From the Head of Junior School

Write a Book in a Day

We are incredibly proud of our Year 6 students who took part in the “Write a Book in a Day” challenge, a creative and collaborative event supporting The Kids’ Cancer Project. With great enthusiasm and teamwork, students spent the day writing and illustrating original stories, all while raising vital funds for childhood cancer research. Thanks to the generosity of our School community, the event raised over $13,000, making a meaningful contribution to this important cause. Congratulations to all involved for their creativity, compassion, and commitment!

Kinder Learn to Swim

This term also marked the exciting start of our Kindergarten Learn to Swim program. Designed to introduce students to the fundamentals of water safety and swimming, the program provides a fun and supportive environment where children can build confidence in the water. Through guided instruction and playful activities, students are developing coordination, resilience, and essential life skills. It’s been wonderful to see their enthusiasm and progress already shining through!

Academic Enrichment

Students across the Junior School have recently had the opportunity to participate in two exciting academic enrichment opportunities —ICAS Assessments and the Newcastle Permanent Maths Competition. These initiatives are designed to challenge and extend students beyond the classroom, encouraging critical thinking, problem-solving, and academic excellence.

ICAS offers assessments in areas such as English, Mathematics, Science, and Digital Technologies, allowing students to showcase their skills on a national and international level. Meanwhile, the Newcastle Permanent Maths Competition provides a unique opportunity for students to engage with complex mathematical problems in a fun and competitive setting.

We are proud of all students who took part and commend them for their enthusiasm and commitment to learning. These experiences not only build confidence but also foster a love of learning that will benefit them well into the future.

Grow Your Mind

As part of our ongoing commitment to wellbeing through the Grow Your Mind initiative, we were delighted to host Alice Peel, author of the “Good Enough Kid” parent workshop. This insightful session offered families practical strategies to support their children’s emotional development while embracing the idea that perfection isn’t the goal. By focusing on resilience, self-awareness, and realistic expectations, the workshop encouraged parents to nurture confident, compassionate, and mentally healthy children.

We extend our sincere thanks to all the parents who attended and contributed to the conversation. Your involvement plays a vital role in strengthening the partnership between home and school as we work together to foster a growth mindset and lifelong wellbeing in our students. To order a copy of How to Be a Good Enough Kid go to https://growyourmind.life/order-our-new-book-how-to-be-a-fantastic-sensational-good-enough-kid/

Junior School Anniversary

On Thursday we will celebrate 67 Years of the Junior School. On 21 August 1958, we officially opened our purpose-built Junior School—an ambitious step that changed the course of education at Wolaroi. Today, the original building—now known as Trathen House, home to our Year 7 boarders—still stands on our main campus. From just 14 students to the vibrant Junior School community we have today, it’s a legacy built on vision, generosity, and belief in the power of education.

Put Our Father's Day Event in Your Diary!

A warm reminder to all our fathers and significant others that we will be celebrating Father’s Day on Friday 5 September. Join us for a light breakfast served from the Glasshouse, followed by a special classroom visit with your child.

We look forward to sharing this meaningful morning with you as we celebrate the important role you play in our students’ lives.