Class of 2019 Highlights

Class of

Highlights

From the

Principal I am delighted to share the highlights from the Class of 2019 with you.

The members of our graduating class have not only demonstrated excellence across a range of academic, sporting and cultural endeavours but have also wholeheartedly involved themselves in all aspects of school life and modelled for the School community just what it is to ‘dare to be more’. Their leadership and love of MLC School have been an inspiration to us all.

Throughout her time at MLC School, each girl has been supported with deep commitment, expertise and professionalism of the MLC School teachers and the Senior School leadership team, allowing her to confidently focus on her own individual, personal and academic growth. With this in mind, I would like to acknowledge the support and care shown by the Head of Year 12, Irene Swain; Director of Curriculum (Year 11 and Year 12), Anne Layman; Head of Careers and

2 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Academic Advising, Loretta Toole; Head of Senior School, Neil Scotney; Deputy Principal, Frances Booth; and all Year 12 subject teachers and Luminaries.

I am extremely proud of our Class of 2019. Not only have they achieved outstanding academic results, they are confident, capable young women who, like those who have come before them, will continue to be agents of positive change in their own lives and the lives of others.

I very much look forward to hearing about their lives beyond school and staying connected with them as Old Girls of MLC School.

Congratulations, Class of 2019.

LISA MOLONEY PRINCIPAL

From the

Deputy Principal The Class of 2019 is rightly celebrated in this publication, which so clearly defines their immense achievements across a number of academic fields.

There is no doubt the Class of 2019 value academic success and this journal shows that these girls knew how to achieve it. They worked hard, sought and used feedback, were resilient when things did not go their way, were persistent and dedicated. It was not solely academic success they strived for. They were equally dedicated on the sporting field, in the debating chamber, on the stage and in the concert hall. They are the epitome of an MLC School girl.

to be agents of change. In this, MLC School is a wonderful proving ground. The girls in every year, but particularly in Year 12, have an authentic voice in the School. Their views are heard, their thoughts appreciated, their feedback sought. This allows them to try out ideas, advocate for change and be part of a real discussion about the future. The Class of 2019 used their voice well. They promoted compassion and care for each other and made their words real by their actions.

At the same time however, they are a group of young women who, while striving for their personal best across myriad arenas, managed to maintain their compassion for and connection to each other throughout their journey together.

It is perhaps these achievements, less visible than others, that remain the true legacy of this group. For them this connection was a vital part of their time at School. They cared for each other and for the School community as a whole. Kindness was a touchstone for this cohort. For them, kindness to each other and to the wider School community was the criterion by which they wished to be judged. This speaks volumes about their integrity as individuals and as a Year group.

The Class of 2019 leaves a legacy of strong leadership across all fields of endeavour: Creative Arts, Sport, Dance, Duke of Edinburgh Award, Round Square, Debating and all areas of co-curricular. We are extremely proud of them and their achievements. Each girl in the Class of 2019 also leaves a strong personal legacy of compassion and care to each other, to the School at large and to their communities.

MLC School girls are courageous in their outlook and fearless in their pursuit of excellence across all that they do. They aim

This group of young women did not work solely for themselves. They worked hard for their community and they worked together to help make every girl know she can dare to be more.

FRANCES BOOTH DEPUTY PRINCIPAL

MLC SCHOOL | 3

From the From the

Head of Deputy Senior Principal School

It is with great pride that we share and The Class the of 2019 is rightly celebrate success of thecelebrated girls who graduate in this publication, which so from MLC School as the Classclearly of 2019. defines their immense achievements across a number of academic fields.

I commend the 2019 graduates on their results and the grit that many of them drew upon to make significant and impressive progress throughout the Senior Years. It has been remarkable to watch their journey as they have grown from young adolescents into the young women who recently departed the School.

School looks to develop young women who are equipped to meet the challenges of an uncertain, fast-paced and rapidly changing world. I have every faith in the ability of the Class of 2019 to be agents of change in their own lives and the lives of others. I have no doubt that the futures of our girls are grounded in their experiences, not just in a statistic.

Each one of our Higher School Certificate (HSC) and International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma candidates were busy, not only with their academic work but with countless activities beyond the classroom. They were Prefects, immersed in House activities, Sport, Music, Drama, Debating, Public Speaking, leadership and numerous out of school commitments. It’s clear that many girls made sacrifices throughout the year in order to concentrate on their studies, but not to the detriment of their involvement in the broader School life. For me, it’s clear that their academic success was assisted by their engagement with so many aspects of the School.

At the end of their school careers it is fair to say that none of the girls’ successes would have been possible without the support of all the people around them – the love, care and patience from their families and friends. A special level of gratitude must go to the Year 12 teachers and Luminaries who supported the girls. There are countless hours spent by staff and the Head of Year assisting and nurturing students outside of class time. Very few students can thrive without the wise advice and collaborative support from home and school.

The resilience and determination shown by our girls has been exceptional. Those outside the school system often look at the numbers and grades in order to assess the performance of a school. From a pastoral perspective, it’s great to look at the effort and progress of students. In line with our mission, the

4 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

The end result is truly inspiring as we acknowledge the collective efforts of an amazing cohort of young women. It has been an honour working with the girls and a privilege to witness their success.

NEIL SCOTNEY HEAD OF SENIOR SCHOOL

From the From the

Head of Head of Learning Senior and Teaching School It has been my pleasure to get to know the 2019 Year 12 cohort as they completed their final year of secondary schooling.

The diverse skills and talents demonstrated by each one have contributed to the richness of the learning environment at MLC School. I have been impressed by the manner in which they have demonstrated their leadership of the School throughout the course of the year, their courage to stand up for what they believe and their compassion in creating an inclusive learning environment for all.

Each girl has pursued personal excellence and this is reflected in all that they have achieved as a cohort. They have worked to their strengths academically as well as continuing to contribute to the School through their leadership of community, service and sporting events. There is no doubt that these are well-rounded young women who are well prepared to make their mark as agents of change in the community beyond MLC School.

The breadth of the academic program offered at MLC School is testament to the diverse nature of our School community.

MLC School offers multiple pathways for students to achieve their ambitions as well as providing guidance and support to each student throughout their secondary school journey. With the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme, the Higher School Certificate (HSC) and Vocational Education and Training (VET) pathways available, each girl is able to find the courses and program best suited to her. Our students are able to explore areas of passion and develop deep understanding of associated disciplines.

The Year 12 2019 cohort is no exception in finding the pathway for each student. Approximately 60 percent of the cohort chose to follow the HSC pathway enabling them to focus on the disciplines best suited to their interests and future studies.

The HSC gives students the opportunity to select a pattern of study that specialises in specific disciplines and develop deep conceptual knowledge of these. The academic rigour is no

less in the many creative and performing arts opportunities provided in the HSC program with students developing their practice in preparation for tertiary study and performance. The professionalism of the girls as they presented their performances and works speaks to the quality of their learning experience.

Some girls were able to tailor their pattern of study further through the inclusion of VET courses. These courses enable students to complete industry recognised qualifications whilst completing their HSC studies. Through completion of a VET course students had the opportunity to develop a range of technical skills directly related to areas of interest and possible future careers.

The other 40 percent of the cohort chose to pursue the IB Diploma Programme. As well as completing the academically rigorous pattern of study that is encompassed by the Diploma Programme, students developed their areas of personal interest through the completion of the additional components including the Extended Essay, Theory of Knowledge and Creativity, Activity and Service (CAS). There is no doubt about the diligence and hard work required to successfully complete the Diploma Programme.

No matter which course the students undertook, they should be proud of their achievements. They have demonstrated the tenacity to keep going through the challenging periods, resilience to pick themselves up and keep going when a result was less than what they hoped for and the compassion to care for others in the cohort when they needed some additional support. Each girl can now celebrate the end of a journey as they take some time to contemplate what comes next.

LINDA EMMS HEAD OF LEARNING AND TEACHING MLC SCHOOL | 5

Learning Pathways MLC School Class of 2019

In Year 11 and Year 12, MLC School offers three pathways to matriculation – the NSW Higher School Certificate (HSC), the International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme and Vocational Education and Training (VET) courses.

The Higher School Certificate (HSC) MLC School offers a wide range of HSC subjects to suit students and their interests.

To be eligible for the HSC, girls must: •

Study at least 12 units in Year 11

•

Six units must be NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) developed courses

•

Two units must be NESA developed English courses

•

Study at least four subjects

Students select one subject from each of five different discipline areas (Studies in Language and Literature, Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies, Sciences, Mathematics) and a sixth may be an Arts discipline or another subject from Language Acquisition, Individuals and Societies or Sciences.

This ensures a breadth of experience in Languages, Humanities, Experimental Sciences and Mathematics, a key feature of the Diploma that makes it different from the HSC. Three of the six subjects are studied at Higher Level (HL) each representing 240 teaching hours over two years.

NESA developed courses are the bulk of the courses developed for the HSC. They contribute to the ATAR and have an examination.

The remaining three subjects are studied at Standard Level (SL) each representing 150 teaching hours over two years.

Each year some MLC School students in Year 11 and Year 12 select the Pathways option of extending their HSC by more than two years to accommodate their demanding commitments in extra-curricular activities or to provide, in special circumstances, flexible program delivery over a longer period of time.

VET enables students to acquire workplace skills through nationally recognised training described within an industrydeveloped training package or an accredited course.

MLC School offers VET Entertainment, which is studied at school plus other VET subjects studied through TAFE NSW. Some VET courses are NESA developed courses and have an optional HSC examination. If girls choose to sit for the examination, the course counts towards their ATAR. If girls do more than one NESA developed VET course, only one will count towards their ATAR.

The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme The IB Diploma Programme is a comprehensive, two-year course of study chosen by a range of students as an alternative to studying the NSW HSC. Worldwide, the IB Diploma Programme is recognised for providing the academic challenge required for future university success.

6 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Vocational Education and Training (VET)

Higher School Certificate (HSC) Highlights State Rankings Indonesian Extension

Gabrielle Giannakos

Japanese Beginners

Industrial Technology

Textiles and Design

Amanda Yu

Zoe Lindhout

Matilda Swann

HSC Distinguished Achievers •

64% of the 2019 cohort achieved a Band 6 in at least one subject.

•

There were 96 instances of students awarded a Band 6 or E4.

Congratulations to all the girls who were placed on the HSC Distinguished Achievers list for those who achieved a result in the highest possible Band for one or more courses.

Elle Andreopoulos, Lucinda Baker, Madeline Bide, Anna Brew, Olivia Cain, Christina Catania, Eleni Charalambidis, Yoonju Cho, Jade De Julian, Gabrielle Giannakos, Sophie Graham, Imogen Greenslade, Tessa Iversen, Eva Jessurun, Xin Jiang, Eleni Kaloterakis, Grace Karras, Shirley Kuang, Zoe Lindhout, Elizabeth Liu, Madeleine Lysaght, Katerina Malafouris, Danielle Mikhael, Desiree Miller, Sashira Mulholland, Hanna Nash, Sophie Newby, Alyssa Nguyen, Christiana Perdis, Virginia Peter, Jessica Pizzinga, Olivia Robb, Lily Rodgers, Zoe Scoufis, Charlotte Seales, Nese Siricki, Georgia Softsis, Jessica Song, Jade Su, Matilda Swann, Sian Thomas, Elizabeth Trung, Georgia Ventouris, Crystal Warner, Billie Whittaker, Chit Wong, Bethany Xue, Nicola Yarrow, Amanda Yu

Percentage of MLC School Candidates who Achieved at the Highest Levels Subject

Band 5/6 Achieved

Subject

E3 and E4 Achieved

Drama

100%

English Extension 2

100%

Entertainment Industry Examination

100%

History Extension

100%

Geography

100%

Indonesian Extension

100%

Indonesian Continuers

100%

Music Extension

100%

Japanese Beginners

100%

Science Extension

100%

Music 1

100%

English Extension 1

95%

Music 2

100%

Textiles and Design

100%

Mathematics Extension 1

86%

Visual Arts

100%

Mathematics Extension 2

75%

Dance

83%

Design and Technology

83%

Industrial Technology

78%

Modern History

75%

English Advanced*

70%

* All MLC School students sat the English Advanced Examination

MLC School encourages girls to take on challenging courses to ensure academic growth. For example, all of the HSC cohort completed the Advanced English course. We are one of the few schools in the state to do this.

Our aim is for girls to maximise their ATAR and not simply the number of Band 6s as reported in the Sydney Morning Herald.

MLC SCHOOL | 7

International Baccalaureate (IB) Highlights •

Four students received a perfect score of 45 (99.95 ATAR). Congratulations to Vicky Feng, Annike Lindhout, Rachel Wang and Olivia Wu.

•

Four students received a score of 44 (99.85 ATAR). Congratulations to Yijun Cui, Nicole Lin, Capri Maher and Lydia Todoroska.

•

64% of students achieved an ATAR equivalent of 95 or over.

•

76.5% of students achieved an ATAR equivalent of 90 or over.

•

The average score among IB students at MLC School was 38 which represents an ATAR equivalent to 96.45.

•

The worldwide average in 2019 was 28.5.

Snapshot of 2019 MLC School International Baccalaureate (IB) results compared with Australasia and the world Australasia

MLC School

(source provisional stats from IBO)

3024

46

Grade average

28.5

33.5

38

Pass rate

70%

91%

100%

10.75%

33%

43.5%

Worldwide Total number of students sitting the 2019 IB Diploma

ATAR equivalent of 98.05 or higher (IB Diploma of 40 or more)

19,102

Extended Essays The Extended Essay is an independent, self-directed piece of original research, resulting in 4000-word academic thesis.

Thirteen students achieved an ATAR of 99 and over Charis Chiu 99.6

The Extended Essay and Theory of Knowledge awarded grades combine to gain a possible three bonus points. If a student gains a Grade A for both or a Grade A and Grade B combination they will receive the three bonus points.

36.9% of MLC School candidates received three bonus points in November 2019 compared to the world percentage of 9.47%.

Yijun Cui 99.85

EE Subject

Vicky Feng 99.95

% scored A

% scored B

% scored A and B

Emily Huynh 99.25

English A Literature

86

14

100

Jessica Kuo 99.25

Business Management

100

–

100

Nicole Lin 99.85

Economics

–

–

–

Annike Lindhout 99.95

Geography

–

–

–

Capri Maher 99.85

History

20

40

60

Katrina Marshall 99.25

Psychology

–

55

55

Lydia Todoroska 99.85

World Studies

100

–

100

Tess Tsoi 99.25

Dance

100

–

100

Rachel Wang 99.95

Music

100

–

100

Theatre

50

33

83

Visual Arts

–

50

50

Olivia Wu 99.95

8 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

IB Subject Results 2019 Number of students

% Grade 7

% Grade 6

% Grade 7 and Grade 6

English A Literature HL

47

28

49

77

Chinese B SL

2

–

50

50

French B SL

14

43

57

100

Indonesian B SL

1

–

100

100

Mandarin ab SL

1

100

Business Management HL

16

25

44

69

Economics HL

11

64

36

100

Geography HL

9

33

11

44

Geography SL

1

–

100

100

History HL

10

30

30

60

Psychology HL

11

9

27

36

Psychology SL

2

50

–

50

Biology HL

6

33

33

66

Biology SL

27

36

41

77

Chemistry HL

5

80

20

100

Chemistry SL

8

50

25

75

Physics SL

6

50

33

83

Mathematical Studies SL

22

23

45

68

Mathematics HL

1

100

–

100

Mathematics SL

25

12

48

60

Dance HL

8

12.5

75

87.5

Music HL

4

50

50

100

Music SL

1

100

–

100

Theatre HL

6

67

33

100

Theatre SL

1

100

–

100

Visual Arts HL

5

–

20

20

Subject

100

MLC SCHOOL | 9

Australian Tertiary Admissions Rank*

Girls who achieved an Australian Tertiary Admissions Ranking of 98 or more in the Higher School Certificate or International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.

Name

ATAR

Name

ATAR

Vicky Feng

99.95

Katrina Marshall

99.25

Annike Lindhout

99.95

Tess Tsoi

99.25

Rachel Wang

99.95

Sabrine Yassine

98.95

Olivia Wu

99.95

Charlotte Seales

98.85

Yijun Cui

99.85

Alyssa Nguyen

98.75

Nicole Lin

99.85

Natashja Eyles

98.70

Capri Maher

99.85

Diya Mehta

98.70

Lydia Todoroska

99.85

Emily Osborne

98.70

Charis Chiu

99.60

Victoria Workman

98.70

Emily Huynh

99.25

Sarah Day

98.05

Jessica Kuo

99.25

Clara Janssen

98.05

*The above list may not be a full representation of these achievements. MLC School is reliant on the Year 12 2019 cohort to provide their ATAR result or other information.

Details are not made public or provided to the School. In some instances, the UniScore has been used as the ATAR was not available.

10 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Reflections

Class of 2019

Yijun Cui Bide Madeline Higher SchoolBaccalaureate International Certificate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.6 ATAR 85.50 Shape Nomination What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, Duke of Edinburgh about toAward startScheme their final Goldyears?

Award University New of England Entry – Bachelor of students Agriculture The biggestofpiece advice Early I would give to younger is that their experience in the Senioryou Years is really what they make ofand/or it. I thinktheir it is What advice would give to younger students important to really be involved in and self-directed with your study, as this families, about to start their final years? allows you to deconstruct it and specifically explore areas that you’re the To allinterested the girls who arepassionate about to start their years, have fun with friends most in and about.

Onefinal of the greatest things about and remember that your HSC doesn’t determine the rest of your life.

MLC School is that it really curates a unique experience for each student and fosters an environment that allows students to delve into their own interests and really question and critically challenge what they are learning.

Charis Chiu International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.6 University of Sydney – Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws Dalyell Scholar How important was it for you to balance your academic focus with co-curricular activities?

MLC School provided a breadth of opportunity for me to immerse myself within co-curricular activities that I enjoyed, equipping me with transferrable skills such as determination, diligence and focus that became vital for my academic studies.

Yijun Cui International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.85 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

The biggest piece of advice I would give to younger students is that their experience in the Senior Years is really what they make of it. I think it is important to really be involved in and self-directed with your study, as this allows you to deconstruct it and specifically explore areas that you’re the most interested in and passionate about. One of the greatest things about MLC School is that it really curates a unique experience for each student and fosters an environment that allows students to delve into their own interests and really question and critically challenge what they are learning.

MLC SCHOOL | 11

Reflections

Class of 2019

Sarah Day International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 98.05 Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award Reflecting on the past two years, is there anything you would have done differently?

I don’t see any point in regretting anything from the past two years. Mistakes are a part of life – the fact is you learn and then you move on. That’s what makes this time an important part of growing up.

Natashja Eyles International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 98.7 MLC School Prescott House Captain Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award Macquarie University – Clinical Science What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Pick subjects you enjoy doing. Look at the course structure or the textbooks.

Don’t study subjects you think your parents are good at or can help you with.

You are the one sitting the exam.

Vicky Feng International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.95 MLC School SRC Captain Princeton University What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

It helps to have a good balance of co-curricular activities – try to cut down on the activities that you don’t enjoy as much and keep only the ones that you enjoy most.

12 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Sophie Graham Higher School Certificate ATAR 94.30 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Be sure to keep a good balance between work, social time with friends and family, sport and mental health. You are the most important so focus on your wellbeing!

Emily Huynh International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.25 Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award University of NSW – Bachelor of Commerce/Bachelor of Science What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Stay organised. Ask your teachers for help when needed. Choose subjects that you believe will suit you and that you will enjoy. Talk to girls in the year above for advice. Involve yourself with other events and support your friends!

Eva Jessurun Higher School Certificate ATAR 94.15 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Use your time wisely, give yourself time to relax and choose subjects you will enjoy and be motivated to work at.

MLC SCHOOL | 13

Reflections

Class of 2019

Shirley Kuang Higher School Certificate ATAR 87.55 If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

Try to find a goal that truly motivates you, and keep that in mind.

Jessica Kuo International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.25 MLC School Captain Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

You have come so far, why give up now? It’s hard to keep optimistic when you are so engrossed in your final years and how important it is, however, there is still life and opportunities after school. If you experience a sense of disappointment or don’t achieve what you really wanted, so what? Try again or find another way to get where you want to be. You only lose when you give up. #positivevibesonly

Annike Lindhout International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.95 University of NSW – Psychological Science (Major in Linguistics) Scientia Scholarship If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

Use your time management skills as much as possible, setting goals for yourself every week or day to ensure your workload doesn’t appear insurmountable. If you keep on top of your work there will be time to spare for sport, music or other activities outside of work.

14 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Zoe Lindhout Higher School Certificate ATAR 98 The University of Sydney – Bachelor of Applied Science (Occupational Therapy) What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

I would advise students to not overthink the whole process. It looks like a big and scary year, but in reality, it’s not the be all and end all. Of course, you are going to be stressed and there are going to be times when you find yourself struggling, but the year goes by quick so remember to enjoy yourself and stay happy! Also be mindful of your peers as you are all in the same boat.

Capri Maher International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.85 MLC School Art and Design Captain Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award University of NSW – Bachelor of Commerce UNSW Co-op Scholarship for Marketing and Accounting If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

Make the most of it! Whilst the education and studying side of school is extraordinarily important and you must stay focused and prioritise when necessary (which can be tough), I can’t stress how important it is to immerse yourself in the MLC School community and culture and enjoy time with your friends – making memories!

Katrina Marshall International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.25 Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award How important was it for you to balance your academic focus with co-curricular activities?

Having a balance between your academics and co-curriculars is always going to be a work in progress but something that it is essential that you try to find. Don’t compare yourself to others, it’s easy to go into a downward spiral thinking that compared to others, you’re not doing enough for extra-curriculars and yet you still feel like you don’t have enough time for school. Everyone needs and takes a different amount of time to focus and rest so maintain focus on your long-term goals and listen to your body.

MLC SCHOOL | 15

Reflections

Class of 2019

Diya Mehta International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 98.7 MLC School Round Square Captain Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme Gold Award What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Don’t let the hype around Year 12 overwhelm you; even though the stakes are higher, it is another school year, and it’s important to remember this. In fact, treating the last few years of school as an opportunity to explore all parts of your identity, not just your academic skill set is vital, as it is the last chance to discover who you are in a safe, familiar environment.

Desiree Miller Higher School Certificate ATAR 88.55 MLC School Abbeythorpe House Vice-Captain Callback Nomination What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Choose what you want, because when you are passionate about something, it is easier to focus, learn and study. Keep participating in co-curriculars and taking opportunities that the School offers. Stay on top of note taking because it will save you a lot of time and effort towards the end of the year.

Alyssa Nguyen Higher School Certificate ATAR 98.7 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Keep in mind that Year 12 is not entirely a year of stress and study. There will certainly be times when you are struggling or anxious with exams but the last year of high school is also a time where you build friendships and appreciate the sense of community within the cohort. Avoid coming into Year 12 with the mindset that this is going to be the scariest year of high school – Year 12 was in fact, my favourite!

16 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Emily Osborne International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 98.7 MLC School Vice-Captain (Year 10 to Year 12) Australian National University – Bachelor of Science/Bachelor of Politics, Philosophy and Economics How important was it for you to balance your academic focus with co-curricular activities?

It was essential. My co-curriculars and the families I found within them have kept me sane, grounded and happy throughout my time at MLC School, but most of all in Year 12. The sense of community they provided gave me a backbone of support, and the friendships I made lit up even my most difficult Year 12 days.

Charlotte Seales Higher School Certificate ATAR 98.85 MLC School Leawarra House Captain Macquarie Leaders and Achievers Early Entry – Bachelor of Ancient History What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Students need to put in work consistently and try to balance mental health and the stress of school.

Matilda Swann Higher School Certificate ATAR 97.35 University of the Arts London (Design Foundation Year) What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Choose the subjects that you like, not the ones that you think you should do, because Year 11 and Year 12 will be a lot more enjoyable if you actually like what you’re doing.

MLC SCHOOL | 17

Reflections

Class of 2019

Lydia Todoroska International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.85 MLC School Abbeythorpe House Captain What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Make the most of every opportunity.

Elizabeth Trung Higher School Certificate ATAR 93.55 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Maintain your mental health during the entirety of the year. At rough times throughout the year, your mental state may deteriorate, hang out with positive and productive friends and ensure your social life is well balanced. Make sure you space out time for yourself, however don’t procrastinate. Remember: time management and continuous commitment is essential to minimise stress which will ultimately benefit you.

Tess Tsoi International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.25 MLC School Sutton House Captain If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

Enjoy it. Don’t stress too much. Yes, try your best, but you should never reach a point where you work so hard that you lose sight of the joy of Year 12.

18 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Rachel Wang International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.85 MLC School Vice-Captain (Year 6 to Year 9) If you could offer a tip to someone about to do their final year, what would it be?

Enjoy your final year. Despite exams, it is one of the best years of your schooling life. Make the most of it as it will be over before you know it. I would also say to pick subjects that you genuinely enjoy. When you really like studying something, it doesn’t feel like ‘studying’. Be adaptable as things may not always go the way you want it to. Having said that, once you decide on something, make sure to go through with it and persevere.

Olivia Wu International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 99.95 MLC School Debating Captain The University of Sydney – Bachelor of Arts and Doctor of Medicine USYD Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship How important was it for you to balance your academic focus with co-curricular activities?

Co-curricular activities let you surround yourself with new people in a different environment. They were a refreshing complement, not a break from, having an academic focus because they instilled the same skills of discipline and enjoyment.

Sabrine Yassine International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme ATAR 98.95 What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

Try to have perspective of what Year 12 means to you. It can either be a mark that will determine the rest of your life or one of the pathways that can get you into the course you want if you work hard. Which one you choose determines your experience.

MLC SCHOOL | 19

2019 OnSTAGE nominee: Sophie Newby

Works Nominated for Showcase A number of performances and major works from MLC School girls were nominated for recognition as part of the HSC showcase events.

To be nominated for any of these showcases is a significant achievement as it acknowledges these projects as best in the State.

Callback Callback is the showcase of exemplary performances and compositions by HSC students of Dance. To be nominated students must receive full marks for their practical components.

The following girls were nominated: •

Desiree Miller for her Major Study Performance Waiting Room

•

Georgia Softsis for her Core Performance and Major Study Performance Lady Macbeth

•

Georgia Ventouris for her Core Composition OCD

InTech InTech is an exhibition of outstanding Major Projects from HSC Industrial Technology students.

The below students were nominated for their projects:

20 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

•

Eleni Charalambidis – 2D Animation Learning with Disabilities

•

Zoe Lindhout – 2D Animation Technology Use in Society

•

Sashira Mulholland – 2D Animation Querty and Berty

•

Hanna Nash – Diving Instructional Video

•

Bethany Xue – 2D Animation Moon Rabbit

2019 Callback nominee: Georgia Ventouris

ARTEXPRESS

OnSTAGE

ARTEXPRESS is an annual exhibition of exemplary artworks created by students for the Higher School Certificate in Visual Arts. The works represent a broad range of subject matter, approaches, styles and media including painting, photomedia, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, graphic design, documented forms, textiles and fibre, ceramics, time-based forms and collections of works.

OnSTAGE is a presentation and exhibition of group and individual performances and projects by HSC Drama students who have been selected for their exemplary work.

Eleni Charalambidis was nominated for her project Anxious.

Shape

Selected for Individual Projects: • •

Christina Catania – Poster and Promotion for Death and the Maiden Jessica Pizzinga – Lighting Design for Waltzing the Wilarra

Nominated for Individual Performance: •

Sophie Newby – The Shoe

The Shape exhibition features a selection of exemplary Major Projects from HSC Design and Technology, Industrial Technology and Textiles and Design students.

Nominated for Group Performance:

Major Design Projects from the below girls were nominated: •

Madeline Bide – Hanger Help

•

Elizabeth Liu – Artist Lightbox

•

Nese Siricki – Duymak Kit ‘The Cochlear Implant Packaging System’

•

Christina Catania – Mancave

•

Imogen Greenslade – Mancave

•

Eleni Kaloterakis – Mancave

•

Crystal Warner – Mancave

2019 Shape nominee: Madeline Bide

Texstyle Texstyle is an exhibition of HSC Textiles and Design Major Projects.

Eleni Charalambidis was nominated for her Major Textiles Project Timeline of Feminism and Yves Saint Laurent.

MLC SCHOOL | 21

Sport Tessa Iversen

Julia Varvarigos Imogen Greenslade

MLC School’s number one seed for tennis Julia Varvarigos competed in the Tennis World Canberra Bronze AMT Tournament.

After winning the Women’s Doubles division and placing 3rd in the Women’s Singles division, Julia’s Australian ranking was 152 and continued to improve.

Julia has accepted a Division 1 Tennis Sporting Scholarship at St Francis College, Brooklyn.

Imogen was selected into the NSW Under 20s Basketball team. Her team later won a silver medal at the U19 National Basketball Championships.

Imogen will be attending Arizona State University on a Division 1 Basketball Sporting Scholarship.

Image: Julia (left) and her Tennis partner placed 3rd in the Tennis World Canberra Bronze AMT Tournament.

Images: (top) Imogen Greenslade (bottom) Imogen (No. 15 in photo) with her NSW Under 20s Basketball team.

22 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Tessa received gold for her performance with the NSW Masters 18-39 years at the National Synchronised Swimming Championship.The National Synchronised Swimming Championship included teams from China, Hong Kong, Singapore and New Caledonia.

Image: Tessa with her synchro team.

Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme

The Gold Award is the most demanding of all levels of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme and is made up of five components: Service, Physical, Skill, Adventurous Journey and Residential Project.

Through the Service aspect of the Duke of Edinburgh Gold program, each MLC School girl challenged themselves over 12 months to be responsible and caring. It allowed them to see the impact that one individual can have on the wider community and those less advantaged. The girls engaged in service projects such as Round Square, bush care and student tutoring.

While it is easy for girls to get caught up in the rigours of study preparing for their final years of school, the Physical section challenges them to improve their health, fitness and performance, whatever their starting point. The Physical section builds valuable team skills, increases self-esteem and confidence. MLC School students chose to engage in a range of activities, from running and yoga to archery.

The Skill section challenged the girls to improve their skills and widen their interests in an area of their choice, and in a number of cases outside of the normal school curriculum requirements. Skills such as playing the piano or trying something new like sign language gave them a sense of achievement and wellbeing.

The final, and sometimes most challenging, aspect of the Duke of Edinburgh program is the Adventurous Journey and Residential Project. The projects challenge the girls to learn more about the wider environment, as well as develop self-confidence, teamwork and health. MLC School offered two sperate trips in 2019. In Fiji, students stayed in a rural village for a week and ventured every morning into the mountains to the local school and assisted with physical labour. The lack of air-conditioning, electricity and phone coverage was quickly forgotten as they started to appreciate and enjoy the simplicity of Fijian village life. The second group travelled to Cambodia. They spoke with survivors of the genocide and visited sites such as the Killing Fields and Angkor Wat, and were also able to enjoy the taste of tarantula and crickets.

It is a mark of great dedication to balance Year 12 studies with the requirements of Gold Duke of Edinburgh. In 2019, 23 Year 12 girls achieved the Gold Award.

The MLC School Duke of Edinburgh students travelled to Cambodia for their Gold Award.

Madeline Bide Sarah Day Cassandra Economides Natashja Eyles Gabrielle Giannakos Chloe Gentle Grace Gilmore Aleksia Grbic Emily Huynh Tiara Huynh Stephanie Kalamvokis Jessica Kuo Isabella Leighton Zoe Lindhout Capri Maher Katrina Marshall Diya Mehta Olivia Otto Virginia Peter Laura Sutherland Lok (Tess) Tsoi Georgia Ventouris Rachel Wang

The second trip offered for the MLC School Duke of Edinburgh Gold Award was to Fiji where girls enjoyed the simplicity of Fijian life.

MLC SCHOOL | 23

Scholarships and Overseas Universities University Scholarships Awarded Name

Course/University

Scholarship

Charis Chiu

The University of Sydney – Bachelor of Commerce and Bachelor of Laws

Dalyell Scholar

Imogen Greenslade

Arizona State University – Division 1 Basketball

Sporting Scholarship

Annike Lindhout

University of NSW – Psychological Science (Major in Linguistics)

Scientia Scholarship

Capri Maher

University of NSW – Bachelor of Commerce

Co-op Scholarship – Marketing and Accounting

Julia Varvarigos

St Francis College Brooklyn – Division 1 Tennis

Sporting Scholarship

Crystal Warner

Western Sydney University

Vice-Chancellor’s Leadership Scholarship

Olivia Wu

The University of Sydney – Bachelor of Arts/Doctor of Medicine

Vice-Chancellor’s Scholarship

+ The above list may not be a full representation of these achievements. MLC School is reliant on the Year 12 2019 cohort to provide their ATAR result or other information.

Details are not made public or provided to the School.

The following girls have been offered a place at overseas universities.

Name Jasmine Cho Vicky Feng Imogen Greenslade Matilda Swann Julia Varvarigos

University Berklee College of Music Jasmine will be attending Berklee College of Music in Boston, Massachusetts.

Vicky has accepted her offered place at Princeton University.

Arizona State University Imogen has accepted the Division 1 Basketball Sporting Scholarship at Arizona State.

Matilda has accepted her offered place at University Arts London (Design Foundation Year).

St Francis College, Brooklyn Julia has accepted the Division 1 Tennis Sporting Scholarship at St Francis College.

*The above list may not be a full representation of these achievements. MLC School is reliant on the Year 12 2019 cohort to provide their ATAR result or other information.

Details are not made public or provided to the School. In some instances, the UniScore has been used as the ATAR was not available.

24 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Take every opportunity you can while in your final years because you will never get the chance to be in high school again.

Olivia Russell

I would say just to give everything a go – it doesn’t matter if you’re great at it or terrible at it or just have no idea how you’ll go. We have countless opportunities at MLC School, so use them to the full.

Believing in yourself will provide you with the confidence and motivation needed to push through these years, so be kind to yourself and take advantage of the support networks around you.

Angelica Issa

Sarah Day

Make the most of everything because it goes by too fast.

The end is so close, so put your head down bum up and study hard. This is going to be the most stressful part of your life, but once it’s over, it’ll be the most rewarding.

Imogen Greenslade

Cassandra Economides

My advice would be to go into the final years with a positive attitude, know that you will have highs and lows but you will push through it.

Ava McGrigor

“

What advice would you give to younger students and/or their families, about to start their final years?

“

“

If you advice What could offer would ayou tipgive to someone to younger students about to do and/or their their year, final families, whatabout to startittheir would be? final years?

Hard work doesn’t equal success, but you’ll never succeed if you don’t work hard.

Find a way to love your subjects. If you love it, you will do well. However, know that the beginning is always hard, expect it to be hard.

Natasha Sok Melican

Work hard so you have choices for your future.

Katerina Malafouris

Never get too caught up with failure. Allow yourself one night to cry over it, or do anything you want to get those emotions out of your system then bounce back the next day.

Charis Chiu

Do not get caught up in the universal panic and stress that comes with the final year. If you study to the best of your personal ability and do your best you will be fine.

Jennifer Leng

Never give up.

Emily Osborne

Tayla Casey Give yourself time to relax.

Charlotte Seales Even though you will want to work super hard during Year 12, it’s important to prioritise your personal wellbeing.

Chloe Gentle

26 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

My Art experience. There is so much scope and possibility within the Art Department at MLC School, allowing you to truly embrace all your artistic passions and interests through exploration, workshops and exposure to a vast variety of art.

The highlight of my time was the last two years as I really felt that I was respected, supported and enjoyed the solidarity within the year as we all went through this challenge together.

Emily Millar

Eleni Charalambidis

History during the Senior Years. As a class we have some of the most engaging, thoughtprovoking discussions, formulate such nuanced arguments and are able to draw extremely relevant and meaningful conclusions.

At MLC School, I’ve learnt a lot about myself and other people. Through experiences like Chiang Mai, I’ve been able to broaden my perspectives about people and the world.

Olivia Robb

Yijun Cui The environment and the different ways of teaching.

Julia Varvarigos Experiences like the Art tour and History tour.

Rhiannon Macleod

Ellen Margaritis

“

“

The highlight of my time at MLC School has been the different experiences that you get to have with friends.

What has been the highlight of your time at MLC School?

“

“

Reflect on your time at MLC School.

I am so proud to call myself an MLC School girl. MLC School produces independent and strong-minded women.

I grew as a person with the guidance of amazing and inspiring friends and teachers.

This support system has helped me gain the courage to speak up and step out of my comfort zone.

Alyssa Nguyen

Although things can be stressful, I have also formed and strengthened my relationships, and I could not have done everything without the support of everyone around me.

Diya Mehta

Elle Andreopoulos No matter what everyone at MLC School goes through, we always go through it as a family.

Thank you MLC School for making me the woman I am today!

Jessica Pizzinga

Capri Maher MLC School has always encouraged people to pursue their individual passions and have been supported very well in these endeavours.

Six years of laughs, tears – plenty of tears – smiles and memories that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Eleni Kaloterakis

Although I won’t remember all the grand speeches or the motivational talks, I will remember the buzz and energy of the school that always felt so comfortable.

Olivia Wu 28 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

Zoe Scoufis

I loved my time at MLC School. All of the staff in particular were so helpful in the Senior Years and committed a great deal of time to their students. The environment was supportive and encouraging and helped to reduce the level of stress throughout the year.

Annike Lindhout

Bachelor of Social Work at either ACU or UoW.

Anna Brew

The plan is to study Clinical Science at Macquarie University.

Natasha Eyles

Hanna Nash

I hope to attend university part time and my spare time will be spent ‘finding myself’ and what I am really passionate about. I also hope to continue playing sport and see where it takes me.

Desiree Miller

I want to go to a college in Sydney, and in my third or fourth year of university, I really want to travel or do an exchange to Oslo, Norway.

Grace Gilmore

I’m taking a gap year, where I would like to write so I can begin my career as an author. I’d also like to travel and work during this time.

Christiana Perdis

I hope to study Medicine at UNSW or Clinical Sciences at Macquarie University and then post-grad Medicine.

Aleksi Grbic

I want to study Paramedicine at UTAS.

Ava McGrigor

University, planning to do a Bachelor of Speech and Hearing Sciences.

“

Georgia Softsis

“

I want to study Electrical Engineering and Computer Science at UNSW or Sydney University, and then maybe do a post-grad or work overseas afterwards.

What are your plans now?

MLC SCHOOL | 29

30 | CLASS OF 2019 HIGHLIGHTS

MLC SCHOOL | 3