This was the 10th year Pymble Ladies’ College have participated in the Royal Easter Show. Our Pymble Cattle team members engaged with the public by answering questions about the College and the cattle program. Most of the public cannot believe cattle are kept on the College campus, particularly when told they back onto the Avondale Golf course!
The show team presented three purebred steers; two Angus Steers bred by “Knowla” Livestock – Ted and Alison Laurie, one Murray Grey steer bred by “Glandmire Stud” – Dan and Anika Collins and one Angus x Simmental Trade steer bred by “Kunderang Stud” – Richard Fitzgerald. The team placed Fourth with one of the “Knowla Livestock” steers, paraded by Lucy Pennington (Year 12).
A highlight for the College was Annabelle Jones (Year 10) placing First in the school parader’s competition category, progressing to Reserve Champion School Parader prize. Annabelle was outstanding in her first round, immediately catching the eye of the judge for her ability to control a very playful, if not cantankerous, animal! To see Annabelle drop the show cane and take immediate control of the 400+kg steer was a sight to behold and displays skills beyond her years! Annabelle is the first Pymble Cattle Team member to achieve this prestigious award – congratulations!
In the Open State Finals, two students qualified at the Castle Hill Show, Lucy Pennington (Year 12) and Eilidh Skelton (Year 10). Lucy placed 3rd in Open State Parading Finals and Eilidh tried her Pymble best and was unlucky to miss out on a ribbon.
All Cattle team members are commended on their performance at the show. Students exhibited Pymble pride in themselves and the College, proudly displaying their cattle whilst flying the Pymble flag.
Carcass Results
Our “Knowla” (Middleweight) steer bred by the Laurie Family weighing in at 478kg and bought by China Doll Restaurant achieved 1st in the virtual taste test with a point score of 85.5 and achieving the Reserve Champion ribbon!
The smaller Knowla steer (395kg) achieved a Bronze Award in the virtual taste test. This animal was purchased by McFarlands Gourmet Meats – Wahroonga. Anyone wishing to buy some excellent beef cuts are encouraged to see the team at McFarlands and ask the Pymble Ladies’ College beef carcass.
Our Murray Grey steer bred by the Collins Family achieved a score of 80.20 points on the hook.
Our final Trade Steer entry bred by the Fitzgerald family achieved a score of 88.9 and achieved 9th position out of 41 animals – an excellent achievement!
I would like to praise the Pymble Cattle team for their excellent presentation of animals at this year’s Royal Easter Show. We received many compliments regarding our Pymble student’s behaviour and professionalism toward preparing and presenting the animals in this prestigious competition.
Please click here to view the full Catalogue of results.
2024 RAS Rural Achiever
Congratulations to Grace Collins (Pymble Alumni 2020) of Armidale who has taken the title of 2024 RAS Rural Achiever.
Grace is currently completing a Bachelor of Agriculture and aims to complete a Master of Teaching, as she sees the need for accurate and transparent education about farming practices to be taught in schools, both in urban and in rural areas.
Grace will represent NSW in the National Rural Ambassador program in 2025.
Peter Wearne
Co-ordinator – Cattle Team
From the Principal
Greetings from Bourke, where tonight Matt and I have the absolute pleasure of staying for the night with the Ritchie family, parents to Allie in Year 8 and younger sister Georgie, who starts Boarding with us next year in Year 7. A special thank you also goes to the Barwick (Gravesend) and Beveridge (Young) families for their warm hospitality and for hosting us overnight on our journey.
We are now more than halfway through a six-day 2520km road trip stopping at Port Macquarie, Walcha, Gravesend, Pallamallawa, Moree, Walgett, Bourke, Nyngan, Griffith, Young and Moss Vale before returning to Pymble on Sunday evening. It is such a privilege to spend time in the homes and towns of our current, future and former Boarders, listening to their stories, and getting to know the special people and places in their lives. I’ve also had the joy of meeting many grandparents along the way, which has been extra special.
The photos above and below capture some of the many happy reunions with several Boarding families who are dear to Pymble.
Having been a Boarder from Years 6 to 12, I have a deep appreciation for the sacrifices families make to send their children to a city campus far away from their country home. Our Boarders are an important part of College life and we have a long and proud history of supporting rural Australian families. From the very first day the College opened for business in 1916, 20 of our 60 students were Boarders. Today, 84 per cent of our Boarders are from rural/regional Australia and they mostly (77.5 per cent) call rural/regional NSW home.
Excitingly, our youngest Boarders now have a bespoke Boarding House to support their transition from home to campus life, which you can view here.
Feeling connected is an important part of belonging to a community. This trip, and other opportunities to connect with our Pymble family, are all ways in which we can work to bridge the gap of distance, in relation to our Boarding families, and time, in relation to our ex-students, who will always be an important part of our community.
Recently, I shared with staff a definition of family which really speaks to me about the intent behind the environment we seek to foster at Pymble for all in our community.
An ideal family can be defined as a unit that provides love, support, and stability to its members. It is a family where each member feels valued, respected, and understood. An ideal family fosters a positive environment for growth, learning, and emotional wellbeing.
This beautiful definition comes from High Expectations Counselling Orlando and explains why I feel so strongly about labelling our community as a family and working hard to support the conditions that create a positive, stable and loving environment where we all feel valued, respected and understood and, in particular, where our students can learn and be supported emotionally.
So, what leads to an ‘ideal family’? High Expectations Counselling describes the conditions that support this as an outcome.
Communication: An ideal family emphasises open and effective communication. Family members are encouraged to express their thoughts, feelings, and opinions. Healthy communication helps in resolving conflicts, building strong relationships, and promoting emotional wellbeing.
Love and support: Love and support are the foundation of an ideal family. Family members show unconditional love, care, and support to one another. They celebrate each other’s successes, provide comfort in times of need, and offer a safe space to express oneself.
Trust and respect: Trust and respect are essential aspects of an ideal family. Family members trust and respect each other’s boundaries, privacy, and individuality. There is mutual respect for each other’s opinions, choices, and decisions.
Quality time: An ideal family values spending quality time together. They engage in activities that promote bonding, such as family meals, game nights, outings, and vacations. Quality time helps in building strong relationships and creating lasting memories.
Shared values and goals: An ideal family has shared values and goals. They have a common purpose and work together towards achieving it. Shared values and goals create a sense of unity, purpose, and direction for the family.
Conflict resolution: In an ideal family, conflicts are addressed and resolved in a healthy and constructive manner. Family members practice active listening, empathy, and compromise when resolving conflicts. This promotes understanding, strengthens relationships, and teaches valuable conflict resolution skills.
As we travel this Pymble journey together, it is worth reflecting on these conditions and qualities, which I see in bucket loads among our community, and how we can channel more of them into both our work and our personal lives.
Sharing stories brings us closer
We have been sharing many stories on our road trip, which feels appropriate given that our annual Sharing Stories Festival run by our combined Libraries staff has commenced back on campus.
It’s my pleasure to handover to our two Year 11 Library Captains, Tessa Halstead and Arana Roy, to tell you about some of the highlights of the six day-program, which sits under our Social Intelligence pillar and is designed to promote connections, understanding, empathy and belonging at Pymble.
“The Sharing Stories Festival is a perfect opportunity for students in Years 2 to 12 to make new connections and learn from others’ experiences throughout their careers and passions, from writing to illustrating to volunteering.
“Junior School students in Years 3 to 6 are enjoying the vibrant Living Library at lunch times. These sessions featured members of the Pymble community presenting a phenomenal exhibit of ‘stories’ using calligraphy, cake decorating, braiding, saree draping, paper craft and playing Pipa to showcase important parts of their culture.
“Year 2 had a fascinating time in a drawing workshop with First Nations illustrator, Jade Goodwin, who shared some of the drawing techniques she uses to illustrate Ash Barty’s children’s books.
“One of this week’s activities was a talk during the Year 11 and 12 assembly by ABC News Reporter, Lydia Feng, who shared stories about her impressive career in journalism and her life experiences that encouraged her passion.
“We also enjoyed a presentation by one of our Junior School teachers, Mrs Victoria Adamovich, about her debut picture book, The Story of My Names, published in 2023. A recent Pymble graduate, award-winning artist and inspiring animator, Jacqueline Qin (2023) joined her to speak to the audience of Pymble students, enthusiastic writers and artists about how her HSC Design and Technology project became the illustrations in Mrs Adamovich’s book.
“Today there was more hands-on activity in Fabric for a Feast, which is a project initiated by Jane Théau in 2015 who is aiming to make a ‘never-finished’ tablecloth from an antique linen sheet. If you happen to search among the stitches, you will find an array of beautiful unfinished stitches, each more stunning than the last. Amidst the stitches you may come across a lotus flower begun by someone who sadly passed away before they could finish it. You may also come across a breathtaking eye stitch made by a Syrian refugee.
“In addition, we heard from two award-winning authors, Maryam Master, who presented a writing workshop for students, and Tania Blanchard who spoke about her most recent historical fiction novel, A Woman of Courage. Fiction writer Erin Gough will be hosting a final writing workshop for Years 7 to 11 on Monday 8 April.
“You can click on this link to see the program of activities planned up until the Festival ends on Tuesday. All information can also be accessed through the Pymble Portal and email. So, get excited and we hope to see you all there!”
Your Library Captains, Tessa Halstead and Arana Roy
Windows into Learning
The stories of learning continue this week with submissions from our wonderful Junior and Secondary School teachers. Please enjoy their insights into teaching and learning at Pymble.
Year 3 Mathematics
“Year 3 has been exploring and connecting mathematical techniques to greater understand language that is used with fractions in our everyday life. The students used various visual aids, hands-on activities, and interactive discussions to develop their understanding of fractions on a number line. These tools allowed students to visualise the concept of division in a tangible way as they learned to partition the number line into equal parts.
“Our outdoor classroom culture fostered a positive attitude towards making mistakes and encouraging students to view errors as opportunities for learning and growth. When students made mistakes, they identified the error, analysed it, and tried again. This process helped solidify understanding and built resilience in the student’s mathematical practice. To further consolidate the students’ learning and showcase their understanding, they utilised their iPads to create neat adjustments and document their work. This technology provided an opportunity to express their thinking with greater clarity and precision. Students relished in the opportunity to then ‘prove’ their understanding using rich vocabulary and verbal reasoning to discuss the fractions in comparison to one another.”
Miss Sarah McGeoch
Year 3 Classroom teacher
Secondary School PDHPE
“Learning about and through movement is core to the Physical Activity and Sports Studies (PASS) elective course. Year 10 PASS students recently applied their understanding of key coaching principles when they designed and coached Year 5 students in a series of cricket training sessions.
“Students enjoyed developing their leadership skills and embraced the challenge of adapting sessions to make sure all students could access the activities and have fun in the process. Highlights for students were seeing the Year 5 girls develop their confidence and skills over time.”
Mrs Alison Cruz
Head of Learning Area – PDHPE
From the Junior School
From the Head of Junior School
Looking after ourselves – learning to recognise and regulate our emotions
The highlight of my day is when I am able to connect with girls and their learning. This week I was lucky enough to chat with some Year 3 girls as they applied their knowledge of feelings to a creative task. The girls were considering how our feelings impact our behaviour and facial expressions. The girls were impressive in the way they could articulate how our actions impact others and how important it is to assume the best rather than the worst in situations and to express our regret when we make a mistake as we learn to regulate our emotions and reactions. I particularly loved the group who showed me their best ‘unhelpful’ and then ‘helpful’ facial expressions!
Looking after ourselves – learning to challenge our creativity
STEM Club continues to be a thriving hub of enthusiasm, creativity and collaboration at lunchtimes. This week our Junior School girls were thrilled to be joined by Olivia Chan (Year 7) who was one of our inaugural STEM Captains last year. Olivia gave up her lunchtime to come and teach our girls how to create confetti guns and there was lots of happy work as the girls created and tested their prototypes.
Learning collaboratively – Robotics and STEM learning in Shanghai
Last week Mr Brown and I were in Shanghai visiting a range of schools and STEM Centres and it was a fabulous opportunity to share learning ideas and experiences with globally focused educators. Whilst over there, we met with the current World Champions for VEX Robotics, STEMStar, whose leader and founder said how impressed he is with the way we approach Robotics learning at Pymble.
Through competitions he has noticed how we expect and empower our girls to do every aspect of the process themselves. This is well deserved recognition for the co-curricular Robotics program Mr Brown has established for our girls over the last 8 years. What is even more exciting is that this year Mr Brown is working with all our Kindergarten to Year 6 teachers to bring that learning into the classrooms too so it’s available to all our girls.
Please make sure you have our inaugural STEM Festival in your diary (Friday 28 June 2024), so you can come and enjoy the girls’ hard work and STEM passion on that day.
Looking after ourselves – learning to be active
Good luck to all our Cross Country girls who are competing at IPSHA Cross Country on Saturday morning. I will be out there with Mr Tyson to cheer you on.
Idea for a Junior School Dads’ Sport team – calling all Dads!
Percy Yang, one of our Junior School Parent Group (JSPG) Relationship Leaders and a current Junior School dad have had the brilliant idea of setting up a social Dad’s sports team. Please click on this link to express your interest in the sports suggested for this initiative. A huge shout out and thank you to Percy for bringing this idea to our Junior School community.
Mr Brown has indicated that whilst he’s not technically a Junior School Dad he is happy to come along and join the fun too and our daughter Sophie is very much part of the Junior School community as one of our OSHC educators and Year 1 Robotics mentor.
A message from Mr Stephen Robinson – Acting Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations
Change of Date
Please be advised that tomorrow (Friday 5 April 2024) students are to wear their regular uniform, as the Wellbeing Day was moved to last week.
Lost Property
With the cooler months fast approaching, students are starting to wear layers of clothes. Please ensure that all items are clearly labelled. At present, the lost property room is over flowing with a range of hats, jackets and drink bottles. Students and parents can access this room before and after school.
A message from Mrs Kate Giles – Head of Wellbeing K-6
Parent Wellbeing Series
Due to added interest, we are holding a second session on ‘How to help your daughter with her emotions’. The session will be the same as the one held earlier this term and will focus on emotional regulation and how to help your daughter manage her emotions.
You will also hear from Heidi Lynch, Kindergarten Co-ordinator and Tracy Reid, Year 3 Co-ordinator about the programs used in the classroom. The session will be held on 9 May at 8.30am in the 3-6 Library. Please sign up by clicking here.
A message from Mrs Sarah Colquhoun – Teacher Librarian (Years 3 to 10)
Living Library 2024
As part of the 2024 Pymble Sharing Stories Festival, The Living Library event was held this week in the 3-6 Library. We were very fortunate to have parents and grandparents generously giving their time to ‘share stories with their hands’ in mini workshops.
Some of the techniques and creative skills showcased included saree wrapping, cake decorating, pipe cleaner craft, hanbok wearing, keychain making, eating with hands, hair braiding, paper doll dressing, calligraphy writing, t-shirt art and how to play traditional instruments. The Living Library provides an opportunity for our students to learn new information and skills from our storytellers – just like a non-fiction book that has come to life!
A message from Mr Kurt Schweinberger – Head of Creative and Performing Arts (K – 6)
Year 3 to 6 Junior School Music Ensemble Parents
We are delighted to invite parents to attend a series of open rehearsals. This is a special opportunity for you to gain insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of our rehearsal room and to witness the dedication your daughter brings to her performances.
Your presence during these rehearsals is highly valued as it not only provides you with a deeper understanding of the artistic process but also demonstrates your support for your daughter’s musical endeavours. We believe that by experiencing the collaborative environment and witnessing the creative journey firsthand, you will gain a newfound appreciation for the hard work and commitment that goes into each performance.
To maintain the integrity of our rehearsal space and to respect the privacy of all involved, we kindly request that no video recording or photography be undertaken during the rehearsals.
Please find below the schedule for the open rehearsals. For the morning rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend from the time they drop their daughter off for rehearsals. For all the afternoon rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend for the last 30 minutes of the rehearsal.
Week 10
Thursday 11 April – Grainger Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00am – 8.00am
Friday 5 April – Junior Jazz Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00am – 8.00am
Week 11
Monday 8 April – Capella Choir (3 – 6 PA Room): 7.15 am – 8.00am
Wednesday 10 April – Year 3 String Orchestra (Music Gallery): 3.45pm – 4.15pm
Thursday 11 April – Year 4 Training Band (Music Gallery): 3.45pm – 4.15pm
We sincerely hope you can join us for this enriching experience.
A message from Mrs Fiona McDermott – K-6 Co-curricular Co-ordinator
Co-Curricular Activities Term 2
Please note the following information regarding Co-Curricular activities:
· Term 1 Co-Curricular activities continue until the last day – Friday 12 April 2024
· Term 2 Co-Curricular activities start on the first day – Tuesday 30 April 2024
Holiday Programs
Click here to learn about our Tennis Holiday Program.
Information about our Swimming Holiday Program can be found by clicking here.
Around the Grounds
A message from Junior School Administration Office
Uniform and Appearance
All students are expected to wear their uniform correctly and with pride. Uniforms cannot be mixed with each season. Junior School has a strict ‘no hat no play policy’, please ensure your daughter has her bucket play hat at school every day. Please make sure that all your daughter’s uniform clothing item is named including socks and shoes. We recommend white markers to be used to label dark clothing items.
Please be aware that next term the girls will need to be in their Winter uniform from day 1.
Tuesday 9 April Years 5 to 12 End of Term Assembly, 1.20pm to 2.00 pm
Friday 12 April K-2 Decorate a Cookie and Easter Hat Parade
Friday 12 April Years 3 to 6 Skip Off
Friday 12 April Last day of Term 1
Tuesday 30 April First day of Term 2
From the Junior School Parent Group (JSPG)
*Final Call* – JSPG Easter Cookie Decorating for K to Year 2 – Friday 12 April
The JSPG is pleased to hold the Easter Cookie Decorating activity for Kindergarten to Year 2 this year. Each girl will receive two Easter cookies to decorate in class during the morning. The cookies are nut-free and made from natural ingredients. Icing, sprinkles and a small selection of lollies will be used to decorate each cookie. Gluten-free and vegan cookies are available on request.
Please register here by Friday 5 April for this fun activity on the last day of term!
*Save the Date* – PPA Year 4 Mother and Daughter Camp
Year 4 Mums, please save the date – Saturday 1 June to Sunday 2 June, overnight at Vision Valley. There will be lots of fun activities to do together. Don’t miss this special opportunity to spend uninterrupted time with our girls. Keep an eye on MyPymble for further details soon.
I trust that everyone had a wonderful Easter break with family and friends. I know our Year 7s were very much looking forward to some down time following on from a very busy term and a week at Vision Valley. Congratulations to all the Year 7 students who received an individualised Camp Award acknowledging their positive contribution to our time at Vision Valley. On reflection, there were so many girls who deserved recognition for the way they stepped up to challenges and embraced opportunities.
With only one week of Term 1 to go, we look forward to a well deserved longer holiday at the end of Week 11. The Learning Discussions are being finalised and teachers are keen to share celebrations and feedback on your daughter’s progress within their subject across this term.
This week in Middle School we are locking in times to interview our prospective Year 7 Leaders. We have been inundated with applications of a high quality and look forward to the next part of the process. Those students who have been shortlisted for interview will receive an email this week.
Jacaranda Awards
During our year assemblies on Tuesday our Heads of Year had the pleasure of acknowledging and honouring the students who were selected by their Compass teachers to receive the Jacaranda Award for Term 1. It is empowering to share with all the girls the actions demonstrated by individuals warranting their award. Living our college values of care, courage, respect, responsibility and integrity is integral to being a Pymble girl. Congratulations to our Term 1 Jacaranda Award recipients:
Compass Group
Year 8
Year 7
Bennett A
Yiling Gu
Ellie Lau
Bennett B
Constance Chow
Annabel Zhao
Goodlet A
Amalia Bond
Dionne Jacobs
Goodlet B
Lily Xing
Lola McEntee
Hammond A
Elizabeth Liu
Amber Lewis
Hammond B
Helsa Hui
Ava Welton
Ingleholme A
Savenya Maganaarachchi
Aaira Khan
Ingleholme B
Ava Christofides
Nawida Rohullah
Lang A
Rose Jones
Estelle Macolino
Lang B
Kate Rogers
Ariel Lau
Marden A
Eleanor Mason-Jones
Neve Anderson
Marden B
Ellie Zhao
Faith Hedley
Thomas A
Summer Teni
Vivian Tian
Thomas B
Madison Gabila
Sydney Zhou
Wylie A
Sasha Dubrovina
Fiona Chen
Wylie B
Chantal Mitchell
Amelia Hardas
Winter Uniform – Term 2
A reminder to all Middle School students that we will commence Term 2 in full winter uniform. Can we please ask that you ensure your daughters have the correct items ready to start the term.
Lockers – Term 2
During the term break building works will continue in and around the college. The current Year 7 lockers, located in the Navy Locker Room will be relocated. Specific information pertaining to this will be shared with the girls in the coming week.
From the Middle School Parent Groups
Year 7
We are looking forward to hosting our first Year 7 parent event of the year at The Greengate Hotel on Friday 17 May – a ladies’ night with dinner and drinks.
We have over 40 registered for this evening so it should be a great chance to catch up and meet new parents and carers.
Please see our WhatsApp group for further updates.
Hope you have a wonderful Easter break.
Kind regards
Stephanie, Leigh and Briar
Jenny O’Donnell
Head of Middle School
From the Upper School
A message from Mrs Victoria Harrison, Acting Head of Upper School
As Year 9 and 10 students continue their Upper School journey, we are dedicated to giving them opportunities to broaden their perspectives and engage with critical issues that shape their values and views. One such critical issue is gender equality. It is not just a topic confined to classroom discussions; rather, it is a dynamic movement that demands active participation and advocacy from all of us.
In this week’s Upper School assembly, crafted and led by our Upper School leaders, the spotlight was on gender equality. Drawing from the insightful perspectives shared during the International Women’s Day lunch, particularly those of AFLW legend Moana Hope, our Upper School leaders took the stage to share their reflections with Year 9 and 10. Inspired by Moana’s journey, they challenged their peers to break down stereotypes, confront biases, and contribute positively to a society where everyone can thrive regardless of gender.
By engaging in these conversations at home and school, we are helping empower our students to act and help create a community that values inclusivity, respect, and equality.
Congratulations to Alannah and Jenny for performing a duet during Assembly. We love to show case student talents and it is great to see the girls showing their courage in performing for the Upper School.
It was great to see Year 9 engaging with the 5 Ways to Wellbeing approach in Compass time last week. This framework is a simple yet powerful set of evidence-based actions that promote mental health and wellbeing. The Five Ways to Wellbeing framework includes:
Connect: Cultivate positive relationships with others through spending time with family and friends, joining clubs, or seeking support.
Be Active: Engage in physical activities you enjoy, such as walking, cycling, or dancing, to boost mood and overall wellbeing.
Take Notice: Be mindful of the present moment, appreciate your surroundings, and cope better with stress through mindfulness or meditation.
Keep Learning: Pursue lifelong learning and personal growth by acquiring new skills, hobbies, or knowledge, which can enhance self-esteem and satisfaction with life.
Give: Contribute to your community through acts of kindness, volunteering, or sharing your time and resources, fostering a sense of purpose and strengthening social connections.
The Year 9 Heads of Year worked with the Year 9 Compass teachers to facilitate activity options for the students which reflected this framework.
Well done to the recipients of the Term 1 Jacaranda Awards. The following girls were acknowledged in Assembly this week:
Year 9
BA Soumya Shah
BB Saja Abdel-Megeed
GA Mia Chen
GB Charlotte Thistlewood
HA Mie Naito
HB Stella Paterson
IA Eliza-Rose Griffiths
IB Veronica Deng
LA Isabelle Younger
LB Ruby Watson
MA Poppy Barwick
MB Lucy Simpson
TA Maya Clements
TB Jenny Ling
WA Mia Davies
WB Hayley Browne
Year 10
BA Iman Utteridge
BB Lena O’Donnell
GA Ava Geoghehan
GB Olianna Tighe
IA Delaney Burke
IB Isabella Rumble
HA Mahika Swamy
HB Sasha Chan
LA Sara Khan
LB Joanna Au
MA Daisy Stoodley-Williamson
MB Nicole Ma
TA Kaylee Ng
TB Savannah Franz
WA Jasmine Tran
WB Winnie Wen
Key Dates
Thursday 11 April – Year 8-10 Learning Discussions – Evening
Friday 12 April – Year 8-10 Learning Discussions – All Day (No classes)
Friday 12 April – Last Day of Term (For Year 9)
Tuesday 30 April – First Day of Term 2
Victoria Harrison
Acting Head of Upper School
From the Senior School
From the Head of Senior School
Year 12 – Food for Thought
This week the Year 12 girls will participate in our annual Food for Thought event with recently graduated Pymble students. They will be enjoying a formal lunch with some of last year’s school leavers, gathering tips and hearing another perspective regarding the successful navigation of their final two terms at the College. The girls will have an opportunity to ask the recent graduates for suggestions, advice and share stories.
Our guest speaker is Annika Mountstephens (ESU 2018), who recently completed her studies at UNSW. After taking a gap year in 2022 and taking an entrepreneurial stint with a small STEM education business, she’s recently entered the professional world landing a position in technology consulting. Annika is excited to talk to year 12 about the exciting shift to the real world after school and how to leverage all the incredible opportunities Pymble provides.
Year 11 – University Immersion Day
This week the Year 11 students will be participating in a University Immersion Day, attending a university of their choice, to experience a day in the life an a campus. This follows from a day at Macquarie University, late last year and builds an understanding of some opportunities for post school life. We are very grateful to the institutions who have generously offered to host our students and provide such rich experiences. These include UNSW, ACU and UTS. Also sincerest thanks to the Futures Team who worked with the Senior School team to organise this event.
Congratulations to the Year 11 students who finished their assessment block last week. The girls are to be commended on their maturity and preparation in sitting for these tasks. As they receive their feedback, it is important to reflect upon this as an opportunity
Leadership 2025 Updated Process – A message from Mrs Michelle Hunt, Head of Secondary Wellbeing
We have some exciting updates regarding the student leadership process for 2025. After consulting with Year 11 and Year 12 students, we have decided to bring forward the leadership process by one term. This change comes after considering feedback from current Year 12 leaders who highlighted the challenges of Term 3, including Trial HSC examinations, graduation events, portfolio reports, and the commencement of summer sports. As a result, the current Year 12 leaders have advocated for a smoother transition/handover period with the 2025 leaders to assist during this busy time. We believe this adjustment will not only alleviate the burden on our students but also ensure a more effective leadership transition process. This also creates an opportunity for our graduating leaders to mentor and advise the new 2025 team.
The Leadership launch will therefore take place in Week 11 at the Year 11 assembly this term. We encourage students who are interested in taking on leadership roles in 2025 to access the Leadership site where they will find important information, including role descriptions, and application instructions. A more detailed letter outlining the application process will be posted on the parent portal on the 5 April.
We understand that some students may feel disappointed if their application is not successful. We offer feedback in two stages: first, for those not selected for an interview, and second, for those who are unsuccessful after an interview. We encourage students who have not been successful to stay positive, learn from the experience, and see setbacks as moments for growth. We kindly ask for your support in encouraging your daughter to seek feedback and explore other available opportunities.
Term 1 Key Dates
Thursday 4 April – Year 11 University Immersion Day
Thursday 4 April – Year 12 Food for Thought
Friday 12 April – Term 1 ends
Friday 3 May – Careers Expo (date changed to Friday 3 May from Monday 8 April)
From the Secondary School Parent Group
Dear Year 12 Parents & Carers
We hope you had a lovely Easter break. We hope you can join us for our Term 2 Parent/Carer Pizza Night on Friday 17 May at 7.00pm.
Best wishes
Pilar & Susan
Nikki Wyse
Head of Senior School
From the Boarding School
The Easter weekend was a lovely taste of the holidays that are a matter of days away. I trust the longer weekend was a happy time for your family and I am sure you are counting down the days until your girls return. It won’t be long!
In the meantime, we have plenty of fun to keep the girls busy and active. On Tuesday our Spirit House Captains led the Boarders in learning our very own Boarders’ war cries and to say the response was deafening is an understatement. Tonight, I will meet with our Year 11 Boarders to discuss the process for the election of our 2024-25 leaders and I am excited about the very talented bunch of candidates we have in our midst.
As always, our Love It program will provide plenty of opportunities for those who wish to enjoy time out and about on the last weekend of term. Amongst all of this, some of our Boarders will be preparing to move rooms and all of them will be sorting through their cupboards and getting ready for the change over from the warmer start to the year as we move into the cooler terms. Please encourage your daughter to bring home all the clothes she no longer needs and to minimise the items with which she intends to return.
A day in the life of our Pymble Boarders
I am delighted to share with you our latest Boarding video featuring our wonderful Year 7 Boarders.
Boarders’ Instagram
New members to our Boarding family may not know that we have our very own Boarders’ Instagram page.The account is a private page just for Pymble families and a fast way to keep up to date with what is happening in the lives of our Boarding family. For security purposes we need to be able to link Instagram accounts to Pymble Boarders and their immediate families.
To assist us in this endeavour, click here and fill out a form so that we can verify the accounts that are requesting to follow the page. Once this has been completed, you can click here to access the Instagram account and request to follow our page.
Loving Love It
We are hoping the rain stays away this weekend as we have some great activities planned! Friday evening we will be heading to the Drama production on campus – Mean Girls. Saturday evening will be a social outing with Knox for our Year 7 and 8 Boarders. Sunday will be our final beach trip for the term with a trip to the beautiful Clontarf.
I am busy planning the Term 2 Love it program and welcome any suggestions from the Boarders for activities that they would like to do as we head into the cooler months.
We would love you to join us and ‘Eat Like a Boarder’
I hope you can join us for dinner on Monday 29 April at 6.00pm, when you return your girls from the Term 1 break. This will be the ‘real’ experience, with you being able to enjoy the regular dinner service, just as the girls do each evening. If you would like to join us please rsvp to boarding@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.
Don’t forget to sign up for a fabulous weekend away with our Boarding families
Following last year’s amazing parent weekend in Mudgee, the McLaughlin family has organised another action-packed weekend away, this time in the Hawkesbury.
After checking into Crowne Plaza Hawkesbury Valley, only a 50-minute drive from Pymble, we will catch a coach to the McLaughlin’s Hillbilly Cider for a late lunch. After returning to the Crowne Plaza, and enjoying the facilities, dinner and drinks will be served at the hotel.
On Sunday morning we will check out of Crowne and make our way to the Windsor Polo Club where we will enjoy a picnic lunch to conclude what’s set to be another wonderful weekend getaway.
We would love to have as many parents join in the fun. Please click on flyer below to book your activities, and click here to book your accomodation for the weekend.
View From My Window
Hi, I’m Phoebe and I’m from Narromine and if you don’t know where that is it’s around 30 minutes from Dubbo and around six hours from Sydney. I started Boarding in Year 7 and that was an experience but ever since I have loved it even though I miss home sometimes. Now I am in Year 10 and enjoying living in Marden House.
I live on a small property which is around 300 acres and we have one crop that we try to harvest each year if it’s a good year. We also have a small group of cows, 24 to be exact and they are pure bred Angus cattle with one bull boss. Although they are not on our property after we gave them to our Nan and Pop during the drought and have not brought them home yet.
Both my parents have other jobs. My dad is the International Sales Manager of an agronomy company and my mum works for regional New South Wales. I have a younger sister, Emma, who is a little blondie who looks nothing like me. She is in Year 8 and it was great that she joined me at Pymble last year. I have 2 tabby cats, one is a ginger like me. Her name is Peaches and she’s so cute and then the other one is Emma’s. It’s called Hazel and it’s not as pretty and doesn’t enjoy cuddles. We also have two dogs, Frank and Zeus. Frank is a small corgi and Zeus is our brown lab.
One thing I love about Narromine is that it never changes and as most small towns everyone knows everyone and going to Coles is one of the biggest social interactions you could get. When I am home my favourite thing to do is go on long walks with our dogs, ride our motorbikes, go water skiing out at Nyngan and watch the sunsets. Most holidays I like to bring day girls out to our home which is so much fun and we always really enjoy having everyone around.
When I look out my window I see mum cleaning the windows as she went crazy and put windows everywhere in our house and I mean everywhere! I see dad on the barbeque cooking some sausages, Emma is playing with the dogs running around and the cats laying on their backs just taking in how spoilt they are.
Boarder of the Week
Rose was an easy choice as our Boarder of the Week as her Head of House, Mrs Beth Ayling so accurately explains:
It is difficult to sum our beautiful Rose Kirkby up in a manner of words. She came to Pymble in Year 7, a quiet little girl from Moree and it has been a pure delight to watch her flourish and grow into a tenacious young woman. Rose puts in 110 per cent effort in all areas of her life. She is one of the fiercest and fairest rugby players on the field and is a dedicated student.
She is organised, neat and exemplifies the College values in all that she does. Rose always stands up for what is fair and right, not just when it comes to her friends but in regards to all that happens around her. Day to day, Rosie approaches life in a no-nonsense manner and is appreciative and understanding towards Boarding staff.
Rose is a respectful and considerate Boarding sister, and we adore having her in our Boarding family. We can’t wait to see what the future holds.
Save the Date
28 March Boarders’ Travel Day for the Easter Long Weekend
1 April Boarders return from the Easter Long Weekend from 5.00pm
9 April End of Term Chapel and Dinner for Boarders
12 April End of Term Travel Day
29 April Boarders return and Eat Like a Boarder for parents
Extra-special must-save dates!
18 and 19 May Regional Weekend on the Hawkesbury for Boarder parents only.
25 August Father, Daughter event
20 September Boarders and their Families event
21 September Garden Party
3 November Mother, Daughter Lunch (please note revised date)
Boarder Parent Group Meetings
7 May – 7.00pm Microsoft Teams meeting
20 September – 2.30pm onsite
24 October – 7.00pm Microsoft Teams meeting
Carolyn Burgess
Head of Boarding
From the Chaplains
The Resurrection
An Ending, or a New Beginning?God’s love, forgiveness and healing for all.
How was the long weekend for you?
I hope you got to relish the glorious autumn weather and had some downtime with your family.
The Pymble staff were definitely ready for some downtime and a break! It’s been a very busy term.
I spent a lot of time in my garden on the Easter long weekend which is very much my happy place. Pulling weeds and tending plants is, for me, a meditative and reflective act – in fact sometimes it feels very close to praying. And sometimes I do pray for people and situations, as I dig around in the soil.
There’s nothing more satisfying than successfully pulling out a whole weed by its roots, or than seeing a new shoot that has pushed its way up towards the light since the last time you visited that patch of the garden.
The other thing that has been making me happy is that this term, unlike previous years, we have had the opportunity to celebrate, pray about and talk about the climax of the Christian Easter story – the Resurrection!
It has been many moons (literally) since we could teach and reflect with the students about the whole Easter story – Palm Sunday, Good Friday and Resurrection Sunday, without the end of term holiday cutting the story off before its actual main point – the new hope and new beginning that is offered to all of us in the resurrection of Jesus the Christ.
In chapel this week, we looked at photos of Christians from all around the world celebrating and commemorating this momentous and sacred Easter event.
In Bermuda, and some places in Spain, people fly kites on Easter Sunday to celebrate and symbolise Christ’s resurrection, new life and hope for all people.
Billions of people around the world (Google says 2.4 billion) celebrated Easter by praying, fasting, singing praise to God, gathering together and, finally, feasting if indeed they had enough food to do so.
For billions of people, this Easter event is the absolute beating heart and centre of their spirituality. This event is why they try to follow the teachings of Jesus Christ, as they move through the complex, confusing and potentially joyful experience that is human existence.
Not only are Christians trying to follow the teachings of Christ, but they are actually putting their faith in God because of the transformative love that we see given to us in the crucified and risen Christ, and allowing God to enter and transform, bit by bit, over a entire lifetime, their hearts and their lives.
The resurrection message of hope for all people is called the ‘gospel’. Which literally means ‘good news’.
It’s the good news, or announcement, of love, forgiveness and healing for all people.
In Chapel this week, we read together the story from John’s gospel about Mary Magdalene (Mary, from a place called Magdala) coming early in the soft morning light to Jesus’ tomb.
Observing the Jewish Shabbat (Sabbath) laws, she had waited until early Sunday morning until she could finally and tenderly clean and wash her dear friend’s dead body, according to proper Jewish burial rituals.
She was heartbroken. Jesus, whom she and the other disciples had believed was the One they had been waiting for, the Saviour, God’s chosen One … had died.
Not only had he died, but he had been cruelly killed on a Roman cross to be publicly mocked, shamed and spat upon.
Mary had no doubt experienced many endings, deaths and disappointments in her life – it had not been an easy life, and she was a poor woman with no husband, a prior reputation and no social power – but the death of Jesus was not an ending that she felt prepared for.
John’s version of the story tells us that, instead of a tomb sealed with a heavy stone and guarded by Roman soldiers, Mary found the stone rolled away, the tomb empty and an angel seated on the stone, who told her that Jesus was not here; “He is risen”.
Which is why Christians around the world greet one another on Resurrection Sunday with the words:
“Christ is risen!”
“He is risen, indeed!”
This, to me, is fascinating.
In a first century world, a fiercely patriarchal world, in which women could not participate in politics or public life much at all, in which a Jewish woman like Mary had no Roman citizenship but was still subject to Roman oppression, in a world in which a woman’s witness or testimony was not considered trustworthy or authoritative –
In this world, God entrusts the most important message of all to a woman.
A poor, seemingly powerless woman.
A nobody.
What this tells me, and this is what I see time and time again when I read about God’s work in the world in the Scriptures, especially as expressed through the life and the teachings of Jesus, is that the God’s plan of love, forgiveness and healing is for everyone.
God’s love, forgiveness and healing leaves out no one.
No exceptions.
The arms of the risen Christ reach out to embrace every one and everything – the whole of Creation.
The Living God is completely counter-cultural and radical when the message of the Resurrection is first entrusted to a first century woman.
And in the story, as Mary turns away in bewilderment, amazement and confusion from the angel and the empty tomb, she meets Jesus. The risen Christ. He speaks to her. It is not the end.
It’s a new start, a new beginning.
On the cross, Christ took with him stars, and sky, land and sea, river, sandstone ridge and gully, and every human being that was or will ever be.
The Resurrection means a new beginning and hope for everyone and all creation.
God can use all things for good. Even things that seem like dead ends and endings.
Even death.
As I told the students in Chapel this week, God has good things planned for each one of them and each one of us.
That’s what the Resurrection is about. And the Resurrection message actually relates to our whole lives. Not just our Easter long weekend.
It’s about fresh hope, a new start and new beginnings for the whole of our lives.
Blessings and peace.
Edwina O’Brien
Assistant College Chaplain
From the Futures Team
Introducing our new Year 12 Pathways Hub!
NIDA School Holiday Performing Arts Courses
This is an advertisement for an external program and is not associated with Pymble Ladies’ College
Our Holiday Program offers fun and engaging skills-based training for all ages and aspirations. From 3-week Residency programs to 1-day short courses for adults, children and young people, our Summer courses have something for everyone.
UTS Bachelor of Accounting Scholarship Online Information Evening
Date: Thursday 9 May 2024
Time: 6.00pm
If you are a high-achieving school leaver and believe you could be one of Australia’s future business leaders, then our Bachelor of Accounting and cooperative education scholarship program has been designed just for you.
The Bachelor of Accounting provides you with a multi-skilled accounting degree with a strong emphasis on both accounting and financial management, both essential business tools. Come along to this webinar and meet current students, graduates, sponsors and staff of this elite program.
The “Future Doctors Australia” program. This engaging and high-impact 4-day program WILL provide young people with a unique opportunity to gain medical work experience in a safe and structured environment. Participants will be able to spend time with current junior and senior medical students. They will also have the rare opportunity to spend time with more senior clinicians and various medical specialists. You will get to learn about clinical’s specialist’s relevant fields of work, ask them questions, and learn some hands-on skills from them. Spots are strictly limited. Tell me more…
Subject Selection Webinar for Year 10 Students – 18 April
Register for a webinar on Subject Selection for Year 10 students run by Study Work Grow. Register here.
UniMelb101: A webinar for NSW and ACT students – 9 April
If you’re from New South Wales or the Australian Capital Territory, this is your chance to learn what life is like at UniMelb and how to navigate the move from interstate. Register here.
Discover Health Sciences at ACU North Sydney 16th April 2024
Join us for the 2024 Discover ACU. A free event tailored to your study area of interest, these sessions will give you an insight into life as a uni student.
Take part in hands-on workshops, tour our facilities and hear from current students about a rewarding career as a health professional. Find out more.
Engineering Pathways – Activities
BlueScope Steel/ Inside Industry Tours
We take our Year 12 Engineering Summer School students on this tour – and no matter where their interests lie – this is always the highest ranking experience of the week. Organise your family or a group of friends and spend 3 hours being amazed! Click here to find out more
Engineers, Careers & Pizza
Wed 17 July – ECP will be hosted by the University of Technology Sydney (UTS) – from 4.30pm – 6.30pm.
Open to all high school students interested in making a difference in the world in Years 9-12! Meet current Engineering Students studying at UTS, past students now working across industries and the profession; as well as guests from Quantum. Find out what it is like to study Engineering, and what it is like to be an Engineer. Expressions of Interest: click here
Save the date: Pymble Careers Expo 2024
We are proud to bring you another year of the 2024 Pymble Careers Expo!
Please save the date for Friday 3 May from 5.30pm to 7.30pm in the Kate Mason Building.
Further details to be shared very soon!
Events Calendar
From the Co-curricular Sports Team
First Nations Round of Sport – Save the date!
The First Nations Round of Sport will be held on Saturday 1 June. Please click here for information regarding timing. Further information will be provided closer to the date.
Adam Raw
Director of Sport
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Co-curricular Administration
Next Registration Openings
The next round of registrations for Term 2 and winter semester programs opened via the online registration system at 12.00pm on Wednesday 27 March. Registrations will close at 12.00pm (midday) on Monday 15 April (please note the earlier closing date). Please access the online registration system and program information documents via the Co-curricular pages on MyPymble by clicking here. A parent/carer log in is required to be able to register and registrations CANNOT be processed via email or phone.
A notice was posted on the MyPymble app prior to registrations opening to all families as a reminder of the opening date and time. Further notices will be sent on the app as reminders prior to registrations closing. See below for a list of exciting new programs that are being offered.
Term 3 Saturday Sports will open for registration on Wednesday 1 May at 12.00pm and close at 12.00pm (midday) on Friday 17 May.
New Programs
Botanical Watercolour – Students learn how to use watercolour and manipulate its qualities through colour mixing and layering of translucent washes.
Build ‘n’ Buddies – Students will delve into the world of various machinery and tools to create three projects including a robot like lamp, with Secondary students mentoring Year 4 and 5 buddies to collaborate together.
Co-curricular Registration Requests
Registrations for Term 2 Saturday Sports closed on Friday 16 February, with many sports already having completed their trials. If you missed the registration period and would like to request registration into a Sport, please click here to complete our registration request form. A reminder that late registrations are NOT guaranteed.
Registrations for Term 1/Semester 1/Yearly programs are now closed and the cut-off date for registration requests has now passed as per our conditions of registration. What this means is that any late requests submitted after Monday 19 February will not be approved and any withdrawals after this date will be subject to the charge as indicated in the conditions. Requests submitted prior to the cut-off date are currently being processed and will adhere to the conditions of being submitted prior to the cut-off.
Monique Zahra
Head of Co-curricular Administration
AFL
Grand Final Fixtures
Congratulations to all teams that have qualified for a Grand Final on Saturday 6th April. Please see below Grand Final fixtures:
Year 9/10 Division 1 – Loreto 3 vs Pymble 3 – Pymble Main Oval – 2.00pm
Year 7/8 Division 1 – PLC Sydney 5 vs Pymble 5 – Pymble Kelso Field – 4.00pm
Lightning Carnival
Pymble 6
Year 7/8 Division 2 – North Narrabeen Reserve Field #6: 1.00pm to 4.00pm
If any students from Pymble 3, Pymble 5 and Pymble 6 are not able to make their matches please let Mr Garrad know as soon as possible via email: jgarrad@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.
Jack Garrad
Sports Co-ordinator – AFL
Diving
2024 NSW CIS Primary Championships
The CIS Primary Championships were held on Wednesday 27 March for our Junior divers at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC).
Congratulations to the diving team who have been practising hard for months to learn new skills and develop a competitive diving list.
Well done to the following Pymble divers on their outstanding results. We wish those divers who qualified for PSSA all the very best in their continued improvement as they work towards the PSSA and School Sport Australia trials on Wednesday 15 May.
8 Years Springboard 1st – Ariana Brandner – (Year 3) – Qualified for PSSA 3rd – Makayla Cui – (Year 2) – Qualified for PSSA
9 Years Springboard 1st – Emma Ware – (Year 4) – Qualified for PSSA 3rd – Audrey Conn – (Year 3) – Qualified for PSSA
10 Years Springboard 2nd – Amélie Berg – (Year 5) – Qualified for PSSA 3rd – Jasmine Smith – (Year 4) – Qualified for PSSA 5th – Freya Holland – (Year 4)
11 Years Springboard 1st – Zara Ware – (Year 5) – Qualified for PSSA 3rd – Nouvelle Nicholson – (Year 5) – Qualified for PSSA 4th – Emily Long – (Year 5)
Open Platform 4th – Amélie Berg – (Year 5)
Chris Lang
Head Coach – Diving
Junior School Sport
Congratulations to our NSWCIS Swimming and Diving Teams, who competed at the NSWCIS Swimming and Diving Championships last Wednesday 27 March at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre (SOPAC). Please click on the links below to see our Outstanding results.
Congratulations, Elyséa Jones (Year 5), on winning the U12 girls singles at the O3K J125 ‘C’ex’ Coffs Harbour Open and Junior Tennis Championships. It was a great experience for her, especially experiencing and managing ‘finals’ nerves.
Congratulations to Sophie Tong (Year 6), on winning the U13 Girls Wagga Wagga Junior Masters Golf Championships held at Wagga Wagga Country Club last weekend. What a fantastic result – congratulations Sophie!
Matt Tyson
Head of Sport – Kindergarten to Year 6
Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program
Australian Sailing Youth Squad
Congratulations to Sara Bruce (Year 12) who has been selected into the Australian Sailing Youth Squad. Sara will travel to Victoria to train with the Australian Sailing Youth Squad before competing in the Victorian Youth Sailing Championships between Thursday 4 April and Sunday 7 April at Sorrento Sailing Couta Boat Club.
Australian Rugby 7s
We are thrilled to announce that Ruby Nicholas (Pymble Alumni 2022), will make her Australian Rugby 7s debut at the esteemed Hong Kong Rugby 7s tournament, commencing on Friday 5 April. This marks a significant milestone in Ruby’s sporting career, and we cannot be more excited for her.
The Australian Rugby 7s team will participate in several crucial matches throughout the event. For those keen to catch the action live, the games will be available to view on Stan on the following days:
Friday 5 April 3.25pm vs Fiji 6.35pm vs Ireland
Saturday 6 April 2.25pm vs South Africa
Quarter finals are expected to take place on the evening of Saturday 6 April, with finals following on Sunday 7 April.
This is a momentous occasion, and we encourage our Pymble community to show their support by tuning in to watch Ruby and the Australian team compete on the global stage.
Go Ruby! Go Australia!
Skye Halliday
Co-ordinator – Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program
Swimming
IGSA Swimming Report 2024
Congratulations to the 2024 Pymble IGSA swimming team for their exciting results at the IGSA Swimming and Diving Championships on Friday 22 March. Led by Swimming Captain, Piper Gregory-Reid (Year 12), our Pymble swimmers achieved outstanding results, securing 2nd place overall. A notable achievement on the day was that every one of our Pymble swimmers competed in a final.
Junior Pointscore Champions (equal): Pymble Ladies’ College
Senior Pointscore Champions: Pymble Ladies’ College
Outstanding Results for Individual and Relay Events:
10 x 1st Places
Megan Chia (Year 8): 14 years 50m Freestyle, Junior 100m Freestyle, 14 years 50m Butterfly
Arabella Cox (Year 12): 17 years 50m Backstroke
Jessica Cullen (Year 11): 18 years 50m Backstroke
Oriana Fenton (Year 7): 12 years 50m Breaststroke
Lily Lockhart (Year 11): 17 years 50m Breaststroke
Piper Gregory-Reid (Year 12): 18 years 50m Breaststroke
Emma Ng (Year 8): 13 years 50m Butterfly
Senior Girls 4 x 50m Medley relay
6 x 2nd Places
Piper Gregory-Reid (Year 12): 18 years 50m Freestyle
Emma Ng (Year 8): 13 years 50m Backstroke
Sarah Tian (Year 10): 16 years 50m Backstroke
Jessica Cullen (Year 11): 18 years 50m Butterfly
4 x 50m Junior Medley Relay
4 x 50m Senior Freestyle Relay
4 x 3rd Places
Piper Gregory – Reid (Year 12) 11-19 200m IM
Indianna Vale (Year 9): 15 years 50m Freestyle
4 x 50m Intermediate Medley Relay
6 x 50m Free Relay All Age
2024 Swimming and Diving Dinner
On Tuesday 2 April, the end of season Swimming and Diving Dinner was held at Pymble Golf Club. It was a wonderful celebration of the fantastic IGSA season for the Pymble Swimming team.
Major award winners:
Most Improved: Megan Chia (Year 8)
Team Spirit: Arabella Cox (Year 12)
Contribution to Swimming: Piper Gregory-Reid (Year 12)
We extend our gratitude to our dedicated and enthusiastic coaches for their hard work throughout the 2023 to 2024 campaign: Michelle Thomas, Sara Petronzio, Steven Qu, and our strength and conditioning coach Jack Pennington. Special thanks to Swimming coordinator Samantha Dale for her tireless efforts.
We also express our appreciation to Mr Renshaw (Aquatics Manager), Mrs Edwards (Head of Sport), Mr Raw (Director of Sport), and our Principal, Dr. Hadwen for their continued support of our program.
We acknowledge the outstanding leadership of our captain, Piper Gregory-Reid, and congratulate our Year 12 swimmers for their significant contribution to swimming at the College: Piper Gregory-Reid, Arabella Cox, and Ellie Beck.
We wish our swimmers the best of luck when they compete at the Australian Swimming Championships on the Gold Coast from Saturday 6 April to Sunday 14 April. The IGSA team will also be announced shortly and will be published in next week’s newsletter. This team will compete at the NSWCIS Swimming Championships on Sunday 5 May and Monday 6 May 2024.
“Comfort, the enemy of progress.” P.T. Barnum’s
Rafael Rodrigues
Head Coach – Swimming
2024 NSW CIS Primary Championships
Six students from Pymble’s Junior School showcased their talent at the 2024 NSW CIS Primary Championships held at the Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre on Wednesday 27 March. Crystal Li (Year 4), Puisai Victoria Ko (Year 6), Amélie Berg (Year 5), Olivia Yu (Year 4), Isabella Wang (Year 5) and Yuxi Lun (Year 4) all delivered exceptional performances in the pool. Their hard work and dedication are truly commendable.
We are thrilled to announce that the following Pymble swimmers achieved Top 3 finishes and have qualified for the PSSA championships which will be held on Thursday 11 and Friday 12 April.
First Place
Puisai Victoria Ko (Year 6) 12yrs 50m Breaststroke
Full results of 2024 NSW Junior CIS Championships:
Amélie Berg (Year 5) – Female – Age: 10 Girls 8 to 10 Years 200m Freestyle Relay (4th leg 35.64) 2:23.09 – 2nd place Girls 10 Years 50m Breaststroke 46.96PB – 1st place
Puisai Victoria Ko (Year 6) – Female – Age: 12 Girls 12 to 13 Years 50m Breaststroke 39.14 – 1st place
Crystal Li (Year 4) – Female – Age: 10 Girls 8 to 10 Years 200m Freestyle Relay (2nd leg 35.06) 2:30.09 – 2nd place Girls 10 Years 50m Freestyle 35.37 PB – 5th place
Yuxi Lun (Year 4) – Female – Age: 10 Girls 8 to 10 Years 200m Freestyle Relay (Lead Off 36.43) 2:23.09 – 2nd place
Isabella Wang (Year 5) – Female – Age: 11 Girls 11 Years 50m Butterfly 36.38 – 7th place
Olivia Yu (Year 4) – Female – Age: 10 Girls 8 to 10 Years 200m Freestyle Relay (3rd leg 35.96) 2:23.09 – 2nd place
Steven Qu
Coach – Swimming
Tennis
Congratulations to Susannah Su (Year 12) for her selection into the NSW Representative team to compete at the Pizzey Cup in Hobart from Saturday 4 to Saturday 11 May. Susannah has successfully passed through the representative pathway as an igsa, NSWCIS and now a NSW All Schools representative.
Further congratulations to Susannah for also winning the Women’s singles and doubles events at the Nepean Easter Open over the Easter long weekend. Susannah made an incredible comeback in the women’s singles final, from a set and four love down to eventually winning 4-6 6-4 12-10. Congratulations Susannah!
We wish all 17 of our igsa teams competing this Saturday 6 April the best of luck for the Grand final and playoff matches. Go Pymble!
Jufri Foss
Sports Co-ordinator – Tennis
From the Co-curricular Performing Arts Team
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Junior School Co-curricular Performing Arts
We are delighted to invite parents to attend a series of open rehearsals. This is a special opportunity for you to gain insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of our rehearsal room and to witness the dedication your daughter brings to her performances.
Your presence during these rehearsals is highly valued as it not only provides you with a deeper understanding of the artistic process but also demonstrates your support for your daughter’s musical endeavours. We believe that by experiencing the collaborative environment and witnessing the creative journey firsthand, you will gain a newfound appreciation for the hard work and commitment that goes into each performance.
To maintain the integrity of our rehearsal space and to respect the privacy of all involved, we kindly request that no video recording or photography be undertaken during the rehearsals.
Please find below the schedule for the open rehearsals. For the morning rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend from the time they drop their daughter off for rehearsals. For all afternoon rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend for the last 30 minutes of the rehearsal.
Week 10
Friday 5 April – Junior Jazz Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00 am to 8.00am
Thursday 11 April – Grainger Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00 am to 8.00am
Week 11
Monday 8 April – Capella Choir (3 – 6 PA Room): 7.15 am to 8.00am
Monday 8 April – Brumby String Orchestra (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Tuesday 9 April – Junior School Choir (K – 2 PA Room): 7.20 am to 8.00am
Tuesday 9 April – Stanhope Concert Band (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Wednesday 10 April – Hindson Chamber Strings (Music Gallery): 7.15 am to 8.00am
Wednesday 10 April – Year 3 String Orchestra (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Thursday 11 April – Year 4 Training Band (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
We sincerely hope you can join us for this enriching experience.
Kurt Schweinberger
Director of Creative and Performing Arts (Kindergarten to Year 6)
Language Arts
ISDA Debating
As Good Friday was on Friday 29 March, there was no debating held.
Round 7 will be held at Tangara School for Girls, Cherrybrook on Friday 5 April.
For students wishing to travel to Tangara via College bus, please ensure bus tickets are booked by clicking here. A reminder that the bus is not returning to Pymble and parents/carers are required to pick up students at the conclusion of the event from the assigned areas.
There will be no debates held next Friday 12 April. Year 12 Senior A ISDA will have a make-up debate in Term 2, on Wednesday 1 May.
Octo 1 Final
The Octo 1 Final will be held on Friday 10 May. Qualifying teams will be notified.
FED Debating
Round 6 will be held on Friday 5 April at the Kate Mason Building, Pymble on Friday 5 April with Sydney Girls’ High visiting.
There will be no debates held next Friday 12 April. Year 12 Senior A FED wsill have a Round 4 make-up in Term 2, on Wednesday 1 May. The Year 11 Senior B FED make-up round will be confirmed, however, it is likely to be held in Term 2, on Wednesday 1 May. Times will be confirmed closer to these make-up rounds.
As there will be no FED debating on Friday 3 May (Round 7), a make-up round will be held on Friday 10 May at Tara. The College will provide a bus to transport Debaters to Tara.
Transport
Buses will be arranged to most away venues and parents are asked to arrange collection of students following debates. Students are not permitted to travel home on public transport without adult supervision. Parents are welcome to watch their daughter/s debate. Further details will be published to parents shortly.
Absences
Debaters must inform Mrs Hubbard, their coach and team if they will be absent in advance of the debate that will be missed. We do not forfeit, and subs can be arranged with adequate notice.
57th session of THIMUN – The Hague, January 2025
The Pymble Language Arts International Tour group have been accepted as the first Australian school to attend THIMUN at The Hague. Congratulations on a wonderful achievement.
Representative Achievements
Well done to Alice Mao (Year 10) and Amy Zhang (Year 11) who performed so well in their Cambridge Debate finals, in Cambridge UK last month.
Congratulations to our Junior teams who competed on Sunday 24 March in the International Competition for Young Debaters (ICYD). ICYD, run in partnership with the Oxford Union, offers a platform for high-level debates among students aged 15 and under (from Year 7 to Year 10). The competition attracts participants from East Asia, including Hong Kong, Singapore, Australia, New Zealand, and beyond.
Well done to all Pymble debaters on your fine efforts and placing fourth!
Public SpeakingAuditions – Years 7 to 12
Thank you to all students in Years 7 to 12 who auditioned. Estelle Lee (Year 8), Leahara Wijesuriya (Year 8) and Arabella Hoang (Year 7) will represent Pymble in the Junior division of Rostrum. Madeleine Watson (Year 11), Jenny Xu (Year 10) and Evelyn Zhu (Year 11), will represent Pymble in the Senior division. Good luck to our Pymble public speakers! Pymble will host a Rostrum final, with 14 heats, on Wednesday 3 April. Results will be announced following the final.
MUN – Model United Nations
The NSW Student MUN Conference was launched at Pymble in February 2024. Please click here to view more information regarding the Conference.
Upcoming Debating programs
Archdale debating – Term 2 and Term 3
Social debating classes – Semester 2
IDC debating – Term 4
Bronwyn Hubbard
Head of Language Arts
Music
Congratulations to the following students who received their results for musicianship and saxophone:
Imogen Martin – Grade 2 Saxophone – A+ (High Distinction)
Mia Davies – Grade 1 Musicianship – A+ (High Distinction)
Mia Zhang – Grade 1 Musicianship – A+ (High Distinction)
Jennifer Xu – Grade 1 Musicianship – A (Honours)
Opera Australia – Tosca
Congratulations to Jessamy Facer (Year 7) who has beenaccepted into Opera Australia’s performance of Tosca. Jessamy auditioned with many other singers from around Australia and has been awarded this opportunity to perform alongside vocal greats.
Secondary School Ensemble Concert – Compulsory Event
The Secondary School Ensemble Concert will be held on Wednesday 10 April from 5.30pm on Gloucester Lawn. Parents may bring a picnic dinner and drinks and enjoy the wondrous sounds of the Secondary School ensembles under the magnificent vista of the Pymble gardens and Chapel.
All students must wear the NEW performance uniform. Please ensure you have purchased this from the Uniform Shop. In the event of wet weather, the concert will be held in the GMCPA.
Junior School Music News
We are delighted to invite parents from Years 3 to 6 to attend a series of open rehearsals. This is a special opportunity for you to gain insight into the behind-the-scenes workings of our rehearsal room and to witness the dedication your daughter brings to her performances.
Your presence during these rehearsals is highly valued as it not only provides you with a deeper understanding of the artistic process but also demonstrates your support for your daughter’s musical endeavours. We believe that by experiencing the collaborative environment and witnessing the creative journey firsthand, you will gain a newfound appreciation for the hard work and commitment that goes into each performance.
To maintain the integrity of our rehearsal space and to respect the privacy of all involved, we kindly request that no video recording or photography be undertaken during the rehearsals.
Please find below the schedule for the open rehearsals. For the morning rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend from the time they drop their daughter off for rehearsals. For all the afternoon rehearsals, parents and family members are welcome to attend for the last 30 minutes of the rehearsal.
Week 10
Friday 5 April – Junior Jazz Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00 am to 8.00am
Thursday 11 April – Grainger Band (Big Rehearsal Room): 7.00 am to 8.00am
Week 11
Monday 8 April – Capella Choir (3 – 6 PA Room): 7.15 am to 8.00am
Monday 8 April – Brumby String Orchestra (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Tuesday 9 April – Junior School Choir (K – 2 PA Room): 7.20 am to 8.00am
Tuesday 9 April – Stanhope Concert Band (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Wednesday 10 April – Hindson Chamber Strings (Music Gallery): 7.15 am to 8.00am
Wednesday 10 April – Year 3 String Orchestra (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
Thursday 11 April – Year 4 Training Band (Music Gallery): 3.45 pm to 4.15 pm.
We sincerely hope you can join us for this enriching experience.
Sarah Turner
Head of Co-curricular Music
Pymble in Dubbo
Join us at our 2024 Alumni Networking Event
We are writing to request your support as a Mentor for a group of outstanding young women, our Pymble Alumni.
Each year the College hosts an Alumni Networking Event designed to support our Pymble graduates at key stages of their careers. The event includes a keynote address, a series of ten-minute coaching sessions with Mentors, career stage-specific breakout rooms and informal networking opportunities for our graduates to establish connections with members of our community who are willing to share their professional expertise and advice.
Facilitating connections and mentorship opportunities for our Alumni is part of the College’s continuum of care for students in their post-school life and sits under our strategic direction, Watch Us Change the World.
We would be delighted if you could attend this year’s event as a Mentor.
Date: Thursday 16 May 2024 Time: 6.00pm to 8.30pm at KPMG Venue: Level 38, Tower 3, International Towers Sydney Address: 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo
This year’s event is hosted by university lecturer and researcher, Rowena Ditzell (1986). Our keynote speaker and event ambassador is the CEO of Qantas Group, Vanessa Hudson (1987). Our College Chair, Chris Fydler OAM and Principal, Dr Kate Hadwen will also be in attendance.
The College is grateful to our former Chair and founder of this event, Global Head of Investments and Growth at KPMG International, James Hunter, and KPMG, for providing the magnificent venue.
Upon registration, you will be asked to upload a professional head shot and a short biography, and/or share your LinkedIn profile, which the College will use to summarise your expertise in the Pymble Mentor Group booklet distributed before the event.
Closer to the date, each registered Mentor and Mentee will receive all the information they require to ensure the event is engaging and beneficial for all involved.
Hopefully, you are as excited as we are about the prospect of supporting our outstanding Pymble graduates. We know you would make a valuable contribution to mentorship at our 2024 Alumni Networking Event and hope to see you there.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Yelli Kruger, Head of Brand and Communications at ykruger@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or (02) 9855 7799.
Katrina Corcoran
Alumni Relations Manager
Reminder: Winter uniform required in Term 2
With the end of Term 1 approaching, parents are reminded that when the girls return to school for Term 2 on Tuesday 30 April they need to be wearing the winter uniform. This includes the navy blazer which is a compulsory garment to be worn to and from school in terms 2 and 3.
Please do not leave your uniform shop purchases until the last week of term. You do NOT need an appointment for the winter uniform. The uniform shop is not open during the school holidays, however we will be open on Monday 29 April from 9.00am to 4.30pm for any last minute purchases.
Important uniform notes
Girls in Kindergarten to Year 8 wear the winter tunic with a plain white pointed collar blouse and tie.
Kindergarten to Year 6 have the choice of knee high black socks or 70 denier black opaque tights.
All Secondary School girls wear 70 denier black opaque tights.
Years 9 and 10 wear the winter skirt with a plain white pointed collar blouse and tie.
Years 11 and 12 wear the skirt with the long sleeve tartan trim long sleeve blouse and tie.
Please note, the navy felt hat can still be worn in Terms 2 and 3, however it is no longer a compulsory item.
Job of the Week
Pymble Ladies’ College is a school of the Uniting Church in Australia for girls Kindergarten to Year 12 with boarding from Year 7. At Pymble, we foster a world-class educational environment with the importance of global citizenship and a worldwide perspective central to our strategic intent.
We believe our staff, both teaching and non-teaching, are our most valuable resource. We are proud to have passionate and dedicated staff who recognise the unique strengths and qualities of every Pymble girl.
The role
The Head of Community Connections is a pivotal role that will ensure collaborative relationships within and beyond the educational environment at Pymble. This role is dedicated to overseeing the planning and execution of all major events that engage students, parents, staff, and donors (on behalf of the Pymble Foundation and under the direction of the Director of Philanthropy). The position will serve as the primary liaison with the Pymble Parent Association, other parent sub-groups and the Ex-Student’s Union. Management of alumni relations and the operation of the College Shop sits within this role’s remit.
Key to the success of this role is the maintenance and enhancement of robust ties with various community groups to magnify the College’s presence and impact.
The role is of strategic importance within the College community and is required to bring expertise in the areas of project management, customer service, continuous improvement, stakeholder engagement and budget and cost management. The Head of Community Connections reports to the Chief Operating Officer and works in close collaboration with the Head of Brand and Communications and members of the College Senior Executive and leadership teams to ensure alignment with the College’s strategy, operations and brand in all activities.
This is a full-time role with out-of-hours work requirements due to the need to participate in functions involving students, parents/carers, ex-students and the Pymble Foundation. The role is located on the Pymble campus.
You will demonstrate the following attributes and capabilities:
Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, Business Administration, or a related field.
10+ years experience in event management, community engagement, stakeholder liaison and management, and team leadership.
Experience working in an educational setting or similar environment is highly desirable.
Exceptional interpersonal, communication, and negotiation skills.
Strong organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Proven ability in building and maintaining relationships with a diverse range of stakeholders.
Experience managing a fast paced dynamic team.
Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
Proficiency in database management and relevant software tools and strong skills in the Microsoft suite as well as design tools (such as Canva).
Your kind of workplace
Pymble people are at the heart of what the College offers its students. That’s why every Teacher, Professional Services and Co-curricular staff member is valued for being the person they are, for the quality of their work, for their diverse contribution and for their wins – big and small. We express our appreciation in many ways, including through recognition programs, story sharing, celebrations, feedback, and competitive remuneration.
We treasure our caring, collegiate community, which Pymble people often refer to as the ‘Pymble family’. We also appreciate that our family is not the only one in the lives of Pymble people, so we ‘walk the talk’ when it comes to supporting work-life balance, providing family benefits and contributing to community connections.
Your kind of benefits
The salary for this role is commensurate with experience and highly competitive. We offer a range of benefits, including:
professional development and career progression
access to our Fitness and Aquatic centre, free Pilates and Yoga classes
daily morning tea
discounted school fees (where applicable)
a dedicated Staff Wellbeing team and regular social events
access to Pymble Smart Spending, which is a retail discounts platform
We also provide a wide range of opportunities for Pymble people to grow personally and professionally through growth strategies, training and professional development, career progression, access to technology and resources, and health and wellbeing opportunities.
Our kind of process
To learn more about this position, the calibre of person we are seeking to appoint, what makes Pymble an excellent place to work and continue your journey of professional growth – please submit your application online.
This opportunity will close on Monday 29 April 2024. Please note that applications will be reviewed as they are received, and interviews may occur prior to the closing date.
Successful candidates must provide a paid Working with Children Check prior to engagement.
Pymble Ladies’ College is an Equal Opportunity Employer. We are committed to creating a workforce which represents the diverse society in which we live. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are encouraged to apply.
You’re invited: FANGIRLS the Musical
FANGIRLS is subversive part play, part musical comedy about how we ask young women to see themselves, and what it means to be fourteen, fierce and unapologetically in love.
Featuring Year 10 Drama curriculum students as our leads and Year 9 Drama as our featured ensemble, this is a show that will resonate with all ages.
We invite you to join us in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts for an evening of heart-warming laughter… and a mini pop concert! (But that’s a surprise!)
With sold out seasons in Sydney and London, you won’t want to miss this electrifying performance and celebration of the true, unlimited power of our young women.
Welcome to the April update for Pymble’s Master Plan. We are pleased to share our progress with you below.
The safety of our students, staff and community is always our priority. Every phase of construction has been meticulously planned to minimise disruption to our girls’ daily school experience and ensure their safety and wellbeing. Students, staff and parents are reminded to report any safety issue or query using our safety reporting website.
The new temporary Grey House walk way is open. Signs will be in place for all students and visitors to direct them to other parts of the College.
We are grateful for your support and look forward to sharing more with you as the Master Plan journey progresses.
