From the Upper School
A message from Mrs Victoria Harrison, Acting Head of Upper School
In assembly this week Pymble’s prefect body launched their theme for the year, Hear Us Roar in 2024, which encourages all students at Pymble to get involved in the co-curricular life of the college and support their peers along the way. In the Upper School we look forward to celebrating the many ways Year 9 and 10 explore new challenges and experiences this year.
It is with pride that we celebrate the talented Sophia Kawane. Sophia (Year 9) and her sister Giselle (Year 12) who were fortunate to be selected to take part in the 2024 Goolagong National Development Camp hosted by the Evonne Goolagong Foundation in Melbourne. Only 27 young First Nations tennis players were selected to participate. The camp involved intensive training, mentoring, and connecting with young players from across Australia at Monash University. During this time Sophia met First Nations tennis superstars like Evonne Goolagong Cawley and Ash Barty. Sophia was also lucky enough to be selected to be involved in Australian Open and Tennis Australia media interviews. Both girls thoroughly loved the opportunity to be involved in this fantastic event and we look forward to celebrating their involvement in Tildesley and igsa tennis this year. Well done, Sophia.
House spirit and “having a go” attitude was evident at this week’s Swimming Carnival. Congratulations to all those Upper School Students for their involvement. It was great to see our talented swimmers in action in the pool and a positive spirit on the pool deck. Let’s carry this positive energy forward and continue to embrace House spirit and the determination to “have a go” in all our activities.
As part of the Lunar new year celebrations around the college students have been enjoying the annual visit from the Chinese dragon and the opportunity to showcase a range of cultural activities. It was lovely to hear of Elise Lin, Sophie Lin, Melody Chen and Isabelle Pak who have spent lunchtimes this week helping K-2 students design and make scales to create a Lunar Dragon for the K-2 courtyard. These young women proved to be exceptional role models, demonstrating care and patience to their younger peers. Kudos to Elise, Sophie, Melody, and Isabelle for their outstanding efforts – thank you for contributing to the spirit of our Lunar New Year celebrations in such a thoughtful way.
A reminder to RSVP via MyPymble to the Upper School Parent Information evening on Monday February 19. Key representatives from various departments across the college will provide a snapshot of essential information, and parents will have the opportunity to connect with their daughter’s Compass teacher.
Here is the link to RSVP to Upper School Parent Information Evening
Year 10 Futures – Strengths and Skills Day – Thursday 22 February
Please check MyPymble and give consent for your daughter to participate in the Strengths and Skills Day. By consenting, you are agreeing to the charge of $150 to your account for her involvement in the ongoing Future You program for the next three years.
Year 10 Drama
Year 10 Drama is abuzz with anticipation as students prepare for their first curriculum production, Yve Blake’s new Australian play, Fangirls. Dedicated rehearsals fill both class time and after-school hours as the girls immerse themselves in their roles, eager to bring this compelling and original story to the stage.
Fangirls explores the world of teenage obsession and friendship in the digital age, resonating with audiences through its themes of identity and the power of fandom. Invigorated by the fervour surrounding Taylor’s concert season, the girls are exploring their characters with zest and enthusiasm for unapologetic fan in all of us.
Keep an eye out for details on how to secure your free tickets to Fangirls. Don’t miss this chance to support our budding actors and experience the magic of live theatre.
Key Dates
Monday 19 February – Upper School Parent Information Evening (Begins at 6.00pm)
Thursday 22 February – Year 10 Careers Strengths Day
Thursday 22 February – Year 9 Residential Program Term 1 Parent Workshop
Wednesday 6 March – Year 9 Residential Program Term 2 Parent and Student Information Evening
Tuesday 12 March – Urban Challenge for Year 10
Thursday 11 April – Year 10 Learning Discussions – Evening
Friday 12 April – Year 10 Learning Discussions – All Day (No classes)
Friday 12 April – Last Day of Term (For Year 9)
Victoria Harrison
Acting Head of Upper School