From the Headmaster
A Busy and Productive Term
A Busy and Productive Term
“And just like that, Term 1 is over in a week!” This has been a common sentiment expressed at school this week. It has been an intense and productive term, and I have no doubt the extra spring in our step here at Wollemi is due to the prospect of the holidays around the corner.
It has been a flurry of activity on the academic front, with NAPLAN for years 3, 5, 7 and 9 taking place over the last two weeks. Year 12 Mid-year Exams starting this week, and many assessments have also been completed over the tail-end of the term at every stage. We hope the bulk of our students have earned themselves a restful break.
Fr Alan farewelled the students after Mass yesterday with ‘Happy Easter, but make sure that it is a Holy Easter’. These are not any holidays but the Easter Holidays . Next week, we finish the term endeavouring to accompany Our Lord during Holy Week, leading up to his Passion, Death and Resurrection. As these holidays commence, attendance at the Services of Holy Thursday and Good Friday, though not mandatory, is highly recommended. We then embark on a full 40 days of celebration of the Resurrection, the central mystery of our faith. Let’s not, in our eagerness for a break, neglect the reason for it.
Last weekend, we had the Year 2 Father & Son camp at Blue Gum Lodge in Springwood. The Saturday prior, we hosted the first of two special KPFs around the program Talking About Love, aimed at helping parents communicate with their children about sexuality - tailored to the child's age and maturity - and fostering stronger parent-child relationships. The Years 3 & 4 mothers and sons attended the half-day workshop last Saturday, and Years 5 & 6 dads and their sons will have theirs this coming Saturday, 28 March.
A huge thank you to the Formation team: Mr Johnson, Mr James, Mr Breen, and especially to Mrs Reid for admin support. These are wonderful opportunities to deepen parent-child relationships, and I am conscious of the time demands our parents face. So a big thank you to all the parents who have participated in the various activities and camps throughout the term.
Finally, Term 2 kicks off with a Parent Teacher Day on Monday, 20 April. Please book your slots for those very informative meetings with your son’s teachers.
Wishing all our Wollemi families a Blessed Easter and a restful holiday.
Mr James Ramos, Headmaster
Deputy's Dispatch
Building Mental Wellbeing
Building Mental Wellbeing
Recently, the Black Dog Institute released findings from its "Future-Proofing Study." Tracking the mental health and well-being of over 6,000 Australian students, it is the largest study of its kind. The results "revealed" something crucial: mental health isn’t just about "disposition"; it is driven by specific, modifiable lifestyle factors.
As we look to support our boys, three key areas from this study deserve our collective attention.
1. The Sleep Foundation
The study found that poor sleep is the #1 predictor of depression in teenagers. Crucially, sleep problems often appear before any symptoms of anxiety or depression. The researchers noted that "fixing sleep" is one of the most effective ways to protect a young man's mental health.
As you have heard from the school previously, we strongly believe that bedrooms should be phone-free zones. The Black Dog Institute’s Sleep Ninja app is an excellent resource, but it is important to note that it is a daytime training tool . It teaches boys the science of sleep and CBT strategies during the day so they can switch off at night.
The Action: Consider a "Digital Sunset" in your home. Have a central charging station in the kitchen where all devices are "checked in" at least an hour before bed. This allows the brain to wind down without the blue light and dopamine spikes of a smartphone.
2. Passive Scrolling vs. Active Connection
The study challenged the idea that all screen time is equal. It identified "Passive Scrolling"—the endless consumption of short-form video feeds like TikTok or Instagram Reels—as a major predictor of high distress and "compare and despair" mindsets.
Conversely, "Active Connection"—using technology to create, learn, or genuinely socialise with known friends—showed much lower risk.
The Action: Encourage your son to be a "creator" or a "connector" rather than a "consumer." When he is on a device, is he engaging with a hobby, or is he simply being fed an algorithm?
3. The "Detection Gap" and the Power of the Mentor
Perhaps the most startling outcome of the study was the "Detection Gap": nearly 80% of students identified as high-risk were "silent sufferers" who were unknown to school staff. These boys don't usually act out; they simply begin to feel a "disconnect" from their peers or teachers.
This is where the Wollemi Mentoring System is our greatest asset. A boy’s sense of "connectedness" to his school is a massive protective factor. Our one-on-one mentoring ensures that no boy has to be a "silent sufferer."
The Action: If you notice your son is hesitant about school, or if he mentions feeling "out of step" with a teacher or a friend, please reach out to his Mentor. These regular conversations are designed to catch these small disconnects before they grow, ensuring your son feels seen, known, and supported.
Building a Resilient Future
The "Future-Proofing" study reminds us that mental well-being is built on the basics: restorative sleep, intentional digital habits, and deep personal connections. By working together on these "Big Three," we provide our boys with the foundation they need to grow into men of conviction and strength.
Mr Scott Williamson, Deputy Headmaster
Primary Matters
Week 8 2026
Week 8 2026
Feeding the body to prepare the mind - NAPLAN Breakfast Club 2026
Throughout the NAPLAN period, Mr Tu’ipulotu and a number of very helpful Year 6 students hosted a NAPLAN Breakfast Club for students sitting their NAPLAN tests. All of Year 3 and Year 5 were invited to come and enjoy a piece of toast to ensure that their bodies were well fed for the day ahead. In total, the Year 6 students served over 700 pieces of toast - a huge effort, with some boys assisting on each of the 5 days.
More than just feeding their bodies, the NAPLAN Breakfast Club also gave the boys a space to gather and calm their nerves before their tests began - it was a chance to sit, eat and chat - and was a space filled with positivity and care.
A huge thank you to Mr Tu’ipulotu for organising this initiative and to those Year 6 students who woke up early and gave up their time to serve their fellow Wollemi students.
A great example of the Wollemi College spirit of service.
Parent Teacher Day
As we count down the final days of a very productive Term 1, we plan ahead for Term 2.
A reminder that Monday April 20 is our Parent Teacher Day - a great opportunity for parents to sit down with their son’s class teacher and discuss the students progress throughout Term 1 and make plans and set goals for the remainder of the year. Please take this opportunity to have a meaningful talk with your son’s class teacher - login details will be sent out shortly to allow you to make your parent teacher booking.
Winter Uniform - Term 2 and 3
Term 2 also means the change to Winter Uniform - please ensure your son is prepared and refer to the Winter Uniform expectations below. These will be in place from Tuesday April 21.
The Primary winter uniform consists of taupe shorts, long sleeved white shirt and Wollemi tie, and black leather school shoes. The College blazer with crest is to be worn to and from school, and may be worn during the school day, including to Mass and other formal occasions. Knee-high socks are worn in winter.
Mr Luke Baxter, Head of Primary
From the Chaplain
Reflecting on the Lord's Passion
Reflecting on the Lord's Passion
We are so close to the Holy Week! After 4 weeks of Lent, we are ready to live again the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Our Lord. That's what Pope Leo XIV suggested yesterday during his address before praying the Angelus:
"The liturgy invites us, in light of the fact that Holy Week is drawing near, to relive the events of the Lord’s Passion — the entry into Jerusalem, the Last Supper, the trial, the crucifixion, the burial — so that we may grasp their most authentic meaning and open ourselves to the gift of grace they contain. These events are fulfilled in the risen Christ, who has conquered death and lives within us through Baptism, for our salvation and the fullness of life".
Let's be open to the gift of grace during Holy Week!!
And let's pray constantly for peace in the Middle East. These are the more recent words of the Pope asking for prayers:
"With dismay, I continue to follow the situation in the Middle East, which, like other regions of the world, is torn apart by war and violence. We cannot remain silent in the face of the suffering of so many defenceless people who are victims of these conflicts. What hurts them hurts all of humanity. The death and pain caused by these wars are a scandal for the entire human family and a cry that rises to God ! I strongly renew my appeal to persevere in prayer, so that hostilities may cease and paths to peace may finally open up, based on sincere dialogue and respect for the dignity of every human person".
Fr Felix Navarro, College Chaplain
Captain's Corner
Finish The Term Strong: Mindset For Exams And Holidays
Finish The Term Strong: Mindset For Exams And Holidays
This strenuous term is nearing the end, exams are either done or are daunting and soon to be done. This is where our focus shifts from routine learning to performance. In previous articles I alluded to maintaining small critical habits that set us up and keep us grounded during stressful and difficult times. Now we're in these stressful times and the studious boys who kept consistent have little to worry about.
For those with exams left, your mindset decides the execution of your exams. Stress and pressure increase as exams near. Some boys use this pressure as a sign that exams matter, this is essential, you're not behind, you're in the process, it's normal. Replace every “I have to study” with a more fruitful “I get to improve” Or “ I get to learn” this shift reframes how we think and makes studying something enjoyable and always beneficial.
It’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle. The choices we make before the exams mirror those in the exams. Exam stress is inevitable however it is essential to keep eating, drinking and sleeping well. Fuel your body with the right nutrients to sustain you while you study and more importantly during the exams themselves. Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated. Finally get your 8-10 hours of sleep to keep you focused and concentrating.
Take breaks, this is a pivotal aspect of achieving well. The body needs time to rest and relieve stress. Give your mind that opportunity to reset and allow the information to absorb and sink in rather than constantly cramming it. Furthermore we must keep the social aspect of our lives, don't live in your study space . Keep in contact with people, it's a release mechanism our body uses. A talk, walk, message with someone goes a long way both for you and for them.
As the last newsletter for this term, I feel it is necessary to supply some information for the holidays. They are two weeks, importantly two weeks following Easter and the resurrection of our lord. Take this time as prayer and spend it with your families , enjoy the break while you have it. If the opportunity arises to do school work and there's free time, capitalise, get ahead of the game .
Happy Easter, Christos Anesti, enjoy the holiday season with family and friends!
Thomas G, School Captain
Events
Autumn Sports Camp 2026 - Run by Mr Uyeda and Mr Tu'ipulotu
Autumn Sports Camp 2026 - Run by Mr Uyeda and Mr Tu'ipulotu
Autumn Sports Camp is on the horizon! Autumn Sports Camp is being run by Mr Uyeda and Mr Tu'ipulotu. Golf, jumping castle, archery, biking, plus much more, as well as a sausage sizzle on the last day!
All participants will go into the draw for a chance to win a LARGE jar of lollies!
Autumn Sports Camp will run on Tuesday, April 7th, Wednesday, April 8th and Thursday, April 9th. Costs are $120 over three days or $50 per day.
If interested, please fill in the Google Form .
Any questions, please email Mr Uyeda or Mr Tu'ipulotu
Hope to see you there! Mr Uyeda and Mr T
Remember....SPORTS CAMP! SPORTS CAMP! SPORTS CAMP!
Mr Sam Tu'ipulotu and Mr Dustin Uyeda
CSDA - Public Speaking
CSDA - Public Speaking
Last Friday (13th March), Mr White and I travelled to St. Patrick’s College, Strathfield, to watch Jagath K (Yr 10) compete in the grand final of the Catholic Schools Public Speaking competition . For Jagath to have gotten to the grand final was an achievement in itself. Jagath began the competition three weeks ago in the preliminary rounds, followed by the finals the week after. Ninety Year 10 students entered the competition at the start, and Jagath made it as one of the final 12 students in the grand finale.
The grand final was of a very high standard and, although Jagath did not receive a place, he acquitted himself very well in delivering his speech. I would like to congratulate Jagath on his fine performances throughout the competition. I would also like to thank Nethin (Yr 8), Justin (Yr 8), Charlie (Yr 9), Elijah (Year 9) and Dominic (Year 10) who also competed in this year’s Public Speaking Competition.
Mr Ian Ison, Public Speaking and Debating Coordinator
General Notices
Wollemi Merchandise
Wollemi Merchandise
Wollemi is excited to offer a range of commemorative merchandise, including custom-designed hoodies, beanies, caps, cufflinks, and ties. These items feature unique artwork inspired by Wollemi's motto and vibrant community.
Visit the front office today to secure your favourite items, as they are in limited supply.
Visit the front office today to secure your favourite items, as they are in limited supply. To order online, click here.
Career News
Sports News
Join Wollemi Football Club in 2026
Join Wollemi Football Club in 2026
To Our School Community,
Wollemi Football Club recently held a very successful Registration Day, and we would like to sincerely thank the many parents and volunteers who generously gave their time to make the day run so smoothly. Your support is what makes our club such a strong and welcoming
community.
A reminder that pre-season training will continue over the next two weeks on
Friday 21st and
Friday 28th February from 8:30am–9:30am
. We encourage all registered players to attend and get ready for an exciting season ahead. If your child is keen to play football in 2026, now is the time to get in touch. Final spots are filling quickly, and we would love to welcome new players before teams are finalised.
New Canteen – Helpers Wanted
We are also seeking expressions of interest from
parent volunteers and junior helpers
to assist in our new canteen this coming season. Both paid and volunteer opportunities are available. It’s a great way to be involved at the club, meet other families, and support our players on game days. If you are interested in helping in any capacity, please contact the club to find out more.
Sponsors Wanted – Partner with Us in 2026
Wollemi Football Club is currently seeking new sponsors to support several exciting projects planned for the upcoming season. Sponsorship is a fantastic opportunity for local businesses to give back to the community, gain valuable exposure, and help us continue improving our
facilities, equipment, and overall player experience. If you are interested in partnering with us and helping
“Make Wollemi Great Again",
we would love to hear from you.
Volunteers Needed – Ground Marshal Role
We are currently looking for a
Ground Marshal
to assist at our home games on either Saturday or Sunday. This is a wonderful volunteer opportunity for someone who enjoys being around sport, wants to support local families, and has some spare time on game days. No prior experience is required — just a willingness to help and be part of the Wollemi family.
Get in Touch
For registrations, sponsorship opportunities, volunteering, or canteen enquiries, please contact:
Shane Leggatt
President – Wollemi Football Club
0422 605 380
info@wollemifootballclub.com.au
www.wollemifootballclub.com.au
4 Gipps Street, Werrington NSW 2747
We look forward to welcoming new players, volunteers, helpers, and supporters to Wollemi Football Club in 2026!
Midford Wollemi Uniform Shop News
Online Store & Fitting Appointments
Online Store & Fitting Appointments
Throughout the school term our opening hours are 1:00pm – 4:30pm on Fridays (by Appointment ONLY).
For Uniform Fittings, please call: 02 8319 8487
Holiday Fitting Hours
Holiday Fitting Hours
Collared House Shirts
Collared House Shirts
Community
Festival of Democracy
Festival of Democracy
St Joseph's Catholic Parish - 2026 Sacraments
St Joseph's Catholic Parish - 2026 Sacraments
Open Jam Nights
Open Jam Nights
Harmony Day Competitions 2026
Harmony Day Competitions 2026
Announcements
2026 Term Dates
Term 1: Mon 2 Feb to Thurs 2 April
Term 2: Tues 21 April to Fri 26 Jun
Term 3: Tues 21 July to Fri 25 Sept
Term 4: Tues 13 Oct - Wed 9 Dec
2026 Father & Son Camps
Year 2: Sat 21 Mar to Sun 22 Mar
Year 3: Sat 7 Feb to Sun 8 Feb
Year 4: Sat 7 Nov to Sun 8 Nov
Year 5: Sat 16 May to Sun 17 May
Year 6: Sat 29 Aug to Sun 30 Aug
Year 7: Sat 31 Oct to Sun 1 Nov
Year 8: Fri 18 Sept to Sun 20 Sept
Parent e-Handbook
Click here for more parent information about Wollemi College
Staff Directory
The Parent-Teacher Project
How Can We Support Kids in Owning Their Faith?
What's the Deeper Purpose of a Catholic Education?
Nurturing Positive Body Image: What Parents Need to Know
The Parent's Guide to Emotion Coaching
Netflix's Adolescence: A School Counsellor's Thoughts
How Educators Inspire Students to Grow
Diligence & Heart: Raising Kids Who Thrive & Give
Engage Quick Links
Click here to access Engage
Click on the links below to complete the relevant forms in Engage:
● Update your contact details
● Submit an Absentee/Early Leaver Form
● Submit an Extended Leave Form(for holidays, weddings, etc.)
For more information on using the Engage Parent Portal please go to our Parent Portal Resource Site
Parent Calendar
Click + icon to add to your Google Calendar