Embedded Files
Lion's Roar Newsletter
From the Principal
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
Integrity in the Digital Age
At PLC Armidale, our core school values of Humility, Integrity, Respect and Self-Discipline are not simply words we display, they are habits we seek to form, day by day, in the lives of our girls. Of these, integrity sits at the heart of who we are becoming.
Integrity is often described as doing the right thing when no one is watching. Yet in today’s world, perhaps a more accurate definition is: doing the right thing when everyone could be watching, and when it would be easy to do otherwise.
The digital age has changed the landscape in which character is formed. Technology offers extraordinary opportunities for learning, creativity and connection. It also presents constant temptations; to take shortcuts, to present a curated version of ourselves, or to quietly bypass expectations.
Recently, mobile phone lock boxes have been introduced in the Senior School as part of our commitment to creating focused, distraction-free learning environments. For many years there have been expectations that tech is handed in each night in the Boarding House. This has now been adopted as our practice for all overnight, residential, and adventurous journey experiences. This is not simply about managing devices; it is about forming habits of attention, discipline, integrity and good sleep hygiene.
It is disappointing to discover instances where ...
... continue reading here
... continue reading here
... students have attempted to bypass these systems using alternative devices or “fake phones” to give the impression of compliance. While this may seem minor or even clever in the moment, it raises a much more significant question: Who am I becoming when I choose to act this way?
At PLC Armidale, we view such actions seriously, not because of the rule itself, but because of what it reveals about character formation. Integrity is not built in grand, public moments; it is shaped in small, private decisions. Each choice either strengthens or weakens the habits that will carry our girls into adulthood.
In a world where digital tools can so easily obscure truth, authenticity becomes a defining strength. Universities, employers and communities are increasingly seeking young people who can be trusted. Who are honest, accountable and consistent in both their online and offline lives.
Our role, in partnership with families, is to guide and support our girls in developing this strength of character. This means holding clear expectations, having honest conversations, and, at times, addressing behaviour that falls short of our values. It also means celebrating the many students who quietly and consistently demonstrate integrity each day by doing what is right, even when it is inconvenient or unseen.
As a community, we want our girls to understand that integrity is not about perfection, but about alignment between what we say we value and how we choose to live. Ultimately, integrity is not about devices or rules—it is about the kind of person each of our girls is becoming.
It takes courage to stand up to peer pressure, it takes courage to do what is right when no one is looking - it takes courage and character to grow lives of significance.
C.S. Lewis is quoted as coining the phrase, “Integrity is doing the right thing, even when no one is watching.” In the digital age, we might add: even when no one would ever know.
The Caterall family have been a valued member of the PLC Armidale community since 2014. Sienna (Class of 2021) and Teya (Class of 2025) attended the College, Tim is a member of College Council and Chairs the Finance Committee for both PLC Sydney and PLC Armidale.
The Caterall family have been a valued member of the PLC Armidale community since 2014. Sienna (Class of 2021) and Teya (Class of 2025) attended the College, Tim is a member of College Council and Chairs the Finance Committee for both PLC Sydney and PLC Armidale.
Despite Justina suffering health complications for many years, she remained an active supporter of the College attending events and activities, especially in the Creative and Performing Arts where the girls excelled. Justina, passed away unexpectedly on Friday 6th March. We hold the family Tim, Sienna, Hugo and Teya in our thoughts and prayers.
Despite Justina suffering health complications for many years, she remained an active supporter of the College attending events and activities, especially in the Creative and Performing Arts where the girls excelled. Justina, passed away unexpectedly on Friday 6th March. We hold the family Tim, Sienna, Hugo and Teya in our thoughts and prayers.
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done...”
“Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleeting; but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Honor her for all that her hands have done...”
Proverbs 31:30-31 NIV
Proverbs 31:30-31 NIV
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....
... to all who participated in the Autumn Festival this weekend.
... to all who participated in the Autumn Festival this weekend.
Mrs Schaeffer and some of our Juniors School students had the pleasure of meeting Skywhale artist Patricia Piccinini while watching her creations in the sky.
"We have been inspired by her in Junior School this term - attempting to make our very own version of the Skywhale," Mrs Schaeffer said. " Piccinini was so taken aback listening to our girls talk about this art making experience. It was such a rare and magical moment."
We had a fantastic team of girls in the Campus to City Center 5km run with Evie Donaldson the first PLC Armidale girl over the finish line in a time of 26.40 closely followed (literally 1 second later) by Mary Notley with a time of 26.41 and Lucie Stephen. Our College was the third overall out of the schools who competed.
... our Head Prefect Molly Chard
... our Head Prefect Molly Chard
who won the Lions Youth of the Year Zone Final in Glen Innes last weekend, following a particularly gruelling series of three back-to-back competitions in one day. The first was a 40 minutue panel interview.
Then, Molly delivered two impromptu speeches followed by a prepared speech to inspire young girls to pursue their passions in areas such as agriculture.
We wish her all the best for the regional final in Tamworth next week, and thank our humanities teacher, Mrs Roxanne Shumack, for preparing and supporting Molly so well.
Thank you to everyone who has donated and helped our Class of 2026 raise more than $10,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation.
Thank you to everyone who has donated and helped our Class of 2026 raise more than $10,000 for the Leukaemia Foundation.
Behind all the fun and frivolity was a serious fundraising effort when all our girls descended on the Junior School campus last Wednesday to watch our Class of 2026 cut their hair for a good cause. Donations can still be made at https://www.worldsgreatestshave.com/fundraisers/year12sgreatestcut
...all our students who were part of the Walcha Show last weekend ...
...all our students who were part of the Walcha Show last weekend ...
Happy Birthday to the following girls who will have their birthday soon...
Happy Birthday to the following girls who will have their birthday soon...
Emily Adams (Yr12), Emma Birnie (Yr 10), Stephanie Blake(Yr11), Elliana Cameron (Kindergarten), Avery Carpenter (Yr 1), Tabitha Havas (Yr 11), Isobella Hodgens (Yr7)
Our joint research project with UNE and Oskar Staniucha is well underway with baseline testing continuing. NBN News recently interviewed Mr S and you can read the transcript HERE
Debating Club
Debating Club
Membership permission forms have been sent to the parents of those girls who have expressed an interest in debating this year and are now overdue to be returned.
Membership permission forms have been sent to the parents of those girls who have expressed an interest in debating this year and are now overdue to be returned.
Senior School on Fridays @ lunch time
Senior School on Fridays @ lunch time
Junior School on Thursdays @ lunch time
Junior School on Thursdays @ lunch time
Debating is a fantastic way to develop skills in public speaking, argumentation and teamwork. With a record number of teams and outstanding results in 2025, it was a remarkable year for debating at PLC Armidale, and we look forward to building on this success in the year ahead.
PLC Armidale will be participating in the following debating competitions this year:
Tri Schools Debating (v NEGS & TAS) - Stage 3 and Stage 4 teams
Archdale Virtual Debating - Independent Girls' School Association (IGSA) - Stage 4 teams
Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC) - Stage 5 teams
Preparation is underway for the competitions, which all begin in Term 2. No previous experience is required, so this is a great opportunity to try it and see if debating is for you.
Tri Schools and ANVDC competition rounds take place during the school day.
The Archdale Competition takes place on Tuesday afternoons starting in Week 3, Term 2. Junior Division (Year 7 and 8) teams commence their preparation time at 4:30pm and debate at 5:15pm. If your child is unavailable on a Tuesday in Term 2 or 3 (e.g. Armidale Eisteddfod sessions), please let us know so that a replacement can be organised.
Parents will receive an online permission form to complete when debates are hosted offsite at TAS or NEGS. All other debates will be at PLCA or via Zoom.
Students are to wear full school uniform for all debates (in-person and online) and bring planning paper, pens and palm cards to each debate.
The cost to be part of the PLC Armidale Debating Team for the entire 2026 debating season is $60 per student, including training sessions, competition entry fees and local excursions. If a team qualifies for the Archdale final, it will mean a trip to Sydney in Term 3 at an additional cost.
If you would like more information on debating at PLCA, please contact our Head of Humanities, Mr Mitchell Clendinning at: mclendinning@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
If you would like more information on debating at PLCA, please contact our Head of Humanities, Mr Mitchell Clendinning at: mclendinning@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Save the Date for our School Photo Day - Term 2 Week 3
Save the Date for our School Photo Day - Term 2 Week 3
Order forms will be sent out in Week 1.
Order forms will be sent out in Week 1.
- Please Note: Our Whole School Cross Country Carnival is now on Tuesday 24 March.
Senior School News
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Congratulations to ....
Congratulations to ....
....our Class of 2026 who raised more than $9,500 for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World's Greatest Shave
....our Class of 2026 who raised more than $9,500 for the Leukaemia Foundation through the World's Greatest Shave
... Anna Blake in Year 9
... Anna Blake in Year 9
who won the Armidale Show 2026 Aggregate Shield for the Overall Highest Scoring young Judge across all four categories
2026 Armidale Show – Livestock Team Results
2026 Armidale Show – Livestock Team Results
Young Judges Competitions:
This year saw 150 competitors in the Young judges competitions across 3 age groups and 4
different categories. Our students were very competitive across all competitions.
Fruit & Vegetable:
Junior Age group: 5 th – Ariela Brown
Intermediate age group: 1 st – Anna Blake, 2 nd – Brianna Marshall, 4 th – Emma Birnie
Senior age group: 1st – Charli Milton, 3 rd – Amelia Webb
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Stud Beef Cattle:
Intermediate Age group: 1 st – Emma Birnie, 2 nd – Anna Blake
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Meat Sheep:
Junior Age group: 2nd – Abbey Milton
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Merino Sheep:
Intermediate Age group: 5 th – Anna Blake
Senior Age group: 1 st – Amelia Webb, 2 nd – Charli Milton
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Paraders Competitions:
The below students were all finalists in their respective paraders competitions.
2026 Armidale Show – Livestock Team Results
o Felicity Adams – Junior age group, heat 2.
o Anna Blake – Intermediate age group, heat 1.
o Imogen Scanlon – Intermediate age group, heat 3.
o Charli Milton - Intermediate age group, heat 5.
Schools Competition:
PLC Armidale = 3 rd place.
Cattle Classes results:
Lagoona Red Poll Stud:
Junior Champion Bull – Lagoona Texas.
Reserve Junior Champion Bull – Lagoona I’m a Royal.
Senior & Grand Champion Female – Lagoona Pheobe
RCG Gelbviehs:
RCG Wendella – Grand Champion Gelbvieh Female & Interbreed Calf Champion.
RCG JJ – Grand Champion Gelbvieh male.
New Mobile Phone Storage System – Year 7 and 8
New Mobile Phone Storage System – Year 7 and 8
We are pleased to share an update regarding our mobile phone management plan for Year 7 and 8 students. As part of our commitment to create a focused, distraction-free learning environment, we will be introducing a dedicated mobile phone storage system at school.
The physical storage boxes are being installed in the Senior School in our hallway areas, clearly visible from Senior School Reception.
How the System Works
Each student will be allocated an individual box and issued with a personal key. Upon arriving at school each morning, students are to deposit their phone in their assigned box and lock it. Phones will remain securely stored in these clear boxes throughout the school day, and students will be able to retrieve them at the end of the day. Students will be responsible for keeping this key safe and are not to copy the key, nor share it with others. If lost, a replacement key will be charged to your school account. The school will retain a master key, so boxes can be opened if required.
The boxes are transparent. It will be clearly visible to staff if a student has not placed their phone in the box as required. We appreciate your support in reinforcing this expectation with your child at home. Parents are to complete the attached Google Form to identify if your daughter has a phone, and if so, the phone she is currently using. It is preferable that Stage 4 students do not have a phone at school, or are using a phone with talk and text function only.
Any student retaining an active phone with them and placing an inactive (no sim) phone in the box will have a demerit issued and both phones confiscated. A parent/carer will then need to authorise the release of the phone to the student at the end of a period determined by the school.
The Storage Box system will be trialled for the remainder of Term 1. There will be an initial period of grace for students to become familiar with the new system. Keeping the key safe may be challenging for some students, please indicate on the form below if you feel your daughter may require additional support.
GOOGLE FORM - MOBILE PHONE IDENTIFICATION: https://forms.gle/vm7thWreWXZUpBLi6
We believe this initiative will have a positive impact on student wellbeing, focus, and social interactions during the school day. Thank you for your continued support and partnership as we work together to provide the best possible learning environment for our students.
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me on hoss@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
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
Central Australia Cultural Immersion Experience 2026
Central Australia Cultural Immersion Experience 2026
We are excited to share details of an enriching cultural immersion experience for our Year 7 and 8 students, set in the heart of Central Australia. This unique journey offers students a powerful opportunity to deepen their understanding of Indigenous perspectives and to engage meaningfully with the world’s oldest living culture.
Flying into Alice Springs, students will travel through the awe-inspiring landscapes of Uluru, Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), and Kings Canyon. Along the way, they will explore Aboriginal connections to Country, engage in cultural learning with Traditional Owners, and participate in a service-learning project that fosters respect, reflection and community contribution.
This is a peak experience designed to lay a meaningful foundation for younger students ahead of the Year 9 Explore Serve Journey program and Year 10/11 Thailand Service-Learning Trip.
It aims to empower students to develop empathy, cultural awareness, and a stronger sense of place in the wider Australian narrative. The experience links with our focus for Year 8 fundraising, which supports Purple House, an indigenous run organisation working working to improve the lives of people in remote communities living with renal failure.
Limited places:
There are limited places available due to accommodation and transport availability and the College reserves the right to determine the final list of participants.
Expressions of Interest due by Monday, 30 March.
To assist us in gaining an understanding of potential numbers for this program, we have emailed Year 7/8 parents with details asking them to fill out a form expressing interest for their daughter to be part of this transformative program. If you have not received this email please contact Mrs Louise Butterworth - lbutterworth@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
Timeline:
● Information to parents and students: Friday 20 March
● Expressions of interest: Monday 30 March
● Commitment to attend: Monday 20 April
● First instalment $1700: Wednesday 22 April
● Second instalment $600: Friday 19 June
● Third instalment $600: Friday 18 September
Departure - Monday 28 September
Save the Date - Year 9 Explore Serve Journey Parent Information Session
Save the Date - Year 9 Explore Serve Journey Parent Information Session
Tuesday 21 April 2026, 6:00-7:00pm in the Astra Arts Centre
The session will provide parents with important details about the 28-day program taking place in Term 4, as well as an understanding of the required clothing and equipment.
It is important that parents attend this session to ensure students are properly prepared for the ESJ program.
The session is for parents and carers only - no students. Students will be provided the information during Pastoral Care sessions in Term 2.
A recording of the session will be made available for Year 9 Boarder parents who are unable to attend.
We look forward to seeing you there.
Parent Teacher Meetings
Parent Teacher Meetings
Year 7 Parent/Teacher Conferences and Year 12 Parent/Teacher Conferences have been scheduled for Tuesday, 31 March, starting from 3:50pm and running through to 7:00pm.
They will take place in the Senior School Library. Year 12 students are encouraged to attend the Parent/Teacher Conference with their parents and carers. All interviews on this evening are face-to-face in the Library.
To make a booking, please follow the School Interviews link below.
https://www.schoolinterviews.com.au/code/hqnhh
If your daughter has a teacher for more than one subject, please only schedule one interview if possible. This will help with teacher availability for other appointments on the night. If you have specific concerns or need additional time, there will be opportunities for follow-up appointments. If a teacher is not available on the night, a phone call can be arranged with individual teachers.
If your daughter is in Year 12 and she has a teacher for multiple subjects, you are welcome to schedule two time-slots if you would prefer.
Step 1. Fill in your details, please enter all fields (entering an email address will allow you to receive a confirmation of your bookings).
Step 2. You are required to enter in all subjects and teachers.
Step 3. Select the available time-slots. Where possible please book the earliest time-slot available.
On completion of your booking, please expect a confirmation email, which will include your booking times.
Bookings will close at 9am on Monday 30 March 2026 at 9am.
There are also options to attend Parent Teacher Interviews early in Term 2
Boarder Parents on Monday, 20 April
Years 8-11 in Week 2 of Term 2.
Booking links for these will be sent out in the next fortnight.
Before the interviews, you may like to look at your child’s results and feedback on any individual assessment tasks for Term 1. To access your child’s results, log into Edumate via a PC (not available via a phone). From there you will see a tab titled ‘Progress’. Then click on Past Tasks. You will also be able to see Upcoming Tasks and previous Academic Reports. You can also access this information via the PLC App - Carer Orbit
If you have forgotten or misplaced your login details for Edumate, please contact enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
If you encounter any issues whilst scheduling interviews or you require assistance to make your bookings please contact Senior School Reception at: seniorschool@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au or via phone on: 02 6770 1786.
Lunchtime Clubs - Dance Ensemble in full swing
Lunchtime Clubs - Dance Ensemble in full swing
Library Extended Hours Term 1, 2026
Library Extended Hours Term 1, 2026
Our Senior School Library will be open for some extended hours this term, and will be staffed by our academic staff.
Senior School teachers will be rostered on in our library each afternoon till 4.30pm, offering additional academic support for any senior school students who would like to take advantage of this opportunity.
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
Congratulations to ....
Congratulations to ....
... our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song who were inducted at our last assembly - Ad Astra girls!
... our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song who were inducted at our last assembly - Ad Astra girls!
... and the rest of our 2026 Boarders Representative Council (BRC) team.
... and the rest of 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
Kindergarten in the Gym
Kindergarten in the Gym
Our Kindergarten girls have been enjoying PE with Mr Cotterell and Year 1.
Visual Arts in Junior School
Visual Arts in Junior School
Junior School students have been bursting with creativity in Visual Arts with Mrs Schaeffer this term!
Inspired by Monet and his beautiful garden, students explored colour, texture and nature in their own artworks. They also enjoyed diving into the story Fox by Margaret Wild and Ron Brooks, creating expressive and imaginative fox eyes full of personality.
Our young artists were fascinated by Australian artist Patricia Piccinini and her Skywhale installation, which visited Armidale for the Autumn Festival this weekend. This inspired students to design and create their own unique and imaginative creatures.
Meanwhile, Kindergarten, Year 1, and Year 2 students have been having lots of fun using Pig the Pug and his cheeky adventures as inspiration for observational drawing.
It has been a vibrant and exciting term in the art room, full of creativity, curiosity and wonderful artistic expression!
Junior School Debating
Junior School Debating
The participation in our Junior School Debating Club in 2026 has started out strongly, with a good mix of experience and enthusiasm.
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.
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 ...
...our Year 12 students Molly Chard, Jade Foster and Lila Killen
...our Year 12 students Molly Chard, Jade Foster and Lila Killen
who performed at Armidale Open Mic Night at The Welder's Dog Brewery. Supporting artists no matter age or skill level, this was an opportunity to perform in front of a live audience, try out new songs or just connect with other local musicians and artists. They then reviewed their performance with Mr J the next day at College...
...Nyka Naveen in Year 7
...Nyka Naveen in Year 7
who performed at the AUSTA (NSW) New England String Performers Festival last weekend.
....... everyone who took part in the 2026 PLC Armidale Shakespeare Carnival and our 2026 judges.
....... everyone who took part in the 2026 PLC Armidale Shakespeare Carnival and our 2026 judges.
What an outstanding day at our school Shakespeare Carnival.
What an outstanding day at our school Shakespeare Carnival.
Wow! The level of creativity, commitment and teamwork across all categories was exceptional, and it was clear how much effort had gone into every performance.
You should be incredibly proud of the work you presented. From bold physical choices to thoughtful interpretations of text, the standard this year was genuinely impressive.
Our judges had a very difficult job. Many performances were incredibly close, and in several categories it was challenging to separate groups. I wish we could take more than one item to the next level!
Congratulations to the students selected to represent PLC at the Regional Shakespeare Carnival:
Congratulations to the students selected to represent PLC at the Regional Shakespeare Carnival:
Dance: Sophie & Lucinda Clendinning and Bella Wysel - The Tempest
Physical Theatre: Ella McKinnon, Sophia Marchant, Sybella Manson, Tilly Shearim, Kithmi Jayaratne- Macbeth
Duologue: Kithmi Jayaratne and Rebecca Mang – Macbeth
Group Devised: PG Newton, Edie Clynch, Olive McFarlane, Issy Forrest, Hope Stoltenberg and Rebecca Mang
Music Composition: Rebecca Mang – Romeo and Juliet
Smart Film: Tahlia, Georgie, Anna, Hannah (with additional editing and refinements implemented) - Twelfth Night
To everyone who performed: your willingness to take risks, work as an ensemble and commit fully to the process is was just so fabulous!
Now, our next step is to turn our focus to the next stage, which is refining, sharpening and elevating these performances for the Regional Carnival.
Regional Carnival:
Friday 15 May – PLC Armidale
State Carnival – Grand Final Weekend:
20–21 June 2026
Seymour Centre, Sydney
... everyone who was part of our first InHouse Concert for 2026 - it was a wonderful showcase of our students talent
... everyone who was part of our first InHouse Concert for 2026 - it was a wonderful showcase of our students talent
Term 1 InHouse Concert
Term 1 InHouse Concert
... our talented Director of Music, Mr Matthew Minter
... our talented Director of Music, Mr Matthew Minter
whose latest commissioned composition, 'Under a Desert Sky, had its world premiere as part of an unforgettable evening celebrating the artistry of world-renowned pianist Dr. Yi-Yang Chen, with a stellar lineup of musicians at the New England Conservatorium of Music.
and our Senior Choir
and our Senior Choir
who sang the Chinese folk song Jasmine Flower (Mo Li Hua 茉莉花 ) in Mandarin as a surprise welcome to Dr Chen.
The concert was a fundraiser for the Armidale-based not-for-profit Inspiring Young Musicians Incorporated (IYMI), which is passionate about transforming lives through the power and joy of music.
and our 2026 Music Captain, Binudi Vithana
and our 2026 Music Captain, Binudi Vithana
who conducted the Senior Choir at a second concert performed at Lazenby Hall the following week.
Save the Dates: Dance at PLC - Junior School & Senior School
Save the Dates: Dance at PLC - Junior School & Senior School
Term 2 is shaping up to be a busy and rewarding time for our dancers, with two important opportunities to perform and share their work with an audience. Please take note of the following dates.
Our PLC Performs evening will be held on Wednesday 6 May (Week 3, Term 2). This event serves as an important dress rehearsal for the Eisteddfod performances that follow in the coming weeks. It provides students with a valuable opportunity to perform their items in full, in costume, and in a formal setting before stepping onto the Eisteddfod stage. For our Senior students in particular, this is a critical moment to refine performance quality, build confidence, and make final adjustments. For all students, it is a chance to experience the demands and expectations of performance while sharing their work with a supportive audience.
New England Dance Eisteddfod: Wednesday morning, 27 May (Week 6, Term 2). For many in our Junior School Ensembles, this will be their first time performing on a stage. It is a significant and exciting experience, one that builds confidence, encourages teamwork, and allows students to take pride in what they have been working towards. Costumes will be provided for this event, with a small fee to support their upkeep and future use.
Further information regarding the Tamworth Eisteddfod will be shared soon for Senior School Dance Ensemble members though the dates will be in early June: (Term 2, week 7 or 8).
Both of these events represent important steps in each student’s journey. From those just beginning to find their confidence on stage, to those developing greater control, presence, and artistry, these opportunities allow our students to grow through doing.
We look forward to these moments across the term and to sharing them with our community. Pop them in your diary!
PLC Performs: Wednesday 6th May (Term 2, Week 3).
(For Junior School and HSC students only)
New England Dance Eisteddfod: Wednesday 27th May (Term 2, Week 6).
Tamworth Dance Eisteddfod: Early June (TBC) for Senior School students only
Armidale Eisteddfod 2026
Armidale Eisteddfod 2026
The Armidale Eisteddfod is fast approaching and remains one of the most significant cultural events in the New England calendar. Each year, the festival provides students with valuable opportunities to perform, develop their craft and receive professional adjudication in a supportive and inspiring environment.
The Eisteddfod offers a wide range of performance categories, allowing students to participate across many areas of the performing arts.
These include: Speech and Drama; Vocal and Choral; Instrumental Music; Bands and Ensembles; Music Composition
Participation in the Eisteddfod allows students to gain important stage experience, build confidence and refine their performance skills while sharing their work with the wider community.
The 2026 Armidale Eisteddfod will commence on Wednesday 13 May with a Music Composition Presentation and Workshop, and will conclude with the Gala Concert on Sunday 14 June, where selected outstanding performances from across the festival will be showcased.
Our next two Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Whole School events will help girls prepare their Eisteddfod performances:
Our next two Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) Whole School events will help girls prepare their Eisteddfod performances:
29 April: Term 2 In House Concert
8 May: PLC Performs
Senior School Term 1, 2026 CAPA Schedule
Senior School Term 1, 2026 CAPA Schedule
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.
2026 In House Concert and other major musical dates:
2026 In House Concert and other major musical dates:
29 April: Term 2 In House Concert
8 May: PLC Performs
29 July: Term 3 In House Concert
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
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
our 2026 Tildesey Tennis Shield Team
our 2026 Tildesey Tennis Shield Team
The girls had a busy three days at the Northwest Sydney Tennis Centre last week and were wonderful representatives of our College.
Sophie went through to the fourth round, Trista went through to the fifth round and after a valiant effort both our Doubles Teams bowed out after the first round having drawn older and more experienced opponenets.
... Carla Mazzella in Year 10
... Carla Mazzella in Year 10
who won her division in the Northumberland Lake Macquarie Regional Tennis Match play recently.
This was in the midst of huge wind gusts and torrential rain. Carla and the other finalist, Charlotte were told to stop play but they wanted to complete the match and played through. Carla trained very hard over summer to improve her game and the results are evident.
... Tabitha Havas and Macey Wake (U18s) ; Evie Donaldson, Mary Notley and Pippi Notley (Div 1 - U14s); Phoebe Butterworth, Lucie Stephen and Isabella Wyatt ( Div 2 - U14s)
... Tabitha Havas and Macey Wake (U18s) ; Evie Donaldson, Mary Notley and Pippi Notley (Div 1 - U14s); Phoebe Butterworth, Lucie Stephen and Isabella Wyatt ( Div 2 - U14s)
Who have all been selected for Hockey New England 2026 Representative Teams.
...Bea Morton in Year 11
...Bea Morton in Year 11
who was the Supreme Rider of the Bingara Show this weekend with her horse Huey. This is a significant achievement as riders compete in their age groups, then champions are selected, and from there the top combinations return to compete for Supreme, judged on overall horsemanship, presentation, and the partnership between horse and rider.
1st Girl Rider (15 & Under 17), Champion Senior Rider, Supreme Rider of the Show
Bea has had a busy and sucessful show season to date:
At the Armidale Show with two horses
Jack: 1st newcomer Hunter Galloway, 1st maiden Hunter Galloway, champion newcomer Hunter Galloway.
Huey: 1st girl rider 15 and under 17, reserve champion senior girl rider, 1st open hack 15.2 - 16hh, 1st ridden thoroughbred, reserve champion district senior girl boy rider, 1st intermediate hack 15.2 -16hh.
At the Barraba Show with Huey: - 1st open hack 15.2 - 16hh, reserve champion open hack, 1st intermediate hack 15.2 - 16hh, 1st ridden thoroughbred.
At the Walcha Show with Huey - 1st Ridden thoroughbred, 1st open hack, reserve champion open hack
At the. Manilla Show with Huey - 1st open hack 15.2 - 16hh, champion open hack
Bea said to her dad, “Show riding feels like dancing with a horse. The goal is to make it look effortless, even though a lot of work happens behind the scenes.”
Whole School Cross Country Carnival this Tuesday
Whole School Cross Country Carnival this Tuesday
This Tuesday, 24 March 2026, all students from PreKindergarten to Year 12 will participate in our Whole School Cross Country Carnival.
The afternoon will begin with a barbecue lunch run by our Student Representative Council, followed by the Junior School Cross Country and then our Senior School Cross Country, with options for competitive and non-competitive races.
At the end of their race, students must stay at school until after the presentation of the Age Champions.
Parents and friends are very welcome to attend.
All students from Pre-kindergarten to Year 12 will enjoy a barbecue lunch in the Senior School if they pre-ordered via My Student Account last week. Please note that lunch orders from the Dining Hall will be available to Boarding Students only on this day.
All students should wear their Guild sports uniform (tracksuit bottoms with shorts underneath if desired) to school for the Cross Country Event; the Guild sports uniform can be worn home afterwards.
This year, all Senior School students must scan their School ID cards on the day to participate in the event.
Junior School students' cards are all kept on campus, and these will be taken and scanned at the event.
Netball Sign-Up
Netball Sign-Up
Girls in year 5&6 as well as Senior School need to register for PLC Armidale Netball to play.
Girls interested in playing netball this season are invited to register using the link below.
Please complete the registration if you would like to play netball this year. This helps us organise teams, and competition entries for the upcoming season. All girls who wish to play in te local ADNA comp as part of a PLC Armidale team are able to do so.
Training will be on Monday afternoons for most PLC Armidale local teams and Thursday afternoons for the PLC Armidale representative teams.
Sign-up link:
https://www.playhq.com/netball-australia/register/50b8cd
If you have any questions or experience any issues with the form, please contact Greg Cotterell at gcotterell@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au.
We encourage all interested students to register so they can play.
Winter Sport
Winter Sport
Once again, we are offering a comprehensive range of activities for our girls to enjoy.
Playing sports isn't compulsory at PLC Armidale; however, it is highly encouraged, and we are delighted with the consistently high participation rates across the College.
Sign-up forms for the sports below were emailed to students and nonations received las week. Final costs and contracts will be emailed to parents for approval once all girls' choices have been collated. Most sports cost around $100 per term, plus relevant association annual registration fees.
By selecting a sport, students are required to maintain their commitment to that sport for the entire term. Only choose the sports that girls are willing to commit to.
Students were asked to submit their forms by no later than Monday, 2 March, so teams can be formed and sports contracts issued to parents/carers to confirm selections and be ready for the sports to commence.
If you missed this deadline or any questions or concerns, please email me at ldonaldson@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
2026 Terms 2&3 Winter Sport Choices
2026 Terms 2&3 Winter Sport Choices
Athletics
Regular weekly athletics training sessions in Terms 2 and 3. Further details TBC once numbers are confirmed.
Approximatley $100 per term.
Badminton
Social badminton games: Tuesday afternoons 3:45pm-4:45pm @ PLC DKC
FREE
Basketball
Tuesday afternoons 4:00pm - 6:30pm @ The Den (Armidale Secondary College)
Approximate cost $80/term plus registration fees
Football (soccer)
Soccer training: Wednesday afternoons at PLC
Games: Friday evenings (Opens Comp)
Approximate cost $100/term plus registration fees
Hockey
Hockey training: Thursday afternoons at Sport UNE hockey fields
Games: Saturdays
Juniors (14s & 16s) - mornings
Seniors (Womens) - afternoons
N.B. Some teams may be scheduled for mid-week games on occasion.
Approximate cost $100/term plus registration fees
Netball
Netball training:
Thursday afternoons @ PLC for Junior and Opens Representative teams
Monday afternoons @ PLC for all other teams
Games: Saturday afternoons either 12pm, 1:20pm or 2:40pm
Approximate cost $100/term plus registration fees
Rugby
Rugby Training: TBC
Games: TBC (possible Wednesday and/or Friday evenings)
If you choose to play rugby, you are strongly encouraged to attend at east one strength and conditioning session each week.
Approximate cost $100/term plus registration fees
Strength and Conditioning
Maintains fitness and increases muscle strength and endurance.
* Mornings 6:30am - 7:30am @ PLC Monday, Wednesday, Friday
* Afternoon 3:45pm - 5:00pm @ PLC Wednesday
(you can do 1, 2 or 3 sessions per week) - select your days on the sign-up form
Flat Rate of $60/term
If you have been selected for a PLCA Representative team to compete at IGSA, you must attend at least 1 Strength and Conditioning session each week.
Swimming Squad Training with Sport UNE
Squads will resume in the second week of each term and run for 8
weeks. Tuesday mornings 6:00am to 7:00am
Monday and Wednesday afternoons 5:00pm-6pm
Approximate cost:
$148 per term for 1 session/week
$240 per term for 2 sessions/week
$300 per term for 3 sessions/week
Please select which session/s you are interested in on the sign-up form.
Tennis Squad Training
Friday mornings 6:25am-7:25am @ PLCA
Approximate cost $100/term
Junior School coaching opportunity
There is the opportunity to any Senior School girls who would like to help coach our Junior school girls.
This may also be counted towards the Duke of Edinburgh Award service.
If your daughter is keen to potentially coach a Junior School sporting team, and she has not already done so, please ask her to let me know.
Pathways International Student News
Pathways International Student News
Mrs Kirsten Hey
Director of Pathways
Pathways Camp
Pathways Camp
In Week 8, the Pathways students went to Queensland for an exciting visit to the Gold Coast. We stayed at Treasure Island Holiday Resort and enjoyed a range of engaging activities, including visits to Currumbin Wildlife Sanctuary, the Aussie Outback Spectacular dinner and show, and an outdoor adventure day featuring kayaking, snorkelling, and bushwalking as we worked together to solve the Mystery at Wave Break Island.
This excursion strongly supports our Ecology unit this term, as well as our study of the novel Storm Boy. Students will have the opportunity to observe Australian native animals in real-life settings and develop a deeper understanding of their habitats and ecosystems.
We enjoyed a rich learning experience that combined environmental education, teamwork, and outdoor adventure.
P&F News
P&F News
Shili Wang
P&F President
EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY OPENING HOURS
EASTER SCHOOL HOLIDAY OPENING HOURS
Thurs 2nd April 1-4:30pm (day before Good Friday)
Friday 17th April 9-12 Appointment only
Saturday 18th April 9-12 Appointment only
Monday 20th April 1-4pm
For appointments: https://www.noone.com.au/school/plc-armidale/stores (it's the same as the website to buy online).
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 2027 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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