6 PLC in Prin t | Ma r ch 2 0 2 2
PLC i n P ri nt | Mar ch 2 0 2 2
GRADUATE PATHWAYS My time at PLC has been truly memorable and it feels surreal to have finished Year 12. Though challenging, the IB has been such a fulfilling programme that has prepared me to face the future with a sense of eagerness and confidence. I’m so excited to begin university after a restful holiday — it’s been wonderful to be able to spend more time with my friends and family, travel interstate, play sports, and plan fishing trips. I’m also looking forward to continuing my endeavours in chess, hopefully travelling to Canberra in April to compete in the Doeberl Cup. I was fortunate to receive the Melbourne Chancellor’s Scholarship, which covers the full cost of my chosen undergraduate degree at The University of Melbourne, provides guaranteed entry into any graduate program, and includes a living allowance. As part of this scholarship, there is an option to study abroad or be involved in an exchange program, with additional funding from the Melbourne Global Scholars Award. I am currently enrolled in the Bachelor of Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne for three years, followed by guaranteed entry into postgraduate Medicine. I think ultimately it is about choosing a course that fits well for you as an individual. Some unique features of the pathway at The University of Melbourne are the breadth subjects and the opportunity to volunteer in international projects around the world. I feel that these opportunities will help to develop other areas of my life and enable me to pursue other interests outside of my main vocational training, which is probably a very healthy thing, seeing that Medicine can be quite intense. One subject I have chosen is sports coaching, where I can learn skills which are transferable to chess coaching (I have started coaching primary school chess during the holidays!) while enjoying a variety of different sports at university. There are so many different breadth courses available - from courses in other streams, to subjects like wine tasting, movie-making, and samba band. One thing that has stayed with me from my Year 10 work experience in hospitals, was seeing how doctors care for their patients, and this inspired me to pursue a career in health care. While I’m not entirely sure what I’d like to specialise in (I’ve been told there’s plenty of time to work this out!) - I know I absolutely adore kids and I think I may be interested in paediatrics. I’m so grateful for all that PLC has done for me over the years. I wouldn’t be here without the constant support of the dedicated teachers, staff and community. Despite the many uncertainties we have faced in the pandemic during these past two years, the amazing support and guidance from the school gave me the confidence I needed to press on and keep focused, which was very difficult at times. It’s been so special seeing our cohort grow together and encourage each other; these are friendships I’ll definitely cherish and continue to build well into the future, irrespective of our different paths. PLC has empowered me to pursue my passions, to face hardship with a growth mindset and to stay grounded in my faith. I hope to be able to make a difference in the lives of others and to give back to the school that has given me so much. Cassandra Lim
My foundational years at PLC have helped mould the person I am now, on the brink of entering the adult world. Perhaps the most essential quality is the love for learning; as someone hoping to enter the field of medical research, my interest in answering the unanswered stems from an enriching education. Thus, after Year 12 I was led to pursue a Bachelor of Biomedicine at the University of Melbourne, hoping afterwards to continue studying and working in graduate research programs. In this degree there is a strong focus on scientific investigation. For example, we are currently working on developing IVF techniques using mice embryos, and I am loving the opportunity to combine creativity and writing skills with scientific frameworks. Another highlight of my degree at the University of Melbourne is the opportunity for a more holistic education granted by the breadth subjects and active student societies. One quarter of my degree focuses on 20th century history, allowing me to explore my hobby/ passion at the same time as focusing on my career. Through this I get to engage in stimulating discussions on racialism, feminism, and the Cold War, along with getting the opportunity to hear from leading experts in politics and history, something I have been thoroughly enjoying. With various clubs including the Debating Society, Eurovision Social Club, and History Society providing forums to discuss these sorts of topics outside of class as well, I can gladly say I feel as though I am able to pursue both my interests in science and humanities through my university education. Zara Boubouras
PLC Graduate Accepted Into Cambridge University We are delighted to share that Judy Ma from the IB Class of 2021 has been accepted into studying Law at Trinity College, Cambridge in the UK. She joins many IB students who have gone on to study at institutions around the world such as Harvard, Yale, London School of Economics and Oxford. She passed on her appreciation to the school upon receipt of the news: “I am very thankful to the Principal and staff for providing me with a wonderful educational environment. I know that a PLC education has set a solid foundation for my future studies”, she said. Judy Ma
Junior School
After the disruptions of the past two years, there is a palpable feeling of joy in the Junior School corridors as the girls and teachers return to school with hope and expectancy for the year ahead. We return with renewed gratitude for the things that we may have previously taken for granted, in particular, face-to-face connection and feeling part of a vibrant school community. The start of a school year brings with it the opportunity to embrace change and new beginnings – new teachers, new students, new friends, and for some, a new school. This year we welcome 101 new girls to the Junior School from Prep right through to Year 6. Our Prep girls have begun well and settled into school life with confidence and excitement. We also have five new teachers joining us in various classes and subject areas across the Junior School and we warmly welcome them to our dynamic learning community. Leadership has been a key theme of Term 1, with the investiture of our Year 6 leaders, Leadership Day for our Year 6 students, the formation of Student Action Teams, and the induction of our SRC members. I look forward to watching our girls seize the opportunities that 2022 will bring them: the opportunity to serve their community, make new friends, try something new, learn new things about themselves and to grow in confidence and independence. Mrs Melissa Voce Acting Head of Junior School
Year 6 Investiture
Leadership Day
At the Investiture Assembly, the Year 6 students were each presented with a honorary badge by Mrs Penberthy. Accepting this badge means we are now officially the leaders of the Junior School and will take responsibility for being good role models to the younger students. As a Year 6 myself, I am looking forward to learning more about leadership and helping others. We are encouraged to be ‘skilful thinkers’ — to solve problems by looking at them from different perspectives to be a good collaborator and to be a strong communicator. These are some of the traits a Year 6 student should have in order to lead others. I hope the Grade 6s will be able to keep using these traits as leaders.
On February 3rd, the Year 6 students all enjoyed Leadership Day. To begin with, we listened to Imashi Iddawela, a previous PLC student, who shared that leadership is not shown by having a badge, but rather, by possessing the main qualities of a leader — kindness, positivity and service. We then did some engaging, physical activities with Mr Newell about leadership, strategy and teamwork. To finish off the day, we decided on the most important qualities of being a leader to us. We will remember and value Leadership Day and put the lessons to good use in our daily lives, particularly as leaders of the Junior School this year.
Madison 6C
Matilda 6B
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