Newsletter | Term 4 | Week 2 2025 - 24 October 2025
From the Head of Junior School

From the Head of Junior School

Thank you to our Year 1 parents who attended our Year 1 assembly this week. 

Kindergarten to Year 2 Swimming 

Our Kindergarten to Year 2 girls have been participating in their intensive swimming lessons this week. These will conclude next Friday 31 October 2025, with the Kindergarten to Year 2 Splash Day, commencing at 11am. Parents and grandparents are most welcome to attend the Splash Day. Please enter via the Aquatic Centre’s main doors to access the upper viewing deck. I look forward to seeing you there. 

Robotics Challenge 

On Wednesday, for the first time, we had a Junior School team (Year 6) participate in the Robotics VEX IQ Mix and Match Tournament hosted at Trinity Preparatory School, Strathfield. Although we did not return with any trophies due to a robot malfunction, the judges were impressed by the girls’ resilience and thorough documentation of their engineering design cycle. Noting how the team overcame many challenges, we are so proud of their achievements and look forward to future competitions. 

Sydney Science Park STEM Cross Schools Challenge 

Today (Friday), some of our Year 6 students were involved in the Sydney Science Park STEM Cross Schools Challenge. This was a very exciting and successful day where the girls worked in groups with students from other schools. It was a wonderful experience for our girls to participate in this STEM challenge alongside their peers from other schools.

IPSHA Gymnastics

Also, today (Friday) I had the pleasure of watching our Junior School gymnasts at the Sydney Gymnastics and Aquatic Centre at Rooty Hill. It was wonderful to see so many parents attending too. Please read next week’s sports news for more information.

National Swimming Competitions 

Congratulations to our Year 4 students who are competing in swimming at a national level. Gem McGuire has been representing Combined Independent Schools this week in Sydney, and Jesslyn Yong will be competing in Victoria next week. Well done!

IPSHA Debating

Read the full story in the newsletter by clicking here. 

Amazing Me Webinars for Year 4, Year 5 and Year 6

Information letters were sent to parents via the MLC School app on Wednesday this week. The links for your webinars will be sent at 9am on the morning of Wednesday 12 November 2025.

Click here to read ‘Amazing Me’ letter for Year 4

Click here to read ‘Amazing Me’ letter for Year 5 and Year 6

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

From the Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Our School Value – Growth

Growth is an important part of education. At MLC School Growth is one of our School Values because we believe it is a vital part of a girl’s learning journey and it is the value we focus on during Term 4. Each and every student has boundless potential that, along with parents, we aim to develop.

Growth is about being flexible, persevering and aiming for our personal best. This is about more than just academic results. We encourage our students to stretch themselves, embrace challenges and take pride in their progress – no matter what that looks like.

Growth is about developing as a whole person – intellectually, socially, and emotionally. It’s the idea that skills and abilities can improve with effort, practice, and a positive attitude. This ‘growth mindset’ helps children see setbacks as opportunities to learn, not as reasons to give up. When students understand that mistakes are a natural part of learning, they become more resilient and confident in facing new challenges.

At MLC School we aim to create a safe environment where the girls feel comfortable making mistakes. By reflecting on what didn’t work and trying again, students develop perseverance and problem-solving skills.

In the Junior School we talk and learn about having a growth mindset (a name coined by Carol Dweck, a Stanford University psychologist). A growth mindset is the belief that a person’s capacities and talents can be improved over time.

Parents and carers play an important role in fostering a growth mindset. Here are a few ways you can encourage your child’s growth at home:

  1. Celebrate Effort: Notice and praise your child’s hard work, not just their achievements. A simple ‘I’m proud of how hard you tried’ goes a long way.
  2. Normalise Mistakes: Share stories about challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them. Let your child see that everyone makes mistakes and that we can all learn from them. When your child makes a mistake or does the wrong thing, ask them what they can learn from this.
  3. Encourage Curiosity: Support your child’s interests, ask questions together, and explore new topics. Learning is an adventure!
  4. Model Resilience: Show your child how you handle setbacks with a positive attitude and a willingness to try again.

Term 4 is a terrific time to look back and reflect with your daughter on how much she has grown and the effort she has put into her growth.

Together, let’s inspire a love of learning that will last a lifetime.

– Joanne Sharpe
Deputy Head of Junior School – Wellbeing

Year 3 2026 Instrumental Program

Year 3 2026 Instrumental Program

The Year 3 2026 Instrumental Program will run on Tuesdays, 10.55am to 11.50am, throughout the entire academic year. Students can choose to continue their study of a string instrument in the String Class or, alternatively, participate in the band program.

A letter was sent to all current Year 2 parents after the presentation on Tuesday this week. Please check Omnia to view the full letter in your ‘Messages’ section.

You can view the full recording by clicking on the image below.

 

Ukestra in Burwood Park

Ukestra in Burwood Park

On Tuesday, our wonderful Ukulele Ensemble, Ukestra, brought music to Burwood Park with a delightful lunchtime concert.

The weather was glorious, but the girls got the full busking experience – braving flies and gusts of wind that tried to whisk their music away! With a lovely audience of parents, teachers, and curious passers-by, the girls sang and strummed beautifully, sharing their joy and talent with the community.

– Sophie Grattan Smith
Junior School Music Coordinator

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 6 2025 Social at Newington

Year 6 2025 Social at Newington

It is a tradition that each of the Inner West Independent Junior Schools take turns to host a Year 6 Social. 

Details of this year’s optional Year 6 Social are as follows:

Thursday 20 November 2025
Centenary Hall, Newington College, 200 Stanmore Road, Stanmore

Drop off
6.10pm at the main entrance at the Stanmore Road gates. Staff will guide you to the drop-off point. Parents are to remain in the car. (Refer to map by clicking here.) Students will be directed to their class teacher to have their name marked off the class roll.

Pick Up
8.45pm (promptly) outside Centenary Hall on foot. Parents need to park in the neighbouring streets. Thank you for being respectful of neighbours. 

Cost
The cost of the event is $10.00 per child. This will include a drink and an ice block.  It will also contribute to the Addison Road Community Organisation.  

Dress Code
The dress code is ‘smart casual’. Clothing should be comfortable and appropriate. Please ensure your daughter understands the following requirements:

  • No chewing gum
  • Wear flat, non-marking enclosed shoes, such as sneakers. No thongs
  • No ‘glow in the dark’ fluid items
  • No handbags, clutches, belt bags or other similar accessories

Medical
If your daughter requires an asthma puffer or epipen, please have your daughter hand this medication to her class teacher on arrival and collect when leaving.

Phones
Newington College requests that no mobile phones or pens are to be brought into Centenary Hall. If your daughter is required to bring a phone, it must be stored in a zip-lock bag with her name and MLC School written clearly on it. Your daughter must hand her phone to her class teacher on arrival and collect it at the conclusion of the event.

Student Expectations
During the Year 6 Social, students will be required to always exhibit exemplary conduct. It is the students’ responsibility to adhere to these expectations to ensure the safety and enjoyment of themselves and others.

Click here for Year 6 Social Tickets

– Daniel Sandral
Head of Junior School

Junior School Portrait Prize Closes Next Week!

Junior School Portrait Prize Closes Next Week!

Entries are flooding in for the Junior School Portrait Prize. We are getting exciting entries in lots of different styles and techniques, all of them showing the wonderful creativity of our Junior School artists. Don’t miss your chance to be part of the fun!

Entires close Friday 31 October 2025 (Week 3).

For further details see Mrs Doull in the Visual Arts studio.

– Marian Doull
JS Visual Arts Teacher

Click on the image gallery for full size images.

News From the Library

News From the Library

Year 3 Lunchtime Book Club

Students in Year 3 are invited to join a Lunchtime Book Club this term, beginning in Week 3 (29 October). The book we will be reading is Nim’s Island by Wendy Orr. We will meet every Wednesday up until Week 7 (26 November).  We will use literature circle roles to guide the group discussion. 

Please register your interest by completing the form below. Places are limited to 15. The girls will be loaned a copy of the book.

Year 3 Lunchtime Book Club

Happy reading.

– Sharon Seymour
Junior School Teacher Librarian

Academic Care Update: How AI Can Support Student’s Research 

Academic Care Update: How AI Can Support Student’s Research 

This week starts the first of a mini-series on how to utilise AI well, and appropriately, to enhance learning. As I mentioned last week, the use of AI is deeply embedded in this term’s Academic Care Program, with the girls in Year 7–Year 10 spending time looking at the benefits and pitfalls of the technology.  A useful tool, and one that is fast evolving, it’s essential that both parents and student upskill in how they utilise AI to support learning. 

AI as a Research Tool

This week I presented to Year 9 on the way that AI, particularly LLMs (such as ChatGPT, Claude, Copilot, etc), can assist students when presented with research tasks. It is important to emphasise that AI should always be considered a tool to enhance learning, rather than just a tool to find or develop a simplistic answer. Moreover, the girls were reminded that all work submitted must be their own, with all sources cited, and that it was their responsibility to check the accuracy of anything generated by AI. 

Find below some of the core takeaways from my presentation, which highlight some ways that AI can complement the research process: 

Whilst not an exhaustive list, hopefully it provides a start; a way of dipping one’s toe into the water of AI. My suggestion would be for parents to work collaboratively when exploring any AI platform, and whilst there are pitfalls, the technology has the potential to strongly support the research phase of learning. 

– David Posker-Hill
Acting Deputy Head of Senior School – Academic

2026 Tours Information Overview – Some Registrations Close Soon

2026 Tours Information Overview – Some Registrations Close Soon

An Information evening for students and parents interested in the tours was held on Tuesday 21 October.

You are welcome to explore one, or more, of our exciting opportunities. This is a chance to be part of something extraordinary in 2026. 

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.

We look forward to meeting with interested families and sharing more details at the information evening.

Languages Tour
– China
April 2026
To seek more information please contact:
Helena Wang, Teacher – Languages

Dance and Drama Tour 
– London and Paris 
September 2026
Registrations for this Tour strictly close on Wednesday 29 October 2025. Selection criteria will be applied and
successful applicants will be notified by Monday 27 October 2025
Further information will be sent via the MLC School app
To seek more information please contact:
Lisa Jinga, Head of Department –  Dance, Drama and Entertainment (DDE)

History Study Tour
– Germany and Italy
September 2026
To seek more information please contact:
David Posker Hill, Head of Department – History and Religious Education

TAS and Visual Art Tour
World Of Wearable Art (WOW)
– New Zealand
September 2026
To seek more information please contact:
Robyn Langford – Teacher – Technological and Applied Studies (TAS)

PDHPE Overview; a Reminder on Sun Safety, and Year 10

PDHPE Overview; a Reminder on Sun Safety, and Year 10

Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) staff have enjoyed seeing the enthusiasm in students as they began their theory and practical units last week. Christmas craft has been well received as part of mindfulness which occurs at the start of all theory lessons. In practical classes, sports and activities range from lacrosse to tee-ball, lawn games such as bocce and croquet to high intensity interval training.

To maximise participation and safety, please ensure your daughter packs a hat and water bottle. A reminder that students must utilise the MLC School Sports bag only to carry their equipment to and from school. Please also reinforce and encourage the use of sunscreen as the weather continues to heat up. Students are welcome to bring their own. Alternatively, it is made available to them throughout lessons.

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

Year 10 PDHPE

As Year 10 students approach the end of the school year, they are completing their final Personal Development, Health and Physical Education (PDHPE) unit – and for many, their last PE lessons over the next few weeks. 

Year 10 students have been participating in our Recreational Sport program, where they take the lead in running sports, games, and team challenges of their own choice. From kick tennis and multisport activities to team challenges, it’s been fantastic to see their enthusiasm and collaboration.

More than just keeping active, this unit focuses on developing leadership, communication, and teamwork skills that will support them well beyond the classroom. These skills complement their learning in the Life Beyond School theory unit. It’s been a pleasure to watch students step up to the challenge, guide their peers, and finish their PE journey with confidence and positivity.

A huge thank you to Year 10 for bringing such amazing energy, curiosity, and fun to PDHPE lessons this year! We’re incredibly proud of everything you have achieved and hope you’ve made plenty of memories along the way. 

– Jane Timor
Teacher

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Year 7

Year 7

This week has been full of inspiration and learning for our Year 7 students. We began with a reflective Year 7 Chapel Service where the theme was All Saints Day. Students explored the meaning of sainthood and how everyday acts of kindness and courage can reflect the spirit of the saints. It was a beautiful moment of connection and contemplation for the entire cohort.

In Academic Care, Liz Gilberthorpe, Assistant Director of Music, introduced Year 7 to Copilot, a powerful digital assistant that can support their study and learning. They learned how to use it to ask prompts to assist with formulation study notes and revision questions.

Outside the classroom, I had the pleasure of attending the IGSA Gymnastics event on Thursday and watching a large number of our Year 7 students soar, literally and figuratively! Their performances were full of energy, grace, and determination. It was wonderful to see them challenge themselves and support one another with such enthusiasm.

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

– Claire White
Head of Year 7

Year 8

Year 8

Week 2 has been a particularly busy period for Year 8, with students undertaking a range of assessments. By the conclusion of Week 3, all formal assessments for Semester 2 will have been completed. However, as I communicated to Year 8 at the beginning of the term, learning is an ongoing process that continues throughout the entire term. Even after the completion of formal assessments, students will remain actively engaged in their classes, and it is important that they maintain their focus to ensure they are developing the essential skills required for Stage 5.

This week also provided Year 8 students with the opportunity to nominate themselves for the position of Middle Years Leader for Year 9. Those who chose to nominate were invited to deliver a speech to their respective House groups, outlining their personal qualities and motivations for seeking a leadership role. I am extremely proud of all the students who demonstrated the courage to put themselves forward and to speak in front of their peers. While not every student can be selected as a leader, the willingness to step outside one’s comfort zone and participate in this process is a true demonstration of leadership qualities.

As part of our Academic Care Program, Year 8 students participated in an engaging session led by Marianna Carlino, Director of eLearning. The focus was on harnessing Artificial Intelligence as a valuable learning tool. Students learned practical strategies for interpreting assessment notifications and discovered how to craft effective prompts to maximise the benefits of AI support in their studies. This session aimed to empower students with skills that will help them approach their learning with greater confidence and independence.

– Kate Schurch
Acting Head of Year 8

Year 9

Year 9

This week during the Luminary program, Year 9 continued their Peer Support Training by engaging in activities about leadership experiences and interaction styles.

Year 9 began by exploring their past leadership experiences: roles on the sports field or in a music group, at work, or even at home as an older sibling. Students reflected on these experiences and discovered that the skills they developed in those roles could be transferred to new challenges, like becoming a Peer Support Leader.

To explore this idea, students created Leadership Experience mind maps, identifying where they currently lead and the skills they use to do it. From there, each group discussed:

  • What skills do we all share as leaders?
  • How can these skills help us guide younger students?
  • Why does understanding different interaction styles make us better at working with others?

From the Learning Enhancement Department – Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration Meetings 

The Learning Enhancement Department is pleased to announce the availability of optional Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration meetings. These sessions are designed to support the planning process for your daughter’s transition to Year 10 in 2026 and will be conducted online via Teams. This is an opportunity to discuss learning goals and review reasonable adjustments to support students.  

If you did not receive an invitation to discuss your daughter’s engagement with the Learning Enhancement Department for 2026 but wish to have a conversation, please email led@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

– Emily Marsh
Head of Year 9

Year 10

Year 10

This week Year 10 were informed about their cabin and day groups for the upcoming camp in Week 5 (Monday 10 November 2025). It was great to hear their excitement as they began planning their meals and it was evident from the energy in the room that they are really looking forward to what will be an excellent week away. I can’t wait to see them step into this week and grow both in independence and connectedness.

We were thrilled to share with you the Information Handbook 2025 for the Year 10 Immersion Program, Dear Future Self via MLC School app notification this week. The Information Handbook has also been uploaded under ‘important links’ on the Year 10 page in Omnia.

As you would have seen, the program is comprehensive and is designed to help your daughters reflect on their identity, set future goals and develop practical life skills. Please take the time to read through this information with your daughter as there are many moving parts and it is a jam-packed four weeks. Please see below the important dates and a summary of the steps that need to be completed. 

Important Dates

  • Monday 10 to Friday 14 November 2025 (Week 5) – Immersion Trip to Foster.
  • Monday 17 November 2025 (Week 6) – Future Forward Week, featuring workshops, university visits and career experiences.
  • Monday 24 November 2025 (Week 7) – Work Experience placements
  • Monday 1 December 2025 (Week 8) – Final project presentations and return to regular classes

Action Required

You must take the time to thoroughly read the Information Handbook. You will find a wealth of detail, a comprehensive list of contacts, and a complete checklist of actions you need to take. You will be able to:

  • Submit medical and consent forms via the Land’s Edge page
  • Check in Omnia here under ‘Messages’ to provide excursion permission
  • Download the Medical Authorisation Form
  • Review the ‘What to bring’ list
  • Read the Experiential Learning Code of Conduct
  • Select Workshop Preferences
  • View the Year 10 Immersion video
  • Read the detailed Program Itinerary
  • The letter including the Handbook can be found by clicking here

We have become aware that some parents are unable to view the Career presentation slides. The pdf has been uploaded to the Year 10 page in Omnia and can be viewed by clicking here.

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Sarah Jauncey, Director of Experiential Learning or Jo Cilia, Head of Futures and Pathways.

From the Learning Enhancement Department – Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration Meetings 

The Learning Enhancement Department is pleased to announce the availability of optional Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration meetings. These sessions are designed to support the planning process for your daughter’s transition to her new grade in 2026 and will be conducted online via Teams. This is an opportunity to discuss learning goals and review reasonable adjustments to support students.  

For some students, adjustments may include Disability Provisions, (upon application). Please be aware that any 2025 Year 11 student planning to apply for Disability Provisions in Year 12 is highly encouraged to have a parent or carer attend these collaborative planning meetings. 
 
If you did not receive an invitation to discuss your daughter’s engagement with the Learning Enhancement Department for 2026 but wish to have a conversation, please email led@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au 

– Penny Hewett
Head of Year 10

Year 11

Year 11

The cohort have returned energised for their final year, sharing thoughtful reflections on their retreat and nominating new Luminary Representatives. Next week, I’ll introduce these leaders and outline their goals for supporting Year 12 in Term 4.

On Tuesday 21 October, Marianna Carlino, Director of E-Learning, provided an engaging refresher on digital safety, including the latest developments in Deepfakes. Building on last year’s session, students discussed how to critically evaluate online content and protect themselves in a digital world.

Prefect interviews began this week, and it’s been inspiring to hear students’ ideas for mentoring younger peers and modelling our School Values of Courage, Compassion, Growth, and Respect. I look forward to celebrating all our new leaders at the Induction Ceremony on Friday 7 November 2025, where every Year 12 student will be recognised for their contribution.

Thank you to everyone who attended the Year 11 Parent/Teacher Evening. We hope you found the discussions informative and collaborative. If you have further questions or missed the opportunity to meet with teachers, please don’t hesitate to reach out via email to them for follow up conversations.

Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration Meetings 

The Learning Enhancement Department is pleased to announce optional Term 4 Consultation and Collaboration meetings, conducted online via Teams. These sessions are designed to support your daughter’s transition to Year 12, discussing learning goals and review reasonable adjustments.

For some students, adjustments may include Disability Provisions, (upon application). Please be aware that any 2025 Year 11 student planning to apply for Disability Provisions in Year 12 is highly encouraged to have a parent or carer attend these collaborative planning meetings. 
 
If you did not receive an invitation to discuss your daughter’s engagement with the Learning Enhancement Department for Year 12 but wish to have a conversation, please email led@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au.

Coming Up

Friday 7 November 2025 – Year 12 2026 Leadership Induction

– Angela Renwick
Head of Year 11

 

Instrumental Festival Details and Registrations

Instrumental Festival Details and Registrations

Instrumental Festival

Friday 7 November 2025, 4pm–6pm

Registrations close 6pm, Thursday 30 October 2025.
 
We are delighted to invite parents and carers to our Instrumental Festival on Friday 7 November 2025. 
 
This special event is a celebration of the hard work and dedication of our students, and will showcase their incredible musical talents. This opportunity to perform is open to all students learning an instrument, including those having private tuition outside of MLC School.
 
The Individual Festivals will run as follows (times and dates will be finalised after registrations have been received):
 
Piano Festival
Pre-Kindergarten to Year 11 soloists and MLC School Piano Ensembles
 
  • 4pm–4.45pm, Pre-Grade (Junior School Music Studios)
  • 4.45pm–6pm, Junior Grades 1-3 (Daphne Line Hall)
  • 4pm–5pm, Intermediate Grades 4-5 (Chapel)
  • 4pm–5pm, Advanced Grades 6 and above (Music Centre Auditorium)
Please note: We will not be collecting Junior School piano students nor providing any supervision after school. Parents are expected to bring their children to their allocated venues at their allocated concert time.
 
Click here to register for Piano Festival
 
String Festival
Year 1 to Year 6 soloists, with or without piano accompaniment*
 
  • 4pm–4.50pm, Year 1 and Year 2 (Potts Hall)
  • 5pm–6pm, Year 3 to Year 6 (Potts Hall)
*If piano accompaniment is required, please email a digital copy of the piano accompaniment to James Larsen, Head of Strings, by email here.
 
James Larsen and Music staff will collect Junior School students for rehearsals prior to the String Festival if your requirement is confirmed in your registration.
 
Click here to register for String Festival
 
Voice Festival
Year 5 to Year 11 soloists, with or without piano accompaniment*
 
  • 5pm–6pm All Grades, (Music Centre Auditorium)
*If piano accompaniment is required, please email a digital copy of the piano accompaniment to music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
 
Click here to register for Voice Festival
 
Band Festival
Year 3 to Year 11 soloists, with or without piano accompaniment*, MLC School Wind Quartets
 
  • 5pm–6pm, All grades and small Wind Ensembles (Chapel)
*If piano accompaniment is required, please email a digital copy of the piano accompaniment to music@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
 
Click here to register for Band Festival
 
 We will try to accommodate students playing multiple instruments/venues in the programming where we can (please indicate in your registration).
 
We will try to group siblings together in the same venue for the Piano Festival (please indicate in your registration).
 
Registrations close 6pm, Thursday 30 October 2025.
 
We look forward to seeing you at our Festivals.

From the Principal

This week we hosted our annual Sapphires Chapel Service and Lunch for those Old Girls who graduated from MLC School more than 51 years ago. Our oldest attendee graduated in 1945 and our youngest Sapphires, the class of 1974, joined us for the first time.

What an honour and delight it was to be with these Old Girls for the afternoon. Their excitement in reuniting with friends, their fierce love of the School and the tears that flowed as they sang the School song reminded me of the strong, enduring and perception-breaking community that underpins the story of MLC School.

As the women shared their memories of their teachers, sports days, journeys on the train so that they would come across the Newington boys and occasional naughty escapade, it became apparent that their experiences at school hadn’t always been perfect; there were the teachers who did not treat them fairly, cold water showers for the boarders, a ban on dancing due to Methodist beliefs at the time, uncomfortable uniforms and sparse classrooms. Despite the challenges, they built lifelong friendships, went on to have marvellous careers (often in fields not usually pursued by women of the day). Like other Old Girls that I have met, they credit much of their success to the mindset and curiosity for learning that was encouraged throughout their education at MLC School.

Our Sapphires were so impressed by our current students. They were in awe of their ability to welcome them and chat with such confidence and ease, the inspiring speeches given by our student archivist Mary Cameron and our 2026 School Captain Anisha Sivagurunathan, the enchanting musical performance from our Chamber Choir and the poise that our youngest Junior School students displayed as they presented flowers and assisted with the cutting of the cake.

Perhaps the tone of the day is best expressed by this email from Jillian, Class of 1965:

‘I want to express my delight at being able to attend yesterday’s magnificent celebration of an amazing school. It was wonderful to see and hear what is happening and the new initiatives which I support fully. To meet first in the Chapel Service and then at lunch with peers with whom we spent up to five years together was rewarding. To hear their stories and listen to how they managed some hardship is inspirational.

Thank you for organising the day so beautifully.

Without MLC School and the speech lessons I had with Joyce Foreman in the 1960s and after leaving school I would not have followed in her footsteps and provided Speech Communication lessons to thousands of students from all walks of life. I would not have worked in developing countries teaching English to scientists. Those lessons have given me an occupation which I am still heavily involved in and for this I say, “Thank You.”

I love the positivity and the inspiration of the Executive Role leaders, and it was evident that they too “Walk as Daughters of the Light”.’

– Lisa Moloney
Principal

Click here to view the Facebook album.

Click on image gallery for full size images.

Introducing: The ‘Dare to Be More’ Podcast 

Introducing: The ‘Dare to Be More’ Podcast 

We’re thrilled to announce the launch of the MLC School ‘Dare to Be More’ podcast – a new way for our School community to connect through engaging conversations about education, growth, and empowerment.  

In the debut episode, Principal Lisa Moloney discusses MLC School’s Vision and Values and how our guiding principle that ‘the MLC School girl is at the heart of everything we do’ shapes every aspect of school life. 

Professionally hosted by Anthony Perl, each episode runs just 15-20 minutes and offers valuable insights for parents, educators, and anyone interested in girls’ education. New episodes will be released on a Thursday every two weeks. 

Our upcoming episode schedule includes: 

  • EP2: Focusing on the Whole Girl with Lisa Moloney, Principal and Melissa Boyd, Deputy Principal 
  • EP5: Academic Development in the Junior School with Sonia Weston, Deputy Head of Junior School – Curriculum, and Natalie Hird, Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations 
  • EP6: The Power of Music in Education with Trevor Mee, Director of Music 
  • EP8: Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners with Dr Jan Milburn OAM (1954)

Each episode is accompanied by short audio clips on our social media channels, giving you a glimpse into these fascinating conversations.

The podcast is available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and all major podcast platforms. Simply search for ‘MLC School Dare to Be More’.  

We hope you’ll susbcribe, tune in and join us on this exciting new journey – and remember to tell your friends and family.

Listen to the first episode here! 

– Michele Dunn
Head of Marketing and Community Relations

Lucis Spring Summer Issue On Its Way!

Lucis Spring Summer Issue On Its Way!

All families should receive a mailed copy shortly. If you can’t wait – the digital version can be viewed here

This issue covers recent events such as farewell to Year 12, focuses on staff learning and offers an insight into key school initiatives.

MLC School respects the environment. The Lucis sleeve is 100% compostable so please dispose of it via your recycling bin or compost bin.

Middle Years Production: Trackers – Tickets On Sale Soon!

Middle Years Production: Trackers – Tickets On Sale Soon!

Trackers by Donna Hughes

Dates:
Wednesday 12 November 2025, 6pm – MLC School Drama Theatre
Thursday 13 November 2025, 6pm – MLC School Drama Theatre

Ticket Release:
Cast families: Monday 27 October 2025
General public: Tuesday 28 October 2025

In a world ruled by algorithms and surveillance, one student dares to break the code.

This year’s Middle Years Production, Trackers by Donna Hughes, invites audiences into a chilling future, one where society is divided into Zones and every aspect of life is dictated by the Algorithm. Your friends. Your tastes. Your future. All decided for you.

When gifted coder Sam Turing steps out of line, she’s relocated to C-Zone High School, a place where the walls seem to watch, the teachers are not what they seem, and students begin to disappear. To survive, Sam must do the unthinkable: make real friends, beyond the screen.

With a cast of talented students in Year 7–Year 9, this production promises to be thought-provoking, thrilling, and deeply relevant.

Tickets are limited – don’t miss your chance to witness this powerful story unfold on stage.

We look forward to welcoming you to the Drama Theatre for an unforgettable night of theatre!

– Alisha Vigna
Drama Teacher

Santa’s Senior School Sing-A-Long!

Santa’s Senior School Sing-A-Long!

Friday 21 November 2025
5pm–7.30pm
Bird Bath Quad

Get ready to kick off the Festive Season. Join us for an evening of fun, food, and festive cheer with:

  • Musical performances
  • BBQ and drinks
  • Popcorn
  • Craft activities
  • Hampers
  • Donations to Project Kindness

Tokens on Sale Now!
$20 for 10 tokens – available to collect on the night.
All activities and snacks will be two tokens each

Click here for tokens

Donations to Project Kindness
Project Kindness is a charity collecting goods for those who need it most. Non-perishable items, clothing, bathroom products, books, toys, pans, stationary household items and bedding products may be donated under the Christmas tree at the event.

Bring your family, friends, and a rug for a relaxed night under the stars.

– MLC School P&F

Arnhem Land Trip with Culture College – Webinar

Arnhem Land Trip with Culture College – Webinar

Tuesday 4 November 2025
6pm–7pm
Online

Join this information webinar to learn more about this amazing opportunity. A link will be sent to all of Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 on the morning of Tuesday 4 November 2025.

From Tuesday 7 July 2026 to Monday 13 July 2026 MLC School is giving students in Year 9, Year 10 and Year 11 the unique opportunity to participate in an Indigenous immersion, visiting and supporting remote Aboriginal Homelands in North–East Arnhem Land. We are partnering with Culture College Aboriginal Corporation (Culture College), a social enterprise established to inspire and educate secondary school students and empower the next generation of Australia’s leaders.
 
Students will be immersed in the living culture of Yolngu in the Northern Territory of Australia, one of the most culturally intact and pristine regions left on Earth. This unique program will provide privileged access and interaction with the Yolŋu people and their lands of which they have been the traditional owners for over 50,000 years.
 
On this immersion students will:
 
  • Interact with family of the Dhalinybuy Homelands
  • Learn about the differences between homelands and communities including language, bush foods and medicines, moieties, totems and dreaming stories
  • Learn and participate in a culture that has existed for over 70,000 years
The group will stay in safe areas on privately held, permit protected Aboriginal land which is not accessible outside of this setting. We will learn, make, gather, eat, give, grow, and connect with Traditional Owners and Aboriginal Australia. We will learn from Elders and Traditional Owners and gain a first-hand understanding of life for our First Peoples in modern Australia.
 
If you would like to learn more about Culture college and their story, please visit their website here.
 
– Tim Lennon
Director of indigenous Education
WOW Tour 2026

WOW Tour 2026

Friday 25 September 2026 to Wednesday 7 October 2026

The WOW tour is designed for students in Year 9 to Year 11 who are studying the Technology Applied Sciences (TAS) and Visual Art subjects of Textiles and Design, Design and Technology, Food Technology, Visual Art, Photographic Digital Media (PDMI) and Multimedia OR Year 10 students who want to take one of those subjects in Year 11.

The information session on 21 October provided a wonderful opportunity to advise parents about the itinerary, and study goals of the tour. If you were unable to attend the evening, please view the flyer by clicking here.

You can also view the slide presentation by clicking here.

The tour is designed to have interactive workshops and experiences to inspire and encourage creativity and self-expression. The girls will be WOWed in Wellington, Nelson and Christchurch in 13 jam-packed days and 12 nights of fun, learning and culture.

Due to the workshops having restricted numbers, overall numbers are limited to:

  • 18 students
  • 3 teachers 

If you have any enquiries please contact Robyn Langford, Textiles and Design Teacher. Otherwise you can fill out the Expression of Interest form by clicking on the link below.

Expression of Interest form

– Robyn Langford
Textiles and Design Teacher

Counselling and Student Health Padlet – Participate in Courage Quest Plus

Counselling and Student Health Padlet – Participate in Courage Quest Plus

The Counselling and and Student Health team has developed an excellent resource for parents to share information and resources (links, videos, information) on various issues and concerns around mental health and general wellbeing. It can be found in Omnia under General Information, by clicking here

New content was recently added, so it’s useful to check the padlet regularly. Make sure you scroll across and down as there are many posts within the Padlet.

If you would like to help test a new digital program for children experiencing anxiety and worry (Black Dog Institute) please click on the link below.

Digital Program Link

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

Access the Padlet in Omnia by clicking here

– Anna Michalopoulos
Head of Counselling and Student Health

Parents and Friends Association (P&F) Nominations Close Today

Parents and Friends Association (P&F) Nominations Close Today

If you wish to join the MLC School P&F Executive Committee for 2026 or the Junior School P&F Executive Committee (a sub-committee of the MLC School P&F), please complete and return the appropriate signed Nomination Form to P&F Secretary Raji Behi pfsecretary@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au
 
Nominations close 5pm on Friday 24 October 2025
 
 
 
 
Wednesday 19 November 2025
MLC School
6pm-7.30pm
 
The MLC School P&F Executive Committee warmly invites all parents and carers to attend the P&F General Business Meeting and Annual General Meeting on Wednesday 19 November 2025.
 
The P&F is the forum that represents parents and friends of the MLC School community.
We aim to:
    •    Connect with each other socially and with the School
    •    Contribute to our daughters’ School activities
    •    Create opportunities to get together and be involved in the School community
 
Family involvement in the MLC School community helps to build and strengthen our community spirit and enhances communication. It is the sum of us that fosters a positive outcome for our daughters’ education and co-curricular activities.
 
Positions available for nomination for MLC School P&F are:
  • President
  • Vice-President
  • Secretary
  • Treasurer
  • Community Relations Coordinator
  • Senior School Parent Representative
  • Middle School Parent Representative
  • Jnr School Parent Representative
  • Merchandise Coordinator
Positions available for nomination for Junior School P&F sub-committee are:
  • *JS President (Convenor)
  • *JS Vice-President (Deputy Convenor)
  • *JS Secretary
  • JS Assistant Secretary
  • *JS Treasurer
  • JS Assistant Treasurer
  • *JS Community Relations Coordinator
  • *JS Crested ware Coordinator
  • JS Ordinary committee member – Book Club
* JS positions that sit on MLC School P&F Executive Committee
Uniform Shop – Year 9 Student Senior Uniform Fittings

Uniform Shop – Year 9 Student Senior Uniform Fittings

Year 9 Student Senior Uniform fitting appointments are now open for bookings.

Students requiring a fitting please book at 15 minute appointment. Appointments can be made online by clicking here.

 

Lost Property in the Senior School has reached Full Capacity

Lost Property in the Senior School has reached Full Capacity

Lost Property has increased considerably over Term 3,  with a lot of school uniforms, jumpers, blazers, sports items, sports bags, drink bottles plus more. Unfortunately a lot of these items do not have names on them.  Items are also being left behind at the Aquatic Centre, which are then brought to the Studies Office.
 
At the end of term, any unclaimed Lost Property will be either disposed of or donated. Unfortunately Studies Office does not have the capacity to store these items.
 
If your daughter has lost items over the term, she may come to the Studies Office to check Lost Property.  It is important students do not take items that do not belong to them.
 
Please ensure that clothing items, drink bottles and pencil cases are clearly labelled so that they can be returned to your daughter.
 
– Studies Office​
From the Head of Learning and Teaching – The Joy of Difficulty

From the Head of Learning and Teaching – The Joy of Difficulty

As we send our very best wishes to the girls sitting their HSC and IB examinations, with the HSC now underway and IB beginning next week, it’s worth pausing to reflect on what this moment represents. Years of learning, persistence, and care have led to these final few weeks, when students step into the exam hall and meet the culmination of their effort.

It’s easy to see this period only through the lens of pressure and performance. Examinations can feel like tests of endurance as much as knowledge. Yet as we watch our Year 12 students take these final steps, it’s worth remembering something deeper: difficulty is not the enemy of learning, it’s the evidence of it.

There’s a quiet joy in doing something hard. The joy of realising you can hold a complex idea in your mind. The joy of finding words for something that once seemed just out of reach. The joy of noticing how much more flexible, capable, and confident your thinking has become.

Psychologists call this productive struggle – the sweet spot where challenge and capacity meet. It’s where learning sticks, where we stretch beyond what we already know. Every teacher recognises that real understanding often begins with the words, ‘This is hard,’ followed by, ‘but I’m going to try.’

For parents, especially of younger students, this idea matters too. Struggle is not a sign that something has gone wrong, it’s often the moment when the brain is doing its best work. When a child hesitates, makes a mistake, or feels frustrated, that’s learning in motion. Our instinct is often to make things easier, but allowing children to stay with the challenge helps them build persistence, problem-solving skills, and confidence: I can do hard things.

For our Senior students, examinations are not just hurdles to clear but acts of synthesis – opportunities to draw together years of thinking and see how far they’ve come. And for all of us, students, teachers, and parents alike, exam season is a reminder that growth often hides inside effort.

As our girls complete their final examinations, may they know that their hard work has already shaped something far greater than a result: the capacity to think deeply, persevere courageously, and find joy in the midst of difficulty.

– Melissa McMahon
Head of Learning and Teaching

Year 12 IB Students – Important Information and What to Expect – From the IB Coordinator

Year 12 IB Students – Important Information and What to Expect – From the IB Coordinator

As the official IB Diploma examinations commence on Monday 27 October 2025 (Week 3), we want to ensure all candidates are fully aware of the procedures, expectations, and supports in place during this important time.

Arrival and Identification

All students are expected to arrive at the examination venue at least 30 minutes before the scheduled start time. For morning sessions, this means arriving by 9.30am for a 10am start, and for afternoon sessions, by 1.30pm for a 2pm start. This time is used for roll call, seating, and final preparation.

Upon arrival, students must line up alphabetically outside the examination room, where attendance will be taken before entry is permitted. To be admitted, you must bring a valid photo ID, such as a student card, driver’s licence, or any form of official identification that clearly displays both your name and photograph. Students who do not bring a valid photo ID will not be allowed into the examination room.

Examination Conduct and Conditions

Examinations are conducted under IB regulations and must be taken in absolute silence from the moment you enter the examination venue. Students are expected to remain in the room for a minimum of two hours, even if they complete the examination earlier. This rule applies to both morning and afternoon sessions.

All responses in written examinations must be completed using black or dark blue pens. Pencils may only be used for specific tasks, such as graphs or diagrams, when clearly instructed in the examination paper. Invigilators will provide clear directions at the beginning of each session.

Calculators and materials

Only IB-approved calculator models may be used during examinations, and these must be reset or cleared before the start of each examination as well as at the end of each exam. Invigilators will inspect calculators to ensure compliance with IB regulations.

Students should bring only the required materials for their examination in a clear plastic sleeve or pencil case. Once the examination has begun, borrowing of equipment is not permitted under any circumstances, so please double-check your materials beforehand.

Prohibited Items

All students must ensure they do not bring unauthorised items into the examination room. This includes mobile phones, smartwatches, earbuds, or any internet-enabled devices. These items are not allowed in the venue and must be stored in your bag outside the examination room.

Possession of any prohibited device during an examination, even if not in use, will be reported as a potential breach of academic integrity and will result in disciplinary action by the IB.

What to do if you are unwell on examination day

If you are unwell on the day of an examination and are unable to attend, you must contact the school immediately. Please email me directly at pquintana@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au and phone the school on (02) 9747 1266 or contact my school phone on (02) 8741 3980. If I am unable to answer, please leave a voicemail message.

Once I have received your message, I will contact the IB on your behalf to request an emergency rescheduling of your examination. Please be aware that the IB only permits examinations to be moved within a strict 24-hour window of the original start time.

Following this, you must attend a doctor’s appointment on the same day of the missed examination and obtain a medical certificate. The certificate must clearly state your diagnosis and symptoms; certificates that only say ‘unfit for school’ will not be accepted. This documentation is essential for the IB to approve any rescheduling or adverse circumstances applications.

Understanding Assessment Weightings and the Missing Mark Procedure

It’s important to understand that to be eligible for a final grade in any IB subject, you must complete at least 50% of the assessment components.

For example, in Language B SL or Ab Initio, all IB students have already completed 25% of their total assessment through their oral examination. The writing, reading and listening papers, which you’ll complete during the November examination session, are each worth 25%.

The reason this matters is that the IB can only apply the Missing Mark Procedure if enough of the subject has already been completed. In a previous case, a student was hospitalised and unable to complete two of her examination papers. Fortunately, she had already completed her Internal Assessment (20%) and Paper 1 (35%), so the IB calculated her final grade based on the components she had completed, along with the performance of other students (globally) in the same subject.

However, if a student misses all three examination papers and hasn’t met the 50% threshold, they may be required to retake the subject in the next examination session (eg: May 2026).

The Missing Mark Procedure is based on your own completed marks and is also influenced by how other students in the subject perform. This is why it’s always better to complete the papers yourself if you can.

Avoid seeking out or sharing examination content

Please refrain from sharing any information regarding an examination if you have taken it before others and avoid spreading rumours about its content. If you become aware of any rumours or information regarding examination content, it is crucial that this is reported to the school and the IB Coordinator. Being aware of content being shared and not informing the IB is academic misconduct. 

Withhold examination details for 24 hours

Students who have already sat their examination should refrain from sharing any details or content related to the examination for a minimum of 24 hours afterward. This ensures fairness for those who have yet to take the examination. 

Consequences of academic malpractice

The IB conducts investigations into anyone who is found to be, or suspected of, breaking the rules – known as ‘malpractice’. Such actions could potentially lead to serious consequences, including the possibility of not being awarded a grade. Collaboration or sharing of answers undermines the integrity of the assessment process and devalues the efforts of honest students. Moreover, it can result in inflated grade boundaries, impacting the entire cohort of students in this session. 

My Advice For Students

Where possible, complete all examination papers for each subject.

If you are too unwell to sit an examination, it is always better to ask me to arrange an emergency reschedule than to start a paper and be unable to finish it. Once a paper has begun, it cannot be reattempted.

You should also keep in mind that your teachers have submitted predicted grades for each of your subjects. The IB takes these into account when applying procedures such as the Missing Mark Process, but your best results will always come from your own efforts in the examination room.

The IB is committed to doing all they can to ensure that students receive valid, recognised, and meaningful results – a commitment that they know is shared by all IB schools globally. Your support in upholding these expectations is greatly appreciated and contributes to the overall integrity of an IB education. 

MLC School is incredibly proud of our Year 12 IBDP students for their continued effort, focus and determination to do their personal best. We would like to wish you all the very best as you enter this final stage of your IB journey, and we look forward to celebrating your achievements in the weeks to come.

– Priscilla Quintana
IB Coordinator

Study Support Opportunities at MLC School

Study Support Opportunities at MLC School

MLC School offers two Study Support Opportunities:

  • Year 10, 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 10, 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+ Enrolments for Term 4

Study Hub+ Enrolments for Term 4

Term 4 Nomination Form

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.​

Please use the form below to nominate the day(s) your daughter will attend in Term 4. You may select all Mondays, Tuesdays, Wednesdays, or Thursdays, or choose specific dates on a weekly basis.

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.

Important Messages

Important Messages

Last Saturday was a truly joyful occasion as I had the privilege of watching and coaching our Junior School teams play their very first basketball game. Moments like these remind me why I have the best job in the world! Although we finished in 2nd place, it was fantastic to see the students embrace the experience and enjoy every minute. That’s the real spirit of sport!

This week, our Gymnastics team has been busy competing in both the IPSHA and IGSA Gymnastics competitions. We’re eagerly awaiting the results and look forward to sharing their achievements in next week’s newsletter.

A reminder to keep supporting our teams and fulfilling the commitments of being in a team. Let’s keep supporting each other and the School by not only ‘showing up’ each week but having fun, learning some new skills and showing the amazing School Spirit that we have.

It’s important to note that students who don’t meet their team commitments – such as missing training or games without notifying the sport coordinator ahead of time – will receive an accountability point for the first offence. A second offence will result in a sport detention.

If you need to get in touch with your daughter’s coordinator, their contact details are listed below:

Volleyball, Touch Football and Athletics
Isaac Laws – ilaws@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

IPSHA Basketball and Water Polo
Marnie Stephenson mstephenson@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Tennis
Ludovic Catherine lcatherine@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Badminton and Tennis
Clare Iongi ciongi@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Rowing and Fitness
Charlotte Almond calmond@mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au

Diving 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

In November we are having the annual Sports Awards. We are looking for some photos and video footage from games, training sessions, carnivals and anything that has happened in the sports world this year.

If you have any footage you would like to share please put photos in a JPEG file as soon as possible using the button below.

Sports Photos


Rowing Season Parent/Student Information Night – Save the Date

Wednesday 5 November 2025
6pm–7pm
Senior Centre, Level 1

Charlotte Almond, Head of Rowing Program will be holding a Parent and Student Information Evening to discuss the Rowing season.

– Acting Directors of Sport

Sporting Achievements

Sporting Achievements

Congratulations to Yasmine Allam (Year 8) for her outstanding performance in the NSW 14s Girls Tennis Championships! Her stellar effort earned her a spot among the top 20 players in NSW – an amazing achievement. Well done, Yasmine!

On Sunday 19 October Chloe Miller (Year 10) and Lottie Cleland (Year 10) completed the Tripink Medium Triathlon at Sydney Olympic Park, Chloe came 3rd in her division and 10th overall, with first place in her swim, 2nd place in her cycle. Lottie was placed 10th in her division, great result for her first triathlon!

Congratulations to both these girls as they helped support the National Breast Cancer Foundation!

– Acting Directors of Sport

Around the Grounds

Around the Grounds

Touch Football

On Saturday morning, we played our first touch football game against Ascham School at Lyne Park, Rose Bay. Despite only having one substitute, our team worked hard and stayed competitive throughout the match. In the first half, Ascham scored twice while we managed one try, making the score 2–1 at halftime. In the second half, we lifted our communication, evening the score to 2–2. Unfortunately, Ascham scored again towards the end, leaving the final score at 3–2. Overall, it was a strong first game, with great teamwork and communication, though we can still improve on applying the strategies we’ve practised at training.

– Adelaide Akers (Year 9)

Rowing

Last weekend, our rowing team travelled to Shoalhaven. Racing 7000m in crew boats, the girls put in a fantastic effort, showcasing strong teamwork. Their hard work paid off with two gold medals and a second-place finish. Coaches were happy with the performances and the progress shown across the squad. We now look forward to the first regatta of the season this weekend at the Sydney International Regatta Centre in Penrith for the Loreto Normanhurst Regatta.

– Charlotte Almond
Head of Rowing Program

Tennis

This week marked an awesome start to Term 4 IGSA matches from the Tennis teams. 10 out of our 12 teams won their games, demonstrating their skills and hard work from training. A special mention goes to MLC05, MLC11 and MLC12 who played at Frensham, and despite the extremely early wake up and cold weather, all three teams won their matches. Best of luck to all the teams for their following matches!

– Ludo Catherine
Head Tennis coach

Basketball

Our IPSHA basketball teams had a good start to the season, showing fantastic teamwork, enthusiasm, and School Spirit in their first games. It was great to see the players applying the skills and concepts they’ve been working on at training – from passing and spacing to communicating on court. Each team played with great energy and supported one another throughout, setting a positive tone for the season ahead.

‘MLC on 3! 1, 2, 3 MLC!’

– Marnie Stephenson
Basketball Coordinator

Volleyball

Wow what a start for our Junior Rep Volleyball team at the Robyn Webster Sports Centre last weekend! We came up against a strong Danebank side who had a few more games together under their belt. It was a real seesawing match early on, but the Danes managed to run us down in the end. A special shoutout to Sienna, who served up a storm and kept finding that sweet spot time after time, and to our pocket rocket Avery, who was everywhere on the court – digging, setting, and keeping the rally alive for the team! Big thanks to Summer Le for stepping in as coach and helping Mr Carpenter keep the girls fired up and focused on the day. Awesome effort, everyone – it’s only the beginning and we’re pumped for what’s next!

– Isaac Laws
Sport Coordinator

PLC02 Volleyball

MLC02 played a strong first game back this term against Danebank in the PLC tournament, finishing with a 2–0 loss but showing lots of improvement and teamwork throughout the match. Although the result didn’t go our way, the team played with determination and energy, keeping up long rallies and demonstrating much better communication on court. It was a great chance for us to settle back into rhythm after the break, and it’s clear how far we’ve come since last term. While there’s still plenty of room to grow, we were proud of how we played together and stayed positive throughout the entire game. This match was a solid start to the term, and we’re excited to keep building our skills and momentum for the rest of the season.

– Hana Lee (Year 8)

Play of the Week

Play of the Week

Each week, we celebrate an MLC School team or player who exemplifies our core Values – Respect, Courage, Compassion, or Growth – whether on the field, at training, or during competition.

This week’s Play of the Week goes to Summer Le (Year 9), who truly embodied the spirit of teamwork and leadership at Saturday’s PLC Indoor Volleyball competition. When several coaches were unexpectedly unavailable, Summer stepped up without hesitation – mentoring Scott Carpenter, Acting Director of Sport, in his first Volleyball coaching role, guiding her own team, and lending a hand to other teams as well. Not only did she lead by example on the court, but she also went above and beyond by staying all morning to help out on duty shift for MLC School.

Thank you, Summer, for showing everyone what it means to be part of the MLC School community. Well done!

– Acting Directors of Sport

Weekend Fixtures

Weekend Fixtures

Saturday 25 October 2025

 WATER POLO – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 Abbotsleigh 01 MLC School Pool 1 8.45am
MLC02 St Catherine’s 04 St Catherine’s Pool 2 8.45am
MLC03 St Vincent’s 05 MLC School Pool 1 9.30am
IPHSA BASKETBALL – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 Ravenswood 1 Ravenswood 8am
MLC02 Ascham 1 Moore Park 7 8am
MLC03 Danebank 2 Camillia Sports Centre 9am
MLC04 Kambala 5 Moore Park 7 9am
MLC05 Wenona 10 Wenona Court 11am
MLC06 Meriden 10 Meriden Court 1 10am
MLC07 Meriden 14 Meriden Court 2 9am
IGSA BADMINTON – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 Tara 05 Tara Indoor 4 8am
MLC02 Kambala 01 Badminton Worx 5 8am
MLC03 Tara 08 Monte Indoor 1 8am
MLC04 St Catherines 03 Badminton Worx 5 9.15am
MLC05 MLC06 Badminton worx 4 9.15am
MLC06 MLC05 Badminton Worx 4 9.15am
MLC07 Danebank 12 Danebank Indoor 1 9.15am
MLC08 Santa Sabina 02 Monte Indoor 2 10.30am
MLC09 Danebank 14 Danebank Indoor 1 10.30am
MLC10 Danebank 16 Danebank Indoor 2 10.30am
MLC11 Kambala 05 Badminton Worx 4 10.30am
MLC12 Monte 04 Monte Indoor 1 10.30am
IGSA TENNIS – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 Pymble 02 Lane Cove Tennis Club Courts 3 & 6 7.30am
MLC02 Kambala 03 MLC School Synthetic Courts 1 & 2 7.30am
MLC03 Frensham 02 Frensham Courts 3 & 4 7.30am
MLC04 Loreto Kirribilli 06 Oxford Falls Club Courts 1 & 2 9.55am
MLC05 Roseville 06 Forestville Park Courts 3 & 4 9.55am
MLC06 Pymble 10 MLC School Synthetic Courts 1 & 2 9.45am
MLC07 Frensham 05 Frensham Courts 5 & 6 7.45am
MLC08 Kincopple Rose Bay 06 Scarborough Park Courts 3 & 4 9.55am
MLC09 Ascham 13 Ascham Tennis Courts 1 & 2 7.45am
MLC10 Loreto Normanhurst 19 Berowra Tennis Courts 1 & 2 9.55am
MLC11 Danebank 07 Illawarra Rockdale Courts 12 & 13 9.55am
MLC12 Tara 08 Tara School Courts 3 & 4 9.55am
IPSHA TENNIS – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 PLC Sydney 1 MLC School Synthetic Courts 8 & 9 8am
MLC02 Meriden 1 Meriden Courts 2 & 3 8am
MLC03 Queenwood 2 MLC School Synthetic Courts 4 & 5 8am
MLC04 Roseville 2 Vince Barclay Tennis Courts 8 & 9 8am
MLC05 PLC Sydney 4 MLC School Synthetic Courts 6 & 7 8am
IGSA TOUCH – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 FRE01 Frensham Field 1 9am
MLC02 TAR01 Tara Main Oval 8am
MLC03 MON04 Wentworth Park 8am
MLC04 BRI09 SASAR Field 1 10am
MLC05 BRI10 Steyne Park 10am
MLC06 STC07 Chifley Sports Reserve Field 2 9am
MLC07 ASC12 Steyne Park Field 2 11am
MLC08 PLS08 PLC Sydney Grass 11am
MLC09 WEN19 Peakhurst Park Field 2 10am
MLC10 PYM11 Pymble Ladies College Kelso 11am
SANTA VOLLEYBALL – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
MLC01 DAN01 + RBC03 Santa Sabina, Court 2 + 1 10.30am + 11.30am
MLC02 SVC03 + SCHOLS6 Santa Sabina, Court 17 + 14 9.30am + 10.30am
MLC03 MER07 Santa Sabina, Court 15 9.30am
MLC04 MSB07 Santa Sabina, Court 12 8.30am
MLC05 PLS08 Santa Sabina, Court 13 8.30am
MLC06 BYE
PLC VOLLEYBALL – ROUND 2
Team Opposition Venue Time
Open Monte 1 Holbeach Ave, Tempe 11.10am
Junior Monte 2 Holbeach Ave, Tempe 8.50am

 

– Acting Sports Directors

British Paliamentary Tournament Results

British Paliamentary Tournament Results

During the previous term, Wednesday training sessions for our debating students featured an internal tournament conducted in the British Parliamentary format. The tournament included both Junior (Year 7 and Year 8) and Senior (Year 9 to Year 11) divisions. Students were allocated into pairs, with coaches intentionally mixing year groups within teams. Initial reluctance was observed, as some students preferred debating alongside their friends; however, the mixed-year arrangement ultimately proved highly beneficial, fostering mentorship opportunities and skill development as senior students supported their younger peers. By the conclusion of eight rounds of debating, it was encouraging to witness participants from Years 7 to Year 11 engaging collaboratively and discussing school life.

On Wednesday, the top four teams from each division competed in the Grand Final to determine the inaugural champions of the BP tournament, whose names would be inscribed on the trophies. In addition, prizes were awarded to the best speakers in each year group across all eight rounds of debate.

Junior Division

The motion for the Junior Grand Final was: ‘That Humankind should strive for Immortality’. Teams received only 15 minutes to prepare, emphasising the need for adaptability and quick thinking throughout the debate. A panel of four experienced coaches adjudicated the event and commended the quality of arguments presented, noting significant improvement in debating skills among Year 7 and Year 8 participants. After deliberation, the Junior Division champions – representing the Closing Opposition – were Jasmine Luo (Year 7) and Isabella Zhou (Year 8).

Best Speakers Awards

Year 7

  • Jasmine Luo – 1st
  • Sissi Zheng – 2nd 
  • Jacqui Zhang – 3rd

Year 8

  • Jenny Chen – 1st
  • Audrey Buck – 2nd
  • Summer Nguyen – 3rd

Senior Division

For the Senior Grand Final, the motion was: ‘That, as an educated woman, we would prefer to live in a poor democracy rather than a wealthy authoritarian state.’ This complex topic required nuanced consideration of womens’ experiences and international affairs. The debate was dynamic, and the panel of adjudicators deliberated extensively before announcing the winners. Ultimately, the Closing Government team of Nina Hespe (Year 9) and Meena Kantharas (Year 10) secured victory.

Best Speakers Awards

Year 9

  • Katherine Woo – 1st
  • Veronica Pan – 2nd
  • Ingrid Henderson – 3rd

Year 10

  • Meena Kanthathas – 1st
  • Joanne Chen – 2nd
  • Alana Mellare – 3rd

Year 11

  • Elena Tulloch – 1st
  • Isabelle Millgate – 2nd
  • Amelia Tchan – 3rd

Many of our debaters are scheduled to participate in the International Debating Championships (IDC), commencing this Friday evening. Eighteen teams from Year 5 to Year 11 will engage in online debates against teams from Australia, Singapore, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and India. This represents another valuable opportunity for students to enhance their knowledge and skills throughout the term, culminating in trials for the 2026 competition debating teams in late November.

– Andrea Rowe
Oratory Coordinator

IPSHA Debating Ended on a High

IPSHA Debating Ended on a High

There was a lot of nervous energy during our long drive to Macarthur Anglican School, Cobbitty as the girls were still discussing their two debate topics:

  • That it should be compulsory for all students to do community service, and
  • That we should have a four-day school week

The two Year 6 teams won both their debates and felt very proud of this accomplishment. 

The Year 5 teams debated valiantly but lost to superior older teams. Despite their disappointment, the Year 5 girls left having learnt many new things to support them for future debates. Over the season, there have been many wins and the occasional defeat, but the most important aspect of MLC School’s Debating program is the learning that takes place. 

With the debating season over for 2025, I would like to thank the coaches – Anika Cuganesan (2023), Alannah Christodoulou (2023) and Sylie Bhat (2023) for their commitment and dedication to supporting and mentoring the girls.

– Jan Falls
Teacher, Mind Challenges Coordinator

Click on image gallery for full size images.

A Great Service Opportunity – Volunteering at Canterbury Little Athletics Club

A Great Service Opportunity – Volunteering at Canterbury Little Athletics Club

Are you looking for a fun and rewarding way to complete your Service section for the Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award?

MLC School students now have the opportunity to volunteer with the Canterbury Athletics Club, supporting young athletes and helping community sport thrive.

Volunteers assist with a variety of roles – from helping at weekly events and marshalling on the track, to timing races and encouraging competitors. It’s a fantastic way to build confidence, teamwork, and communication skills while giving back to the local community.

As Claire White, Head of Year 7, explains:

‘The atmosphere at Canterbury Athletics Club is so positive. Students really enjoy being part of the action and seeing the impact they make on younger athletes.’

Volunteering at Canterbury Athletics Club meets the Duke of Ed Service requirements, as it’s a genuine community-based activity – and it’s also a lot of fun!

For more information or to get involved, contact Glen Mole by email here, or visit the Duke of Ed Padlet by clicking here, for sign-up details.

Click here to view the flyer

– Glen Mole
Duke of Ed Award Leader