6th Class Year in Review – 2025
What a year it’s been! From Swimming Carnival to the exciting buzz of Open Day all the way to Speech Night; so many exciting activities packed into one year. Year 6 has been by far the busiest, fun, and most eventful year in our journey through John Colet. Our sunny day at the Swimming Carnival […]
Kitchen Garden produces amazing results in 2025
During the John Colet Garden’s second year we feel very fortunate to have been recognised with a Stephanie Alexander National Kitchen Garden Award. As Winners of the Down To Earth category, competing against 500 entries, John Colet received over $4,000 in prizes and funds to further advance our sustainable education resources. 2025 Statistics Overall food […]
Celebrating 40 Years of John Colet School
Celebrating 40 Years of John Colet School! By now, you are likely aware of this year’s Gala Event on 29th March. This is a very special occasion marking 40 years since John Colet School first opened its doors. This milestone celebration will take place in the stunning Mahratta Estate in Wahroonga, home to the School […]
From the Head of School
As we explore our Value of Respect during these first weeks of school, we began with a reading entitled The Way of Peace by Swami Shivananda. This passage challenges us to reflect on how we respond to negativity—whether we choose to engage, how we react, and the impact our actions can have. Our assembly and […]
2024 – Our year in the garden
Overall food waste diverted from landfill and turned into compost – Over 2 tonnes! The weight of a large SUV Food waste collected from recess by Year 6 Garden monitors – 303kgs Produce harvested and contributed to the kitchen – 163kgs We were fortunate to receive grants from the Sydney Edible Garden Trail, Woolworths Junior […]
2024 – 6th Class Year in Review
This year has been fun, fast and full of fantastic events! The children have participated in many creative and exciting projects and excursions. The activities on offer were endless, and the 6th class children soaked up every opportunity. As school leaders, the children assisted the school in many different capacities. Their leadership proved to be […]
Head of School’s Comment
We had a lovely example of Service by our 5th Class students this week at the 6th Class Graduation lunch. It was a wonderful acknowledgement of the impact they have had on our school over their many years at John Colet. There is no better practical example of the Values that we were founded on […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
Today 6th class ran their yearly stalls. The children have worked hard with their teachers to organise the activities, and a really enjoyable morning was had by all. One of the special aspects of this event is that it is run almost entirely by the 6th class for the other students in the school, so […]
Head of School’s Comment
Next week, we will determine the 6th Class Leadership Team for 2025. Interested students from 5th Class will have the opportunity to present speeches to their peers in 4th, 5th and 6th Class, as well as to staff members from across the school. Voting will be equal and anonymous, ensuring a fair process for all […]
Deputy Head’s Comment
Today 6th class are having their “Fun Day”, one of the many “lasts” for them as we move towards the end of term. This week they had their last Philosophy lesson at John Colet. They had an exercise where they had to pick a classmate’s name out of a hat and reflect on the very […]
Head of School’s Comment
Thank you to our Parents and Friends Association for organising a memorable Diwali Celebration last weekend. Months of behind-the-scenes preparation went into making this event a success, creating a wonderful opportunity for our families to come together and welcome friends and extended family from the wider community. John Colet School is truly strengthened by the […]
The legacy of Shakespearean theatre at John Colet
The students of John Colet immerse in Shakespeare’s work every year, from Kindergarten to Year 6, learning many aspects of stagecraft in the process. As our sixth-class leavers prepare to embark on the next stage of their educational journey, it is apt to reflect on the legacy of their theatrical experiences, to consider “which grain […]
Our Primary Shakespeare Festival has been a tremendous success this week, and we are especially excited for tonight’s performance from our 6th Class students. Many of these students have played a wide range of roles since Lower 1st, experiencing over 20 plays each year as both performers and audience members. To the best of my […]
Deputy Head of School Comment
Shakespeare continues at John Colet with the Lower 1st performances booked for Week 5. In years gone by Lower 1st performed their plays earlier in the year, however moving them to Term 4 allows for the children to mature and have the opportunity to see the older children performing before they themselves take to the […]
This term, we are focusing on the Value of Truthfulness. Every few weeks, we will delve into different aspects of this value, guided by simple yet meaningful questions from our Vision, Mission, and Values Statement. These questions will help us reflect on and practice truthfulness: Truthfulness Practice: • Is it true? • Is it kind, pleasant, and […]
From our Deputy Head of School
On Tuesday night there was an Information Evening for our 2025 Lower 1st parents. This is our first opportunity to welcome new families into the John Colet community. The event is a good reminder of the rich and full program that our Lower 1st children have each year. This is very evident in our current […]
Organic garden update
Last Friday the annual beds in the kitchen garden were retrofitted with self watering technology to combat invasive roots from nearby trees. They were refilled on Tuesday with thanks to parent volunteers, and planted out by infant and primary Gardeneers during lunch. The spring onions, tomatoes, and rainbow popcorn planted so far were all grown […]
Head of School’s Comment
This term, we have focused on the School Value of Stillness. Next term, our attention will shift to Truthfulness, which aligns well, as it is often only when we are still and detached that we can perceive the truth in any situation. Looking ahead to next term, we have an exciting lineup of events and […]
On the vegetarian lunch menu for Week 10
Monday Garlic and rosemary roasted potatoes served with sweet chili and Sour cream Tuesday Moroccan style vegetable curry served with buttered basmati rice Wednesday Cheese and tomato puff pastry slice topped with fresh herbs and mozzarella Thursday Tomato and basil Penne pasta topped with fresh basil and Parmesan Friday Cheese and spinach Filo pastry triangles […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
For the House Competition this term, the children did a piece that centred on the Value of Stillness, which has been the value in focus for the term. All year groups had the same task which was to colour a lotus flower. This activity was done in silence with a particular focus on giving full […]
Head of School’s Comment
The momentum is building towards our Shakespeare performances being held in Term 4. The value of Stillness that we have been recently exploring, has great practical use as the rehearsals develop towards the stage. Each child’s performance depends on their weeks of listening, attention and practice. Their ability to connect requires them to be aware […]
Head of School’s comment
This week, our conversations about the Value of Stillness have focused on the significance of paying equal attention to both the process and the outcome of our work. We tend to become fixated on the goal or the reward ahead, often losing sight of the actions we’re currently taking. Our students resonated with this, sharing […]
Sadly, our Registrar, Mrs Catherine Coffey, will relocate with her family to the UK in October. Mrs Coffey has been the welcoming hand that many of our families have first encountered, the supportive guide during enrolment, and a central figure in many of our events and celebrations that occur throughout the year. She will be […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
This week we have enjoyed three wonderful sporting events at John Colet. Last Sunday 110 people from joined in the Beach2Beach fun run. This has been the biggest team to date. On Monday we had a fantastic day at our annual Athletics Carnival. There were many parents who joined in the for the day. Finally […]
A big week in Athletics
We had another fantastic turnout for the Beach2Beach Fun Run this year, with our JCS Team having 110 participants, making us the second-largest team after Stella Maris College! The weather was glorious, and everyone enjoyed the event, whether they chose to walk or run the 3k, 6k, or 13k distance. It was a wonderful day […]
From the Head of School
We look forward to bringing our community together for our Athletics Carnival on Monday. Conditions will be different this year due to some renovations being undertaken by the Sports Academy, however, it is sure to be a fun day. We also hope to see as many mums and dads as last year in our parent […]
Species Survival Science Week
We have had a great week in Third Class and the children have enjoyed some special activities for Science Week. The theme this year is ‘Species Survival – More than just sustainability’. The theme aims to highlight the importance of science and innovation in ensuring the survival and thriving of different species in an ever-changing […]
Learning about the use of dialect in an Australian classic
In English last week 4th Class continued reading Storm Boy. They discussed the dialect known as Aboriginal English used by one of the characters of Aboriginal heritage, Fingerbone Bill. This is a form of English governed by a unique set of rules and is spoken by a large proportion of First Nation people in Australia. […]
Head of School’s Comment
We are continuing with our exploration of our Value of Stillness this Term. Our practice of mindfulness and pausing throughout the day, allows the children a regular opportunity to focus, become still and centre themselves within the present. Students practice letting go of thoughts and emotions tied up with the past, while also releasing considerations […]
Head of School’s Comment
Hello from the Great Aussie Bush Camp at Lake Macquarie. It has been a wonderful three days with our 3rd and 4th Class students. We have all been impressed with this new camp venue and look forward to returning next year. The students have had the opportunity to build deeper friendships and push themselves in […]
This week in 4th Class…
The children were so excited to participate in the Shakespeare workshop on Monday. Joanna E, Violet’s mum, facilitated an action-packed session with many activities to build the children’s confidence, acting skills and ability to use Shakespearean language. We also looked at the plot and characters of Romeo and Juliet and discussed themes, including Shakespeare’s use […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
On Thursday Lower 1st celebrated 100 days at school. It is quite extraordinary to reflect on how much development and learning has taken place in this relatively short period of time. The children show steadiness, focus and independence and have embraced both the School Values and the Pause very naturally. Their ability to sit quietly […]
Head of School’s Comment
Next week, our 5th and 6th Class students head to Canberra and 3rd and 4th Class students will travel to the slightly warmer area of Lake Macquarie for their camp. Our older students have previous experience being away from home, however, for many of our 3rd Class students, this will be the longest time they have been away from […]
Non-competitive after school sports choices for Term 2
We are thrilled to inform you about the fantastic non-competitive After School Sport programs we have lined up for our students in Term 2! These sports are on offer for children who don’t participate in PISA Training on a Tuesday, except for Netball as it will take place on Thursdays. Our aim is to provide […]
From our Deputy Head of School
On Monday we will be celebrating Nowruz. This is an ancient custom held throughout Central, Western and South Asia and in and around the Black Sea basin, to celebrate the new year. The children in each year have all made something which will be placed on a table called the Haftseen table. For example, our […]
Shakespeare tips and links for learning lines at home
There are many ways to assist your child at home as we begin preparations for your child’s annual class play. Rule number 1: Let it be a fun experience! Rule number 2: Slow and clear articulation is crucial. Rule number 3: Repetition makes perfect. Rule number 4: Remember this is a team effort because every […]
Head of School’s Comment
At next week’s assembly, we shall be introducing our 6th Class Leaders to the students. They may already know our Head Boy and Girl, Our Head Chorister and Art Prefect, however, what they may not know is that every 6th Class student has a role to play, and an opportunity to serve. This list includes […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
It has been an excellent start to the term. The children have come back bright and ready to engage with their learning. It is very encouraging to see how keen our 6th class students are to take up their responsibilities as leaders of the School. It is clear that they value service and are willing […]
Deputy Head of School’s comment
At this time of year, we are looking forward to all the end of year activities such as the 6th class stalls, Picnic Day, 6th class farewell lunch, excursions and Lower 1st Shakespeare. It is important that these events are enjoyable for everyone and to that end we keep working on the School Value of […]
Head of School’s comment
Our first two nights of our Primary Shakespeare Festival have been a great success. Tonight, we look forward to our final two plays, from this year’s graduating 6th Class. This evening they shall perform Julius Caesar and The Taming of the Shrew. It seems a short time ago that many of these students had their […]
From our Deputy Head of School
On Thursday our 5th class students were responsible for welcoming our new 2024 students and their parents. They did an outstanding job of representing the school and demonstrating the school values. They were open, polite and enthusiastic in their service. It was wonderful to watch the younger children’s faces light up when a 5th class […]
From our Deputy Head of School
At this time of year, we turn our attention to Leadership roles in the school. There are a number of different areas of leadership including Art Prefect, Head Chorister, Art monitors, Shakespeare monitors and Library monitors. Children in 5th class will be asked in the next few weeks to put their names forward to be […]
Head of School’s Comment
Listening and the ability to really engage is a skill that needs to be developed. As we look at our Value of Respect this term, we begin by considering the benefit of silence, and in particular of listening with attention. Listening takes practice. Listening pays respect to the speaker, encourages them to share their views, […]
Head of School’s Comment
We have recently learnt that Middle Harbour Yacht Club, who run our Saturday sailing program, will soon be closing their ‘Tackers’ program. While we have not been able to secure a spot in a similar club nearby, we are pleased to have engaged the Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club in Newport as our new venue. […]
Head of School’s Comment
Hello from Milson Island! We have had a wonderful three days with our 3rd and 4th Class students at camp. For many of our 3rd Class students, this was the longest time they have been away from their parents. They have all met this new experience with a positive attitude, and courage. In doing so, […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
This week the John Colet Choir performed at the IPSHA Performing Arts Festival in Sydney Town Hall. As preparation the Choir and the accompanying instrumentalists performed for the Primary Assembly on Monday morning. The calibre of the music and singing were outstanding. On Tuesday night when they did perform, comments were passed about how fine […]
Head of School’s Comment
As our Value in focus this term is Stillness, our discussions this week have centred around the wisdom that pausing provides. Making a right, informed or wise decision is not always easy. Particularly when we may be caught up with our emotions, or perhaps distracted by the world around us. Having a blank canvas with […]
Head of School’s comment
Next week, we shall be holding our annual Infants Shakespeare Festival for Upper 1st and 2nd Class. During rehearsals, it has been wonderful to witness the confidence and passion of such young children. Each child’s performance is dependent on their weeks of listening, paying attention, and empathising for the role they play. The plays also […]
The High School student Philosophy Group program for 2023
The Plan for 2023: We plan to run 2 separate groups (numbers dependent): One for the new Year 7s, and one for Year 8s and 9s. We hope this helps to engage the students and meet the different needs of these groups. We also plan to make meditation a central focus of the sessions. We will […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
This week 5th and 6th class children auditioned for Shakespeare Club. Each child had to prepare a small presentation from a play of their choice. Ms Lilla, our new drama teacher, was very impressed by the children’s confidence and standard of presentation. Due to the level of ability and enthusiasm from our 5th and 6th […]
Head of School’s Comment
Our Alphabet for Humanity word of the week has been ‘bravery’, which dove-tailed well with our value of Courage. There were many hands up in our Infants Assembly today with practical examples. A Lower 1st student gave the perfect example of starting in big school, a 2nd class student highlighted removing the training wheels when […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
This term 6th class are studying “The Raft of Knowledge” which is an allegory taken from the Aitaraya Upanishad. The allegory describes a raft which takes us across the sea of life. The children were asked to come up with provisions that they might take on this raft in order to make this journey. The […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
This week we have started to introduce the Alphabet for Humanity in our Infant and Primary Assemblies. Many of the children have already studied this, however the vocabulary needs to be revisited again and again if it is to become planted in the children’s minds and hearts. We started today with A for abundance. Enough […]
Head of School’s Comment
As we continue to explore the Value of Courage this term, we bring our focus to finding the courage to finish the task we are doing and finish it well. In all subjects we look for the children to persist in ensuring that they go the extra mile or in many cases just that last […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
A very warm welcome to everyone for the beginning of Term 1 2023. I would like to extend a special welcome to all the new families joining John Colet. We are very much looking forward to being able to engage in a full calendar of events this year. This week all the teachers have been […]
The Power of the Pause in Promoting Productivity and Purpose
Om Paramatmane Nama… These words might sound a bit foreign, but to the John Colet School community, this little phrase represents a big part of their daily life. Throughout the day, students and staff Pause for at least five seconds before starting a new activity. The result? A more grounded, more present and more attentive […]
Deputy Head of School’s Comment
In 6th class Philosophy lessons we are currently looking at the subject of Unity. Nothing is better than an actual example to show how this works. This week we have seen the effect of unified co-operation and support through out our school community as we work together to navigate our way through an untested situation. […]
6th class artwork ready to enter Art Prize
In creating our entry into the 2020 Gallipoli Art Prize, our 6th class students looked at ‘means of escape’. They particularly focused on the games and objects sent to POWs through Red Cross parcels that could be used for escape purposes. The sheer focus, imagination and ingenuity in creating ways to escape: hiding information and […]
Proudly supporting “Fetch it for a Farmer”
This week we had Crazy Headwear Day for Cook House Market Day. The charity that Cook House chose was Fetch it For a Farmer. This charity was founded by sixteen-year-old Annabelle K who came and spoke to our Assembly about the drought and the fundraiser she started. Her parents farm is 50km outside of […]
Head of school’s Comment
This week in Assembly our Head Boy and Girl, together with our House Captains, spoke to our students about their roles and the effect of their service on their personal development. All six students spoke with great confidence and clarity, giving practical examples of their different experiences throughout the year. They have provided a wonderful […]