A question of

A balanced education involves much more than the pursuit of academic success. At PLC, students are surrounded with opportunities to explore new interests and develop existing ones – interests that will contribute to academic and personal development and for many, provide a source of life-long enjoyment. Music and sport, drama and debating, chess and theatre sports all allow students to learn more about themselves and develop confidence as they learn and perform with students from different year levels.

In the Early Learning Centre, music and physical activity stimulate the senses and develop physical co-ordination. Bright, colourful play areas inside and attractive, park-like grounds provide contrasting environments in which children learn to take risks, assume responsibility and become more sensitive to the interests and needs of others. The children and staff eagerly anticipate the special performances that contribute to a coherent community and delight families and friends.

Throughout Junior and Senior Schools, we provide an environment in which students can feel comfortable exploring a range of interests and abilities. Over 60% of PLC girls and some 45 professional musicians and teachers work together to create the life of the Music School. All standards, from the beginner to the student who achieves her Licentiate, practise and perform in one or more of the many ensembles and choirs. House and School drama productions, musicals, concerts and jazz cabarets introduce students and families to the excitement and exhilaration of performance.

Skills and a sense of teamwork, developed in physical education classes, equip students to participate in House and Inter-school sports. Again, different ages and levels of ability are catered for with participation emphasised. From Years 5 to 12, teams compete against those from other schools in regular matches and carnivals. PLC is a member of Girls Sport Victoria, an organisation of 24 girls’ schools that provides the structure for Senior School competition. Girls also compete in aerobics, rowing and snow sports against a wider range of schools. Public speaking and debating, again as House and School competitions, camps and bushwalking, clubs and activities, all invite students to live life to the full.

The leadership roles assumed by students in many of these activities add another dimension to their personal development, to their understanding of the importance of teamwork and their growing appreciation of the complexity of personal relationships.

Past experience and more recent research suggest that a broad and balanced program has been a significant factor in the success of many PLC students.