Sleep is important for physical health, energy levels, recovering from injuries and illnesses, psychological wellbeing, mood, concentration, memory, school performance, and getting along with others. We don’t really pay attention to our sleep, until we start having problems with it. People need different amounts of sleep; however, most teenagers should aim for 8-10 hours of sleep each night.
Teenagers often juggle their need for sleep with other activities such as homework, spending time with friends, and sport and extra-curricular activities. They also have naturally later sleep cycles, which means they get sleepy later in the evening compared to adults, but early school starts don’t allow them to sleep in the mornings. It can be tricky, and many teenagers don’t get enough sleep, but there are small changes that can be made to get better sleep.
I encourage you to read the below resources from the Black Dog Institute to support your son over the holiday period to get into some solid sleep routines as he commences Term 4.
Click here to view the Sleep Ninja App
Click here to view the Sleep Resource for Teens
A reminder of our ICT update that will commence Term 4:
Please click here to view our updated Responsible Use of Technology Policy.
A hard copy of this policy will be located in the 2024 College diary.
I wish you all a safe and happy holiday period.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
4th Payment – Only applies to Year 6* students continuing into Year 7 in 2024; due date 13/10/2023
*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.
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.
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.
You are reminded that, if you wish to withdraw your son from Waverley College, you are required to give one full 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, you must pay one Term’s tuition fees plus GST.
The relevant dates for 2023-2024 are below:
Waverley College 2022 Year Books are hot off the press and ready for collection.
Our annual, glossy, soft-copy Year Books record, highlight and commemorate our College, and are a beloved tradition at Waverley.
A wonderful memento of your son’s year at the College, we encourage all families to obtain one copy of this special keepsake, so that together they may reminisce over what happened in this incredible year, and recall forgotten moments through inspiring images and reports.
Should you wish to obtain a copy of the 2022 Year Book, please collect your free, 319-page edition from either the Junior School or Senior School Reception.
Click here to view the digital 2022 Year Book
Our thoughts and prayers are with the Livissianis family at this time. Ben Livissianis, Father of Will (Year 9) and WCOB 1991, sadly passed away recently after battling cancer. May Ben find everlasting peace.
Congratulations to Track & Field Head Coach Mr Jeremy Roff, Convenor Ms Rebecca Gair, and the Waverley Track & Field Team on their performance at the 92nd Annual CAS Track & Field Competition.
There were some errors discovered after the evening and the correct School scores are below. Equal second to the Waverley Team – well done!
Congratulations to Trinity Grammar School on their fine performance.
1 Trinity Grammar School: 687
2 Waverley College: 628
2 Knox Grammar School: 628
4 Barker College: 549
5 Cranbrook School: 507
6 St Aloysius’ College: 499
Evan Rowbotham (Year 8)
Alexander Bissell (Year 7), Ryan McNamara (Year 8), Rory Muldowney (Year 8), Sunny Steyn (Year 8)
Today, our College community bid a fond farewell to the Class of 2023 during their ultimate Graduation Assembly held in the Centenary Quad. Each student was introduced by their respective Head of House, and academic achievers were duly acknowledged. To create a fitting tribute, the students departed the Quad with the resonant melodies of ‘Auld Lang Syne’ performed by our College Brass Band and College Choir.
The College’s celebration and farewell of the Year 12 Cohort extended to include parents, grandparents, siblings, and other significant caregivers at a mass held at Mary Immaculate Church. As part of this touching service, the graduates received meaningful gifts—a Waverley College Old Boys’ Union Tie and a Celtic Cross.
In the evening, the students will savour their Valedictory Dinner at Australian Turf Club, Randwick.
Congratulations, Class of 2023, may your journey be marked by unwavering respect and utmost integrity as you step boldly into the future.
Waverley College extends its best wishes to each young man as they prepare for their upcoming HSC examinations or start their respective apprenticeship.
May you find a life grounded in Virtus Sola Nobilitat – Virtue is its own reward.
Good luck and God Bless.
Luca Holmes: The Ray Aston Memorial Prize for Biology
Wylie Durrans: Construction Equal First
Vasili Malempre: The Alice & Mildred Thomas Prize for English Extension I
Jay Briggs: English Extension II
Wilford Hyde: Food Technology
Arjun Sukumaran: Geography
James Wellington: Hospitality
Jack Heath: Investigating Science
Lenny Joseph: Mathematics Standard Course I
Finlay Chandler: Mathematics Standard Course II
Mackenzie Palmer: Visual Arts
Anderson Franulovich: Visual Design
Daniel Palacio: Spanish Beginners
Jett Wanda: Construction Equal First; Industrial Technology
Kit Armstrong: Design & Technology; Mathematics Advanced
Freddie Le Vay: The Catherine Smithurst Prize for Standard English; Music Course I
Angus Birrell: Equal First Music Course II; Music Extension; Principal’s Award of Excellence
Leo Schmid: English Studies; Marine Studies; Sport Life & Recreation
Jamie Khov: Mathematics Extension I: The Judge Thomas Prize for Mathematics Extension II
Harrison Lee: Sydney Roosters Character and Endeavour Award
Felix Turinui: WF Corbett Award for Best All Round Sportsman
Thomas Shahinian: Archbishop’s Award
James Iatrou: Old Boys’ Union Edmund Rice Award for Leadership of Social Justice
Alistair Isaac: Equal First Music Course II; Max Coleman Memorial Award for Living Out the Touchstones
Connor Andrews: College Vice Captain; Ampol All Rounder Award
Bertie Cottell: College Vice Captain; Reuben F Scarf Award
Sam Stewart: Br R J Wallace Prize for Drama; College Vice Captain; Waverley Council Award for General Proficiency
Lachlan Grant: College Captain; The Inicio Medal for Outstanding and Consistent Growth
Charles Hely-Hammond: The Barry McDonald Prize for Legal Studies; Br P Oakley Prize for PDHPE; PDHPE GHR Award; 3rd in Overall Academic Performance
Jake Perks: The M O’Halloran Prize for Chemistry; Br F S Farrell Prize for Physics; Equal 2nd in Overall Academic Performance
Jack Preller: Business Studies; The Br PA Conlon Prize for Economics; Bishop Patrick Dougherty Prize for Studies Of Religion II; JJ O’Brien Award for Leadership, Study & Involvement; Equal 2nd in Overall Academic Performance
Liam Wood: The Brian Sheedy Prize for Ancient History; The Abram Landa Prize for Advanced English; The George & Elizabeth Thomas Prize for Extension History; Modern History; Bishop Geoffrey F Mayne Prize for Studies Of Religion I; Br LB Tevlin Memorial Prize for Dux of the College.
On Wednesday, our College hosted a special Assembly featuring Mr Kevin Heath, an ambassador for R U OK? and Waverley College Aboriginal Liaison Officer, where we had the privilege of listening to his compelling and inspiring narrative.
Kevin unpacked the R U OK? strategy: ‘Ask, Listen, Encourage Action, and Check-in’ to play our part in building a stronger community.
We also heard from Mrs Maryanne Larkin, mother of Van in Year 12 and former student, Gus. Maryanne’s husband founded R U OK? in response to his own dad’s suicide and then her son Gus was a strong advocate, even whilst he went through his own battle with brain cancer, which he sadly lost in Year 9, 2013. Waverley College has been a proud supporter of R U OK? Day since the very beginning in 2009.
If you would like to know more about the story behind R U OK? you can watch ‘Beyond OK’ on the Australian Story program on ABC iview.
Click here to view Beyond OK on Australian Story
Next Thursday, 14 September we will observe the official R U OK? Day. This is a charity focused on harm prevention, promoting the importance of maintaining connections and engaging in conversations that can provide support to individuals during challenging periods in their lives. This year’s message is particularly poignant: “Ask R U OK? ‘I’m here to hear’ – because a conversation could change a life.”
We were lucky to have the R U OK? Activation van on the campus for the day .
Congratulations, Thomas Shahinian (Year 12), who received the prestigious Archbishop’s Award for Excellence for his service work today (Friday, 8 September 2023). The annual awards were started in 1999 by Cardinal Edward Clancy, to honour leadership qualities and service to school and parish communities.
Nora, Thomas Shahinian (Year 12), and David Shahinian
Two NSW EREA schools, Waverley College and St Dominic’s College in Penrith, have joined three other EREA schools (St Laurence’s College, Brisbane – Parade College, Melbourne – Rostrevor College, South Australia) in forming a partnership with Manchester City Football Club to have a Football academy at our College.
A Manchester City Head Football Coach will be appointed to run the football school and have a positive impact across our entire football program (Years 5 – 12) including coaching development, program and session design and implementation, and mentoring of all Waverley College football coaches.
We have received many messages from the community and a lovely message of encouragement and support from Matilda and Manchester City player, Mary Fowler. Mr Stephen Wilmot will be the Waverley Football Convenor.
We are inviting all current Year 6 students from Waverley College and any school to register for trials. Expressions of interest from other year levels are also being taken from both currently enrolled students and potential students.
Both of these forms along with more information can be found on our website by clicking the button below.
Click here to view more information about the Manchester City Partnership
As Pope Francis highlighted “[e]veryone’s talents and involvement are needed to redress the damage caused by human abuse of God’s creation. All of us can cooperate as instruments of God for the care of creation, each according to his or her own culture, experience, involvements and talents.”
The Students of the World Ecology Group (SOTWEG) are trying to do just that. They are doing everything they can to protect our planet, environmentally and ethically. They are doing the heavy lifting as well as encouraging their peers to do the same. It’s not a small task but they are up for the challenge.
SOTWEG has been busy discussing issues on a weekly basis, every Tuesday lunchtime in Conlon C13 for those who would like to join us. They have been attending conferences to network with other passionate individuals, we are even collaborating with Christian Brothers’ College in Boksburg, South Africa!
Global classroom: collaborating with Christian Brothers’ College in Boksburg, South Africa
Some key initiatives of SOTWEG include combating littering issues on school grounds, saving water and creating native gardens. As we tackle these issues, we will look to contribute to ethical topics also such as homelessness, modern slavery, and equality.
We encourage our wider community to get involved. If you would like to know how you can be part of this cause, please feel free to contact Ms Silvia Baylie directly.
Below are some snapshots from recent events, including some thoughts from our students.
Students attended a conference where they networked with other schools, but they also facilitated a workshop that was very well received. Our passion for ecology was further fuelled by listening to Waverley College Old Boy, Costa Georgiadis (Class of 1980) (Gardening Australia host, Silver Logie Winner, landscape architect and environmental educator).
“The conference was extremely insightful and collaborative. We gained a variety of ideas from other schools to utilise in the future, as well as action plans to use as a path to implement them. However, something I believe was further instilled in us – passion – by Costa Georgiadis in a powerful and incredibly engaging way. Ultimately, the conference instilled a plethora of ideas for future initiatives at Waverley and ignited a spark of collaboration between Edmund Rice Schools. A true highlight of the year so far!” – Kayden Baker
“I had the pleasure of going to Edmund Rice College in Wollongong for the Eco ERC Sustainability Conference. The first session was an introduction of all the schools. Every school presented a three minute video about the initiatives they run. It was interesting to see how different schools focused on different areas of sustainability — litter, waste, water, climate change, recycling. The second session was a brainstorming session. Each school made a mindmap of different ways they could reduce waste in the school grounds, and presented it to the other schools. Some ideas were unrealistic and unhelpful, but they led to discussion that led to a good idea. The third session was a presentation by Gardening Australia’s Costa Georgiadis. He was a really engaging speaker and made me reflect on the best ways to enact change, and how to care for the planet while considering the next seven generations. Another highlight was the sing-along on the bus ride home. “ – James Peate
There were two initiatives that came out of the littering workshop that could work. More planning and design required but definitely potential! Here’s a short clip of James Peate talking about them.
We have a lot of work here! Stop the littering in the first instance and then let’s recycle correctly!
Instead of throwing everything into landfill, the students separated what could be recycled.
These signs have been installed in all of our rooms to help give everyone a friendly reminder to turn everything off as they leave the space.
Remember, all of us can make a difference. Small acts, large impacts.
Ms Silvia Baylie
Engineering and Science Educator, Ecology Coordinator
sbaylie@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Saying goodbye to the Class of 2023’s Year 12 students will be our main focus next week as it marks their last week with us. We eagerly anticipate the opportunity to reflect on their journey before they take a well-deserved break, preparing for the HSC or pursuing their future endeavours, particularly for the HSC Vocational students.
Congratulations on reaching the end of Year 12 and your secondary school life. You have come through a unique couple of years, displaying incredible optimism and resilience.
The events for next week;
As Year 12 students approach their final exams, they grapple with a multitude of stressors, including the pressure to excel, the fear of failure, an overwhelming academic workload, and the uncertainty that looms on the horizon.
In Daniel Merza’s latest article Coping with Exam Stress – A Parent’s Guide, he shares 10 quick tips for parents/carers to help their child manage stress heading into their final exams, avoid distress, and finish Year 12 with tenacity, optimism and empowerment.
Click here to view the 10 tips for parents/carers
Year 12 have been reminded that ‘muck up day’ activities are not permitted as they conclude their journey at Waverley College. If students are found to be attending any parks or public spaces, Graduation events will be cancelled for individuals and groups of students.
Students have also been asked to ensure their uniform and appearance is in line with College expectations.
Students need to adhere to the haircut policy in particular, or they will not be called out and recognised at the Graduation Mass or Assembly. I have included our policy below:
◆ Hair should be neatly cut, combed and maintained. Hair should be shorter than the collar.
◆ Long hair or outlandish styles are not acceptable.
◆ Undercut styles, dramatic layering, tracks, mohawks, mullets, overuse of product, tinting, colouring, dreadlocks, strands of hair, buns, braids or lines are not acceptable.
◆ A number 2 cut is the shortest acceptable cut.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
Understanding the growing challenges related to mental health among young people is an important consideration. Anxiety, depression and self-harm – are all causes for concern. Factors like academic pressure, social media, family dynamics, and societal expectations, are contributing to these issues. It’s therefore crucial for parents and caregivers to take action early, remove the stigma around discussing mental health, and offer accessible support to address these issues and the wellbeing of their children.
R U OK? contributes to suicide prevention year round by urging people to invest time in personal relationships and empowering informal support networks to identify signs of distress. We urge all families to take part, emphasising the value of genuine human relationships and reminding everyone to ask the important question, “Are you OK?”
Engaging in R U OK?Day activities goes beyond the classroom; it’s a commitment to our students’ overall development. By talking openly about mental health, schools create safe spaces where students feel understood, valued, and supported. As parents and caregivers, you can contribute by fostering open conversations, normalising feelings and breaking down mental health stigmas. Participating in R U OK?Day promotes compassion and shows our dedication to the wellbeing of the entire school community, reaffirming that together, we can truly make a difference.
This Special Report provides guidance on how to talk to your child about mental health and engage in meaningful discussions. We hope you take a moment to reflect on the information offered, and as always, we welcome your feedback. If this raises any concerns for you, a loved one or the wellbeing of your child, please consider seeking medical or professional help.
Click here to view the latest Special Report from SchoolTV
Special Report: courtesy SchoolTV.
Everyone experiences low days from time to time. For some of us, it might even feel like we have a dark cloud over our head that never seems to leave. We all differ in how often the low days hang around and how low we feel, but most of us share one thing – we might find it difficult to express what is really going on. We might pretend like everything is fine, dismiss our feelings, or distract ourselves with lots of tasks just to find some sort of relief. Whilst this can be helpful in the short term, emotional masking can lead to exhaustion and a further decline in overall wellbeing. So, what can we do about this if we are feeling this way?
Firstly, it is helpful to acknowledge that feeling low is a normal part of life. While it can feel very difficult, uncomfortable emotions are not something that should be avoided. Our emotions come and go, just as the weather does, and can tell us a myriad of information about our inner experience. By saying “I feel sad/upset/worried” we are acknowledging that we may be feeling a little off balance, without trying to pretend that we are okay, or even minimise what we experience. We are simply letting the feeling have space without trying to change it or get rid of it. This is often the first step in learning to tap into our emotional world.
Our emotions are often felt in our bodies, whether that be noticing a tightness in the chest if we are anxious, or a heavy feeling in our stomachs when we feel guilty or sad. The more we bring our awareness to these sensations, we can start to recognise the things in our day that may activate these feelings. Self-awareness is a vital part of developing our emotional intelligence. Mindful meditation apps such as ‘Smiling Mind’ or ‘Insight Timer’ can help us to practice how to notice these feelings in our bodies, without judgement.
Surrounding yourself with a quality friend or family member can be another helpful step in expressing what might be going on. For some of us, this concept may be very foreign and may even cause more feelings of anxiety or dread – this too is okay. If talking about your feelings with someone seems like a stretch, writing your feelings down or even talking to a pet about how you feel, can be significantly helpful. Expressing what is going on inside, out loud, can often be a relief when we ‘name it to tame it’.
Image reference: he’s-extraordinary.com
If you feel like you would like to chat to someone about your emotions at school, Psychology services are available for students at Waverley College. Feel free to reach out to the Wellbeing Team or your Head of House for further information.
Junior School Psychologists
Senior School Psychologists
Ms Samantha Jessen
Psychologist
sjessen@waverley.nsw.edu.au
We’re excited to announce that Elevate Education will soon host a free webinar for parents/carers.
Elevate Education works with our students, delivering high-impact workshops on study skills, motivation, wellbeing, and exam preparation.
By tuning into their webinar series you will learn how you can help better support your children at home through reinforcing the skills they learn at school.
Here’s what Elevate will cover on the night:
The August 2023 Issue 30 Wavelength magazine is now available to collect for free in soft printed copy, from Senior and Junior School Reception.
Our alumni publication creates an important connection between Waverley College and our wider community of Old Boys, families and friends.
Read about: Rhodes Scholar Leonard King (Class of 1930), the faithful service of Mr Col Blake (Class of 1962), the Conlon marble honour boards restoration, an interview with music educator Mr Chris Blenkinsopp (Class of 1970), our two Federation Star recipients, the future of Science at Waverley, regular spotlights on co-curricular sport and culture, alumni reunions and so much more!
Click to read Wavelength Issue 30, August 2023
Ms Vanessa Witton
Marketing Communications Specialist
vwitton@waverley.nsw.edu.au
This year Book Fair Australia is hosting a short story competition to help young writers develop their craft. All students are invited to participate.
There will be both a children’s category for 12 years and under, and a teens’ category for 13 years and over, so all Waverley College students can participate in this event.
There will be prizes for the first place of each category. The closing date is 25 September, so get your entries in soon!
You can view more information about the competition by clicking the buttons below.
You can also speak to your English Teacher if you are interested.
Sending warm wishes to all fathers, stepfathers, grandfathers, and father figures as we approach Father’s Day this Sunday. We also want to recognise families who have experienced the loss of fathers and grandfathers in this past year and in years before. Our thoughts are with them, especially on a day that might bring challenges.
Father’s Day prompts us to contemplate the significant role that fathers and father figures have in molding character through their affection, guidance, and dedication. They contribute immensely to their children’s social development, fostering connections, empathy, self-control, and good conduct.
I had the pleasure of attending and expressing gratitude to fathers and father figures who joined us this morning at the Senior School’s Father’s Day Breakfast. I thank Mr Stephen O’Donnell for speaking at the Junior School Father’s Day Mass and lunch. I also extend my appreciation to all fathers and father figures for the positive influence they have on their children’s overall health and wellbeing.
Mrs Avril Wheatley who worked in Mrs Brisby’s (Uniform Shop) passed away on Sunday. Avril served the College for over 30 years, 15 years in the capacity of Uniform Shop Manager and 10 years as Swim School Manager, and the rest she gifted as a volunteer. We remember her for being dedicated to the service and care of the College community. Avril had a son Wayne (Class of 1989) and grandson Liam (Class of 2015) at the College. The funeral will be on Thursday, 7 September at 11am at St Joseph’s Bulli.
This week, Year 10 Commerce and Food Tech students hosted Market Day on the senior campus, which was a great success. I congratulate the staff and student organisers who clearly put a lot of thought and effort into their stalls and businesses. Many budding entrepreneurs were in their element, honing their skills.
I also congratulate the whole College who helped create a busy and well-behaved marketplace experience. 1,200 students plus staff, all went about their business in the Centenary Quad with good humour and eyes for a market stall delight.
I am sure there was some parent/carer assistance behind some of the amazing quality food options – thank you! Thank you to Ms Angelique Theodorou for coordinating the wonderful learning opportunity for the students.
We have been very impressed with the leadership, cohesiveness and collaboration shown by this year’s Year 12 cohort thus far. As a community, we seek to support them over their last weeks before they start their HSC examinations or apprenticeship. Teamwork and continuing to have high expectations and support of each other is crucial in the final push.
Trial feedback and second ATAR estimates should be used as motivation to make any necessary adjustments. Students have been encouraged to share resources and notes on a shared Google drive during this final preparation period. HSC tutorials will continue for the remainder of the Term, including the last week of Term and during StuVac.
The College Library will be open each day of the break (8am-4pm). Please encourage your sons to only attend University Libraries for study purposes only, they can be quite social spaces and this is not the time for that.
Year 12s have been given access to Dr Pru Salter’s video on how to plan their study time during final exam preparation. Ms Knowles is the key contact for any student who is seeking an apprenticeship in their chosen field and who has not already accepted one. Her email is kknowles@waverley.nsw.edu.au
R U OK? Is a day and a cause with an extremely close connection to Waverley College. We will be celebrating R U OK? Day next Wednesday, 6 September, even though here at the College we know that everyday is an R U OK? Day, where we can check in with our friends and families and have a meaningful conversation. The message this year is ‘I’m Here to Hear’.
Activities next Wednesday will include;
Let the people in your world know you’re here, to really hear, because a conversation could change a life.
*If Senior School students have any practical TAS lessons scheduled on Wednesday, the students will need to bring their school shoes with them to be able to access the workshops (e.g. Food Tech, Woodwork, Hospitality etc.).
2023 Conlon Prefects
The final House meetings with our Years 11 and 12 students will be on Thursday, 7 September from 8:45am-9:30am.
This is an opportunity for the younger students to farewell the Year 12 students with a special presentation and wish them well as they near the end of their journey at Waverley College.
This is also the last day of classes for Year 11 students as they commence their yearly exams on Friday, 8 September.
Waverley Council is kicking off our Safe Routes to School program, which aims to make walking safer and easier. We’re also looking to encourage parents/carers and children to choose walking, scooting or riding to school.
The well-understood benefits of walking to school include increased physical activity, better concentration in class, and improved wellbeing through a degree of independence. This is in addition to reducing car congestion around schools.
Waverley College has joined in our first round of the program. Achieving this requires teamwork. Council can improve footpaths, install crossings, improve lighting, and other infrastructure and safety upgrades where it’s needed most.
We would like your feedback about the most important upgrades needed so your child can safely travel to school. Please do so via the survey and map by clicking the button below – by 11 September please.
Click here to view and complete the survey
You can use any existing Waverley Council Have Your Say login or create a new one by clicking “Join” on the Have Your Say homepage and following the prompts.
Ms Gabby Smith
Deputy Principal – Students
gsmith@waverley.nsw.edu.au
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
