From the Acting Head of Junior School

Welcome back to Term 4.

It was lovely to see the girls return on Tuesday morning, ready for a term of learning. This is one of my favourite days – the first day of term. The girls are all so vibrant and enthusiastic, with big smiles and lots of hellos. The buzz of them seeing their friends and sharing holiday stories is evident and brings an atmosphere of joy to the school.

Pre-Kindergarten to Year 2 Swimming

This week the Kindergarten to Year 2 daily swimming program started. Pre-Kindergarten also had some time in the pool. When I visited the Aquatic Centre the girls were full of smiles and excitement. All were having a go and trying their hardest to use their swimming skills. I’m sure by the end of the two weeks the girls will be ready to show some newly acquired skills at Splash Day.

Kindergarten to Year 2 Splash Day

Parents, Carers and family are welcome to join Kindergarten to Year 2 for their Splash Day, Friday October 25 from 11.30am. This is an opportunity for the younger girls to show off their new swimming skills as well as get a ‘taste’ for what a swimming carnival. I look forward to seeing many of you there!

Please ensure the Engage permission form is completed.

Staff Spotlight

Justine Shields

Justine Shields is an educator from Ireland experience in international, independent, Catholic, and public schools. Her diverse experience, which includes teaching at an international school in Qatar and schools across Australia, has equipped her with the skills to work with students across all primary grades.

Justine is deeply committed to creating a warm, supportive classroom culture where students feel encouraged to be their authentic selves and pursue their learning with confidence. She believes in fostering an environment where children can explore their individuality while developing the skills and self-assurance needed to succeed. Her dedication to education is reflected in her recent completion of a Master’s thesis focused on the integration of Inquiry-Based Learning and Explicit Direct Instruction, showcasing her commitment to combining innovative and effective teaching methods.

Throughout her career, Justine has been welcomed back to schools due to her strong relationships with students, families, and colleagues. Before joining MLC School, she held positions at Trinity Grammar School Sydney, Westminster School Adelaide, Radford College Canberra and St Peter’s Woodlands Grammar School Adelaide.

Having recently moved to Sydney, Justine is committed to establishing lasting roots in the place she now calls home. In her spare time, she enjoys being active, walking her dog, Benny, seeing new places, and spending time outdoors. Justine’s passion for education is evident in how she always strives to learn more about her role as an educator and the world around her. Her diverse experience and commitment to creating a supportive learning environment make her an inspiring addition to the kindergarten class at MLC School in Term 4.

– Joanne Sharpe
Acting head of Junior School