From the 

Head of Junior School

Rites of Passage

Rites of passage play a crucial role in the development of students, marking significant milestones in their educational journey from pre-kindergarten to Year 6. Commencing with pre-kindergarten and kindergarten, these early years set the foundation for a child's academic and social growth. These initial rites of passage may include the first day of school, making new friends, and developing basic skills. These experiences, though seemingly small, lay the groundwork for a child's sense of belonging and curiosity. They help students develop a sense of identity, resilience, and enthusiasm for the journey ahead, laying the foundation for a lifetime of learning and growth.

As students progress into Year 3, they encounter more complex challenges and educational milestones. Acknowledging these achievements fosters a sense of accomplishment and motivates students to take on greater responsibilities. Whether it's mastering a new subject or participating in a school event, each accomplishment becomes a stepping stone in their educational journey.

The transition to Year 6 marks a significant departure point as students prepare to move on to the next chapter of their academic lives. Recognizing this transition allows for reflection on the growth, friendships, and challenges faced during primary school. Creating memories through ceremonies, awards, or special events not only provides closure but also instils a sense of pride in students for their achievements.

These rites of passage are essential markers of personal and academic growth. They create memories that serve as beacons for students to look back on, offering a sense of accomplishment and pride. Furthermore, these experiences become a source of inspiration for others embarking on similar journeys. The stories of overcoming challenges, forging friendships, and achieving milestones inspire younger students to persevere and look forward to their own rites of passage. 

On Friday night we celebrated a significant event in the Year 6 calendar, their graduation dinner. This evening is a special time when families come together for photographs and students enjoy an evening that is led by them for them. The evening was made particularly special due to the dedicated parents who transformed the venue into a memorable space. Their efforts in staging the room provided a fitting backdrop for the occasion. Working with staff in the Junior School created a truly special evening, creating an atmosphere of celebration marking the students' transition with warmth and significance. This evening has included what has now become a special tradition with a contribution made to Orange Uniting Church to their food for the homeless organisation.

This year our Year 6 students were the first to receive the newly created Wolaroi Wyvern as a gift from the school.

Introducing Wolaroi the Wyvern

Wolaroi the Wyvern is a mythical creature who sat atop the crest of one of our founding schools, Wolaroi College, over 100 years ago. Today you’ll still see him on the crests for Wolaroi Boarding House and Trathen Boarding House. In the past, the school had a Wyvern Scout group, a Wyvern Club, and the Wolaroi College school magazine was known as ‘The Wyvern’.

Wyverns are found on coats of arms, crests and flags as symbols of strength, endurance and perseverance. Wyverns are intelligent and courageous, as well as fast and agile in flight. This magnificent creature is also gentle and empathetic with all of nature's creatures; it brings inspiration and knowledge to everyone as it moves around the earth.

Wolaroi is a young Wyvern who is excited to accompany our young students on their journey through Kinross Wolaroi School. He represents our School values of courage, commitment, inclusivity, resilience and respect.

A message for Year 6

As you stand on the threshold of a new chapter, ready to venture into the world of Senior School and Year 7, take a moment to reflect on the rich tapestry of experiences you've woven during your time in the Junior School. Just like a tree, you have grown tall and strong, with roots firmly embedded in the soil of knowledge, friendship, and personal development.

Think of the early years as the roots of your tree, absorbing essential nutrients from the fertile ground of learning. You've explored the various branches of education, from the sciences to the arts, discovering your strengths and interests. The leaves on your tree represent the friendships you've nurtured, the laughter shared, and the challenges faced together. Just as leaves sway in the wind, you've learned to adapt to different situations and emerge resilient.

Your teachers, like the sturdy trunk of a tree, have provided support, guidance, and structure. They've helped you weather storms and bask in the sunshine of success. The tree's bark represents the protective layer you've developed, the knowledge and values that shield you as you step into the Senior School. Now, as you prepare to leave the familiar shade of the Junior School, carry the essence of your tree with you. Your experiences, knowledge, and friendships are the fruits of your labour. Hold onto them tightly, for they will nourish you in the years to come.

Remember, just as a tree reaches for the sky, you too can reach great heights. Let your branches stretch, explore new horizons, and embrace the challenges that lie ahead. Your time in the Junior School has equipped you with the tools needed to face the winds of change and stand tall in the face of adversity. As you enter Year 7, trust in the strength of your roots, the resilience of your leaves, and the wisdom gained from the Junior School. May your journey in the Senior School be as rewarding and fulfilling as the growth of a magnificent tree.

Wishing you all the best on this exciting new adventure.

As the term draws to a close

As the end of the year approaches, many exciting experiences await our students. The enchanting K-2 Nativity, with its youthful innocence and festive spirit, will unfold, creating lasting memories for the youngest members of our school community. This event is not just for families of K-2 students. I encourage all in the Junior School community to purchase a ticket. This event will definitely put you in the Christmas spirit. Meanwhile, the Year 5 Leadership applications signify a pivotal step towards personal and academic growth.

Welcoming new Pre-Kinder students is a heartwarming initiation into the school family, setting the tone for future connections. The transition to Senior School day for Year 6 embodies the anticipation and readiness for the next academic chapter.

For our Year 6 students, an adventurous outdoor education camp beckons, promising camaraderie and a chance to embrace nature's lessons. A final opportunity to cement friendships as some in the year group move onto different schools. The vibrant Colour Run, a burst of energy and unity, will be a final experience to demonstrate their impact as leaders in the Junior School.

The Celebration of Learning stands as a testament to the academic strides taken throughout the year, offering a platform for students to showcase their achievements. Reports, the culmination of hard work and dedication, provide a reflection on individual progress.

As the year concludes, each event holds profound importance. They symbolize growth, resilience, and community spirit, creating a mosaic of experiences that define the school year's essence and serve as stepping stones for the exciting journey that lies ahead.

Kinross Wolaroi students making their Mark 

At Kinross Wolaroi we value and strive for academic rigor. Students have a myriad of opportunities to engage in enriching learning experiences which in some instances the school provides or facilitates student access to them.  Please share with us your child’s interest, passions, and achievements by emailing junioroffice@kws.nsw.edu.au.

Marlon Zielinski competed at the NSW State gymnastics/parkour championships. He is the sole athlete aged under 12 who has been categorised in the Elite level. The other categories are Advanced and Intermediate. He scored 47/50 in the freestyle event.  He is this the best Freestyle athlete aged U12 and we are super proud of him and his efforts.

Digby McGee and Nick Strahorn who had a great time representing the Orange Hockey Association at the NSW indoor state hockey championships recently held in Orange.