From The Principal

MLC School’s 16th Sydney Opera House Concert will be held on Monday 22 May 2023. After an imposed hiatus due to the renovation of the Opera House and the impact of the pandemic, I am incredibly excited that we can again gather to celebrate the part that each of us plays in the remarkable story of MLC School and enjoy an exceptional showcase of music.

Producing such a high quality, inclusive and extensive program of performances requires many months of planning and commitment from all involved. Across the School, ensembles have been rehearsing challenging repertoire and all students have been involved in learning the massed choir items.  Along with all staff, Director of Music Trevor Mee and I have been incredibly impressed with the way that our students have embraced the opportunity. Many who are involved in the whole school items have not sung before, yet they have committed themselves to regular rehearsals, learning their parts and participating with great enthusiasm.

The MLC School Opera House Concert is, of course, much more than just an opportunity to perform at one of the world’s most iconic venues. The things that a student learns about herself and her potential as she battles with challenging music, learns to listen to others with whom she is singing or playing, and takes the risk of performing in front of thousands of people, will be just as impactful as the memory of being on the Opera House Concert Hall stage, surrounded and supported by the School community.

Being involved in something like this, which challenges you in a variety of ways, helps us to gain new insights into ourselves, develop greater empathy for others, and learn more about our strengths and weaknesses. As we develop these new skills, or hone our existing ones, we learn new ways of approaching problems and successfully meeting a challenge, giving us a sense of accomplishment and a boost to our self-confidence. These lessons can then be put to good use in tackling other challenges that will come our way. And as we know, research suggests that singing and playing music can help improve academic skills such as language development, reading, and concentration.

It is for these reasons that involvement in the Opera House Concert is compulsory for all students in Year 5 to Year 12, and I thank you for supporting your daughter’s participation. I look forward to seeing you on 22 May.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Image: from the first Opera House Concert in 1986 (‘The Grand Concert’ was held to celebrate the MLC School Centennial)

Click on the image gallery for full sized images

From the Deputy Principal

The Great Vape Debate

This time last year a 5-year-old boy was hospitalised after vaping at school. Father of two Steve told ABC Melbourne the e-cigarette his son used allegedly belonged to the mother of a classmate. This boy took it to school and offered it to Steve’s two children in the playground, saying to try it because it tasted “like grapes.” This alarming case begs the question – “Is there a widespread epidemic of young people vaping in Australian schools?” Despite media reports suggesting an epidemic of teen vaping in Australia, research conducted by DARTA, led by respected expert Paul Dillon indicates that the majority of Australian teens have never vaped and are unlikely to do so.

It is true however, that vapes are readily available and accessible to teenagers (and in some cases tweens and younger), as they are easily able to purchase them through social media platforms. If you have been shopping recently, you may have noticed vaping retail stores popping up like mushrooms; alarmingly, in one NSW School’s case three retailers have opened on three of the four corners, surrounding a school, clearly our young people are the target audience for these devices.

Why should we be concerned?

Research by the Commonwealth explains that the 200-odd ingredients that can be found in vapes, (even though the label does not include them all) can include metal, and car engine coolant, and in many cases those that are billed ‘nicotine-free’ will contain significant amounts of nicotine.In some cases one vape can have the equivalent of 200 cigarettes.

• Vaping can lead to lung damage, respiratory problems, and other health issues. The unregulated nature of the vaping market on social media platforms raises additional concerns.
• There is no oversight of the quality or safety of the products being sold.
• There is no way to ensure that the products are not made up of highly toxic liquid, or the vape itself has been tampered with.
• Young people who purchase vaping products through social media are also at risk of being defrauded or ‘ripped off’ by sellers.
• Young people may meet up with strangers to collect the goods they purchased online.
• Sellers can post pictures, videos, and descriptions of their products and provide information about how to purchase them that bypasses any restrictions.

A recent study by the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre at the University of New South Wales has revealed that social media platforms are facilitating the easy purchase of vaping products by Australian teenagers. The study found that traditional retailers are no longer the main source of vaping products for teens. Instead, 28% of high school students have resorted to buying these products through platforms such as Facebook, Instagram, Snapchat, and Twitter. Disturbingly, 80% of these buyers were not asked to verify their age. So, if your child has access to social media and money, they have access to vapes. Please be aware that vaping product sellers often advertise their wares on social media by using hashtags such as #vapeforsale or #vapesforsale.

Madonna King, journalist and author of ‘Being 14′, recently posted the obvious question. “Why doesn’t the State Government lead the nation and make it illegal to sell any vape at any retailer anywhere?”  The Australian government took some steps to address the issue of teenagers purchasing vapes through social media. In 2019, the government passed legislation that makes it illegal to sell vaping products to minors, and in 2020, the government introduced new regulations that require all vaping products to be registered with the Therapeutic Goods Administration. Despite these regulations, the sale of vapes through social media platforms continues to be a problem.

What can schools do?

Principals and teachers have been pleading with the NSW Government to act and help with the growing problem. NSW Education Minister Sarah Mitchell has announced that the Education Department is in discussions with NSW Health to find a “whole of government approach” to tackling the problem. “I do think there needs to be a whole of government – and indeed, a whole of community approach – to how we educate our kids about the dangers of vaping, but also about the potential legal impacts as well.”

It is also important that schools are aware of the law applying in their state or territory in relation to smoking and vaping. For example, under the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2008 (NSW), the Smoke-free Environment Act 2000 (NSW), the Tobacco Act 1987 (VIC) and the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products Act 1998 (QLD), it is an offence:

(a) to sell e-cigarettes and accessories to people under 18 years of age; and

(b) for a person to smoke tobacco or use an e-cigarette (that is, to vape) at a school.

Putting it plainly, any student who vapes at MLC School is committing a criminal offence quite apart from breaking school rules. Any student found in possession of a vape on school grounds, irrespective of their intentions will be subject to consequences in alignment with our behaviour management guidelines. These may include suspensions combined with activities such as educative workshops that instruct students about the risks involved.

Education is proven to be more effective when used to deter students rather than providing consequences. As such, at MLC School, we are working in partnership with Paul Dillon to present to our Year 10 to Year 12 students about a range of drug and alcohol related topics including vaping. Through our Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) Curriculum, Kindergarten to Year 12 there is a focus on education and awareness about vaping through the mandatory syllabuses, with students from Year 5 – or younger – receiving drug awareness education. In all years, we explore responsible decision making, risk taking and refusal strategies. Age-appropriate awareness activities are delivered through our pastoral care program lessons, and we employ strategies such as limiting students from going to the bathroom in pairs or groups during lesson times to minimise the opportunity for peer influence without teacher supervision.

What parents and carers can do to help combat the issue of vaping?

The NSW P&C Federation co-hosted this webinar with Dr Kerry Chant from NSW Health and the NSW Department of Education to help parents and carers understand more about the facts on the health risks of e-cigarette use (vaping). Through the webinar, you will learn about where to find more information including the NSW Government’s ‘Do you know what you’re vaping?’ campaign and Vaping Toolkit which was developed in collaboration between the NSW Ministry of Health, Cancer Council NSW and the NSW Department of Education in response to the growing concern among principals and school communities about the increased use of e-cigarettes among young people.

Anecdotally, we have heard that some parents are facing difficulties in dealing with their children’s vaping habits. If you discover that your child is vaping and try to address the issue, you may be met with a range of responses that you feel unsure about how to handle effectively. This Blog by Paul Dillon has some great answers you can use to respond to the most common misconceptions young people hold about vaping such as:

• ‘But it’s not smoking!’
• ‘It’s just flavour, I don’t vape nicotine’
• ’’Vaping is safer than smoking – wouldn’t you rather me vape than smoke?’
• ‘I’m not hurting anyone, it’s just water vapour.’

Our advice to you is:

Talk openly and honestly with your children about the dangers of vaping and the potential consequences of getting involved in illegal activities like buying vapes through social media. Open communication is key. Encourage your child to talk and offer support without judgment. It is never too young to start this conversation.

Educate yourself on the risks associated with vaping and the strategies that schools are using to combat the issue. This will help you to better support your children and work collaboratively with schools to address the problem. NSW Government vaping information for parents

Establish clear rules and consequences around vaping. Make sure your child understands the consequences of vaping, including the potential health risks and legal consequences. If you suspect your child may be vaping, please take responsibility for checking their belongings – most vapes (some are pictured) look like USBs or textas/markers. 

What if my child is already vaping?

If your child is addicted to vaping, seek professional help. Talk to your child’s doctor or a mental health professional for support. It is important to be proactive about your child’s health and well-being.

Quitline counsellors are available to answer any questions about vapes on 13 7848 (13 QUIT). Quitline is a telephone-based service, offering information and advice. Quitline counsellors provide tips and strategies, and help to plan your child’s quit attempts, based on their own needs and preferences. They can also help you think of ways to approach a conversation with your child or loved one about vaping.

The Aboriginal Quitline is also available on 13 7848. Run by Aboriginal counsellors, the Aboriginal Quitline is a telephone-based confidential advice and support service.

If you require assistance in a language other than English, Quitline has counsellors who speak Arabic, Cantonese, Mandarin, and Vietnamese, you can ask to speak to one of these counsellors. For people who prefer to speak in a different language, Quitline uses the Telephone Interpreter Service.

The Cancer Institute NSW iCanQuit provides information on quitting methods, links to support groups and top tips to help your child quit.

– Melissa Boyd
Deputy Principal

Tickets for the 16th Sydney Opera House Concert Selling Fast

MLC School 16th Sydney Opera House Concert ‘Stories’
Concert Hall 
Sydney Opera House
Monday 22 May 2023
7pm – 9.30pm

The MLC School Sydney Opera House Concert is one of the hallmark events on the School’s calendar.

Tickets are selling fast, don’t delay your purchase to avoid disappointment. Once the venue is sold out we have no capacity to offer more tickets. Purchase via the Sydney Opera House Box Office, link below. 

The excitement is building for Stories, the 16th MLC School concert at the Sydney Opera House, as we return to this iconic venue for the first time since 2019. The concert features students from Year 5 to Year 12, and outstanding performances by our musicians. It is a signature event in the life of everyone involved with MLC School. 

This is a private link, only accessible to the School community, so you will not be able to find the concert on the general Sydney Opera House website. 

MLC School students in Year 5 to Year 12 will ALL be performing and do not need a ticket. Details of the concert day for Year 5 to Year 12 students will be shared closer to the event.

Call for ❤ MLC School Giving Day 2023 Volunteers

We are starting to prepare for Giving Day on Wednesday 7 June 2023.  On this day we come together as a community to open our ❤  and generate funds to give a gift of an MLC School Education to deserving young women.

With your generous support last Giving Day, two new Indigenous students started their journey at MLC School in 2023.

MLC School has worked towards greater understanding for First Nations people since the 1960s. This can be seen in our House names; and the opportunities provide for Indigenous students to attend the School over the years. Our community is enriched by cultural awareness and understanding. Your support this year is particularly relevant given the referendum on the ‘Voice’.

The success of the ❤ MLC School 2023 Giving Day depends on the support of passionate volunteers. We are asking you to volunteer a couple of hours to join our Operations Room to reach out to the MLC School community by calling others to invite them to ❤mlcschool and open their ❤ by contributing to the Giving Day.

Every little bit will count on this day, as each donation is effectively tripled in value, as a result of our generous matching donors, and will assist our Indigenous student scholarship program.

Volunteers can make a pivotal impact on the School we all care so much about. Please consider volunteering for a two-hour shift in the Operations Room and being at the ❤ of the action . Call scripts and numbers will be provided, as well as refreshments, and plenty of fun.

Please click here if you would like to volunteer on the day.

The Power of Teamwork

The School Swimming Carnival is one of my favourite days of the year. I get to see the girls crossing boundaries and challenging themselves to join in the House spirit and support all their friends and School Community.  Days like the carnival put many of our girls right out of their comfort zone. It can be a confronting day, but also a day that they learn so much about themselves and their peers.

But it’s not just about the students, we as staff learn so much about ourselves and our relationships with the students at carnivals. This year some of the staff formed a team to join in the synchronised swimming. While this stated out as a silly idea for fun, it turned into so much more. The staff that joined the team all had different reasons for joining and worked together to bring joy and laughter to all.

I loved seeing the staff involved work through nerves on the day and finish on an absolute high. We were each crossing our own boundaries alongside the students. We have all had students come up to us and talk about the carnival, encouraging us and thanking us for being part of it. Sometimes it’s the strangest things that bring us together and make us a team.

This group of staff was from all parts of the School. We had staff from the Executive, Music, Science, Languages, Religion and History, Drama, Dance, Heads of Years and a chaplain. I can’t really imagine another event that would collect such a diverse group.

When I was asked to become a school chaplain, I never imagined this would be part of the job. This silly idea brought about connection with new staff members, connection across staffrooms and departments and built a trust between staff and students who know we are willing to put ourselves and our pride on the line for them.

As an unexpected result of joining in this amazing team, as you can see in the photos, I am making progress on the walking on water.

– Rev Sally Yabsley-Bell
MLC School Chaplain

Click on the image gallery to view full sized images

School App – Adding an Event to your Calendar

Question: Can you add MLC School events listed in the app to your own calendar?

Answer: Yes, please see the two outlined steps and images below.

Step 1 – go to the calendar and then click a particular event in a day (Image A)

Step 2 – You will see three dots in the top right hand side to add the event to your calendar.

Year 6 to Year 12 – Fundraiser for Earthquake Victims

Next Friday 31 March 2023 (Week 9), a fundraiser (for Year 6 to Year 12) will be held in light of the recent earthquakes that have struck the Türkiye, Syria, and Lebanon region.

As many of you may know the earthquakes have caused significant damage and loss of life, with an estimated 15.2 million people being affected with 5.4 million of them being children.

To raise funds the Cafe will be selling Gozeleme next Friday 31 March at lunchtime for $5 and it is a cash only donation. On the same day, students will be allowed to come to School in mufti, accompanied by a gold coin donation to participate.

All proceedings will be going to UNICEF’s Türkiye fundraiser appeal, where donations will be used to provide critical supplies and water, sanitation and hygiene products, food, shelter, and medical provisions to those in need.

We encourage everyone from Year 6 to Year 12 to participate in any way that you can, in order to support those affected. Thank you!

– Lily Hatton and Sara Yaqub (Year 11)

Coffee With The Principal, Deputy Principal and Head of Junior School

Wednesday 29 March 2023
8.30am

Ailsa Butcher Room, Independent Learning Centre (ILC), Level 3, Senior School campus

The Principal Lisa Moloney invites Junior School parents to meet with her over coffee (or tea) to discuss school news, ask questions and meet other parents.

Junior School parents are invited to join the Principal, new Deputy Principal and Head of Junior School, in the Ailsa Butcher Room (ILC3) above the Cafe 1886 on the Senior Campus.

RSVP HERE
 

Careers and Tertiary Expo 2023

Wednesday 5 April 2023
6pm
Senior Centre

Students in Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12 are invited to attend the annual Careers and Tertiary Expo. Students can explore different industries and professions, learn about education requirements, and get insights from experts in various fields. The Expo will feature over 40 exhibitors including universities, private tertiary institutions, gap year programs, study abroad organisations, and admissions centres.

Throughout the evening students and parents can attend presentations on career-related topics such as Actuarial + Data Science, Business, Psychology, Paramedicine, Sports Management and more. Hear about how to apply to universities in the USA and UK, and UAC (Universities Admissions Centre) will run two presentations covering the ATAR and admissions process for applying to university.

Whilst attendance is optional, it is strongly recommended that all Year 12 students be in attendance. 

– Jo Cilia
Head of Careers and Academic Advising

Mother’s Day Classic – Join the MLC School Team

Sunday 14 May 2023
The Domain Sydney

Join the MLC School Team 2023 💗 

The Mother’s Day Classic Walk is a P&F initiative for all parents, students, family and friends. We’d love you to join the MLC School Team in getting active for breast cancer research this Mother’s Day!

Where: The Domain
When: Sunday 14 May 2023, Starting time: 8.32am
Distance: Walk 5km

Wear: 💗 PINK 💗 The MLC School P&F will provide pink hats for all team members.

Join us and start your Mother’s Day with purpose 💗

Uniform Shop Holiday Trading Hours

MLC School Uniform Shop will close for the school holidays on Thursday 6 April at 4pm and re-open on Friday 21 April 2023. 

An appointment is ESSENTIAL.  Please use this link to book an appointment to make your fitting a pleasant experience. 

Additional Term 1 holiday trading hours

• Friday 21 April 2023 – 9am–3pm
• Monday 24 April 2023 – 9am–3pm

Additional Term 2 holiday trading hours

• Wednesday 26 April 2023 – 8am–4pm

The uniform shop will return to normal hours on Thursday 27 April 2023. 

• Monday – 8am–4pm
• Tuesday – 8am–4pm 
• Thursday – 8am–4pm 
• Friday – 8am–4pm 

You are welcome to purchase from the online uniform shop at your convenience and your order will be filled when the store is next open.  

From The Head of Junior School

It has been a week of celebrations. Celebrating learning at school and offsite. Celebrating new life. Celebrating harmony and the gift of our multiculturalism.

International Night

Tuesday 21 March 2023 was Harmony Day, a very appropriate time to celebrate our gift of multicultural diversity. As this edition of the newsletter is sent, final preparations are underway for International Night 2023. I very much look forward to sharing this event with you in next week’s newsletter.

Year 6 Immersion

Our Year 6 girls undertook their Immersion marine biology study at Sydney Harbour – Chowder Bay, Taronga Zoo and at School. View photos on Facebook here.

Crazy Hair Day Pre-K to Year 5

Wednesday’s Crazy Hair Day was a great success, and lots of fun! We have some very creative hairstylist parents! Thank you for supporting the Leukaemia Foundation’s research into blood cancer.

Click here to view the full story.

Kindergarten Celebration of Learning

On Thursday morning our Kindergarten studio and The Hub were buzzing with excited girls, and parents too! Our Kindergarten students shared their learning with their parents, grandparents and carers. It was an absolute delight to see the smiles on the big and little people’s faces!

Click on image gallery to view full sized images.

Events Next Week

With so many exciting activities taking place, please keep a watchful eye on our weekly email of upcoming events. This includes:

• Monday 27 March 2023 – Cyber safety webinar at 6pm. A link will be sent to you.
• Tuesday 28 March 2023 – Year 1 Celebration of Learning
• Thursday 30 March 2023 – Year 5 Celebration of Learning
• Friday 31 March 2023 –  Year 3 to Year 5 Swimming Carnival
• Saturday 1 April 2023 – Year 3 to Year 6 IPSHA Cross Country

Baby News

Our Learning Enrichment Coordinator Pre-K to Year 5 (and Kindergarten teacher 2022), Erin Torres has had a baby boy this week! Matias Arlo Robert Torres was born last Sunday. 2.73kgs. Mum, Dad and little Matias are settling well into their new life together at home.

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Four Ways to Turn a Bad Day Around

This title captured my attention.

An article from The Greater Good Science Center, University of California, Berkeley, with suggestions about how to cope with a bad day was something I wanted to read. After all, we all have bad days where nothing seems to go right and we wonder “did I get out of the bed on the wrong side this morning?”

The Greater Good Science Center studies the psychology, sociology and neuroscience of wellbeing and teaches skills that foster a thriving, resilient and compassionate society. I subscribe to their emails as I know that what they publish comes from a solid research base.

As we head towards to end of what has been another busy term, it is noticeable that the girls (and adults) are getting tired. When we are tired we tend to be less resilient, compassionate and calm. This is normal. But the good news is there are things we can all do to manage ourselves and this article outlines four ways to do this.

• Step One: Activate the parasympathetic nervous system. This assists to interrupt the stress response. Breathing techniques and immersing ourselves in nature are good ways to do this.
• Step Two: Flood the body with feel-good hormones. Feel-good hormones counteract the effects of stress and activate endorphins. Exercising is a good example of activating these hormones. Hugging someone is also effective – think of how our first instinct when our children are unhappy is to hug them.
• Step Three: Triage our stress. Now our brains are in a better state to think we can work through what might help us solve that problem. Most often we do have the resources on hand to assist us to resolve what is causing us stress.
• Step Four: Set yourself up for success the next day. This is a big one for me as I think of our girls, your daughters, who come home after a not-so-good day at School. It is so important to reset and to think about what tomorrow might bring, have a plan in place to make it a better day. Get up with an attitude that this new day will bring good things to me.

At MLC Junior School we do deliberately teach the girls about self-awareness and self-management as part of the five Social Emotional Learning competencies. Being aware of our emotions and feelings, things that trigger negative emotions and an awareness of how we react, learning and growing to react in an effective manner is so important. We teach this as part of our Pastoral Care programs, through Kimochis (Pre-K and Kindergarten) and URStrong (Year 1 to Year 6).

May your day be a good day!

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Leawarra Junior School Crazy Hair Day!

On Wednesday 22 March, Leawarra held a crazy hair day. The Leawarra Captains sold tie-dye scrunchies and the Junior School girls made a gold coin donation to wear their hair in a crazy style.

It was great to see so many crazy and creative hair styles. Together with the money from our Leawarra Chapel Service and Crazy Hair Day, we raised $1619.20 which is going towards MLC Schools World’s Greatest Shave Fundraiser for the Leukaemia Foundation.

– Ashwini Kanesalingam
Leawarra Junior School Service Captain

Click on image gallery to view full sized images

The Great Book Swap

Hi everyone in the Junior School,

It is time to get ready for the Great Book Swap.

This weekend, go through your bookshelves looking for books that are in great condition, that you no longer need and would like someone else to have. Start bringing in books next week. Drop them off in the library each morning before school or at lunchtimes. Please don’t bring any more than five books per person.

On Wednesday 5 April 2023 (Week 10), we will be selling all of these books for a gold coin donation. This will raise money for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

Thanks for supporting us.

– Cassandra Eadie (Year 5), Jessica Lim (Year 5), Jasmine Luo (Year 5), Eloise Woodhouse (Year 5)
Your Library Captains

Junior School Photo Day Rescheduled

School photo day for Junior School has been rescheduled to Tuesday 28 March 2023.

Please ensure your daughter arrives at school on time, dressed neatly in her summer uniform, including MLC School badge and House badge. If your daughter has sport on the day she may bring her sports uniform to change into at school.

Hair should be neat, well groomed and tied back if it is longer than shoulder length.

Jewellery should be limited to one set of plain gold or silver sleepers or stud earrings and one fine chain necklace worn inside clothing.

Thank you for helping us ensure photo day runs smoothly!

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

Important Mother’s Day Information and Dates for Junior School

Personalised Gift – Scented Candle $30

It is an MLC School tradition for the Junior School P&F to organise a Mother’s Day gift as a fundraiser for the School.

Junior School Mother’s Day Raffle

As part of our Mother’s Day fundraising initiative, we run a Mother’s Day raffle.

All funds raised will be used to invest in the School by purchasing equipment and resources that are not in the School’s direct budget. We kindly ask our parent community to donate suitable raffle prizes.

In Term 2 each student will be receiving a book of raffle tickets to sell along with more details.

The raffles are drawn at School Assembly.

Call for Mother’s Day Raffle Donations

To honour all the amazing mothers in our lives, we need your contribution to this year’s Mother’s Day Raffle – prizes to be drawn Friday 12 May 2023.

Some prize donation ideas include pamper vouchers, experience gift certificates, hampers, mani and pedi treatments, massages, books, hotel stays or any other gifts of any size – all donations are highly appreciated. Just ensure there are no perishable or food items and you’re good to go!

Please leave donations at Junior School Reception no later than Friday 28 April 2023 clearly marked with your name so we know who to thank.

Thank you in advance for your kind support and generosity.

Mother Daughter Disco

Friday 5 May 2023
5.30pm–8pm
The Daphne Line Hall

Our Junior School Mums, Grandmas and Mother figures are invited to the Mother and Daughter Disco.

The evening will be a chance for some fun, food and family time for our Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6 students and their loved ones.

Dress code: Casual
Tickets are on sale now. 
Please book early for catering purposes.

Adult $35
Student $20

Tickets cover food, drinks, photo booth, photographer and DJ

BOOK HERE

 

 

 

Mother’s Day Stall – Save the Date

• Wednesday 10 May 2023
• Thursday 11 May 2023
• Friday 12 May 2023

The Mother’s Day stall will take place over three days – stall will be open from 8am on the Red Carpet and each class will have an allocated time to visit the stall during the week.

A catalogue of items for sale will be released closer to the date. 

– Junior School P&F

Uniting MLC School OSHC Vacation Care – Autumn holidays

Uniting MLC School Vacation Care offers children a variety of fun and educational experiences during school holidays, in a safe, secure and caring environment from 8am–6pm. We have a tailored program that is designed by children and educators where each day is filled with exciting activities. We provide a healthy afternoon tea at 3pm and children enjoy their packed morning tea and lunch during the day.  

For more information, please visit our website or to make an enquiry call 1800 864 846 or fill out an enquiry form.

Click here to view the Autumn Vacation Care Program.

– Sabreen Banu
Coordinator, Uniting MLC School Outside School Hours Care

From the Head of Senior School

At the end of Week 8 I find that I am reflecting on the breadth of opportunity at MLC School and all the wonderful things that happen day in and day out. Working in a school means that as staff members we are automatically part of a wide and diverse community. I derive such joy from being a part of this and seeing our students thrive. This sense of school spirit really took hold when I met many parents at the House Chapel Services and was reinforced at the Swimming Carnival!

Just this week I have seen students perform in the Year 9 Drama Showcase, watched students from across the School compete in House Volleyball (with Churunga taking out an impressive victory against Sutton!) listened to a rousing and moving Opera House concert rehearsal and taught my awesome Year 10 Commerce class about the five-sector economic model! These experiences are just a snapshot of my week and are a tiny representation of what our students, teachers and wider staff members are involved in every day. 

I am sure that next week (Week 9) will also be another wonderful week. I will take this opportunity to remind you that on Friday 31 March 2023, two motivated and engaged Year 11 students will be running a fundraiser appeal to support the recent earthquakes that have struck the Türkiye, Syria, and Lebanon region. Students from Year 6 to Year 12 will be allowed to come to school in mufti, accompanied by a gold coin donation. Café 1886 will also be selling gozleme at lunchtime for $5 (cash only). All proceeds will be donated to UNICEF Türkiye where funds will be used to provide critical supplies including water, sanitation and hygiene products, food, shelter, and medical provisions to those in need. This is a wonderful example of engaged service and will provide many learning opportunities. 

Please note the general guidelines about mufti wear: 

• Students should be in School appropriate neat casual wear eg no midriff or spaghetti strap tops or offensive slogans on clothing.
• Students should be wearing closed in shoes eg no thongs, crocs or ugg boots!

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Senior School Photo Day Rescheduled

School photo day for Senior School has been rescheduled to Wednesday 26 April 2023, the first day of Term 2.

Please ensure your daughter arrives at school on time, dressed neatly in her uniform.

Hair should be neat, well groomed and tied back if it is longer than shoulder length.

Jewellery should be limited to one set of plain gold or silver sleepers or stud earrings and one fine chain necklace worn inside clothing.

Thank you for helping us ensure photo day runs smoothly!

Year 7

This week Dr Prue Salter from Enhanced Learning Educational Services ran a study skills evening with Year 7 parents and students.  

The evening helped families assess what changes could be made to help students move towards achieving their personal best efficiently and effectively. Families examined the following areas: home study environment, the way they organise and manage their resources, how to work effectively at home and deal with distractions and how to manage the workload in high school.

Families also have access to a video showing the steps to studying in high school: making study notes, learning the notes by testing yourself, and doing as much practise as possible. Parents are encouraged to review the slides and handout from the session, discussing and identifying the main areas where changes need to be made, with their students.

Parents can also find extra study skills tips on the following Enhanced Learning website . As well, all secondary students at our School have access to a great study skills website to help develop their skills, including the Study Samurai videos. Go to this website link  enter the username: mlc@studysamurai.com and the password: 14achieve and start improving your results today!

Congratulations to our amazing Year 7 girls who performed outstandingly at the IGSA Swim and Dive Carnival.

Swimming

• Iris Ji (Year 7) – 1^st place in the 50m Breaststroke breaking the 28 year old IGSA record for the event! Amazing! Iris has qualified for the IGSA team heading to CIS.

A  big congratulations to the following girls who were also fantastic in the pool.

• Arya Benton (Year 7)
• Pip McGuire (Year 7)
• Darcy Costello (year 7)
• Ruth Costello (year 7)
• Shirley Feng (Year 7)
• Isabel Floro (Year 7)
• Harlow Elsibai (Year 7)
• Aurora Kang (Year 7)
• Ada Savage (Year 7)
• Chloe Oh (Year 7) 

Diving

• Ada Savage (Year 7) placed 1^st in 12 years Diving
• Tamara Abdelrahim (Year 7) placed 4^th in 13 years Diving

and they are both now heading to the CIS Championships representing IGSA.

A big shout out to our other Year 7 divers who were outstanding on the day!

• Indigo Hannah (Year 7)
• Celeste Flynn (Year 7)
• Emily Van Der Westhuizen (Year 7)
• Georgie Henning (Year 7)
• Chloe Oh (Year 7) 

Thanks for another wonderful week Year 7 and have a great weekend!

– Kylie Bickerstaff
Head of Year 7

Click on the image gallery to view full sized images

Year 8

Year 8 students have been busy with their ongoing assessments and many students have received grades back from their teachers. It can be tough to deal with a result that is not what the student had hoped for. I have had a couple of conversations with Year 8 students over the past week about this and encourage families to speak about this at home.

Year 8 girls are still early in their learning journey, and making mistakes is part and parcel of being an active learner. I hope Year 8 read their assessment feedback, take it on, and think about how to approach tasks differently if what they just did wasn’t successful. If you feel that your child needs some assistance with a study schedule or time management skills, please reach out to their Luminary.

This week in the Middle Years Assembly, it was wonderful to see Year 8 students acknowledged for Speech and Drama exam results and sporting achievements in swimming and rowing. There were some fun year groups challenges and Year 8 (Jemima and Lucy) were victorious in catching the most Easter eggs in the basket. Go Year 8!

As always, if you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to get in touch.

– Claire White
Head of Year 8

Year 8 PDHPE – Twisting in the Pool

Year 8 PDHPE students have had an eventful term in the pool, harnessing their creativity, strength, and flexibility during an artistic swimming unit.

From egg beater kicks and sculling, to forward rolls, twists and lifts, students and their teams have enthusiastically choreographed their own routine for presentation in Week 9 (Monday 27 March 2023). It takes a lot of coordination, determination, practice and team work to produce a creative routine, all of which Year 8 PDHPE students have displayed.

We can’t wait to see their final performances! Great work Year 8.

– Sarah Papachristoforou
Head of Department – Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

Year 9

Year 9 students kicked off the week looking closely at the Round Square IDEALS and Discoveries which will be developed through participation in their experiences at Adventurers Camp in Week 3 of Term 2 (Monday 8 May 2023).

Xavier Maling and Sarah Jauncey presented to the cohort about the way that Round Square helps shape learning experiences at MLC School as well as some background on the organisation.  

The Round Square Discoveries capture and describe the attitudes, attributes, skills and values developed and explored by students as they engage with the Round Square IDEALS. Through Adventurers Camp and students’ experiences in Cadets, Year 9 will focus on the Discoveries of Tenacity, where students discover in themselves the ability to persevere when confronted with challenge, and learn from their mistakes, with a readiness to try again. The other will be Teamwork, where Round Square Explorers discover the benefits of working together in a group with others in pursuit of a common goal. I encourage you all to discuss the benefits of these skill sets in your children’s lives and to reinforce the importance of committing to the challenges involved with new experiences.  

I would like to take the opportunity to remind all parents and students of the appropriate way to sign out of school if you/your child becomes unwell across a school day. If a child feels sick while at school they must, in the first instance, sign into the Health Centre to be looked at by one of our delightful School Nurses. If the child is not well enough to remain at school, the Nurse will contact their parent or carer to collect them from school. Students should not be coordinating their own collection from school with their parents directly. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

– Bridget Kovats
Head of Year 9

Design Art and Technology (DART) – Indigenous Residency

This week I was given the incredible opportunity to document the artist’s residency that was held in our School.

Four First Nations artists came in to continue their work as well as educate the MLC School community on their practice. This is the second time the workshop has been held at MLC School and the artists have been working on creating multiple colour etching images of the Australian landscape.

As I walked around, capturing pictures and videos, I observed the individual art styles of each artist. They each worked to create intricate and meticulous artworks of the landscape employing techniques such as etching and painting. Due to their intrinsic connection to the land, the artists have an incredible ability to capture the beauty, and the sacred nature of the Australian landscape while visually depicting stories and memories associated with the place.

I felt fortunate to have the opportunity to witness the artists at work, and I truly understood the importance of their stories and artmaking practice.

Experiencing the art of First Nations Peoples as well as listening to their stories is vital for all Australians, especially young people as it promotes knowledge, understanding and respect for the future.

– Eve Banyer (Year 10)

Click on image gallery for full sized images

Year 10 – Lester – A Recipe for Friendship

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 10

Year 11

I have to commend the cohort for how well they have handled their assessment week. I’ve caught up with a number of students and they are clearly well focused and keen to do well. There have, of course, been some bumps in the road and it’s important to remember that these exams are as much about developing exam technique and becoming familiar with process and format as much as anything else.

What has impressed me most has been those students who have reflected on their week and already established what they will change next time around. I’ve heard a lot of comments like ‘I wish I had…’ ‘Next time I’ll…’ and ‘Now I know I need to…’.

We’ll be unpacking the week in Luminary time moving forward, but in the mean time I hope that all our Year 11 students enjoy a well-earned rest over the weekend.

– Fiona Pow
Head of Year 11

Year 12

This week many of the cohort have been very proactive in seeking feedback and really taking on our School values of Growth and Courage while listening to teachers about next steps.

HSC English students completed another assessment task this week. We have some other final assessments for the term namely IB Italian Abnitio students and one IB Arabic student complete their Final Oral Examinations next week.

Group Photo Day Rescheduled

Due to the wet weather on our photo day this term, all group photos have now been moved to the first day of Term 2 for students, Wednesday 26 April 2023. This will involve Year 12 in several photos, including their formal year group photo and a muck-up photo.

Rowing

Congratulations to Tessa Tomkins and Francesca Morrison who won Bronze in their Doubles at their final rowing competition for MLC School at the Head of the River last weekend.

Chapel Services

I wish the Prescott and Sutton families wonderful House Chapel services this weekend and I hope the Year 12 Prescott and Sutton Luminary groups enjoy this special time.

If you have any concerns, I can be reached via email arenwick@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au or my direct line 02 8741 3278.

Coming up

• Final IB Italian Abnitio Oral Examination, Monday 27 March – Wednesday 29 March 2023 (Week 9)
• Year 11 and Year 12 North Queensland Geography trip Tuesday 28 March – Friday 31 March 2023 (Week 9)
• MLC School Careers Expo, Wednesday 5 April 2023 (Week 10)
• Last day of term Thursday 6 April 2023 (Week 10)

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 12

Year 12 IB Theatre Solo Nights

Last week, our 15 Year 12 IB Theatre students performed their solo pieces for public audiences over two nights.

The performances were also an assessment task, filmed for the International Baccalaureate (IB), and the task is a multifaceted one that takes commitment, collaboration and a real love of drama and theatre.

The students researched, explored and then applied the theories of a chosen theatre practitioner to either a piece they devised or to an existing script, to embody the theory in dynamic works. Our audience appreciated their work and the variety they saw.

Well done girls.

– Lisa Jinga
Head of Dance, Drama and Entertainment (DDE)

Click on image gallery to view full sized images

Careers News

UTS: BUSINESS

BACHELOR OF ACCOUNTING CO-OP SCHOLARSHIP (BAcc) 

Value up to $54,000, a year of full-time work training, careers with major employers

Briana Tran (2022) and Emily Eker (2020) are current recipients of this prestigious co-op scholarship, will be here to talk with students in Year 10 to Year 12, on Wednesday 29 March 2023,  lunch time in SC307

Here’s some information about the BAcc program:

The University of Technology Sydney runs Australia’s most successful co-op course – the Bachelor of Accounting. Just look at the list of employers who are actively involved with this program:

These employers together contribute almost $3 million annually to this one course alone. The reason? Demand for graduates of the course, who are seen as something special, is very high and will continue to be so for many years due to critical skills shortages in business.  This is despite tough economic conditions.

The UTS Bachelor of Accounting has the aim of producing potential business leaders of the future via an accounting career.

The main benefits to students who are selected into the Bachelor of Accounting are a tax-free scholarship valued up to $54,000, a year of full-time work training, and great career prospects with the major employers who support the course. No BAcc graduate has ever missed out on a job, and these job offers are generally made by March of the students’ third and final year of study. That might be only three years away from where you are now.

Other key benefits of this program, that set it apart from cadetships or other co-op courses, are that it takes only three years to complete and that students in the course study, work and play together as a close group of friends throughout that time.

What sort of students are we looking for? All-rounders, achievers and leaders in various activities. Plus you’d need to be interested in a career in business. A high ATAR is not essential, but it will help. Each year we take in students with ATARs in the range 85-100, who have the other skills and experiences to make them ideal business graduates.

And why choose to study accounting? Well, consider that accounting is recognised by big business employers as a highly desirable qualification for graduates to hold, and business leaders today increasingly have this sort of background. This is because the role of accountants has changed radically over the last 10 years; they are now the people called on to analyse the factors behind business success and failure, and who can provide the information needed for critical decision-making.

As a Bachelor of Accounting graduate you will have more potential than virtually any other professional – in terms of long-term employment and salary prospects, rewards and job security, opportunities for travel and working overseas, challenges and job satisfaction.

For further details on the Bachelor of Accounting program, please visit  UTS Bachelor of Accounting

Email enquiries:  carin.alberts@uts.edu.au 

Round 1 applications are now open and close on Friday 19 May 2023.

– Jo Cilia
Head of Careers and Academic Advising

New York University Campuses are Coming to MLC School!

NYU (New York and Abu Dhabi Campuses) will be at MLC School on:

Monday 27 March 2023
12.50pm–1.25pm
Senior Centre, level 3 open area

NYU is a dynamic and global university with three degree granting campuses in New York, Abu Dhabi, and Shanghai, as well as 12 other locations where students can study away. Students can choose from over 230+ areas of study and use the city as their classroom. 

NYU Abu Dhabi is a small, 4-year private, liberal arts college located on Saadiyat Island in an open, safe campus with a lively and inclusive residential community. With an 85% international student population comprised of 115+ nationalities, NYUAD has a strong DEIB focus on fostering intercultural competence. With rigorous academics and an in-built study away curriculum that expands across 12 global sites, NYUAD prepares students to be Comfortable Anywhere and Effective Everywhere.

NYUAD’s Student Life has 60+ Student Interest Groups, very much interconnected with the wider United Arab Emirates community, providing a vibrant and varied on and off-campus student experience. Our Career Development Center (CDC) works closely with students creating workshops, programs and providing 1 on 1 career advising services in preparing them for an internship, job, grad school or even the inspiration needed to jump-start an independent project. Due to this, NYUAD has a 96% placement rate within six months post-graduation. This young, 11-year-old institution has an academically rigorous curriculum with lots of potential for student-driven institutional changes. Finally, we offer need-based financial aid that can cover up to 100% of tuition and living expenses.

Please email me to register your attendance.

– Jo Cilia
Head of Careers and Academic Advising

IGSA Swimming Update

Last Friday 17 March, saw our Swimming team compete at the 97^th IGSA Swimming and Diving Championships. Our squad had been training hard to prepare for the meet and were confident that they would perform well, and that they did!

Apart from the numerous PBs, we had 16 swimmers contest the finals.

This was an amazing achievement and these results contributed to MLC School jumping up three places on last year’s performance finishing in 5^th place overall!

A special congratulations to:

• Christine Jin (Year 10) – Silver in 17 years 50m Breaststroke
• Florence Jiang (Year 11) – Bronze in 16 years 50m Freestyle, Silver in 100m Freestyle
• Annaliese Yan (Year 10) – Silver in 16 years 50m Breaststroke

The highlight of the meet would have to be Iris Ji’s (Year 6) 13 years 50m Breaststroke final. Iris had prepared well for the event and was confident that she would swim a good race. She had her sights on breaking the record. As we stood in the stands and cheered her on, Iris won the gold medal and broke what had been a 28 year old record set in 1995! Iris was overwhelmed with emotion, as were the supporters in the stands. It is a timely reminder about the importance of setting goals and achieving them, and how sometimes, achieving your goal can be just that little more special and meaningful than the first place!

Congratulations to Colman Wong and all the swimming staff on a fantastic result!

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

IGSA Diving Update

Last week our senior diving team competed at the IGSA Diving Championships at Sydney Olympic Park.

Our team were promoted to Division 1 this year and their performance was more than Division 1 worthy!

Congratulations to the following students:

• Ada Savage (Year 7) who won gold in the 12 years springboard division, and
• Tamara Abdelrahim (Year 7) in the 13 years springboard division who placed 4^th

Both divers have qualified for the IGSA Team heading to the Combined Independent School Championship next term. Ada has also qualified for the team in the platform event as well.

Also congratulations to:

• Tahlia Jefferey (Year 10) who placed 4^th at CIS trials and made the IGSA team as well.

A further big congratulations to our team who, on the day placed 4^th in Division 1, were also award the Most Improved trophy – our first Diving trophy at IGSA.

Congratulation to our Diving Captain Layla Hamdan (Year 12), her amazing diving team and our fabulous coaches Arienne Griebert and Sebastian Matesic.

– Kylie Bickerstaff
Assistant Director of Sport

Click on image gallery to view full sized images

CIS Primary Swimming and Diving News

On Wednesday three MLC Students represented IPSHA at the CIS Primary Swimming and Diving Championships.

Congratulations to:

• Emi Liu (Year 2) who placed 6^th in the 8 years 50m Freestyle.
• Clementine Lonergan (Year 6) who placed 4^th in the 12 year girls springboard
• Dora Cai (Year 5) who placed 2^nd in the 10 yrs 50m freestyle, 1^st in the 50m breaststroke and 5^th in the 50m butterfly.

We wish Dora all the best when she represents CIS at the NSW PSSA State Carnival.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Head of The River – Rowing Update

On the weekend the MLC School Rowing squad travelled out to Penrith to compete in the annual Head of the River regatta taking place at SIRC (Sydney International Regatta Centre). The whole squad was faced with scorching heat with the temperature reaching around 30 degrees. However, considering the brutal conditions everyone tried their hardest and put in everything they had into the races. Everyone should be super proud of themselves. With the squad racing in both 1000m and 2000m races we gave the other crews some tough competition.

I cannot express how proud I am of the whole squad and how much effort everyone has put in. The amount of cheering you could hear from the shore during the races from the MLC School parents, students and staff was unreal. All the squad encouraging and supporting each other made the entire experience absolutely incredible.

– Francesca Morrison
Rowing Captain 2023

It was a super hot day on Saturday 18 March at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith. Our rowers were ready for their events at the annual Schoolgirls’ Head of the River.

The girls and parents were fantastic in supporting each other and running along the banks cheering each of the crews on.

Congratulations to Francesca Morrison (Year 12) and Tessa Tomkins (Year 12) on the bronze medal in the Schoolgirl Double. A great way to finish their final year of rowing with MLC School.

Congratulations also to Luella Farah (Year 8) and Eleanor Longcroft (Year 8) on their bronze medal in the Schoolgirl Year 8 double scull.

Thank you to Rob Glendenning and his team of coaches for getting the crews ready for the regatta!

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Athletics News

Congratulations to Elysse Diep (Year 9) on another successful season of athletics.  At the State Little Athletics carnival over the weekend Elysse medalled in two events. She placed:

• 2nd in 400m with a PB 1:00.78s
• 3rd in 100m 12.59s
• 4th in 200m with a huge PB 25.75s

She has been invited to represent NSW at the Australian Little Athletics Championships held in Melbourne in April.

Congratulations Elysse!

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Junior School Swimming Carnival

The Year 3 to Year 5 Junior School Swimming Carnival will be held on Friday 31 March 2023.

Time: 9.30am – 2.30pm, at the MLC School Aquatic Centre.

To ensure that the day runs smoothly, we ask that you please note the following:

Dress

• Students should wear their MLC School Sports uniform, with their House coloured polo shirt, which is available from the Uniform Shop.
• School swimming costumes should be worn to school underneath sports uniform.
• House swimming caps will be provided. Girls will need to wear their play hat or cap.
• Please pack a healthy lunch. The vending machines in the Aquatic Centre are not to be used.
• Goggles, a towel and a plastic bag for wet items should be supplied from home.
• Please ensure that ALL items of clothing are clearly labelled.

Transport

• The class teacher will walk students to the Aquatic Centre at 9am.

Students have been entered into events based on their swimming assessments during PE lessons and during previous time trials. If you DO NOT give permission for your daughter to swim at the carnival, please email their class teacher and the sports department at sports@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

At the conclusion of the carnival, all students will return to the Junior School with their class teacher for a normal dismissal. You will be able to collect your daughter from the Junior School.

Students must have their name marked off the roll with their class teacher prior to leaving the Junior School.

Parents are welcome to watch the carnival from the upper deck of the Aquatic Centre.

We are looking forward to a wonderful Junior School community event.

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Sports – Expression of Interest (EOIs) and Payment Pages

Now’s the time to sign up or express interest in the following sports:

Snowsports – Whole School 

Please click here for EOI

Cross Country – Senior School

Please click here for EOI

Come and Try Minkey Hockey – Junior School 

Please click here for EOI

Badminton Term 2 Development Clinic Payment Page:

Please click here for payment page Year 7 to Year 12

Tennis Holiday Camp payment page

Please click here for payment page

Holiday Tennis Camp Expressions of Interest

The April School Holidays Tennis Camp has changed dates to the second week of the holidays due to the Easter Long weekend falling immediately at the completion of term. We appreciate this is a somewhat awkward time, so we are seeking expressions of interest to see if the camp is viable.

If you would like to participate in the camp from Tuesday 18 April to Friday 21 April 2023, 9am–1pm please follow the link below to complete the expression of interest form.

Holiday Tennis Camp EOI

– 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 attended at least 80% 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, 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.

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, followed by an email.

No Facebook post, or email 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, followed by an email.

On Saturdays

If you are playing an IPSHA Sport, please use this link to take you to the IPSHA Wet Weather site.

Once on the site, select your venue and there will be a notification if your venue is closed. IPSHA normally make a decision by 7am.

If you are playing an IGSA Sport, visit 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.

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 Sports Fixtures and Upcoming Dates

Sports Fixtures – Saturday 25 March 2023

Upcoming Dates

• Friday 31 March 2023 – Year 3 to Year 5 House Swimming Carnival, MLC School Aquatic Centre, 9am–3pm
• Saturday 1 April 2023 – IPSHA Cross Country, The King’s School, 7am–1pm
• Tuesday 4 April 2023 – Senior School Cross Country, Burwood Park, 8am–1pm
• Saturday 29 April 2023 – ERNA Netball Round 1, Meadowbank Park or Brush Farm – Various

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Follow MLC School Sport on Facebook

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

MLC School Sport Facebook Page

– Lisa Filby
Director of Sport

Outstanding Trinity and ASCA Exam Results, Term 2 Enrolments

SPEECH AND DRAMA STUDENTS ACKNOWLEDGED FOR OUTSTANDING TRINITY AND ASCA EXAM RESULTS

At Senior and Middle Years Assemblies on Wednesday 22 March, Speech and Drama students were congratulated on their outstanding results in their Trinity College of London and ASCA (Australian Speech Communication Association) examination. Almost 300 MLC School students participated in Trinity and ASCA exams last year and achieved highly. Junior School Speech and Drama students will be acknowledged for their wonderful achievement, and Distinction average in their ASCA exams at Assembly in Week 10 (week commencing Monday 3 April 2023).

Benefits of Speech and Drama in Senior years

• Speech and Drama exams receive extra points for university entry

Students completing Grade 8 or Diploma in Trinity College of London are eligible to apply for the Elite performers entry scheme gaining extra bonus points for University entry.

Students completing the ASCA Certificate of Communication and/or Diploma are eligible to apply for the Elite performers entry scheme gaining extra bonus points for University entry.

• Speech and Drama, Acting for Camera, Musical Theatre, Script Writing or Theatresports can be used as your activity for CAS and Duke of Ed. It is not compulsory to participate in exams for this.
• Candidates who have passed a Trinity diploma or ASCA Diploma or Certificate of Communication are entitled to use the letters standing for that diploma after their name.
• Trinity Diploma – ATCL stands for Associate of Trinity College London.
• Diploma of ASCA – Dip.ASCA.
• Diploma of Communication Dip.Comm. (ASCA).
• Certificate of Communication – Cert.Comm (ASCA).
• Diplomas can assist students with University entry.

Term 2 enrolling now

Our programs at The Speech and Drama Studio are open to all students no matter your age or experience. We have a program that will suit each student’s interests and needs. Private and duo lessons can be tailored to suit the individual/s and what they aim to achieve.

Pre-K  to Year 2 group classes – enrolment is through the School co-curricular microsite for these year groups.

• Pre-K day  Mondays 2.45pm-3.15pm or Fridays 2.45pm-3.15pm – please enrol through the School co-curricular microsite
• Kindergarten Thursday 3.15pm-3.45pm – please enrol through the School co-curricular microsite
• Year 1 Wednesdays 3.15pm-3.45pm – please enrol through the School co-curricular microsite
• Year 2 Mondays 3.15pm-3.45pm – please enrol through the School co-curricular microsite
• Year 3 – Year 12 – private and duo classes  *PLACES AVAILABLE*
  Fixed or rotational timetable

Year 3 – Year 12 group classes   *PLACES AVAILABLE*

Monday-Friday afterschool and rotating

Script Writer’s Club  (Year 3 to Year 5) *LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE*

• Tuesday lunchtime
• Senior Writer’s Club via appointment

Acting for Camera group and individual classes *LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE*

• Group session Fridays 3.30pm-4.50pm (Year 7 to Year 12)
• Monday and Thursday lunchtimes (Year 6 to Year 12)
• Private and duo lessons available on a rotational timetable (all ages)

Theatresports (Year 7 to Year 12)  *LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE*

Tuesdays 3.20pm-4.50pm

Musical Theatre (Year 3 to Year 6) *LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE*

Fridays 3.20pm-4.20pm

Musical Theatre (Year 7 to Year 10) *PLACES AVAILABLE*

Wednesdays 4.10pm-5.10pm

Future Leaders Public speaking clubs *LIMITED PLACES AVAILABLE*

• Monday lunchtimes (Year 3 to Year 5)
• Mondays 4.05pm-4.35pm (Year 3 to Year 5)
• Wednesday lunchtimes (Kindergarten to Year 2)

ONE OFF PERSONALISED LESSONS  *PLACES AVAILABLE* (all ages)

• Daytime or afterschool
• Lessons are currently being conducted via Zoom
• 30 minute coaching session $77 I  2 x 30 minute coaching sessions $140

Your daughter’s $100 Creative kids voucher can be used for Speech and Drama Studio programs

(excluding Pre-K to Year 2 Afterschool co-curricular program)

– Monica Brian
Speech and Drama Studio Director

ASCA Award Winners

OUTSTANDING ACHIEVEMENT FOR MLC SCHOOL SPEECH & DRAMA STUDIO STUDENTS

We are thrilled to announce that nine MLC School Speech and Drama Studio students received the prestigious ASCA (Australian Speech Communication Association) Excellence Award for their outstanding performances in their exam at the end of last year. Only a select number of students are chosen from each Studio. Part of the selection criteria in addition to an outstanding exam performance and result is a student’s continued commitment and achievement to their speech and drama studies throughout the year.

The students were presented with a Medal and Certificate at the ASCA Awards Ceremony held at Ravenswood School for Girls last Saturday. We are so proud of our students for their outstanding achievement.

Centre Medals                             

• Amelia Comley (Year 11)
• Josephine Doan (Year 8)
• Mariette Karam (Year 5)

Studio Medals

• Haegan Sitou (Year 9)
• Umaiza Mahfuz (Year 9)
• Aurora Sharma (Year 6)
• Zoe Zlamal (Year 5)

Studio Achievement Medals          

• Sarina Nagra (Year 10)
• Kaitlyn Yang  (Year 6)
         

“Attending the ASCA Speech and Drama ceremony was a prestigious event that I was proud to have been invited to attend. Seeing young public speakers from schools all over New South Wales and even further, like Kuring-Gai and Canberra, was an unforgettable experience. It was fascinating to be able to walk on stage and receive a medal in front of so many important people.

Speech and drama is an amazing co-curricular that I recommend everybody join and have a go at least once in your life. It really helps your courage to speak in front of people as well as act and perform, and you can walk from it with many life-skills for the future. I am so honoured to be a part of the Speech and Drama Studio community.”

– Josephine Doan (Year 8)

 “On Saturday a group of talented MLC School students bravely gathered at Ravenswood School for Girls, for the biggest moment in their lives. It wasn’t a common academy award, it was THE ASCA Awards (drum roll please) and medals. I had a mix of nervous and excited emotions and l was incredibly lucky to be there. There were some amazing Speeches and Performances in-between the awards. I liked all of the performances because they were incredible and the performers seemed to be different people onstage. They used emotions and voice to help elevate the performance. I had an amazing time and I am ready for more Speech and Drama challenges. A very big thank you to Ms Brian and Miss Milly and all the other teachers for all your help, support and encouragement in Speech and Drama. I am looking forward to lots more fun times!” 

– Aurora Sharma (Year 6)

April Holiday Production – The Speech and Drama Studio

The Jungle Book
An Adaptation of Rudyard Kipling’s Classic Story Written by Creative Educational Systems and adapted by The Speech and Drama Studio

Dates: Tuesday 11 April to Friday 14 April 2023
Time: 9am–3pm
After hours care 3-5pm optional: $30 per afternoon and subject to demand
Venue: MLC School Drama Theatre
Cast: Kindergarten to Year 6 – $429
Crew: Year 7 to Year 12 – $330

Students gain confidence and have lots of fun as they are taken through a rehearsal process including acting, singing, movement and dance to produce a production in four days. Students experience what it is like to be a part of a production team whether it be on or off the stage from start to finish. At the end of the five days students perform the production to family and friends.

An enormous increase in confidence and performance skills can be seen throughout the week. The productions provide a wonderful opportunity for students to form friendships with students in different year levels and allow every student to feel like a star!

The Holiday productions are open to external students as well. Siblings, cousins, friends are welcome.

For enquiries and enrolment contact The Speech and Drama Studio Director Monica Brian.

Your child’s $100 Creative Kids Voucher can be used for Speech and Drama Studio programs (exception of Pre-K to Year 2 Round Square group classes).

Enrolment Form

– Monica Brian
The Speech and Drama Studio Director