From the Principal

Update on the Performing Arts and Sports Centre Project

The Council is pleased to share an important update on the Performing Arts and Sports Centre (PASC) project, a key priority for MLC School. In mid-May, the project received official approval from the Department of Planning, Housing and Infrastructure (DPHI) – a significant milestone that reflects the strength of our vision and planning to date.

The vision for this facility is bold and ambitious, and we are excited by the possibilities it will unlock for our students and community.

To ensure the PASC is delivered in a way that best serves the long-term needs of the School, the Council has made the decision to pause the project temporarily. This pause allows us to align the PASC with the outcomes of our comprehensive Masterplanning process, which has been running in parallel and is in its final stages. It also provides an opportunity to incorporate evolving developments in the surrounding area, including the Burwood North Master Plan (which is currently being finalised) and associated Metro infrastructure.

MLC School’s Masterplanning involves an holistic review of our campus infrastructure and future development opportunities. It ensures that our spaces and grounds support learning, wellbeing, and community engagement – now and into the future.

By taking this strategic pause, we can ensure the PASC is not only a state-of-the-art facility but also a cornerstone of a broader, integrated vision for MLC School. This approach reflects our commitment to thoughtful, future-focused planning and positions the School to take full advantage of emerging opportunities.

We look forward to sharing further updates as the Masterplanning process progresses and thank our community for their continued support and enthusiasm.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Dance Showcase 2025 Tickets Are On Sale!

• Year 3 to Year 12 Co-curricular Dance Companies and Ensembles
• Year 9 to Year 12 Elective Dance Students
• Junior and Senior School Wakakirri Productions
• Pom and Hip Hop AASCF items
• VET Entertainment

Sony Foundation Camp – Seeking Nursing and Medical Support

We ask that you please share this opportunity with any nurses or medical professionals that you know.

MLC School warmly invites nurses and medical professionals to volunteer expertise as part of 24-hour onsite medical staff for the 2025 MLC School Sony Foundation Children’s Holiday Camp.

The four-day, three-night respite camp, hosted by Year 11 students and staff of MLC School will run from Saturday 6 December to Tuesday 9 December 2025 at Land’s Edge Foundation Harbour Lodge, 1 Chowder Bay Road, Mosman.

Children with additional needs who are attending the camp will be treated to a range of fun-filled activities from time at the beach to discos, magic shows, drumming workshops, craft and so much more! 

EOI: To help and express your interest, please don’t hesitate to contact mlcnurse@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Please click on the images below for full size information.

Click here to view a flyer with more information.

You can also read more information on our website.

Year 12 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.

Lost Property – Please Collect before Donation or Disposal

Lost property is taking up more space than we can allocate.

The amount of clothing currently being held would be extremely disappointing for parents and carers. We need these items to be collected or unfortunately we will need to donate or dispose of them.

• Clothing items
• Airpods
• Headphones
• Shoes
• Water Bottles
• Bags
• Pencil Cases

These Items will be donated or disposed of at the end of term if they are not collected.

Thank you for your assistance in this.

– Anita Brown
Senior School Administrator

From the Director of Professional Practice – Launch of Professional Learning Teams Pilot Model

Professional Learning Teams Pilot Model for Teachers

This week, our professional learning session focused on launching the Collaborative Sprints Pilot Model to all Senior School teachers.

Our learning intention was to build a shared understanding of the research underpinning the MLC School Professional Learning Teams (PLT) Pilot Model and explore how it can be translated into classroom practice. Our success criteria were:  

• I can describe the key elements of the PLT Pilot Model and its research base
• I can visualise what the upcoming workshops will look, sound, and feel like
• I can identify at least one-two practical strategies to apply to my classroom

Teachers engaged in a rotation which offered possible exemplar strategies for differentiation, active and deep learning. It was a wonderful space for collaboration, professional dialogue and application.

A Spotlight on Practice – Martina Stolzi

Recently, I had the pleasure of visiting Science Teacher, Martina Stolzi’s Science classroom which exemplified thoughtful and effective teaching practice. From the moment I stepped into the space, it was clear that the relationships between Martina and her students were built on mutual respect, warmth and trust. The atmosphere was calm, inclusive and highly conducive to learning as every student appeared comfortable, engaged and ready to explore new ideas.

The lesson focused on the respiratory system and her instructional approach was exemplary. Martina employed a rich blend of direct instruction techniques, incorporating still visuals, models, text and videos to support student understanding. This multimodal strategy aligns with research on effective science teaching, which emphasises the importance of varied representations to support conceptual development.

Throughout the session, Martina actively checked for understanding, using questioning and discussion to reinforce key ideas and clarify misconceptions. One particularly effective technique was simplifying complex content into a single, memorable takeaway. For instance, students were encouraged to focus on either ‘inspiration’ or ‘expiration’, knowing that if they understood one, the other could be logically inferred as its opposite. This approach helped reduce cognitive load by narrowing the focus and minimising the amount of information students needed to process at once, aligning with Sweller’s Cognitive Load Theory (1988), which emphasises the importance of managing mental effort to support deeper learning.

What stood out most was Martina’s presence and energy. Her enthusiasm for the subject matter and genuine care for the students created a dynamic and joyful learning experience. It was a powerful reminder of the impact that passionate, thoughtful educators have on student engagement and achievement.

Thank you, Martina, for welcoming me into your learning space and for the inspiring work you do every day.

– Amy Murphy
Director of Professional Practice

From the Director of Learning Enhancement – Opportunity for High Potential Learners

MindQuest 2025
Saturday 20 – Sunday 21 September 2025
St George Girls High School
Victoria Street, Kogarah

MLC School is pleased to share the upcoming MindQuest 2025 enrichment program for our high potential girls in Year 1 to Year 6. The program will be held at St George Girls High School on Saturday 20 – Sunday 21 September 2025.

Now in its 29th year, MindQuest offers a dynamic suite of over 30 intensive workshops to extend learning beyond the classroom curriculum. With courses such as ‘Unlocking Leonardo’s Secrets’ (Year 1–Year 2), ‘Egyptology’ (Year 3–Year 4) and ‘Digital Animation’ (Year 5–Year 6), these courses are crafted to spark creative thinking, academic curiosity, and intellectual rigour.

Registrations close on Friday 29 August 2025. Please visit mindquest.net.au to explore the full course list and secure a spot.

There is a cost involved in this enrichment program.

– Stephanie Dimetrelis
Director of Learning Enrichment

MindQuest Contact for enquiries and late applications:

Shelagh Poray 02 9748 1084
Director Mindquest Program
MEd BEd Dip Teach Cert Gifted Ed

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

Learning Conversations 

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

This month URStrong’s theme is Respect. This is timely because it is also the School Value in focus in the Junior School.

In our URStrong Friendology friendship skills curriculum, we teach students that respect is when:

 ‘Your friend accepts who you are – your thoughts, feelings, and opinions – even if they are different.’

When it comes to friendships, nothing sparks a bigger Friendship Fire® than disrespect.

Are you encouraging your daughters to be respectful in their friendships? Do you know how to do this? What to say? URStrong encourages parents to be a Friendship Coach! I love this analogy. Read the blog below to understand more about how you can coach your daughters in their friendships.

URStrong Blog Link

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Year 2 – Congratulations to Elyse

Congratulations Elyse!

Year 2 student Elyse Ma has received the Silver Award in the JIA Future Artists Award 2025, organised by the Japan Illustrators’ Association (JIA). This global competition collects children’s artworks from around the world, aiming to discover future talents in illustration, recognise outstanding young creators, and foster international cultural and artistic exchange through illustration.

The illustration depicts a grand celebration held to welcome the birth of a royal princess (the white cat in the sky). The King and Queen stand at the centre, surrounded by the Royal Orchestra and other entertainers. The whole town has gathered to join the festivities, and three fairies have come to offer their most heartfelt blessings.

What a delightful artwork Elyse, the creativity, planning and passion that you put into is obvious, well done!

– Marian Doull
Teacher

Year 4 Create Artwork in the Sunshine

Environmental Installation

Year 4 took advantage of a sunny afternoon and their study of the work of land artist Andy Goldsworthy to produce these beautiful installation pieces.

– Marian Doull
Junior School Teacher

Year 6 – Dancing, Growing and Sticking Together!

💃🧠

This term, Year 6 students are diving into two meaningful Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) units that focus on self-expression, collaboration, and emotional awareness. 

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 3

• Vicki Nikolakopoulos

Year 5

• Sienna Cordony
• Mariangel Corrales Solano
• Angelina Galilee
• Chloe Lim
• Peita Nikolakopoulos

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.

We invite students to continue bringing 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

From the Head of Senior School

Week 3 has been a very busy one as Year 12 enter their Trial examination period. Over this week and next, the students are testing their knowledge in examination conditions. This period is crucial for the girls to gain confidence as they build toward the final HSC and IB examination blocks in October. Those students with major works to hand in are also working hard with the final assessments happening over the next few weeks. The Year 12 teachers, HoDs, Curriculum team and the Learning Enhancement team have worked so hard for this period to go smoothly for the students – thank you everyone. We look forward to having the students back in classes for the final push in classes until the end of Term 3, a critical consolidation and revision period for the girls.

Our Year 8 students are of course out on Immersion this week. Angela Renwick, Adventure and Immersions Coordinator, Bridget Kovats, Acting Deputy Head of Department – English, and Kate Schurch, Acting Head of Year 8, have worked tirelessly in the lead up. We have had lots of positive messages from Mudgee, and the city component has also been a success despite the rain.

On Thursday, Year 11 International Baccalaureate Diploma Creativity, Action and Service students (IB CAS) students organised to raise money for Jeans for Genes Day. Congratulations to Anisha Sivagurunathan (Year 11), May Nguyen (Year 11) and Anna Obaid (Year 11) for organising such a meaningful day.

Next week we will begin the interviews for the 2026 Student Leadership team. The endorsement and voting period has closed and we look forward to discussing servant leadership with the girls and their vision for next year. It really is one of the highlights of the year.

We also look forward to Excitement Day, when our Year 6 girls spend a day in the Senior School. It is always a great day and we are looking forward to spending time with them.

Heart Point Update

This week we recognised 2025 Bronze Award winners for achieving a certain number of Heart Points.

Congratulations to:

Abbeythorpe recipients

• Gemma Verden (Year 7)
• Lucinda Ho (Year 8)
• Lauren Liu (Year 8)
• Summer Ryan (Year 10)
• Hannah Grave (Year 10)

Booralee recipients 

• Eve Ireland (Year 11)
• Matilda Hardy (Year 8)
• Bridget Cortis-Jones (Year 9)
• Emily Van Der Westhuizen (Year 9)
• Evie Fergus (Year 9)
• Tehya Sivanesarajah (Year 9)
• Stephanie Ivy Skilton (Year 10)
• Mikayla Woon (Year 10)

Churunga recipients

• Miranda Hudson (Year 11)
• April Cookson (Year 7)
• Manjima Dutta-Gupta (Year 7)
• Eloise Woodhouse (Year 7)
• Emma Cardwell (Year 8)
• Zahraa Chehab (Year 8)
• Madeleine Girgis (Year 9)
• Indi Hannah (Year 9)
• Hannah Dastyari (Year 9)
• Anika Gupta (Year 10)

Leawarra recipients

• Isabella Horvath (Year 8)
• Grace Kuman (Year 10)
• Meena Kanthathas (Year 10)

Lester recipients

• Claudia Pruscino (Year 7)
• Chloe Nunn (Year 7)
• Heather Yeon (Year 10)
• Sanaya Nair (Year 10)

Mooramoora recipients

• Crystal Huang (Year 11)
• Isabella Townsend (Year 11)
• Leona Nadarajah (Year 7)
• Ashley Clapham (Year 7)
• Queeny Guan (Year 7)
• Cherie-Louise Moses (Year 7)
• Yasmin Maidment (Year 7)
• Mila Waldron (Year 7)
• Bethany Haddad (Year 8)
• Lucy Stoddard (Year 9)
• Imogen Walker (Year 10)

Prescott recipients

• Isabelle Ng (Year 11)
• Amelia Becker (Year 7)
• Rima Zhang (Year 9)
• Enid Boyd (Year 10)

Wade recipients

• Zoe Craig (Year 7)
• Audrey Buck (Year 8)
• Marni Heavener (Year 9
• Hannah Hunter (Year 9)
• Eva Diessl (Year 9)
• Ruth Costello (Year 9)

Whitley recipients

• Claire Taylor (Year 11)
• Katherine Woo (Year 9)
• Mia Waterhouse (Year 9)
• Harlow Elsibai (Year 9)

In other positive news this week, our wonderful Receptionist Wendy Allen received a very positive phone call from the Goulburn McDonalds Restaurant of all places! The manager wanted to let us know how great the girls were (those on the Year PASS excursion to the snow) and what great representatives they were to MLC School. I am looking forward to debriefing with Sarah Papachristoforou, Head of Department – Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) to allocate Heart Points to these students.

Study Hub Next Week

– Joanna Graffen
Head of Senior School

Year 7

Year 7 had their Chapel session this week, which is a really special time to come together as a Year group. Our student volunteers spoke beautifully, and their peers were respectful and kind listeners. Thank you to all the student volunteers, it’s wonderful to see you taking on these roles and showing your leadership.

This week Year 7 also enjoyed supporting Jeans for Genes Day and had a session with their Year 11 Big Sisters. With compassion as the overarching theme of the Year 7 Pastoral Care Program this term, the students engaged in an activity to create a compassion tree, showcasing ways they have been or can be compassionate. The Year 7 students will meet with their Big Sisters again this term and their Luminaries will continue to work with the girls on building vertical connections at school.

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

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 9

MLC School felt a little quieter this week, with nearly a third of Year 9 students away on the PASS ski trip. By all accounts, it was a fantastic couple of days. Students embraced the challenge of the slopes, developed resilience and new skills, and made the most of the experiential learning experience.

In Luminary this week, Year 9 students explored the theme of leadership through a hands-on activity called Lead the Way. The aim was to build trust, communication, and leadership skills in a fun and reflective way. Working in pairs, students took turns guiding each other (blindfolded) through an obstacle course using only verbal instructions. The challenge encouraged students to think carefully about how they communicate and to place trust in their peers.

After the activity, students gathered in circles to reflect on their experience. They considered questions such as: ‘What made instructions clear or confusing?’ ‘How did it feel to rely on someone else’s guidance?’ And ‘What can we learn from this about being a better leader or team member?’ It was heartening to see students engage thoughtfully with these questions and support one another throughout the session.

In addition to this, students continued their work in the Teens and Screens program, Being Online: Maximising the Good, Minimising the Bad, developed by the Black Dog Institute. This week’s focus was on understanding how young people engage online, based on findings from the Future Proofing Study – Australia’s largest longitudinal study of adolescent wellbeing. As always, I encourage you to continue these conversations at home.

– Emily Marsh
Head of Year 9

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 10

This week in Luminary, our Year 10 students began exploring possible work experience placements in greater detail. While the Term 4 Work Experience Week may feel far off, it’s never too early to start preparing. With many schools running their programs simultaneously, we strongly encourage parents to support their daughters in securing a host employer as soon as possible to avoid missing out on valuable opportunities. All placements must be organised and the required paperwork submitted by the end of Term 3.

To support this process, students are actively building their employability skills through their Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) unit Life Beyond School. Year 10 is developing their skills of writing resumes, crafting cover letters, and preparing for job interviews – essential tools for securing and succeeding in their placements.

For more information and helpful tips, click here for the Work Experience feature article in this issue of Audacia.

Congratulations to Jocelyn Su on her acceptance into Round 2 of the Junior Science Olympiad Talent Development Program following her participation in the taster course. The program runs through Term 3 and Term 4, covering Earth Science, Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Well done, Jocelyn!

I love hearing and sharing the successes of our Year 10 students – please encourage your daughter to share her achievements with me and during her Luminary time!

– Penny Hewett
Head of Year 10

Year 11

This week, Year 11 met with their Year 7 Little Sisters and led them in a Kindness Tree Activity. Each Year 11 Luminary group, led by their Luminary Representatives guided Year 7 in conversations about kindness and ways to make sure their peers experience a sense of belonging. The activity not only encouraged Year 7 to reflect how they can contribute positively to their peer environment but also provided them a safe place to talk about their feelings and reinforced the importance of empathy, inclusion and respectful relationships. Year 11 improved their compassionate leadership capacity guiding Year 7 through sensitive topics and modelled emotional maturity and resilience.

On Thursday 7 August, May Nguyen, Anna Obaid and Anisha Sivagurunathan organised a Jeans for Genes Day. The Jeans for Genes initiative is a fundraising campaign which raises awareness and funds for children’s genetic diseases. The Children’s Medical Research Institute, an organisation which works tirelessly to discover new treatments and cures for birth defects and genetic disease, benefits enormously from this initiative. Thank you May, Anna and Anisha.

Year 11 Retreat

On the first week of Term 4, Year 11 will be heading off on their last whole year-group camp. It will be a special time, and I have asked for volunteers for a committee to promote student voice and to contribute ideas to making their time memorable. We met for the first time on Thursday 7 August. One of the initial ideas is that students would love if parents could write a small affirmation note for the students to open while they are on camp along with notes that teachers and students will write for each other.

Please consider writing a short affirmation to your daughter as they come to the end of Year 11 and are about to embark on their final year of schooling. You can either provide your daughter with the affirmation in an envelope to bring to me or you can provide an envelope to Front Reception. The affirmations will be opened while on retreat. Please write these by the end of term so they can be packed for camp.

The camp note for the retreat should go out by the beginning of Week 6 (beginning Monday 25 August 2025), however, Year 11 will begin voting on a theme and providing their peer preferences for rooming and group options next week before their examination block.

If you have any queries or concerns, I can be reached via email arenwick@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au and my direct line which is 028741 3278

Coming up

• Wednesday 20 August to Wednesday 3 September 2025 –Year 11 Examination Block
• Thursday 4 September 2025 – Athletics Carnival

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

How to Support Students in Finding a Host Employer for Work Experience 2025

Term 4 Week 7 – Monday 24 to Friday 28 November 2025

There has been lots of positive momentum towards work experience week with students considering their interest and aligning it with opportunities.  

A few placement highlights this week include, returning to their primary school, RPA, a law firm and a beautician.

This week, students were given time during Luminary to select three organisations to contact based on their interests, decided on the best way to reach out, and set aside time to do so by week’s end.

It is important to note, that although we provide resources and guidance, most placements come from students’ own family or connections. Parents can assist by exploring options with their children and sharing contacts from their networks.

Parents and local community can also assist by nominating businesses that can assist in taking on students at this time. If you have anyone that can help please ask them to complete the Host Employer Form and we can share this with suitable students.

Finding a Host Employer – Student Tips

Students should not rely solely on email to contact potential businesses. The most effective approach is to visit in person or call ahead to arrange a meeting with the owner or manager. Students should dress neatly and bring a printed Letter of Introduction, the Student Placement Record, and a one-page resume. Many employers welcome enthusiastic students seeking experience.

Student Placement Record (SPR)

The SPR is a legal document that covers students while on placement. Students cannot attend any placement without a fully signed SPR in place.

The SPR has separate sections that are to be completed and signed by several parties:

• Section 1 and Section 4 is completed by the Student and the Parents
• Section 2 School details have been pre-filled
• Once a business agrees to take on a student they must complete and sign Section 3 of the SPR
• Section 5 is completed by the School after all other sections have been finalised

Once Sections 1–4 of the SPR have been completed, students must upload the document through the link provided in the digital handbook using their school email account.

SPR’s are due Term 3: Friday 5 September 2025. This is when students must have their placement organised and confirmed.

For Further Information work experience is a compulsory activity for Year 10 students which is part of MLC School’s Career Education Program.

For more information contact the Futures and Pathways team directly on 02 8741 3114 or email Jo Cilia, Head of Futures and Pathways, jcilia1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au or Nicole Massara, Careers and VET Administrator, nmassara@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Year 12

Year 12 are off to a strong start with the beginning of their Trial HSC and IB examinations this week. They have been on time, prepared and in uniform ready to tackle the questions and issues that come their way. The Trials are an important turning point in the Year 12 program and it is great to see the girls see the benefit of their hard work. I would encourage you to debrief with your daughters about the exams, focusing on their strengths and achievements, and in support of their efforts. There will be time after the Trials for reflection and working on the way forward, which is a very individual journey for each student. The support of the School and staff are with them all the way. The girls received a lovely token from the MLC School community, wishing them well (see image) and a reminder that chocolate is a very important part of a Year 12’s life!

Just a reminder if your daughter is unwell and cannot attend an exam – please submit an Illness/Misadventure application via the Omnia parent portal. Instructions can be found in this newsletter by clicking here. An email addressed to Elisa Scala, Deputy Head of Senior School – Academic, Priscilla Quintana, IB Coordinator and myself is also helpful for tracking attendance and notifying Heads of Faculty. A medical certificate is needed for the day of the examination, with that date and with a specific reason for not completing the exam, not only ‘unfit for school’. The girls have been very good in getting to school on time this week. Please remind your daughter that she needs to be at the exam space 30 minutes before the start of the exam.

Please get in touch if you wish to notify us of any academic, pastoral or wellbeing needs during this time and thank you for your support of your daughters – they really appreciate it.

I am available Monday to Friday on 02 8741 9736 or sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au to meet via phone, Teams or on site.

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 12

Year 12 Key Dates Guide

Key dates for Year 12 students and parents

It is important to keep this reference guide for information on opening and closing dates, registration deadlines and to review entry requirements for various programs.

Students can also plan visits and set reminders for important Open Day events across the year and be on top of application closing dates.

Click here for the Key Dates Guide

Year 12 Portfolio Entry Schemes Guide

The Futures and Pathways Department have put together a Guide for Year 12 Portfolio Entry Schemes.

Increase your selection rank or receive an early offer

• Design
• Architecture
• Music
• Engineering
• Construction
• and more

Year 12 Portfolio Entry Schemes Guide

– Jo Cilia
Head of Futures and Pathways

*Photo Credit (Jejo Jose, Unsplash)

Course Information, Webinars and Events

Medical Interviews Preparation Workshop Online
Organisation: National Institute of Education
Location: Online
Date: Saturday 9 August to Sunday 10 August 2025

The unique NIE workshop program aims for students to gain an in-depth understanding and required knowledge of the medical interview processes for specific universities, including Multi-station Mini Interview (MMI), Structured, and Semi-structured panel interviews.

The workshop is structured and based on the models that are taught during our proven one-on-one personalised medical interview sessions. It will allow each and every attendee to learn the required skills and practical understanding for the university from which they received an interview offer.

Find out more and register

Year 12 Future Talk – Financial Considerations, Scholarships and Accommodation
Organisation: University of Wollongong
Location: Online
Date: Monday 11 August 2025

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

Understanding university costs is key to making informed financial decisions. This session will cover HECS-HELP, Centrelink support, and the financial aspects of moving out of home. You’ll also learn about scholarships, grants, and accommodation options at UOW, with practical advice on how to apply. If students are weighing up a gap year, we’ll discuss what to consider before making a decision.

Find out more and register

UNSW x National Science Week 2025
Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: Various
Date: Tuesday 12 August to Sunday 17 August 2025

This National Science Week, UNSW brings you a program of events that spark curiosity and spotlight innovation.

Kick things off with international bestselling author John Vaillant, whose gripping stories of wildfires, climate chaos and survival will leave you thinking differently about our changing world.

Then get hands-on at Science in the Swamp, a free, family-friendly day in Centennial Parklands filled with drone soccer, live reptiles, 3D anatomy, mind-bending illusions and more.

Still curious? Tour a cutting-edge Microfactorie, learn how to turn plastic waste into something new, or join a workshop exploring the future of sustainable materials.

From wildfires to waste, robots to recycling, explore the ideas shaping our future.

Find out more and register

Study Biomedicine and Health at Sydney
Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Wednesday 13 August 2025

Do you have a passion for exploring the science of the human body, its diseases and treatments, and a desire to make a positive mark on the public health care systems that influence the quality of life of populations around the world?

Our new Bachelor of Biomedicine and Health is offered exclusively at the Westmead Health Precinct, offering comprehensive studies in human biology, health, disease and treatment, with approaches to public health and the health care system. This degree prepares you for careers across the health care sector, and is an exciting opportunity to learn from experts and health professionals, while gaining experience in real health settings.

Join this information session to discover more!

Find out more and register

Sydney Careers and Employment Expo 2025
Organisation: Kym Jones Exhibitions
Location: Hordern Pavilion, Moore Park
Date: Saturday 15 August to Sunday 16 August 2025

Sydney’s Careers and employers with career opportunities for all ages. Entry is free.

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

Find out more and register

ADHD and ATAR, Bonus Points, and Uni Entry Explained
Organisation: Claire Pech Careers
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 28 August 2025

Looking for ways to unlock bonus points and improve uni entry chances? Join our webinar designed for Year 12 students with ADHD and parents, navigating university admissions.

We will cover: The ATAR explained, bonus points (adjustment factors) and who qualifies, what is EAS and how to apply with ADHD as the main contributor, dates, preferencing and decision making throughout this.

This talk is being run by Claire Pech Careers and Amanda Krulis.

Find out more and register

Open Days

AFTRS Open Day 2025
Organisation: Australian Film Television and Radio School
Location: Australian Film Television and Radio School
Date: Saturday 9 August 2025

Unleash your creative potential in the world of film, television, radio and podcasting at AFTRS – Australia’s national screen and audio school!

Join us on Open Day at our state-of-the-art purpose-built campus to discover everything you need to know about us, and our courses, including the Bachelor of Arts Screen: Production, Graduate Diploma in Radio and Podcasting, Master of Arts Screen: Business and the nine disciplines of our Master of Arts Screen.

Our expert practitioners will be on hand to welcome you and answer all your burning questions in lively discussions and our Ask Us Anything sessions.

Find out more and register

UC Sydney Hills Education Open Day 2025
Organisation: University of Canberra
Location: UC Sydney Hills Campus
Date: Saturday 9 August 9 2025

Discover how the Bachelor of Early Childhood Education (Birth to Five) at UC Sydney Hills can launch your career in one of the most rewarding and impactful professions!

Here’s what you can expect on the day:

• Explore our Early Childhood Education program in detail
• Tour our vibrant campus and modern learning spaces
• Join hands-on workshops and presentations tailored for future educators
• Meet academic staff and current students for real-world insights
• Enjoy free snacks, coffee, and our famous UC blue cupcakes!

Find out more and register

Whitehouse Open House 2025, Sydney
Organisation: Whitehouse Institute of Design
Location: Whitehouse Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 9 August 2025

Join Whitehouse this August to hear more about our design courses, join a free creative workshop or join an info session on where a career in design can take you.

Find out more and register

Indigenous Futures at Sydney: Open Day and Scholarship Applications
Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 14 August 2025

The USYD Open Day is fast approaching! Our team will be available to address any questions prospective students may have. We will also assist with the scholarship application process, which has been open for over a month, to ensure you have all the necessary information.

Find out more and register

La Trobe Open Day 2025, Sydney
Organisation: La Trobe University
Location: La Trobe Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 16 August  2025

Why attend Open Day at La Trobe?

• Chat with current students, alumni and teachers to get first-hand advice about your dream course, or just about the best places to eat on campus.
• Explore the campus by yourself or join a guided tour. See our world-class health facilities, leading IT and science labs, business trading room, accommodation and much more.
• Discover your options for placements, internships and work-based learning, and get all your questions answered about your dream course.
• Get a taste of what it’s really like to be at uni. Join events and activities or kick back and enjoy the campus – Open Day is the place to see it all.

Find out more and register

ADFA Open Day 2025
Organisation: Australian Defence Force Academy
Location: ADFA Canberra Campus & Online
Date: Saturday 16 August 2025

Join us online or in person for ADFA Open Day to learn about life on campus and how you can receive a fully funded UNSW degree.

Don’t worry if you can’t make it in person, you can still attend ADFA Virtual Open Day online. Register now to reserve your spot at the online event, or join us in person with no registration required.

On the day, you will have the chance to:

• Explore world-class UNSW degrees, with information sessions about Business, Arts, Science, Engineering, Computing and Cyber Security.
• Learn about military training, studying and life on campus from current ADFA Trainee Officers.
• Watch a range of exciting military displays from Navy, Army and Air Force.
• Take a tour of the campus, and much more.

Find out more and register

UON Open Day 2025, Newcastle
Organisation: University of Newcastle
Location: UON, Callaghan and City Campuses
Date: Saturday 16 August 2025

Open Day is packed with everything you need to know about going to the University of Newcastle. Participate in degree presentations, info sessions and tours of the campus.

Enjoy a hands-on experience with our program activations, and ask our student ambassadors questions about uni life.

Find out more and register

JMC Sydney August 2025 Open Day
Organisation: JMC Academy
Location: JMC Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 16 August 2025

This is your chance to see our multi-million dollar world-class facilities – future students, parents and friends welcome.

Things to do at Open Day:

• Explore your creative future and learn about our courses
• Meet our current students and industry expert lecturers
• Check out live student performances
• Tour our world-class facilities and tech
• Speak to us about the admissions process
• Get hands-on with our interactive activations

Find out more and register

Macquarie Open Day 2025
Organisation: Macquarie University
Location: Macquarie Wallumattagal Campus
Date: Saturday 16 August 2025

We can’t wait to welcome you to our campus in 2025!

What you can do on Open Day:

Attend an info session on some of our most popular degrees

• Speak with our academics about our degrees, majors and specialisations, and how they’ll uniquely prepare you for your first career, or help you upskill or reskill if your career is already underway​
• Learn about our scholarships, adjustment factors and pathways; and RPL (recognition of prior learning) if you’ve studied before​
• Chat with current students about uni life​
• Jump on a campus tour and check out our awesome facilities​

Open Day is an experience made for (YOU)^us.​

Find out more and register

ACU Open Day 2025, Strathfield
Organisation: Australian Catholic University
Location: ACU Strathfield Campus
Date: Sunday 17 August 2025

Open Day is your chance to find out everything you need to know about studying at ACU before you enrol. You’ll be able to check out the campus, meet staff and students, discuss entry pathways, and talk to experts about your study options and career goals.

Find out more and register

National Fashion College Open Day 2025, Sydney
Organisation: National Fashion College
Location: NFC Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 19 August 2025

Unlock a world of limitless possibilities at National Fashion College, where your fashion journey begins at our iconic Sydney Campus!

Step into a realm of unmatched creativity and immerse yourself in the forefront of fashion innovation. Our pioneering courses, dynamic internship opportunities, and exclusive access to the buzz of Australian, New York, and London Fashion Weeks will propel you into the heart of the global fashion scene. Get ready to be inspired, challenged, and transformed – we can’t wait to welcome you!

There will be two sessions available on the day: one from 10am to 12pm, and another from 3pm to 5pm.

If these times don’t suit you, you can always book in for a private appointment or tour instead.

Find out more and register

The Hotel School Industry Insights Sydney 2025
Organisation: The Hotel School Australia
Location: Hyatt Regency Sydney
Date: Saturday 23 August 2025

Step into the world of hospitality at Hyatt Regency Sydney! This exclusive event for Year 12 students gives you a behind-the-scenes look at one of the top venues in the industry and a taste of the exciting careers that could be yours. Key takeaways include:

• Hear from Industry Experts
• Interactive Workshop inc. Completion Certificate
• A tour of the iconic hospitality venue
• Get all your questions answered by THSA team
• Network with Industry leaders and current THSA students
• Complimentary Morning Tea and Lunch provided for students

Find out more and register

UON Open Day 2025, Central Coast
Organisation: University of Newcastle
Location: UON Ourimbah and Gosford Campuses
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

Open Day is packed with everything you need to know about going to the University of Newcastle. Participate in degree presentations, info sessions and tours of the campus.

Enjoy a hands-on experience with our program activations, and ask our student ambassadors questions about uni life.

Find out more and register

AIE Online Campus Day
Organisation: Academy of Interactive Entertainment
Location: Online
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

Discover the courses designed to get you started in game development, 3D animation, film and visual effects at the AIE Online Campus Day. AIE will be running this event for students interested in studying online. You will be able to meet our teachers, explore how classes will run, course options, career pathways and see our amazing student work.

We will be covering everything you need to know about the:

• Careers in games and VFX that we train students for
• Studios and industries that we work with
• Courses we offer – from beginners to professional mastery, and
• The software, skills and knowledge we teach

Find out more and register

USYD Open Day 2025
Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Sydney Camperdown Campus
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

Join us at the University of Sydney Open Day on Saturday 30 August 2025. Experience our vibrant student life on campus, hear from academics and current students and discover what makes us different.

Find out more and register

UTS Open Day 2025
Organisation: University of Technology Sydney
Location: UTS City Campus
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

Info sessions, campus tours, workshops, dancing robots – UTS Open Day has it all. Get a taste of what students can expect at Australia’s #1 young uni.

Find out more and register

Notre Dame Open Day 2025, Sydney
Organisation: University of Notre Dame
Location: Notre Dame Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

Notre Dame’s Open Day is your chance to explore what university life is all about! You’ll discover study options, career pathways and our student support services. Plus, you’ll experience an exciting program filled with activities for future students.

Whether you’re in Year 10, 11 or 12, or a graduate thinking about postgrad study, our Open Day is open to everyone – including pathways and international students, who can chat with our dedicated team. Learn about scholarships and financial assistance to make your journey affordable.

Find out more and register

Torrens Technology Virtual Open Day
Organisation: Torrens University Australia
Location: Online
Date: Tuesday 2 September 2025

Join online as our as our Technology academics talk you through the courses on offer and how you can get the most out of studying with us. Learn about scholarships, study pathways, our industry partnerships with global brands and what sets us apart from other universities.

Find out more and register

NAS Open Day 2025
Organisation: National Art School
Location: National Art School
Date: Saturday 6 September 2025

Considering art as a career or simply curious about what happens behind the school’s historic sandstone walls? See what life is like for students at NAS by participating in studio demonstrations, chatting to our academic staff and visiting the NAS Gallery and student exhibition spaces across our campus.

Want to know more about how to apply to NAS? See us at our course enquiry desk, speak with our faculty in a one-on-one consultation or pop into one of the information sessions running throughout the day.

What can you expect at Open Day?

• Explore the campus with a guided tour
• Get an inside look into art school life with the open studios and creative workshops
• Have your questions answered in a one-on-one portfolio consultation
• Get application ready with a drop-in information session

Find out more and register

ACPE Open Day 2025
Organisation: Australian College of Physical Education
Location: ACPE Sydney Olympic Park
Date: Saturday 6 September 2025

Exploring your study options for a career in the sport industry? Join us on campus. See where you will study, meet our students and lecturers, and participate in info sessions and practical sessions to take the next step with confidence.

• Discover your study course options
• Find out where a qualification from ACPE can take your career
• Take a campus tour
• Discuss your study options with our Admissions team
• Meet with academic and student support staff
• Chat with current students about their experience at ACPE
• Enrol for your preferred course on the day, and secure your place

Find out more and register

UTAS Open Day 2025, Rozelle
Organisation: University of Tasmania
Location: UTAS Rozelle Campus
Date: Saturday 6 September 2025

Visit us at our Open Day 2025 event in Sydney. You will have the opportunity to explore our campuses, discuss your study options, and discover how studying at the University of Tasmania could be the perfect fit for you.

Find out more and register

UNSW Open Day 2025
Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: UNSW Kensington Campus
Date: Saturday 6 September 2025

At UNSW Open Day 2025, you’ll discover the progress you can make as one of Australia’s most employable graduates. Whether you’re looking to start uni next year or in a few years, you’re a parent or you’re considering postgrad – we’ll have something for you.

Find out more and register

SDS Open Day, September
Organisation: Sydney Design School
Location: Sydney Design School
Date: Saturday 13 September 2025

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

Find out more and register

Discover Teaching and Psychology at Strathfield Campus
Organisation: Australian Catholic University
Location: ACU Strathfield Campus
Date: Wednesday 1 October 2025

Are you passionate about shaping young minds or helping others thrive? Take part in hands-on workshops where you’ll gain practical insights into what it’s really like to work as a teacher or psychologist.

Tour our facilities and hear firsthand from current students about their rewarding journeys and experiences in these impactful fields.

Whether you’re interested in becoming a teacher or pursuing a career in psychology, this event will give you a closer look at how ACU can help you make a difference in the lives of others.

Find out more and register

School Holiday ‘Out There’ Sailing Program
Organisation: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Location: Royal Prince Alfred Yacht Club
Date: Tuesday 7 October to Friday 10 October 2025

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

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

Find out more and register

UNSW WRL Open Day 2025
Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: UNSW Water Research Laboratory
Date: Saturday 25 October 2025

Ever wanted to know why rips form in the surf? Or what happens to all the sand on the beach in a storm? What amount of water does it take for a car to float? How are dams, harbours and breakwalls designed? And how, exactly, do these things get tested anyway?

Based on Sydney’s Northern Beaches at Manly Vale, the UNSW Water Research Laboratory (WRL) is one of the biggest scientific and engineering facilities in Australia, tucked away below Manly Dam.

Come tour our massive labs, meet the experts, and see engineering and science at work.

Find out more and register

Scholarships and Competitions

QUT Excellence Scholarship (Academic)
Organisation: Queensland University of Technology
Location: Queensland
Value: Up to $30,000 AUD
Now Open
Close Date: Monday 8 December 2025

Find out more

UNSW Scientia Scholarships
Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: New South Wales
Value: $10,000 AUD
Now Open
Close Date: Thursday 18 December 2025

Find out more

COMPETITIONS

2025 Head On Student Awards
Organisation: Head On Foundation
Location: Australia
Value: Up to $500 AUD
Close Date: Wednesday 27 August 2025

Find out more

Adelaide Fringe Poster Competition 2026

Organisation: Adelaide Fringe
Location: All
Value: $10,000 AUD
Now Open
Close Date: Sunday 17 August 2025

Find out more

Important Messages

It’s been another exciting week in the world of MLC School sport! After last weekend’s downpour limited play to indoor sports, we’re all crossing our fingers for clear skies ahead.

A huge congratulations to the students and coaches who braved the rain at the IGSA Athletics Twilight Carnival on Friday night. Your resilience and enthusiasm were inspiring! With two more twilight carnivals to go, it’s been fantastic to see so many girls stepping up to give athletics a go.

Thank you to all the students and families who continue to show commitment to their teams and coaches by attending training sessions and games. The MLC School spirit shines brightly every weekend, and it’s a joy to witness.

With cold and flu season in full swing, a reminder: if your daughter is unable to attend a game or training, please notify the relevant sports coordinator well in advance. Last-minute notifications are not acceptable. Students who miss commitments without proper notice will receive an accountability point for the first offence and a detention for any subsequent offences.

Coordinator Contacts

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

Diving

Last week Ada Savage (Year 9) competed for NSW in the School Sport Australia diving championships. Ada achieved some fantastic results throughout the week with the highlight being her second place in the 14 years girls Syncho event. Her results were:

– 2nd place girls Synchro
– 8th place in teams Synchro
– 5th place in the 14 years Knockout, making it to the final round of divers
– 9th place in Platform
– 5th place in 14 years Springboard

Well done Ada, we are all very proud of you!

Gymnastics

Kristy​ Che (Year 7), Queeny Guan (Year 7) and Jocelyn Yao (Year 8) represented MLC School Gymnastics at Rhythmic Intermediate State Championships over the weekend. All three gymnasts have competed in a higher level this year and have improved throughout the season against tough competition. Jocelyn’s best apparatus in L5 was ball . Kristy and Queeny both performed best on hoop with Kristy placing 6th.

In addition, Ivy Xu (Year 8) competed in Level 8 and placed 2nd overall, 2nd in hoop and ball and 4th in ribbon.

‘State Championships was a very fun and lively competition we had a lot of fun, and I enjoyed the experience’
– Kristy Che (Year 7)

‘Not only it was memorable experience, but it also helped me develop confidence and new skills’
– Queeny Guan (Year 7)

In Week 1 of this term Misha Behi (Year 12) represented NSW at the Artistic Border Challenge competition in Queensland. Misha performed strongly and assisted her team to a Bronze medal performance all whilst preparing for the HSC Trial examinations. 

AFL and Hockey

Georgia Coxsedge (Year 9) has had a big two weeks. Last week she competed for NSW at the All Schools AFL Championship in Brisbane. The NSW team came away with the Bronze medal for the championships. Georgia then flew back to Sydney for the night and then headed to Canberra for the School Sport Australia Hockey Championships. We are waiting for the results from the Hockey.

Congratulations Georgia, you have had a huge two weeks and we are extremely proud of your achievements in both sports.

Play of the Week

This is for a team or player who plays sport for MLC School and shows exceptional sportsmanship or shows the MLC School Values of Respect, Courage, Compassion or Growth. This can be shown at training or during a game/competition.

This week’s Play of the Week goes to the incredible MLC03 Basketball Team!

After a challenging Term 2 with no wins on the board, the team continued to show up – training consistently, pushing through setbacks, and demonstrating true perseverance, courage, and growth. Their hard work paid off in spectacular fashion last Saturday with a 30–12 victory over Tara!

A huge congratulations to the girls for staying committed and believing in themselves. You’ve shown that grit and determination truly make the difference. Well done for rising to the challenge and proving that persistence leads to progress!

– Acting Directors of Sport

Around the Grounds

The Friday Night Water Polo competition, held at MLC School is a fun time of the year which allows us to form new friendships and enjoy a sport many enjoy and love. MLC01 has had a strong and promising season so far, having our first win against Monte in a close and competitive match. Although we faced a tough loss against Ascham, that game has only motivated us more. The team has put our heads together to aim to improve ourselves as a team and have fun over winning. The team has a tough game against PLC Pymble this Friday night. This will be an intense and fast paced game. We’re looking forward to the challenge and are excited to see what our team can bring to the pool!
– Zoe Pollard (Year 11)
Water Polo Captain

Basketball

The first two rounds of this season have been quite challenging so far, especially after we moved up a division following last season’s win. Despite the other team having a higher score, we all persevered through the match, helping each other at every opportunity. In each game, we always supported each other, both on the court and on the bench. These games really pushed us out of our comfort zones and brought us closer together as a team. We are absolutely going to continue to give it our all and work as hard as possible to make a stronger comeback this season!
 – Lily Clemens (Year 11)

Weekend Sport Fixtures

Saturday 9 August 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

Junior School Wakakirri Dancers Success!

On Wednesday 6 August, 85 excited dancers from Years 3 to Year 6 took to the stage at the NIDA Parade Theatre for this year’s Junior School Wakakirri performance. Representing MLC School through their involvement in the Jazz, Contemporary, and Ballet Co-curricular Dance Ensembles, these students delivered a heartwarming and imaginative retelling of the classic nursery rhyme Humpty Dumpty.

‘Humpty Dumpty sat on the wall,
Had a great tumble, a terrible fall.
But with some courage and help from their friends,
They climbed back up and stood tall again.’

Through expressive expressions and well-polished ensemble work, supporting our lead dancer Ariana Paterson (Year 6), the Junior School Wakakirri students brought Humpty’s journey to life, highlighting themes of courage, resilience, and the power of supportive friendship. Their performance celebrated the idea that setbacks can be overcome with determination and support, leaving a lasting impression on all who watched.

The power of their message was clearly articulated on the evening by our three public speaking representatives, Aashani Chandramohan (Year 6), Carlyn Nie (Year 6) and Qaylah Mohamed (Year 6) who were awarded the Best Public Speaking Award. One of only two awards presented on the evening. This honour reflects the students’ confidence, clarity, and ability to communicate their story with conviction and heart.

We are incredibly proud of our Junior School dancers for their creativity, courage, and collaboration to stage this piece with the support of our incredible co-curricular dance staff Jess Dyson, Assistant Dance Coordinator, Afamia Moussa, Claudia Willimann, Maya Simpson and Ivy Brasher. ‘After the Fall’ was a true celebration of collaboration and character, and a wonderful representation of MLC School.

– Jenna Skepper
MLC School Dance Coordinator

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Gender Equity Forum

This week 25 MLC School girls from Year 10 and Year 11 had the opportunity to take part in a Newington gender equity forum that focussed on the topic: ‘Women in Sport’. We had the great privilege of listening to two highly accomplished guest speakers: three-time Olympian and Silver Medallist in the 2024 Olympics, MLC School Old Girl Keesja Nicholson (Gofers, 2007), a former water polo athlete, and Iliseva Batibasaga, a Rugby World Cup medallist who represented Australia in 27 tests, now coaching the Waratahs.

Both Ms Nicholson and Ms Batibasaga shared some great insights into the world of sport for women, particularly in managing stereotypes about family life alongside competing at elite-levels. Their discussions opened the floor to some interesting reflections on the gender pay gap, and the power of the spectator and other sporting figureheads in implementing institutional change for women. They touched on the augmentation of viewership in sport following other female successes in the field, such as the Matildas, and the importance of having women as role models for inspiring change in the future.

We also had the chance to split into smaller breakout groups, where we discussed questions regarding different factors that affect women in this area. Everyone had a chance to share their own insights into the topics, and it was really intriguing and encouraging to hear everyone’s different views and perspectives.

– Ella Hu and Olivia Ebel (Year 11)

MLC School Mock Trial Team Proves ‘Harvy Cherry’ Not Guilty

Public Speaking Students Embrace Competition

The Junior Secondary Speaking Award is an annual competition open to students in Year 7 – Year 9 from across New South Wales. Participants are required to deliver a six-minute prepared speech and a two-minute impromptu speech.

Adjudicators assess contestants on their mastery of content, delivery, and structure. They seek confident and engaging speakers whose addresses progress logically toward a compelling conclusion within the allotted time. Criteria include a thorough understanding of the subject, effective theme development, and the proficient use of clear and accessible English. Successful participants demonstrate an appropriate balance between personal opinion and factual information, as well as between humour and sincerity. The adjudicators assign equal weight to both the prepared and impromptu speeches in their final decision. High-quality speeches typically feature a well-defined perspective and a purposeful direction, underscoring the importance of having a clear message before drafting a speech.

Following the prepared speeches, competitors must deliver an impromptu address. Participants are guided to a quiet room where they receive a randomly selected topic and have five minutes to compose a brief speech. While impromptu speaking can be challenging, proficiency improves with practice.

This year, Year 9 Oratory students Natalia Gardiner and Caydence Sumantri represented MLC School at the local finals of the competition. Accompanied by their oratory coach Brendan Winters, I accompanied the students to Newington last Thursday. Despite initial nerves, both Natalia and Caydence approached the event with determination. Their performances in the prepared segment were commendable, and although the impromptu section posed greater difficulty, both demonstrated resilience. Although they did not advance to the next round, their commitment to expressing their views on topics that mattered to them is deserving of recognition and congratulations.

– Andrea Rowe
Oratory Coordinator