From the Principal

International Women’s Day 2021

Throughout this week, MLC School students and staff celebrated and acknowledged International Women’s Day. My congratulations to all involved in hosting and organising the wide variety of events, many of which are showcased in this edition of Audacia.

Perhaps never before has the theme for International Women’s Day been as appropriate to a particular time and place than this year’s theme for 2021 – Choose to Challenge.

As part of my preparation for an address that I gave at the Strathfield Rotary Club International Women’s Day Dinner, I accessed some of the school records, so carefully researched and documented by our Archivist Barbara Hoffman. In doing so, I was reminded of just how central ‘challenging on the behalf of women’ is to the story of MLC School and I thank Barbara for sharing her work (to which I refer below).

In December 1886, with an enrolment of 54, MLC School held its first Speech Day in the Burwood School of Arts. Delivering his first Principal’s Report, Reverend Prescott said he believed:

“that between the mind of a boy and a girl there is no great difference… for mental discipline much the same course of study is the best.”

To put his comment in context, this was prior to women having the right to vote, (which was still some decades away) and just a few years after Sydney University became one of the first in the world to admit women. To suggest that the minds of boys and girls were equal and that the best education for girls was to offer them the same subjects as boys would have been revolutionary and to some, quite provocative.

Over the years MLC School continued this revolutionary approach, with a number of significant firsts in education and in particular education for women;

• We introduced the first Trinity Music examinations to Australia in 1887
• In 1891 MLC School was the first school to erect a kindergarten building expressly for the purpose of the education of young children.
• On 3 November 1906, MLC School held the first Athletics Sports Carnival for girls in Australia.
• We introduced Physics to the curriculum in the 1920s and were the first school to have girls sit Physics in the Leaving Certificate.
• The School’s involvement with computer technology commenced in 1978 when our first Apple Macintosh computers were purchased.
• And, MLC School was one of the earliest in NSW to offer the International Baccalaureate Diploma to all students in Years 11 and 12 as an alternative to the HSC.

In 2021, not only do we continue to benefit from the vision shown by our founders, unlike many women in the world legislation protects our right to be treated equally. However, there is still work to be done by us all in order to achieve true equality.

Within the workplace, many women continue to face a range of unconscious biases such as the assumption that what they wear or how they look is somehow relevant to how well they are able to perform a role. As Hillary Rodham Clinton said “If I want to knock a story off the front page, I just change my hairstyle.” You may also remember that TV presenter Karl Stefanovic wore the same blue suit on-screen for 12 months and nobody noticed – his motivation was to point out the sexism that his female colleagues faced. “No-one has noticed,” he said. “But women, they wear the wrong colour and they get pulled up and judged.”

In some organisations there is still a belief (often unconscious) that in order to be effective, women need to lead like men. The assumption that females need to lead like a man in order to be effective is one that we must keep challenging – there is no one way to lead. It is not just about women learning to ‘lean in’ as some books suggest, it is about recognising that there are different but equally effective ways to do the job. I am sure that you are aware of the statistics around how under represented women are around the Board table of our leading businesses. I was also quite surprised to read that the number of women running the country’s top 200 ASX-listed companies has fallen over the last four years, according to a the 2020 ASX200 report.

So, while acknowledging the position of relative privilege that we enjoy and just how many opportunities have become available to women as a consequence of the bravery and vision of people like Reverend Prescott, we need to continue to choose to challenge so that we harness the strengths and capabilities of all and in doing so build an Australian committed to the equality of women in every way.

Meet the Executive – Ross Kirby

1. What is your role at MLC School?
As Head of Finance systems and Administration, my role includes Chief Financial Officer, oversight of School Facilities and infrastructure as well as the being the Company secretary. I really see my role as helping to provide key resources and facilities which maximise the opportunities for our students and staff.

2. What types of things might a parent contact you about?
Generally parents will contact me in relation to school fees and discussing special arrangements around organising payment plan options. I have a wonderful team in place who generally handle most of the daily calls, but I welcome feedback and always happy to talk to parents and caregivers.

3. Tell us a little more about your professional background and journey to MLC School.
I have been at MLC School for 16 years and have worked with four different Principals during that time! Prior to joining the School I had a number of Senior Financial roles in manufacturing and professional services, as well as also providing Management Consulting services.

4. And a fun fact that we may not know?
Food! I really enjoy being in the kitchen and creating meals. It’s a well-known fact that by around lunch time I have already planned what’s on the menu that evening and have started the mental preparation. It is not unusual to see me browsing Burwood’s delicatessens and Asian grocers for the necessary ingredients, particularly seafood, fresh fruit and vegetables.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

My Student in the MLC School Portal

In recent months, MLC School has transitioned to a new system where we keep all information relevant to our students and our families. In the past, we realise that having the ‘parent portal’ and the My MLC School Portal was very confusing and we hope that this change will help streamline your access to important information so that you can find it in one place.

From now on, you only need to visit the My MLC School site: https://my.mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au/.

By following various icons you can access a range of links to relevant details and information.

One very important new icon link is called My Student.

This is where you will find all your student/s details, timetables, co-curricular activities, current reports, your own details, give your permission for excursions, reply to teacher notices, etc.

The key changes you will see are:

• A clearer more user-friendly interface to view student information
• MLC School parents and carers can reply to teacher emails from the My Student Notices inbox – please note: you will no longer receive complete emails to your inbox, you will need to log into the My Student area to read notices
• A simplified approval function for events and excursions
• A system that is more compatible with mobile phone web browsers 

Could you please read and action the following to ensure access to My MLC School Portal and the My Student section.

1. First log into the My MLC School Portal (https://my.mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au/)
   • The link to My MLC School portal can also be found on the top left-hand side of the school website https://www.mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
   • You will need your MLC School parent log in details – this is either the email address the School has for you or your Community ID if you know it, either option will work.
2. Click on My Student icon from the dashboard
   • This will automatically take you to the new-look MLC School Student Information home page.
   • How-to guides appear on the My MLC School Portal to help you navigate the student information system
3. Check your Contact Details are correct
   • In order to assist us in continuing to enhance communication between school and home, can you please ensure your contact details are correct, especially your email address.
   • Click on the My Details tab if there are any issues whatsoever, click on the ‘Request for Change’ link and MLC School will update the information for you.
4. Help
   • If you have any further queries, please contact IT Help Desk service@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

I do hope this new process improves your experience in regard to finding information and details concerning your daughter/s life at school.

I certainly welcome your feedback at any time.

– Michele Dunn
Head of Marketing and Community Relations

Dates for 2022 now available

The 2022 Term dates are now available on the My MLC School Portal, and are also listed below.

Term 1 2022

Term 2 2022

Term 3 2022

Term 4 2022

From the Deputy Principal – Uniform Checks in the Senior School

Wearing the School uniform correctly helps create a sense of belonging to our School community. It also helps promote the idea of inclusivity, non-discrimination and equal opportunity, and we hope that all the girls wear their uniform with pride, identifying themselves as MLC School girls within the broader community.

Unfortunately, it is only too easy as each term progresses, for some of our girls to become less than perfect in their appearance and for the rules regarding jewellery to be disregarded. From next week we will be conducting regular and specific uniform checks across the Senior School, starting with a formal check that girls are wearing their uniform correctly in Luminary period on Monday. Girls who are not following the uniform rules will assist senior leadership staff with clean up at lunchtimes across the week. Uniform checks will continue throughout the following weeks with ad hoc checks in class by teachers and senior leadership staff. In addition, the Monday formal uniform check will also take place in Week 9 and Week 10.

We ask for your help with uniform issues. Parents and carers play an important role in monitoring uniform and it is only by our working together that we can achieve a standard of dress that is a credit to the girls and to the School at all times.

Thank you for your assistance. 

– Frances Booth
Deputy Principal

MLC School Principal and performers at Strathfield Rotary Club for IWD

Principal, Lisa Moloney was invited to be the guest speaker for International Women’s Day at Strathfield Rotary Club on Wednesday evening. A group of students from the Jazz Ensemble also performed on the evening, and were full credit to themselves and the School. 

The students were:

• Trinity Elghitany (Year 11)
• Sofia Carey (Year 12)
• Jacqueline Flett (Year 11)
• Dionne Alaveras (Year 12)
• Katie Sutherland (Year 12)

The girls performed so well and we received so many compliments.

– Ying Ho
Head of Keyboard

Click on the below photo gallery for full size images.

Round Square Zoom Postcard

Each week, Round Square schools are given the opportunity to host a 60-90 minute Zoom call in which 50 to 150 students from up to 30 different schools around the world come together to discuss a topic determined by the host school in what is called a “Postcard”.

This initiative was developed by Round Square in 2021 in lieu of the many conferences and events that have been affected by the pandemic in order to keep students connected and allow them to continue having valuable discussions. These discussions are generally student-led and involve a combination of presentations, large group discussions, and discussions in smaller Baraza (Old African word in the Swahili language meaning “The coming together of different people”) groups.

On Wednesday 10 March 2021, MLC School hosted Round Square’s largest ever Postcard entitled ‘Women of the World – Where do we stand?’  This involved over 150 participants from 27 countries, coming together to discuss the evolving situation of gender equity in hopes of broadening perspectives, acknowledging current issues and working towards positive change. This topic of discussion was decided upon by the Round Square Leadership Team to coincide with International Women’s Day 2021 (Monday 8 March 2021) and in alignment with it’s theme of Choose to Challenge, which encourages individuals to be more alert and aware of the gender biases and inequalities that surround them, to take responsibility for their own actions, and to stand up against prejudicial behaviour.

The Postcard began with all participants engaging in a discussion surrounding influential leaders in the realm of gender equality and their contributions to the ongoing movement. This then evolved into a conversation regarding cultural differences in relation to attitudes towards women, expectation of women and progress in terms of gender equality.

Following this initial activity, students were divided into smaller Baraza discussion groups of approximately 15 where they were able to elaborate on their thoughts, exchange perspectives and learn from one another. Each of these discussions was led by an MLC School student who guided conversation by posing a number of different questions to the group such as ‘Do you think education is an effective way of addressing the issue of gender inequality? Do you think there is adequate education surrounding this?’ and ‘Where do women currently stand in our world? And what issues still exist in relation to gender inequality?’.

Whilst each discussion took on its own individual path, all students involved contributed to what was some very insightful, profound and varied dialogue. To conclude the Postcard, all participants reconvened, allowing individuals from different Baraza groups to share their key points of discussion with the larger group and reflect on how engaging in these conversations influenced their perspective.

The final activity involved students using the information from their previous discussions to inform a number of different strategies they could potentially implement at home or school to assist in addressing the issue of gender inequality.

This conversation allowed students to explore the current circumstances of women and the evolving situation of gender inequity while discussing prominent change makers in the field, past and current advancements in the area, their visions for change and how we can work towards implementing these changes. Along with this, it provided an insight into the differing perspectives on women around the world, giving students the opportunity to reflect on the cultural beliefs and values that shape these attitudes and consider a range of different issues arising as a result. This was a very valuable experience for all those involved as it provided not only an opportunity to broaden individual perspectives, but also to lead and connect with other Round Square students.

– Kayla Graham (Year 12)
Round Square Captain

#ChooseToChallenge – MLC School celebrates International Women’s Day

For 135 years MLC School has asked ‘why can’t girls do that?’  We’ve set new standards and broken barriers in girls’ education – and we’ll continue to do so.

On Monday 8 March 2021 the Student Leaders organised a panel which included boys from Newington College and Federal Court Judge Honorable Justice Brigitte Sandra Markovic to discuss a range of topical issues over breakfast.

You can watch a recording of the event here.

Annual Parent Daughter Golf Day

MLC School’s annual P&F Parent Daughter Golf Day was held recently and it was a huge success! Nine holes were played in teams of four using the ambrose rule where every person hits the ball and you continue to play from the furthest person’s ball. However, this year Golf Australia (GA) handicaps were included too, in an attempt to even the playing field for professionals against amateurs. The best part of the day was more than just the golf, it was a fun day with family and friends and a great opportunity for all the golfing mums and dads out there to demonstrate their skill.

On the journey, several challenges were faced that strengthened the bonds between parents and daughters. There were beautiful galahs, rabbits and ducks here and there and many memories were made. Although there might have been a few lost balls along the way, the huge effort from everyone and their participation was what mattered.

The day ended with some delicious woodfire pizza from GIGI’s pizzeria which was a wonderful way to conclude the day. The day was an enjoyable and exciting experience no matter where you placed as every girl walked home with a pink or MLC School themed prize! Thanks to Sutton House for their continued support and sponsorship of the event that Mr Scotney pointed out during the presentation of prizes, began due to a discussion at the Principal’s cocktail party one evening.

On behalf of the P&F committee, thank you to everyone who was involved. It was a successful event and it is anticipated to see you all next year where you may well hear the question “Is that a Titleist?”

– Kylie Becvarovski (Year 12)
Sutton House Finance & Public Relations Captain

From the Acting Heads of Junior School

Parents Back on Site

How lovely to welcome our parents back on site this week, especially in the Pre-K and Kindergarten playground before school each morning. The morning drop off has been particularly hard for our littlest students and their parents. The building of community that also happens during that playtime is also so important.

Many other students continue to display their independence by entering the School by themselves with most parents choosing to continue to drop off their daughters in kiss and ride or at the glass doors. The benefits of this independence cannot be underestimated. Year 5 parents were also able to attend their Year 5 daughter’s last Junior School swimming carnival. We hope those who attended enjoyed viewing the races and House competitions on the day.

Parent Learning Conversations

Our Parent Learning Conversations begin next week and once again, will be conducted via Microsoft Teams. These provide a valuable opportunity to speak with your daughter’s teachers, receiving feedback on her progress and finding out about her next steps in learning. All Pre-K to Year 6 families have been emailed with details of how to make bookings. Please contact JS Reception if you require assistance with this.

Swimming Carnival

Ready, Set, Go…… what a fun day the Junior School Swimming Carnival has been. The aim of the day is fun, participation and House spirit (competitive races took place weeks ago for those who wanted to try out for the IPSHA competition). With House Captains leading their first House event, ably supported by their House Patrons, each House was in enthusiastic hands. We now look forward to some Cross Country fun and competition on Monday for Year 3 to Year 6. 

– Natalie Hird and Joanne Sharpe
Acting Heads of Junior School

School Values – Courage, Compassion, Respect, Growth

Our School values guide the ways we interact in our School. They are also a way through which the MLC School girl should grow and develop throughout her time at School.

A way to achieve this is by developing proactive systems to define, teach and support appropriate student behaviour, based on these values. The Junior School staff have been working on defining appropriate student behaviour. We have had rigorous discussions about what our values look like when we interact with each other.

The Behaviour Expectation Matrix articulates what these expectations look like in everyday school life. We have deliberately used “I” language to come up with behaviours that apply to everyone, at all times.

Matrix

Going forward we will be teaching these to the girls. This matrix gives all people within our School community a common language through which to speak about our School values. Grades will also be developing more specific behaviours that are age appropriate, that will look different in different studios and learning spaces. The emphasis is on positive behaviours, as most girls display these behaviours most of the time.

Acknowledging girls and staff who show our values is an important part of building a positive school community. We do this in our weekly class awards – four of the five awards are for each of our values. Each term we will focus on one value and learn more about it in depth. Assembly at the beginning of each term will introduce the value and termly awards at the end of the term will acknowledge girls displaying that value over a longer period of time. This term our focus is on Courage. We also have end of year values awards which we give out at Speech Day for Year 3 to Year 6.

The Matrix is currently in draft form. We will review it at the end of the year to ensure it is meeting our needs at MLC Junior School and is supporting our girls in the manner it is intended. We will work with our Junior School Student Council, so the girls also have a voice in its development. We are also very happy to receive any feedback from parents.

– Joanne Sharpe
Acting Head of Junior School – Student Life

Pre-Kindergarten School Buddies

On Monday, the Pre-Kindergarten girls were thrilled to meet their Year 5 buddies.

The Year 5 girls joined Pre-Kindergarten girls in the studio and were introduced to their buddy. The girls spent time reading and listening to the stories and engaging in a variety of learning experiences in the studio or in the ES1 playground.

Our Pre-K girls so enjoyed the time spent with their ‘buddy’ that many have invited the Year 5 girls to join them for lunch next week. We look forward to next Monday.

– Gina Zucco, Emily Bryson, Vicki Liubinskas and Ella Monda
Pre-Kindergarten Team

– Jan Falls and Eddie Park
Year 5 Teachers

Click on the below photo gallery for full size images.

From the Head of Senior School

Glen Gerreyn, Director and CEO of The Hopefull Institute, is an annual visitor to our school. Glen travels the country instilling a sense of hope and positivity in young people and talks enthusiastically about the formula for hope. He talks of the formula created by Professor Snyder, the world’s leading expert on hope, as being Goals + Pathways + Self-Efficacy = Hop

Hope correlates positively with self-esteem, positive emotions, athletic performance, health and wellbeing and greater academic satisfaction. Whilst Glen’s article is aimed at senior high school students, I believe there’s plenty of insights for all students.

I’d encourage you to take a few moments to read through the article and open up the discussion with your daughters. As girls continue their journey here at School it’s imperative they know that there is ongoing support from home and at school. Girls are reminded to keep the communication lines open with their teachers, Luminaries, Heads of Department and Heads of Year. It’s vitally important for all girls to have a strong and trusted network to guide and support them through the ongoing challenges.

This week we celebrated International Women’s Day with a thought provoking and challenging panel discussion, chaired by School Captain Mikaela Nguyen and Deputy Principal Frances Booth. They were joined by panel members that included Newington students, MLC School students and special guest Justice Markovic. It was very well supported by students from Year 6 to Year 12.

Wednesday marked the launch of the ‘Do It In A Dress’ campaign, as initiated by our 2021 School Leaders. This is a charity organisation that raises much needed funds to support girls access to education in less fortunate parts of the world. I’m thrilled to report that this was enthusiastically supported by all members of the Senior School as they made a gold coin donation to watch a series of netball matches between MLC School and Newington leaders and a highly skilled staff team. All players participated with a great sense of fun, decked out in dresses as they actively supported the charity. It was a hugely successful day with $719 dollars raised. A huge vote of thanks must go to the boys from Newington who journeyed over to support the day and play alongside our School Captains. None of this would’ve been possible without the support of so many girls in the Senior School. It was a lovely display of school spirit, something we have really missed in the past 12 months as we have lacked the opportunities to meet together like this.

We hope this same spirit travels out to Penrith this Sunday as our rowing team do battle in the annual IGSSA Regatta. Our rowers are a very tight knit community, well supported by their families, and we wish them every success as they fly the MLC School flag. We know you’ve been working extremely hard this season and look forward to seeing you do your very best.

Before next week’s edition of the newsletter rolls out our Tennis team will take part in the Tildesley Tennis Championships. 2021 will see us take part with a very strong team of singles and doubles players and I know that Coach Ludo is quietly confident that MLC School will go extremely well. I take this opportunity to congratulate all girls who have been selected and wish you all the best for next week’s tournament.

– Neil Scotney
Head of Senior School

From the Assistant Head of Senior School – Academic Care and Administration

With coffee in hand I sprinted up the stairs of Ashfield station hoping against hope that my watch was running fast or that the sound of the station master’s whistle was a “wait! wait! Chris Barnes is running late” whistle. Whilst Emily Dickinson might have once thought that “Hope is the thing with feathers that perches in the soul and sings the tune without the words and never stops at all” – in this case hope was a delusional middle-aged man limping up the platform stairs, spilling coffee on himself whilst trying to fit a face mask on. The train had left the station. Where the train should have been was this ironic reminder (pictured above) from a local artist who clearly had it out for me:

It’s never too late

The hopeful message was lost on me in that moment as I stood there sweating, covered in an oat milk latte (it WAS the inner west) regretting the five minutes I spent chatting to my neighbour as I left the house or agreeing to “just one more hug dad” from Fletcher who really just wanted to try and wrestle me to the ground with his newly acquired Kung Fu skills. All the missteps that had led me to this frustrating moment face to face with this enormous sign.

As I scanned the station monitors, I saw the next train was in 13 minutes and so I did what every child of the millennium does when faced with 13 minutes of waiting. I took out my phone. 13 minutes of answering emails would help offset the lost time in the office.

One of these emails was from a young girl struggling with deadlines wanting to catch up before class.

One of these emails was from a student who had just missed an exam due to illness and wanting to reschedule her test.

One of these emails was from a parent worried that her daughter’s recent assessments might adversely affect her chances of getting into Dentistry.

One of these emails was from a senior student wanting to learn some time management techniques so she can make sure she was always on time (the irony was not lost on me either).

My answer to all of these was written for me on the walls of a train station neighbour.

Never too late

We throw phrases around like “life-long learners” but often get caught up in what we are being asked to do right now and it blinds us to the bigger picture.

It takes being late to the train to realise there is another one coming in 13 minutes and that next 13 minutes might just be the most important time of your day to help some people.

It takes a challenging deadline to give us the motivation to learn time management skills. It takes some bumps in the road to realise that our children might take longer to reach their goal than we might have hoped but….

It’s never too late

So this morning I set my alarm five minutes earlier, I wrestled with Fletcher until we both agreed I had won. I pre-ordered my coffee and when I arrived at Ashfield station my train was there with open doors blocking that wonderful, challenging, hopeful sign that had helped me get a little better as a human, as a dad and as a teacher.

– Chris Barnes
Assistant Head of Senior School – Academic Care and Administration

From the Assistant Head of Senior School – Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

The Strength of a team

How are Pastoral Care and Wellbeing similar to that of a highly successful athlete?

The secret to highly successful athletes, whether they are Tennis players, Swimmers, Soccer stars or Formula One drivers, is that all of them have a team around them. They have a coach, a manager, a trainer, a nutritionist, a psychologist, their families, and their team. The reason I share this analogy with you this week is that after another wonderful week of working with many families across various year groups regarding various concerns or experiences, relating to their daughter, it is clear to me that Pastoral Care and Wellbeing works best when we work together, family, daughter and School.

In my article in Week 1, I shared that ‘at MLC School, we believe that your daughter is at the heart of all that we do. We aspire to build positive relationships with the girls and their families and believe the care of your daughter is best achieved when we work together’. So, how does this team work together to provide support for your daughter?

The Pastoral Care Team design proactive, educational programs to develop the social and emotional learning skills of your daughter. This year, we are working on the Pastoral Care Pillar of the School’s Strategic Plan by reviewing and developing an updated Pastoral Care Framework. We work closely with the counsellors and the learning enhancement team to ensure that your daughters are supported in a short term and/or on an ongoing basis.

Our counsellors, Susan Rountree, Cara Milwidsky, Marion Delprado and Jemima Shafei-Ongu bring a wealth of experience, kindness, care and compassion to our team and our students. They work directly with your daughters when they are in need, be it mental health, grief, friendship struggles, academic worries or just about any other issue you can think of. They have experience in using data such as Allwell and Naplan to help build a detailed picture of your daughter as a learner. Not only do they help out when in need, they present to various Year groups about topics that they are passionate about, for example, sleep, mindfulness and meditation, and self care. They are proactive as well as reactive and are there every step of the way for students, parents and the Pastoral Care Team. Our counsellors are a collaborative group, not only do they work together to ensure that our girls have the care they need, but they work to develop the skills of the Heads of Year and work closely with the Academic Team led by Chris Barnes and the Learning Enhancement team led by Lynne Slarke, as we know that, wellbeing and academics are not separate, they are intertwined entities that often require support in both areas.

Working together as a team, and working collaboratively with you, we aim to bring a broad range of skills and support that aims to grow and develop successful, resilient, young people who are achieving their personal best in every aspect of their school life. That, is the power of a team.

– Sarah Tynan
Assistant Head of Senior School – Pastoral Care and Wellbeing

Year 7

Year 7 had some time in their Luminary sessions to study in small groups and get organised ahead of a busy few weeks assessment-wise. I am really not exaggerating when I say that they appear to be handling this busy period very well.

We’ve also reminded the girls of our uniform code, which is on page 11 of the diary, to make sure they are looking ship shape every day. The main Year 7 issue is having the correct earrings, and I’d appreciate your support in ensuring that your daughter has plain silver or gold studs or sleepers – and only one in each lobe. I know these things may seem small, but uniform is an important part of creating community and belonging. It’s a way of identifying as part of a team, which is what the Year group needs to be.

This week we also had our first Middle Years assembly of the year, which was a real highlight. These assemblies for Year 6 to Year 9 are usually run by the Middle Years Leaders and our School Vice-Captain (Year 6 to Year 9), Maya Simpson. It’s great for the younger students to see the Year 9 girls in action and hopefully some of our year group are aspiring leaders who will be running these assemblies in a couple of years’ time.

– Fiona Pow
Head of Year 7

Year 8

Another great week has passed and Year 8 have been in the throes of more assessments. Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) and Science have been the primary talk around the playground and it has been interesting to hear snippets of conversations about different body systems coupled with snippets of synchronised swimming moves.

The one thing I have noticed is the group as a whole have been a bit lax in handing in assessments on time. Every student has a copy of their assessment calendar for 2021 (the whole years’ worth) and has had it since Week 4. If you would like a copy please download it here or let me know and I can email it to you, having said that, the girls can also download for you off their Canvas page. Please continue to help them with their planning and organisational skills as these assessments are not sneaking up on them. They may need more assistance in planning study time and completion times of tasks. They do get time allowances in class as well, but extra time to work at home is often needed.

This week our Year 12 School Leaders joined forces with Newington’s Year 12 School Leaders and staff to raise awareness and funds for the plight of girls’ education across the developing world. Year 8 cheered loudly and enthusiastically throughout the fundraising netball match, where MLC School Leaders team were triumphant.  

It’s a short one this week, but there is much still to do until we reach the holidays. Let’s keep the team focused and moving forward, remembering that they too are tired and in need of a break. Let’s work together to help them move through the final weeks of term successfully and as smoothly as possible.

Good luck to everyone who has an activity this weekend, our Year 8 AFL players, Tennis players, Badminton players, Swimmers, Divers, our Rowers at their first Head of the River, our Dancers, Debaters and Musicians. Go MLC School!

Have a great weekend.

– Kylie Bickerstaff
Head of Year 8

Year 9

On Monday, Year 9 and the School celebrated International Women’s Day. The topic was discussed in Luminary time and again in the Middle Years Assembly on Wednesday. I know that female inequality is an issue that many of our Year 9 girls are very passionate about and it was inspiring to hear them speak their mind and discuss what the #choosetochallenge means to them.

This week I’ve seen a reasonable amount of fatigue in the Year 9 group as the term rolls on and the workload is ever present. I would love for you, as the families, to check in with your Year 9 student and encourage her to be kind to herself, to her friends and to her own space and self-care.

There have also been a number of phones confiscated from Year 9 students during the week. Year 9 girls are permitted to bring a mobile phone to school however phones are to remain in their lockers for the whole day and not be used during class, recess or lunch. The girls have been advised repeatedly about this rule and I’m hoping for a phone confiscation-free week next week!

Finally, next Friday 19 March 2021 is the Senior Swimming Carnival. It’s really exciting to be able to hold these types of events again, and it is compulsory attendance for every student. It is a wonderful opportunity for students to be involved in their House, to celebrate the achievements and participation of their Year group, and to show their potential leadership skills for the future.

As always, if there is anything you wish to discuss please contact me on 8741 3246 or email cwhite@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– Claire White
Head of Year 9

Click on the below photo gallery for full size images.

Year 10

Congratulations on making it through your daughter’s first assessment block. I am sure there is a big sigh of relief in many households today. The cohort have handled themselves very well and we are proud of them. Moving into next week, we will be encouraging Year 10 to continue with a growth mindset when receiving their results, particularly if they are disappointed. No-one expects a marathon from someone who has just put on their running shoes. It is really important for Senior Years students to start seeing their teachers as a partner in their academic journey and asking questions about how to improve should begin to be a normal course of action post assessments.

National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence

Next Friday 19 March 2021 is the National Day of Action against Bullying and Violence. There will be several initiatives that the School will support the Captains with next week. While mean girl behaviour and bullying can also occur throughout life and in the workplace, it shouldn’t be tolerated and can be a traumatic experience for a 15-year-old. Showing understanding, attempting to provide tools to strengthen resilience, encouraging a considered response, particularly if they are a bystander and asking for adult help are good ways to help adolescent girls to manage the situation. In many typical School situations with friendship or even peer fallouts, both parties will feel they are victims as they learn to manage relationships, they are only 15 after all. Many do a good job of negotiating and having open conversations without adult intervention. Listening with understanding and encouraging adult support when it is outside of their control particularly if mental health issues are also involved is recommended.

Uniform Blitz

There is going to be a Senior School uniform blitz from Monday 15 March 2021. All areas of uniform will be targeted. Some Year 10 girls have been rolling their new senior skirt up, with the reason they are providing being that it does not fit or doesn’t come in their size. Please check in with your daughter about the comfort she has with her skirt, as it may need to be adjusted. Typically, Year 10 in particular don’t appreciate the uniform code as much as other year groups and enjoy turning the argument to one of the School telling girls how they should dress. However, this is about the expectations of being an MLC School student and the uniform code is clear in their school diary. While the blitz is occurring at school, it is appreciated that we have the support of families and the consequences that incorrect uniform will attract.

Allwell Testing

An email was sent out this week about the Allwell testing occurring this coming Tuesday 16 March 2021. Please visit “My Student” on the My MLC School Portal to view the notice.

Swimming Carnival

The swimming carnival is next Friday 19 March 2021. Much excitement is happening while preparation will be completed over the next week in the lead up. This includes dress themes for each House and chants being rehearsed. I hope Year 10 enjoy themselves and their School community after their grown-up and busy few weeks of Careers Testing, Assessment Block and Allwell testing.

Coming Up

• Tuesday 16 March 2021 (Week 8) – Allwell testing
• Friday 19 March 2021 (Week 8) – Swimming Carnival

If you have any concerns, please don’t hesitate to contact me on 8741 3278 or email arenwick@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 10

Year 11

Year 11 have been busy this week with final preparation for their assessment block in Week 8 (week commencing Monday 15 March 2021). On Monday we celebrated International Women’s Day (IWD) with the theme: Choose To Challenge. The Luminary representatives created some great discussion groups based on ideas from the IWD 2021 campaign website, featuring videos that celebrated the diversity of young women’s challenges and achievements over the past year. The girls worked hard to coordinate their ideas and express them in such an articulate way with their peers. I am always blown away by their thoughtful and perceptive views and how they want to continue the conversation about their role in society as positive and aware young women.

We took some much needed time out to attend our first service since lockdown in the newly renovated chapel with Rev Viniana Ravetali. The chapel looked fantastic and comfortably seated the whole year group plus staff. Under the newly relaxed Covid-19 rules, we got to actually sing together and also meet our new reverend, Rev Sally Yabsley-Bell. The theme of our service was, “Living Wisely” and Rev Vinnie spoke to the girls about the wisdom to choose good friendships and seek out people who are positive influences, who bring out the best in us and don’t bring us down. Natalie Toomey read the following prayer to sum up the theme:

“Give us wisdom to know good from evil. Give us wisdom to assess the clamoring voices and concerns with which we are daily bombarded. Give us wisdom so that we might learn to be accepting of all the diverse people you have created. Give us wisdom to be peacemakers and mediators of understanding where there is conflict. Give us wisdom when we are in conflict to make it possible both for us and for those with whom we differ to save face and win and move forward hand in hand. Give us wisdom not to violate any of your creatures by discriminating against them. Give us wisdom to discern what is of ultimate value for our souls and to make wise choices.”

Our image this week is of our chapel readers: Natalie Toomey, Sophie Walker, Ruby Scott-Wishart, Isabella Chapman, Sarah-Bronte Andrikis and Madison Clemens with Rev Vinnie and me.

Please take care as your daughter is preparing for assessments next week and encourage your daughter to eat well, get some exercise and get her sleep – key elements for surviving a busy and challenging week.

Next week will be the start of a uniform blitz, please ensure your daughter is in proper uniform and only approved jewellery.

Please let me know if you or your daughter need any assistance or support next week. I am available on 8741 9736 and on email sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 11

Year 12

The Germans have an interesting language, especially when we consider that culture informs language as well as the other way around. The word that springs to mind when considering the topic of this week’s article is ‘Zeitgeist’, meaning the ‘spirit of the time’.

This week Ms Tynan spoke to the Year 12 girls about consent.

It is interesting to note that the girls have had this discussion or been taught about this concept for many years throughout their schooling. We talk about these issues both in the Wellbeing Program and also in the PDHPE program. However, sometimes the girls seems to find it hard to remember when they have explicitly been taught about topics such as consent.

Gert Biesta, an educational philosopher, states in an article called Philosophy of Education for the Public Good, that a central ‘weakness’ of education is that it is ‘relational’.

Of course, this is also it’s greatest strength!

But what he means is that we are a group of older humans speaking to and educating a group of younger humans, all of whom are individuals and all of whom are at different stages on life’s way. And therein lies the challenge. The students will relate to topics in different ways at different times because they are unique people.

We have been consistently teaching our girls about respect and autonomy throughout their educational journey but many of them have no frame of reference for these discussions as yet and we are educating them about issues that they, thankfully, have not had to grapple with. But if the stories in the media and the prevailing zeitgeist are any indication, then the girls will need to be prepared to make informed, safe, sensible decisions as they progress through Year 12 and into the wider community. We will continue to discuss these issues with your daughters in an adult, respectful and age-appropriate way for the remainder of their time here at MLC School.

In Academic Care this week, Chris Barnes came and spoke to the girls about ‘evaluating their evaluations’ from the recent assessment block. In another entertaining and thought-provoking presentation, he set out a plan for the girls over the last few weeks of term. He has encouraged them to use next week to ‘collect strategies’ from their teachers as to how to improve. The following week, he wants them to enact one of those strategies and in the last week of term they are encouraged to reflect upon how this approach has worked.

We know that Year 12 is a marathon. We say it so much that it has become a cliché, but clichés are clichés because they contain an essential grain of truth. The girls must always strive to use the data that they receive along the way to help them to incrementally improve over time. To echo Mr Barnes and a certain looming building in Ashfield ‘It’s never too late…’ to improve.

As always, we encourage parents to discuss the weekly topics and activities with your daughters and never to hesitate in getting in contact with us if you have any queries or concerns.

– Sarah Tynan, Assistant Head of Senior School – Pastoral Care and Wellbeing, Head of Year 12
– David O’Donohue, Assistant Head of Year 12

Sports Update 5 – Term 1

“Competing in sports does not come without hardship. It does not come without disappointment, challenge, and sacrifice. The journey is full of adversity, which is part of what makes it a beautiful and worthwhile endeavour.”

– Carrie Cheadle – Author of On Top of Your Game

Over the next few weeks, we have many athletes who will be competing in events that they have trained many, many hours for. With competition comes risk… the risk of failure or your race plan not being executed the way you planned, a disqualification because you got too excited at the start, an injury that prevents you from playing, missing a penalty shot. With competition also comes great joy! The joy of winning, scoring the winning goal, sticking to your game plan and being successful, celebrating success with your teammates, achieving a PB, being awarded age champion.

Sport teaches athletes to be goal setters in order to achieve their dreams. Along the way, there will be hurdles and disappointments, which enable us to learn and grow, become resilient and make us more determined to achieve success.

Preparation is key. Eat healthy foods, stay hydrated, get enough sleep, make sure you recover properly after training sessions and competition and keep communicating with your coach.

Equally important is goal setting. Set your self goals that are:

• Specific – What do you want to achieve?
• What steps will you take to achieve it?
• Measurable – How will you track your progress?
• Achievable – Goals should be realistic. Is the goal you’ve set attainable?
• Relevant – Why does this goal matter to you?
• Timely – When do you want to achieve your goal by? Next week? Next month? Next year?

If athletes get into these good habits, they put themselves in good stead to achieve success.

“Stay focused, go after your dreams and keep moving toward your goals.”
– LL Cool J

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Follow MLC School Sport on Facebook

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

Football News

On the Tuesday 9 March 2021 (Week 7), MLC School took part in the 2021 CIS Football Cup. It is MLC School’s third year participating in this competition, and I am happy to say, the team was impressive.

16 girls were selected from Year 9 to Year 12 to compete in the local derby against Meriden.

The girls put on an excellent performance to come out on top, with an exceptional result of 3-1 to push through to round 3 of the competition, the furthest we have ever made it!

Whilst the girls had only had three training sessions prior to the match, and had never played as a team before, they bonded well and put together some amazing plays. MLC School was threatening on the attack, with Toni Eliades (Year 12) scoring a hat-trick within the first half of the match, whilst also dominating defensively, to hold off goals from Meriden’s quick and aggressive attack.

Credit to all the girls’ hard work in the game and the weeks leading up to it. This together with their positive team spirit and effort made for an exceptional performance. It is without a doubt that the girls will continue to develop their skills and teamwork over the next weeks as they prepare for the tough round 3 battle against Pymble Ladies College.

– Natalia Giannakos (Year 12)
Football Captain

Golf News

Congratulations to Charlotte Huynh (Year 12) who was selected for the 2021 CIS Golf Team and will be going to Catalina Golf Club for a week in May to compete in the All-Schools tournament.

Charlotte is a talented golfer with a handicap of 3.8! She has represented CIS for the last three years and we wish her all the best as she embarks on her final tournament for CIS in May.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Snowsports News

This year our Snowsports Parents Information Evening was cancelled due to ongoing COVID concerns, however most importantly the 2021 Snowsports Interschools is going ahead!

Snowsports is open to Kindergarten to Year 12 students and is held in the July school holidays from Saturday 3 July to Friday 9 July 2021. Parents and carers must be in attendance.

Please note that Snowsports at MLC School is competition skiing and snowboarding and not “learn to ski”.

If you would like more information, the pre-recorded presentation is available to you, please just contact kbickerstaff@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Also, Snowsports Information Folders (as of Friday), will be available for collection at the Sports Office and the Junior School Reception. These information folders have the sign-up sheets, dates, waivers and order forms inside them, so please send your daughter to one of these offices to collect one.

If you know you will be joining us at the 2021 Snowsports Interschools at Thredbo this year please email me and I will put your name down on the definite list, pending your registration form confirmations.

Let’s go MLC School Snowsports – it’s time to shred it!

– Kylie Bickerstaff 
Assistant Director of Sport, Head of Year 8

Swimming News

Congratulations to Christine Jin (Year 6) who swam a PB in the 200m IM in Saturday’s Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre 2021 LC Qualifying Meet. In doing so, she also qualified for the 2021 Australian Age Swimming Championships which will be in held in Queensland in April.

Christine also won the bronze medal in 2021 NSW Senior Metropolitan Championships 12-13 years 200m Butterfly event.

Well done Christine.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Junior School Cross Country

The Junior Year 3 to Year 5 Cross Country event will be held on Monday 15 March 2021. Participating in the cross-country carnival is a fantastic opportunity for your daughter to improve her fitness and to support her House. The girls will gain valuable house points and may qualify for selection to represent MLC School at the IPSHA Cross Country Carnival. There will be two events for your daughter to choose from to participate in. Students may choose to participate in one of the following:

1. Competitive run event where students are aiming to gain both representative selection and points for their house.
2. Fun participation-based run event where students are aiming to gain points for their house.

At the conclusion of the carnival, the girls will participate in some ball games before returning to school for lunch.

Please ensure your daughter has a full water bottle and morning tea to take with her.

All students will be transported via bus to Bicentennial Park (Victoria Ave Entrance), departing Junior School at 9am. Please arrive at school at normal time and move to your classrooms for roll marking. The class teachers will then walk the students to the buses to depart for the carnival. At the conclusion of the event, all students will be transported back to school via bus at approximately 12.30pm. Parents are welcome to come and support their daughters at the event, however students cannot be collected from the park by parents and must return to school on the bus so they may attend their afternoon classes.

Spectator Information

We encourage only one spectator per student.

Parents must remain in the spectator area and will not be able to mix with the students and staff in their House areas.

Spectators should practise social distancing.

Cancellation

Parents will be notified via SMS if the carnival is cancelled by 7.45am, due to adverse weather.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Senior School Cross Country Trials

The Sports Department is running a trial to select the MLC School Cross Country Team to compete at the IGSSA Cross Country Carnival on Friday 7 May 2021 at Frensham.

The trials are open to students in Year 6 to Year 12 who are experienced long-distance runners. It is NOT a come and try day. Runners enter this event because they would like to be considered for selection in the MLC School Cross Country team.  

The trial will be held on Monday 15 March 2021 from 8.30am–3pm (approx.), so please check it does not clash with any assessments or excursions.

A bus will depart MLC School at 8.30am and will transport students to and from Bicentennial Park in Homebush. The students will return to school at around 3.15pm.

Distances to be run at IGSSA (based on the age you turn in 2021) include:

• 12–13 years – 3 kilometres
• 14–17 years – 4 kilometres
• 18+ years – 6 kilometres

This trial is for those who are confident running the distance required, and are available for the IGSSA Cross Country Championships on Friday 7 May 2021 at Frensham if they are selected for the team. Selected girls are expected to attend MLC School Cross Country training on Thursday mornings.

Any student who is unavailable to trial due to clashes with other school excursions but still wishes to be considered for the MLC School Cross Country Team may still be considered dependent on numbers and past cross-country history. The top 8 qualifying times from each age group will qualify to represent MLC School at the IGSSA Cross Country Carnival.

Please express your interest in trialling by Monday 8 March 2021.

If you have any questions, please contact Esther Maling emaling@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Important Sports Notices and Procedures

Remember!

Do not miss any important sports information! Please make sure you check Canvas messages, emails, Facebook AND the Sports Update in the newsletter. The sports update always contains fixtures and registration information so you should never miss a registration.

Absences from Sport

 What to do when you are unable 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/carer 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/carer is asked to advise the coach and Sports Department of their daughter’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/carers of students whose non-attendance at training or games is not notified in the correct manner.

 Pockets are only awarded to students who have attended at least 80% of training and games.

What Do I Do If It’s 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, due to safe distancing measures and government guidelines, we may be required to cancel training when we cannot accommodate students safely in an indoor space.

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, followed by an email.

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

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, followed by an email.

Saturdays

If you are playing an IPSHA Sport, please download the IPSHA app (instructions below). IPSHA normally makes a decision by 7am.

If you are playing an IGSSA Sport, visit https://m.ahigs.nsw.edu.au/venues. The IGSSA website will let you know if your venue is closed or open.

When possible, we will also post the cancellations on our MLC School Sport Facebook page

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.

IPSHA App Instructions

Search on the app store for ‘IPSHA’ – follow the download instructions.

Once downloaded and opened you will receive the following popup messages:

1. Allow IPSHA to access your location – select whichever is appropriate for you – if this is turned on it may help with directions to sports fields with Google locations linked.
2. Enable Push notifications – if you would like to receive push notifications, which is a feature that will be used on the app and can be turned on and off at any time, then allow push notifications. If you do not allow push notifications, it can be turned on via the settings on your phone at any time.
3. If you allow push notifications, all notification subscriptions will be turned on as the default set up.
4. To turn the push notifications such as Girls Saturday Sport Wet Weather Messages, Swimming/Cross Country and/or Athletics marshalling calls or IPSHA Trials messages on and off at any time follow the instructions below.
   1. Click on the mail icon on the top left-hand corner of the home page.
   2. Click on the cog on the top right-hand corner of the page.
   3. Choose which notifications you would like to receive by clicking on the on/off icon next to the name of the notifications you would like to receive.
   4. You must hit save for any changes you have made for them to take effect.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Weekend Fixtures and Upcoming Dates

Weekend Fixtures – Saturday 13 March 2021

Upcoming Dates

• Saturday 13 March 2021 – Saturday Sport for Year 3 to Year 12, various locations and times
• Saturday 13 March 2021 – Hockey Grading (Year 3 to Year 12), MLC School Sports Field, 12.30pm–3.30pm
• Sunday 14 March 2021 – Head of the River, Sydney International Regatta Centre (SIRC)
• Monday 15 March 2021 – Junior School and Senior School Cross Country, Bicentennial Park, 9.30am–3pm
• Wednesday 17 March to Thursday 18 March 2021 – Tildesley Tennis Tournament, Pennant Hills Park, 7am–5pm
• Thursday 18 March 2021 – CIS Primary Swim and Dive, SOPAC, 7am–3pm
• Friday 19 March 2021 – Senior School House Swimming Carnival, MLC School Aquatic Centre, 8.15am–3.15pm
• Saturday 20 March 2021 – Saturday Sport for Year 3 to Year 12, various locations and times
• Friday 26 March 2021 – IGSSA Swim and Dive Championships, SOPAC, 7am–4pm
• Saturday 27 March 2021 – IPSHA Cross Country Championships, The Kings School, 7am–12noon
• Saturday 24 April 2021 – ERNA Netball Round 1, Meadowbank Park/Brush Farm, various times

An Important Message to Ensemble Members

The announcement below was sent to all students who participate in Co-Curricular Music at MLC School. We understand students have a large range of activities to balance whilst maintaining academic standards. That said, if all students missed rehearsals due to exam weeks, we would rarely have full rehearsals.

Your support in encouraging the girls to attend rehearsals through exam periods is very much appreciated.

Dear MLC School Ensemble Members

We are very excited about the opportunity to return to the stage in 2021. I think we all agree that the missed opportunities of 2020 ensures that our performances this year are all the more special. For us to fully enjoy our first experience on stage in such a long time, preparation is essential. I don’t think anyone wants to present anything less than an amazing show!

With that in mind, it is disappointing that recently several students have been absent from ensemble and choir rehearsals due to exams. We are always willing to listen to special circumstances and please, if you are feeling overwhelmed, come and have that conversation; you will get a sympathetic hearing. We do, however, assume that students will attend rehearsals throughout exam weeks. Assessment schedules are posted well in advance to ensure time to prepare for exams. Also, please try to book medical or other appointments outside rehearsal times.

Wonderful performances do not happen by accident. They are the result of a little inspiration and lots of hard work. We greatly appreciate the efforts of every student and look forward to a great year in 2021″.

– Trevor Mee
Director of Music

Taiko at MLC School – How to Enrol

Click here for the Taiko flyer.

– Alison Duncan
Music Centre Manager, Taiko Coordinator

Japanese Culture Society – Week 7 Update

The Sound of Japanese Harmony

Last Friday 5 March, JCS were lucky to have an immersive Taiko experience lead by a Taiko expert Zara Luong (Year 9). She led JCS members through basic rhythms, ‘don’ and ‘doku’ before they attempted a piece called Seru. The piece represents the movements of a fish and uses movement between two drums, the Shimedaiko and the Nagadodaiko, to create the effect of a fish jumping up stream.

Although we didn’t quite nail the piece, we still had loads of fun and wish the session could have gone longer! JCS runs on Friday afternoons and extracurricular Taiko runs on Wednesday afternoons so keep an eye out if you interested. Please read the Music section of this week’s newsletter for further details or check the Taiko flyer

Congratulations to Selina Chen (Year 9) for achieving the 3rd place in the JTAN New Year’s Card Competition. Selina competed against 85 other students across NSW. She has received a pen box by Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO). I wish for Selina to enjoy more opportunities brushing up her drawing skills with the pens.

Week 8 JCS will be cancelled due to the Senior School Swimming Carnival. Instead, in Week 9 and Week 10 JCS will take place on Monday lunchtime. I hope many will be there 😊

– Ruby Mitchel (Year 9) and Mr Kentaro Otani (Facilitator of the Japanese Culture Society)

Chinese Culture Club

Welcome back to the weekly for Chinese Culture club!

During today’s session, students participated in playing badminton with friends.

Come along next week for some more fun and interactive games!

🏸 – Your Chinese Culture Society committee  🇨🇳

Middle Years Drama Company, Theatresports Club and Writer’s Club

Middle Years Drama Company

Year 7 to Year 9
Monday 3.30pm–5pm, ILC 3

Final call for Middle Years Drama Queens!

Do you love performing or would like to give it a go? Join us for the Middle Years Drama Company and be a STAR!

You can enter the Shakespeare Carnival, star in the Middle Years School Production, develop your acting technique and have a blast!

Coached by Emilia Stubbs and Kellie Cogin

• Emilia Stubbs is an arts educator, professional actor, writer, director and producer and for the last 7 years has been working with the Speech and Drama Studio. 
• Kellie Cogin is a senior school Drama teacher and has worked previously with The Middle Years Drama Company and Theatre Sport Club.

The focus for Term 1 and Term 2 will be on Shakespeare and Sport for Jove’s Shakespeare Carnival. During Term 3 and Term 4 the girls will be working toward the presentation of a full play. Through this process students will learn performance, group work, and problem-solving skills, which are transferable to all aspects of life.   

Enrol through the MLC School payment site and email Monica Brian.

Theatresports

Year 7 to Year 12
Tuesday 3.30pm–5pm, G33

Places are still available for our Theatresports Club which is for all levels of experience.

If you love to perform and want to flex your improvisational muscles or it’s your first time acting, come along and learn the skills to be a Master Improvisor.

Selected students will be chosen to compete in Impro Australia’s Schools Theatresports challenge. Eisteddfod opportunities are also available. Most importantly we have fun and lots of laughs!

Coached by Taylor Buoro-Long          

Taylor is a K-12 teacher specialising in the Arts, a professional actor and for the last couple of years has been a valued member of the Speech and Drama Studio team.

Each term students work through the Theatresports handbook in addition to improvisational activities focused on increasing the girl’s confidence in performance and devising. Improvisation is such a fun way to strengthen their communication skills while exercising their imagination and storytelling abilities. 

Enrol through the MLC School payment site and email Monica Brian.

Script Writer’s Club and Writer’s Club Enrolling Now!

If you enjoy writing and want to explore and develop techniques in script writing or are passionate about literature and want to explore various genres of writing then we would love you to join the Speech and Drama Studio’s Script Writing or Writer’s Club.

Coached by Zuzi Fort  

Zuzi is a published author, professional actor and  stunt performer, script writer and acting/communication/public speaking tutor. Zuzi studied at the University of Western Sydney – Nepean (Theatre) and at the University of Technology – Sydney (Communication – directing and scriptwriting). Zuzi has been a member of the Speech and Drama Studio teaching team for 10 years.  

Writer’s Club
Year 6 to Year 8 – Thursday lunchtime
Year 9 to Year 11 – Monday lunchtime 

Script Writing Club 
Year 3 to Year 5 – Tuesday lunchtime

For enrolments please contact The Speech and Drama Studio Director Monica Brian or click on this link for the enrolment form, complete and email back to me.

– Monica Brian
Director, The Speech and Drama Studio

The Speech and Drama Studio Enrolling now for Term 2

Enrolments Open for Term 2 and Inner West Eisteddfod

If you love acting, want to gain more confidence in public speaking or want to have fun with improvisation and theatre sports then why not join us for SPEECH AND DRAMA! You can join one of our group classes, team up with friends for a duo or trio class, or have a tailored course designed specifically for you with private tuition.

The Speech and Drama Studio led by Monica Brian, provides MLC School students with an onsite comprehensive speech and drama program. For the past 24 years at MLC School, Monica’s specialist knowledge of the entertainment industry in addition to her experience as an educator ensured the program’s high standard and real-life application. Our team are made up of established industry professionals and highly qualified and experienced educators who are committed and passionate about providing lasting training in performance, acting, vocal skills and producing confident speakers.

The Speech and Drama Studio is a registered Provider of the NSW Government Creative Kids program. NSW school students are entitled to a $100 Creative Kids voucher which can be used toward your child’s speech and drama tuition fee. Click on the link to apply. 

*Please note that Pre-K to Year 2 groups in the MLC School Afterschool program and Theatre sports and the Middle Years Drama Company are not eligible for the Creative Kids voucher*

If your child wants to explore and extend her acting technique, develop her vocal skills, gain confidence in presentations and speeches, develop English speaking skills, partake in Trinity College of London or Australian Speech Communication Association examinations, represent MLC School at Eisteddfods or simply have fun through speech and drama training why not join us.

For enrolments please contact Speech & Drama Studio Director Monica Brian or click on the link for the enrolment form.

Inner West, Ryde and Sydney Eisteddfods

Many of our students will be representing MLC School at the Inner West Eisteddfod (IWE) in May and are commencing preparation of speeches, monologues, duologues, poems and prose readings. A number of our students in our Year 3 to Year 9 group classes will be putting their amazing Improv skills they are developing into practice in the IWE Improvisation Category.

Some students will also be representing MLC at the prestigious Sydney Eisteddfod.

Speech and Drama Eisteddfod Coaching

Do you love performing, but don’t have time to commit to weekly classes?

The Speech and Drama Studio offers 2-3 private coaching sessions for students wishing to compete in the Eisteddfods. 

Lessons can be done as face-to-face lessons or via Zoom

Eisteddfod entries are due early March, so book in NOW. 

• 30 minute coaching session $66 I  2 x 30 minute coaching sessions $120

One-Off Personalised Lessons Available

• Need some assistance with presentation skills for a speech?
• Have an audition coming up for a school production, external production, TV or film?
• Want to develop English speaking skills, pronunciation and vocal training?
• Want to explore screen acting technique, self-taping skills and industry mentoring?
• Would you like to book in for a few lessons to address one specific area without committing to a whole term?
• Prefer online lessons if your busy schedule doesn’t suit face to face lessons?

The Speech and Drama Studio teaching team can help.

We are experienced educators and industry professionals offering cutting edge training and first-hand experience  of the entertainment industry.

Lessons can be done as face-to-face lessons or via Zoom.

• 30 minute coaching session $66 I  2 x 30 minute coaching sessions $120

For enrolments please contact The Speech and Drama Studio Director Monica Brian or click on this link for the enrolment form, complete and email back to me.

– Monica Brian
Director, The Speech and Drama Studio

April Holiday Production and Online Holiday Coaching – The Speech and Drama Studio

A Fairy’s Tale

Monday 12 April to Friday 16 April 2021 (5 days)

Written by The Speech and Drama Studio teachers Taylor Buoro and Emilia Stubbs Grigoriou

In order to fly, a fairy must first discover their happiest of thoughts. Aurora’s struggles with flying take her on a journey to discover what makes those around her the happiest. Join her as she sings, dances and even cooks her way to joyfulness only to discover the answer was inside her all along.

Contact The Speech and Drama Studio Director Monica Brian for enrolments.

• Click here for the enrolment form.

Private Online Zoom Sessions

Book now for our private online holiday coaching sessions tailored to your child’s interests,

Kindergarten to Year 7 

• 30-minute sessions $55 and $5 discount when booking multiple sessions.

Focus areas can include verbal and non-verbal communications skills, characterisation, improvisation, impromptu speaking, public speaking, writing, monologue/scene work and poetry/prose. 

Year 7 to Year 12

• 45-minute sessions $80 and $5 discount when booking multiple sessions.

Focus areas same as above but can also include self-taping skills, career mentorship, industry advice and film acting techniques.

Contact The Speech and Drama Studio Director Monica Brian for enrolments.

– Monica Brian
Director, The Speech and Drama Studio

Acting & Communication Academy – Term 1 Week 7 Update

Creative Communicators | Passionate Performers

What a great start to the new year it has been with Term 1! Our students are off to a running start in meeting their performance goals this year.

Does your daughter have a goal to be more creative and confident with her public speaking? Our Speak Easy classes are designed for students to develop trust in themselves to speak with confidence and act with conviction in a group setting.

Alternatively, we have Private Coaching sessions designed to tackle specific obstacles in order for your daughter to be more confident and clear in her communication, providing her with more opportunities for leadership. Enrolments are open for Term 2, and just a reminder for those who are interested in our Masterclass in Musical Theatre with Elisa Colla to please email your EOI to perform@actingandcommunication.sydney. We hope to see you at the first Masterclass for 2021 and/or for Term 2!

For more information about Acting & Communication Academy, to enrol in a Class, Masterclass, or Holiday Program, please visit the website www.actingandcommunication.com or email perform@actingandcommunication.sydney. You can also ‘like’ us on Facebook and follow us on Instagram.