Program of Excellence 2026

Wavell State High School

Empowering Learners. Empowering Futures.

Welcome to Wavell’s Programs of Excellence

“Wavell has a rich history of excellence; our Programs are designed to empower talented students to excel academically and further develop skills in their chosen fields.”

Welcome from our Executive Principal At Wavell State High School, our Programs of Excellence are more than specialised pathways—they are a commitment to the highest expectations of learning, character, and contribution. They exist to inspire every student to discover their passions and potential and then pursue excellence not as an aspiration reserved for a few, but as a daily practice embedded in who they are becoming. Our purpose is clear and compelling: we equip, enable, and empower all learners to contribute confidently and meaningfully to our world. This purpose is brought to life through our vision, Empowering Learners. Empowering Futures, which challenges every member of our community to step in to the arena and take action, embrace challenge, and engage courageously with the opportunities of our ever-changing world.

Luke Ferdinands Executive Principal

Excellence at Wavell is anchored in our values of innovation, integrity, and inclusion. These values shape a culture where high expectations and strong support coexist, where students feel both the responsibility and the confidence to strive, persist, and excel. Our Programs of Excellence are intentionally designed to stretch students academically, culturally, athletically, and personally. They foster a deep sense of belonging and connection while expecting students to uphold the highest standards of behaviour, commitment, and effort. This is excellence not merely in performance, but in mindset, discipline, and character.

Through these carefully curated pathways, students experience learning that is rigorous, personalised, and purposeful. These programs provide national and international opportunities and are characterised by authentic human connection, real-world application, and the understanding that excellence is achieved through consistent habits over time. Each program is founded on a balanced, future-focused education that strengthens academic agency, builds efficacy, and nurtures the intellectual, emotional, creative, and social dimensions of every learner.

Our partnerships with educators, professionals, and industry experts ensure that our programs reflect the highest standards of contemporary practice. These partnerships reinforce our expectation that students not only meet high standards but also embody excellence, through integrity in their actions, innovation in their thinking, and inclusion in the way they engage with others.

We are Wavell. And when you join our Programs of Excellence, you join a community that believes excellence is both a privilege and a responsibility. We expect our students to lead with character, contribute purposefully, uphold their commitments, challenge themselves, take thoughtful risks, and model the behaviours that reflect our shared values. These expectations are not burdens— they are pathways to becoming the very best version of themselves.

We remain ever hopeful and ever confident in the limitless possibilities our students will create.

The future of learning at Wavell is one we will design together, one that is authentic, aspirational, and deeply human. As our motto reminds us, Esse Quam Videri – To be, rather than to seem. In our Programs of Excellence, this is more than a motto. It is the foundation of who we are, and who we expect our students to become.

Welcome to the Programs of Excellence at Wavell State High School We are excited to welcome you into a learning community built on our school motto, Empowering Learners, Empowering Futures. As a Programs of Excellence student, you are stepping into a pathway designed to support you throughout your secondary education and beyond—one that nurtures your passion, challenges you to grow, and equips you with the skills and attributes to contribute to society in positive and meaningful ways.

In 2026, our Programs of Excellence classes will bring together students from across our diverse specialist programs, creating a dynamic and collaborative environment where you can learn from others who share the same drive for excellence. Your Form teacher, a dedicated member of the POE team, has been carefully selected to guide, support, and inspire you as you develop your identity as a Wavell learner.

Our vision is to provide authentic opportunities to extend yourself—academically, creatively, athletically, and personally. Through your involvement in our Programs of Excellence, you will be encouraged not only to refine your skills in your area of passion but also to unlock the full potential that exists within you, as a valued member of the Wavell community.

By embracing challenge, fostering strong connections, and engaging wholeheartedly in the opportunities available, you will shape a future that reflects who you are and who you aspire to become.

We look forward to supporting you as you begin this exciting chapter and continue your journey toward excellence.

Dean Fanning Deputy Principal - Our People Programs of Excellence

Academic Honours

Humanities – Academic Honours

“At Wavell, we inspire students to unlock their full potential and prepare for the future through our Program of Excellence in Academic Honours in Years 7, 8, and 9. This Program offers extension and enrichment in core subjects - Mathematics, Science, English, Humanities (History & Geography) for academically gifted students.”

In the subject Humanities, you will get the opportunity to undertake a study of History and Geography.

In History, you will appreciate how the world and its people have changed, as well as the significant continuities that exist to the present day. In Geography, you will explore the wellbeing and sustainability of the environment and society to develop a deep understanding of the world. Humanities subjects are interpretative by nature, promote debate and encourage thinking about human values, including present and future challenges.

Congratulations and welcome. You have successfully secured a place in this class of like-minded students who will study the Australian Curriculum at an extended level in core subjects.

Students are expected to actively participate in the Academic Honours Program by: • Wholeheartedly engaging in all classroom activities, embracing a collaborative and inquiry based learning environment.

• Completing all classwork, homework, and assessment efficiently.

• Bringing all required materials to each lesson.

• Demonstrating respect and cooperation towards their peers, staff, and all Program stakeholders.

We kindly request that parents and caregivers familiarise themselves with these student expectations. We appreciate your support and encourage you to join us in setting a positive example for our students. At specific times, parents and caregivers may receive communications regarding assessment deadlines, interview opportunities, and chances to review student work. Our communications will be shared via Wavell Connect, Facebook, and Instagram.

Participation Costs The cost of participation in the Academic Honours Program of Excellence is $120. This covers the costs of: workshops, industry professional incursions, excursions and additional educational opportunities.

English – Academic Honours The study of English is central to the learning of all students, and the subject creates confident communicators, imaginative thinkers, and informed citizens. English allows us to build relationships with others, and learn about the world around us.

In the English Honours Program, we will use project-based learning with real-world applications.

Students will have the opportunity to collaborate with their peers, to enhance their sense of community, and foster creative, confident, and caring learners. Students will listen to, read, view, and analyse a range of spoken, written, and multimodal texts. We will create and perform imaginative, informative, and persuasive texts. We will study life writing, poetry, Australian texts, inspirational speeches, and much more!

The study of English will help students become ethical, thoughtful, and active members of society.

In the words of Dr. Seuss, “The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go!”

History and Geography are exciting subjects that will provoke your curiosity and imagination as you explore the nature of Australian society and its interconnection with global economies.

You will have extended and enriched learning opportunities in the Honours classroom while studying Humanities by adopting a project-based approach. This approach will be student-led and collaborative, allowing you to create deep understandings of the past, present, and future. Your insights into these topics will be applied to real-world situations, allowing the freedom to articulate your ideas, solutions, and interpretations. You will also develop your communication and collaboration skills while examining subjects from a wide array of perspectives.

Your learning in Humanities will help your active and ethical participation in our globally diverse society, and in creating rewarding personal and collective futures.

Mathematics – Academic Honours

Science – Academic Honours

The Mathematics Academic Honours Program is aligned with the Australian Mathematics Curriculum.

Our Program places an emphasis on developing essential skills such as critical thinking, resilience and team work. These skills are not just valuable in Mathematics but are life skills that will serve students well beyond the classroom.

Our goal in Science is to develop understanding and inquiry skills by working in small groups and answering questions to problems based on real-world issues. In this student-centered approach, students will be ‘in charge’ of their learning. While being guided by their teacher to meet key outcomes, students will have the opportunity to consult and collaborate with their peers to collect, process, analyse and evaluate data relevant to scientific issues taking place in the world around us.

Our educational approach aims to strike a balance between providing an intellectually stimulating environment and ensuring that students receive the necessary support to excel. We believe that by challenging our students, while offering guidance, we can help them become well-rounded individuals who are ready to take on the world.

To achieve this, our Program incorporates project-based learning as part of the curriculum. Students will work collaboratively on complex projects that require them to apply their understanding of a wide range of mathematical concepts to solve real-world problems. This not only reinforces their knowledge but also enhances their ability to work as part of a team, encouraging the development of communication, active listening, and decision-making skills.

In keeping with the ever-evolving educational landscape, technology plays a pivotal role in our approach.

We strategically integrate technology into our teaching methods to enhance the learning process.

Students have access to a wealth of online resources and lesson materials, both inside and outside the classroom, enabling them to explore mathematics at their own pace and in a way that suits their individual learning styles.

The Mathematics Honours Program is not just a Program; it’s a transformative educational journey that equips students to tackle the challenges of the mathematical world and beyond, fostering skills and knowledge that will serve them well throughout their lives.

Students will cover the four Science areas over two semesters during each year level: Semester 1 – Chemical Sciences (Term 1) and Physical Sciences (Term 2) Semester 2 – Biological Sciences (Term 3) and Earth and Space Sciences (Term 4) (Please note the above scheduling is subject to change based on other opportunities outlined below.)

While the Australian Curriculum (Version 9) will be followed, an inquiry based approach will be used to cover the achievement standards and meet assessment requirements.

During one term students will complete a unit through the University of Queensland’s ‘Wonder of Science’ Program. In this Program students will interact with University of Queensland Scientists, and attend a student conference to present projects, and network with students from other schools.

Wavell is a member of the Queensland Minerals and Energy Academy (QMEA) and has solid links with the University of Queensland and the Queensland University of Technology, as well as other organisations within the STEM space. These links will provide opportunities for incursions and excursions to further extend and complement work done within the Science Academic Honours Program.

Dance “Our Dance Program of Excellence is tailored to elevate the dance journey for students at Wavell. It provides expert instruction, performance opportunities, and a comprehensive curriculum covering dance theory, various styles, and physical abilities. We foster a supportive and enriching environment to nurture our students’ talents.”

Congratulations and welcome to Wavell’s Program of Excellence in Dance for Year 7 2026. You have successfully auditioned to secure a place in this class of like-minded dancers who will study both dance theory and practice, and be challenged at a higher level than the general dance course on offer.

Program Goals The aim of the Dance Excellence Program is to develop intellectual and expressive individuals who are flexible and creative thinkers with excellent verbal and physical communication skills. It is our hope that students exit the Program with a love of learning and a number of transferable skills that can be used in a variety of contexts in and beyond The Arts.

Course Content Students in Dance Excellence in Years 7 to 9 study performance, choreography and responding skills through a range of interesting and engaging units including, Moving like the Masters and Moving in the Media. Students will be assessed through a variety of written and practical tasks.

Student Commitment The Dance Excellence Program is a dedicated year-long Arts classroom subject that has three 70 minute lessons each week across the year. Students are encouraged to commit to the Program for a minimum of two years. As competitions and other public performances arise students may be required to attend additional before or after school rehearsals leading up to specific events. You will be notified of rehearsal times by your teacher at least one month in advance.

We value commitment to demonstrating high levels of effort and behaviour in all areas of Wavell school life including learning, progress and engagement beyond Dance. Students in Dance Excellence sign a behaviour and effort contract at the commencement of every year, and are expected to uphold their commitment to this contract to maintain their place in the Program.

Participation Costs The cost of participation in Dance Excellence is approximately $300. This includes covering the costs of classroom specific choreography workshops, industry professional incursions, costumes, eisteddfod entries, competitor passes and a fitness program.

Parent/Caregiver Role All students enrolled in Dance are encouraged to study at home and maintain lessons outside of school at a Dance Studio. This is an important part of development and will assist students in progressing to higher levels of their studies. Parents and Caregivers should be supportive of their student, encouraging them to practice regularly and help them be on task with assignment work.

The Arts Fundraising Committee is a sub-committee of the P&C made up of a volunteer parent body to help raise funds for various items the Music/Dance/Drama students may need during the year. The Committee recently held an annual sausage sizzle at Bunnings Virginia, which raised much needed funds to purchase some of our more expensive resources and fund additional excursions. They also run the canteen at Arts or whole school events such as Homecoming. For further information, please contact arts@wavellshs.eq.edu.au.

Proposed 2026 Schedule of Events Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

Term 4

Choreographic Intensive

BPAC Eisteddfod

Arts Fest

Dance X State Finals (if successful)

Strength and conditioning workshop with Tony Lewis from Queensland Ballet

Dance X Competition

Rival House Gym Strength and Conditioning Program Programs of Excellence Showcase

Plus, additional industry guest choreographers throughout the year.

Additional performances, competitions and excursions will be announced in 2026. Subject to change.

Dance Troupes Students in Dance Excellence are encouraged to audition for the school’s Dance Troupes Program which operates across Terms 1 to 3 of the school year. Most rehearsals are allocated during the school’s Tuesday afternoon sport session, with an additional morning rehearsal. You will be notified of rehearsal times in advance. There is an additional fee of $200 to participate in the Dance Troupes Program.

There is a choreography intensive workshop scheduled for early 2026, where students engage with professional choreographers to generate dance works in preparation for competition and public performances.

Dance Uniform Students are required to purchase the Wavell Dance uniform, is to be worn to all practical dance classes and performance rehearsals. Uniforms can be purchased from the payments counter and then collected from the Dance teachers.

Curriculum Information

Drama “Our Drama Program of Excellence nurtures students’ love for acting and theatre by offering supportive classes, workshops and exciting performances. Students have the chance to collaborate with their peers on creative projects, gaining the confidence and skills needed to pursue careers in The Performing Arts.”

Congratulations, you have successfully auditioned to secure a place in this class of like-minded Drama students who will study both Drama theory and practice, and be challenged at a higher level than the general Drama course on offer at Wavell. This is an exciting opportunity that fosters and celebrates your skills, talent and passion for creative expression.

Program Goals The aim of the Drama Excellence Program is to develop intellectual and expressive individuals who are flexible and creative thinkers with excellent verbal and physical communication skills. These 21st Century skills will be developed and harnessed during the foundation years of this Excellence course, and further strengthened in our senior Drama Excellence Course.

It is our hope that students exit the Program with a love of learning, and a number of transferable skills that can be used in a variety of contexts in and beyond The Arts. Our central goal is to encourage the pursuit of personal creative excellence and growth, with a strong foundation of integrity.

Course Content Students studying Drama Excellence in Years 7 to 9 are given many opportunities to develop performance and responding skills through a range of interesting and engaging units. Students will be assessed through a variety of tasks, both written and practical that align with the Australian Curriculum (Version 9).

Student Commitment The Drama Excellence Course is studied on a timetabled line from Years 7 to 10 and students are encouraged to commit to the Program for a minimum of two years. Most rehearsals are predominantly during class time and during some lunch sessions. As performance events arise, students may be required for additional rehearsal sessions after school leading up to specific events. Students will be notified of rehearsal times by their teacher in advance.

Parent/Caregiver Role All students enrolled in Drama are expected to study at home, display an excellent work ethic across all of their timetabled subjects and maintain interest in The Arts events within the school. This is an important part of development and will assist students in progressing to higher levels of their studies. Parents and Caregivers should be supportive of their student, encouraging them to rehearse regularly and help them remain on task with assessment.

The Arts Fundraising Committee is a sub-committee of the P&C made up of a volunteer parent body to help raise funds for various items the Music/Dance/Drama students may need during the year. The Committee recently held an annual sausage sizzle at Bunnings Virginia, which raised much needed funds to purchase some of our more expensive resources and fund additional excursions. They also run the canteen at Arts or whole school events such as Homecoming. For further information, please contact arts@wavellshs.eq.edu.au.

Proposed 2026 Schedule of Events Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

Term 4

Arts Festival Performance

Junior Excellence Showcase

Open Day Participation 2026 Drama Launch + Live Theatre Incursion

Workshop with Industry Professional Live Theatre Incursion

Additional performances, competitions and excursions will be announced in 2026. Subject to change.

Students are also required to sign a contract - as another layer of accountability - to demonstrate their commitment to upholding the values and Student Code of Conduct as a Program of Excellence student at Wavell.

Participation Costs The cost of participation in Drama Excellence is approximately $100. This includes covering the costs of: workshops, industry professional incursions, costumes, competition entries and additional educational opportunities.

Curriculum Information

Music

Parent/Caregiver Role

“Our Music Program of Excellence offers students in Years 7 to 12 the chance to engage with similarly passionate musicians at an advanced level in the fields of performance, musicology and composition. Students are also encouraged to continue to enrich their music learning through participation in our Instrumental Music Program, and extra-curricular music ensembles for voice and rock band instruments.”

All students enrolled in Music Excellence are expected to study at home, engage in regular practice on their instrument/voice and attend Arts events. This is an important part of development and will assist students in progressing to higher levels of the curriculum. Parents and Caregivers should be supportive of their student, encouraging them to rehearse regularly and help them remain on task with assessment.

Congratulations, you have successfully auditioned to secure a place in a class of like-minded musicians who will study both music theory and practice and be challenged at a higher level than the general Music course.

Program Goals The Music Program of Excellence provides the opportunity for students to extend beyond their current learning, refining their knowledge and understanding of Music. Through their art making students also develop and enhance transferable skills such as creativity, teamwork, critical thinking and problem solving that are highly valued across many career pathways.

The Arts Fundraising Committee is a sub-committee of the P&C made up of a volunteer parent body to help raise funds for various items the Music/Dance/Drama students may need during the year. The Committee recently held an annual sausage sizzle at Bunnings Virginia, which raised much needed funds to purchase some of our more expensive resources and fund additional excursions. They also run the canteen at Arts or whole school events such as Homecoming. For further information, please contact arts@wavellshs.eq.edu.au.

Proposed 2026 Schedule of Events Term 1

Term 2

Term 3

Term 4

Local Primary School performance/workshop

Open Day Participation

Arts Fest

Junior Excellence Showcase

Course Content Students in the Music Program of Excellence are given scope to extend their skills in areas of performing, analysing and composing music, with access to a variety of industry standard resources.

Students are assessed through assignments, both written and practical that align with the Australian Curriculum (Version 9). Our school’s music program regularly engages professional groups and practicing artists to work alongside our musicians to develop industry skills. Recently, the school has engaged staff from Griffith University Queensland Conservatorium of Music and the Jazz Music Institute to work with our students.

Additional performances, competitions and excursions will be announced in 2026. Subject to change.

Student Commitment The Music Excellence Program is a dedicated year-long Arts classroom subject that has three 70 minute lessons each week. Students are encouraged to commit to the Program for a minimum of two years, and then seek the opportunity to enrol in the Accelerated Music Program from Year 9.

Regular attention to learning and practice of chosen voice/instrument/s encourages opportunities to progress at the highest level. Most rehearsals for classroom music learning occur during class time, and any additional rehearsals or calls for public performances outside of regular class time will be advised in advance by the class teacher.

We value commitment to demonstrating high levels of effort and behaviour in all areas of Wavell school life including learning, progress and engagement beyond Music. Students in Music Excellence sign a behaviour and effort contract at the commencement of every year, and are expected to uphold their commitment to this contract to maintain their place in the Program.

Instrumental Music Program and Extra Curricular Music Ensembles It is highly recommended that students enrolled in Music Excellence participate in the school’s Instrumental Music Program, Vocal Program and/or Rock School. Rehearsals for most ensembles are before school, and students engaged in the Instrumental Music Program are committed to attending a 35 minute weekly instrumental music lesson with a specialist instrumental music teacher. These programs are separate to the Music Excellence course and offer further enrichment to music learning. As students move into senior courses, they have the option to utilise knowledge and skills gained in ensembles, and the Instrumental Music Program, in their classroom music learning. For further information please contact arts@wavellshs.eq.edu.au.

Participation Costs The cost of participation in Music Excellence is approximately $100. This includes covering the costs of: workshops, industry professional incursions and live performance viewing.

Curriculum Information

Pathways for The Arts In today’s competitive job market, employers are seeking candidates who not only possess the necessary technical skills but also exhibit a range of qualities and skills that contribute to a positive and productive work environment. (LinkedIn)​ ​Highly valued workforce skills that are developed through the Arts and transferable to other subjects:

• Creativity ​ • Critical thinking ​ • Teamwork ​

Recommended Learning Pathways for Dance, Drama and Music Programs of Excellence Dance Excellence Pathway 2026

Year 7 Program of Excellence

2027

Year 8 Program of Excellence

2028

Year 9 Program of Excellence (commencing in 2026)

2029

Year 10 Dance

2030

Year 11 General Dance (ATAR)

Year 11 Dance in Practice (Applied)

2031

Year 12 General Dance (ATAR)

Year 12 Dance in Practice (Applied)

• Leadership​ • Problem solving ​ • Communication skills ​

Students can choose one or both ATAR and Applied Senior Dance courses.

• Digital literacy skills Drama Excellence Pathway 2026

Year 7 Program of Excellence

2027

Year 8 Program of Excellence

2028

Year 9 Program of Excellence (commencing in 2026)

2029

Year 10 Drama

2030

Year 11 General Drama (ATAR)

Year 11 Drama in Practice (Applied)

2031

Year 12 General Drama (ATAR)

Year 12 Drama in Practice (Applied)

Students can choose one or both ATAR and Applied Senior Drama courses.

Music Excellence 2026

Year 7 Program of Excellence

2027

Year 8 Program of Excellence

2028

Year 9 Accelerated Music - Preparation for Senior Music Course

2029

Year 10 Accelerated Music - Completing Units 1 and 2 of General Senior Music (ATAR)

2030

Year 11 Accelerated Music - Completing Units 3 & 4 of General Senior Music (ATAR)

2031

Year 12 General Senior Music Extension (ATAR) •

Select one specialisation in an area of Performing, Composing or Musicology

Progression through Arts Program of Excellence pathways is subject to meeting minimum readiness criteria.

Netball

Parent/Caregiver Role

“Our Netball Program of Excellence caters to students in Years 7 to 12, allowing them to cultivate their netball skills and passion while maintaining their academic pursuits. The Program includes top-tier coaching and opportunities to compete in prestigious competitions and events. Our goal is to foster a supportive yet challenging environment that enables students to excel in both personal and athletic development, all while achieving academic excellence.”

Parents and Caregivers should ensure they are familiar with the student expectations outlined in the Enrolment Agreement sent out to our students at the beginning of the school year. Parents and Caregivers should be supportive of our expectations and assist us in modelling these to our students, with the understanding that all players are unique and will develop at different paces. Students have different prior learning and levels of coaching experience. Know that our coaching staff have Netball Australia coaching qualifications, in addition to their teaching experience.

Congratulations and welcome to Wavell’s Program of Excellence in Netball for Year 7 2026.

Tentative Dates for 2026

Why Study Netball?

If you have a passion and enjoyment for netball and would like to surround yourself with like-minded people, Netball Excellence is the class for you. Our goal is to develop young athletes who have a desire to be the best they can be, Girls who have the capacity to be positive contributors to society through the underpinning of our Program’s core values of best effort, excellence, accountability and respect. We aim to inspire a lifelong enjoyment of physical activity and highlight its benefits for both physical and mental wellbeing. We develop confident global citizens through positive interaction across all year levels.

Organisation of Netball at Wavell You will have three lessons of Netball Excellence per week: One lesson dedicated to court work, one lesson dedicated to strength and conditioning and a Health theory lesson. For court, and strength and conditioning lessons, students will be able to wear either their netball apparel or the Wavell sports uniform.

Course Content In Semester 1, court sessions will focus on attacking skills and in Semester 2 will move to defence. Practical lessons will focus on developing key skills as individuals and as a team member, while gaining a deeper understanding of the tactical components of Netball. During our Health lessons content is guided by the Australian Curriculum and will be assessed alongside students’ practical work.

Pathways Our school provides opportunities for girls to trial in all elite school-based netball competitions, such as Vicki Wilson teams and Central District. We have a strong history of representing our district at the Metropolitan District finals each year.

Student Commitment Students are expected to participate with their best effort in all netball and school related activities. Students sign a behaviour and effort contract at the start of every year. Students must uphold their commitment to this contract to maintain their place in our Program. We value students’ engagement in curriculum learning and their off-court conduct, above playing netball, and students must meet this expectation to remain in the Program.

Trials & Opportunities Students who are highly skilled or have previous representative experience are invited to trial for our Vicki Wilson Shield team in Term 1. Students looking to represent Metropolitan North, trials for the Central District team will also be held in Term 1. Students interested in these opportunities should follow the instructions provided through daily student notices or by regularly checking student emails.

Training Vicki Wilson Shield, they will have training before school and will be informed of the day once selected in the squad.

Students have access to physiotherapists and nutritionists as well as the opportunity to be guided by exercise physiologists and quality, accredited coaches.

Participation Costs For 2026 the Year 7 Netball Excellence levy is $250. Students may incur additional costs if they are part of the Vicki Wilson Shield team.

Term 1

Secondary Schools Netball League

Term 2

Term 3

Term 4

Secondary Schools Netball League

Secondary Schools Netball League

Secondary Schools Netball League

May Super 7’s

August Super 7’s

October Sporting Excellence Presentation Evening

Vicki Wilson Preliminary Round

Vicki Wilson State Finals

November Super 7’s

February Vicki Wilson Trials February Central District Trial (Girls 13-15 & 16-19 Yrs) March Sporting Excellence Launch

Additional dates will be announced in 2026: • Relevant year level camps

• Central District Trials (10-12 Yrs Girls)

Introducing Mrs Angela Donaghy Netball Excellence Coordinator I have a deep love and passion for the sport of Netball.

My journey with this incredible game began in childhood, and it’s been a constant source of joy and inspiration in my life. I started as a player and umpire at my local associations, and over the years, my involvement has only grown.

For the past 15 years, I’ve taken on the role of a coach. It’s been an immensely rewarding experience. I’ve had the privilege of coaching a range of teams, including Vicki Wilson Cup and Shield teams. We’ve made it to the state finals four times, which is an achievement I’m incredibly proud of. Additionally, I’ve been involved with Metropolitan North and Capricornia school sport teams.

But it’s not just about winning for me; it’s about creating a positive experience for young girls who are just beginning their journey in sport. I believe that through team sports like netball, we can instil a sense of camaraderie and a strong team spirit in these young athletes. These experiences help them develop lasting friendships, build their confidence and foster resilience - all essential attributes that will support their success in various pursuits throughout life.

My ultimate goal is to ensure that playing sports - specifically netball - becomes a joyful and enriching part of these girls’ lives. It’s about nurturing a lifelong love for physical activity, and helping them grow into confident and empowered young women. Netball has the power to shape not only their athletic abilities but also their character and their future, and I’m honoured to be a part of that journey.

Rugby League - Boys and Girls Our Rugby League Program of Excellence boasts a rich history of guiding budding professional athletes in tandem with their academic pursuits. By leveraging Rugby League as a means to instil high standards and achieve outstanding performance results, our students are moulded into wellrounded young men and women, exhibiting excellence both on and off the field and paving the way for successful postschooling endeavours.”

Congratulations and welcome to Wavell’s Program of Excellence in Rugby League for Year 7 2026. We aim to create quality people who have the capacity to be positive contributors to society upon graduation from school.

Why Study Rugby League?

Our Program provides a values-based approach which reinforces the personal skills required to promote positive growth within individuals. We’re about creating great people, not just great footballers. In addition to this we run a first class and internationally renowned Rugby League Excellence Program which incorporates physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, dietetics and world class coaching. We have strong links with NRL and NRLW clubs which enables us to replicate academy-oriented programs here at school to ensure we are best preparing our students for success at a high level. We have a significant focus on developing core skills, while reinforcing key learning areas, to attain a greater understanding of the game of rugby league.

Organisation of Rugby League at Wavell Three classes a week.

• Sessions will consist of both gym and field work.

• One lesson per week will be dedicated to completing theoretical components.

Course Content

Participation Costs The cost of participation in Rugby League Excellence is Boys - $230, Girls - $220. This includes your training kit, travel float, trophies, strapping and equipment levy.

Parent/Caregiver Role Be a supportive and understanding role model for your child. Please understand that each child develops differently and equal opportunities will be given to each student to reach their potential.

Tentative Dates for 2026 Term 1

Term 2

February Central District RL Trials

April Broncos Challenge (Round 1)

(Boys 15-18 Yrs)

March Sporting Excellence Launch March Central District RL Trials (Boys 11-12 Yrs)

Met North RL Trials

Term 4

Broncos Challenge Competition

February Broncos Challenge (Year 7 Qualification Day)

Term 3

May Central District RL Trials

July Met North RL Trials (Girls 11-14 Yrs)

(Boys 14-15 Yrs)

June Homecoming

August Broncos Challenge (Semi-Finals)

October Sporting Excellence Presentation Evening

(The Programs most prestigious event of the year)

(Girls 15-18 Yrs)

The theory component of Rugby League Excellence is guided by the Australian Curriculum. At Wavell, the program follows a school-based practical curriculum with a focus on developing key skills and gaining a deeper understanding while learning the game of Rugby League. Drone footage and video analysis is a key part in reinforcing these learnings.

Pathways A high percentage of younger students hold positions in NRL/NRLW Academies. These convert to official NRL/NRLW contracts as they turn of age. We have very clear pathways at Wavell which allow students to have the best opportunities in achieving their goals. We also represent Metropolitan North at the regional level which regularly leads to representative honours at both State and National levels.

The Rugby League Program prioritises academic achievement and is dedicated to assisting our students in their post-school transition to the workforce. We offer support for various pathways, including apprenticeships, and provide pre-graduation assistance through school-based programs, ensuring that our students have a well-rounded education and the skills they need for their futures.

Student Commitment Students sign a behaviour and effort contract at the start of every year which they will uphold throughout the year. If this is breached, disciplinary action will be incurred. If breaches continue students will be removed from the Program. This reinforces our high standards for conduct off the field, emphasising the importance of being an outstanding student above all.

Trials and Opportunities Our Program offers students the opportunity to consistently participate in teams across all age groups of the Broncos Challenge, which represents the highest tier of school football. We also actively encourage our students to try out for regional-level representation and our track record of success in this regard has resulted in strong participation numbers at both the state and national levels.

Training Training will occur as part of timetabled class allocations and will form part of your student’s school day.

There may be exceptions outside of these times when trial games or season games occur.

Introducing Ms Grace Griffin Girls Rugby League Coordinator

Introducing Mr Ben Colley Boys Rugby League Coordinator

My philosophy as a Rugby League educator and coach is grounded in developing well-rounded young people who demonstrate character, resilience, and excellence both on and off the field.

Through my experience across school programs, community pathways, and elite environments I have cultivated a leadership approach that prioritises empowerment, connection, and high expectations underpinned by strong relationships. I am extremely proud and honoured to be a part of rugby league as deeply enriched in culture and history as Wavell’s is.

I am the current Rugby League Coordinator and have been in this role for seven years. This is a role I am very proud to hold as it comes with great history and pride. As a school we have participated in rugby league as a sport for over 60 years, with a formal Program since 2001. On a personal note, I hold a Level 2 coaching qualification and am passionate about sports psychology and using a combination of these to foster a high-performance environment.

Our role is to continue a rich history of culture and success, and ensure we continue to promote and provide pathways for both staff and students. A key motivator of ours is to act as a mentors and a means of guidance for teenagers to ensure they receive the additional support and motivation necessary to achieve highly both on and off the field. Using rugby league as a teaching tool to drive the importance of education and make school enjoyable is critical in promoting future outcomes.

Notes

WAVELL STATE HIGH SCHOOL Telopia Avenue, Wavell Heights Qld 4012 Telephone: (07) 3350 0333 Email: principal@wavellshs.eq.edu.au Website: www.wavellshs.eq.edu.au