CONTENTS
MORE THAN MARKS: CELEBRATING GROWTH AT CAREY
FROM THE PRINCIPAL
As we wrap up Term 2 and the close of our first semester, school reports will soon be available for families. With our recent transition to Compass from Edumate, communication between school and home has improved significantly, and I encourage all parents and carers to take the time to review their child’s academic progress through the first half of this year.
While reports provide valuable insight into a student's academic progress, they capture only part of the learning journey At WCCS, it is the growth as whole individuals, in character and purpose, that is at the heart of what we do. These qualities are not always easily measured, yet they are central to the person each student is becoming
In 1 Samuel 16:7, we read: "The Lord does not look at the things people look at. People look at the outward appearance, but the Lord looks at the heart."
This verse reminds us that God sees the qualities that shape who our students are becoming The most significant developments in a young person’s life don’t appear in a school report. A broader way to consider holistic student growth is through the diverse learning experiences our students pursue Each experience opens pathways to future opportunities and, more importantly, helps shape the person they are becoming
One way we see this growth taking place is through the diverse learning experiences our students pursue. Each experience opens pathways to future opportunities and, more importantly, helps shape the person they are becoming
This week, our Year 10 students and their families met with staff to consider subject and learning pathway options for their HSC. The purpose of the evening was to equip each student and their family with the information and guidance needed to select the ‘right subject, at the right level, for the best result’ These conversations are an important moment in each student’s journey, and we are grateful for the engagement of our families.
We love to celebrate the remarkable achievements of our past students, whose career journeys began with the learning pathways they found here at William Carey. Here are just a few of the many stories. More Alumni highlights can be found on pages 25-27.
Emily Nkomo (class of 2020) is currently performing the role of Nala in a production of “The Lion King”, delighting audiences on stage.
Monica Rudhar (class of 2012) has been awarded the Professional Artist Prize at the 2026 Ravenswood Australian Women Art Prize for her extraordinary ceramic artwork. This is Australia’s highest-value professional artist prize for women.
Nathan Pedrosa (class of 2008) has progressed from studying Hospitality at William Carey to becoming Hotel Manager at the Mercure Liverpool.
These are just a handful of the inspiring career stories from our alumni, and a testament to the fact that diverse learning pathways, nurtured here, can lead to extraordinary places
Learning at William Carey is not only confined to subjects taught in a classroom Across every term, our students find many ways to grow, intellectually, creatively, physically and in character Many of these opportunities are highlighted throughout this Newsletter edition. Some recent examples include:
Camps and Excursions: Venturing beyond the school grounds, out students explore the complexity and wonder of God’s creation, bringing real life to classroom learning.
The Lemon Tree Café: Students from our High School Learning Support class have been serving parents and staff in a real hospitality setting, building practical skills and, perhaps most importantly, confidence in themselves.
Sea of Hands: A meaningful experience that drew our attention to the importance of reconciliation and the ongoing work of healing the historic and present wounds in our nation.
A Little Night Music: Students embraced the opportunity to build confidence in performance and share their creative gifts with our community
Multicultural Day: Our students came together in joyful celebration of our diverse heritages, with young and old year groups sharing traditional clothing and games, strengthening the bonds that make our school community so rich.
Shades of Shakespeare: Primary Advanced Learning Class students collaborated as a team to craft and perform dramatic scenes, building communication and creativity
Competitive Sport: Whether celebrating hardwon victories or accepting setbacks with grace and resilience, our students have demonstrated that sport teaches as much off the field as on it.
Duke of Edinburgh Award: This programme challenges students to grow in skill, community service, and physical endeavour, culminating in an adventurous camp Two of our Duke of Ed students have recently been publicly recognised for their service at Genista Aged Care, where they have been running flower arranging and gardening activities for residents. Their dedication has brought genuine joy and sparked meaningful conversations, social engagement, and a renewed sense of purpose for the people in their care.
As we move into the second half of the year, I hope each of our students carries with them an appreciation for the many ways they have grown this semester As you read your child's report, I encourage families to reflect not only on academic progress, but also on the experiences that have shaped your child over the past two terms. Ask them about the scene they performed, the peer they encouraged, their highlights from the semester, and what they learned from these experiences These are the moments that reveal the heart, and it is the heart that God sees
I pray that all our families have a restful and restorative school holiday break, and I look forward to welcoming our students back refreshed and ready for the term ahead
God bless,
Mr Keith McMullen Principal
FROM THE HIGH SCHOOL DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Many Ways to Learn:
Growing Knowledge, Character, and Purpose
At William Carey, learning is not limited to the classroom. While academic study provides a foundation of knowledge and critical thinking, it is only one part of a much richer journey. Our students are continually discovering that there are many ways to learn, and that each pathway shapes not only what they know, but who they become
Academic learning remains central to our purpose In classrooms, students grapple with complex ideas, develop discipline, and pursue excellence They are stretched to think deeply, ask questions, and persevere through challenges These experiences build intellectual capacity and resilience, equipping students with skills that will serve them well into the future. Yet even here, learning is about more than marks. It is about cultivating curiosity and a love for truth.
Beyond academics, students engage in a wide range of co-curricular opportunities that bring learning to life in new and creative ways Whether performing in a school musical, participating in Duke of Edinburgh expeditions, competing in sport, or exploring new interests in clubs, students grow through experience They learn teamwork, leadership, courage, and adaptability A musical production, for example, teaches collaboration and creativity; an expedition develops perseverance and problem-solving in real-world contexts. These experiences are powerful forms of learning.
Equally important are our wellbeing programs, which intentionally nurture the heart as well as the mind. Through these programs, students are equipped with the skills and understanding to show kindness, exercise empathy, and care for others They learn to look beyond themselves and to recognise the needs of their peers, families, and wider community In a world that often encourages self-focus, this commitment to compassion and service is both countercultural and deeply formative
As a Christian school, we understand that all learning ultimately finds its meaning in God We seek to help students grow in the knowledge of His promises and His character Each student has been uniquely gifted, and part of our responsibility is to help them discover and develop those gifts As they grow, we want them to recognise that their education is not simply about achievement, but about becoming people who reflect God’s love, wisdom, and grace in the world.
There are indeed many ways to learn. Together, they form a rich and holistic education that prepares students not just for exams, but for life. Shaping young people who are thoughtful, capable, and committed to making a positive difference in their communities
Yours sincerely,
Mr Hudson
Mr Anthony Hudson Deputy PrincipalHigh School
FROM THE PRIMARY DEPUTY PRINCIPAL
Discovering God’s Gifts Beyond the Classroom
When we think about learning, it is easy to picture students sitting at desks, workbooks open, and teachers delivering a lesson. While classroom academics are a vital foundation at Carey, God has designed our students to learn, grow, and flourish in many different ways
As a Christian community, we believe every child has been blessed with unique gifts and passions. Each morning at assembly, we celebrate the many ways our students learn beyond the classroom Through these experiences, they discover more about themselves, one another, and God's world.
Here is a glimpse into the incredible ways we learn across our Primary School every week.
Learning Through Faith & Fellowship
Our faith isn’t just taught; it is lived and shared We love seeing our school community connect across different age groups to grow together. In these moments, students encourage one another and strengthen our shared faith
MATES Program: Learning how to be a great friend is one of the most important lessons a child can master Through MATES, our high school students visit to mentor primary students, modelling kindness, inclusion, and the joy of Christian community.
Cru Group: A lunchtime group where our older students can step up as leaders, sharing God’s Word with our younger students
Terrific Tuesday & Puzzle Club: Safe, structured spaces where students learn the social-emotional skills of cooperation, patience, and making new connections
Learning Through Movement & Teamwork
Sports teach resilience, sportsmanship, and how to care for the bodies God gave us.
Our Teams in Action: Students have been representing our school beautifully in many sports, including netball, soccer, AFL, softball, swimming, and athletics Whether winning a match or cheering on a teammate, they are learning the invaluable lessons of grit and collaboration.
Mrs Gillian Coote
Deputy Principal - Primary
PREP
LEARNING THROUGH RELATIONSHIPS, COMMUNITY & CONNECTION
Children learn best when they feel safe, valued and connected. In early childhood education, a range of theories help educators understand how children learn and develop. These include developmental theories, which highlight the importance of secure relationships, and socio-cultural theories, which recognise that learning is shaped by family, culture and community.
Our Year 5 and Prep Buddy Program is a wonderful example of these ideas in practice. Through regular time with their older buddies, Prep children build confidence, develop a sense of belonging and form positive connections within the wider school community Feeling safe and supported helps children engage more fully in learning, both now and into the future
The program also provides valuable leadership opportunities for Year 5 students as they develop empathy, responsibility and communication skills through their relationships with younger children.
An important concept in education is Funds of Knowledge the understanding that every child, family and community brings valuable experiences, skills and cultural knowledge to the learning environment. By recognising and building on these strengths, and by creating opportunities for children to learn from one another, we foster a connected community where everyone can thrive.
A recent highlight has been our Multicultural Family Fun Day, where families joined their children on site to share and celebrate their cultural heritage This event beautifully demonstrated Funds of Knowledge in action, as children, parents and educators learned from one another's experiences, traditions and stories while strengthening our sense of community.
Together, these approaches help create a learning environment where every child feels known, valued and supported to grow
Michelle Larrea Director of Early Education & Care
MULTICULTURAL DAY AT PREP
Learning takes many forms, and our annual Multicultural Day gave students the opportunity to learn through shared experiences, connection and culture. Students from Prep to Year 12 came together to learn and play traditional games from countries including Russia, Botswana, Egypt and South Africa, building friendships across year levels while discovering different traditions. Many students and staff also wore traditional clothing representing their cultural heritage and brought a lunch inspired by their home culture. Students shared stories and learned more about one another's backgrounds
As a Christian community, we are grateful for the many cultures and perspectives represented at Carey. Multicultural Day reminded us that some of life's most valuable lessons come through listening, participating and celebrating with others It was a joyful day that fostered respect, understanding and appreciation, while reinforcing that our diversity is one of our greatest strengths.
A Taste of Tradition
Year 10 Food Technology students recently explored cultural celebrations from around the world through their Food for Special Occasions assessment Held during Multicultural Week, the project was a fitting complement to the week's celebration of the many cultures that make up our school community.
Students investigated the customs, history and significance of celebrations including Chinese New Year, Diwali, German Oktoberfest, French Bastille Day, Orthodox Easter and American Thanksgiving before preparing a traditional dish from their chosen culture From Koulourakia and Avgolemono to Besan Ladoo and Coconut Ladoo, students embraced the challenge with enthusiasm and creativity. Several senior Food Technology students also assisted the Year 10 classes, sharing their skills and offering guidance throughout the practical lessons
Meanwhile, Year 12 Food Technology students explored how multiculturalism has influenced Australian food trends through their Food Product Development unit
Tasked with creating the first pizza for the Australian market for a hypothetical international restaurant, MOD Pizza, students researched current food trends, designed and tested recipes with a target market, and refined their products through sensory evaluation. The challenge encouraged innovation and demonstrated how diverse cultural influences continue to shape Australia's food landscape
A LITTLE NIGHT MUSIC
A Celebration of Music and Community
This year's A Little Night Music was another memorable evening, bringing together students, families and staff to celebrate the wonderful musical talent within our school community From beautiful vocal performances to impressive instrumental ensembles and solo acts, students confidently shared the gifts God has given them, creating an evening filled with creativity, joy and encouragement.
The concert reflected the dedication of our students and the commitment of our CAPA staff, while providing performers with the opportunity to grow in confidence and experience the joy of making music together. Thank you to everyone who attended, supported and contributed to making this year's event such a special celebration
FROM THE library
NATIONAL SIMULTANEOUS STORYTIME
In Week 7, students from 2P, 2L, 2M, 1M, as well as Prep, joined millions of children, teachers, librarians and families across Australia in celebrating the 26th National Simultaneous Storytime
National Simultaneous Storytime is an annual event that promotes the joy of reading and highlights the importance of literacy by bringing communities together to share the same story at the same time Students across schools, libraries and childcare centres throughout Australia participated in this wonderful, shared reading experience.
This year’s featured book was Luna Roo the Kangaroo Ballerby Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd, illustrated by Jake A. Minton. The story follows Luna Roo, a young soccer captain who leads her team to victory in an exciting bush match, demonstrating that courage, teamwork and determination matter more than age
Our Year 1 and Year 2 students enjoyed gathering in the library to share the story together, with the illustrations projected onto the screen so everyone could fully engage with the text and artwork
Our Year 1 and Year 2 students enjoyed gathering in the library to share the story together, with the illustrations projected onto the screen so everyone could fully engage with the text and artwork
Our Prep students also celebrated National Simultaneous Storytime in their classrooms by joining the live online presentation. They listened to an introduction to the book, enjoyed hearing the story read by the authors, and watched illustrator Jake A Minton demonstrate how to draw Luna Roo
A special thank you to our library technicians, Mrs Jensen and Mrs Craig, who once again created a fantastic library display inspired by the book Their creativity helped bring the story to life and added to the excitement of the event
We look forward to participating in National Simultaneous Storytime again next year!
Literacy Pro Biggest Jumpers FROM THE library
Literacy Pro ‘Biggest Jumpers’
Literacy Pro is an online reading and comprehension program used by students in Years 3–6. At the beginning of each term, students complete an online comprehension assessment which provides them with a Lexile measure A Lexile measure indicates a student's current reading ability and helps them choose books that are appropriately challenging, supporting continued reading growth.
In Terms 2, 3 and 4, we celebrate students who have demonstrated significant growth in their Lexile measure We call these students our “Biggest Jumpers”.
To recognise their achievement, the Biggest Jumpers have their photos displayed on our library windows and receive a merit award Classes are also recognised, with the class achieving the highest overall increase in Lexile growth receiving a special reward.
This term, 3MF achieved the highest overall Lexile growth. As a reward, the class has been given the opportunity to select $150 worth of books for the library These books will first be enjoyed in their classroom before being added to the library collection for all students to borrow
Congratulations to all our Biggest Jumpers on their wonderful reading growth. Their commitment to reading and learning is to be commended
We look forward to seeing who our Biggest Jumpers will be next term!
CONGRATULATIONS TO THIS TERM’S
The Fun Fair was a wonderful celebration of community! It was an afternoon of fun and connection. With rides, market stalls, food trucks, and activities.
Thank you to everyone who attended, volunteered or contributed Your generosity and community spirit made the day an outstanding success
To celebrate the milestone of 100 days until graduation, our Year 12 students enjoyed a special Pyjama Day to raise funds for their senior gift. The cohort came together during Pastoral Care to mark the occasion before spending the day in their comfy clothes.
With trials just around the corner, it was a fun opportunity to pause, celebrate how far they have come, and enjoy time together as a cohort. We look forward to cheering on our Year 12 students as they finish their final months at Carey and complete this important chapter of their school journey.
LEMON TREE CAFE
The Lemon Tree Café is an annual highlight hosted by our High School Learning Support students, providing an authentic, project-based learning experience that develops valuable life and workplace skills Through planning, preparing and operating the café, students build confidence in numeracy, food technology, hospitality, communication and customer service while gaining practical experience in a real-world setting
Over seven days, students welcome William Carey Christian School staff to enjoy morning tea and a twocourse lunch. Under the guidance of Learning Support staff, students take responsibility for preparing and serving meals, setting tables, welcoming guests and cleaning up after each service
The Lemon Tree Café is a much-loved part of life at Carey, with its warm hospitality, delicious food and vibrant atmosphere creating a memorable experience for students, staff and family.
HAIRY MCCAREY TU
Hairy McCarey Storytime Celebrates 10 Years
There were plenty of smiles, stories and birthday treats as our Hairy McCarey Storytime community came together to celebrate a special milestone, 10 years of Hairy McCarey Storytime!
Named after our much loved orangutan mascot, Hairy McCarey Storytime has been warmly welcoming pre-school aged children and their parents or carers to the William Carey Christian School Library every Monday morning for the past decade To mark the occasion, families enjoyed a fun birthday celebration together
Hairy McCarey Storytime is one of the many ways we connect with families before their children begin school It provides a relaxed and welcoming space where young children can develop a love of books and reading while parents and carers build friendships within our community. As a free community program, everyone is welcome to attend, and families with enrolled pre-school children are also invited to borrow books from our Library.
We are thankful for the many families who have been part of Hairy McCarey Storytime over the past 10 years and look forward to many more years of reading!
Alumni Spotlight
Melissa Tyrrell
Melissa Tyrrell (Class of 2011)
Emily Nkomo (Class of 2020)
Congratulations to Carey alumna Emily Nkomo, who is currently starring as Nala in The Lion King at Sydney's Capitol Theatre
Emily's musical theatre journey began on the Carey stage in 2015, when, as a Year 7 student, she performed in our school production of Seussical Recently, members of the original production team who helped bring that show to life had the joy of watching Emily perform as Nala before catching up with her backstage
It was a special full circle moment, celebrating just how far Emily has come since her first school musical We are incredibly proud of her achievements and wish her every success as she continues to shine on the professional stage
After graduating from William Carey Christian School in 2011, Melissa completed a Science degree before spending several years serving as a Scripture teacher and Youth Minister while studying the Bible In 2020, she completed an apprenticeship in Telecommunications
Today, Melissa works for Sydney Trains, where she specialises in telecommunications systems, gaining experience with radios, phones, IP networks, optical fibre, copper cabling, lasers, rectifiers and more. Looking back, she says she never would have imagined this career path when she was in Years 11 and 12, proving that the journey after school can lead to exciting and unexpected opportunities
Monica Rani Rudhar (Class of 2012)
Since graduating from William Carey Christian School in 2012, Monica Rani Rudhar has established herself as an accomplished contemporary Australian artist. Her work has been exhibited nationally and internationally, including at the Biennale of Sydney, and she has been recognised through a number of prestigious art prizes and exhibitions
Most recently, Monica was awarded the Ravenswood Australian Women's Art Prize for her work ‘When Both Shall Meet’. This award is the highest valued art prize for women in Australia Her growing influence in the Australian art world has also seen her contribute to the Blake Art Prize, while her connection with the Archibald Prize includes being the subject of a finalist portrait and serving as a judge for the Packing Room Prize.
It has been a privilege for our current Year 12 Visual Arts students to study Monica's work as part of their HSC course, drawing inspiration from the remarkable achievements of one of our own alumni. Year 12 Visual Arts students recently visited the Penrith Regional Gallery to experience former WCCS student Monica Rani Rudhar's Sydney Biennale installation as part of their Exhibitions case study
Year 12 Visual Arts Excursion
Monica was recently featured by SBS as one of 10 outstanding Australian voices participating in the Biennale of Sydney. We invite you to watch the SBS interview by clicking here.
We congratulate Monica on her continued success and look forward to following her artistic journey in the years ahead
Nathan
Pedrosa (class of 2008)
Nathan has turned his passion for hospitality into a successful career as Hotel Manager at the Mercure Sydney Liverpool, a role he has held for the past three and a half years. He enjoys the fast-paced nature of the industry and the opportunity to lead a team while managing the many demands of hotel operations
Nathan says his VET Hospitality course at Carey helped him discover his career path and build the confidence he needed to succeed Encouraged by his teachers to step outside his comfort zone, he found a passion for hospitality that has shaped the career he enjoys today. Click Here to watch Nathan reflect on how his time at Carey helped launch his career in hospitality
Nathan Pedrosa
Alisha George
Alisha George (Class of 2020)
We are delighted to celebrate the achievements of Carey alumna Alisha, who graduated in 2020. After completing a Bachelor of Pharmacy in 2024 and becoming a registered pharmacist, she has now begun an exciting new chapter, commencing a Doctor of Medicine degree in 2026
Congratulations Alisha, on all you have achieved so far We are proud of your dedication and wish you all the best as you continue your journey into medicine.
Bharatveer Singh (Class of 2024)
Since graduating from William Carey Christian School in 2024, Bharatveer has begun studying Engineering at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) As part of his degree, he has been selected to join AI 4 Everyone: Underwater Robotics, a long-term engineering project that brings students together to apply their learning to real-world engineering challenges.
Working as part of a collaborative team, Bharatveer is gaining valuable hands-on experience while developing practical engineering and problem-solving skills One of the highlights of the project is the opportunity to represent the team at an international robotics competition in Asia. To learn more about the AI 4 Everyone: Underwater Robotics program, click here
We congratulate Bharatveer on this exciting opportunity and look forward to seeing where his passion for engineering takes him in the future.
Bharatveer Singh
MISA DANCE
The M I S A Dance Festival has provided a valuable opportunity for many years for outstanding students to develop and display their skills in Dance. Our WCCS MISA Dance group has worked hard this term and performed at the MISA Dance festival on Tuesday this week. The routine focused on confidence, performance quality, and enjoyment, encouraging the dancers to connect with the music and bring high energy to the stage.
Congratulations to the MISA Dance group for all their work this term
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS
lighted to celebrate the outstanding achievements of ur students on the representative sporting stage
helped New South Wales secure a silver medal at the nal Schools Softball Championships before being ed in the Australian All Schools Team y has enjoyed an outstanding season across both ming and cross country She delivered an exceptional rmance at the NSW All Schools Swimming pionships, achieving multiple podium finishes, nal bests, qualifying for the Australian School National ming Championships in three events, and being nated for a leadership position within the NSW team y also won the gold medal at the CIS Cross Country pionships, securing first place and qualifying to sent William Carey Christian School at the NSW All ls Cross Country Championships this July. She will ravel to Melbourne to represent both NSW and m Carey Christian School at the Australian School nal Swimming Championships.
has also earned selection in the NSW All Schools Hockey Team and will represent New South Wales at the Australian All Schools Hockey Championships this July.
We congratulate each of these students on their dedication, perseverance and sporting excellence, and wish them every success in their upcoming competitions
Partnering with our community to
for God’’s glory.
COMING UP at and around Carey
A brand-new podcast episode has arrived! Join high school hosts Izzah and Jared and primary hosts Maya and Antonio as they look back on the excitement of Saturday’s Fun Fair, sharing their favourite rides, food, and highlights from the day. They also chat about Year 12 Pyjama Day, upcoming holiday plans, Shades of Shakespeare, and tackle an important question: would you rather sweat mayonnaise or cry hot sauce? Tune in for plenty of laughs and a snapshot of life around the school!
LISTEN NOW
Carey Reminders
ENROLMENT REMINDER
Enrolments for 2027 are well underway If you are planning to enrol a child for 2027 and have not yet submitted an application, we ask you to do so as soon as possible
Applications are also now open for 2028 and beyond, particularly for our key intake years of Prep, Kindergarten and Year 7
If your family will be moving on from William Carey Christian School at the end of 2026, please remember that a minimum of 10 weeks' written notice is required for all withdrawals. As you make plans for next year, we kindly ask that you keep this notice period in mind.
TERM DATES
Remainder of 2026:
Term 3 begins on Monday, 20 July 2026 and concludes on Friday, 25 September 2026. Please note that the Labour Day public holiday falls on Monday, 5 October, during the school holidays.
Students return for Term 4 on Monday, 12 October 2026, with the school year concluding on Thursday, 10 December 2026
2027 Term Dates:
For term dates and holidays, please go to the Term Dates page on our website: https://wccs.nsw.edu.au/term-dates/
Want to catch up on past stories or revisit something you read? You can view current and past editions of our school newsletter anytime on our website It’s a great way to stay connected with what’s happening across our school community. Go to the Newsletter page on our website, under the Community tab
www.wccs.nsw.edu.au
