Embedded Files
Lion's Roar Newsletter
From the Principal
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
On a cold, damp winter’s evening, we welcomed parents and members of our wider community to PLC Armidale for our Community Forum “Pimples, Parties, Puberty and everything in between”.
On a cold, damp winter’s evening, we welcomed parents and members of our wider community to PLC Armidale for our Community Forum “Pimples, Parties, Puberty and everything in between”.
Our three speakers brought very different professional perspectives, with a striking consistency in the message each offered parents: be informed, be present, be approachable and be the parent.
Experienced Sex Educator Rowena Thomas reminded us that parents should be their child’s first and most trusted teacher about sex and sexuality. These conversations should not begin when adolescence arrives or when something goes wrong. They begin much earlier, in responding naturally and honestly to the curious questions children ask.
If we want our teenagers to come to us with the difficult questions at 15 or 16, we need to have shown them at five, eight and eleven that no question is too awkward and that we are prepared to listen without embarrassment or judgement.
Family values and faith underpin these conversations also.
Detective Inspector Rebecca Jackson offered a sobering insight into the world our children now inhabit online. She spoke particularly of the vulnerability of trusting young people who may respond innocently to warmth, attention, or apparent friendship online, only to find themselves gradually drawn into circumstances they could never have foreseen. What begins as friendliness can become manipulation; what feels private can quickly become very public...
... continue reading here
... continue reading here
... Her message reinforced the importance of parents remaining interested and involved in their children's digital lives, not simply knowing what platforms they use, but understanding how they use them and with whom they are communicating. With good reason the Australian government has placed restrictions on tech giants allowing U16s access to their social media platforms. However, the use of snapchat and tik tok remains widespread amongst this age group.
Chelsea Schaefer, founding principal at Morris, Moin & Schaefer and experienced Family, Children’s and Criminal Law practitioner brought the legal landscape sharply into focus. Her practical advice about parents' responsibilities when hosting parties, the legal definition of consent, and the serious consequences associated with creating, possessing, storing, sharing sexually explicit images, or ‘nudes’ was confronting, but essential. Adolescents are growing towards adulthood, but the law does not always accommodate youthful impulsiveness or poor judgement in the way young people, or at times parents might imagine.
Perhaps the most important message of the evening was foundational to all three presentations. Our children, both young and older, still need us to be their parents. Being approachable does not mean abandoning boundaries. Being understanding does not mean withholding consequences. Trust does not require us to disengage from their lives, and respecting growing independence does not mean pretending they are already adults.
Adolescence naturally involves pushing against boundaries. Our responsibility is not to remove every boundary because it is challenged, but to ensure those boundaries are thoughtful, reasonable and grounded in love. Our children watch us. We cannot ask them to exercise self-control while modelling excess; to put their phones away while remaining constantly attached to ours, to speak respectfully while they hear us diminish others, or to make courageous choices if they don’t see courage demonstrated in our own lives.
Parenting through childhood to adolescence requires us to hold two things in tension -relationship and responsibility. We want our children to know that they can always come to us but also to know that we care enough to say no, to ask questions, to set limits and sometimes to be unpopular.
Our children will encounter influences and choices we cannot control. We cannot accompany them into every conversation, friendship, party or online interaction. We can equip them for those moments by being informed, being present, remaining approachable, setting boundaries and, above all, modelling the character we hope to see developing in them.
Sometimes the most loving thing we can do is simply to have the courage to be the parent.
Train up a child in the way (s)he should go; even when (s)he is old (s)he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
Train up a child in the way (s)he should go; even when (s)he is old (s)he will not depart from it. Proverbs 22:6
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....
Congratulations to...
Congratulations to...
.... our Stage 5 Ag girls - Annie Wake, Nylah Webb, Imogen Scanlon, Camilla Grills, Hollie Higgins and Grace Kelso
.... our Stage 5 Ag girls - Annie Wake, Nylah Webb, Imogen Scanlon, Camilla Grills, Hollie Higgins and Grace Kelso
who were named -Overall Best Presented Team in Wool placing first across te entire NSW Merino Challenge competition and Overall Champion in Zone 1 out of 17 schools.
First in Zone 1 Best presented in wool; First in Zone 1 Highest Carcase Value; Second in Zone 1 Best Presented out of wool; Second in Zone 1 Highest Wool Value; Third in Zone 1 Best presented out of Wool.
... Jiya Aila (Year 9) and Edith Clynch (Year 9), Shiloni Katta (Year 6) and April Ferguson (Year 6)
... Jiya Aila (Year 9) and Edith Clynch (Year 9), Shiloni Katta (Year 6) and April Ferguson (Year 6)
who were part of the 15-strong New England Conservatorium of Music (NECOM) Children's Chorus, which joined the cast of Don Giovanni at Lazenby Hall under the direction of our alumna Leanne Roobol to perform alongside Australia's national opera company.
... all our Speech and Drama students who received their 2026 AMEB Examination results last week.
... all our Speech and Drama students who received their 2026 AMEB Examination results last week.
Felicity Adams
Felicity Adams
Georgina Arundale-Fuller
Georgina Arundale-Fuller
Annika Ballard
Annika Ballard
Edith Clynch
Edith Clynch
Ellie Cooper
Ellie Cooper
Isabella Forrest
Isabella Forrest
April Ferguson
April Ferguson
Margot Greatrex
Margot Greatrex
Valerie Ham
Valerie Ham
Elinor Hill
Elinor Hill
Yethumi Herath
Yethumi Herath
Rebecca Mawi Mang
Rebecca Mawi Mang
Anneliese Jacometti
Anneliese Jacometti
Lucinda Jacometti
Lucinda Jacometti
Kithmi Jayaratne
Kithmi Jayaratne
Shiloni Katta
Shiloni Katta
Lucy Koina
Lucy Koina
Hattie Maloney
Hattie Maloney
Alana Marshall CVCA
Alana Marshall CVCA
Nyka Naveen
Nyka Naveen
Jessie O'Connor
Jessie O'Connor
Emily Roarty
Emily Roarty
Grace Robertson CVCA
Grace Robertson CVCA
Vivienne Schaefer
Vivienne Schaefer
Lucie Stephen
Lucie Stephen
Elise Tisserand CVCA
Elise Tisserand CVCA
Lexi Troy
Lexi Troy
Phila Wang
Phila Wang
Amelie Wysel
Amelie Wysel
Annabella Wysel
Annabella Wysel
Lydia Yuan
Lydia Yuan
Zoe Yuan
Zoe Yuan
Of these 32 students from across the College from Year 4 to Year 11, more than 72 per cent were awarded either an A+ High Distinction or an A Honours, and three girls were awarded their CVCA Certificate of Voice & Communication Australia - the highest examination level. This allows them to use CVCA after their name and will give them bonus ATAR points at many universities.
Thank you to our amazing Speech and Drama teacher Mrs Kylie Alcorn for supporting and preparing our girls so well.
Ad Astra ladies!!
Ad Astra ladies!!
... all our teachers across the College
... all our teachers across the College
who have supported our girls to achieve some very strong NAPLAN results this year.
PLC Armidale students continue to excel in NAPLAN amid challenging national picture
PLC Armidale students continue to excel in NAPLAN amid challenging national picture
Outstanding 2026 NAPLAN results across PLC Armidale’s Junior and Senior Schools have reinforced the College’s position as a regional leader in academic achievement, against a national picture that continues to highlight challenges in literacy and numeracy.
Students from Years 3 through to Year 9 recorded strong results across literacy and numeracy, with the majority achieving in the Strong or Exceeding proficiency levels and standout results in Writing, Reading, Spelling and Numeracy.
With 100 per cent of Year 7 students achieving Strong or Exceeding in Writing, while 94 per cent achieved Strong or Exceeding in both Reading and Numeracy and 84 per cent in Spelling.
Year 9 results were equally impressive, with 100 per cent of students achieving Strong or Exceeding in both Writing and Spelling, 86 per cent in Reading and 81 per cent in both Numeracy and Grammar and Punctuation.
Among Year 3 students, 91 per cent achieved Strong or Exceeding in Writing, 82 per cent in both Reading and Spelling and 73 per cent in Numeracy.
And in Year 5, 92 per cent of girls achieved Strong or Exceeding in Grammar and Punctuation, 83 per cent in Numeracy, and 75 percent in both Reading and Writing.
The results reflect the College’s focus on explicit teaching, carefully sequenced curriculum, regular formative assessment and targeted intervention to ensure individual students receive the support and extension they need.
The strength of this foundation was particularly evident among the Year 7 students who progressed directly from PLC Armidale’s Junior School. All of them achieved Strong or Exceeding in Writing, Numeracy and Spelling, with 60 per cent achieving the highest Exceeding proficiency level in Writing. Eighty per cent achieved Strong or Exceeding in Reading, Spelling and Grammar and Punctuation.
College Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor said the results demonstrated the value of building strong literacy and numeracy foundations early and continuing to challenge students throughout their education.
“These results are particularly pleasing when viewed against the broader national picture, but what matters most to us is the story of growth behind them,” Mrs Taylor said.
“All our girls are encouraged to complete the NAPLAN program irrespective of their academic strengths and to see every Year 7 student achieving Strong or Exceeding in Writing and every Year 9 student achieving Strong or Exceeding in Writing and Spelling is an outstanding result.
“Importantly, we can see those foundations being established much earlier. Our Junior School results demonstrate the impact of explicit teaching and a carefully sequenced curriculum, while our small classes allow teachers to identify where each girl needs support, challenge or extension.
“Our aim is not simply to prepare girls for a NAPLAN assessment. It is to develop highly capable readers, writers, thinkers and problem-solvers who have the confidence to apply their learning well beyond the classroom.”
The 2026 results continue an established pattern of strong academic performance at PLC Armidale. In 2025, NAPLAN data confirmed the College as the strongest-performing school overall in the New England North West region, with results above national averages across most tested areas.
That academic strength continued through to the 2025 HSC, when PLC Armidale was the highest-ranked school in northern NSW, ranking 69th in the state. Forty-six per cent of students achieved an ATAR above 85, 27 per cent above 90 and 19 per cent above 95, while more than half of the cohort were recognised as NSW Distinguished Achievers.
As the only all-girls Pre-Kindergarten to Year 12 College in northern NSW, PLC Armidale combines small classes, personalised learning and high expectations with an environment where every girl is known, supported and encouraged to achieve her personal best.
The results reinforce a clear continuum of academic achievement at PLC Armidale — strong foundations in the Junior School, outstanding achievement through the Senior School and young women graduating ready to lead lives of significance beyond the College gates.
The results reinforce a clear continuum of academic achievement at PLC Armidale — strong foundations in the Junior School, outstanding achievement through the Senior School and young women graduating ready to lead lives of significance beyond the College gates.
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
2026 Community Forum - Pimples, parties, puberty and everything in between
We welcomed parents from across the region—both in person and online—for an important conversation about guiding teenagers through the complexities of growing up in a digital world last week.
Following insightful presentations from our expert speakers, College Principal Nicola Taylor and Kincoppal–Rose Bay Principal Erica Thomas joined College Psychologist Penny Kempton, sex education expert Rowena Thomas, NSW Police Inspector Rebecca Jackson and criminal defence lawyer Chelsea Schaefer for a lively and informative panel discussion and audience Q&A.
From emerging sexuality, online predators and what to look out for in your teen's behaviour, parental legal responsibility around parties and alcohol, sexting and the law, the evening explored some of the most challenging issues facing families today.
The most important message? Be the safe person your teenager can turn to when mistakes are made—helping them navigate the teenage years with trust, understanding and support.
The most important message? Be the safe person your teenager can turn to when mistakes are made—helping them navigate the teenage years with trust, understanding and support.
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
Invitations will be sent out this week - please book for catering purposes.
Invitations will be sent out this week - please book for catering purposes.
Invite your friends and family to experience the wonderful world of our Junior School
Invite your friends and family to experience the wonderful world of our Junior School
Senior School News
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Year 11 Ag visit to UNE SmartFarm
Year 11 Ag visit to UNE SmartFarm
This excursion to UNE SmartFarms supports the Farm Case Study unit by giving students the opportunity to compare real farm enterprises, management practices, and technology use against those studied in class. It provides authentic, real-world context that strengthens students' understanding of farm business analysis and decision-making.
SportUNE – University of New England Year 8 excursion
SportUNE – University of New England Year 8 excursion
Our Year 8 students participated in a practical assessment activity as part of the University of New England’s EXSC340 – Advanced Exercise Physiology unit.
As part of this real-world learning experience, third-year Exercise and Sports Science students conducted a Talent Identification (Talent ID) assessment, where each student was paired with an athlete to perform:
A brief screening and athlete interview, Sport-specific physical performance testing (e.g., strength, speed, agility, and power), then an interpretation of results and basic programming recommendations.
Semester 2 SIP Projects have begun
Semester 2 SIP Projects have begun
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
Textile Project ‘Make your own PJs’
Textile Project ‘Make your own PJs’
For students who already know how to use a sewing machine, we will make at least a pair of PJ bottoms and, at best, both the bottoms and top.
Conditioning and Strength for Injury Prevention
Conditioning and Strength for Injury Prevention
Building strength and conditioning is one of the best things you can do to protect your body — whether you play sport, stay active, or simply want to move well and feel strong.
Beyond the Kaleidoscope
Beyond the Kaleidoscope
Students participating will contribute to 'The Scope' student magazine, honing their writing, editing, and design capabilities while creating meaningful content for the school community.
Acapella Singing / Contemporary Vocal Ensemble
Acapella Singing / Contemporary Vocal Ensemble
Singing a cappella is one of the most powerful ways to develop musicianship and listening skills, because the voice becomes both the instrument and the guide. Whether you are an experienced vocalist or have never tried it before, a cappella singing is fun and accessible.
The Tournament of the Minds
The Tournament of the Minds
will challenge students to work collaboratively on creative problem-solving tasks, developing their analytical and innovative thinking skills.
Gutsy Girls Excursion
Gutsy Girls Excursion
Our Year 9 girls attended the Gutsy Girls Film Festival in Coffs Harbour last weekend as part of the preparation for their epic 28-day character-building residential Explore Serve Journey experience in Term 4.
Our Year 7 girls went to Lennox Head on one of the first peak experiences in our bespoke Explore Serve Journey program.
From dragon boating, developing mountain biking skills, testing their aim with archery, and taking on the waves through bodyboarding, this adventure was about building resilience, confidence and lifelong friendships.
Our five-day Explore • Serve • Journey program took Year 8 students through the hinterland and coastal landscapes of Northern NSW, where they participated in bike riding, surfing, swimming, canoeing, rock climbing, hiking, camping and group challenges.
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
Invite your friends and family to experience the wonderful world of our Junior School
Invite your friends and family to experience the wonderful world of our Junior School
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
... our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
....Willow McKern in Year 2
....Willow McKern in Year 2
who successfully competed at the NSW State Qualifier Competition for Trampoline and Tumbling earlier this month at the Sydney Gymnastics and Aquatic Centre in Rooty Hill.
Alongside 29 teammates from Armidale City Gymnastics Club, Willow demonstrated outstanding sportsmanship, dedication, and enthusiasm throughout the competition and has qualified for the Gymnastics NSW State Championships.
Ad Astra Willow!
Curious Minds, Creative Discoveries
Curious Minds, Creative Discoveries
Special Interest Projects in Pre-K
Special Interest Projects in Pre-K
Our Pre-K students have enthusiastically embarked on their Special Interest Projects—individualised inquiries inspired by their own questions, passions and wonderings. Grounded in the Reggio Emilia philosophy, these projects place children at the centre of their learning, empowering them to investigate topics that are personally meaningful while developing essential skills for lifelong learning.
Throughout this rich inquiry process, our Pre-kinder’s are strengthening their abilities to ask questions, research, problem-solve, think creatively, communicate their ideas and collaborate with others. They are learning to persist when faced with challenges, respect one another's work, share resources and celebrate the unique interests of their classmates. Families have also played an invaluable role by contributing knowledge, resources and encouragement, creating a meaningful partnership between home and school.
This term's inquiries reflect the incredible diversity of our children's interests. Projects explore questions such as: How can you stand up while riding a motorbike along a straight race track? How do unicorns get their magic and fly? How do fashion designers create clothing? Can popcorn be made in different colours? Where can we find the letters of the alphabet? How can we design and build multi-level LEGO creations? How can we use coding and 3D technology to make a tiger drawing move? How do horses race? How does the human body move? What can we discover about the leaves around our school? How can we create detailed self-portraits? And 'what makes my Mum such a wonderful cook?'.
Each project tells a unique story of curiosity, perseverance and discovery while showcasing the many ways children make sense of the world around them.
We warmly invite you to join us at our upcoming Open Day, where these inspiring projects will be on display.
We warmly invite you to join us at our upcoming Open Day, where these inspiring projects will be on display.
Come and discover the story behind each investigation and celebrate the curiosity, creativity and capability of our remarkable Pre-K learners. We know you will be as inspired by their ideas as we are.
Come and discover the story behind each investigation and celebrate the curiosity, creativity and capability of our remarkable Pre-K learners. We know you will be as inspired by their ideas as we are.
Finding our Voice
Finding our Voice
Stage 1 Science
Stage 1 Science
This term, Stage One is exploring how living things and habitats change over time. We have been learning about what data is and why scientists collect it. Our scientific investigation involves observing plant growth and collecting and analysing data to describe how a bean plant changes as it grows. We are hoping to share our findings at our Open Day in Week Seven!
Stories reimagined
Stories reimagined
Stage 3 Autobiography excerpts
Stage 3 Autobiography excerpts
Evie Lawlor looks at the bright side of her adenoid operation.
"I went to Port Macquarie for my second operation. Before my operation we went shopping and it was fun. I can’t remember a lot of the operation but remember having so much food like ice-cream, roast lamb and muffins."
April Ferguson beautifully describes the unique English beaches she visits while visiting her grandparents:
"The beaches in England were nothing like the beaches at home in Australia. The water was cold and crisp and there was no sand in sight, only small pebbles. Something Lola and I enjoyed doing was going to the pier. It stood tall and sturdy, gradually getting taller as it descended into the deep water. "
Evelyn Nizik similarly describes her memories of her grandparents' house using beautiful imagery.
"The first memory I can remember is my Grandma and Pop’s house. It always smells like hay, mowed grass and when it rained it sounded bigger than it is because of the tin roof. I will always remember the cold nights and all the sudden black outs during ferocious storms – Grandma would light every candle in the house so that we would not get scared of the hail. I remember waking on Christmas morning and seeing a big sack of presents hanging by a thread because they were so heavy and filled with springing joy. When we lived there I would always feel so free."
Dimity Aiken is describing her visits to Stradbroke island with family friends, also using strong imagery:
"I started to go to Stradbroke Island when I was 3. I loved it there, there was crystal clear water and jetties to jump off. This made me feel the real adrenaline and fun of the world. We go fishing every night for a week. The smell of fish and squid stayed on for days."
Valerie Ham kept the reader in suspense about what the surprise was! (Spoiler alert: Tickets to Taylor Swift!)
"The feeling of nostalgia didn’t last long, as when I came home after a sunny, tiring day of school, I faced a massive surprise. When I walked through the door after a normal, boring, tiring day of school I see my mum sitting at the bench with a sly look on her face. I dump my school bag on the floor as usual and take a bite out of my daily after-school snack, but she is still acting secretive."
Open to all families of girls aged 10-12 in the region - regardless of where they go to school. Attend in person or online.
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 ...
... Elise Tisserand in Year 11
... Elise Tisserand in Year 11
who joined the two-week 2026 Gondwana National Choirs Asia Tour to Malaysia and Singapore during the holidays.
It was a trip-of-a-lifetime and included performances at: Sant Joseph’s Private School in Kuching (Sarawak, Malaysia, which is on Borneo Island); the Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre; the beautiful CHIJMES (Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus, originally a Catholic girls’ school and convent in Singapore); and the grand finale at Singapore’s spectacular Capitol Theatre.
Gondwana’s thirty-person choir tackled repertoire in six foreign languages and had the amazing experience of meeting – and performing with – choirs from around the world (from Toronto to Thailand). They had fascinating exchanges with the Kuching Choral Society, the Young Choral Academy in Kuala Lumpur, the Chinese Vernacular Primary School in Kuala Lumpur, and the Voices of Singapore Choral Hub. There was also time to enjoy exotic delicacies at local food markets, shop, Try Batik printing, visit cultural exhibitions, and even see orangutans in Borneo.
A highlight of the tour for Elise was staying, for several nights, in the home of a lovely Malaysian family in Kuala Lumpur.
It was an incredible experience, and Elise highly recommends the opportunities Gondwana offers (including the annual National Choral School held each January in Australia and Gondwana's online sight-reading classes held weekly throughout the year).
... our Year 12 Drama students
... our Year 12 Drama students
who put on a fabulous showcase of their work last Friday evening in the Drama Studio.
2027 PLC Armidale Musical
2027 PLC Armidale Musical
Come along to our information evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm in the Astra Arts Centre on Monday, 24 August
Come along to our information evening from 5.30pm to 7.30pm in the Astra Arts Centre on Monday, 24 August
to find out more about the opportunities available to you to be part of this spectacular production.
We are the first to be granted production rights for Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast the Musical' in the New England region!!
We are the first to be granted production rights for Disney's 'Beauty and the Beast the Musical' in the New England region!!
The evening will also be Zoomed for our Boarder families.
We can’t wait! See you at the information session in Week 6.
We can’t wait! See you at the information session in Week 6.
Stage 5 Play - Week 5: 18 &19 August at the Armidale Playhouse
Stage 5 Play - Week 5: 18 &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.
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 Netball and Hockey Teams
IGSA 2026 Netball and Hockey Teams
2026 IGSA Hockey Teams
2026 IGSA Hockey Teams
2026 IGSA Netball Teams
2026 IGSA Netball Teams
Congratultaions to .....
Congratultaions to .....
... Carla Mazzella in Year 10
... Carla Mazzella in Year 10
who played for the third year as part of NSW Future Stars at the National Indigenous Tennis Carnival in Darwin recently. The NSW team won for the second year running.
Cara also had the opportunity to play tennis with former world No.1, three-time Grand Slam champion and proud Ngarigo woman Ash Barty, who crowned the 2026 National Indigenous Tennis Carnival champions. Held on Larrakia Country, the four-day celebration is the nation’s largest gathering of young First Nations tennis players, bringing together sport, culture, health, education and community.
The Ash Barty Cup is awarded to the state that accumulates the most points over the week. The tournament features two streams of play, one for performance including a competitive showdown, and one for participation featuring Hot Shots Tennis and Future Stars for beginner and intermediate players. This year more than 160 young First Nations players came from across Australia.
Carla was also selected to attend a three-day residential Tennis NSW Advantage Girls Development Camp in Mullumbimby at the end of this month.
... Evie Matthews in Year 10
... Evie Matthews in Year 10
who is one of only four players from the Central North region to be selected for the NSW Junior Rugby Union 2026 NSW U16 Girls XV Barbarians rep squad, which will train and compete in the Provincial Girls XV Invitational in September.
Pathways International Student News
Pathways International Student News
Mrs Kirsten Hey
Director of Pathways
A Weekend on the Coffs Coast
A Weekend on the Coffs Coast
Our Pathways students and visiting Study Tour students recently enjoyed a memorable cultural weekend exploring the beautiful Coffs Coast and surrounding region. Based at Scotts Head, the weekend provided a wonderful opportunity for students to experience the Australian outdoors, build friendships and create shared memories beyond the classroom.
The group enjoyed kayaking at Sawtell, a Treetops adventure in Coffs Harbour, and bushwalking through the beautiful Dorrigo National Park to see its spectacular waterfalls. An evening of stargazing at Scotts Head provided another memorable experience, before the group enjoyed a classic Australian meal of fish and chips at the Coffs Harbour Jetty.
The weekend was a highlight of the three-week Study Tour experience, providing our students with opportunities to learn from one another, experience Australian culture and develop connections that extend well beyond the classroom.
A Student Perspective: Three Weeks Together
A Student Perspective: Three Weeks Together
Our Pathways students were also invited to reflect on what it was like to welcome the Study Tour students into our school community. Here is one student's reflection on the friendships, cultural exchange and learning that took place over the three weeks.
When I first heard there was a study tour from Wuhan Ocean High School, I felt shocked because I had only been at PLC Armidale for a few days. I had been studying in a girls' school since I started my secondary schooling, so I worried about getting along with these boys. It may be a challenge for me.
When I first saw these boys in the dining hall I thought it looked like they looked shy. This gave me a strange feeling because I thought boys must be mischievous, untidy and messy. But these boys changed my brain, they had high English levels, they had tidied words, they were patient, they were listening to teachers instructions rather than talking during the lessons. The major incident or event that changed my mind is when I was put into a team with Leo and we worked together. We discussed the character traits we felt an astronaut should have and debated other teams. I felt a bit nervous cooperating with boys, however Leo showed me tolerance and gave me a lot of wonderful and creative examples and this made me feel comfortable.
After that, we had a short trip last weekend to Coffs Harbour. We did many activities such as stargazing, kayaking, paddle boarding and treetops. The activity that most impressed me was the kayaking. Most of us jumped out of the boat and swam in the lake. During the kayaking we stopped for a while on a sand bank to find there are many crabs and other tiny animals hiding in the sand. When these boys found and caught a crab, they didn’t play with the crab. They picked it up gently for a look and then put it back in the lake, making sure not to destroy its environment and the biodiversity. This showed me their kind manner and respect for animals.
The Treetops climbing activity was very difficult and a challenge to me because I had not tried it before. Although the boys were afraid of heights, they also tried to climb and this gave me courage. They also encouraged me us when we were stuck or passing a difficult obstacle. Their positive spirit and teamwork spirit really heated my heart and impressed me. They really proved that ‘man power’ is not about being strong and muscular, but having a good personality that infects us.
Lastly the thing that most impressed me was the boys woke up early on the second day and made breakfast for everyone. This really shocked me because in general, everyone believes females must cook and boys are not good at cooking. When I woke up and saw the view in the kitchen, I saw all the boys, even the youngest boy Jason, were trying their best to cook breakfast for us. They may not have learnt to cook before, but I think the taste is no longer important.
Through this event I have learnt how to get along with boys or someone that I don’t know. This changed my impression of boys. Their spirit, attitude, their kind personality infected me and inspired me. I hope they had a great time on their Australian journey. At least I enjoyed my time with them.
Grace - Year 9
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
The PLC Armidale Old Girls Union was delighted to host this year's reunion event and spend time with the Old Girls and their families at the School yesterday afternoon.
Thank you to everyone who attended - it was fantastic to see a variety of year groups catch up with old friends and make new ones too!
We shared afternoon tea in the Astra Arts Centre (catered by Armidale's Courthouse Coffee). Also on offer were an Archives display, milestone-year music, a photo booth themed with the School's guild colours, uniform display, and the return of our Principal's Desk and autograph book from last year's reunion.
Events like these are important to building and sustaining a strong alumni community. The Reunion Weekend continues to highlight the joy of reconnecting with women from across generations, sharing stories, and celebrating our shared history. We warmly encourage Old Girls from all years — milestone or otherwise — to join us in future years.
The Old Girls Union is for everyone, and it was wonderful to see so many expressing interest in being part of the Union - any amount of time or contribution is greatly appreciated.
We were excited to share with you some early highlights of the event - keep your eyes peeled for more photos coming soon!
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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