Embedded Files
Lion's Roar Newsletter
From the Principal
From the Principal
MRS NICOLA TAYLOR
PRINCIPAL
The All Girls’ Advantage in an Age of Artificial Intelligence
The All Girls’ Advantage in an Age of Artificial Intelligence
Artificial Intelligence is no longer a future possibility. Whether we realise it or not, most people interact with AI every day through search engines, social media platforms and increasingly sophisticated chatbots.
For schools, the question is no longer whether AI should be used. That debate has largely passed. The challenge before us is helping young people learn how to use AI wisely, ethically and critically.
PLC Armidale is a member of the International Coalition of Girls' Schools (IGCS). Their recent research suggests that girls' schools are well placed to meet this challenge.
Girls educated in all-girls schools consistently demonstrate higher levels of academic confidence, classroom participation, leadership aspiration and engagement in STEM learning. These qualities are precisely the attributes required in a world where technology is becoming increasingly capable.
However, capability alone is not enough.
ICGS research also shows that unrestricted and unguided use of AI can actually weaken learning, reducing opportunities for students to grapple with difficult problems, develop perseverance and build confidence in their own judgement.
Used thoughtfully, AI can be a help tutor and information access tool.
Used carelessly, it can become a shortcut that prevents deep thinking.
This is where girls' schools have a unique opportunity...
... continue reading here
... continue reading here
... Our focus on teacher-student relationships, on setting and holding high expectations, and on a culture that encourages girls to find their voice provides the ideal environment for teaching students not simply how to use AI, but how to question it. Students need to learn to test ideas, challenge assumptions, identify bias and recognise that not every answer generated by a machine is necessarily correct.
An insightful perspective I shared with girls and families attending the Stage Six Subject Selection evening during the week is that of Daniela Amodei, President and co-founder of AI company Anthropic. Daniela acknowledges the extraordinary capabilities of emerging AI systems; however, an English Literature Major from the University of California, Berkeley, she argues that
the most valuable human skills of the future will not be technical skills alone. Instead, qualities such as empathy, ethical judgement, communication, leadership, creativity, resilience and the ability to build meaningful relationships will become even more important.
In other words, the very qualities that make us human, and what may be some of the super strengths of girls and young women, may become our greatest advantage.
At PLC Armidale, this reinforces our commitment to developing the whole person. While technological literacy is essential, so too are the habits of reading deeply, thinking critically, communicating clearly, collaborating effectively and exercising sound judgement. These are not "soft skills" in the sense of being optional; they are the durable human capabilities that enable young people to flourish in an increasingly complex world.
As educators and parents, our task is not to prepare girls for a world without AI. Rather, it is to prepare them to thrive alongside it. The goal is not dependence on technology, but discernment in its use. Not simply efficiency, but wisdom.
In an age when machines can generate answers in seconds, courage and character may be the qualities that matter most. The future will belong not to those who can merely access information, but to those who can think deeply about it, act ethically upon it, and use it in service of others. This frames our approach to AI at PLC Armidale.
Congratulations
Congratulations
Throughout the year, we want to acknowledge and celebrate the various interests and accomplishments of PLC Armidale girls. We will be aware of the experiences girls undertake to represent the College. We may not know about experiences and achievements in areas of interest outside of school. Please let our Communications and Marketing Manager, Mrs Arundale know. Mrs Arundale greatly enjoys telling the story of the quality and achievements of our PLC Armidale girls. Below is the news we know so far from the holidays....
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... our Bel Canto Choir and the Stage 6 Music class
... our Bel Canto Choir and the Stage 6 Music class
on being selected to perform in the Gala Concert of the Armidale Eisteddfod.
The Stage 6 students will perform Super Trouper by ABBA, while Bel Canto will present the 10th Anniversary commissioned work There's a Song in My Heart by Warwick Dunham.
We also have a phenomenal number of individual students participating, with more than 50 per cent of the program being performed by PLC Armidale girls.
... our individual Gala Concert performers
... our individual Gala Concert performers
Georgina Arundale Fuller (Yr8)- Speech and Drama; Ellie Cooper (Yr5)- Vocal; Rebe Cunningham (Yr12)- Voice; Grace Elbourne (Yr6) - Harp; Issy Forrest (Yr 10) -Speech and Drama; Harriet Minter (Yr 9) - Violin; and a piano duet by the Yuan sisters, Lydia (Yr6) and Zoe (Yr5).
Georgina Arundale Fuller (Yr8)- Speech and Drama; Ellie Cooper (Yr5)- Vocal; Rebe Cunningham (Yr12)- Voice; Grace Elbourne (Yr6) - Harp; Issy Forrest (Yr 10) -Speech and Drama; Harriet Minter (Yr 9) - Violin; and a piano duet by the Yuan sisters, Lydia (Yr6) and Zoe (Yr5).
...Poppy-Grace Newton and Illiana Carruthers in Year 10
...Poppy-Grace Newton and Illiana Carruthers in Year 10
who are finalists in the 2026 University of New England School Acquisitive Art Prize (UNESAP) and Let’s Hang It! exhibition on display at NERAM 24 July – 9 August. The 60 finalist works were selected from more than 700 entries by 43 schools across regional NSW.
...Evie Matthews in Year 10.
...Evie Matthews in Year 10.
who has been selected for the NSW Country Rugby Union Under 16s Women's representative squad for 2026 following a fantastic weekend of rugby at the State Championships last weekend.
...our 2026 North West Coonabarabran Equestrian Expo Team and manager Marie Younghusband.
...our 2026 North West Coonabarabran Equestrian Expo Team and manager Marie Younghusband.
Deputy Equestrian Captain Beatrix Morton in Year 11
Deputy Equestrian Captain Beatrix Morton in Year 11
was RESERVE CHAMPION in Novice Dressage, RESERVE CHAMPION Open Hack and CHAMPION 16-YEAR-OLD RIDER, 2nd in Pair of Riders, and 1st Junior Equestrian.
First-time Coona competitor Isabella Wyatt in Year 7
First-time Coona competitor Isabella Wyatt in Year 7
and her horse Orarapark Sapphire Blue were named OVERALL SPORTING CHAMPION 12 YEARS
See all the photos and details of the entire team's achievements in our Sports section.
See all the photos and details of the entire team's achievements in our Sports section.
Best wishes to all our June birthday girls ....
Best wishes to all our June birthday girls ....
Felicity Adams, Dimity Aiken, Georgia Bagnall, Clara Bioletti, Anna Blake, Georgina Blake, Aria Cai, Ellie Cooper, Margot Corlis, Ella Jenkins, Evie Lawlor, Grace Mang, Lynette Marsden, Cherokee Minter, Mary Notley, Pippa Notley, Hope Stoltenberg, Hadiya Tanveer, Stella Thomas, Mila Vanzella and Chloe Younghusband.
Our new bus PLC 025 has arrived and it looks fabulous!
Our new bus PLC 025 has arrived and it looks fabulous!
Senior School News
Senior School News
Mrs Kate Clynch
Head of Senior School
Congratulations to ....
Congratulations to ....
... our Year 7 & 8 TriSchool Shield Debating Teams
... our Year 7 & 8 TriSchool Shield Debating Teams
who both won their first round of the 2026 Tri School Shield Debating against NEGS and TAS last week. Ad Astra girls!
... our Stage 4 Archdale Debating Team
... our Stage 4 Archdale Debating Team
who won their last debate in the 2026 Archdale Invitational Competition against Monte Sant Angelo to finish fourth on the ladder. Our girls successfully argued that companies with a greater percentage of women executives should pay less tax.
... Rosie Woods in Year 9
... Rosie Woods in Year 9
who has been successful in recent local yard dog trials, placing second in the New England Junior Yard Dog Trial in Armidale and fourth in the Gunnedah Junior Yard Dog Trial.
Rosie trained her kelpie, Calga Beau, to guide a small mob of sheep through an unseen course, putting them through the race and drafting a selected number off the mob.
NEW DATE - Term 2 Tri-School Social
NEW DATE - Term 2 Tri-School Social
PLC Armidale, Farrer and NEGS will come together for a Term 2 Social event on the evening of Thursday, 18 June.
NEGS will host Years 7-9 and PLC Armidale will host Years 10-12 - Movie Star Theme
Parents - please ensure you have signed the new permission form (with the new date) that was sent out last week.
2027 Stage 6 Information Evening
2027 Stage 6 Information Evening
We enjoyed welcoming our Year 10 families last week to learn more about our Stage 6 (Years 11 and 12) program at PLC Armidale.
The presentation featured an overview by our Principal, Mrs Nicola Taylor, as well as details on the subjects on offer for 2027 from key staff members.
Then families were able to discuss the many options available to them in detail with our specialist teachers at their subject stalls.
A subject preference form has been emailed to everyone in Year 10 and is due back by 12pm Monday 22 June 2026 (Week 10).
A 2027 Stage 5 information evening for all Year 8 families will be held in Term 3.
Stage 6 Ag Excursion
Stage 6 Ag Excursion
Some of our Stage 6 students went to Farrer Agricultural High School last week to attend an Agricultural Careers Expo where they explored career opportunities and discovered transition pathways, built and developed relationships with local the community, businesses and tertiary institutions.
Moon Walk
Moon Walk
As part of their ESJ preparation, Year 8 recently enjoyed a brisk walk around Wollomombi Falls to view the spectacular rise of the waning gibbous moon in the southeast, before enjoying a campfire and dinner under the stars.
Explore Serve Journey (ESJ)
Explore Serve Journey (ESJ)
While our sequence of Explore Serve Journey programs spans Kindergarten to Year 12, peak experiences occur in the middle years of schooling. These are part of our curriculum and included in your tuition fees.
This is a particularly challenging time for girls in terms of dealing with change, developing identity, and navigating social relationships. The following programs assist students in moving through this turbulent stage with courage and character.
More information on each will be sent closer to the time.
ESJ in the Senior School
Year 7 - 4 days in Term 3 Connection and Belonging (3-6 August). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 8 - 5 days in Term 3 - Flourish or Flounder (3-7 August ). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 9 - 28 days in Term 4 – Every girl’s a boarder (25 October to 21 November ). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 10 - 13 Days in Term 1 – A Journey from the highest city to the highest mountain (21 March to 1 April). See 2025 photos HERE
Year 11 - 6 Days in Term 1 Rock and Rope – ‘Hanging Out’ in the Blue Mountains (15-20 February). See 2025 photos HERE
Service Learning Trips
These are optional peak experiences for our girls - costs will be quoted when you are invited to submit an expression of interest.
Years7/8 Central Australia Cultural Immersion Experience
Years10/11 Thaliand Agape Orphanage
2026 in the Senior School
2026 in the Senior School
Key Senior School Staff
Key Senior School Staff
Principal - Mrs Nicola Taylor
Head of Senior School - Mrs Kate Clynch
Academic Leadership Team
Director of Studies - Ms Julie Flanagan
Head of Humanities - Mr Mitchell Clendinning
Head of STEM - Mrs Kate Fittler
Head of Creative and Performing Arts - Mrs Joanne Wysel
Director of Music - Mr Matthew Minter
Director of Sport - Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Co-Heads of Boarding - Mr Sam Jacometti and Ms Margaret Latham
College Chaplain - Ms Jennifer Leahy
Pastoral Care Staff
Pastoral Care Staff
The purpose of the Pastoral Care model at PLC Armidale is to ensure that every girl is known and nurtured and that parents have a member of staff they can contact regarding any well-being issues that may arise.
Where possible, our Year Mentors remain with students on their journey throughout from Year 7 through to Year 9, and then with a new Mentor and Pastoral Care team from Year 10 to Year 12.
In addition, a Year Specialist has been allocated to assist students in each year group, and this person generally stays on this same year group for a number of rotations. Mentors and Specialists are also ably assisted by their Pastoral Care team members, under the oversight of the Head of Senior School, the College Chaplain, and our School Psychologist.
Year 7 - MENTOR: Yvette Ballard
Year 7 - Specialist: James Haggerty (Compass Program)
Year 7 Pastoral Care Team: Ruth Patrick
Year 8 - MENTOR: Grace Baker
Year 8 - Specialist: Jennifer Leahy
Year 8 Pastoral Care Team: Brian Shumack
Year 9 - MENTOR: Margarita Perez
Year 9 - Specialist: Amanda Burney
Year 9 Pastoral Care Team: Alasdair Hey
Year 10 - MENTOR: Emma Schaeffer
Year 10 - Specialist: Mitchell Clendinning
Year 10 Pastoral Care Team: Roxanne Shumack
Year 11 - MENTOR: Matthew Minter
Year 11 - Specialist: Jo Wysel
Year 11 Pastoral Care Team: Mr Tim Pears
Year 12 - MENTOR: Kate Fittler
Year 12 - Specialist: Julie Flanagan
Year 12 Pastoral Care Team: Greg Cotterell
Pathways Pastoral Care - Kirsten Hey, Angela Priebbenow
Mobile Phones
Mobile Phones
Students are not required to have a mobile phone at school. If one is brought, it must be switched off and not accessed during the school day.
Limited-function phones, or phones with low/no data for students in Stages 4 and 5 (Years 7 - 10) are preferred. If a mobile phone is brought to school, it is to be stored in the student’s locker, not pocket or bag. Students are required to secure their lockers with their own padlock.
Progressive Reporting in 2026 (Edumate and Reports)
Progressive Reporting in 2026 (Edumate and Reports)
Ongoing feedback and student reflection on learning are essential to measure understanding, strengths and areas for growth.
The engagement of parents in this process is a way to enhance communication between the College and home, providing an opportunity for parents to follow up with teachers regarding their child’s progress.
By logging regularly into Edumate, you will be able to see your daughter's assessment test results, teacher feedback on the task and upcoming tasks to put on the family calendar.
To access your daughter’s results, once into Edumate, you will see a tab titled ‘Progress’. From there, click on Past Tasks. You will also be able to see Upcoming Tasks and previous Academic Reports.
You can also access information on our school app ‘Carer Orbit’ here: Using the Carer Orbit APP
If you have forgotten or misplaced your login details for Edumate, please contact helpdesk@plcarmidale.nsw.edu.au
You can also find more information on the Parent/Carer Intranet via CONNECT HERE
The Senior School Handbook also contains details of requirements for stationery for students, as well as details for uniform, IT requirements and general information about life in the Senior School. You can find the Senior School Handbook on the Parent/Carer Intranet via CONNECT HERE
PLC Armidale Pockets
PLC Armidale Pockets
A PLC Armidale 'pocket' refers to embroidery on the blazer pocket that recognises students’ achievements throughout the year across four key pillars: Academic Endeavour; Creative and Performing Arts (CAPA) ; Sport and Leadership and Service.
Each pillar has four levels of attainment: Blue, Silver, Gold, and Outright Gold Star, allowing students’ accomplishments to be displayed in a practical and lasting way on their uniform.
Boarding Life
Boarding Life
Margaret Latham and Sam Azon-Jacometti
Heads of Boarding
... thank you to our Boarding Community for representing us so well at the Armidale 2026 Anzac Day Service
... thank you to our Boarding Community for representing us so well at the Armidale 2026 Anzac Day Service
Boarding House Representative Council
Boarding House Representative Council
Our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song
Our Pathways representatives on the Boarder Representative Council - Fanyi Dong(Finnley) and Anna Song
Our 2026 Boarders Representative Council (BRC) team.
Our 2026 Boarders Representative Council (BRC) team.
We encourage parents to keep in contact with the Boarding House Staff.
We encourage parents to keep in contact with the Boarding House Staff.
The phone number for the House Mother front desk is 02 6770 1716.
The phone number for the House Mother front desk is 02 6770 1716.
There will be a House Mother on duty at the desk:
There will be a House Mother on duty at the desk:
Weekday mornings 6.45am - 9am
Weekday mornings 6.45am - 9am
Weekday afternoons/evenings 2.30pm - 11pm
Weekday afternoons/evenings 2.30pm - 11pm
Saturday 8am - 11pm
Saturday 8am - 11pm
Sunday 8am -10.30pm
Sunday 8am -10.30pm
The House Mother's mobile number during normal Boarding House hours: is 0417 033 424
The House Mother's mobile number during normal Boarding House hours: is 0417 033 424
We also have a landline phone for boarders to use to ring home if they don't have a mobile phone. Parents can also ring this number to speak with their daughter: 02 6770 1739.
We also have a landline phone for boarders to use to ring home if they don't have a mobile phone. Parents can also ring this number to speak with their daughter: 02 6770 1739.
Junior School News
Junior School News
Mrs Fiona Wake
Head of Junior School
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
2026 Junior School Leadership Team
Contragtulations to ...
Contragtulations to ...
... Charlotte Manners in Year 6
... Charlotte Manners in Year 6
who recently began competing at Level 4 in Women's Artist Gymnastics ( WAG), recently competing in the Tamworth Country Capital Cup on all four apparatuses - Vault, Uneven bars, Beam and Floor achieving a Personal Best score of 8.8 for her vault.
... our Round One 2026 Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC ) Junior School team
... our Round One 2026 Australian National Virtual Debating Competition (ANVDC ) Junior School team
on completing their first debate.
Junior School Sport
Junior School Sport
This term, our three junior school sporting teams have taken to the field and courts each week, and we asked the girls to tell us what they've loved about their season so far. Here's what they had to say.
U8 Hockey
U8 Hockey
We work really hard and we're getting better at working together as a team! This term we've scored some great goals, and we're getting much stronger in defence too. We try our best and we don't give up, even when the game feels tough or the morning is freezing cold! If someone in our team is feeling sad or left out, we always help each other out, because that's what being a team is all about. We also want to say a huge thank you to our amazing coaches, we appreciate you so much! And as Coco reminded us: "It doesn't matter if you win, what matters is having fun." We think that's pretty good advice.
U12 Hockey
U12 Hockey
We haven't won a game yet, but we're staying positive and we're not giving up! We're really proud of the goals we've scored this season, and every week at training we can feel ourselves getting better. We've been working hard on listening to our coach and staying in our positions during games, and we always look out for each other on the field. One thing we've really loved this season is having a proper coach, it makes such a difference having someone experienced who genuinely helps us improve our skills. The wins will come, and when they do, we'll have earned them!
PLC Red Netball
PLC Red Netball
We've had a great season so far! We won a game earlier in the term and it really boosted our spirits. We've been focusing on listening better to our coaches during training, and it's been exciting to find the positions that work best for each of us. Our coaches know what our strengths are and help us develop them, and game days are a brilliant chance to practise our skills and try out different positions. We are so grateful for our coaches, they are kind, encouraging, and accepting, and we really appreciate the time they give up for us. Thank you!
From All of Us
From All of Us
We've loved being part of our teams this term. Thank you to all of our coaches and our families for cheering us on … we can't wait for Term 3!
Ms Emma Pracy
Ms Emma Pracy
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 Senior School Music Ensembles, who had great success in the Armidale Eisteddfod
... our Senior School Music Ensembles, who had great success in the Armidale Eisteddfod
our PLC Armidale Year 8 Band placed First,
our PLC Armidale Stage 5 Class Ensemble placed First and was awarded the Perpetual Shield,
and our Stage 6 Music Ensemble placed equal First.
All three Class Ensemble sections were won by PLC Armidale groups.
All three Class Ensemble sections were won by PLC Armidale groups.
... our Senior School Dance Ensembles
... our Senior School Dance Ensembles
who returned home from a triumphant day at the Tamworth Eisteddfod.
Our Stage 5 Jazz Ensemble placed second,
our Senior Dance Ensemble placed Third
and our Stage 5 Contemporary Ensemble was Highly Commended.
Jessica MacMahon and Lucy Ward in Year 12 also had a private workshop with the adjudicator and danced in the non-competitive section.
...Elise Tisserand (Year 11)
...Elise Tisserand (Year 11)
who won the New England Voice Championship (16-18 years), performing ‘Je te veux’ (in French) and ‘What Baking Can Do’ (from the musical ‘Waitress’). Elise thanked her voice teacher, Mrs Inge Southcott, and accompanist, Dr Robert Manley.
... Nyka Naveen in Year 7
... Nyka Naveen in Year 7
who has had a fantastic Armidale Eisteddfod
Vocal Solos - Lieder 15 Years & Under. Must be sung in German – SECOND Prize; Vocal Solos - Vocal Solo, Sacred 13 Years & Under – SECOND Prize; Vocal Solos - Vocal solo. Combined VC07 and VC08 – SECOND Prize; Vocal Solos - Vocal Solo, Aust composition. Combined VC15 & VC16 – THIRD Prize; Music Solos - Piano solo, Restricted, Combined KB14, KB15 – SECOND Prize; Speech & Drama Solos - Prose Recital, Solo 12 & 13 Years. Time Limit 2 Minutes – SECOND Prize
.... our Junior School sisters Phila (Year 5) and Eliana (Year 1) Wang
.... our Junior School sisters Phila (Year 5) and Eliana (Year 1) Wang
who performed wonderfully at the Armidale Eisteddfod. Phila was awarded second place in every section she entered.
... all our speech and drama students, vocalalists and string players for their fine performances in the Armidale Eisteddfod over the past weeks.
... 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.
Best wishes to our Senior School Choir Ensembles who will compete in the Tamworth Eisteddfod this Tuesday
Best wishes to our Senior School Choir Ensembles who will compete in the Tamworth Eisteddfod this Tuesday
Best wishes to our Regional Shakespeare Carnival winners who are competing in the Grand Final at the Seymour Centre in Sydney next weekend
Best wishes to our Regional Shakespeare Carnival winners who are competing in the Grand Final at the Seymour Centre in Sydney next weekend
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)
Save the Date
Save the Date
2026 Major musical dates:
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
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
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
SPORT News
Mrs Lucy Donaldson
Head of Sport
Congratulations to ...
Congratulations to ...
... our 2026 North West Coonabarabran Equestrian Expo Team.
... our 2026 North West Coonabarabran Equestrian Expo Team.
Equestrian Captain Chloe Younghusband in Year 12
Equestrian Captain Chloe Younghusband in Year 12
placed 6th in Eventing 80cm and 6th in the Second Round of Six Bar
Deputy Equestrian Captain Beatrix Morton in Year 11
Deputy Equestrian Captain Beatrix Morton in Year 11
was RESERVE CHAMPION in Novice Dressage, RESERVE CHAMPION Open Hack and CHAMPION 16-YEAR-OLD RIDER, 2nd in Pair of Riders, and 1st Junior Equestrian.
First-time Coona competitor Isabella Wyatt in Year 7
First-time Coona competitor Isabella Wyatt in Year 7
and her horse Orarapark Sapphire Blue were named OVERALL SPORTING CHAMPION 12 YEARS after achieving 1st Bending, 1st Flag Race, 3rd Time Trial, 5th Barrels; 3rd Place in Team Penning (Composite team with NEGS); 5th Place in Warrumbungle Way; 12th Place overall in the 12-14 year old girls Junior Pentathlon (an event which included a 2km 🏃🏼♀️cross country race, mountain bike race, showjumping, javelin and saddle sprint); Isabella formed a composite team with
Amelia Belson Year 9
Amelia Belson Year 9
and McCarthy Catholic College Tamworth for the team barrels. Amelia also completed the Pentathlon and came joint 7th in Showjumping - 95cm AM7 and 5th in 95cm Special Two Phase and 7th in Combined Training 80cm.
... to all our girls who competed in the Hart NSW State Netball Championships at Baulkham Hills in Sydney last weekend.
... to all our girls who competed in the Hart NSW State Netball Championships at Baulkham Hills in Sydney last weekend.
Sophia Marchant (Year 10 ) and Mary Ugwumba (Year 11 )were part of the Glen Innes Netball Association Representative Team, while Ava McKay (Year 10), Charlotte Thomas (Year 11), Grace Kelso (Year 10), Hollie Higgins (Year 10), Laura Butterworth(Year 9) and Lilah Tate ( Year 8) played in the Armidale and District Netball Association Representative Teams.
Special shout out to Sophia whose team played 17 games over weekend and she participated in each and every game!
Special shout out to Sophia whose team played 17 games over weekend and she participated in each and every game!
WE WANT YOU!!
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.
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
Further details regarding testing procedures, MRI scans, timelines, and expectations will then be provided.
PARTICIPATION IS FREE
Pathways International Student News
Pathways International Student News
Mrs Kirsten Hey
Director of Pathways
Sydney Transition and Cultural Experience Excursion
Sydney Transition and Cultural Experience Excursion
Recently, students from the Pathways Program travelled to Sydney as part of their preparation for future study in Australian schools.
The Pathways Program provides intensive English language instruction for international students and serves as a stepping stone to mainstream education in Australia. Beyond developing English language skills, the program helps students understand Australian culture, educational expectations, and how to successfully participate in school life in an Australian context.
A key purpose of the excursion was to visit four potential schools that students may choose to attend after completing their studies in Pathways. We visited PLC Sydney, Wenona, St Catherine’s and Kincoppal Rose Bay. Students toured the campuses and boarding facilities, gaining valuable insight into school life beyond Armidale. They also had the opportunity to meet key staff members who will play an important role in supporting their transition to their future schools.
While in Sydney, students participated in extensive travel training, learning how to navigate public transport systems confidently and independently. They also enjoyed a cultural and historical walking tour of the city, visiting significant landmarks including the Anzac War Memorial, Hyde Park, St Mary's Cathedral, the Royal Botanic Garden, the Sydney Opera House, Circular Quay, the Queen Victoria Building, and Town Hall. The trip coincided with the spectacular Vivid Sydney festival, allowing students to experience one of Australia's premier cultural events. By the end of the excursion, students had walked an impressive 50 kilometres throughout the city.
One of the highlights of the trip was a visit to Burwood Chinatown, where we were warmly welcomed by the family of Yutong, one of our students. We are extremely grateful for their generosity and hospitality in hosting our group and sharing authentic dishes from their home city of Lanzhou. We all enjoyed experiencing the rich culinary traditions of the region, including the famous Lanzhou beef noodles, which attract food lovers from across Sydney.
The excursion provided students with invaluable opportunities to develop their independence, build confidence, deepen their understanding of Australian culture, and make informed decisions about their educational pathways. It was a highly successful and memorable experience for all involved.
PLC Armidale Helps Bring the NSW HSC to Central China
PLC Armidale Helps Bring the NSW HSC to Central China
PLC Armidale has strengthened its reputation as a globally connected regional school, playing a key role in launching the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC) at one of China's leading schools.
Principal Nicola Taylor travelled to Wuhan over the June long weekend to mark the official launch of the HSC Program at Wuhan Ocean High School, which has become only the second school on mainland China—and the first in central China—to receive approval from the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) to deliver the internationally recognised qualification.
Mrs Taylor attended the launch alongside Pathways Education Solutions (PES) Chair Tim Catterall and PLC Sydney Director of Development John DaCruz, celebrating a milestone that reflects years of collaboration between PLC Armidale and Wuhan Ocean High School.
The partnership has grown through PLC Armidale's Pathways Program, including reciprocal student study tours that have fostered lasting educational and cultural connections between the two schools.
The achievement also highlights the growing international impact of Pathways Education Solutions (PES), the Armidale-based not-for-profit established in partnership with PLC Armidale and PLC Sydney to support overseas schools in delivering the NSW HSC to the highest standards.
Today, PES supports three of the eight international schools authorised to deliver the HSC outside New South Wales, including Wuhan Ocean High School, Beijing's BZFLS and Vietnam Australia School in Hanoi.
Mrs Taylor said the recognition of Wuhan Ocean High School was an exciting milestone not only for the Chinese school, but also for PLC Armidale and its students.
"PLC Armidale has enjoyed a long and rewarding relationship with Wuhan Ocean High School, and it was a privilege to be part of such an historic occasion," Mrs Taylor said.
"Seeing our partner school become the first in central China to offer the NSW Higher School Certificate is a testament to the strength of that relationship and to the shared commitment both schools have to providing students with a world-class education."
Mrs Taylor said the partnership was a powerful example of how PLC Armidale was preparing young women to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
"Our Pathways Program is about much more than travel. It develops cultural understanding, global awareness and the confidence to engage with people and ideas beyond our own community. These relationships challenge students to think differently, embrace new perspectives and become globally minded citizens.
"For our girls, knowing they are connected to students on the other side of the world through genuine educational partnerships broadens their horizons and reinforces that learning has no borders."
PES Chair Tim Catterall said the HSC's expansion into central China represented an important milestone for international education.
"Wuhan Ocean High School is only the second school in mainland China to receive this recognition, and it marks an important step in strengthening educational partnerships between China and New South Wales," Mr Catterall said.
"The HSC is one of Australia's most respected senior secondary qualifications. For students in Wuhan, it provides a recognised pathway to an Australian Tertiary Admission Rank and to universities in Australia and around the world, while allowing them to remain within their own school community."
PES supports partner schools through curriculum planning, assessment design, teacher mentoring, compliance, examination readiness and quality assurance, drawing on the expertise of educators from PLC Armidale and across New South Wales.
For PLC Armidale, the milestone reinforces the College's commitment to providing students with authentic international learning opportunities and ensuring a regional education can deliver a genuinely global perspective.
P&F News
P&F News
Shili Wang
P&F President
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.
Thank you for your continued support of the P&F.
For appointments: https://www.noone.com.au/school/plc-armidale/stores (it's the same as the website to buy online).
Pre-K School Uniform
Pre-K School Uniform
Junior School Uniform
Junior School Uniform
Senior School Uniform
Senior School Uniform
GREEN TARTAN
GREEN TARTAN
ALUMNAE NEWS
ALUMNAE NEWS
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
The 2026 National Youth Science Forum (NYSF) Sydney STEM Hub is a 3-day immersive experience connecting Years 10–12 students with real study options and STEM careers.
It’s also an opportunity for students in Years 10 and 11 to get a first-hand glimpse of what is available in our flagship NYSF Year 12 Program, which consists of two 9-day residential programs run in early January each year.
Registrations are now open for our second STEM Hub of the year, and we’d love your students to join us!
Details: Sydney | 7–9 July 2026
Details: Sydney | 7–9 July 2026
Students will:
Tour cutting-edge STEM facilities
Meet researchers and industry professionals
Explore university pathways
Connect with like-minded peers
Open to Years 10–12 (2026)
Fee: $80/student (activities & transport included)
Group bookings are available, with a discounted rate of $50/student (min 5 students)
Fee support available: nysf@nysf.edu.au
The NYSF Sydney STEM Hub will include visits to leading institutions and organisations including UNSW Sydney, University of Technology Sydney, Atlassian, Macquarie Uni and more.
Students are required to organise their accommodation and transport to and from the program, however transport between visits and activities will be covered by the NYSF.
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