From the Principal

What a treat it was on Saturday to stand on the sidelines and cheer for our girls in their first round of IPSHA and IGSA sport for the year. The campus was buzzing with energy and it was clear our families, coaches and staff were relishing the simple pleasure of being together on campus to watch our girls do what they love to do. Thank you to all the parents who took the time to talk to me and express their pride and joy.

The start of the year feels like the right time to update our families on our second year of implementing our Watch Us Change the World Strategic Direction. It’s wonderful to see many of our girls really starting to understand the intent of WUCTW and articulating the connection between the opportunities on offer at Pymble and the evidence-based rationale confirming why these learning experiences are so critical for their future. This awareness is also building among our younger students as we continue to focus on developing four key ‘intelligences’ – Academic, Emotional, Social and Digital – and empowering our girls to become changemakers.  

It’s impossible to cover the depth and breadth of our strategic initiatives in one Newsletter column, so I have asked the leaders of each pillar to nominate an initiative they were most proud of in 2021, and one they are excited about introducing this year. As you can see, trying to hold them back to one initiative per pillar didn’t quite work, such is their enthusiasm!

Academic Intelligence: Mr Justin Raymond, Deputy Principal – Academic

Highlights of 2021: Pymble Institute | HSC Improvement Project | Work Experience Program

Launching the Pymble Institute research centre in 2021 began the ongoing relationship between our learning community and partners and collaborators in industry and academia who are keen to promote research benefiting women and girls. It provides students with unlimited opportunities to channel their curiosity into meaningful research and a structure for teachers to generate their own targeted research in action to further enhance teaching and learning at the College.

The HSC Improvement Project (covered in more detail in Week 2 Newsletter) was another huge success, encouraging a series of sustained gains, improvements and positive habits which resulted in our girls exceeding our expectations in their assessments and final results.

Our Work Experience Pilot Program in 2021 connected students 16 years and older to industries or organisations in their field of interest. Due to its success, the program will be scaled up in 2022 to increase the number of opportunities for students while also working to develop a deep pool of work experience opportunities from our Pymble community. 

Excited about in 2022: More HSC Improvement | Metrics of Success Project

We will be making further enhancements to our HSC Improvement Project to support each girl to achieve her personal best. This includes creating a study hub for Senior students; increasing the range of expert teachers and high-achieving graduates available for after-hours study support; and providing academic mentoring to give each Year 11 and 12 student access to the best advice about how to approach their HSC years.

We are also working on launching a Metrics of Success Project to offer an alternative measure of student achievement beyond HSC subject marks and ATARs. This will offer a new lens of success, such as the percentage of students who achieve early entry to their preferred course, and the level of adaptability, flexibility and preparedness our students have for life beyond Pymble.

Emotional Intelligence: Ms Lamia Rockwell, Deputy Principal – Students

Highlights of 2021 Mind, Body, Spirit Curriculum | Youth Mental Health First Aid training | K-12 House structure

In 2021, we embedded our new MBS Curriculum across K-12 in timetabled Directions lessons informed by students and delivered by trained teachers – we believe this is unique to schools in Australia. Lessons cover a wider range of age-appropriate issues from friendships, belonging and connections to self-care, cyber bullying and safety, goal setting, gratitude, consent, decision making, study skills, drugs, alcohol and mental health. The aim is to help develop each student’s personal toolkit to assist her with overcoming challenges and changes and responding to new opportunities in life. In addition, all staff have been (and new staff in 2022 will be) trained in Youth Mental Health First Aid.

To promote a greater sense of belonging, connection and support for girls across year groups, we aligned our House system for K-12. Our K-6 students were so excited to join their ‘big sisters’ in Secondary School in online and face-to-face House events in 2021 and we have great plans to build on this growing sense of House spirit and pride in 2022. 

Excited about in 2022 iYarn app | Knowing People, Knowing Pymble program

Following a successful trial of the iYarn app by several Year 10 Compass Groups in 2021, the app will be rolled out to students in Years 10 and 11 in Semester 2. The check-in system, which has been developed in conjunction with the girls, helps build self-management skills via the delivery of relevant fact sheets and has increased connections between the girls and their Compass Teachers by prompting conversations about wellbeing and general progress.  

We will continue to refine our programs to support students and parents and build deeper connections with staff and other families at key transition points, including Kindergarten, Years 3, 5 and 7, the Year 9 long-stay residential, Boarding and Year 12 graduation, through our Knowing People, Knowing Pymble program.

Social Intelligence: Mrs Julie Shaw, Senior Deputy Principal and Dr Sarah Loch, Director – Pymble Institute

Highlights of 2021 Literary Cultural Festival | First Nations Perspectives

In 2021, we introduced the role of Intercultural Connections Captains and launched the Literary and Cultural Festival, led by our Conde Library team. Our inaugural festival generated a deeper understanding of one another’s backgrounds and journeys and will expand in 2022 to include K-12. 

We also introduced Aboriginal Studies for Stage 5 (Years 9 to 10). This course attracted a great team of teachers within the History, English and PDHPE areas and a growing number of interested students. The design of the Indigenous Garden, including a yarning circle, was completed for all to enjoy, and all staff joined an online professional learning session with the Mirri Mirri team to build our cultural competency in First Nations culture, history and language.

Excited about in 2022 Intercultural Connections Student Leadership team | Aboriginal Studies expansion | Anti-racism Curriculum

The Intercultural Connections Student Leadership team now includes a representative from Years 7 to 12 and our First Nations scholars. Initiatives in 2022 include a getting-to-know-you lunch and a whole day intercultural experience for all students.

Aboriginal Studies is also being introduced to Stage 6 (Years 11 to 12), providing a pathway for our girls to continue their studies in this important area. Experiences of exchanges are in the planning process and we look forward to introducing these for Years 5 and 6 students to expand their cultural awareness. The Kate Mason Professional Learning Grant is enabling a team of staff to work with an academic in the area of anti-racism and unconscious bias, alongside a group of Year 12 students who have developed a curriculum in this area for the Directions program.

Digital Intelligence: Mr Anthony England, Director of Innovative Learning Technologies

Highlights of 2021 Partnering with UCLA to deliver Data Science Curriculum | Pymlympics | Robotics

Forging a partnership with UCLA in 2021 has enabled Pymble to establish a new STEM learning landscape of international quality that has not been seen before in the Southern Hemisphere. Our new Data Science course in 2022 is an incredible opportunity for our girls and one of the many ways we will be equipping them with the experience and skills they need to redress the imbalance of women working in STEM industries.

Our whole-College Pymlympics challenge during the 15-week lockdown in 2021 was a magic example of how students are becoming responsible and adept users of technology to activate human potential and create positive connections. Created by the girls for our community, Pymlympics gave our students, staff and families a sense of togetherness at a time when we were forced to live and learn apart.

The scale of our Robotics program continues to be a source of huge pride. As far as we know, Pymble has the largest Robotics program for students in Australia, if not the world, and our girls continue to seize every opportunity to learn, grow and thrive in this space.

Excited about in 2022 Partnering with MIT for creative STEM learning | K-6 STEM Creativity Festival

Another exciting partnership that will bear fruit in 2022 is working with MIT through its NuVu Innovation School. This will give our girls access to hands-on STEM studio learning where they will work on solving complex, real-world challenges designed to build their creativity, critical thinking and collaboration skills. Once again, Pymble is the only school in the Southern Hemisphere to offer this unique opportunity for girls to forge forward in the world of STEM design, engineering and invention.

Our K-6 STEM Creativity Festival in Semester 2 aims to celebrate student voice and leadership, amplify the role of STEM in the Junior School and encourage the involvement of parents as exemplars and learning partners in this space.

My additional commitments in 2022

At the start of each year, I also like to share an overview of professional commitments that are additional to my responsibilities at Pymble. These roles add great value to the College by enabling me to be part of decision-making that influences the experience of our students, staff and families. In 2022, these commitments include:

• Association of Independent Schools NSW (AISNSW) Supporting Student Mental Health Working Group – Chair
• AISNSW – Advisory Council member
• Independent Girls’ Schools Association (IGSA) – Sports Standing Committee member
• Alliance of Girls’ Schools Australasia Board – Treasurer
• Australian Youth Orchestra – Board Member
• Telethon Kids Institute (UWA) – Adjunct Research Fellow
• The Child Health Promotion Research Centre (Edith Cowan University) – Adjunct Research Fellow

On a personal note, this year I am starting a Master’s degree in Narrative Therapy through Melbourne University and, in June/July, I will be taking a four-week sabbatical to learn, grow and bring great ideas back to Pymble. During this time, I will be visiting STEM schools; setting up student exchange partners; attending the Global Forum on Girls’ Education; working with our new STEM partner MIT (NuVu School of Innovation); and attending an Oxford Global Ethics program at the University of Oxford to support our work in diversity, under the Cultural Intelligence pillar.

Today’s column is a whopper, I know. The intent was to provide you with a little more insight into some of the things you have seen and heard about recently. We have a busy, fulfilling and exciting year of learning ahead, and I look forward to sharing regular updates and more highlights with you along the way.

Dr Kate Hadwen 

Principal

MyPymble

Here at the College, we know that keeping on top of life admin can sometimes feel like a full-time job, so we’ve made it even easier to receive and access communications from the College in order to support your daughter’s schooling. 

All you need is the MyPymble Portal… 

The updated MyPymble parent information portal has been redesigned to streamline communication and information for families whilst keeping your daughter at the centre.  

Via MyPymble, you can view your daughter’s upcoming assessment tasks (Secondary School) and past academic reports, find College communications such as the Newsletter, inform the College of absence and also view the school calendar.

You can access MyPymble in two ways: 

1. From the Pymble website homepage (click 🔒 icon on top right of page) or click here to view  
2. Download the new app from Google Play or the Apple app store, or scan the relevant QR Code below (please note, updates on the Pymble app are often available as we continue to add enhancements – and one has landed today – so please be sure to keep checking back for updates in Google Play or the app store):  

To log in you will need to use your unique carer number and password, which you should have all received via email. If you are unable to log in, please reset your password using this link, or alternatively, contact the IT Helpdesk on +61 2 9855 7771 for assistance.  

For further information on these tools please click here to view the MyPymble User Guide.  

From the Chaplains

As a child of the ‘60s I think fondly of the Lennon/McCartney song All you need is love from the Beatles era as a great summary of Valentine’s Day. However, if we think deeply about love, and the gospel of this week, which is Luke 6:27-38, Jesus invites us to look beyond what we think our notion of love is. For indeed Love is action.

Love your enemies, if someone takes your coat, let them have your shirt too, give to everyone who asks you, …if you love people who love you, why should you ask for a blessing…

Loving those who hurt us is a hard teaching to follow. Family members, friends, former partners, persons at work, social circles can sometimes erode our very essence. In other words, love can wear us down. Then there is the enemy within, the one that gives us deprecating self-talk, uncertainty, and fear. Jesus says, “Bless those who curse you, and pray for those who mistreat you.”

Blessing someone can mean so many things, all of which reflect the compassion and never-ending love of God. This is navigating the acceptance of a person for who they are as a child of God, rather than their action that has brought us pain. This can be a liberating moment and gives a new definition to how we look at love. Christians know this as Agape love – the unconditional love that demands nothing in return. There is a balance that comes with this spiritual practice for it is not something we as humans can comprehend without acknowledging our own place in the deep heart of God. This also means knowing when not to have someone walk all over us just because we love them. Harsh words to attend to.

As you continue to live through February 2022, hopefully like me you can appreciate the seldom sunny days and draw strength from the warmth given in these moments. Life is in the present and whatever our disappointments are and wherever our weaknesses live, may the love of those around us give us healing and hope. Here is a cartoon image and some thoughts from Leunig who offers us great wisdom in times when we seek it.

And let’s not forget the actual St Valentine, the man who sacrificed his life to let young couples marry in the eyes of God, when it was banned for all. What a guy. He’s worth celebrating too. – Donna Ashworth

Blessings, safety and peace.

Reverend Punam Bent

College Chaplain

Notice

From the Director of Student Learning (Years 7 to 10)

Allwell testing – November 2021 test results for current Years 7 and 9 students

In November 2021, all incoming Year 7 students were invited to sit a series of progressive achievement tests administered by Academic Assessment Services (referred to as Allwell tests). Similarly, we offered the Allwell tests to our Year 9 2022 students.

Students were assessed on educational skills and aptitude, including:

• General reasoning
• Mathematics
• Reading comprehension
• Spelling
• Written expression.

These tasks are norm referenced and measure how a student compares to others of the same school year across the state. This rich data also allows us to identify trends, highlights opportunities for targeted support and/or challenge opportunities and provides access longitudinal data to measure the impact we are having on our girls and their academic achievement.

The results of the November testing sessions are being mailed out to parents/carers; please contact curriculum@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au should you not receive a copy of the results before the close of business on 25 February.

Allwell testing – Year 7 catch-up test on Thursday 24 February

We have been able to secure catch-up testing with Allwell for Thursday 24 February (next Thursday). If your daughter did not complete the test, she will receive an email on Monday morning with the details for the catch-up testing.

Please reassure your daughter that no special preparation is required for these tests. The most important thing is for her to arrive relaxed and refreshed for the testing day. Note: a calculator is required for the numerical section.

Most students will not experience any great difficulty undertaking these tests. However, it is important they do not spend too much time on questions they find too difficult. Most students will not complete the test within the time allowed; nor should they expect to answer every question.

Thank you in advance for your support of this exceptionally rich opportunity for both the College and your daughter. Please contact me should you require any further information.

Mr Jake Plaskett

Director Student Learning (Years 7-10)

COVID-19 Response Plans and Advice

Expressions of interest – booster vaccinations for 16+ years students

Please click here to indicate your interest in a booster vaccination for your daughter/s aged 16 or older.

Household close contacts

Please be aware that you do not have to restart your isolation period if another member of your household tests positive while you are in isolation. An isolation period ends on Day 7 following a negative RAT on Day 6, even if a member of your household tests positive during this time.

More information on exposure to COVID-19 can be found here.

Please remember to keep the College informed

If your daughter needs to isolate at home and switch to Pymble Online temporarily due to being exposed or testing positive to COVID-19, please remember to advise your School Office as soon as possible so that her teachers are informed of the change before classes begin and can respond accordingly.

From the Junior School

From our Head of Junior School

Strength based learning within our Junior School – our focus on Mathematics

This year Mrs Lara Bird, Deputy Head of Junior School, Academic, is leading action research into the role of mathematical thinking within the curriculum as we are keen to build our girls’ skills, strengths and confidence as mathematicians. She is leading our Junior School focus on building strong foundational knowledge in Mathematics through explicit teaching, the purposeful use of hands-on materials and participation in mathematical investigations to build our girls’ skills and self-efficacy as mathematicians. Throughout this year, Mrs Bird will provide communication and hold parent webinars to share our journey and explore the ‘why’ and ‘how’ we teach Mathematics across Kindergarten to Year 6.

As Mrs Bird often says, “For many children building their understanding of mathematical concepts means that Maths often needs to be held in the hand before it’s held in the head.” Using hands-on materials (counters, dice, MAB blocks, metre ruler and protractors) and practical activities enables girls to ‘see’ Maths and ‘feel’ it so that they can develop a deep understanding of the abstract concept and learn to apply it to unfamiliar and real-world problems.

Throughout this year Mrs Bird is also working with the Year Co-ordinators and Dr Sarah Loch, Director of Research, to identify our girls’ academic strengths and interests and more importantly, to help our girls identify these strengths. We then want to extend and challenge their thinking and identify passions through a diverse range of in-class curriculum focused activities as well as external opportunities. More information around external challenge opportunities will be provided by Mrs Bird in the coming weeks.

Let’s Get Creative – Kindergarten to Year 6 getting creative with Maths on 22/2/22

As this year, is ‘Let’s Get Creative’ we’re focusing on finding ways to build our creativity within our curriculum. This month provides a unique opportunity with a palindrome day on 22/2/22. We are therefore going to use this day to get our girls to have some fun with Maths on our ‘Get Creative with Maths Day’. During their normal Maths lesson, the girls will do some warm-up activities around the date and the numbers within that date. As it is ‘2,2,2’ day we thought it would be fun to invite the girls to bring a tutu (tutus for ‘2 2’) to wear over their school uniform. This is not compulsory, but we hope that lots of our girls will get involved. If you would like your daughter to bring in a tutu, please ensure she arrives in her normal uniform and brings her tutu with her to wear for the day over her uniform. At 22 minutes past 2.00pm on that day, all our girls will dance to our theme song for Term 1, Try Everything.

Year 6 in Glenworth Valley

Over the next two weeks our Year 6 girls will become explorers as they venture off to Glenworth Valley for their Outdoor Education program. During this time, they will abseil, kayak, ride horses and go for bushwalks. Connecting with nature and learning to challenge ourselves and try new things is such an important part of child development and learning to be kind to yourself. I was lucky to spend time out there with the girls sharing their adventures.

International Women’s Day and our College Value of the Week – Respect

As we reflect on the power of respect this week, we have introduced our girls to this year’s International Women’s Day (IWD) theme, ‘#banthebias’. We want to encourage our girls to know that however young they are their voice matters. International Women’s Day is an event that we hold close to our hearts at Pymble. It is a marvellous opportunity for us to celebrate the incredible women and girls in our community and a meaningful way to raise awareness of crucial conversations that we want our girls to be actively participating in. This year’s focus is #BreakTheBias, and over the coming weeks, the girls will be engaging in a range of activities that promote an understanding of how we can use our voices to promote a fairer and kinder world.

We need you!

The richness of these IWD celebrations will be further enhanced through the involvement of all community members. We invite you to participate in this event by recording a short (no more than ten seconds) video expressing what your hopes and dreams are for your daughter, a woman of the future. We are only able to accept 30 entries for this and it will have to be first in best dressed! Please send these through to Ahooper@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Below is a table of the activities that each year group will be involved in. Teachers will set these tasks as additional homework over the next few weeks. All tasks need to be completed and returned to school by Monday 7 March. The girls will receive House points for their submission. Teachers will be selecting ten outstanding pieces of work across each grade to be displayed in the Hall and go into our first ‘People’s Choice’ award. Judging will be taking place on Tuesday 8 March as well as a special assembly in which the girls will be viewing our parents hopes and dreams clips. Please help us to inspire your girls.

If you would like to know more information about IWD 2022, the website can be found here.

Learning around our Junior School this week – our week in pictures

This week our Year 1 girls braved the elements as they explored our campus. They then created some stunning nature artworks inspired by the natural materials they collected on their incursion adventure. They have also explored their scientific creativity with a Fizzics incursion around ‘sound’.

URSTRONG – our Junior School friendship program

Mrs Kimberley Tyson, Deputy Head of Junior School Students

As part of our focus on respect this week, our girls from Years 1 to 6 have enjoyed interactive URSTRONG workshops. These are designed to empower our girls with the necessary language to build and maintain healthy friendships. It’s critical that our girls understand the inevitable changes within friendships over time and understand their role in managing healthy friendships. There are four simple, practical Friendship Facts which we hope you will hear your daughters talking about in the coming weeks as we explore them further through our Directions programs:

1. No friendship is perfect.
2. Every friendship is different.
3. Trust and Respect are the two most important qualities in a friendship.
4. Friendships change…and that’s okay.

Through this evidence-based program, our girls learn the importance of choosing to act respectfully to one another, and themselves, rather than choosing ‘mean on purpose’ behaviour. This is important as we expect our girls to model inclusion and kindness to one another within our Junior School family. Our younger girls loved sharing the URSTRONG workshop with their soft toys and Heidi the Hedgehog joined in too! They used their friends to role-play different scenarios and develop practical tools to navigate conflict in a way that allows for stronger bonds to be developed.

Achievements within our Junior School

Congratulations to Irisa Han (Year 6) for her outstanding achievement of an A grade in her Grade 8 AMEB cello examination.

Congratulations to Sophie Tong (Year 4) who continues to enjoy outstanding success in her golf tournaments as she is now the Killara Junior Girls Champion, the Harvey Norman Sydney Gold girls 11 Years and Under Champion and the Greg Chalmers Junior Masters 11 Years and Under Champion. On the last day of the Greg Chalmers Junior Masters, Sophie sank a putt from more than 21 metres at the ninth hole! Well done, Sophie!

REMINDERS

Lower road

If you arrive before 7.45am please do not park and wait for the correct drop-off time. This blocks the drop-off area and does not allow children who have before school classes to be dropped off in time for their class. If you arrive early, please continue and park elsewhere in a visitor’s spot before coming back to drop-off at the correct time.

In the afternoon to assist with an efficient pickup of Kindergarten to Year 2 students from Co-curricular activities, you may park either under the pines or in the staff car park if there is a vacancy, and walk to the pick-up area to collect your daughter. As the coaches are involved in other activities following your daughter’s session, the pick-up time needs to be strictly adhered to and any girls remaining uncollected at 3.50pm will be walked to OSHC until she is collected by her parents. This will incur a fee.

Dates for your diary

COVID-19: Important update and reminder for families

Please click here for:

• what to do if another member of your household tests positive while you are already in isolation;
• a reminder to inform the school if your daughter has to isolate at home and temporarily switch to learning via Pymble Online; and
• upcoming booster shots for eligible students.

Mrs Kate Brown

Head of Junior School

From the Middle School

From our Head of Middle School

Welcome to Week 4 in the Middle School. It is great to see the girls using the new play equipment on the Gloucester Lawn across lunchtimes and during intervals within the Mind Body Spirit timeframe. Last week we welcomed our Year 12 Middle School Liaison Prefects who hosted skipping games on Thursday as a way to encourage everyone to get active and mingle in an attempt to foster new friendships. From this week on we will be holding Gloucester Gatherings on Tuesdays and Thursdays. 

Next Thursday 24 February, Year 7 parents have been invited to join their daughter’s Compass teacher as a way of getting to know him/her, as well as an opportunity to meet other parents from the group and build connections. It is so important that we get to know each other on what will be a journey across the next six years. This will be followed by an information session in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts (GMCPA). We have called the evening ‘Knowing People, Knowing Pymble’ and do hope that one parent from each family will be able to join us for this exciting event.

On Tuesday 22 February, the College will be facilitating the Cross Country Carnival. All students in Years 7 and 8 will participate across Periods 1 and 2. Please encourage your daughter to register for this event via the Portal link where more details are available.

Our Year 7 families received details of the up-and-coming Outdoor Education program at Vision Valley which was emailed last Friday. This promises to be a fantastic opportunity for the girls to have fun, be challenged, build resilience and establish new connections.

COVID-19: Important update and reminder for families

Please click here for:

• what to do if another member of your household tests positive while you are already in isolation;
• a reminder to inform the school if your daughter has to isolate at home and temporarily switch to learning via Pymble Online; and
• upcoming booster shots for eligible students.

Mrs Jenny O’Donnell

Head of Middle School

Directions

Year 7 

Courage is a word, and College value, that our Year 7 girls have demonstrated in the past few weeks. Courage to try new things. Courage to sit at recess and lunch with new friends. Courage to roll up their sleeves, yet again, for another vaccination. Courage to try their best at the Swimming and Cross Country Carnivals as well as to join a new Co-curricular sport. Courage to audition for Peter Pan. Courage to play in a music ensemble group. We have been encouraging Year 7 to try new things and be creative about this. While there are no guarantees, there will always be wins and success, and no doubt there will be disappointment along the way. It is important to remember there will be many opportunities over their time at Pymble to step up and be part of this rich College life. We have seen wonderful ‘bounce back’ this week when things have not quite happened as expected. The NSW Health nursing staff who administered the first of the high school vaccines program last Thursday commented on the outstanding manners and behaviour of our Year 7 girls, emphasising the point that they were the best students they had ever worked with. We congratulate Year 7 on such an outstanding accolade.

Our upcoming Directions lessons introduce the girls to the 5 Ways to Wellbeing which are connections, being aware, helping others, getting active and keep learning. Each of these signposts are taught in class and we value the support of our Year 7 parents in developing them outside of the classroom. Balance and practise are key. Year 7 Camp was launched on Wednesday this week and we look forward to an enriching Outdoor Education experience for our girls in Weeks 6 (Hammond, Ingleholme, Thomas and Wylie) and 7 (Bennett, Goodlet, Lang and Marden). Email correspondence was sent to parents in Week 3 and there will be much excitement as we prepare for our time together at Vision Valley. Next Monday Elevate will be workshopping study and organisational skills for academic and wellbeing success. We look forward to sharing Elevate resources in next week’s newsletter.

Year 8 

Our Year 8 students are settling into Year 8 after adjusting to new classes, new teachers and new subjects. They are building resilience as they form social connections with peers whose faces they might know, but who they have never properly interacted with before. Year 8 students are also being exposed to slightly different teaching styles. It is significant that these are impactful, resilient building experiences which become more normal as our students progress through the College.

We encourage our Year 8 students to also look to new opportunities of interest.  A group of Year 8 students put in an expression of interest for an Environment Leaders’ Workshop this week at Vision Valley. They came away from the day with knowledge about key environmental concepts and a consideration of the impact and role they can play at the College. Some students have already joined our Cadet program after hearing an informative talk from passionate Cadets earlier this term. This week in assembly students were invited to consider participating in the Academic Research Club which fosters academic exploration and discovery. Students were also invited to register their interest in being a Pymble Morning Tour Guide – this is an important opportunity of responsibility as students meet new families and take them on a tour of the College.

In Directions this week, the focus was on mindful eating, a consideration of which foods fuel our bodies and how to incorporate a good breakfast in our busy mornings. This topic will be covered in more depth in PDHPE. We are looking at the three components of healthy lifestyles, good nutrition, adequate sleep and exercise, this term.

From the Head of Learning Support

Homework Help Term 1

Homework Help is an after-school service offered to all Pymble students in the Secondary School to provide assistance and support with everyday homework, assignments and research skills in a friendly, quiet environment. Homework Help is staffed by teachers from the Learning Support Team.

For further enquiries, please contact Mrs Lora Lim at llim@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Mrs Lora Lim

Head of Learning Support

ySafe Cyber Safety Event

On Wednesday 9 March Pymble is hosting an important and engaging online education session for Years 7 to 10 parents and carers. The session will be co-presented with ySafe, Australia’s leading provider of cyber safety education.

This practical, strategy-rich session will cover the important points that families need to know about online safety; covering key information about social media and gaming, screen time recommendations, and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a cyber-safe home.

Please register for this event by following the link provided. This is an important school event that we recommend all parents and carers of Years 7 to 10 students attend.

Date: Wednesday 9 March 2022

Time: 6.30pm

RSVP: Click here to register

From the Upper School

From our Head of Upper School 

Week 4 has been fast paced in the Upper School, with Year 9 enjoying their Burn Bright SPARK program and our Year 10 Peer Support Leaders engaging in their training that we had initially scheduled for late 2021.

The week also included further planning for our Upper School Information Night on Monday 28 February and Year 10 Camps in Week 10 later this term, as well as our exciting long-stay pilot programs for Year 9 in Terms 3 and 4. We look forward to updating you about each of these exciting opportunities in due course and, for me at least, hopefully meeting some of our wonderful Upper School parents face-to-face!

In year assemblies this week, we have continued to echo our Upper School mantra for 2022 of being courageous. I was surprised to realise how much discussions at work can trickle into life at home, as I found myself purchasing the poster below for my daughter from Etsy. Every night we ‘read’ Stephen Hawking’s life story as told by the Little People, Big Dreams series (I am trying to steer her towards my love for Science) and always stop to enjoy this quote. I’d love for my daughter to be as courageous as our Upper School girls, and felt she needed a visual reminder to try new things, to keep positive, and to never give up.

COVID-19: Important update and reminder for families

Please click here for:

• what to do if another member of your household tests positive while you are already in isolation;
• a reminder to inform the school if your daughter has to isolate at home and temporarily switch to learning via Pymble Online; and
• upcoming booster shots for eligible students.

Mr Tom Riley

Head of Upper School

From our Deputy Head of Upper School

From Ellie (Year 10) and Emily (Year 9):

“As members of the Student Representative Council (SRC), we were given the task of marketing and selling Valentine’s Day cards and chocolate roses to our respective year groups. This was a wonderful opportunity for students to show appreciation for their friends and teachers in the form of a tasty treat. Best of all, it was a chance to help others – all the proceeds from this initiative are being donated to the Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter. The SRC was super excited to support this cause, and so was the Upper School community. Collectively, students in Years 9 and 10 purchased 482 roses! The SRC had initially estimated that a total of 500 roses would be sold school-wide, so we are very proud of the Upper School’s contribution.”

Mrs Michelle Hunt

Deputy Head of Upper School

From our Heads of Year 9

Burn Bright     

Today Year 9 participated in the Burn Bright SPARK program to encourage students to develop respect for themself and others. This day aims to equip Year 9 students with the tools to help build confidence, positively express themselves, understand their values, cultivate gratitude, gain perspective and build their capacity to be resilient. We look forward to sharing some student reflections next week.

In Directions this week, students discussed how the five senses can be used to soothe and bring us comfort, and to self-regulate thoughts and feelings. Students also learned how to make a counselling referral for themselves using the Pymble Portal. Students are welcome to do this if they are feeling consistently overwhelmed or worried, if they are struggling with friendships, or if they would like to discuss aspects of their life outside of school. Once a referral is made the counsellor will make an initial appointment and will discuss informed consent and any need for parental involvement at this point.

Mrs Karina Richter Head of Year 9

Mr Adam Levin Head of Year 9

From our Heads of Year 10

This week was a busy one and saw our fantastic Peer Support Leaders complete their training on Monday before being presented with their badges. A big thank you and congratulations to all 68 of you who completed the Burn Bright training.

Along with our fantastic Peer Support girls we also presented our new 2022 Year 10 Upper School Leadership team with their badges.

Week 4 sees us solidifying our routines and developing new positive habits. It is also a wonderful opportunity for us to remind students of our school values and how they can be lived out through our personal presentation. Respect, one of our key school values, can be demonstrated by wearing the uniform proudly by being well-groomed. The school diary outlines specific uniform regulations including:

• The summer dress is to be knee length.
• Earrings – one stud earring per lobe only.
• Make-up – no nail polish, false eyelashes or makeup are to be worn.
• Ribbons must be worn in long hair which needs to be tied back.

We appreciate your help in encouraging your daughter to uphold the school values in taking pride in her presentation.

In Directions this week students have been asked to engage in a debrief of Paul Dillon’s presentation. They will be asked questions such as:

• What stood out most to you about Paul Dillon’s presentation?
• What facts did you already know?
• What was something that you believed to be true about drugs or alcohol, that you discovered was actually false?
• What was the most surprising thing you learned?
• What was your takeaway message?

We hope that you had similar conversations with your daughter at home.

From the Head of Learning Support

Homework Help Term 1

Homework Help is an after-school service offered to all Pymble students in the Secondary School to provide assistance and support with everyday homework, assignments and research skills in a friendly, quiet environment. Homework Help is staffed by teachers from the Learning Support Team.

For further enquiries, please contact Mrs Lora Lim at llim@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Mrs Lora Lim

Head of Learning Support

Key Dates

ySafe Cyber Safety Event

On Wednesday 9 March Pymble is hosting an important and engaging online education session for Years 7 to 10 parents and carers. The session will be co-presented with ySafe, Australia’s leading provider of cyber safety education.

This practical, strategy-rich session will cover the important points that families need to know about online safety; covering key information about social media and gaming, screen time recommendations, and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a cyber-safe home.

Please register for this event by following the link provided. This is an important school event that we recommend all parents and carers of Years 7 to 10 students attend.

Date: Wednesday 9 March 2022

Time: 6.30pm

RSVP: Click here to register

From the Senior School

From our Head of Senior School

The students in Years 11 and 12 were fortunate to participate in presentations from Paul Dillon last week. Paul is an expert in educating communities about the latest research regarding drugs and alcohol. He has established his own research-based company, Drug and Alcohol Research and Training Australia (DARTA). For more information, please click the following link: https://darta.net.au/.

Mentoring

We have also now formally launched the Senior School mentoring program to both Years 11 and 12. Senior students are offered the option of working with a mentor – a senior member of staff who is willing to meet individually with the girls to discuss their long-term goals and challenges. The mentoring partnership is a structured one-to-one relationship that focuses on the requirements of the student, or mentee. The relationship can be described as ‘walking alongside’ a younger person with the goal or aim of assisting that person to achieve their potential in a supportive environment.

Students in both years have been invited to sign up for this voluntary program if they are interested – many Year 12 girls are continuing with their mentors from last year. I would really encourage all students to take this opportunity to invest in themselves.

Dress Code

While most Senior students are wearing their uniform with pride, it is disappointing to see that some students need to give this their attention. An integral part of how the girls show respect for Pymble, and how the community perceives our College depends on each student’s presentation and behaviour. Senior students are expected to take personal responsibility for this. Many situations in later life will require this of your daughter and we do regard it as part of her wider education.

Uniforms are checked regularly and if they are ill-fitting or damaged, they need to be repaired or replaced. Any missing items must also be replaced. You may find it helpful to refer to pages 28 to 29 of your daughter’s school diary for the details of what is expected in our dress code.

Mrs Nikki Wyse

Head of Senior School

From the Heads of Year 11

What’s happening in Directions?

In Year 11 Directions this week, students have been developing their class communities by getting to know one another through the process of show and tell. Show and tell is not just for primary school. Rather, sharing can provide a sense of pride, create enthusiasm, and develop positive culture and team spirit. More information can be found here.

Students have been asked to bring an object/photo of an object that is important to them. Some important objects included sand from the beach, a treasured bear from childhood and a medal. We thank students for being willing to share a bit of themselves and look forward to more classes engaging in this task.

Directions classes further along in the syllabus have had the opportunity to build on their knowledge of cyber safety through the study of their digital rights and responsibilities. This lesson sought to build off Paul Dillon’s presentation in Week 3. Resources from the eSafety Commissioner and Legal Aid provide excellent resources for Year 11. We encourage you to speak with your daughter at home about what she has learned regarding her rights on digital platforms as well as where she can seek help if needed.  

From the Heads of Year 12

Year 12 is in the full swing of the school year. The Kate Mason Building is alive with students seeking assistance from teachers, studying independently and in groups, sharing stories and laughing with friends. It is great to see the girls making good use of their study time which will alleviate time pressures and allow them to keep some balance in their lives.

Learning discussions for Year 12 were on Wednesday night. They have provided a valuable conversation between students, teachers and parents to ensure that student learning and performance is maximised. It is a time for students to reflect on what is working well, what study techniques and habits they want to keep and what practices they may need to review.

We have included one Year 12 student’s thoughts on learning discussions:

“…A chance to show evidence of your learning to parents and they can see how you’re tracking. Through feedback given we can openly discuss goals to work towards to improve.” – Haley

2023 Gap Program

Senior Deputy Principal, Mrs Julie Shaw, spoke to interested Year 12 students this week about the process of applying for a Gap position in 2023. More information can be found on the Class of 2022 Microsoft Teams page under the ‘Gap’ tab.

From the Head of Learning Support

Homework Help Term 1

Homework Help is an after-school service offered to all Pymble students in the Secondary School to provide assistance and support with everyday homework, assignments and research skills in a friendly, quiet environment. Homework Help is staffed by teachers from the Learning Support Team.

For further enquiries, please contact Mrs Lora Lim at llim@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Mrs Lora Lim

Head of Learning Support

From the Futures Department

Professional Cadetships Australia (PCA) will be presenting in KM10 at lunch Wednesday 23 February to interested Year 11 and 12 students. Cadetships allow students to get paid while they study at university. This particular scheme is a great opportunity offered in the areas of Business and Engineering. During this talk, students will also be addressed by the Head of People and Culture at Barrenjoey Capital Partners. Last year, Pymble was offered two cadetships through PCA (one at UBS and one at Barrenjoey). We would like to see more of our students apply this year and next, and this information session will allow them to understand more fully how the process works and what it takes to be a cadet. For more information:

https://www.professionalcadets.com.au/index.asp

Mr Andrew Kozyra

Director of Futures and Partnerships (K-12)

From the Boarding School

From our Head of Boarding

Love was in the air this week as our Boarders celebrated Valentine’s Day. With a delicious meal and special activities planned by our prefects, it was the chance for our girls to share the love and get to know each other even better.

Our Boarding Handbook

It has been great to feel the rhythm of each House emerge over these first few weeks and interesting to note the ‘vibe’ of the various Houses. Our Marden girls are full of energy and fun, bounding home each afternoon ready for whatever adventure comes next. Our grown up Goodlet girls are more subdued, always happy to chat and relaxed as they head off for the day. Then, there is the beautiful sense of calm and studiousness that prevails in Lang House. It is always a pleasure to call in to say hello to our Year 12 girls.

If you would like a deeper insight into Boarding life, please click here to link through to our Boarding Handbook for Boarders and their families. This is your ‘go to’ guide for all things Boarding – routines, leave, our various programs and much more.

Our Boarding Parent Group

As a Boarder parent, you are automatically a member of the Boarding Parent Group (BPG), which provides valuable support and information to the Boarding community. Throughout the year, the BPG committee meets with the Principal, Deputy Principal, Director of Boarding, Heads of Year and other key staff to discuss matters affecting our Boarders.

The BPG also organises functions for Boarder parents to gather in relaxed and friendly social settings to meet other families and Boarding staff. While our activities have been curtailed over the last two years, we are hopeful of some wonderful opportunities in the year to come.

Our first meeting for 2022 will be on Thursday 3 March at 7.00pm in an online format. A meeting link will be emailed in the coming week, for now please save the date for this special meeting.

‘Love It’

Last Saturday night was a huge night for our ‘Love It’ program. Twenty-four girls ventured up the train line and caught the train to Hornsby for a night at the cinema. With Valentine’s Day this week, the girls were excited to view Marry Me featuring J Lo and Owen Wilson. For some of our girls it was their first on the train. Sunday was a beautiful day and was an opportunity for our Marden girls to check out the Sydney sights with Mardi. They caught the ferry under the harbour bridge, climbed the steps of the Opera House and had an ice cream and a stroll around the Botanical Gardens. The Goodlet girls headed to Manly beach with Mrs Myles and did the Shelly Beach walk. 

This weekend we are hitting the markets. Friday night will be the North Sydney Noodle Markets and Sunday will be the Rocks Markets. We are also hoping that Saturday night will feature a trip to the Holey Moley Mini Golf centre in Chatswood. 

A reminder that the girls should all have access to an Opal card so that they can use public transport easily. Please let us know if you would like us to assist in organising this.

Mrs Carolyn Burgess

Director of Boarding

A View From My Window

Hey, my name is Marie and I’m in Year 10.

I came here at the start of the year all the way from Hamburg which is a northern city in Germany. The trip from Hamburg to Sydney is about 24 hours by plane.

My family consists of my Mum (Eun-Hea), my dad (Peter) and my three siblings Anna, Max, and Jakob. Some things my family do together are golfing on Saturdays, skiing in Austria every year and sometimes we get to go on weekend trips to Paris, Luxembourg, or Denmark since we can get there by car. We also go out to eat dinner every Sunday which is nice.

Some of my hobbies in Germany were piano, violin in the orchestra, tennis and hockey. It has been great coming to Pymble where I am trying volleyball and coxing for rowing which is amazing.

In my free time I usually go to the cinema with my friends since German weather isn’t really the best even in summer. But when we do have a sunny day, we go stand up paddling or sailing on Lake Alster. 

Something else I love about Germany is Christmas time. We have huge Christmas markets, it snows, and everything is decorated. So, you basically go there every day and have crêpes with a beautiful view of the Alster and Christmas lights. The harbour is also one of my favourite places and definitely has the best view in Hamburg. Going for a run or bike ride there is probably one of the best things you can do in Hamburg. 

Although I miss Germany and coming to Sydney and Boarding has been a huge adjustment, I am starting to feel at home and I am looking forward to all the fun on offer here in Australia.

Boarder of the Week

Giselle Kawane has been pure delight since arriving at Pymble just over 12 months ago. Joining us from Cairns, and now in Year 10, Giselle is a super star tennis player who, despite her busy schedule, always has time to be a beautiful friend. She is much loved for her sunny disposition and famous for her outstanding organisation. Our Goodlet House staff appreciate the way in which Giselle helps out around the house and are all grateful for her punctuality. Giselle is an outstanding Year 10 Boarder in every way, and we feel lucky to have her in our Boarding family!

Diving

Barnett Family Interclub

A very special interclub event was held on Sunday 13 February with excellent individual achievements. It was an honour for the divers to be presented with their ribbons by diving icon Madeleine Barnett who was Mrs Chris Lang’s (Pymble Diving Head Coach) Diving coach for more than 25 years! Congratulations to all our divers on the following fabulous results:

Pathways

Level 3 Zara Ware (Year 3)                4th

Level 4 Indie Leon Searle (Year 3)    2nd

Level 5 Isla Stewart (Year 8)              3rd

Level 6 Angela Xenofontas (Year 8) 1st

12/13 Girls Springboard

Mea Shires (Year 8)                           1st and Qualified for Age Nationals 3m

Leila Rich (Year 7)                              8th

Addison Woods (Year 7)                    11th – a courageous return to diving after almost three years out of the water!

14/15 Girls

Ilaria Crowley (Year 9)                        2nd and Qualified for Age Nationals 5m

Charlize Boyes (Year 9)                     8th

16/18 Girls

Rylee McKinstry (Year 12)                 2nd and Qualified for Age Nationals 3m

Nikola Puhl (Year 11)                         4th

NSW NTP

Amélie Rahme (Year 4)                      3rd

Elite Junior C
Abby Smith (Year 8)                           4th

IPSHA Diving

A reminder to all Junior School divers that the IPSHA Championships will be on Tuesday 1 March. Those divers who are keen to participate in this event are encouraged to attend the available training sessions during the week and on Saturday. Please contact Mrs Lang at clang@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au for further information.

Mrs Chris Lang

Head Coach – Diving

Football

IPSHA Team of the Week

This week’s team of the week goes to Pymble 4 (Year 5) for their enthusiasm and determination in their first game of the season. The team had an inspiring comeback after being down 3-1 at half-time and ended up winning 7-4. Eloise Lawry (Year 5), Edith Cullinane (Year 5), Amelia Hanstrum (Year 5), and Adele Cassidy (Year 5) displayed an awesome effort in attack and scored multiple goals between them. Olivia Hicks-Duncombe (Year 5) and Madison Aikman (Year 5) put in 110 per cent effort in defence and never gave in. Zoe Alphandary (Year 5) was unstoppable with great saves as our goalkeeper. Well done to Pymble 4 players for displaying awesome teamwork!

Mr Matt Tyson

Head of Sport K-6

Junior School

Have a Go @ Saturday Sport – Football

Congratulations to our Year 1 and Year 2 Football team for their first weekend of Have a Go @ Saturday Sport skills and drills program. Run by our experienced Football coaches with the assistance of the Pymble Football Captain, Claudia Johnston (Year 12), the participants played fun games that worked on their Football skills and drills and finished the session with a mini game.

For all enquiries regarding Have a Go @ Saturday Sport Football program please contact the Head of Sport K-6, Mr Matt Tyson at mtyson@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Mr Matt Tyson

Head of Sport K-6

Softball

Saturday 12 February saw Round 1 of the IGSA Softball season for 2022. It was a positive start with all teams finishing their games with happy smiling faces.

Results

Pymble 1 versus Ravenswood Loss 2-4

Pymble 2 versus PLC Sydney Draw 7-7

Pymble 3 versus Ravenswood Loss 1-7

Pymble 4 versus Abbotsleigh Win 14-3

We are looking forward to our Year 7 girls playing their first match this weekend.

Team of the Week

Pymble 4, our Junior Seconds team, had a great start to the Softball season with a 14-3 win at our home ground. The players were energetic and keen to play from the get-go, even performing a cheer song to start the game. The whole team worked incredibly well together to get plenty of outs while fielding and several outfield hits. Congratulations to Sophia Wu (Year 8) and Andelle Parker (Year 9) for superb hits and Isabella Rumble (Year 8) for great work in the infield. Pitchers and catchers delivered on the day to stop runs being scored against us. Overall, a good effort from all. Bring on the rest of the season.

Written by Coach Sammy

Mr Edward Ellwood-Hall

Co-ordinator – Softball

Swimming

On Sunday 13 February our Pymble IGSA Swim squad participated in an IGSA Training Day at Manly. This training day is a new addition to our IGSA Swimming campaign and is aimed at building team culture, discipline and commitment as we prepare our team for the IGSA Swimming Championships, in which we aim to claim the throne for the fifth consecutive year.

We kicked off the training day with an early morning movement and mobility workshop with Rod from Holistica Movement, who specialises in mobility programming and sport specific movement patterns. Rob tested our team by taking them through a swimming specific program which the students found beneficial and can apply to their everyday training processes.

Following the movement workshop, the squad hit the pool to run through some race specific technique work followed by a range of team challenges to test out everybody’s competitiveness. After lunch the athletes hit the beach for a team building session run by our Team Captain Angelica Tan. Angelica had a range of activities planned to develop team communication, spirit and energy that the coaching team challenged the participants to continue through until the day of the IGSA Championships.   

The day was a success, full of laughter, smiles and enthusiasm. Team unity was evident, and certainly rewarding as the Pymble squad kicks into the IGSA season.

Secondary School Swimming Carnival

The results are in and champions crowned. Congratulations to the following students on being crowned Age Champions at the 2022 Swimming Carnival!

Junior Champion – Annika Lee (Year 9)

Junior Runner Up – Sarah Tian (Year 8)

Intermediate Champion – Bella Zhang (Year 11)

Intermediate Runner Up – Jaya Lilienthal (Year 9)

Senior Champion – Angelica Tan (Year 12)

Senior Runner Up – Samantha Lever (Year 11)

For the full list of results, please click here.

2022 SMNE Speedo Sprint Meet Report

Pymble swimmers, as part of Knox Pymble Swim Club (KPSC), represented their club on Sunday 6 February at the SMNE Speedo Sprint Meet. Pymble swimmers showed great team spirit and achieved amazing personal bests and showed great technique and race skills.

The main purpose of the SMNE sprint series is to provide swimmers in the eight to 13 years category the opportunity to compete at a SMNE level. The top four swimmers in each age group then progress to represent the area (Metro North-East) at the Speedo Sprint Series Finals. 

The Pymble swimmers were able to reach the following outcomes from this meet:

1. Learn today what you can improve tomorrow.
2. Practice racing skills at training.
3. Enjoy racing.
4. Enjoy spending time together as a team.
5. Learn individual skills to warm up, cool down and prepare for race readiness.
6. Gain constructive race feedback from the coaches.

Pymble students who competed:

Emma Deere (Year 3), Oriana Fenton (Year 5), Charlotte Sadler (Year 5), Penelope Hargraves (Year 5), Chloé Shires (Year 5), Lily Zhang (Year 4), Amalia Bond (Year 6), Megan Chia (Year 6), Imogen Jones (Year 6), Anne Liu (Year 6), Emma Ng (Year 6), Zara Sandham (Year 6), Annabelle Li (Year 7), Amelia Carlan (Year 7), Annalise Chow (Year 8), Ruby Pickthall (Year 8), Gemma Stanbury (Year 8), Sarah Tian (Year 8), Grace Walmsley (Year 8) and Lucy Xie (Year 8).

Congratulations to the following swimmers for making the finals on Saturday 12 March 2022:

Girls 8 Years Emma Deere (Year 3) – 50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Backstroke and 50 Breaststroke

Girls 10 Years Charlotte Sadler (Year 5) – 50 Breaststroke

Girls 9 Years Oriana Fenton (Year 5) – 50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Breaststroke

Girls 11 Years Amalia Bond (Year 6) – 50 Freestyle

Girls 11 Years Megan Chia (Year 6) – 50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Backstroke

Girls 11 Years Imogen Jones (Year 6) – 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke

Girls 11 Years Anne Liu (Year 6) – 50 Backstroke, 50 Butterfly

Girls 12 Years Annabelle Li (Year 7) – 50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke

Girls 13 Years Sarah Tian (Year 8) – 50 Freestyle, 50 Butterfly, 50 Backstroke, 50 Breaststroke

Girls 13 Years Lucy Xie (Year 8) – 50 Breaststroke

We wish those who made the finals all the best and good luck everyone at your upcoming school events. Thank you to the parents for their contribution.

Water Polo

On Saturday 12 February, our Pymble Water Polo competition kicked off at the College. There was a buzzing vibe in the pool, with many Pymble players having their first competition game back since April 2020. The team spirit was echoed with the smiles and passion to be back in the pool with their team and coach. Well done to all teams! 

Miss Brigette Moore

Head Coach – Water Polo

Co-curricular Administration

Co-curricular Registration Requests

The cut-off date for Co-curricular Registration Requests was Monday 8.00am of Week 4, Term 1 (Monday 14 February). As this date has now passed, the following conditions now apply to registration requests received after this date:

• Late registration requests/transfers will no longer be accepted for most Term 1, Semester 1, and Yearly programs, except in Dance where requests are considered until the Term 2 cut-off date. Yearly programs that provide termly intakes will reopen for registration at the end of Term 1.
• Withdrawal requests from termly programs will have the full program fee added to College accounts.
• Withdrawal requests from semester/seasonal/yearly programs will have the Term 1 portion of the program fee added to College accounts, except for Eisteddfod Dance, where the full program fee will be incurred.

Any registration requests received prior to the cut-off are currently being processed and you should receive an outcome via email by the end of this week. We have received a large volume of emails, calls and registration requests at this time so we appreciate your patience as we get back to you.

A reminder that our conditions of Co-curricular registration were updated for 2022 and can be found by clicking here.

Term 2 Saturday Sport Registrations

This is a reminder that registrations for Term 2 Saturday Sports will close on Friday 18 February at 12.00pm. The options available to students are as follows:

• IPSHA Netball (Years 3 to 6)
• IPSHA Hockey/Minkey (Years 3 to 6)
• IGSA Basketball (Years 7 to 12)
• IGSA Football (Years 7 to 12)
• Rugby Sevens (Years 7 to 12 – compulsory training in Term 2 and competition in Term 3)

All registrations are made via the online registration system, which can be accessed from the Co-curricular at Pymble pages of MyPymble (click here; parent login required).

Mrs Monique Zahra

Head of Co-curricular Administration

Badminton

The first round of Badminton took place on Saturday 12 February, with Pymble entering an impressive 20 teams into the Loreto Normanhurst competition. It was great to welcome the players with motivational music, parents and spectators onsite, as well as an abundance of Pymble staff members to support the teams. 

Our Pymble students had a wonderful first week, with a special mention to the following teams who walked away with a win; Pymble 1, Pymble 4, Pymble 5, Pymble 6, Pymble 11, Pymble 12, Pymble 17, Pymble 13, Pymble 18 and Pymble 20.

We have no doubt that with the players’ commitment to training each week, we will certainly continue to see fantastic results, consistent improvement and enjoyment. Congratulations on a successful first week. Best of luck to all players this Saturday. 

Miss Laura Verlinden

Co-ordinator – Badminton

AFL

Round 1 kicked off over the weekend with Pymble girls getting the chance to play in some wet weather. Unfortunately, Pymble 5 and 6 had their matches cancelled due to rain. Credit to all those players still learning the skills of the game – playing with a ball that feels like a bar of soap does not make it easy!

Some memorable performances were from Pymble 1 who defeated Loreto 16-1, Pymble 7 defeating Wenona 72-36 and Pymble 9 winning their away match against Ravenswood 53-2.

Results

Pymble 1 Defeated Loreto 16-1

Pymble 2 Defeated Loreto 56-1

Pymble 3 Defeated Loreto 15-8

Pymble 4 Lost to Loreto 22-35

Pymble 5 Cancelled

Pymble 6 Cancelled

Pymble 7 Defeated Wenona 73-36

Pymble 8 Lost to Ravenswood 15-36

Pymble 9 Defeated Ravenswood 53-2

Mr Jack Garrad

Sports Co-ordinator – AFL

Cross Country

Secondary School Cross Country Carnival

All students wishing to participate in the 2022 Secondary School Cross Country Carnival are required to complete a registration to gain points for their nominated sport and House.

Click link to register!

Registrations will close on Monday 21 February at 9.00am. 

The carnival will be held on Tuesday 22 February. The course will be on the school campus with the start and finish on the Main Oval. A map of the course will be posted on the Portal the week prior to the event and students who attend distance training will go over the course in training.

Carnival Program
7.30am            Sign in and warm up
8.20am            4km Competitive Race – 14 to 18 Years (Lesson 1)
8.45am            4km Non-competitive Race – 14 to 18 Years (Lesson 1)

9.40am            3km Race – 12 to 13 Years (Lesson 2)

The Cross Country Carnival aims to promote House spirit and participation, therefore all students are encouraged to compete in the event. It is also a selection for our school Cross Country squad. Please click here for the Selection Policy. A trophy will be awarded to the winning House, and a trophy for the sport with the best athletes. In 2021, Goodlet won the House cup and AFL won the Sport cup, with Cricket taking out the Handicap Sport. Who will win in 2022?!

Please wear your House shirt and PE shorts and/or Saturday sport shirt and PE shorts and/or Athletics uniform. Please also bring a water bottle and hat.

For any questions regarding the Cross Country, please contact Mrs Edwards – Head of Sport 7-12 at kaedwards@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au.

Mrs Katie Edwards

Head of Sport 7-12

Sports

Performing Arts

From the Director of Co-Curricular Performing Arts

Pick-up from Co-curricular Performing Arts afternoon classes

Parents are reminded that Kindergarten to Year 2 Dance and Drama classes finish at 3.45pm and parents should be at car line at that time waiting for their daughter. If students are not collected by 4.00pm they will be escorted to OSHC and parents are to collect them from there. To avoid some congestion at pick up, parents are encouraged to park under the pines and walk down to collect their daughters. This will assist with traffic flow.

Years 3 to 6 classes generally finish at 4.15pm although some classes have different finishing times. Again, if students are not collected from Flagpole within 15 minutes of the advertised class finishing time, they will be escorted to OSHC. Many thanks in anticipation of your co-operation in this arrangement to keep your daughters safe and supervised.

Congratulations

Congratulations to all the dancers and Dance staff on their wonderful achievements in 2021, as demonstrated in the Dance Awards Evening on Friday and the release of all the class showcase videos. What an amazing effort to capture such an extraordinary year as 2021 on video to celebrate what was a year we will never forget and hope to never have to relive again! Bravo to all and in particularly Miss Katrina Cluff, Miss Sam Hibburt and Miss Tommy Buchner for their direction and leadership.

Mrs Sabina Turner

Director of Co-Curricular Performing Arts

Dance

Dance Awards Evening

On Friday 11 February the HSC and Eisteddfod Dance groups of 2021 gathered in the Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts (GMCPA) for an Awards Evening to celebrate the launch of the museum showcase videos, HSC Dance achievements and the Eisteddfod Dance season. Although it wasn’t the normal Dance Showcase that we all love, the Awards Evening allowed us to recognise the significant achievements of both staff and students.

Click here to view the livestream which is still active for any community members who would like to watch the event.

Congratulations to the following students on their awards (click here to view awards list)

Dance Showcase 2021 Museum Link

We are honoured to share with the community the Pymble Dance Showcase 2021, ‘Museum’. A huge congratulations to all Dance staff and students for what they achieved in 2021 with half of the Dance year online. Click here and use the password “museum”. 

Miss Katrina Cluff

Head of Dance

Drama

Break a Leg! A Midsummer Night’s Dream Drama Students!

We are so proud of our Pymble theatre makers who are performing in the Knox Grammar Drama production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream. Best wishes to the following students – we’re so excited to see you perform live!

• Isla Harris
• Olivia Bransgrove
• Ava Thomas
• Anna Ward
• Jiya Tanna
• Elizabeth Graves
• Amelie Matthews
• Aashna Rana
• Maddie Raymond
• Estelle Vander
• Genevieve Hartin

Drama Absences

If your daughter is going to be absent for a Co-curricular Drama class, please email CCSA at ccsa@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au beforehand so that the Drama teacher is aware. For Drama Festival teams in Years 5 to 11, please ask your daughter to email also to catch up on any work that has been covered as we are beginning to develop the Drama Festival and Competition performances.

Co-curricular Drama Uniforms

A reminder that all Drama students (with the exception of Filmmaking) should be wearing Drama blacks to their classes. If students have ordered the Pymble Drama uniform, this should arrive shortly and CCSA will communicate distribution details. In the meantime, students can wear a black t-shirt and black pants or leggings to their Drama classes. 

Drama Rooms

There have been some changes to rooms for Co-curricular Drama classes. Please click here to check for the latest room information for classes.

Late Enrolments to Drama

If you have a query about joining Co-curricular Drama, please do not hesitate to contact the Head of Drama, Ms Tamara Sweetman at tsweetman@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au, we would love to have your daughter involved this year.

Ms Tamara Sweetman

Head of Drama

Language Arts

Debating 

Debating teams have now been released. Please complete registrations ready for the start of the season tomorrow.

All teams will debate online at Pymble. FED teams, please meet in the Atrium of the Kate Mason Building or your coaching room. ISDA, please meet in the amphitheatre or your coaching room. Social debaters, please also meet in the Amphitheatre.

A Welcome to Debating 2022 afternoon was held for all teams on Wednesday. While the Archdale Competition will commence in May, it has been decided that the first three rounds of both FED and ISDA debating for 2022 will be online. All Social debates will be online from Pymble.

Public Speaking Classes and Opportunities 

Last week classes were able to watch the Rostrum Public Speaking heats. We hope girls found this opportunity inspiring as the standard was very high. On 16 March, Pymble will be hosting the NSW state heat. Please contact Mrs Hubbard at BHUbbard@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au if you would like to assist by chairing or timing a heat. Thank you to all girls who auditioned. Results will be out this week. We will have three Juniors and three Seniors progressing.

MUN Conference 

Students in Years 9 to 12, please see the Portal notice for details of the MUN conference.  

The NSW State Conference for 2022 is coming up soon and positions are limited!

Model United Nations (MUN) is a Mock UN conference activity and a great way to develop negotiation, diplomacy and public speaking skills, as well as learn about international law. 

It is also a fantastic opportunity to make new friends with students from all over NSW, all with diverse backgrounds and experiences.

The conference is a fun way to learn about your global community! All are welcome! 

The conference will span three days. You will represent a certain country from the United Nations and engage in a series of problem-solving activities and negotiations. The event also includes a brilliant array of workshops and speaker panels. 

For more information about dates, locations, costs, and just general information, see https://unyouth.org.au/event/nswconference/.

To register, see the above link or go directly to https://unyouth.wufoo.com/forms/un-youth-nsw-state-conference-2022-registration/.

Please email Isabella Cameron (Language Arts Captain of Model UN) at ISACameron@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or Mrs Hubbard at BHubbard@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au for any questions.

Mrs Bronwyn Hubbard

Head of Language Arts

Fencing

Congratulations to Alyssa Yee (Year 11) who finished third in the NSW Under 20 Years Championships on Sunday 13 February in Sydney.

Alyssa competed in the Junior Women’s Épée division after several months without competition. We look forward to seeing further great results as the year progresses and competition return.

Miss Megan O’Keeffe

Co-ordinator – Fencing

Music

Mamma Mia is coming to Pymble!

For the past four weeks, students from Years 9 to 12 have been singing and dancing up a storm to the tunes of ABBA as they prepare for the opening night of Mamma Mia – The Musical. There are four performances:

• Thursday 17 March at 7.00pm
• Friday 18 March at 7.00pm
• Saturday 19 March at 1.30pm
• Saturday 19 March at 7.00pm

Below is a list of the cast and orchestra members:

• Annika Johnson – Donna
• Claire Oslington – Sophie
• Lara Albany – Rosie
• Freya Carmody – Tanya
• Felix Staas – Sam Carmichael (Barker College 2021)
• Joshua Lawrence – Bill Austin (Carlingford High School)
• Anton Pan-Cassin – Harry Bright (Knox Grammar 2021)
• Noah Sturzaker – Sky (Manly Selective High School)
• Henri Marais – Pepper (Knox Grammar)
• Henry Pearce – Eddie (St Ives High School)
• Charlotte Allen – Ali
• Piper Markson – Lisa
• Lucy Bell – Sophie’s Friends
• Senu Edirisinghe – Sophie’s Friends
• Amelia Seeto – Sophie’s Friends

Ensemble: Sam Beverley, Sarah Boland, Antoinette Boxhall, Phoebe Cooper, Amelia Fantham, Darcey Hawkins, Lily Hearne, Giaan Jackson, Doris Li, Alexandra Luxton, Amelie Matthews, Eliza Michie, Charlise Moodie, Madeline Potts, Genevieve Power, Gigi Spiller, Claire Spring, Isabella Watson, Madeleine Watson, Charlotte Wykes and Brin Yeowell (Knox Grammar)

Feature Dancer: Laura Croker, Amali Hilton, Lisa Ji, Grace Perrignon, Jasmine Pham, Georgia Shaw, Haley Spring, Elizabeth Tang, Jessica Tse, Jessica Woo, Delta Zarafetas,

Band: Sophia Chen, Annabella Cheng, Ella Liu, Savannah Lumley, Hunter Roberts, Louis Russell (Barker College), Connie Qiang, Jessie Qin, Kelly Wong

Tickets will go on sale from Monday 28 February through the GMCPA Box Office. Please check next week’s newsletter for booking details.

Hope to see you at the theatre!

School Choir: Be in it!

School Choir is open to anyone who likes to sing! No audition is necessary, but please come and see Mr Schweinberger in the Performing Arts Staffroom so that you can be placed in the correct voice part. School Choir rehearses every Wednesday morning from 7.25am to 8.05am. All Elective Music students are expected to attend. Mr Schweinberger is looking forward to seeing you all!

Year 3 String Workshop Day

Year 3 String Workshop Day is to be held on Sunday 27 February in the John Reid Hall and Sunshine Square. Notes and information have been emailed to parents and students. The girls will participate in tutorials and rehearsals from 8.30am to 1.00pm with morning tea and lunch provided. It is essential that all students in the Year 3 String program attend this day. Please return notes promptly to the Music or Junior School Offices or scan completed forms to musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au. We are also seeking parent volunteers to assist with registration and helping to serve the food on a two-hour roster basis. Parents will be required to have a current WWCC number and be double vaccinated. Please email Music Admin at musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au if you can assist in any way.

Junior School Band Intensive Weekend

All parents with students involved in the Stanhope and Grainger Bands will have received notes regarding our annual Junior School Band Workshop Day which will be held at the College on Sunday 6 March for all members of these ensembles. It will be a busy day of tutorials, rehearsals and activities to get these ensembles off to a flying start for 2022. All members of these two ensembles are expected to attend. We are also seeking parent volunteers to assist with registration and helping to serve the food on a two-hour roster basis. Parents will be required to have a current WWCC number and be double vaccinated. Please email Music Admin at musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au if you can assist in any way.

Years 3 and 4 Training Band Workshop Day

The Years 3 and 4 Training Band Workshop Day will be held on Sunday 27 February. The girls will participate in tutorials and rehearsals from 9.00am to 1.00pm with morning tea and lunch provided. It is essential that all students in the Years 3 and 4 Training Band program attend this day. Please return notes as soon as possible to the Music or Junior School Offices or scan completed forms to musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au. We are seeking parent volunteers to assist with registration and helping to serve the food for a two-hour period. Any parents willing to help, please contact Music Admin at musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au. Parent volunteers will be required to have a current WWCC number and be double vaccinated.

Co-curricular Music Ensembles Update

After two years of COVID-19 restrictions, the Music Department is excited for all music ensembles to return to the rehearsal room. Students have the opportunity to participate in a vast array of music ensembles at their individual level of skill and interest. All enquiries should be directed to the Music Office at musicadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or phone +61 2 9855 7666. Information regarding private music lessons, ensembles and activities can also be found on the College website and in the Music Directory Booklet, which is available from the Music Office. Please come and see us!

Any girl who plays an instrument and would like to be in an ensemble but has not yet been placed in one, please come to the Music Office at lunchtime or before school. All students who learn an orchestral or band instrument at the College are expected to participate in an appropriate ensemble. In addition, all vocal students should also be involved in the School Choir. 

We will need to continue to follow the guidelines set by NSW Health regarding COVID-19. As a result, the following protocols will be put in place.

• All brass students must bring a cup and rag so they can clean up their condensation throughout the rehearsal. 
• Secondary string and keyboard players and percussionists will need to wear a mask during rehearsals.
• Secondary brass and woodwind will be able to take their mask off to play their instrument but will then need to put it back on while they are not playing.
• Junior School students are strongly encouraged to wear a mask in rehearsals.
• As singing is a higher risk activity, all Secondary and Junior School students will be required to wear a mask at their choir rehearsal.

Please note the following rehearsal times. Most ensemble rehearsals commenced this week unless indicated below. If you have any concerns, please contact the relevant ensemble conductor.

Secondary School Choirs

• Monday 5.00pm to 6.30pm – Pymble Chorale, Chapel (Mrs Sabina Turner)
• Wednesday 7.25am to 8.05am – School Choir, Chapel (Mr Kurt Schweinberger)

Secondary School Orchestras

• Monday 6.50am to 8.05am – Senior School String Orchestra, Music Gallery (Mrs Luczia Bain and Mrs Sarah Crawford-Turner)
• Thursday 6.50am to 8.05am – Senior School Chamber Strings, Music Gallery (Mrs Narelle Colbey)
• Thursday 1.25pm to 2.05pm – Senior School String Quartet (Mrs Luczia Bain)
• Friday 6.50am to 8.05am – Senior School Symphony Orchestra, Big Rehearsal Room (Mrs Narelle Colbey and Mr Marcus Stafford)

Secondary School Concert Bands

• Monday 6.50am to 8.05am – School Concert Band, Big Rehearsal Room (Mr Ralph Wilcock)
• Commencing Week 4 Monday 1.25pm to 2.05pm – Flute Ensemble, Music Room 4
• Commencing Week 4 Monday 3.30pm to 4.15pm – Middle School Band Tutorials, Big Rehearsal Room and Percussion Studio (Mr Kurt Schweinberger and Mr Marcus Stafford)
• Tuesday 6.50am to 8.05am – Middle School Concert Band, Big Rehearsal Room (Mr Kurt Schweinberger)
• Tuesday 3.30pm to 4.30pm – Jazz Ensemble, Big Rehearsal Room (Mr Ralph Wilcock)
• Wednesday 6.50am to 8.05am – Symphonic Wind Ensemble, Big Rehearsal Room (Mr Marcus Stafford)
• Wednesday 1.25pm to 2.05pm – Clarinet Ensemble, Music Room 5 (Miss Amy Whyte) 
• Wednesday 1.25pm to 2.05pm – Lower Brass Ensemble, Music Room 6 (Mr Matthew Walmsley) 
• Thursday 1.25pm to 2.05pm – Rock Bands, Music Room 5 (Mr Ralph Wilcock)
• Thursday 3.30pm to 5.00pm – Senior School Stage Band, Big Rehearsal Room (Mr Marcus Stafford)

Junior School Music – Years 3 to 6

String Orchestras

• Monday 3.00pm to 4.15pm – Junior School Brumby String Orchestra, Music Gallery (Mrs Narelle Colbey and Mrs Sarah Crawford-Turner)
• Wednesday 7.15am to 8.10am – Hindson Chamber Strings, Music Gallery (Mrs Narelle Colbey)
• Commencing Week 6 Wednesday 3pm to 4.15pm – Year 3 String Orchestra, Music Gallery (Mrs Narelle Colbey and Mrs Luczia Bain)
• Friday 12.45pm to 1.30pm – Junior School String Quartet, Music Gallery (Mrs Narelle Colbey)

Choirs

• Tuesday 7.30am to 8.05am – Junior School Choir, Chapel (Mrs Jill King and Ms Ellen Buckley)
• Friday 7.15am to 8.05am – Junior Capella (formally known as the Junior School Chamber Choir), Chapel (Mrs Sabina Turner)

Concert Bands

• Tuesday 3pm to 4.15pm – Stanhope Band, Music Gallery (Mrs Patrice Goodman)
• Wednesday 2.30pm to 3.15pm – Years 3 and 4 Training Band Tutorials, Music Building
• Wednesday 3.15pm to 4.15pm – Junior School Jazz Band, Big Rehearsal Room (Mrs Patrice Goodman)
• Thursday 7.15am to 8.10am – Grainger Band, Big Rehearsal Room (Mrs Jill King)
• Commencing Week 6 Thursday 3.00pm to 4.15pm – Years 3 and 4 Band Training Band, Music Gallery (Mrs Jill King, Ms Ellen Buckley and Mr Ralph Wilcock)

Junior School Music – Kindergarten to Year 2

• Monday 7.30am to 8.00am – Kindergarten to Year 2 Pizzicato Strings, Lower Performing Arts Room (Former Preparatory School Performing Arts Room) Mrs Narelle Colbey and Mrs Rhonda Purvis
• Tuesday 2.55pm to 3.35pm – Year 1 Violin, Music Room 5 (Mrs Michelle Steele)
• Wednesday 2.55pm to 3.35pm – Year 1 Cello, Music Room 3 (Mr Nigel Parry)
• Thursday 7.30am to 8.00am – Years 1 to 2 Piccoline Choir, Lower Performing Arts Room (Former Preparatory School Performing Arts Room) Mrs Tiffany Farlow and Mrs Julie Hare

Small ensembles (Piano Trio, String Quartet and Baroque Ensembles) will commence later in the term and individual teachers will contact the relevant students. 

Mr Kurt Schweinberger

Head of Co-curricular Music

From the Futures and Careers Department

What’s happening at Pymble

Dates for Diaries

Presentations from Universities at lunchtime in the Jobson Lecture Theatre from 1.25pm to 2.05pm:

Term 1

Wednesday 23 February        ANU

Thursday 3 March                   UOW

Thursday 10 March                 ACU

Thursday 17 March                 Bond University

Thursday 24 March                 Notre Dame University

Term 2

Thursday 28 April                    UTS

Thursday 5 May                      Macquarie University

Thursday 12 May                    Torrens University

Thursday 19 May                    University of Newcastle

Thursday 26 May                    UNSW Co-op

Thursday 9 June                      University of Melbourne (1045-1105)

Save the Date:

On Thursday 3 March from 6.30pm to 8.00pm, there will be an online Study Overseas Information Evening.

This evening is for any interested Pymble students or parent/caregiver and will cover the many processes which a student needs to consider if they wish to study in the USA and the UK upon leaving school.

Speakers will include:

• Education USA.
• University College London.
• A recent Pymblestudent perspective – ‘What does it take to get an offer’.
• Ms Halliday speaking about Sporting processes.
• Mr Kozyra will be speaking about general Pymble

Open Days & Info Sessions

WSU | Discover Western: Subject Selection and Future Career in Teaching and Education, Interpreting and Translation, Arts and International Studies

Tuesday 1 March, 5.00pm

Online

Find out more: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/events/western-webinars

WSU | Discover Western: Subject Selection and Future Career in Business and Accounting, Law, Tourism and Urban Planning

Tuesday 1 March, 6.00pm

Online

Find out more: https://www.westernsydney.edu.au/future/student-life/events/western-webinars

TAFE NSW | Launch your Career in Cyber Security

Tuesday 15 March, 10.00am – 11.00am

Online

Find out more: https://tafenswevents.eventsair.com/launch-your-career-in-cyber-security/lyccs/Site/Register

AIF | 2022 Open Days

Newcastle: Saturday 5 March, 9.30am – 12.30pm

Parramatta: Saturday 19 March, 9.30 am – 12.30pm

Sydney: Thursday 24 March, 5.30pm – 8.30pm

Find out more: https://enquire.fitness.edu.au/open-day

University of Sydney | Life of a Psychologist

Wednesday 6 April, 4.00pm – 4.30pm

Online

Find out more: https://uni-sydney.zoom.us/webinar/register/WN_4PFpfIj9QoKUY4VFWAFtNw

2022 Northern Beaches Careers Expo

Thursday 26 May, 9.00am – 2.00pm

Miramare Gardens

Find out more: https://www.theben.org.au/event/2022-northern-beaches-careers-expo-back-after-covid/

Workshops and Courses

Grok Academy | Cyber Live

Wednesday 16 March, 10.30am – 12.30pm

Online

Find out more: https://groklearning.com/cyberlive/

Scholarships

Bond University Vice Chancellor’s Elite Scholarship

100 per cent tuition for any single or approved combined* undergraduate degree (excluding the Bond Medical Program).

• Available to domestic students completing Year 12 at an Australian secondary school.
• To be considered, applicants must be predicted to achieve a minimum of ATAR 95.00 or IB Diploma 38.
• Demonstrated record of leadership, initiative and service to their school and/or community. 

Bond’s unique ‘VC scholarship’ is a full-fee scholarship offered to high-achieving Australian high school students. It covers a broad range of degree areas, including approved combined or ‘double’ degrees. However, a full-fee scholarship really is only the beginning of what the scholarship entails! As well as looking (really) great on a resume, the scholarship gives students access to a range of professionals, scholarship alumni, and like-minded and passionate fellow students, and sets students up for an exceptional time at university.  Applications for this scholarship open on 2 May 2022 and close on 1 August 2022.

Find out more: https://bond.edu.au/scholarship/vice-chancellors-elite-scholarships

Walkley Young Indigenous Scholarship

Value: Work placement + $10,000 stipend

Open/Closing Dates: 7 March 2022 – 26 April 2022

This is an exciting opportunity for an aspiring Indigenous journalist aged 30 years or under to develop their newsroom experience with two leading news providers. This 12-week scholarship will be broken down into six weeks with Junkee Media and six weeks with 10 News First in Sydney. You’ll develop a broad understanding of newsroom and production processes and requirements, and as a member of the team you will be encouraged to share your ideas, skills and knowledge.

Find out more

Rosemary Bishop Indigenous Education Scholarship

Value: Full tuition and boarding

Open/Closing Dates: 3 January 2022 – 29 April 2022

The Rosemary Bishop Indigenous Education Scholarship is available to any Indigenous child from regional, rural and remote communities and towns throughout Australia who will be entering Year 7 in 2023. Scholarships are limited to two children per family.

Find out more

Atatürk Scholarship

Value: $6,000 AUD

Open/Closing Dates: 1 January 2022 – 31 March 2022

The Atatürk Scholarship was founded in 2020 by members of the Australian Turkish community to provide financial assistance to Australian students of Turkish ancestry who strive to excel in studies, enhancing peace and friendship between all people and all nations.

The scholarship provides financial assistance to students commencing their first year of tertiary study at a University or TAFE at Degree, Diploma or Advanced Diploma level, in the year of application, and a special Şarık Arıyak Memorial Bursary for the second year. 

Find out more

Work Experience

Work Experience with Services Australia

If you’re in Years 10, 11 or 12 or equivalent you can register for a work experience placement.

Placements are unpaid and run for five days on a full time or part time basis. Full time placements run for five consecutive business days. Part time placements run for five days spread over a maximum of five weeks. Learn more

Engineering Virtual Work Experiences

Engineers Australia has partnered with GradAustralia to develop a series of virtual work experience modules exclusively for our student members and to help bridge the gap between university theory and working practice for engineering students.

Each virtual work experience is targeted at the university level, delivered 100 per cent online, and takes between two and five hours to complete.

Eight virtual work experiences have been developed that cover seven engineering disciplines. Learn more.

Considering a gap year?

Find out more at https://rusticpathways.com.au/.

Parent Contact Directory

We are excited to launch the new user-friendly Parent Contact Directory which you can access via MyPymble or the MyPymble app. The Parent Contact Directory has been developed for parents and carers to opt-in to sharing their contact details with other parents and carers in their daughters/s year group to help build community connections. Please note if you give permission for your details to be added to the directory this will enable all parents across your daughter’s year group to also view your details.

As per our Privacy Policy (which can be viewed on our website), these contact details are for personal use only and not to be shared with other parties. They should only be used to make appropriate, school-related contact between parents and carers and they must not be used for any other purpose.

If any details are not listed on the MyPymble Parent Contact Directory this is likely because a parent or carer has not opted in to having their information shown. Please note contact lists constantly change as parents and carers update or add their details and you should refer to the list available on MyPymble for the latest correct details. You can also change your sharing preferences via MyPymble.

To log in you will need to use your unique carer number and password. Please refer to the email you will have received with your carer number to log in. If you are unable to log in, we would request that you reset your password using this link, or alternatively, contact the IT Helpdesk on +61 2 9855 7771 for assistance.

From Out of School Hours Care

Before School Care (BSC) – 7.00am to 8.30am

After School Care (ASC) – End of the school day until 6.30pm

If your daughter is attending a co-curricular activity that starts later in the afternoon (after 3.45pm), you are welcome to pick her up from school and accompany her to her activity. If this is not possible, your daughter will be required to attend the OSHC Centre and remain there until her lesson time. (Applicable charges will be applied.) This is to ensure the safety of your child on the school grounds.

OSHC fees are as follows:

• BSC Regular and Casual attendance: $16.00 flat rate.
• BSC Casual booking (less than 12 hours’ notice): $20.00 flat rate.
• ASC Regular and Casual attendance: $37.00 flat rate.
• ASC Casual Booking (less than 24 hours’ notice): $41.00 flat rate.
• ASC Years 3 to 6 Pre Co-curricular (3.00pm to 4.00pm only): $13.00 flat rate.
• ASC Years 3 to 6 Pre Co-curricular (3.00pm to 4.00pm only) less than 24 hours’ notice: $17.00 flat rate.
• Non-notification fee of absence or changes to afternoon attendance schedules: $20.00.
• Late Collection fee: $5.00 per minute per child after the Centre closing time of 6.30pm.

Payments withdrawn from your nominated account are paid in arrears on a fortnightly cycle. The Child Care Subsidy is credited via your Kidsoft account as a fee reduction based on the percentage entitlement.

For more information on how to book a place, please visit https://www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au/pymblelc-oshc/out-of-school-hours-care-program/ or contact us via email at oshcadmin@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or phone (11.00am to 6.30pm) +61 2 9855 7741.

Miss Lexi Ibbotson

Assistant Co-ordinator/Educational Leader

ySafe Cyber Safety Event

On Wednesday 9 March Pymble is hosting an important and engaging online education session for Years 7 to 10 parents and carers. The session will be co-presented with ySafe, Australia’s leading provider of cyber safety education.

This practical, strategy-rich session will cover the important points that families need to know about online safety; covering key information about social media and gaming, screen time recommendations, and step-by-step instructions on how to set up a cyber-safe home.

Please register for this event by following the link provided. This is an important school event that we recommend all parents and carers of Years 7 to 10 students attend.

Date: Wednesday 9 March 2022

Time: 6.30pm

RSVP: Click here to register

From the Director of Community Engagement and Advancement

Pymble events – Semester 1 Calendar

After a disrupted two years due to COVID-19 restrictions, we hope you and your daughter/s have been enjoying the 2022 events so far if you have had that opportunity; we are very much looking forward to bringing our Pymble family together (in person) on many more occasions this year. In order to do this, we will continue to follow NSW Health and Department of Education guidelines to ensure that our community events are held in a COVID-safe way. 

We have plenty of events planned for Semester 1, including our always-popular Icebreaker, and while dates are subject to change, we are excited to be filling our calendars with campus activities once more. Please click here to view the Semester 1 Events Calendar. 

While we understand that it is inevitable that there will be COVID cases in our community, we will endeavour to proceed with our events for as long as the case numbers amongst staff and students remain low. We know how important events are to our girls’ journey at Pymble, as well as you, their parents and carers. 

Join the Parent Contact Directory

We are excited to launch the new user-friendly Parent Contact Directory which you can access via MyPymble or the MyPymble app. The Parent Contact Directory has been developed for parents and carers to opt-in to sharing their contact details with other parents and carers in their daughters/s year group to help build community connections. Please note if you give permission for your details to be added to the directory this will enable all parents across your daughter’s year group to also view your details.

As per our Privacy Policy (which can be viewed on our website), these contact details are for personal use only and not to be shared with other parties. They should only be used to make appropriate, school-related contact between parents and carers and they must not be used for any other purpose.

If any details are not listed on the MyPymble Parent Contact Directory this is likely because a parent or carer has not opted in to having their information shown. Please note contact lists constantly change as parents and carers update or add their details and you should refer to the list available on MyPymble for the latest correct details. You can also change your sharing preferences via MyPymble.

To log in you will need to use your unique carer number and password. Please refer to the email you will have received with your carer number to log in. If you are unable to log in, we would request that you reset your password using this link, or alternatively, contact the IT Helpdesk on +61 2 9855 7771 for assistance.

Communications at Pymble

Here at the College, we know that keeping on top of life admin can sometimes feel like a full-time job, so we’ve made it even easier to receive and access communications from the College in order to support your daughter’s schooling. 

All you need is the MyPymble Portal… 

The updated MyPymble parent information portal has been redesigned to streamline communication and information for families whilst keeping your daughter at the centre.  

Via MyPymble, you can view your daughter’s upcoming assessment tasks (Secondary School) and past academic reports, find College communications such as the Newsletter, inform the College of absence and also view the school calendar.

You can access MyPymble in two ways: 

1. From the Pymble website homepage (click 🔒 icon on top right of page) or click here to view  
2. Download the new app from Google Play or the Apple app store, or scan the relevant QR Code below (please note, updates on the Pymble app are often available as we continue to add enhancements – and one has landed today – so please be sure to keep checking back for updates in Google Play or the app store):  

To log in you will need to use your unique carer number and password, which you should have all received via email. If you are unable to log in, please reset your password using this link, or alternatively, contact the IT Helpdesk on +61 2 9855 7771 for assistance.  

For further information on these tools please click here to view the MyPymble User Guide.  

Alumni Mentoring Cocktail Party 

We are thrilled to again host our Mentoring Cocktail Party, designed exclusively for Pymble alumni, aged 18 to 30 years. Please see event details below and share with any ex-students you know who would like to attend. 

For a highlights video of our previous mentoring event in 2019, please click here.

Mrs Kelly Mancey

Director – Community Engagement & Advancement

Semester 1 Community Events Calendar

Pymble Business Directory

Pymble Business Directory – Now Live

The College is pleased to announce the Pymble Business Directory to current families. The Pymble Business Directory will allow Pymble families to advertise your business or service to our Pymble family. 

Businesses who have registered can now be found on the Pymble website here. 

To list your business, please complete the attached form.

With your support, we hope the Pymble Business Directory will grow to become a valuable resource to our Pymble families. 

PymConnect

PymConnect is our online mentoring platform, designed to link our Pymble alumni, parents and carers to facilitate mentoring opportunities that help create a culture of shared learning, and enhance personal and professional growth.  

Since the launch of PymConnect last year we have received an enthusiastic response from our community. We currently have 177 mentors and 159 mentees making connections and building a sense of belonging.

The past 18 months have been extraordinary with lockdowns and restrictions impacting the lives of everyone – including our current Year 12 students. As they prepare to complete their HSC studies and embark on their next life journey, this is a time where connections and support are important. In preparation for our newest graduates joining PymConnect, we would like to invite you to participate in this program as a mentor.  

A special thanks to those of you who have signed up to join the program following our last invitation. 

To express your interest or to ask us a question, please feel free to reach out to us at pymconnect@pymblelc.nsw.edu.au or call Mrs Katrina Corcoran on +61 2 9855 7304. 

From the Pymble Parent Association

2022 Events

Please click here for a list of this year’s events. Please note that this is subject to change due to COVID-19.

From the JSPG

Elizabeth Toh, Aimee Birch, Stephanie Pickford and Kai Jones

Outdoor Excursion

The first half of Year 6 is currently on camp at Glenworth Valley, with a second group to go next week. We cannot wait to hear their fantastic stories and fun-filled learning adventures.

JSPG Term 1 Meeting

The JSPG Term 1 Meeting will be held next Thursday 24 February from 8.45am to 9.45am online via Microsoft Teams. The meeting will be attended by Mrs Kate Brown and the Junior School Deputy Heads. There will be a special focus on Wellbeing and Mathematics. Brigid Robson, head of the PPA will also discuss upcoming events.

Link to join

Agenda

JSPG Breakfast Events

We are excited to be holding two JSPG Breakfast events for our Junior School families on Tuesday 22 March (Kindergarten to Year 3) and Wednesday 23 March (Years 4 to 6). Our venue is The Greengate Hotel. Please note that there is parking onsite (at the back of the hotel) and in the surrounding streets. Killara train station is also a ten-minute walk.

Pedal Your Smoothie

This event is being held on Wednesday 16 March and is one that is much-loved by our girls who ride exercise bikes to mix their choice of smoothie. All proceeds from the event are being donated to Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Women’s Shelter, who do valuable work assisting women in crisis.

Communication with Parents

Please make sure your contact details are updated on MyPymble so your Year Co-ordinators and Class Parents can contact you. To check your details, log in to MyPymble, click on ‘My Profile’ (top right-hand side) and then ‘Edit My Details’. You can view your daughter’s class details by selecting ‘Parent Contact Directory’ and your roll call group (under ‘My Shortcuts’). 

From the SSPG

Middle School (Year 7)

Carol Bai and Shiva Rich

Dear Year 7 parents

We hope and trust you are all settling well into the Middle School! We would like to kindly remind you about some important details of camps, upcoming events and activities, which you might not want to miss out on.

Affirming and Encouraging Letter

This is for our Year 7 girls when they have Outdoor Education at Vision Valley. Please handwrite this letter and seal it in an envelope. All the letters must be received by Monday 21 February.

Year 7 Parent Information Evening ‘Knowing People, Knowing Pymble’

Date: Thursday 17 February

Time: 5.00pm registration, 5.15pm start

Venue: Gillian Moore Centre for Performing Arts (GMPCA)

Link for registration:

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfvE_pT5VsGweMeAiKLlGHB-3YeFkPlavwbeYzaAkJYRwZQjg/viewform

SSPG Years 7 and 8 Parents’ Breakfast

Date: Wednesday 8 March

Time: 8.30am to 10.00am

Venue: The Greengate Hotel

Link for registration:

https://events.humanitix.com/sspg-parent-breakfast-2022-years-7-8

Shiva and I will attend both the Parent Information Evening and the Parent Breakfast. We are looking forward to seeing most of our Year 7 parents there. This is a wonderful chance to get to know each other. Meanwhile, please feel free to email us if you have any questions or suggestions.

Upper School

Pilar Yemma and Susan Ma

We would like to extend a warm welcome to all new and existing parents of the UPSG Pymble community of 2022. We hope the year has started well and your daughters have settled into the school routine.

We are the 2022 Co-leaders of the USPG for 2022. Our Year Co-ordinators are:

• Year 9 Co-ordinator – Dushi Cooke (dushi_cooke@yahoo.com.au)
• Year 10 Co-ordinators – Ginin Baikie (ginin@baikie.com)  and Vicki Volikas (vmvolikas@gmail.com) 

We look forward to seeing you at the various gatherings the school and the Year Co-ordinators have planned for us.

The first event for parents in the Upper School is the SSPG Parent Breakfast Tuesday 1 March at The Greengate Hotel in Killara. You can sign up to attend by clicking here.

Another way to keep in touch is to join the USPG Facebook Page ‘PymbleLC USPG 2022’ which is for Years 9 and 10 parents:

Also, each year group has its own Facebook page:

• PymbleLC Class of 2025 for Year 9
• PymbleLC Class of 2024 for Year 10

This is a great way to connect with other parents, whether it’s to highlight or share school-related information or to ask questions. If you would like access, please let us know.

Contact details on the Pymble Portal 

In order to share your contact information (mobile and email) with other parents, you need to go into the Portal and authorise it. While you may have provided your contact information to the school, this is not automatically shared with other parents. To share your phone number and your email address, you need to go into the Portal and adjust your privacy settings:

• Go to https://www.pymblelc.nsw.edu.au/mypymble/
• Click on ‘Current Student’.
• Click on ‘Year Group Contact List’(at the bottom).
• On the left-hand side, click on ‘My Details’and check the boxes of the information you would like to share.

Congratulations to our Class of 2021

We wish to congratulate and acknowledge our 2021 graduates for the completion of their personalised education at Pymble and for their exceptional HSC results.

Pymbulletin

The Ex-Students’ section of Pymbulletin reports on the achievements of Pymble alumni, news items and engagements, weddings, births and vale notices.

Illuminate

This journal shines the light on Pymble people as designers and innovators of education, and the creative, connected and engaged practice in our community of learners.

The articles will take readers into classrooms from Kindergarten in the Preparatory School to Year 12 in the Senior School, from Drama to Science to the Library. We invite you to enjoy this insight into the depth and diversity of innovation in our learning environments and our commitment to sustainable capacity building.