From the Principal

Welcome to Term 3

The term break has been a busy one at MLC School, with our IT and Facilities teams making the most of the opportunity to complete a variety of improvements and upgrades.

Uniform review update

As you know in Term 2, I announced a Uniform Review. This consisted of a series of focus groups with students, staff, parents and Old Girls, plus feedback received via email. These discussions helped us draw up a list of suggested changes – including new items to be added, some existing pieces to be retired, and a range of suggestions for overall improvement. One thing was quite clear – there is no appetite to change the MLC School navy pin stripe, it is iconic to our School and much loved by all.

Over the break, along with Michele Dunn, Head of Marketing and Community Relations, I also consulted with several uniform designers and suppliers to investigate trends in school uniform design and to discuss how other schools are ensuring that their uniforms are modern, comfortable and long wearing while also representing the School appropriately. I look forward to sharing more about our plans in the near future.

Masterplanning

Our Masterplanning project continues, and the term break provided a welcome opportunity to focus on this important work. Masterplanning is crucial for a school as it ensures that our infrastructure and facilities can meet the future needs of our students and staff and enhance our ability to provide high-quality education and support the well-being of the entire School community. This project is particularly timely given the development of the Burwood North Masterplan that has been designed to support the effective integration of the new Metro line.

Year 12 Study Camp

It was not only the Executive, IT and Facilities teams who were busy during the break, many of our Year 12 students were on campus throughout the 3 weeks and large numbers attended the inaugural study camp held in Week 1.

As part of our strategy to improve Year 12 academic performance, study camp was offered to all Year 12 students during Week 1 of non-term time. With the theme of ‘your study, your way’, students could choose between practice papers in Potts Hall, collaborative or individual quiet study, or tutoring in specific subjects. As is usual during non-term time, Year 12 staff also offered opportunities for students to progress major works in practical subjects and ran revision workshops in a variety of subjects.

Such initiatives cannot be implemented without the support and commitment of our Heads of Department, Curriculum leaders and Year 12 teachers who voluntarily give up time that could be used for themselves in order to offer additional opportunities for our students.

Most Year 12 students made use of the enhanced opportunities, with between 35 and 95 students attending each day. Feedback from students has been very positive.

Study camp will run again in Week 1 of the September break.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Omnia Updates

Over the break there have been some modifications to Omnia, the parent portal, to improve your abilty to know more about what your child is doing and any actions you need to take. Please login regularly to check for important information, provide permission and RSVP for events. Upgrading Omnia is an ongoing process and we will continue to modify it based on your feedback.

New features:

• On the dashboard you’ll see a new section called ‘Messages’ these are important news items or contacts from staff members which need your attention. You will receive a short email when Messages are sent to alert you that there is something you should check or action. We have separated these more important communications from other general news items that can still be found in the ‘News’ section and in the MLC School app (Photograph 1 below)
• You will also now receive a short email when you are asked to provide Permission for an excursion, camp etc
• The full timetable for students in Kindergarten to Year 5 is populated for all subject areas (screenshot) throughout the day (photograph 2 below)

Photograph 1

Photograph 2

Reminder: Logo Design Competition Deadline Approaching!

in 2026, MLC School celebrates 140 Years of Excellence in Girls Education and students have been invited to help design the logo.

The MLC School 140th anniversary logo competition is a chance for students to be part of our legacy and inspire the final logo used throughout 2026. 

Theme: 140 Years of Excellence 

Requirements: 

• Include the number 140
• Incorporate our brand colours only, found here

Design Tips: 

• Simplicity: Keep it simple and clean for easy reproduction.
• Originality: Ensure your design is original and not copied from existing logos or designs.
• Brand: The final artwork will sit beside the MLC School crest in all instances, similar to our 135^th logo here

Technical Specifications: 

• File format: Vector format as .ai (Adobe Illustrator) or .eps
• Resolution: A minimum resolution of 300dpi
• Colour mode: both RGB for digital and CMYK for print
• Size: Ensure it looks great at any size (ie. Small for an email footer or website, large for printed material such as advertising and publications)

The winning design will inspire the final logo used by the School to celebrate our 140^th anniversary. It will be unveiled in our newsletter and on social media. The winner will receive a $100 Café 1886 voucher and recognition at our 140th celebrations. 

Submit your final design by Friday 1 August 2025 by uploading here.

Ensure your file is named in the following format: Surname_Firstname_YearGroup_140Logo 

Be part of MLC School’s legacy. Good luck, and happy designing! 

Azzurra Zappacosta (2024) Wins Dual Honours at VIVID Emerging Designer Awards 

We are proud to celebrate the success of Old Girl, Azzurra Zappacosta (2024), who was recognised at the 2025 VIVID Emerging Designer Awards with both the Dulux Award for Colour and the Concept Design Award. Her innovative UV-reactive drink bottle, which changes from white to navy blue in sunlight, helps users monitor UV exposure and promotes sun safety. 

Azzurra’s design was developed as part of her IB Diploma Design Technology HL studies and stood out among more than 60 finalists. She also received the Excellence in Academic Achievement award for Design Technology HL, served as Whitley House Vice-Captain, Hockey Captain, and earned Gold in the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. 

We congratulate Azzurra on her outstanding achievement and look forward to seeing her continue to shine.

https://www.instagram.com/azzurra.designs

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Important Term 3 Messages from the P&F

Paul Dillon Parent Forum – next Wednesday 30 July 2025, 6pm–7pm

Paul Dillon is a renowned, highly respected and sought after speaker who has educated teenagers in the area of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years.

He shows parents how to help their kids negotiate misinformation and social pressure in a calm and sensible way, to tell them what they really want and need to know about alcohol and drugs.

Paul Dillon visits many schools and is very informative. Please take the time to attend this forum if you can – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

Second Hand Uniform Shop Open Dates

The second-hand uniform shop is now located in the Senior School, upstairs near Potts Hall in Room F11. 

It will be opening twice this term: 

• Friday 1 August 2025 (Week 2), 7.30am–9.30am
• Friday 12 September 2025 (Week 8), 7.30am–9.30am

Clean, used uniforms and textbooks can be donated at any time throughout the year and are much appreciated.

Please drop donations to either Junior School or Senior School reception.

Volunteers wanted for our P&F Christmas Carol Senior School Community Event – Friday 21 November 2025

The P&F is excited to announce a Christmas Carol Community event for Senior School families to enjoy. The event will be held in the Bird Bath Quad with stalls and gifts, Christmas hampers, food, Christmas music and items to sing along to. There will also be the opportunity to donate items to Project Kindness, an organisation that provides disadvantaged people with essential goods and services. More information to come.

We are calling for volunteers who would like to join our Christmas Carol Event Committee or participate in the evening in some way. This is a great way to advertise your business to our School community and the more involvement we have the more fun it will be.

If you would like to be involved in this event, please email me at felicity_clemens@yahoo.com.au

– Felicity Clemens
P&F President

A New Resource for Parents – From the Head of Counselling and Student Health

My name is Anna Michalopoulos, and I am the Head of the Counselling and Student Health Services at MLC School.

My team and I have developed an information resource that we are excited to share with you.

This resource was developed to share information about all the members of the School Counselling Team and resources (links, videos, information) on various issues and concerns around mental health and general wellbeing.

These include:

• Anxiety
• Sleep, exercise and diet
• Parent resources: Apps and reward charts
• Presentations on various parent workshops we provide to parents and careers
• Mental health
• Stress
• Perfectionism
• Parent self-care
• Podcasts and TV shows
• Online and social media
• Depression
• Services
• Suicide

If there are any other issues you feel would you would benefit from knowing more of, please feel free to email me here and we can include these.

Please see link below to Parent Padlet, or you can access the Padlet in Omnia by clicking here.

Parent Padlet link here

– Anna Michalopoulos
Head of Counselling and Student Health

New Bus Stops Added to Woolwich Bus Route

Two new bus stops have been added to the Woolwich Bus Route.

The new stops are:

Morning AM

• 7.49am – Concord – Cabarita Road at Cabarita Junction

Afternoon PM

• 3.40pm – Concord, Frederick Street at Cabarita Junction

These options are now available on the MLC School Bus Payment Page which can be found by clicking here

Should you have any questions or concerns please contact Wendy Allen at Main Reception on 9747 1266.

Upcoming Trials – Where Can I Find the ‘Illness and Misadventure Form’?

Is your child ill and missing an exam or assessment? You need to submit an ‘Illness and Misadventure’ form.

Please submit the ‘illness and misadventure form’ via Omnia rather than direct emails. The submission of this form generates an automated process to all the parties involved and ensures that the information is not lost in an individual email inbox.

To submit the form, please go to Omnia, you will find the ‘Extension Request – Illness and Misadventure Form’ by going directly to this page, using the link below.

This will take you directly to the Omnia page to lodge your form, a step by step guide is also linked on that page.

You can also view the step by step guide by clicking here

For future information, you can find the Illness and Misadventure Form in Omnia by going to:

• Blue Left Hand Menu
• School Information
• Forms – Extension Request – Illness and Misadventure

The Omnia dashboard can also be reached by going to the ‘Links’ tile on the MLC School app.

An Important Reminder about Speed and Road Safety

The School’s Value of Respect is particularly relevant for all users of the roads around the School and we ask our community to model and reflect this value at all times.

Please be respectful of all other road users, other drivers, our neighbours, our staff and be mindful to observe all the road rules. There are times when you might be in a hurry, but so too are many others. In particular, be respectful of our students who have the right to safety at all times.

40km/h school zones are in force on all notified school days (including pupil-free days).

For Term 3 2025, school zones are in operation until Friday 26 September 2025.

Council parking officers and police regularly patrol school zones and stringent penalties apply.

Traffic Safety Reminder – Kent House Staff Car Park and Gordon Street

We kindly ask families to be mindful of parking around the Kent House staff car park. Vehicles that overhang the driveway—particularly during drop-off and pick-up times – can block staff from exiting and create a blind spot for those turning onto Gordon Street. This has been a recurring issue, especially involving provisional drivers and parents who may not be aware of the impact.

Additionally, we’ve observed some drivers performing three-point turns on Gordon Street to avoid congestion when turning onto Rowley Street. This practice poses a significant safety risk, particularly around 3.20pm when pedestrian and vehicle traffic is at its peak.

We appreciate your cooperation in keeping our School environment safe for everyone.

Some requests and reminders please:

• If using the Junior School carpark, please follow the markings, directions of the staff on duty and park only in those spaces allocated for park and walk.
• Please do not overtake other vehicles while in the carpark.
• Adhere to posted speed limits.
• The carpark is for School use only and is not available for all day parent parking.

Please do not pick up or drop off Junior School students on Park Road, this is dangerous and stopping is illegal in many spots.

On the streets surrounding the School: 

• These roads are heavily used by the general public, so please only drop off students in the marked zones.
• Adhere to posted speed limits.
• Do NOT park in or across resident and school driveways.
• Do NOT double park.
• Do NOT attempt 3 point or U turns during busy times. In recent weeks there have been numerous examples of such turns which hold up traffic, reduce visibility and put our girls at risk (this is a particular issue in Park Road and Grantham Streets)

Please remember to:

• Buckle up
• Slow down to 40km/h
• Always park legally
• Observe all signposting
• Give way to pedestrians
• Avoid illegal manoeuvres
• Never queue across children’s crossings

For further information please refer to the flyers on the links below:

• Our Environment, Road Safety Around Our Schools
• Road Safety Around Our Schools
• School Zone Understanding The Rules
• Pedestrian Safety With Children
• School Pick Up Drop Off Zone
• Parking Officers Patrol Schools
• Illegal Parking Postcard

 Let Us Always Use Our Roads Responsibly

Important Health Reminders from the MLC School Nurse

Welcome back to Term 3 2025. We trust you had a restful break with loved ones and friends. Just a few things to keep in mind for Term 3.

Illnesses are always going to be circulating in the community. We ask that you remain vigilant and if your daughter is unwell/showing symptoms of any illness to please stay home until all symptoms have resolved. If you are unsure whether or not to send, please reference this Cheat Sheet from NSW Health on guidelines for illnesses.

Medications

• If your daughter regularly takes prescribed medication (eg: ADHD, Anti-Anxiety or Antidepressants) please update the Health Centre, this can be done on Omnia. No student should be carrying prescribed medication on their person unless it is an essential Critical Emergency medication such as an Adrenaline injector (Epipen)/Asthma Puffer.
• If medications need to be taken by your daughter during school hours (8am–3.30pm), please adhere to the following:

1. Provide a letter from the prescribing doctor, detailing the medication and dose.
2. Provide the medication in its original labelled packaging (box or bottle).
3. Fill out the Medication Authority form by clicking on the button below.

• If your daughter takes a regular medication, we strongly encourage for you to update the School as there are certain medications that are contraindicated or have side effects, so this best helps us to support your daughter if she were to present to the Health Centre.
•  If your daughter takes a regular prescribed medication and there is a camp, all S4/S8 medications are to be brought in the week prior to the camp departure date in a Webster Pack. This is supplied by your pharmacy and usually require more than 48 hours notice.

Updating Medical Details

If there has been a change in your daughter’s medical history, please update the Health Centre via Omnia in the My Students tab or email mlcnurse@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au. This is an imperative process for MLC School to maintain safety both onsite and offsite. We strongly encourage this to be completed at time of diagnosis or yearly if a general update.

Vaccination 2025 Dates

• Year 7 Vaccinations – Wednesday 30 July 2025

As always, if you have any queries please contact the Health Centre on (02) 8741 3134 or email mlcnurse@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– Health Centre

MLC School Uniform Shop – Trading Hours

Normal hours commenced on Tuesday this week.

Term 3 Trading Hours

Click on the link below for further information, to make an appointment or to access the online Uniform Shop.

MLC School Uniform Shop

You can contact the Uniform Shop by email here, or by calling 8741 3177.

Risk Warnings

Risk Warnings

Risk Warning under Section 5M of the Civil Liability Act 2002 Issued on behalf of MLC School and IGSA

An Invitation From the Learning Enhancement Department

Welcome to Term 3!

Parent Morning – Check In and Connect

The Learning Enhancement Department extends a warm welcome to parents who would like to meet some of our dedicated staff members. Please join us for an opportunity to check-in and connect.

Kindly RSVP to the sessions outlined below.

We look forward to meeting you.

Tuesday 19 August 2025
8.30am–9.30am, Sutherland Rooms

Check in and Connect, Learning Enhancement Session

RSVP here

Tuesday 26 August 2025
8.30am–9.30am, Sutherland Rooms

Check in and Connect, Learning Enhancement Session, High Potential Learner Session 

RSVP here

Getaway Breakout Space in SC101
Pleasingly the ‘Getaway’ space is already being utilised by students during recess and lunch this week. This initiative will be piloted throughout Term 3 as an alternative to the playground. Members of the Learning Enhancement Team have generously volunteered their time to support this initiative and will be present to offer guidance on upcoming assignments, exams, and homework. The space will function both as a drop-in centre for some students and as a sustained quiet environment for others.

Students are expected to be respectful and considerate of diverse needs, as students who attend Getaway will do so for a variety of reasons.

Getaway will operate:

• Before school – Monday and Tuesday, 7.45am–8.15am
• Recess – Wednesday and Thursday
• Lunch – every day

– Stephanie Dimetrelis
Director of Learning Enhancement

Study Support Opportunities at MLC School

MLC School offers two Study Support Opportunities:

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

Study Hub+ Term 3 Enrolments

Study Hub+ is MLC School’s structured, pay-per-use after-school study support program for students in Year 7 to Year 12. Sessions run Monday to Thursday, from 3.30pm to 6pm, on Level 1 of the Senior Centre.​

Term 3 Nominations

Sessions will continue to run Monday to Thursday from 3.30pm to 6pm on Level 1 of the Senior Centre. 

Please use the form below to nominate the day(s) your daughter will attend next term. You may select all Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays, or choose specific dates on a weekly basis.

Term 3 Nomination Form

Led by Program Coordinator Ela Huber and supported by a team of knowledgeable mentors, all of whom are pre-service teachers. Study Hub+ offers subject-specific assistance across a wide range of disciplines, including English, Mathematics, Sciences, History, Legal Studies, Economics, Geography, Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE), and Drama.​

Program Overview:

• Schedule: Monday to Thursday, 3.30pm–6pm
• Location: Level 1, Senior Centre
• Cost: $25 per session, charged to your daughter’s account at the end of term
• Environment: Phone-free zone to minimise distractions which will allow students to build good study habits.
• Support: A minimum of two mentors per session, rotating to provide diverse subject expertise.
• Additional Assistance: Mentors can assist with study plans, exam preparation techniques, and provide verbal feedback on drafts.​

To foster consistent study habits, families are encouraged to register on a termly basis. However, weekly bookings remain available via Omnia and the newsletter. Students will receive a reminder email at around 1.30pm 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, you will not be charged.​

For any questions or further information, please contact Program Coordinator Ela Huber, ehuber@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

From the Head of Junior School

It is always a delight to welcome all our girls back to an exciting new school term. Their faces were beaming as they entered the red carpet and Year 6 Centre reconnecting with friends and teachers. A special welcome to the new families that have joined our MLC School community. 

National NAIDOC Week is celebrated across Australia in the first week of July each year. As this event falls during the school holidays, we celebrate and recognise the history, culture and achievements of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples during the first week of Term 3. This year’s NAIDOC Week theme is ‘The Next Generation: Strength, Vision and Legacy’ with all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 in attendance at our School NAIDOC ceremony. Our thanks to Tim Lennon, Director of Indigenous Education, and all involved in this special event.

It was a delight to see so many ‘old’ students in Kindergarten as we celebrated ‘100 Days of Kindergarten’. Our thanks to the all the parents who got involved in the spirit of the day and participated in the activities.

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Respect in a Diverse Community

In the vibrant tapestry of our School community, every individual brings a unique story. These stories, woven together, create a dynamic and colourful environment where learning extends beyond textbooks, and life lessons are etched into every interaction. One of the most important lessons we can learn and teach is the value of respecting each other’s differences – a lesson that sits at the very heart of what it means to be part of a diverse community.

The richness of our diverse community comes from different cultures, faiths, family structures, abilities, the way our brains work, interests and perspectives, just to name a few. Each student and staff member contributes something irreplaceable to our shared experience. Diversity isn’t only about the things we can see – such as our clothes, skin colour, or traditions – but also about what we believe, how we think, and the dreams we pursue.

Diversity provides us with an opportunity to discover new viewpoints and broaden our understanding of the world. It challenges us to step outside our comfort zones and learn from one another. The real strength of a community lies in its ability to embrace these differences, finding unity not in uniformity, and celebrate the mutual respect of what makes each individual unique.

Why Respect Matters

Respect is more than a simple word or a set of manners; it’s an active, ongoing practice. It means listening without judgment, seeking to understand before being understood, and appreciating another’s journey even when it is different from our own. In a diverse school community, respect is the bridge that connects us, enabling us to work together, learn together, and grow together.

Without respect, differences can become sources of division or misunderstanding. But with it, those same differences become reasons for curiosity, empathy, and friendship. Respect lays the foundation for kindness, cooperation, and the sense of belonging that every student deserves.

Every difference is an invitation to learn. When a classmate shares how their family celebrates a holiday you’ve never heard of, or explains a perspective shaped by their personal experiences, they’re opening a window into another way of seeing the world. These moments teach us empathy, broaden our horizons, and help us become more thoughtful global citizens.

As a school, we are committed to fostering an environment where respect is more than part of our code of conduct – it’s a way of life. This term our School Value in focus is Respect – in particular respect for others. Our assembly this week introduced Diversity Dani – one of the Round Square Heroes of Discovery. Diversity Dani has three key messages:

• Difference makes the world more interesting
• Respect other’s cultures, heritage, rights, perspective and beliefs
• Never discriminate but instead try to include everyone equitably

In our Pastoral Care lessons this term the students will learn more about our School’s diversity – cultures, faiths, family make up, neurodiversity, abilities. We encourage everyone to celebrate diversity and to be mindful of the impact their words and actions have on others.

As we move forward, let us remember that our diversity is something to be celebrated. Each day, we have the chance to build a legacy of respect – one that will shape not only our School community but the world beyond our walls. By embracing and celebrating our differences and similarities, we create a place where everyone has the freedom to be themselves, to grow, and to thrive.

Let’s continue to listen, learn, and lead by example. Together, we can ensure that respect remains the cornerstone of our vibrant, diverse and inclusive School community.

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Junior School Father’s Day Events 2025

Father’s Day Fundraiser – Personalised Tote Bag

Orders Close Friday 1 August 2025

This year, to celebrate Father’s Day, we are excited to launch a personalised tote bag project for all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.

Each student will help create a special class group design, which will be screen printed onto a high-quality, cotton tote bag (40cm x 45cm in size, with a 10cm gusset and 55cm handles). Each class will have its own unique artwork printed in a single colour – a meaningful and practical keepsake that captures your child’s school year.

These durable tote bags are perfect for everyday use – whether for shopping, library visits, or the gym – and make wonderful gifts for Father’s Day, especially for family members near and far.

Tote bags will be delivered to the School and distributed in time for Father’s Day. Each bag is individually wrapped and labelled with the student’s name and class.

Orders are now open and close on Friday 1 August 2025.

For any enquiries, please email pelly.yang2012@gmail.com or Junior School Reception.

Father’s Day Raffle – Friday 5 September 2025

To support the P&F, the Junior School holds a raffle for Mother’s and Father’s Day each year.
 
Call for Father’s Day Raffle Donations

Some prize donation ideas include pamper vouchers, experience gift certificates, hampers, carwash vouchers, books, hotel stays or any other gifts of any size – all donations are highly appreciated. (No perishable or food items).

Please leave donations at Junior School Reception by Friday 29 August 2025 clearly marked with your name (so we know who to thank).

During Term 3, each student will receive a book of raffle tickets to sell along with a list of prizes to be won. All proceeds go to the Junior School P&F. Past proceeds have provided the School with the sports field seating, Junior School flagpoles and School House mascots and flags.
 
Thank you in advance for your kind support and generosity.

Father’s Day Stall – Tuesday 2 September to Thursday 4 September 2025

From 8am on the Red Carpet

All students can purchase a gift for their father, grandfather, uncle or other significant male prior to Father’s Day at our Father’s Day stall. All proceeds go to our Junior School P&F. Past proceeds have provided the School with the sports field seating, Junior School flagpoles and School House mascots and flags.

Cash and card payments will be available at the stall and each year group (Pre-Kindergarten–Year 6) will be allocated time to shop exclusively. More details will be forthcoming, including the day your daughter may purchase a gift. If you prefer that your daughter does not participate, please inform your daughter’s class teacher in advance.

Father’s Day Paper Planes Challenge – Friday 5 September 2025

8.30am – 9.30am
Junior School Playground

Kindergarten to Year 5 parents and carers are invited to join us on the Junior school campus after the Father’s Day Breakfast from 8.30am to 9.30am for our Paper Planes Challenge.

Dads are invited to work with their daughters to make a paper plane and participate in the Paper Plane Challenge to earn House points. Every student will make a paper plane and participate in the Paper Plane races to earn House points. Dads can help boost those points by entering the Dad’s Paper Plane race!

Pre Kindergarten will stay upstairs and have their own Rainbow House paper plane event in their studio. Pre-Kindergarten students with a sibling are an exception, they can join their sibling to make and race their plane if they have a family member attending.

RSVP here

Looking forward to celebrating all our amazing Father’s Day activities with you.

– Junior School P&F

Pre-Kindergarten Attends School Chapel for the First Time

Year 4 – A message from the Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations

As part of our ongoing commitment to improving the learning and teaching opportunities for students, MLC School engages Academic Assessment Services to conduct a series of diagnostic assessment tasks as students progress through their schooling. This type of assessment usually occurs when students are in Year 4, Year 6, Year 8 and Year 10.

Students who are currently in Year 4 will complete the assessments on Monday 28 July 2025. The assessments are designed for Year 4 students and are of suitable duration and structure. The only equipment required is a black or blue pen (and maybe a spare).

Please note that there is no additional cost to you for this assessment service.

The assessments will measure current levels of achievement and ability in Mathematics, Reading, Comprehension, Spelling, Written Expression, and Verbal and Non-Verbal Reasoning. You will receive a report detailing your daughter’s performance later this year. From Year 6, performance in each test also measures learning growth over a two-year period.

The test results, together with school assessments and teacher reports, are a valuable resource for us in preparing teaching strategies and materials, and in gaining more information about how your daughter is progressing with her learning and how we can support her into the future.

Your daughter should not be concerned or anxious about this testing. It does not require any preparation or study. The best way to help your daughter is to ensure that she arrives to school on time, relaxed and refreshed after a good night’s sleep.

Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions.

– Natalie Hird
Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations

Year 6 Tackles Real World Urban Planning

News from the Library

Premier’s Reading Challenge
Monday 24 February – Friday 22 August 2025

Congratulations

Congratulations to these readers who have recently completed the challenge:

Year 2

• Skylar Gu

Year 5

• Hayley Lam
• April Adams

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

Friday 22 August 2025 – Save the date!
Book Week Events Book an Adventure

8.10am–8.25am – Book Swap, Red Carpet

Mooramoora will host a pop-up bookstore on the red carpet area. The bookstore will be open from Wednesday to Friday, both before school and during recess. Students will have the opportunity to purchase books priced between $1 and $5.

Starting Week 2 (Monday 28 July 2025), we invite students to bring in gently used books from home. These books should be in good condition, free from scribbles, tears, or damage, and suitable for resale. The donated books will be sold to raise funds for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

8.45am–9.15am – Book Picnic in classrooms

Parents are welcome to join their daughter for a shared reading time. There just may be a celebrity read along too!

9.30am–9.50am – Book Parade, Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6, Sports Field

Thank you for assisting your daughter to dress up for this year’s Book Week Parade. Please come to the Sports Field and watch as staff and students show off their favourite book character or ‘adventure’ costumes.

Bookmark Competition

Design a bookmark using Book an Adventure or another reading theme. Blank bookmarks are available in the Library. Winning entry wins a book voucher and the winning design will be used as a Junior School bookmark for the rest of 2025 and in 2026! Entries due by Monday 18 August 2025. Winners announced at the Book Parade. 

Book Week Author Visits – Books Available to Purchase

Sarah Armstrong visiting Year 3 and year 4 – for Sarah Armstrong flyer, click here

Ashleigh Barton visiting Pre-Kindergarten, Kindergarten, Year 1 and Year 2 – for Ashleigh Barton flyer click here

 Happy reading!

– Sharon Seymour
Teacher/Librarian

Uniting MLC School Outside School Hours Care – Reminder to Register

It is a requirement that all Junior School students be registered with the service. 

This is relevant to all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.

For full details and further information click on the link below.

Uniting MLC School Outside School Hours Care

From the Head of Senior School

Welcome back to a new term! First, I want to extend a warm welcome to all our returning students, staff, families and new students and families. It has been wonderful to see the learning and outdoor spaces filled with energy and anticipation for the term ahead.

This week we have celebrated NAIDOC week through our whole School Assembly, Chapel and staff Chapel services. As always, Tim Lennon, our Director of Indigenous Education, Reverend Vini Ravetali and Pastor Caitlin Scott have ensured that the week has been meaningful and informative for our community.

Year 8 enjoyed the Dance at St Patrick’s College in Strathfield last night and the anticipation is high for the Year 9 Dance tonight. These Dances are a great opportunity for the girls to socialise with students from St Patrick’s College, Domremy College and Santa Sabina College. Thank you to Alistair Roland, Head of Students – Year 7 to Year 9, Andrew Taylor, Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing and Emily Marsh, Head of Year 9, who joined the St Patrick’s College team of supervisors for the evenings.

For Year 7 and Year 9 families, I am pleased to confirm that the 2025 individual NAPLAN reports will be sent to you this afternoon by post. As you are aware, NAPLAN assesses the literacy and numeracy learning of students and has the support of all State and Territory Education Ministers. The results of the tests provide important information to schools about what each student can do and is used to support teaching and learning programs. We were very pleased with the growth of students that was evidenced through the School results.

You will have seen that the Paul Dillon drug and alcohol sessions are coming up. These sessions are very valuable, and I encourage you to have some follow-up conversations with your daughters at home. Please take the time to attend the Parent Forum – it is well worth it!

RSVP here

Staff Updates

This week, we welcomed the following new Senior School teachers:

• Candace Robertson – Acting Head of Department – Languages
• Amy Murphy – Director of Professional Practice

We also welcome Head of Students – Year 10 to Year 12, Fiona Pow, back from Long Service Leave. I know she is refreshed and ready for the term and is particularly excited to take part in the student leadership process and the end of year events with Year 12.

Bridget Kovats has been appointed to assist in the leadership of the English Department as Acting Assistant Head of Department – English for Term 3 and Term 4. This will mean that she steps back from the Head of Year 8 position for the remainder of the year. Kate Schurch will be Acting Head of Year 8 for the remainder of the year.

Last year and again in Term 2, Kate was Acting Head of Year and was an asset to the wellbeing team, demonstrating great care for the students. As this temporary position has now drawn to a close, we are very fortunate that Kate is available to take on the role with Year 8.

Study Hub this week

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Click on image gallery for full size images.

From the Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing

I wish to extend a warm welcome  back, to all of our MLC School community as we commence Term 3. I hope that you and your family enjoyed a restful and rejuvenating break and are excited for the learning opportunities and experiences ahead.

Celebrating Safety – Paul Dillon

Celebrating with friends is vital during adolescence, an adolescent brain is wired to seek independence and peer acceptance. Celebrating together is a great way to achieve this, create amazing memories and strengthen relationships. Having a good time does not have to come at the expense of our students’ health or safety. Risks and risk taking are a part of life, we can’t avoid risks but we can manage them and we can make positive choices to increase our safety. Risk taking is highest during adolescence and young people are reported as increasingly participating in risk-taking behaviours (DARTA,2021). A safe socialising environment ensures everyone can make positive choices, have fun and avoid potential harm.

With this in mind, on Wednesday next week we welcome Paul Dillon to present to Year 10–Year 12. Paul is a leading drug and alcohol presenter and founder of DARTA. Paul presents students with evidence based, relevant and accurate drug and alcohol education and information, equipping students with tools and strategies to make informed decisions regarding drugs and alcohol, devising strategies to help keep themselves and their peers safe when celebrating.

This P&F initiative will see Paul presenting to parents in the evening of the same day, full details and RSVP can be seen by clicking here.

Student Wellbeing Conference

On 26 June, the second last day of Term 2, we four students were given the amazing opportunity to attend the 2025 Ravenswood and Knox Grammar Student-led Wellbeing Conference. We spent a full day engaging with more than 260 student leaders from 31 different schools to explore this year’s theme, Mental Toughness – The Power of Growth.

What made the Ravenswood Student Wellbeing Conference so engaging was that every workshop was planned and led by students themselves. This made the sessions feel more meaningful and relevant. I took part in teamwork focused workshops, which were made engaging with unique activities throughout the workshops. For example one of the activities was feeding someone a doughnut on a string while blindfolded, which taught the importance of communication in teamwork. The lunchtime games such as decorating a glass jar were engaging and allowed us to discuss and share our thoughts with students from other schools.

A highlight of the Ravenswood Student Wellbeing Conference was listening to a guest speaker, Michael Crossland. It is difficult to summarise the emotional impact that this speech had on everyone in the room; Michael made us laugh, cry, and overall feel incredibly inspired in the span of one to two hours. Despite spending nearly a quarter of his life in hospital, battling various health conditions, struggling to make ends meet, and so many more challenges, he was able to find happiness and see the bright side in his life. To imagine that someone who had gone through unbelievable hardship could stand in front of us, smiling, successful, optimistic, was truly humbling and motivating.

Attending this day was far more than learning the importance of prioritising our mental wellbeing. 31 schools coming together proved just how powerful a collective effort within a school community can be. We reflected on what we can do starting tomorrow to make a difference, because as Michael said, we can’t keep waiting for our lives to change, or we’ll end up regretting the time we lost. If there was a main takeaway we took, it is how we find meaning in our lives through serving others around us and giving back to those who need it the most. And sometimes the people that need your support are the people sitting next to you. So, we’re excited for everyone to see the new initiatives planned.

– Elysse Diep (Year 11), Jordan Vo (Year 11), Elena Tulloch (Year 11), Allegra Chiang (Year 11)

– Andrew Taylor
Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing

Mission Australia Youth Survey – Year 10 to Year 12

MLC School is pleased to take part in the 2025 Mission Australia Youth Survey with students in Year 10 to Year 12.  The survey seeks to gather a range of insights into the experiences of young people aged 15 to 19 across Australia. The survey enquires about sociodemographic information; engagement with school and post-school aspirations; personal values; personal concerns about issues, such as: mental health (including suicide), identity, issues of national importance; as well as questions about wellbeing and sources of support. 

Why is my daughter being asked to participate?
Your daughter’s participation in the Youth Survey supports Mission Australia’s advocacy to governments, community organisations and policy-makers to develop programs that support young people in need. MLC School will also receive a copy of this report which may be instrumental in developing programs that respond to the needs of the student community. The survey will take approximately 20 minutes to complete and time will be allocated within the schedule of a normal school day to ensure that there is no disruption to learning.

Will my daughter’s information be identifiable?
All information your daughter provides will be treated in the strictest of confidence and will not be identifiable in any publicly available reports resulting from the study. 

Mission Australia has a duty of care to all young people participating in the survey. Should any student provide an answer in the free text or multiple choice section that indicates that they might be unsafe or at any risk of harm, abuse or neglect, Mission Australian are obliged by the Department of Education to alert the School Principal and share identifiable information so the School can re-identify the student and intervene in accordance with the School’s wellbeing policies. Please note that students are able to skip any question they feel uncomfortable answering during the survey. 

Is the participation mandatory?
Participation is completely voluntary. If your daughter starts the survey and then changes her mind, she is welcome to stop at any time and exit the survey before selecting ‘finish’. Should this be the case, your daughter’s responses will be removed and destroyed. This information will remain confidential and only be shared with your daughter’s Head of Year.

A summary of the findings will be shared with the School community after the research has been completed. Parents and students are reminded that no individual or identifiable student data will be shared. Parents are encouraged to discuss the process with their daughter.

– Andrew Taylor
Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing

Mathematics Competitions – Registration Open Now!

There are a couple of Mathematics Competitions happening this term that are targeted for students who enjoy challenging mathematics and want to further develop their problem-solving skills. If any of the following interest you, please register through the provided links.

International Competitions and Assessments for Schools (ICAS)

• Registrations Close – Monday 28 July 2025 at 9am
• Years: Year 7 to Year 10
• Competition: One hour (online) from Monday 25 to Friday 29 August 2025 (Week 6)
• Cost: $20.95 per student
• Register for ICAS here

Australian Mathematics Competition (AMC)

• Registrations Close – Thursday 31 July 2025 at 11.59pm
• Divisions: Junior (Year 7–Year 8), Intermediate (Year 9–Year 10), Senior (Year 11–Year 12)
• Competition: 75 minutes (online) from Tuesday 5 to Thursday 7 August 2025 (Week 3)
• Cost: $9 per student (please note, if you have already registered for the CAT and AMC bundle earlier this year, you do not need to register again)
• Register for AMC here

Unfortunately, Year 8 will be away on immersion in Week 3 so they will not be able to take part in the AMC.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me at mlee@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Monica Lee
Teacher

Year 7

Welcome to Term 3! It has been wonderful to see the students back on campus and straight back into the swing of things! I hope that you all enjoyed the online Parent teacher evening on Wednesday and are feeling supported on your daughter’s Senior School journey. To continue our focus on the whole girl, this term our Pastoral Care Program will focus on the School Value of Compassion and will look at setting academic goals, bystander and upstander behaviour and dealing with conflict.

Next week Year 7 have their vaccinations. These will be held on Wednesday 30 July 2025 and Year 7 are asked to wear PE uniform for the whole day to make the process simpler. Please speak to your daughter over the weekend to help her feel prepared and confident.

A reminder that you will need to provide consent. If consent is not provided online, the vaccination will not be available on the day – click here for full details

Paul Dillon Parent Forum – next Wednesday 30 July 2025, 6pm–7pm

Paul Dillon is a renowned, highly respected and sought after speaker who has educated teenagers in the area of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years.

He shows parents how to help their kids negotiate misinformation and social pressure in a calm and sensible way, to tell them what they really want and need to know about alcohol and drugs.

Paul Dillon visits many schools and is very informative. Please take the time to attend this forum if you can – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

Have a wonderful weekend and please reach out to your daughter’s Luminary or teachers if you have any questions.

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

Year 8

Welcome back to Term 3. I hope that your daughter had a refreshing and relaxing break and is looking forward to another busy, yet fruitful term.

I would like to introduce myself as the Acting Head of Year 8 for Term 3 and Term 4 whilst Bridget Kovats is working in the English curriculum team. My name is Kate Schurch and most of you would have seen me on the Subject Selection Webinar on Wednesday evening. I am a Science teacher, proud member of Lester House, former Year 12 Luminary and this is my eighth year at MLC School. I am very much looking forward to getting to know Year 8 better and working closely with the girls to continue to support and develop their wellbeing and academic progress.

In true MLC School style, this term is packed with activities. Year 8 sat their Allwell exams on Thursday, there was a dance at St Patrick’s College on Thursday evening, and we have continued preparing the students for their Immersion in Week 3.

Here is a link to the previously communicated Immersion information. I would like to reiterate the need for warm clothing for when the students are in Mudgee. Thermal underclothes are highly recommended, as well as very warm outer layers. The weather in Mudgee last week reached as low as -3°C, with daytime temperatures peaking at 14°C. Additionally, I suggest that students lean towards darker colours rather than light colours, as this is an authentic on-country immersion, meaning there will be time spent outdoors. The packing list is attached here. There are still several families who have not submitted the medical/dietary form. If this is not submitted by Monday, dietary alterations will not happen. Communication will be sent out early next week with final information regarding the immersion.

Thank you for attending the Subject Selection Webinar on Wednesday evening. If you were unable to attend, you can find a recording on the link below. We are in the process of compiling a document of the questions asked during the Q&A session, which will be published to students via Canvas. We are here to support families through this process, and if your daughter is finding it overwhelming or daunting, please encourage her to have a discussion with me. Sometimes, concerns can be easily alleviated with a simple conversation.

The Year 9 2026 and Year 10 2027 Subject Selection Guide can be accessed by clicking on Omnia here. For future reference you can find it in Omnia / School Information / Senior School / Year 8 2025.

Click here to view the Webinar recording

Paul Dillon Parent Forum – next Wednesday 30 July 2025, 6pm–7pm

Paul Dillon is a renowned, highly respected and sought after speaker who has educated teenagers in the area of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years.

He shows parents how to help their kids negotiate misinformation and social pressure in a calm and sensible way, to tell them what they really want and need to know about alcohol and drugs.

Paul Dillon visits many schools and is very informative. Please take the time to attend this forum if you can – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

Key Dates for the Diary

• Thursday 24 July 2025  – Elective Subject Selection Link opened
• Friday 1 August 2025 – Elective Subject Selection closes
• Monday 4 – Friday 8 August 2025 – Year 8 Immersion (Mudgee and Sydney city experiences)

– Kate Schurch
Acting Head of Year 8

Year 9

I hope you had a relaxing and enjoyable break. It was a pleasure to welcome Year 9 back to campus this week and to hear their stories, experiences, and holiday highlights. During our first year meeting, we also took time to reflect on the success of the MLC School Colour Run and shared a slideshow of photos from the day. These are included below to give you a glimpse of the joy and enthusiasm that Year 9 brought to the event.

 The Chapel service this week celebrated NAIDOC week and was led by some of our Year 9 students who attended the East Arnhem Land Immersion in July. Thank you to Nikhita Kumar, Xanthe Johnson, Jasmin Srisathkurunathan, Rachael Ming and Aalea Stephen for leading the service.

Uniform reminders

The Uniform Code and winter items can be found from page 60 in the  Parent Information Handbook, and pages 12-16 in the Student Diary. A reminder that students are expected to wear their blazers to and from school as the outer garment for Term 3. The jumper should not be worn as the outer garment.

To contact the Uniform Shop, please click here.

Luminary contacts details

This term, we warmly welcome Andrew Taylor (Mooramoora), Camille Softley (Prescott) and Candace Roberston (Leawarra) to the Year 9 Luminary team!

Luminary contact details for Term 3, 2025 are as follows:

Paul Dillon Parent Forum – next Wednesday 30 July 2025, 6pm–7pm

Paul Dillon is a renowned, highly respected and sought after speaker who has educated teenagers in the area of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years.

He shows parents how to help their kids negotiate misinformation and social pressure in a calm and sensible way, to tell them what they really want and need to know about alcohol and drugs.

Paul Dillon visits many schools and is very informative. Please take the time to attend this forum if you can – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

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

– Emily Marsh
Head of Year 8

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 10

It has been a great start to Term 3, it always brings me such a joy to see the students return refreshed, energised, and ready to embrace the term ahead.

A huge thank you to our Year 10 students for consistently wearing their uniform with pride. I also want to thank you as parents and guardians for your ongoing support in this area. It’s often the small things – like wearing the uniform well – that reflect personal responsibility and strengthen our sense of community. I am proud to see Year 10 representing MLC School so positively each day.

The start of term is a great time to sit down with your daughter and set a focused academic or personal goal. The final assessment tasks for many subjects in Year 10 will take place this term. Some relevant goals that could help support a successful term and equip them for next year could include improving her organisation (are her notes in order? Is her OneDrive tidy? Is she regularly checking her school email?), developing consistent study habits, attending Study Help sessions, or starting early on assessment preparation. Even something as simple as writing weekly revision notes has a powerful impact on long-term retention and confidence.

I am proud to announce our first group of Year 10 Luminary Representatives! These students showed initiative by nominating themselves and were selected by their peers to represent their Luminary group. I am looking forward to seeing them take the lead in Year Meetings, within their Luminary time, and in building a cohesive Year 10 community.

Here are our Term 3 Luminary Representatives:

I am excited to see the leadership, teamwork, and spirit these students will bring to the role.

Lastly, I am pleased to introduce Bridget Kovats and James Adams as the new Luminaries for Year 10 Booralee. Please do not hesitate to contact me or your daughter’s Luminary teacher (listed below) throughout the term.

Paul Dillon Parent Forum – next Wednesday 30 July 2025, 6pm–7pm

Paul Dillon is a renowned, highly respected and sought after speaker who has educated teenagers in the area of drugs and alcohol for over 25 years.

He shows parents how to help their kids negotiate misinformation and social pressure in a calm and sensible way, to tell them what they really want and need to know about alcohol and drugs.

Paul Dillon visits many schools and is very informative. Please take the time to attend this forum if you can – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

– Penny Hewett
Head of Year 10

Year 11

Year 11 did an amazing job with the cake stall at the MLC School Colour Run on the last day of school last term. Many thanks to our SRC representatives Zoya Rezainia, Laila Chopra and Sasha Murray for the excellent organisation of this stall.

The year group have had a great start to the term, many having prepared for the academic demands ahead during their break. Others have enjoyed a good break and are refreshed ready to manage the challenges ahead. I am thrilled to be back with the year group again to support them to continue to be such a wonderful cohort.

This is an exciting term ahead for Year 11. Elections for our 2026 Leadership team opened today Friday 25 July and will close by 8am Friday 1 August 2025. The interview panel, including myself are looking forward to the interview process which will begin in Week 4 (Monday 11 August 2025). It is always a rewarding experience to listen to the aspiring leaders of our school discuss their strengths, and the improvements they would like to make at MLC School.

Next week on Wednesday 30 July 2025 Paul Dillon from DARTA will provide a tailored presentation to each of Year 10, Year 11 and Year 12. Paul provides up to date information on trends, risks and ways for young people to keep safe when socialising. Many of the strategies Paul discusses with the students are to keep others and themselves safe. There is an evening session for parents 6pm – 7pm and I would encourage you to attend – it will be worth it!  

RSVP here

Illness and Misadventure Form

As the Trials approach, please be mindful of the procedure on applying for Illness and Misadventure. Click here for information about how to submit an Illness and Misadventure Form on Omnia.

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

Coming up

• Wednesday 30 July 2025, 11.50am–1.10pm – Paul Dillon from DARTA Presentation
• Wednesday 20 August to Wednesday 3 September 2025 – Year 11 Examination Block
• Thursday 14 September 2025 – Athletics Carnival

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

Year 12

Welcome back to Term 3, a very busy and exciting term for Year 12 as they close out the final term of their school career. We’ve had a great week so far – the Muck Up Photo took place on Wednesday, as well as our Chapel service. The focus for chapel was the celebration of NAIDOC Week and Churunga lead the service, including a beautiful opening prayer by Ava Farah. Our image this week is of Churunga with Rev Vinnie Rivetali.

The Muck Up Photo was great fun and everyone got into the spirit of the event. The commitment the girls put into their outfits and themes is amazing and they had so much fun – a welcome relief from the intense pre-Trial preparation period. We also had the last of our Careers sessions, a great presentation on the Construction Industry and the many pathways to a career in design, engineering and project management. A big thank you goes to Jo Cilia, our Head of Careers and Future Pathways, for organising such a wonderful program for Year 12.

Thanks for your support with Study Camp during the break. The girls have been very positive about this new initiative, with helpful feedback on how we can continue to improve next year. Most students have reflected about how beneficial it was as a tool in their study program, combined with working at home and at local libraries too. Teachers are working very hard to support Year 12 and other options are available, such as Study Hub after school on Level 3. Of course, consistent attendance at classes, chapel services, Luminary and assemblies are expected until the end of term.

As the end of Year 12 approaches, could I ask for your support in ensuring the following:

• All absences must be accounted for. Absence notification can be submitted by:
  • Using the Absence button on the blue left hand side menu in Omnia
  • Using the Absentee tile on the front of the MLC School app
• As the Trials approach, please be mindful of the procedure on applying for Illness and Misadventure. Click here for information about how to submit an Illness and Misadventure Form on Omnia.
• The uniform policy highlighted in the Welcome to Term 3 email sent last week is a very helpful guide on the expectations around uniform, specifically jewellery. Click here for the letter.

If you have any concerns about your daughter’s academic progress, please contact the relevant class teacher. For wellbeing and pastoral concerns, I am available Monday to Friday on 02 8741 9736 and by email on sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au for a phone call, onsite meeting or Teams meeting.

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 12

Important Messages

Welcome to Term 3, do we have a big term of sport!

This term we are hoping to continue the momentum of Term 2 and encourage all students who have signed up and made a commitment to play sport to turn up to every game and training session. In Term 2, we introduced consequences for those students who were not fulfilling this commitment. While we are thrilled we didn’t have to give any sport detentions, we have had to give some Accountability Points to students in the Senior School who have not fulfilled their commitment. Let’s keep supporting each other and the School by not only ‘showing up’ each week but having fun, learning some new skills and showing the amazing School Spirit that we have.

If your daughter is unable to attend a game or training session, please ensure you contact the Sports coordinator well in advance so that a replacement can be found for the matches.

Netball, Volleyball, Strength and Conditioning

• Lauren O’Shea – loshea@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Basketball, Water Polo, Snow Sports, Fitness

• Marnie Stephenson – mstephenson@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Hockey, Athletics and IPSHA Touch Football

• Isaac Laws – ilaws@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Tennis

• Ludovic Catherine – lcatherine@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Badminton and Tennis

• Clare Iongi – ciongi@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Football and Fencing

• Scott Carpenter – directorofsport@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

If you would like to contact Scott or I please do by using the email address directorofsport@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Sporting Achievements

Swimming

Over the term break, seven MLC School students competed at the NSW Metropolitan Swimming Championships. Everyone had a fantastic meet and achieved great results. One of the highlights is that Madison Chantler won a Gold Medal in the 100m Butterfly and 3rd in the 50m Fly at NSW Metropolitan swimming. 

Well done to Madison and the entire team. The outstanding results are:

Hailey Leung (Year 11) 

• 9th in Women 15 over 100m Bk 
• 20th Women 15–16 50m FS
• 5th Women 15–16 50m BK 

Lauren Cheng (Year 7) 

• 10th in Women 10–12 200m IM
• 7th in Women 10–12 200m FS
• 20th Women 11–12 50m BR
• 16th Women 9–12 100m BR
• 5th Women 11–12 50m FS (PB)
• 8th Women 11–12 100m FS
• 16th Women 11–14 200m BR

Olivia Burke (Year 8)

• 32th in Women 13–14 50m FS (PB)
• 28th Women 13–14 100m FS (PB)

Madison Chantler (Year 10)

• 1st in Women 15 / over 100m Fly (PB)
• 4th in Women 15 / over 100m BK 
• 3rd in Women 15–16 50m Fly
• 13th in Women 15–16 100m FS 

Ashley Clapham (Year 7)

• 55th in Women 13–14 50m Fly 

Isabel Floro ( Year 9)

• PB in women 13–14 100m IM 
• PB in women 13–14 50m Fly 
• Great swim in women 13–14 50m FS and 100m FS

Mengqi Liu (Year 7)

• 11th in Women 9–12 100m BK 
• 9th in Women 11–12 50m FS (PB)
• 14th in Women 11–12 50m BK (PB)

– Colman Wong
Head Swimming Coach

Diving

Over the break the MLC School team competed in the first competition of the season, the Matthew Mitcham Meet. We had four girls qualify for the National Championships in Adelaide in April next year, and five girls on the podium. 

A message from the coaches:

‘I was also very impressed with how resilient and encouraging the girls were, as several of them managed to come back from disappointing starts. The girls also showed great sportsmanship throughout the competition, cheering along both their teammates and competitors- I think they did us very proud!’

Pathways Level 5

• Elizabeth Feng (Year 3) – 1st Place
• Calais Durie (Year 5) – 3rd Place

Pathways Level 3
Bronze Tier

• Charlotte Auty (Year 7)
• Sahana Ramesh (Year 7)

11/U

• Calais Durie (Year 5), 1m – 4th Place, National Qualifier

12/13

• Eloise Dastyari (Year 6), 1m – 3rd Place, National Qualifier
• Charlotte Lim (Year 5), 1m – 6th Place

16/18

• Hannah North (Year 10), Platform – 5th Place, National Qualifier

19/24

• Tahlia Jeffery (Year 12), 3m – 1st Place, National Qualifier

– Arianna Grebert 

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Rowing – Farewell and Welcome

After ten outstanding years leading our rowing program, we farewell our Head of Rowing Rob Glendenning as he retires from his role. His dedication, leadership, and passion have shaped a culture of excellence, resilience, and camaraderie both on and off the water. From early morning trainings to regatta victories, Rob’s legacy is deeply woven into the fabric of our school. As Rob embarks on a well-earned retirement, we thank him for his tireless service and the inspiration he has provided to generations of rowers. Thanks for being OARSOME.

We are thrilled to welcome Charlotte Almond to the MLC School Sports Team as our new Head of Rowing.

Charlotte brings with her a wealth of international experience and a strong academic foundation, holding a degree in Sports and Exercise Science from the University of Louisville, Kentucky, where she studied on a full athletic scholarship. As a high-performance athlete, Charlotte proudly represented Team Great Britain in rowing at the highest levels of competition.

In addition to her athletic achievements, Charlotte has also contributed her expertise off the water – working as a Sports Nutritionist with the University of Louisville Football Team and as a Sports Performance Coach at The Grange High School in Cheshire, England.

Her diverse background and passion for athlete development make her an outstanding addition to our team, and we are extremely excited to have her on board.

Along with Charlotte, Rafe Stanford Meisl who is known to the rowing community is taking on the role of Head Coach. We are excited to have both Charlotte and Rafe join the team.

Click on the image below.

– Directors of Sport

Around The Grounds

Snowsports

Over the recent school holidays, nine girls and I competed in numerous competitions, with the highlight being the 2025 Interschools Regionals Competition in Thredbo. The event brought students from schools in the Greater Sydney area to compete in a variety of events across skiing and snowboarding. Our 2025 Snowsports Season started off with a bang with Arielle McBrien (Year 6) winning the Bronze Medal in the Scots Race and Elise Shen (Year 3) winning the Bronze Medal in the Redlands Cup. Followed by a team dinner, which was an amazing opportunity to bond as a team and get excited for the week ahead. Despite some less than ideal weather, the week was full of determined racers and support from all team members. Across the week, we excitedly raced in various events with all of us having extremely successful outcomes. Some significant achievements include: 

• Elise Shen (Year 3) and Marina Chen (Year 4), finishing 2nd in Ski Cross as a team
• Elise Shen (Year 3) placing 1st in Moguls
• Arielle McBrien (Year 6) placed 4th in Moguls

In addition, seven girls placed in the Top 15 advancing through to the Interschools State Competition in August. 

This season was exceptional, made possible from the support of our parents. Mr Maling and Ms Stephenson. Thank you for giving up part of your holidays to support and encourage us. Congratulations to all the girls who competed and good luck to those competing in the State Championships. 

– Zaz Tiglao (Year 12)
2025 Snowsports Captain

This 2025 Snowsports Season was a great year. While we didn’t have many on our team, we were still a strong and supportive crew. We kicked off the week with a team dinner where we all worked together to make signs and get excited for the days ahead. Throughout the week we gave it our all in different races, with many of us qualifying for State. It was fun and memorable and I’m looking forward to cross country and States coming up – and doing it all again next year. 

Big thank you to Zaz, our amazing Snowsports Captain for bringing the team together and making this season so special.

– Niamh Johnson (Year 10)

Weekend Fixtures

Friday 25 July 2025

Saturday 26 July 2025

– Acting Sports Directors

Follow MLC School Sport on Facebook

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

– Acting Sports Directors

Cadets – Welcome to our 64 New Recruits and Congratulations to those Promoted

As we begin an exciting new chapter as the MLC School Army Cadet Unit, we are proud to welcome 64 enthusiastic Year 8 recruits into our ranks. With their arrival, our unit now stands strong with 161 cadets.

This latest intake brings new energy and potential to MLCSACU. We look forward to watching our newest cadets grow in confidence, skill, and camaraderie as they embark on their Cadet journey.

Alongside this growth, we are also proud to recognise and celebrate our newly appointed cadet leaders, who have stepped into formal leadership roles within the unit. These appointments include promotions to Cadet Under Officer (CUO), WO1, WO2, Sergeant, Corporal, and Lance Corporal – each a significant milestone that reflects dedication, resilience, and a key step in leadership to life as a cadet.

As leaders in a newly established unit, they are not only tasked with guiding others but also with shaping our culture, building new traditions, and laying the foundation for generations of cadets to come. They have dared to lead, committing themselves to serve with integrity, compassion, and purpose.

We offer our congratulations to all who have been promoted. Your achievements reflect your hard work and character, and we look forward to seeing you grow and thrive as role models and leaders. Your journey will inspire others and help establish a proud, enduring legacy for the MLC School Army Cadet Unit.

Key Dates being:

Home Training Term 3

• No 1 – Friday 25 July 2025
• No 2 – Friday 8 August 2025
• No 3 – Friday 22 August 2025
• No 4 – Friday 5 September 2025
• No 5 – Friday 19 September 2025

Home Training Term 4

• No 6 – Friday 17 October 2025
• No 7 – Friday 31 October 2025
• No 8 – Friday 14 November 2025
• No 9 – Friday 28 November 2025

AFX

• Sunday 29 March – Thursday 2 April 2026  

Anzac Day

• Saturday 25 April 2026

Promo Camp

• To be confirmed

– CAPT(AAC) Maling
Cadet Coordinator

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Dance Showcase Ticket Announcement!

Business Club Bake Sale

During Round Square Week, the Business Club held a Bake Sale, raising funds for our chosen charity Kiva, a charity that helps communities around the world build better futures by funding small businesses and supporting local entrepreneurship. In the lead up to the event, we all worked collaboratively to brainstorm ideas on how we would run this, create and print posters, prepare and allocate what baked goods to bring, marketing it to the School, and finalising the logistics on the day. It was a rewarding experience seeing everyone coming together, sharing their ideas, and contributing in different ways to make this Bake Sale possible.

On the day of the sale, the stall was filled with an exciting variety of baked goods – from Crumbl™-inspired cookies and cupcakes to tiramisu and crookies. It was great to see so many students and teachers come by to support the Bake Sale, and we were able to raise over $500, contributing to help small businesses grow in developing countries. Overall, the Bake Sale was a rewarding experience where the whole club came together. It allowed us to strengthen our teamwork, gain hands-on experience in planning and running a business-style event, and most importantly, contribute to a cause that empowers others through entrepreneurship.

If you’d like to get involved or be part of something similar, join Business Club on Tuesday lunchtimes in SC307!

– Kimberly Chou (Year 11)

The bake sale was a rewarding experience where all of business club worked together as a team, to bake and sell delicious baked goods, to raise money for Kiva, an organisation that gives loans to entrepreneurs in developing countries to help them grow their businesses and improve their lives. For me personally, it was enjoyable to bake and sell the goods, and raise funds for a worthy cause.

– Niamh Canadas (Year 9)