From the Head of Junior School

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Message for Year 6 Parents and Carers

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.

Year 6 students will complete the assessments on Wednesday 3 September 2025. The assessments are designed for Year 6 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 support 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

Navigating the Tween Years

The ‘tween’ years – usually defined as ages 9 years to 12 years – are both exhilarating and daunting. Girls are leaving childhood behind well before their teens. They inhabit an in-between world, complete with rapid physical changes, emotional swings, emerging independence, and challenging questions. As parents, how do we guide our children through these formative years with empathy, wisdom, and patience?

A few years ago the P&F kindly funded a guest speaker, Michelle Mitchell, who wrote the book Tweens and presented on the same topic. I subscribe to her regular emails and this week I read a link to an interesting article in the Sydney Morning Herald for which Michelle was interviewed. I highly recommend reading this article, How to talk to your tween before social media does.

The article finishes off with the following message:

In many ways, and often without realising it, we’ve been having these conversations with our kids since the day they were born. However, around 10 is a good general age for what I call an ‘information update’. Tweens are typically ready for conversations at more advanced cognitive level.

The standout from the article, for me, is to be aware not to leave such information to Google, You Tube or TikTok. Parents are the best source from which our children to learn.

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Kids Giving Back

It was wonderful to receive an email letting us know how some of our Junior School Students are living the MLC School mission being agents of change in their own lives and the lives of others.

The following students joined over 1,300 young changemakers who prepared and delivered more than 11,500 meals, snack packs, and care packages, along with heartfelt notes of encouragement for those in need. Together, they supported 15 Sydney charities! A remarkable contribution that speaks volumes about the values your school instils.

• Avery Lan (Year 4)
• Maiya Rozario (Year 5)
• Ayla Sumantri (Year 4)
• Piper Wilmot (Year 5)

Research shows that young people who volunteer build stronger social connections, better wellbeing, and a sense of belonging. Your students embodied all of this, and we are so proud to see them leading with heart.

Congratulations to these girls and their families for supporting them.

If you would like to be part of this fantastic organisation please read the flyers below.

Community Programs at Kids Giving

Back Scones & Stories Flyer

– Joanne Sharpe 
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Sydney Science Park

Sydney Science Park is a 280-hectare mixed use greenfield development in Western Sydney and is set to become one of the largest centres of research and development in Australia. The developer, Celestino, is working with CSIRO to build a city that is fit for the future with measurable improvements in liveability, sustainability and resilience. 

Last week Year 6 students bared the wet and soggy weather to visit the Sydney Science Park site in Luddenham. The students toured the site and rotated through a range of industry-led activities on energy, water, circular economy, transport, urban development, smart cities, urban agriculture, urban heat and health.  The focus was emersion in real-world learning projects.

Lots of engagement and learning took place throughout the day. Students will now use their greater understandings to develop modern proposals that will benefit smart cities of the future as they work jointly on their showcase projects.

We look forward to family and friends joining us for our showcase presentations on Tuesday evening 16 September 2026.

– Year 6 teachers

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Mooramoora Book Swap Sparks Joy and Generosity

In a heartwarming display of community spirit and literary love, Mooramoora House recently hosted a successful Book Swap event, raising just over $1,000 for the Indigenous Literacy Foundation.

The atmosphere buzzed with excitement as students explored new stories to take home, all while knowing their contributions were making a meaningful difference. Students were encouraged to bring in pre-loved books to swap, with a gold coin donation supporting the Foundation’s mission to improve literacy outcomes for First Nations children in remote communities.

– Madeline Montgomery
Teacher, House Patron – Mooramoora

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The IPSHA Visual Art Show is now Live

The IPSHA virtual art show is now live, featuring incredible art from a variety of schools across the Sydney district, including of course our very talented MLC School artists. I highly recommend taking a look alongside your daughter…it’s very inspiring!

Click here to view the Art Show

Password: IPSHAart2025

– Marian Doull
Junior School Visual Arts teacher

News from the Library

Premier’s Reading Challenge February 24 – September 19

Congratulations

Congratulations to these readers who have recently completed the challenge:

Year 3

• Petrice Cassar 
• Ivy Zheng 

Year 5

• Isabella Sapolyo

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

Author Visit

Sarah Armstrong visited the Year 3 and Year 4 classes on Monday. They were excited to learn about Sarah’s writing process and were highly engaged as she discussed the magical themes in her books. It is always inspiring to meet an author face to face. This personal connection allows readers to see beyond the pages and gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the work that goes into creating a book. 

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Book Parade

Last Friday we celebrated the joy of reading by dressing up as our favourite book characters. Due to wet weather, the girls paraded for our parents and carers in Daphne Line Hall. It was fabulous to see how the girls embraced the celebration with imagination and creativity. Our Year 5 Library Leaders were roving reporters. Here are some things the girls had to say:

‘You get to express yourself and read lots of different books.’
–Esther Bastin-Loy (Harry Potter) 2M

‘You can have crazy adventures in stories.’
– Celeste Jones (Cat in the Hat) 2K

‘I love celebrating books because they are funny and exciting.’
– Millie Elsegood (Shenanigan Swift) 2P

‘I love getting to dress up as a character. Every time a character goes on an adventure, they need to solve a problem.’
– Lara Zhuge (Rosie the Twilight Dragon) 2K

‘I love that we could read with our parents’
– Irene Kim (Mina from Blood City Rollers) 2K

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Happy reading!

– Sharon Seymour
Teacher/Librarian

From the Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing

Year 7 Wellbeing Day

On Thursday, our Year 7 students participated in a dedicated Wellbeing Day, a program designed to foster connection, belonging, and group cohesion as students continue to shape their identity and build new friendships throughout Year 7. 

When students feel connected to their school community, through relationships with peers, teachers, and the broader environment, they are more likely to experience emotional safety, resilience, and motivation to learn. A strong sense of belonging nurtures trust, inclusion, and respect, which are essential for wellbeing and success both socially and academically. 

Throughout the day, students engaged in interactive sessions and team-building activities led by Burnbright, aimed at developing collaboration skills, self-efficacy, and resilience. Toolbox Education guided students through understanding how the brain responds to stress and introduced calming strategies to help them respond thoughtfully rather than react impulsively in emotionally charged situations. Year 7 also had the oppportunity to participate in a range of fun activities on the Sports field, aimed at increasing opportunity for movement, team building and problem solving.

These experiences are designed to ensure students feel seen, heard and valued, empowering them to navigate challenges, manage stress, and build lasting resilience. 

We encourage parents to talk with your daughters about the day, what they learned, how they felt, and any strategies they found helpful. Your engagement reinforces the importance of wellbeing and helps strengthen the connection between school and home. 

Please find below the Study Hub schedule for next week:

Study Hub Next Week 

– Andrew Taylor
Deputy Head of Senior School – Wellbeing

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Book an Adventure!

📚 Book an Adventure!

🌟 Grab your next book and start your adventure today!

This year’s Book Week theme, Book an Adventure, was celebrated throughout the School. The theme highlights how books transport readers to different times, places, and experiences, fostering imagination, curiosity, and a love of reading.

✍️ Author Visit

Year 7 and Year 8 students were thrilled to meet Amy Doak, a best-selling crime mystery Young Adult author, who shared her journey as a writer and inspired students with her creative process.

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🏆 Bookmark Competition Winners

The creativity and effort put into each entry were outstanding. Congratulations to our winners:

• 🥇 First Place: Hana Lee (Year 8)
• 🥈 Runner Up: Emily Highett-Smith (Year 9)
• 🎖 Highly Commended: Felicity Jones (Year 7)

Thank you to everyone who participated and made this Book Week a memorable celebration of the adventure of reading.

📖 Keep exploring, and may your next book take you on a journey filled with imagination and discovery!

– Louise Piggott
Head of Library Services

Year 7

This week Year 7 enjoyed their Wellbeing Day on Thursday. The sun was shining, and the girls were excited. Firstly, they were presented to by Burn Bright who spoke about navigating friendships, making new connections and positive. The Year 7 students then headed outside for some physical activity and teamwork fun games. In the afternoon session, the students were broken into smaller groups and did a session with Toolbox Education about managing emotions. Year 7 were engaged and interested and I encourage you to continue the conversation about these topics at home.

Next Thursday, Year 7 will be off to the Athletics Carnival, a highlight of the school calendar! Please ensure you read all permission information so that your daughter can attend and is in the right place at the right time.

The following will be in place for any student requiring adjustments to support their participation in the Athletics Carnival. Please refer to this article for more details on transportation.

• A quiet room near the Nurse’s station will be available for students needing an alternate space to take a break. This will be staffed by the Learning Enhancement Department.  
• A staff member from the Learning Enhancement Department will be actively visible throughout the event to support students to participate if required. 
• Students will also have access to First Aid if needed 
• Students should notify their Head of Year by Wednesday 3 September if an alternative form of participation needs to be considered. This information will be communicated to the Learning Enhancement Department. 

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

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

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Year 8

This week marks the commencement of a rigorous assessment period for Year 8 students, which will extend until the conclusion of Week 8. This is a good opportunity for you to check with your daughter to see whether she has developed a study plan to manage her time efficiently. If this is something your daughter encounters any difficulties with, I encourage you to advise her to seek guidance from her Luminary or me. We are committed to providing the necessary support to help her organise herself more effectively.

Additionally, I am pleased to announce the introduction of a new initiative for Chapel services. Each Luminary group will now be responsible for leading and delivering the main speaking parts of the mass. This initiative aims to offer students across the year group the opportunity to participate actively in the service. The primary focus is on encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones and become confident in speaking before large audiences. Leawarra was the first Luminary group to undertake this responsibility, and I am immensely proud of their exemplary organisation and eloquent delivery.

I have observed some minor friendship concerns emerging within the cohort. This week’s year meeting focused on the theme of friendship changes, emphasising the significance of healthy relationships. During the session, students explored ‘green flags’ and ‘red flags’ in friendships and were encouraged to reflect on their current friend dynamics to determine whether they were positive or negative. They were also invited to sit with different peers during breaks to foster inclusivity. The concept of ‘horseshoes rather than circles’ was introduced to promote openness and inclusion in social settings.

During Luminary time on Thursday, Year 8 met with their ‘Big Sisters’ in Year 12 for the last time. Year 8 produced some lovely farewell/good luck cards for their big sisters and celebrated with some food. The photo this week is from the Whitley Big Sisters and Little Sisters.

A note from the Learning Enrichment Department regarding the Athletics Carnival

The following will be in place for any student requiring adjustments to support their participation in the Athletics Carnival. Please refer to this article for more details on transportation.

• A quiet room near the Nurse’s station will be available for students needing an alternate space to take a break. This will be staffed by the Learning Enhancement Department.  
• A staff member from the Learning Enhancement Department will be actively visible throughout the event to support students to participate if required. 
• Students will also have access to First Aid if needed 
• Students should notify their Head of Year before the event if an alternative form of participation needs to be considered. This information will be communicated to the Learning Enhancement Department.

– Kate Schurch 
Year 8

Year 9

This week in Luminary, Year 9 continued to engage with the Black Dog Institute’s ‘Teens and Screens’ program. The focus this week: exploring the links between screen time and wellbeing. Students discussed how spending lots of time online (especially late at night) can be linked to low mood and sleep problems. Together, with their Luminary teacher, they unpacked why sleep is so important and were reminded that, according to research, teenagers need 8–10 hours of sleep each night to thrive!

A new wellbeing initiative – My Mind Check

During Year meeting, Andrew Taylor spoke with Year 9 about My Mind Check – a new wellbeing initiative that we are implementing this year.

My Mind Check was developed by youth mental health experts at Macquarie University (Sydney) with input from educators and students across Australia, and meets strict Commonwealth privacy and security standards.

Students will be invited to participate in a 20-minute check-in session here at MLC School, under the supervision of a staff member. They will use a computer or tablet to respond to age-appropriate questions about how they’re feeling and can skip any questions they don’t want to answer. 

My Mind Check is not a clinical assessment of mental health, but instead offers insights to help us better understand the wellbeing of each student and our collective school community. We’ll follow up if your daughter reports any areas of need and invite you to explore helpful information and resources at mymindcheck.org.au any time. You may also visit the website to learn more about My Mind Check, or watch this video. 

Check-in sessions for students in Year 9 will commence in Week 1 of Term 4. We will be meeting with Year 9 regarding this new tool over the next few weeks.

A reminder to please complete the online consent to participate in My Mind Check found here, if you have not done so already.

Your support is appreciated. More details can be found in last week’s newsletter. Please reach out to Andrew Taylor with any questions.

Athletics Carnival

The following will be in place for any student requiring adjustments to support their participation in the Athletics Carnival. Please refer to this article for more details on transportation.

• A quiet room near the Nurse’s station will be available for students needing an alternate space to take a break. This will be staffed by the Learning Enhancement Department.
• A staff member from the Learning Enhancement Department will be actively visible throughout the event to support students to participate if required.
• Students will also have access to First Aid if needed
• Students should notify their Head of Year before the event if an alternative form of participation needs to be considered. This information will be communicated to the Learning Enhancement Department.

– Emily Marsh
Head of Year 9

Year 9 PDHPE

Year 10

This week in Luminary time, our Year 10 students participated in a Circle Solutions activity. Each Luminary group took a moment to reflect and share how they are feeling at this point in the term. These sessions are an integral part of our pastoral care programme, designed to promote emotional wellbeing, build trust, and strengthen peer relationships.

A common theme that emerged across the year group was a feeling of being stressed, tired, and overwhelmed. This is not surprising given the timing—students are currently in the thick of their assessment period.

Looking ahead, next week is a significant one for our Year 10s, with several assessments scheduled. To support them, I shared the following tips during our Year Meeting:

1. Mindset – Exams don’t define you; just do your best.
2. Plan Time – Use a calendar; try study bursts (25–45 mins).
3. Be Clear – Make a revision roadmap; adjust if needed.
4. Healthy Habits – Eat well, drink water, move, sleep eight hours.
5. Be Kind – Set boundaries, relax, avoid comparisons, talk to someone.
6. Beyond Exams – Stress can fuel growth; build skills and experience.

We encourage you to check in with your daughter and help them to engage with these strategies. Thank you for your continued support as we guide Year 10 through this busy but rewarding part of the term.

Next week on Thursday is the MLC School Athletics Carnival. I am looking forwarding to sharing this day with Year 10. I love seeing them participate, support each other, show their house spirit and overall just have a great day together as a school community.

The following will be in place for any student requiring adjustments to support their participation in the Athletics Carnival. Please refer to this article for more details on transportation.

• A quiet room near the Nurse’s station will be available for students needing an alternate space to take a break. This will be staffed by the Learning Enhancement Department.  
• A staff member from the Learning Enhancement Department will be actively visible throughout the event to support students to participate if required. 
• Students will also have access to First Aid if needed 
• Students should notify their Head of Year before the event if an alternative form of participation needs to be considered. This information will be communicated to the Learning Enhancement Department. 

–  Penny Hewett
Head of Year 10

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Work Experience Well Underway!

Year 11

Year 11 students have demonstrated exemplary conduct throughout this examination block. As we approach the final days next week, anticipation builds for the Athletics Carnival on Thursday 4 September. This event promises to be a highlight of our school calendar, offering our future leaders the chance to inspire and motivate their Houses during a day of spirited community engagement.

Year 11 Retreat

Earlier this week, detailed information regarding the Year 11 Retreat was sent to parents. The letter appears in ‘Messages’ on your Omnia dashboard, or you can see a copy by clicking here. The excursion permission for you to approve also appears on the Omnia dashboard. You can login to your Omnia dashboard by clicking here. Many families have already granted approval for their daughter’s attendance, thank you for your prompt responses. Please ensure that you also complete the Lands Edge medical forms by Monday 8 September, which are available within the Year 11 Retreat message sent on Tuesday 26 August. Medications will be due to the Health Centre by Monday 15 September. Staff have reached out to families who may require additional support for the retreat, and you are encouraged to contact me directly if you wish to discuss anything.

Students would appreciate receiving short notes from their parents, to be read alongside affirmations from peers and teachers. You may email your note to your daughter through me, or, if you prefer confidentiality, send it in a sealed envelope via your daughter or deliver it to front reception before the term concludes.

Year 12 2026 HSC and IB Information Evening

A reminder for all current Year 11 HSC and IB students, as well as their parents and carers: the Year 12 2026 HSC and IB Information Evening will be held on Wednesday 10 September, from 6pm to 7.30pm. Entry is via Potts Hall, Gate 2 on Rowley Street, near the Uniform Shop. This session will provide vital details about the year ahead and outline the support available to students as they prepare for their final year. Attendance is expected for all Year 11 students.

Book Lists

The Year 12 2026 Book Lists are now available. Please refer to this article for more information.

To ensure timely delivery, we recommend placing orders promptly by Friday 19 September. Please note that while orders can still be placed after this deadline, delivery before the start of Term 4 cannot be guaranteed.

Year 12 HSC 2026 Booklist

Year 12 IB 2026 Booklist

Important Dates

• End of Year 11 Examination Block: Wednesday 3 September 2025

• Athletics Carnival: Thursday 4 September 2025

• Year 12 2026 Information Evening: Wednesday 10 September 2025, 6pm

• 2026 Leadership announcement: Friday 12 September 2025

• Year 11 Production: Friday 12 September 2025

• Dance Showcase: Saturday 13 September and Sunday 14 September 2025

• Last day of Term 3: Friday 19 September 2025

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

Year 12

Another busy week for Year 12 with final assessments for HSC Drama, Year meeting and Big Sister Little Sister during Luminary time.

The HSC Drama performance examinations took place this week and were a resounding success. The girls have been working incredibly hard on individual and group projects under the careful guidance of Kellie Cogin and Lisa Jinga (HoD Drama and DDE). The amount of time that goes into preparation for the external markers means that the girls are well supported and guided throughout the entire process from text to stage. We wish them all the best for their results.

In year meeting this week, Uma Singleton (Year 12) received the NSW School of Languages Long Tan Youth Leadership Award. Her award was presented by Candace Robertson, our new Head of Languages. Studying a language externally takes great patience, self-discipline and motivation, as shown by Uma’s achievement.

Big Sister Little Sister took place on Thursday, Year 12 2025’s last one. This tradition is special to MLC School and Year 8 and Year 12 students meet once a term to share experiences, food and discuss life at MLC School. Year 8 prepared lovely good luck cards for the girls and Year 12 provided the food. We had fairy bread, cookies and brownies to share.

Attendance and uniform are being consistently monitored throughout the last weeks of term. Attendance at chapel, assembly, luminary and especially, classes are compulsory. This time is crucial for Year 12 to home in on the consolidation of skills, content and feedback from teachers. If you have an academic concern, please contact your daughter’s subject teacher. For wellbeing and pastoral issues, please contact me on 02 8741 9736 or sconnolly1@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– Sharon Connolly
Head of Year 12

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University of Sydney and UTS Open Days – Saturday 30 August

Stay Informed About University Open Days!

Many leading universities across Sydney are hosting Open Days this weekend, offering senior students a valuable opportunity to explore their future study options.

These events allow students to experience campus life firsthand, meet academic staff and current students, and gain clarity on course offerings, entry requirements, and career pathways.

Students are encouraged to attend this weekend and to use the Open Days Guide by Study Work Growr resource which provides a comprehensive overview of university events nationwide.

Click here for Open Day Guide 2025

Upcoming Open Days:

ANSTO Science Discovery Tour

Organisation: ANSTO
Location: ANSTO Discovery Centre
Date: Saturday 30 August 2025

This tour provides an in-depth look into the world of nuclear science and the work ANSTO does in the areas of health, the environment and delivering solutions for industry.

Subject to availability, we will visit Australia’s only nuclear reactor OPAL, the Australian Centre for Neutron Scattering, the ANSTO Nuclear Medicine facility and the Centre for Accelerator Science.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

ACU Open Day 2025, North Sydney

Organisation: Australian Catholic University
Location: ACU North Sydney Campus
Date: Saturday 6 September 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

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

Torrens Design and Creative Technology Virtual Open Day

Organisation: Torrens University Australia
Location: Online
Date: Wednesday 3 September 2025

Join online as our Design and Creative 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

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

Sydney Actors School & Sydney Film School Open Day 2025

Organisation: Waterloo Studios
Location: Waterloo Studios
Date: Saturday 13 September 2025

Come along and meet our incredible staff and students! Take a tour of the building, see our tutors in action, and even participate in some activities! Learn what makes Sydney Actors School & Sydney Film School the best places to begin your acting and filmmaking journey. Practical based learning within a strong community – there’s nothing like it! See for yourself at our 2025 Open Day.

Find out more and register

UNSW Aviation Open Day

Organisation: University of New South Wales
Location: UNSW Aviation Flying Operations Unit, Bankstown Airport
Date: Saturday 20 September 2025

Are you passionate about flying or curious about a career in aviation? Join UNSW for an unforgettable experience at their Aviation Open Day, held at the state-of-the-art Bankstown Airport flight training facility.

What to expect:

• Explore the fleet of Diamond DA-40 and Piper Seminole PA44 aircraft up close

• Experience cutting-edge flight simulators

• Chat with expert instructors and current students

• Tour the facilities and get a feel for life at UNSW Aviation

• Ask anything – UNSW is here to help you navigate your aviation journey

Whether you’re dreaming of becoming a pilot or just want to learn more about aviation, this is your chance to get inspired and informed.

Find out more and register

USYD Online Open Night

Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 18 September 2025

Open Night is your opportunity to experience the University of Sydney from wherever you are. Join us online for an interactive evening designed specifically for prospective domestic undergraduate students from interstate and regional areas in Australia, New Zealand, and offshore.

Whether you’re exploring your study options, want to understand entry pathways and scholarships, or are curious about life on campus, this event is for you. You’ll hear from current students, and connect with our faculty, admissions, student support and scholarship staff, as well as a range of accommodation providers, in live breakout rooms.

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

Course Information, Events and Webinars

Interaction Design at Sydney: Your Pathway to Innovation and Creativity

Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Wednesday 3 September 2025

Join us for an exciting webinar where we’ll introduce you to the vibrant universe of studying Design at the University of Sydney.

This webinar is your chance to discover how our Design degree can prepare you to shape the way we experience the world through technology, from digital interfaces to physical spaces, and everything in between!

Find out more and register

Indigenous Futures at Sydney: Academic and Cultural Support

Organisation: University of Sydney
Location: Online
Date: Thursday 4 September 2025

This yarn will focus on the vital role of the Gadigal Centre in supporting the success of Indigenous students at the University of Sydney.

We’ll discuss how the Centre serves as a home away from home for our Indigenous cohort and the various resources available to enhance your academic journey.

Find out more and register

Discover Teaching & 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

Holiday workshops

Holiday Workshop – The Songwriter’s Toolkit, Sydney

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music
Location: AIM Sydney Campus
Date: Friday 3 October 2025

Created for students in Years 9-12, AIM’s new high school music workshops provide incredible opportunities to explore songwriting, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators.

This songwriting workshop is essential for any high school students curious about writing songs and performing and is a golden opportunity to work with incredibly accomplished songwriters. Join us these school holidays and discover the songwriter and performer you were born to become.

Find out more and register

Holiday Workshop – Mastering Performance, Sydney

Organisation: Australian Institute of Music
Location: AIM Sydney Campus
Date: Friday 3 October 2025

AIM’s new school holiday workshop is designed for high school students interested in Music Performance. Created for students in Years 9-12, the workshops provide incredible opportunities to experience playing and performing music, mentored by AIM’s own accomplished musicians and educators.

Over the course of the workshop, students will work with two professional musicians, Adrianna Cicchitelli & Gian Timothy Gho, to expand their performance skills in a collaborative and inspiring environment. They will workshop communication in an ensemble, chart reading, rhythm, pitch, dynamic, improvisation, stylistic interpretation and performance. Under their guidance, they will use these new rehearsal and performance techniques to create a small set of diverse songs in collaboration with other students in the class to present a performance for family and friends.

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

HSC Study Session With Dymocks Tutoring

Organisation: International College of Management Sydney
Location: ICMS Manly Campus
Date: Wednesday 8 October to Thursday 9 October 2025

Are you a current Year 12 student stressed about your upcoming HSC exams? Don’t be! ICMS, in collaboration with Dymocks Tutoring, is thrilled to invite you to our free revision days on 8 and 9 October 2025.

Throughout the day, you’ll have the incredible opportunity to attend up to three sessions run by expert tutors from Dymocks. These sessions are designed to cover a range of subjects, including English, Mathematics, and Business Studies.

Whether you’re looking for a comprehensive review of all modules, seeking valuable tips and tricks, or in need of practical guidance on how to excel in the HSC exam, this event is tailored to meet your needs.

Find out more and register

Experience Engineering!

Organisation: Engineers Australia
Location: WSU Kingswood Campus
Date: Friday 24 October 2025

Experience Engineering! is designed to capture the imagination of female and non-binary students in Years 7-10.

They will discover how they can use their Maths, Science and Technical knowledge combined with their creativity and communication skills to solve set tasks and problems. This is what Engineering is all about!

The activities are devised by our Engineering Universities and delivered by current Engineering students – with the assistance of Engineers.

Find out more and register

Engineering Summer School 2025

Organisation: Engineers Australia
Location: Sydney
Date: Sunday 7 December to 12 Friday December 2025

Engineering Summer School has been running for 33 years and supported by the Office of NSW Chief Scientist & Engineer. It is a collaboration between Engineers Australia, our Engineering Universities and Industry partners.

ESS2025 is for students sitting their HSC or equivalent in 2026. The aim of the week is to provide an insight into the vast number of areas where Engineers work, the numerous degrees available, and the amazing career opportunities both in Australia and globally.

ESS2025 is a fully residential program, allowing you to start building your networks as you find your “tribe”. You will:

• Stay on campus at USYD

• Visit 5 key universities and 5 key organisations

• Meet loads of Engineers from wide and wild ranging areas

Find out more and register

Competitions

Blue Ocean Student Entrepreneur Competition 2026

Organisation: Blue Ocean Competition
Location: All
Value: Up to $1,000 USD
Close Date: Sunday 22 February 2026

Find out more

Congratulations Mavis!

Mavis Wang (Year 2) has won Gold Prize in the Hong Kong Victoria International Music Competition in the All Instrumental section, Age 8 and under. 

She played Clementi’s Sonatina on the piano.

Her trophy was delivered today in the Music Centre by a very proud Music department, with an official presentation to be given in next week’s Year 2 Junior School Assembly.

– Celine Kang
Music Teacher and Tutor

Click on article to view full images

From the Principal

In recent weeks, MLC School students have achieved notable success across a diverse range of activities, including swimming, athletics, dance, skiing, and robotics. Additionally, our debaters, philosophers, and performers continue to excel, contributing positively to the broader community through their dedication and efforts. The extensive opportunities available to students at MLC School are frequently cited as one of the School’s most highly valued attributes. Participation in co-curricular activities not only fosters discipline-specific skills but also promotes collaboration, risk-taking, resilience, leadership development, self-confidence, and a sense of purpose. Repeatedly, evidence demonstrates a strong correlation between academic achievement and engagement in activities beyond the classroom, indicating that a balanced approach incorporating study, sport, and intellectual pursuits yields optimal outcomes.

Our sports staff are working incredibly hard to build the capacity and commitment of our students and it is such a joy to see their efforts and those of the students paying dividends so quickly, some recent highlights include:

• The Independent Girls Schools Association (IGSA) Athletics Carnival is the premier independent girls school event in NSW. As a result of their talent, determination and willingness to step in when needed, our Senior School athletes won Division 3 and were named Most Improved School in the competition which was held last Friday. Congratulations to Eve Ireland (Year 11) who won the Intermediate division. As well as their strong performances, the MLC School students stood out for their enthusiastic cheers and team spirit, which were the envy of others and noticed by all.
• Not to be outdone, our Junior School students performed very strongly at the Independent Primary School Heads of Australia (IPSHA) carnival, with many placing well and Amelia Ko (Year 5) and Gem McGuire (Year 4) coming first in their multi class events. 
• Our Year 3 Snow Sports students are starring on the slopes with huge wins in 9 out of 11 events and making it through to nationals at Mt Buller next week

You can read more about our success in the Sports section of this newsletter.

The MLC School Hip Hop and Pom teams continued their very strong season with fantastic results at AASCF Dance Battle 2025. Dancers from Year 3 to Year 12 represented MLC School with energy, focus and commitment and achieved the following places:

• Mini Pom (Year 3–Year 4) – 1st Place
• Junior Hip Hop (Year 5–Year 6) – 1st Place
• Mini Hip Hop (Year 3–Year 4) – 2nd Place
• Junior Pom (Year 5–Year 6) – 2nd Place
• Senior Pom (Year 7–Year 12) – 1st Place
• Senior Hip Hop (Year 9–Year 12) – 1st Place
• Intermediate Hip Hop (Year 7–Year 8) – 2nd Place

And Our STEM girls are engineering their own success. On Tuesday, 38 students from the Junior and Secondary School attended RoboCup a competition stemming from our Robotics Co-curricular Programs. Our students competed in the Maze, Rescue and OnStage divisions. All teams did exceptionally well, many competing for the first time. We were especially proud of the resilience and collaboration shown on the day and in the lead up to the competition. Special congratulations to our junior OnStage teams placing 1st and 3rd overall in the Primary Novice Onstage Division; I believe they are now off to nationals. Our senior Onstage teams placing 3rd in the Open Onstage Division and gaining a judge’s award for technical innovation and our Maze team placing 4th.

Good luck to those students who are competing in the Tournament of Minds this weekend and to our Debaters, who as reigning Archdale Champions will host this year’s finals at MLC School on Tuesday night 2 September – the competition is always incredibly strong, but we are certainly well placed to defend our crown.

Next week our Model United Nations club members will represent their peers at the Young Women of Burwood round table forum hosted by Sally Situo MP and as part of our Stronger Together program with the inner west neighbourhood, our Year 8 girls are developing strong and special relationships in the intergenerational program with local aged residents.

The success of our comprehensive, high-quality cocurricular program is made possible by the dedication and expertise of our staff. Many contribute significant time beyond their regular duties to provide valuable opportunities for our students. Their efforts are greatly appreciated.

Vale Richelle Gyau-Awuah 

It is with a heavy heart that I inform our community that former staff member Richelle Gyau-Awuah passed away this week after a long illness. Richelle taught Year 1 and Year 6 during her time with us and was a much loved and respected member of staff. She is remembered fondly by us all. Should your daughter need support upon hearing this news, please encourage her to contact our Chaplains, Counsellors or trusted teacher. You are also welcome to do this on her behalf.

Richelle’s funeral will be held on Friday 5 September at 12.30pm at Macquarie Park.

– Lisa Moloney
Principal 

Explore Europe in September 2026 – Two Exciting Tour Options

2026 Tour Information Night
Tuesday 21 October 2025, 6pm
MLC School Senior Centre Level 1

Dance and Drama Tour/History Study Tour

International school tours have long been a highlight for students seeking adventure, learning, and personal growth beyond the classroom. At MLC School, these tours offer students the opportunity to broaden their horizons, experience new cultures, and develop lifelong skills – all while having a brilliant time. In September 2026, students can look forward to two thrilling tours: an artistic journey with the Dance, Drama and Entertainment (DDE) team to Paris and London, and a historical adventure with the History Department to Italy and Germany. Attending an international school tour allows students to immerse in history, art, language, food and culture, bringing classroom lessons to life. Whether it is standing in the Colosseum, exploring Berlin, dancing on the world stage, watching a West End performance, or taking in art at the Louvre, students gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the subjects they study.

Travelling abroad encourages students to step outside their comfort zones. From navigating foreign cities to communicating in different languages, each moment is an opportunity to build resilience, independence, and self-confidence. These skills are invaluable, not just for school but for life beyond graduation. Exposure to diverse cultures broadens students’ perspectives, fostering empathy, respect, and understanding.

In September 2026 we are offering two European Adventures.

An Information Night for students and parents interested in either tour will be held on Tuesday 21 October 2025 at 6pm on level 1 of the Senior Centre. You are welcome to explore one, or both of our exciting opportunities. This is a chance to be part of something extraordinary in 2026. 

Dance and Drama Tour 2026 – London and Paris

The Dance, Drama and Entertainment (DDE) Department is thrilled to announce our upcoming 2026 International Tour to the cultural capitals of London and Paris.

Following the success of our 2024 US Tour, students passionate about Dance and Drama from Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 (2026) are invited to embark on an unforgettable journey during the Term 3 September Holidays 2026. This tour offers a rare opportunity to train, perform, and explore in two of the world’s most iconic artistic cities.

Students will take part in exclusive workshops with industry professionals at renowned institutions such as Pineapple Dance Studios, Akram Khan Company, Royal Academy of Dramatic Art, Cours Florent Drama School and many more. They’ll attend live West End and The Globe Theatre, explore landmarks like Buckingham Palace, the Eiffel Tower, and The Louvre, and even enjoy a magical day at Warner Bros Studio – The Making of Harry Potter.

The tour culminates in a public dance performance at Disneyland Paris, where students will take the stage at the Videopolis Theatre, an experience that core memories are made of.

Accompanied by experienced DDE teachers and Global Tour Guides, this tour promises to be a time of creative growth, cultural immersion, and lifelong memories.

We look forward to meeting with interested families and sharing more details at the information evening. To seek more information please email Lisa Jinga, Head of DDE by email on ljinga@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

– The DDE Department

Click on gallery to view full images

History Study Tour 2026 – Germany and Italy

MLC School is delighted to host a study tour to Europe for students in Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 (2026) during the September 2026 school holidays. This educational program will provide an in depth understanding of European history and culture and is directly linked to the learning outcomes of both the International Baccalaureate and HSC syllabi. The 15-day tour will travel through cities such as Munich, Berlin, Rome, and sunny Sorrento. Students will have an opportunity to experience the majesty of the Colosseum, Nuremburg’s Old Town, Berlin’s Historic and Funky East, and Sorrento’s unrivalled gelato.

We are planning to offer this tour through Libertas Travel, an Australian tour operator that specialises in customised syllabus study tours for schools. We have worked closely with them previously, and they provide a safe, culturally rich, and fun tour for all participants.

We look forward to providing further information on the tour to students via the History CANVAS page, and on the information evening.

For other enquiries, please email David Posker Hill, Head of Department – History and Religious Education, by email on dposker-hill@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

–The History Department

Click on gallery to view full images

MLC School’s international school tours are transformative experiences that enrich education, inspire creativity, and foster global connections. These adventures empower students to be more curious, more confident, and more connected to the world around them.

– Melissa Boyd
Deputy Principal

2028 Enrolments

The Enrolments team will commence interviewing students who have nominated 2028 as their entry year next term. Siblings and daughters of Old Girls are given priority and will be offered interviews ahead of other applicants. Please ensure you have made an application for your daughter by the start of Term 4 to be included in this invitation. Unfortunately, there have been instances where families have missed out due to a late application.

If you have friends interested in a place for 2028, they should apply as soon as possible, we work through applications based on date and places are taken up quickly.

– Nerida Coman
Registrar

Co-curricular and Private Music Tuition Enrolment Rollover for Term 4

As we prepare for the upcoming term, please be reminded of our enrolment policies. Students currently enrolled in a Term 3 co-curricular activity or private music tuition will automatically continue in the same activity / lesson for Term 4, with charges applied to your Term 4 fee statement.

This policy will be strictly enforced, so if you wish to withdraw your daughter from an activity or music lesson, please notify us in writing by Friday September 12, 10am (end of Week 8).

Without written notification to the coordinators and music enrolments team (music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au), you will be charged the full term’s fees, and no refunds will be provided.

If we do not hear from you, your daughter’s enrolment will be confirmed for Term 4, and the fees will be processed accordingly.

Details about Program Coordinators are available on the Co-curricular Microsite:
co-curricular.mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

Please note that this enrolment process does not apply to competitive sports or tennis activities.

Thank you for your cooperation.

– Sarah Jauncey
Director of Experiential Learning

Work Experience Host Employers needed!

Help from Parents and the Local Community

We’re calling on our wonderful parent and local community to help support our Year 10 students by offering then work experience opportunities. Work experience is in Term 4 from Monday 24 November to Friday 28 November 2025.

If you know of a business, large or small, that could host a student for work experience, we would love to hear from you!

Your nominations are incredibly valuable. Whether it’s a family business, a local shop, a professional service, or a community organisation, every opportunity helps our students gain real-world experience and build confidence.

If you have someone in mind who might be able to assist, please encourage them to complete our Host Employer Form. Once submitted, we’ll match suitable students and share the opportunity with them.

Together, we can create meaningful pathways for our young people. Thank you for your continued support!

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

– Jo Cilia
Head of Futures and Pathways

Year 12 2026 Booklists Now available

The 2026 Year 12 booklist is now available for online ordering.

Please use the following direct link to the Campion website: https://order.campion.com.au

School Code: 792V

To ensure timely delivery, we recommend placing orders promptly by Friday 19 September. Please note that while orders can still be placed after this deadline, delivery before the start of Term 4 cannot be guaranteed.

If you have any questions about the booklist, please kindly contact the relevant subject Head of Department. 

For any issues with ordering online, please kindly contact Campion directly. 

Booklists are also available via Omnia.

Year 12 HSC 2026 Booklist

Year 12 IB 2026 Booklist

2025 Senior School House Athletics Carnival Transport

Wine, Cheese, and High Notes – What More Could You Want?

Summer Dress Fitting Appointments Now Available

The MLC School Uniform Shop is now taking appointments Term 4 summer dress fittings. 

Students who need fitting, please make a 15 minute appointment.

Appointments can be made online at by clicking here.

From the Director of Learning Enhancement

Parent Check and Connect Morning

Over the past two Tuesday mornings, parents and carers were invited to the School to engage with members of the Learning Enhancement Department. The parent community demonstrated considerable interest in collaborating with the department to support students’ varied learning needs. The sessions were designed to facilitate open communication and gather valuable community feedback as the team evaluates future strategies. Notably, it shared that there will be a transition toward consultation and collaboration, a move away from the current planning model. For those who were unable to attend summary points are shared below.

• Importance of Partnership: The session highlighted the vital role of collaboration between parents, carers, and educators in supporting students’ growth and addressing challenges with compassion and expertise.
• Learning Enhancement Team: Margaret Ress (Junior School Coordinator),  Dijana Mastronadi (Senior Years Support), and Lucy James (Year 9 Support) were introduced. All members of the team are qualified and experienced educators dedicated to supporting neurodiversity and inclusion.
• High Potential Learning Leaders: James Adams and Amy Kirk (joining in 2026) will coordinate the High Potential Learning arm of the department. Their responsibilities will include identifying advanced learners and implementing targeted initiatives designed to enhance academic achievement, foster creativity, and cultivate leadership skills.
• Tailored student support: Dependent upon presentation, students may engage with either or both branches of the department, working collaboratively with families to set goals through specific adjustments and personalised support.
• Extended opportunities: For the remainder of 2025, the department may offer extension projects, specialised resources, and invitations to events such as the Junior Thinkers Conference and Ethics Olympiad, along with a pilot one-on-one mentorship program for selected students.
• Building respectful relationships: Importantly respectful connections between school and home to ensure consistent support for students was emphasised.

Given the overwhelming response to this event, a Term 4 session will be announced through the newsletter.

Ethics Seminar at Barker College. 

As a valued member of the Round Square network, MLC School was proud to participate in the recent Ethics Seminar hosted at Barker College on Monday 25 August 2025. Thank you James Adams and Megan Westwood for supporting the students to attend. Full details of the day are in the Co-Curricular section of the newsletter.

– Stephanie Dimitrelis
Director of Learning Enhancement

Spotlight on Practice

Spotlight on Practice: Fiona Pow

Fiona’s thoughtful and intentional approach to pedagogy is a beautiful example of what it means to teach with both heart and expertise. Her classroom is a space where students feel safe, seen and intellectually stretched. It is a place where deep learning is nurtured through care, clarity and curiosity.

At the heart of Fiona’s practice is a deep belief in the power of collaboration. In the English classroom, collaboration is more than a strategy it’s a way of thinking and learning together. It allows students to explore diverse perspectives, challenge assumptions and build shared understanding. In Fiona’s lessons, this was gently and purposefully cultivated. Students leaned into each other’s thinking, asked thoughtful questions and co-constructed meaning in ways that were both rigorous and respectful.

Fiona’s lesson design reflected a deep understanding of how students learn best. Learning intentions were clear and purposeful and visible thinking routines helped students express and refine their ideas. Collaborative discussions were scaffolded with care, creating a space where students felt confident to take intellectual risks. This approach echoes the work of Ron Ritchhart and colleagues, who remind us that making thinking visible is key to building a culture of learning.

Fiona also invited students to consider broader authorial choices in their analysis of Persepolis, building on their already strong grasp of visual techniques. Rather than beginning with the finer details, students were encouraged to “start big and go small” which helped them understand how these larger structural devices contribute to the text’s overall coherence and impact. By foregrounding these elements, students were better equipped to appreciate how textual integrity is achieved and how meaning is shaped through deliberate authorial design.

What made this learning experience even more powerful was the strength of the relationships Fiona has built with her students. Students shared their thinking openly, knowing their voices mattered. This kind of relational foundation is what allows deep, authentic learning to take place.

In a follow up revision lesson, Fiona continued to support her students with a series of carefully designed strategies, delivered through a station rotation model. Each station was crafted to build confidence, activate prior knowledge and foster collaboration.

At one station, students used the marking criteria to assess a sample essay, justifying their evaluations and deepening their understanding of what quality writing looks like. Another station focused on the metacognitive process of analysing unseen texts, encouraging students to reflect on how they approach new material and make meaning. A third station helped students break down exam questions, demystifying the language of assessment and empowering them to respond with clarity and purpose. Finally, students worked together to analyse unseen texts, sharing insights and building on each other’s interpretations.

These strategies not only prepared students for assessment, but they also honoured their thinking, supported their growth and reminded them that learning is something we do best together. In a subject that thrives on interpretation, voice and connection, collaboration isn’t just helpful, it’s essential. It transforms the English classroom into a vibrant community of readers, writers and thinkers.

It was an absolute joy to witness this practice. Fiona’s work is a testament to what’s possible when thoughtful design, strong relationships and a deep commitment to student learning come together.

– Amy Murphy
Director of Professional Practice

Important messages

What a wonderful week it has been with the sunshine finally making an appearance. The brighter days have certainly helped our teams enjoy their training sessions, and we’re all hoping the good weather continues so our games can go ahead as planned. Our Netball teams in the ERNA competition are entering a crucial stage, with many facing must-win matches this weekend. Best of luck to all MLC School teams competing on Saturday.

Last week, our students braved the challenging weather to compete at the IGSA Athletics Carnival with outstanding enthusiasm and team spirit. Guided by coaches Jim, Lorenzo, and Stefan, the team’s commitment was evident as every event had an MLC School competitor, with many students stepping up to try disciplines outside their usual comfort zones.

The effort paid off in spectacular fashion: an impressive 13 students reached event finals, and numerous personal bests were celebrated across the team. A special mention goes to Eve Ireland (Year 11), who dominated the shot put, discus, and javelin—securing all three titles with new personal bests. Eve’s incredible achievements saw her crowned IGSA Intermediate Athletics Champion.

MLC School also proudly claimed the Division 3 title and was named Most Improved School of 2025. This is a remarkable turnaround from 2024, having climbed 26 places to secure the trophy.

Congratulations to every member of the IGSA Athletics team, whose determination, adaptability, and support for one another set a fantastic example for our school community. Your willingness to step up for your team and give your best effort in every event is truly inspiring. We are very proud of you all!

This week, students from Years 3 to 6 participated in the IPSHA Athletics Carnival at Sydney Olympic Park. The MLC School team gave outstanding performances, with many girls achieving personal bests throughout the day. A special congratulations to Calais Durie (Year 5), who has been selected for the IPSHA Athletics team and will be competing at the CIS Carnival next week.

Looking ahead, next Thursday is the House Athletics Carnival for Year 6 to Year 12, also at Sydney Olympic Park. If you haven’t yet completed your daughter’s permission form via Omnia, please do so promptly. It promises to be a fantastic day filled with house spirit, fun, and laughter—we can’t wait to see everyone there!

Earlier this term Georgia Coxsedge (Year 9) represented NSW at the School sport Australia Hockey and AFL championships. This we received a lovely email from NSW coach and manger. Please a small extract from the email showing how Georgia showed just what being an MLC School girl is all about.

‘Georgia was an integral member of the NSW All Schools Team, representing herself, her school, and our state with distinction. Throughout the tournament, she consistently demonstrated maturity, composure, and strong sportsmanship both on and off the field. Her positive attitude and commitment to excellence set a high standard for her teammates and contributed significantly to the team’s cohesion and performance.

Her ability to apply feedback, support her peers, and lead through example played a vital role in the team’s growth across the competition. Importantly, her determination and performance were key in helping the NSW All Schools Team secure the bronze medal. She embodied the core values of teamwork, resilience, and respect that are at the heart of school sport, and her contribution was central to our success.’

 – Acting Directors of Sport

Achievements

Swimming

Over the weekend, Hailey Leung (Year 11) and Madison Chantler (Year 10) raced at NSW State SC Swimming Championships. Both performed well in the meet. A special shoutout goes to Madison for her phenomenal achievements, including securing state medals in the 100m Fly and 400m IM. 

Madison Chantler (Year 10)

• 3^rd in 14-15 100m Fly (Pb)
• Top 10 in Girls 14-15 50m Fly 
• Top 20in Girls 14-15 100m BK
• Top 20 in Girls 14-15 100m FS
• Top 10 in Girls 14-15 200m BK
• Top 10 in Girls 14-15 100m IM 
• Top 10 in Girls 14-15 50m Bk
• 3^rd in Girls 14 & Over 400m IM (PB)

Hailey Leung ( Year 11)

• 22^nd in Girls 14 – 15 50m FS (PB)
• Top 10 in Girls 14-15 50m BK (PB)

– Colman Wong
Head of Swimming

Tennis

Three of our talented young players: Annika Bou (Year 6), Remy Pereira (Year 6), and Rayna Zhu (Year 6) have shown remarkable growth and dedication, training consistently throughout the entire year. Their hard work and perseverance has paid off, as they are currently ranked first in the Carkanthorp Cup division 2.

Annika, Remi, and Rayna have demonstrated not only their skills but also their commitment to excellence. We are confident that they will be strong contenders to join the Tildesley Squad this season. 

The coaches and I are cheering them on and wishing them the best as they continue to compete and excel.

This accomplishment is truly a testament to their determination and passion for the sport.

– Ludovic Catherine
Head of Tennis

Snow Sports

MLC School at the NSW State Interschools Snowsports Competition

Last week, 11 students Niamh Johnson (Year 10), Noelle Foo (Year 9), Elise Shen (Year 3), Marina Chen (Year 4), Olivia Li (Year 4), Arielle McBrien (Year 6), Cecilia Lau (Year 8), Aisha Ashour (Year 3), Zaz Tiglao (Year 12), Holly Skowno (Year 9) and Haegan Sitou (Year 11) represented MLC School at the NSW State Interschools Snowsports Competition in Perisher. MLC School was proudly represented across all disciplines: skiing, snowboarding and cross-country.

Our teams and individuals achieved some fantastic results:

• Div 5 Skier X Team (Elise, Marina and Olivia) – Bronze medal
• Div 5 Alpine Team (Aisha, Elise, Marina and Olivia) – 5th place
• Individual highlights: Elise placed 4th in Alpine and 7th in Skier X (Div 5) and Haegen finished 9th in Cross Country (Div 1).

In total, eight students qualified for the Australian Interschools Snowsports Championships: Noelle, Elise, Marina, Olivia, Aisha, Holly, Haegen and Zaz.

We wish the very best of luck to those competing at Mt Buller next week:

• Elise – Alpine, Skier X, Moguls, XC
• Marina – Alpine, Skier X, XC
• Olivia – Alpine, Skier X, XC
• Holly – XC
• Zaz – Snowboarding

Finally, a special thank you to our 2025 Snowsports Captain, Zaz, for supporting the team across all events last week. We send an extra cheer as you take to the mountain one last time in the famous MLC pink helmet cover!

– Acting Directors of Sport

Click on gallery to view full images

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.

Congratulations to Arielle McBrien (Year 6), who represented MLC School at the NSW State Interschools Snowsports competition in Perisher last week. Arielle competed in moguls, displaying remarkable courage and discipline as she took on the challenging course of bumps and jumps. She finished in the top 20 girls in the state, an outstanding achievement. Well done, Arielle!

– Acting Directors of Sport

September/October 2025 Gymnastics Holiday Fun Camp

Our Gymnastics SEP/OCT 2025 GYMNASTICS HOLIDAY FUN CAMP is now open. They are available to book into via our online parent portal.

Gymnastics Holiday Fun Camp from 9am–3pm each day.

Week 1 – Monday 29 September, Tuesday 30 September, Wednesday 1 October, Thursday 2 October, AND Friday 3 October

Week 2 – Tuesday 7 October, Wednesday 8 October AND Thursday 9 October

• The day will consist of Gymnastics, with a possible movie and craft. On the day, you must provide your child with their own morning tea, lunch and a bottle of water
• Children do not need gymnastics experience to attend.
• This camp suits primary school aged children.

All MLC School Girls, Gymnastics and Aquatic members can attend for the cost of $65 per day and should register through the online UDIO portal – Parent UDIO Portal

If an MLC School student does not have a current UDIO portal account please create an account here and contact the Aquatic Centre office on 87413154.

Siblings, friends and family are also welcome to attend for the cost of $75 per day. To register please click on the following link below. Sign up page

If you have any questions regarding bookings, please contact our friendly office staff. Any gymnastics specific queries should be directed to gymnastics@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au 

– Naomi Bruce
Gymnastics Program Manager

Weekend Sports Fixtures

Friday 29 August 2025

Saturday 30 August 2025

– Acting Directors of Sport

Follow MLC School Sport on Facebook

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

– Acting Directors of Sport

MLC School RoboCup Results

Round Square Ethics Seminar

Speech and Drama students shine at The Ryde Eisteddfod

A huge congratulations to Natasha (Gem) McGuire (Year 4) and Sonia Chung (Year 4) and Mavis Wang (Year 2) and Charlotte McKenzie (Year 2) for their outstanding performances at the Ryde Eisteddfod. Both pairs received Highly Commended awards in their Duologue in costume age categories.

The students have performed in multiple eisteddfods this year, including the Inner West, Parramatta and Sydney eisteddfods. They have received 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd places as well across the season. The students are already excited about next year!  They are now preparing for their  ASCA exams coming up in two weeks.

We commend Gem, Sonia, Mavis and Charlotte for being wonderful representatives of MLC School.

– Monica Brian
The Speech and Drama Studio Director

Click on gallery to view full images