Principal's Message
In the words of John F. Kennedy, "Leadership and learning are indispensable to each other." This quote aligns with our belief in holistic education, emphasizing the interdependence of learning and leadership. At our school, every student demonstrates leadership in their own unique way through their daily interactions.
A strong student voice is integral to effective leadership and a thriving learning environment. We are committed to enhancing opportunities for student voice, both informally and formally. Students across primary and secondary levels can participate in various roles, such as prefects or members of portfolios including Academic, Environment and Sustainability, Communications, Creative and Performing Arts, Chaplaincy, SRC, Sport, and Wellbeing. Additionally, our senior student leaders have launched a school-sponsored Instagram account to engage with student life.
If you're interested in learning more about student involvement at our school, I encourage you to join us at our next Parent Forum hosted by the Home and School committee. This event, scheduled for Tuesday evening, March 12th, will provide insights into our future plans and communication strategies. It's an opportunity for you to ask questions and contribute ideas to enhance our school community.
As Simon Sinek aptly stated, "Leadership is not about being in charge. It is about taking care of those in your charge." At Wahroonga Adventist School, we embrace servant leadership, inspired by the example of Jesus. Our mission is to empower every student to flourish, fostering their confidence, knowledge, and skills to become authentic leaders. This commitment to each child is reflected in our shared values and the partnership we build with you in school life.
Wishing you a wonderful weekend, and I hope to see many of you at our Family Fun Day on March 3rd.
God bless.
Mrs Julia Heise - Principal
Chaplains Message
Our focus, ‘Seek Peace' is a guiding principle that resonates deeply within our school community this year. As we navigate through challenges we’re reminded that true peace is a divine gift from God. It's all about finding that special kind of calm and strength that comes from above, no matter what life throws our way. And guess what? We've been busy making sure our school is a place where this kind of peace isn't just talked about – it's lived.
We kicked off some Bible study groups for the high schoolers recently. It's been awesome seeing them dive deep into their faith and discover peace in the words they're exploring alongside our Chaplaincy team. Plus, our chapel scene is getting a major boost – we've got two new bands! This development not only enriches our worship experience but also actively involves students in creating an atmosphere of praise and peace. It's really cool to see more students getting involved and bringing their energy to our worship times.
Pr Renee Vaovasa - Chaplain
Wellbeing Message
"The Importance of Chit Chat"
So, let's talk about talking. Specifically, let's chat about why it's super important to have those heart-to-heart conversations with our kids about school.
Sometimes when you ask your child about their day at school, you get the classic response: "It was fine" or "Nothing special happened". I encourage you to dive a bit deeper into these conversations, as this can make a world of difference.
Looking around the internet, I found this great website called Raising Children Network, and they've got some bits of wisdom on why talking about school is important for children.
Here is a summary of what was outlined on their website:
1. Bonding Time: Talking about school isn't just about homework and grades; it's about bonding with your child. By showing interest in their day, you're letting them know that you care about what's happening in their world. It's like a mini bonding session every day!
2. Boosts Confidence: When kids know they have a supportive ear to listen to their triumphs and challenges, it boosts their confidence. They feel empowered knowing that they have someone in their corner cheering them on, no matter what.
3. Problem-Solving Skills: By encouraging open conversations about school, you're helping your child develop essential problem-solving skills. When they face challenges, they'll feel more comfortable discussing them with you and brainstorming solutions together.
4. Emotional Support: School isn't just about academics; it's also about navigating friendships, dealing with stress, and managing emotions. By talking openly with your child, you provide them with the emotional support they need to thrive.
So, how can you kick-start these meaningful conversations? Well, Raising Children Network suggests asking open-ended questions, like "What was the most exciting thing that happened at school today?" or "Tell me about something that made you smile." It's all about sparking a dialogue and showing genuine interest in your child's experiences.
Remember, there's no such thing as a perfect conversation. Sometimes it might feel like pulling teeth to get your child to talk, and that's okay! The important thing is that you're creating a safe space for communication, and over time, those conversations will flow more naturally.
Miss Natalie Rogers - Head of Wellbeing
Meet our Teachers
Mr Matthew Tait - English Teacher
Have you always lived in Sydney? I arrived in Australia at the beginning of the year and am living on the Central Coast near my partner's family. I have not lived in Sydney itself but have visited her family members many times. I lived in Melbourne briefly in 2016 before returning home to the UK.
Why did you choose to get into teaching as a profession? I always enjoyed school. Maths came easily to me, but initially, English didn't. I had two amazing teachers who supported me through my examinations. With their passion, English became my favourite subject. I owe my pursuit in this career to them as the way they made me feel that love for the subject is something I strive for in my own teaching.
What’s something you are afraid of? I have never been good with spiders - which is why my family couldn't understand my decision to move here. Thankfully, I've had no major encounters yet. I also feel really uncomfortable with cotton wool being torn apart. Perhaps not a fear, but a strange dislike of mine.
Could you tell us about your family? My partner is an Australian citizen. We met when she was working (travelling) around Europe. We ended up teaching at the same school in England and now have a son together. Angus is nearly two now and an absolute legend. I love my job, but there is nothing better than getting home to see him running out to greet the car.
What's something that you have already noticed and appreciated about this school? I have been overwhelmed with the positivity and how the school is such a supportive community. Everyone has been so helpful in making me feel welcome and confident with a new country's curriculum. The students have also been wonderful and the conversations in the corridor with them also add to the strong sense of togetherness.
Thankyou Mr Tait for this insight into your love of teaching and your life!
Katie M and Jasper S- School Captains & Year 12 Students
Upcoming Events
Calendar of Upcoming School Events
You can access the list of upcoming School events via the link below. The School Calendar is also available under the Parent Information tab on the School website.
Term Dates for 2024
Please click on the link below to view the school term dates and public holiday information for 2024.
Whole School News
Enrolling now for Year 7, 2026 and Kindy, 2025!
Calling all siblings! To avoid disappointment, we encourage you to submit an application for any siblings intending to enrol for Year 7, 2026 and Kindy, 2025 by the end of Term 1 this year. Applications received after this term may not benefit from their sibling preference due to the numbers on our waitlists.
If you have any questions about enrolling a sibling, please contact the Registrar, Cindy, on enrol@wahroonga.adventist.edu.au.
Our New Student Representative Council
Congratulations to the students who have been newly elected to the Student Representative Council. Thankyou for your eagerness to be active leaders in our school and community.
Primary School News
Learning in Nature
Year 3 and Year 4 have been out and about in nature learning about a range of living things and their environments. Students have been studying the animal kingdom in science and creating nature-themed art. It has been wonderful seeing students explore, engage and wonder about the world around them!
Miss Reiko Kohama - Primary Classroom Teacher
Primary Sport
Primary joins CSSA Sporting Association
We are extremely pleased to announce that our Primary School has joined the CSSA (Christian School Sports Association) for all of their zone and representative sport events. The Secondary School has been a member of the CSSA for some time whilst the Primary School has competed under the ASISSA (All Suburbs Independent Schools Sports Association). All students from Primary to Secondary will now compete under CSSA. We are sad to say goodbye to ASISSA and thankful for all they have done over the years but are very excited that all students will be in the same Christian schools sporting association.
Primary Swimming Carnival
Congratulations to everyone who went to the 2024 primary swimming carnival. It was great to see everyone supporting their friends and new houses. Congratulations to our age champions below. Very well done.
Mr Jack Fulton - Primary Sports Co-ordinator
Secondary School News
Year 7 Welcome Breakfast & Games Night
Our students in Year 10 participate in the Invictus program each year and part of this program focuses on mentoring the Year 7 students as they begin their time in high school. With both a yummy breakfast cooked by the Year 10's and a fun games night the Year 7 students have been welcomed warmly by the senior students.
The Games evening was brimmed with laughter and spirited competition, thanks to our enthusiastic year 7 students and the support of the teachers and Year 11 peer support buddies. The games line up featured classic favourites: Musical Chairs, Rob the Nest, Countries, and Dodgeball. Each game brought its own excitement, from the anticipation of Musical Chairs to the strategic teamwork in Rob the Nest.
As we reflect on the success of the Year 7 Games Night, we are reminded of the importance of fostering friendship, teamwork, and sportsmanship among our students. Events like these not only promote physical activity and healthy competition but also provide opportunities for students to build lasting friendships and cherished memories. Thank you to everyone involved for making the Year 7 Games Night a resounding success! Here's to more fun-filled events ahead!
Mrs Jessica Metz - Secondary Teacher & Year 7 Homeroom Teacher
Geography Excursion to Bobbin Head
Year 12 Geography has been studying ecosystems at risk, with case studies about The Great Barrier Reef and Bobbin Head Intertidal Wetlands. The class visited the Great Barrier Reef on an excursion last year and yesterday had the opportunity to visit Bobbin Head for a hands-on opportunity to study it. Students completed field work, surveying and data collection to learn about the importance on the wetland ecosystem and why it is valuable to our local environment. It was a great day to visit the area, with perfect conditions to see plenty of plant and animal life from the mangrove walk.
Tutankhamun's Tomb - History Class
The Year 11 Ancient history class had a fun time drawing out Tutankhamun's tomb in the carpark. Seeing the true scale of this ancient burial site brought history to life!
Miss Rachelle Chapman - History Teacher & Head of English
Secondary Sports
2024 Sports Captains
Congratulations to the students appointed to Sport Captains for 2024. With the four houses we now have quite a number of captains!
Secondary Swimming Carnival
The Secondary Swimming Carnival was held at the Knox Aquatic Centre on Thursday 15 February. The day was filled with plenty of swimming, loud chants and a amazing achievements to experience the house competition. Congratulations to all participants and to the Blue house, for taking the victory this year!
Below are some of our record setters and age champions. The colours show the new School Houses.
Mr Ignatius Ah-You - PDHPE Teacher & Secondary Sports Co-ordinator
Library News
Premiers Reading Challenge
The Premier’s Reading Challenge website will become active for the 2024 challenge from Monday, February 26. On this website you can read about the challenge, check the rules and regulations, view the extensive book lists, read the privacy policy and access your child’s reading record. Please use the same username and password as last year - if you have forgotten your child’s PRC details email Mrs Savage at library@wahroonga.adventist.edu.au . Please keep a record of these details for future reference as they will be needed each year your child completes the challenge.
Kindy students and those new to our school will receive their details along with an accompanying information sheet next week. If your child has completed the challenge elsewhere please contact me at library@wahroonga.adventist.edu.au so I can arrange for their challenge history to be brought over to our school – please include the name of your child’s previous school.
Library WebApp
Wahroonga Adventist School Library has an online catalogue which makes searching for resources easy from any device with internet access. To visit our Library WebAPP go to bit.ly/waslibrary. On the guest page you will find instructions on how to access your child’s personal details.
Book Fair 2024: Luau - It's a Reading Celebration!
Get ready for some fun in the Library when our annual Scholastic Book Fair is held during Weeks 8 and 9 of this Term!!!
Book Fair will run from Wednesday, March 20 – Monday, March 25 (8am – 4pm & Thursday until 6pm) in the school library. Purchase books for your personal use, for gifts, or select books from your child’s class wish list and donate them to their classroom.
Mrs Leonie Savage - Librarian
Uniform Shop
Uniform Shop Hours
The uniform Shop is open every Friday from 8.30am until 10.30am. Flexischool orders will be filled every Tuesday and Friday.
Mrs Kelly Oldfield - Uniform Shop Manager
Home and School
Family BBQ
Home and School invites you to join us under the COLA for an afternoon of friends, food and fantastic activities as we welcome in the new school year and get to know others in our school community better.
The event will start at 12pm, Sunday 3rd March with time for students to free-play as we fire up the BBQ's and fry some vege burgers for lunch (along with drinks and dessert). After lunch Motiv8 Sports will be running an action-packed event for the students to blow off some steam while practising their active listening, teamwork and communication skills.
Tickets are $5. For further information and to book tickets click to link below.
We want to hear your Voice!
Home and School invite all parents and carers to the first of their 'Parent Voice' evenings. The topic for this meeting is Communication channels and how you can best utilise the methods in which the school communicates with families. There will be a presentation covering this topic along with an opportunity for parents to offer suggestions and feedback about your experience of school communication. In addition there will be updates about future plans for the school.
Join us at 7pm on Tuesday 12 March.
Mrs Michelle Roberts - Home and School President (homeandschool@wahroonga.adventist.edu)