Waratah Weekly - Term 4, Edition 9 - Friday, 3 December 2021

Message from the Headmaster

During the last two weeks of the College year, we have the opportunity to celebrate the achievements and outstanding efforts of many of our students. Some schools are questioning whether they should be celebrating the achievement of some students when we know that not all students will be recognised. I believe that it is very important to acknowledge those students who have achieved consistently high levels throughout the year. At Wollondilly, we will congratulate these students who have performed admirably in their academic studies; they have worked hard, put the time into their studies and should be acknowledged for their effort. We will congratulate those students who have achieved excellent sporting success (even if that has been somewhat limited due to COVID) and cultural endeavours within the Arts; despite this COVID challenge. I know that many students continue to rehearse, train and develop their skills so they can perform at their best when the opportunity returns. We will also encourage those students who have made it their habit to demonstrate the values and character that we believe Wollondilly students should exemplify; these students serve in our College and our community, they are a great support and help to their friends and teachers, and they do so without any expectation of reward. We will also recognise those students who are striving to live a life that honours God and brings glory to His name; while not perfect, they seek to live according to the example we have in Jesus in the way they love, serve and care for others. We are so thankful for every student in our College; those who will receive specific awards and those who will not. You are each made in the image of God and you have immense value because of this.

“Are not five sparrows sold for two copper coins? And not one of them is forgotten before God. But the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Do not fear therefore; you are of more value than many sparrows." 
Luke 12:6-7

Our College is made up of so many people who have made important contributions to the College during their time here. Sadly, we will be farewelling a number of staff who are retiring, moving into ministry, moving interstate or moving on to other roles or careers. We are thankful for each of these staff members and greatly appreciate all that they have done for the College over a few or many years. We entrust them to God's care during this next phase of their lives.

Mr Ian Croger
Mr Fred Schroder
Mr Jay Hart
Ms Karen Webb
Mr Joshua Davis
Mr Craig Stevens
Mrs Kristy Coutts-Smith
Mrs Libby Schwartz
Mr Simon Jones
Mrs Jennifer Aston
Mrs Lisa Molluso
Mr James Shellshear

Mr Trevor Norman
College Headmaster

From the Deputy's Desk

K-11 Formal Assembly Speech
Congratulations to all our award recipients, student leaders and performers. It is great that we are able to celebrate your achievements. Unfortunately under the current restrictions, we are unable to permit all students or parents to attend.

Some of you know that I grew up living at Lake Macquarie and as a young person I did a lot of sailing. When I was 9 my Dad built me a small wooden sailing boat. It was only 2.4m long and had a single sail.

While I was still learning, my Dad and I decided to sail the boat back home from a works picnic – probably a distance of 10km. This isn’t too far in a straight line but when the wind is against you, you have tack or zig-zag because you can’t sail directly into the wind. As a result, you travel a lot further and it is slow progress.

The wind started to blow strongly and the waves became much bigger. The two of us were in this tiny boat, Dad skippering and me bailing water with a bucket as the waves came over the side of the boat. It was quite rough and frightening. I was scared but I took great encouragement from my Dad being there. I knew he would keep me safe – and he did. Eventually, we returned to safety.

It was only some years later that I discovered that he suffered from seasickness was feeling really sick during our ordeal.

So why am I telling you this story? Just as my Dad showed love and care for me and your parents do for you, God knows us and loves us. Your parents make a sacrifice to send you to this College in terms of time and finances. They are willing to do this for you in your best interests. Similarly, God made a sacrifice of his son in our best interest.

This year with COVID we have hit some rough water and faced a number of challenges. This won’t be the end of the challenges and hardships you will experience in your lives. Just as my Dad couldn’t stop the situation we faced in the boat, it isn’t a guarantee that God will stop all the challenges you will face. Experiencing those is a part of life. However, just as I gained confidence or strength from my Dad being in the boat with me, God promises to share your burdens with you and give you strength. Isaiah 41:10 says “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I with strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous hand.”

God is connected with us and wants us to build and maintain that relationship with Him. He is waiting patiently. He has provided a means to do this through his son Jesus. We just have to accept him into our lives. This will be the biggest influence on your life.

As we approach Christmas, I would like you to reflect on its true meaning and God’s gift of his son Jesus.

As most of you know, I am retiring at the end of next week. I have enjoyed my 17 years at Wollondilly and feel privileged to have played a part in its growth and development. I have taught at 5 different schools in my career and this is the best school I have worked in with the best students.

All the Wollondilly staff, students and parents have played their part over the years in shaping the growth, development and culture of the place. The College is in great hands with the Executive leadership team of Mr Norman, Mr Burns, Mr Toland, Ms Huxtable and Mrs Evans for the future. The staff will continue to show encouragement, compassion and a willingness to commit to your education. They develop more than knowledge and skills. They teach hearts, minds, souls and character.

You have all benefitted from the hard work done by many before you to develop this place and establish its positive reputation in the community.

I challenge you to uphold what has gone before you. Continue to support your College and the Distinctives that it stands for: Education within a Christian framework, the Pursuit of Excellence, Pride in Belonging, Community Engagement and Involvement and a Second Education that has developed character and values. These Distinctives have been part of the College story over the last 18 years.

The fact that you are being recognised at this assembly means that you are already contributing to those Distinctives. You are the future of the College, please continue to honour the role you have to play.

Challenges lie ahead of you. Despite the support and the advice of family and friends, you will be faced with decisions you alone will need to make. This is where your strength of character and integrity are important.

Despite the noise or loud voices of other peoples’ opinions that try to drown out your inner voice, you will need to have the courage to follow your instincts and beliefs, seek out God in all you do and do what is right and just.

Because this is my last opportunity to impart some advice I offer you these suggestions:

1. Give people more than they expect and do it cheerfully.
2. Be forgiving of yourself and others. You are shown Grace so offer Grace to others.
3. Show respect to people who have less power and influence than you.
4. Be thankful and appreciative of what you have.
5. Show humility and patience with others.
6. Commit yourself to constant improvement and be persistent.
7. Understand that happiness is not based on possessions, power or prestige, but on relationships with people you love and respect.
8. You will make mistakes. Learn from them – Don’t blame others. Take responsibility for every area of your life.
9. Be bold and courageous. When you look back on your life, you'll regret the things you didn't do more than the ones you did.
10. Take good care of those you love.
11. Don't do anything that wouldn't make your Mum proud.
12. Trust in God. He is always with you. You just have to ask. He will walk with you always but particularly in your times of need. He loves you and has a purpose for your life.

I will miss you all, but I leave knowing the College will continue to grow and develop and have a great future.

My prayers and best wishes are with you for the journey ahead.

God Bless.

Mr Ian Croger
Deputy Headmaster

Secondary News

Congratulations Year 12, HSC Exams conclude!
The final examination for our 2021 cohort was completed yesterday. I would like to congratulate this group of students on the remarkable way they have handled the year. I look forward to seeing the students when the HSC results are released on 24 January 2022. We will be holding a Brunch at 11.00 am to celebrate this milestone. 

Year 7-10 Yearly Reports 
Next week parents will be receiving their Child’s Yearly Report. This report provides information on both achievement and application across the entire course (some courses are for a semester and some are for the year). The definitions below give guidance as you read the report. Parents are reminded that if they would like to discuss their child’s social development or academic progress they can arrange a meeting with either the relevant Year Patron or Class Teacher. 

Course Grade - This is the final grade achieved by the student across the Course. 

Application - A measure of each student’s achievement and effort in individual classwork, assignments and homework for the semester.

Personal Profile - An indication of effort and application in a number of areas.

Indicators of Learning - Are used to indicate the level of each student's performance against course outcomes for the semester.

Course Grade Distribution - Percentage of students achieving each grade in the Yearly Report.

Due to the significant disruptions this year and the nature of Off-Campus Learning, there have been some adjustments to the final reports for this Semester. We have adapted this to better suit the learning that has taken place over the Off-Campus period. Students will still receive an overall achievement grade, and overall effort grade as well as an indication of their achievement in the cohort through the graphs indicating the Grade percentages. 

The individual student comment will be replaced with a course outline providing information on the content and teaching that has occurred. The personal profile indicators have also been adjusted and the number increased to provide more detailed and specific information related to your child's engagement during the Off-Campus Learning period.

Mr Paul Burns
Director of Teaching & Learning 7-12

Primary News

End of Term Events in Primary
We have had a number of events recently and will continue to have more events towards the end of the year. This is an overview of just some of the things Primary have been doing and are planning to do:

Years 3-6 Pool Days
 Each Year Group has had a day at the pool, this has been a lot of fun and a really nice way for them to connect with each other and their teachers. Thank you to Mr Gooden for organising these.

Year 6 Progress Assembly and Dinner 
On Thursday, 2 December. Year 6 enjoyed their celebration day marking the end of their Primary years at the College. A video link of the Assembly has been sent for families to enjoy. Thank you to the Year 6 staff, Mr Gregory and Mrs Evans and the Year 12 Hospitality students, Mrs Frederiksen, Mr Hitchins and the property team for the work that they did to make this a special day for our students.

Year 7 Orientation Day
Our Year 6 students will be involved in this on Monday, 6 December. Thank you to Mr Houweling for organising this and to the secondary teachers who will be involved.

Year 6 Day Out
This event will take place on Wednesday, 8 December at Kiah Ridge. I am sure it will be lots of fun.

Christmas Chapels: 
This year, the Christmas Chapels will be Year Group based and will occur on Thursday, 9 December. I am sure they will still be a significant event for our students towards Christmas with an understanding of the birth of Jesus.

Transition Celebration
The Transition Celebrations will happen next week (Week 10). Students and staff will be preparing a video for families to enjoy. This will be a lovely way to celebrate their time in Transition.

Kindergarten Orientation
Students will spend some time over the next week learning about where they will be in Kindergarten.

Meet The Teacher Afternoon
On Monday, 6 December, Years K-5 students will meet their 2022 Teachers and classmates. 

Last Day Fun Day 
With support from the College P&F, we will be holding a Last Day Fun Day on Thursday, 9 December. The details of this are secret other than to say that students should all come in their College Sports uniforms. 

Ms Jacqui Huxtable
Director of Teaching & Learning T-6

Middle Pastoral Care News 5-8

Middle Pastoral Care -  Year 6 Transition to Secondary
While current restrictions have limited some of the ways the College had planned to support current Year 6 students with their transition to Year 7, thankfully there are still plenty of activities we can participate in. These activities will allow students to celebrate the conclusion of Primary and also support them as they prepare for starting Secondary.

Year 7 Taster Day
On Monday, 6 December, Year 6 students will be given the opportunity to experience Year 7 for a day. Students will rotate through a range of classes in their current Year 6 class groups. Throughout the day students will take part in a number of activities that are a ‘taste’ of some of the subjects and courses run in Secondary. They will be encouraged to have a go at each of the activities and ask questions of their teachers about some of the changes that they will experience next year.

The students will also spend time with their Year Patron, Mr Stewart. This will provide a valuable opportunity to start to build these important relationships.

All of the learning resources will be provided by the teachers and lunch and recess will run as normal.

Students will be required to wear their full Summer College Sports uniform.

Kiah Ridge Outdoor Education and Team Building
On Wednesday, 8 December students will have the opportunity to participate in a range of challenging outdoor activities, focusing on positive communication skills and team building. The activities will be run at Kiah Ridge.

Permission notes have been provided and must be returned as soon as possible.

Year 7 Camp 2022
This camp is a great way to start the year for students. Run by Youthworks at Port Hacking, students have an opportunity to connect with each other and some of their new peers. This camp will run from Wednesday, 16 February to Friday, 18 February. More information and permission notes will be provided at the start of next year. 

Mr Stuart Houweling
Middle Pastoral Care Coordinator 5-8

Secondary Sports News

House Captains 2022
Congratulations to the following students who were successful in being named the 2022 House Captains. Students were presented with their badges at this week's Formal Assembly. Whilst this leadership role goes beyond the sporting realm to include aspects of pastoral care and service, I look forward to working with each student in my capacity as Sports Coordinator. 

Acacia - Liam Biggs and Hannah White
Grevillea - Ben Napier and Jocelyn Peacock
Sollya - Ella Nance and April Foster
Telopea - Charli Day and Morgan Botha
Wollemi - Emmett Schafer and Jessica Fraser

Mr Mark Goldsbrough
Secondary Sports Coordinator

German News

Auf Deutsch bitte!
It's that time of the year when our thoughts turn to Christmas, and in the German world, that means constructing a Lebkuchenhaus or a gingerbread house. This year, Year 11, Year 9 and Year 7 German classes will be constructing gingerbread houses whilst following COVID safety guidelines. 
Frau Holmes and I would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone in the College community "Frohe Weihnachten."

Mrs Carolyn Clark
German Teacher

From the College Nurse

NSW Health Schools COVID Vaccination Program
Our second Pfizer vaccination clinic will be held on Tuesday, 7 December. As part of the NSW Health Program, students 12 years and over are being given the opportunity to be vaccinated at the College (This is not a mandatory vaccination program, vaccination is given only with signed parental consent).

Students will only be able to be vaccinated if they have their forms signed by their parents/carers. Students will need to bring their signed form to the College on the day.  

If your child has already had their 1^st dose, they are also able to have their 2^nd dose here at the College. An opportunity is also available to parents/carers to be vaccinated at the College. If you would like to take up this opportunity please let me know. 

If you have any further questions, please contact Mrs Sally Lloyd, College Nurse at s.lloyd@wac.nsw.edu.au

Mrs Sally Lloyd
College Nurse

PDHPE News

Year 9 PASS Wheelchair Sports
On Friday, 26November, the Year 9 Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) elective class have studied “Physical Activity for Specific Groups”. As part of this unit, they looked at the needs of people with a disability and opportunities for physical activity. To complement their study of the unit, Year 9 PASS participated in a “Wheelchair Sports” incursion run by Wheelchair Sports NSW. The students had a great time learning to navigate the wheelchair and engaging in games of wheelchair basketball. Through the experience, students gained a greater appreciation for people with a disability and their capabilities when playing sport.

Mr Josh Hewitt
PDHPE Coordinator

Science News

Young Scientist Awards 2021
A number of Year 10 and Year 12 Science projects were entered into the Young Scientist Competition. Last week we reported that Catherine Shaw (12)(Highly Commended in the Rural Young Scientist of the Year award) and Jazmin Chamberlain (12) (Outstanding Project in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry) received special awards. In addition, the following students received certificates for their projects. Congratulations to all students!

High Distinction: Chloe Mawbey (12), Catherine Shaw (12)

Distinction: Nina Winters (10), Danielle Haddock (10), Isabella Davies (10), Amelia Gurner (10), Tanyaradzwa Garakasha (12)

Credit: April Foster (10), Alexander Birkett (10), Scarlett Cheney (10), Lara Jobson (10), Scott Parnell (10), Khyden Genders (10), Jazmin Chamberlain (12)

Commendation: Tania Fouche (10)

Dr Andrew Eaton
Science Coordinator

Library News

Congratulations to Miram Warland, Year 9, on receiving the Premier's Reading Challenge Medal. The medal is in recognition of completing the PRC every year from Year 3 to Year 9. This means Miriam read 180 books in that time. Miraim also received a certificate and a letter from the Premier of NSW. This year, 380 students completed the Premier's Reading Challenge at the College.

Mrs Justine Colombo
College Librarian

Picton Buslines News

Dear Parents and Guardians

As discussed with you last week, due to increased growth and demand in Byron Rd Tahmoor and a potential safety issue for some students, we will be making a permanent alteration to the AM14 Elephant School Bus Run, which will affect your children. Please note the change is only for the morning school run.

 The change will come into effect starting Monday, 6 December 2021.

 The run will now proceed as follows (see map attached for further detail):

• Denmead St
• Right into Boundary Rd
• Left into Station St
• Left into Nattai St
• Left into Byron Rd
• Right into Bronzewing St

 There will be three bus stops along this section of the run (see map attached for further detail):

1. Nattai St after Station St - 07.40 AM
2. Byron Rd after Nattai St - 07.42 AM
3. Byron Rd before Bronzewing St - 07. 43 AM

 As expected with any significant change there may be some initial teething issues during the first week. We ask that your children arrive safely at the bus stop before the above times. Please feel free to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.

 Thanks and regards,

Mr Andrew Ferris
Manager 
M: 0409 811 343  P: (02) 4677 1564 
W: www.pictonbuslines.com.au
E: aferris@pictonbuslines.com.au  
A: 18 Wonga Rd Picton NSW 2571 

Employment Opportunity

Clothing Pool News

Seeking Volunteers 
Would you be able to assist by volunteering some time at the Clothing Pool?
You will be conducting sales at the clothing pool (an easy process and you’ll have help too!). You will meet other parents/grandparents at the College. The students will love seeing you involved at the College. This is a great way to get to know and be a part of the WAC community.

There are opportunities available every weekday morning from 7.45 am to 8.30 am.

To be part of the team, you will need to be fully vaccinated and follow the College COVID safety guidelines and College volunteer procedures.

If you have any questions about volunteering please feel free to contact me.

Clothing Pool Reopening
The Clothing Pool has reopened from 7.45 am to 8.30 am every weekday to provide you with good quality, pre-used College uniforms and accessories. If you have any donations, we will gladly accept them at the clothing pool or they can be left at Student Reception if the Clothing Pool is unattended. The Clothing Pool will be open every weekday morning until the end of Term. 

Steps for visiting the Clothing Pool
1. Sign in at the College Reception - wear your mask whilst on the College grounds and proceed to the Visitors Reception where staff will confirm your vaccination status. Scan the QR code and sign into the College as a visitor. You will then be provided with a visitor sticker.
2. Show your Visitor sticker at the side windows of White Cottage to be served. Please remember to maintain social distancing of 1.5m with other parents.
3. Preferred payment by EFTPOS facilities (Visa, Mastercard and EFTPOS available). We only have a limited amount of change available for cash sales. 
4. Sign out at the Visitor's Reception when you have finished at the clothing pool.

Thank you for your support and cooperation.

Mrs Melissa Whishaw
P&F Clothing Pool Coordinator 
0415402013

Enrolment News

Application For Enrolment
Applications continue to pour in for 2022 and beyond, across all Year Groups, but especially our entry years of Transition, Kindergarten, Year 5, Year 7 and Year 11.

All current College families looking to enrol siblings for the coming years are encouraged to do so without delay to avoid disappointment. 

Enrolment packs are available from the College Office or from the College website www.wac.nsw.edu.au

Mrs Kristy Biddle
Enrolments Officer
Ph: 4684 2722

College Merchandise

Church Services

Wollondilly Anglican Church
Currently posting pre-recorded messages and services on their YouTube channel. https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1LQDtFMRt1RFZQ8KhRC2kA  
If you are interested in attending a Bible Study, or Youth Group and connecting with the community this way, please visit these links for more information
https://wollondillyanglican.org/grown-ups/  
https://wollondillyanglican.org/youth-ministries/  
We also encourage you to check out their website to stay updated with any new information https://wollondillyanglican.org/
Contact them about any enquiries at
https://wollondillyanglican.org/contact/

C3 Picton and Camden
Live-streaming their services on their YouTube channel:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCV-SaFqz0okwO85XQE01CKw.
If you would like to find out more information about C3 connect groups, please visit these links:
https://www.c3picton.church/groups
If you would like to know more information about C3 and keep updated please visit their website:
https://www.c3picton.church/
Facebook page:
https://m.facebook.com/C3Picton/
Contact them at:
https://www.c3picton.church/contact

Campbelltown Christian Community Church (C4) 
Services run on Sundays at 10.00 am. Also currently streaming their services on their YouTube channel:

Wollondilly Presbyterian Church
Sunday Service starts a 9.15 am. 
The Service is also streamed on their YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UClGGkiM_xP5rCdViW3uo6Xw/featured
They are also holding Church Zoom Calls at 9.15 am on Sundays, if you are interested in connecting to the community in this way, please visit their Facebook page for the links as well as updates, information and to contact about any enquiries.
https://www.facebook.com/WollondillyPC/

Tahmoor Baptist Church
Sunday Service starts a 9.50 am. 
Also streamed at https://www.tahmoorbaptistchurch.org/
If you are interested in attending a Bible Study, or Youth Group and connecting with the community this way, please visit this link for more information
https://www.tahmoorbaptistchurch.org/activities.html

Picton and Wilton Anglican Church
Picton - Sundays 9.30 am – 10.50 am all welcome.
Also live-streamed on Youtube: http://youtube.com/PWAChurches/
Wilton - Sundays 5 pm – 6.20 pm all welcome.
Also live-streamed on Youtube: http://youtube.com/PWAChurches/

Most importantly, we encourage all to meet with God directly and personally through daily reading of The Bible and prayer. This is the best way to get to know who God is and further trust in him during this time. If you don’t have a Bible or don't know where to start, we encourage you to download “You Version” on your device, this is a great resource to assist you in your journey and relationship with God.

The Oaks Anglican Church
Sunday at 10.00 am. Services will also be streamed online live: toa.church/livestream/

Douglas Park Evangelical Church
10.00 am Sundays at Douglas Park Community Hall or online via Zoom.
Contact David Luxford on 0404754105 or via Facebook.com/DPEChurch

Staying connected in the Southern Highlands area.

Highlands Christian Church: 
Sundays at 10.00 am
Online Service:
https://www.facebook.com/highlands.au/videos/highlands-church-online-experience/930979114318498/
Website:
https://www.highlandschristianchurch.org.au/

Highlands Baptist Church
Sundays at 10.30 am
Website:
http://www.highlandsbaptistchurch.org.au/

St Judes (Bowral Anglican)
Sundays at 10.00 am
Website:
https://bowralanglican.org.au/
Online Service:
https://bowralanglican.org.au/online/

Mittagong Anglican
Sundays at 9.30 am & 11.30 am
Website:
https://www.mittang.com.au/
Sermon Archive:
https://www.mittang.com.au/sermons/

C3 
Sundays at 10.30 am
Website:
https://c3destinychurch.com/
Livestream/Video Archive:
https://c3destinychurch.com/sunday-live-stream/

Bowral Baptist
Sundays at 10.00 am
Website:
https://bowralbaptistchurch.net/wordpress/
Video Archive:
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCED4wlEz42j6thR9-OsVn4A

Community

WAC Kids Care
From time to time, families undergo trauma such as severe or terminal illness. There are short term support structures in place at the College to assist families during these times.

We have a collection of beautifully prepared meals that are ready for distribution for any families in need.

The WAC Kids Care Program offers support to families in the way of meals. Please contact Mrs Hay or Mrs Rockwell at the College. Confidentiality will be respected. If you know of anyone who may need meals at this time, please contact the College office.

Tahmoor Community Links - Christmas Hampers
Tahmoor Community Links are again preparing Christmas Hampers for people in need in the Wollondilly Shire. The College is collecting donations on behalf of Tahmoor Community Links. If you would like to contribute please drop items into the baskets outside of Student Reception at the College. Please see the donation list of preferred items below:
http://www.communitylinks.org.au/

Mrs Corinne Woolcocks
Tahmoor Community Links

Country Women's Association - Christmas Stall
Come along and grab yourself some lovely handmade treats and goodies
Picton Mall
Saturday, 4 December 2021
9.00 am - 10.00 am

Pretend Headmaster