Welcome
Throughout their school life Meriden girls are equipped to make a positive difference in their world. Our girls are global citizens who are encouraged to be open-minded and inclusive and to respond to situations with integrity, responsibility and compassion. At Meriden every girl is valued and her journey through the school is guided according to her individual needs. Our School is a community that supports and encourages students in their artistic, service, athletic and cultural endeavours while keeping academic excellence at its heart. We limit our class sizes to allow teachers to foster curiosity, initiative, perseverance and enthusiasm for learning in their students. At Meriden we care about our girls’ performance and their wellbeing and believe that, by nurturing both, we are best placed to help our students to achieve their potential. Our School’s academic outcomes are outstanding and most of our graduates are accepted into the top universities in Australia and abroad. We are equally proud of our students’ achievements in music, sport, debating and their many other pursuits. Meriden is renowned for its commitment to developing well-rounded young women who are confident, articulate and generous, well-equipped to become courageous and innovative leaders of the future. Meriden caters for girls from Pre-Kindergarten (four years of age) to Year 12. We invite you to tour our facilities and witness the energy and exuberance of our impressive School.
MRS LISA BROWN
Principal
1
Inspiring young minds
2
Young minds are curious, adventurous and vibrant. They are receptive and open, responsive to ideas and direction. At Meriden we inspire these young minds by nurturing them according to individual needs. We understand that intellectual curiosity is unique to every student, and our small class sizes allow our teachers to know students personally and ensure that each girl has a voice. Meriden puts strong emphasis on finding individual paths of learning for each girl. Our experienced teachers draw upon a range of teaching and learning strategies to cater to the different needs of students, and the different ways they learn. We provide positive, student-focused learning environments and deliver a rich, diverse curriculum designed around clear learning goals. Performance and wellbeing are carefully monitored. It is our aim that every student is actively engaged in the classroom. From their earliest years at Meriden, our students are challenged, supported and inspired to achieve their full potential. They are given opportunities to extend themselves in the classroom, on the sporting field, in the performing arts and in a myriad of other activities. They are supported in their pursuits by a friendly and caring school community that helps develop confident, compassionate and resilient young women. Through special academic enrichment programs, we extend and challenge very able students as well as giving support to those requiring additional assistance. Dedicated, creative and enthusiastic teaching helps our girls achieve personal goals and academic success, while experiencing the rewards of being curious, thinking creatively, using initiative and exploring ideas.
3
Nurturing spirited hearts
4
Passion, energy, generosity, determination. These are some of the keys that unlock the wonders of a student’s world. Her journey of discovery can lead to a passion for music, drama, sport, or debating. It can lead to performing in front of crowds, creating masterpieces or experimenting in science labs. These passions are formed when we encourage students to look for new horizons and to be brave, optimistic and adventurous. We encourage students to challenge themselves and others in their quest for knowledge, fulfilment and improvement. At Meriden we build the spirits of our girls by showing them how to explore and express their individual talents, and to celebrate and appreciate achievements both large and small. Our girls are encouraged to seek challenges, to learn from their mistakes and to be resilient enough to keep trying, learning and improving. Under the guidance of our pastoral care programs, our students explore personal and social issues and learn to build resilience, foster creativity, make sound decisions and become independent. We expect commitment and perseverance from our girls, and in return they experience the thrill of achievement, of reaching their goals and of being part of a successful team. The rewards build confidence, self-worth and respect in individuals and in the school community. All students are encouraged to participate in Meriden’s vast array of cocurricular activities. Cadets, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, theatre sports, musical productions, debating, community service, science clubs, robotics, public speaking, chess clubs, orchestras, ensembles and choirs provide activities for every ability and an opportunity for all girls to explore their interests and develop their talents. There is a place for everyone in our sports teams too. They include athletics, badminton, basketball, diving, football, netball, swimming, tennis, volleyball and water polo as well as physical fitness activities. At Meriden, every student is known and her unique contribution to the life of the School is valued.
5
Equipping life-long learners
6
Inquiry, reflection, creativity, excellence. Meriden is a school that equips students to develop the skills and qualities required for independent, life-long learning. Our students are taught to be flexible thinkers, creative problem-solvers and skilled communicators. The framework for teaching and learning at Meriden is student-centred and based on best educational practice. It includes a wide range of enriching and holistic educational programs and activities across the entire school. At Meriden, learning is a partnership. Our girls and their teachers work together to explore concepts, solve problems and overcome challenges. Our students learn how to think and reflect, and how to organise their work and their time. They acquire important research skills such as how to collect data, differentiate between the quality of different types of information, analyse the data and form valid conclusions. They become skilled communicators who can present their ideas in a confident and articulate manner. The use of information technology at Meriden reflects the world in which our students live. It is integrated across all subject areas as a tool to enhance learning. Teaching our students to make their way through, and benefit from, the virtual world is achieved by giving them access to technology in its many forms in an age-appropriate manner. It is our aim that Meriden girls become responsible digital citizens and discerning users of technology who can access and evaluate information from all sources. Meriden girls develop a thirst for knowledge and confidence to reach their goals. Throughout their time at Meriden they experience the value of learning and of applying independent thinking to situations throughout life.
7
Enhancing our communities
8
Meriden girls are citizens of the world, whose classroom knows no bounds. An understanding of other people and other cultures prepares our students to live and work in the global community of the future. Developing a broad, international outlook is built into all areas of learning from as early as Pre-Kindergarten. Global mindedness helps our students appreciate their place in the world, and to respect and value diversity. They are taught to understand and appreciate the value of the physical world. At Meriden, all students study a language other than English until Year 8 and we encourage them to continue this richly rewarding experience through to Year 12. Our Senior School students have the opportunity to learn about other cultures first-hand through overseas tours, exchange programs, and specialised programs that develop the capabilities required to identify and address complex real-world problems. Gaining a sense of global issues helps our girls develop passions and interests that inspire them into action. They learn how to effect positive change and make a difference in the world. Meriden girls thrive through their involvement in community service, social justice and sustainability programs. A global outlook on living and learning helps our students develop the skills required to stand out from the crowd and take the lead. All students are nurtured and encouraged to undertake leadership roles throughout their time at Meriden. There are numerous opportunities to assume responsibility and, with the right guidance and support, we believe that every girl can develop the skills and confidence to become an effective leader.
9
Building strong faith
10
Compassion, integrity, courage and respect. These are the Christian values that form the foundation of our School, and guide our students on their path through life. Our students and teachers live these values, and by doing so they build a school community where students feel loved, respected and confident. Living our values builds trust between students, teachers and families, and provides an environment where people feel safe and secure. The culture of our School is based on the Christian faith and our expression of this faith is consistent with Anglican tradition. It explores the person of Jesus and teachings of the Bible while promoting respect for those of other faiths and backgrounds. Girls of all religious faiths and cultural backgrounds are welcome at our School. At Meriden, values are experienced, not taught by textbook. Our Chaplaincy team is pivotal to the life of the School, and runs programs and activities that provide guidance, support and pastoral care to our school community. Weekly Chapel services and Christian Education classes provide girls with the framework for ethical thinking, moral decision-making and dealing with the issues of life. Voluntary student Christian groups at all age levels meet regularly at lunch time to encourage each other, pray and learn from the thoughts and experiences of their peers. These groups enable girls to explore the Bible and discuss issues that are relevant for them. Our students become well placed to deal with the ethical dilemmas that exist in everyday life. Community service plays a significant role at Meriden. Our girls learn to serve their friends, family, peers and the community with understanding, grace and generosity. They gain a deep understanding of the importance of making meaningful contributions to the community through their participation in community service activities and they experience first-hand what it means to be an active and engaged citizen. We encourage our students to be thoughtful and generous, to be positive and persistent and to enjoy the fun and rewards of friendship, and being a true friend.
11
12
Meriden girls are given opportunities to experience life and learning in ways they may never have imagined. While academic success is the foundation of the education at Meriden, experiences in the performing arts, sport and numerous cocurricular activities provide a complete education. Every year Meriden ranks among the top independent girls’ schools in the Higher School Certificate, with students consistently featuring on the HSC All-Round Achievers’ List. Often Meriden girls are in the top five placings in NSW in a particular subject, putting them among the state’s elite academic achievers. The results of our younger students in external literacy and numeracy testing far surpass the state average and their performance in state-wide individual subject competitions is equally impressive. The major projects of our HSC students are consistently showcased in Encore and OnStage performances and ArtExpress and Shape exhibitions. These events feature the most outstanding HSC major works in Music, Drama, Design and Technology and Visual Arts from across the state each year. The opportunities provided in performing arts, sport, debating, public speaking, theatre sports and other activities have seen our girls’ talents showcased in competitions and performances across Australia and the world. Our musicians and singers have performed for audiences in Europe and Asia to resounding ovation. They consistently place amongst the top performers in competitions such as the Sydney Eisteddfod. Meriden has a thriving Music Department which aims to foster a love of music in every student and develop the skills of talented young musicians. It is supported by the Meriden Music Academy which offers professional instruction in music, speech and drama.
13
Our School has a proud tradition of fostering strong public speakers and our girls regularly debate their way to the champion’s podium in the annual Archdale Debating competition. Meriden girls are given the opportunity to participate in a vast array of sports, and have represented Australia at international level in athletics, swimming, water polo and tennis. The Meriden Tennis Academy has nurtured some extraordinary talent. In international competition, the Meriden team has been crowned World Schools Tennis Champions and, at home, the Meriden team has won the Tildesley Tennis tournament each consecutive year for many years. Every year, several of Meriden’s top athletes secure full scholarships to study at major universities in the USA while representing the university in sport. Meriden girls also make their mark in leadership and service roles with the Australian Army Cadets and Duke of Edinburgh’s International Award. During their years at Meriden all girls develop a comprehensive portfolio of achievement in a range of areas, along with a compelling record of service to their community. It is these impressive portfolios that have enabled some of our girls to gain entry to university courses and secure cadetships with prestigious global organisations even before the release of their HSC results. Meriden’s university entry levels are consistently impressive. Each year approximately 94% of Meriden graduates take up university offers at Sydney’s top universities as well as prominent interstate and overseas universities. They study courses as diverse as medicine, law, communications, accounting, economics and the arts. When our students graduate, they become part of a global network of women who are connected by the experiences and friendships they developed while at Meriden. They achieve success in a vast range of professions and interests and can be found around the world as global citizens making their mark.
14
15
16
Our campuses
On Meriden’s picturesque campuses, heritage buildings sit alongside modern, purpose-built architecture. Our school grounds are everevolving: with our girls, with technology and with the promise of future possibilities. Meriden comprises three adjacent campuses – Lingwood, Junior School and Senior School. Each campus is just a short stroll from the others, and this close proximity fosters a special sense of community and school pride across all age groups at Meriden.
LINGWOOD CAMPUS
Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten
The Lingwood campus houses Meriden’s Pre-Kindergarten and Kindergarten. This purposebuilt facility has been architecturally designed to meet the developmental and educational needs of young children. It even contains its own library catering specifically for four to six-year-olds. Vibrant indooroutdoor spaces make the campus an exciting and inspiring place to learn and grow.
17
JUNIOR SCHOOL CAMPUS Year 1 to Year 6
18
The Junior School campus for students in Years 1 to 6 is set on well-maintained lawns that come alive during recess, lunch, physical education lessons and sport. The campus features modern, light-filled classrooms, a state-of-the-art library, specialised spaces for music, languages and STEM learning as well as an auditorium and Music Academy. Our Junior School students utilise the swimming pool and tennis courts on the Senior School campus.
19
SENIOR SCHOOL CAMPUS Year 7 to Year 12
20
Meriden’s Senior School campus for students in Years 7 to 12 provides a superb teaching and learning environment with the full range of facilities and resources to cater for all areas of study and interests. The many dedicated learning spaces include a Maths Learning Centre, Design and Creative Arts Centre, Research Centre and a STEM facility where students gain practical experience with industry-standard technologies ranging from coding and robotics technologies to 3D printers and CNC machines. A Sports Centre, indoor and outdoor gymnasiums, Tennis Academy, heated pool, Library and Reading Room, together with a brand-new state-of-the-art Music and Drama Centre and Music Academy, enable every girl to expand her interests and hone her talents.
21
Travelling to Meriden 22
M4
W es
ter
n Hw y
Leic este r
Parr
ama tta R
d
Ave
Meriden’s central location in Strathfield makes travelling from all areas of Sydney and surrounding regions convenient and direct. Our students come from local Inner West suburbs as well as areas further afield such as St George and Sutherland Shire, the Hills District, Northern Districts, Eastern Suburbs, Central Coast and Blue Mountains.
Ev e
St
rto
ra
th
fie
ld
Buses
Red
Senior School
ad
n
Trains
t
St
arde
my
n Ave
s
io
Lyons S
Boule v
re R
oad
St
Carringto
at
rn
e Ro
Margaret
Lingwood Campus
se
St
Pa
myr
The
Vernon
Junior School
Bu
Tr
ain
Strathfield is well-serviced by public transport and the School is only a short walk from Strathfield train station and bus stops.
Rd
Walk 500m
Strathfield Plaza Red
n
Morwick
ell
St
A major interchange on the City Rail network, Strathfield is 15 to 20 minutes by train from Sydney city centre and from Parramatta city centre. It is serviced by the Northern, North Shore, Western, Inner West and South lines. Country Rail trains from the NSW Central Coast and the Blue Mountains stop at Strathfield.
St
Buses Strathfield can be accessed by government or private bus services from many areas of Sydney. In addition, Meriden operates its own fleet of private buses to areas where the commute is more difficult to navigate by public transport. Bus routes and timetables can be found on the Meriden website.
23
24
More information Choosing the right school for your daughter is one of the most important decisions you will make. The best way to find out what Meriden is really like is to visit our School and see our teachers and students at work. Open Mornings are held throughout the year and individual tours can be arranged through our Enrolments Office. We welcome your interest. Please contact: The Registrar Meriden 3 Margaret Street Strathfield NSW 2135 P H O N E (61 2) 9752 9444 E M A I L enrolments@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 Australia T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444 E M A I L enrolments@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au M ER ID EN SCHO O L CR ICO S N O. 02318F
Academic Highlights 2025
HSC Highlights for Meriden Students 6 state placings in a course, including three 1st in course 53% of students received an ATAR of 90 or more 29 students (14%) named All-Round Achievers (highest band possible for at least 10 course units)
154 students (73%) recognised as Distinguished Achievers (highest band possible for one or more courses)
28 nominations for ENCORE, OnSTAGE and ARTEXPRESS Multiple offers for places at leading Australian, UK, USA and South-East Asian universities
Class of 2025
2025 Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank ATAR
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
99+
10%
95+
35%
90+
53%
80+
80%
Median ATAR 91.25 (State median 70.75)
HSC highlights cont… Meriden’s HSC Results Celebration
All-Round Achievers All-Round Achievers are those students who have achieved results in the highest band possible in at least ten units of HSC courses. Twenty-nine students (14% of the cohort) were named on the 2025 All-Round Achievers List. Medha Aiyer
Sophie Tan
Charlotte Butler
Selina Wang
Sabrina Cao
Elena Whitfield
Melody Chia
Isabella Wong
Olivia Choi
Aiyang Wu
NAME
COURSE
POSITION IN THE STATE
Calleigh Chow
Cordelia Xie
Prudence Iu
Emma Xu
Selina Wang
Music 2
1st
Anjana Kailasanathan
Meredith Xu
Selina Wang
Music Extension
1st
Alexandra Katanasho
Emily Yang
Olivia Lee
Victoria Yenson
Sally Zhang
Japanese Beginners
1st
Angel Long
Sophie Yi
Selina Wang
Chinese Continuers
5th
Isabella Morkos
Maggie Zhang
Elena Whitfield
Spanish Beginners
5th
Mikayla Rodger
Samantha Zhou
Parneet Sandhu
Lena Zhu
Selina Wang
Mathematics Advanced
14th
Sophia Sidhom
2 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Top Achievers in a Course
HSC highlights cont…
Celebrating Excellence
Olivia Choi, Mrs Lisa Brown, Selina Wang and Melody Chia
Excellence in the 2025 HSC Meriden’s Class of 2025 has once again demonstrated exceptional academic achievement in this year’s HSC. These performances reflect the students’ commitment to their studies and the unwavering support of their teachers and families.
Meriden’s top ATAR was achieved by
These achievements not only reflect
Selina Wang, who scored a perfect
academic excellence but also embody
99.95. She was closely followed by
the values of resilience and integrity
Melody Chia and Olivia Choi, who both
that define the Meriden community. In
earned 99.9. “I was a little surprised as I
addressing the Class of 2025, Principal
didn’t think I would do so well! I’d really
Mrs Lisa Brown reminded students that
like to thank my teachers who have
their worth is far greater than any grade,
given me such amazing support, as I
encouraging them to embrace the future
could not have done it without them,”
with confidence. Mrs Brown said, “I am
she said. Selina is set to study a Law and
particularly proud of the many girls who
Computer Science degree at UNSW.
have overcome personal challenges to soar above their own expectations. The strength in adversity they developed through their time at Meriden will serve them well in the years ahead.”
3 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
HSC highlights cont…
Excellence in Languages
The top band was attained by 100%
All students who studied Chinese in
of the cohort in five subjects: Japanese
Context, Chinese and Literature, Spanish
Yet again, Meriden students excelled
Continuers, Japanese Extension, Chinese
Beginners and French Extension achieved
in HSC Languages delivering some of
Continuers, Chinese Extension and
in the top two bands.
the strongest results in the state. Sally
Latin Extension. This was particularly
Zhang achieved 1st place in the state in
commendable in Japanese Continuers
Japanese Beginners, while Selina Wang
and Japanese Extension as this is the first
and Elena Whitfield achieved 5th in the
year Meriden has offered the courses.
State for Chinese Continuers and Spanish Beginners respectively.
Excellence in Mathematics Mathematics students (back row) Erin Tan, Elena Whitfield, Natasha Laggas, Sanvi Srinath, Selina Wang, Katrina Ling, Leah Har, Kaari Ellen, Maggie Zhang, Victoria Yenson, Sophie Yi, Emily Yang; (front row) Sara Hawley, Josephine Graham, Natasha Laggas, Gabrielle Germanos, Imogen Woolger, Abbey Cameron, Calleigh Chow, Olivia Choi, Melody Chia, Anjana Kailasanthan, Isabella Wong and Keira Nguyen
4 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Languages students (back row) Margot Bass-Tracy, Charlotte Butler, Claudia Brown, Selina Wang, Elena Whitfield, Amia Bardsley, Sienna Li, Annabel Yuen, Sophie Yi, Sophie Tan, Emma Bruce, (front row) Ellie Dong, Priya Sukh, Claire Sun, Melody Chia, Abbey Cameron, Olivia Lee, Cordelia Xie and their teachers Mr Ken Lu and Head of Languages Mrs Teresa Alonso-Lasheras
Meriden students again overachieved
Advanced Mathematics heralded a
in Mathematics, with a remarkable
perfect score of 100 for Selina Wang,
51% of girls achieving the top band
who was one of the 81% of the cohort to
in Mathematics Extension 1 and 56%
achieve a Band 5 or Band 6. The results
of girls achieving in Mathematics
in Mathematics Standard were equally
Extension 2.
strong, with 23% of girls achieving Band 6 (versus 8.5% across the state).
HSC highlights cont…
Excellence in Performing Arts Led by first in state performances from Selina Wang in Music 2 and Music Extension, Meriden girls shone in the Performing Arts subjects. In both Music 1 and Music 2, 100% of students attained a Band 5 or Band 6. In Music Extension five students recorded a perfect score of 50/50; part of a cohort where 12 out of 15 students scored in the top band. Our musicians also excelled in their HSC performances, compositions
1
and musicology works. A total of 19 students were nominated for ENCORE, the annual showcase of exemplary HSC performances and compositions held at the Sydney Opera House. The nominees included: Ingrid Benz, Joyce Chung, Annabelle Desmond, Ellie Dong, Josephine Graham, Molly Grogan, Selina Wang, Maddy Wood, Meredith Xu, Alina Yuan and Amanda Zhong for Performance; Margot Bass-Tracy, Annabelle Desmond, Lauren Kim, Celeste Ryan, Selina Wang and Sophia Youssef for Composition; Arshia Nanda and Sophia Youssef for Musicology.
2
Annabelle Desmond has been selected to perform her Music 2 composition at the Opera House.
1 Drama students Sara Hawley, Josephine Graham, Angelina Joannou, Grace Hargreaves with their teacher Miss Tara Graetz 2 Ellie Dong, Alina Yuan, Selina Wang with Music teacher Mrs Rebecca Fienberg
In Drama we again saw 100% of girls achieve Band 5 and Band 6 results, on top of four individual and three group nominations for OnSTAGE. Individual nominations included: Ella Cho for her heartwarming performance, Journey; Abbie Elzinga for her powerful performance of The Literati; Anastasia Ibrahim for her performance of Christine from Phantom of the Opera and Eva O’Dell for her moving portrayal of
Three of Meriden’s Group
– Joyce Chung, Louise Kim,
Performances also earned
Mikhayla Lobo and Celeste Ryan
nominations. They were:
for their take on Renaissance artists
– Mila Burdett, Abbie Elzinga, Arshia Nanda, Eva O’Dell and Keira Rippon for their satirical performance, The Federal Underground Committee of Knowledge and Espionage.
in The Art of Sabotagio. – Ella Cho, Josephine Graham, Grace Hargreaves, Sara Hawley and Angelina Joannou for their exploration of libraries and AI in Shhh! Secret Society of Scholars.
Angela in Natural Shocks.
5 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
HSC highlights cont…
Excellence in History and Legal Studies This year saw a high watermark for History and Legal Studies results at Meriden, a testament to outstanding teaching and strong student dedication. It was led by History Extension where every student received a result in the top band. In Ancient History, a massive 77% of students received a Band 6 (versus 9% of the state), where Meriden girls scored 17
1
marks above the state average. Modern History was a similar success story, with marks 11 above state average. In Legal Studies 13 out of 15 students achieved a Band 6, and 100% of the cohort achieved a Band 5 or 6
1H istory students (back row) Elena Whitfield, Sophie Tan, Olivia Lee; (front row) Matilda Koo, Alina Yuan, Sydney Nguyen, Natasha Laggas, Gabrielle Germanos, Alyssa Stamson and Alana Ikladios, with Mrs Danielle Newman and Mrs Carlee Richardson 2 Legal studies students Gabriella Protopsaltis, Kaari Ellen, Sara Hawley, Rachael Hall and Natasha Laggas with Head of History Mrs Danielle Newman
Excellence in Academic and Sport Performance Several graduates are considering offers from overseas universities in the USA and UK. Sophie Pethers will be attending the University of the Pacific, in California, to play NCAA Water Polo. Anjola Ige has been accepted into Portland State University for Tennis.
Sophie Pethers
6 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
2
HSC highlights cont…
Excellence in Design and Creative Arts This year in Engineering, 100% of students achieved a Band 5 or 6 result. This is part of a continued focus on STEM-based subjects, where Meriden is one of a few girls schools to offer HSC Engineering. The legacy of this is a growing number of Meriden girls pursuing STEM studies at university. Our Visual Arts students continue to create exciting work, with 95% of students achieving in the top two bands. Ivy Chen produced an outstanding short video and was selected for the prestigious ARTEXPRESS exhibition and will be showcased at art galleries across NSW. The work produced by Sabrina Cao was nominated for inclusion in the exhibition. In Food Technology, Isabella Wong received an impressive mark of 97 – one of five Band 6 scores in total.
1 E ngineering students – Kaari Ellen and Anjana Kailasanathan 2 F ood Technology students Isabella Wong, Gabriella Protopsaltis, Annabel Van Ede and Nita Churcher with their teacher Mrs Vicki Sheehan
1
2
7 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Some of Meriden’s high flyers…
Selina Wang
Melody Chia
ATAR 99.95
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.9
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
English Advanced Chinese Continuers Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Music Extension Music 2 Physics
HSC All-Round Achiever
English Advanced Chemistry Latin Continuers Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Physics
1st in the State in Music 2 and Music Extension 5th in Chinese Continuers At Meriden since Year 4 Nominated for ENCORE
Dux of the School At Meriden since Pre-Kindergarten Prefect 2025
Music Prefect 2025
Olivia Choi
Cordelia Xie
ATAR 99.9
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.85
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
English Advanced Chemistry Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Physics
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced French Continuers French Extension Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
At Meriden since Year 7
Sophie Yi
At Meriden since Year 7 Prefect 2025
Sabrina Cao
ATAR 99.8
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.7
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced English Extension 1 Latin Continuers Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chemistry English Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Visual Arts
At Meriden since Year 7
Lena Zhu
Nominated for ARTEXPRESS At Meriden since Year 7
Victoria Yenson
ATAR 99.6
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.55
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced English Extension 1 Latin Continuers Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Economics English Advanced Chemistry Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
At Meriden since Year 7
Samantha Zhou
At Meriden since Pre-Kindergarten Deputy Head Prefect 2025
Sophia Sidhom
ATAR 99.55
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.5
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced Latin Continuers Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Physics
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced French Continuers French Extension Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
At Meriden since Year 7
8 Meriden Academic Highlights 2024
At Meriden since Year 6 Prefect 2025
Meredith Xu
Emily Yang
ATAR 99.5
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.45
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced English Extension 1 Latin Continuers Latin Extension Music Extension Music 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry Economics English Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 1 Physics
Nominated for ENCORE At Meriden since Year 7
Annabelle Desmond
At Meriden since Year 7 Prefect 2025
Mikayla Rodger
ATAR 99.4
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.3
SUBJECTS STUDIED
Selected for ENCORE
Biology Chemistry English Advanced Mathematics Advanced Music Extension Music 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Chemistry English Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2 Latin Continuers PD/Health/PE Physics
At Meriden since Year 2 Prefect 2025
Sophie Tan
At Meriden since Year 3
Maggie Zhang
ATAR 99.3
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.2
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
English Advanced English Extension 1 English Extension 2 Latin Continuers Latin Extension Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chemistry English Advanced English Extension 1 English Extension 2 Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1
At Meriden since Year 7 Prefect 2025
Angel Long
At Meriden since Year 7
Prudence Iu
ATAR 99.15
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 99.1
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chinese in Context English Advanced Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chemistry English Advanced Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
At Meriden since Year 7
Angela Li
At Meriden since Year 10
Parneet Sandhu
ATAR 99.1
SUBJECTS STUDIED
ATAR 98.95
SUBJECTS STUDIED
At Meriden since Year 8
Chemistry Economics English Advanced Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1 Mathematics Extension 2
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chemistry Economics English Advanced English Extension 1 Mathematics Advanced
At Meriden since Year 7
Isabella Wong ATAR 98.95
SUBJECTS STUDIED
HSC All-Round Achiever
Biology Chemistry English Advanced English Extension 1 Food Technology Mathematics Advanced Mathematics Extension 1
At Meriden since Year 7 Prefect 2025
9 Meriden Academic Highlights 2024
Performance in HSC subjects The performance of each girl in each of her HSC subjects is indicated in levels, called Bands, from 1 to 6. Bands 5 and 6 are the highest levels. The table below shows the HSC subjects studied at Meriden in 2025, and achievement levels of the girls in these subjects.
% IN BANDS 5&6 AT MERIDEN
% IN BANDS 5&6 IN STATE
MERIDEN’S TOP MARKS IN EACH COURSE
% IN BANDS 5&6 AT MERIDEN
% IN BANDS 5&6 IN STATE
MERIDEN’S TOP MARKS IN EACH COURSE
Ancient History
84.61
35.05
97
Hospitality
71.42
36.04
93
Biology
78.21
35.59
95
Japanese Beginners
80
35.65
99
Business Studies
89.46
37.23
96
Japanese Continuers
100
55.78
97
Chemistry
74.64
37.90
95
Japanese Extension
100
95.53
47*
Chinese Continuers
100
78.74
98
Latin Continuers
88.88
80.13
96
Chinese in Context
100
94.54
94
Latin Extension
100
97.50
49*
Chinese and Literature
100
79.34
92
Legal Studies
100
44.28
93
Chinese Extension
100
100
48*
Mathematics Advanced
80.89
51.35
100
Community and Family Studies
64
32.45
95
Mathematics Extension 1
88.88
77.24
99
Design and Technology
92.85
48.78
89
Mathematics Extension 2
100
84.35
99
Drama
100
58.35
97
Mathematics Standard 2
66.65
29.65
95
Economics
81.81
52.60
96
Modern History
82.34
35.64
94
Engineering Studies
100
28.64
95
Music 1
100
66.50
98
English Advanced
87.10
65.18
98
Music 2
100
85.97
100
English EAL/D
37.50
23.26
88
Music Extension
100
98.22
50*
English Extension 1
100
95.07
49*
59.25
35.04
94
English Extension 2
100
88.39
46*
Personal Development, Health Physical Education Physics
64.47
37.61
97
English Standard
22.22
12.81
86 Science Extension
100
76.31
43*
Food Technology
85.71
31.66
97 Society and Culture
100
46.52
89
French Continuers
75
62.87
97 Spanish Beginners
100
58.73
98
French Extension
100
87.49
47* Studies of Religion 1
66.66
46.18
46*
Geography
68.75
41.06
93 Studies of Religion 2
64.70
48.10
93
History Extension
100
87.3
46* Visual Arts
95
64.11
96
COURSE
COURSE
* MARK OUT OF 50
10 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
HSC highlights from previous years 2024
2023
2022
2021
2020
ATAR
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
95+ 90+
42% 65%
38% 63%
31% 52%
36% 56%
38% 58%
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
Over recent years, Meriden students have received top placings in the state in the following subjects:
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
% OF MERIDEN STUDENTS
Tertiary study Tertiary Courses
1st Place
5th Place
– Biology – Chinese and Literature – Chinese in Context – English EAL/D – Food Technology – Hospitality – Japanese Beginners – Music 2 – Music Extension – Senior Science – Science Extension – Spanish Beginners
– Chemistry – French Continuers – Hospitality – Modern History – Music 1 – Music 2 – Physics – Science Extension
The most popular tertiary courses chosen by Meriden students
2nd Place – Chinese and Literature – Chinese in Context – Community and Family Studies – English Extension 1 – Japanese Beginners – Latin Continuers – Physics – Science Extension – Spanish Beginners – Spanish Continuers
3rd Place – Biology – Chemistry – Chinese Continuers – English Extension 1 – History Extension – Japanese Beginners – Mathematics – Spanish Beginners
4th Place – Business Studies – Chinese and Literature – Chinese in Context – Chinese Extension – Community and Family Studies – English EAL/D – English Extension 1 – Latin Extension – Mathematics Standard 2
over recent years (in alphabetical order) – Architecture
– Law, International Studies
– Arts, Communications, Media
– Liberal Studies
– Commerce, Business, Finance
– Medicine
– Design, Architecture – Economics, Accounting
– Nursing, Occupational Therapy
6th Place
– Education
– Music, Performing Arts
– Biology – English as a Second Language – Food Technology – Senior Science
– Engineering – aeronautical, civil and mechanical
– Science, Psychology
– Human Movement, Exercise Science, Nutrition and Dietetics
– Sport Science
7th Place – Food Technology – History Extension
8th Place – English Advanced – English EAL/D – Mathematics Extension 1
– Speech Pathology – Visual Arts and Fine Arts
University Offers Preferred university destinations for Meriden’s HSC students over recent years
9th Place – Community and Family Studies – Economics – Engineering Studies – History Extension – Latin Continuers – Mathematics Advanced – Studies of Religion II
10th Place – Community and Family Studies – English EAL/D – Food Technology – Mathematics Extension 2
OTHER UNIVERSITIES* UNIVERSITY OF SYDNEY MACQUARIE UNIVERSITY
UNIVERSITY OF NEW SOUTH WALES
UNIVERSITY OF TECHNOLOGY SYDNEY
* I ncludes local, interstate and international universities
11 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds… Debating
Drama
Archdale Debating
Sport for Jove Shakespeare Carnival
Two Meriden teams won their respective divisions
Meriden Year 11 Drama students achieved excellent
in the Archdale Debating Competition, and three
results at the Sport for Jove Shakespeare Carnival,
teams were runners-up in their divisions.
a competition celebrating Shakespearean literature
The victorious teams were 7A: Sophia Le, Lorena Tram, Zoe Tu and Julia Yun; and 8B: Kate Le, Elvia Lin, Vicky Qian and Maya Vojvodic.
and performance. The girls secured first place in the Composition category for their original musical piece, Apotelesma, written by Amy Chen and Diya Maninathan and performed by a large ensemble.
This year, all of Meriden’s eight teams qualified for
Additionally, Indiana Cheung, Aishani Datta, Celeste
the quarterfinals. Overall, Meriden finished second
El-Khoury, Sneha Hasanat, Sienna Howard, Nicole
in the Archdale Shield.
Li, Steffi Trinh, Yichen Wu and Sophie Yang earned
Harvard Schools Debating Competition Year 10 student, Annie Li, was named a winner of
second place in the Smartphone Film category for their short film featuring “Mr Macbeth”. Both winning entries qualified to advance to the State Carnival.
the prestigious Harvard College World Schools Invitational tournament, competing against some of the world’s best high school debaters. Annie and fellow Year 10 student, Jasmine Yang, were selected to represent the Speaker’s Corner team in the rigorous international final of the competition earlier in the year.
1 7A – Zoe Tu, Lorena Tram, Julia Yun and Sophia Le 2 8B – Elvia Lin, Maya Vojvodic, Kate Le and Vicky Qian
2
12 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
1
Excellence abounds…
English
High Potential Learning
ICAS English Awards
da Vinci Decathlon
ICAS English is conducted in over twenty countries around
The da Vinci Decathlon is a rigorous academic competition
the world and tests students’ reading and language skills in
designed to challenge and stimulate the minds of high
a range of contexts.
potential students in Years 7 to 11 in ten different subjects.
This year, 19 Meriden students received High Distinctions
The Meriden Year 10 team, comprising Lisa Chen,
in ICAS English: Rosie Chen, Sophia Le, Kaitlyn Xi and
Eva Gao, Olivia Kim, Yiru Li, Vivian Liao, Amelia Von,
Muyao Zhang, Year 7; Emma Hu, Ivy Lin and Lily Yang,
Jasmine Yang and Chloe Zhou, was named State Champion
Year 8; Kayla Chiu, Emma Rose Koeswandy and Rochelle
for the second successive year against 54 other teams,
Tao, Year 9; Merridy Bardsley, Nicole Cen, Luna Duan,
earning them progression to the National Championship.
Katherine Fanning, Yiru Li, Riana Puri, Ashley Shu, Chloe Tam and Anusha Viswanathan, Year 10. Muyao Zhang
At the National Championship, the team placed first in English, Ideation, and Art and Poetry, securing the well-deserved title of National Champion.
John Locke Essay Competition Five Meriden students were shortlisted in the prestigious John Locke Essay Writing Competition, which attracts submissions from talented students globally and is known for its rigorous judging process. Students who achieved this honour were: Alice Feng, Year 9, Iris Gai, Year 10, Tracy Hu, Year 8, Serena Li, Year 9, and Muyao Zhang, Year 7. Muyao went on to receive a Certificate of Commendation at the global Prize Awards Ceremony for her essay, which argued that everyone’s freedom of speech holds equal weight. This was the third consecutive year that a Meriden student has been shortlisted for this international competition. 1 Tracy Hu, Iris Gai, Serena Li and Alice Feng 2 Yiru Li, Eva Gao, Jasmine Yang, Lisa Chen, Amelia Von, Chloe Zhou, Vivian Liao and Olivia Kim
1
2
13 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
History Australian History Competition Year 8 student, Angel Chen, was named a National and NSW State Champion of the Australian History Competition after achieving the highest score in the Grade 8 division. This year, all Meriden students in Years 8 and 10 entered the competition, with 41 students achieving High Distinctions and 58 students earning Distinctions.
Angel Chen
Languages
ACER Assessment of Language Competence
National Latin Examination
The ACER Assessment of Language Competence (ALC)
The National Latin Examination is an online examination conducted
draws on students’ sociocultural knowledge, cognitive skills
annually to over 100,000 Latin students in 27 different countries. Meriden’s Year 9 Latin class sat this examination, obtaining some outstanding results; 12 students received a summa cum laude
and knowledge of the structure and purpose of language. It comprises two sections: Reading and Listening. To achieve a High Distinction in both sections of the ALC is a hallmark of
certificate as well as a gold medal, the highest possible award.
an outstanding Languages student.
The Year 9 students who achieved this honour were:
In Chinese, 30 students achieved High Distinction in both
Elaine Chen, Erika Cheng, Adeline Hu, Danielle Kim, Chloe Li, Serena Li, Yvonne Qian, Mandy Shi, Bethany Sidhom, Yumi
Reading and Listening: Angel Chen, Anne Corbett, Eliana He, Lucy He, Phoebe Ho, Emma Hu, Eva Hu, Tracy Hu, Cara
Takusagawa, Rochelle Tao and Gabriella Wu.
Li, Suri Lin, Mia Liu, Victoria Lo, Isabella Lu, Lillian Mai, Mo
Ariana Zhang, Year 9, received a silver medal.
Cynthia Yu, Merry Zhai and Bonnie Zhou, Year 8; An An
Su, Tiana Tang, Katherine Wang, Michelle Wu, Estella Yan,
The Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad
Chen, Ella Chen, Joanne Chen, Joy Deng, Ashley Poon, Avery
The Australian Computational and Linguistics Olympiad (OzCLO)
In French, 15 students achieved High Distinction in both
is a two-hour competition where students work in teams of four
Reading and Listening: Claire De Lany, Kate Deng, Vivian Lin,
on a range of challenging language-analysis problems. Year 9
Suyu Ma, Chloe Noiret, Victoria Pineda, Lila Powell, Amber
students, Alice Feng, Adeline Hu, Serena Li and Mia Wu, excelled
Worden, Samantha Yan, Clare Yang and Lily Yang, Year 8;
in Round 1, earning Gold Certificates for their Division and Region.
Elizabeth Deller, Alice Feng, Bethany Sidhom and Mia Wu,
This outstanding result placed the team in the top 8% of NSW
Year 9.
competitors.
In Japanese, four students achieved High Distinction in both
Sun, Luyin Wang and Sophia Xu, Year 9.
Reading and Listening: Kayla Chiu, Lucy Wang, Maegan Wong and Xinghui Zhong, Year 9.
14 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
Mathematics 63rd Annual UNSW School Mathematics Competition
Australasian Problem-Solving Mathematical Olympiads (APSMO)
The UNSW School Mathematics Competition has run each year
The APSMO Mathematics Olympiad is an inter-school
since 1962 and assesses students’ mathematical insight and
competition designed for students in Years 7 and 8. It
ingenuity in a three-hour open book examination. A Distinction
consists of four separate 30-minute competition papers.
or Credit in this competition is an outstanding achievement.
Grace Yan, Year 7, achieved a perfect score in the Olympiad.
Lillian Shen, Year 10, achieved First Prize in the competition,
Over 15,000 students sat the competition and only 29
while Cindy Shen, Year 10, earned a Distinction.
students achieved a perfect score.
Australian Mathematics Competition
Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad
The Australian Mathematics Competition is an engaging
The Australian Intermediate Mathematics Olympiad is a
thirty-problem competition that demonstrates the importance
challenging four-hour test designed to stretch talented
and relevance of mathematics in students’ everyday lives. Five
students and enhance their enjoyment and knowledge of
students achieved a Prize, placing them in the top 0.3% of all
mathematics.
participants in the competition, while 19 students received a High Distinction.
Year 10 students, Yiru Li, Cindy Shen and Lillian Shen, achieved a High Distinction in this prestigious competition.
The students who earned a Prize were: Grace Yan and Irene
Special mention goes to Yiru, who earned a perfect score
Zhang, Year 7; Yiru Li, Cindy Shen and Lillian Shen, Year 10.
and received a Prize Certificate.
The students who earned a High Distinction were: Asha Fox, Ashley Lin, Emma Sun, Kaitlyn Xi and Chloe Xiang, Year 7; Yuri Han, Isabella He, Elvia Lin, Angel Yang and Ella Zhang, Year 8; Alice Feng, Chloe Li, Valentyna Rosa, Mia Wu, Xylia Yang and Bella Yao, Year 9; Emily Ng, Amelia Von and Isabella Zhu, Year 10.
AMT Maths Challenge The AMT Maths Challenge aims to foster a greater awareness and interest in the power of Mathematics, as well as a joy in solving unusual problems. The challenge runs over several weeks, with girls solving six individual problems. This year, Meriden received outstanding results with 37 students receiving a High Distinction.
1
The students who earned a High Distinction were: Allison Chang, Claire Fanning, Eano Gu, Ginny Li, Ashley Lin, Emma Sun, Kaitlyn Xi, Chloe Xiang, Grace Yan, Annabelle Yu, Julia Yun, Irene Zhang, Muyao Zhang and Claire Zhu, Year 7; Alissa Chen, Angel Chen, Annie Fang, Zoe Gao, Isabella He, Emma Hu, Mila Ke, Katie Lam, Kate Le, Vicky Qian, Angel Yang, Cynthia Yu and Ella Zhang, Year 8; Mia Wu, Year 9; Eva Gao, Olivia Kim, Suan Lee, Yiru Li, Vivian Liao, Anna Satchithananthan, Cindy Shen, Ashley Shu and Amelia Von, Year 10.
1 G race Yan 2 Cindy Shen, Yiru Li and Lillian Shen
2
15 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
1
2
Performing Arts AMEB Examinations
Sydney Eisteddfod
The Australian Music Examinations Board’s
Meriden ensembles claimed five first places at the 2025
qualifications are recognised as a national benchmark
Sydney Eisteddfod. Meriden’s Big Band, Jazz Combo, Junior
in musical education across Australia.
School Wind Ensemble, Senior Singers and Junior School
Three students received their Licentiate Diplomas (LMusA) this year: Emma Rose Koeswandy on violin – Year 9, Sarah Lin on piano (Distinction) – Year 9, and Connie Liu on violin (Distinction) – Year 11. Five students earned their Associate Diplomas (AMusA) this year: Kayla Chiu on piano – Year 9, Yolanda
Chamber Strings won their divisions. Meriden’s Symphony Orchestra, Wind Symphony and Senior School Chamber Strings earned second place for their performances. The Senior Singers went on to perform at the John Lamble Foundation Australasian Championship for Youth Choirs, where they placed first for the third consecutive year.
Dolenac on double bass – Year 10, Jenny Li on cello –
Year 9 pianist, Symphony Shi, won the 2025 Sydney
Year 7, PeiQing Ling on violin – Year 9, and Catherine
Eisteddfod Kawai Junior Piano Scholarship after an incredible
Meng on cello – Year 7.
performance at the Sydney Conservatorium of Music.
1 Sarah Lin 2 Connie Liu and Symphony Shi 3 Sharon Zhao 4 Nerissa Du
16 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
3
4
Music competitions and programs Year 11 violinist, Connie Liu, was awarded Second Prize at the 23 Kendall National Violin Competition, receiving the rd
Symphony Shi, Year 9, won the Multiple Instrument Concerto Award in the Ku-ring-gai Symphony Orchestra NSW Schools Concerto Competition, performing the first movement of
Richard Pollett Award and a $3,000 prize. Connie also won
Mendelssohn’s Concerto for Violin and Piano in D Minor.
the Multiple Instrument Concerto Award in the Ku-ring-gai
Year 11 student, Nerissa Du, performed with the Australian
Symphony Orchestra NSW Schools Concerto Competition,
Youth Orchestra (AYO) Flagship Orchestra in their Summer
performing with Symphony Shi. Finally, she achieved
Season program. She was then selected to join the Australian
outstanding results at the Sydney Eisteddfod, winning
Youth Orchestra International Tour. The orchestra, conducted
both the Violin (15 - 20 Years) section and the String
by British conductor David Robertson, performed at
Sonata (15 Years and Over) section, competing against
prestigious venues in Berlin, Vienna, and Amsterdam, with
several university-aged students.
a final concert held at the Sydney Opera House. Nerissa
Sharon Zhao, Year 11, won the prestigious John Curro National Youth Concerto Competition, performing with the Queensland Youth Symphony Orchestra.
was one of only eight attendees under the age of eighteen, with the ensemble mostly comprised of university and conservatorium students.
This competition is known for launching the careers of
Eight Meriden musicians—Annabelle Desmond, Tina Dong,
Australia’s finest young string players. Sharon was also
Nerissa Du, Eva Gao, Molly Grogan, Connie Liu, Gabriella
honoured with the Veronika Butta Memorial Prize.
Wu, and Sharon Zhao—were selected for the highly competitive Australian Youth Orchestra (AYO) National Music Camp in Adelaide. This two-week intensive program features the top musicians aged 22 and younger from Australia and New Zealand.
17 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
Research and Critical Thinking Sydney Philosothon
Philosophy in Schools Essay Competition
The Sydney Philosothon is an interschool event hosted by the
Ila Bains, Year 11, was awarded first place in the NSW
Philosophy in Schools Association of New South Wales.
Philosophy in Schools Essay Competition, and Olivia Kim,
Students engaged in three Community of Inquiry discussions,
the second consecutive year that she has been awarded
exploring whether it is ethical to breach someone’s privacy for the sake of safety and security, whether it is ever reasonable to exclude people and whether we have an obligation to ‘de-extinct’ animals. The Meriden team was awarded third place overall. The team consisted of Mila Ke and Cynthia Yu, Year 8; Alice Feng and Katherine Kljajic, Year 9; Olivia Kim and Jasmine Yang, Year 10; Ila Bains and Anjali Popuri, Year 11.
1 Ila Bains and Olivia Kim
1
18 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Year 10, was awarded third place. Ila’s achievement marks a place in this competition, coming third last year. This year also marks the seventh consecutive year that Meriden students have placed in the top three in this rigorous competition. Organised in collaboration with the Royal Society of NSW Southern Highlands, the state-wide competition challenges students in Years 10 to 12 to tackle complex philosophical questions.
Excellence abounds…
Gold Parnassus Awards Meriden students who have demonstrated deep learning through an original and evaluative critical analysis, report, creative work or invention that is based on extensive research are eligible for a Parnassus Award.
The recipients of Gold Parnassus Awards in 2025 were: Ila Bains, Year 11; Ashley Chan, Year 11; Amy Chen, Year 11; Chloe Chen, Year 11; Luna Duan and Vivian Liao, Year 10; Diya Maninathan, Year 11; Kristy Thapa, Year 11; and Cynthia Yao, Year 11.
A Gold Parnassus Award is given to a student whose work displays outstanding rigour and merit, in both the finished product and the research process behind it. The quality of the work exceeds normal expectations for outstanding work at the student’s present level of enrolment.
2 Front Row: Ila Bains, Amy Chen, Chloe Chen, Kristy Thapa and Diya Maninathan. Back Row: Cynthia Yao, Vivian Liao, Luna Duan and Ashley Chan
2
19 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
Science Big Science Competition The Big Science Competition is a fifty-minute exam for students in Years 7 to 10, testing students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills. Questions are set in real-life, contemporary contexts, making the exam relatable and interesting.
Following her High Distinction in the Physics Olympiad, Zara Naidoo has been selected to attend the Physics Olympiad Summer School in 2026.
ICAS Science The ICAS Science competition test students’ scientific and analytic skills, requiring them to identify patterns and
This year, 23 students achieved High Distinction, placing
relationships in data, interpret the data and draw conclusions,
them in the top 5% of the state: Allison Chang, Rosie
as well as analysing data from secondary sources. The
Chen, Carolyn Cui, Maggie Geng, Eano Gu, Summer
achievement of High Distinction in this competition places
Pathammavong, Shannon So, Elizabeth Walker and Grace
students in the top 1% of the state. The following girls received
Yan, Year 7; Emma Hu, Mila Ke, Zoe Liddell, Alice Mi, Angel
High Distinctions: Carolyn Cui, Grace Yan and Muyao Zhang,
Yang and Ella Zhang, Year 8; Kayla Chiu, Alice Feng, Emma
Year 7; Emma Hu, Alice Mi, Adelle Naidoo and Vicky Qian, Year
Rose Koeswandy, Luyin Wang and Emma Zhang, Year 9; Luna
8; Annabelle Kenyon, Zoe Liddell and Rochelle Tao, Year 9; Iris
Duan, Katherine Fanning and Mila Vujcic, Year 10.
Gai, Year 10.
Special mention goes to Alice Feng, Mila Ke, Zoe Liddell,
Furthermore, Year 7 students Muyao Zhang and Grace Yan were
Alice Mi, Ella Zhang and Emma Zhang for achieving a
awarded a highly prestigious ICAS Science medal. These medals
second consecutive High Distinction, and to Luyin Wang
are reserved for students who achieve the highest mark in Year
for achieving a third consecutive High Distinction in the
7 ICAS Science in NSW.
competition.
Junior Science Olympiad
STA Young Scientist Awards The Science Teachers’ Association of NSW Young Scientist
The Junior Science Olympiad is a science enrichment
Awards celebrates the scientific and technical innovations of
program for highly motivated Australian high school students
school students. Budding scientists receive awards for specific
in Years 7 to 10. The program is designed to inspire and
scientific projects across a number of different categories.
challenge young science enthusiasts.
Exceptional projects from the STANSW Awards receive
This year, 13 Meriden students achieved a High Distinction,
nominations to progress to the national ASTA iCubed Awards.
placing them in the top 10% of entrants: Grace Yan, Year 7;
This year, Meriden students received seven STANSW Awards
Angel Chen, Tracy Hu, Mila Ke, Alice Mi, Jessie Xu and Ella
and two nominations to the ASTA iCubed Awards.
Zhang, Year 8; Erika Cheng, Kayla Chiu and Serena Li, Year 9; Kitty Gai, Yiru Li, and Lillian Shen, Year 10.
The following girls were presented with their awards at a ceremony held at the University of Technology Sydney:
Following their impressive results, Kayla Chiu and Serena
Mai Bui, Year 8, second in Chemistry Years 7 to 8; Luna Duan
Li participated in the 2025 Junior Science Olympiad Talent
and Vivian Liao, Year 10, first in Chemistry Years 9 to 10 and
Development Program. This prestigious, invitation-only
nominated for the ASTA iCubed Awards; Mihika Garg, Year 8,
national program is offered to a handful of high-performing
third in Physics Years 7 to 8; Ella Hou, Year 8, second in Physics
students in Years 9 and 10.
Years 7 to 8; Alice Mi, Year 8, first in Biology Years 7 to 8;
Australian Science Olympiad
Maya Vojvodic, Year 8, first in Chemistry Years 7 to 8 and nominated for the ASTA iCubed Awards; Chloe Zhou and
The Australian Science Olympiads national program is for
Cindy Shen, Year 10, second in the AARNet Use of Technology
top-performing Science students and culminates in the
Secondary Award.
International Science Olympiads. High Distinctions were awarded to Fay Dong, Year 11, in Earth and Environmental Science; Zara Naidoo, Year 11, in Physics; and Qianqi Zhou, Year 11, in Biology.
20 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
1
3
2
4
1 Zara Naidoo 2 Serena Li 3 Kayla Chiu 4M aya Vojvodic, Luna Duan, Mihika Garg, Chloe Zhou, Vivian Liao, Alice Mi and Ella Hou
21 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
Excellence abounds…
Social Science
Speech
Australian Geography Competition
Plain English Speaking Award
The Australian Geography Competition assesses students’
The Plain English Speaking Award is an annual competition
geographical knowledge and skills.
that aims to encourage the use of clear and effective spoken
Meriden students participated in the Australian Geography Competition this year with some outstanding results, including Year 9 students, Elisya Arfianto, Alice Feng, Sophia Kanbour, Serena Li, Sarah Lin, Juliet Maroun and Matilda Reen, finishing in the top 1% in Australia.
Teens in Business Awards Amanda Ambanavos, Year 11, was nominated as a finalist in the Impactful Entrepreneur category in the Teens in Business Awards. Amanda was nominated for her company, Beds by Aladdin, which produces sustainable and ethical dog beds.
1 Amanda Ambanavos 2 Sarah Lin, Elisya Arfianto, Juliet Maroun, Matilda Reen, Serena Li and Alice Feng
English. Following a successful semi-final win in her division, Anna Satchithananthan, Year 10, was named a state finalist for this prestigious award.
Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition The Rostrum Voice of Youth Competition is one of Australia’s premier youth public speaking events, challenging students to address contemporary issues with clarity and persuasion. Alice Feng, Year 9, won the Local Final with a compelling speech focused on how young people are utilising social media platforms to help break the cycle of domestic violence.
Junior Secondary Speaking Award The Junior Secondary Speaking Award is a rigorous statewide challenge designed to test the impromptu and prepared speaking skills of students across NSW. Mia Wu, Year 9, demonstrated outstanding clarity and persuasive ability, resulting in her selection as one of ten state finalists.
IGSA Festival of Speech The Festival of Speech is a debating and public speaking event that gives students the opportunity to speak up on issues they are passionate about. In the individual sections, Veronica Xie, Year 10, placed first in Senior Soapbox and Rochelle Tao, Year 9, placed fifth in the Junior Poetry section.
1
2
22 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
1 Veronica Xie and Rochelle Tao 2 Anna Satchithananthan and Alice Feng 3 Mia Wu
1
2
Excellence abounds…
STEM Life on Mars UNSW Young Women in Engineering Challenge
CREST Awards
Year 9 student, Kate Nguyen, won the Life on Mars UNSW
Awards are a nationally-accredited awards program that aims
Young Women in Engineering Challenge for her innovative
to support students to extend their skills in scientific inquiry
Mars habitat. The challenge invited participants to explore the
through the development of individual projects.
The CSIRO’s Creativity in Science and Technology (CREST)
potential for human life on Mars by designing a conceptual habitat capable of supporting human existence. Participants addressed the unique conditions of Mars – its atmosphere, temperature, radiation and gravity – while considering sustainability, essential resources and innovative technologies.
International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition
India Whip, Year 11, was awarded a Gold CREST Award for her research project where she designed and built a flood assistance tool. This is a significant achievement involving over 100 hours’ work, substantial background research and creativity in both the design of an experiment and its realworld application.
Meriden students participated in the International Astronomy and Astrophysics Competition (IAAC), a prestigious global event that challenges high school and university students to apply advanced problem-solving skills in astronomy and
Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence International Olympiads Muyao Zhang, Year 7, represented Australia at two International Olympiads in Cybersecurity and Artificial Intelligence. The inaugural International Cybersecurity Olympiad was held
astrophysics. Kaitlyn Xi, Year 7; Mila Ke and Ella Zhang, Year 8; Victoria Cung, Danielle Ho, PeiQing Ling and Shion Nam, Year 10, achieved Bronze Honours. Luyin Wang, Year 9, achieved a Silver Honour, placing her in the top 25% of high school and university students worldwide.
in Singapore, which Muyao qualified for after a three-hour preliminary contest, competing against more than 50 students from across Australia. The International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence was held in Beijing and marked Muyao’s second appearance at the event.
1 Kate Nguyen 2 Luyin Wang 3 India Whip 4 Muyao Zhang
3
1
2
3
4
23 Meriden Academic Highlights 2025
3 Margaret Street Strathfield NSW 2135 Telephone 61 2 9752 9444
Facsimile 61 2 9752 9400 Email enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au Website www.meriden.nsw.edu.au Meriden School CRICOS No. 02318F
Music
AT M E R I D E N
Music has a long tradition of excellence at Meriden, and forms an essential part of each student’s education. Meriden’s thriving Music Department aims to foster a love of music in every student and develop the skills of talented young musicians.
Music
IN THE CL ASSROOM
Music is taught by specialist teachers as a classroom subject to all students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 8, and as an elective subject from Years 9 to 12.
In the Junior School, there is a focus on singing, with the language of music notation presented through a variety of listening, composition and performance opportunities. The Junior School instrumental program is an important component of classroom Music lessons and facilitates an advanced coverage of the curriculum. The instrumental program takes place in Year 3 with an array of instruments taught by specialist tutors including violin, viola, cello, double bass, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, oboe, clarinet, saxophone and French horn, and in Year 5 with a focus on larger instruments such as double bass, bassoon, tuba, bass guitar and percussion. Performance ensembles for students who have progressed on an instrument are also offered alongside the curriculum to encourage collaborative music making.
In the Senior School, all students in Years 7 and 8 study Music. The variety of topics covered ranges from Instruments of the Orchestra through to Film Music and Rock Music, with a focus on notation and the development of listening skills. In Years 9 and 10, the Music elective course centres around a contextual focus and the development of aural skills, composition and performance techniques. Students perform regularly with an accompanist and are supported in composition by a specialist composition teacher. Topics include Music for Small Ensembles, Opera, Musical Theatre, Jazz and Music of the Twentieth Century. Meriden offers all HSC Music courses including Music 1, Music 2 and Music Extension. The components of aural, musicology, composition and performance are taught by specialists in each area and our students are encouraged to develop their skills in all components for a holistic music education.
Throughout the school year, visiting professional musicians conduct performances, workshops and masterclasses for Music classes and ensembles in both the Junior School and Senior School.
H S C R E S U LT S IN MUSIC Meriden’s Music students regularly achieve outstanding results in the HSC, with the majority of students achieving a result in the top band. Meriden students are consistently named in the HSC Honours List for Music and nominated for inclusion in the annual ENCORE Concert held at the Sydney Opera House which showcases the best of the HSC Music performances and compositions.
Cocurricular MUSIC
Meriden’s dynamic cocurricular Music
Senior School Ensembles
program ensures every burgeoning musician
— Choir
has access to highly-skilled music teachers
— Intermediate Singers
who develop our students’ dedication and
— Senior Singers
passion for music to the fullest extent. Many
— Madrigals
girls find a sense of belonging through our
— String Orchestra
music programs, growing in self-esteem as
— Intermediate Chamber Strings
they connect with other young musicians,
— Senior Chamber Strings
and developing their confidence through
— Symphony Orchestra
frequent performance opportunities.
— Wind Symphony
Junior School Ensembles
— Instrument ensembles (brass, clarinet, flute and percussion ensembles)
— Years 1 and 2 Singing
— Chamber Music (trios, quartets and quintets)
— Years 3 and 4 Choir
— Big Band
— Years 5 and 6 Choir
— Chapel Band
— String Orchestra
— Concert Band
— Chamber Strings
— Jazz Combo
— Jazz Band
— Rock Band
— Junior Band — Wind Ensemble
Music Clubs
— Percussion Ensemble
Club 88 and Composition Club are cocurricular activities which are open to pianists and students interested in composition in Years 7 to 12.
Combined Ensemble (Years 5 – 9) — Sinfonia
Amadeus PROGR AM
The Amadeus Program celebrates the skill and passion of exceptional young musicians by providing expert teaching staff to oversee their musical development, monitoring and guiding their academic schooling, and providing them with exciting performance opportunities. Girls from Years 7 to 12 may be invited to join this program when they are involved with music at a high level, inside and outside of school.
The program encourages each student’s commitment to music by providing: — Regular rehearsal opportunities with a professional accompanist to develop individual repertoire for performances, auditions and competitions
— Opportunities to further develop performance skills and confidence through formal concerts, recitals, masterclasses, eisteddfods and competitions — Individual support to manage their studies and assessments when a student has pressing musical commitments outside the school — A dedicated pastoral group which meets at least once per fortnight under the guidance of a member of the Music staff — Priority choice of music lesson times through the Meriden Music Academy — T he option of reducing the number of electives undertaken in Years 8 to 10 in order to prioritise music lessons, rehearsals or music practice.
Musicals Musicals are a highlight for the entire school community and Meriden is renowned for its exceptional productions.
The performances provide students with valuable practical experience in all aspects of the performing arts. Our Music and Drama staff, along with special guest artists, mentor students through every step of staging a production, with special attention paid to singing, acting and dancing.
In the Junior School, Years 5 and 6 students perform in a musical production every second year. The girls spend time inside and outside class rehearsing for the event, and the show hones the girls’ performance skills, builds their confidence and strengthens their relationships with their peers.
Meriden’s new Centre for Music and Drama provides exceptional, specialised auditoriums and professional spaces in which to perform and rehearse, or to join a musical’s production crew, offering world-class sound, lighting, costuming and staging equipment to master.
Senior School students shine in their biennial musical. Girls of all ages are invited to audition for the cast or apply to be members of the production crew. The girls’ passion and dedication delight their audiences, who travel from across Sydney to enjoy the polished productions.
Meriden’s musicals are ably supported by the School’s highly skilled musicians who bring to life the soundtrack of every show.
M U S I C E XC U R S I O N S , TO U R S A N D C A M P S Senior School students studying Music as an elective subject regularly attend performances by the Sydney Symphony Orchestra, Opera Australia, Musica Viva, ACO and other major groups. The concerts chosen for our Music students link to aspects of music studied in class. Crucially, these concerts provide an invaluable opportunity to see and hear Australia’s finest musicians perform live. The annual Meriden Music Camp is held over three days on the outskirts of the Sydney metropolitan area. All members of our performing ensembles in the Senior School attend this camp which is an enjoyable time of intensive rehearsals. During Music Camp, Meriden’s orchestras, bands and choirs have an opportunity to improve their performance standards, sometimes with a visiting conductor.
Our Senior ensembles undertake tours from time to time. These tours may be overseas, interstate or in regional NSW. In addition to showcasing the ensembles, music tours provide our students with experience in this essential aspect of the life of a professional musician.
PERFORMANCE OPPORTUNITIES Music at Meriden enjoys a reputation for excellence in both ensemble and individual performance. School assemblies, community events, combined schools’ festivals and our own series of ensemble concerts, recitals, and Twilight Concerts, provide Meriden girls with many opportunities to perform to both small and large audiences. Meriden ensembles represent the School in eisteddfods, festivals and competitions.
MERIDEN MUSIC AC A D E M Y Private tuition is offered through the Meriden Music Academy which operates in state-of-the-art, customdesigned studios on the Senior School and Junior School campuses. There are over twenty dedicated staff members who offer tuition in a variety of instrumental and vocal styles as well as music theory, musicianship, and speech and drama. Lessons are taught by highly qualified specialist teachers during the school day, after school and on Saturdays.
Whole-school music festivals and concerts are often a feature of the Meriden school year.
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444 E M A I L enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au MER I D EN S C HOOL C R I C OS NO . 02318F
Sport AT M E R I D E N Sport is an integral part of student life at Meriden. Training, matches, carnivals and events are enjoyed by our students who maintain a high rate of participation in both physical activity and sport from Kindergarten through to Year 12. Meriden offers a wide variety of opportunities across sports, state-of-the-art sporting facilities and a focus on maintaining a healthy lifestyle. Students are encouraged to participate in both competitive and non-competitive sports and fitness programs are available to girls who would like additional physical activity. Meriden has an outstanding record of sporting achievement with many students competing at state, national and international levels. Our specialist coaches and trainers provide expert advice and mentorship that allow every girl, from the beginner to the elite athlete, to achieve her personal best.
Inter-school
COMPETITION
The endeavours of
JUNIOR YEARS
SENIOR YEAR S
Meriden girls in the
Inter-school sport is not compulsory in the Junior School, but participation is encouraged and we’re proud of our strong voluntary participation and enthusiasm from our students. All students from Years 3 to 6 can be involved in inter-school sport and Meriden participates in the IPSHA Saturday morning competition which enables the girls to compete with other girls’ schools at venues in Sydney. In addition to the games held on Saturdays, team members are required to attend one training session per week.
All students in Years 7, 8 and 9 participate in sport during the year and are required to accumulate a minimum of two sporting points each year which is the equivalent of playing two Saturday sports. In Years 10 to 12, the majority of students choose to participate in one or more sports each year. The high level of participation in sport at Meriden creates an enthusiastic and energetic environment in which good sportsmanship prevails.
sporting arena are always positive and passionate as they strive for success. Meriden’s inter-school sports program provides opportunities for girls to represent their school in a wide range of team and individual sports, with Meriden participating in the Independent Girls’ Schools Sports Association (IGSA) and the Independent Primary Schools Heads’ Association (IPSHA), along with other invitational competitions.
Students with a high level of sporting ability are offered pathways to compete at higher levels through IPSHA, Combined Independent Schools (CIS), and NSW State representation at School Sport Australia.
Meriden continues to be one of the most successful schools in the IGSA competition, along with other invitational competitions. Students involved in inter-school sport have one or two training sessions per week, either before or after school. Students with a high level of sporting ability are offered pathways to compete at higher levels through IGSA, Combined Independent Schools (CIS), and NSW State representation at School Sport Australia. Throughout the year, selected students also have the opportunity to represent Meriden at the IGSA Athletics, Cross Country, Tildesley Tennis and various Swimming and Diving events.
Sports Offered
AT M E R I D E N
The wide range of sporting activities on offer at Meriden means each girl can discover a sport she enjoys, with opportunities to participate in several sports throughout the school year.
J U N I O R S CH O O L S P O RT S A N D FI T N E S S AC T I V I T I E S
S E N I O R S CH O O L S P O RT S A N D FI T N E S S AC T I V I T I E S
Kindergarten – Year 2 Physio Play (K – Year 2) Sports Clinic (Years 1 – 2)
Athletics Badminton Basketball Cross Country Diving Football (Soccer) Netball Student Fitness Swim Fitness Tennis Touch Football Volleyball Water Polo
Years 3 – 6 Athletics Badminton Basketball Diving Football (Soccer) Netball Running Club Swimming Development Tennis Touch Football Water Polo (Flippa Ball) Group and private lessons are available through the Meriden Tennis Academy, Artistic Gymnastics is offered through the Australian Academy of Gymnastics, and Dance is offered through Elevate Performing Arts.
Olympus
PROGRAM
For exceptional emerging athletes who dream of pursuing sport at an elite level, Meriden’s Olympus Program is an essential part of the journey to success. The program provides personalised support to each participant, helping her fulfil her academic and sporting potential.
Since the inception of the Olympus Program, the School has supported girls competing at the highest levels in a range of sports, including at the Olympics and other international competitions. Olympus staff members have thorough understanding of the challenges that face studentathletes, as well as years of experience helping them to navigate these challenges. The Meriden Sports staff, some of whom are former elite athletes themselves, act as mentors who assist girls in maintaining their physical and mental wellness, managing their schedules, and negotiating academic flexibility around periods with intense sporting commitments. Olympus students are supported in their academic planning to ensure they are reaching their goals in the classroom. All participants have access to different levels of academic support, depending on their needs. Workshops on sleep, nutrition, injury prevention, time management and resilience are held regularly throughout the year and the Olympus ‘buddy system’ provides an official peer-to-peer support network for the students.
A Junior Olympus Program is accessible to students in Years 5 and 6 who are at an emerging level in their sport and committed to a busy training schedule. The program includes pastoral and academic care for girls who have regular, intensive sporting commitments outside school. Program coordinators also organise lunchtime workshops with guest speakers who provide age-appropriate, practical seminars about staying healthy in mind and body. O LY M P U S FU T U R E S The Olympus Futures program helps student-athletes navigate their post-school options and sporting journeys. Meriden has formed associations with a number of renowned overseas universities to facilitate a smooth transition for Meriden graduates into that institution’s tertiary sporting and academic environment. The Olympus Futures program provides advice and guidance in selecting a suitable tertiary institution and identifying and applying for international university/collegiate scholarships. It also assists girls to accelerate development in their sport for national and international representation.
The guidance is tailored to the individual needs and goals of each student. The Olympus Futures program’s core principle is to support its participants in securing scholarships at higher education institutions that align with the student’s academic standard, tertiary interests and sporting achievement level. Meriden girls have been offered places and scholarships at leading international universities, including Harvard, the University of California at Berkeley, Rice University and the University of the Fraser Valley, Canada.
MERIDEN
Tennis Academy Meriden has developed an enviable reputation for turning out some of Australia’s best young female tennis players. Our players are developed through the School’s prestigious Tennis Academy, which is as well-known for its on-court successes as it is for its close-knit squad.
Meriden Tennis Academy offers a range of programs that caters for everyone from firsttimers with a racquet through to Australian-ranked players. Programs range from individual and group lessons through to development squads, strength and conditioning programs and high-performance training. The Tennis Academy aims to develop in its players: • Outstanding tennis skills • Physical fitness and stamina • Teamwork skills • T he desire to strive for excellence • Uncompromising values of sportsmanship, commitment and generosity.
Sporting Highlights AT M E R I D E N
TENNIS
W AT E R P O L O
Tildesley Tennis Champions every consecutive year since 2010 – 8 International Grand Slam players –
IGSA Champions 8 times – 40 state representatives and 18 Australian representatives –
10-time Champions of the Australian National Schools Tennis Challenge
Olympian Head Aquatics Coach
Meriden has nurtured some extraordinary talent in tennis, with players competing in national and international tournaments including the Junior Australian Open. One player competed in four Junior Grand Slams during her time at Meriden. During the past eight years, eight Meriden students have competed at the Grand Slam level.
Meriden’s Water Polo players achieve outstanding success at both team and individual levels. Our Senior Firsts have been grand finalists in the highly competitive IGSA Water Polo S01 Division every year since 2010 and have been crowned champions eight times.
The Meriden tennis team has won the prestigious Tildesley Shield Tennis tournament every year since 2010, the Australian National Schools Tennis Challenge ten times, and has been selected to represent Australia at the biennial World Schools Tennis Challenge on four occasions. Meriden was named World Schools Tennis Champion at the 2015 Challenge held in Qatar.
Many of the players are selected to represent New South Wales and Australia in competitions. Within the past few years, Meriden has generated more than 40 state representatives and 18 Australian representatives. Meriden’s Water Polo program develops students from Year 3 through to Year 12 across all levels. Students receive high quality professional coaching from experienced coaches who include current and former Australian and international representatives, as well as Olympians. Ms Chloe Wilcox, Head Aquatics Coach at Meriden, was a member of Great Britain’s Women’s Water Polo Squad at the London Olympic Games and was also Assistant Coach to Great Britain’s Women’s National Water Polo Team for many years.
AT H L E T I C S
BADMINTON
Olympian Athletics Coach –
Meriden’s fastest growing sport –
Strong record of achievement across NSW and nationally – Training at Sydney Olympic Park Athletics Centre
Meriden’s Athletics program has gone from strength to strength under the guidance of triple-Olympian Mrs Nicole Boegman-Stewart. The program develops students’ athletic potential across all disciplines with year-round training and competition and access to specialist coaches. Meriden’s athletes compete at the annual IGSA and NSWCIS Athletics Championships as well as NSW All Schools, NSW Schools Relays, NSW Schools Nitro Challenge, Little Athletics and Athletics NSW competitions. Meriden’s representatives have secured an impressive medal tally at the State Athletics Championships and Australian Junior Athletics Championships in recent years.
World-ranked, Olympic and nationally-selected coaches – Meriden girls competing nationally and internationally
Badminton is Meriden’s fastest-growing sport and our athletes perform at the top of their school-based invitational competitions across multiple divisions, with a number of girls playing at national and international levels. The school’s Sports Centre hosts badminton training and competitions and, in addition, our girls use tournament-grade badminton facilities in close proximity to Meriden. Our coaches are themselves professional players with competitive world rankings and they provide invaluable knowledge to all Meriden players of every level of ability, so every girl can reach her on-court potential. Badminton is much-loved by Meriden girls for its high level of technical skill, healthy competition and camaraderie between players.
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444 E M A I L enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au MER I D EN S C HOOL C R I C OS NO . 02318F
Lateral Learning I N Y E A R S 7– 12
Meriden’s Lateral Learning department focuses on deepening the learning experiences of our students, creating well-rounded young women who are ready and willing to make a positive contribution to their community with all its challenges and opportunities. Now more than ever, universities and employers are looking for key skills and capabilities in young people that can be transferred across a range of academic disciplines, workplaces and
ax is z-
y-axis
interpersonal relationships.
x-axis
L AT E R A L L E A R N I N G
Learning Links
The Coordinators of Learning Links
G LO B A L O U T LO O K
I N N OVAT I O N
(COLLs), under the leadership of the
Meriden graduates are confident and articulate citizens who consider local and global issues with a genuine interest. The Year 9 Global Citizens program serves as a capstone project in the Lateral Learning skills continuum, enabling students to develop the capabilities required to identify and address complex real-world problems. Learning though service is fundamental to a Global Outlook at Meriden, and students are exposed to a range of opportunities and cocurricular groups through which they can work to improve human wellbeing and environmental sustainability.
Meriden students participate in STEM initiatives and innovative programs that help develop a future-focused and adaptable mindset, enabling them to become the innovators and creators of the future. As Australia’s former Chief Scientist, Alan Finkel, said, “Our best future is a future that builds on technology, innovation, ideas and imagination. It is a future with STEM. And it is a future that is ours to build.” Meriden students are provided with opportunities and learning experiences that promote crosscurriculum learning and the enterprise skills of collaboration, creativity, problem-solving and perseverance. Through the use of The Foundry, students have access to cutting-edge technologies such as 3D printers, laser cutters, VR headsets and a Computer Numerical Control (CNC) machine that allow them to apply STEM-related skills and capabilities across a range of curriculum areas.
Dean of Lateral Learning, are each responsible for a key area of the Lateral Learning program. The Dean and the COLLs work collaboratively with staff and students to embed the Lateral Learning skills and capabilities across all
zax is
y-axis
aspects of the Senior School.
x-axis
H I G H P OT E N T I A L LEARNING
RESE ARCH AND CRITIC AL THINKING
Meriden’s focus on academic excellence and a growth mindset provides gifted and high potential students with the opportunity to realise their talents through flexible provisions and programs to suit their learning needs. Our programs include a rigorous and challenging curriculum with differentiated activities, Stage 5 Cambridge courses in selected subjects, opportunities to participate in self-directed Parnassus Projects that extend learning in an area of interest, and opportunities for selection into external competitions that provide enrichment beyond the curriculum.
The ability to research well is a vital skill, especially in our increasingly information-rich world. Students must be able to locate and evaluate relevant sources, pose inquiry questions, think critically and use and produce information responsibly and ethically. Furthermore, it is especially important that students become independent, curious and reflective life-long learners who can think deeply. At Meriden, these skills are developed through the explicit teaching of research skills at a stage-appropriate level and the production of Research Guides linked to assessment tasks. Meriden’s Research Fellow works collaboratively with the COLL in this area as well as the Library team, and meets with students individually to assist with specific research needs.
SPEECH
T E C H N O LO G Y
Meriden’s Speech program fosters the skills and confidence associated with oral communication both inside and outside the classroom. Students are provided with guidance to enable them to deliver clear and engaging presentations, using a variety of delivery modes, in a range of subject areas. They are also given the opportunity to speak in front of the whole school and are guided in their delivery when they lead at Assembly, Chapel, House meetings, Speech Days and other performance events. There is a wide range of public speaking clubs and competitions which encourage students to use their voice to speak up about issues that are important to them and to share their message with the broader community.
Meriden’s focus on technology aims to facilitate opportunities for self-directed and collaborative learning and the development of skills in digital literacy and critical inquiry. Teachers and students are supported to make the best use of online technologies and programs to further enhance the teaching and learning that take place in the classroom. Of equal importance is the ability to understand how to use digital technologies in a safe, responsible and ethical way. Students learn how to use appropriate tools that are best suited for their age and for their required purpose.
L AT E R A L L E A R N I N G
L AT E R A L L E A R N I N G
A variety of innovative programs and workshops take place across a range of year levels. In Year 7, these include the Research and Critical Thinking seminars, Technology workshops and the library widereading program. Additional programs include the Year 8 Communication workshops, the Year 9 Global Citizens program, the Pastoral Reading program, the Philosopher-in-Residence program, STEM Week and Creativity Week activities, as well as a program of author talks and literary workshops. The Day 11 program offers academic tutoring in a range of subject areas every second Saturday during the school term.
The Lateral Learning department is responsible for embedding the skills and capabilities necessary for twenty-first century learning. It is the z-axis of a Meriden education.
Programs and Initiatives
The Hudson Library and Research Centre along with the Foundry, a specialist learning space devoted to STEMrelated classes and activities, are also key contributors to the development of Lateral Learning skills across the Senior School. The Teacher Librarian works collaboratively with teaching staff to make visible the links between literature, subject content and cross-curricular priorities so that students’ learning is supplemented and enriched by their reading. Students are provided with encouragement and support to foster a love of reading and to nurture their skills in writing a range of different literary forms. Students have the opportunity to submit work for publication in semesterly editions of Equilibrium, Meriden’s own collection of students’ literary work. Through the Pastoral Reading program, students develop the character traits of empathy, resilience and a consideration for others and their unique circumstances as they engage with a range of issues, such as homelessness and overcoming challenges.
z-a xis
y-axi
s
Cocurricular activities and competitions which fall under the banner of Lateral Learning include the Da Vinci Decathlon, Tournament of Minds, the TED-Ed Club, Speak Up! Club, a range of Public Speaking competitions, the Festival of Speech, Writing Clubs, the Library Committee, Fab Lab, the Green Team, Interact, the Philosophy Club, Ethics Olympiads and the NSW Philosothon.
Skills and Capabilities
CREATIVITY Thinking innovatively, exploring new and varied perspectives, seeking to create new information and understandings. COMMUNICATION Using the power of speech, including non-verbal techniques, to communicate effectively with a range of audiences and using a range of presentation tools. COLLABORATION Working interdependently and learning with and from others and developing skills in teamwork, active listening and collective decision-making. RESEARCH AND CRITICAL THINKING Developing the ability to research well, locate and select relevant and varied sources of information, critically evaluate arguments, make connections and ask inquiry questions. DIGITAL LITERACY Choosing the right digital tool for the right purpose and understanding how to use technology in a safe, organised, responsible and ethical manner. INNOVATION Using the principles of Design Thinking to identify and define problems, evaluate them ethically, ideate and prototype solutions in real-world, authentic contexts. GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP Developing well-informed, thoughtful and proactive leaders who demonstrate perseverance, resilience, consideration and empathy and who seek to serve others. FUTURES LITERACY Developing the necessary skills, competencies and mindset to adapt and thrive in an ever-changing future.
is x-ax
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444 E M A I L enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au M ER ID EN SCHO O L CR ICO S N O. 02318F
Meriden Bus Services INFORMATION AND TIMETABLE
Rhodes
ROUTE 7
Wentworth Point
Putney
Dundas Valley
Boronia Park
Ermington
Gladesville
Dundas
Tennyson Point
Carlingford
Concord West Breakfast Point
Newington
Hunters Hill
Cabarita
Concord
Sydney Olympic Park
ROUTE 2
ROUTE 6
Drummoyne
Balmain Russell Lea Five Dock Concord Canada Rozelle Bay
North Strathfield
STRATHFIELD
ROUTE 5 Enfield
Dulwich Hill Summer Hill
(Trinity Grammar School)
Campsie
Belmore
Belfield
Canterbury
ROUTE 8
Earlwood
Beverly Hills Hurstville
Padstow Heights
Oatley Blakehurst
ROUTE 3 Illawong Sylvania Miranda
Leichhardt
ROUTE 4 Ashbury
Croydon Park
Alfords Point
Woolwich
Taren Point
ROUTE 1
Meriden Bus Services
Routes
ROUTE 1 TAREN POINT ROUTE 2 WOOLWICH ROUTE 3 ILLAWONG ROUTE 4 BALMAIN ROUTE 5 DRUMMOYNE ROUTE 6 CONCORD ROUTE 7 CARLINGFORD ROUTE 8 EARLWOOD You can also find the most up-to-date timetables on Meriden eVe or at www.meriden.com.au For general enquiries, new applications and other administrative matters, please contact: J U N I O R SC H O O L O FFI C E
8:00am – 4:00pm Ph: 9752 9417 juniorschool@meriden.nsw.edu.au S E N I O R SC H O O L A D M I N IS T R AT I O N O FFI C E
7:30am – 4:30pm Ph: 9752 9444 enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au For urgent matters outside the above office hours, please contact the operator of the Meriden bus services: NSBC Operations Centre Ph: 9427 8533
Timetable E F F E C T I V E F R O M T E R M 1, 2 026 Note: Changes to bus routes occur from time to time. Visit www.meriden.nsw.edu.au or the Meriden App for up-to-date information.
ROUTE 1
(57 SEATER)
Taren Point
ROUTE 2
(57 SEATER)
Woolwich
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
Taren Point
6:30am
Woolwich
Woolwich Rd, at Franki Ave
6:58am
Holt Road, near Flower Power
Miranda
Box Road, outside Hungry Jacks
6:40am
Hunters Hill
Gladesville Rd, near Howard Pl
7:05am
Sylvania
Southgate Shopping Centre, on Port Hacking Road Church Street Reserve
6:50am
Boronia Park
Princes St, at Pittwater Road
7:10am
Gladesville
Pittwater Road, near Venus St
7:15am
Gladesville
Ross St, at Blair St
7:20am
Tennyson Point
Morrison Rd, near Tennyson Rd
7:25am
Blakehurst Hurstville
7:00am
Hurstville
Hurstville Station, Stand L, on Ormonde Pde Patrick Street, at Ruby St
7:10am 7:17am
Beverly Hills
Morgan Street, near King Georges Road
7:30am
Strathfield
Homebush Rd, at Gelling Ave
7:57am
(Strathfield Park)
Arrive Meriden
8:05am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:25pm
Strathfield
Homebush Rd, opp Strathfield Park
Putney
Morrison Rd, at Delange Rd
7:30am
Putney
Charles St, at Phillip Rd
7:32am
Putney
Waterview St, at Charles St
7:34am
Putney
Waterview St, at Princes St
7:35am
Rhodes
Concord Rd, after Llewellyn St
7:39am
Rhodes
Concord Rd, near Mary St
7:40am
3:32pm
Concord West
Concord Rd, at Currawang St
7:43am
Concord Rd, at Nirrandra St
7:45am
Concord Rd, near Correys Ave
7:47am
Beverly Hills
King Georges Road, at Norfolk Ave
4:05pm
Concord West
Hurstville
Hurstville Station, Stand L, on Ormonde Pde
4:13pm
Concord West
Blakehurst
King Georges Road, at Terry Street
4:20pm
Blakehurst
Princess Highway, on Bunyala Street
4:23pm
(Todd Park)
Arrive Meriden
8:06am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:25pm
4:30pm
Concord West
Concord Rd, near Correys Ave
3:35pm
Holt Road, near Flower Power
4:40pm
Concord West
Concord Rd, near Victoria Ave
3:39pm
Concord West
Concord Rd, near Wallaroy St
3:45pm
Hurstville Late Bus (Years 5 – 12 students only)
Rhodes
Concord Rd, near Mary St
3:50pm
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Rhodes
Concord Rd, at Cavill Ave
3:55pm
Depart Meriden
5:30pm
Putney
Waterview St, at Princes St
3:56pm
Strathfield
Homebush Rd, opp Strathfield Park
5:35pm
Putney
Waterview St, at Charles St
3:59pm
Beverly Hills
King Georges Road, at Norfolk Ave
5:55pm
Putney
Charles St, at Phillip Rd
4:01pm
Hurstville
Hurstville Station, Stand L, on Ormonde Pde
6:05pm
Putney
Morrison Rd, at Delange Rd
4:05pm
Putney
Morrison Rd, at Bass St
4:07pm
Gladesville
Morrison Rd, near Tennyson Rd
4:09pm
Gladesville
Ross St, at Raven St
4:14pm
Gladesville
Pittwater Road, near Venus St
4:20pm
Boronia Park
Princes St, at Pittwater Road
4:25pm
Hunters Hill
Gladesville Rd, near Howard Pl
4:28pm
Woolwich
Woolwich Rd, at Franki Ave
4:40pm
Rhodes
Hurstville
Blakehurst
Sylvania Miranda
Concord West
Boronia Park
Beverly Hills
Gladesville
STRATHFIELD
Tennyson Point
Port Hacking Road opp Holt Road
Taren Point
Putney
Sylvania
ROUTE 1 Taren Point
STRATHFIELD
ROUTE 2 Hunters Hill Woolwich
ROUTE 3
(39 SEATER)
Illawong
ROUTE 4
(39 SEATER)
Balmain
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
Illawong
Fowler Rd, near Hobart Pl
6:50am
Balmain
Darling St, at Short St
7:05am
Alfords Point
Brushwood Dr, near Watergum Pl
6:55am
Balmain
Darling St, near Elliott St
7:07am
Padstow Heights
Dilke Rd, near Clancy St
7:08am
Rozelle
Balmain Rd, at Cecily St
7:15am
Oatley
Oatley Station, Oatley Pde
7:20am
Leichhardt
Allen St, near Elswick St
7:20am
Homebush Rd, at Gelling Ave
7:58am
Dulwich Hill
Old Canterbury Rd, at Windsor Rd
7:30am
Dulwich Hill
Old Canterbury Rd, opp Yeo Park
7:33am
Strathfield
(Strathfield Park)
Arrive Meriden
8:05am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:25pm
Strathfield
Summer Hill
Queen St, at Armstrong St
7:40am
Enfield
Liverpool Rd, at St Joseph’s Primary School Liverpool Rd, at Beaumaris St
7:50am
Enfield
7:52am
3:38pm
Oatley
Homebush Rd, opp Strathfield Park Oatley Station, Oatley Pde
Padstow Heights
Dilke Rd, near Clancy St
4:28pm
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:25pm
Alfords Point
Brushwood Dr, near Watergum Pl
4:35pm
Enfield
Liverpool Rd, at Mintaro Ave
3:29pm
Illawong
Fowler Rd, near Hobart Pl
4:52pm
Enfield
Liverpool Rd, at Wentworth Rd
3:30pm
Enfield
4:14pm
Arrive Meriden
8:02am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Summer Hill
Liverpool Rd, opp St Joseph’s Primary 3:32pm School Queen St, opp Armstrong St 3:45pm
Depart Meriden
5:30pm
Dulwich Hill
Old Canterbury Rd, at Yeo Park
3:50pm
Old Canterbury Rd, at Edward St
3:55pm
Hurstville Late Bus (Years 5 – 12 students only)
Strathfield
Homebush Rd, opp Strathfield Park
5:35pm
Dulwich Hill
Beverly Hills
King Georges Road, at Norfolk Ave
5:55pm
Leichhardt
Allen St, at North St
4:05pm
Hurstville
Hurstville Station, Stand L, on Ormonde Pde
6:05pm
Leichhardt
Allen St, at Norton St
4:10pm
Lilyfield
Perry St, at Mary St
4:13pm
Rozelle
Balmain Rd, at Cecily St
4:15pm
Balmain
Darling St, near Elliott St
4:22pm
Balmain
Darling St, near Rowntree St
4:23pm
Balmain
Darling St, at Mort St
4:25pm
STRATHFIELD
Balmain
STRATHFIELD Padstow Heights
Enfield
Oatley
Leichhardt
ROUTE 4 Dulwich Hill Summer Hill
(Trinity Grammar School)
ROUTE 3 Alfords Point
Rozelle
Illawong
Timetable E F F E C T I V E F R O M T E R M 1, 2 026 Note: Changes to bus routes occur from time to time. Visit www.meriden.nsw.edu.au or the Meriden App for up-to-date information.
ROUTE 5
(39 SEATER)
ROUTE 6
(39 SEATER)
Concord
Drummoyne MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
Drummoyne
7:30am
Concord
Majors Bay Rd, near Correys Ave
7:10am
Wrights Rd, at Lyons Rd
Drummoyne
Lyons Rd, at Thompson St
7:32am
Breakfast Point
Tennyson Rd, near Northcote St
7:15am
Drummoyne
Lyons Rd, at Gipps St
7:33am
Breakfast Point
Tennyson Rd, near McDonald St
7:18am
Russell Lea
Lyons Rd, at Brent St
7:36am
Cabarita
Cabarita Rd, opp Cabarita Park
7:25am
Russell Lea
Lyons Rd, at Ingham Ave
7:40am
Cabarita
Cabarita Rd, at Waine St
7:28am
Five Dock
Lyons Rd West, at West St
7:40am
Cabarita
Cabarita Rd, at Kitchener Ave
7:33am
Canada Bay
Lyons Rd West, at Regatta Rd
7:46am
Concord
Wellbank St, at Concord Library
7:40am
Concord
Gipps St, at Goddard Park
7:52am
North Concord Rd, at Homedale Ave Strathfield Arrive Meriden
Arrive Meriden
8:00am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:30pm
Concord
Gipps St, at Queen Elizabeth Park
3:40pm
Canada Bay
Lyons Rd West, at Regatta Rd
3:46pm
Five Dock
Lyons Rd West, at West St
Russell Lea
Lyons Rd, at Myalora St
7:44am 8:00am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:30pm Concord Rd, at Nelson Rd
3:32pm
3:50pm
North Strathfield Concord
Wellbank St, at Concord Library
3:34pm
3:53pm
Concord
Majors Bay Rd, near Correys Ave
3:36pm
Tennyson Rd, near Northcote St
3:46pm
Russell Lea
Lyons Rd, at Mons St
3:56pm
Breakfast Point
Drummoyne
Lyons Rd, at Gipps St
4:00pm
Breakfast Point
Tennyson Rd, near McDonald St
3:51pm
Cabarita Rd, opp Cabarita Park
3:56pm
Drummoyne
Lyons Rd, at Thompson St
4:02pm
Cabarita
Drummoyne
Wrights Rd, at Lyons Rd
4:05pm
Cabarita
Cabarita Rd, at Waine St
4:01pm
Cabarita
Cabarita Rd, at Kitchener Ave
4:06pm
Drummoyne
Concord Canada Bay
Breakfast Point
Russell Lea Five Dock
Concord
North Strathfield
ROUTE 5 STRATHFIELD
Cabarita
ROUTE 6
STRATHFIELD
ROUTE 7
(39 SEATER)
Carlingford
ROUTE 8
(39 SEATER)
Earlwood
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
MORNING PICK UP POINT
DEPARTS
Carlingford
Terry Rd, at Marsden Rd
7:00am
Clemton Park
7:05am
Dundas Valley
Marsden Rd, before Lawson St
7:02am
Earlwood
William St, before Cameron Ave
7:06am
Ermington
Steward St, at Lottie Stewart Hospital
7:04am
Earlwood
Cameron Ave, opp Lanark Ave
7:07am
William St, opp shops
Dundas
Kissing Point Rd, at Freemont St
7:08am
Canterbury
Canterbury Station, Stand D
7:15am
Ermington
Kissing Point Rd, at William St
7:11am
Canterbury
King St, at Canterbury Racecourse
7:17am
Ermington
Victoria Rd, at Turner St
7:13am
Ashbury
Roslyn St, before Crieff St
7:19am
Ermington
Silverwater Rd, at South St
7:19am
Croydon Park
Georges River Rd, opp Brighton St
7:23am
Newington
Ave of Europe, at shops
7:25am
Croydon Park
Brighton Ave, at park
7:25am
Newington
Newington Bvd, at Buruwang Park
7:27am
Campsie
Beamish St, opp Ninth Ave
7:28am
Newington
7:28am
Newington
Newington Bvd, near Newington Public School John Ian Wing Pde
7:29am
Wentworth Point
Hill Rd, at Burroway Rd
7:34am
Belmore
Lakemba St, at Cecilia St
7:32am
Belmore
7:35am
Belfield
Burwood Rd, opp Belmore Boys High School Burwood Rd, at Clarence St
7:37am
Burwood Rd, at shops
7:39am
Wentworth Point
Hill Rd, at Nuvolari Pl
7:36am
Belfield
Sydney Olympic Park
Australia Ave, at Figtree Dr
7:42am
Arrive Meriden
Arrive Meriden
8:00am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:30pm
Sydney Olympic Park
Australia Ave, opp Bicentennial Park
3:51pm
Sydney Olympic Park
Australia Ave, near Herb Elliott Ave
3:53pm
Wentworth Point
Hill Rd, at Burroway Rd
4:04pm
Wentworth Point
Hill Rd, at Nuvolari Pl
4:06pm
Newington
John Ian Wing Pde
4:13pm
Newington
Newington Bvd, near Newington Public School Newington Bvd, opp Buruwang Park
4:15pm
Newington Newington
4:16pm
Ermington
Ave of Europe, at Neighbourhood Centre Silverwater Rd, at South St
4:23pm
Ermington
Victoria Rd, after Parkes St
4:25pm
Ermington
Kissing Point Rd, at William St
4:27pm
Dundas
Kissing Point Rd, at Bennetts Rd
4:30pm
Dundas Valley
Stewart St, at Lottie Stewart Hospital
4:38pm
Dundas Valley
Marsden Rd, opp Brush Park
4:40pm
Terry Rd, at Marsden Rd
4:42pm
Carlingford
4:18pm
7:52am
AFTERNOON DROP OFF POINT
DEPARTS
Depart Meriden
3:30pm
Belfield
Burwood Rd, at shops
3:46pm
Belfield
Burwood Rd, at Clarence St
3:48pm
Belmore
3:50pm
Belmore
Burwood Rd, at Belmore Boys’ High School Lakemba St, at Cecilia St
Campsie
Beamish St, opp Lofts Garden
3:57pm
Croydon Park
Brighton Ave, at Mildura Reserve
4:00pm
Croydon Park
4:02pm
Croydon Park
Georges River Rd, at Croydon Park Primary School Georges River Rd, at Holborow St
Ashbury
Roslyn St, at Crieff St
4:06pm
Canterbury
King St, at Canterbury Racecourse
4:08pm
Canterbury
Canterbury Station, Stand C
4:10pm
Earlwood
Cameron Ave, at Larkhall Ave
4:18pm
Clemton Park
William St, at shops
4:25pm
3:53pm
4:04pm
Carlingford Dundas Dundas Valley
ROUTE 7
Ermington
STRATHFIELD
Wentworth Point Croydon Park
Ashbury
Newington Campsie
Belmore
STRATHFIELD
Belfield
Sydney Olympic Park
Canterbury
ROUTE 8 Earlwood
Meriden Bus Services
Bus Conditions of Travel 1. The School Code of Conduct applies to all bus travel. 2. With the exception of the late afternoon service to Hurstville, the School’s bus services are available for Meriden students in Kindergarten to Year 12. The late afternoon service is restricted to Meriden students currently in Years 5 – 12. Students in Years 5 and 6 who wish to take the late afternoon service require a gate pass. A gate pass should be requested by the parent via email to juniorschool@meriden.nsw.edu.au 3. This agreement must be signed by parents or legal guardians and returned with the application form. 4. The Bus Conditions of Travel and Bus Code of Conduct will be reviewed regularly and updated. The most recent conditions apply to all travellers and these may be viewed via the Meriden App. 5. Fares quoted are for use of the bus on all school days throughout the term and are inclusive of GST. 6. Students must tap their student card as they board and alight the bus. 7. Fares can the purchased on a pay per trip or termly basis. If purchased on a pay per trip basis the student’s bus account must have sufficient funds loaded onto the account before each journey. If purchased on a termly basis, students are entitled to unlimited travel for that term. Termly passes are not refundable if the student’s pattern of travel changes. 8. The bus service operates on Meriden school days only. 9. Students must be at the designated pick-up point at least five minutes prior to the stated time of departure. Buses cannot be delayed for students who are late. 10. Bus timetables and routes are subject to change from time to time and notification will be given whenever possible. The most current information will always be published on the Meriden App. 11. Any report of misconduct on the bus may result in withdrawal of the provision of the bus service to a student. 12. Parents/Legal Guardians must ensure arrangements are in place for the safe delivery of your daughter on to the bus and for their safe passage home from the designated bus stop. This is of vital importance for all students, and for younger Junior School students in particular.
13. Unless a safe prior arrangement has been put in place with the Head of Junior School, in the event that an adult is not present at the designated bus stop to collect Kindergarten to Year 4 students, your daughter may be returned to Meriden, for later collection by the family. 14. If a Junior School student misses her bus stop, for any reason, the driver will continue to the end of the route and then go back to the student’s normal bus stop. We will attempt to contact the student’s parents or guardian to collect the student from the stop. If that is not possible, the student will be returned to Meriden, for later collection by the family. 15. Wilful damage to school buses or property must be paid for by the student’s family. 16. School families must ensure that both the School and the bus drivers are immediately made aware of any health or special needs of students. 17. Any concerns regarding your daughter’s welfare on the buses should be referred directly to the Head of Junior School or the Head of Student Wellbeing in the Senior School. Welfare needs should not be referred to the bus drivers. 18. Meriden bus drivers extend courtesy to those they come in contact with, and it is an expectation of the School that courtesy and grace will likewise be extended to our drivers by all members of our community. 19. School buses will only pick up and set down at the published stop. No additional stops or variations to the routes are able to be made by the bus driver. 20. Failure to comply with the Bus Code of Conduct is likely to result in withdrawal of the service for a set period of time, or indefinitely should there be repeated infractions. The School reserves all rights to determine who is able to use the bus services. 21. Forms, bookings and other administration of buses are via Senior School Administration (+61 2 9752 9444) or the Junior School Office (+61 2 9752 9417).
Meriden Bus Services
Please submit the completed application form to: J U N I O R SC H O O L O FFI C E
juniorschool@meriden.nsw.edu.au S E N I O R SC H O O L A D M I N IS T R AT I O N
APPLICATION
enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
First Student Name Address
Year Group
Tutor Class
Student Mobile (if applicable)
Second Student Name Address
Year Group
Tutor Class
Student Mobile (if applicable)
Tutor Class
Student Mobile (if applicable)
Third Student Name Address
Year Group Please select Meriden Bus Service required
Route 1: Taren Point AND Hurstville Late Bus
Route 5: Drummoyne
Route 2: Woolwich
Route 6: Concord
Route 3: Illawong AND Hurstville Late Bus
Route 7: Carlingford
Route 4: Balmain
Route 8: Earlwood
Please indicate if one-way or two-way service required and pick up/set down points. Students should be at the pick up point at least 5 minutes prior to the stated time of departure. SERVICE
P I C K U P A N D D R O P O F F P O I N T (select route/stop from current bus timetable)
DAY S O F T R AV E L
Both ways One way AM One way PM Late PM Service (Years 5 – 12 only) Bus Fares Bus fares are pay per trip or by a termly pass purchased in advance.
Route
Fare per trip
Term Pass (Unlimited Travel)
To/From Strathfield Park only (included on Route 1 and Route 3)
$3
n/a
Route 1: Taren Point AND Hurstville Late Bus
$6
$500
Route 2: Woolwich
$5
$415
Route 3: Illawong AND Hurstville Late Bus
$6
$500
Route 4: Balmain
$5
$415
Route 5: Drummoyne
$5
$415
Route 6: Concord
$5
$415
Route 7: Carlingford
$5
$415
Route 8: Earlwood
$5
$415
Meriden Bus Services
BUS CODE OF CONDUCT The safety and comfort of all the girls who use our bus service is of our highest concern. The Bus Code of Conduct has been implemented to ensure safety and it is important that it is read and understood by Parents/Legal Guardians and students. A student travelling on the Meriden bus must: 1. Follow all reasonable instructions of the driver and always extend courtesy to him/her. 2. Sit where instructed by School staff or the bus driver. 3. Sit in one seat and wear a seatbelt correctly for the entire journey. 4. Speak quietly, only to a neighbour. Shouting and calling out are not permitted. 5. Refrain from eating on the bus. A bottle of plain water, only, may be consumed. 6. Refrain from throwing anything around the bus or from the bus. 7. Treat others and their property with respect. The School Code of Conduct applies to bus travel.
Agreement
8. Refrain from causing any damage to the bus.
1. We have read and agree to abide by the Meriden Bus Conditions of Travel and Bus Code of Conduct. 2. We have put in place arrangements for safe delivery to and from the bus stops for our daughter/s, including an adult assigned to collect any girls in Kindergarten – Year 4, promptly each afternoon.
First Student Student Name
Class/Year Group
Student Signature
Date
Second Student Student Name
Class/Year Group
Student Signature
Date
Third Student Student Name
Class/Year Group
Student Signature
Date
Parent/Legal Guardian Name Signature Contact details
Date Email
Mobile
Business Phone
Home Phone
ADMINISTRATION USE ONLY DATE OF APPLICATION:
DATE PROCESSED:
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 Australia
T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au
F A X 61 2 9752 9400
M E R I D E N S C H O O L C R I CO S N O . 0 2 318 F
PO Box 78 Strathfield NSW 2135 Australia
E M A I L enrolments@meriden.nsw.edu.au
A B N 9 9 0 0 0 0 2 0 76 2
March 2026
3 Margaret Street, Strathfield NSW 2135 Australia T E L E P H O N E 61 2 9752 9444 E M A I L enrolments@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au M E R I D E N S C H O O L C R I CO S N O . 0 2 318 F
Terms of Enrolment 1.
Introduction These Terms of Enrolment set out the agreement between Meriden School and parents or guardians (each a Parent) who signed and returned the Application for Enrolment in respect of the student named in the Application for Enrolment (Student) relating to the Student’s enrolment and attendance at the School. School refers to any Schoolendorsed activity regardless of the location of the activity. By accepting an offer of enrolment at the School each Parent agrees to comply, and ensure that the Student complies, with these Terms of Enrolment.
2. Attendance 2.1 Subject to these Terms of Enrolment, the Student must attend School during school hours every school day during term, and at any other time as required for school events, activities or disciplinary reasons. 2.2 If the Student is unable to attend School on a given day due to illness, Parents must contact the School by 8.00am that day by telephone or email as notified from time to time. 2.3 The Student may not be absent from School, other than for illness, without the School’s written approval at least three days prior to the absence. 2.4 The Parents must submit any approval request under clause 2.3 that is a request for extended leave as early as possible but in any event no later than fourteen [14] days prior to the absence. 2.5 The School may grant or refuse each request for Student absence in its sole discretion and on any conditions as it sees fit. School fees remain due unless the School waives its rights in writing. Students granted extended leave may hold a place at the School as long as full school fees are being paid, the enrolment continues to be eligible to attract government subsidies, and there are no existing debts at the School at the commencement of the period of absence. Tuition fees paid during a period of absence will not be credited on the return of the student to the School.
2.6 Each Parent grants permission for the Student to attend and participate in all school events and activities including but not limited to excursions and camps. The Parents may request that the Student be excused from an activity by providing the Principal with a request in writing with reasons supporting the request, and the Principal may approve such a request in her sole discretion. 3. Behaviour 3.1 The Student must: a. comply with the School’s rules and policies from time to time (School Rules and Policies) and with all lawful directions of School staff; b. behave in accordance with the School’s values and not do anything that may bring the School into disrepute; and c. wear the school uniform neatly and properly while at the School, at all school events and when travelling to and from the School. 3.2 If the Student breaches any of the School Rules and Policies or any obligation under these Terms of Enrolment, the School may discipline the Student. 3.3 The Student must not possess, supply or consume any alcohol, illegal drugs or cigarettes at School, while travelling to or from School, or during any School-related activity. 4. Parents 4.1 Each Parent must: a. ensure that the Student has all items necessary to attend School and participate in school activities; b. attend parent-teacher interviews as requested; c. comply with all relevant School Rules and Policies and with the directions of School staff; d. adhere to the School’s Parents’ Charter; and e. behave in accordance with the School’s values and not do anything that may bring the School into disrepute. 4.2 Each Parent warrants that they have full power and authority to enter into and perform their obligations under these Terms of Enrolment. Continued
Terms of Enrolment
5. Communication
6.9 The School will charge a Resources Fee covering incursions and excursions, subject levy (where applicable), licences, annual Camp program if applicable (except for interstate/ overseas trips), and annual membership of the Parents and Friends Association. The Resources Fee is invoiced in Term 1 and is payable on the same payment terms as school fees.
5.1 The School may in its discretion act on the basis of instructions or information provided by either Parent. 5.2 Information included in any School newsletter will be deemed received by Parents on issue. 5.3 The Parents must immediately notify the School of any change to their contact details. Responsibility for maintaining the accuracy of each Student’s details rests with the Parent.
6.10 The School will charge the costs not covered by the Resources Fee to the Student’s school account and those costs will be payable on the same payment terms as school fees. Costs not covered by the Resources Fee include but are not limited to lost Student ID Cards and library books, Music Camp, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Cadets, sports registration, additional HSC charge, School Bus Service, music instrument repair/hiring and Exchange Programs.
6. Fees 6.1 The School Council will determine the School’s enrolment and tuition fees from time to time and may vary them without notice to the Parents. 6.2 The School will issue fee notices to Parents prior to the start of each term, and the Parents must pay the fees in full by the date specified on the fee notice. 6.3 The School will charge an administration fee, as listed on the School’s Fee Schedule at that time, for each overdue amount, and may charge interest. 6.4 Each Parent is jointly and severally liable for payment of school fees. 6.5 If the Parents are unable to pay school fees by the due date, they may notify the School Council and the School may in its discretion enter into alternative payment arrangements with the Parents. 6.6 If the Parents fail to pay any school fees in full by the due date, the School may suspend or expel the Student from the School and may commence any action it considers appropriate to recover debts comprising unpaid school fees and any related costs including but not limited to legal costs. 6.7 If the Parents fail to pay any school fees by the due date (including any instalments under an agreed payment plan), the School reserves the right to exclude the Student from extra-curricular activities. 6.8 If the Student starts attending the School after the first week of term, the School will charge the Parents the school fees for that term calculated as a pro rata amount of the fees otherwise payable for the full term. If the Student ceases attending the School during a term for any reason, school fees remain due and the School will not refund any School fees already paid.
7.
Disclosure 7.1
The Parents must disclose to the School all medical and education information relating to the Student, and any other information relating to the Student’s needs at School, in a complete, accurate and current form. If the Parents fail to declare any such information the School may terminate the Student’s enrolment with immediate effect.
8. Illness or injury 8.1 If the Student is injured or ill and requires first aid or urgent medical treatment (including without limitation treatment by a doctor, paramedic or ambulance officer, hospitalisation, injections, blood transfusions, surgery or similar treatment), the Parents authorise the School to do all things it considers necessary or appropriate for the Student’s welfare including but not limited to authorising such treatment. 8.2 The Parents must pay all of the School’s medical expenses relating to the Student. 8.3 The School and its employees and agents are not liable for any losses or damage in relation to any first aid or other medical treatment provided to the Student by the School or under its authorisation. 8.4 Each Parent indemnifies the School against all liabilities, losses, damages, costs and expenses suffered or incurred by the School in relation to any act or omission by the School or under its authorisation in relation to any first aid or other medical treatment provided to the Student, and the Parents release the School from all related claims and liabilities.
9. COVID-19 and Online Learning 9.1
New Students Once an Acceptance of Offer has been signed and the enrolment fee paid, a new student must commence, in person, at Meriden on the agreed date. Should the student be unable to commence on the agreed date due to factors beyond her control, such as international or domestic travel or border or quarantine restrictions, the student will not be provided access to Meriden’s online learning system to commence her education on the date agreed in the Acceptance of Offer. No refund or reduction of tuition fees will apply.
9.2 Returning Students Should a returning student be unable to commence a school term due to factors beyond her control, such as international or domestic travel or border restrictions or quarantine requirements, the student will be provided with access to Meriden’s online learning system to continue her education. No refund or reduction of tuition fees will apply. 10. Termination of enrolment 10.1 If the Student: a. seriously or repeatedly breaches the School Rules and Policies, or fails to follow staff directions; b. does anything that may bring the School into disrepute; or c. is absent repeatedly, or for an extended period, without School authorisation, the School may suspend or expel the Student from the School. School fees remain due and the School will not refund any School fees already paid. 10.2 If in the School’s opinion its relationship with either or both Parents is at any time not one of trust and cooperation, the School may terminate the Student’s enrolment. 10.3 If a Parent breaches any of these Terms of Enrolment, the School may terminate the Student’s enrolment. 10.4 If Parents wish to withdraw the Student from the School, or from any additional activity the Student is undertaking, the Parents must provide the Principal with one full term’s written notice. If such notice is not provided, the Parents must pay to the School the school fees for the total term or activity as per the School’s fee schedule at that time. Re-enrolment is at the School’s sole discretion and a re-enrolment fee will apply if a new Application for Enrolment is accepted and a place is available at the time of re-entry, and provided there are no existing debts from the previous time at the school.
11. Insurance 11.1 Parents should take out appropriate insurance cover. The School does not hold insurance to cover medical expenses arising from any injury the Student suffers while taking part in school activities, including without limitation school sporting activities. 11.2 The School has accident insurance covering all enrolled students for their school activities, with worldwide cover. The insurance benefits may include lump sum payment for certain permanent disability, certain non-Medicare medical expenses and benefits for broken bones and damaged teeth. Further details may be obtained from the School’s Business Services Office. 11.3 The Parents acknowledge that the School does not have insurance for, and takes no responsibility in relation to, the Student’s personal belongings. 12. International Students Additional terms of enrolment apply to International Students as notified at the time of enrolment and varied in the School’s reasonable discretion on one term’s notice. 13. Miscellaneous 13.1 The School may at any time commence, vary or discontinue any academic or other program without notice to the Parents. 13.2 The School may use any personal information it collects under these Terms of Enrolment in accordance with the School’s privacy policy. 13.3 The School may confiscate, examine or conduct searches of the Student’s belongings and locker, and may undertake any surveillance or monitoring it considers appropriate. 13.4 The Parents and Student must not publish or cause to be published any images of or information relating to the School, or any images of or information relating to any person connected with the School, or any of the School’s intellectual property without the School’s prior written approval. 13.5 The School may vary these Terms of Enrolment in its reasonable discretion on one term’s notice.
Parents’ Charter Meriden values the partnership that exists between the School and the home. Students whose parents support the values, ethos and policies of the School benefit from this support and are more likely to thrive at Meriden. By the time a girl leaves Meriden at the end of Year 12, it is hoped that she will be a: –
Confident, articulate and responsible leader
–
Creative innovator and collaborative problem-solver
–
Aspiring and academic achiever
–
Compassionate, healthy and optimistic global citizen
–
Well-informed and critical thinker
–
Woman of integrity, appreciative of the Christian faith.
–
Well-rounded and resilient team-player
By enrolling their daughters at Meriden, parents are committing to developing a positive partnership with our School through their: Commitment to education
Thoughtful actions
Loyalty to the School
–
sending their daughters to School each school day unless the girls are unwell.
–
–
representing the School positively in public forums, either formally or informally.
–
sending their daughters to School each day in the required school uniform.
behaving respectfully and courteously at all times towards the School’s staff, students and other parents.
–
–
behaving ethically and thoughtfully when attending school functions.
maintaining a relationship with the School that is one of trust and cooperation.
working positively and openly with school staff, thereby fostering a spirit of goodwill, cooperation and support.
–
displaying exemplary sportsmanship at all times.
–
paying school fees in a timely manner.
–
supporting the discipline policy of the School and its code of conduct.
–
contributing, where possible, to the school community.
supporting the educational and Christian ethos and values of the School.
–
keeping the School informed of any relevant changes to the girls’ personal circumstances including behavioral, educational, personal, physical and mental health needs.
–
not involving the School in parenting disputes or expecting the School to act as a mediator between estranged parents.
–
–
ABN 99 000 020 762 3 Margaret Street, Strathfield 2135 Australia PO Box 78 Strathfield NSW 2135 Australia
T 61 2 9752 9444 F 61 2 9752 9400 E enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au
www.meriden.nsw.edu.au Meriden School CRICOS No. 02318F
August 2025
Schedule of Fees 2026 Application and Enrolment Fees
Notes to Fees Schedule
Application Fee (to be paid with enrolment application)
$350
Enrolment Fee (to be paid upon acceptance of offer)
$3,500
Please note: Application and Enrolment Fees are non-transferable and non-refundable.
Tuition and Resources Fees
Payment of Tuition Fees Fees may be paid by BPay, cheque or credit card. A charge applies to card payments. Fees are payable in accordance with the date displayed on the fees notice. An administration fee of $175 is charged on overdue accounts.
TUITION FEE PER TERM
TUITION FEE PER ANNUM
RESOURCES FEE PER ANNUM
5-day program
$7,280
$29,120
$125
4-day program
$6,010
$24,040
$125
Kindergarten
$6,445
$25,780
$790
Year 1
$6,445
$25,780
$770
Year 2
$6,445
$25,780
$765
Year 3
$7,750
$31,000
$1,435
The Resources Fee does not cover lost IDs and library books, Music Camp, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Cadets, sports registration, additional HSC charges, school bus, music instrument repair/hiring and Exchange Programs.
Year 4
$7,750
$31,000
$1,055
The Resources Fee is invoiced in Term 1.
Year 5
$8,080
$32,320
$1,590
Year 6
$8,080
$32,320
$1,805
Year 7
$9,765
$39,060
$1,830
Year 8
$10,285
$41,140
$2,065
Year 9
$10,335
$41,340
$2,015
Year 10
$10,335
$41,340
$1,975
Year 11
$10,740
$42,960
$1,200
Year 12 (3 terms only)
$14,320
$42,960
$1,215
JUNIOR SCHOOL
Pre-Kindergarten*
SENIOR SCHOOL
* Tuition fees for Pre-Kindergarten include the costs associated with specialist teachers in Languages, Music, Library and Sport.
Other Fees PER ANNUM
Capital Fee per family
$560
Voluntary Building Fund contribution per family (tax deductible)
$700
Resources Fee The Resources Fee covers incursions and excursions, subject levy (where applicable), licences, annual Camp program if applicable (except for interstate/ overseas trips), and annual membership of the Parents and Friends Association.
Voluntary Building Fund The School has a Building Fund to which parents and guardians are encouraged to contribute $175 per term per family. This contribution is fully tax deductible and receipts are issued. This money is used for major building works. Capital Fee This money is used for maintenance and other minor building works. Reductions While sisters are currently attending Meriden, a reduction of 10% of tuition fees will be made for a second child and 20% for every subsequent child. There are special reductions for children of clergy. Fees on application. Notice of Withdrawal If parents wish to withdraw the student from the School, or from any additional activity the student is undertaking, the parents must provide the Principal with one full term’s written notice. If such notice is not provided, the parents must pay to the School the full school fees for the total term or activity as per the School’s fee schedule at that time.
ABN 99 000 020 762 3 Margaret Street, STRATHFIELD 2135 Meriden School CRICOS No. 02318F
Telephone 61 2 9752 9444 Facsimile 61 2 9752 9400 Email enquiries@meriden.nsw.edu.au Website www.meriden.nsw.edu.au DECEMBER 2025