Lion's Roar Newsletter
Term 1 | Issue 1 2025
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
Leading with Purpose: Leadership in Action Across the College
Leadership at PLC Armidale is not confined to titles or positions—it is lived out in the everyday actions of our students, as they step forward with confidence, initiative, and a heart for service. This week, we have seen leadership in action across the College in a number of ways, as girls of all ages embraced opportunities to lead, support, and inspire their peers.
Our Year 12 and Year 6 Guild Captains, along with their deputies, have demonstrated exceptional leadership, rallying their guilds in preparation for the upcoming Whole School Swimming Carnival. Their energy and enthusiasm in leading war cries and fostering team spirit is a testament to their commitment to their Guild and the traditions of our school.
Meanwhile, our Year 11 students have taken on the important role of mentoring our Year 7 students through the Year 7/11 Connect Camp.
Through carefully planned activities, circle times of sharing and ...
... continue reading here
... a colourful team ‘kit’ connections were strengthened within each group. Creativity, thoughtfulness and a willingness to work hard were clearly on display, helping our newest Senior School students feel a sense of belonging and confidence as they embark on their journey at PLC Armidale.
At the Senior School Prefects’ meeting this week, I asked the girls to share how the following quote from Simon Sinek reflected their experience of leadership ;
“There are two types of decisions: good decisions and lessons learned”.
Without hesitation, student leaders, in turn, shared about both. It was a privilege to hear these reflections shared freely and openly. Girls spoke of the satisfaction gained not from the recognition or praise of others but from the sense that both lessons learned and decisions made would be of benefit to others.
In the Junior School, we have seen leadership emerge in spontaneous and meaningful ways. Girls have taken ownership of playground culture through the awarding of Playground Citizens, recognising and celebrating kindness and inclusion among their peers. Others have stepped up in Assembly, assisting with presentations and responsibilities in an impromptu, confident manner—an early sign of the natural leadership that flourishes in an environment where girls are encouraged to step forward.
Leadership & Service is one of the four key pillars of the PLC Armidale experience. You cannot be what you cannot see and I am grateful for the strong, compassionate and purposeful leadership modelled by staff, especially those women holding positions of additional responsibility. Leadership is not just about being out the front—it is about lifting others up, using one’s strengths to create a strong and supportive community.
Our all-girls Christian school context provides a firm foundation for leadership development. Here, every leadership opportunity belongs to a girl. Whether in the classroom, on the sports field, on the stage, or in the community, our girls are consistently encouraged to take the lead, make decisions, and develop the confidence to have their voices heard. Grow in resilience, self-awareness, and responsibility, prepares girls to lead well beyond their school years.
Throughout the year, I look forward to seeing girls embrace the small moments of leadership, recognising that from little things, big things grow—a simple act of encouragement, a decision to step forward, or a willingness to serve can have a lasting impact.
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. Below is the news we know so far from the holidays....
Congratulations to ....
Our teachers whose efforts have ensured we continue to be the best-performing school in terms of NAPLAN results on the MySchool website in the region.
Our Class of 2024 cohort who had the largest percentage of students achieve a mark over 90 in the HSC in New England.
Our Class of 2024 Dux and Matriculant, Scarlett Loxley, who achieved the highest 2024 ATAR in Armidale.
Our Whole School 2025 Leadership Team who were badged at our 2025 Commencement Assembly
Our Year 7 Peer Support Team who have pledged to support and guide our 2025 Year 7 girls throughout the year ahead and hosted a fabulous Connect Camp.
Evie Matthews (Year 9) who was named Young Sportsperson of the Year at an Australia Day Ceremony in Baradine. Warrumbungle Shire Council Mayor, Councillor Kathryn Rindfleisch said, “These awards are a great opportunity to celebrate the things we most value about our local communities and recognise people for their outstanding achievements and contributions."
Lily Meredith (Year 10) who won the Flat Rider and had the fastest flag time in the Pony Club Zone 13 Championship Jamboree, came second in the juveline section of the Armidale Campdraft and was awarded Champion Hack and Champion Working in at the Australian Stockhorse classes at the Bundarra Show.
Isabella Wyatt (Year 6) who won the Junior Sam Kelly Memorial Campdraft in Armidale, represented the Guyra Pony Club at the Zone 13 Championship Jamboree and was Guyra Pony Club Camp Under 11 Reserve Age Champion and awarded Most Improved Rider for the season.
Allegra May (Year 5) who attended her SEVENTH Sydney Youth Orchestra Camp and performed in the finale concert at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
Ella Jenkins (Year 11) who was part of a life-changing 11 day journey from Newcastle to Sydney on the Young Endeavour - you can read her report in the Senior School News section.
Laura Vary (Year 11) who attended the Herford and Angus Youth Camp and NH Foods Angus Youth Round Up and achieved strong results in both.
Isobel Macrae (Year 9) who represented the Northern NSW Waratahs Youth Girls Academy during the holidays.
Arlie Bragg, Kate Loxley, Bridie O'Neill and India Smith - who attended the Regional Youth Orchestra Camp in Sydney during the holidays.
All the girls accepted for the 2025 Gondwana National Choral School Lucinda Azon-Jacometti, Arlie Bragg, Teya Catterall, Edie Clynch, Sophia Craig, Maddy Elbourne, April Ferguson, Jade Foster, Shiloni Katta, Mem Lay, Kalani Maduwage, India Smith, Elise Tisserand and Binudi Venuti
Molly Chard (Year 11) who took to the 2025 Golden Gig stage during the Tamworth Country Music Festival.
PLC Armidale Livestock Team who have secured a place in the 2025 NSW School Merino Whther Challenge and have also been invited for the FOURTH year in a row to prepare and show the Shute Bell Victor Chang charity steers at the Sydney Royal Easter Show
All our Duke of Edinburgh Gold and Silver girls who completed challenges during the holidays led by our indefatigable Ms Amanda Burney! See the amazing photos in the Senior School section.
2025 Sports Captains
2025 Academic Captains
2025 Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Captains
2025 Peer Support Leaders
2025 Welcome Barbecue
The annual Welcome Barbecue is a relaxed highlight to the start of our year. The PLC Armidale community comes together, and there is genuine delight to be seen in everyone as they reconnect after the summer holiday
Junior School News
Mrs Fiona Wake
Head of Junior School
Welcome Back to the Junior School Community
A warm welcome back to the Junior School for another exciting year of learning and growth. We extend our heartfelt thanks to all families for their organisation and commitment in ensuring our students are well-prepared for the year ahead. It has been wonderful to see the girls embody the values we model and encourage – kindness, respect, and a willingness to assist those who are new to our community. The staff and I are looking forward to an enriching year of learning and working in partnership with you. We are committed to open communication and collaboration to support your child’s journey.
Please take the time to thoroughly read the Junior School Handbook, which contains essential information regarding the daily operations of the Junior school. This resource will assist in ensuring a smooth and informed start to the year.
Uniform Standards and Digital Technology Expectations
Uniform slips will be placed in student diaries as gentle reminders about maintaining our uniform standards. Additionally, digital technology protocols and expectations should be reviewed with your daughter. A signature panel is provided in her student diary, and we ask that it be signed to indicate that these guidelines have been read and understood, ensuring a shared commitment to safe and responsible technology use.
Junior School Leadership
Our student leaders last week were inducted and their first meeting has been scheduled. During this meeting, they will propose meaningful ways in which they will lead the Junior School and foster connections with the Senior School. We look forward to the contributions they will make to our school community.
Homework Expectations
Homework for all students will be distributed every Monday and should be submitted each Friday. Repetition and mastery play a vital role in deep learning, and at our school, we strongly encourage students to embrace these practices.
Key Dates and Upcoming Events
Please refer to the Edumate calendar and Lion's Roar for upcoming events. Additionally, schedules will be attached to the weekly homework sheets to assist families in staying organised, followed by a message through the PLC Armidale App with urgent or reminder messages via SMS. We are trying to reduce the amount of emails appearing in your inbox, so using these alternative platforms is our approach.
Celebrating Learning - Class Features!
Each edition of our Lions Roar newsletter will showcase a different class on rotation, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate student learning and achievements. This newsletter also serves as a platform to highlight our students' activities outside of school, fostering a strong sense of community.
After-School Collection and Safety Protocols
For safety reasons, after-school collection at 3:45 pm will be from the front gate only. The side reception area is designated for bus boarding, so keeping it clear is appreciated. This also applies to morning drop-off. The front curb is a designated drop-off point. If you need to speak with staff, please use the parking areas to avoid disrupting traffic flow. Students attending Homework Centre should be collected from the side gate if the front reception is locked.
A Special Welcome to Our Kindy Students
A heartfelt welcome to our Kindy students of 2025, who have made a tremendous start to their school journey. We are delighted to have them as part of our Junior School family and look forward to watching them thrive. Thank you for your commitment to PLC.
The start of the school year is a big step for our youngest learners. It is a time to surround them with warmth, patience, and understanding, helping them feel safe, valued, and ready to explore. By building an environment of trust and care, we give them the confidence to take their first steps in learning, friendships, and independence. With gentle encouragement and a nurturing community, we can ensure that their journey begins with joy, security, and the knowledge that they belong.
Wishing you all a fantastic start to the year!
2025 Junior School Leadership Team
At a whole school commencement assembly on Wednesday, 29 January, the Junior School Leadership Team was inducted along with Guild Team Leaders. The girls proudly agreed to the following pledge of understanding: what you say you are and the leader you claim to be needs to be modelled and honestly reflect your actions.
The girls wholeheartedly agreed to:
support the Christian principles of this school by being fair and kind, showing care for others, forgiving when necessary
do their loyal best, work hard, abide by College rules and represent the College well in the wider community
lead by example, displaying humility, integrity, respect and self-discipline
The girls positively embraced the process leading up to their induction. It takes courage to nominate for a leadership position, present a speech to peers and then wait patiently for the outcome of the voting process, accepting their positions with thoughtfulness to those around them. Ad Astra girls !
Pictured above our 2025 Junior School Prefecture with our Head of Junior School Mrs Fiona Wake, Nyka Vaveen (Creative Arts Prefect and Lovell Captain), Isobella Hodgens (Dixon Deputy Captain), Lucy Johnson (Dixon Captain), Isabelle Scanlon (Hamlin Deputy), Danielle Creamer (Hamlin Captain), Isabella Wyatt (Sport Prefect), Mina Moghaddar (Deputy Head Prefect), Phoebe Butterworth(Head Prefect and Wilkie Captain) and our College Principal, Mrs Nicola Taylor.
Pre-Kindergarten
Our youngest students returned with big smiles and an eagerness to greet each other and explore the classroom learning environment.
Pre-K has been involved in adding personal touches to the learning environment as they embark on the unit of inquiry, ‘All About Me’. In doing so, they have been discovering more about who they are, their unique qualities, and their place within their families and communities. They have enjoyed many open-ended experiences using diverse materials to represent themselves, their family, and their friends, such as watercolour self-portraits, clay and playdough sculptures, wool, markers, natural materials, and role-play.
Through class discussions, stories, and news-sharing opportunities, our Pre-Kindergarten students have been developing an understanding of who we are as individuals, including our likes, dislikes, abilities, and what makes us unique. They have also been learning about their families and appreciating the unique makeup of each one.
Using mirrors, loose materials, and art supplies, Pre-K has enjoyed creating representations of themselves and celebrating their individuality. This has also enabled them to explore a range of feelings and learn how to express them calmly and confidently.
“The wider the range of possibilities we offer children, the more intense will be their motivations, and the richer their experiences.” Loris Malaguzzi
Mrs Michelle Kennedy
Everyone is settling in nicely ...
Kindergarten
Stage 3
Stage 1
Stage 2
Dates for the Calendar
Whole School Swimming Carnival Monday, 10 February
Whole School Information Evening: Tuesday, 11 February - REGISTER HERE and meet in the Astra Arts Centre at 5.30pm
Ad Astra Awards
Each week in our Junior School Chapel Service we award our students for achievement in academic, leadership and service pursuits.
Congratulations girls!
You can find all the photos HERE
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Welcome to 2025 in the Senior School
We trust your daughter is looking forward to all the possibilities of the year ahead. I would especially like to welcome our new students and our Year 7 class as they commence their Senior School journey at PLC Armidale.
Key Senior School Staff
Head of Senior School - Mrs Kate Clynch
Academic Leadership Team: Director of Studies - Mrs Julie Flanagan; Head of Humanities - Mr Mitchell Clendinning; Head of STEM - Mr Jonathon Shumack ; Head of Creative and Performing Arts - Mrs Joanne Wysel ; Director of Music - Mr Matthew Minter; Director of Sport - Mrs Lucy Donaldson.
Senior School Administration - Mrs Stephanie Fahy
Pastoral Care Staff
The purpose of the Pastoral Care model at PLC Armidale is to ensure that every girl is known and nurtured and that parents have a member of staff they can contact regarding any well-being issues that may arise. Wherever possible, our Year Patrons remain with students on their journey throughout Senior School. In addition, a Year Specialist has been allocated to assist students in each year group. Patrons and Specialists are also ably assisted by their PC team.
Year 7 - Patron: Sophie Westermarck; Specialist: Jennifer Leahy; Team: Aaron Creamer
Year 8 - Patron: Mitchell Clendinning; Specialist: Grace Welch; Team: Marilyn Faithfull
Year 9 - Patron: Emma Schaeffer; Specialist: Amanda Burney; Team: Roxanne Shumack
Year 10 - Patron: Jo Wysel; Specialist: Matthew Minter; Team: Josh Tuohy
Year 11 - Patron: Kate Fittler; Specialist: Jonathon Shumack; Team: Greg Cotterell, Margarita Perez
Year 12 - Patron: Yvette Ballard; Specialist: Julie Flanagan; Team: Ruth Patrick
Pathways - Angela Priebbenow
Progressive Reporting in 2025 (Edumate and Reports)
Ongoing feedback and student reflection on learning are essential to measure understanding, strengths and areas for growth.
The engagement of parents in this process is a way to enhance communication between the College and home, which will also allow parents to follow up with teachers on their child’s progress.
By logging regularly into Edumate, you will be able to see your child's assessment test results, teacher feedback on the task and upcoming tasks to put on the family calendar.
To access your child’s results, once you log into Edumate, you will see a tab titled ‘Progress’. From there, click on Past Tasks. You will also be able to see Upcoming Tasks and previous Academic Reports.
If you have forgotten or misplaced your login details for Edumate, please contact helpdesk@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
You can also find more information on the Parent/Carer Intranet via CONNECT HERE
The Senior School Handbook also contains details of requirements for stationery for students, as well as details for uniform, IT requirements and general information about life in the Senior School. You can find the Senior School Handbook on the Parent/Carer Intranet via CONNECT HERE
Parents must complete the Standard Collection & Risk Warning Consent Form issued at the start of each year. This ensures that contact details and medical information are kept current, appropriate permissions have been provided and is a general reminder about the conditions of enrolment. You can complete the form HERE.
YEARS 7-10 PAT TESTING - TERM 1, WEEK 3
As part of our focus on data gathering as a way of informing our teaching at PLC Armidale, all students in Years 7-10 will undertake two skills assessments in Week 3 of this term - PAT R (Reading) and PAT M (Mathematics).
These tests will take place in regular English and Mathematics periods in Week 3, and students will use their laptop to complete these online assessments.
Students do not need to undertake any particular preparation for these tests. The tests are adaptive, adjusting to each students' ability level, which results in valuable data that can assist teachers in addressing the needs of individual students.
If you have any questions about this process, please feel free to contact Director of Studies Julie Flanagan - jflanagan@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Class of 2025 - First Day of their graduating year - Ad Astra girls!
School Holiday News - Ella Jenkins
I first ever heard about the Young Endeavour from my old friends Bel Freeman and Tilly Almond who both applied and got selected to join the program a few years ago. I was later reminded by my Nan who was really keen for me to apply as she thought it would be an amazing opportunity for me.
I applied because I've never been sailing before, and I wanted to try something new; I also love the ocean and was keen on an adventure. I have to say it was so much better than I had expected it to be, and I had already expected the experience to be amazing.
Although the sailing and working on the ship was amazing, it was the company and new friends I made that really made the Young Endeavour so life-changing. We spent a lot of time with each other and had many bonding opportunities like having to be awake for "watch" from 12am til 4am sailing the ship in the rain with a small group of us having a different shift each night.
We got to climb the 30-metre masts a few times, and although the first time climbing up the mast out to sea was slightly terrifying, once I got used to the waves, it was definitely a highlight for me as well. The most challenging thing on the Young Endeavour was, by far, the sea sickness, which was very hard to escape as there was no way of getting off the ship. But after a few days and many sea sickness tablets, I eventually got used to the waves.
I think I definitely did learn a lot about myself on the Young Endeavour, one main thing I learned was that even on the roughest days when everyone was sea sick and tired from the long night shifts, if everyone puts in a bit of effort and works together it can make big changes as a team. Another thing I learned was not to have three coffees in the middle of the night because that just doesn't end well (especially if your already sea sick).
Nothing could've prepared me for an experience like this, and it was definitely a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, but I think ESJ and Duke of Ed helped me build a bit of resilience and a taste for how to collaborate in a team. I am beyond grateful that I have gotten to experience the Young Endeavour, and I would do it again in a heartbeat.
As I said before it is hard to put into words how much this experience has meant to me and how life-changing and amazing it was, so if anyone's thinking of applying, I would definitely recommend signing up, and if you don't think it's for you maybe just have a look on the website and see for yourself.
Overall, the Young Endeavour is something I'm never going to forget.
Class of 2030 -First Day of PLC Armidale Senior School
Year 7 /11 Connect Camp
Our Year 11 2025 Peer Support Leaders pledged to assist their Year 7 sisters to settle into Senior School, be a confidante and display the leadership, that by good example, will help them build self-esteem and confidence in their new environment. This week, they hosted the annual Year 7 Connect Camp along with our Year 7 Pastoral Care teaching team. Together, girls and teachers learned more about each other (and themselves) through games and reflection.
Class of 2030 Tree Planting
A Year 7 tradition of planting trees was started when our Class of 2022 gifted the College money to buy trees for the next decade of Year 7's to plant, watch grow and return to in the years after they graduate. The Class of 2030 tree is a beautiful Cornus Kousa (Flowering Dogwood) which they planted near the Junior School car park at the culmination of their Connect Camp.
Duke of Ed - Silver Challenge
Our Silver Duke of Ed girls enjoyed exploring Tomaree National Park for four days at the start of the summer holidays. They walked through diverse landscapes, including rocky cliffs, coastal heathland, sandy beaches, and dramatic headlands with a constant sea breeze and swimming to keep them cool.
Duke of Ed - Gold Challenge in New Zealand
During the holidays our Duke of Ed Gold Award girls flew to New Zealand and walked 85km to gain an elevation of almost 3000 metres above sea level They experienced snow, ice, glaciers, river crossings and many unbelievably spectacular views while showing incredible resilience, strength and courage throughout. "New Zealand's Mount Aspiring National Park delivered the goods," said our amazing Outdoor Education Leader, Ms Amanda Burney.
Boarding Life
Sam and Amy Jacometti
Head of Boarding
Welcome to Boarding in 2025
We are enjoying our Boarders Camp in Coffs Harbour this weekend ( departure photo above) and look forward to sharing more photos with you in the next issue.
While the start to the new year is a time of excitement and connection for many girls, we acknowledge too that some Boarders might be feeling the separation from their families and some homesickness over these next few weeks. Homesickness is a normal experience for anyone of any age who is geographically away from their loved ones, and we would encourage you and your daughters to remember that this feeling will be short-lived. As your girls connect in with their classes, their friends and their co-curricular activities, they will quickly adjust to the warmth and acceptance of the boarding community. We encourage you to remind your girls of some of the recommended strategies for addressing feelings of homesickness, which include:
Be reminded that this feeling will pass. Focus on the positive aspects of boarding and the privilege of being a PLC Armidale student. For example, does your daughter love sports? Encourage her to focus on her team, the practice, and the game.
Connecting IRL (in real life) rather than social media. Encourage your girls to spend time making a new friend at boarding or connecting with a staff member - we’ve got lots of fun activities to engage the girls with!
Do something familiar and share that experience with others. Cook something that you love and share it with the boarders, or introduce a new friend to the books that you love.
And please always stay in contact with us to let us know if there’s anything we can do to support and care for your daughter.
Sam and Amy (and Lucinda, Anneliese and Bailey!
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News
Mrs Joanne Wysel
Head of Creative and Performing Arts. (CAPA)
Welcome Back to Another Exciting Year in Creative and Performing Arts!
We are thrilled to begin another incredible year of Creative and Performing Arts at PLC Armidale! With an exciting lineup of performances, workshops, and co-curricular activities, 2025 promises to be one of our most dynamic years yet.
Mary Poppins – A Production in Full Swing!
Our highly anticipated production of Mary Poppins has hit the ground running with an intensive and energetic start—practically perfect in every way! The energy in rehearsals is electric, and the dedication of our cast and crew is already making this a phenomenal show in the making. With "a spoonful of sugar" and a whole lot of talent, rehearsals are shaping up to be something truly magical. We have another intensive rehearsal coming up in the next few weeks – please check the rehearsal schedule and make sure you attend. Every session is crucial in bringing this spectacular production to life!
Mary Poppins - Save the Dates
Dance Ensembles – Starting Week 3!
We are excited to launch our Dance Ensembles next week, starting Tuesday lunchtimes in Week 3 with Mrs Wysel, Miss Rickie, and our Dance Captains, Molly and Lucy. Whether you’re a seasoned dancer or just looking to have fun, this is a fantastic opportunity to refine your skills and be part of something special. We’ll be working toward the Dance Eisteddfod this year.
Drama Club – Begins Next Wednesday!
Drama Club will kick off next Wednesday lunchtime with Mrs Wysel and our Drama Captain, Jess. This is the perfect place to explore improvisation, develop acting techniques, and collaborate with peers who share a passion for performance.
Speech and Drama with Mrs Alcorn
Our Speech and Drama program with Mrs Kylie Alcorn begins next week! Keep an eye on your emails for your timetable. If you are still interested in signing up, please reach out to Mrs Alcorn or Mrs Wysel as soon as possible. This program provides an incredible opportunity to enhance communication skills, confidence, and stage presence.
OnSTAGE & ARTEXPRESS Excursion – next week
Year 12 Drama and Visual Arts students will embark on an exciting HSC Creative Arts excursion to Sydney next week from 12th–15th February 2025. This trip offers an invaluable opportunity to engage with outstanding HSC works and develop their own creative practice.
Drama students will attend OnSTAGE, participate in Group and Individual Performance Workshops, experience live theatre at Belvoir Street, and view an archival screening of Neighbourhood Watch. Meanwhile, Visual Arts students will explore ARTEXPRESS at the Art Gallery of NSW, gaining insight into exemplary HSC major works.
Travelling by train and staying at Central YHA, students will be accompanied by Mrs Joanne Wysel and Mrs Emma Schaeffer. Students must pack appropriately and bring their Drama log books or Visual Arts process diaries.
Please fill out the google permission form ASAP.
Art in the Afternoon – Starting Soon!
We are excited to announce that Art in the Afternoon will be starting soon during lunchtimes with Mrs Schaeffer and our Visual Arts Captains, Daisy Donaldson and Sophie Hardin. Keep an eye out for more details and come along to get creative!
Music Ensembles – A Fantastic Start!
Our Music Ensembles have already begun, filling the school with beautiful sounds and setting the stage for another year of musical excellence. These ensembles are not only a wonderful way to develop musicianship but also a fantastic way to build friendships and be part of the thriving CAPA community. If you haven’t joined yet, it’s never too late!
Celebrating Our Student Successes
We love celebrating our students' achievements! Whether you are excelling in Drama, Dance, Music, or Visual Arts, we want to acknowledge your incredible efforts and share them with the wider school community. Please let us know about your successes so we can recognise them at assemblies and in our newsletters.
2025 is already shaping up to be an outstanding year in Creative and Performing Arts, and we can’t wait to see what our talented students achieve. If you have any questions or need more information about any of our programs, please don’t hesitate to reach out.
Let’s make this a year to remember!
Anything Can Happen If You Let It! (Mary Poppins)
School Holiday CAPA News - Allegra May,
This talented Junior School student attended her seventh Sydney Youth Orchestra Summer School as a regional scholarship recipient during the holidays and performed in the SYO Summer School Showcase Concert at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music- having spent a week immersed in orchestral training, led by some of Australia’s finest tutors.
School Holiday CAPA News - Elise Tisserand
Following a five-day intensive workshop in Sydney under the amazing leadership of Lyn Williams, Artistic Director and Founder of Gondwana Choirs, Elise Tisserand (Year 10) performed in Gondwana's senior treble choir at the Sydney Opera House Concert Hall as part of Gondwana's annual 'Voices of Angels - The Colours of Christmas' concert.
School Holiday CAPA News
Molly Chard on the Golden Gig stage during the Tamworth Country Music Festival
School Holiday CAPA News
STRING STARS: Arlie Bragg, Kate Loxley, Bridie O'Neill and India Smith, at the Regional Youth Orchestra camp in Sydney which culminated in a spectacular concert in the Eugene Goossens Hall in Ultimo in December.
SPORT News
Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Head of Sport
Welcome to the 2025 school year.
I anticipate it will be yet another, busy, fun and fulfilling year of sport! It was nice to catch up with many of you at the welcome barbecue and I’d like to particularly welcome our new families into the PLC community.
We are delighted that due to the fabulous sports participation rate at our College we are currently calling for Expressions of Interest for coaches in our Winter Sports (Terms 2 and 3) program.
These are paid positions, and as a coach, you would be expected to:
Run and attend weekly training sessions and games consistently throughout the season.
Be familiar with the sport you wish to coach.
Provide plenty of prior notice if unable to attend a training session or game to ensure alternative arrangements can be made.
The Winter Sports available for coaching are: Hockey, Netball, Soccer, Rugby
If you’re interested or you know someone who may be, please send me an email specifying the sport(s) you’d like to coach and any relevant qualifications or experience that you have. If you are passionate about coaching a summer sport, please feel free to indicate your interest in those as well (touch football, basketball, futsal, indoor hockey).
I am also delighted to welcome Oskar Staniucha to our Sports Teaching Team. Oskar is a dedicated strength and conditioning coach, researcher, and performance specialist, who has been selected for a joint 3-year University of New England (UNE) and PLC Armidale Scholarship for his PhD project: Optimising Youth Female Athletic Performance and Injury Prevention Strategies.
His PhD research, conducted in partnership with us, will examine how training load impacts ACL health in young female athletes, providing evidence-based strategies to enhance performance and reduce injury risks, ensuring safer and more effective training methods.
With experience working alongside elite teams like the Sydney Kings, Oskar specialises in GPS tracking, data analysis, and performance monitoring. He is an accredited Exercise Scientist and ASCA Level 2 coach, as well as an active member of Wrestling Australia’s Women’s Committee, advocating for increased participation and development opportunities for female athletes and shaping the future of youth athletic performance and injury prevention.
As always, if at any stage you are unsure of anything or need clarification, send me an email at 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 will be able to assist as well. To assist with knowing what’s on when, here is a snapshot of the Junior and Senior School sports for Term 1, 2024.
PLC Armidale Strength and Conditioning Classes will be one of Oskar Staniucha's responsibilities in 2025
2025 Swimming Carnival
Parents are encouraged to bring their swimmers to the PLC annual swimming carnival on Monday, ready for the race of the year for the annual students v/s parents and teachers relay.
A reminder to everyone that there is to be no cheating this year. Do not follow the steps of past races because this year you will be disqualified!😁 I hope to see you in the pool racing!
Poppy McLaren - 2025 Swimming Captain
School Holiday News
Our Year 9 student Izzy Macrae, represented the Northern NSW Waratahs Youth Girls Academy in the holidays.
Izzy attended training sessions in Coffs Harbour, a 3-day camp in Armidale - all culminating in two days of Rugby in Bathurst last weekend where she competed against teams from academies in South West NSW, Hunter Central Coast, Sydney South East, Sydney North and Sydney West. Izzy said she wanted to thank everyone involved as she gained many new skills, and it was an incredible experience.
School Holiday Sports News
Our Year 10 student, Lillian Meredith, and her home bread horse Meridians Gunman have had a successful few weeks starting with the Zone 13 championship jamboree
Lilly picked was 3rd c grade jump; 3rd dressage 15-17; 1st senior team of 4; 1st hack 1st rider 1st pairs 1st barback
And won the highest point flat rider; 2nd bonfield; 4th barrel; 1st bend; 4th flag; 2nd scudaho; High pout girl 15-17 and fastest Flag time over all.
She then came second at the Armidale Campdraft in the Juvenile Section finishing with 88 points.
At the Bundarra Show in the Australia Stock Horse classes she was 3rd led gelding; 1st novice hack; 1st open gelding; 1st hack and 13-17 Champion Hack; 1st working 13-17; 1st open gelding working 2 novice and champion working.
School Holiday Sports News
Our Junior School Sports Prefect, Isabella Wyatt and her horse, Orarapark Sapphire Blue, won the Junior Mt Riddock Pastoral Co Sam Kelly Memorial Campdraft in Armidale during the holidays - an impressive win following a run-off for first place against some excellent riders with impressive horsemanship skills.
She also competed at the 2025 Pony Club of NSW Zone 13 Championship Jamboree in Glen Innes representing Guyra Pony Club and achieved 1st Junior Team of Fours, 2nd Pairs, 2nd Barrels, 3rd Flags, 4th Bending, 4th Scudahoe and 4th in the Hack. Isabella then came home from Guyra Pony Club Camp as under 11 Reserve Age Champion and Guyra Pony Club's Most Improved Rider for the season.
Health News
Year 7 and Year 10 students are scheduled to have their school vaccination early next term. More information will be provided to respective parents closer to the date.
EDUMATE MEDICAL DETAILS
If your daughter has an updated treatment plan, new diagnosis or medical needs, it is important that parents update the Edumate Health Conditions of your daughter to ensure that the school is providing the best care.
The Parent Portal can be access through the CONNECT page at connect.plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
The Health Centre is contactable via
Email: health@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Phone: 02 6770 1741
P&F News
Sarah Yassine
P&F President
Welcome to 2025!
I hope that you have all had an enjoyable summer. 2025 looks set to be a busy year for our P&F, with plenty of opportunities for everyone to get involved!
First up is our Whole School Swimming Carnival on Monday, 10 February. As usual, we ask for donations of homemade treats and your help running the cake stall and BBQ. Please see the link to SignUp to choose your preferred time slot https://signup.com/go/EfXEBmV
You'll be receiving this information from your Liaison Parent too. Don't worry, even if you sign up you will still be able to cheer your daughter on in her races! Later in the year, P&F will be involved in the Athletics Carnival, the Mary Poppins musical and our 2025 Signature Event! So please, as always, get involved where and when you can.
If you are unsure about who your Liaison Parent is, or you have any P&F related questions, please get in touch at pandf@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au We are currently seeking a Liaison Parent for Pre-K so please let us know if you are interested.
Your LP will contact you from time to time (usually by email or social media chat.) to ask for volunteers for P&F events, to invite you to year group social gatherings and to communicate about other school events. To help facilitate this please contact your LP to share your best contact details - see the list below. You will also see that we still need a kindergarten LP - please let me know if you are willing and able.
Your LP is a great person to contact if you are feeling lost, overwhelmed or can’t remember if it’s sports uniform, guild uniform or normal uniform!
The P&F hold a meeting each term (usually on Tuesday )
Thank you for your ongoing support of our P&F.
PLCA Uniform Shop
Opening hours
Tuesday 8:30am to 11:30am
Thursday 1:00pm to 4:30pm
Phone: 02 6770 1703
GREEN TARTAN
ALUMNAE NEWS
End of 2024 Afternoon Tea
You can find the Spring/Summer edition of the Green Tartan HERE
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 2025, please get in touch with us at enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
PLC Armidale Foundation
Can you make a regular financial contribution to the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund?
Donations will provide scholarships for the 2026 school year. In addition, gifts over $2 are tax deductible. You can also subscribe to make a small regular automatic donation which will quickly add up over the years.
The generosity of the PLC Armidale community has enabled us to maintain and provide an excellent learning environment for generations of young women.
Giving makes a real difference to every student who attends PLC Armidale now and into the future. We thank you for your continued support as we foster and build a community that stands together.
If you would like further information about the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund or know of a young girl who you believe would benefit from this opportunity, don't hesitate to call us on (02) 6770 1700 or email us at enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
A gift to the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund will open the door for many more exceptional young women to attend PLC Armidale and be equipped to lead a life of significance.
You can make a difference by donating today.
General News
