Year 11

Spirit Strong 26 On

Year 11 Retreat remains one of MLC School’s most treasured traditions, and this year’s gathering was a shining example of the spirit and unity that define our community. The retreat offered the girls a chance to step away from their daily routines and immerse themselves in an environment of celebration, reflection, and growth.

A highlight of the retreat was a thoughtful presentation on the tradition of leadership and prefects, created by Mary Cameron (Year 11). Isabelle Millgate (Year 11) also shared this presentation with her group, ensuring that the message of tradition and the significance of the retreat reached even more students. We extend our heartfelt thanks to both Mary and Isabelle for their initiative and leadership in sharing these important stories and values.

The retreat was filled with joyful moments and opportunities for connection. On Tuesday night, the House Captains organised a spirited mini-Olympics, bringing everyone together for friendly competition and laughter. Wednesday evening saw the teachers hosting a lively trivia night, and the School Captains led an exciting Captains’ evening on the final night, each event adding to the sense of spirit and fun.

Creativity and reflection were also at the heart of the retreat. The students produced beautifully decorative calico squares, inspired by the theme “Spirit Strong 26 On”, which will serve as a lasting reminder of their journey together and their aspirations for Year 12 in 2026. The calico squares will be sewn together and hung up in the Year 12 common room. Throughout the retreat, the girls wrote wonderfully affirming notes to each other, fostering a culture of encouragement and support and read letters that they wrote to themselves at the beginning of Year 10. They also received notes from parents with deep gratitude, cherishing the love and encouragement from home.

The staff thoroughly enjoyed working alongside the Year 11 cohort throughout the retreat. Reverend Viniana Ravetali’s presence brought warmth and encouragement, helping to foster a spirit of reflection and community. We were also delighted to welcome Lisa Moloney, Principal, Joanna Graffen, Head of Senior School, and Fiona Pow, Head of Students, Year 10 – Year 12, who each took time to visit and connect with the students. All expressed how much they valued the opportunity to share in the retreat experience, with the only disappointment being that their busy schedules did not allow them to stay longer. Their involvement was a testament to the strong support and care that surrounds our Year 11 cohort.

As the girls return from the retreat, they do so with renewed confidence, a stronger sense of community, and a clear vision for the year ahead. The experience has not only strengthened their bonds but also prepared them to embrace the responsibilities and joys of leadership, guided by the traditions that make our school so special. 

Thank you for your ongoing support as we continue to nurture the growth and development of our Year 11 students. It is a privilege to with Year 12 2026.

Coming Up

• Wednesday 22 October – Year 11 2025 Parent Teacher evening via Teams
• Friday 7 November – Year 12 2026 Leadership Induction

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

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