Regardless of where we all stand politically, it is likely that around this time two years ago many of us had begun hanging onto every word spoken by Gladys Berejiklian, then Premier of NSW. And so, it went on for months, the ‘drop-everything-and-listen’ 11.00am briefing with Gladys, our source of certainty in a highly uncertain time. On Wednesday, we were honoured to welcome Ms Berejiklian to Pymble as our inaugural guest speaker at the first in a series of events hosted under the banner of our new Centre of Excellence – and once again, we found ourselves hanging onto her every word.
Our Centre of Excellence speaking events aim to inspire students, staff and families with stories of excellence in all its forms, and this one exceeded all expectations thanks to a remarkable combination of guest speaker and student leaders. It’s important to note this was a student-led event, and my goodness our girls set the bar high. Congratulations to our interviewers extraordinaire, aka Year 12 Academic Learning Prefects, Eloise Kinchington and Caitlyn Tan; our eloquent MC, Evelyn Zhu in Year 10; Saja Abdel-Megeed in Year 8 for her thoughtful vote of thanks to Ms Berejiklian; and Grace Peters in Year 10 for her respectful acknowledgement of country. To say we’re Pymble Proud of these girls is an understatement. 🤩
Thank you also to the hundreds of students, parents and staff who came along, very early in the morning. For those who were unable to attend, please enjoy a few of the messages (abridged at times for brevity) shared by our special guest.
Caitlyn: Given this is a Centre of Excellence event, what is your definition of excellence?
GB: Always doing your best. Outcomes may differ but if you always strive to do your personal best, that to me is a definition of excellence.
Eloise: There are moments of joy and challenge in every job. What are some of the joys and challenges you have experienced?
GB: I find joy in the simple things. Every morning, I wake up and think: how can I make a difference, what positive thing can I do today? I think it’s important to always have a positive attitude.
In terms of challenges, any occupation where women are in the minority is always challenging…but, while those challenges exist, we should never use them as an excuse not to do our best, not to push through, and not to lead by example. I often got criticised for not speaking about women’s issues but, I thought, the moment I do that I will be regarded as a female Premier and I wanted to be regarded as a Premier. That was my way of demonstrating that women in leadership can make a difference – not defined by our gender but by the job we have done.
Caitlyn: What made you choose politics?
GB: It was the absolute commitment to give something back, to serve, which was instilled in me in my early years by my parents, who were migrants. We are fortunate to live in a democracy and, yes, all of us have challenges in our life, and life isn’t easy, but relatively speaking we have it pretty good. That sense of giving back and the freedom and liberty to express ourselves, which is very different to the country my parents came from, was a huge opportunity for us to give back.
Eloise: Where and how do you find inspiration?
GB: For me, it comes from people and from always wanting to give back. I also think a positive attitude is inspiring. Sometimes I look at my schedule now and think, ‘gosh there’s so many things I have to do today’, but I get inspiration from knowing that in a small way each of us is making a difference.
Eloise: How do you maintain that positive attitude in the face of challenge?
GB: There’s inspiration drawn from the sense of responsibility you have. For students here, it’s a sense of completing your studies and making sure you contribute to school life, but every task that we do has the opportunity to make a difference and make a change.
Never in my wildest dreams did I expect to be Premier of NSW; that’s not why I went into parliament. I wanted to make a difference to my local area…I just did my very best at every step of the way, without having a grand plan or a grand vision, other than giving back, and the opportunity came. Never be afraid to take inspiration from the smaller things because they all add up and you never know when an opportunity will come your way.
Caitlyn: As a College, our statement of intent is Watch Us Change the World. As you say, from little things, big things grow. So, how would you encourage young people to voice their concerns about various societal issues?
GB: Having the facts, the knowledge and a well-presented argument is always the best way to be heard. Make sure you equip yourself with all that before you go forward, with the support of your school and parents.
Eloise: If you had any piece of advice for your younger self or young people today, what would that be?
GB: Don’t be so hard on yourselves. It’s okay to make mistakes; it’s okay not to do as well as you wanted to. If you try your best and have the courage to follow what you really enjoy doing, rather than feeling the pressure of doing something that others encourage you to do, then you’re on the right path.
Eloise: The pandemic was a time of incredible uncertainty. I’m an Extension English student so part of our rubric involves characters seeking certainty and solace within their environs. You were our source of certainty throughout the pandemic – how did you maintain your motivation?
GB: I’m really pleased you used those words. I had arguments with people around me, who said, ‘people will get sick of you, don’t go on television every day’, and I thought, ‘no’. I chose the time carefully. I wanted to create that certainty, at a time when things were uncertain, and people were afraid of the future. I had the most information of anyone in NSW and wanted to make sure that, even if the rest of the day was a bit crazy for people, there was some information at 11 o’clock that would give them an indication of what the next few weeks would look like.
Caitlyn: What is your mark or the legacy you would like to leave on the world?
GB: I hope that people would say about me, she was a kind person.
Giving back, having the courage to try new things and make decisions, doing your best, changing the world in big and small ways, and being kind…I don’t think we could find someone more aligned with our Pymble values if we searched far and wide. Interestingly, Ms Berejiklian also cited the issues she was most passionate about changing – geopolitics of the world, climate change and support for First Nations people – adding that, despite known and unknown challenges, she holds a very positive view of the future. This was a timely message, given Reconciliation Week and our strategic intent to build our personal and collective Social Intelligence through learning about and learning from other people, cultures and perspectives, including our First Nations peoples. As we think deeply about the road to reconciliation and how to best support our First Nations students, her words offer optimism and hope:
“Collectively, there’s been a huge positive shift in values and people are looking at things differently. Whether it’s the pandemic or global circumstances, I think people are attaching their own values to decision making a lot more which I don’t think is a bad thing.”
We extend our grateful thanks to the truly excellent Gladys Berejiklian for sharing her wisdom and learnings so generously. A huge congratulations also goes to our Director of Centre of Excellence, Debbie Tarrant and Director of Staff, Steve Dunk, who have led the inception of our CoE and have more exciting initiatives up their sleeves. Our next speaker event will be held on Tuesday 1 August – so save the date!
Thank you for giving back to our Annual Appeal
Finally, on behalf of the Pymble Foundation Board, please accept our most humble thank you to those who have already responded to our 2023 Annual Appeal, launched earlier this week. The Appeal aims to raise funds to enable the College to offer more means-tested scholarships to deserving students, who otherwise would not be able to afford the excellent education our girls enjoy, and to support our building program to evolve learning spaces and facilities for current and future generations of Pymble students. Every donation, small or large, is needed and makes a difference. If you are interested in helping to support the vision and shape the future of our wonderful school, please follow the link to learn more about our2023 Annual Appeal.
Dr Kate Hadwen, Principal
From the Junior School
From the Head of Junior School
Warimiand welcome to Reconciliation Week in our Junior School. I am so proud of the way our girls take action on things that matter to them. Over the last few weeks, a group of girls have collaborated to advocate for reconciliation and cultural kindness in our nation.
Enjoy the Reconciliation poem ‘Be a Voice for the Generations’ co-created by Lakshi Rajeev (Year 5), Jing Juan Liu (Year 6), narrated by Olivia Guo (Year 5) with choreography and performance by Jade George, Bella Xu, Charlie Slater and Grace Akers (Year 6).
Also, enjoy our Reconciliation song, ‘Reconcile’ written by Sarah Lu (Year 4), performed by Ellie Lau (Year 6) with music composed by Mrs Maria Lee, Performing Arts teacher.
Teamwork makes the dream work!
This week I want to celebrate the teamwork we see in our girls as they learn and grow together. This is evident in our sporting teams, collaborative learning activities and in the extended learning our girls do in their many co-curricular activities.
Our Eisteddfod dancers dazzled with their commitment to teamwork on Friday when they realised one of their dancers was unwell and unable to attend the performance. The girls had limited time to learn revised choreography. They were determined, listened attentively to their coaches and then shone on stage with the performance. Whilst it’s wonderful to achieve high awards in these competitions, and we certainly did that as we were awarded 1st place for our Junior Lyrical routine and 2nd place for our Junior Jazz routine, I am even more proud of the mindset of our girls and their commitment to one another and their school.
Powering through the Balmoral Burn
I am so proud of our Junior School girls who supported one another and challenged themselves with the Balmoral Burn on Sunday. The Balmoral Burn is in its 21st year and challenges people to power up the 420metre incline of Awaba Street in support of the Humpty Dumpty Foundation.
Thank you to the girls, and their families, who supported this initiative this year. Mr Matt Tyson, Head of Sport K-6 and I are very proud of you.
This sense of supportive team mindset was very evident on Friday evening with our debaters who competed in a very intense and high quality debate against St Aloysius in the semi-finals. Our girls worked together, listened carefully to each argument posed by their opponents and presented articulate rebuttals to each submission. Whilst we are not progressing to the Finals this year, I am extremely proud of the poise and grit our girls displayed as they debated. Their exceptional general knowledge was evident, and their arguments were worthy of litigators in a court room! Whilst I was impressed by our girls’ eloquence and mental agility, I was even more proud of their dignity and Pymble spirit in congratulating the winning team. #PymbleProud.
Working as a team: Windows into Learning Year 6
We are constantly working in partnership with our Digital Learning Leaders as we strive to equip our girls with an understanding of the power of technology and the capacity to be a discerning user of technology. Mrs Jo Meacock, Year 6 Compass Teacher and Mr Jake Turnbull, Digital Learning Leader collaborated to bring AI to Mathematics with a series of complex word problems which they created using ChatGPT.
The girls and their parents then checked the veracity of ChatGPT’s solutions by working through the same problems to determine whether the process used by ChatGPT was the most efficient and whether the solution generated by ChatGPT was in fact correct. They evaluated the effectiveness of computer-generated calculations using mathematical reasoning and applied understanding. The aim of this activity was for girls to assess the usefulness of ChatGPT, an AI tool, and its role in developing student skills to be critical and effective mathematicians.
‘Some schools are making all students complete all assessments at home, whereas Pymble is embracing AI and showing students how it can be used in their learning. Well done for embracing AI Junior School!’ – Year 6 parent
‘In Windows into Learning the students were exploring AI using ChatGPT. There were discussions about the benefits and disadvantages of using AI technology. We resolved different problem-solving questions and compared it to the answers that Chat GPT found to further investigate the possibilities with AI. We had the opportunity to look at AI which gave us a better understanding of technology and a beneficial learning experience.‘ – Aria Kissun.
‘Windows Into Learning gave the opportunity for parents to grasp the understanding of what Year 6 has been doing in our classrooms. Parents were able to have a fun learning experience with their child and have morning tea in the Year 6 courtyards to mingle with other parents and peers.’ – Janet Song and Chloe Deng
Junior School Parent Group (JSPG) working as a team to send our Year 6 girls to Paris in Springtime!
A heartfelt thank you to our JSPG volunteers who worked to send our Year 6 girls to Paris for their Springtime in Paris parent daughter dance last weekend. What a glorious Parisienne spirit there was at this event. I am aware of the hours of planning, organising resources and set up/clear up there is involved in any of these events and I thank you all, on behalf of your daughters, for the magical memories you offer them as they share these experiences with their friends.
Teamwork in Learning – Collaboration – Lara Bird, Deputy Head of Junior School – Academics
“A boat doesn’t go forward if each one is rowing their own way.” – Swahili proverb
As our girls develop teamwork skills in sport, they are also developing skills to work collaboratively with peers in their learning. Across Kindergarten to Year 6, our teachers provide opportunities for the girls to work together whether in pairs or small groups across all subject areas in rich engaging, often complex activities. Our teachers also work collaboratively to plan lessons and develop activities for our girls.
Working interdependently and synergistically in teams, the girls make decisions and overcome hurdles and challenges. They contribute their ideas and learn to reflect on the contribution of their peers. In collaborative tasks the girls also develop skills in communication and accountability, where they must all engage in the task at hand to achieve a strong result. They are working for a common purpose and goal.
“I can do things you cannot, you can do things I cannot; together we can do great things” – Mother Teresa.
As our girls develop their skills, they understand the importance of valuing each member of the group, hearing their ideas and contributions and the strengths they bring. Being collaborative can be quite challenging for our quieter students who perhaps prefer to work independently. However, by understanding how each student works in their group, each member, whether they are introvert or extrovert, have a role to play and their voice is valued. They are not just occupying the physical space rather they are involved in and are part of the intellectual space. We want our girls to stretch their existing knowledge and continue to develop their academic strengths.
“Sometimes collaborating with my friends is tricky as we need to listen to each other and share our ideas. It is really good when people listen to my ideas and it makes me feel heard but it is hard when people don’t listen to each other.” – Marisa Nayak (Year 2)
“I like working with my friends as we can share ideas and combine them together to make our ideas even better.”- Jelena Peng (Year 2)
“Working with other people is good when you listen to each other. My friends have really good ideas so I like combining our ideas together.” – Sophia Thach (Year 1)
“I like working with my friends as it is more fun than working by myself.” – Kelly Ni (Year )
“When we work together it is really important to listen carefully, take turns and hear everyone’s good ideas.” – Neve Sadananda (Year 1)
“When you listen to someone else it gives you new ideas and not just your own thoughts.” Sofia Novak and Chloe Pedersen (Year 5)
“If there is a really hard problem, you can work together to solve it and we might use different strategies.” Michelle Ng and Angela Zhu (Year 5)
“When working with someone if I don’t know the answer the other person might.” Melody C (Year 5)
What are forces? How do we use push and pull forces to move ourselves and objects? These are some of the questions that Kindergarten have been investigating as part of our science unit this term, We like to move it, move it!
On Thursday May 25, Kindergarten were visited by Ranger Jamie Tours for an incursion filled with movement and excitement. We have been discovering that scientists observe, investigate and solve problems. The girls had an amazing time working co-operatively to make a paper rocket. It was wonderful to see them listening to each other and working together to solve dilemmas and work through mistakes. The rockets were then pushed into the sky with air pressure, and it was so fascinating watching to see how far they could go. Kindergarten took turns pulling billycarts for our friends and talked about how the more force we use, the faster our billycart will travel. We also experimented with using forces to change speed and direction. The girls took time out in nature to look for bugs and closely observe how they use push and pull forces to move. Then it was slime time! Kindergarten got messy making Oobleck out of cornflour and water. We used push and pull forces to manipulate the slime and form it into shapes.
It was a wonderful day filled with scientific wonderings and hands on learning!
Around the Grounds – Kate Giles, Lead Co-ordinator (K-3)
Kindergarten to Year 3 are using both the URSTRONG friendship program and the Kimochis program in Compass lessons this term. These research-based programs focus on teaching social-emotional skills such as communication, self-management, problem solving and resilience, with the focus on friendship and social connections. The girls have specifically been working on communication skills to collaborate with each other in a variety of different activities.
Kindergarten
In Kindergarten this week, the girls have been working in teams from across the grade to work together to achieve a goal. This focus on teamwork and collaboration was also seen during the Kindergarten Science Incursion, where the girls grew their understanding of push and pull by working in teams to create rockets and billycarts.
Year 1
In Year 1 the girls have been focusing on building and understanding their safety network. The girls have been discussing what to do if they feel worried, scared or unsafe and identifying those trusted adults who they can talk to and who always listen to them. This week, Year 1 are also focusing on care and how to show care towards others when working in a team. The girls have enjoyed building a tower in teams as well as creating a collaborative artwork with a group to build their communication and collaboration skills.
“I learnt that my mummy, daddy, my neighbour, Mrs Cook and Mrs Giles are all part of my safety network and I can talk to them when I need to.” – Lua Jung
“We need a safety network because when we feel uncomfortable, we can talk to a trusted grown-up about our feelings.” – Flora Wu
Year 2
Year 2 have been considering who they value and what makes them so special as they focus on gratitude. They created a portrait of someone who is special to them and reflected thoughtfully on what made that person so special.
“We spoke about people we value. I value my mum because she makes me feel happy and safe.” – Kaymi Madugalle Wijeratne
“I liked when we drew our special person portrait as I liked thinking about who is important to me.” – Chloe Pan
Year 3
This Term Year 3 have started the UpSchool Initiative as part of their Compass lessons. This service initiative involves the girls working collaboratively through the creation of their own story books to help change the way people think about the world. The girls are passionately considering what is important to them and how they want to see change in their world. They will then continue to create, illustrate and publish these books as the year progresses. Look out for their published books later this year!
“I am so excited to get to write my own book and have it look like a real one.” – Nadya Faheem
We encourage you to talk and reflect with your daughter about her learning during Compass lessons.
Blossoming Minds are running Circle of Security Parenting groups in June and August. These workshops aim to help parents of young children understand their child’s emotional needs and regulation, foster self-esteem and strengthen their child’s security.
In Italian lessons, our Kindergarten to Year 2 girls are loving exploring different aspects of the Italian language and culture.
“I liked making my own ‘pesce’ story.”- Charlotte Wang (Year 2)
“I liked writing a puppet show with my friend Alice.” – Claire Xu (Year 1)
“I love the ‘adesso’ song.”- Iyla Jolapara (Kindergarten)
Around the Grounds – Jayne Mercer, Lead Co-ordinator (4-6)
Year 4
In Mathematics Year 4 have been investigating the concepts of volume and capacity. Through practical activities they have looked into the difference between them, what formal units we use to measure volume and capacity and how to convert between the different units of measure.
Year 5
Recently Year 5 invited Georgia from Year 12 to join their Performing Arts lessons. In preparation for the upcoming showcase the girls participated in a workshop with Georgia and learnt about Indigenous dance movements from Gomoroi Land. Students had a great time dancing to various Indigenous movements. We would like to express our sincere gratitude for dedicating your time with us Georgia!
ySafe
Students today live in a digitally connected world.
Common topics of conversation between parents and educators are around the amount of time children are spending online, the games they are playing, the social media accounts they are accessing and how to protect children online.
During Week 7 students in Years 1 to 6 will be participating in workshops run by ySafe.
ySafe are a leading provider in Australia and deliver age-appropriate content to students on how to stay safe online.
On Tuesday June 6 ySafe will run an online session for all Junior School Parents from 6.30pm to 7.30pm.
Protecting children in their digital worlds is an ever-evolving task for Australian families. Now more than ever, parents are looking for guidance on how to manage screen time and navigate the world of games and social media.
We are therefore pleased to help our parent community by offering a crucial and engaging education session with ySafe, Australia’s leading provider of cyber safety education. This practical, strategy-rich session will cover the most important points that all families need to know about online safety, covering key information about social media and gaming, screen time recommendations and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a cyber-safe home for children of all ages.
If you’ve ever struggled with getting your children off their games and into bed, worried about the content of the games that they are playing or felt concerned that your child was spending too much time in the digital world, this workshop is for you!
The link to the session can be found by clicking here.
ySafe have also created an online safety hub for our Junior School. Please click here to access the hub which will provide you will some great information about keeping your family safe online.
We look forward to seeing many of you join us online on Tuesday June 6.
Kindness Day – Call for help!
On Wednesday 14 June we are celebrating our Kindness Day in Junior School which will centre around service. Each year group will be taking part in an activity that will involve giving back to others. We would love to invite following members of our community to assist on the day:
Year 4 – We need knitters and anyone who is able to crochet and assist in putting together the squares our Year 4 girls have knitted this year for the charity – Wrap with Love.
Year 6 – We would love to invite any Grand adults to assist with sewing hearts. The girls will be stitching around felt hearts and we would love some assistance with teaching them how to use embroidery thread. This will be in support of 1000 Hearts Charity.
We are very excited to have some Alumni joining us to assist too.
Performing Arts Showcase: Archie’s World Music Adventure
You are warmly invited to the 2023 Year 5 Showcase called ‘Archie’s World Music Adventure 2023’. This will be taking place in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts on Friday 16 June from 1.30pm to 2.30pm. Entry is free, and all are welcome. We look forward to seeing you there!
To ensure your daughters are not disrupted during class time, could we please request that all deliveries are dropped to the Junior School Admin offices and we will ensure they are delivered to your daughter.
Absent, Late Arrivals/Early Departures, Vacation
If your daughter is late, please remind her to go to the office to sign in so we know she is here. Please help your daughter to arrive at school by 8.10am each morning (unless she has an earlier activity) so she has time to settle into the day with her friends and is ready and calm for her learning in Period 1.
If you daughter is absent from school please enter her absence through the MyPymble App or email juniorschool@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au .
If your daughter will be away from school for more than 2 days for family leave or other commitments (e.g sport) please complete the Exemption from Attendance Application form on the Portal. Where possible please provide two weeks advance notice.
Lost Property – please help!
We are finding an extraordinary amount of lost property each week, much of which is unnamed. We want our girls to be responsible for their things so please ensure your daughter’s full name is clearly labelled on all items of clothing including socks, hats and lunch items so they can be quickly returned to your daughter
Event and Excursion approval
A reminder to parents to please provide permission for your daughter to attend an event or an excursion. Click this link to view how to. If your daughter has approved leave on the day of the event or excursion please mark not approved to attend.
From the Junior School Parent Group (JSPG)
Past Events
Family Fun Day & Movie Night
Thank you to everyone who attended our Family Fun Day and Movie Night on Saturday 20th May. We had over 850 people in attendance and it was a wonderful day of fun and entertainment. We hope everyone had a fabulous time.
Year 6 Parent Daughter Dance
Our Year 6 Dance Committee prepared a sensational night at Killara Golf Club last Saturday night. Thank you to everyone who attended, we had over 250 girls and their families. With the theme “Springtime in Paris”, the evening was beautifully crafted to the finest detail and included an array of French décor, food and entertainment. We hope all our families had a très magnifique time!
Upcoming Events
Kindergarten to Year 2 Athletics Carnival Stall(Thursday 8 June)
The Junior School K-2 Athletics Carnival is always an exciting day in the school calendar. The JSPG runs a food and drink stall throughout the day for students and spectators to purchase from. We rely on food and drink donations from our wonderful parents as well as a team to serve throughout the day. Thank you in advance for your help!
Years 3 to 6 Athletics Carnival Stall (Friday 9 June)
The Junior School Years 3 to 6 Athletics Carnival is always an exciting day in the school calendar. The JSPG runs a food and drink stall throughout the day for students and spectators to purchase from. We rely on food and drink donations from our wonderful parents as well as a team to serve throughout the day. Thank you in advance for your help!
Please join us at the Jacaranda Restaurant at Killara Hotel for a Year 3 Mums’ Night out on Wednesday 14th June from 6:30pm to 9pm. To RSVP, please click here.
Key Dates
Monday 5 June
ySafe for Years 3, 4 and 6
Tuesday 6 June
ySafe for Years 1, 2 and 5
Tuesday 6 June
ySafe Parent Information Evening (online) 6.30pm to 7.30pm
Wednesday 7 June
Year 2 Taronga Zoo
Thursday 8 June
K-2 Athletics Carnival
Friday 9 June
3-6 Athletics Carnival
Monday 12 June
King’s Birthday Public Holiday – no school today!
Tuesday 13 June
Years 1 and 2 – Concert Voice Recording
Wednesday 14 June
Kindness Convention (GMCPA) and K-6 Kindness Service
Wednesday 14 June
Years 5 + 6 Maths Olympiad
Wednesday 14 June
Years 3 + 4 Maths Explore
Thursday 15 June
Year 5 Performance Dress Rehearsal
Friday 16 June
Year 5 Dress Rehearsal
Friday 16 June
Year 5 Parent Performance – 1.30pm
Kate Brown
Head of Junior School
From the Middle School
This week we celebrated Reconciliation Weekacross the College with a number of wonderful and engaging events focusing on this year’s theme: Be a Voice for Generations.
I wanted to firstly acknowledge all of the Indigenous scholars in the Middle School: Sienna Melton, Ellie Pointon, Evie Farr, Sophia Kawane, and Imarni Woodroffe-Mulholland and thank them for their contributions. I was blown away by the very impressive Middle School representation in the Combined Assembly this week that showcased the girls’ maturity and integrity. Congratulations to Evie for her confident introduction to the guest speaker, Rikki Mason from Bangarra Dance and to Sienna Melton for the thoughtful and poised Q+A session that followed. The School Choir’s rendition of Paul Kelly’s From little things big things grow was enhanced by those Year 7 and 8 members who sang so sweetly.
The Middle School video presented at the Combined Assembly was introduced by Mia Cherry and Jaya Chand from the Year 8 elective class: First Nations Cultures and Histories.This was a moving demonstration of sincerity and care.
During Compass Curriculum lessons this week the girls invested time in further exploring Reconciliation. They were encouraged to use their voices to combat racism and to work toward creating a better country for future generations. Middle School was invited to make a commitment by completing an individual “Be a voice for….” card, samples of which are shared below. We will be making a mural along the colonnade showcasing these individual testimonies.
Congratulations to Saja Abdel-Megeed (Y8) on her warm gratitude in thanking Gladys Berejiklian at the Centre for Excellence Breakfast on Wednesday morning.
National Exchange
I am delighted to share with you an update on our Year 8 National Exchange program. The team has now managed to lock in partner schools from: Queensland, Victoria, South Australia, Western Australia and Tasmania. Out applications closed at the beginning of the week and now comes the process of selection for this great opportunity. Once participants are finalised, we will hold an Information Evening to share details. It is wonderful to invigorate what was a very successful pre-Covid experience.
Happy Box Project Update
This week we have really started to move on this wonderful Middle School service initiative. I was delighted to see over 70 students attend the Tuesday planning session. We will be holding lunchtime workshops on Tuesdays and Thursdays to prepare handmade contributions to the Happy Boxes. Please encourage your daughters to get involved and in turn clock up their Service hours. The design competition that is running alongside this project closes on Friday and we have already had so many inspirational entries that will be selected to be printed onto the tote bags which we will use in lieu of boxes.
Best of PAC Winners
Well done to Middle School girls who performed at the Best of PAC. Congratulations to Saskia Nicholson and Grace Louw (Year 8) for being the overall winners with their rendition of Wrecking Ball by Miley Cyrus. Alannah Tang (Year 8) won people’s choice award. Congratulations Laranya Nanthakumaran and Isabelle Port (Year 8) who also made the Best of PAC night a spectacular night.
Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to all who competed and participated at last week’s Athletics Carnival. It was lovely to see so many girls supporting and cheering on their House. Thank you to families for ensuring your daughters were here to catch that early bus.
Sophie Heap – Gymnastics
Well done to Sophie Heap who recently competed in the Australian Gymnastics Championships for Acrobatic Gymnastics held in the Gold Coast. Sophie and her team (all of whom are much older than Sophie!) placed third in the Junior 13-19 Women’s Trip All Around category.
Year 7 Debating
Our Pymble 7B FED team won the Grand Final! Dedication, cooperation, courage and critical thinking have been more than evident throughout the season.
The team attained the highest scores and now bring home the trophy.
Bravo and congratulations to:
7B
Ruby Chu
Ella Zhang
Emily Basak
Alexa Wu
Coach – Lara Blair, supervisor Sarah Boyd
Attendance Matters
Education for your child is important and regular attendance at school is essential for your child to achieve their educational best.
The Importance of arriving on time
Arriving at school and class on time:
Ensures that students do not miss out on important learning activities scheduled early in the day
Helps students learn the importance of punctuality and routine
Give students time to greet their friends before class ظ
Reduces classroom disruption
Lateness is recorded as a partial absence and must be explained by parents.
A reminder regarding Leave Applications
Leave is only granted for illness, bereavement, elite sport or work experience. Vacations should be restricted to the prescribed holiday periods. Where possible, leave to attend medical appointments should be minimised. Students are expected to participate in whole-school activities and should avoid making appointments on these occasions.
Applications for special leave should be completed on the ‘Exemption from Attendance’ form found on MyPymble via the College website and signed by a parent or carer. Forms are to be sent to the respective school office as soon as possible or at least fourteen days in advance of the intended period of leave.
From the Year 7 Parent Group Leaders
Year 7 Coffee Meet Up – Friday 2 June
A Year 7 coffee meet up will be held at a favourite local café, Brick Lane Expresso, in West Pymble shops from 8.00am on Friday 2 June. This is a great opportunity to catch up with other parents, immediately after drop off and before you continue with the rest of the day. We look forward to seeing you there.
PPA Trivia Night – Saturday 3 June
The 2023 Trivia Night for parents (K to 12) will be held on Saturday 3rd June at Hornsby RSL. This is a hugely popular event with a ‘movie character’ fancy dress theme to add to the fun!
You can sign up to be allocated to a table and meet new people (request to be seated with other Year 7 families during the booking process), or get a group together to make up a table of 10.
We would love to see as many Year 7 parents attend this event as possible. Tickets are $75 each ($750 for a table of 10). Please click here to register.
Year 7 Dinner – Saturday 17 June
As we rapidly approach the half-way point of the year, we would love to invite all parents to the first Year 7 Dinner. This relaxed dinner event will be held in the beautiful surrounds of The Rooftop at the Governor Hotel, just down the road in Macquarie Park.
We are currently holding a booking at this hugely popular venue and need to provide an indication of numbers to confirm the venue. If you are interested in joining us for this dinner, could you please complete the ”Expression of Interest” voting poll by Friday 26 May. The voting poll can be found in the “Yr 7 Parents Class of 2028” WhatsApp group. To be clear, the poll is to quickly gauge the likely numbers. It is not a firm commitment and booking details will follow at a later date. This event will be for parents only.
Jenny O’Donnell
Head of Middle School
From the Upper School
A message from Mr Riley, Head of Upper School
We had a fabulous day at the Athletics Carnival late last week. Whilst it was a cold start for our Year 9s up at James Kelso Field at 7.00am, it did not deter us, and it was fantastic to be able to cheer on our amazing athletes and to see so many students participating in the non-competitor races and events. I also loved seeing the amazing spreads of food being shared between friends, self-cooking noodle pots, and new card games that I had never seen before!
On the theme of competing, I could not help but be drawn to this recent interview by Giannis Antetokounmpo discussing ‘steps to success’. With so many talented young people at Pymble it can be tempting to think that not coming first, not being in the top class, missing out on a position or missing out on a great mark is a failure. Whilst about sport, Giannis’ interview is applicable to life and really helps to show that we all have good days and bad days, that these small developments are building blocks along the journey, and that, ultimately, if you want to be successful you must keep returning to the arena.
So, in closing I wanted to say a massive thank you to our girls and our parents for supporting this wonderful event and for helping to build some Pymble pride. It was great to see you in the arena!
A big shout of to Jahle Tez in Year 9 who, together with her Year 11 and 12 counterparts, put on a fabulous fundraiser for UNICEF supporting the those impacted by the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria. The students sold gozleme, sweet treats and taught new painting techniques, and raised over $1500.
This week we also welcomed four French Exchange students from Colmar and Lyon. Bienvenue!
From the Upper School Parent Group
Click here to purchase your tickets for the Year 9 Cocktail Evening on Saturday 17 June.
PymbleLC Parents Class of 2025 (Facebook for year 10)
PymbleLC Parents Class of 2026 (Facebook for year 9)
PymbleLC USPG 2023 (Facebook for all Upper School parents)
Or please contact us for an invite to a WeChat group or Dads WhatsApp group.
Key Dates
Monday 5 June – Year 10 into 11 Subject Selection Launch to Students
Tuesday 6 June – YSafe Parent Online Event – Details on Parent Portal
Monday 12 June – King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday 13 June – Year 10 into 11 Subject Selection Evening (6.45pm to 8.30pm) – To be held in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts (GMCPA), Main Hall and Colonnade classrooms
Wednesday 21 June – Secondary School Ensemble Concert
Thursday 22 June – Last day of Term 2
Tom Riley
Head of Upper School
From the Senior School
Pymble – Knox Connections
This week we had our first Pymble – Knox Connections meeting at Knox Grammar School. The Year 11 students were involved in some games that were designed to help them get to know each other, then they worked on some expectations of the group. We also enjoyed a presentation from two Year 12 students who are both Prefects with the portfolio of Student Wellbeing, Lucy and Hugo. They spoke to the group about what makes a healthy and respectful relationship and how to take opportunities to engage and meet others. I would like to congratulate all the students on the way they engaged in the session and hope they all had a good time. Many thanks to Knox for hosting us. Next week, we will be having our next meeting at Pymble and enjoying a movie.
You’ve Got A Friend in Me!
During Compass time this week, Year 11 and Year 12 students participated in a fun activity of ‘speed-meeting’ each other. Working in Houses, the students in Years 11 and 12 rotated around the classes, chatting about given topics and finding shared interests and having a laugh. It was a lovely afternoon of fun and community and great to see everyone so engaged! Well done girls – I hope you made some new connections. Congratulations to our Senior School Liaison Prefects, Shivani and Alex, for leading this initiative.
Athletics Carnival
Congratulations to all who competed and participated at last week’s Athletics Carnival. As promised in the newsletter last week, I have included some lovely photos of the great sense of House spirit and fun that the Year 12s, in particular, brought to the day.
Wrap with Love Knit-In
A reminder to all parents, grandparents and friends, to keep lunchtime on 20 June free – for our Senior School Knit In. From 12.45pm to 2.15pm you are warmly invited to come along to the Senior School with your knitting needles and wool and join us for our annual knit in! The blankets we make are provided to those in need both in Australia and overseas.
If you are able to contribute, you will need: 8 ply wool (any type but the students have been asked to use 100% pure wool for warmth, and Australian wool, where possible, to support our farmers), 4.00 needles (size 4.00).
The pattern is a square of 50 rows X 50 stitches. All the details can found at the Wrap with Love website.
Term 2 Key dates
Monday 12 June – King’s Birthday Public Holiday
Tuesday 20 June – Senior School Knit In
Thursday 22 June – Last day of Term 2
Nikki Wyse
Head of Senior School
From the Boarding School
It has been wonderful to see our First Nations Scholars leading the way throughout Reconciliation Week. Last Friday three of our scholars – Adison Hartog-Smith, Imogen Hawkins, Wyntah Mulholland and Jaidey Samuelson participated in raising the flags at the Indigenous Veterans’ Commemoration Service. Now in its 17th year, the service was held at the ANZAC Memorial, Hyde Park Sydney and recognises the invaluable contribution of our First Nations people, acknowledges the injustices many of them faced, and helps to create a deeper understanding of Australia’s military history.
On Saturday our First Nations Boarders were out in full force leading the way again at the Indigenous Rounds of Sport Opening Ceremony. It was great to hear these young women sharing their stories and culture and especially wonderful to have many of their families here with us.
Pymble Goes to Young
Last Saturday night the Beveridge family hosted a gathering of Pymble past, present and possible families in their home in the southern central town of Young. It was a wonderful opportunity to celebrate all things Boarding and welcome the newest members of our Pymble family. My deep thanks go to Edwina and Michael for their warm and generous hospitality in hosting this special event.
Love It – Mrs White
Indigenous Sports Round was the perfect way to kick of National Reconciliation week. We celebrated the rich Indigenous culture and the promotion of inclusivity through the Indigenous Sports Round. With a Welcome Ceremony, Basketball, Football and Rugby, these activities not only provided a chance to experience Indigenous culture firsthand but also promote teamwork, coordination, and friendly competition.
As the sun sets on Saturday evening, we invited all boarders to gather around the fire pit for a cozy and memorable experience. The fire pit provided the perfect setting for storytelling, sharing laughter, and forging new friendships. While enjoying the warmth of the fire, the Boarders indulged in delicious marshmallow roasting and create scrumptious s’mores.
On Sunday morning, we encouraged all adventurous Boarders to participate in the Balmoral Burn, a fun run event held annually to raise funds for the Humpty Dumpty Foundation. The Balmoral Burn features a picturesque yet challenging course that, offering breathtaking views. Whether you chose to run, jog, or walk, this event fun was had by all. Congratulations to our teams that ended up on the Podium including our fearless captain, Abigail.
We hope you’re ready for an exhilarating and vibrant weekend ahead as we bring you two fantastic events to light up your senses and cheer for our favourite AFL team. Get ready for the captivating sights of Vivid Sydney and the thrilling GWS Giants AFL match.
Prepare to be dazzled by the magical world of lights and creativity as Vivid Sydney returns to our city. The streets, buildings, and landmarks of Sydney will come alive with stunning light installations, art projections, and interactive displays. Take a leisurely stroll through the illuminated streets, snap Instagram-worthy photos, and marvel at the imaginative creations that transform our city into a breathtaking wonderland. From the iconic Sydney Opera House to the bustling streets of The Rocks, Vivid Sydney promises a sensory feast for all ages.
Calling all footy fans! On Sunday afternoon, our beloved GWS Giants will take on their fierce rivals in a thrilling AFL match. Head to the stadium and cheer on our local heroes as they showcase their skills, teamwork, and determination on the field. Feel the electrifying atmosphere as the crowd roars with excitement and join in the chants to support our team. Whether you’re a die-hard footy fanatic or new to the sport, attending an AFL match is an experience like no other.
View From My Window
Hi, my name is Vanessa. I’m in Year 11 and I’m new to Pymble this year. I was born in Hong Kong, and my family is from there but we moved to Singapore in 2020.
From my window I see the other half of the apartment complex, and my favourite view from my balcony is the sunset. My favourite view from my window is the sunset. My family and I could sit on the balcony for a good hour chatting and watching at the sunset with a cup of tea.
My favourite thing about Singapore is probably how closely packed and convenient everything is, because Singapore is such a small city – you could probably drive from one end of the city to the other in roughly an hour. I also love how safe the city is – the super strict rules and public pressure ensures the cleanliness and low crime rates of the city.
I love being at home and spending time with my family and watching movies with my sister, but I was also really excited to come back to boarding to spend time with my friends.
Boarder of the Week
Wyntah Mulholland has been a beautiful addition to Marden House. While she has only been here for a short time, she settled in quickly and she has made our Boarding family so much richer just by being her!
Wyntah hails from Darwin, where she lives with her parents and siblings. She is proud of her Yanyuwa and Larrakia heritage and has been involved in a number of First Nations events since she arrived at Pymble, most recently the Indigenous Round of Sport and as part of the Flag Party at the Indigenous Veterans’ Commemoration Service.
Wyntah is an old soul and approaches all things she does with a calm and measured attitude. She is organised, keeps her room immaculate and her uniform impeccable. Her kindness and loyalty to friends shines through in all that she does and we adore having her with us here in Boarding.
Jersey Day Commemoration Chapel Service
Save the Date
Tuesday 6 June – Jersey Day Commemoration Chapel Service
Wednesday 7 June – Jersey Day
Friday 9 June – Boarders’ Long Weekend Travel Day
Monday 12 June from 5.00pm – Return to Boarding
Friday 16 June – Boarders’ Parent Group Meeting (online)
Thursday 22 June – Boarders’ End of Term Travel Day
Monday 17 July from 2.00pm – Return to Boarding Start of Term 3
Friday 4 to Sunday 6 August – Boarder Parents Regional Weekend in Mudgee
Carolyn Burgess
Head of Boarding
From the Chaplains
This week at the College we have been reminding ourselves of the importance of Reconciliation between Indigenous and non-Indigenous Australians. The theme for this year’s National Reconciliation Week is ‘Be a Voice for the Generations’.
It is heartening for me to see this generation of young people, on the whole, growing up to have a good understanding of the wrongs that have been committed in the past and how these wrongs have caused trauma and disadvantage that continues into the present. Best of all, many of our young people want to be part of the generation that makes things better for everyone. While directing political decisions is not the role of the school, it is our role to educate, engage students in important topical issues, and stimulate curiosity and respectful debate.
An educative document I share with my students is the interactive Massacre Map developed by the University of Newcastle. This map continues to evolve, being constantly added to as more evidence and stories come to light. It documents the massacres that occurred during Australia’s frontier wars between 1788 and 1930. A few of the dots on the map mark the sites where First Nations people killed colonists. The vast majority show where colonists killed First Nations people. Men, women and children died. It makes confronting reading.
In a joint statement, the President of the Uniting Church in Australia, Rev Sharon Hollis, and the Uniting Aboriginal and Islander Christian Congress (UAICC) Interim National Chair, Rev Mark Kickett, affirmed their strong support for a Voice to Parliament as a critical step toward honouring the sovereignty of First Nations Australians in this land and furthering the work of truth-telling and treaty. The Assembly Standing Committee (ASC) in March declared the support of the Uniting Church in Australia for the change in the constitution to recognise an Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Voice to Parliament. The Uniting Church have developed an online resource that you may wish to read which outlines their rationale for supporting The First Nations Voice proposal.
Ahead of the Australian Indigenous Voice referendum later this year, all Australians are encouraged to listen, learn, consider the facts, engage in respectful debate and think deeply about where our nation has come from and where we are going.
“All this is from God, who reconciled us to himself through Christ and gave us the ministry of reconciliation: that God was reconciling the world to himself in Christ, not counting people’s sins against them. And he has committed to us the message of reconciliation.”
Edwina O’Brien
Assistant Chaplain
From the Deputy Principals – Academic (Acting)
Year 10 into 11 Subject Information Evening
Our Subject Selection Information Evening for Year 10 into 11 (2024) will take place on Tuesday 13th June at 6.45pm in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts (GMCPA).
The schedule for this evening includes a brief introduction by our Heads of Senior School and Upper School, an information session by the Director of Studies and our Futures Advisor on the subject selection process for Year 11 2024. Following the presentation, there will be an opportunity for face-to-face discussions with our Heads of Learning Areas and specialist teachers about our selection of Stage 6 courses.
For those unable to attend onsite, the presentation from the GMCPA can be viewed as a live event using this link and will also be recorded for viewing on the Subject Selection website.
Ahead of this evening, the Year 10 students will have the opportunity to explore the subject options in their classes and on Monday 5 June in a Q and A with the Year 11 Subject Captains.
Parents/carers and students can also explore the huge variety of subjects on offer in Stage 6 at Pymble in our Subject Information Booklet.
We hope you will be able to join us for this enjoyable and valuable evening.
Year 12 HSC Winter Study Camp – registration closes June 16th
Two Pymble HSC Study camps will be run this year during the Winter and Spring holiday breaks. Last year we had over 75 per cent attendance and the feedback from students indicated these camps had a huge impact on increasing their confidence and outcomes while reducing stress.
What makes the Pymble Study Camp so valuable?
Access to experienced HSC Pymble teachers for individual tutoring
Assistance with organising a detailed study plan
ATAR estimates and study strategy meetings with Mrs Stanfield
Practice exam room
Break out rooms to work in absolute silence or in small collaborative groups
All food provided with unlimited tea and coffee
Access to photocopiers, gym and other facilities if working on major works
Very competitive price with external study camps
Dates: Monday 26 June to Friday 30 June
Time: 8.30am to 4.00pm
Cost: To be advised
Year 12 HSC Spring Study Camp
Dates: Monday 24 September to Friday 29 September
Time: 8.30am to 4.00pm
Cost: To be advised
Natasha Stanfield and Jake Plaskett
Director of Studies 7-12 and Director of Academic Excellence
From the Futures Team
Understanding your strengths to help you with future pathways
Year 10 are currently meeting with our Futures Team to understand their Clifton’s Strengths Profile results. The students are given an opportunity to share how their strengths are currently being used in their lives. We also discuss strategies to understand how to articulate strength to others for opportunities such as applications, interviews and within their Pymble Passport.
I had the pleasure of attending the Centre of Excellence Launch Breakfast this week. In an interview with our Academic Prefects, the guest of honour, Ms Gladys Berejikilian, spoke of her experiences throughout her career and imparted advice on her learnings. I observed her humble yet confident manner in speaking about her strengths and I was impressed by the examples she gave of times she demonstrated her strengths. Here are some key takeaways I’d like to share;
Have self awareness of your strengths and what makes you stand out. It will help you to make the right decisions about your next steps in your career.
Skills are transferrable across jobs but its important to have some expertise to allow you to contribute your knowledge and experience across various roles (Ms Berejikilian studied a Masters of Commerce).
Flexibility and adaptability are important – you need to be able see how your skills can be used in different ways and across various contexts.
Be prepared to learn and have the courage to lead. She spoke her decision to broadcast the daily updates to the public during the pandemic and her deliberate aim to create consistency and calm in the midst of uncertainty.
Excellence is doing your personal best in whatever role you’re in. Try not to make comparisons with others, reflect on how you can improve and be better. Opportunities will open up as a result of your demonstration of excellence.
Important Updates for Year 12
Please view the following video from Ms D’Souza on the latest information for Year 12 students at our Futures@Pymble Youtube channel.
First Nations Tertiary Pathways Expo
Our Futures Advisor, Ms Fiona D’Souza accompanied six students to this event at Barker. It was a great opportunity for students to learn more about specific programs and initiatives available to support Indigenous students in pursuing success in a post school pathway from universities and TAFE.
Kim Maksimovic
Director of Futures and Partnership (K-12)
From the Community Engagement Team
Events Calendar
College events can be found on the MyPymble app under the calendar tab. Checking your calendar regularly is a worthwhile exercise to stay informed and up to date with opportunities to connect with parents, staff and other members of the College community. This weekend we look forward to seeing many parents at the Pymble Parent Association (PPA) Trivia Night at Hornsby RSL, all dressed up in the theme of ‘Movie Characters’.
Alumni Networking Event
Earlier this month the College combined with the Ex-Students’ Union (ESU) to host our annual Alumni Networking Event. The team was delighted to facilitate connections between mentors and mentees across a range of industries, with almost 300 ex-students, mentors, parents and current Year 12 students attending the event.
The evening is a significant event on the Pymble calendar, and preparations are already in place to begin planning for 2024. We are excited to announce that next year’s event will be held on Thursday 16 May at KPMG in Barangaroo. Keep an eye out for communications in the coming weeks regarding ongoing networking and mentoring opportunities.
Annual Appeal
At Pymble, the power of community is very important. We are fortunate that our community sets us apart as a leading, influential, innovative girls’ school in Australia.
Our 2023 Annual Appeal is your opportunity to join others in making a difference to the lives of our current and future students. Your tax-deductible gift before 30 June will support students through our Pymble Foundation Bursary Program (means-tested scholarships) or our Building Fund to help us bring our vision for the future of our learning environments to life.
We warmly invite you to consider how you may be able to assist us to achieve our vision for the future of the College and our goal for Pymble girls to graduate as influential and compassionate changemakers in their local, national and global communities. Your gift has the power to make a real difference as we change the world, together.
If you would like to support these programs, please click here to donate.
Pymble Inaugural All-School Cultural Event
We invite all families at the College to the inaugural all-school Pymble cultural event on Friday 21 July from 5.30pm to 8.00pm in Main Hall. The Pymble community is represented by more than 40 different cultural backgrounds. We are excited to be celebrating our diversity at this event, complementing other smaller cultural events run with the girls throughout the year within the curriculum and our co-curricular programs.
Starting in 2023, each year Pymble will celebrate a different culture with a dinner or small festival. This year we are celebrating the Dragon Boat Festival, a traditional Chinese holiday.
The event tells the tale of Chinese hero and poet Qu Yuan who lived in the second century CE. Through a series of traditional Chinese performances ranging from singing, dancing and musical items from Pymble students and families, Qu Yuan’s story will be woven against a setting of political intrigue and exile culminating in the story of zongzi – traditional delicious rice treats – and how Qu Yuan was responsible for the very first Dragon Boats.
As well as entertainment, there will be plenty of fun activities for the children including craft tables, Chinese paper folding, colouring and calligraphy, as well as fun and whimsical story cards detailing the tale of the Dragon Boat festival.
Complementing the epic saga of Qu Yuan, guests will be treated to Yum Cha-style canapes including delicious zongzi as well as other traditional Chinese dishes.
We look forward to welcoming all students, parents, carers, siblings and other family members from across our Pymble community to this event to learn more about Chinese culture and to enjoy fun and friendship.
Date: Friday 21 July
Time: 5.30pm to 8.00pm
Venue: Main Hall
Cost: Adults – $50, School aged children – $30, Children under 5 – free
Inclusions: Yum Cha style canapes and entertainment
The Enrolments tour of regional NSW continued last week, culminating in the Pymble in Young event graciously accommodated by the Beveridge family in their beautiful home. The Enrolments team, along with the host family, welcomed 40 attendees on the evening, including current and ex-students as well as future Pymble families, and enjoyed a shared affinity with our College late into the evening.
Kelly Mancey
Director of Community Engagement and Advancement
From the Co-curricular Sports Team
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Opportunity to purchase photos
Co-curricular photos are now available to purchase online from our College photographer, Anthony Khoury Photography. Simply scan the QR code in the attached brochure or see log in details below:
Students in all areas of the Performing Arts continue to flourish in rehearsal and performance contexts.
In reading the articles that are presented below, it remains my firm belief that a successful competition or an eisteddfod result does not reside in the splendid isolation of achievement at the event.
These results are achieved as a result of commitment, collaboration, passion and sheer hard work.
As students continue their journeys beyond Pymble, their involvement in co-curricular Performing Arts activities offers them invaluable life skills which can be employed in so many areas of their professional and indeed social endeavours. Undoubtedly, they will cherish lifelong memories of their performance experiences.
We celebrate the many wonderful successes of our girls over the last week knowing that their splendid results are but a part of their overall performance achievements.
Michael Griffiths
Director of Co-curricular Performing Arts
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Co-curricular Administration
End of Term 2 Registration Period
The End of Term 2 Registration period will allow families to register their daughters for Term 3 and Semester 2 programs as well as Term 4 2023 Saturday Sports. Registrations will open via the online registration system at 12.00pm on Wednesday 7 June. 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 been finalised and is now available on the Co-curricular pages of MyPymble.
Monique Zahra
Head of Co-curricular Administration
Secondary School Athletics Carnival
On Thursday 25 May we were blessed with the sun shining for our Secondary and Junior School Athletics Carnival, held at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre. All students participated with enthusiasm and showed off their fantastic school spirit and talent.
Congratulations to the following Age Champions:
12 Years Champion
Gemma Dixon (Year 7)
Runner Up: Willow Toll (Year 7)
13 Years Champion
Amalia Bond (Year 7)
Runner Up: Madeleine Gaden (Year 7)
14 Years Champion
Hayley Browne (Year 8)
Runner Up: Leander McLaughlin (Year 8)
15 Years Champion
Grace Townsend (Year 10)
Runner Up: Grace Beck (Year 9)
16 Years Champion
Sarah Lovell (Year 10)
Runner Up: Louise Lovell (Year 10)
17 Years Champion
Georgia Phillips (Year 11)
Runner Up: Nicole McCrostie (Year 11)
18 Years Champion
Caitlyn Tan (Year 12)
Runner Up: Phoebe Mason (Year 12)
Congratulations to Goodlet House on being crowned House Champions for 2023, followed closely by Bennett in second and Marden in third position.
The following athletes produced stellar performances on the day which resulted in new records being set:
Amalia Bond (Year 7): 13 years Long Jump – 5.00m
Sarah Lovell (Year 10): 16 years Shot Put – 12.54m
Well done to Gabriella Taylor (Year 12), who won the prestigious Championship 100m with an impressive time of 12.19.
Our 2023 Athletics squad will now train to prepare for the annual igsa Athletics Championships which will take place on Friday 25 August.
Please click here to see the full results from the Athletics Carnival, and click here to see the individual point scores.
Katie Edwards
Head of Sport – Years 7 to 12
Artistic Gymnastics
NL5-7 Regional Invitational 2023 – Saturday 27 May and Sunday 28 May
We kicked off our Level 5 to 7 season at the Northern Beaches Gymnastics Academy. We had a great two days of competition with a majority of gymnasts placing on at least one apparatus. The girls had a fun day, and we head onto the Winter Wonderland competition in three weeks’ time.
Results and Participation
NL5
Alice Liu (Year 5) – 4th Beam, 3rd Floor, 6th Overall
On Sunday, over 100 Pymble students from Kindergarten to Year 12 took part in the Annual Humpty Dumpty Foundation Charity Event- The Balmoral Burn. Pymble took over the Hill with some amazing performances, including First Place in the ‘Head of The Hill- In it to Win it’ Relay event. With Channel 7 broadcasting LIVE, Pymble cheering, live music, dancing, and watching our girls taking on the 400m+ Hill for Charity, it was certainly a spectacular event.
A special mention to our Junior School students who competed, with such an enormous Hill to climb, our Kindergarten to Year 6 finished with an impressive second and a Fifth place.
Thank you to all the Staff and parents/carers who attended to support our girls. With all the money raised at this event and with our fantastic results, our Pymble competitors will now have the opportunity to select a piece of Medical Lifesaving Equipment to be donated to a hospital.
Laura Verlinden
Sports Co-ordinator – Athletics and Cross Country
Basketball
The Senior Firsts had a big game against Loreto Normanhurst. Our Pymble basketballers fought hard with Izabella Ziolkowski (Year 10) and Sophie Van Kerkwijk (Year 12) sharing the role of locking down their best defender and holding her to five points throughout the whole game. Abigail Tyler (Year 12) did some fantastic shooting to help keep us in the lead. Amarley Bron (Year 12) inspired everyone by her moving speech during the First Nations round ceremonies, also inspiring the team to keep their cool every time Loreto came close to the point score. It was a courageous five-point win to keep the Senior Firsts undefeated with only one game left until finals.
Charlotte Craig (Year 10) made lots of rebounds and scored at will in the post for Pymble 2. Special shout-out goes to McKenzie Ward (Year 12) for not only being an absolute scoring and rebounding machine in her Pymble 6 win, but then filling in for Pymble 2 after her game.
Claire Spring (Year 11) was impressive in transition, driving hard to the hoop for some great baskets for Pymble 3.
Pymble 4 had an inspiring match against Tara tying them in a draw.
Matilda Batman (Year 11) showed earnest effort and never gave up the fight until the buzzer went off for Pymble 5.
Annabel Charnock (Year 10) had great runs to the basket, played hard, and scored an inspiring three pointer at the end of the game for Pymble 7.
The Pymble 8 team played hard, only losing by two points, but fighting until the end.
Scarlet Olesen (Year 9) was huge on the boards and protecting the rim on defence and produced some big shots in the clutch as well for Pymble 9’s first win against the second-place team in the competition.
Emily Huang (Year 8) followed the coaches’ instructions perfectly and made great decisions in her Pymble 10 game.
Pymble 11 had wonderful team effort, and all players worked together to get their first win in the season!
Mia Sherry (Year 8) had great rebounding, passing and was hungry for the ball for Pymble 12.
While Pymble 14 lost, they all have made massive improvements in their confidence in shooting the ball, dribbling, and understanding basketball as this season was their first to play basketball for many.
Ariana Azizmohammad (Year 7) had impressive effort throughout the game, her defence was particularly good in the second half and contesting shots for Pymble 15.
Pymble 16 had a heartbreaking one-point loss, but all players fought hard throughout the game.
In Pymble 17’s game, Emma Koorey (Year 7) was aggressive on both ends of the floor getting steals on defence, directing her teammates and making shots on offense while Erica Kwok (Year 7) made some big shots for as well.
Basketball Results Saturday 27 May
Team
Opponent
Score
Pymble 1
Loreto Normanhurst 1
47 to 42
Pymble 2
Abbotsleigh 1
32 to 49
Pymble 3
Ravenswood 2
18 to 16
Pymble 4
Tara Anglican 2
27 to 27
Pymble 5
Kincoppal 3
26 to 8
Pymble 6
St. Catherine’s School Waverley 2
24 to 19
Pymble 7
Abbotsleigh 10
58 to 13
Pymble 8
Abbotsleigh 11
10 to 12
Pymble 9
Loreto Normanhurst 19
28 to 22
Pymble 10
Brigidine College 7
13 to 33
Pymble 11
Queenwood 13
32 to 28
Pymble 12
Abbotsleigh 25
5 to 20
Pymble 13
Ascham School 9
8 to 38
Pymble 14
SCEGGS – Darlinghurst 8
14 to 32
Pymble 15
Methodist Ladies’ College 8
2 to 42
Pymble 16
Tara Anglican 14
10 to 11
Pymble 17
Loreto Normanhurst 30
13 to 28
Rachel Maenpaa
Head Coach – Basketball
Diving
Diving All Schools – Thursday 1 June and Friday 2 June
This Thursday and Friday we wish all the best in Diving to our All-Schools competitors. This is the culmination of the Schools Pathways Competition and an opportunity to Qualify for the prestigious School Sport Australia team. The following girls will be competing in this State Diving Championship after a long period of preparation.
Nikola Puhl (Year 12 and Diving Captain)
Méa Shires (Year 9)
Angela Xenofontos (Year 9)
Addison Woods (Year 8)
Sasha Dubrovina (Year 7)
We wish the girls every success and enjoyment in the Competition.
Open Nationals Diving
Congratulations to our Pymble Alumni Brittany O’Brien (2016, Olympian) and Kennedy Cooper (2018) who competed in the Open National Championships and World Aquatics Trials in Western Australia last week.
Both divers had great success with Brittany winning gold, silver and bronze medals and was selected in the Australian Team for the World Aquatics to be held in Japan later in the year. Also selected in this team was foundation “Diving Connections” Diver and Olympian Sam Fricker.
It is always exciting to watch ex-students continue to pursue their sporting endeavours on the international stage.
Level 1 Coaching Course
Last Saturday 27 May, Pymble hosted a Level 1 Diving Coaching Course. It was a wonderful opportunity for some of our divers to be coached by new and experienced coaches in the spectacular Pymble Aquatic Centre. It was encouraging to see such a large and keen group of new diving coaches.
Chris Lang
Head Coach – Diving
Fencing
Celebrating Success: Rianne Leung (Year 7) Triumphs at the NSW State U15 Foil Championship
We are thrilled to announce and celebrate the remarkable achievement of Rianne Leung (Year 7), who recently emerged as the champion at the highly competitive NSW State U15 Foil Championship. Rianne’s exceptional performance and unwavering dedication to her sport have earned her well-deserved recognition among her peers and the broader Fencing community.
We extend our heartfelt congratulations to Rianne on her outstanding success and look forward to seeing what installed for her in the future.
NSW Schools Fencing Championships Epee Competition: Alexandra Hargraves (Year 8) takes Third Place, Jenny Ling (Year 8) Sixth, and Imogen Wu (Year 9) Seventh.
It was a day of fierce competition and electrifying energy as the NSW Schools Fencing Championships Epee Competition unfolded. Fencers from schools across the region gathered to showcase their skills, determination, and sportsmanship. Among the participants were Alexandra, Jenny, and Imogen, who demonstrated exceptional talent and resilience throughout the long day of intense fencing.
With a total of 21 poule bouts followed by elimination rounds, the competition proved to be a gruelling test of endurance and skill. However, these young athletes approached the challenge head-on, giving their all in each bout and displaying a remarkable level of focus and commitment.
The girls should be so proud of their achievements at the NSW Schools Fencing Championships Epee Competition. They showcased exceptional skill, perseverance, and sportsmanship. Their commitment to the sport and the admirable way they represented their schools as we lead into the team competitions in the coming weeks!
Megan O’Keeffe
Sports Co-ordinator – Fencing
Football
igsa Football Round 5
Round 5 of IGSA Football took place this past Saturday with Pymble coming away with 8 wins and 2 losses. It was Pymble’s First Nations Round of Sport where our Senior 1st team took on Loreto Normanhurst in this annual match up, with our team coming away with a 1 to 0 win. Our Senior Seconds made it 3 wins in a row with an impressive 3 to 0 win against Kambala’s Senior Firsts.
Pymble 5 kept their undefeated season alive with a 5 to 1 win in a top of the table clash with Roseville. Pymble 6 and Pymble 7 maintained their winning streaks with two hard fought performances, it also means that Pymble 7 have yet to concede a goal. They will head into the double header this weekend along with Pymble 1, trying to keep their momentum going. If Pymble 1 and Pymble 7 win one of their two games this weekend, they will both make it into the Grand Final.
A huge shoutout to our Year 7 team who won their first game of the term this weekend, with an amazing 3 to 0 win against SCEGGS Darlinghurst.
Team
Opponent
Score
Pymble 01
Loreto Normanhurst 1
1-0
Pymble 02
Kambala 1
3-0
Pymble 03
Meriden 2
1-4
Pymble 04
Wenona 2
2-4
Pymble 05
Roseville College 3
5-1
Pymble 06
Brigidine College 4
2-1
Pymble 07
Loreto Normanhurst 4
4-0
Pymble 08
Kincoppal Rose Bay 4
8-0
Pymble 09
Loreto Normanhurst 7
6-2
Pymble 10
SCEGGS Darlinghurst 7
3-0
Team of the week
This week’s team of the week goes to our Year 7 Firsts, Pymble 10!
Here’s what Zara Sandham (Year 7) had to say:
“On Saturday 27 May, Pymble 10 fought and won a great game against SCEGGS. The team was very determined to record its first win this season. Hard work and lots of focus in training really paid off.
The game started well with Pymble first to every challenge and second ball. Such a positive mindset and great teamwork from the girls soon delivered a fantastic goal from Jessie Gui. Once we had taken the lead, the team grew in confidence and continued to play great football. Pymble applied constant pressure to SCEGGS whenever they weren’t in possession of the ball and were extremely courageous when tackling. Strong defence and well-timed passes from midfield began to create more opportunities in front of goal. This resulted in two more brilliant goals from Sanduli Bandara and Cleo McLaughlin. The game finished 3 to 0. The Pymble girls were thrilled about the result and very proud of their performance on the pitch.
Overall, I was really impressed with how the team has pulled together after a tough start to the season. We are all looking forward to the next game and will continue to improve our teamwork and skills on the field. Congratulations Pymble 10!”
Round 1 MVPs
Pymble 1 – Emily Visser (Year 10)
Pymble 2 – Phoebe Cooper (Year 10)
Pymble 3 – Lucinda Wlossak (Year 11)
Pymble 4 – Freya Howes (Year 10)
Pymble 5 – Annalise Cuschieri (Year 11)
Pymble 6 – Freya Carmody (Year 12)
Pymble 7 – Willa Pearson (Year 7)
Pymble 8 – Dasha Stusenko (Year 9)
Pymble 9 – Joanna Karelas (Year 8)
Pymble 10 – Cleo McLaughlin (Year 7)
Senior Firsts Match Report by our Football Captain, Kaitlyn Chan (Year 12)
“The Pymble Senior Firsts proudly played in Pymble’s First Nations Round of Sport this week on Main Oval. The team came across Loreto Normanhurst yet again after versing them earlier in the week in the CIS Cup. Even with a few players missing the girls managed to come away with a great 1 to 0 win. Congratulations to Emily Visser (Year 10) our goal scorer and special thanks to Lucy Mclean (Year 9) and Amelia Bicego (Year 8) from the Junior Firsts for helping us out.”
CIS Football Cup
Congratulations to our CIS Football team winning against Loreto Normanhurst last week in a thrilling 2 to 0 win. The two goals came from Sophie Watson (Year 12) and Amber Halliday (Year 11). Next team to play against is PLC Sydney in the semi-final, which will take place out at Valentine Sports Park on Monday 5 June.
School Pathway
Congratulations to Chloe Tseros (Year 11), Juliette Harris (Year 11), Kaitlyn Chan (Year 12), and Willa Pearson (Year 7) for representing igsa at the CIS Open Girls Football Championships. The igsa team won the tournament after winning all four of their matches.
Juliette, Kaitlyn, and Willa have all been selected to represent CIS at the upcoming NSW All Schools Championships which will take part later in June. Chloe was also named to the shadow squad. Congratulations to our Pymble Footballers making Pymble proud.
Chris Wood
Sport Co-ordinator – Football
Junior School Sport
NSWCIS Touch Football
Congratulations to our Marley Titley (Year 6) and Flossie Murphy (Year 5), who represented NSWCIS at the NSWPSSA Touch Football Championships last week. The girls played extremely well and should be super proud of their efforts.
Junior School Athletics Carnival
Championship Track Events
Congratulations to all students that ran in the 100m, 200m or 800m Championship Track events at the Secondary School Athletics Carnival last Thursday. We will post all the results once we have completed the Field events and celebrate our Age Champions.
Please click HERE for the Program of Events for the upcoming Years 3 to 6 Athletics Carnival on Friday 9 June. More information regarding the Carnival will be sent home.
Matt Tyson
Head of Sport – Kindergarten to Year 6
Rowing
Balmoral Burn
On Sunday 28 May, several members of the Pymble Winter Rowing team conquered Awaba Street’s 420-metre incline in the ‘Humpty Dumpty Balmoral Burn’, Sydney’s steepest hill run.
This annual community event provides an ongoing opportunity to raise money to provide essential and often lifesaving medical equipment to hospitals and health services Australia-wide. Every dollar raised contributes directly to the health and wellbeing of sick children, making a tangible difference.
Pymble Rowers are preparing for their overseas tour to Henley Royal Regatta and had a fantastic opportunity to participate in the Rowing Australia Simulation Regatta from Thursday 25 to Saturday 27 May.
This event is organised by Rowing Australia as preparation for crews heading overseas to represent Australia in World Rowing Regattas. Pymble rowers were very excited to be included in such a high calibre event and was exceptional race practice for the girls heading over to Henley Royal Regatta in June.
The crews raced over three days against various other boat classes lining up on the start line with Australia’s best rowers, with the aim to hold their own against their competition and improve.
The Quad crew of Mia Booth (Year 11), Jessica Colbran (Year 12), Megan Wood (Year 11) and Tilly Morgan (Year 12), and the Double crew of Skye Pockley (Year 11) and Sasha Braysich (Year 11) did an awesome job in not only how they raced but how they prepared for their racing and performed against the best rowers in the country.
Lewis Gray
Sports Co-ordinator – Rowing
Rugby Sevens
On Saturday, our Rugby players took part in the first Rugby Sevens matches of the season. It was the First Nations Round where players took the field against tough Gordon and Lindfield teams. The morning started with a Smoking Ceremony and dance. We moved up to James Kelso Field to watch the mighty Juniors play. It was a solid start to the match with Skye Macleod (Year 8) streaking away scoring a 60m try. Closely followed by Lily Mancey (Year 8) showing some blistering pace down the sideline to score Pymble’s second try. In the second half Gordon played some great catch up footy and managed to score four unanswered tries. It was a great first hit out for our girls. Special mentions to Mie Naito (Year 8) for her defensive effort and work rate around the field, Abigail Pisani (Year 7) playing her first match in Pymble colours was solid in defence and made some great breaks, and Alessia Calvani (Year 8) for great aggression and dominant tackles.
Our Pymble Rugby 16s took the field against a tough Gordon outfit, with many girls on the bench which was amazing to see. It was a tight first half with Pymble missing several opportunities to score. Unfortunately, the second half was a different story and Gordon finished the half scoring several tries taking the match convincingly. Great matches were had by Olianna Tighe (Year 9) and Abby Smith (Year 9) with some barnstorming runs, Rose Kirkby (Year 9) and Mika Naito (Year 10) with some bone rattling defence and Lucy McLean with some smooth hands through the backline. Special mentions also to Wyntah Woodroffe-Mullholland (Year 9) who played her first match for Pymble and made some great carries over the advantage line. The Gordon team are during State Champs training, so it was an amazing performance from our Pymble players!
The Pymble Senior girls took on a strong Lindfield outfit and the first half was scoreless. Sophie Livingstone (Year 11) broke the deadlock finishing some great teamwork with a strong carry over the line, taking two defenders with her. Gordon, however, was too strong on the day and took the match 4 tries to 1. Notable mentions to Lucy Robertson (Year 12) and Asha Goddard (Year 12) who were instrumental in attack. Arabella Smithyman (Year 11) was a rock in defence making some very dominant tackles. Aspen Moore (Year 11) did not stop throughout the whole match making some strong runs down the middle and chopping the opposition down in defence.
All in all, it was a great day for our Pymble players, even though the results were not in our favour, our teams got minutes on the field and came off with a smile on their faces!
Jack Garrad
Sports Co-ordinator – Rugby Sevens
Swimming
Good luck to the following students competing at the 2023 NSW All Schools Swimming Championships!
Lily Barlow (Year 10)
15 to 16 Years 400m Freestyle
Megan Chia (Year 7)
13 Years 50m Butterfly
Bella Cox (Year 11)
16 Years 100m Freestyle
15 to 16 Years 100m Backstroke
15 to 16 Years 200m Backstroke
Jessica Cullen (Year 10)
16 Years 50m Backstroke
Annika Lee (Year 10)
15 Year 50m Backstroke
Annabelle Mingzhen Li (Year 8)
12 to 14 Years 100m Butterfly
Jaya Lilienthal (Year 10)
16 Years 50m Breastroke
15 to 16 Years 200m Individual Medley
Jessica Munk (Year 12)
18 Years 100m Backstroke
18 Years 200m Backstroke
Emma Ng (Year 7)
12 Years 50m Backstroke
Bella Zhang (Year 12)
18 Years 200m Breastroke
18 Years 100m Freestyle
Junior Medley Relay
Jisoo Yeou (Year 8), Imogen Jones (Year 7), Megan Chia (Year 7), Annabelle Li (Year 8),
Intermediate Medley Relay
Jessica Cullen (Year 10), Elizabeth Lockhart (Year 10), Annika Lee (Year 10), Jaya Lilienthal (Year 10)
Emma Ng (Year 7), Megan Chia (Year 7), Annabelle Li (Year 8), Annika Lee (Year 10), Jaya Lilienthal (Year 10), Bella Zhang (Year 12)
These championships are held over two days at Sydney Olympic Park where students all over NSW compete for a spot on the NSW Team to compete at the Australian All Schools Championships held in Sydney in August.
Rafael Rodrigues
Coach – Swimming
Tennis
Congratulations to Zoe Liang (Year 5) for winning the 2023 JP250 Tennis World Canberra U12 Girls Singles and Doubles events. Zoe also had the opportunity to meet Nick Kyrgios at the event! Well done Zoe.
Jufri Foss
Sports Co-ordinator – Tennis
Water Polo
Northern Suburbs Competition
Pymble Water Polo hit the halfway mark in the season last week. Great improvements have been made each time the teams jump in the pool.
Pymble Opens Water Polo team came away with an exciting win against Brigidine College, 5 to 4 on Friday 26 May in the Northern Suburbs Competition at Warringah Aquatic Centre. It came right down to last 30 seconds of play, with Pymble holding on to the win!
Our Pymble Intermediate teams both had strong wins on Monday 29 May. Pymble Blue won against St Andrew’s College, 15 to 0 and Pymble Red won against Brigidine White 15 to 3. Many of our girls backed up and played a double game this week, well done and thank you!
Brigette Moore
Head Coach – Water Polo
Dance
Congratulations to Vishaka Iyer of Year 12 who was invited to perform for the Indian Prime Minister Mr Modi and was attended by both Prime Ministers from India and Australia along with Premier Chris Minns. The event was at the Qudos Bank Arena at Olympic Park with a crowd of about 20,000 people. Vishaka said it was an honour to be invited to perform as a group at this event with her other dance buddies and showcase the Indian culture.
Vishaka has also just been offered a residency for 2024 which is a grant to be mentored by one of the senior-most and acclaimed dancers in India, Priyadarshini Govind. The residency runs in blocks of time with Ms Govind over 6 months where she will develop a solo work with a running time of 30 to 40 minutes. This will be showcased at Monash University in Melbourne in 2024 and in a couple of other venues, potentially including Singapore and India.
This grant has been offered to me by IPAC (Indian Performing Arts committee) Singapore. Vishaka had to pitch a couple of concepts to a selection panel. Vishaka currently studies HSC Dance at the College and is our first student to do Bharatanatyam for her Major Study Performance.
DanceLife Unite Eisteddfod – Friday 26 May
Last Friday 26 May, Pymble Dance competed at ‘DanceLife Unite’, and what a way to start the Eisteddfod Season! Pymble’s dance troupes showcased their remarkable skills and achieved outstanding results. We are so are thrilled to announce that every troupe placed in their respective categories.
Among the exceptional performances, the Jazz White routine, characterised by dynamic choreography and seamless execution, was the highest scoring routine of the night, and were crowned the Regional Champions of the Schools Sections. A well-deserved recognition of their exceptional talent and dedication.
Seeing the efforts of the dancers and their teachers pay off at the Eisteddfod was a truly gratifying experience. Countless hours of rehearsals, fine-tuning, and honing their craft culminated in an evening that showcased the exceptional talent nurtured within the Pymble Dance community. We applaud every dancer for her commitment and congratulate each ensemble for their resounding success.
As we celebrate these remarkable achievements, Pymble Dance are gearing up our Secondary troupes for ‘Sydney Eisteddfod’ this weekend. We wish them the best of luck and have every confidence that their passion, skill, and hard work will once again shine on stage regardless of the adjudication!
DanceLife Unite Results
Primary School Jazz
2nd Place – Junior Jazz
Primary School Lyrical
1st Place – Junior Lyrical
High School Lyrical
Highly Commended – Contemporary Navy
High School Dance (Any Style)
2nd Place – Jazz Navy
High School Contemporary
1st – Contemporary White
2nd – Contemporary Scarlet
High School Jazz
1st – Jazz White
Highly Commended – Jazz Scarlet
Regional Champions – Jazz White
Katrina Cluff
Head of Dance
Language Arts
FED Grand Final last Friday
Warm congratulations to 7B and to coach Lara Blair. 7B won their FED Grand Final debate!
ISDA Semi Final
Congratulations to Primary B ISDA Debating team who debated last week in the semi-finals! While our team debated strongly, they were narrowly defeated by an equally impressive St Aloysius’ team. Grace Jacobs, Athena Wu, Selina Jiang, Yenyu Chan, Jing Yuan Liu.
Eliminated ISDA and FED Debaters
Thank you to all debaters who competed in the FED and ISDA season. Thank you to all coaches, staff and parents who supported their daughters in this valuable cocurricular activity.
Archdale
Last Tuesday we debated SCEGGS at Pymble. Schools tied with four wins each. This week we debated PLC Sydney, at PLC. Results forthcoming. Next Tuesday we will debate Abbotsleigh at Abbotsleigh. Please have train permissions in.
Virtual Archdale
A virtual Archdale competition will now run alongside the traditional Archdale competition. This new competition will allow country schools to participate. Pymble is entering a Year 7/8 team, a Year 9/10 team and an 11/12 team. This is open to ISDA debaters in the first instance. Our Junior team is full but please contact Mrs Hubbard if interested in a place in the Inter or Senior team. All debates will run from Pymble, online, on a Tuesday evening.
Sydney Social Debating (SSD)
This competition started on Friday 5May. SSD competition is running each Friday at Pymble from 3.30pm to 6.30pm. Please meet in C10 again this week. We are pleased to offer this developmental level comp to our 7 to 12 girls this term. Thank you to our student coaches and our adjudicators – Becky Huang, Kayleigh Li and Mr Daniel Judd. If you are in Year 10 or 11 and wish to join, places are available. Please contact Mrs Hubbard. BHubbard@pymblelc.nswledu.au
House Debating
A new House Debating comp started last term. Thanks to Isabella Cameron, our LA prefect for resurrecting this initiative. Finals are to be held in Term 2.
Sydney University Debating Day
Thank you to those who registered interest for the Sydney University Debating Day on 2 June. CCSA will send through registrations. We meet tomorrow on Pymble Station by 7.15am.
Mock Law
Mock Trial Round 3 scenarios have been released. We are prosecution v Moriah College. This trial must be completed by 16 June. Date to be confirmed.
Evatt
Thanks to those who organised their own Evatt round this year and apologies for any confusion. We also wish to highlight and promote the UN Crisis Point competition
Crisis Point
What: NSW UN Youth Day Summit: Crisis Point
When: Saturday 24 June 2023 (10.00am to 3:30pm)
Where: University of Technology
Cost: $30 per student*
Students can register themselves by clicking here. We ask that registered students inform Mrs Hubbard that they will attend.
UN Youth NSW provides students a unique chance to develop as individuals and refine their knowledge of world issues. They provide supervised events and have a trained welfare offer on site. Transport to and from this Saturday event is the responsibility of parents.
Discover MUN
Discover MUN day was held at UNSW, last Thursday, 25 May. Congratulations to Catherine Shi, Maya Garg and Daniela Contifio who were award winners. Girls enjoyed – learning more about MUN, a day on campus and receiving UNSW course information and “merch” in the form of a UNSW hoodie.
PMUN Winter Conference
PMUN Winter Conference is in final planning stages. Stay tuned for this event!
Farewell to Year 12 Language Arts High Tea
This has become an annual event at Avondale for Language Arts girls in Years 10, 11 and 12 and Year 12 parents. This year it will be held on 21 June from 4.30pm to 6.30pm. Save the date!
Bronwyn Hubbard
Head of Co-curricular Language Arts
Music
Congratulations
Anna Smart in Year 5 was awarded Honours for her Preliminary AMEB exam in Piano.
Zoe Manning in Year 8 received 100%, awarding her a High Distinction in her Grade 2 Musicianship.
Madison Pearce in Year 9 was awarded a High Distinction (A+) in her Grade 3 Musicianship
I have heard through the Music “bush telegraph” of many girls who have completed exams recently but feel too shy to let me know. I applaud any student who sits for an exam, whether they are awarded a pass or a high distinction. The amount of work to prepare for an exam, above their schoolwork, is something worth congratulating. Most of you know me by now to know that I am a firm believer in effort before achievement. There is no shame at all in preparing for an exam, but not achieving the highest result. There is only pride for the effort and resilience you have! Our students lead such busy lives and to prepare the mammoth amount of work they have at school, complete co-curricular activities, be a family, AND sit an exam for their instrument is deserving of our praise. So, RISE up girls and be applauded for your efforts!
Concerto Competition finals and Secondary School Ensemble Concert – Wednesday 21 June
Paul Dyer, AO (Artistic Director of the Australian Brandenburg Orchestra) returns to the College to adjudicate the finals of the Concerto Competition. There will be an audience vote as well after the performances from Ashleigh O’Young (Year 12) on Clarinet and Gabrielle Zhong (Year 12) on cello.
Girls from String Orchestra, School Concert Band, School Choir, Symphony Orchestra, Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Stage and Jazz bands, and Chorale are performing. The concert will commence at 6:30pm and there will be a short interval. Tickets must be booked, but there is no fee. Please go to: https://pymblelc.sales.ticketsearch.com/sales/sales
All girls are to wear BLACK pants, their black music shirts AND their performance jackets. If you are new to an ensemble, please email Gladys on musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au to secure your uniform.
Performance Uniforms
We are in the process of updating the current red music performance jacket. I will be sending out a google form soon so that you and your daughters can make the selection. Basically, the jackets will be a choice of black with red piping OR red with black piping. The reason for the change is based around style and allowing the girls some choice in what they wear. There will also be black pants as part of the uniform, which all girls must wear. This will all be available from 2024.
Tour 2024
You have heard some whisperings about a tour in 2024. I can confirm this to be true: December 2024 and all girls from Year 11 (2023) down to Year 7 (2023) will be invited, depending on what we need. Girls from Chamber Strings/Orchestra/SWE and Chorale will be included in the invitation, and from there we may select girls from other ensembles such as Choir, String Orchestra and School Concert Band. I will announce the destination at the Concert on 21 June.
Vision Valley Winter Holiday Camps (Years 3 to 8) – Registrations open – don’t miss out!
Pymble girls, their friends and siblings (girls only) in Year 3 to 8 are invited to attend the Vision Valley Winter Holiday Camps. There are two camps in the holiday break: the first camp from Monday 26 June to Friday 30 June, and the second camp from Monday 10 July to Friday 15 July.
The holiday camps will offer both two nights/three day ($385) and four nights/five day ($710) options and will feature a full activity program, including outdoor adventure activities, nature play and recreational games, all supervised by our experienced Vision Valley staff.
Please click here to register. Please note places are limited and will be allocated in order of receipt of payment. Registrations will close soon or when we reach capacity.
Rebecca Pearce
Operations Manager – Vision Valley
Thinking of a career change? Think Pymble!
At Pymble, you will be wrapped in a culture of care, community and commitment to educational excellence. You’ll also enjoy all the benefits of a big and beautiful working environment. For more information about working at Pymble, click here.
Job of the week:Clinical Psychologists | part-time – 2 x roles available
With our Pymble family growing in more and more ways, we have two part-time, temporary positions in our supportive Psychological Services team, covering upcoming parental leave periods.
0.60 FTE commencing in August.
0.80 FTE commencing in November.
Both roles will be for a period of up to 12 months, with flexibility on the days and hours worked.
Our passionate Psychologists provide guidance, leadership, and care to our students from Kindergarten to Year 12. The roles work alongside College staff, including teachers, pastoral care and the wellbeing team, to enhance student welfare and ensure our learning environment continues to be supportive and safe. Varied and interesting clinical work, you will be responsible for one-on-one sessions with students, liaising with parents or external agencies and conducting psychological intervention within the therapeutic paradigm. You will have the opportunity to participate in ongoing service improvement projects and professional development throughout your time at the College and provide an essential service to all members of our team.
These roles will primarily work during school term time, however, when necessary, may require working outside normal hours in non-term time in response to student, staff and wellbeing needs.
Our kind of team member
You will display the following skills and attributes:
The ability to provide support and guidance around child/adolescent wellbeing.
Current AHPRA registration with qualifications in Clinical Psychology or Psychology.
Membership with professional bodies such as the Australian Psychological Society or other bodies is desirable.
A sound understanding of Child Protection legislation and practice.
Previous experience working in a school or educational setting would be highly regarded.
Commitment to the provision of a high standard of professional care.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to always demonstrate professional conduct and discretion.
As part of the College’s Pymble Gives Back initiative, the 2023 Food Technology captains are creating a cookbook from the recipes of the Pymble community, with all proceeds donated to Dignity.
Dignity is one of the three chosen Pymble Gives Back not-for-profit charities for 2023. The organisation empowers Australians experiencing homelessness or at risk of experiencing homelessness by providing a range of innovative services. These include providing emergency guest home accomodation, home cooked meals, new clothing and support workers. Dignity’s aim is to end homelessness through prevention and changing attitudes within society about those experiencing, or at risk of, homelessness.
To support this chosen charity we are asking students from Kindergarten to Year 12, parents and staff to contribute a recipe that has meaning to their family. In submitting the recipe, please provide a short explanation about what makes it so special. Feel free to also upload a photo of the recipe you wish to submit.
Details about purchasing the cookbook will be released once it is complete. If you would like to contribute to this initiative, please complete this short survey and upload your treasured family recipe here.
Reminder: Term 2 Pymble bus service – register now!
A reminder to parents to register your daughter for the Pymble private bus service for travel during Term 2 if you have not already done so and check that your daughter has her current student ID card to tap on and off each trip.
In Term 2, the bus service will operate from Wednesday 26 April to Thursday 22 June 2023.
Please note the addition of a new stop at Mosman (bus route 2) and new location for Stop 1 at Avalon (bus route 4). Check thebus stops and timesfor your preferred bus route. 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:
Term registration enables the student to access the bus service every day in the morning and afternoon. The charge is currently set at $430.00 per term.
Flexible registration enables the student to register for specific day(s) with a choice of morning and/or afternoon runs. The charge is currently set at $7.50 per trip.
While face masks are no longer mandatory on Pymble buses or all public transport options as per the updated COVID-19 rules in NSW, students are encouraged to wear one when travelling on Pymble buses. Existing government guidelines for household contacts/positive cases remain in place.
Please contact College Services via collegeservices@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au if you have any further questions about transport to and from Pymble Ladies’ College.
Jersey Day Commemoration Chapel Service
Scholarship registrations open to current Year 6, 7, 8, 9 and 10 students
Pymble offers a number of scholarships each year to girls seeking a Performance Scholarship – Sport or All-Rounder Scholarship starting in 2024. These scholarships are open to all students who are currently in Year 6, 7, 8, 9 or Year 10.
Registrations close on 4 August 2023. The examination will be held at the College on Sunday 13 August 2023.
Information about portfolio requirements and how to apply can be found online through the Scholarship webpage.
Dr Kate Hadwen, Principal
