A Warm Welcome to 2025

Reminders for All Things Music!

Please find below a summary of our 2025 Music Co-curricular Program rehearsal schedule. We have hit the ground running, and our ensembles have jumped right into rehearsing repertoire for our Sydney Opera House concert.

As a reminder, that you stay up to date with all things music, it is imperative you log into Omnia and the MLC School app, and update all your Music tag subscriptions. Please ensure you unsubscribe from ensembles your daughters are no longer be involved in, and tag all ensembles that your daughters will be partaking in this year. There is already a tag for our European Music tour, and we will be setting up new tags as required for individual events such as Groove at Camelot down the track. Omnia will be our main port of communication so if you have not subscribed to the individual tags, you will miss out on important music information relating to your children and relevant ensemble practices will not appear in your MLC School App calendar.

We encourage you to stay involved and continue to support your child’s musical journey. Your encouragement and participation are vital to their success and enjoyment. Please feel free to reach out to our music staff with any questions or concerns you may have throughout the year:

• Director of Music | Trevor Mee | tmee@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
• Director of Strings | James Larsen | jlarsen@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
• General enquiries can be sent to music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Thank you for your continued support of our music program. We look forward to a harmonious and successful year ahead!

– Trevor Mee
Director of Music

From The Principal

Who do I contact?

As we begin the new school year, I thought it would be helpful to outline the various sources of information available to parents and who to contact regarding the various aspects of your daughter’s schooling.

The Parent Information Handbook has a wealth of information, as do Omnia and the MLC School app. On our website you will find a range of informative documents including our Privacy Policy, Behaviour Management Guidelines and Anti-Bullying for Students Policy and Procedures. For those with children in Year 3 to Year 5, the School diary also has a lot of useful information.

In a large school such as ours it can be hard to know who to contact when you have a question or concern. If you are unsure, in general, my advice is to start as close as possible to the source of the question or concern. In the Junior School, this is usually your daughter’s class teacher but may also be one of her specialist teachers. In the Senior School, this is her subject teacher for matters relating to learning, or her luminary for wellbeing matters. Of course, there are matters that are more complex and may involve both academic and pastoral concerns. In these instances, the Head of Year or Head of Students would be your first point of contact.

We are fortunate to have many very capable staff with the necessary expertise to assist you should you need to escalate a matter. To ensure that your query or concern is answered as quickly as possible, by the people with the right expertise, we ask that you use the following organisational diagrams to determine who next to contact should escalation be necessary.

Junior School

Senior School

Staff will acknowledge your call or email within 24 business hours whenever possible. Please note that teachers will be away from their desks for most of the school day and may have meetings or duties before and after school or during lunchtime.

And as you would be aware, as per recent federal legislation, all employees have the right to disconnect outside business hours. Some may respond to emails in the evening, but this is not expected.

It is our expectation that all members of the MLC School community communicate in a manner that is consistent with our School Value of Respect and in keeping with the appropriate code of conduct. This is regardless of whether the communication is face to face, in writing or online and I ask for your support in this regard.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Staffing Announcement

Lynne Slarke, our Director of Learning Enrichment and Differentiation, has resigned from her position at MLC School to take up a new role as Head of Learning Support at Frensham.

Safer Internet Day

Safer Internet Day, celebrated on Tuesday 11 February 2025, is a global initiative aimed at promoting a safer and more responsible use of online technology and mobile phones, especially among children and young people. This day represents a collective effort to raise awareness about online safety issues and to empower individuals to navigate the digital world with confidence and security. It serves as a reminder of the importance of creating a safer online environment for everyone, particularly for girls who may face unique challenges and risks in the digital space.

The significance of Safer Internet Day in our society cannot be overstated. For girls, the internet can be a double-edged sword, offering opportunities for learning and connection while also exposing them to potential dangers such as cyberbullying, online harassment, and exploitation. By focusing on the specific needs and experiences of girls, we can work towards creating a more inclusive and supportive online community. Encouraging open communication is crucial in this regard, as it allows girls to share their concerns, seek help, and build resilience against online threats.

In addition to fostering open communication, it is essential to educate both young people and adults about the importance of digital literacy and online safety practices. This is why here at MLC School we incorporate a Cybersafety/eLearning scope and sequence that spans across Kindergarten to Year 12. This includes understanding privacy settings, recognising and reporting harmful content, and promoting positive online behaviour. By working together, we can ensure that the internet remains a safe and empowering space for everyone, especially for your daughters who deserve to explore the digital world without fear. We at MLC School will use Safer Internet Day as an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to a safer and more inclusive online environment.

If you would like an opportunity to further your horizons in this space, the eSafety commissioner provides regular free parent webinars covering several topics in this field. Please click here to access the registration page.

– Marianna Carlino
Director of eLearning

Arnhem Land Immersion with Culture College

• Interact with family of the Dhalinybuy/Bukudal Homelands
• Learn about the differences between homelands and communities including language, bush foods and medicines, moieties, totems and dreaming stories.
• Learn and participate in a culture that has existed for over 70,000 years
• The group will stay in safe areas on privately held, permit protected Aboriginal land which is not accessible outside of this setting. We will learn, make, gather, eat, give, grow, and connect with Traditional Owners and Indigenous Australia. We will learn from Elders and Traditional Owners and gain a first-hand understanding of life for our First Peoples in modern Australia.

• Please finalise your deposit payment through the link attached by Friday 14 February 2025
  Arnhem Land Immersion 2025 Deposit Payment
• Complete the attached Booking Form by Friday 14 February 2025 and return it to Tim Lennon by email here.
  MLC School Participant Booking Form 2025

Alumnae Award 2025 Nominations – Nominate An Old Girl

Old Girls of MLC School help to make the world a better place. Their contributions lead to progress that benefits society. MLC School would like to recognise and celebrate these women who are prepared to think differently; have courage and conviction; and lead with passion. We are proud to continue the MLC School Alumnae Awards in 2025.

You can read about the former winners of the MLC School Alumnae Awards by clicking here.

Old Girls Union (OGU) Annual General Meeting

Wednesday 19 February 2025
6pm
MLC School

All former students of MLC School are  invited to the Annual General Meeting and General Business Meeting of the MLC School Old Girls’ Union on Wednesday 19 February 2025.

The OGU is a wonderful way to keep in touch with friends and make a contribution to the School, particularly if you have other family connections. The OGU is an active participant in the life of MLC School, making many contributions beyond the holding of reunions.

All positions will be declared vacant at the AGM and any member of the OGU is eligible to stand for election.

Please click here to RSVP

Please click here for nomination form

Pockets Embroidery Update

The Uniform Shop has advised they are no longer able to accept blazers for embroidery in Term 1.

Unfortunately the provider is not able to provide this service currently. We will be informed of availability in Term 2.

From the Head of Learning and Teaching – Small Changes for Significant Results Over time

In his book Atomic Habits, James Clear invites readers to imagine an ice cube sitting on a table in a room where the temperature is zero degrees. As the temperature increases by one degree every hour, the ice cube remains solid, unaffected. However, when the temperature reaches 32 degrees, the ice cube begins to melt. To an observer, it may seem like the change occurred suddenly, but in reality, it was the result of gradual warming over time. We can apply this metaphor to learning. Small, consistent adjustments to study habits – like the gradual warming of the room – lead to significant progress over time.

• Daily Review: Encourage students to review notes each day. A 10-minute summary of the day’s lessons keeps the content fresh and reinforces key concepts.
• Active Recall and Spaced Repetition: Instead of passively reading notes, students can quiz themselves on key topics, use flashcards, or revisit challenging areas regularly in spaced intervals.
• Set Small, Manageable Goals: Breaking revision into small chunks makes it less overwhelming. Setting daily goals like ‘Revise two pages of notes’ ensures consistent progress without the feeling of burnout.
• Consistency, Not Cramming: Establishing a habit of consistent study helps to avoid the last-minute cramming sessions, which can increase anxiety and lead to poor retention. Studying regularly – whether it’s 20 minutes every evening or an hour every other day – can significantly improve performance.

New Study Support Opportunities at MLC School

Introducing two new Study Support Opportunities:

• Year 11 and Year 12 After-Hours Study Hub
• Year 7 to Year 12 Study Hub+

These will operate 3.30pm–6pm Monday to Thursday during term time.

Year 11 and Year 12 After-Hours Study Hub

Recognising the importance of a conducive environment for focused study, MLC School has established a free after-hours Study Hub exclusively for our Year 11 and Year 12 students. Located on Level 3 of the Senior Centre, the Study Hub provides a quiet and supportive space where students can concentrate on their studies, complete assessments, and prepare for examinations under the supervision of experienced MLC School staff across many subject areas.

Key Features:

• Experienced staff: Two teachers rostered each evening from different subject areas, to guide and assist students with their academic queries and provide valuable feedback.
• Convenient location: Level 3 of the Senior Centre, providing easy access for Senior students.
• Flexible hours: The study hub is open Monday to Thursday 3.30pm–6pm, allowing students to make the best use of their time outside regular school hours. Partial attendance is welcome.

We encourage all Year 11 and Year 12 students to take advantage of this excellent resource to enhance their learning experience and achieve their academic goals. The staff roster will be published in advance of each week in Audacia, the School newsletter. Students will be required to sign in on arrival to Study Hub and sign out on departure, as part of our student welfare management system.

There is no need to register for this program, which will commence Monday 10 February 2025.

Year 7 to Year 12 Study Hub+ (formerly called ‘The After School Study Program’)

In addition to the After-Hours Study Hub, the School is continuing Study Hub+ (formerly called The After School Study Program), a private, pay-per use tutoring program. Formerly open to Year 10 to Year 12 students, it has now been expanded to all interested students from Year 7 to Year 12.

Study Hub+ resumed this week, Monday 3 February 2025, and bookings can be made from next Monday 10 February to Thursday 20 February 2025 – Nomination Form here.

All information for Study Hub+ Support can be found in Omnia under School Information / Senior School / Year 7 – Year 12 After-Hours Study Hub+

This program aims to provide students with a quiet focused environment in which they can maximise their study time with assistance on hand when required. The sessions are led by Ela Huber, our Program Coordinator, and run with a team of highly supportive mentors, most of whom are pre-service teachers. They have subject matter expertise across a range of disciplines including English, Mathematics, the Sciences, History, Legal Studies, Economics, Geography, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE), Sports, Exercise and Health Science (SEHS) and Drama.

The study sessions are a phone free zone meaning students are required to hand in their phones at the start of each session. In addition to subject specific support our mentors can provide additional support in setting up study plans, examination preparation techniques and completion of assessments. Please note our mentors will provide verbal feedback on drafts only.

• The sessions run from 3.30pm to 6pm Monday to Thursday on Level 1 of the Senior Centre.
• It is expected that students will attend for the entirety of the session. If in exceptional circumstances your daughter needs to leave early this should be prearranged with the program coordinator.
• The sessions are phone free, and your daughter will be expected to hand in her phone at the beginning of the session.
• There will always be a minimum of two tutors at each session and these tutors rotate daily to give the students access to a variety of tutors and subject offers. Please note that all staff, while having subject specialities, are well rounded and can assist in all subject areas.
• Each session will commence with a short goal setting exercise so there is a clear plan of what they wish to achieve in the time.
• If your daughter has been registered for a session and does not attend without providing at least 24 hours’ notice, you will receive an email informing you of their non-attendance. However, if your daughter was absent from school that day, you will not be contacted and will not incur a charge. In all other cases, you will still be charged for the session.
• Parents will be able to register their daughter two weeks in advance via a link on the parent portal Omnia and Audacia the weekly newsletter. If you wish to sign up on a termly basis, which is encouraged as it helps establish a routine in your daughter’s schedule, please inform Ela Huber, the program coordinator, via email here.
• Parents will be able to register their daughter two weeks in advance via a link on the parent portal, and Audacia, the weekly newsletter.
• The cost per session is $25. Charges will be added to your daughter’s account at the end of the term.

If you would like your daughter to attend, please register her through the link provided below. You can also register on Omnia by going to School Information/Senior School/After School Study.

If you have any questions, please contact the program coordinator, Ela Huber by email here.

Monday 10 February to Thursday 20 February 2025 – Nomination Form here.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

From the Head of Junior School

It has been very rewarding to see all our Junior School girls settle into their learning routines at school, including our sport and co-curricular activities. At our Monday morning messages for Year 1 to Year 5, I spoke to the girls about taking advantage of the many opportunities on offer at MLC School. It is very evident this week that all the girls are settling in well and giving their best across the various facets of learning across our Junior School.   

Parent Information Evening 

This week we hosted Parent Information sessions for Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6. Thank you to all the parents who joined us. Please go to Omnia for grade information that was provided.   

Commencement of School Times 

Learning commences for each grade as follows: 

• Year 6 at 8.15am.  
• Kindergarten to Year 5 at 8.30am 
• Pre-Kindergarten at 9am.  

Girls need to be at school before these times so they may have a smooth start to their day and not miss any learning. Thank you for ensuring your daughter is at school on time. The Junior School campus is opened with staff on duty at 8am. Before school care commences at 7am.

Co-curricular Programs 

All our co-curricular programs have now commenced. It has been a delight to see the girls extend themselves in the all-rounded education that MLC School provides. If you require any information about our extensive co-curricular programs, please refer to our co-curricular microsite for more details and contact information. 

Park Road 

A reminder that parents are NOT permitted to use Park Road (where the Junior School Reception entry is located) for drop offs or pick ups. Please use our car park drop off and pick up, which is safer and have staff on duty to assist.  

UNSW Student Teachers 

We welcome University of New South Wales student teachers to our Junior School. They will be working in Year 3 to Year 6 and our Music Department.   

Bus Passes 

Once we have received the photos that were taken this week, we will be distributing bus passes to your daughter if she is booked to travel on our MLC School buses.  

Staff Spotlight 

Each week we will continue to introduce you to a new member of our Junior School staff. This week it is our new Junior School campus art teacher, Marian Doull. 

Marian Doull is an enthusiastic educator who has experience in teaching Visual Arts in the Early Childhood, Primary and Secondary sectors. She has worked in schools and Early Learning Centres in New Zealand, England, and Australia, developing a deep love for supporting students in their creative journeys through challenging and lively curriculum. She has studied in New Zealand and Australia, completing a Bachelor of Teaching/Bachelor of Arts from Avondale College, a Certificate III in Early Childhood Education and Care in NSW, and a Diploma of Teaching and Diploma of Fine Arts in New Zealand. She keeps her subject knowledge up to date by indulging in one of her main pleasures of visiting exhibitions, and during the summer was able to see world class works in Adelaide, Melbourne, Canberra and Sydney. This joy and enthusiasm for engaging with art is shared with her students. 

I look forward to seeing many of our parents at our Parent Welcome on the main campus this evening. 

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing – Leadership in Year 5

At MLC Junior School all the Year 5 girls are given the opportunity to lead the Junior School. Last Friday, all Year 5 students participated in their first leadership training day.

To enable the girls to continue to get to know each other we had many ‘icebreaker’ activities over the day. These were a lot of fun but also helped the girls to mix with many different girls – old and new.

To support every student to develop skills to enable them to grow as leaders, the girls learnt about the Round Square Discoveries of Self-awareness, Courage, Responsibility, Communication, Teamwork and Problem-solving.  This learning also lots of fun activities to enjoy.

Some comments from the girls follow:

I learnt something new about my partner. I liked learning about Round Square and the Round Square characters and I learned how to be a good leader.

I loved learning about other people. It was so fun! I am so happy that I get to spend the year with everyone.

I liked meeting people and making friends. I will probably use the questions from the sheet to make even more friends.

I enjoyed learning about each other and learning about myself.

My highlight was that I loved playing ‘whispers’ and also the other fun games.

I enjoyed making/meeting new friends and the icebreakers. I learnt how to work as a team and people’s names and who they are.

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Research Partnership with the Australian Education Research Organisation

We are excited to announce that MLC School is participating in an innovative research project in partnership with the Australian Education Research Organisation (AERO).

This national project aims to enhance the effectiveness of online professional learning for teachers through the vehicle of phonics training, comparing two cohorts of schools who receive the same core training, with one cohort receiving additional professional learning in the form of online teaching demonstrations. 

The research project lasts for two years and involves our Kindergarten to Year 2 staff undertaking 12 hours of professional learning, adding to their strong knowledge base on the teaching of phonics, aligning their teaching strategies to cutting-edge research in the Science of Reading; and tracking student progress through a valid and reliable screening tool. In addition, across the two-year program our teachers will be collaborating with each other to apply the evidence-based strategies and contributing to the research through interviews and surveys.  

MLC School is very pleased to be taking part in this research partnership that will enhance learning and teaching and help shape the future of online teacher training nationally.

– Cathryn Moore
Strategic Projects Leaders

Pre-Kindergarten Girls Are Loving Life!

The Pre-Kindergarten girls had some great days to begin 2025.

The girls are settling into the rhythm of each day and like singing and dancing. They are enjoying the activities in the Studio and playground, getting to know each other and developing friendships. It has been a lot of fun!

– Gina Zucco, Claudia Catania, Susan Blanche, Ellie Monda, Vicki Liubinskas, Pompa Dutta
Pre-Kindergarten Team

Click on image gallery for full size images.

What’s On In The Library!

Year 3 Book Club

Students in Year 3 are invited to join a lunchtime Book Club this term, beginning in Week 5 (Wednesday 26 February 2025). The book we will be reading is Bravepaw by L.M. Wilkinson. We will meet every Wednesday up until Week 10 (Wednesday 2 April 2025).  We will use literature circle roles to guide the group discussion.  
Please register your interest by completing the form below. Places are limited to 30.

Year 3 Book Club

Safer Internet Day

Over the next few weeks, students will be learning how to be eSafe when using the internet.  

@eSafetyOffice offers free webinars for parents and carers to gain knowledge, skills and tools to support their children to have safe online experiences.

Register here: www.esafety.gov.au/ parents/webinars
#SID2025 #BackToSchool #SaferInternetDay

Library Lovers’ Day

You might know February 14 as Valentine’s Day, but in libraries across Australia we celebrate Library Lovers’ Day!

Next week students will bring in a book they have read and loved to share. We will look at the most loved books in our library and primary students will complete a Library Quest.

– Sharon Seymour
Junior School Teacher Librarian

JS (P&F) Association Meeting

Thursday 20 February 2025
8.45am
Sutherland Rooms

The MLC School Junior School Parents and Friends (P&F) Association warmly invites all Junior School parents from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6 to attend the first meeting for 2025.

RSVP Here

From the Head of Senior School

Our School community has had an eventful and joyous start to the term. From the sight of our Captains on gate duty meeting and greeting the younger students with friendly smiles to the Year 7 students busily exploring the campus and finding their classes, the past week has been productive. The enthusiasm and curiosity of the Year 7 students have been infectious, and we are proud of how quickly they are adapting to their new environment. It was special to see our Year 10 students as they donned their senior uniforms for the first time this term, marking a significant milestone in their school journey. They wear it with pride and responsibility.

Our captains have been actively advertising the numerous clubs available to students, ensuring that every student finds a club that matches their interests and passions, fostering a sense of community and belonging. I hope that students will take the opportunity to join one of the many clubs that suit their interests, whether it be Drama Club, Business Club, Writers Society or K-Pop Club! The club timetable will shortly be advertised to students and displayed on the ground floor of the Senior Centre.

Today we begin preparations for the much-anticipated Sydney Opera House Concert, promising to be an extraordinary showcase of our students’ talents. This will form an important part of our Term, with whole school rehearsals happening during Luminary time each week.

Looking ahead, starting Monday 10 February 2025, the Study Hub will be available for Year 11 and Year 12 students. This initiative aims to provide dedicated support and resources for our senior students. The Hub is available from 3.30pm–6pm on Level 3 of the Senior Centre. Students can seek assistance from the teachers on duty or use the time for quiet study. Here is the schedule for the upcoming week:

A reminder that the Library is also open for all students to use after school and is open until 5pm. If students are on campus after school, they should be either at their designated co-curricular activity, in the Library, Study Hub or Study Hub+.

Our House Chapels also begin next weekend on Sunday 16 February 2025, starting with Mooramoora and Leawarra. A reminder that these House Chapels are compulsory for students and families are very welcome.

As we move forward, our focus this term is on punctuality. We encourage all students to be on time in the morning for school and for each of their classes during the day, as this is crucial for maintaining a productive and respectful learning environment.

I hope you all enjoy the Parent Welcome this evening if you are available to join, it is a great opportunity to connect with other parents and staff and is a lovely way to start the year.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Academic Care Update – Starting the Year Well 

As we embark on a new academic year, it is vital for the girls to start strong by establishing good habits that will support their success throughout the year. Over the past week, the Academic Care Program has focused on putting plans and processes in place to help support the students achieve their personal best, whilst reducing disorganisation and pressure upon them. 

To help frame our conversation, we highlighted three key areas to consider and act upon in the following weeks:  

Goal Setting: Setting clear and achievable goals is the first step towards academic success. The girls are encouraged to define their objectives for the year and break them down into manageable tasks. Using the SMARTIES model, they should look to craft short, medium and long term goals in concert with you. 

Study Timetables: A well structured study timetable is essential for effective time management. It allows students to allocate specific times for studying, extracurricular activities, and relaxation, ensuring a balanced approach to their daily routines. In doing so, the girls will be more likely to prioritise tasks of imminent importance, whilst also affording themselves opportunities to rest and develop in non-academic areas. I have recommended that they create a study plan, try to stick to it as best as possible, and review it after a six week period, where they may find the need to change it. 

Study Environments: We all know what it’s like walking into a messy house, bedroom or work space; stress, anxiety and chaos is ensured! Creating a conducive study environment is vital for concentration and productivity. We recommend that students find a quiet, well-lit space which is  free from distractions where they can focus on their studies. Consider temperature, air flow, storage and a supportive chair too. Furthermore, the girls are highly encouraged to leave their phones in another room during their study sessions – this goes too for their laptops if they are able to work on ‘paper based’ tasks. 

I had the pleasure of speaking to Year 7 and Year 10 students about these topics, emphasising the significance of each area. They have been challenged to complete goals, set a study timetable, and audit their workplace. Resources for these can be found on the Academic Care CANVAS Page. Additionally, Marianna Carlino (Director of eLearning) focused on how students can use the To Do App to help manage their time and priorities effectively. This app is a valuable tool that can assist students in organising their tasks and staying on top of their academic and co-curricular commitments. 

I believe that with the right strategies and support, our students can achieve great success this academic year. We encourage you to discuss these resources with your daughter and help them implement these practices in their daily lives. As Antoine de Saint-Exupéry quipped, ‘A goal without a plan is just a wish’; may this year be a success for your daughters, and one that is based around achievable plans and practices. 

– David Posker-Hill 
Academic Care Coordinator 

Year 7

Year 7 students have now completed their first full week of classes! It was very busy with school photos, our first Academic Care session, Big Sister Little Sister and the initial Sydney Opera House Concert rehearsal. I encourage you to speak to your daughter about all the exciting things she has done, what she has enjoyed and the challenges she has faced. Starting high school can be very exhausting and it’s ok if she is feeling tired. As you would know, support is available at School to assist your daughter with settling in.

In Academic Care time on Wednesday, students discussed having a study space that is conducive to effective studying, having a distraction free environment (phone free!) and chatted about setting small, medium, and long-term goals. This is a space we will continue to navigate and develop as the term progresses. At the end of next week, students will be guided through the Year 7 assessment calendar in Luminary time and will begin to plan their assessments. A scary and exciting time, please reassure your child that they will be supported through this process.

From time to time, it is important to remind all students in Year 7–Year 9 regarding specific uniform/presentation expectations of the school. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Make-up that is excessive, in the view of the School, is inappropriate. All students in Year 7–Year 9 are reminded of these expectations. All students are asked to ensure that they have addressed the above mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025. On Monday all students in Year 7–Year 9 will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their respective Head of Year. Students will either be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is as usual, greatly appreciated.

I look forward to chatting with many Year 7 parents at the Parent Welcome Evening tonight. Have a safe and happy weekend and week ahead.

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

Photo: Year 7 students enjoying their first Academic Care session, run by David Posker-Hill, Academic Care Coordinator.

Year 8

This week on Tuesday Year 8 students had their first cohort Chapel led by Reverend Viniana Ravetali. A focus of the service was on asking questions to shape our understanding of the role each of our lives could take in shaping a community which is inspired, connected and positive. Thank you to Michaela Kwaan, Grace Guo, Leela Das and Aditi Knowles for volunteering to speak and lead prayers during the service.  

On Wednesday, Year 8 joined with Year 9 for the first Academic Care session of the year. Marianna Carlino (Director of eLearning) presented to the group about key digital resources to assist with organisation. Students were guided to establish clear folders for organising educational resources through OneDrive and utilising the ToDo app to set up lists for time management of projects and tasks. All resources created by Marianna for sessions of this kind are shared with students through their Canvas Luminary page, so they are accessible at any time.  

In Luminary on Monday, all of Year 8 were asked to review the MLC School Code of Conduct as well as the Technology Code of Conduct. We feel that looking closely at these codes at the start of the year enables students to clearly understand the expectations and responsibilities that come with their actions as well as their use of learning resources. We hope the focus this week will help us as we continue to foster a safe, respectful, and positive learning environment for all students. Students were asked to sign the Cyber Safety Pledge (page 11 of the MLC School diary) as well as the Technology pledge (pages 154–156) and then in turn have you, as their parents and carers, also sign to acknowledge your understanding of these policies.

From Alistair Roland, Head of Students – Year 7 to Year 9:

From time to time, it is important to remind all students in Year 7–Year 9 regarding specific uniform and presentation expectations of the school. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Make-up that is excessive, in the view of the school, is inappropriate. All students in Year 7–Year 9 are reminded of these expectations.  

All students are asked to ensure that they have addressed the above mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025. On Monday all students in Year 7–Year 9 will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their respective Head of Year.

Students will either be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is as usual, greatly appreciated.

As always, please do not hesitate to contact me via email here if you have any queries, concerns or simply wish to touch base regarding your daughter’s pastoral care.

Key Dates for the Diary:  

• Friday 7 February 2025 – Parent Welcome event (6pm–8pm)
• Sunday 16 February 2025 – SS Mooramoora House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 16 February 2025 – SS Leawarra House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)
• Monday 17 February 2025 – Year 8 Study Skills Session with Dr Prue Salter (2pm)
• Sunday 23 February 2025 – SS Churunga House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 23 February 2025 – SS Lester House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)

– Bridget Kovats
Head of Year 8

Year 9

It has been wonderful to see how Year 9 students have engaged with their learning and reconnected with their peers over the first two weeks of term. This week during Luminary time, Year 9 completed a goal-setting activity known as STOP, START, CONTINUE. During this activity, they were encouraged to reflect on their current study habits and identify:

– STOP: unproductive study habits they should stop doing.
– START: new strategies or habits they should start incorporating into their study routine.
– CONTINUE: the positive habits they already have and should continue practising.

A goal many students set for themselves was to create a clear and structured study schedule. All students should ensure that they have carefully read and noted down relevant dates from the 2025 assessment calendar in their MLC School diary. Doing so is an important first step to staying organised and managing time effectively over the term. To support her with her study goals, I would also encourage you to sit down and read through this calendar with your daughter, to ensure she is informed of upcoming assessments and can plan accordingly.

Finally, from time to time, it is important to remind all students about the specific uniform and presentation expectations of MLC School. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Make-up that is excessive, in the view of the School, is inappropriate. All students in Year 7–Year 9 are reminded of these expectations. Students are asked to ensure that they have addressed the above mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025 (Week 3).

On Monday, all students in Year 7–Year 9 will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their Head of Year. Students will either be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is, as usual, greatly appreciated.

Please do not hesitate to contact me by email here, or your daughter’s Luminary teacher if you have any queries, concerns or simply wish to touch base about her academic, social and emotional wellbeing.

– Emily Marsh
Head of Year 9

Year 10

Year 10 students had a good week, thinking about their goals for the year and reflecting on what they should stop, start, and continue doing. They also completed their Careers Testing which is an exciting opportunity to start the process of thinking what may lie ahead in their future. I’m looking forward to hearing from them how their careers conversations go.

From time to time, it is important to remind all students of the specific uniform and presentation expectations of the school. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Make-up that is excessive, in the view of the school, is inappropriate. All students are reminded of these expectations.  

All students are asked to ensure that they have addressed the above mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025. On Monday all students will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their respective Head of Year. Students will either be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is as usual, greatly appreciated. 

Finally, I look forward to seeing you at this evening’s Parent Welcome event. We are very fortunate that Penny Hewett will also be attending, before assuming the role of Head of Year 10 on Monday 24 February 2025.

– Fiona Pow
Head of Year 10

Year 11

Assessment Calendar

This week, Year 11 students received their assessment calendar for 2025, which can also be found on Omnia. The detailed examination block schedule, which Year 11 are also keen to receive, is usually released closer to the time. I have been very happy with how Year 11 have been enthusiastic towards their studies, largely their efforts with uniform and their enjoyment at school.

Academic Care

On Tuesday 4 February, Marianna Carlino, Director of eLearning, led an Academic Care session with Year 11 and Year 12, introducing and exploring Microsoft To Do, a task management app to assist with organisation. Quizlet, a popular learning platform that provides tools for studying and learning through flashcards, quizzes and games, was also presented as Year 11 and Year 12 now have a full school subscription. Quizlet is AI-powered, converting notes to flashcards and providing an interactive personal tutor to go beyond memorisation and more.

Chapel

Year 11 had a Chapel service on Wednesday 5 February, led by Reverend Viniana Ravetali. I would like to thank Year 11 Lester Luminary, who contributed to the service with readings.

Luminary Representatives

Congratulations go to our Luminary Representatives for Term 1, who will have input and contribute to leading Luminary sessions. The new Luminary Representatives are:

• Rhiti Bhatta and Juah Hyun – Abbeythorpe
• Anna Obaid and Grace Farrow – Booralee
• Julia Choi and Sarah Lawrie – Churunga
• Kate McKeon and Georgia Pasas – Leawarra
• Layla Alameddine and Ella Hu – Lester
• Crystal Huang and Isabella Townsend – Mooramoora
• Isabelle Ng and Eri Takeshita – Prescott 
• Eve Parker and Isabel Garner – Sutton
• Tess Wright and Ze Wong – Wade
• Kimberly Chou and Isabelle Millgate – Whitley

Some of our Luminary Representatives led Luminary on Monday 3 February this week, discussing strengths and areas of improvement.

Big Sister Little Sister

Our new Luminary Representatives led a Big Sister Little Sister session on Thursday 6 February, with their Year 7 respective Luminary groups. This contributes to a sense of belonging for both year groups and promotes leadership opportunities for Year 11 and academic and general school advice for Year 7. Claire White, Head of Year 7, the Luminaries, and I saw some very special moments of interaction.

Study Periods

As a reminder, Year 11 cannot arrive late or leave early until they have proved they correctly use the senior privilege of study periods. Towards the end of the term, a Study Period Agreement will be signed between yourselves and your daughters.

Uniform

From time to time, it is important to remind all students of the specific uniform and presentation expectations of the school. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Excessive make-up, in the view of the school, does not follow our uniform policy. All students are reminded of these expectations.  

All students are asked to ensure they have addressed the above-mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025. On Monday, all students will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their respective Head of Year. Students will be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is as usual, greatly appreciated.

I look forward to seeing many of you at the 2025 Parent Welcome Event this evening and the Year 11 Parent Information Evening on Wednesday 12 February 2025.

The Year 11 Assessment Guides have been uploaded to Omnia and can be found by clicking here.

If you have any queries, I can be contacted via email at arenwick@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au or my direct line at 8741 3278.

Coming up

• Wednesday 12 February 2025 – Year 11 Parent information Evening and Year 12 Parent/Teacher Interview and Parent Information Evening

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

Year 11 VET Entertainment Students Complete White Card Training at NIDA

Year 12

Year 12 students are settling into their routine of classwork, study periods and co-curricular. The common room is working out to be a space that is highly valued by the girls, and they are busy now making it their own. The theme for the term is Respect – for self and others. The common room is a space where each person is respected and included, and the girls have respected the space by keeping it as clean and organised as possible.

Opportunities for informal leadership is a key part of Year 12 and the following students have stepped up to lead the jersey committee: Tess Petschner, Ella Baker, Leo Samad and Tika MacMaster. Their support is much appreciated and they will do a great job, working together to create an important memento for Year 12 2025.

Respect for self and our School Values is also reflected in how the girls present themselves as leaders of the School every day.

From time to time, it is important to remind all students of the specific uniform and presentation expectations of the school. The wearing of eyelash extensions and nail polish is not permitted. Make-up that is excessive, in the view of the school, is inappropriate. All students are reminded of these expectations.  

All students are asked to ensure that they have addressed the above mentioned by the morning of Monday 10 February 2025. On Monday all students will have those specific items/areas checked by their Luminaries. If students choose not to follow the School’s expectations, they will be sent to their respective Head of Year. Students will either be asked to address the specific issue immediately or face the possibility of being sent home to rectify the issue. Your support in maintaining the standards at MLC School is as usual, greatly appreciated. 

Our image this week is of the Churunga Luminary group – lead by House Captains Maya Gupta and Olivia Cassell and Louise Piggott as their Luminary.

A reminder that the Year 12 Information Evening and Parent/Teacher Interviews are on Wednesday 12 February 2025 – details are on Omnia.

Looking forward to seeing everyone next week.

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 12

Live Talks – Upcoming Events from the Careers Department

Live Talks: Southern Cross Scholars Program

Organisation: Southern Cross University

Location: Online

Date: Tuesday 11 February 2025

Are you a Year 11 or Year 12 student wanting to enhance your academic skills, get ahead of the game in your final years of high school and prepare yourself for university?

Join us for a free Q&A session and explore the Southern Cross Scholars program where you can study a university unit while still at school and gain entry into a Southern Cross degree.

We’ll dive into the application process; program expectations and we’ll also explore each unit of the Scholars program and their connection to our courses. You’ll also learn about our generous scholarship opportunities that you will be eligible for upon the completion of the program.

Find out more and register

Year 12 and Beyond – With ADHD

Organisation: Claire Pech Careers

Location: Webinar

Date: Tuesday 18 February and Thursday 27 February 2025

Hosted by Claire Pech, CICA-Accredited Careers Practitioner, and Amanda Krulis, endorsed Organisational Psychologist.

Targeted to parents of students with ADHD in Year 12, this webinar will share insights and practical solutions for managing this critical year and beyond and making meaningful career decisions.

Topics covered:

• Understanding the characteristics of ADHD, debunking unhelpful myths
• Exploring the similarities and differences between ADHD at School vs Tertiary
• Considerations for choosing further studies after Year 12
• Evaluating potential action plans and pathway options
• Understanding what adjustments/supports are available after 12 Year
• Creating insight and self-awareness around current ADHD status
• Essentials of Executive Functions, impact & creating a tailored toolkit for success
• Identifying and harnessing ADHD strengths
• Managing technology with ADHD
• Career planning with ADHD
• Strategies for parents to support their kids
• Q&A

Find out more and register

– The Careers Department

Future Events – From the Careers Department

Year 12 Medicine Information Evening

Organisation: University of New South Wales

Location: onsite

Date: Wednesday 12 March 2025

Are you interested in a career in medicine?

Start your medical career at one of the top medical schools in the world. Studying the Bachelor of Medical Studies/Doctor of Medicine at UNSW will provide you with the theoretical understanding and practical experiences you need to launch your career as a medical professional.

UNSW’s Medicine Information Evening, for current year 12 students, will provide insight into the dynamic blend of hands-on clinical experiences and research-focused learning that you will be immersed in as a UNSW Medicine student. You’ll also find out detailed information on the application and admissions process for 2026 entry, including special entry schemes such as Rural, Gateway and Indigenous Entry Schemes.

Join us online where you will hear from our expert panel of academic staff, current students and advisors, and get all your UNSW Medicine questions answered.

Find out more and register

Best Field Trip in the World 2025

Organisation: University of the Sunshine Coast

Location: Various

Date: Thursday 10 April to Sunday 13 April 2025

University of the Sunshine Coast’s award-winning Best Field Trip competition is back!

This is your chance to win a four-day rollicking adventure for Year 11 and 12 students, exploring world-heritage wonders and hanging out with UniSC staff and students as well as some of our sporting superstars. The prize includes:

• Return travel from your residing destination
• All transfers, accommodation and meals
• Tickets to an NRL game at Suncorp Stadium
• Kayaking tour and overnight at Noosa
• Sightseeing and overnight stay at K’gari

We know the best memory is a shared memory, so each winner will be able to bring along a friend! Entrants to the competition must submit a 100-word entry which responds to the question: What do you think life after high school will be like?

Entries close Sunday 9 March 2025.

Find out more and register

Cochlear Autumn School of Engineering

Organisation: BIOTech Futures

Location: Various

Date: Monday 14 April to Thursday 17 April 2025
Year 11 and Year 12: Engineering program – visiting four Universities and four Engineer projects/organisations. Meeting 100+ Engineers & Engineering students.

Find out more and register

Experience Engineering! – Women in Engineering

Organisation: BIOTech Futures

Location: Various

Date: Registrations open Wednesday 30 April 2025

BIOtech Future Challenge is the work of Hala Zrieqat, Prof of Biomedical Engineering at USYD. Her work in developing scaffolds allowing patients to ‘regrow’ their own bone is destined to replace metal implants in the very near future! It is for students in Year 9–Year 12 – who think differently, who are interested in making a difference in the world. This year’s focus will be on sustainable engineering and humanitarian engineering in the context of globalisation.

Students can enter individually or in groups of two to five. They will be assigned a mentor and a challenge (or they can suggest their own!)

Find out more and register

– The Careers Department

Who’s Who in the Sports Department?

The sports department offers 21 different sports, so it can sometimes be difficult knowing who the best contact for your sport is. Please see below the staff and sports they look after. If you have a query or need to raise an issue regarding your daughter’s sport, your first point of contact should be the coordinator of that sport.

Additionally, you can email sports@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au for general queries.

Marnie Stephenson will start in mid March, in the meantime if you have any enquiries about any of her sports, please email sports@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

For touch football and hockey please email sports@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

Uniform Reminder and Commitment to Training and Games

Senior School Saturday Sport will commence on Saturday 8 February 2025, please ensure that you wear your uniform with pride.

Make sure:

• Hair is tidy and pulled back neatly in a ponytail or similar
• No long nails
• No make up
• No jewellery
• Only MLC School PE Uniform or MLC School sport specific uniform to be worn. No house shirts.
• If it is cool, only MLC School tracksuit or MLC School hoodie can be worn (no other branded apparel).

Commitment to Training and Games

When you register a student for a sport, training commitments are compulsory and will involve up to two sessions per week.

Training days are generally in the mornings from 6.45am–8am.

Occasionally, training may occur in the afternoon. This is usually dependent on coach availability.

MLC School has a NO TRAIN, DON’T EXPECT TO PLAY policy. This means if a student misses training for any reason, they should not expect to get game time during the next scheduled match. The amount of game time given to students after a missed training will be at the coach’s discretion.

Non- Attendance

Continued failure to attend training or competitions without a timely written explanation is unacceptable and may jeopardise the player’s continued involvement in sport.

To be eligible for a pocket, (either the blue one for sustained commitment) or a premiership pocket should the team win the competition, students may only miss one training and one game throughout the season/term. For sports that run over two terms, such as netball, students may miss two trainings and two games.

If Frensham is in your fixtures, the attendance at the Frensham fixture is compulsory to be awarded a pocket.

Training absences can be made up by attendance at an alternate session throughout the week. Students should contact the sports department if they wish to attend a make-up session so this can be recorded on the roll.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Netball Registrations

Registrations for the 2025 Netball Season are now open. To ensure a smooth process for registration, please use the following instructions.

Please follow the below steps

Step 1: Go to your Service NSW Account to download your Active Kids Voucher. If you do not have an account, you will need to create one if you plan to use the voucher.  

Active and Creative Kids Voucher Link

Step 2: Netball Australia use an operating system called Play HQ to process registrations. You are required to register AND pay your fee through Play HQ. The cost for Registration is $470. (If you apply your Active Kids Voucher it should automatically change the payment to $420).

If you need to create a new account for your daughter. Please ensure all details are entered correctly.

Click here for Registration link

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

Team Allocation and Registration Period

• Students will not be allocated to a team until their registration has been paid. 
• The registration period closes on Saturday 22 February 2025.

Uniforms

• Please ensure you have purchased the new netball uniform. The previous netball dress (prior to 2020) is no longer able to be worn. If you have a query regarding the netball uniform, please contact the Uniform Shop or the Sports Department.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Important Sport Notices

The Sports Department is located in the Aquatic Centre on the pool deck level and is open from 7am – 5pm Monday to Friday should you wish to speak to a staff member.

REMEMBER!

Please make sure you regularly read the Sports Update each week, follow our Facebook page, and check your emails. These forms of communication will give you upcoming sports dates, the weekly fixtures, student achievements and other important information relating to carnivals, grading etc. 

IMPORTANT PROCEDURES FOR SPORT

Absences from Sport

What to Do When You Are Not Able to Make Training or a Game

On the rare occasions that it may be necessary for a player to miss training or a competition, please follow these instructions.

• If the inability to attend is known in advance – a written explanation (email) from the player’s parent/guardian is to be given to the coach and sports department in advance. This notice should be given as early as possible.
• If the player is absent from school on the day of training or on competition day – the player’s parent/guardian is asked to advise the coach and sports department of their child’s absence from training or the game.
• Do not ask your friends or team mates to give your coach the message
• Do give as much notice as possible
• If there is a clash with another sport or school event, please speak with the sports department to determine which game/event you should attend.

Please Note: Continued failure to attend training or competitions without a timely written explanation is unacceptable and may jeopardise the player’s continued involvement in sport. 

A member of the sports department will contact Parents/guardians of students whose non-attendance at training or games is not notified in the correct manner.

 Pockets are only awarded to students who have met all requirements of training and games.

Wet Weather

What do I do if it is Wet Weather?

While on most occasions we would not cancel training for wet weather, cancellations may occur if rain is too heavy to train in or weather conditions deem it unsafe. Additionally, we may be required to cancel training when we cannot accommodate students safely in an indoor space.

FOR MORNING TRAINING

The decision to cancel any morning training sessions will be made by 8pm the night before training.

Wet weather cancellations will be posted on the MLC School Sport Facebook Page, and a notification on the MLC School app.

No Facebook post, or app notification means that activities will still go ahead.

FOR AFTER SCHOOL TRAINING

The decision to cancel any after school training sessions will be made by 1pm on the day of training.

Wet weather cancellations will be posted on the MLC School Sport Facebook Page and the MLC School app.

ON SATURDAYS

If you are playing an IPSHA Sport, please download the IPSHA App – this can be downloaded from the App store and has information for parents. It is also used to send push notifications for Girls Saturday Sport weather updates and for marshalling calls at Major Carnivals.

IPSHA normally make a decision about wet weather by 7am.

If you are playing an IGSA Sport, go to the following link https://igsasport.spawtz.com/

The IGSA website will let you know if your venue is closed or open.

When possible, we will also post the cancellations on our Sport Facebook Page and the MLC School app.

On all occasions, it is the individuals’ responsibility to check the wet weather information. The sports department, coaches and managers are not always in a position to relay any game cancellations.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Weekend Fixtures and Upcoming Dates

Saturday 8 February 2025

Upcoming Dates

• Saturday 8 February 2025 – IGSA Saturday Sport commences, Various, Various
• Friday 7 February – Sunday 9 February 2025 – NSW Rowing Championships, SIRC
• Wednesday 12 February 2025 – MLC School Diving Championships, MLC School Aquatic Centre, 4pm–6pm
• Friday 14 February 2025 – MLC School Swimming Invitational, MLC School Aquatic Centre, 5pm–8.30pm
• Saturday 15 February 2025 – IPSHA Saturday Sport commences, Various, Various
• Friday 21 February 2025 – Junior School Swimming Carnival (Year 3–Year 5), MLC School Aquatic Centre, 9am–2pm
• Saturday 22 February 2025 – PLC/Kings Regatta, SIRC, 7am–3pm
• Sunday 23 February 2025 – IGSA Rowing Regetta, SIRC, 7am–3pm

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Follow MLC School Sport on Facebook

MLC School Sport have their own Facebook page. Please follow us for all sports updates and important information.

MLC School Sport Facebook Page

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Holiday Production Fun

It has been wonderful to dive back into our Speech and Drama Studio programs this week and see all of our students and welcome our new students. We are so impressed with the enthusiasm and incredible work we have seen already. It’s going to be an exciting term ahead.

A busy start to the term meant we missed acknowledging the stars of our holiday productions last week.

Congratulations to our amazing casts of our December holiday production of Sleeping Beauty and our January production of Alice in Wonderland.

After auditioning and casting roles, the students embarked on a magical journey into the world of theatre. They rehearsed scenes and learnt lots of dances, added costumes, set and lighting bringing it all together for the big performance for family and friends. Our amazing casts performed brilliantly, and the shows were a hit!

The productions are a wonderful opportunity for students to have fun with their friends and meet new ones from all year groups. We see an enormous amount of confidence develop over the production week and for some students it is the first time they have performed on stage in front of an audience.

‘First of all, congratulations for a marvellous production of Snow White and the ‘9’ dwarfs! Us parents were all blown away by how awesome the cast and crew were, and wondered what sort of magic you used to pull this production together in five days! Arielle enjoyed the process immensely and loved every minute of it!’

– Hilda McBrien, parent

We look forward to sharing our students’ outstanding ASCA and TRINITY exams results next week.

– Monica Brian
Speech and Drama Studio Director

Click on image gallery for full size images.