Congratulations to ... 

...our 2025 leadership team who were inducted this week: 

Head Prefect Emily Blake; Deputy Head Prefect Arlie Bragg; Boarding Prefect Poppy McLaren; Creative Arts Prefect India Smith; International Prefect Maggie Zhen ; Sports Prefect Bridie O’Neill ; Spiritual Leaders Emily Blake ; Tiko Lay and Teya Catterall ; Dixon Captain - Tiko Lay and Deputy Zoe Webb ; Hamlin Captain Tilly George and Deputy Isabella Every ; Lovell Captain Teya Catterall and Deputy Sophie Young; Wilkie Captain Anna Grills and Deputy Korin Kelly

Leadership is not just about holding a position or wearing a badge; it is about being a role model, inspiring others, and embodying our College values of Humility, Integrity, Respect and Self-Discipline. 

Ad Astra ladies!

You can read their manifestos HERE

...everyone who was part of our Signature Art Prize Exhibition Dinner

On Saturday, 19 October, our first-ever Signature Art Prize Exhibition dinner was successfully launched as a Foundation Scholarship fundraising initiative, with all proceeds dedicated to preparing girls to lead lives of significance. 

More than 170 people attended the event, which featured an impressive collection of artworks valued at over $150,000, including works by current students.  

The prestigious acquisitive art prize attracted 130 entries from across the country, with 60 outstanding works selected for an exhibition that celebrates excellence in Australian art through three major prize categories generously sponsored by Pathways Education Solutions (PES):

$6,000 Acquisitive Prize

Winner: Julianne Ross Allcorn

Work: "Spring Awakenings in the Valley"

$2,000 Best Work on Paper

Winner: Maree Azzopardi

Work: "The Crossings #3"

$2,000 Best Work on Canvas/Board

Winner: Kerry Gulliver

Work: "Green and Gold Illumination"

Many finalist works are still for sale via the online gallery at https://store.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au/

Renowned artist and judge Angus Nivison praised the exhibition's high calibre and professional presentation, emphasising the vital role of arts in society. 

"Supporting the arts is crucial to humanity," Nivison remarked, commending the exceptional standard of entries and their thoughtful display.

Mr Nivison said for him, sitting still and viewing one piece of art each day was a meditative experience, and he encouraged people to buy something they like and can lose themselves in when building their art collection. He also said he was amazed by the talent on show in the school art exhibition and ensemble performances.

Principal Nicola Taylor extended her gratitude to the distinguished panel of art professionals who contributed to the exhibition's success, including judges Belinda Hungerford (curator at New England Regional Art Museum) and gallerist Allison Bellinger; and brains trust artists Emma Schaeffer, Paula Jenkins and Robyn Markey for their expert grouping and installation.

Pathways Education Solutions (PES), established in 2021, generously provided the $10,000 prize money for this inaugural event. As a not-for-profit consultancy company, PES supports and guides overseas schools in delivering high-quality English language programs. 

Their mission aligns with supporting Christian schools such as PLC Armidale, making them an ideal partner for this significant cultural and educational initiative.

The evening's program featured an impressive array of student performances, including:

The Senior Choir's rendition of Queen's "Somebody to Love"

Multiple dance performances by Poppy-Grace Newton and Olive Chandler, Stage 5 and Senior Dance Ensembles

Dramatic presentations including "Women in Shakespeare" by Year 11 Drama

Musical performances by the Senior Strings Ensemble and Jazz Band

Mrs Taylor said Presbyterian Ladies' College Armidale is the region’s pre-eminent independent girls' school committed to excellence in education and the arts. 

“The Signature Art Prize Exhibition opening represents the school's dedication to fostering creativity and artistic expression among its students while supporting its mission to empower and develop young women of character and purpose,” Mrs Taylor said.

You can find the complete gallery of photos on the Parent Portal HERE

And a link to the online gallery HERE 

If you were unable to come along, you can still contribute to our 2024 Foundation Fundraiser  by finding an artwork to purchase or by donating HERE

all our Speech and Drama AMEB certificate recipients...

At our Commencement Assembly last week, Mrs Kylie Alcorn L.S.D.A. presented certificates to our Speech and Drama students, including Year 11 students Taya Catterall (A+), Sophie Hardin (A+), Tiko Lay (A), Arlie Bragg (A+) and Bridie O'Neill (A) who all completed their Voice and Communication Certificate (CVCA ).

The CVCA examination included Preparation, Prose, Poetry and Choice components as well as a presentation on a controversial subject where candidates set out to advocate on an issue or sway the audience to their point of view.

AMEB Grade One: Audrey Belford (A), April Ferguson (A+), Shiloni Katta (A+) and Lydia Yuan (A+) - all in Year 4

AMEB Grade Two:  Nyka Naveen (B+) and Isabella Wyatt (B+) both in Year 5

AMEB Grade 3 : Georgina Arundale-Fuller (A+), Georgianna Ballard (B), Sophia Craig (B+), Thara Dhinakaran (A) Prodipta Shil (A+), Lucie Stephens (A+), Annabella Wysel (B+) - all in Year 6

AMEB Grade 4: Anna Blake (B+), Georgie Blake (A), Edie Clynch (B+), Lola Ferguson (A+),  Hannah Swain (B+), Rosie Woods (B+) - all in Year 7

AMEB Grade 5: Issy Forest (A+), Willow Gully (B+), Kithmi Jayaratne (A+), Hope Stoltenburg (A+) - all in Year 8

AMEB Grade 6 : Kate Loxley (A+), Alanna Marshall (A), Tess Schmude (C+), Elise Tisserand (A) - all in Year 9

AMEB Grade 7:  Emily Adams (A), Rebe Cunningham (A), Rachel Mungall (A), Kianna Ping-Kee (A) - all in Year 10

Mrs Alcorn said  38 students formally sat exams. and students ranged from Grade One through to Certificate in Voice and Communication Australia (CVCA).

"A total of five Year 11 students sat their CVCA – a wonderful achievement giving them both additional ATAR points and the ability to put the post nominal C.V.C.A. after their name," she said.

"Many universities have an adjustment factor for high level AMEB achievements. These bonus point schemes for elite performers are offered by several universities. For example, the University of NSW provides 2 bonus points that are added to the students ATAR to help them gain entry into their chosen course. The Australian National University in Canberra offers 5 bonus points.

"The CVCA is a great fit for the study of law for example, as it is the study of effective communication. However, past students have pursued carers in Paramedicine, where the ability to talk with and keep a patient calm is critical. So too, others have successfully secured gap year jobs in retail as they ‘can talk to people’.

"In addition, there are many for whom English is a second language. For these students,  the study of Speech and Drama can make all the difference to a successful career in Australia."

For the remainder of the year our Speech and Drama students will focus on exercises and theatre sports designed to build self-confidence and the ability to think on your feet. This includes learning to speak on an impromptu basis and to improvise.

Year 12 for all their fundraising on activities day last term

which collected more than $1200 for the Anya's Wish Foundation

You can find all the photos on our Parent Portal HERE

Find all our event photos in our Parent Portal gallery HERE

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.

You can book online via CONNECT by clicking the My Student Account tile.

Thailand Service Trip 2024

During the holidays some of our girls went to Thailand to participate in our annual service learning trip to the Agape Home for children at risk of HIV and the McKean Leprosy Rehabilitation Centre in Chang Mai. 

At Senior School Chapel this week, participants spoke of the journey's impact on them.  

Ash Sharpe

A couple of days before heading to Thailand, I thought, why did I choose to go to Thailand and give up time with my family? After the first day, I realised this was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I wanted to tell you about one particular memory but couldn’t decide which one. I made too many memories to tell you just one. I will never forget the memories I made in Thailand, and I will forever treasure my friendships with the people in Thailand. Some of my favourite memories were : singing songs with the medical staff and community at McKean. Another memory is when a baby fell asleep in my arms and left a very big patch of drool on my shirt. Still, despite being tired and wishing I could fall asleep, I will treasure the moment forever and never get to experience the same feeling. And, of course, when Chloe completely stacked it on a slippery road after just talking about how slippery it was and to be careful.  After a couple of days of scrubbing roads and sweating like I had never sweated before and playing with the children, it was time to say goodbye, which is one of the hardest things I've ever done because just in a few days, I hadn’t realised how special the friendships were that we made, so after few tears, we finally made it back to Australia. Overall, I recommend going on this trip as you will never forget, so please sign up. I know you will love it. 

Chloe Younghusband

Going to Thailand, I could never have expected the new experiences and relationships I’ve made. Of course we were told how great it was going to be but you never really know until you experience it for yourself. I can’t pick just one highlight from this trip but the people really made the 9 hour flight worth it. I made so many friends while I was there and I know all the other girls did too. I love how we could help these people and how welcoming they were for us to come into their lives. I loved all the things we could help out with but also the lifestyle of thailand and how different but the same it was to my life. They were all so happy with their lives and it has made me appreciate the things I have in my life.

Ella Jenkins

When all of the older girls that went to Thailand last year told me that they were going back for their gap year, I have to admit I was quite surprised. But now that I have actually been able to experience everything and meet all of the kids at Agape, I am definitely going to be doing the same. This experience has changed my life in so many ways and helped me realise that there are so many things I could do to make a change, even if they are small things. I had so many highlights on this trip but I'd have to say my favourite was when we went to a Mookata restaurant because I tried many new foods that I cooked with the kids, one including a snail topped in some sort of really spicy sauce that I thought was pesto. I also made a few very close friends, one that I have stayed in contact with which is really good to be able to stay connected with some of those kids. Another highlight would have been just seeing all of the kids smiling faces around Agape, it was really uplifting to see that they stayed so positive through everything. Overall, my Thailand experience was a 10 out of 10. It has changed my view on life itself, and I am definitely going to go back for my gap year!!

Emily Blake

1 Peter 4:10 says 'Each of you should use whatever gift you have received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God's grace…” 

Thailand this year was a reminder of this.  While in Thailand we served those who were in need. At Mckean Rehabilitation Centre we supported them in the flood clean up, scrubbing away mud that had appeared when the water lowered. At Agape we cleaned their volleyball court and bathrooms, but were also able to serve the people by connecting with them, showing the people how much we care. 

It wasn’t just the opportunity that we were given to serve that struck me. Everywhere, there were people serving others. At Lanna there are people who support those who don’t have the basic human needs like clean water. On our third day at McKean, many people who had been working hard all week, serving others, came in on their day off to scrub the road with us. Our time at Agape struck me the hardest, yes there are people there serving the children who don’t have much, but what I noticed was the way that the children served us. We went to a place called Mookata with the kids, and the Thai girls and boys immediately started cooking for us. They were serving us when we had brought them to this dinner to serve them. There were constant moments where the kids who didn't have much gave what they had to us. 

Thailand was incredible and I strongly encourage any younger girl with the opportunity to go to take that opportunity to serve in Thailand.

Poppy McLaren

I certainly have and I'm sure you have too, people described something as incredible, unique and life-changing, before I went on Thailand trip I thought that when people used those words I would immediately annoy me, I don’t know why it just would. Now I am one of those people describing the most amazing and fulfilling trip using those words and im telling you now that they don’t even cover the experience. I’m not even going to attempt my favourite part of the trip because I loved almost every second. Instead I will tell of the connections I made to all of the girls and teachers that came with us. The connections we made was definitely one of my favourite parts and without the Thailand trip I still wouldn’t know some of you like I do now. Finally I would just like to say a massive thank you to PLC for giving me this opportunity and Ms. Leahy for being so organised and getting us to the places we needed to be. Thank you and I highly recommend this trip.

Jess MacMahon

Thailand highlights:

• Agape -Scrubbing pool bathrooms; Meeting all the kids; Activities and games (especially on the Saturday); Preschoolers (songs and stations); Swimming; Volleyball; Chalk, Uno ( very interesting rules) & Bracelet Making; Communicating (or trying to) with the kids;  Seeing the impact it had all round (on us as group and individually and on them, even though for a short while) Swimming, Sunisa, Kingtong & Dwunkamon

• Extra little activities - Foot massage, Markets, Trying new food, Mango Smoothies, Mangosteens & Rambutans, Speaking Thai, Temple Visit, McKean Museum, BIGC trips, Lunch with Heather x 2, Lanna - so inspiring and perfectly timed for Debi.

I had a wonderful time on the recent Thailand trip and definitely came back with many stories. I don't have many highlights as the whole trip was one big highlight the whole time! Even the flights and airports I found interesting! Although I do have a few moments that made our trip extra special for me. One of these was every moment we spent at Agape! (list above). The extra little activities we were also able to do also added to the fun (list above). I found the Thailand trip to be so inspiring to me as I was able to see first hand the work that people do through God and how you really can just change the world with one vision (Dr McKean). I recommend everyone to apply, it's an amazing opportunity! Thank you!!

Navita Maher

My experience in Thailand was nothing short of amazing. The warmth of the people, the delicious food, and the sense of love shared throughout the journey made it incredibly fun. One of the highlights of the trip was visiting Agape and meeting all the children that just radiated with joy and warmth. It was so refreshing to see how much they cherished the simple moments like just laughing and playing together and were so open and accepting to us, making us feel like family from almost the very second we walked in. If I had the opportunity to go back, I would take it in a heartbeat and would highly recommend everyone to apply next year. Seeing n such a different side of life and immersing yourself in it is really a great learning opportunity, and meeting all these incredible people who set up and work in organisations like Agape, McKean, and Lanna is quite inspirational and honestly life-changing.

Jade Foster

The Thailand Service learning trip was one of the most incredible experiences of my life. Although it was quite hard and there were a few tears shed along the way, nothing beats the smiles on all the faces we came across. One of my high lights is definitely the kids at Agape. They were so full of life and energy that after about an hour of pushing one of my little friends around on a toy scooter, I was sweating in ways I didn’t know were possible. All the kids were so grateful for everything they just wanted to play. Another thing I am super duper grateful for was the cooking class we went to. Although our location had changed due to the floods, I think it worked out better than I could have imagined. I am usually a very nervous person when it comes to cooking but our lovely instructor was so comforting, she taught me to use my gut to measure things and how “big happys” and “little happys” are the best way to measure. Navita and I had the pleasure of making desert for everyone at the cooking class, we made mango sticky rice. I don’t think Ill ever forget the gorgeous faces on the little kids to the amazing food we got to enjoy. Thailand was truly one of the best things ever.

Issy

The Thailand service learning trip, for me, was an incredible experience. I went into it really hesitant, I was expecting it to be a lot of hard work and a lot of sweat but after we actually finished scrubbing at McKean and were able to look at all of the progress we had made, I realised that whilst it was hard work, we were making some people's lives so much better. The people of Thailand were another highlight of mine, just knowing how much less they had in comparison to us, yet I don’t think I saw one unhappy person on my trip. It was a truly humbling yet beautiful experience and I wish that everyone could experience something like it just once in their lives.

Bridie O’Neill

Before I went to Thailand, I wasn’t quite sure what to expect. The thought of a 9-hour plane ride, stepping into a different culture, and facing so much uncertainty left me feeling a little overwhelmed. But as soon as we arrived and got some much- needed rest, I was ready to dive in. 

What surprised me the most was the people. It’s hard to put into words how much of an impact they had on me, especially the kids at Agape. They taught me lessons that I’ll carry for the rest of my life—whether it was their incredible optimism, generosity, or perseverance despite challenges we could hardly imagine. Each child had a unique story, but together they formed a family, like brothers and sisters. From the moment we arrived, they welcomed us into that family, treating us like their sisters too.

Another unforgettable part of the trip was meeting the people who run these incredible organisations. Seeing how they dedicate their lives to living out their Christian faith and serving others was inspiring. It made me think deeply about what It means to live a life of purpose.

The hardest part of the trip was learning to say goodbye. Even though I hope to see them again someday, it’s tough knowing that while they continue their daily lives over there, we come back here—back to our routines, as wonderful as they are.

Looking back, I realise that this experience in Thailand has given me so much perspective. It’s helped me stay motivated as I approach my final year of school and deepened my understanding of what it means to connect with others, no matter how different our backgrounds might be. The lessons I learned there—about resilience, kindness, and faith—are ones I’ll carry with me moving forward.

Duke of Edinburgh Catch Up

During the holidays our Outdoor Education leader Ms Amanda Burney took some of our Year 10 girls on a four-day off-track adventure in the Nandewar Ranges exploring some hard-to-get-to far-off places in Mt Kaputar National Park . Dramatic land formations rise from the volcanic plateau, making for an incredible journey and spectacular sunrises.

Senior School Experience Day

On Monday, we welcomed more than 50 girls into Senior School to get a glimpse of the Humanities and CAPA subjects and life in Year 7.

See our photos from the Year 12 Formal afternoon drinks HERE

Junior School News

Mrs Fiona Wake 

Head of Junior School

Congratulations to all our Junior School Assembly Award recipients

You can find a gallery of our Term 4 Junior School Award winners HERE on our Parent Portal

Junior School Representative Council fundraisers

Icy Poles will be sold during lunchtime on Tuesdays and Thursdays for just $1 each this term.

It’s a great way for the students to cool off and enjoy a treat while raising money.

Our popular Pizza Friday fundraiser will also continue until further notice. Available pizza options include Ham and Cheese, Hawaiian, Meatlovers, and Vegetarian, with slices priced at $2.50 each. Please remember to send your child's money and order to their class teacher on Friday mornings.

We appreciate your support and look forward to seeing the students enjoy these fun activities!

Pre-K and Kindergarten Playdate

This week, some families  explored the Kindergarten Advantage at PLC Armidale and learn more about the significance of the foundation years of learning. As one of a small group of schools in the New England region (and the only one in Armidale) to be test users for three years of the new NSW Infant School curriculum implemented this year, our Head of Junior School, Mrs Fiona Wake, is uniquely placed to advise you on what to expect in kindergarten in 2025.

There was  an information session and morning tea for parents while the 2025 Kindergarten girls join our kindergarten class and enjoyed a morning tea playdate with our 2025 Pre-K girls. We also had some new 2025 Pre-K familes as well.

Boarding Life

Boarders at Year 12 Formal

See all photos for the term (including our Boarders farewell dinner) in our 

Boarding Life photo gallery HERE

Creative and Performing Arts News

Congratulations to….

Ella Jenkins

for her nearly sold out show ‘3 Generations’ exhibition which opened at Walcha Gallery on Friday, 18 October. The exhibition included Ella, her mum Paula and Ella’s grandmother ( Paula's mum) Margie Baillie. 

A  group of PLC Armidale Year 10 girls attended to support their 'sister'.

For this exhibition Ella predominately painted in gouache on paper and had 14 artworks included in the show. Her theme was ‘inside out’ where she explored the passage between interior and exterior worlds. These paintings are based from photo’s that Ella had taken and then manipulated through the paintings.

Music News

Sport News

Congratulations to ....

... our Junior and Senior Representative Independent Girls School Association (igsa) Netball teams, 

who both won their 2024 grand finals at Homebush Olympic Stadium in Sydney - the first time in more than a decade that all our netball teams have had a clean sweep in the igsa Grand Finals.

Both teams have been nominated for FM100.3 FM Sport's Team of the Year, and featured on FM 100.3  for a week in September.

The awards will be held on November 14 at the Armidale Bowling Club.

our Year 9 student, Lillian Meredith, 

who completed at the Australian Stock Horse Youth National Show held in Geurie NSW during Week 1 of the school holidays. Lilly had a wonderful show coming home with some great results: 1st handler; Championship handler; 2nd Ashla; 4th working; 4th hack; 4th dressage; Challenge winner; Sporting; 1st barrel; 1st bend (fastest time of the day); 1st bonfield (fastest time of the day); 5th flag; Hi point 15-18

During the second week of the holidays Lilly attended the Walcha Pony Camp with Meridian Gunman competing in all different disciplines, and came home with: 1st camp draft; 1st C grade jump; 1st dressage; 1st challenge; 1st hack; 1st rider; 1st pairs; 1st barbackage; champion rider on the flat after a 3 way ride off; 1st bend; 1st barrel; 2nd mug; 1st flag; and 15-17 age champion

Sporting Commitments Reminder

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.

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. 

Health News

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

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

General News

PLC Armidale Uniform Shop 

Our shop operating hours remain the same, and purchases can be made online or in person.

You can pay online or over the phone if you cannot get into the shop in person.

Online store at https://www.noone.com.au/school/plc-armidale/stores