From the Principal

Having spent much of this term with our Old Girls and celebrating MLC School’s rich history of excellence in girls’ education, this week I was thrilled to be able to spend time with the youngest members of our School community, our Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten students.

After discussing what a Principal’s job entails with both groups and discussing the sorts of rules they would make if they were in charge, the Kindergarteners had the opportunity to visit some of the more historic areas of the School and to imagine what it must have been like to sleep at the School when we had boarding. We discussed what might have been different all those years ago and what was the same and they were very quick to notice that the boarders had the same school crest on their bed covers as they now have on their uniforms. Lots of questions and discussions followed as they tried to imagine the School of the past.

These girls will graduate in 2038 and 2039, and spending time with these engaging 4 and 5 year olds and reflecting on their bright, inquisitive questioning confirms how important it is that we continue to invest in the many facets of an excellent education, so that they are able to thrive in a world that our founders would barely recognise.  

As the preamble to the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) Futures of Education and Skills 2030 and 2040 asks, ‘How can we prepare students for jobs that have not yet been created, to tackle societal challenges that we can’t yet imagine, and to use technologies that have not yet been invented? How can we equip them to thrive in an interconnected world where they need to understand and appreciate different perspectives and world views, interact respectfully with others, and take responsible action towards sustainability and collective well-being?’

It is no easy challenge, but it is one that we are committed to addressing. An enormous amount of research and consideration went into developing our graduate attributes; the characteristics that we seek to develop in our students and underpin all that we do.

It is our intent that as each girl graduates, she will be…

• Compassionate to others and herself, interacting with others with kindness and respect, walking as a daughter of the light.
• Courageous in pursuits, daring to be more, expressing herself honestly and with integrity to live a life with purpose.
• Capable of navigating change and showing leadership in adapting to the multiple paths that her future will take.
• Connected to the broader MLC School community and legacy, using this connection to inspire her to be an agent of change in her world.
• Committed to and capable of achieving her personal best.

So, while 2039 might be some time away, and the future, by definition, is unpredictable, we are actively preparing them to adapt to, thrive in and even shape whatever the future holds.

Future of Education and Skills

Education for Human Flourishing

An update and thank you for your support during the recent Instructure data breach.

Thank you to our MLC School community for your patience and understanding during the recent Canvas disruption. I am pleased to confirm that our learning platform has been fully restored since Wednesday morning, and we are continuing to monitor it closely to keep it safe and secure for all students. Your support throughout this time has been greatly appreciated.

As we return to normal, I encourage all families and students to stay vigilant online. If you receive unexpected emails or messages asking for personal information, do not respond – report them to Scamwatch or the Australian Cyber Security Centre, or forward suspicious emails to ReportCyber. Staying alert online helps protect both individuals and our wider community. Click here to read more from Head of Information Technology, Steve Swarts.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Click here for the Facebook post.

MLC School Principal Lisa Moloney Recognised in Principal of the Year Awards

We’re proud to share that our Principal, Lisa Moloney, is an awardee for Principal of the Year (Non-Government Secondary or K–Year 12 School) in the Australian Educator Awards 2025. 
*Artwork by Emma Dong, Pre-Kindergarten.

With more than 30 years’ experience in education and Principal of MLC School since 2018, Lisa’s nomination recognises exceptional leadership in girls’ education – at MLC School and across the broader education sector.

In 2025, MLC School achieved record enrolments and strengthened academic performance through a sharpened focus on teaching and learning.

Lisa also led significant long-term initiatives for the School, including securing NSW Government approval for the Performing Arts and Sports Centre complex, progressing the state-significant planning process, and finalising MLC School’s Master Plan. In innovation, she championed the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence – supporting staff with clear governance and risk-management frameworks around privacy, data security and academic integrity.

Highlights from 2025 include:

• Junior School: More than 88% of Year 3 and Year 5 students achieved Strong or Exceeding results in both English and Numeracy in NAPLAN.
• Senior School: 53% of Year 12 students achieved an ATAR of 90 or above (open entry, non-selective).
• Co-curricular: Most improved school in IGSA athletics and Tildesley tennis, plus Archdale debating winners.
• STEM: A dedicated STEM Coordinator, a new STEM lab and national success in robotics, including the introduction of the VEX robotics program.
• Service and Inclusion: Strengthened service-learning opportunities and values-led initiatives that support a safe, inclusive community.

Beyond MLC School, Lisa’s influence is widely recognised through senior leadership and board roles. In 2025 she served as Chair of the Association of Heads of Independent Girls’ Schools (IGSA), sits on the Board of the Association of Heads of Independent Schools of Australia (AHISA), and is Deputy Chair of the Round Square worldwide network of innovative schools.

‘Over Lisa’s five-year tenure on the Board she has been an exemplar role model and leader in girls’ education… Under Lisa’s quiet leadership we have flourished.’ – Sonia Berry, Executive Officer, IGSA.

Lisa’s nomination is a celebration of the work happening across our School community – students, staff, families and alumnae – guided by a clear, values-led vision for girls’ education. We congratulate Lisa on this well-deserved recognition and look forward to sharing the Awards outcome.

Read more by clicking here.

140 Year Gala Dinner – Book Now for a Memorable Evening!

Saturday 13 June 2026
Sydney Hilton Hotel,
488 George Street, Sydney
7pm to 11pm
$250 per person (plus booking fees)

With tickets selling fast, now’s the time to book – we’d love to see you there, it’s sure to be a great night!

MLC School Chair of Council, Kylie Bryden–Smith, and Principal, Lisa Moloney, warmly invite you to a truly special evening as we celebrate 140 years of MLC School.

For generations of our community, milestone moments like this have been marked with laughter, music, shared stories and lasting memories. The 140 Year Gala Dinner is one of those rare occasions when past and present come together.

Join us for an elegant black tie evening of fine dining, live entertainment and a dance floor that will carry the celebrations late into the night. Reconnect with those who have been part of your MLC School journey, reminisce about the moments that shaped you, and create new memories to carry forward.

There’s no fundraising, no extras – just the joy of coming together to honour 140 years of friendship, connection and excellence in girls’ education.

Book tickets here

Dress to impress. Celebrate the memories. Be part of this milestone moment.

Tables of ten are available – gather your friends, relive the memories and secure your place at this unforgettable evening.

For table enquiries, please contact Sandra Chau at schau1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

Featured photos show a few moments from the 135th celebration – capturing the spirit of the night

Outstanding Results at da Vinci Decathlon

2026 da Vinci Decathlon

This week, MLC School students students demonstrated outstanding achievement across both days of the 2026 da Vinci Decathlon. The da Vinci Decathlon is an academically rigorous, interdisciplinary competition, which challenges high‑potential learners through complex problem-solving across a wide range of subject areas.

On Tuesday 12 May, our Year 7 – Year 8 team proudly represented the School and competed against more than 150 teams:

• The Year 7 team achieved an exceptional 1st place in the state in Creative Producers – a remarkable accomplishment.

In recognition of their success, the team was invited to perform their winning dramatic piece in front of the full audience, showcasing impressive creativity, confidence and teamwork.

On Wednesday 13 May, MLC School’s Year 9 – Year 11 students also achieved excellent results.

• Year 10 team placed 2nd in the state in Art and Poetry
• Year 9 team secured 2nd place in the state in Cartography (Geography)

On Thursday 14 May, Year 6 students achieved a phenomenal

• 1st in State in Code Breaking!

These results highlight the depth of talent, collaboration and intellectual curiosity across our student teams.

Congratulations to all students involved on their dedication, teamwork and outstanding performance across both days. Thank you James Adams and Amy Kirk, High Potential Learning Leaders, for your support of these students.

Please see the full list of da Vinci Decathlon teams below:

Year 5

• Aurora Chau
• Amelia Pang
• Jasmin Ganda
• Marina Chen
• Evelyn Tsang
• Leila Najdi
• Dylan Drummond
• Giselle Serravalle

Year 6

• Layla Montgomery
• Amanda Zhang
• Brittany Mok
• Emma Mo
• Nancy Liang
• Leanna Shen
• Caitlyn Law
• Charlotte Mok

Year 7

• Estella Tra
• Mikayla Brown
• Caitlyn Rodrigues
• Irene Chau
• Daisy Han
• Katie Tang
• Paige Tan
• Peta Bianchi Howden
• Maya Haysom-McDowell
• Lily Sugianto

Year 8

• Ava Xu
• Lavinia Xu
• Jacqui Zhang
• Charlotte Hui
• Sissi Zheng
• Ashwini Kanesalingam
• Sylvia Li
• Yang Yang Liu
• Lauren Cheng
• Jasmine Luo

Year 9

• Lauren Liu
• Bonnie Li
• Chelsea Keomanivong
• Michaela Kwaan
• Phoebe Tang
• Zining Jenny Chen
• Hana Lee
• Summer Nguyen
• Clare Wei
• Anna Poortvliet

Year 10

• Chloe Lu
• Marni Heavener
• Leanne Pham
• Rima Zhang
• Yolanda Deng
• Chloe Oh
• Rianna Tsang
• Amy Doan
• Caydence Sumantry
• Madeleine Girgis
• Katherine Woo

Year 11

• Sophia Hu
• Chloe Lin
• Joanne Chen
• Lindsay Zeng
• Jocelyn Su
• Janice Leong
• Stephanie Keo
• Yerina Kang
• Annabella Wang
• Meena Kanthathas

Learning Enhancement Department: led@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Stephanie Dimitrelis
Director of Learning Enhancement

Click on image gallery for full size images.

ICT Update — Steven Swarts, Head of Information Technology

This week has been an unusual one for our School community, and I wanted to take a moment to provide an overview of where things stand as we head into the weekend.

As many of you will be aware, earlier this week MLC School temporarily suspended access to Canvas – our learning management platform – as a precautionary measure taken on the advice of Australian government cyber security authorities. This decision was not made lightly, but the safety and security of our community is always our first priority. I want to be clear that this was not a breach of MLC School’s own systems. The issue originated with Instructure, the US-based company that operates Canvas globally, who experienced a cyber security incident affecting their platform.

I am pleased to report that Canvas has been fully restored and has been operational since Wednesday morning. Our team has been monitoring the platform very closely, and we are satisfied that it is safe for continued use. We will remain vigilant and keep a close eye on any further developments from Instructure as their investigation continues.

Please be more vigilant than usual

This is where I need to ask something important of every member of our community. Incidents of this nature can unfortunately lead to increased targeting by opportunistic scammers and cyber criminals. Using limited information they may scrape from internet sources such as names and email addresses, bad actors may attempt to craft convincing-looking emails or messages designed to trick you into clicking links, sharing personal details, or providing login credentials. This kind of activity – known as phishing – often spikes in the wake of widely-reported incidents, and our community should be more alert than usual in the coming weeks.

Please be especially cautious of any unexpected emails or messages that reference Canvas, Instructure, MLC School, Shiny Hunters or your child’s education – even if they appear to come from a legitimate source. Do not click links, do not open attachments, and do not provide any personal information unless you are absolutely certain of the sender’s identity.

If something doesn’t feel right, trust your instincts and report it. You can report suspicious activity to Scamwatch (scamwatch.gov.au) or the Australian Cyber Security Centre (cyber.gov.au/report), and forward suspicious emails directly to ReportCyber at cyber.gov.au. These are free government services available to everyone.

If you have any questions or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the ICT team at MLC School.

– Steve Swarts
Head of Information Technology

Year 5 in 2027 Scholarships are Open

MLC School has an All Rounder Scholarship for Year 5 students. This is open to all current Year 4 Students and those interested in attending the School.

Applications and registration payment for Year 5 2027 Scholarships will close on Tuesday 28 July 2026.

All Rounder Scholarships are awarded to applicants who demonstrate significant academic potential, together with achievement and potential in two or more of the following areas:

• Leadership
• Cultural/creative/performing arts
• Service
• Sport

The Examination will be held on Saturday 8 August 2026. Shortlisted candidates will then be invited to the School for an activity morning. Please note that not all shortlisted candidates will be offered a scholarship.

For more information about scholarships please visit our website, or contact our Registrar on 02 8741 3165 or email enrol@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

Current MLC School students click here to register

Chaplains Corner

‘Called to Respect’

This week in Chapel, as part of our 140th Anniversary celebrations, students reflected on the theme ‘Called to Respect’ through the words of John 17:6–11… a deeply personal prayer of Jesus for his disciples before his ascension.

According to the Christian Calendar, Thursday 14 May is Ascension Day… a Christian feast commemorating Jesus’ bodily ascent into heaven, forty days after his resurrection. Our students were invited to consider Jesus’ prayer of care, unity, and protection, and what it means for our community today. At its heart, the message reminded us that RESPECT begins with recognising that every person is known, valued, and belongs to God.

Students were encouraged to reflect on three key ideas:

Respect begins with belonging – every individual in our community matters. A simple act of noticing, including, or speaking someone’s name can transform a person’s experience of school life.

Respect is lived through our actions – respect is expressed in small, everyday choices: listening with attention, including others, and speaking with kindness.

Respect builds unity – In a diverse community like MLC School, respect enables us to honour difference while strengthening our shared sense of belonging.

In a powerful story shared during the service, I highlighted the impact of a simple invitation…reminding students that even the smallest acts of inclusion can make someone feel seen and valued.

As we celebrate 140 years of MLC School, we honour the legacy of those who have gone before us – a legacy grounded in compassion, courage, and respect; and our students were reminded once more that they continue to shape this culture through their daily actions. The reflection concluded with an affirmation that each student is known, valued, and held in prayer as they navigate their learnings, relationships, and future pathways.

– Rev Vinnie Ravetali
Senior Chaplain

The banner photo shows the School Daptains that led our Chapel Service this week.

Senior School Production – Tickets Now On Sale!

We are pleased to announce that tickets are now on sale (and selling fast) for ‘Romeo and Juliet’.

• Tuesday 2 June 2026, 6pm–8.30pm, Drama Theatre
• Wednesday 3 June 2026, 6pm–8.30pm, Drama Theatre
• Thursday 4 June 2026, 6pm–8.30pm, Drama Theatre
• Friday 5 June 2026, 6pm–8.30pm, Drama Theatre
• Saturday 6 June 2026, 6pm–8.30pm, Drama Theatre

Click here to book tickets

**Please note there will be a Year 7 Performance of the Senior Years Production on Wednesday 27 May 2026 from 4pm–7pm.

– Kellie Cogin
Director

Featuring rehearsal photographs. Click on image gallery for full size images.

Duke of Ed Gold Level Achievers Reception at Government House

Five members of the MLC School community were honoured at The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award –  Australia (NSW) Gold Level Achievers Reception on Thursday 30 April 2026, held at the magnificent Government House Sydney. Current students Kimberly Chou, Basketball Captain (Year 12), Serena Farley, Whitley Captain and Band Captain (Year 12) and Elena Sun, Fencing Captain (Year 12) were joined by Old Girls Amaya Karunakaran (2025) and Amreen Thind (2025) in being recognised for reaching the highest level of the Award.

Her Excellency the Honourable Margaret Beazley AC KC, Governor of New South Wales, hosted and addressed more than 350 guests across two receptions throughout the day – one of the most well-attended celebrations of Gold Award recipients in recent years.

The Gold Award is the pinnacle of The Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award and represents a significant personal achievement. To reach this milestone, students commit to at least 18 months of sustained effort across four areas – physical recreation, skills development, voluntary service, and a challenging adventurous journey – along with a residential project that takes them outside their everyday environment. It is a journey of perseverance, self-discipline, and genuine service to others, and the recognition at Government House is a fitting tribute to the dedication these young women have shown.

We are incredibly proud of Kimberly, Serena, Elena, Amaya and Amreen, whose achievement reflects not only their individual character and determination, but also the values we hope every MLC School student carries with them – curiosity, courage, and a commitment to making a difference in their community.

Congratulations to all five of our Gold Award achievers on this outstanding accomplishment. We also extend our thanks to the families, Award Leaders, and staff who have supported them throughout their Duke of Ed journey.

Pictured above: Kimberly Chou, Serena Farley and Elena Sun with Glen Mole MLC School Award Leader at Government House Sydney. A video of the event can be viewed here.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XdBiVBVpAIg&t=1s

– Glen Mole
Duke of Ed Award Leader

Celebrate Year 12 in a Different Way

Year 12 is a milestone moment in your daughter’s life – a time to reflect on all she has achieved and the mark she has made at MLC School.

MLC School Colour Run

The MLC School Colour Run; is a joyous community event we hold annually to raise much needed funds for the MLC School Sony Foundation Holiday Camp, a camp for children with additional needs.

The children (Campers) who attend the MLC School Sony Foundation Camp in December 2026 will be treated to inclusive time away from home full of thrilling and exciting adventures designed to help them grow in independence and confidence. They will be cared for in boarding-style accommodation at Land’s Edge, located at the picturesque Chowder Bay. Campers get to meet other children and make special connections with their Year 11 student companions who care for them for the 4-day, 3-night residential experience.

The flexible camp program allows campers to participate in activities where people understand and cater for their needs. Camp activities include swimming and rafting at the beach, an excursion to a water park, a reptile show, a fancy-dress disco, art and crafts and so much more. In addition to the benefits for the children attending the camp, there is a dual purpose of the program, providing much needed respite for the parents and siblings of these children, allowing them precious time to attend to their own needs. Our Year 11 volunteers who run the camp, supported by MLC School’s team of dedicated, experienced teaching and medical staff, will quickly learn about the challenges and demands involved in caring for a child with additional needs in a life-changing experience for all involved.

The MLC School Colour Run event details:

Friday 26 June 2026
1pm to 3pm
Burwood Park

Who can take part:

Students from Kindergarten to year 12 will participate on the day. Pre-kindergarten students are able to participate under the supervision of a parent or carer.

More details will be available via Omnia soon.

Please follow the instructions below to register your daughter to raise funds and participate. By raising funds, she will not only support the camp, but can earn awesome prizes.

All donations received for the Colour Run will go directly to funding the camp activities to ensure our campers have the best possible experience. We are looking forward to a great, colourful MLC School event!

– Sarah Jauncey
Director of Experiential Learning

From the Head of Learning and Teaching

NAPLAN 2026 – Sustaining Excellence in Literacy and Numeracy

We are pleased to share early insights from the 2026 NAPLAN assessment cycle. These preliminary results indicate that MLC School students continue to demonstrate very high levels of achievement across reading and numeracy, maintaining the strong performance we have seen over recent years.

Across all year levels, a significant majority of students achieved in the top proficiency bands (Strong or Exceeding):

Reading

• Year 3: 94%
• Year 5: 97%
• Year 7: 93%
• Year 9: 94%

Numeracy

• Year 3: 87%
• Year 5: 95%
• Year 7: 95%
• Year 9: 92%

These results reflect both the consistency and the strength of student learning from Junior through to Senior School. They are a testament to the depth of our academic programs and the sustained focus on building strong foundations in literacy and numeracy.

We are still awaiting the release of writing results, which will provide a further dimension to our understanding of student achievement. We look forward to sharing a more complete picture once these data are available.

What NAPLAN Measures

NAPLAN (National Assessment Program – Literacy and Numeracy) is a nationwide assessment that provides a snapshot of student achievement in key areas, including:

• Reading
• Writing
• Numeracy
• Spelling
• Grammar and punctuation

It is important to understand that NAPLAN is:

• A point-in-time assessment, rather than a comprehensive measure of a student’s capabilities
• One of many tools we use to understand student learning
• Designed to track broad trends over time, supporting schools to refine teaching and learning practices

At MLC School, NAPLAN data is considered alongside a rich range of internal assessments to ensure that each student is appropriately supported and extended in their learning.

The consistency of these results reflects the expertise of our teachers, the engagement of our students, and the strong partnership we share with families.

Well done to our students and staff!

Year 10 Subject Selection

Year 10 subject selection is fast approaching, and we are looking forward to supporting our students and families through this important stage of planning for the senior years.

During Luminary in Week 5 (Monday 18 May 2026) and Week 6 (Monday 25 May 2026), Year 10 students will begin the subject selection process and learn more about the two senior pathways offered at MLC School: the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma. At MLC School, we believe there is no ‘better’ credential, only the credential that is the best fit for each individual student. Both are internationally recognised and equally valued by the School.

To guide students well, we draw on a range of information, including internal assessment data, student engagement measures, diagnostic cognitive testing, careers profiling and teachers’ recommendations. This helps us provide each student with thoughtful, personalised advice about the credential and courses that are likely to suit her strengths, interests and future goals.

When students choose subjects, the best starting point is always their interests, abilities and aspirations, not perceptions of scaling. During our information sessions, we will address some of the common myths surrounding both credentials and help students understand what success in Stage 6 really looks like. Students thrive in both pathways when their choices are well matched to their learning profile and goals.

The multidisciplinary International Baccalaureate Diploma requires students to study six subjects across a range of disciplines, alongside core components that strengthen research, writing and critical thinking. These include Theory of Knowledge, the Extended Essay and the CAS (Creativity, Activity, Service) programme. The IB Diploma is often well suited to students who are well rounded, highly organised, strongly engaged in school, independent in their thinking and willing to grapple with complex ideas. It is a pathway that also develops global perspective and competency.

The Higher School Certificate similarly provides a strong foundation for university study, vocational training and employment. Students following this pathway may choose a broad and diverse range of subjects or pursue areas of particular strength and passion in greater depth. For example, a student with a strong interest in History may choose Modern History, Ancient History and History Extension. In recent years, the HSC has also become more flexible, with students now able to include multiple VET (Vocational Education and Training) courses in the calculation of their ATAR. These courses allow students to gain an industry qualification while completing their HSC. In addition, MLC School introduced acceleration courses in Mathematics and Studies of Religion I in 2025. These courses provide highly organised and capable students with the opportunity to complete some units in Year 11 and gain early experience of HSC study.

The Year 10 Subject Selection Information Evening will be held on Wednesday 10 June 2026, and students will attend a Subject Selection Expo at school on Friday 12 June 2026. Subject selection interviews for students and families will take place on Monday 22 June 2026 and Tuesday 23 June 2026. More details will be shared shortly, and we encourage families to engage fully in this process as we work together to help each student choose the pathway that is right for her.

– Melissa McMahon
Head of Learning and Teaching

Understanding Autism: Professional Learning

We are very proud to have supported some staff to complete the Understanding Autism blended Professional Learning course in Term 1.

This training supports our commitment to ensuring students are able to access, participate and thrive in their learning alongside their peers. It is also an important part of our whole-school strategy of challenging every girl at her point of need by building staff capability and continuing to create inclusive learning environments where all students can feel a strong sense of belonging and success.

Throughout the course, staff deepened their understanding of neurodiversity and explored practical ways to strengthen inclusive teaching practices in the classroom.

We thank these staff members for their time, dedication, and thoughtful engagement in both the online learning and collaborative discussions. Their commitment continues to enhance the learning experience for all students at MLC School.

Learning Enhancement Department: led@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Stephanie Dimitrelis
Director of Learning Enhancement

Study Opportunities available at MLC School

MLC School offers two Study Support Opportunities:

• Year 11 and Year 12 After-Hours Study Hub
• Year 7 to Year 12 Study Hub+ – please click here to read further and to access the nomination form.

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

Year 11 and Year 12 After-Hours Study Hub

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

Key Features:

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

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

There is no need to register for this program.

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

*Photo Credit, Unsplash

Study Hub+

Term 2 2026 Study Hub+  – Fill in form

Study Hub+ is MLC School’s structured, pay‑per‑use after‑school study support program, designed for students in Year 7 to Year 12 who would benefit from more personalised academic guidance in a focused and supportive environment.

While the Study Hub provides a supervised space for independent study for Year 11 and Year 12, Study Hub+ offers a higher level of individualised, responsive support. Sessions are student‑led, allowing mentors to tailor assistance based on each student’s specific needs on the day. This may include consolidating class learning, clarifying assessment requirements, preparing for examinations, or developing effective and sustainable study routines.

Led by Program Coordinator Ela Huber, Study Hub+ is supported by a team of knowledgeable mentors, all of whom are pre‑service teachers or working towards a career in education. Most mentors are in the final stages of their undergraduate or Master of Teaching degrees and bring with them a strong depth of subject knowledge, alongside up‑to‑date, innovative and curriculum‑aligned resources. This ensures students receive guidance that is relevant and closely aligned with classroom expectations.

A key strength of Study Hub+ is the opportunity for students to work alongside a mentor, particularly when engaging with written tasks. Mentors can read through work with students, ask guiding questions, suggest improvements to structure, clarity and expression, and help students refine their ideas and arguments. While mentors are unable to mark work or provide grades, they can offer valuable feedback and editing support prior to submission, helping students better understand how to improve their work independently.

Mentors can support students with:

• Revising and consolidating key concepts and class content
• Examination preparation and revision strategies
• Planning and organising assessments and study schedules
• Reading through drafts alongside students and suggesting edits or refinements
• Developing confidence, independence and effective study habits

Study Hub+ also plays an important role in supporting students in an era where AI is a valuable and encouraged tool at MLC School, but one that requires thoughtful, ethical and informed use. Students can sometimes over‑rely on AI when completing homework and assessments, which may leave them unsure about underlying concepts, task expectations or how to improve their own work.

At Study Hub+, mentors help reinforce the appropriate and ethical use of AI by guiding students to use these tools as a support for learning rather than a replacement for thinking. Mentors work with students to unpack questions, clarify concepts, check understanding and refine ideas, ensuring students remain actively engaged in their learning and confident in the work they submit.

Program Overview

• Schedule: Monday to Thursday, 3.30pm–6pm (term time)
• Location: Level 1, Senior Centre
• Cost: $25 per session (2.5 hours) and charged to your daughter’s account at the end of term
• Environment: Phone‑free zone to minimise distractions and promote positive study habits
• Staffing: A minimum of two mentors per session, rotating to provide a range of subject expertise

Families are encouraged to register on a termly basis to support the development of consistent study routines, although weekly bookings remain available via Omnia and Audacia, the School e-newsletter. Students will receive a reminder email at approximately 2pm on their scheduled day confirming their session and assigned room.

Cancellation Policy

If your daughter is unable to attend a scheduled session, please provide at least 24 hours’ notice to avoid being charged. In cases of illness where your daughter is absent from school, families will not be charged.

For further information, please contact Ela Huber, Program Coordinator.

Term 2 2026 Study Hub+  – Fill in form

*Photo Credit, Unsplash

From the Head of Junior School

A Busy, Fun-Filled Week for Pre-Kindergarten

On Wednesday, our Pre-Kindergarten Celebration of Learning was a wonderful opportunity to welcome parents and family members into our classroom to share in the children’s learning journey. We began the morning with songs from our daily ritual, including our Acknowledgement of Country, creating a warm and familiar start to the session.

The children then rotated through three engaging activities: a collaborative drawing activity with our Visual Art teacher, Marion Doull; singing and movement with our Music teacher Sophie Grattan-Smith and time in our learning studio where they proudly shared some of their favourite activities and work. It was wonderful to see such strong family engagement and to celebrate the children’s confidence, creativity and joy in learning together.

The excitement of this week also included a visit from Principal, Lisa Moloney. Click here to view Lisa’s full story.

– The Pre-Kindergarten Team

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 5 and Creative Collaborations with Uncle Jimmy Smith

Last Wednesday we were incredibly fortunate to have a visit from local Aboriginal elder Uncle Jimmy Smith.

Our Year 5 students had been learning about cartography, and this was greatly enriched through Uncle Jimmy sharing his knowledge about Pre European cartography of the local area. He spoke with the girls, drew a map for them, and then encouraged them to draw their own maps, including Indigenous place names. He then embedded ideas of connection to country by encouraging them to add animals and plants that inhabit the area.

They worked in teams, alongside a group of Aboriginal Studies students from the Senior School, and the level of energy, knowledge and engagement was exhilarating! It is so wonderful to see our amazing students eager to take on new learning and respond intellectually and creatively. This work will form the basis of a new collaborative artwork to be unveiled in Junior School….so watch this space!

– Marian Doull
Junior School Visual Arts Teacher

Please note that permission for photographs was given by Uncle Jimmy.

Library News

Premier’s Reading Challenge – Monday 23 February 2026 to Friday 18 September 2026

Congratulations to these readers who have completed the challenge:

Year 2

• Celine Kim

Year 3

• Irene Kim
• Elyse Ma

Year 4

• Kate Alarcon Dominguez
• Lakshmi Bedadam

Well done! Please come to the library to choose your bookmark.

Belong Book Launch and Competition

It was very exciting to launch my book, Belong, on Thursday.

Belong Competition

Win a signed copy of Belong! Entries are due by Monday 1 June 2026.

Click here for instructions on how to enter

Belong is available for purchase in Dymocks Burwood, Gleebooks and Better Read Than Dead and online at Dirt Lane Press, QBD and Amazon.

National Simultaneous Storytime – Wednesday 27 May 2026

Now in its 26^th year, National simultaneous Storytime (NSS) is an annual literacy event organised by the Australian Library and Information Association (ALIA) that takes place in schools and libraries across Australia, bringing millions of children, parents and teachers together to read the same book at the same time. It promotes storytelling, literacy and community connection.

This year, the book we will be reading is Luna Roo the Kangaroo Baller, written by Adam Jackson and Adrian Lloyd and illustrated by Jake Minton.

Lunchtime Book Club 

Students in Year 3 are invited to join a lunchtime Book Club this term, beginning in Week 6 (Tuesday 26 May 2026). The book we will be reading is Mega Rich Guinea Pig$ by Kate and Jol Temple. We will meet every Tuesday up until Week 10 (Tuesday 23 June 2026).  Kate and Jol Temple are our book Week authors this year, so the girls can have their copy signed in Term 3. Please register your interest by completing the form below. Places are limited to 30.

Year 3 Lunchtime Book Club – Fill out form

Happy reading!

– Sharon Seymour
Teacher/Librarian

From the Head of Senior School

Mother’s Day Classic

This week started off with our Mother’s Day Classic walk on Sunday. There was a great showing for MLC School in the 5km run and the 5km walk. As we do every year, we came together with our MLC School pink caps for a photo on Macquarie Street before the walk and it was lovely to see Junior School students, Senior School students, Old Girls, parents, teaching staff and their families come together for a great cause and a nice way to start Mother’s Day. It was so fun to wave across the course to others representing the School as we snaked around College Street and the Domain. Congratulations to Arielle McBrien (Year 7) who came third out of all the females running the course. Please consider joining us next year, when I hope we will enter the biggest team yet.

Study and academic progress support

On Wednesday, our Year 11 families came in for their Parent/Teacher Interviews. Many productive conversations were had, and I am so grateful for the time and effort the teachers put into their preparation for the evening.

As we are entering a significant period of the Year 12 journey, we have invited families to attend a Student Progress Conversation to follow up on initial discussions held in Term 4 2025. These meetings are designed to support each student to reflect on how they are currently engaging with their studies and to develop a clear, focused action plan for the important months ahead. These conversations are 20-minute meetings involving students, parents, and a Luminary teacher or senior staff member. They provide an opportunity to review current learning habits and student engagement, discuss progress and challenges, and identify practical strategies to support continued improvement and success. These meetings also build on the Academic Mentor program, where students regularly meet with a member of staff on an individual basis to support their organisation, motivation and progress. A link to information and booking via Omnia can be found by checking the Year 12 article in this newsletter.

Assessments and reports for Year 7 to Year 10

Over the next few weeks, students continue to complete assessments, and it is the time of term where the students can feel the strain. I encourage you to discuss your daughter’s deadlines and upcoming tasks along with her co-curricular commitments and reach out to her Luminary or Head of Year if she needs support. Our Study Hub+ sessions, open to students from Year 7 to Year 12 are available and incredibly useful at this time of the year as students can complete homework and study with access to help in a structured way without the temptation of screens (or the fridge!) I would encourage you to consider enrolling your daughter in one or more sessions.

Study Hub Next Week

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Arigatou Takuya‑sensei!🌸

For the past three weeks, our Japanese classes have had the pleasure of welcoming Takuya Ishijima‑sensei from Aichi, Japan joining their lessons. He came to Australia to share his love of Japan and its beautiful culture, while also improving his English along the way.

Students especially enjoyed hearing about life in Aichi, a region known as the global headquarters of Toyota Motors and celebrated for its delicious local specialties such as miso katsu (deep‑fried pork cutlet with miso sauce) and hitsumabushi (grilled eel on rice). Takuya sensei also shared rich insights into Japan’s beautiful seasonal traditions, explaining how each of the four seasons is marked by its own foods, customs, and ways of appreciating nature. Through stories about daily life, cultural practices, and the deep connection between Japanese people and the natural world, he helped students deepen their understanding and appreciation of Japanese culture.

During his time with us, Takuya‑sensei taught students origami, introduced them to traditional Japanese games such as kendama (ball toss), and even shared elements of the tea ceremony, giving students a hands‑on experience of Japanese culture. One of the greatest benefits for our students has been the opportunity to practise speaking Japanese with a native speaker. Many students have said that working with Takuya sensei has boosted their confidence and helped them feel more comfortable using Japanese in real conversations. His patient guidance and friendly encouragement created a supportive environment where students felt safe to take risks and grow in their language skills.

We sincerely thank Takuya sensei for everything he has shared with us, and we wish him all the very best for the future. 

– Natasha Collins 
Assistant Head of Department – Languages

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 7

This was the week when all Year 7 girls farewelled Emily Marsh as she goes on maternity leave. The girls prepared a thank you card and signed it wishing Emily all the best and thanking her for her work with them. I would like to personally thank her for the enormous support given to me during the hand over process in taking in the new role as Acting Head of Year 7.

I would like to remind all girls to treat each other with respect. Respect is one of our School Values and we had our Chapel service this week. This was led by Reverend Vinnie Ravetali, and she talked about respecting others, even if they are not friends. I would like to remind the girls that they should always treat each other the way they wish to be treated. It would be wonderful for parents and carers to discuss this at home too. This would reinforce the importance of respecting others.

A gentle reminder that next week, on Friday 22 May 2026, the Year 7 girls will have their vaccinations here at school. These are usually organised by classes, and I will release the finalised timetable next week. The Year 7 students are allowed to come to school wearing their PE uniform during this day.

Read full instructions for online consent here. If this has not been provided for your daughter, a vaccination will not be available.

Last Sunday, some Year 7 girls participated in the Mother’s Day Classic Run. This is a charity run organised to collect donations to support breast and ovarian cancer research. It is wonderful to see how our girls go above and beyond to support such great causes.

Lastly, I would like to say that my time to memorise all names of my Year 7 girls has run out. From now on, for every name I do not remember, I will have to pay a ‘delicious’ price to my lovely Year 7 students. Furthermore, I will continue to create new challenges for the girls so that they can think, smile, get creative and have fun!

– Martina Stolzi
Acting Head of Year 7

Year 8

This week Year 8 were introduced to their upcoming Immersion experience. Each Wednesday, the cohort will meet with Tim Lennon, Director of Indigenous Education for a truth telling session. This week, the students heard about Tim’s path to becoming passionate about Indigenous education and about the inequities that exist in society. Year 8 were deeply engaged in his story and are looking forward to learning more and truly immersing themselves in a learning journey.  

This week we also celebrated the Year 8 students who achieved the Blue Spirit of MLC School Award and learned more about the Round Square Ideals with Henry Wijanto, Round Square Coordinator.  Congratulations to our Year 8 students!

This is also a reminder that enrolments for MLC School Army Cadet Unit are now open for Year 8. The registration process closes on Friday 29 May 2026. Information has been sent out via the MLC School app and was run in last week’s Audacia (newsletter).

Have a lovely weekend, and please reach out to the Luminary or myself if you have any concerns. 

– Claire White
Head of Year 8

Spirit of MLC School Award

Celebrating the Spirit of MLC School Award

The Spirit of MLC School Award is an award designed to recognise and encourage our students from Year 5 to Year 8 to live by and engage with the Round Square Spirits and Discoveries. This award celebrates the positive contributions made by each recipient to both MLC School and the broader community. Participation in the Spirit of MLC School Award is voluntary and prepares our students to undertake the Duke of Edinburgh Award when they enter Year 9.

The award fosters increased levels of participation within the school community, ensuring every MLC School Girl takes full advantage of their time at the school.

Year 9

After the recent Urban Challenge Camp, where Year 9 students took on real-world team challenges and earned points (with families joining in through parent challenges) – representatives from Urban Challenge joined us at our year meeting on Monday to announce the winning team.

They spoke very highly of our MLC School students, commending their respect, teamwork and conduct throughout the entire experience. The guides consistently remarked on what a pleasure it was to work with such a wonderful group of young people.

A Word About Wearing The Correct Uniform

I also spoke with the cohort about wearing the correct uniform and reminded them of our standards and expectations. In particular, the two issues I see most often in Year 9 are students not wearing their blazer to and from school, and students wearing sports uniform without a legitimate reason.

Please note, that students must have a sports uniform pass if they do not have sport on that day. I would be grateful if parents could reinforce these expectations at home. If a student does need to wear sports uniform for the day, I would appreciate an email so that I am aware there is a valid reason.

During Luminary time on Thursday, the Luminary groups paired up for some ‘speed dating’. Students were given a list of conversation starters and encouraged to speak with a variety of people they may not usually engage with. This provided them with an opportunity to strengthen their conversation skills and step outside their comfort zones by interacting with others in the cohort. It is hoped that these activities will assist students in developing stronger connections within the year group, which will prove beneficial as they transition into the senior years.

– Kate Schurch
Head of Year 9

Year 10

The highlight of the week was the Year 10 excursion to the Sydney Jewish Museum. As the museum in Darlinghurst is being renovated, we relocated to the Central Synagogue in Bondi Junction. As a result, the girls got to experience a day of Jewish history, culture and faith in a beautiful building and serene environment. The excursion is a Year 10 tradition and supports their learning in genocide studies in History and Judaism in Religious Education (RE).

We heard the stories of two Holocaust survivors, and the girls had the opportunity to ask questions about their journeys of trauma, survival and life in Australia. In our image this week, Group 1 are shown listening to Dr Richard Huber, who was only six years old when his life changed forever and he was transported to a ghetto in Krakow. His story of survival included luck but was mostly due to the actions of others who stood up and risked their lives to save him and his family. After the talk, the girls had a tour of the beautiful synagogue and a workshop on key artefacts from the museum collection. The girls asked excellent questions and engaged in all aspects of the program.

Upcoming Date

Wednesday 10 June 2026 – Year 10 Parent/Teacher Interview and Subject Selection Evening, 4pm–7pm.

Please read full information about Year 10 Subject Selection in the Head of Learning and Teaching article by clicking here.

Further information and booking details will be shared soon.

For academic concerns, please contact your daughter’s class teacher. For wellbeing and pastoral concerns, please check in with your daughter’s Luminary and myself on 02 8741 9736 or sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Take care.

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 10

Year 11

It was wonderful to see so many families at the Year 11 Parent/Teacher Interviews on Thursday evening. I hope the conversations provided you with clear insight into your daughter’s progress, along with meaningful feedback to guide her next steps. These evenings play an important role in strengthening our partnership with families, ensuring we work collaboratively to support each student’s learning and help her to achieve her best. Should you have any further questions following the interviews, please do not hesitate to contact your daughter’s class teacher.

In our Year Meeting on Tuesday, Fiona Pow, Head of Students Year 10 to Year 12, spoke with the Year 11 students about the effective use of their study periods. There continues to be a need for students to arrive promptly, sign in with the correct supervising teachers and use this time purposefully. As we move through the midpoint of the term, the effective use of study periods is increasingly important to ensure students are well prepared for upcoming assessment tasks. I look forward to seeing Year 11 continue to take greater responsibility for using this time to consolidate learning and engage in focused study.

On Wednesday, Year 11 joined with Year 10 for our weekly Chapel service. A special mention to Ava McLean, Chloe Nguyen and Charlotte Djamhur, who performed as part of the Chapel band alongside Year 12 students. The singing was outstanding, and it was a joy to hear the girls singing together as a combined year group.

Pastor Luisa also shared a powerful and timely message around respecting our bodies, encouraging self-kindness and appreciation. This is an important message for our Year 11 students as they navigate the academic and personal demands of Senior School.

– Penny Hewett
Head of Year 11

Year 12

• Friday 22 May 2026 – Year 12 Semester One reports published 
• Tuesday 26 and Wednesday 27 May 2026 – Year 12 Student Engagement meetings 
• Wednesday 3, Thursday 4, Friday 5 and Saturday 6th June – Senior Years Production – Romeo and Juliet
• Monday 8 June 2026 – King’s Birthday Public Holiday
• Saturday 13 June 2026 – 140 Year Gala Dinner
• Thursday 18 June 2026 – Illuminate 
• Wednesday 24 June 2026 – 140 Years Celebration Concert – Town Hall
• Friday 26 June 2026 – MLC School Colour Run and last day of Term 2

– Bridget Kovats
Head of Year 12

Year 12 Explore High-Performance Training in Action

During their recent excursion to PhysXrehab, our Year 12 Health and Movement Science students experienced how syllabus concepts come to life within a professional sports science and rehabilitation environment. Set within a high-performance facility, PhysXrehab integrates sports physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, and data-driven performance testing to optimise both athletic performance and recovery. Across the day, students participated in practical strength testing and program design, applying key principles of training and exercise selection to real athlete case studies. This authentic experience deepened their understanding of how training methods are used to enhance performance outcomes in both elite and everyday athletes.

A highlight of the excursion was the use of GPS tracking vests alongside advanced VALD performance technology, where students engaged in force plate testing and plyometric assessment. These tools provided immediate feedback on strength and power, reinforcing the importance of evidence-based decision-making in training and rehabilitation. By participating in aerobic testing, including the YoYo Intermittent Recovery Test, and designing HIIT and plyometric sessions, students were able to clearly link physiological adaptations to performance improvements. Experiences such as this showcase the value of Health and Movement Science as a subject, bridging theory with real-world application and opening pathways into careers in Exercise Science, Physiotherapy, and High-performance Coaching.

– Jane Timor
Acting Head of Department – Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE)

Important Notices

MLC School Sport has continued strongly into Week 3 of sport. Our MLC School Spirit has never been stronger, and the Sports Department team congratulate all our sports teams on their participation, attendance, enthusiasm and representing MLC School with pride at games and training sessions.

With a fantastic win from our Senior First’s Hockey Team (MLC01), against Kincoppal Rose Bay, our girls were thrilled to be celebrating on the Division 1 pitch for the first time. Our Year 7A Netball Team (MLC09) worked together to take the win against SCEGGS. We are so proud of our teams, congratulations girls. Our sporting achievements reached Frensham School in Mittagong last week at the IGSA Cross Country Championships. MLC School sent over 30 students to compete against over 100 students in their respective age group. Congratulations to our MLC School Team for winning the Most Improved Trophy placing 12th overall this year, from 21st in 2025. This result is a true testament to our positive drive towards sport in MLC School.

A gentle reminder to all families, Term 3 Sport Registrations are open and will close Monday 25 May 2026, (Week 6). Registration payment pages are accessible via the MLC School Website Sport Payment Page.

Our sports on offer for Term 3 2026 are below:

Senior School Sport Offerings

• IGSA Basketball
• IGSA Football
• IGSA Hockey
• IGSA Netball – CLOSED
• ERNA Netball – CLOSED
• Monte Volleyball – CLOSED
• Snowsports
• MLC School Friday Night Water Polo
• Meriden Friday Night Badminton
• Co Curricular Swimming
• Co Curricular Tennis
• Co Curricular Beginner Diving
• Athletics
• Run Club
• Fencing
• MLC School Fit (Gym, Yoga)
• Rowing Learn to Row

Junior School Sport Offerings

• Snowsports
• MLC School Friday Night Water Polo (Year 4–Year 12)
• Meriden Friday Night Badminton
• Co-curricular Swimming
• Co-curricular Tennis
• Co-curricular Beginner Diving (Year 3–Year 12)
• Rowing Learn to Row (Year 6–Year 10)
• Athletics
• Run Club
• Physio Play (Pre-Kindergarten)
• Jump Start (Year 2)
• Active All Stars (Year 3–Year 5)
• Gymnastics (Club)

We would like to let all Junior School families know, Rep IPSHA CIS Golf nominations are open now. If you would like to nominate to compete and represent MLC School, please come to the MLC School Sports office for the nomination form.

MLC School wishes our Swimming and Diving students best of luck at NSW All Schools Swimming and Diving Championships next week at SOPAC. Madison Chantler (Year 11), Iris Ji (Year 10), will be swimming and Ada Savage (Year 10) and Clementine Longergan (Year 9) will be competing in the Springboard Diving.

Good luck to all our MLC School Sports teams this weekend for another wonderful round at Basketball, Football, Hockey and Netball.

GO MLC!

– Francesca Fitzhenry
Assistant Director of Sport

Emerging Athlete Program (EAP)

Earlier this week, a letter was sent to Senior School parents from Director of Sport, Scott Carpenter, covering the Emerging Athlete Program (EAP).

The letter was sent via the MLC School app and will also be visible in your newsfeed in Omnia.

You can also view the letter by clicking here.

– Scott Carpenter
Director of Sport

Sport Updates – Snowsports

Snowsports

Interschools registrations are now open, if you would link to enter, please follow the link:

Sydney Championships Entry Portal – Snow Australia Interschools

Registrations will close Tuesday 9 June 2026. Snowsports is open to all students from Kindergarten to Year 12.

This year all Interschools Snowsports events for MLC School students will be held at Perisher, beginning with the Regional Championships from Tuesday 14 July to Friday 17 July 2026.

If you are considering entering but are unsure which events to enter, please email Adrian Montgomery amontgomery@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au, or follow the link below to gain further information and watch videos on each discipline.

Interschools Information and Videos

For students wishing to start their snow preparation now dryland gym sessions have commenced and are being held each Thursday morning from 7am–8am in the MLC School fitness centre.

If you have any further questions, please contact Adrian Montgomery amontgomery@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Sporting Achievements

IGSA Cross Country

Last week MLC School sent over 30 students to compete at the IGSA Cross Country Championships. The Frensham Cross Country course was absolutely fabulous, where all students ran through the tree paths, over bridges, up hills, around the grounds We would like to congratulate the following students on their selection to compete at CIS Cross Country Championships. We also would like to congratulate our 15yrs Team has also secured their place to compete at CIS.   

13yrs:  

• Jemima Pun (Year 7) – 4th  
• Arielle McBrien (Year 7) – 9th  

15yrs:  

• Ruth Costello (Year 10) – 1st Gold Medal and Silver Medal Point Score Event 
• Olivia Kalamvokis (Year 9) – 4th and Silver Medal Team Point Score Event 
• Darcy Costello (Year 10) – 34th and Silver Medal Team Point Score Event 

17yrs: 

• Eadie Scott (Year 11) – 8th  

Well done to each and every student who represented MLC School with pride and courage. We wish our girls best of luck for Thursday 25 June 2026 when they compete at Sydney International Equestrian Centre at the NSWCIS Cross Country Championships.

House Swimming Carnival Update

The House Swimming Carnival was an outstanding success this term, with exceptional participation across all year groups as hundreds of girls took to the water in support of their Houses. The day was filled with energy, enthusiasm, and School Spirit, creating a vibrant atmosphere poolside.

Popular events such as the Synco and Splash for a Sash once again proved to be highlights of the carnival, entertaining competitors and spectators alike. This year also introduced an exciting new opportunity to showcase the impressive depth of talent among MLC School swimmers. The House Carnival Finals saw MLC School’s fastest swimmers’ power through the water in electrifying races, cheered on by passionate House supporters.

The Championship events returned this year, and our athletes certainly did not disappoint. Our top swimmers were not only competing for valuable House points but also striving for the prestigious Age Championship titles. The level of competition was exceptional, with students demonstrating determination, resilience, and outstanding sportsmanship throughout the day.

We congratulate our Champion House, Synco team, and Splash for a Sash winners for their achievements. Most importantly, we would like to acknowledge our elite swimmers who have earned the major swimming awards for 2026. These students will be presented with their trophies on Speech Day later in the year.

MLC School Swimming Champions

• Ashley Clapham (Year 8) – Junior Champion
• Isabel Floro (Year 10) – Intermediate Champion
• Madison Chantler (Year 11) – Senior Champion

Click on image gallery for full size images, L-R: Ashley Clapham; Isabel Floro; Madison Chantler.

Around the Grounds

Hockey: Squad Achievement – MLC01

Huge shoutout to MLC01 Hockey for their performance on the weekend! In MLC School Hockey’s first ever season in S01, it didn’t take long to pick up their first win – a resounding 2-0 win away at KRB01, all the way down south on a sunny morning in The Shire! Slick passing, clinical shooting, and a relentless attitude proved the difference last weekend to pick up all three points and move to the middle of the table! It was so good to see our training pay off and get the result we wanted. We move on to next week against Monte, where we hope to carry on the momentum!

MLC03 Football – Mother’s Day

MLC03 Football students kicked more goals last weekend. Coach Brad went above and beyond for Mother’s Day celebration. It was a wonderful opportunity for connection and community within the School.

Students clearly enjoyed presenting flowers to their mothers, grandmothers, and special mother figures, with many delighted smiles shared throughout the morning. Thanks MLC03!

Celebrating Musical Excellence

JUNIOR SCHOOL

Evelyn Tsang (Year 5) – Violin

Congratulations to Evelyn, who was awarded her Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) in Violin after completing her examination in 2025, while she was only in Year 4.

The AMusA is a prestigious diploma awarded by the Australian Music Examinations Board to exceptional musicians, recognising a highly advanced level of technical skill, artistry and musical maturity. Evelyn was also invited to attend the official AMEB Diploma Ceremony at UNSW in March 2026, where diploma recipients were formally celebrated.

Now in Year 5, Evelyn is recognised as one of the youngest students to achieve this remarkable level in violin. This is an extraordinary accomplishment and a testament to her dedication, discipline and love of music.

Congratulations, Evelyn, on this outstanding achievement.

Nidhirupa Jaikanth (Year 3) – Violin

Another AMEB Violin Success. Congratulations to Nidhirupa, who has achieved a High Distinction A+ in her AMEB Grade 4 Violin examination. This is a wonderful achievement that reflects her consistent practice, strong preparation and growing confidence as a violinist. A High Distinction result recognises an excellent standard of performance, including secure technique, musical expression and attention to detail.

Well done, Nidhirupa, on this fantastic result.

SENIOR SCHOOL

Frances Xie (Year 9) – Violin

Congratulations to Frances, who was awarded her Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) in Violin after completing her examination in 2025. The AMusA is a prestigious diploma awarded by the Australian Music Examinations Board to exceptional musicians, recognising a highly advanced level of technical skill, artistry and musical maturity.

Frances was also invited to attend the official AMEB Diploma Ceremony at UNSW in March 2026, where diploma recipients were formally celebrated. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Frances’ dedication, discipline and commitment to her musical development.

Congratulations, Frances, on this outstanding accomplishment.​

Lucy Oh (Year 9) – Cello

Congratulations to Lucy, who was awarded her Associate in Music, Australia (AMusA) in Cello after completing her examination in 2025. The AMusA is a prestigious diploma awarded by the Australian Music Examinations Board to exceptional musicians, recognising a highly advanced level of technical skill, artistry and musical maturity.

Lucy was also invited to attend the official AMEB Diploma Ceremony at UNSW in March 2026, where diploma recipients were formally celebrated. This is a remarkable achievement and a testament to Lucy’s dedication, discipline and commitment to her musical development.

Congratulations, Lucy, on this outstanding accomplishment.

– Celine Kang
Acting Assistant Director of Music

Musical Festivals – Update

• 4pm to 5pm Pre-Grade (Junior School Music Studios)
• 4pm to 6pm Junior Grades 1–3 (Daphne Line Hall)
• 4pm to 5pm Intermediate Grades 4–5 (Chapel)
• 4pm to 5pm Advanced Grades 6 and above (Music Centre Auditorium)

• 5pm to 6pm All Grades (Music Centre Auditorium)

Keep those Music Achievements Coming!

The Music Department invites students and families to submit musical achievements from 2026 using our new Music Achievement Submission Portal.

Adventure, Challenge and Leadership: Cadets Enrolments Open

Last week’s Home Training provided an exciting afternoon of adventure, challenge and teamwork for our cadets. Students took part in a series of outdoor activities, including an inflatable obstacle course, archery and rock climbing, each designed to build confidence, resilience and collaboration amongst cadets. We also welcomed Year 8s interested in cadets to trial through a variety of team building activities.

Please see some reflections from current cadets:

‘Home Training last week was incredibly enjoyable! We began the afternoon with short interactive activities in small groups alongside Year 8 students, which helped build connections and strengthen teamwork skills. Next, we challenged ourselves with rock climbing near the aquatic centre, where everyone enthusiastically cheered each other on and competed in friendly races to the top. To finish the afternoon, we went on a massive inflatable obstacle course to race others. With music playing, laughter, and lots of cheering, the atmosphere was energetic and highly competitive. It was such a fun afternoon filled with teamwork, encouragement, and fun memories for everyone involved.’
– CDT Cailise Campbell

‘Last week at MLCSACU’s home training we had the opportunity to partake in some immersive activities such as archery and an obstacle course. The syndicates were taught by an archery instructor how to use a bow and arrow and competed with one another shooting at targets. We then took turns practising and improving our skills and were eventually all shooting perfect bullseyes. The next activity we did was the inflatable obstacle course where the cadets had fun racing each other. Everyone had a blast listening to music and competing with other cadets. Overall, this was an extremely enjoyable home training!’
– LCPL Megan Kuit

CADET REGISTRATION REMINDER

A reminder that registration for the MLC School Army Cadet Unit (MLCSACU) is now open for students in Year 8 to Year 11. The program is a unique experiential learning opportunity that promotes independence, leadership, resilience and teamwork through a wide range of outdoor and practical activities. Throughout the year, cadets participate in a diverse range of outdoor education experiences, including abseiling, high ropes, navigation, drill, first aid, and a range of other structured activities designed to develop resilience and teamwork.

At its core, the cadet program is underpinned by the values of the Australian Defence Force – service, courage, respect, integrity and excellence – which guides cadets in developing strong character and leadership capability.

Registrations close Friday 29 May 2026. Please note that enrolment in Cadets involves a one-year commitment, reflecting the ongoing training and development provided throughout the program.

Please see the full information including the registration letter by clicking on the button below.

Click here for information and registration letter

If you have any questions, please contact mlcsacu@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– CAPT(AAC) Ashleigh Leck
Training Officer

Duke of Edinburgh Award – A do-it-yourself kit for growing up

Speech and Drama Students Shine at the Inner West Eisteddfod

The Inner West Eisteddfod season opened last weekend with the 5-7 year old categories and  lots of excitement and anticipation. Our students overcame nerves and performed brilliantly in front of a large audience. They performed with confidence, energy, beautiful vocal and facial expression and focus. We could not be prouder and congratulate them for being wonderful representatives of MLC School.

A huge CONGRATULATIONS to the following students for their outstanding performances:

• Jade Neeld (Year 2) – (Set poem), Highly commended
• Antonella Crook (Year 2) – (Verse speaking), 3rd Place
• Rose Huynh (Year 2) – (Verse speaking), Highly commended
• Jade Neeld (Year 2) – (Set prepared reading), Highly commended
• Hannah Huang and Clara Zhu (Year 2) – (Duologue in costume), Highly commended
• Emilia Shi and Jenny Fu (Year 1) – (Duologue in costume), Highly commended
• Janet Hu (Year 1) and Dorothy Li (Year 2) – (Duologue in costume), Highly commended

The Speech and Drama Studio have been a proud supporter of the Inner West Eisteddfod for the past 29 years.  We have 200 Speech and Drama Studio students representing MLC School in Prepared Speech, Character Recital, Duologue, Set Prepared Reading, Verse Speaking, Prose, Shakespeare and Improvisation categories. Speech and Drama students are also representing MLC School at the Parramatta, Ryde and Sydney Eisteddfods.

We wish our students in the 8, 9 and 10 years sections the very best of luck for this weekend!

– Monica Brian
Speech and Drama Studio Director

Click on image gallery for full size images.