Waratah Weekly - Term 4, Edition 4 - Friday, 8 November 2024

From the Headmaster

As our College continues to grow, it has become necessary to review our leadership structure to ensure we maintain our commitment to providing an outstanding education for your children. Beginning in 2025, we will introduce two new roles: Head of Primary Years and Head of Secondary Years. These positions will support the Headmaster and Deputy Headmaster in upholding our standards of excellence in Learning, Care and Culture.
I am pleased to announce that Ms Jacqui Huxtable will serve as our Head of Primary Years, and Mr Liam Toland will assume the Head of Secondary Years role. Both Ms Huxtable and Mr Toland have been valued members of our College for many years, bringing extensive leadership skills and experience. I am confident that under their guidance, the College will continue its positive trajectory of growth and development.

At Wollondilly, we expect all leaders—both students and staff—to approach their roles with accountability, humility, and a commitment to service. Our leaders are called to model integrity and character in all they do, and I am certain that Ms Huxtable and Mr Toland share these values deeply.

Please join me in praying for our College Leadership team as we seek to serve God and our communities, striving always to bring glory to Christ.

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

From the Deputy Headmaster

Commencement of Work on Second Entrance at the College
We are pleased to announce that the long-anticipated construction of a second entrance off Olive Lane is about to begin. This project, expected to take approximately nine months, will enhance accessibility and ease traffic flow for our College community.

During this time, construction will start near the Kindergarten classrooms, with substantial progress anticipated over the Summer. This will likely minimise the impact on the College operations. For safety, we kindly remind all students to avoid the designated work zones, which will be clearly marked to ensure safe passage around the site.

Thank you for your support as we work to improve our campus facilities and if you have any questions regarding this project please direct these to Dan Warland, Property Manager.

Safe Storage of Medication
Please remember that any medication students need at the College must be managed by Nurse Sally and Nurse Emma. NSW Health provides guidelines for storing, managing and administering medication and the College follows these guidelines strictly. We also encourage parents to carefully consider how they store and administer medication in the home environment and the access that children can have to this medication. NSW Health, along with the Sydney Children's Hospital Network provide some useful guidance for parents in managing medication at home. 

https://www.schn.health.nsw.gov.au/kids-health-hub/child-safety-and-injury-prevention/medication-safety-kids

Mr Paul Burns
Deputy Headmaster

Community Links Hamper Support

The College has partnered with Community Links in an approach to support families in our community that are struggling or vulnerable. One area in which the College will be providing support in Term 4 is through a collection of non-perishable food items that will be collected by Community Links on Friday, 29 November. The collection of these goods will assist in the formation of Hampers for families in our community who are doing it tough, to make the Christmas period a bit more comfortable.

How Can Our Community Get Involved?
Donate an item from the list below. Collections will take place during Care and Culture Groups from Monday, 25 November to Friday, 29 November.

Each item donated will accrue one House Point.

The House Group that donates the most items across the week will have a Flag Raising and receive Ice Blocks.

The first Care and Culture Group that has all members donate at least one item will be invited with their teacher to a Morning Tea to thank them for their donations.

The items that can be donated are listed below. Please select from these options as they are the requested items by Community Links.

• Tinned Ham
• Cake/Cookie Mix
• Lollies/Chocolate
• Christmas Sweets
• Tinned Vegetables
• Tinned Fruit
• Cereal/Pancake Mix
• Long-life Custard
• Spaghetti/Baked Beans
• Pasta/Rice Sauces
• Pasta/Rice
• Tuna Cans
• Biscuits
• Pudding
• Tea Bags/Coffee
• Jelly Crystals
• Instant Noodles
  
• Bon Bons

Our thematic goal in 2024 has been focused on care, supporting this initiative would be a wonderful demonstration of the importance of caring for those in our community who may not be in as fortunate a position as ourselves.

Mr Liam Toland
Director of Care & Culture T-12

Primary End-of-Year Events

Staff Development Days (Pupil Free) - Thursday, 14 November & Friday, 15 November

Years 3-6 Instrumental afternoon (Invitees only) - Monday, 18 November 

T-2 & Year 4 Instrumental afternoon (Invitees only) - Thursday, 21 November

Year 7 Taster Day (current Year 6 students) - Thursday, 28 November 

Year 6 Graduation Assembly - Monday, 9 December 

Primary Meet Your Teacher afternoon (students only) - Monday, 9 December 

Year 6 Celebration Dinner - Evening of Monday, 9 December

Primary Formal Assembly - Tuesday, 3 December

Primary Presentation Evening - Tuesday, 10 December 

Transition (2-day) Graduation - Tuesday, 10 December 

Transition (3-day) Graduation - Wednesday, 11 December

Year 6 Survivor Day (for current and new students) - Wednesday, 11 December 

Christmas Chapel (Parents Welcome) - Thursday, 12 December 

Ms Jacqui Huxtable 
Director of Teaching and Learning T-6

Remembrance Day

As we approach Remembrance Day, a time dedicated to honouring the sacrifices made by our armed forces, it is important for us as a College Community to reflect on the significance of this day and engage in meaningful acts of remembrance.

What is Remembrance Day?
Remembrance Day, observed on 11 November each year, marks the anniversary of the armistice that ended World War I in 1918. This day serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made by countless men and women who have served in the armed forces, not only during the Great War but in all conflicts that followed. It is estimated that over 60,000 Australian soldiers lost their lives during World War I alone, a staggering loss that resonates deeply within our national consciousness. Remembrance Day is dedicated to commemorating the bravery of those who fought for our freedom, while also promoting peace and reconciliation. Through ceremonies, moments of silence, and community involvement, we come together to honour their legacy and reflect on the importance of service, courage, and the pursuit of a more peaceful world.

Why is Remembrance Day Significant?
Remembrance Day holds a profound significance as it honours the sacrifices made by members of the armed forces who served during times of war. Each year, on 11 November at 11.00 am, we pause to reflect on the courage and dedication of those who fought for our freedom and peace. This day serves not only as a remembrance of the past but also as a reminder of the ongoing importance of service, sacrifice, and the values that bind our community together.

In a world that often takes peace for granted, Remembrance Day encourages us to recognise the hardships faced by veterans and their families. It prompts us to express our gratitude and to reflect on the lessons learned from history. By remembering those who served, we also commit to fostering a spirit of unity and respect within our community.

What Will Be Happening at the College to Mark Remembrance Day?
Our College will be actively participating in Remembrance Day commemorations with several meaningful activities planned throughout the day:

Nursing Home Service Involvement: Continuing a cherished College tradition, our College Captains (Eloise Turkington and Estelle Kluit) will visit local nursing homes to engage with residents and share stories of valour and sacrifice. This initiative not only honours veterans but also fosters intergenerational connections within our community.

PA Announcement and Moment of Silence: At 11.00 am, all students and staff will participate in a moment of silence following a special announcement by the Community Service Prefects (Jessalyn Smiltnieks and Kye James). This solemn occasion allows us to reflect on the significance of the day and pay our respects to those who have served.

ANZAC Biscuits for Sale: During Break 1, Secondary students can purchase ANZAC biscuits for $1 each from the Trade Skills Kitchen. The proceeds will be donated to a charity focused on Remembrance Day initiatives, allowing our students to contribute to a worthy cause while enjoying a delicious treat.

Wear a Red Poppy: We encourage all students and staff to wear a red poppy as a symbol of remembrance. The red poppy has become a universal emblem of sacrifice, representing the blood shed by soldiers in conflicts throughout history.

Flags at Half-Mast: As a mark of respect, our College flags will be flown at half-mast from 10.30 am to 11.30 am in accordance with the official Australian Defence Force recommendation. This gesture signifies our collective remembrance and acknowledgement of those who have served.

Together, let us honour the spirit of Remembrance Day by participating in these activities and reflecting on the sacrifices made by so many. Through our collective remembrance, we ensure that their legacy endures in our hearts and minds, fostering a community that values peace, service and compassion.

Kye James & Jessalyn Smiltnieks 
College Community Service Prefects 

Overall House Shield

The Overall House Shield recognises all students' contributions 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 based on just the Award System.

1. Grevillea - 4963
2. Acacia - 4620
3. Telopea - 4603
4. Sollya - 4590
5. Wollemi - 4587

Mr Liam Toland
Director of Care & Culture T-12

Primary Sports

Term 4 IPSSO - Summer Competition: 
Next few weeks of IPSSO in Term 4 (note switch to Summer competition)

• 13 November - HOME vs Broughton Anglican College
• 20 November - SUMMER finals

Mr James Gooden
Secondary English Teacher/Primary Sports Coordinator

MADDDD Night 2024

The theme of this year's Music, Art, Dance, Drama, Deutsch and Design Night (MADDDD Night) is Pure Imagination, and we have some exciting performances and displays to share with you. All students from elective Creative Arts and Languages and Year 10 Textiles have been working towards this event in classes. 

This year's MADDDD Night is set to be held on Wednesday, 20 November 2024 in the Warne Auditorium. The event will commence at 5.00 pm. It is anticipated that the event will conclude by 8.00 pm. 

All students from Year 9-11 elective Music, Art, Dance, Drama and German, along with Year 10 Textiles, will be performing or exhibiting. They will be joined by a few selected Year 7 & 8 performers and other students who are helping as curators, models and crew. Work from our Year 7 & 8 students completed in Visual Arts, German and Music will also be on display.

Performers, curators, models and crew will remain at the College after the normal College day to complete final preparations and will be supervised by their teachers. Parents will receive a permission note for this activity shortly and we ask that you respond to it promptly to assist us with planning. Students whose work is purely on display/exhibition do not need to stay after hours and are encouraged to come along for the commencement of the event at 5.00 pm.

Students involved are to bring any props/costumes or materials required to the College on the day, as well as afternoon tea.

Mrs Sarah Talbot
Leader of Learning - Creative Arts & LOTE

Performing Arts News

Music Tuition - AMEB Exam Results
Congratulations to two students who have just recently received their AMEB Piano Examination results. Max Addison, successfully passed his Grade 1 piano exam, and Torin Ford-McGuire passed his Grade 4 piano exam with Credit. Special mention to their piano tutor Mrs Steph Dwyer who has supported the students as they prepared for these exams.

Music Tuition - Week 5 Timetable
Due to ongoing Primary Assessments into Week 5, a new timetable has been generated for Week 5. All Music Tutors are aware of this change and have been asked to pass on these changes to the parents and students. If your child has Music Tuition, their lesson times may be different during these weeks, in order to navigate around the necessity of the Primary assessments. This will affect both Primary and Secondary students. 

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Mr Grant (l.grant@wac.nsw.edu.au).

Mr Lloyd Grant
Performing Arts Coordinator T-12

Student Achievement - Jackson Welsh

A huge congratulations to Jackson Welsh of Year 10 who completed his first solo flight piloting of a Citabria aircraft from Camden airport last weekend. After commencing his study as a student pilot in 2022, Jackson has worked hard to achieve this goal which has involved intensive training, multiple exams on Aviation Law and Radio Communications, Civil Aviation Safety Authority Class 1 and Class 2 Medical Certificates, plus many hours of theoretical study and practical training. Congratulations Jackson!

We're Hiring - 2025

We are currently seeking applications for the following roles to commence in 2025:

• Performing Arts Coordinator T-12
• TAS Teacher 7-12
• Music Teacher
• Maths Teacher
• Administration Assistant/Receptionist

For further information on any of the permanent positions, please contact Mr Geoff Adams on 02 4684 2577 or at g.adams@wac.nsw.edu.au

SunSmart App

Families can have fun in the outdoors over Summer and protect their skin from sun damage at the click of a button.

The SunSmart app helps people check the UV levels at any location so they can use the right protection. You can set up daily alerts to tell you the times when sun protection is needed.

Features include:

• UV and sun protection alerts each day
• Alerts to remind you about sun protection times
• Sunscreen calculator and a two-hour reminder to top up
• Four-day forecast of sun protection times and weather information
• Latest information from SunSmart
• Option to create unique alerts that suit your schedule and location
• Seven-day forecast of sun protection times and weather information
• Live UV levels across Australia and the world

https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/causes-and-prevention/sun-safety/be-sunsmart/sunsmart-app

Remember to apply high-quality SPF sunscreen to your child/ren before each College day. Pack extra sunscreen in your child's bag and encourage them to get into a good habit of reapplying sunscreen during the day. 

Mrs Sally Lloyd
College Nurse

Aspect Education

Aspect Education, who specialises in providing autism-specific classes/education, is opening up a new campus at Hill Top PS. If you or you know of any families in the Highlands and surrounding area would like to know more information, please contact Aspect Macarthur School on (02) 4651 3900 or email macarthur@aspect.org.au

Mr Stuart McIntosh
Advanced Learning & Learning Support Coordinator T-12

SSTS School Bus Passes for 2025

Bus Update - S860 Rosella Change to Bus Stop in Greenbridge Dr

From the College Chaplain

The College Learner Disposition focus for Term 4 is Reflective. This is a habit that we are working on developing and cultivating in our students.

What comes to mind when you hear, 'Christmas'? Perhaps it's food, presents, Christmas lights, decorations, or the Summer of cricket? Maybe it's family or friends? When we hear the word Christmas it's like the accelerator in a car is pressed. All these thoughts and memories come flooding in. A key part of reflection is taking the time to filter through these things. Part of that is asking good questions, like the one we're asking now. What makes Christmas, Christmas?

This week our Year 12 Christian Prefects, Ada Schultz and Estelle Kluit, took the time to ask students in Transition (Pre-K) what Christmas means to them. It was a great time full of fun and laughs. We got to hear all about the excitement regarding presents, food, family and fun. Amongst all these good things, the students consistently reminded us that the Christmas story is all about Jesus; about him coming into this world so that we can be friends with God.

It was a great reminder for me, that among all the good things that Christmas brings, food, fun and fellowship, the most important thing, what it's all about, is Jesus.

What about you?

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

P&F Gingerbread House Fundraiser

The College P&F are excited to be running a Gingerbread House Christmas Fundraiser!

Get your family together to create your very own masterpiece, all from the comfort of your home!

Delicious premium-quality Gingerbread House Kits from Gingerbread Folk include gingerbread parts, baseboard, quick-drying royal icing (in powdered form to use at your leisure) and instructions – presented in one neat carry box!

Library News

Library borrowing ends Friday, 15 November, the end of Week 5.

Books will then be returned in Weeks 6 and 7 for our end-of-year Stocktake.

Your assistance in this matter is greatly appreciated.

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

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.

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! Volunteering for 45 minutes just 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.

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

College Sponsors

Platinum Sponsors

SIMEC Tahmoor Coking Coal

Little Elves Childcare Centre

LOWES

Gold Sponsors

• PB Catering
• Prestige Landscape & Construction

Silver Sponsors

• Picton Eyecare
• Kwik Kopy Macarthur
• Momenta Advisors
• Thronton Bros Roses

Bronze Sponsors

• Narellan Pools
  
• NSW Rail Museum
  
• ESP Security

Community News

Thriving Together with ADHD Workshops

Community Links Wellbeing and Brief Therapy Solutions have come together to develop and implement a program to assist parents in the Camden LGA with children displaying traits of ADHD, or diagnosed with ADHD and not receiving NDIS.

Many parents fall through the cracks for support when it comes to this area and are on long waitlists to see specialised services and receive support, often struggling with parenting their ADHD child and their behaviours due to the immense stress they are experiencing.

Parents know their children best and it is our aim to raise further awareness on the topic by providing parents with some general support through education and some strategies (where possible) to help maintain their needs and support family connections whist they wait to see their specialist/practitioner.  

Each workshop will allow opportunity for parents and carers to present their questions to the speaker/s either on the booking form or at the session

The workshops will run each Thursday, 24^th October 2024 to 28^th November 2024. The location is proposed for Julia Reserve at Oran Park

We currently have the following workshop speakers:

• 14/11/2024 Communication and School Support- Dept of Education and Speech Pathologist Libby Duffy- Community Links Wellbeing
• 21/11/2024 ADHD in the Family Context by Dr Steve Walker- Brief Therapy Solutions
• 28/11/2024 Understanding the relationship between ADHD and Eating Habits by Fofe Vrettos APD MNutri & Diet BSC (Nutr) Bowral Nutrition

Expressions of Interest/ Booking information and QR code are on the flyer or via this link https://forms.office.com/r/xV9w70icMe

Wilton Warriors FC

Mittagong Junior Disco  

Date: Saturday, 30 November   
Times: 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm
Venue: Mittagong RSL – Bessemer Street, Mittagong
Cost: $5.00
Ages: 0-14

Please note: This is a CASH ONLY and Alcohol-Free event.

All money raised goes back to the children in the Southern Highlands community.  

We hope to see you there. 

Chris and Sandra Roberson - and the amazing committee of the Mittagong Junior Disco. 

 FULLY SUBSIDISED SAFER DRIVERS COURSE 

Southern Highlands PCYC and Wollondilly Shire Council are offering a Fully Subsidised Safer Drivers Course for Wollondilly Residents Aged 16-25.

The course is TWO modules and after completion, participants will receive a 20-hour reduction off their Learner Log Book.

WHAT’S IN IT FOR ME?

 Fully Subsidised Safer Drivers Course valued at $140

 20 hours off your logbook

 Fundamental information & training on safe driving

Want to book your spot?

 Email southernhighlands@pcycnsw.org.au with your contact details.

 Courses are running once a month. Please contact PCYC for dates and times.

Judy Hannan MP for Wollondilly Christmas Card Photo Competition. 

Educator Info Night - Wollondilly Family Day Care

Moss Vale Parents & Carers Tour - Education Pathways Program