2019 Annual Report 145Th Edition

2019 Annual Report 145th Edition

Strong Foundations – Amazing Futures 2019 Annual Report

Table of Contents

Chairman’s Report 3 Principal’s Report 5 Staff 10 Overview 13 Senior School – Academic 16 Senior School – Co-Curricular Activities 32 Junior School 41 Early Learning Centre 58 Business and Development 60 Parent and Support Groups 63 Student Achievements 69 The Class of 2019 79 Notes 82

2 Annual Report 2019 Chairman’s Report

It is with great pleasure I report, on Mr Hamish Blair continued to carry out behalf of Council, as to the affairs of his role as Business Manager, over- the College for 2019. seeing the administrative functions of the College with great effectiveness. Presbyterian Ladies’ College by God’s grace and providence, the labour The Students and vision of those who have gone The ‘Class of 2019’ completed their before us, and the service of the cur- studies and exams and performed rent leadership continues to be one extremely well, reaping the fruits of of Australia’s eminent Independent their hard work. As they go onto their Schools for girls. PLC provides oppor- tertiary studies and other endeavours tunity through outstanding academic they will build on the strong base given excellence, broad co-curricular pro- them from their time at PLC. grammes, innovative thinking, and developing leadership skills with a focus They have our prayers for God’s rich- on service of others. Everything we do est blessings in their life endeavours. is within a clear Christian foundation promoting Christian values and faith. College Community Groups The Staff There are many groups that make up Our Principal, Mrs Dawn Clements the broader community of the College provided passionate and professional and we express our gratitude for leadership in every aspect of Col- their voluntary labours which are an lege life. Giving vision and delivery essential part of College life. We ap- to all areas of College life including preciate the dynamism of the Parents’ staff, curriculum, student programs, Associations, the Old Collegians’ Christian ministry and in the physical Association, the Hethersett Group, the infrastructure of the campus. Lampas Society, Friends of the Music College enrolments are high, our finan- School, Friends of Rowing, the Board- cial situation is sound, and academic ers’ Parents Association, the Christian outcomes continue to be amongst the Fellowship Group and the Parents’ best in Australia. I thank God for the Prayer Group. many gifts and talents in our Principal, The PLC Foundation, under the our Deputy Principals, in each of our continuing Presidency of Dr Andrew staff, who educate and guide our girls McDonald, with the support of the at the highest possible levels. Director of Development continued to We were thankful for the support- provide invalu-able support for the ing leadership provided by the College, by creat-ing opportunities for College Deputy Principals; Mrs social interaction and the Anne-Marie Williams and Mr Geoff development of a culture Roberts-Thomson. of philanthropy across the College Community. Mrs Cheryl Penberthy as Deputy Prin- cipal Primary ELC to Year 6 exhibited dedicated, enthusiastic and talented leadership. We were also grateful for the leadership of Mr John Law in his ongoing role as Head of Junior School in support of Mrs Penberthy.

3 2019 Annual Report

Council Property Development In Conclusion The Council consists of seventeen The physical resources of the Col- It is a biblical principle of steward- people who set the vision, principles, lege continued to be renewed and ship that we are to protect, grow and values and priorities that govern the expanded. advance that for which we have been College, consistent with the Christian given responsibility, and by God’s In the Junior School facilities the new and academic aims enshrined in the grace this is what we will continue Exploratorium is a large space for Sci- College’s constitution. to do. ence as well as collaborative learning, My thanks go to the individual mem- creative thinking and problem solving. I thank God for the many gifts and bers of Council who possess a rich talents of the Council members, the The Senior School Art facilities were pool of business and professional gifted and passionate staff who edu- renovated; the “old music school” was skills. They volunteered their time to cate and guide our girls at the highest refurbished into the Student Wellbe- attend meetings of the main Council, possible levels for each generation of ing Centre, and the Year 12 area was various committees and prepared out- students. I thank God for our girls of redeveloped. side of these times. They gave much the College and for their families. of their skills and wisdom out of their Finance It is a great joy to report Presbyterian passion to see our girls of PLC thrive. Our Capital Works programme will Ladies’ College continues to provide The Council in 2019 operated the steadily occur according to our Build- excellence in education to our girls following committees: Executive and ing Master Plan to provide engaging from both local and overseas homes, Finance, chaired by Chairman of Coun- and functional educational facilities maintains a culture of encouragement cil; Property and Planning, chaired by for 21st Century education. The Busi- and respect, and all within a frame- Mr Ben deWaard; Risk Management, ness Office and Council members work of Christian values and ethos. Compliance and Audit, chaired by Pro- worked diligently to ensure the con- fessor Greg Barton; and Group B Se- tinued sound financial management Russell Walley lection Committee (Old Collegians and of the College’s resources so the very Chairman of Council the Parents’ Association) is chaired by best education and facilities may be Mrs Catherine O’Leary. delivered to our girls of PLC. Every donation given to the Building Fund is The Council has an independently very much appreciated and all goes incorporated company to hold in trust to deliver these exceptional facilities, accumulated scholarship funds. The to ensure our girls have the very best membership of the Board of Directors education possible. of ‘Charles Pearson Pty Ltd’ consists of the members of our Executive and Finance Committee plus the Principal. It was chaired by Mrs Christine Hop- per, who also serves as vice-chair of the College Council.

4 Annual Report 2019 Principal’s Report

At the end of 2019 I look back on (attendance) and Mrs Lynne Forrestor what has been a highly productive together with all Year 12 Form Teach- year. After the foundation and ground ers and staff looked out for our Year work of 2018, we launched in March 12s throughout the year with care this year, our new Strategic Plan and consideration for all operational and we responded with projects and and school needs. I wished our Year programs in alignment. We created an 12 cohort of 2019 every blessing for ELC – Year 12 Learning and Wellbeing the future. My thanks and acknowl- Framework that aligns our work with edgement went to our School Captain the objectives of the PLC graduate Imashi Iddawela and Vice Captain profile and every Department in the Hannah Harvey and the girls of the school developed their own ‘plan on Student Leadership Team who served a page’ action response to the goals the College and led by example, dedi- and initiatives of the Strategic Plan. cation and enterprise. We explored new ways of doing things Mrs Liz Tapper, the Daily Coordinator, and we looked at gaps and value add- was also instrumental in scheduling ing opportunities. At all times however, and running our Senior School daily all decisions were made with the organisation for students and staff framework that underpins our Strate- and was to be commended for her gic focus of ‘what is best for our girls?’ extraordinary dedication and skill. The long-standing tradition of House She will be missed, as 2019 was her Concerts was once again the feature year of retirement. Deputy Principal of our start of the year. Thanks went to (administration and staffing) Mr House Coordinators, Ms Karina Arch- Geoff Roberts-Thompson left at the man and Ms Jen Thompson for their end of the year for a senior executive superb oversight and care for this position at another College. He was special program which enabled our thanked for the work he has done in girls to get to know new students more Staffing and Administrative duties and easily, forge friendships and learn we wished him our very best for the skills of collaboration, negotiation and future. cooperation while contributing their Our students’ care and well-being skills and talents with team work. were consistently at the forefront These competencies are essential as for Mrs Nicola Williams, our Head life skills that our girls develop and of Counselling, and her team of Mrs nurture through such co-curricular Anna Taranto, Mrs Melissa Harvey and opportunities. Mrs Rosalie Batty in the Counselling At the beginning of the year I spoke to Department . My thanks went to the the Year 12 girls at their Investiture team for their great support for all our Assembly to emphasise the impor- girls. tance of self awareness so that in all We congratulated Tash Tian and Brit- their choices and perceptions, they ney Pham for achieving the position of might consider the value of being Captain and Vice Captain respectively authentic. I wish to thank Ms Susie for 2020. The 2020 Captains will do Renney Year 12 Coordinator for her a wonderful job and they have the full outstanding work with the Year 12 co- support of the students and staff. hort over whom she cared for the past three years since they were in Year It was encouraging to see the huge 10. Deputy Principal (Students) Mrs support our girls and our families have Anne Marie Williams, Ms Kim Watkins for making a difference in the world (Director of Student Well being), Ms and being pro-active about fundraising Jen Pinkney, Ms Adele Hoffman, Ms and supporting people who have less. Karen Chittenden, Mrs Simone Wall Our girls and our community raised

5 2019 Annual Report

over $20,000 in the first four days of our campaign to assist our sister school Neno Girls’ School in Malawi. Thanks went to our community for their generosity in supporting the cause. We gave thanks to Ms Jenni Williams College Nurse, who organised the trip to Neno with the staff and student team to enable our girls to experience a life changing opportunity. We gave thanks to the Social Action Committee led by our Social Action Co- ordinator, Mrs Sally Walk. There were numerous causes that the committee supported to raise funds, through creative and effective means such as the ‘Staff Student Riff Off’ which was essentially a singing competition between staff and students and was very successful. Our girls are so talented in their musical prowess and our staff gave it their all battling with went to Ms Julie Schroeder our Com- Clint Dawson, Dr Ling Browne (who enthusiasm to reach the standard at munity Relations Officer and Ms Janet steps down this year) our President the ‘Staff Student Riff Off’. It was a Davies our Heritage Centre Manager of the Hethersett group together with great deal of fun for all involved and and Mrs Jane Dyer our Archivist for her amazing committee, Mrs Andrea raised money for a worthy cause. their behind the scenes work. Thanks Sim, President of the Friends of Music also went to Anna Blanch, our student in the Senior School, Mr Peter Farmer, Our Gala Concert during Term 3 was piper, and our students who assisted President of the Aquatic Club, Mrs an incredible showcase of talent. with hosting on the day. April Lim, President of the Senior We congratulated our students and School Parents’ Prayer group, Dr Rick We appreciated the work of our OCA our Music Department for a superb Squire, Commodore of the Friends and President, Mrs Ailsa Wilson. We concert which was thoroughly enjoyed of Rowing, Mr Ian Mann, President appreciated our Parent community by our community. The Queen medley of the Junior School prayer group, Dr groups and their tireless dedication was, in particular, superbly done. It Sharmila Ramessur Chandran joint to contribute to our school community was a wonderful celebration of 2019 Chairs of the Friends of Junior School through events such as the Twilight at PLC! committee with committee members Picnic, quad days, the CU picnic in the Ms Wendy Ng, Mr Wilson Lau, Mr We celebrated the historic Hethersett plaza, athletics, Friends of Music func- Alan Ku Treasurer, and Secretary Mrs croquet lawn earlier in the year when tions, Hethersett events, Fathers’ and Wendy Southward, Mrs Christine Brad- we unveiled the memorial plaque with Mothers’ day breakfasts. Our Founda- beer, President of LAMPAS and Mrs our politician, special guest, Ms Julia tion group were also so supportive to Lyndl Rech, Vice President of LAMPAS. Banks. It was a very special occasion the College throughout the year. We also thanked our many College and we thanked our Grounds team Thank you to Director of Development, Committee members who supported led by Head of Grounds Mr Steven Ms Julie Schroeder and Ms Jacky so many community events and initia- MacNamara and Mr Ray Darbritz our Wright who supported com-munity tives throughout the year. Their work to Facilities Manager, Mr Ray Tabram events from our Development office. bless the College with their contribu- our Operations Supervisor and their This work is so important in tions in organising functions and sup- staff for the set up and work done to maintaining bridges between mem- porting the sense of community and restore the croquet garden setting. bers of our community. We thanked belonging were greatly appreciated. Thanks also went to Mr Tom Curran in our Chairman of the Foundation, Dr particular, for designing the rose ar- Andrew McDonald, our President of bour for construction. Special thanks the Parents’ Association, SSPA and Boarders’ Parents’ Association, Mr

6 Annual Report 2019

The Year 9 Outlook Program which runs Our College Art exhibition in Wyse- We wished our Christian Ministries annually is an example of learning be- laskie for Senior School and Junior Coordinator Mrs Perri Winter Barry a yond the classroom in an effort to offer School was magnificent as was the special time of leave in 2020 to enjoy holistic learning experiences. Thanks ELC Art exhibition. The creativity and her new baby to be born and thanked went to Mrs Janet Driver and Mr Mark beauty of each piece was incredible. her for her commitment and work for Hennessey who spearheaded this pro- What a magnificent showcase of the Christian Union. We congratulated gram. We also thanked Mrs Bronwyn sheer talent! our Director of Christian Studies Rev Ondracek for her work with the Year 10 Nick Curtis who has stepped into this We continued with our ICT and camp. We wished Mrs Driver and Mrs position after the retirement of Rev digitalised systems with the further Ondracek a wonderful new chapter, Charles Green. Rev Curtis initiated population of our customised platform as retirement and other plans took new projects and re-envisioned the Wyse. Thanks went to our Director of precedence in their lives. They were Christian evening sessions together ICT, Mr Brenton Harty, and his team appreciated members of staff over with the new name of Connect given for upgrading and modernising our the years and will be greatly missed. to these occasions. We thanked Rev systems. In addition, our AV team Ms Christine Casinader retired this Curtis for his vision and commitment led by Ms Julie Bateman was also year along with Mrs Anne Albrecht. We and also to Rev Charles Green and his to be congratulated for the quality wished our wonderful staff members wife Anne Green who both served the productions they created and thanked happy times ahead as they looked to College for 18 years. We farewelled sincerely for their valued support. new adventures and we thanked them Rev Green and Mrs Green during sincerely for all that they did for PLC Thanks also went to our busy Admis- the year and we wished them well as over the many years. sions Department led by Mrs Angela they made the move to Coffs Harbour Hurley and Deputy Head of Admis- where their home is in NSW. Our Heads of Academic Curriculum sions Mrs Carol Wadsworth for their Committee, our Director of Studies tireless efforts in ensuring that all our Ms Josephine Foxcroft, Director of families were warmly welcomed and Administration Mr Gary Lang, Director well informed when enquiring about of Staff Development Mr David Mac- our school. Gregor, our IB Coordinator Mr Peter Francis, our VCE Coordinator Ms Jody Smith, our Assessment & Reporting Coordinator, Mr Henry Jones and all Heads of Departments worked tirelessly to continue the good work of academic endeavour and quality teacher provisions. We thanked our teachers, our superb academic staff, for their consistent work. Thanks also went to our administrative staff for their tireless dedication to quality standards and their support for all PLC events and operations. Congratulations went to our students and to Ms Amanda Snell, Head of Art, and the Art Department who presented the IB and VCE exhibitions with expertise and flair. The partnership with Deakin University, which was a joint project, with Art teacher Ms Katherine McLeod and Ms Snell for our student Art Exhibition, was superb. Congratulations went to all our girls who displayed their artwork for us to appreciate and enjoy.

7 2019 Annual Report

8 Annual Report 2019

Our environmental group staff team and consistent commitment. Mr Brian and our students made a good Bayston who has served the College impact this year with campaigns to on Council for 39 years retired in raise awareness about caring for the 2019. He was a strong and commit- environment. Our Business Manager ted governor of our College and it is Mr Hamish Blair was instrumental in with much sadness that we farewelled negotiating the agreement with Flow Brian but thank him for all that he Power and PLC has therefore looked contributed to the good governance to renewable energy sources. We of PLC. installed solar panels on our buildings It would be hard to mention all the and the impact will be realised in time. staff of PLC personally and to thank Thanks went to Mr Blair for his over- them for their hard work and commit- sight of our business requirements. ment. It is a greatly appreciated under- Mrs Cheryl Penberthy, our Deputy Prin- standing that it takes a team to make cipal and Head of Primary, together good things happen and I thank our with Head of JS Operations, Mr John PLC team for all that they did during Law and Head of the ELC, Mrs Deb the very busy 2019 year. My sincere Hendren, continued to be inspirational thanks is extended to my Executive in providing quality education and Assistant, Mrs Tania Watson who has opportunities in a values rich environ- provided extraordinary support in her ment for our PLC Primary students. We role. gave thanks to our Junior School and May God continue to bless our school ELC staff for their evident commit- and may you also be blessed because ment to our girls. Walking through our He has done so. Junior School building and observing the rich learning that was taking place, My best to you together with seeing the colourful displays of the work that the girls did, Dawn Clements was simply awesome. Principal December 2019 Our Council are a very dedicated and skilled group of professionals who governed our College with dedication and care. I acknowledge our Chair, Mr Russell Walley and Vice Chair, Mrs Christine Hopper and all Council members for their good governance

9 2019 Annual Report Staff

Senior School Staff Ms Jody Smith, VCE Coordinator; During the year a number of staff Mrs Kate Stanton, Aboriginal Student enjoyed significant periods of Long We were pleased to welcome new Coordinator; Mrs Sally Walk, Social Service Leave: Ms Rosalie Batty, permanent staff to PLC this year: Action Coordinator; Ms Kim Watkins, Counselling / Careers Administra- Mrs Andrea Saunders, PLC Shop; Director of Student Wellbeing; Ms tion; Ms Annabel Henriques, Science Mrs Jen Rivett, Director of Sport; Dr Annabel Henriques, Mrs Kirsty Leahy, Teacher; Ms Kirsty Leahy, Geography Paula Caradoc-Davies, Laboratory Mrs Perri Winter-Barry and Ms Mar- Teacher; Ms Kim Watkins, Director technician; Mr Stephen Catton, Head tine Thompson, Sustainability and En- of Student Wellbeing; Ms Christine of History; Mrs Bianca Crawford, vironment Coordinators; Miss Miriam Casinader, History and Geography History Teacher; Ms Monica Guo, Dale, Boarding House Supervisor; Teacher; Ms Sue O’Brien, Head of Sci- Mathematics Teacher; Mrs Adele Rev Nick Curtis, Director of Christian ence; Ms Mandy McClymont, Music Hoffman, PA to Deputy Principal; Mrs Ministries; Mrs Rachel Whitbread, Tutor; Mr Mike Rossy, French Teacher. Norma Karantonis, Science Teacher; Boarding House Supervisor; Mrs Janet During the year the following staff Mrs Lisa Lander, Psychology / EAL Driver, Acting Director of Student Well- were on Maternity Leave; Ms Stepha- Teacher; Ms Fairlie MacKinnon, being; Mr Mark Hennessy, Acting year nie Lamont, PE Teacher; Ms Berna- Geography Teacher; Mr Peter Morfea, 9 Coordinator; Mrs Margaret Sheldon, dette El Sheik, Commerce Teacher. Geography Teacher; Mrs Jane Payne, Acting Gifted and Talented Education English Teacher; Ms Mary Thornhill, Coordinator; Mr Mark Poustie, Ms Jill We were very sad to see the departure English Teacher; Miss Jessica Yang, Detez, Ms Sibella Guest, Acting Heads of our College Principal, Mrs Dawn Geography, Commerce and Math- of Science. Clements, at the end of 2019 as she ematics Teacher; Ms Junko Kawa- returned to Western Australia to sup- Temporary appointments were also bata, Japanese Teacher; Ms Jackie port her family. made: Dr Stacey Mendan, Mathemat- McArdle, Staff Room Assistant; Miss ics Teacher; Mrs Heather Davidson, Mr Geoff Roberts-Thomson, Deputy Elise Tims, Recruitment Administra- Science Teacher; Mrs Linda Greenhill, Principal (administration / staffing) tive assistant; Mrs Catherine Devlin, Science Teacher; Ms Helena Dunn, left us to take up the role as Deputy Policy, Risk and Compliance Officer; History Teacher; Dr Peter Lewis, Principal at another school. Mrs Nicole Thompson, Head of Wood- Teacher; Miss Victoria Turner, PE wind; Mrs Ann-Marie Hermans, Head During 2019 we farewelled Mr Teacher; Mrs Lakshmi Krishnan, Sci- of Christian Studies; Mrs Nicola Clark, Matt Moon, PE Teacher; Ms Gillian ence Laboratory Technician; PE Teacher. Kinnear, Head of Woodwind; Ms An- Ms Sandi Taylor, Art Teacher; Mrs nabel Henriques, Science Teacher; New positions of responsibility were Margaret Holland, ID Tutor; Ms An- Miss Sarah Cogger, Boarding House taken up by: Ms Freda Armstrong, nette Thompson, Geography Teacher; Supervisor; Ms Maddie Robinson, Deputy Head of Mathematics; Ms Mr Michael Gotz, Mathematics Boarding House Supervisor; Mrs Amanda Bryant, Year 7 Coordinator; Teacher; Miss Lauren Joyce, History Norma Karantonis, Science Teacher. Mrs Stephanie Fourquet-Moylan, CAS and Global Politics Teacher; Ms Julie Coordinator; Mr Henry Jones, Assess- Goldsworthy, Science Teacher; Ms The following staff retired at the end ment and Reporting Coordinator; Mr Janet Goud, Global Politics Tutor; Mr of 2019 after long periods of service Tim Joyce, Head of Business Studies; Peter Rickard, Clarinet Teacher; Mr to the College; Rev Charles Green, Mr David MacGregor, Director of Staff Mario Ng Sing Kwong, Teacher; Mrs College Chaplain; Mrs Anne Green, ID Development; Ms Josephine Foxcroft, Kylie May, Science Teacher; Mrs Su- Department; Ms Christine Casinader, Director of Studies; Ms Sally Ponti- san Le Get, Commerce Teacher; Miss History and Geography Teacher; Mrs fex, Sports Administrator; Mr Andrew Imogen Williams, Rowing Coach; Miss Janet Driver, Middle School Coordina- Rivis, Year 11 Coordinator; Samantha Stewart, Rowing Coach. tor; Ms Bronwyn Ondracek, Mathe- matics and Classics Teacher; Mrs Ann Albrecht, English Tutor, Mrs Elizabeth Tapper, Daily Coordinator.

10 Annual Report 2019

Senior School Staff Assessor - Drama Solo Performance IB Examiner and Team Leader French Examination, VCAA Assessor - Theatre B Paper 1 May/Nov sessions, IB (professional and Studies Monologue Examination, Examiner and Team Leader Writ- curricular bodies VCAA 2020 Playlist committee panel ten Assignment French B HL May/ member; Mr Brenton Harty, Manag- Nov sessions; Mr Timothy Phillips, outside PLC) ers of ICT in Education (MITIE) mentor, Conductor/Artistic Director Arcko Many staff were kept busy in profes- hosted and presented at Victorian ICT Symphonic Ensemble performances in sional and curricular bodies outside Network for Education (VINE) term 2 October and July; Mrs Julie Popple- PLC in 2019. These have included conference, presented at the National stone, Focus Group member for VCAA Conference for ICT professionals in Australian History 2021 study design; Mrs Cathy Altmann, Melbourne Poets’ Education, hosted the AVIXA 2019 Mr Mark Poustie, Tutor for the July Union member, Wordsmiths of Mel- AV Innovators Forum; Mrs Susan Oxford Study Course revision program bourne member, Director of The Grace Knopfelmacher, Australian Delegate at Melbourne University; Mr David Foundation; Ms Freda Armstrong, to the World Council for Gifted & Tal- Renshaw, IB Examiner - Mathemat- VCAA Assessor - Further Mathematics ented Children, Vice President AGATE ics SL; Ms Andrea Skinner, Biology Exam 2; Ms Marianne Caris, VCAA Vic - Association for Gifted & Talented Teacher’s Network Committee; Re- Chief Assessor and Assessor - Indo- Education Victoria, Committee Mem- viewer (Biology text), Jacaranda Wiley; nesian SL Written Examination, VCAA ber & IB Schools Liaison Officer, VAPS Ms Amanda Snell, IB Coordinator of Assistant Chief Assessor and Asses- - Victorian Association for Philosophy the Victorian and Tasmanian IB Visual sor - Indonesian SL Oral Examination, in Schools, Member of Philosophy Arts Network, Curator of the Victorian VCAA State Reviewer - School-based in Schools Team, PEiPL - Philosophi- and Tasmanian IB Visual Arts Exhibi- Assessment Audit program - Indone- cal Engagement in Public Locations, tion, VCAA member of the Review sian SL, Member 2020 VCE Exami- Presenter at Gifted Support Network, Panel Art and Studio Arts; Ms Jody nation Development Sample Panel SE, Presenter at ISV Gifted & Talented Smith, VCAA Assessor - Mathemati- - VCAA Indonesian SL, Writer of VCAA Network; Mr Gary Lang, VCAA As- cal Methods Exam 1; Mrs Sally Walk, Second Languages Study Design - In- sessor - VCE Mathematical Methods International Academy of Ceramics donesian language-specific sections, Exam 2, VCAA Pairwise Comparison & (Geneva), International Ceramic Art- VCAA Review Panel member - VCE Multiple Choice ranking Mathematical ists Association (Zibo China), Artaxis. Second Languages Study Design; Mr Methods (NHT) Exam 2; Ms Meiyi Lu, org, Resident Artist- International Stu- Drew Chan, President of the Chemis- VCAA Oral Examination Assessor-May dio (Jingdezhen China), Resident Artist try Education Association (CEA); Mrs and October Chinese FL.; Mr David - Yingge Ceramics Museum (Taiwan); Bianca Crawford, Senior Vice Presi- MacGregor, VCAA Assistant Chief As- Mrs Marianne Ward, VCAA Study De- dent - History Teachers’ Association sessor - Economics, IB Examiner - Eco- sign reviewer - Geography, VCAA exam of Victoria, VCAA Examiner - History: nomics, May Paper, VCAA Exam sitter, panel member - Geography, VCAA Revolutions, Judge for the National Co-author - Economic Fundamentals Chief Assessor and assessor - Geog- History Challenge’s National Judging in Australia, Sixth Edition; Ms Fairlie raphy, Meet the examiners presenter Session; Mrs Stephanie Fourquet- Mackinnon, VCAA Writer - Advice for - Geography Teachers Association of Moylan, VCAA Assessor - VCE French Teachers VCE Geography 2021 Study Victoria, IB Extended Essay Examiner, oral examination, IB Extended Essay Design; Ms Katherine McLeod, VCAA IB Examiner Geography May session; examiner, standardisation team Assessor - Art Written Examination; Mrs Anne-Marie Williams, Recogni- member French B - May session; Mr Ms Dominique Ng Sing Kwong, IB Ex- tion from the Victorian Governor for Peter Francis, IB Educator Network aminer - French B HL Individual Oral, contribution to STEM. (IBEN), IB Asia Pacific Site Visit Team IB Examiner - French B HL Paper 2, member, IB Asia Pacific Workshop French Tutor for the July Oxford Study Leader; Ms Anne Friend, VCAA Ex- Course revision programme at Mel- aminer - Solo Performance, Assistant bourne University, VCAA Oral Examina- Director of Music, Cantor at Auburn tion Assessor - French, VCAA Written Uniting Church; Ms Cath Garrett, VCAA Examination Assessor - French; Mrs Panel Chair Examination Development Kylie O’Mara-Bolton, ISV HR Manag- Panel 2019 - Drama Written Examina- ers Network; Mrs Pauline Parker, tion, VCAA Assessor - Drama Written President, Eastern Careers Network; Examination, VCAA Assessor - Theatre Ms Estelle Payne, AFTV committee Studies Written Examination, VCAA member, French Model UN organiser,

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12 Annual Report 2019 Overview

Chaplain and Curriculum and Christian Ministry Learning It was a great privilege to be the Chap- Throughout the year there has been lain at PLC for the last eighteen and steady progress made in capturing a half years. At the end of Term 2, I how the curriculum and pedagogi- retired as Chaplain and am very grate- cal approaches at PLC can fulfil our ful to God for the many opportunities I goals set in the PLC Graduate Profile. have had to exercise a ministry within Heads of Departments and staff this school community. worked with enthusiasm to address the ways and means by which to During the last half year, I taught ensure both academic success and various classes as well as took Cha- positive personal wellbeing for all our pels and Assemblies and went on a students. Our efforts were enhanced number of school camps and other by collaboration with the Director of activities. Staff Development, the Director of The Chaplain enjoyed the support Student Wellbeing and the Director of of many people who have shared in ICT. A renewed focus on leadership on aspects of ministry at school. I was Staff Days enlivened discussions and touched by the warm-hearted good consideration of how to set and meet wishes from the people I worked with. new goals in curriculum and in the classroom. The Chaplain acknowledges the generous support given to the Christian Since the last report was written, our focus by the Principal, Mrs Dawn endeavours in this area have clearly Clements and Deputy Principals Mrs been justified with extraordinary Anne-Marie Williams and Mr Geoff results being achieved by our gradu- Roberts-Thomson. The Chaplain rec- ates in 2018 placing our school at the ognised the energetic support given by forefront of girls’ schools in Australia. the Student Ministry Coordinator, Mrs It is not only the end of schooling Perri Winter-Barry. where our students show the benefits of their learning; we offer strong foun- The Chaplain acknowledged the dations also, as we continue to rate dedicated work of the Christian highly in NAPLAN and in subject-based Education and Christian Studies competitions. Our NAPLAN results for teachers: Mrs Sharon Catchpoole and 2019 were very pleasing. We will not Mrs Cheryl Penberthy in the Junior be required to take NAPLAN online in School and Rev Nick Curtis and others 2020, so will continue in our current in the Senior School. The Chaplain practice of preparing the students in acknowledged the faithful support of the classroom to shine regardless of the various Parent’s Prayer Groups the medium or forms of assessment. and Mrs April Lim in particular for her leadership. All requirements for curriculum revision in VCE and IB subjects were met, The Chaplain thanked the wider PLC with the introduction in 2020 of Units community for its warm-hearted sup- 3 and 4 of the revised VCE Languages port for his ministry over the years and curriculum. The revised studies of he wished Rev Nick Curtis the very Theatre Studies and Accounting were best as he picked up the mantle of successfully implemented and we flew Director of Christian Ministries in Term through the official audit conducted 3. The Chaplain acknowledged he will by the VCAA. Subjects to be reviewed miss the routine of turning up to PLC during 2020 for introduction of new each day, but realised that retirement curricula in 2021 are Geography, His- and Coffs Harbour called! tory, Latin and Units 1 and 2 Biology.

13 2019 Annual Report

The newly offered VCE subjects of to take ownership of the issue, to have communication for private music Business Management and Psychol- conversations at all year levels and classes. ogy continued to attract students and to collaborate in sharing their views Work continued on the major AV / ICT also met the needs of our student through multi-level forums. The Stu- renovation project with the ELC, Junior population. dent Leadership Team drew together School, Boarding House and most all the ideas into ten recommenda- The IBO is focusing on ‘conceptual areas of the Senior School now com- tions. These were then presented to based learning’ as its curriculum plete. Particular attention has been the school community via a survey delivery changes to meet 21st Century given to areas that will host future on- and the results were used to prepare learners’ needs, and the areas of line tests such as NAPLAN to ensure the final ‘Use of Mobile Devices’ English and Mathematics are an im- they are ready for use. Completed Policy. In Term 4, a trial of the policy mediate focus for 2020. Our offerings areas now have high speed Internet was undertaken. Research findings continue to diversify with two new Year access, new projection facilities that indicate that student voice, agency 9 electives being offered for the first support touch input, wireless presen- and leadership have a positive impact time in 2020 – Dance and Economics: tation tools for staff and students and on self worth, engagement, purpose Money Matters. new networked room clocks and public and academic motivation. (Quaglia address system. Most remaining Institute for Student Voice and Aspira- areas are expected to be completed Student Wellbeing tions, 2016 Student Voice Report) before the start of the 2020 academic and Development 2019 saw the continued delivery year. of Wellbeing Programs for parents. The 2019 – 2023 Strategic Wellbe- ‘Tuning into Teens’ was an informative ing Framework was finalised during Boarding House evening presented by Liz Kelly in Term first semester. The vision for the plan 3. This event precipitated a six-week In 2019, Koorinya Boarding House aligns with the Australian Wellbeing course for parents which was offered community comprised ninety-five Framework: “Australian schools are for Term 4. boarders and twenty-one staff. Inter- learning communities that promote national boarders were the majority student wellbeing, safety and positive and these hailed from China, Hong relationships so that students can Information and Kong, Malaysia, Thailand, Vietnam, reach their full potential”. The aim Indonesia and Singapore. A smaller of the plan is to implement a whole Communication number of girls originated from school systematic approach to wellbe- Technology – regional Australia and the suburbs of ing and positive behaviour, which Melbourne. encompasses the diverse needs Facilities of students, staff and families. The This year Wyse was extended to give The annual Boarder’s orientation framework involves four key elements bespoke access to future parents and program was held during the first – Building positive Relationships and recent alumni with plans to develop weekend in February. This was an Belonging, Student Skills for Life, Par- the interface further and give access opportunity for girls to settle into the ent and Community Engagement, and to all known alumni. In Wyse, current rhythms and routines of boarding Personalising the Journey. These ele- parents are able to update their fam- house life and spend time getting to ments, across all year levels, effective- ily’s details and make current, specific know boarding girls and staff. The ly promote and positively contribute and informed decisions about how annual chapel service observing towards the Graduate Outcomes. they share or choose not to share the commencement of the boarding their personal contact information with school year was conducted by Rev This year the Wellbeing Team imple- other parents. Charles Green in the Doris Daniel mented the notion of ‘student voice’ to Theatre on Saturday afternoon. Our make recommendations, seek support A new academic reporting interface College Principal Mrs Dawn Clements and then to prepare the final policy for was developed to improve usabil- and Deputy Principal Mrs Anne-Marie mobile device use in Senior School. ity for teachers and a private music Williams were present at this special Students were given the opportunity management system was developed to allow better administration and

14 Annual Report 2019

chapel. Saturday evening dinner fea- lives of girls in the Boarding House. tured wood fired pizza cooked outside Extra treats for afternoon tea are in ovens by Pizza Party Hire. Pizza generously provided by Planetshakers slices were eaten picnic style in the every Tuesday afternoon. Tuesday vis- beautiful PLC gardens followed by soft its provide an opportunity to chat and serve ice cream served from an ice offer encouragement to boarding girls. cream van featuring music and lights. Planetshakers kindly volunteer to style The sweet ice cream treats were boarders hair and make up for the PLC generously funded by the Boarders’ Year 11 and Year 12 formal nights. Parents’ Association. A special boarders’ chapel to mark the On Sunday the girls boarded two bus- retirement of Rev Charles Green and es bound for Adventure Park Geelong. Mrs Anne Green was held on Monday The weather was hot, perfect for water 17th of June. This was an opportunity activities. The new Tornado waterslide, for all present to recognise the won- installed since our previous visit in derful ministry and faithful Christian 2017, kept adrenaline pumping! The service of Rev Green and Mrs Green lazy river, splash zones and paddle amongst staff and girls at the board- boats provided an opportunity to cool ing house. Rev Green and Mrs Green off with friends. A day of total fire ban have provided countless reflections meant that the outdoor BBQ staff from the Bible and prayers at Board- had planned to cook for the boarders’ ers’ Chapel during their time at PLC. lunch was not permitted. Boarding Mrs Green has assisted with Chapel girls happily ate the hot chips, hot music and the Boarders’ Prayer Group dogs, and chicken nuggets cooked by held on Thursday evenings. We were Adventure Park catering instead. privileged to have Rev Green and Mrs Green participate in our Year Boarding excursions this year have 12 Boarders’ Dinner celebration, our included ice skating at Docklands, Salvation Army Christmas dinners and Melbourne City by night, Open day excursions each year. A gift from House Melbourne 2019, White Night the Boarding House was presented Melbourne, and Laser Tag. Boarding to the couple. This was a framed por- incursions have included movie nights, trait of Rev and Mrs Green that was cooking, a bon fire night, therapy dog painted by a student. nights, bike riding and birthday dinners. A memorable afternoon tea was Boarders’ Assembly was held on Mon- held on the 25th October to celebrate day 2nd September. Nominated board- the engagement of a full time staff ing girls from Years 7 to 12 spoke member. Delicacies served included to the Senior School about boarding finger sandwiches, heart shaped highlights. These included making chocolates and enormous three tired many friends, the opportunity to sleep sponge cakes topped with pink icing. in and participate in extra-curricular Games included dress up the bride activities because of the Boarding and catch the bouquet. The merriment House’s proximity to school, structured of this spring afternoon is recalled routines for study and bedtime, kind with much laughter and smiles. and friendly staff, and the variety and abundance of delicious food! Education without a spiritual and reli- gious dimension is no education. Plan- etshakers Church with team leader and PLC Old Collegian, Miss Victoria, have continued to be involved in the

15 2019 Annual Report Senior School – Academic

Accounting Art 2019 was the first year of a new In 2019, students were provided with Study Design for VCE Accounting. many opportunities to be inspired by The changes to the course were not new ideas, different media and dy- insignificant with a greater emphasis namic presenters, and to exhibit their on higher order theory work and ethi- artworks. Some of the key events cal considerations in decision-making. were the International Baccalaure- Students at PLC have continued to ate seminar morning in March where enjoy and explore the field of Account- students were very fortunate to listen ing, with many seeing accounting as to three outstanding artists; Lisa Roet, a likely career direction. The focus Juan Ford and Jackie Stockdale who on accounting for information is very discussed creativity, contemporary strong and students used ICT tools artworks and how art has the power to and took the opportunity to explore connect people across barriers of lan- and develop business ideas. guage, culture and distance. Year 11 VCE Art students attended workshops Each year we enjoy engaging with the on art language, listened on site to accounting profession helping many presentations by Old Collegians. Amy of our girls as they seriously explore Muir discussed her architectural the possibility of a career in the field. installation at the NGV, Emily Walker at As part of our Year 11 Accounting pro- Niagara Gallery talked about collecting gram students prepared a Business art and how galleries promote artists, Plan for their original business ideas. and students investigated different Some were completed by individuals approaches to contemporary photog- and others in groups. This provided raphy with Stephanie Richter from students with opportunity to test their Monash Gallery of Art. Stephanie also entrepreneurial flair and creative busi- organised award winning photogra- ness thinking. Many of these plans pher Katrin Koenning to discuss her were of an extremely high standard new works at the gallery. Students and detailed innovative and interest- were also inspired by the Contempo- ing original business ideas. One of the rary Watercolour Award Exhibition at group assignments was placed third in the McClelland Gallery and Sculpture Victoria in the CA ANZ Plan Your Own Park. Enterprise Competition. During Semester One, a recent Many of our students chose to pursue print-making Graduate from VCA, Jen studies in the commerce field and Tarry-Smith worked one day a week in accounting, in particular. The study of the print studio sharing her printing Accounting at VCE is a very worthwhile expertise with students and staff. pathway for students planning tertiary studies and ultimately careers in the Every two years, Wyselaskie Hall field of business and commerce. is totally transformed in August by artworks created by Senior and Junior It was a very busy and rewarding year School students. The theme explored for the Accounting Department. We in 2019 was COLOUR. wished all of our students the very best as they went on to their chosen It allowed us to investigate the his- field of study in 2020. torical, cultural and artistic context of colour, different colour theories and its symbolic meaning in different eras with the students. One of the special features of the exhibition was the painting with light photographic works that Year 10 students created with

16 Annual Report 2019

photographer Peter Solness. These During the year we worked with Deakin students wishing to simulate natural striking images were printed in large University Gallery and the Year 11 VCE drawing or create imagery in a manga format on to pearl paper or became Art students to curate an exhibition of / anime style. Year 10 students visited part of a projected light installation on artworks developed around the theme the Lyonhouse Museum in Kew and the opening night. We were most for- “I remember….” in the Deakin Library exhibitions Designing Women and tunate to have the exhibition opened Art Space. This was a wonderful ex- Petrina Hicks at the NGV. by Marieke Dench, Old Collegian and perience for the girls to have work ex- Students were fostered to create accomplished artist. hibited in a professional gallery. The artworks that explore creative and end of the school year was marked by Year 7 students participated in a unique responses that communicate a series of outstanding art exhibitions workshop on indigenous weaving and their experience of the world around highlighting the work produced by Year basket making techniques with Sky them. This is especially important 12 IB Visual Art and VCE Art students. Thomas and discovered the diverse in Years 11 and 12. To broaden nature of sculptures on their sculpture students’ understanding of different trail at the Deakin University. Year Art – Multimedia artforms and ideas, they were encour- 8 students spent a day at the NGV aged to regularly and independently In Years 7 and 8 the girls partici- exploring how colour was used in visit exhibitions. In their final year, pated in exciting activities to produce ancient and contemporary art. Year the students worked towards fulfilling artworks using digital techniques, 10 Photography students visited their course requirements and visited including the use of photography, Monash Gallery of Art for a discussion the NGV and Flinders Lane galleries video, animation and sound. The on contemporary photography and to investigate methods of curation, most popular applications for these later explored the grounds of Abbots- conservation techniques and lighting projects continue to be Adobe CC ford Convent for a photo-shoot. The levels. This year’s final exhibition of Photoshop, Illustrator and iMovie with Art and Textiles students visited ‘The Year 12 Studio Arts included a broad Premiere Pro and Animate. Utilising Fairy Tale in Times of Red Square’, range of photographic, illustration and art elements and principles, design and ‘Designing Women’ exhibition at animation / video techniques and a students at Years 9 and 10 developed the NGV and the ‘Revisited Bauhaus’ wide range of themes. The vibrancy their technical drawing, rendering exhibition at the Buxton Gallery. The of this exhibition was a most fitting and design skills across the areas work of Year 10 Art, Photography and demonstration of their endeavors over of graphic, product and architectural Textiles students were selected for the past few years. design. The girls also use Illustrator, a State Audit by VCAA. It was very InDesign and SketchUp, combined confirming to receive the report that all with more traditional techniques. our student’s work was well above the Access to DSLR cameras, lenses and state average. tripods also enhanced these experiences. Digital drawing using graphics tablets continued to be popular with

17 2019 Annual Report

Business Studies Students in both VCE and IB Econom- Global Politics ics also participated in the Economics Global Politics Units 3 and 4 continued Debating Competition that took place Year 10 Commerce to be offered to both Year 11 and 12 at Fintona Girls’ School. This was a The Year 10 Commerce elective pro- students. The course is very focused very worthwhile opportunity to apply vided students with valuable insight on contemporary events and the learning in a different setting and to into each of the business-related sub- changing nature of world trade and the apply different skills. jects that are offered at Years 11 and distribution of world power has made 12. A significant portion of the course In IB Economics, Theory of Knowledge the subject topical and engaging. Stu- was allocated to contemporary issues, is being increasingly integrated into dents enjoyed a number of excursions and students had the opportunity to the curriculum and it is pleasing to where they were able to hear from explore issues such as globalisation note the willingness of the students experts in the field and this enhanced and behavioural economics. Students to question the assumptions made in their ability to respond to examina- also had the opportunity to attend economic models and the values em- tion questions. Students also had the a session at the Magistrates’ Court bedded into the way governments pur- opportunity to enter the Australian and which enhanced their understanding sue their goals. To integrate Creativity, Global Politics Essay competition. of criminal proceedings and the role of Activity and Service (CAS) into the cur- sanctions. The course was framed so riculum the students were responsible Legal Studies that students continued to enhance for distributing the KIVA donations that The VCE Legal Studies course enabled their creative and critical thinking skills were made in 2014 (this is the third students to develop their skills by look- and developed global competencies time that most of this money has been ing extensively at contemporary cases. through the implementation of a cur- loaned to businesses and individuals They developed their higher order riculum that emphasised collaboration in developing nations). thinking skills and looked at a case and inquiry-based learning. from a number of perspectives. The Business Management In 2019 students had the opportunity students’ understanding of the court Year 11 and 12 students continued to to develop a business idea in small process was enhanced by several vis- enjoy the opportunity to undertake a groups and to pitch that idea to a panel its to courts in the CBD. This certainly study of Units 3 and 4 VCE Business of judges, much in the style of ‘Shark enhances students’ appreciation of Management. They particularly valued Tank’. This was an excellent opportunity the importance of the courts within the connections that they were able to work collaboratively and to develop the State Machinery and of the signifi- to make with their other Business and synthesize ideas. For many cance and purposes of the sanctions Studies subjects. The subject draws students, this was the first opportunity imposed by courts. together themes that are explored they had to consider the notion of across a number of Business Studies running their own business rather than subjects. They embraced the chal- pursuing a traditional career path. The lenges associated with researching teachers were amazed at the creative both local and international busi- offerings and the depth of research nesses and engaged in a number of undertaken to gain a detailed under- collaborative projects to enhance their standing of individual markets. understanding of key management Economics principles. Several students undertaking VCE Economics attended the Budget Breakfast. This function was organised by The Higgins 200 Club and involved a presentation on the key components of the Federal Budget. This was a wonderful opportunity to explore the Federal Budget and listen to the Federal Treasurer.

18 Annual Report 2019

Careers Christian Studies Finally in Year 12 we continued exploring the Bible at a thematic level The Careers Program aims to provide It has been a year of growth and good and the practical out-workings of each student with resources and skills learning in Christian Studies in 2019. what this can look like. The film ‘The to determine and manage her future In Year 7 we continued to grasp some Case for Christ’ was investigated and pathway. It recognises that this is a of the richness and depth of God’s discussed as we looked at the central process of continuously managing all love for humanity through becom- figure of Jesus Christ and thought aspects of life, learning, work, leisure ing more familiar with God’s story about what this means in twenty first and transition. We built relationships as shown through the Bible. Year 7s century life today. with students through a broad range spent a good amount of time exploring Other great resources such as the of engagements. In Years 9 and 10 the Old and New Testaments. movie ‘Break Through’, ‘The Least of we encouraged them to explore their Our Year 8s enjoyed learning about These’, ‘The Graham Staines Story’ strengths and interests through the the importance of communities and and websites by CPX and Bio logos academic program including electives. specifically communities that seek to have also been referenced. These pro- In Year 10, activities included the job serve and honour God, that impact vided lots of great stories of learning skills and Work Experience Programs the world for good. There was also about how God is still in the business to extend their career awareness. the opportunity to explore characters of changing lives. There is much to be Through the Personal Development such as Bethany Hamilton in the thankful for and prayerful about. program they identified competencies movie Soul Surfer and see how her and personal qualities to manage faith inspired others. life and work. The Morrisby Profile provided information to assist with In Year 9 and 10 we had the op- identifying future options and, with portunity to investigate a variety of one-on-one counselling, provided sup- ‘World Views’ and ‘Religions’ and to port for senior secondary and tertiary think about the things that inform planning. our thinking and the contributions we would like to make in the world. Year 11 and 12 students had optional This was explored as well as looking and compulsory activities including at those who have had an amazing level meetings, visits from university impact in history. representatives from both Australian and international institutions together In Year 11 Faith and Life we explored with speakers’ events, including past ethics and tried to grasp a bit more of students, who shared their career and the Biblical narrative to see how this life journeys. Individual appointments can apply in a practical way to every- for each Year 12 student developed a day situations. The film ‘The Good Lie’ research plan to encourage thor- was also explored and we spent some ough exploration of the education time thinking about refugees and what and career pathways available and we can and should do, remembering provided ongoing support for tertiary that Jesus was a refugee for the first applications. two years of his life. We recognise that with the changing nature of work, it is important that young people are prepared for a journey of lifelong learning and are confident to work autonomously. To develop skills such as critical thinking, problem solving, effective and strong communication, all students were encouraged to participate in the broader life of the School and the wider community.

19 2019 Annual Report

Classics Counselling Once again in 2019 Latin experienced The Counselling Department enjoyed parenting programs at PLC, a gratitude increased numbers. This time we had a consolidation year in the Student wall, self-care wall, student bulletin sup- two classes at Year 10 for the first Wellbeing Centre, adding decorative port quotes and informing students of time in many years and Ms Ondracek touches to offices, and the student external supports during holiday time. once again rose to the challenge of waiting area. The main workload was In the vein of ‘looking outwards’ the teaching Latin at a new year level. individual counselling, with varied Counsellors have begun to participate responsibilities including conducting in the School Psychologists’ network. PLC was once again involved in the psycho-educational assessments, Psycho-education sessions for staff Latin Schools’ Reading Competition; external referrals, activities such as were delivered to inform on counsel- the girls performed well and enjoyed Parent Information nights, student ling processes and procedures, and in mixing with Latin students from other programs such as Wise and Well, Mind- detecting and responding to emerging schools. During Terms 2 and 3 the fulness, school camps and supervising mental health issues among students. Classics Club was successfully run group standardised testing. Existing program and policy reviews by the enthusiastic Year 12 Latin were undertaken, with amendments students and included Kahoot quizzes Counsellors were also involved in the to several policies to better serve the and games with a Roman twist. The NCCD and Disability Funding applica- needs and practices of PLC. A School girls who attended participated with tions, assisting Year 12 students with Psychological Services policy was intro- enthusiasm. SEAS applications, and the VCE Coordi- duced. The Department began to track nator with Special Examination Arrange- This year Mrs Altmann has been work- student referrals, issues, students at ment applications. Counsellors liaised ing hard at organising the 2020 Clas- risk and number of mandatory reports. with the Director of Student Wellbeing, sics Tour. The Tour is intended to travel These statistics have been reported to Year Level Coordinators, Deputy Princi- to Italy once again, starting in Rome the Principal and College Board on a pals, Boarding House staff the school and working southwards via Pompeii termly basis. Nurse and parents. and the Amalfi coast, finishing in Sicily. It will be a wonderful opportunity for In response to the Strategic Plan, the students to see the amazing monu- Counsellors collaborated with the ments left by the Romans, while also Student Wellbeing Team to develop a enjoying the delights of modern Italy. Plan on a Page and a Wellbeing Frame- work. Innovations included introducing Finally, it is with sadness that we acknowledge the retirement of Ms On- dracek at the end of 2019. She taught Latin for many years and was also the sole teacher of our Year 9 Classical Studies elective for the past nine years. Her enthusiasm for Classics shone through in all her teaching and in her enthusiasm for online courses, through which she constantly expanded her interests and knowledge. The Classics Department thanked her for all her wonderful contributions and wished her well for the next stage of her life.

20 Annual Report 2019

Drama and students chose a piece of Absurdism, Festivals enlivened our junior English the intriguing Outward Bound as their curriculum, and our department ran Theatre Studies – focus for Unit 3 and worked in Unit 4 the House Spelling Bee and JMAPS. on their Monologue Examination. This Curriculum The tutorial room was well attended, task allowed girls to work as either and our active partnership with the Students in Drama and Theatre Stud- actors and directors for monologue Department of Individual Differences ies once again developed and present- scripts or present their designs for two continued to thrive. ed exciting and innovative work this production areas, which ensured that year. Learning in drama allows girls girls who are interested in theatre and The English Department was grateful to explore ideas and create dynamic design, either on stage or behind the to all administration and maintenance work through a range of problem solv- scenes, have an opportunity to display staff for their assistance. ing tasks. These critical thinking skills their skill in this subject. and their transferability to other experiences outside the classroom give our girls a strong scaffold for success in English work and life. The English Department presents a program which is engaging and aca- A focus on non-verbal communica- demically rigorous. We aim to weave tion skills began the Year 8 Drama our subject into the fabric of school programme. The girls then experi- life through strong connections across mented with character archetypes, the PLC community. using acting skills to transform from themselves into a range of characters Continuing our ‘Fostering a Reading using fairy tales. Semester 2 started Culture at PLC’ project, we helped plan with an examination of script and PLC Literature Week, we disseminated the use of language in theatre before research materials to parents high- students explored the use of masks lighting the powerful impact of wider in performance. Year 9 students reading, and we ran the Magpies explored improvisation as a way of Literary Society. This student / staff creating work as well as developing a group meets each term in the Heritage more comprehensive understanding of Centre, with a ‘guest staff reader’, acting skills and characterisation. from a subject area other than English being invited to each meeting. By the The Year 10 course focused on con- year’s end, we had arranged a Parent temporary theatre practice throughout Book Fair to support families. The the year, working in production roles Premier’s Reading Challenge involved not only as actors, directors but also all of Years 7 to 10, and regular library as set, costume, props, makeup, class borrowing sessions occurred. sound and lighting designers. Their Following an inter-departmental meet- performance work ranged from the ing about writing across the disci- Bright Stars evening in Term 1 and plines, English Department action re- their production of The 39 Steps at search focused on providing feedback. the end of Term 3 to an individual Meetings with staff from Junior School performance focus in Term 4. about their new writing program also Students in our senior course, Theatre occurred. IB staff attended three day Studies, saw a wide variety of stimu- workshops to prepare for the new lating theatre throughout the year as IB English A: Literature course (First part of their theatre subscription and examinations 2021). incorporated ideas and themes from Student learning was enriched by such experiences into the development writing, poetry and public speaking of their own performance work. The competitions, and students enjoyed Year 11 Theatre Studies class took the performances of Shakespeare’s plays challenge of exploring theatre from a and other drama works by external range of historical eras. The Year 12 providers. The Year 7 and 8 Drama

21 2019 Annual Report

Food Technology Food education occurred at both Years 9 and 10 as an elective subject; Year 9 for one semester and Year 10 for the year. Year 9 began with a solid foundation in nutrition, allowing students to have knowledge with which to make nutritious food choices and adapt recipes to enhance the nutritional content. Basic food hygiene, kitchen safety and cleaning skills are taught early in the course enabling the skills of food preparation, teamwork and reflective evaluation to occur. Much of the focus of cooking is related back to the Healthy Dietary pyramid with a focus on grains, fruits and vegetables and an ethical look at egg production. The Year 10 World Food Traveller exposed students to a variety of cultures, ingredients and foods from France, Germany, Italy, Thailand, China, England, as well as Indigenous Australia. This semester included a unit on dietary intolerances such as lactose and gluten intolerance and how to adapt recipes to cater for different needs. Diabetes was studied as a disease that is overwhelming our society and the implications for health and cooking. The highlight of the elective was the Masterchef PLC Competition. Students learnt and followed the design process to research a two course meal and were required to edit the recipe and ingredients for two servings working within a budget. Processes such as blind baking and multitasking were practiced at home, with a trial run enjoyed by their family. Competition day had a set time limit of two hours for creating both dishes, which were then judged by staff and peers, before their delights were con- sumed. The girls thoroughly enjoyed being extended beyond their comfort zone and showcasing their creativity. Gingerbread houses allowed their design process to be followed again to showcase their imagination.

22 Annual Report 2019

Geography Gifted Education major scholarships to the ANU and local universities. Our gifted girls are Throughout 2019, students across Gifted ‘C21 Learners’ require an contributing widely, as global scholars Years 7 to 12 conducted fieldwork in environment which seeks a deeper of the highest calibre. order to gain first hand experience purpose to learning, while valuing Additionally, one of our talented Year 9 and data within a specific environ- openness to complex ideas and students gained a place in Melbourne ment to respond to key questions ways of thinking and embracing core University’s prestigious three year and present a fieldwork report. Year ethical values. Focusing on students’ Young Women in Engineering program, 12s went to Cranbourne Gardens to intellectual and affective growth, attending her first Winter School in investigate the changing land use, PLC’s Extension program embraced July, as we work with Melbourne, whilst Year 11 IB students investi- the school’s strategic goals, enabling Monash and RMIT Universities to pro- gated cultural and heritage tourism girls to develop their knowledge, vide STEM internships and mentoring. activities that could be found at two skills, attitudes and values to meet In the Linguistic Arts Program, eminent sites – Box Hill and Chinatown in the complex demands of a rapidly biographer Prof Roland Perry shared Melbourne. Students in Year 8 once changing world. Key underpinning unique experience in ‘Writing and Pub- again enjoyed their fieldwork day to values remain: particularly, develop- lishing’ seminars for talented Year 10s the Dandenong Ranges investigating ment of personal voice, self-efficacy and the Extension Program has again the mountain landscapes found lo- and the confidence to tackle complex attracted visits from a number of state cally and enjoyed a ride on Puffing Bil- problems co-operatively under expert and independent schools keen to ly, whilst Year 10 students attended a guidance. In 2019, girls encountered experience PLC’s unique program. fieldwork day at Melbourne Zoo learn- rich ideas and problems through the ing about the sustainable practices Ethics Olympiad, where our PLC team that the zoo has put into place. were runner-up State winners in a History multi-round competition and closely- Teachers continued their develop- History’s pivotal role in education matched final presentation. They also ment of the WYSE portal across has never been more readily appar- participated in the Gifted Philosophy Geography as well as integrating a ent than in the present geo-political Conference. number of Google Suite Apps that climate of 2019. Thus the History enabled greater engagement in data Across Years 8 to 12, PLC teams once Department at PLC focused on review- analysis and mapping activities. As in again contested the challenging Oz- ing and developing our curriculum previous years, the use and analysis CLO Computational Linguistics Olym- to provide the necessary thinking of spatial technologies as an integral piad and daVinci Decathlons. At Year and practical skills for our girls in our component of the study of geography 10, highly able students continued to challenging twentieth century world continued. Students used a range of develop their Career Portfolios and ex- in which they will be its leaders. With ICT programs as well as GIS over their plored possible STEM pathways in our this aim in mind, History has seen study of Geography both at Years 7 to unique Cellular and Molecular Biology significant curriculum developments 12 in order to engage with the human Program at Deakin University - one of at Years 7 to 10 aimed at pushing and physical Geography of the globe, those graduates also having been se- skill based history and critical think- utilising relevant media and programs. lected to represent Australia in a team ing to the forefront whilst retaining of four at the International Biology chronology as the foundation stone On a more practical front, students Olympiad, 2018, held in Iran. Senior on which they rest. For example at in Year 9 were asked to design a Bee girls have again worked assiduously Year 10, where we introduced a more Garden and were able to attend a to prepare their Personal Statements extensive depth study of global rights session with a Beekeeper on the im- and seek references, for application and freedoms. During Term 3, the portance of bees in our environment. both to a range of leading universities Year 10s were challenged to develop and associated scholarships here and their source skills through study of overseas. Currently, former PLC Exten- the US Civil Rights and then worked sion scholars are working in a range on collaboration projects focused on of undergraduate and post-graduate indigenous rights in Australia. fields in leading universities as far Further embracing the historical apart as Oxford, Cambridge, London world around us, six Year 7 girls have and Edinburgh and US Ivy League entered into the Australian History Colleges, while others have accepted Challenge producing projects ranging from Russian relations in Chechnya

23 2019 Annual Report

to the period of terror in the French Revolution. In addition, ten Year 8 girls entered the National History Com- petition this year with all performing to an excellent standard and with one student becoming the State Champion for Victoria. The Year 9s and 10s have also pushed new boundaries with girls entering the Spirit of Anzac competition and two students also submit- ting source analysis essays for the Simpson Prize both revolving around Australian involvement in WWI.

Australian History Competition 2019 Left to right: Mr Stephen Catton (Head of History), Karis Yap (Year 8) and Mr Henry Jones (Year 8 Coordinator)

Individual Differences The Student Wellbeing Centre has de- Level Coordinators and Counsellors valuable information that assisted with veloped into a welcoming learning en- to ensure that targeted students re- recognising and supporting the differ- vironment for students. The red lounge ceived the necessary support through ent types of needs of these student area has provided a valuable meeting skill-based workshops, individual spell- groups. place and social setting for students ing and comprehension programs, The International Week this year was and teachers. Specific rooms were Study Space, special English seminars outstanding with over one hundred allocated to the senior students for and additional classroom support. and seventy five students directly study to provide optimum learning con- Disability professional development involved in planning the theme ‘Global ditions and enable support to be ac- was made available for teachers to Harm or Harmony? ‘activities. This cessed when required. Study Space support their VIT registration and to theme carried over into Reconciliation was offered every Wednesday night to enhance their knowledge of students’ Week using an Australian context. The provide a supportive environment to difficulties at PLC. Access was made Jindi Worabak group’s profile devel- complete homework. available via the Professional Develop- oped this year with more students The Nationally Consistent Collec- ment portal on Wyse. participating and regular connections tion of Data on School Students with made with the Early Learning Centre. The Department worked closely with Disabilities continues to provide a The annual visit to Worawa Aboriginal the Admissions Department to inves- framework for monitoring and sup- College and the NAIDOC celebration tigate the types of students enrolling porting students with disabilities. The also took place. at PLC. Students were surveyed to Department continued to work closely collect data about their backgrounds with the English Department, Year and a visit to Avalon College provided

24 Annual Report 2019

Information and Work continued on the major AV / ICT renovation project with the ELC, Communication Junior School, Boarding House and Technology – most areas of the Senior School now complete. Particular attention has Curriculum been given to areas that will host fu- This year Wyse was extended to give ture on-line tests such as NAPLAN to bespoke access to future parents and ensure they are ready for use. Com- recent alumni with plans to develop pleted areas now have high speed the interface further and give access Internet access, new projection facili- to all known alumni. In Wyse, current ties that support touch input, wire- parents are able to update their fam- less presentation tools for staff and ily’s details and make current, specific students and new networked room and informed decisions about how clocks and public address system. they share or choose not to share Most remaining areas are expected their personal contact information with to be completed before the start of other parents. the 2020 academic year. A new academic reporting interface was developed to improve usability for teachers and a private music management system was developed to allow better administration and communication for private music classes.

25 2019 Annual Report

Some of the girls who received an award at the Vic/Tas IB Schools Awards Ceremony

The Y11 IB girls at TOK Camp

International Highlights of the year included; Of significant mention is the mind blowing achievement of PLC’s IB • The outstanding quality of Baccalaureate graduating class of 2018. When academic research based results were released in January, an The International Baccalaureate (IB) Extended Essays produced by amazing eight PLC students were part mission is to develop inquiring, knowl- the girls with the support of over of an elite thirty Australasian students edgeable and caring young people 30 PLC staff who acted as EE that achieved a perfect score of 45 who help create a better and more Supervisors. (ATAR 99.95), which is the equal peaceful world through intercultural • The exceptionally creative and understanding and respect. At PLC we second best ever in any year for any inspiring artwork produced by the IB school in Australasia. Added to this, offer the academically rigorous and IB Visual Arts students; balanced Diploma Programme as an 60% of our girls received a Certificate • The performance of the IB Music alternative to the VCE, which encour- of Distinction at the IB Schools Awards students during their official ages students to become active, Ceremony in February for obtaining an recital; compassionate and lifelong learners IB score of 40+ (ATAR 98.25+). This who have excellent breadth and depth • The Year 11 IB TOK camp that once again placed PLC as one of the of knowledge. This curriculum and the provided the girls with a unique highest performing IB schools within mission of the IB aligns very well with opportunity to participate in the world. PLC’s own mission statement. workshops and presentations that challenged their thinking across a This year was once again a busy one range of subject disciplines and for IB at PLC with thirty-eight Year 11 areas of knowledge; students beginning the IB Diploma and fifty-four Year 12 girls undertaking their final second year.

26 Annual Report 2019

Languages Other for Year 10 students, and students For the theme ‘Global Harm? Or in Years 10 and 11 read French Harmony?’ for International Week this Than English stories at lunch-time in Terms 2 and year, the LOTE Department created The six languages offered at PLC 3 to Junior School students learning a five metre montage that provided present a unique range of choices. French. Interactive activities were led the students with an opportunity to Our program provides students with by Year 10 students in the six PLC express their thoughts about ways we the skills to communicate in one or languages at Discovery Night, and four can address the social, environmen- more languages, and to understand Year 11 French students took part in tal, economic, political and spiritual and appreciate different cultures. Our the French Model UN Conference at needs of our world. Students and staff students develop a competitive edge Melbourne University in July. A French were invited to add a visual motif with in career choices and are empowered Competition was open to students a written reflection to the display. Each with skills that are pivotal in our inter- in Years 7 to 10, at which each level was completed in a Language Other connected world. completed different language tasks. Than English. These creative contribu- French students in Years 8 and 11 tions highlighted how we can strive PLC’s dedicated LOTE staff this year organised a language tournament for better for a world that is nurtured and focused on the new curricula for the students in the Junior School. Year sustainable. 2020 VCE and IB Language courses, 9 German students contributed to a updating each to include a greater use display on the 30th Anniversary of the of visual stimuli, and to extend inter- Fall of the Berlin Wall. cultural understanding, critical thinking and interpretive communication. PLC remains committed to making global experiences part of the Language students at PLC took advan- Language Program. This year our tage of the many opportunities offered exchanges attracted a diverse group by the LOTE Department during 2019. of visitors: two Year 12 students Students competed in State competi- participated in an exchange program tions and were successful in gaining with Soshin Girls’ School, a private awards in the Alliance Française Baptist school in Yokohama. In return, Poetry and Language Competitions, two students spent Term 1 at PLC, in the JLTV Japanese Junior Speech hosted by students in Year 10 and 11. Contest and the Japanese Language Nineteen Soshin students visited PLC Speech Contest Victoria, and in the for a half-day in Term 2 and interactive AGTV and University State Poetry activities were enjoyed in Years 7, 10 Competitions for Junior and Senior and Year 11 classes. We welcomed students of German. nine students from our three sister The wide variety of cultural activities schools in Gevelsberg, Mainz and and excursions during 2019 de- Münster for five and a half weeks in veloped students’ appreciation of Term 3. The nine hosting students language and culture: Years 7 and 8 travelled to Germany for a reciprocal learnt calligraphy in Chinese classes, visit of five and a half weeks over the exchange students from Japan, France Christmas holidays, visiting Vienna, and Germany made presentations Salzburg and Berlin in their first week about food and school life, Year 7 stu- before heading to their host families. dents enjoyed Japanese food tasting, Two French students were hosted by the German film ‘Chloe’ was viewed PLC families for five weeks in Term 3, by German students, Year 9 Japanese and twelve PLC students travelled to classes enjoyed writing Haiku poems France for a stay with a host family. and Year 10 Japanese classes had an interactive video session with Soshin Girls’ School. Our program also included visits to a Chinese restaurant

27 2019 Annual Report

Caroline Jane Knight, fifth great niece of Jane Austen and girls at the 2019 Literature Festival

Year 7 and 8 students with Jane Godwin at the launch of her new book “As Happy as Here” in the PAC

Library Services The dimensions of our Information Class bookings totalled 3,077 for the Literacy program are constantly ex- year ending August 2019. This does Change is our constant in Library panding and changing to incorporate not include private study bookings. Services and 2019 was no different. new elements: PLC Library Services has seen The Department grew to include the • WYSE Library homepage increased borrowing to 55,883 Archives which makes sense with our resources this year and our Library commonality of purpose, function and • Digital information pathways Committee was capped at 100 girls profession. requiring design and coding by teacher-librarians attending rostered duties and con- The PLC Library collections’ breadth tributing to our PLC Literature Festival • Class bookings for information and variety in print and digital, and which raised $2,265.05 for Neno and skills instruction teacher-librarians’ current knowledge the Jane Austen Literacy Foundation. of pedagogy; enables us to respond ef- • Individual student meetings We continued to ‘Foster a Reading fectively to the demands of a changing • Turnitin analysis and reporting Culture’ with 21,852 fiction books bor- curriculum framework and the require- • IB Infobytes program rowed in 2019 supported by initiatives ments around academic integrity. This • Referencing tutorials for teachers such as the Premier’s Reading Chal- interconnects with the development of lenge (4,121 books listed), our ongo- our Information Literacy program which • Extended Essay Day for IB ing curriculum alignment of Literature continues to be embedded in curricu- collections, the Magpie Book Club and lum topics that are adjusting to meet the PLC Literature Festival. curriculum changes.

28 Annual Report 2019

Mathematics Music Curriculum Personal A highlight of the year was Mathemat- The Music Curriculum for 2019 con- Development ics Week, which occurred early in Term tinued to focus on both creativity and The Personal Development (PD) 3. It was delightful to see so many girls performance, along with a strong em- programs in 2019 reflected the needs embrace the activities on offer during phasis on notation and understanding of the students at the different year the week. The week commenced with music language. It is to be hoped that levels and focused overall on strength- a thoroughly entertaining presenta- students can learn enough to continue ening the wellbeing of PLC students. tion by Dr. Burkard Polster who spoke their music interests as part of life Empowering PLC students to improve about the mathematics of juggling. In long learning. their well-being literacy is vital. addition to being a brilliant mathemati- The Blitz series (textbooks) are fun cian, Burkard is a very skilled juggler During 2019, the PD program for and explain the various aspects very and he certainly captivated his audi- Years 11 and 12 canvassed a range clearly. For students who learn an ence. It was amazing to learn that irra- of topics from managing anxiety to instrument it reinforced their music tional numbers such as pi can actually career development. This year there reading and for those who do not learn be juggled. Later in the week a large was an increased opportunity for the an instrument it gave them a window number of girls participated in the senior students to engage in relaxed into music language. Amazing Race. This involved teams of group based physical activity. students answering maths problems Practical aspects were enhanced by The Year 7 PD program focused on at various locations around the school. the learning of the ukulele at Year 7 cyber safety with Project ROCKIT, while Judging by the buzz of excitement and which all students enjoyed, and sing- Year 8 students enjoyed a ‘Wise and smiles it was clear that this maths ing was also encouraged. The girls be- Well Day’ where they experienced a week event was a great success. came proficient in at least six chords holistic approach to wellbeing. and were able to perform a number of In 2020 new IB mathematics courses songs. This also encouraged group en- In Year 9, students embraced the will commence so a good deal of the sembles and opportunities for those OutLook Program, where they explored professional development undertaken who do not learn formally to have a their local area and engaged in com- this year was focused on staff becoming practical music experience. Many of munity service. They also identified expertly familiar with all the new cur- the girls also bought their own ukulele their signature strengths and looked riculum. This included a number of staff and were able to continue their skill at ways they could further use and attending three-day IB workshops during for themselves. At Year 8 the girls improve these strengths. the mid-year break. Consequently, the were encouraged to use the chords as Mathematics department is well placed Through the Bright Stars program, a support for writing a blues song. to introduce the new course to our Year Year 10 students explored positive 11 cohort next year. In Term 3 each year The Medley for mindsets while the SILK (Service, Gala was taught to the girls through Initiative, Leadership, Knowledge) Students have again achieved fantastic their class lessons. program featured the Big Sister, Little success across numerous competi- Sister program with the Junior School. tions. Prizes and high achievement Solo and group performance was also awards were achieved in the Melbourne encouraged at both Years 7 and 8 and University Mathematics competition, the was a major aspect of both the Years Australian Mathematics Competition, 9 and 10 Music elective courses. the Australian Maths Challenge and an It was very pleasing to see an increase Olympiad competition. in numbers of those who continue their performance and interest in Music through the Elective system at both Year 9 and 10. Performance, aural work, appreciation and music technology were explored throughout the semesters. This expanded and developed the students’ understanding of music and gave them a supportive and positive environment in which to perform. It also prepared the students for various aspects of the VCE and IB.

29 2019 Annual Report

Physical Education and Health Health and Physical Education for 2019 continued to provide students from Year 7 to 12 with a progressive and balanced range of experiences. It focused on promoting the value of physical fitness and positive sporting behaviours; as well as the ability to cope with success and failure in competitive and co-operative activities. A games sense approach to classes at Year 7 and 8 in Invasion Games, Jordyn Oatley – Unit 3 and 4 Physical Education Excursion, Deakin University VO2max Test. Netball, Basketball and Hockey developed effective decision-making, All Year 11 and 12 students continued VCE Physical Education students problem-solving and skill development to participate in a student focused, participated in an excursion to Deakin in students. These skills were further recreation-based PE class once a University to undertake a VO2max test reinforced in Year 9 and 10 where the fortnight. The introduction of Yoga and explore the physiological concepts themes of competition, personal chal- and Self Defence at Year 11 comple- associated with energy systems, fit- lenge and leadership are the focus. mented Cardio Tennis and Golf, and ness components and training. They Year 9 and 10 students participated Bollywood, and created an awareness also had an incursion from MET Per- in Aquathon, Sport Education, Boot- of future recreational sport. formance where they investigated the camp, Sports Aerobics and Softball. biomechanical principles to improve The Year 10 Sports Leadership elec- Year 7 students once again attended sport performance. VCE Health and tive gave students valuable coaching the GSV Sport Expo at Monash Univer- Human Development students were experience and the introduction of an sity where they had the opportunity to lucky enough to have Ms Lamont pres- Austswim qualification saw students try a variety of different sports such as ent to them about prenatal and infant work closely with the Aquatic Staff and lacrosse, wheelchair basketball, goal development. Junior school students during swim- ball, fencing, touch rugby, volleyball, ming lessons. archery, beach tennis, badminton, dance, just to name a few.

2019 GSV Sport Expo – Archery

30 Annual Report 2019

Science This year the department has intro- The use of intelligent textbooks has duced Risk Assess - a web-based been trialled this year in Year 11IB The year began with much excitement tool for performing risk assessments Physics. The online textbook includes as the Science Department learned and scheduling practical work. The embedded videos, animations, 3D about the amazing experiences of the implementation of Risk Assess has models and graphs which gave stu- staff and students who participated streamlined the ordering of materi- dents a personalised and fun learning in Space School over the holidays. als for classes and given teachers experience. The textbook enabled Fifty students from Years 8 and 9, and laboratory technicians accurate teachers to easily monitor student accompanied by three staff attended and up-to-date information enabling progress in order to identify each a two week program run by ACTURA; the management of risk associated student’s strengths and weaknesses. the California Association for STEAM with practical activities. It has also Students could also track their own education Space School in the United enhanced collaboration between teach- progress and discover where to focus States. The first week was spent at ers and provided data on the type and their efforts to achieve the best the Marshall Space Flight Center in frequency of practical science activities results. Huntsville, Alabama, and the second across the Senior School. Years 11 in Houston, Texas. The program saw and 12 students, when planning their the girls immersed in an exciting and VCE Practical Investigation, IB Internal intense series of STEM and personal Assessment and IB Extended Essay development activities, with all activi- experiments, are also using the tool. ties based on the human endeavours of rocket flight and space exploration.

2019 GSV Sport Expo – Archery

31 2019 Annual Report Senior School – Co-Curricular Activities

PLC Aquatic Centre from six years of age and c) developing an evaluation system to assess and PLC Aquatic diving levels was most successful. 2019 was a very exciting year as we Inviting Learn to Swim, Light Blue and put together a brief for PLC with the Green to club swim meets has been view of building a new Sports and very popular and well supported. This Aquatic Centre in the near future. has given many children the oppor- Considering, how we can improve tunity to start competing and hence and grow our competitive place in the giving them greater desires to stay swimming world, offer a high per- and join the club once they complete formance dive and dry land facility, our Learn to Swim program. and be the most successful Artistic Bronze Artistic Swimming coaches, Er- Swimming Club in Victoria, were at the ika and Lillian (sisters and duet part- forefront when considering designs. ners- 2000 Olympics) and Rebecca With this prospect in mind, developing have increased training opportunities ideas of how to improve the training to three sessions per week which has facilities including plans to build big- increased numbers. We embarked on ger clubs and aquatic programs, and a campaign to improve involvement be more financially viable was exciting. in the beginner levels through a two- Involving the PLC school community, week trail and ‘Come and Try’ Artistic drawing on the local community, Swimming days. considering our alumni, building and High level coaching standards for developing programs to cater for all, to junior training contributed to growing lead us into the future were important junior teams. Investing in knowledge- areas to consider. able and reliable junior coaches was To promote and build diving, the imple- of upmost importance, in all three mentation of a) giving children a two- disciplines, as parents want to see week trial, b) offering diving to children improvement early and quickly in their child’s development.

32 Annual Report 2019

Victorian Girls’ Karis Yap came from behind in the served on picnic rugs by the Parent’s final round to finish on 15.5 points, Prayer Group and CU Committee Schools Chess followed by Sydney Girls High on Students. Youth Group Leaders from Championships 14.5 and Lyneham Girls ACT on 13.5. local churches and PLC Old Collegians Cassandra Lim and Jody Middleton also attended as ‘hosts’ to facilitate In October 2019, PLC success- won the prizes for the best players on meaningful conversations over the fully defended its title in winning the boards one and two. lunchtime event 2019 Victorian Girls’ Schools Chess Champions held at St Catherine’s School. The team consisted of Cas- Christian Union Debating sandra Lim, Jody Middleton, Clarice This year, Christian Union (CU) met 2019 was a fantastic year for Debat- Woon, Rachel Woon, Jennifer Lu, together weekly for fellowship, bible ing at PLC with 200 girls competing Angela Qi, Jaimee Renshaw, Karis study and discussion under the in the debating program run by the Yap, Lilyana Tan, Angela Zhang. This leadership of the Student Ministry Debating Association of Victoria. The meant the team was awarded the Coordinator and Year 12 CU Captains. senior Debating competition was held honour of representing Victoria at the In Term 1, a Hebrew and Greek word at Scotch College once again this 2019 Australian Schools (girls) Chess study on Hope, Joy, Love and Peace year and over 130 students refined Championships. was shared during the Friday lunch- their public speaking skills across five time meetings. On March 22 - 24 evenings of the tournament. PLC has now won 18 of the past the Christian Union Camp offered 20 Victorian Girls’ Schools Chess The Junior competition was well at- students a weekend away in the city. Championships. tended this year with more than 80 The theme ‘Better Together’ set the Year 7 and 8 students learning the agenda for guest lectures, workshops, fundamental skills of debating during Australian Schools worship, prayer, games and an Amaz- four evenings at St Kevin’s College. A ing Race around the city. Students (Girls) Chess special mention and thank you went were introduced to the concept of to senior girls who coached the junior Championships partnering with Jesus as his agents, debaters in Term 4. Our commit- key women who ministered with Jesus In December 2018, PLC won the ted group of senior students helped and Paul and a Q&A with a panel of 2018 Australian Schools (girls) Chess develop a genuine love for competition PLC Old Collegians. In Term 2, CU Championships for the 3rd year in a and helped them hone the intricacies students prepared for the annual ‘Can row at Prince Alfred College, Adelaide. of delivering persuasive arguments. The PLC team: Cassandra Lim, Jody of Worms’ by heading to the corridors All the senior and junior debating Middleton, Clarice Woon and Rachel asking students their ‘hot-topic-God- students proudly represented the Col- Woon won every game (16 games out questions’. A selection of questions lege this year, developing their skills of a possible 16). Each girl was sub- was put to our panel of guests by attending coaching sessions at sequently awarded the board prize for covering topics on Science and Faith, PLC. They all gained skills in working winning their respective boards at the Justice and Suffering, Metaphoric and together as part of a team, developed tournament. Literal interpretations of the Bible and God in Comparison to other gods. their understanding of contemporary In December 2019, PLC won the political, social and cultural issues In Term 3 a selection of Psalms was 2019 Australian Schools (girls) Chess and refined their ability to construct studied in small groups facilitated Championships for the 4th year in a cogent arguments. The importance of each week by the CU Committee. row at Canberra Grammar. The PLC competent debating skills has never However, the main event of Term team: Cassandra Lim, Jody Middle- been more relevant and we commend- 3 was EXO Day, this year the event ton, Rachel Woon, Clarice Woon, ed the girls for their participation and was called ‘Picnic in the Plaza’. Over dedication to representing PLC. 200 students from across the senior school attended a welcoming lunch

33 2019 Annual Report

Term 3 brought us the gothic and haunting Jane Eyre - the forbidding Thornfield Hall was an overwhelming physical presence on the stage, with poor Bertha relegated to the top story of this large edifice. The boys from Scotch College joined us in the PAC to tell the story of a young woman finding her true self, played here magnificently by not only one but three Janes. While the beautiful compositions of students helped set the ominous mood for the audience, the costumes, makeup and hair designs took us back in time to Charlotte Bronte’s world. We were very lucky to receive many nominations and Piper Knight accepted our Judges award for the student compositions that were used in Jane Eyre. I am very happy to announce that Ben Daly won an award for Best Lighting in a Youth Play. Ben is a very creative lighting designer who developed a beautifully haunting design which allowed the actors to really get into the Gothic mood. We are so lucky to have him on staff in this role and to mentor our girls through the technical side of theatre, as well as so ably supporting all of us in our AV needs From this world, we were transported to the Russian steppes the following week as our girls joined the boys at Drama Performance Scotch College for their production 2019 was again an exciting year for of Fiddler on the Roof. This moving our thespians! Students were offered portrayal of Tevye and his family was the opportunity to work as actors, not only a showcase of the talent of directors and also as set, lighting, our students but reminded us that the costume, makeup, props and sound world must balance between looking designers. They were also encouraged forward to the new while still respect- to take responsibility for performance ing tradition. work as stage managers and stage This year demonstrated our commit- crew, for both our productions and as ment to inclusion and our philosophy our new Tech Crew. that if a girl would like to be involved, Our performance season began with we will find a place for her! Who Beach: Theatrical Fantasia, where our knows what 2020 will bring for our girls in Years 9 and 10 worked with stage in the PAC but, be assured, the boys of, and performed at, Scotch more students will be a part of our College. This contemporary Australian Performing Arts world, on stage or off! work gave us a glimpse at visits to the beach throughout modern history.

34 Annual Report 2019

Duke of Edinburgh Environment Group wrote letters to Victoria’s Environment Minister, Lily D’Ambrosio, to encour- Award The PLC Senior School Environment age our government to join the other Group is an important institution A large number of Year 9 students states and territories in establish- within the College community which enrolled in the Award at the start of ing a container refund scheme. Her aims to develop and nurture student’s the year. About seventy girls have em- response was encouraging and we ideas on the environment and sustain- barked on their journeys of Adventure, look forward to positive action on this ability through meetings and varied Skills, Service and Physical Activity. front. As the PLC Environment Group, activities throughout the year. This Requiring persistence, organisation we continued to express our concerns year we were fortunate to be inspired and commitment, the Award encour- about sustainability issues with our by the leadership of Environment aged the students to pursue their political representatives. Captain Sai Campbell. current interests or embark on new In Term 2 we were visited by Kasia ones. For example, Service activities We again started the year with Clean who showed us various creative ways at Bronze level this year included: Up Australia Day on the first Friday of in which we can ‘upcycle’ and re-use helping at the ELC, serving at a local March. This activity was very popular old T-shirts and other clothing. As the Op Shop, helping with language and this year and more than sixty students ABC series ‘War on Waste’ highlighted, mathematical programs, becoming a attended. Each year we see less and discarded clothing creates an enor- youth ambassador for Duke of Edin- less rubbish along the creek, which mous amount of waste each year so burgh organisation, and volunteering seems to show that the ‘do-not-litter‘ the students were inspired by Kasia to at a zoo! message is increasingly resonating think about different ways to reduce with the wider community. It was a great pleasure to see two the amount of waste we produce. students in Year 12 achieve their Gold Throughout the year we have kept In Term 3, the PLC environment group Duke of Edinburgh Award. This shows our focus on solutions to our ever prepared a series of assemblies and over eighteen months of regular com- increasing and global plastic pollu- started a college-wide survey about mitment to the various areas as well tion problem. For Easter we used the use of plastic cutlery and crockery as undertaking a residential project recycled plastic milk bottles to make in the school. As a result, more than away from home and they were con- bunny-like Easter egg containers. We 500 signatures were collected in sup- gratulated on their achievements. port for a single-use plastic reduction statement that showed widespread support for the transition to non-plastic alternatives for our Tuck Shop and Boarding House.

Various other activities such as craft activities, discussions and letter writing kept the members busy and engaged during the meetings this year. It was encouraging to see more and more students engaging with sustainability issues at PLC and it is hoped that under the leadership of our 2020 Captain, we will be able to encourage more younger members to attend on a regular basis.

35 2019 Annual Report

House System PLC’s House System remains an intrin- sic and vital part of life at the College. The culture of belonging that charac- terises this system is fostered from the outset as Year 7s are welcomed into their Houses and encouraged to immerse themselves in a wealth of available experiences. The breadth and variety of activities offered in the House competition provide all students with an opportunity to celebrate their talents and embrace new challenges. Cheered on by their friends across the year levels, students can enjoy different sports as well as theatre, debating, chess, spelling and public speaking, with a focus on being involved and having a go. The unique identity of each of the six houses is defined and celebrated by the passionate House chants and colourful costumes which feature at whole-school events like the Athletics and Swimming and Diving carnivals. The House T-shirts, a much-loved marker of belonging to a specific Each year, the girls’ skills in scriptwrit- very best of House spirit, in not only House, will be sporting a new look ing, choreography, art and music, prop celebrating their own successes but from 2020. A design competition held and costume design, characterisation, also delighting in the achievements of in Term 2, revealed the creative talent direction and all the technical aspects the other Houses. The clear organ- of our students, and a whole-school of backstage, sound and lighting isational competence and excellent vote determined the winning design management were brought to the communication skills of this year’s for each House. This abundance of tal- fore and celebrated in this theatrical captains made them strong role mod- ent was also evident during the annual spectacular. This year, the stimulus for els for the emerging leaders in each House Concerts which showcased the plays was a flower in the colour of House, and their encouragement and the girls’ ability to work collabora- each respective House. Glamis House, support of younger students who have tively and inclusively on their original which had the green chrysanthemum taken on leadership of smaller House productions. as its flower, was judged the overall teams, is part of their legacy. winner of House Concerts. The 2019 House Captains lead their respective houses skillfully and enthusiastically, giving generously of their time and talents to inspire record levels of participation in many of the competitions. They demonstrated the

36 Annual Report 2019

Music – Co-curricular with some of our chamber groups. The with heat, wind, and thunderstorms Spring Concert and Retro Night held but was a very successful program. 2019 was another fabulous year of in the auditorium were again fabulous The Year 8 program was also changed. music making for our girls. concerts to end Term 3 and gave a fi- Due to a preceding week of bushfire nal opportunity for some of our senior We had a number of performances alerts and extreme fire danger condi- Year 12 musicians to perform. in Term 1, including playing at School tions, the Tidal River campsite at Wil- Tours, the Autumn Melodies Concert, Throughout the year there were many son’s promontory was closed. Thanks the Twilight Picnic, Discovery Night, small concerts from piano recitals in to OEG’s foresight and organisation, the ELC Family BBQ, the IB Art Exhibi- Rehearsal Room 1, Vocal Concerts this part of the program was shifted to tion and the PLC/Scotch combined in Rehearsal Room 2, performances Point Leo on the Mornington Peninsu- string workshop. Our major fundraising in the Quad as well as a number of la. The students still enjoyed exploring event for the Friends of Music was the music ensembles performing off a coastal area, bushwalking, beach Chamber Music High Tea. This was campus including the Concert Band activities and of course the surfing a very successful event again and performing at the Victorian Schools session – a real highlight. involved many of our chamber groups Band Festival, the Pipes and Drums The Year 7 program went ahead performing while a delicious High Tea marching in the city on ANZAC Day, at Camp Jungai and the Cathedral provided by the Friends of Music and Wind Symphony’s performance at the Ranges. A severe weather warning at caterers, was served. In Term 2 we Royal South Street Competition and the latter saw groups shifted to Wangii held our Jazz Cabaret, small instru- Vocalease performing at the Monash for part of the week. As usual the ment specific concerts and the Grand Youth Music Festival and the stunning students were adaptable and resilient. Concert. This was an opportunity to visit of the Australian String Quartet Again, the emphasis on this camp is present Full Music Colours to our which included a lunchtime concert bringing the new year level together Senior Musicians in Years 11 and 12, and Masterclass with our senior and creating a sense of togetherness. as well as acknowledge our Music chamber groups. Captain. The Year 11 camp was at Rawson in Term 4 saw music performances for the ranges behind Moe. The weather The Gala Celebration was again one School Tours, the Combined Orchestra was kind to begin with but heavy rain of the highlights of the year; espe- workshop with Trinity Grammar and began on Thursday evening and per- cially the two massed singing items. the Thanksgiving and Carol Service. sisted into Friday. Girls were given a All Years 7,8 and 9 performed the choice as to whether to continue with song ‘Touch the sky’ from the movie their program, including bush walking, ‘Brave’, while all Years 10, 11 and Outdoor Education biking, high ropes, commando course 12 performed a fabulous medley of There were a few changes to our and climbing. It was so pleasing to see Queen songs. The Gala also featured program this year for various reasons. more than 80% of the girls chose to two of our Senior Music Students in The Year 9 program was split between brave the elements and continue. Year 12 performing as soloists with two venues: the Murray River between the Symphony Orchestra and piano ac- Yarrawonga and Cobram, and Lake The Year 10 camps were held in late companiment. Another highlight of the Eildon. This was to accommodate four- November. Again, a range of varied year was the visit and performance teen groups resulting from an increase experiences awaited including rafting, of the Australian String Quartet. We in student numbers and an additional sailing, surfing, horse riding, mixed were so privileged to have Australia’s form group. The Eildon program contin- activities, art and nature, and aquat- premiere chamber group come and ued as before with half a week of sea ics. The element of choice and hard- perform in our auditorium and work kayaking followed by half a week of topped accommodation make these bushwalking with packs. The Murray camps much anticipated by the girls at River group had half a week in canoes the end of a busy year. and the other half on a constructed Bronwyn Ondracek and Janet Driver raft for the whole group. Both groups thanked the Council, Principal and camped, cooked on small stoves and school operatives, for their unwaver- learnt much about teamwork, per- ing support of the Outdoor Education sistence and the freedom of the out- program at PLC. doors. The weather was unpredictable

37 2019 Annual Report

Outlook.9 Patchwork Participation in The Outlook program ran success- This year’s Patchwork Committee of Politics fully again this year. There were a few twenty girls worked hard to produce a Central to Civics and Citizenship new challenges in catering for the wonderful magazine that will provide education at PLC is our Year 10 extra twenty-five students in the year an excellent record of the College’s Participating in Politics Program, which level. This affected both the outdoor achievements this year. took place during Term 3. Participating education program with 14 groups to Ably led by its three talented editors, in Politics is a two-day program that be accommodated, placements of stu- the Committee worked closely with provides an introduction to the politi- dents at local facilities for volunteering staff and students across all year cal process and encourages active opportunities, and extra groups in levels of the College to ensure that the participation in that process. the City program. Everything worked final product was of very high quality. out well and all the girls had amazing Students were extremely lucky this Maribel Arcilla and Kylie Wealands, experiences to increase their inde- year to hear from some excellent the College’s skilled Publications Offi- pendence, their self-confidence and speakers. Pauline Richards, the State cers, expertly assisted the Committee added responsibility. Local child care Labor member for Cranbourne rep- in meeting this goal. centres, elderly care homes, primary resented the Labor party and Gladys schools and community houses were The Committee cast a wide net when Liu, the Federal Member for Chisholm, so eager to provide feedback on the considering themes for the magazine, represented the Liberal Party. They helpfulness, courtesy and politeness and chose ‘Space’ as a theme that both spoke about their experience in of our girls. would inspire students, and allow the government and the various roles they girls plenty of room to express them- have performed. They reflected on The semester-based unit of Outlook selves creatively. their own involvement in their political learning covered issues of consumer- party and the importance of young ism, ethical shopping, local govern- The results were outstanding, with people getting involved in the political ment, travelling on public transport striking, individual design work on process. and various other topical units. each page of the magazine that evokes a sense of exploration and Students then conducted a political This was ideal ground work for the City discovery as the reader progresses campaign in Party groups, culminat- program in Term 4. The twenty-seven through the amazing range of activities ing in an election. Some students groups of six students investigated undertaken by the College’s students performed the roles of pollsters and a myriad of topics about Melbourne over the past twelve months. media, providing an air of authentic- through first hand investigation. They ity. The leaders’ policy speeches dealt with conditions ranging from 17 The Committee worked together were particularly impressive, and the to 41 degrees during the week, but yet extremely well all year as it decided increasingly sophisticated use of tech- again showed persistence, resilience on a theme, designed the ‘look’ of the nology has been a feature of recent and above all maintained their sense magazine, and then worked through campaigns. Many staff were involved of humour. the detail of each page. The girls are in the program which ran over two to be congratulated on working so days. This year the ‘Labor Party’ were well together, and on creating such successful in an impressive campaign, a memorable Patchwork, which will which included appearances by all the undoubtedly be read with great enjoy- parties on PLC’s own Q and A. ment by many over the months and years to come. The program provided an invaluable insight into Australian democracy, the parliamentary system, preferential voting and party politics. Students had the opportunity to campaign using a range of media, take on leadership roles, employ ICT skills and speak publicly in pressure situations. All students participated actively and were very engaged by the program.

38 Annual Report 2019

Social Action The year finished well with the Year 7 Quad day raising funds for individual This year included a busy social ac- charities. All form groups selected tion calendar of events. The Year 12 various gifts from class donations Social Action team members were a that supported Oxfam, World Vision dedicated and motivated group who and The Salvation Army. Year 11 worked very hard. In first term they students donated their time to collect raised record amounts at the House gifts to make Christmas Gift boxes for concerts and Quad Day with all the Worowa. Additionally many students proceeds going to support our sister and staff added a Christmas gift to school in Neno. the Christmas tree that supported The Harmony Quad Day and ‘In The families in need at this time. Spotlight’ stalls were also a huge suc- The wonderful generosity of the PLC cess with students contributing a range community is amazing and we thank of wonderful goods to be sold. The year everyone for their support, particu- 9s excelled with wonderful Christmas in larly the PLC Social Action Committee July themed stalls and many students of 2019. attended the ‘Walk Against Want’ raising money for Oxfam. Sport The whole extended school community PLC girls continued to enjoy a wide rallied together to raise money to sup- range of sports this year. The majority port Neno during a time of great need. of the participation was in the form The money raised was used to rebuild of competitive sports in GSV Weekly and repair flood damage to the school. Sport, Carnivals, Rowing, Sportaero- Term 3 was busy with the interval food bics and Saturday Netball. stalls at the PLC / Scotch play raising There were some outstanding results money for Neno. The Literature Quad in many GSV sports with the Interme- festival, Year 10 Waxworks and the diate and Senior Badminton Teams Year 9 Pink Quad day all saw the girls collecting four GSV Premierships working hard to support various chari- between them. There were medal- ties. The introduction of the PLC Gift ists at GSV Finals evenings and in running race offered another fundrais- the Schoolaerobics competitions. ing opportunity that saw the involve- Encouraged by the rise in popularity ment of Year 7, 8 and 9 students. of the AFLW competition, 2019 saw Development programs continued The World Vision Committee was the first College team entered in the to allow girls to compete against elected following an interview process Junior AFL 9s competition. This was a each other as beginners in a fun and the girls attended the World Vi- lot of fun for the girls and skills were and non-stressful environment while sion Youth Forum in Melbourne. They developed in preparation for their encouraging teamwork and leadership were then responsible for encouraging entry into the Senior GSV Australian as well as fitness and skill develop- the school to take part in the World Football competition. Vision Backpack Challenge. ment. There are opportunities in sport 2019 also saw the first time in many available to all girls and success is years that a Senior First Rowing Crew not always in the form of medals and competed at the Sydney International trophies. Any time that girls allow Rowing Regatta. The girls finished a themselves to be outside their comfort respectable third in the B Final putting zone in sport signifies the growth and them in eleventh place in Australia development of the whole person. All in the Schoolgirls Coxed Quad Scull girls are encouraged to join in and event. The Head of Schoolgirls Regatta make time for the tremendous oppor- saw the Christening of the new quad tunities available to them. racing boat, the ‘Dawn Clements’.

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Sustainability and By Term 3, planter boxes arrived and under the direction of our school Environment Group gardener, Rebecca Heath, fifteen It’s a pivotal time for the planet as members of the Group learned about countries around the world declare a composting, planting and caring for climate crisis and communities world- their herbs and vegetables which are wide are having to grapple with ways now being used by the Food Technol- to reduce, recycle and reuse waste. ogy classes. Ms Walker’s ceramics This was the PLC Senior School Sus- class made ceramic labels for the tainability and Environment Group’s plants. focus for 2019, ably lead by captain Term 4 was headed by new captain, Christine Walker and directed by co- Bridget Lee. The PE department took ordinators Perri Winter-Barry, Martine the initiative to eradicate the use of Thompson and Kirsty Leahy, each bottled water at the swimming carni- taking direction for a term. val. The club recycled old tshirts into In Term 1: paper recycling boxes bags and ‘2040’ was screened for the were organised for each classroom; Year 7 to 9 cohort. thirty students participated in Clean Challenges for 2021 are the school’s Up Australia Day gathering rub- bin system, composting and getting bish from Gardiner’s Creek and the students and staff to think more school grounds; Athletics Day saw the sustainability. introduction of a hydration station to replace bottled water and reusable cups and bunting; and students and staff had the opportunity to hear ‘War on Waste’s’ Craig Reucassel, speak at Deakin University. The Term 2 focus was a series of workshops in which Christine taught the girls how to recycle old books by washing the print off the pages and rebinding the paper into notebooks. Environmental awareness was raised with research projects on current environmental issues. Mrs Perri Winter-Barry’s initiative gained PLC five tickets to the premiere of Aus- tralian film-maker, Damon Gameau’s documentary, ‘2040’ and two club members and their parents were able to attend the screening and a question and answer session afterwards with Gameau.

40 Annual Report 2019 Junior School

The 2019 school year saw the Junior for the rest of the Junior School girls. School continue to flourish. The The 2019 Junior School Captain led students achieved ongoing growth by example and her involvement in in their learning in the stimulating the life of Junior School was greatly environment provided in Junior School. valued. Junior School staff consistently pro- At the end of Semester One the Year vided exceptional teaching which has 6 girls presented The Lion King Jnr. in identified and advanced the skills and the Performing Arts Centre. This pre- knowledge of each student and has sentation involved all Year 6 girls who also developed their character. The held their audiences enthralled as the staff acknowledged the support and story unfolded. All girls played their cooperation of parents which contrib- parts well, engaging the audience for uted to the success of their programs. both performances. In August, the In all programs Mrs Penberthy, Junior Winter Melodies and the Caldwell School staff and students appreciated Concerts showcased the excellent the wonderful support of the Princi- standard and variety of the Junior pal, Mrs Dawn Clements, who was School ensembles. In Term 4, the consistently supportive and encour- girls in Years 3 and 4 delighted their aging of the Junior School. From her parents with their energetic Dance attendance at Friday assemblies to at- Exposure Concert. Always captivating, tending many of the evening concerts the Junior Primary girls presented their and plays, Mrs Clements was a strong concert to the delight of their parents advocate of the Junior School. and extended family members. The full details of the Music and Drama At the beginning of this year new stu- programs follow later in this report. dents were welcomed and they settled quickly into their new school and During the year all classes were adapted to life in Junior School. The involved in a variety of excursions and Year 6 students took their responsibil- incursions to extend their classroom ity as leaders of the Junior School seri- learning. The Outdoor Education ously and were excellent role models program involved girls in Year 3 to 6. Year 4 enjoyed their camp at Wyuna at

41 2019 Annual Report

Queenscliff in February and this year, Year 3 girls went to Bacchus Marsh in October. Year 5 girls enjoyed their camp to Sovereign Hill in June and towards the end of the year we saw Year 6 go to Camp Manyong at Mt Eliza. In Term 3, girls from Years 5 and 6 had the opportunity to take part in the very popular JOYCE camp at Yarra Junc- tion to pursue aspects of Christian teaching. In all Junior School programs students were encouraged to think beyond subject content to the underlying importance of critical thinking as well as creativity, to remember, to problem solve, to understand, to plan ahead and to foresee possible consequenc- es. As you read this report for the 2019 school year, it will be evident that alongside a broad knowledge and skills based curriculum, the Junior School incorporates thinking, reason- ing and creative skills. Skills in logic and problem solving are taught at each level and are part of all subject areas, every performance or competition, every extra-curricular activity, and even social interaction, as a vital element of learning. The Personal and Social Development Program extends across the Junior School from Prep to Year 6 with common themes and values being taught at similar times of the year.

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Harvey. Their professional care and staff to provide Junior School articles Junior School Staff concern for all Junior School girls and for the 2019 College magazine. staff was a great asset this year. All At the beginning of this year the Mrs Marie Roberts, Mrs Lisa Napier, staff were excellent role models for Junior School welcomed Miss Belinda Mrs Mariela Fuentes and Mrs Lohini their girls. The Coordinators and all Juchno, Ms Sarah Crookes and Miss Rajaratnam ensured that the Junior staff are to be commended on the Alice Hicks as permanent Class Teach- School office was welcoming and well students’ excellent scale and range ers. At the end of Term 1 Ms Crookes run, balancing attention to the needs of achievements during 2019 and for was replaced by Mrs Michelle Fulton. of students, parents and members their thoroughness and reliability in Mrs Katherine Roche was employed of the public with their administrative fulfilling all their duties. to cover as a Class Teacher while Mrs and care responsibilities so effectively. Alison Bennett stepped out of her Deep appreciation was extended for Their patience, diligence and warm class role to teach Drama and Dance, the consistently diligent manner that manner was greatly appreciated. covering a Maternity Leave position. staff undertook their work and the Mr John Law has made an outstand- Mrs Bronwyn Northfield moved from work of the College in broader ways. ing contribution as Head of Junior her School Assistant role into a part Support of music and drama perfor- School Operations this year and was time teaching role in the SWELL De- mances; art and class displays in invaluable to the smooth, effective partment as well as teaching ELC and the corridors; displays in classrooms; running of the Junior School. His skill Prep Library lessons. Mrs Di Thatcher sports days; inter-school and inter- in timetabling and administration have joined us as a School Assistant. Early house sport competition; Years 3 to been extremely important compo- in the year Ms Charley Leader, Art Co- 6 and Christian Education camps; nents to the efficient running of the ordinator, resigned and Mrs Francesca chess; excursions; the opening of the Junior School. Mrs Prue Petsinis gave Frederic was appointed during Term Library and Computer Room before excellent service in her new leader- 1. In addition, Mrs Julie Girdwood, and after school and at lunch times; ship role as Head of Student Care and Junior School Admissions and PA to social service fundraising; taking Wellbeing, as did Mrs Melissa Voce Deputy Principal, Primary, left during and organising photographs; ar- in her role as Head of Pedagogy and Term 1 and Mrs Marie Roberts joined ranging visiting artists, entertainers Learning. Mr Paul Smith continued to our team in this role. All the new staff and speakers; special celebrations; provide innovative and encouraging have contributed to the professional curriculum nights; tours of the school; leadership to the staff and girls for expertise of Junior School staff this parent social functions; items for the ICT. In addition, Miss Hannah Bangah, year and their enthusiasm for teaching quarterly newsletter, PLC in Print and as Head of Staff Development, and and working in Junior School was rec- Patchwork; staff planning and com- Department Coordinators, Mrs Leticia ognised and greatly appreciated. mittee meetings; student competitive Newell, Mrs Sally Tweddle, Ms Libby involvement in many areas including During the year the following staff en- Renton and our Junior School Library chess and sport - these are just some joyed varying periods of Long Service Teacher, Mrs Anne Walsh have been of the additional duties which reflect Leave: Ms Megan Goodman, Ms Jen- diligent members of the Junior School staff commitment beyond the many nie Maxwell, Mrs Justine Lam, Ms Ju- Leadership Team. lee Gatty-Watkins, Mrs June Tait, Mrs responsibilities of their teaching role. Mrs Penberthy is deeply appreciative Kate Ginaylo, Mrs Daphne Prioetto, Ms Nerilee Parkin gave great service of the wise counsel and support given Mrs Debbie Juchno, Ms Chele Howell, in organising the Student Teachers to her by the Principal, Mrs Clements, Mrs Liz Pell, Mr Ashley Newell and Mrs this year and provided them with valu- by Mr Law as Head of Junior School Suzanne Phillips. able advice as an experienced teacher Operations and by the Junior School and mentor. Junior School staff have All Junior School staff worked dili- Leadership Team. gently to maintain their high standard a strong commitment to the training of of pastoral care and their strong the next generation of teachers. Miss Professional reflection and growth, involvement with curricular and Hannah Bangah led the Professional developing one’s career path and con- extra-curricular activities and profes- Development for the Junior School stant learning are some of the charac- sional development. Additionally, they staff this year. Her diligence in prepar- teristics demonstrated continually by have dedicated many extra hours ing and liaising with Junior School the Junior School staff. The College’s of duty required for Saturday Tours, staff opportunities for development Professional Growth cycle has this parent functions, and parent-teacher and growth was greatly appreciated. year enabled all staff to use the infor- interview evenings. They were grate- Ms Chele Howell capably liaised with mation gleaned through this process ful for the support and advice of our the Senior School Patchwork Com- to reflect on and evaluate their teach- Junior School Counsellor, Mrs Melissa mittee and Junior School classes and ing and from this create, and plan

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their own professional learning for Student Leadership and Chelsea Bai; ICT – Sarah He and this year and the next. This program Lauren Soo; Library – Robyn Dunn and affirms each individual’s contribution Junior School provides a range of Ashlyn Cao; Music – Jade Chen and to the school community and can only opportunities for girls to be lead- Nicole Yan; Social Service – Grace continue to strengthen the profession- ers. Year 6 Captains for 2019 were Gonzales and Tehmina Dubash; Sport al learning of an already very commit- elected by their peer group in Term – Tahlia Vessey. House Captains were: ted staff. The Junior School staff and 4 of 2018. The 2019 Junior School Hethersett – Nikki Singh; Koorinya – student community endeavour to be a Captain, Vinudi Epitawela, capably Phoebe Geng; Woollahra: Charlotte school where all continue in the learn- led the Junior School girls officiating Bourne and Wyselaskie – Jin Jin Li. ing process together, following along on their behalf on many occasions. All Year 6 girls had a position of the path of lifelong learning. Captains were elected in the follow- responsibility as the senior students ing areas: Christian Education – Zara in the Junior School and they took Verghese and Rachel Ng; Drama and that responsibility seriously. This year Dance – Sophia Tan and Mia Vanden- Class Captains, chosen for one term boom; Environment – Ruby Stafford each in Years 3 to 6, proudly repre- and Erica Ea; French – Ashleigh Low sented their class. Girls from each Year 3 - 6 class were elected by their peers to represent them at student council meetings. Each representative respectfully listened and confidently contributed to the discussions ensuring that the voice of the student body on a variety of issues was heard. A highlight for the students this year was presenting their class’ ideas for the new play spaces. All Year 6 girls took part in their Gradu- ation Assembly at the end of Term 4. This was a special occasion to mark the culmination of their time at Junior School, and to recognise a time of transition. At their Graduation Assem- bly this year the Year 6 girls gratefully received a presentation book from everyone at Junior School and a photo of the Year 6 Class of 2019 with their class teachers, Mrs Penberthy, Mr Law and Mrs Clements. The Year 6 End of Year social evening was a special event that the Year 6 girls enjoyed towards the end of Term 4. These events were examples of PLC’s desire to celebrate and acknowledge the achievements of the Year 6 girls and they wholeheartedly joined in the celebrations of their time at Junior School. At the Year 7 Orientation Day, held in Senior School, the Year 6 girls were excited to meet other Year 6 girls joining PLC next year.

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Parent Groups Personal and Social Curriculum The Friends of Junior School worked Development In 2019, the Junior School staff as a parent led committee to har- continued to focus on consolidating The Personal and Social Development ness the support of parents in raising teaching practices and enriching cur- and curriculum continued to evolve in friends and money for the Junior riculum. In Semester 1, a small group response to the ever changing social School this year. The Junior School of Junior School teachers undertook and emotional needs of our students. community was very grateful for some study, Teaching for Understand- During 2019, the Personal and Social their practical service and generous ing, run by Harvard Graduate School Development program consisted of hospitality at a variety of occasions. of Education. Following this, every a multi-faceted approach to develop- The Friends of Junior School, as a year level reviewed aspects of their ing students’ emotional and positive group, are a wonderful asset for Junior curriculum, refining them to ensure relationship skills. This approach in- School. To these parents, Mrs Penber- depth and ‘life worthiness’ of the top- cluded the continued use of Bounce thy extended her personal thanks for ics. Semester 2 saw another group of Back: A Wellbeing and Resilience their encouragement of staff and their teachers undertake the unit Creat- Program, and the introduction of trust in the Junior School’s ability to ing Cultures of Thinking, where we the Resilience, Rights and Respect- attain a high standard of education for considered how teachers can mould ful Relationships learning materials their daughters in their varied, com- the culture of their classroom so that developed by the Department of prehensive Junior School programs. it supports students’ development as Education and Training. In addition thinkers and individuals capable of The Parent Prayer Group was led by to these programs, age appropriate deep understanding. Mr Ian Hann and this small group met learning experiences were planned to regularly to pray for our College and address the subject of Child Safety, 2019 also saw the beginning of the our community. with an extended focus on protective College Strategic Plan, set in place behaviours and personal safety for for the next five years. As a staff, we Particular thanks was given to the our youngest students in Prep. created a learning framework that Committee members of the Friends incorporated the ‘Qualities of a PLC of Junior School; Mr Wilson Lau, Ms Junior School staff demonstrated Graduate’, as outlined in the Strate- Wendy Ng and Dr Sharmila Rames- commitment to furthering their own gic Plan, then considered how our sur Chandran in their role as joint knowledge in how they could best curriculum explicitly encourages the Coordinators of the group, Mrs Wendy support the emotional wellbeing of all development of leadership, servant- Southward as Secretary and Mr Alan students. This included undertaking hood, citizenship and scholarship in Ku as Treasurer. They worked diligently professional learning in response to our girls. This was a worthwhile task, to create a harmonious approach to all specific areas of student need. Teach- as these outcomes are what will help parent activities during the year. ers collaborated to design activities to form the foundation of our girls’ that align with each term’s Bounce The Class Representatives were ably character and ultimately determine Back topic and also cater to the needs led this year by Mrs Kirsten Salvas. their success in life. of their class. In 2019, these topics Parents from each year level organ- included: Core Values, people Bounc- The employment of our new Art ised a range of family and parent ing Back, Courage and Looking on the teacher brought with it the natural events for families to participate in Bright Side. There was an emphasis opportunity to revise the Art Curricu- on the weekend and in term breaks. on circle time, cooperative learning lum. Mrs Frederic brought a vibrancy Great appreciation was expressed to approaches and role plays to build to this area of the school and the girls Mrs Salvas and the Class Representa- positive relationships, resilience and enjoyed getting to know her. We look tives for the friendship they extended teach social-emotional skills. Themed forward to the fresh expertise that she to our parent community and for the assemblies also reinforced the as- will continue to bring to this subject. goodwill that this group continued to sociated skills and attitudes that the The employment of new classroom build in the PLC School community. students discussed during class time. teachers in Years 1, 3, 4 and 6, together with additional staff in the SWELL department, resulted in the sharing of new perspectives to enrich our curriculum.

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All subject areas continued to develop, with exciting new initiatives being explored for the enhancement of Sci- ence in the Junior School. The General Capabilities of ethical and intercultural understandings, creative and critical thinking and personal and social pro- ficiencies have taken a more central place in the planning of new units of work and the refining of existing ones. These capabilities are essential for “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven our girls in order to equip them to live and do not return there but water the earth, and work successfully in the twenty- making it bring forth and sprout, first century and beyond. giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, 11 so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; Christian Education it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, It is a great personal encouragement and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it. Isaiah that there is the promise (to the right) 55:10,11 in the Bible. The main emphasis of each CE lesson is to help the students to become more familiar with navigating the Bible for themselves and to be better acquainted with the Bible’s overarching message. It is our prayer that the truths that the students learn from the Bible will remain with them. This year both the Year 3 and 6 Curric- ulum were revised. Year 3 investigated the start of the early Church through looking at the book of Acts and some parts of Paul’s Epistles. Year 6 Cur- riculum encouraged the girls to seek This year we had our biggest JOYCE answers to ‘big questions’, building camp. 113 students from Years 4-6 their faith in God through the Bible. (50 from Year 6) and 10 staff attended ADANAC CYC Campsite in Yarra Each Monday CE Assemblies were a Junction. The Bible focus was learning way to begin the Junior School week. about the way Jesus loves. We looked This year began by using the events at Jesus’ parable of The Good Samari- in the early life of Jesus to learn about tan and the girls were encouraged to the character and purpose of His life. memorise 1 John 4: 9-11. It was a In Term 2 we investigated the Lord’s highlight of the year. Prayer so that the girls could become more familiar with why, how and to whom we pray. In Term 3 the emphasis was on Christian women and it was a privilege to hear Esther speak to us from the Neno school in Malawi.

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Counselling – ELC Mrs Harvey worked closely with her Early Birds programs in Years 3 to 6 Senior School colleagues, Mrs Nicola continued to give new students famil- and Junior School Williams, and Mrs Anna Taranto in the iarity with the Spalding approach. The Mrs Melissa Harvey, is the Counsel- Counselling Department. They met new EAL girls in Years 3 to 6 contin- lor for the ELC and the Junior School. regularly to support the mental health ued to experience a more intensive She has a teaching background, and of all PLC students, and ensure a program, which included four sessions is a registered Psychologist with a smooth transition for Year 6 students per week. into the Senior School. Master in Educational and Develop- The ‘Reading Assistant’ program was mental Psychology. She worked with implemented for both EAL and some students, staff and parents in the Department DID students, as well as implementing Early Learning Centre and the Junior a mathematics intervention program School, and was available for four of Individual for Year 4, Junior Elementary Math- days each week (Monday, Tuesday, Differences ematics Mastery (JEMM). In 2019 the Thursday and Friday). EMU Mathematics Program (Elemen- At the beginning of 2019, the DID tary Mathematical Understanding) In the ELC, Mrs Harvey worked with (Department of Individual Differences) was introduced for identified Year 1 children aged from 2 to 5 years to was renamed SWELL. This reflected and Year 2 students. The program was address any concerns raised by teach- the developing and changing needs designed to develop and consolidate ers, and/or parents. She observed, for our students’ learning. The name the concept of number as well as assessed and assisted teachers and SWELL was taken from ‘Student WELL mathematical strategies that students parents with strategies to support the being’ The SWELL Centre supports can use. emotional, behavioural and learning students experiencing academic needs of students. Mrs Harvey wrote difficulties, social emotional difficul- Highly able students were withdrawn reports and made recommendations to ties, and enriches the programs of in year level groups and participated teachers and parents where necessary. the highly able students and provides in the Thinking Skills program. The EAL support for students with English In the Junior School, Mrs Harvey Thinking Skills program was explic- language difficulties. worked with the Student Wellbeing itly taught and develops conceptual knowledge which drives surface and Department (SWELL). She conducted SWELL staff have conscientiously deep learning in each session. The cognitive and educational assess- worked to develop their capacity to students used visible thinking tools to ments to assist students’ optimal teach and understand student learn- further develop their understanding. learning and made recommendations ing. Once a semester, each staff using evidence based strategies. member presented on a chosen topic The Mentor Program between Year 11 Mrs Harvey was able to provide more in the department meetings. This level students and Junior School students focused and specific interventions by of professionalism and expertise is continued successfully this year with offering individual counselling to stu- continuing to be developed as a SWELL 8 Junior School girls and 12 Year 11 dents. In Term 1, Mrs Harvey worked Team. Some of the topics included: girls involved. The range of topics with Mr Williams in Year 4 to extend using positive communication, parent- that the Junior School girls chose was the “Bounce Back” programme, ing for success, diagnostic testing and varied and included: researching and and provide students with psycho- interpreting data. Initial assessment of building a model of an energy efficient education to develop and increase the all new students from Prep to Year 6 house, the science behind how our students’ emotional intelligence. was carried out, with on-going assess- brains manufacture reality and play ment completed throughout the year Mrs Harvey facilitated a weekly lunch- tricks on us, international espionage, for referred students. time group, the Games Club, which computer programming and journal- ism and how it influences the world. allowed many students in Years 1 to The SWELL team continued the 6 to build and strengthen their social Individual Learning Plan (ILP) process, skills whilst playing board games. Dur- which has maintained a high level ing Term 4, Mrs Harvey attended the of communication between parents, Year 6 Camp and enjoyed supporting teachers and external specialists. In the girls and getting to know them. 2019 16 students from Prep to Year 6 were supported with Individual Learn- ing Plans.

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Drama and Dance The Drama and Dance program gave students the opportunity to express themselves creatively and imaginatively through exploration and performance in a safe and secure environment. The year began with the Year 5 students presenting “An Evening of Short Plays”. Each class learnt their scripts and performed them on the stage with sets, costumes and props. Every student contributed to the characterisation of their own role and to the way they delivered their individual lines. Term 2 saw the Year 6 students filled with excitement and enthusiasm as they performed their musical, “The Lion King JR.”, in the Performing Arts Centre. The show started with a show stopping performance by the character Rafiki singing “The Circle of Life”. From there it was a colourful array of African animals, tribal villagers and of course Simba. Every Year 6 student was involved from helping out backstage, being a member of the chorus or having a main part in the show. It was two magical nights on the African Savannah. Semester 2 saw the Junior Primary students present their concert, ‘Once Upon a Time”. The girls sang and danced beautifully, as the theme explored adventures that can be taken through the world of books. The Year 3’s and 4’s concluded the year with the fabulous Dance Exposure concert – “Dance Class”. Each Year 3 and Year 4 class presented two dance items that showcased a dance genre. The show also demonstrated the students’ knowledge of the dance elements: action, time, space, energy and body.

48 Annual Report 2019

English Throughout 2019, the Junior School Class Teachers continued to work collaboratively to reflect on and refine the English curriculum; ensuring it remained vigorous and relevant in meeting the needs of our students. The girls were engaged in a wide range of learning tasks, enabling them to develop their skill base in oral reading, comprehension, writing, spelling, grammar and public speaking. We began the next stage of the French The Year 6 Pen pal project and French curriculum development in writing. Breakfast were the highlights of the 2019 was an exciting year for Junior Assessment progression points for Year 6 French curriculum. The girls School French. The girls enjoyed use across the school were written loved receiving and sending letters developing relationships with other and refined for informative texts. This to their pen pal from Collège Sainte French speakers. The year began ensured that, as teachers, there are Ursule in Paris. They also appreciated with a visit from Ludmilla Bourdel, a common understandings of what was the challenge of speaking in French student teacher from Lyon Univer- expected for each stage of learning for an extended period of time at the sity. In Term 2 and 3, Prep to Year 2 growth. The development of a com- French Breakfast with the purpose of students enjoyed spending time with mon approach for narrative writing eating French breakfast treats and Year 10 and 11 students at the French also began and a truly cohesive teach- conversing with their classmates as Reading Corner held in the library at ing approach was nurtured, which will well as a teacher. lunchtime on Fridays. In Term 2, Bintou greatly benefit the writing skills that This report would not be complete Savane, a Deakin exchange student the girls acquire. without mentioning French Day, which from Paris assisted French classes and was held at the beginning of Term 3. The Parent Literacy Course was again shared her dancing talent with us. In The Prep girls began the assembly offered to the parents of our Prep Semester 2, Thy Douglas, the 2018 and entertained us with ‘une comp- students and was extremely well at- Vice-Captain, who had studied French tine’. Our French Captains did an tended. The course provided families for the IB and is continuing her French excellent job of educating us on the with an overview of the core literacy studies at university, worked with the tumultuous love story between French teaching that is used throughout the girls in French classes and helped run and English. Year 5 and 6 girls took Junior School. This promoted greater ‘Le club de français’. Finally, a Year 11 us back to the Middle Ages where we understanding and consistency IB French Class taught some Junior learnt some history behind the links. between home and school ensuring School French lessons throughout the Students enjoyed ordering crêpes in students confidently completed set year, sharing their knowledge of and French from the stall ‘Les Crêpes de English homework. experiences with the French language Marion’ and of course eating them. with their younger peers. In our endeavour to create confident, All girls attended a music workshop, engaged learners, quality literacy Some key events in 2019 included in which they learnt a new well-known resources and assessment tools were the annual Alliance Française Berthe French song. In the afternoon, around purchased across the Junior School Mouchette Poetry Competition, in 40 girls from Year 2 to 6 performed to further support our rich literacy which 180 students participated and French-related individual or group programs. An online subscription to 14 girls made the finals. Girls put in acts in the variety show ‘Le Spectacle Seven Steps to Writing Success, to- considerable effort to listen carefully spectaculaire’. The acts were varied gether with updated Step Up to Writing to their chosen poem and recite it and included ballet dances, mimes, resources assisted to provide con- from memory with accurate pronuncia- musical pieces, a poem, a joke, a sistent quality instruction in writing. tion and engaging expression. cooking show and ‘le cancan’. The P.M. Benchmark Reading Assessment girls came up with their acts and resources were also purchased to rehearsed in their own time. The day assist Junior Primary teachers in their allowed us all to share in the joy and assessment of independent reading benefits of being French language levels. learners.

49 2019 Annual Report

Humanities and During the year, teachers commenced refining the Understanding by Design Social Sciences (UbD) model used to plan units of Humanities and Social Sciences draws work in this area. This is as a result of on the curriculum areas of History, professional learning undertaken by Geography, and Civics and Citizenship. some members of staff. A focus of this The aims of this curriculum area in- work was to improve the ‘big ideas’ clude helping students to understand that underpin each unit in a way that their world both past and present, strengthens the connections students and providing opportunities for them make with the concepts they are to consider ways to respond to chal- learning about. lenges, now and in the future, in an innovative and informed manner at both a personal and collective level. Where possible, teachers aimed to connect Humanities and Social Sciences with other areas of the curriculum including Science, English, Mathematics and ICT, thus providing more integrated learning opportunities. In 2019, teachers continued to revise and develop units of work that enabled students to learn about key historical events, to expand on their geographical knowledge of the world, to consider different perspectives and to appreciate that communities at different levels represent diversity in a range of ways. The International Week Artefacts Exhibition, held at the beginning of Term 2, involved all students in the Junior School and was a wonderful opportunity for them to learn about and appreciate the cultural diversity that exists within our own community. Many excursions, incursions and camps supported understanding in this curriculum area, providing opportunity for learning to take place beyond the classroom. Examples included the Year 3 visit to the Immigration Museum and the Year 4 visit to the Polly Woodside and the Botanical Gardens.

50 Annual Report 2019

Information and Students created some great com- instilled a love of literature amongst puter based games in coding this year, our students. Targeting of individual Communication with Year 4 students creating a game students with personalized reading Technologies based around the journey of the First suggestions was possible due to the Fleet, the Year 2 students making an library staff having a deep knowledge 2019 saw an increase in the PLC Ju- interactive tour of Melbourne and the of the library collection. Visually ap- nior School STEM program with the in- Prep students coding with robotics. pealing displays throughout the library, troduction of Cubetto robotics at Prep with interesting topics, engaged our Cyber Safety programs continued level. Year 6 students also continued students. Inspirational authors were to run throughout the Junior School with the Lego EV3 robotics program invited to talk to our students about this year. Upper Primary information where they created some advanced their books and the writing process to sessions each term gave students an coding to complete difficult robotics inspire reading and writing skills in our opportunity to share and learn about tasks. Opportunities for our students students. safe online experiences. to extend their robotics skills continued in the after school programs run by ‘Bricks for Kids’. Library Mathematics Students across each year level con- Students throughout the school have The role of the Teacher Librarian tinued to be challenged by problem access to state of the art digital tech- involves instilling a love of literature solving questions that required much nology such as iPads, MacBooks and and developing a culture of ‘reading more than one or two calculations iMacs. Access to school resources for pleasure’ within the school. Priority towards an expected, correct re- through Wyse and Google Classroom is given to developing a varied, com- sponse. Working collaboratively within was developed further and enabled prehensive library collection that is small groups, students experienced a students to create and submit work appealing, current and relevant to the range of ideas and thought processes easier and faster. As always, cyber curriculum and the PLC community. brought forward by group members, safety is an integral part of what we The students are taught to navigate and were invited to explore all pos- teach at PLC. Cyber safety was ad- the variety of digital and physical sibilities and encouraged to articulate dressed at all levels of the school and resources and to efficiently locate their thinking, both orally and on through ICT lessons. Practical skills reliable, authoritative and meaningful paper. Much greater use of our new were learnt about ways our students information. corridor learning spaces was seen can protect themselves and their Navigating 21st century information lit- as students worked together in small families online. eracy skills involves a varied approach groups. Some of the highlights of the ICT pro- throughout the different year levels. This year, 39 Upper Primary students gramme this year included students in Students begin by learning about the participated in the Maths Challenge Prep to Year 2 continuing to use their different parts of a book, the differ- problem solving competition run by the iPads to enhance digital learning in ent sections of the library and how to Australian Mathematics Trust. Once the classroom, virtual excursions via locate the books that they need. Stu- again, all Year 6 students completed video conference to take our Year 4 dents then learn how to search for and the ICAS / UNSW Mathematics paper. students to the Great Barrier Reef and locate a variety of books and online Students in Year 5 competed in the access to the Green Screen Studio for resources using the catalogue and on- Maths Games problem solving compe- all students to enable them to make line encyclopedia. Senior classes are tition and, similarly, students in Year 6 special effect videos, including some taught the ethics and fundamentals completed their Australasian Math- amazing news reports from Year 6 on of using information and how to write ematics Olympiad problem-solving test natural disasters. bibliographies. papers. All Year 4 students reinforced The Google classroom continued to Developing a reading culture is es- their skills using the online Mathlet- be a major part of the Year 3 to 6 sential to encourage students to ics program, and for the first time, all curriculum, enabling access to class become motivated, engaged readers students in Years 5 and 6 extended activities from home and school. and put them on a successful path to their learning via the use of the online adulthood. In the Junior School library, Mangahigh program, both at home this has been achieved in a number and at school. Students in Years 3 and of ways. Enjoyable class programs 4 explored Mathematics thinking in a very hands-on experience during their World of Maths incursion.

51 2019 Annual Report

Music In 2019, Music in the Junior School experienced a number of exciting innovations, with newly updated teaching resources and a reinvigorated Classroom Music program. Instrumen- tal Music also experienced a number of significant changes, including the refurbishment of the teaching studios with new, brightly coloured desks and the introduction of the WYSE timetabling system. Classroom Music lessons continued to draw from Kodaly and Orff approaches, with a five-fold structure in the Middle to Upper Primary level: Aural, Sing and Play, Create and Compose, Connect (Listening and Appreciating) and Music Theory. The Recorder program remained a popular supplement to the Practical Performance component, which continued to thrive in conjunction with the highly subscribed Instrumental and Choral Program. Our students had many opportunities throughout the year to showcase their musical talents. Some of the highlights this year included the wonderful Year 6 musical performance of ‘The Lion King JR’, Year 3 /4 Choral performances at the Easter Service involved over the two nights, featuring and Mothers’ Day Breakfast, the Year the majority of the cohort from Middle 2 Choir performing at the Fathers’ to Upper Primary year levels in the in- Day Breakfast, an African drumming clusive choirs. The 3/4 Choir boasted incursion for our Year 6 students, the a membership of 196 girls and 5/6 Mid-Year Flute Concert, the Solo and Choir, 139 girls. Combined String Concerts, The Junior School Nativity and Carol Service, Ensemble performances at the Junior School Speech Night, Chamber performances at the Art Show and French Assembly. The regular year level Music Assemblies at the Junior School provided performance opportunities for all instrumental students. The Winter Melodies and Caldwell Concerts in August remained a key feature of the Junior School Music calendar and provided an opportunity to showcase all junior ensembles. Children from Years 1 to 6 were

52 Annual Report 2019

Physical Education A wide range of activities and opportunities were provided for students to showcase their skills and outstanding sporting achievements across all areas this year. Prep to Year 2 delved into a variety of sport units and did so with great enthusiasm and enjoyment. Year 3 and 4 undertook more complex skills in modified sport units and Year 5 and 6 continued to focus on consolidating their match play and learning the importance of tactics and teamwork. Year 5 and 6 students represented PLC in the School Sport Victoria (SSV) Basketball, Soccer and Netball Com- petitions. Students competed in the SSV Cross Country Competition, Track and Field, Tennis and Swimming, with PLC progressing through to division and regional levels in all areas. House competitions gave all girls from Years 3 to 6 the opportunity to participate in a variety of sports and compete for the House Sport Cup. Year 5 and 6 students participated in the Inter-School Sport Competitions with many girls taking part in a different sport each term. The Netball Club continued to have a high level of participation with over 70 girls forming 7 separate teams as well as another 50 students getting involved in the ‘Junior Netters’ program for Year 1 and 2 students. The Prep to Year 2 Junior Joggers program gave all girls a chance to improve their cardiovascular fitness and provided a stepping-stone to the Year 3 to 6 Huff’n’Puff running program, which continued to be very popular again this year. It was another great year in sport in the PLC Junior School.

53 2019 Annual Report

Science The Junior School has a well-established and sequential Science program where all levels develop science literacy skills. Our aim is to continue documenting our own PLC Science curriculum by using the Understanding by Design planning approach which has been adopted across all areas of the Junior School. All our staff have continued to work in year level teams to add to the depth and breadth of our program. An engaging event for parents and their daughters was organised that was aimed at raising the profile of our Science program in the Junior School. Our library continued to maintain a quality collection of print resources to compliment the rigorous Science program in the Junior School and stimu- late interest amongst the readers.

Visual Arts displayed imaginative clay pinch pots, weavings and textile sardines inspired The Visual Arts program included by Pablo Picasso. Year 3 students the key areas of drawing, painting, displayed wet felted woollen paint- printing, collage, threads and textiles, ings inspired by Wassily Kandinsky. construction and clay. Visual Arts Year 4 students displayed ceramic promotes creativity, builds self-confi- coil pots and textile pouch bags. Year dence, teaches task analysis and par- 5 students displayed textile butter- ticipation in individual and group work. flies and wet felted flowers, inspired The Art room has become a place to by Mister Finch. Year 6 students imagine and create, living through the displayed prints inspired by Margaret quote by Henri Matisse, “Creativity Preston, rag dolls using the Hapazome takes courage.” technique and ceramic tiles highlight- All Junior School students exhibited an ing the beauty of nature around us. artwork in the bi-annual PLC College This year, visual diaries were intro- Art Exhibition on the theme of Colour, duced for Prep to Year 2 students. in the Wyselaskie Hall in August. The This initiative saw all students from Preparatory students displayed Prep to Year 6 using a visual diary to artworks inspired by the great artists reflect and respond to their own art- such as Edgar Degas and Vincent work as well as analyse and respond van Gogh. Year 1 students displayed to others’ artwork. art books inspired by Ai Wei Wei and Wayne Thiebaud. Year 2 students 54 Annual Report 2019

Upper Primary Middle Primary The Dance Exposure Concert, ‘Dance Class’ was a wonderful way to finish Year 5 and 6 teachers receive great Median, medium, midpoint, halfway the year, with the girls enthusiasti- satisfaction from working at these year and average are all synonyms for cally performing two different styles of levels and are committed to support- ‘middle’, but there was nothing aver- dance, showcasing just how far they ing the students. For the girls, it is a age about our Middle Primary girls have come with their performance time of growth, both academic and and the time we have spent together skills over their years at PLC. personal. The interest they displayed this year! Although the girls are famil- Our Middle Primary motto for the in the activities offered to them, as well iar with the expectations and routines year was ‘Brighter Together’ and this as the care they demonstrated towards of the Junior School by the time they certainly appeared to have been the each other, was admirable. For the reach Middle Primary, it is a time that case! teachers, the opportunity to provide really sees them begin to flourish as stimulating tasks to inspire the girls their independence grows. The Dance Expo, ‘Dancing Through the was both challenging and rewarding. Year’ was a wonderful way to celebrate As always, there were many highlights the girls’ year and the special events Staff continued to reflect on and for the girls during the year. The op- on our calendar. The Year 3 girls par- improve units of work, intentionally portunity to go away on camp was, as ticularly enjoyed October this year, and aiming to equip students with a range always, an exciting milestone for the their overnight stay at Lady Northcote of capabilities. There was an ongo- Middle Primary girls, with the Year 4 Recreational Camp; a real chance to ing process of refining the Writing girls setting off to Queenscliff early show how far they had come through- program, ensuring that there was a in the year to further their knowledge out their Middle Primary year. flow of skill development from Year 5 of marine environments and the Year to Year 6. Mathematics remained a 3 girls getting to spend a night away focus and work was done to improve for the first time at Lady Northcote assessment strategies. Integrated Recreation Camp. Studies and Science lessons provided Excursions to the Immigration Mu- further opportunities for students to seum, Melbourne Sea Life Aquarium, pose questions, research, analyse and the Polly Woodside and the Royal Bo- evaluate, communicate ideas, and tanic Gardens were enjoyed by all, as consider ways to be responsible and were incursions where the Year 4 girls active citizens. went on a Virtual Dive Tour as they By participating in special events participated in an underwater video throughout the year, students at these conference with Reef HQ in Townsville. year levels were able to develop more The Year 3 girls learnt how to make extensive capabilities, for example, beeswax food wraps as part of devel- team work, resilience, self-manage- oping their understanding of Science ment and organisation. Examples of topics solids and liquids, heating and these activities included the Year 5 cooling and recycling. The girls enjoyed short plays in Term 1 and their camp fundraising through the Obstacle to Sovereign Hill in Term 2. For Year Course event and coming together to 6, Leadership Day at the beginning of enjoy Middle Primary Assemblies for the year and the Year 6 Musical, ‘The the first time was a welcome addition Lion King JR’ were just two events that to the program. contributed to the students’ broader experiences. Upper Primary girls continued to lead the school as role models through their participation in Junior School events such as House Athletics, Swimming and House lunches. 55 2019 Annual Report

Junior Primary The early primary years of school are vital for putting into place the foundations of schooling and fostering a love of learning. In 2019, the students in Junior Primary participated in the challenges of a full and rigorous curriculum. They greatly benefited from the diverse specialist programs that enhanced and supported their classroom learning. In addition, the students took part in the whole school personal and social development program which introduced them to important social skills and core values. They learned to work together, show consideration for others and to successfully and resiliently negotiate new and challenging situations. Participation in Junior Primary assemblies allowed the students to focus on establish- ing a growth mindset. Students were encouraged to see that mistakes help them to learn. They learnt that their brains can be stretched and grow. The Junior Primary teaching team encouraged the students to experience and participate in a broad range of activities. They enjoyed Athletics Day, the swimming carnival, French Day, Teddy Bear Day and Book Week activities. The exciting Junior Primary Concert that was held at the end of Term 3 was titled ‘Once Upon a Time’ and took the audience on a journey of The Junior Primary students went on story book adventures. The colour- an exciting learning journey this year. ful performance was enjoyed by the They navigated, explored, discovered whole school community and show- and questioned under the guidance of cased the students’ talents in both their teachers. They were encouraged Drama and Music. to achieve their best in an environ- Excursions to Werribee Zoo, Werribee ment where they felt nurtured, valued Mansion and The National Gallery of and affirmed. Victoria provided valuable learning opportunities for the girls outside the classroom and were eagerly anticipated. The Junior Primary social service event this year was the Peppa Pig Muddy Puddle Walk, which was very successful. The girls learned a great deal about the gift of giving to those less fortunate as they raised funds to help those in need.

56 Annual Report 2019

Social Service Throughout the 2019 year, the Junior School girls and staff raised awareness and funds for a number of charities. Fun activities included a Junior Primary Muddy Puddle Walk to support Save the Children, a Middle Primary Obstacle Course, the annual Footy Colours Day, and Dignity Bags prepared by our older girls. As well as these efforts, the Junior School girls regularly cleaned out their desks and many donated used or unwanted stationery items. With the assistance of TAB (Teachers Across Borders) these have been hand delivered to three main overseas destinations. These were; Porpel School in the rural province of Kampong Thom, Cambodia, New Hope School in Siem Reap, Cambodia and the excess that could not be carried on this trip to Cambodia was sent to Nepal.

57 2019 Annual Report Early Learning Centre

The Early Learning Many ELC families attended the Twi- light Picnic at the very start of the year Centre and enthusiastically embraced being 2019 began with great gusto and part of the larger school community. excitement. Children returning for The theme for the whole school event another year burst through the doors, was ‘Adventure Island’ and every keen to be back amongst their friends. infant, toddler, kindergarten and pre- New children embarking on their very prep child enthusiastically helped to first experience of the ELC quickly prepare for the festivities. The ELC became involved in the many activities children spent many days making their and soon developed enduring friend- own colourful safari hats to wear on ships and relationships with others in the night and enjoyed all the activities their group. on offer. Family involvement continued with many parents attending the The Centre exists to support young Mothers’ Day Morning Teas, Fathers’ children in an environment that Day Breakfasts, Easter Parades and fosters the highest quality programs Family Picnics. in a quest to maximize children’s potential in all areas of development. During the year there have been many Experienced teachers and assistants, highlights and projects that have together with the PLC community, have stimulated the children’s interest. This all been participators in these pro- was particularly evident for our three grams and have been actively involved Pre-Prep classes when they presented in helping children learn how to learn. their annual concert entitled, ‘It’s A Throughout the year, children and Small World’ for their families during teachers shared many special mo- the final week of Term 2. The children ments, some evolved spontaneously of ‘Glengarry’, ‘Balgonie’ and ‘Carnell’ from a comment or individual interest, had been investigating the various other events were planned in advance countries and cultures of the world as part of the extensive early child- and this wonderful event, featuring hood curriculum. Everyone had some- all eighty five Pre-Prep children, was thing to share and something to learn. a culmination of their discoveries and Teachers and children researched and learning. The children’s interest was collaborated together and were always initially ignited when a number of the open to new ideas and thoughts. Pre-Preps spoke about their overseas family holidays and numerous discussions ensued about the different foods, clothes, languages and climate of each country. Another special event was the biennial ELC Art Exhibition held in the middle of August. The creative talents of one hundred and eighty five budding young artists were proudly and professionally displayed in the Betty Caldwell Hall and the gallery atmosphere, comple- mented by the accompaniment of PLC musicians added to the ambience of the evening. This was a fabulous occasion; one that celebrated the unique abilities of pre-school children.

58 Annual Report 2019

Many excursions and visiting perform- Excursions to the Heidi Museum, the ers provided possibilities for first hand Botanic Gardens, Edendale Environ- experiences and hands on learning. mental Farm and Bundoora Children’s The children’s understanding of the Farm were a valuable addition to the world widened to embrace various program and stimulated on-going artistic performances and community interest. roles. Visitors to the Centre included Another highlight was the Pre-Prep’s storytellers, puppeteers, musical Sports Day held on the Junior School troupes, magic acts and a Dog Safety Oval in mid November. Many parents presentation ensured that the children attended this spectacular occasion approached dogs in a responsible and cheered as they watched the manner. The various incursions always children participate in a number of delighted and enthralled the Kinder- special activities. Events included garten and Pre-Prep children. sprints, hurdle races, ball bouncing Even the youngest children were able circuits and bean bag wheel and to experience chickens hatch from weaving relays. eggs in a number of the classrooms Staff believe in the possibilities of all and learn about rabbit rearing when children and ensure that their rights newly born rabbits and the mother to the best education are recognised. rabbit spent a month in the Toddler At the PLC Early Learning Centre the Room toward the end of Term 3. These richness of different cultures and the children were able to closely observe value of each individual child’s contri- the dramatic changes that occur in bution is celebrated. the first few weeks of life and learn first hand about caring for such young We thank all ELC parents and other animals. members of the broader PLC community for joining us on this special journey. Together we have worked to provide the best learning outcomes for each and every child.

59 2019 Annual Report Business and Development

Archive and Old Collegian Janet Simpson (Stainer 1976) shared her recollections of Heritage Centre student life at PLC in the 1960 / 70’s An important aspect of PLC’s heritage at the Old Collegians’ Association Tea was acknowledged in February with and Conversation afternoon. Other the unveiling of the Armistice Cente- Old Collegians shared their stories nary Memorial Plaque by the then Fed- and reminisced about their days as eral Member for Chisholm, Julia Banks students, both at Burwood and in at MP. This plaque commemorates the East Melbourne. role Hethersett played as a Voluntary The annual PLC OCA Scholarship Military Hospital for soldiers suffer- Luncheon was once again held in the ing from psychiatric illnesses on their Heritage Centre providing a wonderful return from World War 1. An extensive opportunity for scholarship holders exhibition highlighting many aspects of to meet with loyal supporters of the the Voluntary Military Hospital was on program. display in the Heritage Centre. PLC’s Each term, PLC’s Magpie Literature Hethersett House was also one of the Club continued their lively lunchtime destinations for the City of White- discussions of novels such as Jane horse’s Heritage Week ‘Pills, Ills and Eyre in the Heritage Centre. Hospitals’ bus tour. Year One students visited the PLC The Heritage Centre continued to Heritage Centre during Term 4 to play an important role in familiarising learn more about artefacts and what various classes with the rich history they can tell us about the lives of PLC of the College as well as hosting Old students in the past. The girls were Collegians and other visitors. able to compare their daily lives with At the Henry Handel Richardson An- children in the past and discover how nual Oration, held at PLC in March, different their schooling is today. They Professor Stefan Welz, from Leipzig were also able to see that some things University, spoke on ‘Cultural Knowl- have remained the same therefore edge and Ethnic Tolerance in the Writ- helping to maintain the rich history of ings of Henry Handel Richardson’. the school.

60 Annual Report 2019

Business Office In addition, a new “Mollison Care” area has been created for the Junior School During 2019 the highlight was the before and after school care program. completion of the new Year 12 area, These spaces are much larger and which was ready for the 2020 school include access to a toilet block. PLC year. This includes new classrooms, was pleased to announce that after a staff offices, seminar rooms and a comprehensive tender process, Extend bespoke Year 12 common area. The was awarded the contract to run these College added a mezzanine level programs from 2020. incorporating staff offices, meeting In late 2019 the majority of the Col- rooms and breakout spaces, which will lege’s solar panels were installed, improve the amount of natural light. and they were energised in December Members of the PLC Foundation were 2019. On some days the College invited to an exclusive event prior to generates enough electricity to export the official opening. excess power to the grid. This is part 1. The remainder of the Year 11 class- of an overall plan to see the College rooms were completed in the Senior transition to source the majority of its School, and the balcony between power from renewable energy. Year 11 and Year 12 was enclosed to The College’s Master Plan was create a link between these two areas updated as part of the College’s for senior students. The Year 11 and Strategic Plan, and architects were 12 coordinators, and the IB and VCE appointed to assist the College coordinators all have their offices in with the design of new sporting and these spaces to provide access to aquatic facilities, and an expanded them for our girls. Early Learning Centre. Four “pods” were installed in Term 2. The Business Office continues to 1 outside the ceramics classrooms work with other departments includ- to provide additional capacity. These ing Admissions and IT in order to were fitted out in the same finishes improve the platforms underpinning as other renovated PLC classrooms, the College business processes and including the “Vivi” product which procedures. enables staff and students to project their screen wirelessly to the data projector. Further refurbishments were undertaken in Mollison house, where the space formerly occupied by the De- velopment Office was converted into 3. the Junior School “Exploratorium”. This is a dedicated area for Science Photos: and Technology, and a specialist 1. Ali Richards and Elisheba Jeyasingham, teacher has been employed to deliver Archive Students (Year 11) Volunteers this curriculum. working with Mrs Dyer in the PLC Archive 2. Meredith Lyons (1968), Old Collegian Archive Volunteer assisting Audrey Chong, Archive Student (Year 11) Volunteer 3. Alex Owen (2018), Archive Assistant, working with Audrey Chong, Archive Student Year 11) Volunteer and Aileen Stooke (1943) Archive Old Collegian Volunteer

61 2019 Annual Report

Development Office The PLC Family once again gave generously both financially and of its time to the many PLC parent and community events and activities in 2019. Across the parent and Old Collegian groups there have been increased levels of activity and financial support. This reflects the involvement of so many wonderfully passionate and supportive individuals and thank them for their incredible support. The Heritage Centre and Archive attracted great interest not only from Old Collegians but also from researchers, writers, family historians as well as students and staff within the College. The changing exhibitions highlighted the various aspects of the College’s history and the outstanding achievements of past students in all walks of life. The Development Office organised many major events and activities at the College including the launch of the College’s 100% Renewable program, the Twilight Picnic and community dinners. The Development Office was also planning for the College’s 145th Anniversary celebrations in 2020.

62 Annual Report 2019 Parents and Support Groups

Boarders’ Parents’ productions and collecting them safely after hours from sporting and other Association commitments. The Boarders’ Parents’ Association Thanks also went to Mrs Clements, (BPA) provides an opportunity for pa- Mrs Williams, Mr Roberts-Thomson and rental involvement within the Boarding the School Council for their support in House. The Annual General Meeting ensuring the ongoing improvement of in January brought together both re- the Boarding House facilities. turning and new families, and all were warmly welcomed. Each family shared their individual story which led them to Foundation choose PLC for their daughter. The PLC Foundation enjoyed another outstanding year with strong increases The annual Twilight Picnic, which is the across all of its areas of operations. The sole fundraiser for the year, was again year saw a big increase in donations a great success. Thanks to parent which will support the Foundation’s goal donations, the sale of baked goods of raising funds for the College’s next and hundreds of hot dogs, a healthy major building project. Whilst this new profit was made. project is yet to be officially confirmed it The BPA hold informal meetings once is anticipated that it will be a new per term to discuss and decide the Sports and Aquatic complex. best way to spend the funds raised In June the Foundation held its an- at the picnic. Disbursements in 2019 nual breakfast, presentation and tour included: a surprise ice cream truck, of the National Gallery of Victoria’s visits from Delta Therapy Dogs and Winter Masterpiece series. This year’s ‘keep cups’ - emblazoned with the PLC event was a joint exhibition of China’s Crest - as gifts for the departing Year Terracotta Warriors and the artist Cai 12 Boarders. Guo-Qiang. A record group of Mem- The BPA were grateful to the Heads bers attended the 10th anniversary of of Boarding, Mr and Mrs Manderson this unique breakfast series. and the Boarding House staff who Membership of the group continued to continually worked to ensure the girls grow substantially in 2019 with the had access to experiences within and Foundation welcoming thirty-five new outside of the Boarding House. Shop- members to the group. This included ping trips, restaurant meals, movie the newest category of member, Grad- and pizza, Luna Park, ice skating and uate Members. This strong growth hot spring excursions are just some continues the trend that saw a record examples, as well as transporting the for new memberships in 2018. girls to school socials, formals and 63 2019 Annual Report

Friends of Junior Friends of the Music Hethersett Group School School The Hethersett Group consists of an active group of volunteer parents of The Friends of Junior School (FJS) The Friends of the Music School the Senior School helping to support represents all the parents in Junior played an important role in supporting the School in a number of ways. The School. Its main aim is to engage and girls who are learning music at PLC Committee Members meet monthly connect parents across all levels of Music School through the provision to discuss their activities, and plan junior school, creating a warm and in- of music scholarships, and donation ahead for the year. Goals for the group clusive school community. The flagship towards the purchase of music instru- are to foster connections and friend- events of FJS remained our extremely ments or equipment. ships between families, to actively popular Mothers’ and Fathers’ Day 2019 was a very special year for support the School in celebrating dif- Breakfasts in Betty Caldwell Hall, some of the Friends of the Music ferent events in the calendar, as well attended by more than 300 guests School Committee members and as to support the fundraising efforts each. We also ran bake stalls before volunteers. Their girls will be known at the School. and after the Easter and Nativ- as the Class of 2019. Very special ity Services and the Junior School For the 2019 year, the Group started indeed. It is equally special for the Concert. Thanks to the generosity of the school year by participation at the Friends of the Music School to see our talented parents’ bakers in Junior New Girls Welcome function. This was that their consistent and unwavering School, we plan to run more bake followed up with the Twilight Picnic. efforts to help in organising the many sales in 2020; before the Caldwell The Group also helped to manage the fund raising events, the likes of Cham- and Winter Melodies concerts. Other volunteer register for all the school ber Music High Tea in March, and the events included sausage stalls for activities requiring parent volunteers. Grand Concert in May, has enabled our daughters during House Athletics, Another activity that the Group partici- the Friends of the Music School to Swimming Carnival and Teddy Bear pated in during Term 1 was catering donate a significant amount towards Picnic. During those events, we ran a for the Senior School Athletics Day. the purchase of various pianos for PLC bake stall and a hot and cold bever- This was also an opportunity for par- Junior School. age stand for attending parents. ents to get to know each other while The Friends of the Music School con- helping with the activities of the day. FJS is a volunteering group. The funds tinued to be steadfast in ensuring that raised through the bake stalls and In Term 2, the Hethersett Group par- the Group will continue to be financially raffle tickets at the parents` breakfasts ticipated in the Harmony Day celebra- sustainable whilst maintaining its abil- is donated to the school. The revenue tions by cooking a variety of dishes. ity to making a difference in the musi- is used in school projects that will ben- Members were present to make noo- cal lives of PLC girls both in the Junior efit all our daughters. Previous projects dles, sausages and sell baked goods. School and the Senior School. This included the giant blue foam blocks The profits were donated toward the vision is achievable with the help from in the sports pavilion, the undulating Neno Girls School in Malawi, with a parents of PLC girls from both the Ju- seats and table next to the playground donation of $1000 made this year. nior and Senior Schools, in playing their and the reading corner in the library. The Senior School Mothers’ Day Morn- roles as Friends of the Music School Parents volunteering as organisers ing Tea was also organised in Term 2, volunteers, Committee Members, or work in harmony with the staff and and the event was well attended and attendees to the various fundraising teachers of the school to bring as many supported. activities that accompany the various networking opportunities as possible to music events organised by PLC Music As the Group had done previously, all parents. We encourage everybody School. Supporting the Friends of the they supported the Scotch / PLC play to join us to help create a diverse and Music School, in turn supported PLC by providing dinner during the two nurturing school environment for our girls in their music journey. rehearsal nights in Term 3. This was daughters to grow in. followed by the organisation of the Senior School Fathers’ Day Breakfast, with an invited speaker. The event was well attended by fathers with their daughters from the Senior School.

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The Hethersett Group held its AGM continued her hard work over many PLC Family in late October, and new committee years as the Minute Secretary. The members were welcomed. The Year Committee comprising Pat Ritter OAM, Christian Fellowship 12 parent volunteers and retiring com- Annie Maurer, Gay Knox, Mary Reid There have been two successful Fam- mittee were also warmly farewelled. and Peter Ross were re-elected to the ily Christian Fellowship evenings this The Annual Hethersett Christmas Committee. year leading up to the retirement of Luncheon was held on 15 November In July, a wide range of people from Rev Charles Green as Chaplain, PLC and our guest speaker for this year different parts of the PLC family Melbourne at the end of Term 2. was Penelope Loorham, the head viewed the inaugural show of the Lyon designer of Perri Cutten Fashion. As The first meeting on Friday 29 March House Museum Galleries in Kew. usual, the event was well attended by featured three Junior School staff, Mrs parents and special guests from the The annual September Luncheon had Carole Blanch, Mrs Debbie Juchno Early Learning Centre, Junior School a very interesting speaker, Morag and Mrs Cheryl Penberthy who all and Senior School. North who had worked at PLC, firstly shared aspects of their faith journeys. in the PE Department and later in the It was an enjoyable evening which was The last event the Group was involved College administration. She spoke so well attended. in was the Year 7 Orientation Day Bar- entertainingly about her many adven- becue for new students coming to the The second meeting which was held tures while living in seven countries Senior School in the year 2020. on Friday 31 May was a farewell to and eleven cities. Rev and Mrs Charles Green where Overall, this was a successful year The final event for 2019 was a tour of they both spoke on the topic, ‘Walking in our participation and contribution the Balenciaga Fashion Exhibition in Together’. It was a catered function, toward PLC. This could only happen Bendigo. All events involved refresh- where many people turned up to hear with the generous support by the PLC ments together, when members hap- the Green’s tell their story and was a families and community. pily caught up on news of the College lovely evening! and each other. The Greens would like to express their Lampas The Committee has more special appreciation to members of the school The Lampas Society has established events planned for next year and en- community who have faithfully sup- itself as a very welcoming member of courages all members of the College ported the PLC Christian Fellowship the PLC family and it provides regular community to join Lampas members evenings over the years. opportunities for making new friends, at any of their low-cost, and enjoyable or renewing old friendships at varied, activities. stimulating and affordable events. It organises a wide range of interesting activities allowing past members of staff, parents and students to maintain contact with each other and the College. The 2019 Lampas AGM was held in May and the guest speaker was Old Collegian Dr Kate Sheludko (1992), a country veterinarian. Kate spoke about her inspiring experience as one of 80 women in science from around the world to participate in the Home- ward Bound 2018 voyage to Antartica. Christine Bradbeer was re-elected President, Lyndl Rech continues as Vice President, and Elaine Fasken

65 2019 Annual Report

PLC Prayer Group The Prayer Group continued to give thanks to God for the many people who are committed to praying for PLC and for answered prayer. Three parent prayer groups continued to meet across a fortnight to pray for the needs of the school and its community. Each fortnight a prayer newsletter is sent out to the group. The group includes L to R: Vice-President Dr Chrissy Muttiah (2005) welcomes PLC Women Honorary Chair Fiona people from all sections of the school Krautil (1973) and speakers Dr Tanya Josev (1999) Melb Uni, Georgia Moodie (2005) ABC RN, community including former staff, Old Fiona McKenzie (1979) Barrister/Superpod Homes with President Ailsa Wilson (1978). Collegians and Council members. In 2019, the members of the Prayer Two Old Collegians received Queens Group enjoyed gathering together at PLC Old Collegians’ Birthday Day Honours in 2019 the quarterly Christian Fellowship Association Evenings, now known as Connect. A • Dr Ros McMillan (1959) AM - special Christian Fellowship Evening This year the PLC Old Collegians’ As- For significant service to music was held in Term 2 to farewell PLC’s sociation (PLC OCA) continued to run education in Victoria. chaplain, Rev Charles Green and PLC Women Events to gather together • Prof Georgia Paxton (1989) his wife, Mrs. Anne Green, for their Old Collegians of all ages, to share OAM - For significant services to nineteen years of service to the school their common interests and encour- Community Health and refugees. and for their support and contribu- age each other as they move through tion to the Prayer Group. Members of different stages of their lives. PLC In 2019 PLC OCA has conferred honor- the Prayer Group also attended the Women Panels included speakers who ary life membership of the PLC Old Investiture for the newly appointed were working on diverse projects to Collegians’ Association to: Director of Christian Ministry, Rev Nick make the world a better place. • Rev Charles Green as he retires, in recognition of his nineteen Curtis. At the most recent Connect Topics were planned that are relevant years of distinguished service as evening, Frida Umuhoza, survivor of to all women, at all stages of their life, Chaplain of PLC. the Rwandan genocide, shared her such as “Women’s Health and Wellbe- story of hope and forgiveness. ing” and women in sport, including • Mrs Pat Ritter OAM in recognition The members have enjoyed helping celebrating AFL Women’s. It’s clear of her twenty years (1973-1993) out with special events hosted by that Old Collegians enjoyed meeting of distinguished service at PLC the Christian Union (CU), including other women with common shared teaching German, culminating as the sausage sizzles at the 2019 CU experiences, skills, expertise and PLC Head of German. Launch and during the Picnic in the values as well as their own year level. PLC OCA continued to run the Plaza on EXO days. A number of mem- They are a tremendous resource to the traditional events where Old Colle- bers also attended the annual Prayer whole school and are excited to also gians gather for a meal to share PLC Day For Schools in September. come back to PLC career events and memories, photos and friendship. The see our reinvigorated campus. The Group has seen many answered Committee was very active in 2019. prayers and continued to pray for the Two Old Collegians received Australia Formed in 1903, PLC OCA is one of needs of the school and its community. Day Honours in 2019 the oldest alumni associations in Australia, with members all over the • Deborah Beale (1982) AM - For world. Now that Committee members significant service to the business are from five decades of Old Colle- and public sectors and the gians from 1955 to 2004, we are well community of Victoria. placed to organise events for all age • Gwennyth Baker (Heaney 1959) groups and interests. OAM - For significant service to community health by forging strong community relations.

66 Annual Report 2019

The 115th Annual General Meeting in PLC OCA King River Café at Oxley ably catered May elected as: for the June lunch at Judy Phillips President, Ailsa Wilson (Watson Mornington lovely home in Milawa. Once again, 1978), Vice-President, Dr Chrissy Peninsula we were delighted to have Principal Muttiah (2005), Vice-President, Dawn Clements join us for the occa- Denise Poon (1978) Coordinator of With over ninety former Collegians sion. Dawn gave us a run down on Scholarship and Birthday League, on our database, with school leav- activities and events at the school and Lauris Murnane (1955); Secretary, ing years ranging from the 1940s to expressed her enjoyment at meeting Irene Cheung (2000); Retiring Trea- the 1980s, the Mornington Penin- with Old Collegians when she has a surer, Naomi Wijayasinghe (Rajeswar- sula Friendship Group is thriving. The chance. lunches at the Mornington Golf Club en 2004), supported by four other It was a pleasure to welcome mem- were well attended by a wide variety of Committee members. Sub-committees bers from around the North East and ages and considered most enjoyable include the following: Investment, some of the ‘regulars’ from Melbourne by all. It was great fun to catch up PLC OCA ‘Women Out There Fellow- who attended our lunches and we with friends maybe not seen for years. ship’ (WOTF), Mentoring, Governance, enjoyed hearing news of activities and At the July Winter lunch, the group Events and Catering, PLC Cares and events at the school, as well as prog- thanked Margaret Hindson (1951) for Scholarship Interview. ress of Helen Hailes recipients. her many years of leadership, so ably Old Collegians competed in matches supported by Alison Jones (1954). against current senior students in ten- Pam Booth (1959) and Jan Kirchner PLC OCA Sydney nis and hockey. The new OCA netball (1963) have now taken on these roles, We have accepted the fact that we team has inspired so many that they including the tasks of sending out are now a small group. The regular now field two teams named Melba invitations and organising the lunches. attendees enjoyed the gatherings and and Goldstein in the WDNA Competi- They are currently working on expand- are keen to keep active even if our tion. The annual golf day was held at ing and completing the database. the Royal Melbourne Golf Club, and numbers are only between five and PLC OCA golfers also competed in the Prospective new members, who either eight. The friendship and the chatter 90th Annual Women’s Inter-School live or holiday on the Peninsula, and of PLC in the past is wonderful. are not at present receiving commu- Golf Challenge Cup, for Old Collegians At the Christmas gathering, in Pymble nications concerning the lunches, are of thirty independent schools. PLC Ladies College’s beautiful Heritage warmly invited to contact the group OCA sent delegates to the Combined Centre we welcomed the past head via Jan’s email lemonjam.lj@gmail. Old Girls’ Association and also to the mistress of PLC Melbourne, Elaine com. The Christmas lunch was held on National Council of Women Victoria. Collin. Elaine now resides in Sydney Wednesday 27 November. Once again, and is happy to join our group when- PLC OCA welcomed our newest Old the group was very grateful to Jacky ever possible. Julie Schroeder, the Ex- Collegians by presenting PLC OCA key Wright and Julie Schroeder for all their ecutive Officer, Community Relations rings and a brochure on PLC OCA at assistance over the past years. their Leavers’ Assembly and donating Melbourne PLC, enjoyed our lunch towards the costs of the ‘Tree of Life’ also. She gave the group an update pendants presented to the Year 12 PLC OCA North East as to the activities in Melbourne. We had a delicious lunch at the same students at their Graduation Din- The three lunches we hold were well time as discussing the future of our ner Dance. PLC OCA also funded the attended over the past year and small group. We decided to change prizes for the Joan Montgomery Award members thoroughly enjoy getting the dates of the two lunches in 2019. for Public Speaking. Thirteen Year together regularly. Level reunions were held during the We will continue with the coffee We enjoyed a visit to Chiltern in year, including the One Year Reunion mornings as those present would like October, having lunch at Hub 62, after Cocktail Party for ninety girls and the us to do so. which some members appreciated an 60 Years’ On Reunion Lunch. During the past year, we enjoyed five interesting conducted tour of the origi- coffee mornings at various cafes in nal home of Henry Handel Richardson. the area of Sydney where most of our In March we met in Shepparton at the members reside, that is the North Uniting Church Narthex where a deli- Shore. We have between three and cious cold lunch was catered for and eight members joining us for these served by their Ladies’ Committee. It was good to see some new faces joining us. 67 2019 Annual Report

happy, casual, chatty gatherings PLC OCA United Senior School where we enjoy catching up with other Old Collegians. One of more senior Kingdom Parents’ members, Norma Smith (Digby), The PLC OCA UK Branch met up in Association school leaver of 1942, was very happy August at the home of Lorraine Leung The Senior School Parents’ Associa- to host two of these mornings in her in SW London. There was a group tion (SSPA) aims to promote co-opera- house. This is perhaps something we of eight of us with a great spread of tion between parents and the College, will continue if it means a less mobile school years, and we had a lovely and provides the means to discuss member is able to enjoy the company afternoon sitting on Lorraine’s decking relevant issues affecting both parents of old collegians. and talking of school days, London and students. In addition to this, SSPA We now have about twenty members living, careers and families. is also involved in fund raising to ben- who attend our functions, although The next catch up will be in the New efit the College in general. there are about forty on the list. We Year. Please reach out if you are in the SSPA provided 2019 Twilight Picnic feel positive about the fact that many UK and fancy a catch up with some patrons with a café quality coffee and reply but with their apology, hoping school ladies, our contact details are baked treats. These sales assisted that one day our group will expand. [email protected] Some on the list are now elderly and SSPA fund raising. Throughout this unable to attend; others have busy year SSPA members assisted with lives with young families or are full welcoming parents with refreshments time workers. We are optimistic, as at numerous information evenings, we feel sure that there must be many special events, at camp returns and more Old Collegians living in Sydney providing girls with pizza and sushi who don’t know about us but will one at house concerts. A Vision Portraits day join the group. family photo day was held in Term 2 which was extremely popular with parents and students alike. Financial profits were invested in farewelling Year 12 girls with an em- bossed Bible. The Senior School Parents’ Associa- tion continues to contribute to the Group B selection committee for the School Council. The Senior School Parents’ Associa- Coffee Morning at Norma Smith’s home. tion Committee continues to grow and Left to right: Sandy Dudgeon (Cay 1956), warmly welcomes new members. Margaret Loader (Keast 1955), Julie Phillips (Rank 1961), Prue Brinsmead (Kent 1961), Norma Smith (Digby 1942), Fran Miller (Alchin 1970), Patricia Ellis (Stephen 1961)

68 Annual Report 2019 Student Achievements

-Student Results to November 2019 – Academic

Year 12 Results 2018 Students of the 2018 cohort ex- Of the 161 students who completed ceeded all expectations and the both the VCE and IB in 2018: results are testimony to both capacity 13.0 % and coordination. We achieved an of the year group achieved an ATAR unprecedented eight perfect scores in above 99.5, placing them in the top the IB (45) which translates to eight x 0.5% in Australia 99.95 ATARs. We therefore had eight IB Duces (which is a PLC record) and 19.9 % two VCE Duces who achieved 99.90. achieved an ATAR of 99 or above Our girls have been celebrated on 30.4 % the television News and through our achieved an ATAR of 98 or above social media outlets. This is extraor- 52.8 % dinary news and puts PLC as possibly achieved an ATAR of 95 or above the top school for IB in Australasia and one of the top schools for VCE 75.2 % equivalents in Australia. achieved an ATAR of 90 or above The staff and students have been 90.1 % overjoyed at the good news and we achieved an ATAR of 80 or above congratulate our girls for their hard The median ATAR was 95.75 of the work and perseverance. combined VCE and IB ATARs

69 2019 Annual Report

McFarland Scholars University Offers for the The 2018 McFarland Scholars were Class of 2018 IB Students Negar Bahadori, Tara Please find below a summary the first Bazargan, Sai Campbell, Dora Du, round of VTAC offers to the Class of Carrie Fei, Amy Leembruggen, 2018: (School Captain) Egynne Lim and Jessica Xia, with perfect scores of 45 • Of the 161 students who applied and ATARs of 99.95; and VCE students for courses, all received VTAC Lily McCann and Malika Aggarwal offers; with ATARs of 99.90. • Five students received offers for Medicine at Monash; University of Melbourne • One student received an offer for Kwong Lee Dow Young Dentistry at La Trobe, Bendigo; Scholars Program • Seventy-one students received Britney Pham (Year 11) was accepted offers from the University of into the University of Melbourne’s Melbourne; Kwong Lee Dow Young Scholars • Sixty-two students received offers Program for 2019. from Monash University; • One student has accepted an offer in a Diploma of Tertiary Studies – Business at Monash, Peninsula as The tertiary destinations of the Class of 2018 were as follows: a pathway to a degree course; • One student has accepted an offer in a Digital Media Diploma at RMIT as a pathway to a degree course; • A number of students have received offers from overseas and / or interstate institutions for a range of courses; and • One student received an offer from Cambridge University to study English Literature.

70 Annual Report 2019

European Girls’ Australian Individual The Top-All Round VCE High Achievers award is awarded to students who Mathematical Olympiad Debating and have achieved study scores of 46 or (EGMO) Public Speaking higher in at least five VCE studies in Evgeniya Artemova (Year 12) was Championship (AIDPSC) the most recent academic year and the previous years. selected to take part in Australia’s Judy Ma (Year 10) competed in the (EGMO) team to represent Australia AIDPSC held at Haileybury College State Latin Reading at the eighth annual EGMO competi- from 23 to 25 September. The Cham- tion which was due to be held in Kyiv pionship targets tomorrow’s leaders Competition in the Ukraine. in a five day event which requires On Thursday 15 August, twelve girls The inaugural EGMO was held at students to interact and collaborate from PLC competed in the State Latin Murray Edwards College in Cambridge with like-minded peers from diverse Reading Competition held at Fintona in the UK in April 2012, after they and different schools, cultural back- Girls’ School. The following four girls had approached the United Kingdom grounds and countries. Each partici- received a place: Mathematics Trust with an offer to do pant must compete in four different Prisha Mungi (Year 8) second place; something to support mathematics events: Debate, Impromptu Speaking, Vaishnavi Muddam (Year 10) first enrichment for girls. The first public Persuasive or After Dinner Speaking place; Kavi Wilson-Rajaratnam (Year announcement and official launch of and Interpretive Reading. 11) second place and Mandy Yang EGMO was made on 8 March 2011, Each competitor progresses through (Year 12) finished in equal second the 100th anniversary of International two rounds of competition, then place. Mandy has finished in first Women’s day. Since then, the compe- high-scoring speakers in each event place every year since Year 8. tition has been held in Luxembourg, proceed to the final round which will Turkey, Zurich and Florence (it was not determine the winner in each event. The Australian held in 2015 or 2016). Scores determine the overall ranking Geography Competition The Somerset National of individual competitors. This overall The Australian Geography Competition ranking is used to select the Austra- is a contest for Australian secondary Novella Writing lian contingent who will represent school students, assessing their geo- Competition their country and their school at the graphical knowledge and skills and is International WIDPSC each year. Angelina Goh (Year 11) and Sarah based upon the Australian Curriculum. Lam (Year 9) were Shortlisted Win- Judy finished in the top ten and was Each year, over 70,000 students enter ners in the 2019 Somerset National therefore selected to represent Aus- the competition from around Australia. Novella Writing Competition. They tralia in the World Individual Debating At PLC, all students across Years 7 were two of only five winners chosen and Public Speaking Championship to to 10, as well as Senior Geography from Victoria, South Australia and be held in Shanghai in 2020. students, complete the competition Tasmania. The competition involved held in Term 1. writing a novella of between 8,000 Premier’s VCE Awards and 20,000 words. This is the second The 2018 Premier’s VCE Awards In 2019 PLC won the award as the year that Angelina has been a short- were held on Monday 3 June at the top performing school in Victoria. listed winner. Melbourne Convention and Exhibition This means that across all schools Centre. The following Class of 2018 in the State, PLC ranked the highest Victorian State Year 12 students were recognised: across all Year levels from Year 7 Debating Team to Year 12 when compared to other Lillian McCann was recognised for Top schools in Victoria. The award came Judy Ma (Year 10) was selected to All-Round VCE High Achiever as well with a certificate and book voucher to join the Victorian State Debating Team as receiving an Award for English and the staff in the Geography Depart- to represent Victoria in the National Australian History; Brittany Spencer ment, and High Distinction Awards for Schools Debating Competition taking received an Award for Studio Arts; our students. place in May, in Darwin. Tamzin Hall received an Award for Fur- ther Mathematics; and 2018 Year 11 student Tania Sun received an Award for Chinese Second Language.

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Japanese Language La Trobe University Science Talent Search Speech Contest Victoria Young Writers’ Awards Awards Kerry Zheng (Year 11) finished in Year 10 students Dinali Fernando and PLC once again won the Science third place in the High School Senior Alicia Savy were top 10 finalists in Talent Search Peter Craig Award for Division of the Japanese Language the La Trobe University Young Writers’ the greatest number of entries over a Speech Contest Victoria, held on Sun- Awards. The competition is open to broad range of categories. The com- day 8 September held at the Yasuko Year 10 students in Victoria to enter petition is an annual, science based Hiraoka Hall, Sidney Myer Asia Centre, an original creative writing piece on competition open to all primary and The University of Melbourne. a set theme. The 2019 theme was secondary students in Victoria. ‘Lost Property’. Over one hundred PLC Year 9 students were awarded: Queen’s entries were received, and Dinali and seven major bursaries (8 students), Alicia attended the Young Writers’ Commonwealth Essay thirteen minor bursaries, twelve Awards Night on 29 October, where Competition distinctions, and seven merits. The the top three Awards were announced. twenty-one bursary winners attended Katrina Luu (Year 8) received a Gold Dinali Fernando was awarded equal the presentation day at LaTrobe Award in the Queen’s Commonwealth third place. The Judges said “This University on Monday 28 October to Essay Competition, which places essay beautifully captures the chal- receive their awards. her in the top twenty-four students lenges and opportunities of recent in the Pacific Region. The Queen’s migration; the intercultural and Commonwealth Essay Competition inter-generational landscapes to be is the world’s oldest schools writing navigated as the individual defines competition, established in 1883 and their own uniqueness. The writer students were invited to write on topi- displays a maturity beyond their years cal and future-facing Commonwealth in this superbly written, thoughtful and themes linked to democracy, diversity structured essay. I would expect that and development. their “lost property” will be successfully re-claimed. Well done, this is an exceptional contribution”. Red Room Poetry Object Website Sophia Li (Year 7), Katrina Luu (Year 8), Sarah Akhtar (Year 8) and Simran Khera, (Year 10) all had poems pub- lished on the Red Room Poetry Object website. Red Room Poetry’s vision is to make poetry in meaningful ways by inviting young writers from Years 3 to 10 to create poems inspired by trea- sured, curious or talismanic objects.

72 Annual Report 2019

Student Results to November 2019 – Sport

GSV Preliminary Swim GSV Cross Country and Dive Carnival The GSV Cross Country program saw On Friday 1 March the PLC GSV Swim sixty students participate in the GSV and Dive teams competed in the Preliminary Cross Country Carnival GSV Preliminary Carnival held at the held at Yarra Bend Park, Fairfield on Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre Tuesday 21 May. in Albert Park. The Swim team were In the Junior division, PLC were placed placed third, qualifying them for the fourth, in the Intermediate division PLC Division 1 Championship Carnival placed third and in the Senior division which was held on Tuesday 19 March, we placed seventh, giving an overall and the Dive team was placed fourth placement of fifth which has qualified qualifying them for the Division 2 us to compete in Division 2 at the Championship Carnival which was GSV Championship Carnival being held on Wednesday 20 March. held at Bundoora Park on Friday 31 Following these events, the GSV Dive May. Individual results saw Felicity Team came second – losing by just Wei (Year 7) and Lizzie Browne (Year two points, and the GSV Swim Team 10) each finish seventh overall in their placed eighth overall from all twenty- divisions from over 150 competitors in four teams. each event. On Friday 31 May at the Division 2 State Swimming GSV Championship Cross Country Championships event, the Intermediate Team, (Years Hannah Yao (Year 11) competed 9 and 10) won, and the Junior Team in the State Swimming Champion- (Years 7 and 8) placed third. Overall ships held in Tasmania over the long PLC placed third in this Division 2 weekend in March. She competed in carnival, or eleventh overall from eighteen races over the four days, get- twenty-four schools. ting into the finals in all events. She won a gold in each of the 100 metre freestyle and 200 metre freestyle in the 16 – 18 year old age group; and two silver medals in the same events but in the open group. She was placed either fourth or fifth in her other events which included the 50 metre freestyle, 50 metre butterfly, 100 metre backstroke, and the 200 metre backstroke in either the 16 – 18 year old age group or open group, or both.

73 2019 Annual Report

Student Results to November 2019 – Performing Arts

The Youth Lyrebird Pipes and Drums Youth Lyrebird Awards Awards 2018 On Saturday 1 June, PLC hosted 2019 The 2018 Lyrebird Youth Award the Victorian Pipers’ Association Established in 1992, the Youth Ceremony which was held on Sunday Solo Piping Competition in the Doris Lyrebird Awards celebrate excellence 9 December at Karralyka Theatre in Daniel Theatre and in the surround- and encourage participation within Ringwood, where PLC were asked to ing classrooms. Emma Radmanic non-professional performing arts submit a scene to be performed at the (Year 12) and Tingting Han (Year 10) associations, believing that it is most Ceremony. both placed third in their respective important to encourage youth to par- elements. ticipate in the arts, as the benefits are Established in 1992, the Youth extensive. For the recent collabora- Lyrebird Awards celebrate excellence On Saturday June 8 a number of the tive production between Presbyterian and encourage participation within PLC Drum students entered the Solo Ladies’ College and Scotch College of non professional performing arts Drumming Contest held at Haileybury Jane Eyre, the following nominations associations, believing that it is most College. Madeleine Octavianus (Year for theatrical excellence have been important to encourage youth to par- 9) was awarded second place in the made: ticipate in the arts, as the benefits are Hornpipe / Jig section, and fourth extensive. For the 2018 collabora- place in the March, Strathspey and • Year 10 students Lucy tive production between Presbyterian Reel event. She was awarded third Mariadason and Grace Lu – Best Ladies’ College and Scotch College place for the overall aggregate. For Cameo – Youth Production Play the first time, Year 8 girls Methuli Gal- of The Little Mermaid, the following • Annabel Thorn (Year 11) and hindarachchi and Nudara Liyanage nominations for theatrical excellence Piper Knight (Year 12) – Best performed at an official competition, were made: Actress – Youth Production Play with Nudara gaining a third place in • Year 7 student Rachel Kipnis – the 6/8 March and Methuli coming • Fletcher Paterson, Julian Best Supporting Actress - Youth a close fourth in the Novice Snare Schnider – Best Actor - Youth Musical section. Production Play • Will Thomas – Best Actor - Youth • Shane Xu and Will Upjohn – Musical Best Supporting Actor – Youth • Oscar Ng – Best Cameo Production Play Performance – Youth Musical • Michael Donaghue- Evans – • Ben Hudson (Staff) – Best Highly Commended Performance Director – Youth Production Youth Production Play Christine Walker (Year 12 in 2019) • Cath Garrett (Staff) – Best won the Rising Star Technical Scholar- Director – Youth Production Play ship. PLC staff nominated Christine In addition, the Production has been for this award due to her high level of nominated for Best Sound Design, technical skill with specifically sound Best Costume, Best Direction, Best production. Christine will participate Lighting Design, and the overall in a number of sessions with the production has been nominated for its professional technical crew at the Kar- creative and evocative use of student- ralyka Theatre during 2019. composed music to enhance the production of Jane Eyre, composed by Vaishnavi Muddam (Year 10) and Madeleine Octavianus (Year 9).

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Student Results to November 2019 – Other National Schools Chess ACT International Judo Model United Nations Finals Over the weekend of 16 and 17 Assembly During the first week of Decem- February, Charlotte Jones (Year 9) On Tuesday 30 July, Year 10 girls ber, PLC’s Chess team travelled to competed in the ACT International Vaishnavi Muddam and Himaya Adelaide to represent Victoria at Judo Open Championships in the Un- Fernando participated in the Model the National Schools Chess Finals. der 18 and the Under 21 categories, United Nations Assembly. Their atten- Competing were: Rachel Woon and winning both competitions. Addition- dance was made possible by sponsor- Cassandra Lim (Year 9 in 2018), Jody ally, Charlotte competed in the Senior ship from the Box Hill Rotary Club. Middleton and Jaimee Renshaw (Year Women’s event, coming in third place. 10 in 2018) and Clarice Woon (Year Charlotte will take part in a training Australian Defence 11 in 2018). PLC won the Secondary camp at the Australian Institute of Force Academy (ADFA) Sport, followed by another competi- School Girls Chess competition for the Education Award third year in a row. tion being held in Sydney. Year 12 student Margaret Camp- Following is an extract from a Report Schoolaerobics bell was selected to receive the that appeared in a Chess Publication: Competitions Australian Defence Force Academy The PLC girls competed against other Five teams of PLC girls competed on Education Award. The ADFA Educa- secondary state champions from Sunday 28 April at the Schoolaerobics tion Award is presented annually to across the nation. After two gruelling Regional competition held in Don- Year 12 students in recognition of days, PLC emerged victorious with a caster with all teams qualifying for the leadership potential, and academic perfect score - 20 out of 20 games State finals, which were held in Gee- and sporting achievements exhibited - winning the Australian Schools long over the first weekend in June. during Year 11. Team Championship (Secondary Results were as follows: Over 200 students from across Girls Division) for a third year in a One team ‘Infallible’ came in first Australia applied for the award and row. This equals the best result of place, and the other four teams Margaret was selected after the any secondary girls’ school in the narrowly missed qualifying for the selection process which included more than twenty-year history of the National Competition. aptitude and medical assessments, tournament. psychological and recruiting inter- Solo entrant, Engel Kamara (Year 12) views and a selection board panel National Cheer finished in first place in her Audition Hip from which all applicants are ranked Competitions Hop Dance and together with Infallible in order of merit. During the first week of November will competed at the National Champi- onships on the Gold Coast in August. Defence Force Recruiting Centre 2018, Bianca Hall (Year 9 in 2018) Melbourne attended an assembly and took part in the Summit All Star Cheer- Sportaerobics and presented Margaret with her Award. leading Championships in Florida, USA in the International Division. Bianca’s Dance National Finals Fencing Victoria Level Four Open Team came third. Over the weekend of Saturday 17 to School League Epee Following this was the Australasian Monday 19 August, some members Pinnacle Championships, a National of our PLC Aerobics Team travelled to Championships competition for the elite teams who the Gold Coast for the Sportaerobics On Sunday 4 August three PLC girls qualified during the year. Bianca’s National Finals Competition. Engel competed in the School League Epee Level Four Team again came third. Kamara (Year 12) came first in the Championships held at the State Fenc- ‘Audition Hip Hop’ National Dance ing Centre. Maria Yang (Year 6) placed Competition and members of the tenth in the Junior division; Helen team ‘Infallible’ Samatha Tay and Zhang (Year 9) placed seventh and Elyse Foy (Year 10), and Tara Fua Eugeniya Artemova (Year 12) finished (Year 8) came second in the National equal third, in the Senior Division. Sportaerobics Competition.

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Oceania Zonal Chess Championships Cassandra Lim (Year 10) was awarded a Woman FIDE Master (WFM) title after competing in the Oceania Zonal Chess Championships held in Auckland, New Zealand during Janu- ary, 2019. Cassandra competed in the Under 20 division and was the top performing female from Australia, finishing third overall. The World Chess Federation, FIDE (Fédération Inter- nationale des Échecs), awards titles based on performance and Elo ratings and Cassandra was able to achieve the required Elo (1900) later in the year. She is currently the only U18 female in Australia with a WFM title.

76 Annual Report 2019 Class of 2019

Year 12 Cindy Hou Dhara Seneviratne Larissa Zhang Jemma Huang Jess Smith Tiffany Zhao Shreya Anand Fiona Huang Danielle Smithson Claire Zhao Julia Apollonio Imashi Iddawela Liyin (May) Song Jessica Zhou Eugeniya Artemova Zhuoxi Jiang Victoria Streeton-Cook Yuhan Zhou Dominica Baker Imogene Jones Mary Sun Shania Balasundaram Olivia Jozwiak Tania Sun School Captain Anna Bergin Engel Kamara Faith Tang Anna Blanch Imashi Iddawela Rebekah Kelly Emma Tang Gurveen Brar Tessa Khoo Tina Tang School Vice Captain Tayla Burrell Piper Knight Kristin Tao Hannah Harvey Margaret Campbell Alyssa Koh Breanna Teo Ovi Campbell Adelaide Kong Simran Thomas Student Leadership Gia Cao Rhea Kumar Rachel Tong Team Eleanor Chamberlain Francesca Lam Ella Tregale Shreya Anand Jiana Chen Jessica Lau Jacqueline Tse Eugeniya Artemova Sherry Chen Isabelle Lee Michelle Tsui Anna Blanch Aria Chen Sang-Ah Lee Jess Tyrrell Margaret Campbell Sarah Cheng Hoi Yin Leung Manali Varadarajan Ovi Campbell Kyra Chhen Andy Li Melissa Vines Sandhya Das Thuraisingham Kee Mei Chin Effie Li Christine Walker Carla Di Pierro Jannice Chiu Jessica Li Jasmine Wang Emily Field Sarah Chiu Judy Li Si Rui Wang Stephanie Hookey Celine Choo Qingyu Liang Lisa Wang Imogene Jones Kylie Choong Sarah Liew Wendy Wang Rebekah Kelly Dora Chung Angel Lin Ivy Wang Rhea Kumar Eliza Clarke Ella Lin Tracy Wang Andy Li Lucinda Cocks Anna Lin Yolanda Wang Sarah Liew Selimah Cua Jean Lin Maddi Ward Xiao Wen Low Sandhya Das Thuraisingham Jacqui Liow Lucy Weeraratne Erin Page Carla Di Pierro Amily Lo Helena Wen Sarah Pearse Georgia Diamond Joanie Lo Clair Wheatley Clarice Woon Ciena Dong Xiao Wen Low Amelia Williams Nathania Yong Sherry Dong Lily Machuca-Merange Ebony Williams Ann Du Zoe Malone Vivian Wong Art Captain Kimberley Ea Ann Du Angelline Mansfield Athena Wong Vera Fan Annie Mao Clarice Woon Emily Field Boarding House Cherry Mitry Xinyu (Grace) Xi Elina Forsyth Captains Ambreen Mohammed Suzanne Xie Kethmi Gamage Emily Field Shireen Mohammed Stephanie Xie Riya Ghosal Amily Lo Sarah Moody Lisa Xing Serena Grbac Eleni Nikolakakis Lexie Xu Christian Union Amber Guest Cherry Oh Phebe Xu Captains Amanda Guo Caitlin Ong Sarah Yan Sarah Moody Anna Hachmann Erin Page Mandy Yang Ella Tregale Wendy Han Sarah Pearse Alexa Yao Mariam Hanna Debating Captain Bianca Phillips Rachel Yeung Hannah Harvey Beth Poon Amy Yin Rebekah Kelly Anaika Havea Emma Radmanic Katherine Ying Isabelle Hee Drama Captain Saachi Rajpal Nathania Yong Pamali Hewage Clair Wheatley Jasmine Richards Yolanda Yu Mao Huig Hii Elissa Ricketts Beatrice Zhang Environment Viney Ho Shruthi Satheesan Betty Zhang Captain Stephanie Hookey Caitie Seal Winnie Zhang Christine Walker

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Library Captain Boarding House Year 6 Manisitha Rupeshraj Ishara Saranathan Kylie Choong Committee Haritha Arulshankar Michelle Shen Amanda Guo Chelsea Bai Music Captain Nikki Singh Viney Ho Charlotte Bourne Vivian Wong Anne-Marie Sonbol Jess Smith Aniela Brotto-Janson Lauren Soo Social Action Grace Xi Olivia Campbell Ruby Stafford Captains Ashlyn Cao Social Action Nilly Subramaniam Mercy Chai Effie Li Committee Anbing Sun Kee Mei Chin Chloe Chan Aria Chen Sofia Tan Hailey Chan Sarah Chiu Mischa Tandjung Sports Captain Madeleine Chan Lucinda Cocks Maya van Besouw Danielle Smithson Jade Chen Selimah Cua Mia Vandenboom Grace Chen Sandhya Das Zara Verghese House Captains Valerie Chau Thuraisingham Tahlia Vessey Atholl Amelie Davie Isabelle Hee Natacha Viroonhamas Captain Lucinda de Castella Pamali Hewage Amy Wang Erin Page Lucinda Draper Mao Huig Hii Eileen Wang Vice Captains Tehmina Dubash Viney Ho Yolanda Wang Jemma Huang Robyn Dunn Isabelle Lee Vittoria Wong Beth Poon Erica Ea Annie Mao Jasmine Wu Vinudi Epitawela Balmoral Shireen Mohammed Nicole Yan Tianyi Fan Captain Caitlin Ong April Yang Phoebe Geng Bianca Phillips Caitie Seal Scarlett Yang Diya Ghelani Dhara Seneviratne Amy Yin Vice Captains Grace Gonzales Emma Tang, Selina Yuan Engel Kamara Ella He Faith Tang Winnie Zheng Tessa Khoo Sarah He Breanna Teo Yolanda Zhu Milena Hovjacky Glamis Jacqueline Tse June Huang Captain Si Rui Wang Junior School Yiluo Huang Lucy Weeraratne Helena Wen Captain Ayesha Huq Alexa Yao Vinudi Epitawela Vice Captains Sahana Inpanathan Nathania Yong Eliza Clarke Hannah Issac Christian Education Beatrice Zhang Maddi Ward Coco Jiang Captains Leven Riya Khera Zara Verghese Captain Stephanie Kipnis Rachel Ng Ella Lin Aria Kotipalli Isabella Kwok Drama and Dance Vice Captains Lauren Lam Captains Wendy Wang Tegan Lam Stephanie Kipnis Clarice Woon Joey Lei Sofia Tan Rosslyn Alice Li Mia Vandenboom Captain Jin Jin Li Environment Phebe Xu Vanessa Li Captains Shirley Liang Vice Captains Ruby Stafford Audrey Lim Jacqui Liow Erica Ea Celine Liu Victoria Streeton-Cook Ashleigh Low French Captains Stirling Coco Lu Ashleigh Low Captain Cecilia Luo Chelsea Bai Rachel Tong Rachel Ng ICT Captains Vice Captains Srinitha Nuvvala Anna Blanch Caitlin Octavianus Sarah He Francesca Lam Kaitlyn Poon Lauren Soo Jing Jing Qiao 78 Annual Report 2019

Library Captains Robyn Dunn Ashlyn Cao Music Captains Jade Chen Nicole Yan Social Service Captains Grace Gonzales Tehmina Dubash Sports Captain Tahlia Vessey House Captains Hethersett Nikki Singh Koorinya Phoebe Geng Woollahra Charlotte Bourne Wyselaskie Jin Jin Li

79 2019 Annual Report

Presbyterian Ladies’ College ABN 16 005 650 386 CRICOS No. 00334M

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