From the Principal

This week’s column focuses on mentoring at Pymble, as we are in the process of sending out invitations to the 2024 Alumni Networking Event at KPMG, one of our flagship alumni events. We would be delighted if you would consider signing up to contribute to this important initiative – you will find the sign-up link below. 

“A mentor is someone who allows you to see the hope inside yourself.” – Oprah Winfrey 

If you’ve ever had the good fortune to have a great mentor in your life, or to be a mentor, you will appreciate how this can be enormously beneficial, for both parties. Mentoring, for me, has always been deeply rewarding. I’ve come to the realisation that perhaps it’s really about supporting one another to grow into your greatness.  

That has certainly been my experience. In fact, every day at Pymble I feel I’m being mentored by the amazing staff or our students and, of course, our phenomenally talented Board members.  

Yesterday, for example, I had the delight of listening to six of our incredible teachers (Michelle Ward, Prasheel Kumar, Lucy Macaulay, Nick Feng, Karen Michie and Dr Kim Bunny) who have been mentored by our Director of Professional Learning and Teaching, Kerryl Howarth, for their Pymble Plus research projects. It was such an honour to hear their presentations; their subject knowledge, dedication to constantly improving their pedagogy, and passion for student voice left me not only inspired but very grateful for the wonderful staff we have here at Pymble. I went from that session straight into one of the favourite times of the week, a session with one of my Year 12 mentees – what a day! 

Mentorship is an integral part of teaching and learning at Pymble. It starts in the Junior School and extends through the Secondary School and into post-school life where we offer several programs to support our graduates, including the Alumni Networking Event, which I promise to get to in just a minute – stay with me! 

For our current students, mentoring opportunities are woven throughout the breadth of our programs because research tells us that young people who are mentored have a greater sense of wellbeing, feel more engaged and supported at school, and achieve better educational outcomes.  

Below is a summary of just a few of the countless ways in which students are supported to grow into their greatness at Pymble.  

In the Junior School

• Students in the Sokratis Junior program for Years 4 to 6 undertake a research-based project and are mentored by either the Head of Junior School, the Deputy Head of Junior School – Academic, or the Director – Pymble Institute. 

• Year 6 Leaders are mentored by members of the Junior School Executive team and selected teachers.  

• This leadership mentoring in turn empowers our Year 6 girls to lead the weekly clubs for girls in Years 1 to 6.  
   

In the Secondary School

Academic mentoring: 

• Students in the Secondary School Sokratis program for Years 7 to 11 run by Conde Library and the Pymble Institute undertake an individual research-based project with mentors drawn from staff and Year 12 students. This year, I’m mentoring two Sokratis students, and I’m looking forward to supporting these girls with their projects. 
   
• Students in Years 8 and 9 who are part of the Talent Development Program facilitated by our Centre of Excellence are supported and mentored by the Intellectual Domain Leader for their respective year group. 
   
• Science Extension students are allocated a research student mentor from University of Technology Sydney to hone their research skills and generally bounce ideas off.  
   

Leadership mentoring: 

• Year 11 students are invited to apply for the Senior School mentoring program where students are matched with College leaders to help guide and support them through their final two years of schooling. Thankfully, my Year 11 students tend to continue to want to be mentored in Year 12. It’s great to have an opportunity to get to know some of our girls more closely and to spend time listening to and learning from them. 
   
• Year 12 Prefects have a Staff Mentor for regular one-on-one meetings and to support the work they undertake within their portfolio. Luckily, I have the pleasure of regularly meeting with our two Head Prefects, Bella and Julie. 
   
• Student leaders from Years 7 to 12 who sit under a Prefect Portfolio also have access to the Staff Mentor who attends their leadership team meetings to support their work. 

Sports mentoring: 

• Students in Years 7 to 12 who meet the criteria for the Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program (PESP) meet regularly with the PESP Co-ordinator for mentoring to support their Individual Performance Plan for achieving their academic and performance goals. 
   
• A new program is currently being launched for students in Years 7 to 10 who currently don’t meet the PESP criteria but still compete and train at a high level. The program provides guidance and support to student-athletes in their pursuit of athletic and personal development from mentors including Head Coaches, Sports Co-ordinators, PDHPE teachers, and Academic staff. Click here to learn more. 

Boarding mentorship: 

• Year 7 Boarders are each assigned a ‘Big Sister’ in Boarding (from Years 10 or 11) who acts as a role model, friend and mentor to assist with transitioning to Boarding life and practicalities such as homework and organisation. 

This is by no means a comprehensive list – there are many other formal and informal mentorships across all areas and year groups at the College, from numerous cross-year ‘Buddy’ programs through to our First Nations program, where students have a cultural mentor on campus and access to external mentors in the corporate world through the Australian Indigenous Education Foundation.  

Teacher mentorship at Pymble is another enormous program. Suffice to say all teachers at the College, at all stages of their careers in education, have access to internal and external mentorship for professional learning and career development. Again, research shows many benefits to this, including:

• Mentoring helps beginning teachers feel connected to their profession and their school and helps foster the development of a professional identity. 
• Teachers who are mentored are more likely to stay in teaching. 
• High-quality mentoring can lead to improved learner achievement. 
• The opportunity to evaluate and reflect on learning. 
• It can be part of evidence used for certification as a Highly Accomplished or Lead Teacher. 

Seeking mentors for our 2024 Alumni Networking Event  

As mentioned above, today, I really want to turn your attention to our upcoming 2024 Alumni Networking Event, to which you should have received your invitation via MyPymble. 

Date: Thursday 16 May 2024

Time: 6.00pm to 8.30pm 

Venue: KPMG Sydney, Level 38, Tower 3, International Towers Sydney, 300 Barangaroo Ave, Barangaroo 

With keynote speaker: CEO Qantas Group, Vanessa Hudson (1987) 

Click here to see details and sign up.

This is a night not to be missed; if you can, we’d love you to attend. 

The success of this event boils down to our amazing parents and members of our community who come along each year to willingly share their experience and advice as professionals and leaders in their field with Pymble graduates who are at various stages of their careers – from starting out, to first point of promotion, to moving to Board level. These wonderful people form our Alumni Mentor Group at the event, where they spend time networking with our former Pymble students, who are now at university or in the workplace and making their mark on the world, in their own inimitable way.  

Our team will, of course, provide you, as a mentor, with all the information you need to ensure the experience is rewarding and positive for you both. Given the calibre of our graduates, this could be a fantastic recruitment opportunity for you! 

There are so many good reasons to be involved as a Pymble mentor, and one or more of them will be especially close to your heart. As difficult as it is to imagine, one day soon – possibly too soon for your liking – your daughter(s) will become part of our alumni, too, eager to begin a career or facilitate the next exciting move in life. I’m proud to say, we will be there to support her then, as we do now.  

Thank you in advance for considering how you too can play an ongoing role in the development of our inspirational and compassionate Pymble graduates. I hope to see you at this event.  

#WatchUsChangeTheWorldTogether  

From the Junior School

From the Head of Junior School

Learning to take risks – the power of play

Last week I read some research from Professor Mariana Brussoni who has been researching the power of play as a key part of child development for several decades. As I read her research, I felt a sense of pride for the balanced approach we have towards academic rigour and unstructured play and imaginative play in our Junior School. I am particularly proud that over the last few years our teachers have embedded Unstructured Play into the day as a key learning opportunity for our girls.

What is Unstructured Play?

It’s play that isn’t directly organised by adults. It’s play that doesn’t have a defined outcome or purpose – it’s a space and time for children to free play, following their imagination, creating their own worlds, resources and rules. We provide ‘loose parts’ to the girls during these sessions and these cardboard boxes, ropes, tyres and other bits and pieces soon become castles, transport, swings, cafes and day spas!

Unstructured play embeds elements of challenge and risk as it involves children being outdoors and being active. Whilst we obviously have adults ‘supervising’ the children whilst they engage with Unstructured Play’, the girls lead the play session.

Why is Unstructured Play important?

Imaginative play enables children to develop their own stories, rules and worlds. This then teaches them how to manage social nuances as they navigate the rules with their friends. Unstructured Play helps children learn how to calibrate risks, make independent decisions, negotiate and collaborate and manage emotions. It’s not about putting our children in danger; it’s about equipping them with the capacity to determine safe risks as they challenge themselves.

Professor Brussoni’s research over the last twenty years finds that we harm children’s social and physical development if we remove all risk from their lives.  Between 1975 and 2015, outdoor play for children decreased by an alarming 29.4 per cent. By 2003, only 6 per cent of children in the US played outdoors every day. Too often the media tells us that the world is not a safe place for our children. In our desire to be ‘good parents’ we often keep our children too safe, keeping them in structured environments, totally managed by us.

We need our children to be active for their physical development. We need them to learn how to make independent decisions whilst they are still young. We do not want our children to be making their first ‘risky’ decision as a teenager when the stakes are naturally much higher.

Here are my five key take aways from Professor Brussoni’s research:

1. We need to make outdoor play a daily priority for our children.
2. Children need access to stimulating spaces for play; flexible spaces where they can use their imagination and explore risks.
3. Children need the freedom to be able to play the way they choose.
4. Unstructured Play provides children with low-cost opportunities to develop the physical and cognitive skills to master the challenges they will face as they grow older.
5. Unstructured Play enables children to ‘see’ how capable they are of coping when things go wrong in their game. It therefore builds resilience.

Our girls are so lucky to have such natural, stimulating places to play in every day at school. With the introduction of scooters and bikes we have increased capacity for our girls to be more active and ‘risky’. Our loose parts and big blue blocks enable the girls to create whatever they can imagine. I am deeply proud of the way we encourage our girls to follow their own play, their own hearts and to celebrate who they are as they play.

Thank you for your support and trust over the last five years as we’ve purposefully grown our focus on Unstructured Play for the benefit of all our girls.

Last weekend Mrs Bird and I were proud to be out at Castle Hill promoting Pymble and meeting with lots of families interested in joining our College community. It always makes me proud to be able to talk about our College and our focus on empowering girls with the many opportunities we provide to challenge our girls.

This weekend Mr Brown and I are off to visit some STEM Centres and STEM focused schools in Shanghai for a week to share our learning and to learn from these world leaders in STEM learning for Junior School children. Having never been to China, I am also excited to visit a place that means so much to many of our families. I look forward to sharing my adventures and learning with the girls and staff when I get back.

Next week, I am ‘handing over’ the newsletter to Mrs Lara Bird, Deputy Head of Junior School Academics who will be leading the Junior School with Mr Stephen Robinson, Deputy Head of Operations whilst I am away.

A message from Mr Stephen Robinson – Acting Deputy Head of Junior School – Operations

Ride Safely to School Day

Reminder: Tomorrow Friday 22 March is National Ride Safely to School Day. We are excited that we have so many girls registered for this initiative.

If you would like your daughter to ride to school with Mrs Brown and other members of the Junior School staff, please complete this form to register by midnight tonight.

All students participating in National Ride Safely to School Day must have a properly fitted helmet when riding.

A message from Mrs Lara Bird – Deputy Head of Junior School – Academics

Our first Academic Series for parents will take place on Tuesday 26 March (Week 9) 3.30pm to 5.00pm.  The focus will be on “Reading with your daughter” (3.30pm to 4.00pm) and “Being a Junior Mathematician” (4.00pm to 5.00pm). The workshops will take place in the Year 3-6 library. Please see portal notice for more details.

Please click here to register your attendance. Please RSVP by Monday 25 March.

A message from Mrs Kate Giles – Head of Wellbeing K-6

On Thursday 28 March, girls from Kindergarten to Year 6 will be participating in a Wellbeing Day. Across this day, the girls will engage in activities that align with our Mind, Body, Spirit Wellbeing framework. Girls are asked to please wear their PE uniform on the day.

A message from from Miss Penny Charalambous – Junior School House Coordinator

We launched our Jump Rope for Heart skipping on Friday and the girls were exceptional in their energy and enthusiasm for skipping.

Over the coming weeks the girls will have dedicated lunchtimes to develop and hone up to 8 specific skipping skills which will then be showcased in our inaugural House Skipping Showcase on Friday 12 April.

We encourage you to support your child’s participation in this initiative and cheer them on! Look for the QR code on the Parent and Guardian Guide and keychain which the girls brought home on Friday last week.

A message from Mr Kurt Schweinberger – Head of Creative and Performing Arts K-6

Introducing the Cast of Charlie and Chocolate Factory

I am pleased to announce the students that have been cast in the Junior School production of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory. Confirming all students who completed an audition have also been cast in the show as part of the Oompa-Loompa ensemble.

Charlie Bucket	Charlotte Lau (Year 5)
Willy Wonka	Lakshi Rajeev  (Year 6)
Grandpa Joe	Madeleine Martin (Year 4)
Mike Teevee	Isabelle Lau (Year 5)
Veruca Salt	Greta Campbell (Year 6)
Violet Beauregarde	Amélie Rahme (Year 6)
Augustus Gloop	Aarthi Rao (Year 4)
Mrs Gloop	Davina Excell (Year 4)
Mrs Teavee	Zoe Ababio (Year 4)
Mr Teavee	Emma Popli (Year 6)
Mr Salt	Madison Burns (Year 6)
Mrs Salt	Caia McCarthy (Year 4)
Mrs Beauregarde	Sophia Mohseni (Year 6)
Mrs Bucket	Zoe Hanna (Year 5)
Mr Bucket	Florence Cheng (Year 6)
Grandpa George	Grace Li (Year 4)
Grandma Josephine	Kaymi Madugalle Wijeratne (3R)
Grandma Georgina	Freya Holland (4C)
Narrators	Trisha Viswanathan (Year 6)
	Katherine Gu (Year 3)
	Isabelle La (Year 5)
	Olivia Headley (Year 5)
	Alice Dai (Year 5)
	Bhuvika Bhatia (Year 5)
	Olivia Yu (Year 4)
	Katelyn Gu (Year 6)
	Ria Iyer (Year 6)

The performance will be held in the Junior School John Reid Hall and the dates are listed below:

• Performance 1: Thursday 27 June (6.00 pm)
• Performance 2: Friday 28 June (during the school day as part of the Junior School STEAM Festival)

All cast members need to collect a note and return it before Friday 22 March. Following this date, a rehearsal schedule will be constructed once all the students have confirmed their involvement.

As the play will be produced in conjunction with the Junior School STEAM Festival, the principles of STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Mathematics) will form an important part of the creative and theatre making experience. From costume design, set design and props creation, the theatre experience will allow students to develop their STEAM thinking. Cast members will be required to create and design aspects of their costumes. More information will follow about this aspect of the production. Where possible, students will reuse, recycle, and repurpose objects to be more sustainably minded.

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Junior School Digital News

Term 1 2024 Key Dates

Friday 22 March                                    igsa Swimming & Diviving Championships

Friday 22 March                                    Ride Safely to School Day

Saturday 23 March                                IPSHA Saturday Sport

Monday 25 March                                 Author Visit Year 3 and 4

Tuesday 26 March                                Parent Reading and Maths Workshops 3.30pm to 5.00pm

Wednesday 27 March                            JSPG Pedal your own smoothie Year 3 to 6          

Thursday 28 March                               Mind Body Spirit Wellbeing Day Kindergarten to Year 6

Friday 29 March                                    Good Friday (Public Holiday)

Monday 1 April                                      Easter Monday (Public Holiday)

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From the Junior School Parent Group (JSPG)

*Final call* JSPG Pedal Your Own Smoothie – Wednesday 27 March

The Years 3 to 6 girls will be promoting healthy living, exercise and sustainability by making their own healthy pedal-powered smoothies with a blender bike.  Funds raised from this event will be donated to the Barbara May Foundation.  This activity is always lots of fun and fits in well with our Pymble Pulse theme this year!

Please register here by Sunday 24 March 2024. 

JSPG Family Movie Night – Saturday 6 April

Our Junior School families are warmly invited to the JSPG Family Movie Night on Saturday 6 April from 4.00pm to 8.00pm on Main Oval. The evening will feature a BBQ dinner, a big screen movie screening of MIgration, popcorn and an inflatable obstacle course. 

This is our only full Junior School family event together – come along and enjoy the beautiful backdrop of the College as the sun sets.  We’ve moved the date forward this year while the weather is still warm, and put your clocks back an hour when you go to bed for an extra hour of sleep! 

Funds raised from this event will be donated to the Junior School to help purchase additional learning resources for our girls.  Please register here by Wednesday 27 March. 

JSPG Easter Cookie Decorating for Kindergarten 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!

Upcoming Events

It’s a busy weekend of social activities for our Junior School families:

Year 2 Mum’s Night – Friday 22 March

Please join us from 6.00pm at 465 The Avenue, Chatswood. Welcome drink and canapes included. 

Kindergarten Easter Egg Hunt – Saturday 23 March

Join us for an Easter Egg Hunt for Kindy at Bicentennial Park West Pymble.  Please see the flyer for details. 

4C Play in the Park – Saturday 23 March

Let’s celebrate the start of a new year at Turramurra Memorial Park, Eastern Road Turramurra from 3pm – 5pm.  BYO picnic food and drinks. 

Year 1 Easter Egg Hunt – Sunday 24 March

Hop on over for our Year 1 Easter Egg Hunt at Bicentennial Park West Pymble.  Please see the flyer for details and RSVP to your Parent Year Coordinators. 

Please contact us with any questions or feedback at pymblelcjspg@gmail.com

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Kate Brown

Head of Junior School

From the Middle School

Greetings from Vision Valley where we are currently hosting half of our Year 7 cohort for their four-day Outdoor Education program. So far, the girls have been rotating through a number of activities: high ropes, leap of faith, team-building games, hiking and canoeing to name a few.

Last night I had the pleasure of spending the night camping down at Crosslands with the Ingleholme and Thomas girls. We shared a meal expertly cooked by the students, followed by a debrief in our Compass group circles. Each student was invited to commit to an individual goal they were keen to work toward over the next few days. Their investment in the program was so impressive.

I have just asked the girls staying in Stringybark how they are feeling at this point in the program and have shared it below.

Claire Ni: ”I’m feeling really relaxed now that I have successfully completed the seven-kilometre hike.”

Una Kim: “The camp is awesome. I like the exercise and the beautiful cabins.”

Emma Lloyd:  “I really enjoyed the canoeing  I got to work with my friends.”

Bella Stack: ”I liked putting up the tent because it was a fun challenge.”

Stella Pieterse: ”I liked being on the water and seeing all the baby jellyfish.”

Madison Aikman: ”Making the food by ourselves on the outdoor stove was fun and delicious.”

Annabel Makeham: “I enjoyed getting closer with my Compass group.”

Lillie Oldfield: “It was great being able to stop on the sandbanks and play when we were canoeing down the river.”

Rose Bennett: ”I appreciated spending lots of time with my friends.”

Ellie Cao: “I liked having the opportunity to meet new people and making special bonds.”

Chloe Hao: “The food was very tasty, and I enjoyed trying new activities.”

Year 7 Leadership applications closed on Tuesday. We have been inundated with students who are keen to step up to a variety of responsibilities. The team is currently reading through the applications to short list students for interview. Prior to the closing date, our Year 12 Middle School Liaison Prefects ran two workshops to upskill the girls in writing applications and honing their interview skills. This was a wonderful opportunity that consolidated confidence and built community.

Applications for the Year 8 National Exchange program have also now closed. Over 50 students have applied for a place at one of our exchange partner schools:

• MLC Perth
• Strathcona Girls Grammar, Melbourne
• Pulteney Grammar, Adelaide
• Clayfield College, Brisbane
• Saint Michael’s Collegiate, Tasmania

On Friday this week Year 8 will be heading out to Homebush to support their Pymble sisters at the IGSA Carnival. During Gloucester Gatherings this week Middle School students have been busy painting banners and posters capturing their Pymble Pride. Good luck to all the competitors for their events.

From the Middle School Parent Groups

Year 7

Dear Parents and Carers

Our next Year 7 event will be a “ladies’ night out” for our mums and carers to meet up over dinner and drinks. We will follow this up with an equivalent guys’ night out (organised by a dad!).

We are currently looking at either Friday 5th April (before the end of Term 1) and Friday 10th May (Term 2). We will include a poll within our WhatsApp group to see which date suits the majority.

In terms of a venue, local options like The Greengate Hotel or The Governor Hotel usually work well as they are cost-effective and we can individually order our dinner and drinks at the bar (not requiring prepayment for a large group). However, please let us know if you know of any other good venues.

Hope most of our mums can make it, it should be a wonderful night catching up with everyone!

Kind regards

Stephanie, Leigh and Briar

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Jenny O’Donnell

Head of Middle School

From the Upper School

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

As we reach the end of Week 8 of term for our Year 9 and 10 girls, I want to encourage you to take a moment to encourage your daughter to reflect on their term so far and consider on how they can finish the term in a productive and caring way. It has been lovely to see many positive interactions around the campus and we hope that your daughter is feeling settled in the Upper School. Upper school students consistently impress with their talent and commitment across various Co-Curricular activities. This week, we’re proud to acknowledge the accomplishments of many girls and wish them luck in their current and future endeavours.

Good luck to the Pymble Cattle Club members Adison Hartog –Smith, Eilidh Skelton, Livia Armstrong, Mia Lorimar, Annabelle Jones and Anais Vander who are competing at the Royal Easter Show this week with the Pymble steers UNO, Urchin, Teddy and Unit.

On Friday the igsa Swimming & Diving Championships are on at Sydney Olympic Park Aquatic Centre. We are sure that the countless hours training for this competition and others will contribute to a successful and enjoyable day for the girls. Sending lots of Pymble Pulse energy their way. Good luck to Ruby Pickthall, Annaliese Chow and Sarah Tian, Indianna Vale, Angela Xenofontas and Mea Shires as well as our divers, Leila Rich and Isla Stewart.

This week marks the Australian Rowing Championships at the Sydney International Regatta Centre, where we’re thrilled to have 23 Upper School girls competing. It’s a special opportunity to showcase their talents in a national competition amidst a supportive home crowd.

Congratulations to Kelly Clifton (Year 9) in the U17 Double Scull, Scarlet Olesen (Year 10), Millie Cullinane (Year 10), and the Senior 1st Eight representing Pymble in the Schoolgirl Eight Event (2000m). Also, in the 17 Women’s Coxed Eight Event (2000m), we have two U17 development eights comprised entirely of Upper School girls. A big shoutout to all the participants: Caitlyn Bilney, Arabella Murphy, Sara Khan, Mia Solomons, Ellie Pointon, Kelly Clifton, Allegra Taubenschlag, Olivia Norton, Leander McLaughlin, Zara Kinniburgh, Harriet Murphy, Annie Pennington, Amber Eisenhauer, Georgina Curtis, Lucy Simpson, Genevieve Bazina, Mia Sherry, Emily Bartrop, and Mie Naito.

We eagerly anticipate hearing about your experiences and hope the endurance and teamwork skills honed this season will benefit you in other aspects of life.

Cambridge Schools Debating Competition

Amy Zhang (Year 11) and Alice Mao (Year 10) attended the Finals Day of the Cambridge Schools Debating Competition held in the Cambridge Union in the UK on Saturday 16 March.

The Cambridge Schools Debating Competition is one of the largest and most prestigious schools debating competitions in the world, attracting over 1000 entrants each year. Participants are from a wide range of countries and regions, including UK, Canada, Asia, India etc. And it’s the first year we have teams from the Australia and New Zealand region. Only those grand finalists from each region will be invited to the Finals Day, which aims to find and develop the most talented young debaters from around the globe and to give them a forum to discuss and explore ideas.

This year, there are a total of 60 teams and 120 participants in this event, most are senior students from top high schools in each country, such as Eton, Tiffin School, Tonbridge School, University of Toronto Schools. Three Australia teams are from Pymble Ladies’ College, St Ignatius’ College Riverview and Trinity Grammar School.

With so many top debaters, the competitions were extremely challenging and exciting. After a long and exhausting day of competitions, Amy and Alice came up with some very impressive results. They ranked 18th among all the teams. Trinity came 35th and Riverview 38th. As individual speakers, Amy placed 11thand Alice placed 21st. Trinity placed 25th and 41st, and Riverview placed 50th and 57th respectively. All Australian speakers are above 50% among all the participants. We should feel really proud of them.

Reflections from the Term 1 Residential Program

It has been lovely seeing the students from the first Vision Valley Residential program settling back into their Pymble campus routine. We know that many girls are missing the Valley, and we are excitedly preparing for our second group to go next term. I am pleased to share the following reflection from Grace McSweeney, Syrena Lin and Sitian Chen about their time at Vision Valley. Thank you to Jemma Hung for collecting these insights.

In one sentence, describe your entire experience:

“Vision Valley is the type of experience that on reflection will continue to grow on you, as you learn so much through the program, whether it be how to be independent or how to survive in the bush.“

“Every day pushed me to question my capability and tested me as a person.”

“An experience that I did not always enjoy when I was going through it, but really miss it now that it’s over.

What piece/s of advice would you give to the students going in future terms?

I do not want to give away too much, as I believe certain things are for girls to discover for themselves, yet here is some vital information I believe girls should know. Having goals such as Duke of Ed motivates most girls to push themselves throughout the expeditions, as they have the mindset, “I just need to finish this for Duke of Ed.”

“Live in the moment. Try not to fret over the different expeditions, and please do not count down the days until the four weeks are over. The biggest regret from others is just not being happy in the present, because these are memories for a lifetime.”

“I would advise future students to maintain a positive mindset throughout the residential program, which could be difficult as it is a completely new adventure full of uncertainties. Yet if you embrace those opportunities and give everything a try, at the end you will find out you have overcome many challenges, and they were not as scary as you imagined.”

Action Items

Year 10 Parents – Please check the Parent Portal for notices regarding Outdoor Education Program Choices for your daughter. The deadline to make a choice is Friday 22 March.

Key Dates

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) 

Tuesday 30 April – First Day of Term 2

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Victoria Harrison

Acting Head of Upper School

From the Senior School

From the Deputy Head of Senior School

The Senior School is delighted to organise and host the Year 11 Formal and Year 12 Social, wonderful rites of passage for many of our students. These are an important milestone in their schooling and offer a safe and fun night to interact with their peers. The Year 12 social was held at Doltone House, Darling Island on Friday 15 March and we look forward to Year 11 Formal this Friday 22 March at Le Montage, Lilyfield.

This week in our Senior School Assembly we launched our support of the service initiative ‘Days for Girls’. The students are familiar with this program from the Upper School where students meet to create The Days for Girls (DfG) Pad, which is a washable, reusable, menstrual health product.

We are proud to offer this initiative now in the Senior School as one of the Days for Girls goals “is to improve educational and livelihood outcomes for women and girls by transforming the global menstrual health landscape. This means innovating, educating, partnering, advocating and supporting locally-led solutions on every level, to create ripples of change.” We hope that our small contribution will help those girls and women who are in dire need of this product.

March 21 marks Harmony Day – in our assembly this week we spoke about the importance of sharing our stories. In a quick poll of the Year 11 and Year 12 students we could see the vast and rich cultural diversity of our Pymble community. We hope that students are encouraged to share their stories and by doing this achieve the aims of Harmony Day “inclusiveness, respect and a sense of belonging for everyone”

Best wishes to our Year 11 Students for their upcoming assessment period from March 26 to March 28. A reminder for this assessment time to read the schedule of exams carefully and arrive 20 to 30 minutes prior to the start of an assessment.

Year 12 Social – Written by Eleni Vassiliadis

Last Friday l had the great experience of going to my Year 12 Social at Doltone House, Darling Island. The setting by Sydney Harbour was beautiful and provided some great photo opportunities! At the Social itself, it was nice to see everyone dressed up to the nines, having fun with each other, moshing on the dancefloor, and of course taking the obligatory photo booth pics. Overall, it was an enjoyable experience, that provided some much-needed relief from study, and an opportunity to hang out with my friends!

IWD Young Women’s Leadership Seminar – Written by Lauren Korenblyum 

On Friday March 8, Ang-Ya Koo and I visited NSW Parliament House to attend the Young Women’s Leadership Seminar for International Women’s Day. We had the opportunity to hear from Lisa Williams, who is an Associate Professor at the University of New South Wales. Lisa Williams spoke about her personal experiences and how she discovered her passion for research in gender and leadership.

Her career in Social Psychology allowed her to share a unique range of statistics and life experiences. She presented an enlightening insight that the origin of gender stereotypes stemmed from our human compulsion to act as social beings and categorise people into personality and emotion types, creating a division between male and female roles. She also shared a statistic that, in an experiment conducted a couple of decades ago, over 96 per cent of Year 1 students immediately drew a male when asked to depict a Scientist.  

These facts and pieces of information, as well as the passion they were presented with, greatly inspired us to consider the impact of gender bias and stereotypes in society, and the role that we can play in subverting them and harnessing our individuality and influence in the future. 

After the address, we also heard from a panel of female Members of Parliament who discussed highlights, challenges and opportunities they have experienced throughout their careers, as well as the importance of female voice and representation in local and wider politics. We were able to ask questions and gain insights into their motivations and inspirations, reminding us of the significance of International Womens’ Day. 

 On the whole, the event was an incredible experience, and we were able to gain new perspectives on the strength and perseverance that women continue to show every day, in a variety of fields and contexts. We hope that Pymble girls can feel just as empowered, and be compelled to make a difference in society. 

Term 1 Key Dates

Friday 22 March – Year 11 Formal at Le Montage

Tuesday 26 to Thursday 28 March – Year 11 Assessment block

Friday 29 March – Good Friday Public Holiday

Monday 1 April – Easter Monday Public Holiday

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

Year 11 Parent Meet Up

We’d love for you to join us for dinner at our Year 11 parent meet up on Friday 22 March after dropping your daughter off at the Year 11 Formal at a location close to Lilyfield.

For more details, feel free to call or message me on 0426 868 643, or join the Facebook group Pymble LC Parents Class of 2025.

I look forward to seeing you there!

Jemma Barney

Patricia Gallardo

Deputy Head of Senior School

From the Boarding School

It was certainly a super sweet week in Boarding! Starting with our annual visit from our friends at Du Plessy Pralin and Otello. Owner, Paul Adams, chocolatier extraordinaire, talked our Boarders through the fundamentals of chocolate making including tempering, filling moulds and, of course, tasting! The girls were delighted with their home made treats and, for once, thoroughly enjoyed “cleaning up”! Our thanks go to our very own Mrs Kathryn Weidemann for her organisation of yet another unforgettable foray into food.

Dinner with Dr H and Mr Bell

Not to be outdone in the sweet stakes, Dr H and Mr Bell hosted a delicious dinner party for our Year 7 Boarders. Skye and Milla were delighted to share their recollections of the evening –

Imagine getting the chance to go over to our Principal, Dr Hadwen and Mr Bell’s house for an Easter dinner! We, the Year 7 Boarders had the honour! Right from the start when we walked in we felt so welcomed by Dr Hadwen and Mr Bell. We had an Easter egg hunt in the garden before dinner. It was so much fun! 

For dinner, Mr Bell made his homemade pasta with a yummy Bolognese sauce and for dessert we enjoyed Dr Hadwen’s chocolate pudding. At the dinner table we had a great chat with Dr Hadwen and Mr Bell, and after dinner we went upstairs to see Dr Hadwen’s big shoe collection, it was so cool. We were so grateful for the evening and before we went home we played a song to show our appreciation for inviting us over for dinner.  

Overall it was a really great night and we are so thankful to Dr Hadwen and Mr Bell.

Our Sporting Superstars!

We couldn’t be prouder of our Boarders who continue to shine in all things sport.

Congratulations to Grace, Jocelyn and Lana who have been selected in the Regional Australian under 18 team to compete at the Oceania Champs in Fiji in June. 

Good luck and congratulations to our igsa Swimming representatives Quinn, Lily and Hannah.

I look forward to sharing more about our Boarder’s sporting successes soon.

Cattle Club at the Sydney Royal Easter Show

Our Pymble Cattle Club is a popular co-curricular activity across the school and I am sure it is no surprise that our Boarders are well represented in this group. Congratulations to Adison, Livia, Skye, Selina, Hannah and our two Phoebes who are wonderful members of the team. The Cattle team will be at the Sydney Royal Easter Show until 23 March, please look out for them, they would love your support.

Don’t forget to sign up for 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.

Keen 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.

Loving Love It

Last weekend was jam-packed full of fun. It started with the Easter workshop with lots of chocolate making fun on Friday. On Saturday evening we headed into Allianz stadium to watch the Waratah’s take on the Blues. We then adjusted the plan on Sunday as the weather was not looking kindly on us, so we headed to the movies to continue with the chocolate theme for the weekend to watch Wonka. The Boarders were even joined by Mrs Burgess for this outing.

This weekend we kick it all off with a trip to watch the Socceroo’s play Lebanon on Thursday evening. The Year 11 Formal is on Friday evening, so there is much excitement in Marden and Goodlet as the girls prepare for this exciting event. The Year 8s will be heading to Dr Hadwen’s house on Sunday evening.  Plus, we will have some ice skating on Saturday and potentially some Easter Show fun on Sunday.

Balmoral Swim for Cancer

Pymble Boarding will once again be taking part in the Balmoral Swim for Cancer. It will be held on Sunday 24 March, and we will be entering teams into the School’s Relay section of the event, competing against the likes of Shore, Riverview, Ascham, Wenona and Queenwood. This is always a well-attended event for the Boarders and an opportunity to give back. We are aiming to raise $2,000 this year.  If you would like to sponsor our team, please click here.

View From My Window

Hello, my name’s Celeste, and I’m a Year 11 Boarder from Boorganna on the mid-north coast of NSW. In my family is my Mum Ann, Dad Julian, brothers Xavier, Jude, Orlando, myself, and Jose. And my little dog Teddy.

I live on a property of about 320 acres, 90 per cent of which is rainforest. It is a mountainous region and my house is nestled in the bottom of a valley, bordered by a freshwater creek that flows past our house.  Our property is unofficially named “Agua Dulce”, which translates from Spanish to “sweet water”… a hint at why we live here, in this random geographically isolated region. For a fun fact, it’s also an extinct volcano that we drive over to get to town, which is an hour away.  

Usually, we just call it “The Farm”, but we don’t farm anything commercially, although my family has a small crop of organic garlic which we sell to local boutiques and loved ones. Garlic, although seemingly simple, is a complex plant to grow, and many holidays have been spent roasting in the sun while we sow, plant, mulch, rake, pick, and repeat. Dotted around the house are my mum’s gardens, which in the summer are blooming with everything from gardenias and roses to marigolds and sunflowers.

The best part of our place is the mini waterfalls that are up the creek. My childhood was spent exploring upstream with my brothers, finding new spots to swim. The closest is “The Waterhole”, a refreshing natural pool in the Dingo Creek. We never miss a day of going there in the summer. Getting to the waterfalls is a tedious yet infinitely rewarding process which involves riding our motorbikes through the bush trail, ditching them to hike through the bush terrain, sliding down the Hill of Death, and sloshing through the creek for quite some time. 

The Census says about 80 people are living in Mooral Creek, which is my closest village, but it is such a secluded area that I suspect that number to be wrong due to the amount of mysterious people and their mysterious reasons for being there. But I digress.

If you were to look out my window you would see a lush paddock with said gardens. Not to mention the abundant bird life, such as the flocks of black cockatoos, kookaburras and the satin bower birds that steal the blue clothes pegs from the washing line to decorate their bowers to attract a mate.

At night you might see fireflies glowing or the occasional wild bull that has wandered down through the National Park since the fences of nearby properties burned down during the bushfires.

The outline of the mountains in the distance is silhouetted in the sunset, a specific pattern of extremely tall trees which is burned into my brain. A few Novembers ago, it was a charred landscape. It is a comforting sight to me though and I’m proud to call it home.

Boarder of the Week

Sienna came to Marden in Year 7 from Wee Waa and has been a beautifully calming presence in the house since Day 1. She is kind, considerate and shows care and empathy to all those around her. Sienna is an exemplary boarder who is polite and mature in her interactions with staff, as well as her peers. She keeps her room impeccably tidy and her uniform perfect every day, and she manages her busy schedule independently and without complaint!

Sienna is a proud Gamilaroi woman and always takes the opportunity to celebrate her culture and share it with those around her. She has proudly delivered the Acknowledgement of Country on a number of occasions, and is always involved in Pymble celebrations of our First Nations cultures, including Culture Club, our Indigenous Dance troupe and NAIDOC Week. Nothing is ever a bother for Sienna – she is always willing to go the extra step to help those around her or assist in any way she can. We adore having her as part of our Boarding family and can’t wait to see what she does in the future!

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 Triumph: Wielding a different kind of power

What does power look like to you?

Do you feel that you have any power, in your own life and context?

This week in Chapel services, as we continue to honour the holy month of Ramadan, the approach to Passover and, last Wednesday, Persian New Year (Nowruz Mobarak!), we have been continuing to prepare our students for the holy week of Easter.  

Palm Sunday, or Passion Sunday, marks the beginning of Holy Week for millions of Christians around the world. It will be remembered and celebrated in Protestant and Catholic churches all over the world, in many different languages, this coming Sunday. For the Orthodox churches, Easter is celebrated 5 weeks later.

On the day that Christians now call Palm Sunday, Jesus made his triumphal entrance into Jerusalem.

But it wasn’t the kind of triumphal entrance that the people of Jerusalem or anywhere else in the mighty Roman Empire were used to witnessing.

At this time, in the first century CE, citizens (and non-citizens) of the Roman Empire were familiar with a procession called a Triumph.

This word probably comes from the Greek; thriambos, the name of a procession honouring the god Bacchus.

The Triumph was a ritual procession.

It was the highest honour bestowed upon a victorious General in the ancient Roman Republic; it was the summit of a Roman aristocrat’s career and occurred after his army had been victorious in battle – that is, had won more territory, resources and slave labour for the Empire.

To qualify for such an honour, the rules were quite prescriptive – to ‘triumph’, a man was required to have been a magistrate cum imperio (holding supreme and independent command) who had won a major land or sea battle in his province, killing at least 5,000 of the enemy and ending the war. 

To triumph was a big, big deal, and no expense was spared.

The magistrates and members of the Senate came first in the procession, followed by musicians, the animals that would be sacrificed at the temple and the spoils of war, including the captured and chained slaves from the conquered province or land.

This was a procession designed to communicate to the masses the invincible power, might and, let’s face it, the raw brutality of the Roman Empire.

These triumphal processions were an important part of the Roman Empire’s almighty propaganda machine. In a first century way, these triumphal parades would ‘go viral’, via word of mouth.

Everyone would either see, or hear about, these parades. People would talk about them long after the event. Children would re-enact them.

Think of the hype and the media attention that King Charles’ coronation created. Well imagine that, Roman-style! But with a lot more violence.

This was how the Emperor maintained his power and authority over the masses.

Riding in a magnificent chariot festooned with laurel, the victorious General (triumphator) wore the royal purple and gold tunic and toga, holding a laurel branch in his right hand and an ivory sceptre in his left.

A slave held a golden crown over the General’s head while repeatedly reminding him in the midst of his glory that he was a mortal man. The General’s soldiers marched last.

On reaching the temple, the General presented his laurel, along with thank-offerings, to the image of Jupiter or another Roman god.

The slaves were usually killed, along with the sacrificial animals, and the ceremony concluded with a feast for the magistrates and the Senate.

This is the spectacle that the ordinary people were used to seeing. It was a show of power, strength, authority and oppression.

This was the narrative that was told by the Roman Empire, over and over again:

The Emperor and his army are mighty. He has power over you. You are a lowly nobody. If you step out of line, you will be crushed and eliminated like one of those slaves. There are no exceptions. There is no mercy. Hooray for the Emperor and his Generals!

For the slaves in particular, and for the common people who were subject to oppressive Roman taxes and control, the Roman General’s victory meant enslavement, misery and oppression.

So … back to Palm Sunday.

Jesus’ entrance into Jerusalem to celebrate Passover was like a Triumph, in some ways. But very unlike it in others.

Same same but different.

The 4 writers of the gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John tell us that, as Jesus entered the city, the ordinary people lined the dusty road, waving palm branches and following him, shouting out ‘Hosanna!’ and hailing him as a long-awaited King.  

In Matthew’s gospel we are told:

 8 A very large crowd spread their cloaks on the road, while others cut [palm] branches from the trees and spread them on the road. 9 The crowds that went ahead of him and those that followed shouted,

“Hosanna to the Son of David!”

“Blessed is he who comes in the name of the LORD!”

“Hosanna in the highest heaven!”

10 When Jesus entered Jerusalem, the whole city was stirred and asked, “Who is this?”

11 The crowds answered, “This is Jesus, the prophet from Nazareth in Galilee.”                                                      

Matthew 21:8 -11

Hosanna comes from the Hebrew words yasha (“deliver, save”) and anna (“beg, beseech”) which combine to form the word that, in English, transliterates into ‘Hosanna’.

So literally, Hosanna means “I beg you to save!” or “Please save / deliver us!” It’s not just a cry of praise, as is commonly thought – although the people are also praising Jesus as they cry out ‘Hosanna! Praise the One whom God has sent to save us!”

Jesus entered Jerusalem as a King – but not an earthly king.

He had power, as can be seen in the people’s reaction to him. The Jesus movement, by this time, had major critical mass. He was causing a stir.

But how Jesus used his power was very different from the Emperor, or Generals, or other human leaders.

As I told the students in chapel this week, Jesus shows us, in his humble-yet-triumphant entrance into the city, how to use the power that we are given.

Jesus’ last lesson to his disciples had been to wash their feet – an act of service and humility.

He came not to be served but to serve.

And we, too, are called not to be served, not to serve our own interests, not to build up our own power, nor to increase our own influence and status … but to serve and love others in humility, love and compassion.

There was lots of noise, laughter and also listening this week in chapel, as the students re-enacted an ancient Roman Triumph, with costumes and music, as well as Jesus’ entrance, with people waving palm branches.

We talked about how sometimes, in this human world, leaders and rulers do not always use their power well. In fact, they sometimes use their power to oppress, intimidate and disempower others in an attempt to gain even more power for themselves.

But Jesus was a different kind of leader. Jesus came not to judge, not to divide, not to oppress, but to bring peace.

His triumphal entrance meant freedom, not enslavement.

Peace, not war.

Love, not hatred.

We each have power – our voice, talents and abilities, what’s written on our passport, our social status, our education. These things are given to us as gifts and they are power.

My prayer is that we can use Jesus’ humble-triumphant entrance as an example of servant-hearted leadership, and use our gifts and our power to serve and love one another.

Edwina O’Brien

Assistant College Chaplain

From the Futures Team

UAC Resources for Parents and Carers

If your child is in Year 10, 11 and 12 you will find useful information by clicking here.

PCA Cadetships at Pymble Friday 15 March in Jobson Lecture Theatre during MBS time for Year 12

Under this year’s Business Cadetships Program, there are cadetship opportunities for Year 12 students at two leading financial services companies: UBS and Barrenjoey.

Cadets combine paid work at one of these companies with study at the university of their choice in Sydney. 

In addition, in 2024, UBS will again offer Technology Cadetships. Cadets will be placed in the Group Operations and Technology Office at UBS. A Technology Cadetship is an exceptional springboard for launching a career in technology and in business.

Parents Newsletter from UAC

You can receive regular updates from the Universities Admission Centre about the latest news on Year 12 HSC and the university application process.

Click here to register.

The University of Sydney Year 10 Subject Selection Evening On Campus – 10 April 2024

Learn everything there is to know about HSC subject selection, university applications and admissions with The University of Sydney’s Year 10 subject selection evening. On-campus, have the opportunity to visit advice booths to have any questions answered by expert staff, current University of Sydney students and a UAC representative, and participate in a Q&A. Click here to register.

George Washington University presentation at MLC Burwood

Date: Tuesday 26 March

Time: 5.45pm to 6.30pm

Venue: MLC School, Rowley Street, Burwood NSW

Seats are limited so please click here to register.

Events Calendar

From the Co-curricular Sports Team

igsa have advised that there have been some reported incidents regarding poor parent behaviour (from all schools) at sports fixtures and events. A reminder that igsa Sport has a Code of Conduct that must be abided by when parents are at an igsa fixture or event.

“igsa and its members’ schools Sport also expect parents, spectators and other participants to behave in a safe and responsible manner, to comply with the Codes of Conduct and to set a good example for the girls.”

Please click here to view the full Code of Conduct. igsa have asked us to draw attention to the following sections of the Code as a reminder to all parents attending igsa fixtures or events:

“5. Part 5: Code of Conduct for Parents and Spectators

• Encourage girls to give their best effort and applaud good play regardless of which team produces it.
  • Behave respectfully and courteously towards players, coaches, match officials and other spectators.
  • Never discourage or disparage any player.
  • Never criticise a match official. If you have a grievance, follow the grievance procedure outlined in Part 7 of this Code of Conduct.”

“7. Part 7: Grievance Procedure

• The umpire or referee has complete control of the game. In matters regarding play, the conduct of participants and the rules of the game, their decision is final.
  • With respect to other aspects of the game such as venue safety, the venue convener’s decision is final.
  • If any participant wishes to bring a complaint or express a concern about any aspect of a game, they may do so by contacting the IGSA Sport Office by 5.00pm on the following Monday. The initial contact may be verbal but this must be followed up in writing by 5.00pm Monday.
  • The igsa Sport office will consult the relevant parties and the igsa Executive Officer and respond to the aggrieved individual within 48 hours of receiving the written complaint.
  • The decision of the igsa Sport Office will be final.
  • The igsa Sport office may, when she or he thinks fit, report to a Principal anything occurring in the course of, or in relation to, an inter-school sporting event.”

We appreciate you taking the time to review the Code of Conduct above and for your continued adherence to the Code at all IGSA sports fixtures and events.

Adam Raw

Director of Sport

The shortcode only works for newsletter articles

Co-curricular Administration

Next Registration Openings

The next round of registrations for Term 2 and winter semester programs will open via the online registration system at 12.00pm on Wednesday 27 March and close at 11.59pm (midnight) on Monday 15 April. Please access the online registration via the Co-curricular pages on MyPymble by clicking here. A parent/carer log in is required to be able to register. We recommend families check they can access the system well in advance of the opening date to avoid any technical issues on the day as registrations CANNOT be processed via email or phone.

A notice will be posted on the MyPymble app prior to registrations opening to all families as a reminder of the opening date and time. All program information has now been finalised on the Co-curricular pages of MyPymble. 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.

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

We are coming into the business end of the competition with only one round of the season left. A friendly reminder that even if your team does not qualify for a Grand final, please assume that you will still have a match. Regardless of final placing, AFL endeavours to give all teams a match for the final round on Saturday 6 April.

Congratulations to teams Pymble 1, Pymble 5 and Pymble 6 who recorded wins over the weekend! Great efforts by all players with some much-needed points leading into finals.

Results from Saturday 16 March

Pymble 1 def Ravenswood 1 (34 – 20)

Pymble 2 def by MLC 1 (1 to 56)

Pymble 3 def by Loreto 3 (15 to 30)

Pymble 4 def by Ravenswood 4 (6 to 64)

Pymble 5 def St Catherine’s 4 (60 to 0) forfeit match by St Catherine’s

Pymble 6 def Abbotsleigh 5 (49 to 28)

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Jack Garrad

Sports Co-ordinator – AFL

Athletics

The NSW State Open Championships were held from Thursday 14 March to Sunday 17 March with our Pymble athletes achieving outstanding results.

Sarah Baker (Year 12) surprised herself by not only qualifying for the 1500m final but clinched the bronze medal!

Georgia Phillips (Year 12) competed in the 400m hurdles, finishing 14th and Lana Pike (Year 11) competed in the 800m, finishing in 15th place.

Olivia Inkster (2022 Alumni), our current Kindergarten to Year 6 coach, delivered a fast 100m, achieving a world junior qualifying time and securing the bronze medal.

Exciting news! Grace Peters (Year 11), Lana Pike (Year 11) and Jocelyn Blair (Year 10) have been selected to represent the Regional U18 Australian team from Tuesday 4 June and Saturday 8 June at the Oceania Championships in Suva, Fiji.  We are thrilled to have three of our boarding students on the team and this presents a fantastic opportunity for them to gain valuable international competition experience.

Deb Walsham

Head Coach – Athletics

Badminton

On Saturday 16 March, Pymble Badminton achieved a total of 20 wins and 15 losses.

This week Pymble 31 played with Pymble enthusiasm and pride, even though they did not secure the win.  All players demonstrated a never give up attitude while supporting and cheering each other through the entire game. Well done to all Pymble 31 players!

As the season is now in its final weeks, please see below where our badminton teams are currently placed, noting that finals will be played on Saturday 6 April.

Good luck to all Pymble Badminton teams!

Results from Saturday 16 March are below:

Date	Team	Opponent	Result	Current Placing
16 March 2024	Pymble 1	Tara 1	Won 3 to 2	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 2	Meriden 03	Lost 0 to 5	4th
16 March 2024	Pymble 3	Abbotsleigh 05	Won 4 to 1	3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 4	Loreto Normanhurst 02	Won 5 to 0	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 5	Loreto Normanhurst 03	Won 4 to 1	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 6	Loreto Normanhurst 06	Won 5 to 0	2nd
16 March 2024	Pymble 7	Loreto Normanhurst 07	Won 4 to 1	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 8	Loreto Normanhurst 09	Lost 2 to 3	6th
16 March 2024	Pymble 9	Abbotsleigh 24	Lost 1 to 4	3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 10	Loreto Normanhurst 10	Won 4 to 1	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 11	Abbotsleigh 25	Won 5 to 0	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 12	Pymble 13	Lost 0 to 5	7th
16 March 2024	Pymble 13	Pymble 12	Won 5 to 0	3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 14	Loreto Normanhurst 13	Forfeit	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 15	Meriden 15	Lost 0 to 5	6th
16 March 2024	Pymble 16	Meriden 21	Lost 0 to 5	6th
16 March 2024	Pymble 17	Abbotsleigh 41	Won 4 to 1	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 18	Pymble 19	Won 4 to 1	4th
16 March 2024	Pymble 19	Pymble 18	Lost 1 to 4	6th
16 March 2024	Pymble 20	Ravenswood 16	Lost 2 to 3	4th
16 March 2024	Pymble 21	Abbotsleigh 46	Won 4 to 1	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 22	Abbotsleigh 49	Lost 1 to 4	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 23	Abbotsleigh 48	Lost 0 to 5	3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 24	Abbotsleigh 51	Won 3 to 2	3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 25	Abbotsleigh 52	Won 4 to 1	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 26	MSB03	Won 3 to 2	4th
16 March 2024	Pymble 27	Ravenswood 20	Lost 2 to 3	8th
16 March 2024	Pymble 28	Abbotsleigh 58	Lost 0 to 5	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 29	Abbotsleigh 59	Lost 1 to 4	7th
16 March 2024	Pymble 30	Abbotsleigh 62	Won 3.5 to 1.5	5th
16 March 2024	Pymble 31	MLC School 21	Lost 2 to 3	4th
16 March 2024	Pymble 32	Abbotsleigh 64	Won 5 to 0	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 33	Loreto Normanhurst 22	Won 3 to 2	=3rd
16 March 2024	Pymble 34	Abbotsleigh 66	Won 3 to 2	1st
16 March 2024	Pymble 35	Ravenswood 24	Won 4 to 1	3rd

Rachelle Davis

Sports Co-ordinator – Badminton

Cricket

Cricket CIS U15s

On Tuesday 19 March, Varada Vinay (Year 9), Elizabeth Yates (Year 10), Willa Pearson (Year 8) and Eloise Lawry (Year 7) trialled for the CIS U15s Cricket team. All students trialled exceptionally well with Varada, Elizabeth and Willa all making it through. Eloise, unfortunately, just missed out on selection. However, as Eloise is young for the age group and is still eligible to trial next year, she gained some valuable feedback from selectors and will be back bigger and better in 2025!

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Jack Garrad

Sports Co-ordinator – Cricket

Cross Country

Last Thursday 14 March, Siena Cassidy (Year 3), Sherise Tam (Year 7), Sasha Dubrovina (Year 8) and Anabella Legge-Hughes (Year 8) competed at the Inter Schools Cross Country Challenge at St Leonards Park.

Congratulations to Siena Cassidy (Year 3) who placed 1st in the 8 to 10 years 2km and Sherise Tam (Year 7) who placed 1st in the 11 to 13 Years 3km. Both Sasha Dubrovina (Year 8) and Anabella Legge-Hughes (Year 8) placed competitively in their age group!

igsa Cross Country selection trials will be run on the following dates:

Thursday 21 March

Tuesday 9 April

Thursday 2 May

Students wishing to trial on Thursday 21 March should meet at Flagpole (enter via Gate 1) at 6.45am for a warm-up jog. Students are not required to run at every trial, but it is encouraged for training and is great race practice.

The final igsa team will be approved by the Athletics and Cross Country Co-ordinator, Head Distance Coach, Head of Coaching and Performance and Head of Sport and Director of Sport.

Inter School Cross Country Challenge

Date

Thursday 2 May (Transport not provided.  Parents should arrange to transport their daughters to and from the venue)

Venue

St Ives Showground, St Ives

Timing

4.00pm – walk the course: 3km, 4km and 6km races (please note, Junior School students are not invited to attend this meet)

6.00pm – conclusion (will be aiming to finish earlier as there is no lighting available)

All courses will have a 2km and a 1km loop to fulfill the required distances.

Students who wish to participate in this race and obtain important quality race practice should contact Mr Jack Garrad, Athletics and Cross Country Co-ordinator, via email: jgarrad@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au. Further details will be provided closer to the date.

Jack Garrad

Sports Co-ordinator – Cross Country

Junior School Sport

Being involved in a team sport offers many benefits, including improved physical health and coordination, as well as enhancing social skills such as communication and teamwork. It fosters connection and sportsmanship, while also promoting personal growth and resilience. Ultimately, team sports contribute to a well-rounded and fulfilling lifestyle

Spaces are still available for students to register in IPSHA Netball (Years 3 and 4) and IPSHA Hockey (Year 4) for Term 2 Saturday sport programs. No experience is necessary. We place students in teams of the same skill and ability, with a coach that will help them learn the game and enhance their skills throughout the season.

Training for IPSHA Netball and IPSHA Hockey is held on Monday afternoons from 3.00pm to 4.30pm. We are aware that there may clash with other Co-curricular programs, however, we are willing to work around any clashes that may arise. Please contact Mr Matt Tyson (mtyson@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au) if you are keen for your daughter being involved but may not be able to make the training time.

Our Term 1 Saturday sports – IPSHA Water Polo and IPSHA Football – have provided many weeks of smiles and fun. 

Matt Tyson

Head of Sport – Kindergarten to Year 6

Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program

EOI Pymble Student-Athlete Mentoring Program

The Pymble Student-Athlete Mentoring Program, is an initiative designed to provide tailored guidance and support to Pymble athletes in Years 7 to 10 who are striving to excel in their chosen sports.

With over 65 student-athletes currently enrolled in the Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program (PESP), we recognise the importance of extending support to those who may not yet meet the criteria for PESP but exhibit immense potential and dedication in their athletic pursuits.

The Pymble Student-Athlete Mentoring Program offers personalised mentorship from experienced individuals, including Head Coaches, Sports Co-ordinators, PDHPE teachers, and other academic staff members. Through this program, participants will receive guidance to aid in both their athletic and personal development.

Here are some key details about the program:

• Open to students in Years 7 to 10 who meet the criteria for their chosen sport.
• Not available to current participants of the PESP.
• Limited to 30 students for the year 2024.
• Places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, provided the athlete meets the criteria for their sport.

Mentoring sessions will be scheduled during recess or lunchtime, and students will be responsible for initiating contact with their mentors to book sessions. It is expected that students will meet with their mentors twice per term.

If you believe this program could be beneficial for your daughter, I encourage you to express your interest by completing the attached questionnaire survey. The deadline for expressions of interest is Monday 29 April 2024.

Should you have any questions or require further information about the program, please do not hesitate to reach out to me shalliday@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au

Please click here to express your interest.

Skye Halliday

Sports Co-ordinator – Pymble Elite Sportswomen’s Program

Snowsports

Pymble is pleased to invite our Snowsports families to an information night on Tuesday 26 March from 6.00pm to 7.00pm to be held in the Kate Mason Building.

This will provide all information regarding the 2024 season. Please note that students wishing to register for Snowsports in 2024 are required to have ten days on-snow in their chosen discipline (skiing or snowboarding) before competing in the Interschools competition.

We recommend parents/carers view the Snowsports Handbook for more information regarding the program. 

To register your interest for the 2024 Snowsports season, please click here.

Megan O’Keeffee

Sports Co-ordinator – Snowsports

Softball

On Saturday 16 March, four Pymble teams competed at International Peace Park in Seven Hills.

Our Senior Firsts competed against current leaders, Barker College who proved too strong on the day. Pymble 1 will now play the Loreto Normanhurst Senior Firsts this coming Saturday 23 March in a 3rd v 4th finals match.

Our Senior Seconds faced Tara’s Senior Firsts in a playoff match to qualify for semi-finals. Unfortunately, due to a count back on points during the regular season, Tara advanced after a 14 to 14 draw, and this means Pymble 2’s season of strong results has now come to an end.

Our Senior Thirds also faced a strong Tara side. A loss against Tara means that the season is also over for Pymble 3.  Congratulations on a well played season!

Our Junior Firsts came away with an emphatic 18 to 2 win against Tara’s Junior Firsts, which has set up the Junior 1B Grand final against Brigidine College on Saturday 23 March.

Results from Saturday 16 March

Team	Opponent	Result	Score
Pymble 1	Barker College 1	Loss	2 to 15
Pymble 2	Tara 1	Draw	14 to 14
Pymble 3	Tara 2	Loss	6 to 15
Pymble 4	Tara 3	Win	18 to 2

Chris Wood

Sports Co-ordinator – Softball

Tennis

Congratulations to our Junior Firsts, Pymble 12, for their strong 7 to 1 win against a strong Meriden Junior First team. The team played some fantastic tennis to take the lead in their division and remain undefeated this season. Thank you to all Year 12 players for their commitment to competition after attending their formal on Friday 15 March and still showing up to play excellent tennis on Saturday morning for their teams.

A reminder that Saturday 23 March is the last round of igsa tennis matches. After the Easter weekend, we’ll be back again on Saturday 6 April for Finals (1v2) and Playoff (3v4) matches.

Results from Saturday 16 March are below:

Team	Opponent	Result	Score
Pymble 01	Kambala 1	Win	4 to 4 (39 to 34)
Pymble 02	St Catherine’s 2	Loss	3 to 5
Pymble 03	Danebank 1	Loss	4 to 4 (31 to 34)
Pymble 04	Wenona 3	Loss	1 to 7
Pymble 05	Wenona 4	Loss	2.5 to 5.5
Pymble 06	Roseville 5	Loss	1.5 to 6.5
Pymble 07	Loreto Kirribilli 7	Win	6.5 to 1.5
Pymble 08	Loreto Kirribilli 9	Loss	1.5 to 6.5
Pymble 09	Abbotsleigh 11	Win	7.5 to 0.5
Pymble 10	Loreto Kirribilli 14	Win	7 to 1
Pymble 11	Abbotsleigh 16	Win	7.5 to 0.5
Pymble 12	Meriden 11	Win	7 to 1
Pymble 13	Monte 9	Loss	4 to 4 (27 to 28)
Pymble 14	SCEGGS 8	Loss	4 to 4 (23 to 33)
Pymble 15	Queenwood 10	Win	8 to 0
Pymble 16	Abbotsleigh 20	Win	6 to 2
Pymble 17	Loreto Kirribilli 18	Win	4.5 to 3.5
Pymble 18	Wenona 17	Loss	1.5 to 6.5
Pymble 19	Abbotsleigh 24	Win	8 to 0
Pymble 20	Loreto Kirribilli 20	Loss	3 to 5
Pymble 21	Loreto Kirribilli 21	Loss	2.5 to 5.5
Pymble 22	Loreto Kirribilli 22	Loss	2 to 6
Pymble 23	Queenwood 12	Loss	4 to 4 (26 to 30)
Pymble 24	Abbotsleigh 29	Win	5 to 3
Pymble 25	Queenwood 13	Win	5 to 3
Pymble 26	Loreto Normanhurst 29	Loss	3.5 to 4.5
Pymble 27	Abbotsleigh 30	Win	8 to 0
Pymble 28	Wenona 22	Loss	1.5 to 6.5
Pymble 29	Loreto Kirribilli 29	Win	7.5 to 0.5
Pymble 30	Loreto Normanhurst 31	Loss	3.5 to 4.5

Jufri Foss

Sports Co-ordinator – Tennis

Water Polo

Congratulations to all Pymble teams successfully making it through to Semi finals on Saturday 16 March. 

Special mention to Pymble 1 who played a friendly match against Brigidine 1 and come away with a nail biting 8 to 7 win. It was a fantastic mental game for the team and all players should be proud of their efforts – bring on Semi finals! 

Well done to all players! 

Team	Opposition	Score	Result
Pymble 1	Brigidine College	8 to 7	WIN
Pymble 2	Ravenswood School	6 to 3	WIN
Pymble 3	Abbotsleigh	5 to 7	LOSS
Pymble 4	Reddam House	2 to 4	LOSS
Pymble 5	Ravenswood School	7 to 3	WIN
Pymble 6	Ravenswood School	8 to 3	WIN
Pymble 7	Ravenswood School	7 to 9	LOSS

Brigette Moore

Head Coach – Water Polo

From the Co-curricular Performing Arts Team

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Language Arts

ISDA Debating

Round 5 was held at Brigidine College, St Ives on Friday 15 March.  Well done to all students who debated and supported their teammates. The team won six out of seven debates.

Round 6 will be held at Pymble on Friday 22 March. Abbotsleigh will be visiting.  Year 11 Senior B ISDA will have a make-up debate in early May, due to the Year 11 formal being held on Friday 22 March.  There will not be a Senior B debate this week.

Round 7 will resume on Friday 5 April.  Pymble will travel to Tangara School for Girls, Cherrybrook.

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.

FED Debating

Round 4 was held at Pymble on Friday 15 March with Trinity visiting.  Well done to our FED debaters!

Round 5 will be held at Pymble this Friday 22 March with Sydney Boys’ High visiting. Year 11 Senior B FED will have a make-up debate to be advised, due to the Year 11 formal being held on Friday 22 March.  There will not be a Senior B debate this week.

Year 7 FED and ISDA will be debating on Friday 22 March following Year 7 camp with a notification reminder to parents. Students should remember their uniforms to attend the debate.

Please note there will not be any debating next Friday 29 March, as it is Good Friday.  

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. 

Catering – Double Hosting 

Thank you to the parents/carers who provided the wonderful catering last time we double hosted.  We look forward to double hosting again this week.  As we still have plenty of non-perishables, we are requesting savoury sandwiches, fruit or drinks for the debating round on Friday 22 March.

Please click here if you are able to assist.

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. 

Cambridge Schools’ British Parliamentary Debating Competition

Amy Zhang (Year11) and Alice Mao (Year10) attended the Finals Day of the Cambridge Schools’ Debating Competition held in the Cambridge Union on Saturday 16 March.  

The Cambridge Schools’ Debating Competition is one of the largest and most prestigious schools debating competitions in the world, attracting over 1000 entrants each year. Participants are from a wide range of countries and regions, including UK, Canada and Asia. It was the first year that teams from Australia and New Zealand competed. Grand finalists from each region are invited to Finals Day, which aims to find and develop the most talented young debaters from around the globe and to give them a forum to discuss and explore ideas.  

The competitions were extremely challenging and exciting. Amy and Alice ranked 18th among all the teams. Trinity placed 35th and Riverview placed 38th. As individual speakers, Amy placed 11th and Alice placed 21st. Trinity placed 25th and 41st, and Riverview placed 50th and 57th respectively. 

We are Pymble proud of you Amy and Alice – congratulations on a fabulous effort!

2024 NSW Debating Union’s State team

Maya Garg (Year 11) has been selected to join the NSW Debating Union’s State Team. Well done Maya on this significant achievement. We look forward to hearing about your high-level training and debates. 

Public Speaking Auditions – Years 7 to 12 

Thanks 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!

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.

Mock Law 

Mooting has commenced.

Mediation auditions have been completed and the scenario has been released. Please ensure all registrations have been completed. Results are due Thursday 28 March.

Mock Trial

Material for the first round was released on Monday 4 March. The first round will take place at Pymble on Thursday 21 March from 3.30pm. 

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

It’s hard to believe we are so close to the end of Term 1. There is a lot of fatigue creeping in for both students and staff. We understand that early mornings are getting darker and arrival to school for rehearsals is proving harder. Please know that we have a duty of care for your daughters at rehearsals and therefore, if they are not going to be at school for a rehearsal, we would appreciate an email indicating their absence.

With Easter approaching, there will not be a Symphony Orchestra rehearsal on Friday 29 March, nor String Orchestra on Monday 1 April. This means attendance before the Ensemble Concert is of paramount importance.

Secondary School Ensemble Concert – COMPULSORY EVENT

The Secondary School Ensemble Concert will be held on Wednesday 10 April from 5.30pm on Gloucester Lawn. Families are encouraged to bring a picnic dinner and drinks and enjoy the wonderous 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 if you have not already done so. Having canvassed the students, it is apparent that many have not yet bought the uniform.

In the event of wet weather, the concert will move indoors to the Gillian Moore Centre of Performing Arts.

Music Support Group

If you would like to help our friendly parent group, please email Liz Toh on Elizabethtoh@gmail.com to offer help or find out any further information.

Tour 2024 – Spain/Portugal

A reminder that an email was sent last week setting out a new itinerary for the Music Tour as well as a request for the 2nd instalment. We are very excited to be taking 75 students and nine staff with us on this amazing tour. It is the biggest group to go in Pymble’s history, and the first music tour open to strings, band and choirs.

Photo purchases from Addams Family

Please click on the link to access the photo purchase portal: http://www.grantleslie.com.au/store

Click: Pymble Ladies College – Addams Family – Mar 2024

Password to view the gallery: cjO1DFnNrC

Should you have any issues with the website and/or gallery, please contact Grant Leslie directly

Sarah Turner

Head of Co-curricular Music

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

MORE DETAILS →

This year’s event is hosted by career coach and university lecturer, Rowena Ditzel (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.

Please click here to register your interest in attending the event as a Mentor.

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 me 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.

Book your daughter’s spot at the Easter Holiday Camp and Vision Valley

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. 

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The Role

Our Chaplaincy team provide spiritual direction and pastoral guidance to all members of our community, and in particular, the students and staff of our College. We are seeking an open and passionate Christian Chaplain, preferably a Uniting Church minister or deacon, to join our family on a permanent basis, commencing as soon as possible.

With a diverse community from a variety of backgrounds, lifestyles and beliefs, you will actively support our commitment to the Christian ethos and values we hold, while working collaboratively with the College staff to enhance and support the development and growth of the faith community. You will be inclusive of other faiths, encouraging students in their own journeys and progressive in theology so as to embrace the diverse, multi-cultural community at Pymble. You will be comfortable with inter-faith dialogue and support the Uniting Church (UCA) Basis of Union.

As prominent members of our College, our Chaplains focus on developing strong, professional relationships with the wider Uniting Church. You’ll be able to demonstrate leadership that strengthens and raises spiritual awareness and a unity in diversity, in accordance with both the College and UCA policies and principles. In joining our College as a member of the UCA, you will continue your own sacred journey and commitment to service the world, caring for all God’s creations, enabling faith development and celebrating diversity, inclusion, equality and value for all.

Click here for the position description. 

Our Kind of Team Member

You will demonstrate the following attributes and capabilities:

• Be a spiritually and diversely inclusive person and open to all members of our community, whatever their spiritual journey or philosophical ideologies may be.
• A willingness to embrace and understand the needs of the community and the skill to respond within the philosophy of Pymble Ladies’ College and the Uniting Church.
• An ability to demonstrate a deep and intrinsic knowledge of the Ministry of the Word and Sacrament in leading worship.
• The capacity to pastorally care for students, staff and families through times of grief and crisis.
• Willingness to support and promote the ethos and values of the College and the UCA and within this, lead by example.
• The ability to inspire faith by presenting the challenge and hope of the Gospel of Christ and support the spiritual growth of students from a range of religious and non-religious backgrounds.
• An effective and engaging person, providing collaborative, dynamic and strategic leadership for the spiritual growth of the College.
• Competency in organisation and administration as is required in the role of Chaplain.
• Personal qualities of creativity, flexibility, and resilience.
• The ability to work productively and collaboratively as a part of the College leadership team to achieve shared goals.  This includes supporting the decisions made by the Executive team and ultimately the Principal.
• Well-developed communication and interpersonal skills. This includes effective speaking and writing skills as well as interpersonal skills in developing rapport and quality relationships with the range of stakeholders in the College community.
• An ability to teach and support the Religious Education teaching program is highly desirable.
• Ability to work flexibly as a member of the collegiate team, both within the chaplaincy and wider student wellbeing programs.
• A demonstrated commitment to ongoing professional learning and growth.
• A track record of professional conduct, integrity and discretion at all times.

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 successful candidate will receive a package in line with the Uniting Church requirements, including accommodation and relocation cost assistance (if applicable).

We offer a range of benefits, including:

• professional development support
• access to our Aquatic and Fitness Centre, with free Yoga and Pilates classes
• daily morning tea
• discounted school fees (where applicable)
• a dedicated Staff Wellbeing team and regular social events, and
• easy access with close public transport and onsite or nearby (street) parking.

We also provide a wide range of opportunities for Pymble people to grow personally and professionally, including through growth strategies, training and professional development, career progression, access to technology and resources, and health and wellbeing opportunities.

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.

Reserve your tickets and get ready to make some noise!

Master Plan Update – March 2024

Welcome to the March 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 College Map has been updated to illustrate staff and department movements in March, including the Main Reception and is included below for your reference. 

The College is grateful for your support and we look forward to sharing more with you as the Master Plan journey progresses.

Please be aware, that girls using Grey House Walk now exit at the Junior School. Signs are in place for those girls unfamiliar with the Junior School to help them find their way to other parts of the College.

The Magazine 2022 is now available!

The Magazine 2022 is finally available! We apologise for the lateness of the release of this publication, however, our timelines were pushed back due to matters out of our control.

This year, we are offering you three different options to view, download or obtain a hard copy of the The Magazine 2022.

To provide a more environmentally and family friendly alternative, this year we are giving families the option of viewing/downloading a digital version where once downloaded you can bookmark across synchronised devices, for example Apple Books and/or Google Play.

1. View/download the web/device-friendly version (30MB). 
2. View/download the high-resolution version (240MB). 
3. Order your hard copy.

If you would like a hard copy version, please complete the order form. For printing purposes, we will need all orders submitted by Friday 22 March.

Our aim, which we are currently on track to meet, is to have The Magazine 2023 out by the end of this year.

EOI: Portobello Road Markets Stallholders

We are delighted to invite our College community to express your interest in holding a stall in Portobello Road Markets at this year’s Garden Party. You can help make this the best Garden Party yet! 

Please note that Portobello Market allocations are limited and as such registering your interest today does not confirm a position. Once a Convenor of Portobello Markets has been appointed, they will be in touch in mid-July with further instructions. 

To find out more please contact us at events@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au. 

To send an expression of interest, please click here.

We look forward to seeing you at Garden Party 2024!

Term 1 bus registrations are open!

Term 1 registrations for the Pymble private bus service to and from Pymble Ladies’ College are now open.  

The bus service will commence from the first day of term, Tuesday 30 January and conclude on the last day of term, Friday 12 April 2024. Please check the bus stops and times for your preferred bus route prior to Term 1 commencing. This will also be attached to your registration confirmation email as per normal.    

Registration for the Pymble bus service is offered on a term-by-term basis in two formats:    

1.  Term registration – $430.00 per term    

Valid for the whole term. Cancellations of Term registrations must be made in writing within seven days of the start of term.   

2. Flexible registration – $7.50 per trip  

Enables the student to register for specific day(s) with a choice of morning and/or afternoon runs.  

REGISTER NOW

FIND OUT MORE

Please read and discuss the attached Terms and Conditions of Travel with your daughter and ensure that she has her student ID card ready to tap on and off the bus service.   

A reminder for parents and students that:      

• Student ID cards must be used to tap on and tap off each trip. If your daughter has lost her card, please complete the attached form and return it to the IT Hub. The cost for a replacement card is $15, charged to your College account.    
• Pymble buses can be tracked through the TransportMe Passenger app in real time. Please find attached instructions on how to download and use the free app, available on Android and Apple devices.    

Please do not hesitate to contact College Services if you have any further questions about transport to and from Pymble Ladies’ College.