Next week,  we celebrate an important tradition at John Colet School: the 6th Class Farewell Lunch, hosted by our 5th Class students. This event is more than a shared meal, it is a moment of acknowledgement, gratitude and connection. Our 5th Class students have prepared some entertainment and have each selected one of the graduates to research and speak about. It is a simple but meaningful way for our upcoming 2026 seniors to offer thanks in service to those completing their time at the school. We hope it becomes a memorable rite of passage for both year groups as they mark this transition to the next stage of their learning. Julian Wilcock …

Our 6th Class students held their annual Stalls Day today, bringing plenty of excitement and energy to the school despite the less-than-ideal weather. Their well-planned activities and games lifted everyone’s spirits, and the funds raised will go towards a parting gift for the school, something future students will enjoy for years to come. Next week, we turn our attention to our leaders of 2026 as we begin the process of selecting the 6th Class Leadership Team. Interested 5th Class students will deliver speeches to their peers in 4th–6th Class, as well as to staff across the school. We remind all students that this process is not about popularity or polished performances, but about recognising those who consistently demonstrate our …

With over 80% of families now registered on our Parent Portal, we’re pleased to move ahead with expanding its capabilities earlier than planned. Thank you for helping make this possible. Permission slips are now being added to the Portal, providing a simple way to review, sign, and keep track of upcoming activities. In addition, student reports will be accessible through the app at the end of the term. If you haven’t yet signed up, we encourage you to do so as soon as possible. For any questions or suggestions to enhance your Portal experience, please contact us at parentportal@johncolet.nsw.edu.au Julian Wilcock …

At our regular staff meetings, we begin with an Acknowledgement of Country. For some time now, we have sought to make this practice more authentic and personally meaningful by inviting a different staff member each week to lead the acknowledgement in their own way. This might take the form of a personal reflection, a poem, an excerpt from a book, or a piece of local history that resonates with our place here in Sydney. This week, with his permission, Mrs Bolaitamana shared with our staff a reflection written by one of her students, Thomas C, during time spent in the Djaramada Bush Reserve where our students play. His words captured the quiet beauty, spirit, and deep sense of connection …

This week it was a pleasure to host the parents of our incoming Lower 1st 2026 students at our information evening. It was wonderful to see their enthusiasm and excitement as many prepare to join our school community for the first time, and also great to see the support provided by many of the attending parents who already have children at JCS. Next Thursday, we look forward to welcoming the children themselves for our Lower 1st Orientation Day. This special event will help them meet their teachers for next year, Mrs Wallace and Mrs Cooper, explore their new classrooms and play spaces, and begin forming friendships with one another. Our 5th Class students will also play a leading role, …

This term, our focus on the School Value of Courage has encouraged students to act with integrity, face challenges with resilience, and speak truthfully with kindness. In Term 4, our attention will turn to the value of Stillness. Stillness lies at the heart of our educational philosophy and is one of the defining characteristics of John Colet School. More than a concept, it is a foundational life skill that supports learning, wellbeing, and character development across all areas of school life. Term 4 will provide many meaningful opportunities to practise and embody this value, such as our Lower 1st and Primary Shakespeare productions, the 5th Class leadership speeches, and culminating in our Speech Night performances. We wish all families …