Welcome 

Dear Alumni Community, 

Welcome to the final Alumni Newsletter of 2025! It has been another full year for the students and staff at Waverley Christian College, as no doubt it has been for most of you. We have had the privilege of having several of you back on campus this year for your reunions, and we want to say a sincere thank you for keeping in touch and staying involved with College happenings. You are a valuable member of this community, and we consider it a blessing to have played a small role in the foundation of your life journey, which will continue to take you far. 

A key part of staying connected is communication. So if you would like to receive these newsletters directly to your email inbox, please complete the form here in order to update your details with the College. Alternatively, reach out to alumni@wcc.vic.edu.au at any time with your most up-to-date contact information. 

Please read on for a greeting and update from Mark Crnkovic, Head of Campus at Narre Warren South, about College alumni events, facilities updates and leadership staffing changes for next year. 

From all of us at the Alumni Department of WCC, we wish you a restful and memorable Christmas and holiday season.  

From NWS Head of Campus

This year, Waverley Christian College was delighted to host two special reunion dinners  marking both the 1-year and 5-year milestones for our alumni. Both events were vibrant celebrations of community, gratitude and the enduring legacy of our College.

1-Year Reunion Dinner

The 1-Year Reunion was a fantastic celebration, with over 33 alumni returning to reconnect with former classmates and teachers. The night kicked off with a lively round of Human Bingo and an inspiring message from our new Principal, Rod Ramsay. 2024 College Captains Sion Botha and Natania Alfred, alongside Madonna Yacoob, shared heartfelt reflections on their time at WCC. Their stories shone a light on the lasting academic, spiritual and personal impact of their WCC journey. The evening wrapped up with uplifting words from Mr Aaron Woolnough and Mrs Stephanie Henson, and a closing prayer from our Chaplain, Mrs Kathy Scott.  

Filled with energy, joy and meaningful reconnections, the reunion was a true testament to the vibrancy of this cohort.

5-Year Reunion Dinner

Five years on, 23 alumni from the Class of 2020 returned to campus to celebrate their journey since graduation. It was a joy to see familiar faces reconnecting with each other and catching up with former teachers and mentors over dinner.

In the years since leaving WCC, many have pursued advanced degrees, while others have launched careers across diverse fields, making a real difference in their communities. Staff members present were proud to witness the growth and success of their former students.

The evening was filled with laughter, memories and heartfelt reflection. Highlights included touring the newly completed Junior Secondary building, friendly games and a nostalgic viewing of the Year 12 video bringing back all the feels.

The Class of 2020 endured a uniquely challenging final year disrupted by the COVID-19 pandemic, yet they persevered with strength, grace and resilience. Hearing how that season shaped them and how they continue to live out their purpose for God's glory was truly inspiring.

Seeing friendships rekindled, teachers honoured and faith still central in their stories was heartwarming. What a blessing to witness the lasting impact of a Christ-centered education.

Thank you, Class of 2020! We are proud of who you are and who you are becoming.

Both reunions highlighted the remarkable growth of the NWS campus:

• In 2012, the College began with one Secondary class and 150 students from Prep
• By 2018, there were two classes in each year level from Year 7–12
• Today, in 2025, the campus has 1,111 students, with three classes in each Secondary year level and a fourth class in Year 7

This growth reflects the enduring commitment of staff, alumni and families who have shaped the College’s journey.

As alumni continue to pursue their goals, we encourage them to carry forward the College’s seven values, especially Faith and Love. Faith reminds us of who we are and why we are here, while Love calls us to value and treat others well.

As we celebrate these reunions, we are reminded of the words of Scripture:

And let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching.  – Hebrews 10:24–25

NWS Secondary Production

Our Secondary Production this year was a vibrant showcase of creativity, talent, and community spirit. Students brought the beloved story to life with dazzling performances, imaginative staging and heartfelt energy that captivated audiences. Beyond the spotlight, the production reflected the dedication of staff, alumni and volunteers who worked tirelessly to support the cast and crew. It was more than just a performance, it was a celebration of collaboration, resilience and the joy of storytelling, leaving a lasting impression on everyone who attended. It was awesome to see many of our alumni attend the performances as well as being involved in the rehearsals and volunteering backstage. Thank you to all who joined us for the big event.

Campus Advancements This Year

Our dedication to ongoing improvement was tangibly expressed this year through several exciting enhancements to our campus facilities, each designed to enrich student life and wellbeing.

• Synthetic Turf – The area in front of the canteen has been revitalised with Astro Turf, creating a welcoming space where students can relax, connect and enjoy their breaks. This vibrant zone has quickly become a favourite gathering spot, enhancing the atmosphere of campus life.

• Undercover Basketball Court Structure – The newly completed covered court is now in use, equipped with a speaker system, wireless microphones, lighting and power outlets. This versatile space not only provides shade for sports but also serves as a flexible outdoor venue for classes, assemblies and music performances.

• Adventure Circuit Course & Sensory Climbing Wall – Our Primary students are enjoying a brand-new adventure playground, completed at the start of Term 3. This purpose-built, adventure-inspired setting offers fun, active play opportunities that encourage confidence and resilience. Adding to the excitement, the sensory climbing wall has further enhanced the Junior Primary playground, giving students opportunities to challenge themselves and grow through active play.

We deeply thank God for His generous provision in enhancing our outdoor facilities and look forward with joy to the lasting impact these spaces will have for generations to come.

Charity Support

Throughout the year, the College remained committed to supporting a wide range of charitable initiatives, including Beanies for Brain Cancer, Mission Aviation Fellowship (MAF), Transit, Cornerstone, Hope Christian Church – India, the Leukemia Foundation, and the Biggest Morning Tea.

Many of these causes were supported through Free Dress Days, where students contributed gold coin donations. These efforts gave students meaningful opportunities to demonstrate compassion, generosity and a heart for service across both local and global communities.

Farewell to Mr David Tompson – Head of Primary

After 12 years of faithful service at the Narre Warren South Campus, Mr David Tompson concludes his role at the end of 2025 as he enters retirement. Joining in 2012 and serving as Head of Primary since 2014, Mr Tompson’s leadership, care for students and staff, and commitment to Christian education have left a lasting legacy. He was honoured throughout the year for his outstanding contribution, and we send him off with love, gratitude and every blessing, encouraged by Isaiah 40:31, 'But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength…'

Farewell to Mrs Shirley Patterson – Head of Secondary

Mrs Shirley Patterson will conclude her service at the end of Term 4, 2025. Since joining in 2023, she has led with humility, faith and vision, fostering spiritual growth, academic excellence and pastoral care across the Secondary School. Her leadership oversaw expanded year streams, new subject offerings, community service initiatives, strategic staffing and the opening of the Junior Secondary Building. Her prayerful guidance of Chapel and discipleship programs enriched College life deeply. We thank her for her faithful service and entrust her to the Lord’s care.

New Head and Deputy Heads Primary Appointments

Looking ahead, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Mrs Sarah Michael as Head of Primary at the Narre Warren South Campus, commencing January 2026. A deeply committed Christian educator with extensive experience and spiritual maturity, Mrs Michael brings a heart for nurturing both students and staff. 

Following Mrs Michael’s recent appointment to the Head of Primary role in 2026, we announced that Mr Anthony Coulson has been appointed as the new Deputy Head of Primary at our Narre Warren South Campus, commencing January 2026.

Mr Coulson has faithfully served at Waverley Christian College since 2015, sharing his wealth of teaching and leadership experience across both Lower and Senior Primary. Over the years, he has taught Year 2, 5 and 6, so it’s possible that some of our alumni remember him as their teacher during their Primary journey. Alongside classroom teaching, he has held significant leadership roles including Year Level Lead Teacher, Senior Primary Coordinator, Primary Sports Coordinator and Finney House Coordinator. Highly respected by students, staff and parents alike, Mr Coulson’s heart for the WCC community and his dedication to authentic faith will be a true blessing to the NWS Primary Team.

New Head of Secondary Appointment

Following an extensive recruitment process, we are delighted to announce the appointment of Mr Joel Chapman as the new Head of Secondary at Narre Warren South, commencing January 2026. Mr Chapman brings over 20 years of experience at WCC, including nearly 12 years as Deputy Head of Secondary at the Wantirna South Campus. His leadership journey has included roles such as Year Level Coordinator, Timetabler and Student Course Coordinator, always prioritising the needs of students and staff while working diligently to support the College community.

Mr Chapman is a proud past student of the College and, together with his wife Christy, has four children who attend the Wantirna South Campus. While his move will be felt at Wantirna South, we rejoice that he remains part of the wider WCC family and look forward to his leadership at Narre Warren South.

May the favour of the Lord our God rest on us; establish the work of our hands for us—yes, establish the work of our hands.  – Psalm 90:17

This year, our school has focused on the Four Loves Framework:

• Love God – keeping Him at the centre of our lives
• Love Others – showing kindness, compassion and respect in all relationships
• Love Life – embracing joy, gratitude and the opportunities each day brings
• Love Learning – pursuing wisdom, growth and excellence in all we do

These Four Loves build upon our foundation of Faith and Love, guiding alumni to live with purpose, resilience and a spirit of service.

As our alumni community gathers through reunions and school events, may these Four Loves continue to inspire lasting connections, encouragement and a legacy that reflects God’s work in and through us.

I pray that God will continue to bless you, our alumni, as you continue your journey, guiding you with wisdom, strength and success in all your endeavours.

May you all have a blessed and wonderful Christmas!

Mark Crnkovic

Head of Campus