From the Head of Junior School

Year 6 Transition and Year 5 Leadership Induction 

Year 6 attended the Junior School campus assembly on Thursday for the final time. Today I welcomed Year 6 to the Senior School assembly as part of their transition program. Year 6 are still members of our Junior School, yet they are provided many opportunities to experience aspects of Senior School life in preparation for Year 7. One of these opportunities is attending the Senior School assembly. 

Our Year 5 students were inducted into their leadership roles and presented with their badges by our Principal, Lisa Moloney. It was the first time the Junior School inducted Prescott House Captains. It was wonderful to have Senior School Captains talk to the girls about leadership. Congratulations to all our Year 5 leaders as you learn about and enact servant leadership throughout the year ahead

Click on gallery to view full images

Kindergarten to Year 1 Parent Literacy Workshop  

This week we were very pleased to provide a literacy webinar for our Kindergarten and Year 1 parents. This information session is designed specifically for parents of children who are in the early stages of formally learning about English. Next Thursday we will be offering Kindergarten to Year 1 parents a webinar about supporting your daughter with numeracy at home.  A link will be emailed to you on Thursday 6 March 2025.  Resources that support these webinars are being sent home to our Kindergarten and Year 1 families. My thanks the presenters, our Deputy Head of Junior School – Curriculum, Sonia Weston and Year Coordinators Justine Shields and Elizabeth Astle.   

Parent-Teacher Learning Conversations (Class teachers)  

Our Parent Teacher Learning Conversations begin next week. These 10 minute meetings give parents the opportunity to get an update on their daughter’s learning and social development, and receive feedback on progress and next learning steps. All Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6 families have been emailed with details regarding the Learning Conversations. Parents can choose to make in-person or online bookings. Bookings prior to 3.30pm are online. In person meetings are only possible after 3.30pm.  

The following week online Mathematics interviews are available for those parents who have a different teacher teaching their daughter Maths.  

Bookings close at 4pm on Friday 28 February 2025. Please contact Junior School Reception if you require any assistance. Learning conversations for many of our Junior School Specialist Teachers occurs later this year.  

Junior School Building Lift 

Please note the lift in the Junior School building is undergoing repair. This will likely continue into next week.    

Pancake Day (Year 1 to Year 12) 

Next Wednesday is Ash Wednesday, the beginning of the Christian season of Lent. It is a traditional to eat pancakes the day prior. Rev Vinnie and Pastor Caitlyn have arranged a pancake sale on Tuesday 4 March and Wednesday 5 March 2025, to raise funds for the Light House Girl’s School in India. 

Pancakes are $5 and can be purchased over the counter from the Canteen or Cafe at recess and lunch. Unfortunately, pancakes cannot be pre-ordered. 

Year 3 to Year 5 Cross Country 

Our annual Year 3 to Year 5 Cross Country Carnival will be held next Friday 7 March 2025. It will commence at 9am at Burwood Park. Parents are most welcome to attend. It is expected to conclude before midday.

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

Year 3 and Year 5 NAPLAN 2025

In March 2025, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) will be completed by students in Year 3, Year 5, Year 7 and Year 9 in all Australian schools. NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy learning of students and has the support of all State and Territory Education Ministers.

The results of the tests provide important information to schools about what each student can do and is used to support teaching and learning programs. Parents will also receive a report indicating their child’s level of achievement.

Background information (student name, gender, date of birth, language background and Aboriginality) will be collected as part of the National Assessment Program. This information is treated confidentially and held securely to ensure that every student’s right to privacy is maintained.

The tests will be conducted across Australia for all students on Wednesday 12 March to Monday 24 March 2025. MLC School’s schedule for Year 3 and Year 5 is set out below.

Excessive preparation for NAPLAN is not recommended. It is also important to note that students do not need to be able to touch type to complete NAPLAN, as the tests are not about keyboard skills (just as the paper test for Year 3 Writing is not about handwriting skills). Students can use the public demonstration site to familiarise themselves with the types of questions and tools available in NAPLAN.

Students may be considered for exemption from the tests if they are newly arrived in Australia (less than one year before the test) and with a language background other than English, or if they have significant intellectual and/or functional disability. All other students are expected to participate in the tests. Special provisions and exemption from the tests must be discussed with the Learning Enrichment Department’s Junior School Coordinator, Margaret Rees.

Students may be withdrawn from the testing program by their parent or carer. This is a matter for consideration by parents and carers in consultation with the Principal, Lisa Moloney. If you wish to withdraw your child from the tests, you must sign a parent or carer consent form. Consent forms are available at the School.

For further information about NAPLAN 2025, please see this Information for parents and

carers brochure.

Additional resources:

• Supporting your child during NAPLAN

• NAPLAN for parents and carers

If you would like to discuss your child’s participation in the National Assessment Program, I can be contacted via email or by phone using the details below.

– Natalie Hird
Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations

nhird@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Phone: +61 2 8741 3128

2025 Premier’s Reading Challenge: February 24 – August 22  

The NSW Premier’s Reading Challenge has begun and is a wonderful opportunity to promote reading in our school. Managed by The Arts Unit for the Department of Education and Communities, it aims to encourage students to read quality literature for enjoyment and enrichment, and to challenge themselves to read, to read more and to read more widely. There are over 11000 books in the PRC list. PRC books in our library are labelled with coloured stickers so the students can easily identify them. The local libraries are also a great place for students to access books on the list. The list can be searched here and once logged in, books can be added to a student’s reading record.

Log ins have all been reset this year. Over the next few weeks, the girls in Years 2-5 will be given their log in details and shown how to log their books. Kindergarten and Year 1 will complete the challenge at school. Challenge texts that are shared in the classroom and our library will be entered for them. 

There will be more information about how to log books and access loan history in upcoming newsletters.

CBCA Book of the Year Awards 2025

Congratulations to the creators and publishers of the books in this year’s Notables. This is the longlist of the best Australian children’s books as judged by the CBCA panel of judges. They were announced on Tuesday and can be accessed here: https://cbca.org.au/. We will find out the Shortlist in March and the winners are announced during Book Week on Saturday 16 August to Saturday 23 August 2025. This year’s Book Week theme is Book an Adventure!

Happy reading!

– Sharon Seymour
Teacher/Librarian

Freyja performs with Sydney Symphony Orchestra and Sydney Philharmonia Choir

Last week, I was lucky enough to perform in a concert series that I know I will never forget.

I have always loved singing in a choir. And singing in the Sydney Children’s Choir has always given me amazing experiences and opportunities; much like last week where I got to stand on the Opera House Stage with the Sydney Symphony Orchestra (SSO) and the Philharmonia Choir to perform Mahler’s iconic 3rd symphony.

This whole thing felt like the equivalent of the Quidditch World Cup after months of rehearsing. Simone Young – or Maestro Young – was both terrifying and amazing. The way she conducted looked like water dancing. She was pretty fierce, but thank goodness my chorus master, Lyn Williams knew how to prepare us for the fast-paced rehearsals with the SSO.

In the long periods of time that we were waiting to sing on stage, when we couldn’t so much as scratch our heads, the music seemed to swell like a living thing before me. I felt like I could actually see the music and the energy dancing above the wide audience. The three nights I performed were packed and you could hardly see the pink of the seats. If I could put one word to the whole thing, it would be ‘inspiring’. It wasn’t the first time I had been told that it was Mahler’s symphonies were the sort of music that turned people into musicians. The classical music that young people heard and decided to devote their lives to. But actually being at the heart of the sounds, at the heart of the cymbals crashing and the French Horn solos, right there in the moment when the waves of the orchestral sound roll out over the audience, I could see it. I could feel the pull of eagerness to understand everything about the music. To know why we come back again and again for the feeling you get when you hear people who love music sing and play for you. Why the harmonies sound so juicy in the big climaxes. But most of all, to understand what music means to me.

And I think that those nights in the concert hall helped me understand myself with music a little bit more.

– Freyja Gray (Year 8)

Music Events in 2025

2025 European Music Tour

We are very excited to announce the dates of the European music tour flying Emirates:

• Leave Sydney EK417: Friday 19 September at 8.10pm
• Tour ends – Leave Vienna EK128: Wednesday 1 October at 11.05pm
• Arrive Dubai: Wednesday 1 October
• Leave Dubai EK414: Thursday 2 October at 2.15am
• Arrive Sydney: Thursday 2 October at 10.05pm

Please ensure you have subscribed to the ‘2025 European Music Tour’ tag in the school App as all communications regarding the tour will be posted in the MLC School app shortly.

Term 1 2025 Music Events

Please find below a summary of music events happening during Term 1:

Friday 21 March 2025
Junior School Co-curricular Concert
Potts Hall
4pm – 6pm

Ensembles involved:

• Allegro Strings
• Presto Strings
• Junior Chamber Strings
• Junior String Quartets
• Junior Jazz Ensemble
• Year 5 and 6 Band
• Angeli Choir
• Taiko Year 3 to Year 6
• Ukestra

Performers will remain after school until the end of the concert. More detail to follow.

Sunday 23 March 2025 – Sydney Opera House Rehearsal
Save the date for ensembles performing in the Opera House Concert (Senior Taiko not required)
Music Centre, Potts Hall, Chapel
11.30pm – 4.30pm

More details of ensembles and timetables to follow.

Monday 24 March 2025
Year 1 – Open Strings class
11.50am – 12.45pm
Junior School Music Rooms and Daphne Line Hall

Monday 24 March 2025
Year 2 – Open Strings class
1.25pm – 2.20pm
Junior School Music Rooms and Daphne Line Hall

Opportunity for parents to observe their child’s live instrumental class

Sunday 6 April 2025 – Sydney Opera House Rehearsal
Save the date for ensembles performing in the Opera House Concert (Senior Taiko not required)
Music Centre, Potts Hall, Chapel
9am–3pm

More details of ensembles and timetables to follow.

Key Music Contacts

• Director of Music (Vocal): Trevor Mee | tmee@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au  
• Head of Strings: James Larsen | jlarsen@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au 
• Head of Bands: Jamie Castrisos | jcastrisos1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au 
• Head of Keyboard: Ying Ho | yho@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
• General Enquiries: music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Trevor Mee
Director of Music

Music – Private Tuition Details

Private Tuition Enrolments

Our Junior School (Pre-Kindergarten – Year 5) Music Private Tuition Lessons are currently at capacity. Should you wish to place your daughter on a waitlist for music tuition, please complete the form below. As tuition spots open up, students will be contacted in order of receipt of Waitlist Request. As the general expectation is that students will sign up on a rolling basis, there is no guarantee of an offer of place within a specified timeframe. After working through the existing waitlist, we will notify of any available spots via an App Notice (please ensure you subscribe to the ‘Music – Private Tuition’ tag.

MLC School – Music Private Tuition Waitlist

There is still some availability for Senior School Music Private Tuition (Year 6 – Year 12). If you would like to enrol your daughter, please register your interest and our music staff will be in contact regarding lesson / tutor availability.

Click here to register

Private Tuition Withdrawals

A reminder regarding the terms and conditions attached to the Private Music Tuition Agreement when signing your children up for private lessons:

• You understand that lessons will roll over term on term until the completion of Year 12 unless otherwise notified in writing with a full term’s notice given.
• You understand that 48 hours must be given to cancel a lesson.
• You understand that lessons are taught on a rotation basis

A withdrawal reminder to all parents was sent out during 2024, Term 4 asking that all withdrawals of lessons in Term 1, 2025 be notified in writing. As such, any request received after the end of Term 4 to cancel Private Tuition Lessons will take effect from Term 2 onwards. Tutors will continue to schedule in lessons with your daughters in Term 1 and it will be at your discretion whether your daughter chooses to attend or not.

Should you wish to discontinue lessons please email music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au by:

• Monday 17 February 2025 for cancellations from Term 2, 2025 onwards
• Friday 11 April 2025 (last day of Term 1) for cancellations from Term 3, 2025 onwards
• Friday 27 June 2025 (last day of Term 2) for cancellations from Term 4, 2025 onwards
• Friday 19 September 2025 (last day of Term 3) or cancellations from Term 1, 2026 onwards
• Thursday 4 December 2025 (last day of Term 4) for cancellations from Term 2, 2026 onwards

If you are following up a withdrawal from Term 1 2025 lessons that have appeared on your account, please forward a copy of your written Intent to Withdrawal sent in before the last day of Term 4 to music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au and we will arrange a refund for you.

2025 Music Co-curricular Ensemble Timetable

From the Head of School

House Spirit

With our Swimming Carnival fast approaching on Monday 31 March 2025, the Houses have begun preparing to compete for points in the GA Davey Cup, and their chants for Spirit points. It has been heartening to see the Year 6 students welcomed into the senior Houses. Just today, the Year 6 cohort was officially welcomed into the Senior School assembly for the first time, after being ‘handed over’ by Head of Junior School, Daniel Sandral. This is always a special occasion for Year 6 and we are so pleased in the Senior School to be part of their transition to the campus.

Tour day

On Tuesday, we welcomed members of our wider community onto the campus for tour day. Each term, our Year 10 and Year 11 students volunteer to lead groups around the School as tour guides. The tour guides were recognised for their representation of our School’s values. Parents found them knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and genuine; they appreciated the authentic insights they provided into life at MLC School.

Punctuality

This week we have noticed an increase in students signing in late in the mornings at the Studies Office. Lessons start at 8.15am and students must ensure that they are at school with enough time to attend to their locker and then arrive at their designated classroom, ready to start on time. We ask for your support in this, noting that students will be followed up with accountability points if they are consistently signing in late.

Science focus

This week, I visited several Science classrooms. The engaging hands-on lessons in progress were fantastic to see. In the Year 8 classroom with Amy Lim, the students were conducting experiments on gravity and force using flour, cocoa, and marbles – I noticed that the students worked really well to articulate their observations. I then visited Year 9 students who were expertly led by Hallie Kim and Linda Chui to explore electrical currents and circuits, showcasing excellent teamwork in their groups. In Year 11 Biology, the class was investigating the surface area to volume ratio using agar cubes as cell models. It was great to see the students demonstrating our MLC School learning dispositions of curiosity and collaboration. A big thank you to Maryellen Ottaway’s Science team for creating such enriching learning experiences and for having me drop in!

Click on gallery to view full images

Study Hub

As our Year 12s look toward their assessment block next week, I have been so pleased to see the way they have been proactively seeking support and feedback. They have also been working really well together. I often see students covering whiteboards with revision materials and testing each other in Study Hub.

Numbers are increasing, and students are effectively using the space and seeking assistance from teachers. Next week, both Year 11 and Year 12 are welcome to attend as usual. Year 12 students, who will be in their exam block, are still encouraged to study in the library or on Level 3 and stay for Study Hub. Year 11 students are encouraged to attend regularly. The teachers rostered on are listed below:

Year 7 Parent teacher interviews

A reminder that the Year 7 Parent/Teacher Interviews are scheduled for Wednesday 5 March 2025 from 4.15pm to 7pm on the Ground Floor and Level 1 of the Senior Centre. Luminary meetings will commence meetings from 3.30pm with individual parent/teacher meetings to follow.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Year 7 and Year 9 NAPLAN 2025

In March 2025, the National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy (NAPLAN) will be completed by students in Years 3, 5, 7 and 9 in all Australian schools. NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy learning of students and has the support of all State and Territory Education Ministers.

The results of the tests provide important information to schools about what each student can do and is used to support teaching and learning programs. Parents will also receive a report indicating their child’s level of achievement.

Background information (student name, gender, date of birth, language background and Aboriginality) will be collected as part of the National Assessment Program. This information is treated confidentially and held securely to ensure that every student’s right to privacy is maintained.

The tests will be conducted across Australia for all students on Wednesday 12 March – Monday 24 March 2025.

MLC School’s schedule for Year 7 and Year 9 is set out below.

Excessive preparation for NAPLAN is not recommended. Students do not need to be able to touch type to complete NAPLAN as the tests are not about keyboard skills (just as the paper test is not about handwriting skills). Students can use the public demonstration site to familiarise themselves with the types of questions and tools available in NAPLAN.

Students may be considered for exemption from the tests if they are newly arrived in Australia (less than one year before the test) and with a language background other than English, or if they have significant intellectual and/or functional disability. All other students are expected to participate in the tests. Special provisions and exemption from the tests must be discussed with the School’s Learning Enrichment Coordinator, Belinda Merrick.

Students may be withdrawn from the testing program by their parent or carer. This is a matter for consideration by parents and carers in consultation with the Principal, Lisa Moloney. If you wish to withdraw your child from the tests, you must sign a parent or carer consent form. Consent forms are available at the School.

For further information about NAPLAN 2025, please see this Information for parents and carers brochure.

Additional resources:

• Supporting your child during NAPLAN

• NAPLAN for parents and carers

If you would like to discuss your child’s participation in the National Assessment Program, I can be contacted via email or by calling 02 8741 3291.

– Elisa Scala
Deputy Head of Senior School – Academic

escala@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Phone: 61 2 8741 3291

Australian Mathematics Challenge for Young Australians

Entries are now open for the 2025 Maths Challenge for Young Australians. This is a problem-solving contest managed by the Australian Maths Trust and is undertaken by students over four weeks. Students may enter in the Junior (Year 7 and Year 8) or Intermediate (Year 9 and Year 10) division.

The problems are challenging and require time and persistence but are based on concepts that should be known at the current year level. Students who excel in the Challenge may be invited to take part in the Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad. The AMOC uses this Olympiad to identify and develop high calibre mathematicians.

The cost of the Challenge Stage is $24.50. Should you wish for your daughter to participate, please complete this online form before Thursday 6 March for inclusion on your next school fee account.

– Alex Schroder
Mathematics Enrichment Teacher

University of Sydney’s Correspondence Program in Mathematical Problem Solving

Congratulations to Year 10 students Jocelyn Su, Sophia Hu and Chloe Lin, who have been invited to join the University of Sydney’s MaPS Correspondence program. This initiative offers talented high school students support in developing their problem-solving skills through modules and challenging problem sets. Each student has access to a mentor to provide guidance and feedback on their solutions and can partake in face-to-face sessions once per term at the university campus. In Term 3 the program culminates with the Australian Intermediate Mathematical Olympiad, and in Term 4 they will have the opportunity to take part in the Mathematical Talk Showcase where they undertake a mathematical research project and present their findings.

Well done to these students on their selection, and we look forward to following their progress!

– Alex Schroder
Mathematics Enrichment Teacher

Year 7

Year 7 have been given lots of new information this week, so I’d love to recap some of it for you here. On Monday Xavier Maling spoke to Year 7 about the Spirit of MLC School Award. This Award scheme encourages students to understand and live the Round Square Ideals by participating in Adventure Camps, Physical Activity, Co-curricular Activities and Service. Most Year 7 students will already be doing most of the requirements of the Award in their day to day activities. Students have been added to a Canvas page for this, and at the end of each term they log their contributions to each of these areas. At the end of Year 7, if they have completed all the activities and reflections they receive the Spirit of MLC School Award pin. I encourage you to chat with your daughter about this wonderful opportunity.

On Wednesday, Year 7 met altogether to chat about NAPLAN and prepare their laptops for the testing. NAPLAN testing will take place in Week 7 (starting Monday 10 March 2025). Students are encouraged to prepare for NAPLAN by ensuring they are adequately rested and are nutritionally fueled to give their best effort. NAPLAN is a measure we use at MLC School to support your daughters learning journey and it is not graded or reported on. Study preparation is not required. Students are asked to ensure they have the NAPLAN Lockdown Browser installed. The instructions are on Canvas if needed but most students had this sorted out at our meeting. Students should also make sure their laptop is charged, or they bring their charger and all students require wired headphones (Bluetooth or wireless headphones or air pods are not appropriate).

And finally, Wednesday saw the lunchtime Clubs and Societies Expo! Students were able to wander the stalls run by different students and teachers to see what exciting things are on offer. Students are encouraged to join clubs where they may find interest, academic or service-based groups. Joining clubs allows students to mix with students from different year groups with shared interests. You can read more about the Clubs and Societies available in this newsletter. Ask your daughter to show you the vast array of clubs on offer to attend with the timetable on her Luminary canvas page.

I look forward to seeing you all at the Year 7 Parent Meet and Greet/Teacher Interviews next week, on Wednesday 5 March 2025.

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

Year 8

I wanted to talk a little this week about how wonderful it has been to see students participating so positively in our rehearsals for the Opera House Concert. It is simply wonderful to come together as a Senior School each week to rehearse a collection of songs which will in a few months’ time be sung to an audience of parents, carers and other special guests. Thank you to all of Year 8 for the contributions to these rehearsals by respectfully following the instructions of our fantastic music staff and raising their voices loudly – it is a delight to behold!  

This week our Clubs and Societies Lunchtime Expo was held on the Bird Bath Quad during lunch on Wednesday. It was a lively event where students could see, hear and learn about the variety of clubs on offer. All of Year 8 are encouraged to consider joining a club and society to share their passions with students from their cohorts and other students in the Senior School. Senior School Societies are co-led by both students and teachers and provide a safe and collaborative environment to share ideas and interests: 

Senior School Societies and Clubs for 2025 include:

• Craft Club
• Chinese Club
• Gender Equity Committee
• IDEALS Society
• Japanese Culture Society
• Journalism Society
• STEM Club

More information can be found on the MLC School Co-curricular microsite here, and you can read more about other Clubs and Societies on offer in this newsletter.

With summative Assessment Tasks commencing in Week 6 (Starting Monday 3 March), I also encourage students to ensure they are reviewing the resources found on their Academic Care Canvas page. This page also includes the worksheets shared through Dr Salter’s Study Skills workshop held for the cohort in Week 4. A reminder that Dr Salter’s study skills site can be accessed by students and parents alike. It has micro-courses in a large variety of study skills, as well as a plethora of handy resources.  

Access can be found at: www.studyskillshandbook.com.au  

Username: MLCSchool  
Password: 14achieve 

Key Dates for the Diary:  

• Sunday 16 March 2025 – Whitley Senior House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 16 March 2025 – Wade Senior House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)
• Sunday 23 March 2025 – Booralee Senior House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 23 March 2025 – Abbeythorpe Senior House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)

– Bridget Kovats
Head of Year 8

Year 9

It is nearly halfway through the term, and it has been wonderful to see the enthusiasm with which Year 9 have engaged with the academic and co-curricular areas of the school. Many students attended or ran stalls at the Clubs and Societies Lunchtime Expo on Wednesday, which was a lively and vibrant event. You can read more about what Clubs and Societies are on offer in this newsletter. This enthusiasm was also evident in the near-record number of Year 9 students who completed their registration for the Duke of Edinburgh program this week.

During our year meeting, Year 9 had the opportunity to reflect on the ‘STOP, START, CONTINUE’ academic goals they set in Week 2, and consider what steps they had taken this term to help them achieve these goals. Students were also reminded of the different avenues for academic support that are available at MLC School. These are:  

Their classroom teacher: Students are encouraged to speak to their classroom teacher if they have questions or need support in a particular subject.

Lunchtime clinics: Staffed by MLC School teachers, these ‘drop in’ clinics are run during lunch on the following days:

• Mathematics: Tuesday and Thursday
• English: Tuesday

Study Hub +: A pay-per-use after school program to support students with study and goal setting. Sessions run from 3.30pm to 6pm Monday to Thursday in the Senior Centre. 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. More information can be found here.

Wearne Library: Popular for quiet study, collaborative classes, group work and co-curricular clubs. The Wearne Library opening hours during term time are as follows:

• Monday to Thursday: 7.30am – 5.30pm
• Friday: 7.30am – 4.30pm

Please do not hesitate to contact me 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.

Upcoming Dates for the Diary:  

• Sunday 16 March 2025 – SS Whitley House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 16 March 2025 – SS Wade House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)
• Sunday 23 March 2025 – SS Booralee House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (9am)
• Sunday 23 March 2025 – SS Abbeythorpe House Chapel Service and Morning Tea (10.30am)

– Emily Marsh
Year 9

Year 10

Year 10 PASS Learn about Surf Safety at Bondi

Last Monday, Year 10 Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) students had the opportunity to travel to Bondi Beach as a part of their ‘Promoting Active Lifestyles’ unit. Despite the cool, windy weather and strong currents, the students enthusiastically participated in a range of exciting beach activities, from bodyboarding and diving into shore breakers, practical surf safety, an obstacle course on the sand, flag sprints, and some friendly competition testing their balance on surf boards. Students really enjoyed putting their surf awareness knowledge into practice and challenging themselves with some rough conditions. We cannot commend Year 10 enough for the way they represented MLC School and embraced the changes in activities. Their attitude and effort made for an enjoyable day for all! We are so proud of you!

– Emily Osborne
Teacher

Click on gallery to view full images

Year 11

Leadership

As part of a series of leadership sessions in Luminary, this week students explored the concept of “everyday leadership” by watching a TED Talk on how small actions can significantly impact others. They discussed personal experiences of how simple gestures, like a compliment or offering help, made a difference in their lives and brainstormed ways they could practice leadership in their daily interactions. The students were challenged to identify one small action to impact someone else’s day positively.

This Luminary session should contribute to developing a more profound sense of empathy, improving their communication skills, and fostering a mindset of leadership that empowers them to influence their communities positively in the long term.

Year 11 & 12 Study Hub

Year 11 have been using the after school Study Hub that runs from 3.30pm to 6pm each day, please see this link for more details. Many are finding it beneficial to stay focused with the influence of their peers and prevent being distracted when they are at home. Each week, I provide the students with a list of staff and their faculties so the students can plan their attendance around this.

Examination block

Last week, I mentioned that the schedule for the examination block had been released. Students will wear full school uniform during this time and only need to be here for their examinations. Regardless of their mode of transport, please discuss with your daughter about arriving safely and well in advance of the starting times of examinations.

Students are more than welcome to study at school during the examination block; when they do, they should sign into the study space on Level 3 of the Senior Centre. Students should begin or further refine their plans with only two weeks away to the examination block, creating subject-specific to-do lists and identifying helpful study zones for this period. We will have further discussions at school about this.

Please encourage your daughter to contact me or the staff they feel comfortable with for advice on managing this time.

The image in this week’s newsletter is/are from Year 11 student Mary Cameron’s visit with Jocelyn Maughan OAM (1995). To read more about Jocelyns’ visit, please refer to Lisa Moloney’s article.

“I had the pleasure of meeting Ms. Maughan OAM, the artist and MLC School Old Girl, who is in the process of creating Ms. Moloney’s portrait. The experience was enlightening, and Ms. Maughan’s passion, memory, excellence, patience, and sheer intelligence captivated me the entire time.”

– Mary Cameron (Year 11)

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

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

Dates coming up:

• Sunday 16 March 2025 – Whitley and Wade House Chapel services
• Monday 17 March to Monday 24 March 2025 – Year 11 Assessment Block
• Tuesday 25 March 2025 – Classes resume for Year 11
• Sunday 23 March 2025 – Booralee and Abbeythorpe House Chapel services
• Sunday 30 March 2025 – Sutton and Prescott House Chapel services
• Monday 31 March 2025 – Senior School Swimming Carnival

Year 12

The Year 12 Captains and House Captains have been busy planning several important events for the School community. Each captain has to work with their portfolio group, subcommittee and captain group to organise each activity and make it their own. Marirose Giann and the captains are currently organising the IWD Breakfast, organising speakers, panel questions and run sheets for the morning. Other events being planned are from the Gender Equity group, Illuminate 2025, SRC activities and Round Square. Sima Tebbutt and the House Captains are in full preparation mode for the swimming carnival, synchronised swimming competition and cheer squads. Each group is also supported by staff such as Andrew Taylor, Andrew Simos, Heads of House and me as support. House captains are also responsible for chapel services and leading the singing at Opera House rehearsals and they have done a great job this term. It is a busy time, especially on top of co-curricular activities and study and the girls are encouraged to reach out if they need support. As a group, they are also very supportive of each other.

In our year meeting this week, the following Year 12 students received their Duke of Edinburgh Silver Awards: Marirose Giann, Zaz Tiglao, Helen Liu and Zoe Likely, and two Year 12 students received prizes for their studies with the NSW School of Languages: Uma Singleton (Italian) and Christy Luo (Chinese in Context). A big congratulations to those students for such a great effort.

Assessment week is in Week 6 (starting Monday 3 March 2025) and Week 7 (starting Monday 10 March 2025). The girls have been reminded of the procedures, such as what to do if they are ill during the exam, the importance of being on time, the Illness/Misadventure application process and the need to wear full uniform for each examination. Year 12 have been working hard in preparation and are looking forward to having time to concentrate on their assessments and organise their own study schedule. The Level 3 study area is available for all of Year 12 each day, and girls are required to sign in at Studies Office. We wish them the best of luck for next week. Applications for Illness/Misadventure are on the Omnia parent portal. 

I am available Monday to Friday to discuss your daughter’s progress and wellbeing concerns. My contact details are: 02 8741 9736 and sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Date for your diary:

• 2025 Mother Daughter High Tea – Saturday 26 April 2025 at 11am at Sergeants Mess, Mosman. This is a special opportunity for the 2025 year group and mothers to gather and celebrate the cohort.

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 12

Spotlight! Course and Industry Information Evenings and Webinars

Year 12 Future Talk – Demystifying University and The Future World of Work

Organisation: University of Wollongong
Location: Online
Date: Monday 3 March 2025

Future Talk is a series of online information sessions designed specifically for a student’s support crew. If you’re a parent or carer who is navigating the HSC too, we’ve got your back.

This session breaks down the language of higher education, offering practical strategies to support young people in making positive post-school decisions with confidence. We’ll explore key trends in education and the workforce—locally, nationally, and globally—along with the impact of AI and emerging technologies on future career opportunities.

Find out more and register

Your Passport to an International Career: Bachelor of International Studies

Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Wednesday 5 March 2025

Ever dreamt of making a global impact? In Sydney’s Bachelor of International Studies you will dive into the world’s most challenging issues and gear up for a career that knows no borders – be it in business, diplomacy, policy-making, or advocating in a global civil society. Join our webinar and discover how our degree can help you navigate the global arena. Don’t just watch the world change – be the change!

Find out more and register

UNSW Aviation Information Session

Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 6 March 2025

As air traffic continues to increase, the industry needs more airline pilots and aviation professionals to meet demand. Hear from UNSW Aviation staff and students and find out how you can kick start your career in this important industry. Discover the exciting world of aviation at UNSW as our speakers delve into their personal experiences and share their insights into the broad range of career opportunities in the aviation sector.

Connect with our staff and students during the Q&A to discover the diverse range of student experience opportunities on offer at UNSW and get all your questions answered.

Find out more and register

Girls Day Out in STEM: 2025 March >>> Forward Fun Week

Organisation: Girls Day Out in STEM
Location: Online
Date: Saturday 8 March to Sunday 16 March 2025

Join Girls Day Out in STEM (GDOS) for a week of fun celebrating International Women’s Day!

Explore the exciting world of STEM in a safe and inspiring space designed for girls aged 10-14 (and anyone keen on STEM!). Meet amazing women in STEM, take on exciting challenges and win epic prizes – including a brand-new iPad from Telstra! Plus, check out our new Game Arcade!

Find out more and register

Year 12 Medicine Information Evening

Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: Online
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 of your UNSW Medicine questions answered.

Find out more and register

Discover Health Sciences at ACU North Sydney

Organisation: Australian Catholic University
Location: ACU North Sydney Campus
Date: Thursday 24 April 2025

Are you ready to explore a career that makes a real difference? Discover what it’s like to study nursing, occupational therapy, physiotherapy or speech pathology at ACU North Sydney.

Take part in hands-on workshops where you’ll get a feel for the practical skills you’ll develop as a future healthcare professional. Tour our campus and experience our state-of-the-art, fully functional simulation wards, where you’ll get a behind-the-scenes look at the innovative training that makes ACU health sciences graduates highly sought after by employers.

Find out more and register

Talk with Industry Series – Webinars

Organisation: Australian Catholic University (ACU)
Location: Online
Date: Various

Join us online to hear from ACU students and alumni about their experiences. Take part in a Q&A session below and learn about the rewarding and challenging careers:

• Wednesday 7 May 2025 – Occupational Therapists and Speech Pathologists: Register now
• Tuesday 13 May 2025 – Psychologists and Social Worker: Register now
• Wednesday 14 May 2025 – Nutrition, Exercise and Sports Professionals: Register now
• Tuesday 20 May 2025 – Law and Human Rights Advocates: Register now
• Wednesday 21 May 2025 – Teachers and Educators: Register now
• Tuesday 27 May 2025 – Nurses, Midwives and Paramedics: Register now

– The Careers Department

Overseas Work Experience Programs

Service and Volunteer Programs for High School Students

Organisation: Projects Abroad Australia & New Zealand
Type: Webinar
Date: Tuesday 18 March 2025

These programs are designed for students in years 10, 11 and 12. They run in the mid-year break and over our summer holidays and are ideal for individuals or groups of friends.

The programs include Community Work and Early Years Development; Conservation Work; Human Rights and Social Justice. The programs run in the mid-year break as well as our summer in destinations such as Fiji, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Tanzania and Peru.

Find out more and register

– The Careers Department

Future Events and Open Days

WEPTalk

Organisation: World Education Program
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 6 March 2025

Join us online as we present information about WEP and our student exchange programs, including the best time to go, which countries offer which program, information about host families, schools, and all other things student exchange!

Find out more and register

HSC History Extension: Writing the Project 2025

Organisation: State Library of New South Wales
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 6 March 2025

Join us for an online HSC History seminar focusing on writing the project. This interactive online seminar is presented by Museums of History NSW and the State Library of NSW.

There will be two focus areas:

• Jonathon Dallimore will assist students to whittle down the scope of their research question, refining big ideas to an achievable and tangible focus.
• Michelle Kennedy will interrogate high-quality examples of past student’s writing samples, identifying methods to compose a well-structured and engaging major work.

Find out more and register

Fleet Base East Open Day

Organisation: Australian Defence Force
Location: HMAS Kuttabul
Date: Saturday 8 March 2025

The Royal Australian Navy are proud to host Navy Week events across Australia. Come and visit for a fun day out with the family, meet current-serving Sailors and Officers and gain a first-hand view of what life in the Navy is like.

What to expect:

• Learn how to join the Navy through our ADF Careers and much much more!
• Ship tours – take a look at the ships keeping our shores safe
• Static displays from key units in the area
• Live entertainment by the Royal Australian Navy Band – Sydney

Find out more and register

Sydney West Careers & Employment Expo 2025

Organisation: Kym Jones Exhibitions
Location: Sydney Showground
Date: Saturday March 15 2025

Sydney West’s New Careers & Employment Event will open on Saturday March 15 2025, at the Sydney Showground. The Expo will showcase over 120 organisations and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Entry is free.

The event is for school students, parents, teachers, graduates, job seekers, people looking for courses and workers seeking new opportunities.

Find out more and register

Career Conversations @ Home – Helping parents have positive career convos!

Organisation: Arrive & Thrive
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 20 March 2025

Come join Tyson Day, the Co-Founder and Lead Facilitator of Arrive & Thrive, as he shares the best way to have impactful career conversations in and around your home environment that produce clarity, career discovery, and momentum. Tyson will share concepts and practices that he has learned through his 10+ years of experience in career education and the 85,000 students who have attended Arrive & Thrive workshops since 2019.

In our webinar, you can expect to learn:

• How can you positively influence your young person in their career decisions.
• How can you effectively navigate the future of work and understand your young person’s options.
• How to communicate effectively through the GROW model to support your young person in career exploration.

We can’t wait for you to join us!

All participants will receive a Career Conversation Kit to kick off conversations with their young person as soon as possible!

Find out more and register

Open Day, April

Organisation: Sydney Design School
Location: Sydney Design School
Date: Saturday 5 April 2025

If you’re considering studying with us, our Open Day is a great way to get to know us better. Explore our studios, browse through our Graduate Exhibition, meet students and Educators, watch a live Info Session and get creative making a mood board or digital model.

Find out more and register

– The Careers Department

Competitions, Scholarships and Holiday Workshops

Competitions and Scholarships

US College Sport Scholarship Information Session

Organisation: Study & Play USA
Location: Online
Date: Monday 3 March 2025

This webinar is open to athletes, families, Career Counsellors, Heads of Sport, club coaches from across the globe, wanting to learn more about the US College pathway.

Why attend?

• Interested to learn more about the US College Pathway? Never heard of the NCAA before?
• Wanting to know what a scholarship actually covers?
• Intrigued by how our recruitment company can assist you with this process?
• Not sure if your grades are good enough to go to the US? Not sure if athletically you are where you need to be to get interest?

Find out more and register 

News In My Neighbourhood Competition 2025

Organisation: Australian Broadcasting Corporation
Location: Australia
Value: See details
Close Date: Sunday 23 November 2025

Find out more

Holiday Workshops

Holiday Workshop – Songwriting, Sydney

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music
Location: AIM Sydney Campus
Date: Monday 14 April 2025

Created for students in Years 9-12, AIM’s new high school music workshops provide incredible opportunities to explore songwriting, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators.

This songwriting workshop is essential for any high school students curious about writing songs and performing and is a golden opportunity to work with incredibly accomplished songwriters. Join us these school holidays and discover the songwriter and performer you were born to become.

Find out more and register

Holiday Workshop – Performance, Sydney

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music
Location: AIM Sydney Campus
Date: Monday 14 April 2025

AIM’s new school holiday workshop is designed for high school students interested in music performance. Created for students in Years 9-12, the workshops provide incredible opportunities to experience playing and performing music, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators.

Learn, practice and perform contemporary and classic pop, rock and soul tunes, under the expertise of Australia’s leading music mentors.

Find out more and register

School Holiday ‘Out There’ Sailing Program

Organisation: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Location: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Date: Monday 14 April to 17 April 2025

The ‘Out There’ School Holiday Sailing Program is for participants who are 12-17 years old looking to try a new activity, have some fun and engage with others whilst sailing.

This four-day program will include a variety of sailing activities that are focused on having fun and learning basic sailing skills. Sessions will be conducted on a mix of Club vessels, including the RPAYC’s fleet of Elliott 7 Keelboats, Pacer Dinghies, Windsurf and SUP Boards, Hobie-Cat dinghies and Powerboats.

Find out more and register

Future Creators’ Day

Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: UNSW Paddington Campus
Date: Monday 14 April to 24 April 2025

Join UNSW for Future Creators’ Day, an immersive event crafted to inspire and educate Year 10 and Year 11 students about the thrilling worlds of Game Art, Animation, Fashion, Design, and Visual Arts.

This unique experience offers hands-on opportunities for students to unleash their creative potential and learn directly from industry professionals. Don’t miss out on this chance to explore your future in the creative arts!

Note: event date in the April school holidays TBC.

Find out more and register

– The Careers Department

From the Principal

One of the wonderful things about my role is the opportunity to meet our alumnae and hear about their remarkable and varied careers. Jocelyn Maughan OAM is one such Old Girl. She graduated from MLC School in 1955 and is a renowned artist, known for her exceptional skills in painting and drawing. Jocelyn painted the portrait of Rev Ken Cornwell, who was Principal from 1970 until 1989, during his time at MLC School, . This week I was honored to have had my first sitting with Jocelyn for a portrait that she is painting as a gift to the School. During this sitting, Jocelyn shared stories of her time at MLC School, her initial plan to become a motor mechanic and the journey to professional artist.

Jocelyn was a recipient of the 2020 Alumnae Award for Social Welfare and Impact and Professional Achievement; you can read more about her remarkable career and contribution to her community here.

Click on gallery to view full images

The 2025 Alumnae Awards are now open for nominations, and I encourage you to nominate former students who deserve recognition for their achievements beyond School. 

Nominate here

Congratulations to our rowers!

Our rowers and their supporters are living examples of how with commitment, perseverance, hard work and outstanding leadership, anything is possible. While our program is smaller than in many schools, under the leadership of Rob Glendenning, the program has grown steadily, and the skill of our rowers, has developed year on year. Their collective efforts were rewarded on the weekend at the IGSA Regatta at Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC) when the young rowers/scullers of MLC School Sydney won the trophy for the highest points per person out of 14 schools. In addition, Every MLC School crew member or single sculler gained a medal at this Regatta. Congratulations! See more about this exciting news here.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

NSW School Vaccination Program – Year 7 and Year 10 Consent Required

• Thursday 3 April 2025 – Vaccination date for Year 10 students
• Wednesday 30 July 2025 – Vaccination date for Year 7 students

If your child is in Year 7 or Year 10 this year, you can now provide online consent for their routine school vaccinations.

• In Year 7, students are offered free vaccines for diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis (dTpa) and human papillomavirus (HPV).
• In Year 10, students are offered the meningococcal ACWY vaccine.

Vaccination will only be provided at school if consent has been received.

If your child has already had their vaccine, would prefer to privately have it with a GP or if you are opting out – please write this in an email to mlcnurse@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au so we can provide the number of required Vaccines for the day.  

How to provide consent:

1. To complete online consent for your child’s school vaccinations, visit: https://engage.health.nsw.gov.au/engage
2. Follow the steps to log in to your existing ServiceNSW account. This is the same account you may already use to renew your driver’s licence. If you don’t have a ServiceNSW account, refer to ServiceNSW to create one. 
3. Update or confirm your personal details in ServiceNSW as required. 
4. Complete the School Vaccination Consent Form for your child/ren. You will need to:  
   1. Enter your child’s personal details 
   2. Provide the Medicare card details for you and your child 
   3. Read the linked Parent Information Sheet and privacy statement. Translations available in 27 languages
   4. Provide consent  

If you or your child do not have a Medicare card, consent can still be provided by requesting a paper-based consent form directly from your child’s school.

The benefits of providing consent online:

• easily update your child’s details
• receive SMS and/or email notifications when vaccinations are given
• faster upload of vaccination records to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR).

For more information on routine school vaccinations, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/schoolvaccination.

If you require information in your language, please visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/immunisation/Pages/school_vaccination_language.aspx

Please click here for the NSW School Vaccination Program 2025 pdf

– Katelyn Morris
MLC School Senior Nurse

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.

Please nominate, or encourage Old Girls you know to nominate, our exceptional Old Girls so they can receive the accolades they deserve. Nominations close Monday 31 March 2025.

Nominate here

Winter Uniform Fitting Appointments

Winter uniform fitting appointments are now available. Students needing a fitting can book a 15-minute appointment using the link below.

Click here to book an appointment

Online ordering for new students is discouraged.

Study Support Opportunities at MLC School

MLC School offers two Study Support Opportunities:

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

These 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.

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.

Monday 24 February to Thursday 6 March 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 24 February to Thursday 6 March 2025 – Nomination Form here.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Junior School Swimming Carnival

Congratulations to all the girls in Year 3 to Year 5 who participated in last Friday’s carnival. In particular, we were impressed by your spirit, willingness to give things a go and support for each other.

Well done for achieving your personal best. Trophies will be presented at a future assembly.

– Lisa Filby
Director of port

Click on gallery to view full images

Rowing Success

PLC/Kings/RNSW Regatta

Saturday saw almost the entire MLC School Rowing Competition Squad racing on the impressive Sydney International Regatta Centre Course. Despite the heat and humidity (which is a Penrith staple), our growing squad rowed with an impressive level of tenacity against some very intimidating competition. 

Charlie Penny (Year 12) finished 3^rd in the second division of the Schoolgirl single scull. Congrats Charlie!

Our Schoolgirl Quad of Ella Hu (Year 11), Rebecca Beaton (Year 11), Eliza Kershaw McDonald (Year 11) and Sophie Winnall (Year 11), coxed by Alannah Ng (Year 7) also finished 3^rd in division one of the schoolgirl quads, after a very impressive battle against the Redlands first quad. Finishing less than a second behind! Well done girls!

IGSA Sports Regatta

The IGSA Sports Regatta, whilst also held at SIRC, the MLC School Squad was represented by our senior members and super coxswain/rower Alannah Ng (Year 7). 

WHAT. A. DAY!

Alannah Ng (Year 7) was not originally going to compete as a rower. However, a last-minute entry was made due to several factors and what a result. 1^st place in the Schoolgirl Year 8 single scull! Congratulations Alannah!

Adelaide Abernethy (Yr10) started the streak of podium finishes, with her 2^nd place finish in the Yr10 Single Scull. Well done Adelaide!

After some complications in their double on Saturday, Jemima Blake (Year 10) and Nicola Keast (Year 10) approached their race today with a fierce determination, which absolutely paid off.

The crew with the best race to the finish resulting in very well fought for and deserved 2^nd place was Ashley Denton (Year 11) and Clementine Hendriks (Year 11). Well done!

Big well done to the quad of Stephy Liang (Year 11), Isabelle Ng (Year 11), Phoebe Zein (Year 11) and Julia Zarlenga (Year 11), coxed by Miranda Hudson (Year 11) who finished 2^nd in the Second Division of the Schoolgirl Quad.

Eve Parker (Year 11) absolutely smashed it in the final of the Schoolgirl Single Scull! The only rower from MLC School who had to compete in a heat and a final, and achieved her goals in both! Congrats Eve!

And just to top off an already cracker day, the MLC School Rowing Squad won the IGSA Rowing Champion School Handicap Point Score Trophy! Congratulations to our oarsome squad!

– Ashleigh Brooking
Rowing Coach

Great Swimming Results

Well done to Madison Chantler (Year 10) on her recent swimming results. Maddie had a big program on the weekend and some great performances in the pool with 5 PBs, 5 Top-10 finishes in 50 Fly, 50 Back, 400IM, 100 Back and 100 Fly, a Silver medal in the 400IM and achieving a national qualifying time in 50 back. Great effort Maddie!

Olivia Burke (Year 8) also had a great day in the pool. Olivia was 7th in the 400m free with a 3 second PB. A PB in the 50 and 100 freestyle, just 0.34 from the national qualifying time!

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Click on gallery to view full images

Fabulous Triathlon Result

Arielle McBrien (Year 6) had a wonderful time on the weekend at the Husky Triathlon – she got a lot of energy from all the cheering from family and friends who were there to support her. 

Arielle had a fantastic race and came 4th in the Triathlon 10-11 year old race (girls). Later in the afternoon, she also raced in the 2.5km open sprint run and was also the 4^th female crossing the finishing line. Congratulations to Arielle for her top 5 finish in both races. An amazing result!

Arielle is looking forward to her next triathlon/biathlon event and more running.  

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

CIS Cup

It was a valiant effort by our Opens Representative Football Team on Monday in very hot conditions with limited substitutions. They played Loreto Normanhurst, and although we had at least 8 shots at goal, we were unable to find the net, losing to Loreto 3-0. We will now move into the CIS Plate division and have matches coming up in the coming months.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Primary Swim and Dive Team

Congratulations to the following students who have been successful in their selection for the Primary Swim and Dive teams competing at the IPSHA Carnival on Tuesday.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Important Sports 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 1 March 2025

Upcoming Dates

• Tuesday 4 March 2025 – IPSHA Swim and Dive, SOPAC, 7am–3pm
• Friday 7 March 2025 – Junior School Cross country, Burwood Park, 9am–12pm
• Saturday 8 March 2025 – Head of the River, SIRC, 7am–3pm

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

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MLC School Sport Facebook Page

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Clubs and Societies

Lunch time Clubs and Societies are run each day of the week and each and every student in Year 6 to Year 12 is invited and welcome to attend. The clubs and societies have a mix of interest groups, homework help, competition groups and service opportunities. All our clubs and societies are student lead and run with the support of some excellent teachers who give up their lunch time to supervise and assist with the running of the group. The clubs and societies provide a break from the regular academic routine and foster creativity, teamwork, leadership and service. Participating in these activities helps to build students confidence, enables them to discover passions they didn’t know they had and meet students across the School from Year 6 to Year 12.

This week we held a clubs and societies day at lunch showcasing all the lunch time groups we have on offer. For more information students are to check the co-curricular notice board and the Vivi screens for the timetable. You can also download the timetable PDF below.

Click here to download timetable

Activities on offer:

• Drama club
• Duke of Ed
• Environment Club
• Model United Nations
• Tournament of minds
• da Vinci Decathlon
• Mock Trial
• Mathskeeters
• Business Club
• Journalism Society
• Jesus in school time (JIST)
• Craft club- Days for girls
• IDEALS Society
• Chinese Club
• Japanese Culture Society
• Korean Culture Club
• Possum Pouch Knitting
• Hats for Homeless
• Writers Society
• SRC Elected Reps
• Gender Equity Committee
• STEM Club
• DART Society

– Sarah Jauncey
Director of Experiential Learning

Making Japanese Language Learning Fun

This term, we have been fortunate to have two Japanese university students join our Japanese classes for a four-week period. Haruna Yamazaki sensei from Tokyo and Kurumi Harada sensei from Hyogo prefecture have been fantastic in sharing their culture and language. They have engaged with the students in both English and Japanese, introducing origami, playing games, and helping senior students refine their language skills, both conversational and written. Year 10 students Heather, Violet and Clarice interviewed the students to learn about their experience. We are grateful for their enthusiasm and hope they leave with wonderful memories.

– Natasha Collins
Assistant Head of Languages

Having Kurumi sensei and Haruna sensei all the way from Japan join our class was an incredible opportunity. Their presence brought an authentic cultural connection that truly enriched our Japanese studies and learning. They were always eager to help, whether it was assisting with pronunciation, explaining grammar concepts, or sharing insights into Japanese culture that we wouldn’t find in textbooks.

Beyond their helpfulness, they brought an enthusiasm that made learning more enjoyable. Their willingness to engage with us, answer our questions, and encourage our speaking skills created a comfortable and interactive classroom environment. It was inspiring to see their dedication and kindness, which motivated us to improve our language skills even further.

Their visit not only supported our learning but also enlightened our classroom with a firsthand cultural experience. I am truly grateful for their time with us and hope they enjoyed their stay in Sydney as much as we appreciated having them. 

Interview with Kurumi Harada and Haruna Yamazaki

1. What was the purpose of coming to a school in Australia?

“Haruna sensei is a 3^rd year university student studying International Relations at Dokkyo University. She has come to Sydney for one year to work and study. She is working part time in a Japanese restaurant which she enjoys. She hopes to improve her English whilst interacting with the students and thinks the students are lovely.

Kurumi sensei is a 2^nd year student studying International Relations at Kwansei Gakuin in Hyogo prefecture, which is three hours from Tokyo by shinkansen, she is here for one month during the Spring university holidays. Kurumi sensei is very interested in learning how students learn Japanese and is very impressed by the student’s enthusiasm.”

2. What was the most enjoyable part at MLC School so far?

“Kurumi sensei is enjoying the conversations that she had with the friendly students from all years while Haruna loves the staff community here at MLC School and the facilities.”

3. What was your first reaction to the MLC School campus?

Haruna sensei and Kurumi sensei were extremely fascinated with the MLC School campus and describe it as beautiful and modern. Haruna sensei expressed the Senior Centre to be more office-like compared to a school in Japan, and is most impressed by the building and its professional appearance.

4. Where is your favourite part of the campus?

“They both expressed their love for the level 3 balcony as it gave them a breath of fresh air and it think it is a very relaxing, beautiful space. Kurumi sensei specifically likes the classrooms and how modern they are.”

5. How is our (MLC School) cafe food and how does it compare to the Japanese cafeteria food?

“Overall, they are so amazed at the simplicity and deliciousness of the canteen food. Kurumi sensei likes the friendly staff and Haruna sensei especially enjoys the pasta in the daily special.”

6. What was the biggest difference between the high schools in Australia compared to Japan?

“In Japan they stated that they are more reserved however the students here at MLC School are energetic and participate well in class. The students at MLC School are curious and put their hands up for many things which contrasts to the quiet nature of Japanese high school students.”

7. Was there anything challenging about being a teacher/assistant or challenges being in Australia?

“Overall, due to the guidance from staff there wasn’t anything particularly challenging except for their language barrier as English is not their first language.”

– Heather Yeon, Stephanie Yeung, Violet Le
(Year 10 students)

Click on gallery to view full images

The Law Society of NSW Mock Trial Competition