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Lion's Roar Newsletter
From the Principal
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
Pimples, Parties, Puberty… and Everything in Between
Pimples, Parties, Puberty… and Everything in Between
The theme for our upcoming Community Forum has captured attention. There are few seasons of life as exciting, confusing and challenging as the journey from childhood to young adulthood.
Our five children are now young adults. Our eldest has two little boys, our second preparing the arrival of their first child later this year. The space between taking home our firstborn to farewelling the last child leaving home now feels very short, though it didn’t at the time!
One year our children are still needing us to tie their shoelaces, but before long they are questioning our opinions, seeking greater independence, navigating complex friendships and trying to discover who they are and where they belong.
Along the way come growth spurts, changing emotions, social pressures, digital influences, first disappointments, first successes, and countless decisions which shape the adults they become. It is little wonder that parenting is often described as one of life's greatest privilege, and one of its greatest challenges.
Beneath the outward changes of pimples, parties and puberty lies something far more significant. . .
... continue reading here
... continue reading here
... Adolescence is not simply about growing taller or becoming more independent. It is about the formation of identity. Every young person is asking questions, whether they express them aloud or not:
Who am I?
Where do I belong?
What do I believe?
What kind of person am I becoming?
As a Christian school, we believe these questions cannot be answered by academic success, social media, popularity or sporting achievement alone. They are questions of the heart and soul. Research continues to remind us that while schools play an important role in a young person's development, the strongest protective influences remain remarkably consistent: loving families, genuine friendships, trusted adults and a community grounded in shared values. At PLC Armidale, Christian faith provides the foundation which brings these relationships together. It reminds girls that their worth is not earned by performance or popularity, but found in being known and loved by God.
I often speak of educating the whole person. Academic learning is our main focus, along with the development of courage, character, resilience, compassion, and wisdom. These qualities are nurtured not through a single lesson, but through thousands of everyday conversations between parents, teachers, coaches, boarding staff, mentors and peers who walk alongside our young people during these formative years.
Some of the greatest challenges our children face are not primarily biological, they are relational and spiritual.
Puberty has always existed. Pimples and parties are nothing new.
What is new is that adolescence is now lived under the constant gaze of a smartphone, with friendships extending into bedrooms long after the school day has finished. This is one aspect of modern adolescence that previous generations have never had to navigate.
For most of history, childhood friendships were largely confined to the school playground, sporting field or local neighbourhood. Disagreements of the day were paused and silenced at home as children could rest, reconnect with family and begin again the next day. Today, for many of our girls, that refuge has all but disappeared.
Lengthy or unlimited access to smartphones, social media platforms and online group chats means the playground follows our children home.
Conversations continue long into the evening. Friendships can be strengthened through this connection, but they can also unravel in a matter of moments. Rumours spread instantly. Exclusion becomes public. Words written behind a screen often wound more deeply than those spoken face to face. Increasingly, schools find themselves spending considerable time helping students repair relationships that have fractured not in the classroom or playground, but in the digital world.
Technology itself is neither good nor bad, it has an extraordinary capacity to amplify both the best and the worst of human nature. It can connect but also isolate. It can encourage kindness, but normalise comparison, envy, impulsive responses and anonymous cruelty. Constant digital noise leaves little room for the quiet reflection, genuine conversation and presence which nourish emotional and spiritual wellbeing.
As a faith-based school, we understand that education is not simply the filling of the mind but the formation of the whole person. The Bible encourages us, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it" (Proverbs 4:23). In today's world, guarding the heart also means guarding what shapes it - relationships, habits, conversations and the digital spaces which influence our thinking.
Faith, family and genuine friendships remain some of the greatest protective influences in a young person's life. Faith reminds our children who they are before the world tells them who they should be. Families provide unconditional love when mistakes are made. Authentic friendships, built on trust rather than online approval, teach empathy, forgiveness and resilience. Together, the soul is nurtured in ways that no algorithm or social media platform ever can.
At PLC Armidale, our commitment to educating girls to live lives of significance means we give attention to the formation of the heart as well as the development of the mind. Academic endeavour remains our priority, along with helping our students learn how to build healthy relationships, navigate conflict wisely, use technology responsibly and find their identity in something far deeper than likes, followers or online affirmation.
The partnership between school and home is important. The greatest gift we can give our children is not unlimited access to technology, but unlimited access to us. Adults who listen before they lecture, guide before they judge, and remind them again and again that they are loved.
This is not because of what they achieve or how they are perceived online, but because their worth, value and purpose is found in who they are and the God who has created them in His image.
We are looking forward to hosting our upcoming Community Forum, Pimples, Parties, Puberty… and Everything in Between.
We are looking forward to hosting our upcoming Community Forum, Pimples, Parties, Puberty… and Everything in Between.
Together with our panel of experts, we will explore the physical, emotional, and social journey of childhood through adolescence, because while this transition ends all too soon, the character, faith and relationships formed during these years can shape a lifetime.
Together with our panel of experts, we will explore the physical, emotional, and social journey of childhood through adolescence, because while this transition ends all too soon, the character, faith and relationships formed during these years can shape a lifetime.
Congratulations
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....
Holiday News...
Holiday News...
Congratulations to Xiaoxiao Chenyue (Year 7); Shiloni Katta (Year6); Phila (Year 5) and Eliana (Year1) Wang; Lydia (Year 6) and Zoe (Year 5) Yuan
Congratulations to Xiaoxiao Chenyue (Year 7); Shiloni Katta (Year6); Phila (Year 5) and Eliana (Year1) Wang; Lydia (Year 6) and Zoe (Year 5) Yuan
who were all awarded scholarships to join 300 other young musicians across multiple music programs during an immersive week of rehearsals and tutorials culminating in a public performance at the Sydney Youth Orchestra Winter Camp in Sydney.
Elise in Year 11 attended Griffith University's five-day Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre Audition Workshop at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in Brisbane ...
Elise in Year 11 attended Griffith University's five-day Queensland Academy of Excellence in Musical Theatre Audition Workshop at the Queensland Performing Arts Centre in Brisbane ...
... where she enjoyed intensive classes in singing, acting and dance. It was a fantastic opportunity to work with some seriously talented teens from across Australia, culminating in real-world audition scenarios.
Congratulations to our Tennis Captain, Trista Dorrian in Year 11...
Congratulations to our Tennis Captain, Trista Dorrian in Year 11...
who was crowned the Under 16 NSW Country State Champion after an outstanding performance at the NSW Country State Championships in Wagga.
Entering the singles draw unseeded, Trista defeated the No. 4 and No. 2 seeds before holding her nerve in a thrilling final to claim the title. Trista also finished runner-up in the Under 16 Girls' Doubles.
Trista now holds both the Under 16 RMS NSW State Champion of Champions title and the Under 16 NSW Country State Championship.
Trista now holds both the Under 16 RMS NSW State Champion of Champions title and the Under 16 NSW Country State Championship.
Congratulations to our Deputy Equestrian Captain, Bea Morton in Year 11
Congratulations to our Deputy Equestrian Captain, Bea Morton in Year 11
who represented us at the 2026 NSW Interschools Championships at the Sydney International Equestrian Centre (SIEC) and placed 3rd overall Senior Show Horse and placed 3rd Rider 15 & Under 18 Years class at the 2026 Barastoc Horse Show Horse Council of Queensland Classic Show at the Queensland State Equestrian Centre.(QSEC)
Congratulations to Evie Matthews in Year 10 ...
Congratulations to Evie Matthews in Year 10 ...
who captained the 2026 NSW Country Rugby Union Under 16s Corellas Gold side at the Regional Carnival at Camden.
Congratulations to our two University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize (UNESAP) and Let’s Hang It! finalists, Illiana Carruthers and Poppy-Grace Newton in Year 10 ...
Congratulations to our two University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize (UNESAP) and Let’s Hang It! finalists, Illiana Carruthers and Poppy-Grace Newton in Year 10 ...
Illiana was awarded third place (Highly Commended) in the competitive Senior Division, and Poppy-Grace received the 2026 Director's Choice Award from the 65 finalist works on display at NERAM from 24 July to 9 August.
Congratulations to April Ferguson (Year 6), Shiloni Katta (Year 6), Jiya Aila (Year 9) and Edith Clynch (Year 9)
Congratulations to April Ferguson (Year 6), Shiloni Katta (Year 6), Jiya Aila (Year 9) and Edith Clynch (Year 9)
who are all performing with Opera Australia this Thursday, 6 August at Lazenby Hall in the Children's Chorus for the Armidale performance of Mozart's Don Giovani - which is touring nationally. There are still some tickets available.
Best wishes to all our August birthday girls ....
Best wishes to all our August birthday girls ....
Lucinda Azon-Jacometti, Amelia Belson, Eliza Bender, Omendree Chandrasena, Yuleiyang Dai (Julie), Anaïs Dettwiler, Trista Dorrian, Audrey Fowler, Natasha Galvin, Sophia Garratt, Lucy Koina, Sophie Matthews, Coco Mckern, Rachel Mungall, Natasha North, Kyanna Ping Kee, Addison Smith, Maeve Tighe, Mary Ugwumba, Jessica Wellings, Claire Williams, Imogen Williams, Amélie Wysel and Chenyue (Xiaoxiao) Zhang
Wednesday, 12 August
Puberty has always existed. Pimples and parties are nothing new.
What is new is that adolescence is now lived under the constant gaze of digital technology, with friendships extending into bedrooms long after the school day has finished. This is one aspect of modern adolescence that previous generations have never had to navigate.
Our panel of experts offer advice on how to navigate the new perils of the post-preteen years, including emerging sexuality, parents' responsibility around parties, substances, and online crime.
Amazing Me presents sex education programs to thousands of children and adults every year and has done so for more than 35 years. Presenter Rowena Thomas is experienced in facilitating an inspiring and informative session that aims to strengthen family relationships.
Chelsea Schaefer is a founding Principal of Moin Morris Schaefer and an experienced lawyer specialising in family, children's and criminal law. An accredited Independent Children's Lawyer and mediator, Chelsea regularly appears in the Local, District, Children's and Federal Circuit and Family Courts of Australia.
Penny Kempton has been working as a psychologist for 17 years. She has a background in child and adolescent mental health.
They will be joined by a representative from the NSW Police Force experienced in online crime and child exploitation.
Our annual Community Forums are open to all adults in the region, 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.
At the end of the evening, College Principal, Mrs Nicola Taylor, will join the panel for a Q&A session.
Term 3 - Save these Dates
Term 3 - Save these Dates
Pop these Whole School event dates in your calendar
Pop these Whole School event dates in your calendar
Father's Day Breakfast - Thursday, 3 September
Father's Day Breakfast - Thursday, 3 September
Grandparents Morning Tea - Friday, 4 September
Grandparents Morning Tea - Friday, 4 September
Starry Day & Night Concerts - Friday, 4 September
Starry Day & Night Concerts - Friday, 4 September
Senior School News
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Congratulations to ....
Congratulations to ....
... our Australian Geography Competition awardees:
... our Australian Geography Competition awardees:
Year 12: Credit - Rebee Cunningham; Year 8: Distinction - Georgina Arundale-Fuller; Year 7: Credit - Claire Williams, Sophie Rumbel, and Inara Mahmood; Distinction - Fliss Adams.
Year 12: Credit - Rebee Cunningham; Year 8: Distinction - Georgina Arundale-Fuller; Year 7: Credit - Claire Williams, Sophie Rumbel, and Inara Mahmood; Distinction - Fliss Adams.
The Australian Geography Competition is a national contest for Australian secondary school students, assessing their geographical knowledge and skills. This year we had a record number of students take part.
Well done to all participants: Year 7_ Darcie Campbell, Lucinda Clendinning, Abbie Constance, Kushmi Jayaratne, Abbie Milton, Xiaoxiao Zhang; Year 8 - Georgiana Ballard, Isla Douglas; Year 10 - Kithmi Jayartne, Rebecca Mawi-Mang,
... our Term 3 Citizenship Award recipients
... our Term 3 Citizenship Award recipients
who consistently demonstrate kindness, respect, humility, integrity and responsibility through their everyday actions, earning Good Conduct Merits that reflect our shared values.
Year 7 Recipients
Year 7 Recipients
Year 8 Recipients
Year 8 Recipients
Year 9 Recipients
Year 9 Recipients
Year 10 Recipients
Year 10 Recipients
Year 11 Recipients
Year 11 Recipients
Year 12 Recipients
Year 12 Recipients
Pathways Recipients
Pathways Recipients
Stage 6 Ag Excursion
Stage 6 Ag Excursion
Our Year 12 Agriculture students and their teacher, Ms Briony Looker, took learning beyond the classroom with a visit to one of the area's largest dairies - Darley Dairy in Dorrigo, gaining firsthand insight into the future of Australian agriculture. From cutting-edge farm and rotary milking technology to sustainable soil and pasture management, the girls explored how innovation is transforming modern farming as they prepare for their HSC exams. A huge thank you to Jade Taylor from Nutrien Dorrigo and the Darley family for sharing their expertise and inspiring the next generation of women in agriculture.
Stage 5 Design & Technology
Stage 5 Design & Technology
The girls enjoyed making resin coasters with Mr Pears.
Semester 2 SIP Projects
Semester 2 SIP Projects
Our Special Interest Projects (SIP) will be continuing in Term 3, with some new projects on offer for students in Years 7-10.
SIP is designed to broaden learning experiences, developing students' interests and talents across diverse areas. The program structure involves four semester-long projects over a two-year period built around the four pillars of student experience at PLC Armidale:
Academic Endeavour
Creative and Performing Arts
Leadership and Service
Sport and Outdoor Education
In Semester Two 2026, students will have the opportunity to participate in one of these five distinct project streams:
Sport and Outdoor Education - Conditioning and Strength for Injury Prevention
Creative and Performing Arts - Acapella Singing/Contemporary Vocal Ensemble
Academic Endeavour - Tournament of the Minds - developing diverse skills, enterprise, time management, and the discipline of collaboration within a challenging and competitive environment.
Academic Endeavour - Beyond the Kaleidoscope - involvement in the production of 'The Scope', PLC Armidale’s student magazine
Creative Arts/Academic Endeavour - Textile Project ‘Make your own PJs
Year 11 learned the finer points of flag raising this week with Year 12
Year 11 learned the finer points of flag raising this week with Year 12
Explore Serve Journey (ESJ)
Explore Serve Journey (ESJ)
While our sequence of Explore Serve Journey programs spans Kindergarten to Year 12, peak experiences occur in the middle years of schooling. These are part of our curriculum and included in your tuition fees.
This is a particularly challenging time for girls in terms of dealing with change, developing identity, and navigating social relationships. The following programs assist students in moving through this turbulent stage with courage and character.
More information on each will be sent closer to the time.
ESJ in the Senior School
Year 7 - 4 days in Term 3 Connection and Belonging (3-6 August). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 8 - 5 days in Term 3 - Flourish or Flounder (3-7 August ). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 9 - 28 days in Term 4 – Every girl’s a boarder (25 October to 21 November ). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 10 - 13 Days in Term 1 – A Journey from the highest city to the highest mountain (21 March to 1 April). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 11 - 6 Days in Term 1 Rock and Rope – ‘Hanging Out’ in the Blue Mountains (15-20 February). See 2025 photos HERE
Service Learning Trips
These are optional peak experiences for our girls - costs will be quoted when you are invited to submit an expression of interest.
Years7/8 Central Australia Cultural Immersion Experience
Years10/11 Thaliand Agape Orphanage
2026 in the Senior School
2026 in the Senior School
Key Senior School Staff
Key Senior School Staff
Principal - Mrs Nicola Taylor
Head of Senior School - Mrs Kate Clynch
Academic Leadership Team
Director of Studies - Ms Julie Flanagan
Head of Humanities - Mr Mitchell Clendinning
Head of STEM - Mrs Kate Fittler
Head of Creative and Performing Arts - Mrs Joanne Wysel
Director of Music - Mr Matthew Minter
Director of Sport - Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Co-Heads of Boarding - Mr Sam Jacometti and Ms Margaret Latham
College Chaplain - Ms Jennifer Leahy
Pastoral Care Staff
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.
Where possible, our Year Mentors remain with students on their journey throughout from Year 7 through to Year 9, and then with a new Mentor and Pastoral Care team from Year 10 to Year 12.
In addition, a Year Specialist has been allocated to assist students in each year group, and this person generally stays on this same year group for a number of rotations. Mentors and Specialists are also ably assisted by their Pastoral Care team members, under the oversight of the Head of Senior School, the College Chaplain, and our School Psychologist.
Year 7 - MENTOR: Yvette Ballard
Year 7 - Specialist: James Haggerty (Compass Program)
Year 7 Pastoral Care Team: Ruth Patrick
Year 8 - MENTOR: Grace Baker
Year 8 - Specialist: Jennifer Leahy
Year 8 Pastoral Care Team: Brian Shumack
Year 9 - MENTOR: Margarita Perez
Year 9 - Specialist: Amanda Burney
Year 9 Pastoral Care Team: Alasdair Hey
Year 10 - MENTOR: Emma Schaeffer
Year 10 - Specialist: Mitchell Clendinning
Year 10 Pastoral Care Team: Roxanne Shumack
Year 11 - MENTOR: Matthew Minter
Year 11 - Specialist: Jo Wysel
Year 11 Pastoral Care Team: Mr Tim Pears
Year 12 - MENTOR: Kate Fittler
Year 12 - Specialist: Julie Flanagan
Year 12 Pastoral Care Team: Greg Cotterell
Pathways Pastoral Care - Kirsten Hey, Angela Priebbenow
Mobile Phones
Mobile Phones
Students are not required to have a mobile phone at school. If one is brought, it must be switched off and not accessed during the school day.
Limited-function phones, or phones with low/no data for students in Stages 4 and 5 (Years 7 - 10) are preferred. If a mobile phone is brought to school, it is to be stored in the student’s locker, not pocket or bag. Students are required to secure their lockers with their own padlock.
Progressive Reporting in 2026 (Edumate and Reports)
Progressive Reporting in 2026 (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, providing an opportunity for parents to follow up with teachers regarding their child’s progress.
By logging regularly into Edumate, you will be able to see your daughter's assessment test results, teacher feedback on the task and upcoming tasks to put on the family calendar.
To access your daughter’s results, once 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.
You can also access information on our school app ‘Carer Orbit’ here: Using the Carer Orbit APP
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
PLC Armidale Pockets
PLC Armidale Pockets
A PLC Armidale 'pocket' refers to embroidery on the blazer pocket that recognises students’ achievements throughout the year across four key pillars: Academic Endeavour; Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) ; Sport and Leadership and Service.
Each pillar has four levels of attainment: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Outright Gold Star, allowing students’ accomplishments to be displayed in a practical and lasting way on their uniform.
Boarding Life
Boarding Life
Margaret Latham and Sam Azon-Jacometti
Heads of Boarding
Boarding House Representative Council
Boarding House Representative Council
Our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song
Our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song
Our 2026 Boarders Representative Council (BRC) team.
Our 2026 Boarders Representative Council (BRC) team.
We encourage parents to keep in contact with the Boarding House Staff.
We encourage parents to keep in contact with the Boarding House Staff.
The phone number for the House Mother front desk is 02 6770 1716.
The phone number for the House Mother front desk is 02 6770 1716.
There will be a House Mother on duty at the desk:
There will be a House Mother on duty at the desk:
Weekday mornings 6.45am - 9am
Weekday mornings 6.45am - 9am
Weekday afternoons/evenings 2.30pm - 11pm
Weekday afternoons/evenings 2.30pm - 11pm
Saturday 8am - 11pm
Saturday 8am - 11pm
Sunday 8am -10.30pm
Sunday 8am -10.30pm
The House Mother's mobile number during normal Boarding House hours: is 0417 033 424
The House Mother's mobile number during normal Boarding House hours: is 0417 033 424
We also have a landline phone for boarders to use to ring home if they don't have a mobile phone. Parents can also ring this number to speak with their daughter: 02 6770 1739.
We also have a landline phone for boarders to use to ring home if they don't have a mobile phone. Parents can also ring this number to speak with their daughter: 02 6770 1739.
Junior School News
Junior School News
Mrs Fiona Wake
Head of Junior School
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
... our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
100 Days of Kindergarten and beyond
100 Days of Kindergarten and beyond
Kindergarten has returned to school with great enthusiasm and excitement, eager to reconnect with friends and begin another wonderful term of learning.
Throughout the year, we have been counting each day of learning, and last Thursday celebrated our 100th Day of Kindergarten!
The students dressed up and participated in a range of fun activities centred around the number 100. Now that they are 100 days smarter, it has been wonderful to see the confidence, growth and progress they have made since the beginning of the year.
In Mathematics, we have been exploring teen numbers through engaging games and hands-on learning experiences using base ten materials and other concrete resources. Students have also been developing their understanding of sharing quantities equally between groups.
In English, Kindergarten has thoroughly enjoyed reading the classic story Wombat Stew and writing imaginative sentences inspired by the text. They have also brought the story to life through drama, creating freeze frames that used body language and facial expressions to represent key scenes and characters.
This term we are beginning our Geography unit, Connecting to Place. Students will learn about the Traditional Custodians of Country and deepen their understanding of the importance of caring for and respecting places. They will become familiar with the map of Australia and discover the many ways people are connected to places.
Ad Astra Awards
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 on our Parent Portal HERE
Junior School Handbook
Junior School Handbook
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 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.
Homework Expectations
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
Key Dates and Upcoming Events
Please refer to the School Calendar and your daughter's Diary on the PLC Armidale Orbit App 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!
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
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.
Term 3 - Save these Dates
Term 3 - Save these Dates
Pop these Whole School and Junior School event dates in your calendar
Pop these Whole School and Junior School event dates in your calendar
BookWeek Parade - Monday, 31 August
BookWeek Parade - Monday, 31 August
Junior School Open Afternoon - Tuesday, 1 September
Junior School Open Afternoon - Tuesday, 1 September
PreK/Kindergarten Transition Morning and Parent Workshop - Wednesday, 2 September
PreK/Kindergarten Transition Morning and Parent Workshop - Wednesday, 2 September
Father's Day Breakfast - Thursday, 3 September
Father's Day Breakfast - Thursday, 3 September
Grandparents Morning Tea - Friday, 4 September
Grandparents Morning Tea - Friday, 4 September
Starry Day & Night Concerts - Friday, 4 September
Starry Day & Night Concerts - Friday, 4 September
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News
Mrs Joanne Wysel
Head of Creative and Performing Arts. (CAPA)
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... everyone who performed in our Term 3 In-House Concert
... everyone who performed in our Term 3 In-House Concert
in preparation for AMEB Exams and the HSC or just to improve their performance confidence.
Students from Kindergarten to Year 12 delighted family and friends from our College community with more than 50 performances featuring a wide range of instruments spread across two sessions.
With a finale from Mrs Dunham and Dr Manley performing The Ballad of Jane Doe, it was another stellar program of performances, and we wish everyone all the best in the upcoming exams. SEE ALL THE PHOTOS HERE
... our Speech and Drama students who completed their AMEB Speech and Drama examinations this week.
... our Speech and Drama students who completed their AMEB Speech and Drama examinations this week.
Our examiner, Mrs Curtis, was highly complimentary of the students' preparation, performance and professionalism.
Speech and Drama develops far more than performance skills. It nurtures confidence, communication, creativity and the ability to express ideas with clarity—skills that will serve our students well throughout their lives. Congratulations to all the girls for embracing this opportunity and challenging themselves.
A special thank you to Mrs Alcorn for her exceptional preparation, encouragement and care throughout the examination process. Her unwavering support (and well-timed supply of lollies!) ensured the girls felt confident and ready to perform at their very best.
Speech and Drama lessons will resume in a couple of weeks. Please keep an eye out for an email from Mrs Alcorn with further details.
Every great musical begins with a story.
Every great musical begins with a story.
Some stories make us laugh. Some make us cry.
Some stories make us laugh. Some make us cry.
And every now and then, one comes along that has been loved for generations.
And every now and then, one comes along that has been loved for generations.
It's a story about seeing beyond appearances,
It's a story about seeing beyond appearances,
About finding courage where you least expect it
About finding courage where you least expect it
About discovering that kindness has the power to transform.
About discovering that kindness has the power to transform.
The 2027 PLCA Musical is…..
The 2027 PLCA Musical is…..
We can’t wait! There will be an information session in Week 6.
We can’t wait! There will be an information session in Week 6.
Stage 5 Play - Week 5: Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 August at the Armidale Playhouse
Stage 5 Play - Week 5: Tuesday 18 & Wednesday 19 August at the Armidale Playhouse
Girls Like That is a confronting and thought-provoking play that invites audiences to examine the complex realities facing young people today. Exploring themes of reputation, social media, peer pressure, gender expectations and the lasting impact of a single online decision, the play asks us to consider how quickly judgement can spread and how easily a person's story can be taken out of their hands.
Rather than offering easy answers, Girls Like That challenges students to engage with important contemporary issues, encouraging empathy, critical thinking and meaningful conversation. It is theatre that reflects the world our young people are growing up in and reminds us of the responsibility we all share in the way we treat one another.
Developed through extensive collaboration with young people and first performed by the youth companies of Birmingham Repertory Theatre, Theatre Royal Plymouth and West Yorkshire Playhouse, Evan Placey's Girls Like That has become one of the most widely performed contemporary plays for schools, offering a powerful and relevant theatrical experience for both performers and audiences.
Website here: https://spanishreadinglibrary.my.canva.site/girls-like-that
Gondwana Choral Opportunities - Applications now Open
Gondwana Choral Opportunities - Applications now Open
Here is some information about the upcoming Gondwana National Choral School (January 2026) and other seasons that Gondwana offers throughout the year.
These are super exciting choral camps with amazing conductors and sensational repertoire.
Applications are open now, you just need to click on the link below to be taken to the official brochure and application forms.
Click here for the information: https://gondwana.org.au/gondwana-national-choirs/
Click here for the application forms:
After the application, there will be an audition in two parts. The first part is a video audition, where you will need to submit a video of yourself (and an accompanist or backing track if you wish) singing two contrasting songs of your choice (make sure they demonstrate your range and musical capabilities).
Then, there is a Zoom audition to do the sight-reading and aural skills component. The panel will also want to chat about your past experience in choirs etc.
Application forms and video auditions are due by 23 August, so you have a little time to make up your minds. There are also bursaries and scholarships available if money is a little tight for your parents.
I am available to write references for anyone who needs them and/or can offer repertoire selection help and audition prep sessions. Just drop me a line or come and see me if you need any of those, happy to help!
Chookas if you decide to audition.
Chookas if you decide to audition.
Best wishes,
Best wishes,
Mrs Dunham
Mrs Dunham
Private Music Tuition
Private Music Tuition
The PLC Armidale Private Tuition program allows girls to take part in instrumental and vocal lessons at the College. Lessons are offered on an individual and rotational basis by highly qualified teachers who are experts in their field. Most students have a 30-minute lesson; however, advanced students may negotiate a longer lesson time. Instruments on offer include violin, viola, cello, double bass, trumpet, trombone, French horn, tuba, euphonium, bassoon, flute, clarinet, saxophone, oboe, piano, voice, guitar, recorder or drums.
If you are interested in these lessons for your daughter, please email the Director of Music at mminter@plcarimidale.nsw.edu.au or complete the Google form sent to girls and families.
Save the Date
Save the Date
2026 Major musical dates:
2026 Major musical dates:
4 September: Starry Day/Starry Night of CAPA/Grandparents Day
21 October: Term 4 In-House Concert
20 November: Junior School Time to Shine
24 November: String Soiree
If you have any questions about Music at PLC Armidale please do not hesitate to contact the Director of Music at mminter@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
If you have any questions about Music at PLC Armidale please do not hesitate to contact the Director of Music at mminter@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
SPORT News
SPORT News
Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Head of Sport
IGSA 2026 - Trip 1
IGSA 2026 - Trip 1
IGSA Hockey Results
IGSA Hockey Results
Seniors 4 wins from 4
2-0 win v Abbotsleigh
1-0 win v Ascham
2-0 win v Monte
4-0 win v Kincoppal Rose Bay
Junior (2 wins and a draw)
2-1 win v Wenona
1-1 draw v Ascham
2-0 wins v Roseville
IGSA Netball Results
IGSA Netball Results
Opens 2 wins 1 loss
The girls went down to Wenona 25-17 on Friday night and then won 26-17 against SCEGGS and won against Ascham 29-15
Juniors 1 win and 3 losses
The girls won against MLC 23-12 and then had two hard fought losses against SCEGGS 30-18 and Brigidine 33-13, and then a very close last minute loss with PLC Sydney 26-22
Pathways International Student News
Pathways International Student News
Mrs Kirsten Hey
Director of Pathways
Pathways Graduates
Pathways Graduates
We recently celebrated the graduation of four students from our Pathways program.
At the end of last term, three of our students Luna, Iris and Leona, said goodbye to our school as they transitioned to PLC Sydney. While they had originally been expected to remain with us a little longer, their hard work, determination and time in the PLC Pathways program enabled them to accelerate their journey to their next school. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and wish them every success as they begin this exciting next chapter. Congratulations, girls!
Finnley in Year 9, has also successfully graduated from our Pathways program. We are delighted that she has chosen to remain in Armidale and continue her studies with us through to the HSC. Her graduation marks an important milestone in her learning journey, and we look forward to supporting her as she continues to grow and achieve. Congratulations Finnley, and well done to all four of our Pathways graduates!
Welcoming Our China Study Tour
Welcoming Our China Study Tour
We are delighted to welcome a small group of students from Wuhan and Beijing to our campus for a three week study tour. The group is from schools we have hosted previously, and we are pleased to build on this successful partnership.
The older students are preparing for future study towards their Higher School Certificate qualifications in English and will have opportunities to connect with our Pathways students and participate in small integration experiences with mainstream classes across our campus. Next weekend, our Pathways and study tour students will travel to Coffs Harbour for an Australian cultural experience. We are looking forward to a wonderful few weeks of learning, connection and shared experiences.
First Hot Seat Guest for Term 3
First Hot Seat Guest for Term 3
Our International Student Administrator and College Nurse, Amy Chiu,
Our International Student Administrator and College Nurse, Amy Chiu,
was in the hot seat last week and our students took the opportunity to wish her all the best for the arrival of her new baby next month.🥰
P&F News
P&F News
Shili Wang
P&F President
We need you for Term 3 events
We need you for Term 3 events
This term we will be running the refreshment stand at the Starry Night Concert on the evening of 4 September, and we need your help.
If you can help, please contact us at pandf@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Thank you for your continued support of the P&F.
Thank you for your continued support of the P&F.
For appointments: https://www.noone.com.au/school/plc-armidale/stores (it's the same as the website to buy online).
Pre-K School Uniform
Pre-K School Uniform
Junior School Uniform
Junior School Uniform
Senior School Uniform
Senior School Uniform
GREEN TARTAN
GREEN TARTAN
ALUMNAE NEWS
ALUMNAE NEWS
2026 Old Girls Reunion - RSVP now!
2026 Old Girls Reunion - RSVP now!
We invite all Old Girls to indicate which events you plan to attend during the 2026 PLC Armidale Reunion Weekend.
Saturday 15 August
Saturday 15 August
• Afternoon Tea, campus tour and drinks at PLC Armidale
• Year‑group dinners (off‑campus)
All PLC‑hosted events are fully catered and free of charge. Off‑campus dinners and drinks will be at attendees’ own expense.
Please submit your RSVP via this form to assist us with planning and catering. We also encourage you to share this information with any Old Girls who may be interested in attending.
Send us your news!
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?
Want to get together with your class?
If you are interested in joining or organising a milestone reunion group during the Reunion Weekend in August, please get in touch with us at enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
PLC Armidale Foundation
PLC Armidale Foundation
Can you make a regular financial contribution to the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund?
Can you make a regular financial contribution to the PLC Armidale Scholarship Fund?
Donations will provide scholarships for the 2028 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
General News
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