Lion's Roar Newsletter
Term 2 | Week 7
2024
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
This weekend, the Gala Concert marks the conclusion of the 2024 Armidale Eisteddfod.
Two PLC Armidale ensembles have been invited to participate: our Junior School Treblemakers and the Senior School Jazz Ensemble.
On Band Night the adjudicator was particularly taken with the size and strength of our all-girls jazz band commenting favourably on the strength and fitness of their performance. It was one of many highlights across the eisteddfod season. Students from across all year groups showcased their exceptional talents in music, speech and drama, and dance, securing impressive results, highlighting the strength of our creative and performing arts programs.
The music performances by our girls were truly inspiring. From solo instrumentalists to vocal ensembles, each performance demonstrated not only technical proficiency but also a deep passion for music.
The dedication and hours of practice that our students have invested were evident in each note played and sang. Their accomplishments are a testament to the quality of our music program and the unwavering support of our talented music teachers...
... continue reading here
In the realm of speech and drama, our girls captivated the audience with their powerful and emotive performances. Whether delivering a stirring monologue or engaging in lively group scenes, the girls’ ability to convey complex emotions and narratives was remarkable. The confidence and poise displayed on stage are qualities that will serve students well beyond their school years. We celebrate the creativity and hard work that went into every performance.
Dance, too, was a highlight of the eisteddfod, with our students impressing the judges and audience alike with their grace, athleticism, and artistry. The variety of performances showcased the versatility and skill of our dancers. This was further reinforced with the results achieved by a number of our ensembles who took part in the Tamworth Dance Eisteddfod against a more competitive field. Their achievements reflect the strong dance culture at PLC Armidale, where students are encouraged to express themselves and enjoy the camaraderie and athleticism of dance.
Research consistently shows a positive correlation between participation in the creative and performing arts and academic achievement. Students engaged in arts education often show gains in various academic subjects, demonstrating enhanced cognitive abilities and higher levels of critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, the arts are known to foster creativity, discipline, and perseverance—qualities that are crucial for academic success.
The benefits of arts education extend far beyond academic performance. For girls, in particular, involvement in the arts has been linked to increased confidence and self-esteem. Through performances and creative expression, our students learn to articulate their thoughts and emotions, develop a sense of self-assurance, and build strong social connections. These experiences are invaluable in helping them navigate the complexities of adolescence and prepare for future leadership roles.
These successes are not just individual triumphs but a collective celebration of the Creative and Performing Arts at PLC Armidale. This was evident as PLC Armidale girls past and present took an active part in the celebration of Mrs Jan Patterson’s life. Jan was a mainstay of the Creative Arts at PLC Armidale for many years creating an environment where every girl is encouraged to explore her passions and develop her talents to the fullest.
The strength of our Creative and Performing Arts programs is recognised by other schools also. The Armidale Waldorf School has recently gained NESA Accreditation to offer courses of study leading to the award of the NSW Higher School Certificate. As a small school entering Stage Six delivery, we have been in discussion with the Waldorf Armidale School regarding sharing a subject line with PLC Armidale to enable students to complete their study within the Creative and Performing Arts with us. Mrs Zana Clarke, Principal of The Waldorf Armidale School, is the parent of PLC Armidale Old Girl Isla Biffin, who flourished in her Music studies at the College. The sharing of lines between secondary schools in Armidale was something that first commenced almost thirty years ago and a practice PLC Armidale is willing to support as mutually beneficial.
As the 2024 Eisteddfod Season concludes I extend my heartfelt congratulations to all the girls who participated and to the dedicated staff who guided them. Your hard work, enthusiasm, and commitment is recognised by all. As we continue to nurture and celebrate the creative and performing arts at the College - Ad Astra.
Thank you to ...
All those members of our PLC Armidale community who were part of the service for the late Mrs Jan Patterson on Wednesday, 5 June.
The event at Piddington Chapel was a testament to her wonderful contribution to the community and the lives of many. The live stream for the service can be found HERE, and it is truly moving.
Students past and present demonstrated Jan's impact on them through word and song. This was a fitting tribute to a remarkable woman who gained and gave much through her connection with our College.
We were also blessed to have Jan share some of her life’s journey in her 2023 Speech Day address.
Vale the Remarkable Mrs P.
All those who welcomed the Probus Club of Armidale to our College
during its tour of our college recently. Helen Kennedy was amongst the group of 28 and also attended the service for Jan Patterson. Mrs Kennedy asked us to share this letter of appreciation within our PLC Armidale community.
Congratulations
Throughout the year, we want to acknowledge and celebrate the various interests and accomplishments of PLC Armidale girls. We will be aware of the experiences girls undertake to represent the College. We may not know about experiences and achievements in areas of interest outside of school. Please let our Communications and Marketing Manager, Mrs Arundale know. Mrs Arundale greatly enjoys telling the story of the quality and achievements of our PLC Armidale girls.
Congratulations to ...
.....all our students on their remarkable achievements at the Armidale and other eisteddfodau.
We are busy compiling all our PLC Armidale community 2024 Eisteddfod Results, and we need your help.
We are exceptionally proud of the achievements of our PLC Armidale music, choir, dance and drama ensembles at the recent eisteddfod events.
Our talented students delivered outstanding performances, showcasing their dedication, hard work, and passion for the creative and performing arts. Their collective efforts brought home awards and highlighted the spirit of teamwork and excellence that we cherish at our college.
As we celebrate these accomplishments, it is equally important for us to recognise and document each student's individual achievements, and we request that you complete THIS FORM with your daughter's individual results from the 2024 eisteddfod season as soon as possible.
This information is crucial for ensuring every student's hard work is acknowledged. It will also help us celebrate her personal achievements and share them with the school community, enhancing the sense of pride and accomplishment among all our students.
Miss-Connection -
Why your teenager ‘hates’ you, expects the world and needs to talk.
Join us for an evening with Dr Justin Coulson for this significant event, relevant to parents, educators and those working with pre-teen girls through to young women across the New England, North West Region.
Open to all community members regardless of where their daughters go to school. This event is one of a series focusing on factors that impact the growth and development of young women in an increasingly technological, disconnected, digital and highly sexualised world.
Trying to guide a teenage daughter through a complex adolescent world is… well, complicated. Mental health concerns, body image issues, premature and/or non-consensual intimacy, friendship challenges, and alcohol and drugs are just the tip of the iceberg.
Join Dr Justin Coulson as he unpacks the science and provides practical real-world advice for parenting your teenage daughter. You’ll leave this presentation with simple and valuable tools and techniques to help you guide your daughters safely and successfully through adolescence.
You’ll discover what is really going on in the minds of our teenage daughters – how do they really feel and what do they wish you knew? Find out how we can stay connected to our daughters and keep them motivated, whilst also dealing with the eye-rolls and bad attitude.
We’ll talk about how we can keep them safe and informed without them pushing us away; and how to encourage them to develop strong, healthy relationships and resilience. Plus we’ll cover the best things we can do to support our daughters during this tumultuous time.
Dr Justin Coulson is the co-host and parenting expert on Channel 9's Parental Guidance, the founder of happyfamilies.com.au and one of Australia’s most trusted parenting experts. He holds a PhD in Positive Psychology.
Over the past decade he has helped innumerable families with his nine books about raising children, his hundreds of media appearances (including all of Australia’s major news outlets, and even the Washington Post and the New York Times), and two viral videos that have been viewed a combined 80 million times!
Justin and his wife Kylie have been married since the late 1990s and are the parents of six daughters.
* Please note to allow uncensored discussion; this event is for adults only.
2024 Student Leaders
Lunch Orders
The full week's menu can be seen on your My Student Account via CONNECT
The deadline each day for ordering a hot meal is 10:50 am, after that cut off, both salad bar and make-your-own-sandwich options are available until 1.15 pm.However, there will be no spare hot specials available.
Junior School families are asked to contact Mrs Creamer for assistance on the day.
Senior School students will need to use their Student ID card for an on-the-spot purchase and all salad bar or make-you- own-sandwich pre bookings need to be marked off on arrival to the Dining Hall.
Please note: All 2023 issued Student ID cards remain valid until new cards are issued.
You can book online via CONNECT by clicking the My Student Account tile.
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Congratulations to .....
Our 2024 Silver Duke of Edinburgh Award recipients ( absent Amelie van der Werf) receive their awards at assembly.
Our 2024 Silver Duke of Edinburgh recipients
Since completing their , these girls are now preparing for their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award Qualifying Hike on the Rees Dart Track in Mount Aspiring National Park in New Zealand ( a five-day trek with glacier-fed rivers, waterfalls and spectaucular mountain scenery) during January 2025.
You can see their Silver Award achievements in the gallery below.
Everyone involved in our Stage 6 Information Night
Year 11 is a crucial time in your daughter's education journey and our strong culture of learning provides invaluable preparation for your daughter's final school years.
Our Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) Information Night on Wednesday, in the Astra Arts Centre featured an overview by our Principal, Mrs Nicola Taylor, and details regarding the subjects on offer for 2025 by key staff members.
You can find the Stage 6 Subject Handbook on the Parent Portal HERE
MEANWHILE OUR CURRENT STAGE 6 ARE HAVING A BUSY TERM ...
Siding Springs Excursion
Our HSC Physics Depth Study at Siding Spring Observatory recently was a great success.
Students explored the Anglo-Australian Telescope's inner workings and engaged in activities including Nucleosynthesis, Stellar Spectroscopy, Supernovae data analysis, Constellation observations and Star Classification.
They also helped PLC Armidale parent Mark Willis ( who is a specialist electrical engineer at Siding Springs and other observatories around the globe) clean dust off one of the lenses with a spray of CO2 !
PDHPE Excursion
Our Stage 6 PDHPE students visited the Exercise Sport Science labs on campus at UNE recently.
The sessions aligned with the syllabus and gave students a wonderful practical learning opportunity.
Many thanks to Dr Brad Morris and Dr Stephen Goodman.
Ag Expo Excursion
Our Stage 6 Agriculture girls attended the 6th Biennial Tamworth Agricultural Careers Expo at Farrer Memorial Agricultural last week. Joining hundreds of students from schools across the region.
The Expo featured an abundance of enthusiastic exhibitors in attendance including Universities, Colleges, TAFE and Industry professionals who conducted visual and interactive workshops providing students with meaningful learning experiences and inspiration.
The Land and Northern Daily Leader photographer snapped this fabulous pic of our Livestock Team Captain Lily McCosker-at the Tamworth Ag Industry Expo - keep your eye out for this week's edition for the story.
HSC Access: Extended Day Program for HSC Exam Excellence
Our exciting new initiative that aims to further support our Year 12 and Year 11 students in their HSC journey: HSC Access.
HSC Access is a PLC Armidale developed pilot program designed to build greater student capability and preparedness while reducing anxiety and stress levels associated with the HSC examinations.
The program facilitates supervised study sessions with a range of our Stage 6 teachers on a weekly basis every Monday afternoon.
Key Details:
Weekly Sessions: The program will run on Monday afternoons from 3:45 PM to 5:15 PM.
Supplement to Self-Directed Learning (SDL): HSC Access will supplement the existing SDL component of Stage 6 courses.
Focus on Examination-style Responses: The emphasis of the program will be on students formulating examination-style responses and receiving direct support and feedback from teachers.
Format: Each session will consist of two 45-minute parts, with students spending time on two of their courses each week.
Teachers: The teachers on these sessions are subject specialists, but may not be your daughter’s current teacher for that subject. This gives students a wide range of perspectives on the course materials, and on preparation for the HSC.
These sessions are strongly encouraged for Year 12, and will be opt-in for Year 11. If Year 12 students have any conflicting prior engagements, they should discuss these with the Year 12 Pastoral Care team.
The program will commence in Week 2, providing timely support and guidance to our students as they progress through their HSC studies. The first session will start at 3.45pm on Monday, May 6 2024.
Our dedicated team of teachers will not be teaching content in these sessions; instead, they will focus on supporting students to work through examination-style questions suitable for their course progression.
We believe that HSC Access will play a crucial role in empowering our students to excel in their HSC examinations while fostering a supportive and collaborative learning environment. We encourage you to speak to your daughter about her participation in these sessions.
There is no cost associated with participation in this program.
Should you have any questions or require further information about the HSC Access program, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Thank you for your continued support as we strive to provide the best possible educational experience for our students.
Get ready for a BIG night in at PLC Armidale
We are inviting all girls entering Year 7 in 2025 to spend the night with us in the Hilton Boarding House in Week 9.
The fun will begin at 3.30pm on Wednesday, 26 June, with afternoon tea and activities with our Boarding House family.
After spending the night with her Class of 2030 sisters, your daughter will attend a morning of stimulating STEM classes before lunch and a riotous afternoon enjoying our annual Guild Song Battle in the Astra Arts Centre.
If you know anyone who is considering PLC Armidale for their girl in Year 7, 2025, please let them know.
Please note that all our current Year 6 girls are invited and there is no cost but you do need to book. There is a buzz in the Stage 3 classroom about this, so don't let your daughter miss out!
Junior School News
Dates for the Calendar
Class of 2030 sleepover Wednesday, 26 June. Open to all girls entering Year 7 in 2025.
Experience day for Years 5,4 and 3 - Thursday, 27 June.
Term 2 concludes on Thursday, 27 June, with a Guild Song Battle.
Stage One
Stage One are such busy learners, full of zest and curiosity! It is wonderful to see all of this amazing learning – can you believe that we are nearing the mid-year point?
Time flies so quickly when you are having fun. The enthusiasm and love of learning in the Stage One classroom is always easy to see through the many concepts we explore. In English, we used Venn Diagrams to compare and contrast the personalities of the main characters in ‘Pearl Barley and Charlie Parsley by Aaron Blabey – the girls even experimented with primary and secondary colours in their Venn Diagrams. You are welcome to come and see these in the hall and on our classroom door. At the moment we are studying a beautiful book called
‘Boy’ by Phil Cummings – it is about a young man who talks with dancing hands, and the girls have been exploring some AUSLAN as they delve into different ways of communicating. Please see the photos below for a special message. In History, the girls have loved exploring toys and games from the past, and we have even had a go at playing a few, such as elastics, pick up sticks and kick ball! Perhaps your daughter can teach you one of these games. In Mathematics recently we have been looking at collecting, tallying and graphing data, and exploring the likelihood of different events occurring. Students created some very entertaining impossible situations, with some below for you to enjoy.
Mrs Susanne Dowling
Stage One learning AUSLAN
"I"
"Love"
"School"
Congratulations to ...
All our Junior School place-getters at the 2024 Athletics Carnival
All our girls celebrating birthdays and our Assembly Award Winners
You can find a gallery of our Term 2 Junior School Award winners HERE on our Parent Portal
THE CUB’S ROAR
by Georgina Arundale-Fuller
Guild Ad Astra Awards
Last week the Junior School Guild Captains organised a Guild Gathering. Each Guild went into a separate room and learned about ‘Wisdom’. The Guild Captains put together lots of different activities and games.
The Guild leaders each chose someone they thought participated well and showed Guild spirit to receive an Ad Astra Award. The recipients were as follows: Nyka Naveen (Lovell); Audrey Belford (Wilkie); Dimity Aiken (Dixon) and Vivienne Schaefer (Hamlin). Well done everyone.
Lovell Guild Gathering
Our Junior School Guild Captains: Mary Notley ( Wilkie), Prodipta Shil ( Lovell) Georgiana Ballard (Hamlin) and Sophia Craig ( Dixon) with the Guild Ad Astra Award winners: Nyka Naveen (Lovell); Audrey Belford (Wilkie); Dimity Aiken (Dixon) and Vivienne Schaefer (Hamlin).
Boarding Life
Sam and Amy Jacometti
Heads of Boarding
I think we can all agree a long weekend is a wonderful thing, especially if it also means a Boarders weekend that brings all of your daughters home for some quality family time.
We hope that you enjoyed the weekend.
For the Jacometti’s, we were also able to head off to the coast for some time at the beach and slightly warmer temperatures than what Armidale has been delivering lately!
Boarding continues to be a wonderful dynamic part of the College to be involved in. One moment, we’re discussing the Dining Hall and managing prep, next we’re working with Maintenance to replace some shower heads and fixing sticky locks on the toilet roll dispensers! It is a wonderful place to be involved in and the girls who live here are a great bunch. Not without challenges but exciting all the same!
Here are some of the highlights from the past two weeks.
Georgia Whibley gets out the whips!
Some of you may know that our very own Georgia Whibley possesses some unique whipping skills. We’re not talking meringue, these are real whips, with a crisp crack and a call to attention! It was lovely to have the entertainment on the weekend as well as Georgia’s willingness to teach some of the other girls. She was very patient, even our House Mother, Aimee Taylor got in on the action!
Birthdays
We have had a number of birthdays come and go and we were well overdue to celebrate all the girls from the past term. Thank you to the Dining Hall for organising a giant slab cake for our girls. For any Boarder parents who have girls with birthdays coming up, please feel free to get in touch with the Boarding house to arrange a cake. We will always do one big cake to celebrate every one from the previous month in one go but you are also more than welcome to make your own arrangements. Please speak with us about pickup dates. Moxon’s Bakery in town are a reliable place for yummy and good looking cakes.
2024 Armidale Eisteddfod
It has been another busy and rigorous Esietddfod season this year, with great results across the College, both individually and for our ensembles. It was exciting to have our PLCA Jazz Band and Treble Makers Vocal Ensemble selected for the Gala concert.
It is also worth just letting you know that we try to be very mindful of capturing the activities of our Boarders and sending you pictures and videos of what they have been doing - just as you would if we were able to be here yourselves. For 2024, the Armidale Eisteddfod Committee made a change and instituted a ban on any filming of performances. For anyone interested, there is an opportunity to provide feedback to the committee via email on their website.
Well done to all those involved - every year, the courage that it takes to stand up in front of a room and perform is incredible to watch!
House Keeping
Prep - just a reminder that we are continuing to improve our Prep time in the Boarding House, which runs each week, Monday to Thursday evening. For year 5, 6 & 7, Prep times are 6:30pm - 7:30pm and Year 8, 9 & 10 is 6:30pm - 8:00pm. We have staff who supervise these sessions and are available to assist your daughter if needed.
Keep Cups - these are a great idea and it would be well worth encouraging your daughter to purchase a personalised KeepCup with their name on it. As a College, we consume a large number of disposable cardboard cups each day which is a cost that quickly adds up. A keepcup is a great way to enjoy a warm drink (on a cold Armidale day). KeepCups can be placed on the trolley in the Dining Hall and washed up by kitchen staff before being returned to the girls.
Stay in touch
As always, a reminder about accessing the Instagram page to enjoy highlights of Boarding House activities.
Our PLCABoarding Insta page continues to be the primary way of getting out stories, reels and announcements to our Boarders and their families. If you are part of Boarding and are not yet connected, we encourage you to download the app, sign in/create an account and search for @plcaboarding.
Once you send a request through, it can be approved from our end and you will be able to see fun content from the weekly activities in the Boarding House. We have found this to be an efficient way of sending pictures and videos instead of sending the footage individually. #BoardingLife
Please reach out if you have questions.
For day to day information relevant to your daughter(s) or to keep us updated, please phone the Boarding House on 6770 1716, or the House Mother phone: 0417 033 424. For any concerns, please contact the Head of Boarding phone on 0428 866 590.
Two weeks left to go before the break. We hope you are all travelling well.
Sam, Amy, Lucinda, Anneliese (and Bailey 🐕)
CAPA News
Mrs Joanne Wysel
Head of Creative and Performing Arts
State Shakespeare Carnival - We WON! TWICE!
Arlie, Teya, Emily, India, and Bridie from Year 11 Drama, along with Olive and Poppy-Grace from Year 8, represented PLC Armidale at the recent State Shakespeare Carnival in Sydney. Students from across the state and ACT gathered for workshops led by industry professionals in the arts. The Carnival featured expert showcases in various categories: Dance, Physical Theatre, Ensemble Scene, Duologue, Smart Film, Group Devised and Music Composition.
In the Group Devised section, our Year 11 cohort challenged traditional views on Women in Shakespeare, urging Juliet, Hiro, Desdemona, Ophelia, Helena, and all women to ‘write their own stories’. Meanwhile, Poppy-Grace and Olive captivated the audience with their dance, symbolising the dysfunctional and fiery relationships between Macbeth and Lady Macbeth, leading to their downfall.
The judges were mesmerised by the dance performance, unable to look away, and refrained from writing comments as they were completely engrossed. It was described as dynamic and powerful. The Women in Shakespeare piece was hailed as ‘theatre that can change the world’, showcasing sophisticated theatrical techniques woven throughout. The judges remarked that they had never seen a Group Devised performance of this calibre at the State Carnival.
Congratulations to the girls!
Their achievement is remarkable. Not only have they secured the crown and a sash, but they will also participate in workshops throughout the year with members of the professional arts community in Australia. This experience not only celebrates their talents but also puts Creative Arts at PLC Armidale firmly on the map!
A comment received this week in an email from the Catholic Schools Parramatta Diocese drama teacher who also attended the carnival sums this up.
"I just wanted to take this opportunity to say how impressed and delighted we were with the offerings from PLC Armidale. Both wins were incredibly well deserved. Your school clearly has a wonderful culture of creativity.
Please pass our congratulations on to your students and let them know we could see every moment of effort, collaboration, courage and performance skill up on that stage."
A Midsummer Night’s Dream Excursion
While our teams were competing in the Shakespeare State Carnival our Year 8 English, Stage 5 Drama and Stage 5 Music travelled to Tamworth to see Bell Shakespeare's A Midsummer Night's Dream.
Dance Eisteddfodau
What a fabulous eisteddfod at both New England Dance Eisteddfod and Tamworth City Dance Eisteddfod.
In the non-competitive section of the New England Dance Eisteddfod, we received the following awards:
Most creative concept - JS Dance Ensemble Pre-K - 2
Best choreography - JS Dance Ensemble Years 3-6
Best kick lines: PLC Stage 5 dancers
Best sassy energy: PLC Senior School Dance Ensemble
Best storytelling: PLC Shakespeare Dancers
Best characterisation: PLC Stage 5 Dancers
Most powerful concept: PLC ADV Senior ensemble.
At the Tamworth City Dance Eisteddfod:
Congratulations to all our Senior School Dance Ensembles who performed impressively against strong competition. Our Advanced Senior Dance Ensemble placed second with their 'Stand Up' routine; our Stage 5 dancers placed third with their 'Madness' routine and again with their 'Achilles' routine, which the adjudicator said 'clearly communicated a message using dance as a medium and I value the school using the syllabus components to educate the girls as dance is an art form and so much more than just technical ability'.
Congratulations to all the girls, and well done to Miss Kliendienst and Mrs Wysel for their training, guidance and choreography.
Visual Arts in the Junior School
On Tuesday this week, Stage 3 visited the senior school art studio to engage in an enriching lesson focused on creating self-portraits inspired by the renowned Australian artist Brett Whiteley. Guided by Mrs Schaeffer, students were immersed in Whiteley’s distinctive style and techniques, fostering their artistic skills and creativity in a hands-on, senior-level art environment.
Date for the Diary
Come along and support our Year 11 Drama students as they perform a moved reading from the play 'Ruby Moon''.
A moved reading allows the ensemble to flex their acting muscles and practise their technique when connecting with characters. They aim to capture the character's essence, journey and story.
Entry is by donation and there will be refreshments for sale.
Please note this production is recommended for children aged 13 and older.
Sport News
Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Head of Sport
Congratulations to ....
all our 2024 Athletics Carnival Age Champions
and our overall winning Guild Wilkie
You can find all the photos from our 2024 Athletics Carnival HERE on our Parent Portal
Our Representative Netball Players
Holly Sheedy and Mary Ugwumba (ADNA representative teams)
Our Representative Rugby Players
Mia Montgomery - State Champions, playing as part of the Central North U18s Rugby Union Team and also receiving the best and fairest award for her team.
Evie Matthews and Izzy Macrae - playing as part of the Central North U14s Rugby Union Team
our small but mighty PLCA Equestrian Team -Chloe Younghusband, Lilly Meredith and Laura Vary.
..who competed at the North West Equestrian Expo at Coonabarabran. This is Australia’s largest high school interschool equestrian event. Which runs over four days and incorporates Flatwork, Show Jumping, Hacking, Sporting, Team Events, Jumping, Eventing, Polocrosse, Team Pinning, Dressage, Working Horse Challenge, Warrumbungles Way, Expo Pentathlon, and Expo Gymkhana. The number of participants is capped at 500, and over 100 schools are represented with up to 600 horses.
Thank you also to our parent supporters and Team Manager Marie Younghusband who reported:
The girls were very polite and respectful to all those they came in contact with and were turned out beautifully for all their events. We had a small but friendly camp, and the girls helped each other out when needed.
Chloe and Lilly were on new horses (ones who hadn't been to the expo before), and Laura was on her horse from last year. For having such a small team, we really do punch above our weight in terms of results. A quick summary of results:-
Chloe Younghusband - 4th in the Combined Training 65cm (this is show jumping and dressage) and 8th in the Warrumbungle Way - (in her age group) an event comprising 5 different tasks including a freestyle task where Chloe took off her saddle and bridle and cantered around with only a rope around her horses neck.
Laura Vary - 10th in the Combined Training 45cm and 4th in the "Horse Most Suited to Expo" (in her age group)- an event comprising 4 tasks to demonstrate the all-round ability of the horse.
Lillian Meredith - 2nd in the Combined Training 65cm, Placings in events based on age - 3rd in the Working Horse Challenge, 1st Showing Jumping "A2" , 3rd in Barrel race, 6th in Keyhole race. Hacking events - 3rd in Hack (judging the horse by height), 2nd in Rider (age based), 1st in Pair (with an ASC student), 1st in team of fours (with 3 students from other schools).
Representative Hockey
Best wishes to our representative hockey players who will be representing the New England region at the State Championships in Bathurst this weekend - Ad Astra ! Ava Notley, Mila Vanzella, Amelia Webb and Mem Lay.
Please note Change to Football (soccer) Training
Due to many conflicting events and activities that have popped up, we have moved football training to Friday afternoons 4pm-5pm @ PLC. This will hopefully ensure that majprioty of the team can be at training. This change is effective as of this week, Week 5.
Sporting Commitments Reminder
Just a friendly reminder about the importance of honoring the commitments your daughters have made to their chosen sports activities. With such a busy term, it's crucial to prioritise these initial commitments. If an unavoidable conflict arises, please ensure they email the coordinating teacher and inform their coach. Thank you for supporting your daughters in this matter.
Important Dates for your diary:
Term 3 IGSA Hockey and Netball Trips
Trip 1: August 2-3
Trip 2: August 30-31
Finals: September 20-21
IGSA Athletics: 22-23 August
IPSHA Athletics: 28 August
Winter Sports (Term 2 and 3)
We encourage all girls to participate in sport.
Please, at any stage if you are unsure of anything or need clarification, send me an email ldonaldson@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au and I will endeavor to get back to you as soon as possible.
Alternatively, Mrs Stephanie Fahy at the Senior School Reception senior_school_administration@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au will be able to assist as well.
The Giants netball team are extending $15 tickets offers to all IGSA schools! - including PLC Armidale.
BOOK HERE and use our unique school code PLAGN24
Pathways - International Student News
Ms Amy Chiu
Pathways Coordinator
Term 2 has been busy for the Pathways students
Mrs Ellen Ehrhardt-Smith from PLC Sydney visited the Pathways class and shared insights into the expectations of students in mainstream courses, especially in an independent school setting. Students reported it being a really helpful session as they work towards their goals.
Three students attended the PLC Sydney testing and touring day to apply for Term 3 entry. It was a great opportunity for students interested in our sister school to experience a boarding night, meals, and the school environment. We wish the students who have successfully passed the test a smooth transition to a new school.
Two students attended interviews at Ravenswood, and the Enrolments Manager was impressed with our students’ performance and the improvements since she last saw them! It was a proud moment for the girls, and it certainly boosted their motivation to work towards 2025.
At the end of the term, Ms Nadine James from Macarthur Anglican School will visit the Pathways class and conduct English tests and interviews with students interested in applying for the 2025 entry. We are grateful and appreciative of the keen engagement from our partner schools in providing such opportunities for students to meet with them.
The Pathways class also attended the Armidale Eisteddfod this year, performing Mr Minter's original work for Xylophones. They have been practising every week, and we are most proud of their progress in learning a new instrument that they have only just started this term!
We look forward to the end-of-term Macbeth performance the Pathways class is currently working on and trust that it has been fruitful for them.
Health News
Ms Amy Chiu
School Nurse
Healthy Eating and Nutrition
It has come to our attention, through observations, that some students have been having instant noodles for lunch on a regular basis.
Whilst we understand that preparing lunches for your daughter(s) might not be easy in some households, it concerns us that students who have been having instant noodles for lunch are not getting adequate nutrition for their learning and the energy they need to attend lessons.
There are several resources that are available to learn more about Healthy Eating. Parents are encouraged to look into this where applicable.
Alternatively, purchasing lunches from the Dining Hall is also a convenient option.
Medicare details and medications in Edumate
It would be much appreciated if all parents/carers can check your daughters' Edumate details, especially for any medical updates, current medications and their medicare details. Please update the Edumate data to notify the school for any changes, or simply email us with any updates.
Health Centre opening hours
Monday, Wednesday and Thursday 8:30am to 3:30pm - Emily
Tuesday and Friday 8:30am to 3:30pm - Amy
Contact number: 02 6770 1741. Email: health@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
P&F News
Sarah Yassine
P&F President
As Term 2 whizzes by, the P&F would like to thank you all for your generous contributions this year so far. I have had positive feedback about the role of liaison parents in making connections across the year groups, and your contributions have helped raise over $5000 from the Swimming and Athletics Carnivals, the Livestock Team Celebration, and PLC Performs. Funds raised by the P&F contribute to a range of carefully considered purchases for the school. Our next P&F meeting is scheduled for 6 August at 5.30pm in the PLC Armidale boardroom or via Zoom. Everyone is welcome!
https://plcarmidale.zoom.us/j/89159031702?pwd=d3FTZGtRenNzZ1BqODBRd01sSUppZz09
GREEN TARTAN
ALUMNAE NEWS
Autumn Green Tartan - out now !
Our dynamic Old Girls Union Committee is publishing a seasonal edition of Green Tartan (see the intro below) and find the autumn issue HERE
Calling all '74, '04 and '14 alumnae - are you ready to celebrate your milestone reunion?
Our Class of '84 alumnae will stay at the Hilton Boarding House during the October OGU Reunion weekend—what fun. There is still space available - let us now if you would like to book a dorm!
Send us your news!
We love to hear about what our alumnae have been doing - so please let us know what has been happening in your life.
Births, deaths, marriages, milestone celebrations - whatever you feel like sharing with the other Old Girls, please tell us so we can include it in this section of the Lion's Roar each fortnight.
Our PLC Armidale alumnae are a stellar group of women who excel in a diverse range of areas, leading lives of significance.
Success looks different for everyone, and we like to celebrate it all - not just that which is in the public eye.
Email your news to: communications@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Want to get together with your class?
If you are interested in joining or organising a milestone reunion group during the Reunion Weekend in October 2024, please get in touch with us at enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
PLC Armidale Foundation
Reduce your tax and make a financial contribution to the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund before July
As we approach the end of the financial year, we have just a few weeks left to make a significant impact through PLC Armidale's Annual Giving program.
This is a crucial time to consider making a difference, whether it's through one substantial donation or smaller contributions spread over the remaining weeks.
Directing your donation to the Scholarship Fund ensures that future generations of students can access the invaluable opportunities provided by PLC Armidale. By investing in their education, you're giving tangible support and fostering a community that thrives on generosity and support.
Please take a moment to reflect on how much you can afford to contribute each fortnight until June 30.
Remember, every dollar counts. If each current family donated an average of $500 over the next few weeks, we could raise more than $125,000, making a significant impact on the lives of future students.
Thank you for considering this opportunity to support our school community.
General News
The Multicultural Winter Christian Concert is TONIGHT featuring our very own Kithmi Jayaratne and dozens of other wonderful dancers and performers.
The unique concert program presents diversity and harmony among people of all faiths, beliefs and worldviews.
The theme: God is love. 1 John 4:8 is about God's love is sharing "peace and goodwill" to all people irrespective of culture, race and ethnicity.
You will be inspired and delighted by the assortment of talent and skills in this program.
Join St Marks UNE to celebrate the many cultures that have come together in the Armidale community and the love of Jesus. Supper is included in this cost.
Please call 67874015 for any information or book at: https://shorturl.at/hBUGe
The Year 12 Formal Committee is encouraging parents and guardians to book accommodation at Peterson’s Guesthouse for the year 12 formal by 22 June 2024.
Please call Peterson’s Winery and Guesthouse on 02 67720422 to book and mention you are attending the PLC Year 12 Formal.
Peterson’s Winery and Guesthouse have a policy stating events must finish at 9.00pm unless the Guesthouse accommodation is fully booked by event guests. If accommodation is fully booked the formal can conclude at 10.30pm.
The year 12 formal committee have been busy organising the formal and tickets will go on sale later this term.
For any enquires please call Susanne Kable, Year 12 Liaison Parent on 0427255251 or skable8@bigpond.com
Petersons Winery & Guest House
Room Types & Rates
Room 1 - $240.00 per night
A luxurious suite with a king sized bed in the bedroom. A beautiful claw foot bath & separate
shower in the heritage style ensuite bathroom. Rate includes full breakfast for two people. Sofa bed
available at extra cost. (max occupants 4 guests)
Room 2 – $220.00 per night
A lovely suite that has a queen-sized bed and an ensuite bathroom with a pampering shower. Rate
includes full breakfast for two people. (max occupants 2 guests)
Room 3 - $270.00 per night
A beautifully appointed suite with views of the Heritage Gardens, this suite contains a king sized bed
and large spa bath in the ensuite bathroom as well as separate shower. Rate includes full breakfast
for two people. (max occupants 2 guests)
Room 4 - $270.00 per night
A beautifully appointed suite with views of the Heritage Gardens and Cellar Door, this suite contains
a king sized bed and large spa bath in the ensuite bathroom as well as separate shower. Rate
includes full breakfast for two people. Sofa bed available at extra cost (Max occupants 4 guests)
Room 5 - $300.00 per night
This two room suite consists of a large bedroom with king sized Bed, a separate lounge area with a
double fold out sofa and an ensuite bathroom with separate shower and a luxurious oval spa
bath. Rate includes full breakfast for two people. Sofa bed and single bed available as extra cost.
(max occupants 5 guests)
Room 6 – $240.00 per night
A luxurious suite with a king sized bed in the bedroom. A beautiful claw foot bath & separate
shower in the heritage style ensuite bathroom. Rate includes full breakfast for two people. Single
bed available at extra cost. (max occupant 3 guests)
Room 7 - $220.00 per night
A lovely suite that has a king sized bed and an ensuite bathroom with a pampering shower and
separate bath. This room is suitable for disabled access. Rate includes full breakfast for two people.
(max occupants 2 guests)
Keep your children safe online
We have signed up with the team at Safe on Social to give our parents a 20 percent discount on the new eReady Kids program.
Simply use the code plcarmidale24
Which will reduce the cost of the program to only $38 per year. The school will also get $5 for every family who signs up.
For more information about the program and to purchase, please visit: https://www.safeonsocial.com/ereadykids
