From the Interim Principal

Through our traditional end of year events, student achievement has been recognised, gratitude expressed, fun created and wishes for the upcoming school break and Christmas extended. 

On Wednesday 27 November, families of Year 10 and 11 students joined together for their Praise and Thanksgiving, with The Right Reverend David Bassett, Assistant Bishop of Perth and Mr Ivan McLean, Chief Operating Officer, Anglican Schools Commission in attendance. This event highlighted the many successes of our students, provided the opportunities for some of our students to display their wonderful musical talents and for four student speakers to share reflections on the past year and express words of encouragement for the year ahead.

Our Primary and Secondary students attended their final Chapel Services. Through the retelling of the traditional Christmas story and the singing of carols, students were reminded of the true meaning of Christmas - a time to embrace and share the gifts of hope, joy, peace and love with family, friends and their broader community.

Our Year 6 Valedictory took place on Monday 2 December, as students and their families came together to reflect on the journey through Primary school. The evening balanced moments of nostalgia with an overwhelming sense of excitement for the future, as our Year 6 students were recognised for their accomplishments and looked ahead to new opportunities in Secondary School.

Wednesday morning's Pre-Primary- Year 1 Nativity, entitled Baarmy Bethlehem lived up to its reputation as a highlight of the final days. The students gave a tremendous performance with enthusiasm and brought a smile to all who were in attendance. 

The week concluded with the Primary Praise and Thanksgiving in the morning and the Years 7-9 Praise and Thanksgiving in the afternoon, marking the end of the academic year. We were delighted to welcome immediate past Principal Ms Anne Ford to the Primary event as she presented the inaugural Anne Ford Award for action in service of the community. We also welcomed Ms Kathy Paul, Director of Teaching and Learning, Anglican Schools Commission to both events.

These events have provided a meaningful and celebratory conclusion to a year filled with growth, achievement and a strong sense of community. Congratulations to all the students for their outstanding contributions, and heartfelt thanks to the dedicated staff who worked tirelessly to make these occasions so memorable.

The end of the year brings with it a number of farewells.

I acknowledge with appreciation the contributions of our departing staff and wish them every success.

Amanda Whiteford (Primary Inclusive Education, 17.5 years’ service)

Megan Lefroy (Head of Inclusive Education, 14.5 years’ service) 

Brady Morris (Primary and Secondary Japanese, 12 years’ service)

Sharon Hanson (Head of Library Services, 10 years’ service)

Luke Basson (Year 7 teacher, 6 years’ service)

Michael Leaning (Assistant to Dean of Teaching and Learning/Science, 3 years’ service)

Emma Carlucci (Education Assistant, 2.5 years’ service)

Barbara Hender (Food and Textiles Technician, 12 months service)

Teresa Uchanski (Head of Inclusive Education)

Tiana Thomas (Administration Assistant) 

Contract end 

Alicia Anderson (Acting Head of Health & Physical Education)

Harry Doble (Education Assistant)

Ning Garin (Education Assistant)

Kerwyn Jonker (Education Assistant)

Shania Mullins (Primary Art Technician)

Naomi Ninan (Primary teacher)

Tanika Pember (Secondary Health & Physical Education)

Kateryna Vaishengolts (Education Assistant)

Allison van der Vaart (Secondary Science)

To the students and families who conclude their time with us this year, we wish you every success for your future endeavours and thank you for the contributions you have made during your time at John Wollaston. 

I express my thanks to our families. Thank you for your continued support and for entrusting us with your child’s education. We know that a strong partnership plays an invaluable role in assisting our students to thrive.

To conclude, our school community has much to look forward to in 2025. But until then. 

I wish you all a happy, safe, and holy Christmas, surrounded by the warmth of loved ones. May hope light your path, peace fill your heart, love surround you, and joy brighten your days.

KYLIE VIRGO

INTERIM PRINCIPAL