Dare to Be More Podcast Update – Episode 7 Now Live

Episode 7 – Inspiring Journeys of Alumni Award Winners – Dr Jan Milburn

In this episode of ‘Dare to Be More’, host Anthony Perl speaks with Dr Jan Milburn OAM, whose remarkable journey from MLC School student in the 1950s to award-winning educator and principal demonstrates the transformative power of exceptional education.

Jan shares her memories of MLC School during an era when most teachers were single women dedicated to their vocation, and when the School was one of the first girls’ schools to offer physics and chemistry. She describes how the depth of learning and strong values she experienced at MLC School opened up horizons that would shape her entire life, from her PhD studies in London to her career as a teacher, principal, and education consultant.

Listen here

Stay connected and join the conversation as we continue to celebrate the opportunities that empower every MLC School student to Dare to Be More.

Listen here now on Spotify, or search ‘MLC School Dare to Be More’ on your favourite podcast platform. 

Catch up on Episode 4 and Episode 5 – these podcasts were available during the holiday break

Episode 5 – The Power of Music in Education: Building Confidence Through Music at MLC School

Trevor Mee, Director of Music at MLC School, speaks about the School’s exceptional music program and the profound impact music education has on young women’s development.

Trevor shares his journey from the Queensland Conservatorium to teaching at Newington College and ultimately to MLC School, explaining how his passion for group music-making and the social aspects of music led him to education. He describes the fascinating differences between boys’ and girls’ schools, noting how girls often need encouragement to step forward but produce incredibly fine work once they do.

The conversation explores MLC School’s comprehensive music program, which begins in Pre-Kindergarten and continues through Year 12. Trevor explains the compulsory string program in Years 1 and 2, the introduction of band instruments in Year 3, and the diverse range of ensembles including string orchestras, symphony orchestras, jazz bands, choirs, and rock programs. He describes how MLC School has built on its reputation as one of the finest classical music schools in the country whilst expanding to offer equally strong contemporary and jazz programs. Listen here

Episode 4 – What Learning Looks Like Today: Modern Education at MLC School

Amy Murphy, Director of Professional Practice, talks about how learning has evolved and what contemporary education looks like at MLC School.

Amy, who recently joined MLC School after 17 years in the public system, shares her observations about the similarities and differences between educational contexts, emphasising that at the core, all educators want students to thrive and become agents of change in the world. She explains how her role supports both students and teachers, ensuring a clear vision for teaching and learning whilst providing responsive support for teacher wellbeing and professional growth.

The conversation explores how learning today differs from previous generations, with Amy highlighting the increased agency, voice, and choice that students now have in their learning. She discusses the focus on developing dispositions and soft skills – self-awareness, self-regulation, resilience, and collaboration – alongside content knowledge, preparing students to apply learning to any context in the world. Listen here