Congratulations to ...

WE WANT YOU!!

You can do nothing and still help our joint UNE/PLC Armidale Scholarship recipient, Oskar Stanuicha, complete his ACL Training PhD Research.

We are currently seeking approximately 25 female students aged between 8 and 18 who are to participate in a research testing control group as part of an ongoing University of New England (UNE) research project. 

We are testing throughout this term.

Contact: Ostaniuc@myune.edu.au by Friday, 24 May.

Participants in this control group will complete:

Session 1: Physical testing (~45 minutes)

Session 2: Physical testing (~1 hour 15 minutes)

Session 3: MRI scan assessment

Following initial testing, participants in this group will be asked to refrain from undertaking any structured strength and conditioning or gym-based training for approximately 16–20 weeks before completing follow-up testing. You can still play your usual sport.

This group is important for allowing comparison between participants completing the intervention program and those maintaining their normal activities without additional resistance training.

Additionally, participants will be required to complete a brief weekly physical activity log outlining activities completed throughout the week (e.g., sporting training, PE classes, games, or other physical activity).

If you are interested in participating, or would like further information and participant information sheets.

Please contact: Ostaniuc@myune.edu.au by Friday, 24 May.

Further details regarding testing procedures, MRI scans, timelines, and expectations will then be provided. 

PARTICIPATION IS FREE

Mrs Kate Clynch

Head of Senior School

Congratulations to ....

...  all our 2026 Term Two Citizenship Award recipients

All these girls have been awarded at least three Merit Awards this term. 

... our Stage 4 Debating Team 

who won their first round of the 2026 Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC ) against Bundaberg Christian College last week. Ad Astra girls!

Term 2 Tri-School Social

PLC Armidale, Farrer and NEGS will come together for a Term 2 Social event on the evening of Wednesday, 17 June.

PLC Armidale will host Years 7-9

NEGS will host Years 10-12

More information will be sent out this week.

Explore Serve Journey (ESJ)

While our sequence of Explore Serve Journey programs spans Kindergarten to Year 12,  peak experiences occur in the middle years of schooling. These are part of our curriculum and included in your tuition fees.

This is a particularly challenging time for girls in terms of dealing with change, developing identity, and navigating social relationships. The following programs assist students in moving through this turbulent stage with courage and character.

More information on each will be sent closer to the time.

ESJ in the Senior School

Year 7  - 4 days in Term 3 Connection and Belonging (3-6 August). See 2025 photos HERE

Year 8  - 5 days in Term 3 - Flourish or Flounder (3-7 August ). See 2025 photos HERE

Year 9 - 28 days in Term 4  – Every girl’s a boarder (25 October to 21 November ). See 2025 photos HERE

Year 10 - 13 Days in Term 1 – A Journey from the highest city to the highest mountain (21 March to 1 April). See 2025 photos HERE

Year 11 -  6 Days in Term 1 Rock and Rope – ‘Hanging Out’ in the Blue Mountains (15-20 February). See 2025 photos HERE

Service Learning Trips

These are optional peak experiences for our girls - costs will be quoted when you are invited to submit an expression of interest.

Years7/8 Central Australia Cultural Immersion Experience 

Years10/11 Thaliand Agape Orphanage 

2026 in the Senior School

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

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

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)

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

Boarding Life

Margaret Latham and Sam Azon-Jacometti 

Heads of Boarding

We continue to move through a number of busy and exciting weeks in the boarding house, with plenty happening both within the school and broader community. It has been wonderful to see the girls embracing the many opportunities available to them and supporting one another through a full and rewarding term.

A particular highlight over recent weeks has been the Armidale Eisteddfod, with many of our boarders involved across a variety of events including vocals, ensembles, choirs, strings, speech and drama, and dance. Congratulations to all the girls who participated and represented the school and boarding community so well. Their commitment, courage, and achievements have been fantastic to see, and we are very proud of their efforts.

The winter sporting season is also well underway, keeping many girls busy with training and weekend fixtures. A reminder to families and students to please continue coordinating closely with the House Mother and driver regarding transport arrangements to ensure everything runs as smoothly as possible.

When sport and co-curricular activities are running, we have had staff arranging some lovely weekend activities for the girls to engage with. One of our House Mothers, Nic Morris, set up a Paint and Sip activities with girls painting on canvas while sipping milkshakes. We see girls baking treats, making craft and enjoying downtime after a busy weekly schedule. 

It was also lovely to see many of the girls come together on Wednesday evening to watch the State of Origin match. The atmosphere around the house was fantastic and it provided a great opportunity for connection and bonding across year groups.

We wish all families a safe and relaxing Boarders’ Weekend next week and hope everyone enjoys the opportunity for some time at home. 

A final reminder that Boarders Hoodies and Trackies are available through the Uniform Shop — a perfect addition for the colder months ahead.

Junior School News

Mrs Fiona Wake

Head of Junior School

One of the greatest strengths of our Junior School is how our students adapt to change with such maturity and confidence. 

The past fortnight has been a wonderful celebration of the creative and performing arts, with many of our students representing the College at the Eisteddfod across a variety of individual and ensemble disciplines. We congratulate all students involved for their courage, commitment and willingness to perform before an audience, an experience that requires both confidence and vulnerability. 

Behind each polished performance lies countless hours of coaching, rehearsals, repetition and perseverance; the often unseen discipline of continuing with the “boring but necessary” foundations that ultimately allow excellence to emerge on stage. 

We thank parents for their communication in informing the College of absences related to Eisteddfod events and acknowledge the significant support provided by families, coaches and staff throughout this season. Success in these moments is never individual alone; it is shared amongst the many adults who encourage, guide and nurture our students along the way. Please be sure to share with the College your daughter's achievement/s.

Pick Up and Drop Off ZONES

A reminder to all families that afternoon pick-up is to occur from Crest Road at the front of the Junior School. The internal entry is designated for drop-off only, bus services and approved access, with no parking permitted. Recently, congestion and increased safety concerns have arisen due to vehicles queuing or remaining stationary without a driver present while waiting to collect students. Unless prior permission has been granted, we ask families to support us in keeping this area safe and orderly for all students and staff.

Semester One Reports

Semester reports will soon be distributed. These reports are intended to provide both a reflection of student progress and a guide for future growth. Should you seek clarification, wish to discuss concerns or gain further understanding regarding your daughter’s report, please feel very welcome to contact her class teacher. We value the partnership shared between home and school and appreciate the ongoing trust and communication that strengthens this relationship.

As reports are received, I encourage families to consider the relationship between learning habits, application and achievement. Whether in the classroom, on the sporting field or upon the stage, growth is closely linked to discipline, effort and consistent practice. One area that continues to be discussed regularly amongst staff is the importance of times tables mastery. Automatic recall of multiplication facts underpins so much of the Mathematics curriculum in Stage 2 and Stage 3. Without this foundation, concepts such as fractions, decimals, division, multiples, factors, ratio and scale become significantly more challenging as the curriculum builds year upon year. There is no shortcut to mastering times tables beyond regular practice, repetition and commitment to memorisation.

The same can also be said for reading and writing. The more students read, write and practise the conventions of language, the stronger and more capable they become. Exposure to rich vocabulary, quality literature and purposeful writing encourages students to infer, question, think critically and communicate with clarity. 

Like all worthwhile learning, growth comes through consistent practice, application and persistence over time. Whether learning an instrument, mastering times tables, improving reading fluency or developing confidence within a team, the principle remains the same: progress is built through commitment, encouragement and the willingness to keep practising long after the novelty has worn off. Together, through strong partnerships between school and home, we continue to equip our students not only with skills for academic success, but with the character, resilience and values that will guide them well beyond their years in the Junior School.

Regional Australia - connected, capable and courageous!

Over the weekend, I had the privilege of taking my own daughter to compete at the State Hockey Championships. It was an incredible experience to witness the New England team finish the competition as undefeated overall champions. Moments such as these are a timely reminder that regional Australia is not disadvantaged; rather, our region is rich in opportunity, talent and community spirit. Most encouraging of all was the standard of sportsmanship, teamwork and fairness displayed throughout the competition. It reinforced the belief that success is often built not only upon ability, but upon collaboration, humility and the willingness to work for one another.

Currently, close to 90 per cent of students within the Junior School participate in a team sport, an extraordinary statistic and one that speaks volumes about the culture of involvement and commitment within our community. Team sport teaches skills that extend far beyond the sporting field. While modern education often refers to “21st century skills,” many of the qualities our students require for the future are timeless: respect, integrity, humility, resilience and teamwork. These values, grounded in strong Christian principles, continue to shape the standards and expectations we hold for our students. At times, we can overcomplicate what we already know to be good and true.

Year 6 Get Active and FMS skills

This semester in Year 6 Physical Education, students have been actively engaged in developing their Fundamental Movement Skills (FMS) while also participating in a range of fun and energetic activities designed to promote teamwork, fitness, and confidence.

A strong focus has been placed on refining key movement skills such as running, jumping, throwing, catching, and balancing. Through structured drills and skill-based games, students have demonstrated great improvement in coordination, control, and overall physical awareness.

In addition to skill development, students have thoroughly enjoyed our “Get Active” sessions, which incorporate friendly competitions and team challenges. These activities have encouraged participation from all students, regardless of ability, and have created a positive and an inclusive environment.

Overall, it has been a highly successful and enjoyable period in PE. It is wonderful to see enthusiasm, effort, and progress shown by all Year 6 students.

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 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 for all students will be distributed every Monday and should be submitted each Friday. Repetition and mastery play a vital role in deep learning, and at our school, we strongly encourage students to embrace these practices.

Key Dates and Upcoming Events

Please refer to the 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!

Each edition of our Lions Roar newsletter will showcase a different class on rotation, providing a wonderful opportunity to celebrate student learning and achievements. This newsletter also serves as a platform to highlight our students' activities outside of school, fostering a strong sense of community.

After-School Collection and Safety Protocols

For safety reasons, after-school collection at 3:45 pm will be from the front gate only. The side reception area is designated for bus boarding, so keeping it clear is appreciated. This also applies to morning drop-off. The front curb is a designated drop-off point. If you need to speak with staff, please use the parking areas to avoid disrupting traffic flow. Students attending Homework Centre should be collected from the side gate if the front reception is locked.

Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) News

Mrs Joanne Wysel

Head of Creative and Performing Arts. (CAPA)

The Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) calendar comes alive this term as our students step from the rehearsal room onto the stage across Music, Dance and Drama.

Over the coming weeks, students will represent PLC Armidale at the Armidale Eisteddfod, New England Dance Eisteddfod, Tamworth Eisteddfod and the Regional Shakespeare Carnival. It is one of the busiest and most rewarding periods in our CAPA year, a time where students begin sharing the work they have been developing with commitment, courage and creativity.

Weeks such as these remind us of the unique power of the Creative and Performing Arts. Whether students are composing music, performing Shakespeare, dancing on stage or singing as part of an ensemble, they are learning to collaborate, communicate, take creative risks and support one another through the performance process.

We look forward to celebrating an exciting and memorable term across CAPA.

Congratulations to ...

 ... all our  speech and drama students, vocalalists and string players for their fine performances in the Armidale Eisteddfod over the past weeks.

 Please keep sending all your individual eisteddfod results to communications@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au so we can share them with the College Community.

... our Regional Shakespeare carnival participants.

The Regional Shakespeare Carnival winners off to the State Final are.....

• 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

• Music Composition: Rebecca Mang, Edie Clynch and Harriet Minter – Romeo and Juliet

• Smart Film: 'Twelfth Night on the Ranch' Tahlia, Georgie, Anna, Hannah (with additional editing and refinements implemented) 

Grand Final Weekend: 20–21 June 2026 Seymour Centre, Sydney

Best wishes to all our woodwind students, vocal students and choirs in the Armidale Eisteddfod this week.

Please email all your results and photos to us at communications@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au 

Below is a timetable of events that various Senior School Music, Drama and Dance ensembles are participating in. 

These performances are scheduled for 19, 20, 27, 28, 31 May, and 2nd June. Please note that in addition, some ensembles may be chosen to perform at the Gala Concert on June 14.

If an event is held on a weekend or commences in the evening, students, other than boarders, are to make their own way to and from the venue. Please check the timetable carefully to note where independent travel arrangements are required to ensure that the girls arrive ready to perform at the times stated overleaf. Estimated performance times have been included to assist with scheduling. They are a guide only and must not be relied on.

Individual Eisteddfod Performances

If your daughter has registered to participate in the upcoming Armidale Eisteddfod as an individual (not part of a school organised ensemble), please complete the below form ONE WEEK before the event is held.

2026 Armidale Eisteddfod - Absences registration

This form will be the official notice to the College for the absence and you are not required to contact the school reception, Heads of Schools or the Principal.

Please note the College is NOT providing transport services for students to attend individual events during school hours.

Transportation for boarders to attend events as an individual outside of school hours (8:40am - 3:30pm) will be organised by the Boarding House.

Transport may be available for students who are representing PLC Armidale (i.e. ensembles) and any arrangements will be communicated to students.

This form provides 3 event entries for each student. Please submit another form if your daughter is participating in more events.

The 2026 Armidale Eisteddfod Program can be accessed here.

Please do not hesitate to contact the College if you have any questions.

Save the Date

Tamworth Dance Eisteddfod: Early June (11 June ) for Senior School students only

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.

2026 Major musical dates:

• 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

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. 

SPORT News

Mrs Lucy Donaldson

Head of Sport

Congratulations to ...

Pathways International Student News

Mrs Kirsten Hey

Director of Pathways

Thank you to ...

... everyone who supported our refreshment stand at the Livestock Celebration evening.

and a big thank you to Ben Carruthers and his daughter Illiana for setting up and staffing it during the evening.

Please keep an eye out for communications from your year group Liaison Parent regarding upcoming events.  Your support and participation in these events are greatly appreciated.

This is an exciting and busy term, with many opportunities to get involved, connect with fellow parents, and support our school community.

If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us at pandf@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

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

Junior School Uniform

Senior School Uniform

Send us your news!  

We love to hear about what our alumnae have been doing - so please let us know what has been happening in your life. 

Births, deaths, marriages, milestone celebrations - whatever you feel like sharing with the other Old Girls, please tell us so we can include it in this section of the  Lion's Roar each fortnight.

Our PLC Armidale alumnae are a stellar group of women who excel in a diverse range of areas, leading lives of significance.

Success looks different for everyone, and we like to celebrate it all - not just that which is in the public eye.

Email your news to: communications@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

Want to get together with your class?

If you are interested in joining or organising a milestone reunion group during the Reunion Weekend in August, please get in touch with us at enquiries@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au

General News