From the Acting Head of Senior School

Term 4 continues to be one full of excitement – we would not have it any other way!

The School felt a little quieter than usual this week with Year 12 now finished and Year 10 on their immersions In New Zealand and Sydney. Thank you to the staff who have worked so hard to prepare these experiences for the students.

On Monday we came together for our Remembrance Day Service, to honour and remember the service personnel who have served and sacrificed. Remembrance Day is a time to reflect on the courage, dedication, and selflessness of those who have engaged in wars and conflicts around the world. We observed a moment of silence to reflect on those impacted, lives lost, the families forever changed, and the communities that have been touched by the shadow of war. We also remember those who continue to serve.

It’s always challenging to capture the full daily experience of life at MLC School, this week thought I would share with you some of my speech to prospective families at out Tour today yesterday:

Senior School assemblies are crucial in bringing our student community together and building school culture. The assemblies are student developed led by our captains, I have minimal input and only offer support or guidance as to the structure and provide clarity and context.

We heard from students who are passionate and eager to support valuable organisations and causes.

Pink Ribbon day: students will be selling pink badges to raise funds for the National Breast Cancer Foundation
Our Community and Round Square Captain Khushii Varma (Year 11) along with Rev Vinnie addressed the students regarding upcoming opportunities for giving back- launching the drive for Wayside Chapel- working closely in partnership with the Uniting Church to make care packages for those in need- fostering a strong sense of service.
Our Spirit Captain, Sima Tebbutt (Year 11), then introduced the structure and songs for our annual House Christmas Challenge. Students will start preparing routines in their House to perform at the end of term. Another student led initiative, fostering positive house spirit, belonging and joy, our unofficial fifth school value.
We learnt from the Year 9 students who went on the History Tour in the holidays. They visited Germany and Italy. They clearly had a great experience, visiting castles, chapels, museums and of course, enjoyed the food.
We heard about amazing student contributions through the student voted ‘Stars of the Week’ students nominate and recognise peers who demonstrate acts of kindness to one another. It’s another opportunity to practice gratitude.
To finish, we sang the MLC School song, and our students can sing beautifully!

During lunch we had our Wellbeing Wednesday activities taking place in Bird Bath Quad. Students playing organised activities, fostering connection and belonging, led by our Wellbeing Captain, Zoe Likely (Year 11).

I was due to teach my Year 10 PE class in the afternoon, I then realised they were actually in New Zealand for a cultural immersion and will be back next week. When they return will to engage in a future preparation program and finalise the end of year 10 studies as they move into Year 11 / 12 HSC /IB courses – the final years of schooling.

To top it off, I spent my evening on Wednesday at the Middle Years Production, I attended with other Heads of Year. The Wendy and Peter Pan production is an adaptation of Peter Pan, with a feminist angle. I was absolutely blown away by the talent of our young performers. They were focused, funny, engaging and absolutely stole the show. It is wonderful to see our girls thriving and finding their hook! Huge thanks to Alisha Vigna and all the DDE staff and students involved.

– Andrew Taylor
Acting Head of Senior School