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Lion's Roar Newsletter
From the Principal
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
With the HSC examinations now complete, I trust each of our graduates has a chance to pause and reflect with satisfaction on what they have accomplished.
With the HSC examinations now complete, I trust each of our graduates has a chance to pause and reflect with satisfaction on what they have accomplished.
As one group concludes, our Year 11 students are embarking upon their HSC Marathon, establishing goals of their own. At the midpoint of Term 4 teachers across the College continue to assess students’ learning to be reflected in the Semester 2 Academic Reports.
Academic Endeavour is a key pillar of a PLC Armidale education. Evident with each class of graduands, a learning journey which, like most worthwhile endeavours, takes time to accomplish. Evident when a girl makes herself vulnerable to ask questions, attempt a different approach to solve a problem or use feedback to improve a piece of work she thought was finished.
The International Coalition of Girls’ Schools, of which we are a member, recently released research findings exploring academic buoyancy, that is, the capacity to deal with the ordinary setbacks and pressures of schoolwork.
What helps a girl keep working when a problem feels too difficult, an assessment is approaching or an initial idea fails? Academic buoyancy describes the capacity to navigate these everyday academic challenges. The question then is: Is academic buoyancy caught or taught?
The research identified two strategies learners displaying academic buoyancy consistently employed…
Commitment (persistence), including taking breaks, returning to difficult tasks, and resisting avoidance of the task itself...
... continue reading here
... continue reading here
... coordination (planning), that is, breaking tasks into parts, listing steps, and reducing cognitive overload.
These strategies strengthened girls’ sense of academic confidence, enabling them to take risks, test ideas, and engage more deeply with open-ended inquiry. When a girl feels overwhelmed, the natural instinct may be to encourage her to keep trying. However, that encouragement is more helpful when we can also show her what to try next. With practice, girls begin to make those decisions for themselves.
Academic buoyancy supports safeguarding (thoughts and feelings) and scholarship (skills and competencies). Helping our girls to recognise and regulate emotional responses to challenge, strengthens resilience, builds confidence and equips a readiness to attempt more complex problem-solving. As girls navigate increasingly demanding academic and social landscapes, academic buoyancy builds confidence, capability and responsibility for learning.
It takes courage to take make yourself vulnerable as a learner and be open to feedback. It takes character to persevere or return to work which is challenging.
As we enter the final weeks of term, I trust we can encourage each girl to reflect upon those times this year she was able to find a way forward with something she once found difficult. That is an achievement worth noting, which, as a school, we will seek to acknowledge at our end-of-year celebratory events.
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...
... all our Guild Captains
... all our Guild Captains
Who led a wonderful Whole School Guild Gathering in Junior School last week in preparation for our 2026 Guild Drama.
Bella Fittler - Dixon
Bella Fittler - Dixon
Sophie Matthews - Lovell
Sophie Matthews - Lovell
Bea Morton - Hamlin
Bea Morton - Hamlin
Ava Notley - Wilkie
Ava Notley - Wilkie
... all the girls who attended the 2026 National Red Poll Youth Camp in Glen Innes at the end of the October school holidays.
... all the girls who attended the 2026 National Red Poll Youth Camp in Glen Innes at the end of the October school holidays.
Beth Birnie in Year 5 (Highly Commended - Junior Young Judges)
Brianna Marshall in Year 9 (2nd Intermediate Young Judges)
Anna Blake in Year 9 (1st Senior & Overall Grand Champion Young Judge - Earning a ticket to compete at the SA Junior Heifer Expo at Adelaide in July 2027 , Senior Champion Herdsman Winner )
Emma Birnie in Year 9 (3rd Senior Young Judges, Senior - Most Improved Winner )
Imogen Scanlon in year 10 (1st Senior Paraders & Overall Grand Champion Parader, Senior - Encouragement Award Winner)
Rosie Woods in Year 9 (Overall Champion Encouragement)
Nylah Webb in Year 10 (3rd place Senior Paraders competition)
All our students took home a prize or placed, and we are so proud of how the they participated and conducted themselves at the event. Ad Astra ladies!
All our students took home a prize or placed, and we are so proud of how the they participated and conducted themselves at the event. Ad Astra ladies!
.... to all our Junior and Senior choristers who performed in the 2026 New England Sings
.... to all our Junior and Senior choristers who performed in the 2026 New England Sings
Thanks to all of you, we had the largest choral cohort of all the participating schools!!
A big shout-out also to our Junior School violinist, Shiloni Katta in Year 6, who played with the orchestra; April Ferguson in Year 6, who performed a solo with the New England Sings Primary School Choir ;
and Elise Tisserand in Year 11, Jiya Aila in Year 9, Sophia Garratt in Year 7 and Sophia Craig in Year 8, who were all soloists with the Senior Choir ( four of the 7 soloists were from our College) and had the amazing experience of collaborating with soprano Katie Noonan in performance and working with Ian Jefferson and Luke Byrne, two distinguished composers and conductors.
... our Junior and Senior School TriSchool Shield Debating Teams
... our Junior and Senior School TriSchool Shield Debating Teams
who won the 2026 competition against NEGS and TAS following the final round of the competition hosted on our campus. Ad Astra ladies !!
This capped off a fantastic season for debating, with our Junior School and Senior School teams collectively participating in 35 debates across three competitions, including IGSA Archdale Debating, where our Junior team (7/8) came second overall. Australian National Virtual Debating Competion (ANVDC) where three of our five teams made it through to the finals. Ad Astra everyone !!
.... to Poppy-Grace Year 10, Annabella Wysel in Year 8 , Lucinda Jacometti and Evelyn Nizik in Year 6.
.... to Poppy-Grace Year 10, Annabella Wysel in Year 8 , Lucinda Jacometti and Evelyn Nizik in Year 6.
who all completed their RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) ballet examinations last week!
We are incredibly proud of the dedication, discipline and hard work each of these girls has shown in preparing for their exams. Ballet requires tremendous commitment, perseverance and attention to detail, and it has been wonderful to see their progress and growth throughout the year.
Well done, girls! What a fantastic achievement!
... choralists Yethumi Horathalge in Year 6, Ellie Cooper in Year 5, Zoe Yuan in Year 5, Shiloni Katta in Year 6, Lydia Yuan in Year 6, Nyka Naveen in Year 7, Annabella Wysel in Year 8, Edith Clynch in Year 9 and Sophia Marchant in Year 10.
... choralists Yethumi Horathalge in Year 6, Ellie Cooper in Year 5, Zoe Yuan in Year 5, Shiloni Katta in Year 6, Lydia Yuan in Year 6, Nyka Naveen in Year 7, Annabella Wysel in Year 8, Edith Clynch in Year 9 and Sophia Marchant in Year 10.
... who have all been accepted into the Gondwana Choral Camp at National Choral School where hundreds of young singers from across Australia come together and learn amazing music from around the world with leading music educators and artists. In 2027, it will mark the National Choral School's 30th year, and the camp will be held in Melbourne and Ballarat, Victoria in January.
Best wishes to all our November birthday girls ...
Best wishes to all our November birthday girls ...
Sophie Bailey, Thea Chew, Hansali Dammalage, Eleanor Donaldson, Josephine Fawcett, Isabella Forrest, Jade Foster, Scarlett Irwin, Corinne-Leigh Matthiesen, Abbie Milton, Lily Milunovic, Harriet Minter, Beatrix Morton, Imogen Scanlon, Sophie Sly, Bridie Stone, Hannah Swain, Lexi Troy and Victoria Van der Wal
Mark your calendars as we have many special end-of year events in Term 4 and you do not want to miss out!
Mark your calendars as we have many special end-of year events in Term 4 and you do not want to miss out!
Senior School News
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... Evie Donaldson in Year 8
... Evie Donaldson in Year 8
who competed for the New England Representative team in Division 1 of the U14s Indoor Hockey State Championships last weekend in Orange where her team brought home the Silver medal! Evie was also appointed Team Captain, and our Head of Sport, Mrs Lucy Donaldson, was the Team Manager.
... our 2026 IGSA Hockey Teams
... our 2026 IGSA Hockey Teams
who were FM 103 Team of the Month and are nominated for the 2026 Armidale Region Sports Award to be announced on 19 November
...Kushmi Jayaratne in Year 7
...Kushmi Jayaratne in Year 7
whose project, Filtering the TRUTH, has been selected for an award in the 2026 STANSW Young Scientist Program by the STANSW Young Scientist Committee from more than 500 entries.
Kushmi will find out which award she has been selected for at the Young Scientist Ceremony on Friday 27 November 2026 at the University of Technology Sydney.
This is a wonderful achievement and build on Kushmi's STEM achievement when she was a finalist in the Junior Mathematics and Statistics Research Challenge organised by University of Melbourne and received the Science Investigation award and Rural Primary Young Scientist grand award recipient at NSW Young Scientist Awards.2025
...Lila Killen Class of 2026
...Lila Killen Class of 2026
who has been nominated for the Encore Showcase of the best of 2026 HSC Music for her original composition - this follows on fro her nomination for her music vocal performance. Ad Astra Lila!
2027 Captains
2027 Captains
Nomination forms have been sent out to all Year 9 & 10 students and are due back by 3.30pm on Friday, 27 November.
These roles provide students with valuable opportunities to serve our school community while developing their leadership capabilities in specific areas of school life.
Available Leadership Positions for 2027:
Available Leadership Positions for 2027:
Sports Captains
Academic Captains
Creative Arts Captains (specialising in Dance, Drama, Music, or Visual Arts)
Livestock Team Captains
Essential Requirements:
Essential Requirements:
Students in Year 10, 11 or 12 in 2027
Active participation in the relevant area of leadership
Demonstrated commitment to school values
Strong leadership and interpersonal skills
Excellent time management abilities
Willingness to serve as a role model for other students
Key Responsibilities Include:
Key Responsibilities Include:
Representing PLC Armidale at school and external events
Preparing and delivering assembly presentations
Contributing regular articles to Lion's Roar (minimum once per term)
Assisting staff with program coordination and special events
Mentoring and encouraging younger students
Writing articles for Ad Astra
Application Process:
Application Process:
1. Written Application (maximum two A4 pages, size 12 font) addressing:
Personal statement
Demonstrated commitment to the school
Organisational skills
Public speaking experience
Ability to work with others
Leadership experience
2. Teacher Referrals. Teachers will assess candidates on:
Skills in dealing with people
Public speaking ability
Time management
Active participation
Leadership capabilities
Please note that these are service and mentoring roles. For example:
Please note that these are service and mentoring roles. For example:
Sports Captains must actively participate in their sport but are not automatically guaranteed positions in representative teams
Creative Arts Captains must maintain active involvement in their chosen discipline (Dance, Drama, Music, or Visual Arts)
Academic Captains should demonstrate strong involvement in academic programs and activities
Livestock Team Captain must maintain active involvement in the Livestock Team.
Important Dates:
Important Dates:
Applications Open: Monday 9 November
Applications Close: Friday 27 November at 3:30pm
Announcements: Commencement Assembly, Term 1 2027
From farm to classroom
From farm to classroom
Our Stage 4 Technology students explored the science behind food production during a recent excursion to Costa Tomato Farm and Deano’s Smoked Trout Farm.
At Costa, Paul Butterworth guided the class through the Innovation Centre and main farm facilities, providing a firsthand look at the technology and processes behind commercial hydroponics. The visit brought classroom learning to life, showing how plants can be grown without soil on an industrial scale. The operation comprises 40 hectares of glasshouses across two Guyra sites, and our Stage 4 Tech group explored a 5-hectare glasshouse and were the first people, other than staff, ever allowed inside the 2.5-hectare nursery.
At Deano’s, students explored the trout hatchery, learning about the trout lifecycle and how water quality, fish health and growth are managed. They also investigated what makes trout well suited to aquaponic systems.
The girls will now apply their learning as they complete their Semester 2 project by designing and building their own aquaponic systems in class, connecting plant production and fish care through hands-on learning.
Space Seeds
Space Seeds
Students may have wondered how space travel affected living things.
Science students are investigating this by growing seeds that had travelled to the International Space Station (ISS) for one month and comparing their growth with genetically identical seeds that had remained on Earth.
In space, the seeds are exposed to experiments involving microgravity and cosmic radiation. Students will collect and analyse data to compare the growth of the two groups of seeds and use their findings to make predictions about future plant growth.
The 2026 Peak 28-day Residential Explore Serve Journey program began with cool, wet coastal weather, which made for muddy mountain bike trails and lots of fun riding in the rain.
One week in, the group's 10 km practice overnight hike in Cathedral Rocks National Park has been a highlight, but while they escaped the thunderstorm on Saturday, they woke up to wet tents on Sunday morning.
The day began with a spectacular sunrise on the overnight hike, which was peppered with a little rain, a few storms and even some hail, but the girls were amazing and loved it all.
Some of the region's best Mountain Bike parks have provided a great playground to help the girls build their skills during week two as they prepare for the next four-day adventure.
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
Wellbeing Wednesday
Wellbeing Wednesday
Each Wednesday, we run a creative wellbeing program for students in years 7-11 in small groups. In addition to the small group sessions, we also set aside time for individual sessions and tailored small groups.
Where possible, we attempt to identify girls we believe would benefit from additional support or creative wellbeing time. In these cases, parents are contacted to receive permission for their daughter to participate. However, we realise there may be many girls who wish to take advantage of this creative wellbeing time, and we would love to provide them with this opportunity.
Therefore, we wish to invite parents to please let us know if your daughter, or a suggested small group, would be keen to take advantage of this service. There are no additional costs involved, and students may attend over several weeks, depending on their needs and availability.
The creative wellbeing space is colourful, welcoming and relaxed, providing an environment where students can unwind through painting, drawing and other creative activities while engaging in supportive, confidential conversations. For some students, the sessions provide a chance to relax, connect and recharge. For others, they may offer additional support with concerns such as anxiety, stress, friendships, self-confidence, homesickness (for boarders), or other wellbeing challenges.
The program is facilitated by Paula Jenkins, a qualified Art Therapist and professional artist, currently completing a Master of Counselling. She brings extensive experience supporting young people through creative wellbeing programs, art therapy and mentoring.
If you would like to discuss whether these sessions may be suitable for your daughter, please feel free to contact her at pjenkins@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au or you can call her directly on 0439 384 433.
We look forward to continuing to support the wellbeing of our students.
We look forward to continuing to support the wellbeing of our students.
Semester 2 SIP Projects
Semester 2 SIP Projects
Our Special Interest Projects (SIP) are continuing in Term 4 for students in Years 7-10.
SIP broadens learning experiences and develops 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 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
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 - APPLY NOW
PLC Armidale Pockets - APPLY NOW
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.
POCKET APPLICATION FORMS ARE HERE
PLC Armidale Pockets - Applications are now open.
Pocket attainment acknowledgement is given at our Valedictory Assembly in Term 3 for Year 12 and Speech Day in Term 4 for the rest of Senior School.
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.
Application Forms for Year 9 were due on Friday, 23 October.
Application Forms for the rest of Senior School are due by 3.30pm Monday, 9 November.
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.
Boarders are back in the swing of things with new patterns of summer sports and afternoon activities settling in as we finish Week 4.
Boarders are back in the swing of things with new patterns of summer sports and afternoon activities settling in as we finish Week 4.
A gentle reminder to boarders to give staff plenty of notice about upcoming activities and changes of plans as there is increased demand on College vehicles at the moment.
The absence of Year 9 boarders has been evident in the boarding house, with a noticeably smaller Dining Hall and less bustle around the house. We're sure they are having a great time at ESJ.
This is more pronounced now that all the graduating Year 12 boarders have moved out and finished exams, with most of the girls finishing their HSC by week 3. This was a huge effort on their behalf, and while they are now no doubt enjoying lovely breaks at home or abroad, their presence is certainly missed in the Boarding House.
If you spot Ms Latham out and about, don't forget to wish her a very happy birthday, which we celebrated with her on the 6th.
Secret Santa will be drawn out of the hat in the upcoming weeks so boarders can purchase their gifts, ready to be exchanged at the Boarders Christmas Dinner.
We have some key dates coming up for boarders to be aware of:
The Boarders Barbecue is making a comeback as summer approaches, with a sausage sizzle and firepit coming up on 16 November (Monday, Week 6)
Christmas Dress-up Dinner: we have a themed dinner paired with the dorm door decorating competition, which will be judged on this night, the 30 November (Monday, Week 8). This may be accompanied by a night of Christmas Light spotting around Armidale
Annual Boarders Christmas Dinner on Thursday 3 December, where parents, boarders and boarding staff get to come together and celebrate another successful year in the boarding house.
Stephanie Blake - 2027 Boarding Prefect
Stephanie Blake - 2027 Boarding Prefect
Junior School News
Junior School News
Mrs Fiona Wake
Head of Junior School
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
Our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
Our Semester 2 Junior School Student Representative Council Members
We look forward to seeing you for our 2026 Pre-K Nativity Play and Presentation Assembly.
This event will bring our Pre-K community together to celebrate Christmas and our youngest students' remarkable achievements.
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... Grace Elbourne in Year 6
... Grace Elbourne in Year 6
who sat her AMEB Grade 4 exam recently and received a high distinction (A+). She was also fortunate enough to be invited to perform at the New England Garden Festival in one of the open gardens.
.... Amelie Wysel, Elouise Westermarck and Zoe Yuan in Year 5, and Lydia Yuan in Year 6
.... Amelie Wysel, Elouise Westermarck and Zoe Yuan in Year 5, and Lydia Yuan in Year 6
who attended their Suzuki graduation at the Sydney Opera House last weekend. Amelie and Ellie graduated Grades 1&2. Zoe and Lydia graduated Grades 4 & 5.
They also had the incredible opportunity to perform at the Sydney Opera House.
What a wonderful achievement and such a special experience for these talented young cellists. We are incredibly proud of their hard work, dedication and musical accomplishments.
... Charlotte Manners in Year 6
... Charlotte Manners in Year 6
who competed in the 2026 IPSHA Gymnastics Carnival recently.
In her Division Charlotte placed 1st on the Beam, 4th on the Floor, 5th on the Bars, and 4th on the Vault.
Placing her 5th overall in her division.
IPSHA NSW Sport connects 52 member schools across the state, giving primary students opportunities to develop their skills and represent their schools.
Kindergarten Transition Continues for the Class of 2039 ( Kindergarten 2027)
Kindergarten Transition Continues for the Class of 2039 ( Kindergarten 2027)
One of the many advantages of being part of our PLC Armidale community is the seamless continuity we can offer our students as they move from Pre-Kindergarten to Kindergarten.
As we already know each child well—their strengths, learning styles and social connections—our teachers have been able to design a transition program that is responsive to their needs and tailored to ensure a smooth, confident start to school life.
Our Kindergarten Transition Program, “Ready, Set, Grow!”, is a four-week journey designed to build familiarity, confidence and a love of learning.
The program gently introduces our 2027 Kindergarten students to the routines, expectations and environment of ‘big school’, while fostering friendships, independence and a sense of belonging.
Our current Kindergarten students are acting as mentors and buddies, modelling the routines, behaviours and learning dispositions that reflect Kindergarten life at PLC. Through these shared experiences, they will strengthen their own confidence, independence and sense of responsibility while helping our newest learners feel welcomed and connected. They will continue to develop their skills in independent and collaborative learning, early literacy and numeracy, self-management, empathy, and teamwork.
Our Year 5 students will also join the program as mentors and critical friends, providing guidance and encouragement to our incoming Kindergarten students. As our 2027 Year 6 Junior School leaders, this offers a meaningful opportunity to develop leadership skills, build positive relationships and foster a sense of belonging.
These connections will continue into 2027, ensuring our youngest learners begin school with familiar faces and supportive friendships.
Stage 3 - Outdoor Learning at Thalgarrah
Stage 3 - Outdoor Learning at Thalgarrah
Our students enjoyed a hands-on excursion to Thalgarrah Environmental Education Centre recently, combining outdoor exploration with opportunities to practise teamwork, observation and problem-solving.
Working in groups, the girls investigated freshwater yabbies, exploring whether they preferred open or sheltered spaces and carefully drawing their structural features. At the Gara River, they surveyed waterbugs and considered how these creatures were adapted to life in the water. Close encounters with resident reptiles also helped students explore how animals’ features and behaviours supported their survival.
The girls then connected their discoveries by creating a river food web. The day encouraged cooperation, curiosity and active participation in the outdoors, strengthening their appreciation of the natural environments that support healthy communities.
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.
Save the Dates for these fabulous Junior School Term 4 events - more details to come soon......
Save the Dates for these fabulous Junior School Term 4 events - more details to come soon......
PreK Nativity Play 9am on Thursday, 19 November
Time to Shine Presentation Evening 5pm Friday, 20 November
Year 6 Dinner Celebration 6pm on Thursday, 26 November
SPORT News
SPORT News
Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Head of Sport
You are invited to join us for dinner to celebrate this year's many sporting achievements.
You are invited to join us for dinner to celebrate this year's many sporting achievements.
We are excited to welcome Madii Himbury OLY as our 2026 guest speaker.
Madii retired from elite sport in 2022 after more than a decade representing Australia in freestyle mogul skiing, including competing at the 2018 Winter Olympics and World Championships.
Currently a Senior Associate, Investor Sales at NABMarkets in Sydney, Madii now works in a fast-paced, high-performance environment focused on building client relationships and delivering market insights and solutions.
Madii's transition from elite sport into financial markets has strengthened her ability to perform under pressure, adapt quickly, and thrive in team-driven environments.
Alongside her corporate career, Madii is passionate about sharing her story of resilience, growth, and mindset. Overcoming multiple injuries and mental health challenges has inspired her to mentor athletes, present to schools and corporate organisations, and encourage others to view challenges as opportunities for growth and development.
Following our awards presentation, we will hold an auction to raise money for the Sports Department.
This promises to be a fantastic night of friendship and fun.
Ticket sales will close at 5pm on Thursday, November 12
Ticket sales will close at 5pm on Thursday, November 12
We look forward to seeing you there.
Badminton is back!
Badminton is back!
We’re excited to announce that badminton is back in the gym throughout Term 4!
Come along to serve, rally, smash and have some fun on Wednesday lunchtimes.
When?
When?
Every Wednesday lunchtime
Every Wednesday lunchtime
1.20-1.40pm
1.20-1.40pm
School Gym - DKC
School Gym - DKC
Whether you’re an experienced badminton player or have never picked up a racquet before, everyone is welcome! The sessions are a great opportunity to improve your skills, learn some new techniques, get active and enjoy some friendly competition with friends.
Students can come along, have a hit and develop their confidence on the court in a relaxed and supportive environment. You don’t need to be an expert, just bring your enthusiasm and be ready to play!
So, grab a racquet, bring a friend and get ready to get back on court!
So, grab a racquet, bring a friend and get ready to get back on court!
Term 4 Sport Choices
Term 4 Sport Choices
Please remember that by selecting a sport you are required to maintain your commitment to that sport for the entire term. Only choose the sports that you are willing to commit to and take particular note of what day they are on.
If you have any questions or require further information, please contact Mrs Lucy Donaldson, Head of Sport.
ldonaldson@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Strength and Conditioning
Strength and Conditioning
Maintains fitness and increases muscle strength and endurance in PLC DKC- Cost: $60/term
Monday 4:00pm - 5:00pm ; Wednesday 6:30am - 7:30am and Friday 6:30am - 7:30am
Indoor Hockey
Indoor Hockey
Friday afternoons/evenings 4:00pm - 6:30pm at The Den - Approximate cost $60 per term
Basketball
Basketball
Tuesday afternoons 4:00pm - 6:30pm @ ASC - Approximate cost $80/term
Swimming Squad Training with Sport UNE
Swimming Squad Training with Sport UNE
Tuesday mornings 6:00am to 7:00am; Monday and Wednesday afternoons 5:00pm-6pm Cost: $148 per term for 1 session/week, $240 per term for 2 sessions/week or $300 per term for 3 sessions/week.
Futsal
Futsal
Tuesday afternoons from 4:00pm to 6:30pm @ PLC - Approximate cost $20/term
Touch Football
Touch Football
Wednesday afternoons at Rologas Fields. Game times TBC (usually from 5pm) Approximate cost $50-$70/term
Tennis
Tennis
Friday 6:30am-7:30am - Squad training @ PLC (competitive) Approximate cost $50-$70/term
Friday afternoons 4pm-6pm - Round Robin Game Play all levels @ PLC - Free for all participants
SportUNE Junior Twilight Soccer
SportUNE Junior Twilight Soccer
When: Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM (Season starts October 20th)
Where: SportUNE
Cost: $65 per player
Registrations Close: Sunday, 18 October
Looking for a team? UNE are hosting a Come & Try Session on Thursday, October 15th from 4:30 PM to 5:30 PM! It's a great opportunity for any junior players who want to join the competition to come down, have a kick, and get placed into a team.
How to register: Team registration is completely free for parents or coaches to set up. Once your team is registered, you can share a link with the players to register themselves individually.
Use this link https://www.playhq.com/football-au/register/45dd09
or head to SportUNE's website to register your team
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News
Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News
Mrs Joanne Wysel
Head of Creative and Performing Arts. (CAPA)
Presenting… the amazing 50-strong cast of PLC Armidale’s 2027 production of Beauty and the Beast!
Presenting… the amazing 50-strong cast of PLC Armidale’s 2027 production of Beauty and the Beast!
We are absolutely thrilled to announce our wonderful cast! With such an incredibly talented and capable group of performers, we have no doubt that this is going to be a fantastic production.
We are so excited to begin bringing this magical story to life and cannot wait to see what this wonderful company of performers will create together!
Our first full cast read-through will take place on the evening of Wednesday, 25 November, with further details to come.
Congratulations to our entire cast! We can't wait to get started!
Mrs Clynch, Mrs Wysel, Mr Jacometti and Mrs Dunham
Explore Serve Journey through music: an opportunity for our students
Explore Serve Journey through music: an opportunity for our students
Music can connect us across languages and cultures, opening the door to new friendships, fresh ideas and shared experiences.
We are excited to announce that next April we will be undertaking an International Music Tour to Taiwan. We warmly invite all students from Year 9 to Year 12 who are involved in our Music Ensembles or are students in the Elective Music Classes to join us for this exciting event, offering students an exciting opportunity to explore these connections while developing their musical skills. We will be performing choral and instrumental works, attending masterclasses and collaborating with musicians in Taiwan schools and universities.
By meeting Taiwanese peers and learning about their approaches to music, our students will discover different ways to practice, interpret and perform.
Making music together encourages careful listening, adaptability and teamwork, while sharing ideas can spark inspiration and renew enthusiasm for learning an instrument.
The cultural experience is equally valuable.
Exploring life in Taiwan will encourage students to see the world from different perspectives, build independence, and gain confidence in unfamiliar settings.
Connecting with peers through a shared love of music provides a natural starting point for friendships and a deeper appreciation of another culture.
At the heart of the visit are two goals: to experience Taiwanese culture and connect with peers, and to grow as musicians. Together, these experiences offer students the chance to return with new skills, greater confidence and lasting memories.
We warmly encourage our music students and their families to consider this opportunity to learn, explore and make music beyond the classroom.
We will send our information brochure to Year 8, 9 and 10 families this week, and copies will also be available from Senior School reception.
We look forward to sharing more with you at our information night on Thursday, 19 November at 5pm in the Music Room.
We look forward to sharing more with you at our information night on Thursday, 19 November at 5pm in the Music Room.
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.
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
P&F News
P&F News
Shili Wang
P&F President
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
Remember your time at PLC Armidale
Remember your time at PLC Armidale
During your years at PLC Armidale, you will have walked the path of named bricks in the Rose Garden around the flagpole, and wondered who all those names were? Now, as a graduate of the College, you have the opportunity to have your own special paver.
The commemorative paver project was established by the PLC Armidale Foundation as a fundraiser with tax deductibility to assist the College with building and maintenance initiatives.
In purchasing a paver, you leave a lasting legacy of your years at PLC Armidale, whilst providing a practical pathway of interest.
Pavers are $200 each including engraving and installation and you can order them HERE
GREEN TARTAN
GREEN TARTAN
ALUMNAE NEWS
ALUMNAE NEWS
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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