From the Upper School

A message from Mrs Victoria Harrison, Acting Head of Upper School

It is hard to believe that we are already near the end of Week 4. It has been a busy start in the Upper school, and we are happy to report that the girls are settling into the groove of learning and activities. I hope that your daughters are approaching the year ahead with enthusiasm and an open mind to take on new challenges and opportunities in the Upper School. Over the next few weeks, we will be launching a Service opportunity with the Days for Girls program and encouraging the girls to make the most of the lunchtime movement opportunities and the campus walks that are almost ready to launch. We are confident that getting involved are positive ways that the girls enhance their health, build new connections, and develop their perspective.

We have recently been notified that several of our Year 10 girls have been awarded their Bronze Duke of Edinburgh Award. This is a wonderful achievement, and we are impressed with the commitment, initiative, and maturity these girls have shown in working towards this award. Congratulations to Jocelyn Ying, Anais McDonald, Yuyin Luo, Cindi Yu and Zara Tang. The girls will receive their badge and certificate at a special Upper School assembly later this term.

We hope to see many more Upper school students take on the challenge of the Duke of Edinburgh Award program. More information about the program can be found here.

The Upper school team enjoyed getting to know our new students at special morning teas last week. It is a wonderful opportunity to learn a little more about the girls and check in on their first few weeks. One of our new Year 9 students, Hakone Liceralde, has shared this reflection of her first few weeks at Pymble.

“In the words of T.S Eliot, ‘Every moment is a fresh beginning.’ I am Hakone Liceralde, a new Year 9 student at Pymble. Initially, I was nervous about moving to a new school. The unfamiliar faces, the incredible yet overwhelming layout of the campus and the challenge of establishing myself within a new environment. However, as soon as I was welcomed on my first day by energetic senior leaders, contagious joy and pom-poms, my original apprehension was washed away.

I have felt a beautiful sense of belonging that radiates from the supportive students and staff. I am especially grateful for the guidance I have received from my Head of Year, Compass teacher and student buddy. They have helped to make my transition to Pymble, as easy as possible, a testament to the welcoming culture of the school.

As new friendships begin to blossom, I hope to strengthen these bonds. I look forward to immersing myself in multiple, exciting opportunities throughout the year, such as Concert Band, debating, public speaking, library duties and academic enrichment activities. I feel very privileged to be a new member of the Pymble community and I know that the years ahead will be full of challenges, learning experiences, and moments of achievement.

I am excited to commence my journey as a Pymble girl, to grow in my independence, to be extended beyond my comfort zone, and empowered to explore the endless possibilities.“

Upper School Parent Information Evening

It was great to meet so many Upper School parents at our Parent Information Evening on Monday night. If you were unable to attend our presentations, please find the links to the video recordings below:

Year 10 Presentation, click here.

Year 9 Presentation, click here.