Waratah Weekly - Term 2, Edition 5 - Friday, 31 May 2024

TASC College Review

I want to thank all our parents and carers who completed the surveys in the lead-up to our College Review. Wollondilly Anglican College had the highest participation rate of any previous school, so well done and thank you! Your opinion and insights are invaluable to our College as we continue to look towards the future. The good news is that the College is tracking well. In the next three weeks, I will receive a comprehensive report which will provide valuable insights about the College. While there will be many positives, I know there will also be areas where improvement is needed. I will be spending considerable time analysing the valuable responses of our parents regarding many areas of the College. Again, there will be many areas to celebrate as well as areas to investigate further and consider what actions we can take to make improvements in these specific areas. The surveys we received from students and staff are also important to explore in more detail. All of this information will assist our College Council and Leadership Teams in planning for the future.

As we plan for the future, we continue to submit all of our plans to God. He promises to give us the wisdom we need, and we trust that He will guide us through any challenge we face.

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

From the Deputy Headmaster

Traffic Management
I would like to thank the community for the ongoing patience that is shown in the morning drop-off and afternoon pick-up. Please note:

• Parents should not be leaving their cars in the ‘Kiss and Drop’ area outside White Cottage. Please make sure you are vacating that area quickly to maintain traffic flow.
  
• Parents shouldn’t be dropping students off in the bus bay. We have a constant flow of buses in the morning and it is dangerous for buses and cars to be sharing this area
  
• Drivers should not be using the Simec Tahmoor Coking Coal driveway (the mine across the road) as a turning bay. This is creating difficulties for the Mine’s trucks entering and exiting. Please avoid using their driveway.
  

Baby News
We would like to pray for and wish Mrs Hamdan and Mrs Barnes well for the coming weeks as they prepare for the birth of their babies. They both will commence their leave at the start of Week 6.

Mr Paul Burns
Deputy Headmaster

Teaching and Learning 7-12

Year 10 into Year 11 Elective Seminar and Information Evening - Wednesday, 12 June
Our Year 10 students will begin the process of thinking about their curriculum pathway for 2025, by attending an Information Session on Wednesday, 12 June which will be held during the College Day. Students will hear from a range of staff on how to ensure adequate time management and organisation skills for Stage 6. They will be given specific information from the College’s Careers Advisor and will then have an opportunity to hear from specific Leaders of Learning about a range of subjects. Parents are invited to attend an Information Evening with their child on the same day starting at 6.00 pm in the Warne Auditorium. By attending this evening, parents will gain an understanding of the process of subject selection and how they can support their child in this process. At the end of the Information Evening, parents and students will have the opportunity to talk to specific Leaders of Learning about their subjects of choice. 

Year 8 into Year 9 Seminars and Information Evening - Thursday, 20 June
Our Year 8 students will undergo a similar process, as they begin to think about their curriculum pathways. Students will attend Information Sessions on Thursday, 20 June and parents will be invited to an Information Evening on the same night in the Warne auditorium starting at 6.00 pm. Students will hear about various subjects and options and will have the opportunity to talk to the Leaders of Learning in each of the key areas. 

Year 11/12 Half-Yearly Reports  
Our Year 11 and Year 12 Reports have been uploaded to Edumate. Students are encouraged to review these reports with their parents/caregivers. The Reports will have a survey/reflection document to fill in, during Care & Culture Groups next week. Students should focus on setting goals around their learning as they enter their second semester. Parents are encouraged to review this Report with their children and discuss their progress.

Singapore Collaboration Visit 
This week, the College welcomed staff and students from Singapore Anglican High School. This was the school’s second visit to WAC. The students attended classes over their two days and came together to work on a ‘future-focused project’ with WAC students. Through this project, students worked on problems that both countries currently face and tried to find suitable solutions. Students also had an opportunity for cultural sharing – learning about each other’s countries and education systems and even learnt a traditional Singaporean song and actions. Students shared recess and lunch and played a variety of traditional Singaporean games. The final collaboration involved an off-site visit to some of Australia's beautiful coastline and finished with a dinner held at the College.

The College plans to visit Singapore in 2025. Expressions of interest regarding this trip will be opened soon. Students should ensure that they read their Edumate Broadcasts for the dates and EOI advertised shortly. 

Reflection from Kiah Evans – Middle Captain 
Over the past three days, we have all shared countless moments of joy and laughter. From our ice breaker games, our collaboration research projects, learning the words and actions to a fun new song, to going on a bushwalk and then exploring the natural landscape of Australian coastline in Kiama. We have had the opportunity to engage in lively discussions and cultural exchanges.

We have created memories that will last a lifetime. We've laughed together, learned from one another, shared stories, played traditional Singaporean games and built friendships that will be cherished in our hearts forever. Our time together has been marked by new learning, meaningful connections and most importantly friendship.
We hope that our Singaporean friends have learnt a lot about our College and Australia in the process and will take home fond memories of ANZAC biscuits, lamingtons, sausage sizzles and some Aussie slang such as G’Day mate, fair dinkum and arvo.

We will remember most and celebrate the bonds we have formed and the wonderful experiences we've had.

To the WAC staff who have assisted in putting this experience together we thank you. Thank you to Mr Grant and Mrs Evans for organising. To Mr Furniss for all the catering, Mrs Frederiksen for decorating the dinner and many other jobs, to the office staff for many background jobs that just happen, Mr Adams and Mrs Shelley who assisted with tours.

We wish the Singaporean staff and students safe travels on the rest of your Australian journey and we pray that the rest of your experience will be rich and rewarding. We look forward to 2025, when Wollondilly will look to visit your School, meet more of your staff and connect again with the students.

Mrs Kelly Evans
Director of Teaching & Learning 7-12

Learner Disposition - Resourceful

We continue our Term 2 Learner Disposition of being Resourceful.

Rick Allen: Def Leppard's Drummer Exemplifies Resourcefulness
On Monday at the Secondary Assembly, Mr Grant provided a clear example of resourcefulness as exhibited by Rick Allen.

Rick Allen's name stands out not just for his exceptional drumming skills with the legendary band Def Leppard, but also for his inspiring demonstration of resourcefulness. This characteristic, often essential for overcoming adversity and achieving success, is beautifully illustrated by Allen's journey following a life-altering accident.

Triumph Over Tragedy
On 31 December 1984, Rick Allen's life changed forever. A devastating car accident resulted in the loss of his left arm, an unimaginable blow for a professional drummer. Many might have thought his career was over, but Allen's response to this setback is a testament to his resourcefulness, embodying the spirit of not just surviving but thriving in the face of adversity.

Innovative Adaptation
Instead of resigning to defeat, Allen chose to adapt. He didn't view his disability as the end of his drumming career but as a challenge to overcome. Demonstrating incredible resourcefulness, he worked with engineers to develop a custom drum kit that allowed him to play using his feet and right arm. This new setup included electronic pedals that triggered various drum sounds, enabling him to maintain his dynamic drumming style.

Persistence and Creativity
Allen's journey showcases how resourcefulness is intertwined with creativity and persistence. He had to rethink his entire approach to drumming, essentially relearning his craft with a new set of tools. This process required not only physical adjustment but also mental resilience. His willingness to explore uncharted territories and devise innovative solutions underscores the essence of resourcefulness.

Inspiring Others
Rick Allen's story extends beyond his personal triumph. His resourcefulness has inspired countless individuals facing their own challenges. By publicly sharing his journey, Allen has become a beacon of hope, illustrating that with determination and creativity, seemingly insurmountable obstacles can be overcome. He frequently engages in motivational speaking, sharing his experiences and encouraging others to tap into their inner resourcefulness.

Legacy of Resilience
Allen's continued success with Def Leppard is a powerful reminder of the impact of resourcefulness. The band's enduring popularity and Allen's celebrated drumming are testaments to his ability to adapt and innovate. His legacy is not just one of musical excellence but also of an unyielding spirit that transforms challenges into opportunities.

Conclusion
Rick Allen's story is a compelling example of how resourcefulness can turn adversity into achievement. His innovative approach to drumming post-accident highlights the importance of adaptability, creativity, and persistence. As a result, he has not only continued to contribute to the world of music but has also inspired many to embrace their challenges with a resourceful mindset. In doing so, Allen proves that resourcefulness is not just a disposition but a powerful tool for overcoming life's toughest trials.

Mr Liam Toland
Director of Care & Culture T-12

Care & Culture - House Points

Overall House Shield Pointscore
The Overall House Shield recognises the contributions of all students at the College in belonging to their House group. It caters for the range of abilities students have and allows them to contribute in areas of strength, not just in a sporting context. The House Shield total is derived from Carnival Points, the Award System, Community Service and Fundraising activities and involvement in College life. 

Below is the current point score just based on the Award System.

1. Grevillea - 1847
2. Acacia - 1725
3. Sollya - 1706
4. Wollemi - 1685
5. Telopea - 1670

SRC House Competition Round 2 results

• Telopea defeated Grevillea 22-13 MVP Beau Riashi
• Wollemi defeated Acacia 21-2 MVP Caylen Goldsbrough
  
• Round 3 Matches
  
  • Break 1 Acacia vs Grevillea
  • Break 2 Telopea vs Sollya
    Wollemi - Bye
    

Mr Liam Toland
Director of Care & Culture T-12

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Performing Arts News

Showcase Evening - Friday, 21 June
Our Performing Arts Showcase Evening event is approaching. Most of our Performing Arts groups across the College have been preparing items to perform and showcase. The Showcase Evening will be under the Shoulder to Shoulder Shelter commencing at 4.30 pm and we anticipate that it will conclude at approximately 6.00 pm. 

A small dinner will also be available for families at the conclusion of the event. 

Parents should receive a notification via the College App soon with finer details of the event.

TASC Choral Festival 2024 - Thursday, 6 June
Students in the Primary Choir and College Choir are travelling to Thomas Hassall Anglican College next Thursday, 6 June to participate in the TASC Choral Festival. This festival celebrates all things singing and I am looking forward to hearing all about this wonderful opportunity from the students and staff attending. A notification regarding this event has already been sent to parents via the College App. Students and staff will meet on the Front Lawn by 8.00 am to leave straight away and return later that afternoon, approximately 4.00 pm.

MISA Dance Festival 2024 - Tuesday, 25 June
The WAC Dance Company will be travelling to The Cube @ Campbelltown Catholic Club on Tuesday, 25 June to participate in the MISA Dance Festival. Parents should receive a notification via the College App soon.

A general reminder that there is an extended rehearsal next week on Tuesday, 4 June and two weeks later on Tuesday, 18 June that all students in the Dance Company are expected to attend. This has been communicated via the College App.

Mr Lloyd Grant
Performing Arts Coordinator T-12/Music Teacher

We're Hiring!

Due to the ongoing growth of the College, we are currently seeking applications for the following roles to commence in 2024:

• Leader of Learning - Science 7-12 (Leadership 2 Position)
• HSIE Teacher 7-12
• English Teacher 7-12
• Science Teacher 7-12 (Maternity Leave Position)

For further information on any of the permanent positions, please contact Mr Geoff Adams on 02 4684 2577

Year 8 Electronic Music Workshop

Last week, Year 8 students participated in an exciting Electronic Music workshop hosted by Elk Elektronik. The workshop introduced them to the fundamentals of synthesisers, covering oscillators, filters and envelopes.

Students began by experimenting with basic waveforms like saw, square, and triangle, learning how each shape forms the basis of electronic sounds. They then explored sound modification through filters and envelope generators, manipulating parameters to create unique sounds.

The highlight was the hands-on session where students, in small groups, crafted their own electronic music patterns. Guided by Elk Elektronik instructor Ed, they applied their new knowledge to create and showcase their sounds.

The workshop not only educated but also inspired many students to pursue electronic music further. We extend our thanks to Elk Elektronik for an engaging and impactful experience, setting a foundation for our students' future musical endeavours.

Mr Lloyd Grant
Performing Arts Coordinator T-12/Music Teacher

MISA Drama PIP Day

Last week, our students in Year 10, 11 and 12 Drama participated in MISA Drama PIP Day. PIP Day provides an opportunity for Drama students in each MISA School to make connections with like-minded students and hone their play-building skills. 

Play-building is a core practice within the Drama curriculum which requires students to work with others to generate performance through workshopping ideas (not from an existing script) and is a skill that is specifically assessed in the HSC. 

This valuable experience had a focus on building character through the purposeful use of gaze and movement. Students made puppets from paper and were able to create mimed performances with them. These evoked an emotional response from the audience - pretty extraordinary when you consider that we felt empathy for the plight of a piece of paper. 

Our students were highly engaged and were able to bring back with them their new play-building skills, as well as their treasured paper puppets back to the College.

Mrs Sarah Talbot
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts & LOTE

Transition Parent-Teacher Interviews - 4 & 5 June

We are looking forward to meeting parents/carers at our Transition Parent-Teacher Interviews to be held face-to-face at White Cottage on:

Koko/Toto: Tuesday, 4 June from 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm

Tembo/Twiga: Wednesday, 5 June from 3.00 pm to 6.00 pm 

Details for how to book these interviews have been emailed to families.

If you have any further questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at t.turner@wac.nsw.edu.au

Mrs Tracy Turner
Leader of Learning Care & Culture - Early Stage 1

U-Turn the Wheel Warne Carpark Disruption

On Thursday, 6 and Friday, 7 June we will be running U-Turn the Wheel, a local driver education program for our students in Years 10-12.

Please be aware that on Thursday, 6 June the Warne Carpark will be used for the program and therefore unavailable for parking. There will be limited parking available in Warne on Friday, 7 June.

Mr Joshua Hewitt
Leader of Learning PDHPE

Term 2 Family Chapel - Thursday, 27 June

Our second Family Chapel of the year will be for Years 7-9 and their families. The evening will begin at 6.00 pm on Thursday, 27 June in the Warne Auditorium. 

Dinner will be available from 5.00 pm, however, these must be pre-ordered through the Trybooking link below.

https://www.trybooking.com/CRTII

We will gather together to hear student stories about the impact the gospel has had on them, along with hearing a gospel focused message. 

Finally, donations of gold coins or non-perishable food items will be accepted at the rear of the Auditorium. These will be used by the WAC Kids Care team to prepare nourishing meals for those in our community who are struggling with illness or hardship. House Points will also be given which will go towards the House Shield.

Useful items to be donated to WAC Kids Care:

• Tinned Tomatoes
• Dry Pasta
• Dry Lentils
• Rice
• Curry Paste
• Herbs and spices
• Stock - Chicken/Beef
• Tinned Tuna
• Tinned beans (Kidney, Three Bean, Black Beans)

We look forward to seeing you there.

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

From the College Chaplain

The College Learner Disposition focus for Term 2 is being Resourceful. This is a habit that we are working on developing and cultivating in our students. Enduring and persevering with challenges in learning, character and faith all support these areas to grow.

Let me paint a picture for you. It's the end of a long week and you're looking forward to relaxing, you get home, you're tired and starving. You head to the pantry and the first thing you notice is an unopened packet of Tim Tams - Jackpot!! You can't rip the packet open fast enough and before you know it, a third of the packet has disappeared. You pause, re-evaluate and then continue. In no time at all, the packet has disappeared. Can you relate? I know I've done this many times! The instant gratification and delight in the chocolate deliciousness brings a level of satisfaction and joy. But the joy doesn't last and if you're anything like me, that joy quickly turns to regret, to the repeated question going around in my mind, "Why didn't I stop?" With that question reverberating around my head, the next phase I experience is feeling slightly sick because of the amount of chocolate I've eaten. Part of the message in this story is that what I think is good for me, isn't necessarily so.

Interestingly the author of Ecclesiastes contends that this perpetual pursuit of satisfaction in 'things' is something that is hardwired into the human condition. In Ecclesiastes 6:7 we read, "Everyone’s toil is for their mouth, yet their appetite is never satisfied". The alternative that the book of Ecclesiastes presents is to look beyond the things of this physical world and into something beyond. The something beyond according to Ecclesiastes is the author and creator of all, the Alpha and Omega, the giver of all things - the Lord God. I encourage you, if you, like the rest of humanity, are looking for lasting contentment, joy and satisfaction, look to the only place you can find it - a relationship with the Lord God Almighty. The good news is that He has revealed Himself to us in the person of Jesus. Have a great weekend!

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

Please Keep Children Home If Unwell

P&F Clothing Pool

The Clothing Pool offers a selection of pre-loved uniform items from Transition to Year 12 at very reasonable prices. We also stock new ties and socks for purchase. The Clothing Pool relies on donations of uniforms and needs volunteers to keep the Clothing Pool open.

Donations can be left at the Clothing Pool during opening hours or at Student Reception at other times.

Payment: Card Only (no cash)
Location: White Cottage through the side windows
Monday to Friday 7.45 am to 8.30 am
Phone: (02) 4623 0286
Email: clothingpool@wac.nsw.edu.au

Have you been wanting to help out at the College but don’t have much time to spare?
The Clothing Pool is looking for volunteers! It only takes 45 minutes of your time, one morning a week. Is a great, quick and simple way to really help the WAC community. Training provided (but it’s so easy!) A great way to meet other parents. Volunteers are needed for Monday - Friday mornings between 7.45 am to 8.30 am. If you are able to help at all please get in contact (number above).

Mrs Cristina Negi and Mrs Amanda Coles
P&F Clothing Pool Coordinators

WAC P&F Golf Day - Friday, 1 November

College Sponsors

Community News

Suicide Prevention Workshop

First Nations Dance Workshop

Pink High Tea McGrath Foundation - Sunday, 11 August - 11.00 am

Join us for a Memorial High Tea held at the Picton Masonic Hall. All money raised will fund specialist McGrath Breast Care Nurses to ensure no one goes through breast cancer without care. Get together with eight of your friends and try to fill your own table. Wear a touch of pink or go all-out with prizes for best dressed. Bring your change purse for pink merchandise, raffles and silent auctions. Lucky door prizes to be won! Tickets are $40.00 each, please email for payment details; Pictonhightea@hotmail.com

RSVP Today