Waratah Weekly - Term 3, Edition 4 - Friday, 22 August 2025

The Power of Practice

I was recently reflecting on my early days playing hockey. I remember my coach, who was committed to one thing above all else: repetition. For the first 20 minutes of every training session, without fail, we would go through the same basic drills. We practised dribbling the ball, passing, and striking—over and over again. At the time, it felt a bit boring, and I couldn't understand why we didn't spend more time playing practice games or rehearsing our penalty corner routines.

But the results spoke for themselves. While other teams were running complex drills, our foundational skills became automatic. When we got into a game, we didn’t have to think about dribbling the ball or making a clean pass; it was second nature. This gave us the mental space to focus on the strategy of the game, not the mechanics. Over a number of years, our team won many premierships. Our success was a direct result of relentless rehearsal.

This story beautifully illustrates a fundamental principle of learning that we embrace at our College. Rehearsal is what moves new knowledge from our short-term, or 'working,' memory into the long-term memory where it can be stored, retrieved, and built upon. Think of the working memory as a small desk where we can only handle a few pieces of information at a time. Rehearsal is the process of filing that information away into a permanent library, so the desk is clear for new learning. This is why our teachers provide repeated opportunities for students to practise and review new skills and concepts.

As parents, you play a crucial role in reinforcing this at home. You can help by:

• Encouraging your child to review what they learned that day (age and stage dependent)

• As students get older, they should spend more time in independent review. Successful Senior students will complete all required homework and assessments, and complete independent study and review
  

• Checking in on their homework and asking if they are completing this to the best of their ability

• Creating a routine each afternoon that allows time for recreation/relaxation and homework/review, and personal reading.

Just as my junior hockey team found, consistent, deliberate practice leads to confidence and excellence. It is the key to mastering new skills and achieving great things, both in the classroom and on the sporting field.

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

WAC Country Fair - Saturday, 13 September

The WAC Country Fair will be held on Saturday, 13 September, from 10.00 am - 3.00 pm and will be another great day of family fun!

Key attractions this year include:

• Pig Racing
• Agility Dogs
  
• Reptile Show
• Carnival Rides
• Woodchopping
• Pony and Camels
• Medieval Knights Display
• Market Stalls
• Book Fair
• Much, much more!

Unlimited Rides Wristband!

Get ready for an action-packed day! Lock in your unlimited ride wristband for the WAC Country Fair and enjoy non-stop fun. For one great price, your wristband gives you all-day access to an incredible lineup of attractions, including:

• Dodgem Cars
• Sizzler
• Round Up
• Gladiator Duel
• Big Balls Wipeout
• Camel and Pony Rides
• Children's Chair-O-Plane
• Windjammer
• Giant Slide
• Tiki Island Inflatable
• Inflatable Mega Obstacle Course
• Super Hero

Don't miss out on the ultimate fair experience! Purchase your unlimited ride wristband online to save time on the day. Your wristbands will be available for collection from 9.00 am at the Administration Tent, located under the Shoulder to Shoulder shelter.

Key Dates - Term 3, Week 5

Michael Matthews Memorial Service & Tree Planting

Join us on Wednesday, 3 September, from 3.00 pm under the Shoulder-to-Shoulder Shelter for a short memorial service followed by a tree planting in recognition of Michael’s service to the College. Please RSVP via the button below.

Teaching & Learning 7-12

Year 12
Year 12 Trial HSC Exams concluded this week, and we welcomed students back into classes on Tuesday. Important content for Year 12 is still being taught, with some subjects having major works still to hand in, before the process of going over content and reviewing past papers. I have put together a few hints and tips for Year 12, as they continue to prepare for the HSC. The College Executive Team, along with Mr van Netten, are in the process of interviewing each Year 12 student to assist in their learning journeys and study habits. We intend to help students with revision and to help develop a pathway of preparation.

Preparing for the HSC is about more than just hard work — it’s about working smart, looking after yourself, and keeping things in balance.

Study Strategies

• Consistency beats cramming: Aim for regular study sessions (e.g., 1–2 hours at a time) rather than last-minute marathons. Your brain remembers more when learning is spread out.
• Make a plan: Break big tasks into smaller, achievable goals. Tick them off to build momentum.
• Active revision: Use past papers, flashcards, practice essays, and teaching concepts to others — this locks knowledge into memory better than just re-reading notes.
• Prioritise weak spots: Focus extra time on subjects or topics you find challenging, while still revising your strengths.
• Use exam conditions: Try timed practice papers to reduce stress on the actual day.

Wellbeing & Balance

• Rest is powerful: Sleep helps memory stick. Aim for 7–9 hours — all-nighters don’t improve results.
• Move your body: Exercise reduces stress, sharpens focus, and boosts energy. Even a short walk counts.
• Stay connected: Talk with friends, family, or teachers if things feel overwhelming. You’re not alone.
• Fuel your brain: Eat balanced meals, drink water, and keep caffeine to a sensible level.
• Take breaks: The brain works best in bursts — use the 50/10 rule (50 minutes study, 10 minutes break).

Mindset Matters

• Progress, not perfection: You don’t need to know everything — aim to do your best each day.
• Perspective helps: The HSC is important, but it doesn’t define your whole future. Many pathways lead to success.
• Celebrate small wins: Every bit of revision adds up — acknowledge your effort.

Year 11 Exams
Year 11 will get their end-of-course examination timetable next week. The exams will take place from Thursday, 11 September, through to Friday, 19 September. Students are expected to remain at the College for the entire day, and partial attendance (coming late or leaving early) will result in the student having to chase up documentation as per our Assessment Policy through the process of illness and misadventure. All procedures and processes will be explained to Year 11, and supervised study will be provided if students do not have an exam.

Mrs Kelly Evans
Director of Teaching & Learning 7-12

Primary News - Student Engagement at Wollondilly.

WAC P&F Father's Day Stall - 5 September

On Friday, 5 September 2025, WAC Parents and Friends' Association will be holding a Father's Day Stall at the College.

Students in Transition to Year 6 will have an allocated time during the day to visit the stall with their class. The allocated time for Secondary will be during Break 2.

All gifts must be pre-purchased for your child to make a selection on the day. Please note there is a limit of two gifts per child. There will be no cash or EFT payments available on the day.

(Transition 2-Day Program students will visit the stall on Thursday, 4 September).

Bookings close midnight Thursday, 4 September 2025.

Secondary Years – Father's Day Breakfast

Secondary students and their fathers/carers/grandfathers are invited to attend a Breakfast on Friday, 5 September in the Warne Auditorium from 7.30 am – 8.30 am.

Students must attend with their primary carer, and an RSVP is essential.

RSVPs will close on Monday, 1 September (Term 3, Week 6) to allow for catering.

Food served will be bacon & egg rolls, fruit, granola cups, tea & coffee.

Mrs Kelly Evans
Director of Teaching & Learning 7-12

Leaving the College at the End of the Year

A reminder for all parents…

If you are planning on withdrawing your child/ren from the College at the end of the year (and in general), you are required, as per the Conditions of Enrolment, to provide the College with one full term’s notice (excluding holidays).

If you need to provide notice, please put this in writing by emailing the Enrolments Team at enrolments@wac.nsw.edu.au, who will receive it on behalf of the Headmaster.

For students who will be completing Year 10 and are looking to leave schooling entirely, please note, if you have not yet turned 17, you must have an apprenticeship/traineeship, full-time work or TAFE locked in before you are allowed to leave the College.

Even if your plans are unconfirmed, please advise the Enrolments Team of your tentative notice so that we are aware of your potential movements.

Any questions, please just reach out.

Mrs Madilyn Shelley
Enrolments Officer

Wollondilly students solving the problems of the future!

Last week, WAC Senior students competed in the qualifying round of the National Future Problem Solving Competition.

Our two teams were challenged to respond to a scenario where bees no longer exist and farmers must rely on robotic pollinators called AnthoFlyers. While these drones boost crop yields, they also pose risks such as pollinating endangered plants, collecting sensitive farm data, and disrupting ecosystems.

Working collaboratively through the problem-solving process, students developed innovative and sustainable solutions to address these future challenges in agriculture.

Mr Michael Carmona
HSIE Teacher 7-12

Live Shakespeare Performances Onsite

We are delighted to announce that the Australian Shakespeare Company will be joining us for a series of special live performances in the Warne Auditorium over the next two weeks. This is a wonderful opportunity for students to experience Shakespeare’s works brought to life by a professional company, enriching their study of these plays in class.

Performance Schedule

• Wednesday, 27 August
  • The Tempest — 10:45–12:25 (Year 10)
  • Romeo & Juliet — 12:55–2:30 (Year 9)

• Wednesday, 3 September
  • Othello — 12:55–2:30 (Year 11)

These performances align directly with students’ curriculum and will provide valuable insight into the language, characters, and themes of Shakespeare’s plays.

Mr Peter Ramm
Leader of Learning - English

Year 12 Formal Fundraiser - 28 August

We're Hiring!

We are currently seeking applications for the following roles to commence in 2026:

• Leader - Advanced Learning and Learning Support 7-12
• Assistant Leader of Learning English 7-12
• Mathematics Teacher 7-12
• English Teacher 7-12

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

Secondary MISA Debating

On a Tuesday afternoon, while students in Secondary are taking part in sport, we have two Year 7 teams and one Year 8 team competing in the MISA Debating Competition. We have had two rounds of debates so far, with Year 8 winning one and losing one, Year 7A winning one and losing one and Year 7 B losing one (to Year 7 A) and having one bye. Year 7B are raring to go for their next debate! All three debate teams are learning a lot and feel they are improving each time by taking into account the adjudicator’s remarks and building their knowledge on how to conduct an effective debate, using ‘manner, matter and method’. We will publish another update as we progress through the heats.

Here are some thoughts from one of our debaters:

In the last four weeks I've really enjoyed being a part of the MISA Debating Program. For both debates I have been the first speaker which I like because it means that I can set the course of the debate and introduce our team and if we're ‘negative’ rebut as well. It also means that I can help the other speakers with rebuttals when I sit back down. I think debating is great from an academic point of view because it really helps with solidifying ideas and expressing them well, and also being able to convince other people using valid arguments that you are correct. - Eleanor Holloway WAC Year 8 MISA Debating Team

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

Book Week

Week 5 - T-2 Book Week Parade POSTPONED  to Monday, 25 August - Important Information.
Due to the current weather conditions, we have made the decision to postpone the T-2 Book Week Parade, which was scheduled for tomorrow, Friday, 22 August, to Monday, 25 August 2025.

Parents and carers are invited to attend the parade on Monday, which will commence at 1.20 pm under the Shoulder to Shoulder Shelter.

Important information for the parade:

• Keeping costumes practical so students can participate in sports and other normal College activities. 
  • Normal sports shoes are required. 
  • No jewellery or make-up. 
  • Students should not require the assistance of an adult to manage their costumes, eg toileting. 
  • Hair styles should be in line with the College Uniform Expectations in the College Diary, eg girls need to wear their long hair up. 
• Student pick-up will be at the usual locations after the parade has finished.

Please note, this is a T-2 only event. Siblings are not permitted to be signed out of class to watch.

Book Donations for the Country Fair
The College Library will host a Book Stall at the Country Fair on Saturday, 13 September. We are asking for book donations in good condition that we can add to the stall. Please take donations to Student Reception or send them with your child to be put in the tubs located in each Library.

Expressions of Interest (Years 7-12): A Path to Scientific Illustration with Sami Bayly - Closes Today.
Author and Illustrator Sami Bayly will visit the College on Thursday, 4 September (Week 6A).

Sami will conduct workshops with Students throughout the College, including one for Secondary students who would like to apply. It would be suitable for students interested in Visual Arts, Science, Reading and Writing. Anyone in Year 7-12 can apply, and the students selected will be notified. 

• Date: Thursday, 4 September
• Session Time: 8.15 am - 9.00 am 
• Location: Warne Auditorium

This workshop will include a step-by-step drawing activity.

If you would like to take part, click HERE.

Visit https://www.samibayly.com/ for more details on Sami’s work.   

Other Book Week Events and Activities
In addition to the T-2 Book Week Parade, we have several other Book Week events during the Term:

• Week 6: Sami Bayly author/illustrator visit for Years 1-6 and Selected Secondary Students.

• Primary Book Week Competitions will take place during Library Lessons. Book Prizes for the winners.

• The Secondary Book Review Competition is now open. How to Enter: Just search on the Library Catalogue for a book you have read and click on the ‘Write a Review’ section. Write your Review on Oliver between now and 15 September. 1st, 2nd and 3rd prize will receive a Bowral Bookshop gift card. Contact j.colombo@wac.nsw.edu.au with questions.

Book Club Issue 6 - Orders Due Thursday, 11 September
The Book Club Issue 6 Catalogue is now available. Secondary students should select the class ‘Secondary’ when ordering.  Primary students should select their usual class (eg, 1H, 3J, 5F, Tembo).  All orders are to be made online or through the LOOP App. 

Please note that the Book Club Catalogue is set out with suggested age ranges for the books; each page has a different age range, with age 10+ towards the back. The College does not necessarily endorse the books available through Book Club and parental discretion is advised.

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

College Working Bee - 30 August

We are writing on behalf of the College Prefects to encourage students and parents to join staff and College Student Leaders at the Term 1 Working Bee. This event will take place on Saturday, 30 August from 8.00 am - 1.00 pm. 

As students of the College, we would like to promote this as an opportunity for service and community building. Your contributions can make a real and positive impact on the lives of others and your environment. Serving others helps you develop personally; by serving, you can inspire and motivate others to get involved and contribute positively. The Student Leaders at the College want to set an example in this area and would like to see as many students, staff and parents attend this event. It would be greatly appreciated if you could spare an hour of your day to serve at this event. All students who attend will be issued a Community Service Merit. This year, we will be adding additional House Points to the House of students, staff and parents that attend; these will accrue to the Overall House Shield. 

The College has reduced the number of Working Bees from four per year to two per year. With this in mind, it would be great to see our community prioritise the opportunities to build community and serve.

Please note that we only have a limited supply of tools and equipment, therefore, it is important that you bring your own gardening tools, blowers, gloves and anything else you think might help on the day. Mr Warland, the College Property Manager, will be onsite to assist students and parents if you have questions.

Kye James & Jessalyn Smiltnieks
College Community Service Prefect

Term 3 Prayer Breakfast Invitation

Amongst the business of Term 3, 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 3 Prayer Breakfast will be kicking off on Saturday, 30 August. 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 Monday, 25 August.

I'd love to see you there!

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

Mr Matt Roberts
College Chaplain

Lowes 20% Off Sale - 27-30 August

P&F Clothing Pool

The Clothing Pool offers a selection of pre-loved uniform items from Transition to Year 12 at excellent prices. We also stock new ties, socks and Sports hats 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.

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

Wollondilly Performing Arts Centre - Girls Gone Wild

Calling all dancers!
Perform in a Curtain Raiser for GIRLS GONE WILD
High School Years 10–12 | No experience needed | Free to join.

We’re inviting bold, curious, and creative young people to join a brand-new youth dance-theatre project and perform as the curtain raiser for GIRLS GONE WILD, a professional dance-theatre production coming to our stage this September.

No prior dance experience is needed - just a willingness to move, be creative, and work as a team. This is a unique chance for students to perform live in a professional venue and collaborate with a team of professional artists to create an original piece exploring identity, social norms, and self-expression through movement, comedy, and storytelling.

 What’s included:

• The chance to perform live on stage in a professional venue
• A fun, collaborative creative experience
• Skills in movement, storytelling, performance, and teamwork
• Mentorship from acclaimed choreographer Bonnie Curtis and professional dance artists
• A supportive environment where students’ voices and creativity are valued

We would love for Wollondilly Anglican College to be involved, and we’d be grateful if you could pass this opportunity on to any interested students or staff.

 Head to our website HERE for more info and registration.

Women’s Wellness Event

The Camden Wollondilly Domestic Violence Committee warmly invites you to our Women’s Wellness Event on Wednesday, 3 September 2025, from 10.00 am to 1.00 pm at the Sandown Room, Oran Park Library. Please note this is only for Women who live in the Camden LGA.

This special day is dedicated to supporting and celebrating women in our community, with activities including haircuts, massages, mediums, terrariums, and more. It’s a child-free event for women aged 18+ in the Camden LGA, and bookings are essential as spots are limited to 150 attendees.

 Location: Sandown Room, Oran Park Library, 72 Central Avenue, Oran Park
 Date: Wednesday, 3 September 2025
 Time: 10.00 am – 1.00 pm
 Book now: www.trybooking.com/DCXHJ

Mittagong Junior Disco  

• Date: Saturday, 30 August  
• Time: 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 & ALCOHOL-FREE event.