Waratah Weekly - Term 1, Edition 3 - Friday, 14 February 2025

Student Engagement

It's hard to believe that we're already at the end of Week 3! Seeing our students settle into effective learning routines so quickly has been wonderful. A key factor in their success is "engagement", which we're focusing on closely. Our teachers are continually developing their skills in encouraging and challenging students to engage fully in every lesson.

Engagement goes beyond simply completing assigned work, although that's certainly important. Authentic engagement means actively participating in all aspects of learning. This can involve anything from answering questions in class and discussing ideas with a partner (during teacher-led activities) to thoughtfully considering concepts before writing.

Our teachers utilise a range of strategies to foster engagement, such as "cold calling" (where any student might be asked to answer a question) and "everybody writes" (where all students write a response before answers are shared). These techniques encourage active participation and deeper thinking. The ultimate goal of every lesson is to maximise learning and increased engagement is directly linked to this.

We encourage you to discuss with your child the importance of actively participating in class. Ask them about the strategies their teachers use and how they can contribute more effectively. We value your partnership in supporting your child's learning journey and appreciate your ongoing support.

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

Secondary Years News

As seen in the table below, these are the recommended hours students at Wollondilly Anglican College should be allocating to completing homework.

The value of homework is widely debated, however research does support its value when used effectively. One area that is supported by research is in relation to the benefit of homework in improving academic achievement. As evidenced by Harris Cooper (2006) whose research demonstrated a positive correlation between homework and academic performance, particularly in Mathematics and Science. Furthermore, Graham and Hebert (2010) concluded that homework activities that focus on summarising or analysing texts improve reading comprehension more than just reading alone. Thus the completion of structured writing responses as part of homework is beneficial. 

As we commence our focus on our thematic goal - Embed a culture of academic achievement, I would encourage parents to support both the College and their child to complete set homework. This plays an important role in working toward this outcome.

Care
As discussed, the College has a significant focus on care. This is evidenced by the provision of staff who focus specifically on this in varying areas. Two staff members with specific roles related to care are:

• Mr Mitchell Barnes - College Educational Psychologist
• Mr Matt Roberts - College Chaplain

Mr Barnes has a role that focuses on group-based pro-active approaches to support student wellbeing. Mr Roberts has a focus on supporting the spiritual development and understanding of students.

If you would like to know more, please feel free to contact them to discuss.

• Mr Mitchell Barnes - m.barnes@wac.nsw.edu.au
• Mr Matt Roberts - m.roberts@wac.nsw.edu.au

Culture
One of the ways culture is promoted is through the recognition of students at the College. The College award system reinforces this through a system that accumulates across the course of the year. 

Students can be recognised for:

• Academic Effort and Achievement
• Sport
• College Contribution
• Community Service

Every award accrues one point toward the Overall House Shield. Points are added to this from all House-based activities across the year, with the winning House announced on Presentation Morning at the end of the year. This ensures that students who have strengths outside the traditional House area of sport, can contribute to and belong to their House Group.

Secondary Happenings - Term 1 Week 4

• Wednesday, 19 - Friday, 21 February - Year 7 Camp
• Wednesday, 19 February Year 12 SOC & SOR Auburn Gallipoli Mosque Visit
• Thursday, 20 February Year 10 Visual Arts: AGNSW Artists at Work
• Saturday, 22 February Scholarship Exams 

Save the date

• Saturday, 15 March College Prayer Breakfast 8.00 am - 9.00 am
• Saturday, 15 March College Working Bee 8.00 am - 1.00 pm
  

Mr Liam Toland
Head of Secondary Years

Primary News

K-6 Parent Teacher Interviews - 18 & 20 March
We will have our first Parent Teacher Interviews in March. This enables early communication about how students have started the year and how they are travelling so far. It is essential for our booking system, that emails and details on Edumate are correct. Please check and update (if needed) your details on Edumate. Information regarding times and bookings will be sent via email.

For your planning, the times will be:

• Tuesday, 18 March 3.00 pm - 5.00 pm
• Thursday, 20 March 3.00 pm - 7.30 pm.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Reading Support Volunteers Needed
As outlined at the Primary Information & Meet the Teacher Evening, we are looking at setting up a group of parents/grandparents/others who have the time to come in and listen to students read. We would provide the training required. We have already had some willing volunteers indicate their interest. Even if all you have is an hour a week, this could be helpful.

If you are interested in volunteering, please email Cherie Wilk (c.wilk@wac.nsw.edu.au) by Thursday, 20 February. Once we have our list we will send out further information to determine your availability and provide other information. Adults who assist in the College need to have a Working With Children Check volunteer number. (Free for volunteers).

Ms Jacqui Huxtable 
Head of Primary Years

Teaching & Learning 7-12

Assessment Booklets Years 7-11 2025
Over the next few weeks, students in Years 7-11 will receive their 2025 Assessment Booklets. The booklets contain all the necessary information they need to know regarding formal assessment tasks – such as when they are due, the type of task it is and an assessment grid for EACH subject that the student studies. The booklets can also be found on the College website for parents (see the button below). 

We have introduced a new page into the diary this year (page 37) that allows students to place all of their assessment items in one place. The ‘Assessment Overview Page’ allows students to write down the subject name, nature of task, date given, date due and any other notes.

I strongly encourage students to use this page in their diary whilst also placing information onto a wall planner so they can plan their time accordingly. Please see the specific subject Leader of Learning if you have any enquiries, questions or concerns about these tasks.

Years 7-10 – Parent/Teacher Partnerships
We are holding our Years 7-10 Parent/Teacher Partnership Evening on Wednesday, 26 February in the Warne Auditorium from 3.00 pm – 8.00 pm. This evening it will be an opportunity for parents to come along with their child to:

• Meet the teacher who will be teaching your child for the semester or year
• Have an opportunity to hear about what your child will learn in the stated course
• Hear from the teacher about the ways in which you as a parent/caregiver can support your child throughout the course
• Discuss aspects of your child’s learning that will be helpful for the teacher to know eg "My child wears glasses but may not always put them on in class"
• Have a better understanding of the assessment work that will be coming up that your child will need to complete
• Discuss academic goals in specific subject areas

Further information regarding booking times will be sent out over the next week. We look forward to this evening and are keen to develop strong partnerships at the beginning of this new College year.

Our Year 11 and Year 12 parents will have an opportunity later in the term to meet and discuss student progress.

Year 10 Minimum Standards Testing
From 24-26 February, students in Year 10 will complete the NESA Minimum Standards Testing at the College. This is a basic numeracy, reading and writing test that all students must sit. Parents/carers will have received a letter about this. Please refer to the letter sent by the College or contact me if you require more information.

Book Packs
All students have been issued with College Book Packs that will be needed for their subjects for the year. One of the College’s previous thematic goals was to build a strong and sustainable student culture. This includes having respect for self, respect for the uniform and being respectful of College property and equipment. Having students take pride in the way in which they wear their uniform, the way they keep their classrooms and in particular the work and learning that they do in each of their subjects is important.

College exercise books with the College logo should be covered in clear contact or plastic covers to protect them. Students need to bring the correct subject book to class.

Mrs Kelly Evans
Director of Teaching & Learning 7-12

Back-to-College Asthma Action Checklist

The back-to-College period is one peak time when children are most at risk of asthma flare-ups, with a spike in asthma attacks, emergency department presentations and hospitalisations seen during the first few weeks of the school term every year.

Taking preventive measures before and during the first few weeks of the term can go a long way to helping keep your child well and out of hospital.

What can you do?

At home:

• Have an asthma review with your child’s GP at the start of each year
• Obtain an up-to-date written asthma action plan and provide this to medical@wac.nsw.edu.au
• Revise good asthma management including correct use of medication devices, either with the GP, practice nurse, College nurse or pharmacist
• If your child is prescribed a preventer medication, ensure the correct routine at the start of the term
• Ensure medications are not empty or expired
• Pack a spare reliever puffer and spacer in your child’s College bag each day. This must be clearly marked with your child's name and a copy of their Asthma Action Plan. 

For more information please see the attached flyer from the National Asthma Council of Australia. 

Mrs Sally Lloyd
Senior College Nurse

Primary Performing Arts

This week has seen the launch of our performing art ensembles for 2025. There has been a great turnout at rehearsals, and it has been exciting to see the enthusiasm from students to participate this year. Please see the below schedule for the time each group is running. 

Primary Band 
The expression of interest form for Primary Band is still open. Please complete the form if your child is interested in participating in the program. This year, Primary Band will be run after regular College hours from 2.35 pm - 3.35 pm.

Google form to express interest: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeaJyA_EY_XlRP0_IzYfXxa-RigmuSI_zx2CTPoBtflBSAT_g/viewform?usp=sharing

Please email me if you have any questions. d.hopkins@wac.nsw.edu.au 

Mr David Hopkins
Performing Arts Coordinator T-6

Our First Few Weeks in Transition

The first few weeks at the College have been an exciting adventure for our new Transition students.

Our young learners have enjoyed making colourful lions related to our story for the week. We also created a car and truck with different shapes to begin our History unit on Transport. These projects not only helped develop their fine motor skills but also allowed them to express their imagination and creativity.

Our Transition students have started learning about letters and numbers and love to listen to songs associated with the new information. We have read many new stories to share together. The students have loved exploring the playground, enjoying the sandpit, climbing the treehouse and riding bikes. It was lovely to see them laughing and building new friendships while getting to know their new College environment.

We are proud of how our Transition students are beginning to settle in and learn how the College works. We can’t wait to see them grow and learn throughout the year.

Mrs Barnes, Mrs Belusic, Mrs Clayton and Mrs Salinas.
Transition Teachers

Changes to Afternoon Bus Schedule from Monday, 17 February

Dears Parents/Carers/Students

Picton Buslines has advised that as of Monday, 17 February, there will be some changes to the afternoon bus waves (bus departure cycle from the College). This includes

1. The Rosella Afternoon Bus will be moved to the Second Wave
2. The Lady Beetle Bus will be moved to the First Wave 

With this change, the arrival times for all buses listed in the Second Wave may be affected. Please see the attached for further details 

Kind regards

Mr Liam Toland
Head of Secondary Years 

eSafety

In caring for our children, we often need to consider what may be occurring online. I invite you to investigate some material produced for parents by the eSafety Commissioner. The website https://www.esafety.gov.au/parents contains a library of written and video material, including a downloadable online safety book.

Some of the topics on the website include cyberbullying, screen time, parental controls etc. The website also has links to live webinars that give parents and carers the knowledge, skills and tools to support their children to have safe online experiences. 

If you have any questions about the MyTech program in the College please email mytech@wac.nsw.edu.au

Mr Craig Russell
Secondary Learning Innovations Coordinator

German Exchange Student Hosting

We are still looking for two College families to host a student from our sister school in Germany. There are students who would like to arrive in Australia a couple of weeks before the end of Term 2, spend the holiday break with your family and return to Germany part way through Term 3.

The students are learning English and wish to improve their fluency. They would need to have their own room and you would need to feed them and include them in your holiday plans and family activities. In return, the students would pay the host family a weekly amount of money to offset the cost of food, housing etc. It would be anticipated that you show them some key Australian experiences eg visit Sydney Harbour, visit a wildlife park so they could see a koala and kangaroos. Previous host families have really enjoyed the experience and have even gone on to visit Germany and their student at a later time.

The German girls have completed detailed applications which are available for interested families to look at, however, the following introductory details will give you an idea about the two remaining students.

Jette Bohl: 16 yrs, interests include horseback riding, jogging, movies, reading and pets. She has no allergies and no special dietary requirements.

Clara Finke: 15 yrs, interests include bike riding, gym, jogging, horseback riding, photography and dancing. She has cats & guinea pigs. She has no allergies and no special dietary requirements.

Please contact Mrs Clark as soon as possible, if you would like to learn more about either of these girls.

Mrs Carolyn Clark
German Teacher

Family Chapel (K-6) - Term 1

Our first Family Chapel of the year will be for Kindergarten to Year 6 on Thursday, 27 February under the Shoulder to Shoulder Shelter.

A free pulled pork roll with coleslaw or sausage sandwich will be available from 5.30 pm, however, these must be pre-ordered through the trybooking link below. The Chapel service will commence after dinner at approximately 6.00 pm. 

https://www.trybooking.com/CYXFG

Donations of gold coins or non-perishable food items will be accepted at the rear of the Shelter area. These donations 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.

We look forward to seeing you there.

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

Term 1 Prayer Breakfast Invitation

Amongst the business of Term 1, I'd like to extend an opportunity for you to join us as we stop, pause and bring the things on our hearts and minds to God in prayer.

Our Term 1 Prayer Breakfast will be kicking off on Saturday, 15 March. All are welcome to join us from 8.00 am - 8.30 am for some pastries and fruit before we join together in prayer from 8.30 am - 9.00 am. 

I completely understand the busy schedule all of us have on the weekends. There are many competing factors and commitments. Saturday is normally full of community sporting events along with various other activities. However, amongst this, taking the time to stop and pause with our great God is incredibly beneficial.

If you're able to make it, RSVP to m.roberts@wac.nsw.edu.au by Wednesday, 5 March.

I'd love to see you there!

 “Be still and know that I am God” (Psalm 46:10)

Mr Matt Roberts
College Chaplain

We're Hiring!

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

• Nurse - Maternity Position
  
• Maintenance/Gardener/Handyperson
• Workshop Assistant

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

Library News

Libraries at Lunchtimes

Primary Libraries:

• Quarmby Library is open Monday-Thursday Break 2 
• Cuthbert Library Friday Break 2
• Come in to borrow a book, do homework, board games, Lego, chess and colouring in

Secondary Libraries: 

• Johnson is open Wednesday and Friday Break 2 for Years 7 and 8
• Sturt is open Monday and Thursday Break 2 for Years 9 and 10
• Come in for Homework, to borrow books, board games and chess
• Flynn is open Monday-Friday 7.50 am - 4.15 pm for private study

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

Colin Buchanan Concert

Colin Buchanan will be playing at the Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre as part of his national tour on Saturday, 15 March. He will be performing his '10,9,8 God is Great' show at 3.00 pm and a country music performance called 'Memory Town' at 7.00 pm. Ticket prices have been subsidised by local churches and charities. This is a great opportunity to see one the most influential Christian Musicians in the modern era at a reduced price. Please see the link below for info and booking details.https://www.wollondillypac.com.au/whats-on/colin-buchanan-god-is-great/

Mr Matthew Roberts
College Chaplain

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
• Thornton Bros Roses

Bronze Sponsors

• Narellan Pools
  
• Breakaway Education
• NSW Rail Museum
  
• ESP Security

Community News

Community Links Service Hub Event - 19 February

Stop it at the Start - Free Online Workshop

Free online respect workshop for parents and carers
Do you know what’s influencing your kids? With young people spending so much time online, what they see and do can impact their behaviours and beliefs. Online disrespect is one of the ways violence-supportive attitudes can start to develop.  

Stop it at the Start has partnered with Tomorrow Man and Tomorrow Woman to help parents, carers, and other significant adults of young people aged 10-17 better understand how the online world is influencing their views on respect and gender, and share practical ways they can build relationships and start important conversations.

Join facilitators Ryder Jack and Kasey Miles for a free interactive, evidence-based 90-minute workshop focused on connecting with young people, fostering healthier masculinity, and providing families with practical tools they can use day to day.

Workshop dates
Tuesday, 18 February 2025, 7.00 pm - 8.30 pm (AEDT)
Thursday, 27 February 2025, 7.00 pm - 8.30 pm (AEDT)

Picton Rangers Football Club

Mittagong Junior Disco  

• Date: Saturday, 22 February 2025
• Times: 4.00 pm to 6.00 pm
• Venue: Mittagong RSL – Bessemer Street, Mittagong
• Cost: $5
• Ages: 0-14
• Please note: This is a CASH ONLY & alcohol-free event.

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

We hope to see you there.

Yerrinbool-Bargo Soccer Club

Yerrinbool-Bargo Soccer Club is now accepting registrations for the 2025 season. Register online to secure your spot now! For more information, visit https://linktr.ee/yerrinboolbargosoccerclub

Mittagong Hockey Club

We invite all new and returning players to come along to Mittagong Hockey Club’s Registration/Pre-Season Fun Morning on Saturday, 15 February 10.00 am to 12.00 pm at Welby Hockey Complex. 46 Meranie Street, Welby.

FREE BBQ & jumping castle obstacle course.

More information: juniorsmittagonghockey@gmail.com

Buxton Netball Club

Mittagong Wildcats Netball Club

All players - old and new - are invited to register for 2025 which we know will be another amazing season. 

Take advantage of the Early Bird pricing before Monday, 10 February and save $10.00 per player registered. 

Register here:https://www.playhq.com/netball-australia/register/6e9fcb

More information can be found on our website.

We hope to see you all this season

Managing Challenges - Online Workshop

Exciting new: The popular Managing Challenges Collaboratively parenting course has gone online

For the first time, Community Links Wellbeing will be offering parents and carers the opportunity to do the interactive Managing Challenges Collaboratively (MCC) a daytime online course. (Previously known as Managing Challenging Behaviours Collaboratively).

The popular workshops designed by Dr Steve Walker will be running in Term 1 online starting Wednesday, 12 February 2025 from 10.00 am to 12.00 pm and continue each Wednesday finishing Wednesday, 2 April 2025.

About The 8-Session Program:

• Target Group/Aim:
• parents/carers who have children diagnosed with ADHD, Oppositional Defiance Disorder (ODD), Conduct Disorder, or experiencing difficult and disruptive behaviours.
• parents/carers who are desperate to take part in an interactive program so that they can encourage changes within the family.
• parents/carers who may have already sought assistance with the behaviours but there has been no change
• parents/carers whose typical parenting strategies have not been effective in the past
• parents/carers who may need assistance as they experience the impact of challenging and disruptive behaviours such as suspensions from school and aggression to family members

The workshops will be presented by Cherrie Willingham and Corinne Woolcocks from Community Links Wellbeing on behalf of Dr Steve Walker who will make a guest appearance to discuss key issues.

• This workshop is FREE for Parents and Carers only and is not for staff employed in the sector.
• Participants must have access to a computer/iPad/Tablet with a camera and audio output and a private space for confidentiality (Headphones advised).
• Bookings are essential

If you would like to attend, please complete the booking process before Sunday, 9 February 2025 via this link https://forms.office.com/r/rwGTd5vSar

A link to the workshop will be provided for participants on Monday, 10 February 2025 once registration is confirmed.

The program will also run Face to Face at Tahmoor Community Centre in Term 2 starting Wednesday, 7 May 2025.

LIFT THE LID WALK for Mental Health

Picton Rotary - Free Men's Health Checks

RYPEN

RYPEN is one of Rotary International's regular Youth leadership events - held 4-6 April as a weekend-long camp for Years 11 & 12 students, designed for developing young people's potential through a mixture of lecture-style sessions and adventure-based learning.