August, 7:30pm-8pm
On 29 June 2023, the Criminal Legislation Amendment (Knife Crimes) Bill 2023 passed the NSW Parliament. As the Attorney General noted in his second reading speech, the legislation responds to serious knife‐related incidents across NSW and recognises the significant risk posed by the possession/use of knives in public places and schools.
Being in possession of or brandishing a knife in public or at school is already an offence under the Summary Offences Act 1988, but with the passage of this new legislation, the offences will move to the Crimes Act 1900 with increased maximum penalties:
The legislation provides for reasonable excuses for possessing a knife, including when it is necessary for:
While these reforms represent significant increases and the toughest penalties of all Australian jurisdictions for such offences, the NSW Government has indicated that children and young people “will still remain eligible for diversion options under the Young Offenders Act 1997”, including “cautions and referrals to youth justice conferences” (second reading speech). The Government has also promised to monitor how these reforms impact Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities.
Our onsite Uniform Shop is currently out of stock of the Waverley backpack. These should be back in stock by September. The Uniform Shop sincerely apologises for any inconvenience.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
2023 Fees
*As per the updated conditions of enrolment and as indicated on the College website, all Years 5 and 7 enrolments, Term 1 tuition fees are charged in Term 4, in the year prior. This includes continuing Year 6 (2023) students into Year 7 (2024). This replaces the “continuing confirmation deposit” usually charged in the 3rd Payment to Year 6. Year 5 and 7 will still receive an invoice in Term 1, 2024 for any applicable sundries, sibling discounts, excursion fees and camps. Please be advised that if this payment is not made by the due date, your son’s enrolment will be forfeited, and his place will be offered to a waitlisted candidate.
2024 Fees
Discounts and Additional Fee
Fees paid before 4pm on the Prompt payment date attract a $25.00 discount.
Any payment received after the due date will attract an administrative fee of $110.00.
Please be advised that some financial institutions need more than 48 hours to process their payments (e.g. Internet/BPay/BPoint).
Please see the last page of your account for payment method and contact details.
Enrolment Withdrawal Notice
You are reminded that if you wish to withdraw your son from enrolment at Waverley College, you are required to give one Term’s notice in writing to the Principal that your son’s enrolment will cease.
The last day you can give notice that your son’s enrolment is finishing at the end of a school Term, is the first day of the same Term. If not received by that date, a penalty equivalent to one Term’s tuition fees will be payable. The relevant dates for 2023 are below:
The Sacrament of Confirmation for students in Years 5 and above will be celebrated in Holy Cross Catholic Church, Woollahra, on Tuesday, 5 September 2023 at 7pm by Bishop Richard Umbers.
The Parent Information Evening will be held in the Holy Cross School Hall on Tuesday, 1 August at 6pm. Please enter the school via the Fletcher Street entrance.
Preparation classes for students and accompanying parent/carer, not attending Holy Cross School, will be in Holy Cross Community Centre on:
For more information, please contact the parish on 02 9389 3156 or email holycrossbj@gmail.com
We are delighted to announce that ICAS will return to Waverley College this year for English and Science. We encourage you to consider entering your child for either ICAS assessment.
This fantastic assessment program allows students to challenge themselves and be recognised for their academic efforts. The assessment is now fully online with the sitting dates below:
Please visit the link below to register for either the English ICAS, Science ICAS or both! Applications close on Monday, 31 July 2023.
You now pay for ICAS individually online. To confirm your child’s participation, visit https://shop.icasassessments.com/pages/pps and enter our unique school code GBG887 to make a direct payment to ICAS Assessments.
Our thoughts, prayers and deepest condolences go to the family, friends and Marcellin College community of Zenn Pemberton. Zenn tragically lost his life last weekend in a motocross accident. A number of our students were good friends with Zenn and have had a tough week. Our psychologist team has reached out and met with many of our students.
There is no perfect map of how to deal with grief and loss and it affects people differently. It involves the movement between the poles of loss and restoration and this takes time.
We have encouraged the boys to speak to their friends about how they are feeling, to celebrate Zenn’s life, to talk with parents, carers, mentors, Heads of House and Father Bernie. Please let our psychologist team know if you would like your son to see one of them.
Alexsandra McCredie amccredie@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9387 0774
Dawn Young dyoung@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9387 0774
Samantha Jessen sjessen@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0635 – Conlon, Green, Lacey, Quinn
Greg Cameron gcameron@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0645 – Aungier, Brennan, O’Connor, Tevlin – Monday to Wednesday
Olivia Stelling ostelling@waverley.nsw.edu.au 9369 0645 – Aungier, Brennan, O’Connor, Tevlin – Thursday to Friday
A tribute and GoFundMe page has been created. Please click here if you would like to support https://gofund.me/71b22f9e
May Zenn rest in peace.
This is my first week back at the College this Term, after attending the EREA World Principal’s Congress that was held in Ireland with representatives from across the globe.
In my absence, I would like to thank and congratulate the following staff who stepped up and acted in their respective roles. I am grateful for their leadership, care and work throughout this time, and I acknowledge their fine efforts.
The College and Old Boys’ Association hosted a Cadet parade this week in recognition of two Old Boys and past staff members who were awarded the prestigious Federation Star for significant and dedicated service to the Australian Cadet Forces.
Special guests included:
General the Honourable Sir Peter Cosgrove AK AC (Military) CVO MC (Retired), Lady Lynne Cosgrove, Dr Marjorie O’Neill MP (Member for Coogee), Br RJ Wallace cfc, A.M. (Former Headmaster, Waverley College), Mr Sam Hardjono (Sam Hardjono, Board Chair of EREA NSW Colleges), Colonel Nicholas De Bont (Commander of NSW 2nd Brigade), Major (AAC) David Clancy (Waverley College Cadet Unit Liaison Officer to NSW 2nd Brigade), Mr Pasquale Guerrera (Chair, Waverley College Advisory Council), Mr Salvatore Riolo (President, Waverley College Old Boys Union), Colonel Brett Courtenay OAM (Chair, Waverley College Foundation), Associate Professor Mark Davies (Former Chair, Waverley College Advisory Council).
Congratulations to:
The service of these gentlemen is particularly noteworthy and unparalleled to any Commanding Officer or 2IC in any Cadet Unit across the country since 1906 and the Army Cadets nationwide foundation. They have both been instrumental in shaping the Unit to what it is today whilst instilling values of service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence. They have inspired and led countless young men to become leaders within their own communities, and beyond for decades.
Peter’s first introduction to Cadets dates back to 1960, when the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Unit at the time, Brother Frank Farrell announced to ‘2nd Class’ (now better known as Year 8), that they were invited to join Cadets a year early with the promise that they would all be Officers by their final year. 15 impressionable young men took up that offer, of that 15, there were three Peters, Lieutenant Colonel Peter Frost, Sir Peter Cosgrove and CAPT The Honourable Peter Collins, all of whom were present at this week’s parade.
Peter Frost’s dedication to Cadets commenced that day, he then graduated in 1964, became an Officer of Cadets at Waverley College in 1965, and then commenced employment as an English Teacher at the College in 1969. He held numerous positions during his 50-year tenure at the College, most notably Assistant to the Headmaster on the College Executive and as the Commanding Officer of the Cadet Unit from 1977 to 2019, where Peter single-handedly reformed the Unit following its disband under the Whitlam Government in 1975.
Anthony joined the College in 1973, as a Year 5 Student and was heavily involved in Cadets from Year 8. He was the Cadet Unit’s Head of Medics during Year 10, 11 and 12 and received the CUO Officer’s Staff Award in his graduating year, 1980. When Anthony left the College, the skills he learnt as a Cadet Medic assisted in his chosen occupation, becoming an Ambulance Officer with St John’s Ambulance and the NSW Ambulance Service, whilst serving as an Officer of Cadets within the Unit from 1982.
Anthony commenced employment at the College in 1994 as the Student Administration Officer and Cadet Unit 2IC, contributing tirelessly to the Cadet Program as well as the overall leadership, development and medical care of young men at the College for almost three decades, helping to shape many young men who have walked through our gates.
These two summaries, whilst brief, show why dedication and service are two terms synonymous with both Peter and Anthony, and are a testament to their character and ongoing, unwavering commitment to excellence. As we celebrate Peter and Anthony’s decades of distinguished service, we are reminded of the profound impact that they have had on the lives of others.
Thank you to the Waverley College Old Boys’ Association for hosting a wonderful celebration and evening which was attended by over 350 people.
Yesterday Sam Stewart, Lachlan Grant, Connor Andrews and Bert Cottell ably led our Years 7-12 College assembly in the Brother JP Lacey Gymnasium. After singing the National Anthem, Brock Smith presented the Acknowledgement of Country with Sam Stewart introducing our special guests: Dr Marjorie O’Neill, Member for Coogee; Mr Col Blake, Council Member of the Waverley College Old Boys’ Union; Ms Sophie Smith, Founder of Running for Premature Babies, and the Honourable Michael Cleary, AO.
At the lectern, College Captain, Lachlan Grant spoke clearly and compassionately about Refugee Week (Sunday, 18 June – Saturday, 24 June 2023). He encouraged students to both acknowledge and learn more about the journey that refugees have taken to reach Australia. The theme this year is ‘Finding Freedom.’ Lachlan posed this question: what does it mean to be free? He thoughtfully unpacked some examples of what this might mean:
“Everyday millions of people across the world embark on dangerous journeys for the sole purpose of finding safety and freedom. From Australia to nations across the globe, settling into a new environment after experiencing the perils of a refugee’s journey, can also provide the opportunity to live, to love and to dream … Let us pray that here in Australia we will welcome refugees who come to us seeking a new home with open arms and open hearts. Let us show compassion and celebrate the resilience that makes up parts of our wider community. For freedom should not be an ask, it should be a way of life.” – Lachlan Grant.
Image: courtesy Refugee Week website
Connor and Sam led us in prayer about peace, compassion, equality, love, freedom and acceptance, and we contributed in response: “Change us Lord, so that we may change the world.” Lachlan prayed that through the example of Jesus, we may help bring healing and hope to refugees who come to Australia, seeking a new home.
We were delighted that Dr Marjorie O’Neill devoted time out of her busy schedule to present the 2023 Young Archie Award. This Art Gallery of NSW award is open to students aged between 5 and 14 who submit a portrait for its Young Archie competition. This portrait must be of a person who is special to the student, is known to the student, and who plays a significant role in the student’s life. We heartily congratulate Harvey Smith for his ‘Honourable Mention’ for his portrait of his Perth-based grandfather. Dr O’Neill also mentioned Harvey’s achievement in Parliament:
“I congratulate Harvey Smith in year 6 Red at Waverley College on receiving an honourable mention in the Young Archie competition for 2023 with his portrait My Poppy. Harvey has really captured his Poppy’s sense of humour in his portrait as he portrayed his Poppy very much enjoying himself on Christmas Day.” (15:28): Legislative Assembly Hansard – 10 May 2023.
‘Honourable Mentions’ are currently exhibited at the SH Ervin Gallery in the historic National Trust Centre on Observatory Hill until 23 July, alongside the Salon Des Refusés. I encourage you to visit to support the younger generation of Australian artists.
Ms Sophie Smith, Waverley parent and Founder of ‘Running for Premature Babies’ and Mr Col Blake, Council Member of the Waverley College Old Boys’ Union, also addressed the assembly. Inspiring all of us, she spoke passionately about her registered Australian charity supporting neonatal units in Australian hospitals, alongside Mr Blake, veteran City2Surf participant. I hope more students than ever, will take up their challenge to join this year’s City2Surf ‘Running for Premature Babies’ team.
Will you help give thousands of premature babies a better chance of survival by being part of this important medical research initiative? Run to save a baby’s life!
Click here to pledge your support for the City2Surf Running for Premature Babies Team
Enthusiastic Waverlian runners – previous City2Surf
We also thank the Old Boys’ Union for their generous cheque for $750 to Lachlan Miranda (Year 11) to attend a NSW Youth Parliament Program camp. We are proud that Lachlan Miranda, elected current Youth Minister for Mental Health, will represent Waverley by attending a Youth Parliament Forum camp in July, and we acknowledged this prestigious achievement with applause. We thank Mr Blake and the Old Boys’ Union for supporting our students to reach their goals.
Next, Mr O’Donnell, Director of Co-curricular, presented the Track & Field captains for 2023:
We look forward to learning from their leadership.
Lachlan then introduced our guest speaker, The Honourable Michael Cleary (Class of 1958), Triple International athlete, Order of Australia recipient, Australian Sports Hall of Fame member, and the Former Sports and Tourism Minister for NSW (Labor). Lachlan had numerous thoughtful questions for Mr Cleary, touching on his favourite memories, his title as a Triple International athlete (both rugby codes and athletics!), his involvement in the local community, his 1962 Commonwealth Games Bronze medal for the 100-yard sprint in Perth, and his Order of Australia.
Mr Cleary was clearly very comfortable on the stage and rather than participating in a traditional Q&A session, quickly launched into ‘storytelling’ mode! He spoke of his achievements conversationally and presented as a most humble person. He was philosophical when touching on moments in his life when he had ‘missed out’ on opportunities.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
This year, the daVinci Decathlon makes its return as an in-person event after the last few years of being held via Zoom. The essence of the daVinci Decathlon lies in its ability to provide an immersive experience, and this is amplified when participants, up to 600 students, come together to compete under one roof.
The excitement of exploring diverse subjects, solving complex problems, and engaging in hands-on challenges becomes even more palpable when shared in real-time. For a lot of our students, this will be their first in person daVinci experience.
This all-day event will be taking place at Knox Grammar School, Wahroonga, on the following dates:
We wish our students all the best for their preparation for this extraordinary event!
As I reflect on my last seven weeks leading the College, I can honestly say I have thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity, as the (Acting) Principal of Waverley College. There have undoubtedly been many memorable experiences. I’d like to share with you a few of my favourite moments:
I was thrilled to be involved in the amazing variety of community events at Waverley including the ANZAC Day commemorative service, Edmund Rice Day celebration, May Procession, Reconciliation Week Assembly, Mother’s Day Breakfast and Mass. These events gave me valuable opportunities to engage with our entire College community, promote unity and legacy, whilst honouring and celebrating important occasions.
Such intergenerational opportunities foster tradition and connectedness, and celebrate our faith and the achievements of individuals in our College community. Most recently, our assembly dedicated to National Reconciliation Week, where students and staff came together to learn about Indigenous culture, highlighted the importance of inclusivity, understanding, and respect.
These are just a few of the moments that stand out, but every day and every interaction with students, staff, community, alumni and stakeholders was truly significant in its own way. The opportunity to build positive relationships, and lead and support our talented educators and support staff, was a very gratifying experience. I thank everyone for their support.
It has been a busy week in the Cadet Unit, with our CAS Drill Team performing brilliantly at the CAS Drill Competition on Wednesday, 31 May.
Followed by a very special day in the Cadet Calendar as we farewelled our graduating Year 12 Cadets on Sunday. The Annual Passing Out Parade and Awards Ceremony is a wonderful opportunity to bring our parents, carers and community together to celebrate the successes of the year.
Later that evening, Year 12 cadets and their parents/carers joined AAC and College dignitaries and Cadet staff in a formal Military Mess in the Gym. Our stewards transformed the room into an elegant dining space and we were blessed to come together to celebrate our Year 12s’ five years of service to the Cadet Unit.
An emotional time for them, our Year 12 cadets are ready to say goodbye and to embrace the exciting opportunities that lie ahead.
>>> Click here to view the Cadets article by WCCU, MAJ(AAC) Julie-Ann de Kantzow.
We would like to acknowledge the Gadigal people of the Eora nation who are the traditional Custodians of the land on which Waverley College is located. We pay our respects to Elders past, present and emerging. We are committed to honouring Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples’ unique cultural and spiritual connections to the land, waters, seas and sky and their rich contribution to society.
Watch our video
