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 waste diverted from landfill and turned into compost – Almost 1.5 tonnes.
Food waste collected from recess buckets by Garden Monitors – 212 kg.
Produce harvested and contributed to the kitchen – A record 190 kg!
Total composted since 2024 – 3,487 kg
Total produce grown since 2024 – 353 kg

Kitchen Garden Classes
The year’s classes began by exploring where our food comes from.  Concepts such as product lifecycles, origins, distribution and food system diversity were discussed. With this knowledge children then planned and constructed their own food system using farm Lego, carefully considering the relationships of all components.  As a reflection of

See Full Post >>

On the vegetarian lunch menu for Week 7

Monday  Cream of cauliflower soup served with sourdough bread and butter
Tuesday  4 cheese penne pasta topped with fresh herbs and parmesan
Wednesday Bean nachos served with sour cream and guacamole
Thursday Sweet potato Indian style curry served with rice pilaf
Friday  Potato and corn muffins served with sweet chilli and sour cream
  (Chefs’ selection of fruits and vegetables provided daily)
The post On the vegetarian lunch menu for Week 7 appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Deputy Head of School’s Comment

On Tuesday night we hosted an outstanding Instrumental Concert. Twice a year students who learn a musical instrument at school are able to showcase their learning. On Tuesday students who learn outside of the school were also invited to attend. There were some 40 items and in addition to that the JC orchestra also performed. The standard of music particularly from our senior students was impressive and a most enjoyable and entertaining evening was had by all. Over the last few years Mr Miller has worked tirelessly to further develop musical opportunities in the school and to showcase our students in the broader community at musical events. It has also allowed for our student body as a whole to develop an appreciation of fine music.

Di Renshaw
The post Deputy Head of School’s Comment appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Head of School’s Comment

Our 6th Class students held their annual Stalls Day today, bringing plenty of excitement and energy to the school despite the less-than-ideal weather. Their well-planned activities and games lifted everyone’s spirits, and the funds raised will go towards a parting gift for the school, something future students will enjoy for years to come.
Next week, we turn our attention to our leaders of 2026 as we begin the process of selecting the 6th Class Leadership Team. Interested 5th Class students will deliver speeches to their peers in 4th–6th Class, as well as to staff across the school.
We remind all students that this process is not about popularity or polished performances, but about recognising those who consistently demonstrate our school values through their conduct and service. While only a few formal positions will be assigned, every student has many opportunities to lead by example and contribute meaningfully to our community.
Julian Wilcock
The post

See Full Post >>

On the vegetarian lunch menu for Week 5

Monday Pumpkin ravioli served with tomato and basil cream sauce topped with Parmesan
Tuesday Crumbed vegetable patties served with sweet chili sauce
Wednesday Cheese and spinach rolls served with tomato chutney
Thursday Vegetarian sausage sizzle
Friday Thai style sweet potato curry served with Basmati rice
The post On the vegetarian lunch menu for Week 5 appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Deputy Head of School’s Comment

On Wednesday, the whole school had the joy of watching Lower 1st perform their dress rehearsal in preparation for next week.  It was a magnificent effort by all the children without exception. They all gave their complete attention to the performance and spoke their lines with clarity and expression. It was a testimony to hard work and focus. Without wanting to give anything away, it was completely enchanting from beginning to end. The performance represents hours of commitment from the class teachers who are very well supported by the wonderful Ms Lilla who has just finished directing eight primary plays. Shakespeare continues to be voted one of the most popular school activities by all the children.

Di Renshaw
The post Deputy Head of School’s Comment appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Head of School’s Comment

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

See Full Post >>

Friendly soccer matches vs German International School

On Friday, 24 October, we welcomed the German International School for two exciting friendly soccer matches. Our Year 4 mixed team showed outstanding skill and teamwork, securing an impressive 8–2 victory with excellent passing, strong defence, and clever positioning across the pitch. The Year 3 mixed team played with great spirit and determination, going down 1–3 in a hard-fought match that showcased fantastic sportsmanship and growing tactical awareness. Both games were a brilliant display of enthusiasm, fair play, and developing game sense. Well done to all players!
The post Friendly soccer matches vs German International School appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Deputy Head of School’s Comment

Term 4 is always a particularly busy term for everyone, but especially for 6th class. Once 6th class have finished Shakespeare, they start organising themselves to run the 6th class stalls. The money they raise will be used to purchase a gift for the school. This tradition has seen a number of wonderful additions to the school. We have the commanding eagle at the top of the stairs, the Shakespeare mural outside the library, a herb garden, the water bottle refilling station and the picnic table in Buramurring playground. These gifts provide a memory of each year group and become part of the fabric of our school history.  This year’s 6th class has demonstrated steadiness and a great willingness to serve the school. They have been excellent role models for the children coming behind.

Di Renshaw
The post Deputy Head of School’s Comment appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>

Head of School’s Comment

The first two evenings of our Primary Shakespeare Festival have been a great success, and tonight we look forward to the final performances from our graduating 6th Class: Richard III and The Merchant of Venice. This week’s journey through Shakespeare’s timeless works has explored the rich and varied themes of the human condition, while also deepening our understanding of Stillness, our value for the term.
On stage, Stillness is more than the absence of movement; it is a calm attentiveness, the centred awareness that allows an actor to listen, connect, empathise, and deliver each line with authenticity and depth.
Our thanks go to our teachers, Ms Lilla, and all parents for their support in helping students prepare for these memorable performances.
Julian Wilcock
The post Head of School’s Comment appeared first on John Colet School | Sydney.

See Full Post >>