International Day of the GirlToday is International Day of the Girl and I’m looking forward to joining our Chair of Council Emeritus, Professor Tracey Horton AO, who is speaking this evening at the West Coast Eagles Blazing the Trail event to support this cause. While it can be hard within the bubble of PLC to see all the challenges facing girls more broadly across the world, the sobering statistics remind us of ongoing hardship. - This year alone, 12 million
girls under 18 will be married, and 21 million girls aged 15 to 19 years will become pregnant in developing regions.
- Every ten minutes, somewhere in the world, an adolescent girl dies as a result of violence.
- In humanitarian emergencies, gender-based violence often increases, subjecting girls to sexual and physical violence, child marriage, exploitation and trafficking.
- Adolescent girls in conflict zones are 90% more likely to be out of school when compared to girls in conflict-free countries, compromising their future prospects for work and financial independence as adults.
So how can we help? At the Principal’s Assembly
tomorrow I’ll be kicking off a campaign to encourage each House Tutor Group (HTG) in the Senior School to set a target of either $25 or $60 per HTG to support the ‘Bring her Light’ campaign run through UN Women. In the wake of disaster and in the midst of conflict, women and girls are impacted differently – violence and sexual assault against women skyrockets, and their unique needs are often forgotten in the business and urgency of the response efforts. After a natural disaster, power outages are numerous and long-lasting and under the cover of darkness, women face an even higher risk of violence and sexual assault. Sometimes the solution is
as simple as providing a light source. If each HTG raised $25 we could purchase 210 solar lights; if each HTG raised $60 we could raise enough money to purchase 500 lights. We have established a TryBooking link should you wish to support this cause. The girls can either bring in their $5 and give it to their Tutor or at any reception or bring in the TryBooking receipt so the amount can be added to their HTG total. While this is optional, it would be wonderful to think we could come together as a community in such a meaningful way to support International Day of the Girl. Click here to support. Staffing UpdateReverend Gary van HeerdenAt all Uniting Church of WA schools, the position of the School Chaplain is reviewed every five to ten years. Reverend Gary van Heerden has now been at PLC Perth for eight years and, as we all know, has become an integral part of our School community. In light of the Uniting Church’s employment review period, Rev. Gary has recently had cause to discuss his future at PLC Perth with his family. Obviously, this has been very difficult for the van Heerden’s because PLC is as dear to them, as
they are to us. Their discussions were prompted because a School Chaplaincy position recently became available at our brother school, Scotch College. Rev. Gary saw the opportunity to extend his service to our community at a School as close to PLC Perth as he could get, while still working in a role he loves. Of course, Scotch College jumped at the opportunity to have Rev. Gary as their Chaplain. How could they not? They’ve seen first-hand the amazing work he has done at PLC. It is, therefore, with a lump in my throat, that I advise our girls, staff and parents that this term will be Rev. Gary’s last at PLC. I am sure you will all join with me in wishing him the very best as he pursues this next part of his life’s
journey. His contributions to PLC Perth have been significant and will be appropriately recognised before the end of term. Recruitment for Rev. Gary’s replacement will commence in the coming weeks. Phillipa Roy and Kavita MathaiWhile still on news about staff movements, two of our senior teaching staff members have let me know this week that they have been appointed to exciting promotional positions from 2019. Head of Music – Curriculum, Phillippa Roy, takes up the role of Head of Music at Perth Modern School next year and Kavita Mathai, our Head of IB Diploma, has been
appointed Head of Senior School at the International School of WA. While we will lose two highly valued staff members, it is important that we always encourage career development for our staff and I wish both Phillipa and Kavita all the best in their new, exciting roles. IB staff member, Rebecca Garbenis has been appointed Acting Head of IB Diploma for 2019. Rebecca is an outstanding teacher and is very excited about stepping into this role for 2019. Recruitment for the Head of Music – Curriculum will begin this term.
- Dr Kate Hadwen, Principal
Friday 26 October Open Garden Day, click here to book your tickets. Tuesday 16 October PLC Old Collegians’ Association Bursaries closing date, click here to read more. Friday 16 NovemberPrincipal’s Thank You Sundowner, 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
Enquiries: Kate.Montague@plc.wa.edu.au Thursday 6 December Senior School Speech Night, save the date
‘Samuel, Samuel!’ And Samuel said: ‘Speak Lord, your servant is listening.’
(1 Samuel 3:10)Discerning God’s guidance is seldom easy. Three times God calls to Samuel and each time he thinks it is the high priest Eli calling him. After being awoken each time by the boy, Eli realises that the voice must be God’s, so tells Samuel to go back to bed and the next time he hears the voice to say: ‘Speak Lord, your servant is listening.’ Few can claim to have heard God speak to them audibly. So how do we receive guidance from God? Should we go this way or that? Do this or do that? Sometimes doors open while others are firmly shut in our faces. We confide in people we trust; we pray; we examine situational cues; but when all is said and done, we chose a path, hoping and believing that God is there,
waiting for us. I have always found great comfort in the words of the late Billy Graham: ‘The will of God will not take us where the grace of God cannot sustain us’. - Rev Gary van Heerden
Term 4 Lighthouse Co-Curricular Join Term 4 activities that promote fitness, health and happiness. From Boxilates and Zumba, to expressive art activities such as 'Colour My World'. There is something for everyone! Book classes here. PhysiotherapyCottesloe Sports Physiotherapy's Jo and Brett will be treating at the PLC lighthouse four days a week! Monday, 7.30 am - 10.00 am and 3.00 pm - 6.00 pm
Tuesday, 1.30 pm - 5.50 pm
Thursday, 7.30 am - 10.00 am and 2.00 pm - 5.30 pm
Friday, 7.30 am - 10.00 am
- Chonny James, Director of Wellbeing
AISWA Book LaunchA major strength of the PLC Junior School is the International Baccalaureate philosophy that underpins all teaching and learning. In recognition of our expertise in inquiry learning, AISWA selected PLC to host the Book Launch of a publication entitled “Journeys of Inquiry". A number of teachers in our Junior School were invited to present the value and strengths that inquiry learning brings to the curriculum and the classroom. They shared how we develop deep understandings, strive for intellectual engagement, encourage students to ask questions and make the content meaningful. It was a wonderful opportunity
to showcase how well our students learn using the inquiry method. Opportunities for Growth in the Junior School This week has provided a couple of challenges and opportunities for growth. The first challenge this week was becoming familiar with the restructured timetable. The second challenge was to be physically and emotionally prepared for the Inter-House Athletics Carnival. The Physical Education teachers have endeavoured to prepare students for all the challenges that they will face at tomorrow’s event. Knowing that being resilient, participating and trying one’s best is most important. We thank Kobie McGurk and the Physical Education department
for all of their hard work in ensuring that Friday’s event will be another seamlessly executed and successful Junior School Athletics Carnival.
- Jennifer Rickwood, Deputy Head of Junior School - Teaching and Learning
- Vernita Jaques, Deputy Head of Junior School - Pastoral Care
Inter-House Athletics Carnival (Years 1-6) Date: Friday 12 October
Time: 8.00 am – 2.00 pm
Venue: UWA Sports Park, Mt Claremont Chapel Years 2 to 6 – hosted by Year 2 Date: Monday 15 October
Time: 9.05 am – 9.35 am
Venue: Heather Barr Memorial Chapel Year 6 Exhibition Date: Thursday 1 November
Time: 1.45 pm – 3.00 pm Junior School Assembly – hosted by Year 1 Date: Friday 2 November
Time: 8.40 am – 9.15 am
Venue: SRC Junior School Orientation Day Years 2 - 6 Date: Friday 16 November
Time: 9.00 am – 2.30 pm Pre-Primary Nativity Date: Wednesday 21 November
Time: 9.00 am – 9.30 am
Venue: Heather Barr Memorial Chapel Year 6 Final Assembly Date: Friday 23 November
Time: 2.15 pm – 3.05 pm
Venue: SRC Suzuki Christmas Concert Date: Tuesday 27 November
Time: 5.30 pm – 6.30 pm
Venue: Heather Barr Memorial Chapel Junior School End of Year Assembly Date: Tuesday 4 December
Time: 6.00 pm - 7.00 pm
Venue: SRC Last day of Term 4 – Thursday 6 December Please note the early finish time – 1.00 pm
Exams...Exams....ExamsThe Year 11s have completed their exams and the Year 12s are heading into their WACE Exams. While I urge the girls to strive for personal excellence, I hope they see themselves as more than the number they end up with at the end. ‘Intelligence’ has many measures. When we play games like Trivial Pursuit, we often think that those people who get all their chips quickly by answering knowledge-based questions are really smart! However, life requires us to be able to do more than recall facts. It is imperative that we apply, evaluate, synthesise, analyse, make and create. This
is nothing new of course – Philosopher John Dewey expounded his theory in the 1800s that learning needs to be bedded in reality, be engaging and motivating and practical as well as theoretical. Cambodia Service TourAs part of the Cambodia Tour, we learnt about doing - not just the physical chiseling and hammering. It was learning to adjust to a different culture and honouring that through appropriate choices of clothing. It was chipping in (literally) to the task of building houses. It was the smiles even when tired and exhausted from the heat. It was encouraging and supporting each other. And importantly, it was giving from the heart to the
children and families, developing an understanding of and empathy for the Cambodian people. Being part of a community is something we always talk about at school– but I can honestly say that I, along with the other staff members who attended, felt warmly embraced by the girls and the parents on this tour. It was so rewarding to work alongside each other towards a common good. In the end though, in the words of one of our lovely mothers on tour, it was “not what we gave to Cambodia, it was what Cambodia gave to us” – the chance to learn more about so many things, including ourselves, by doing something practical and relevant. While my comments are restricted to the Cambodian context, I believe the value of the Quest initiative cannot be over-estimated. I am certain all girls gained enormously from what ever
was their choice of hands-on learning. MedicationsPlease be reminded that any medications required by girls during school hours need to be stored in and administered via the Health Centre. If you have any queries, please speak with one of our Health Centre staff. Upcoming events for Year 12sOur Year 12s return next week for their final week at school. It has been lovely to see so many girls at school this week, no doubt soaking in the PLC atmosphere as they prepare to depart! Next
week is a busy week with many events to attend – in between the study of course! While information has been sent by email to parents and girls, I have included it here as well, for your convenience. Monday 15 October 8.30 am - Final Chapel for girls
Period 1 - 6 – Return of ‘mock’ exams Tuesday 16 October7.00 am – Year 12 Breakfast on the Quad
8.30 am – Special Event 1
9.30 am – Final Assembly rehearsal
9.45 am –Valedictory Service Rehearsal
11.30 am - 12.30 pm – Special Event 2 Wednesday 17 October12.15 pm - House lunches
1.45 pm – Final Assembly (parents invited to attend) Thursday 18 OctoberStudy Day Friday 19 October4.00 pm - Valedictory Service
5.00 pm - Mocktails on the quad
6.00 pm – Valedictory Dinner - Sharon Anderson, Head of Senior School
PLC Open Garden Day will showcase some of Perth's best gardens as they blossom in Spring. This year we have a fabulous mix of Cottage Gardens and more contemporary gardens.What's on offer?- A variety of magnificent private gardens open to visitors.
- A free courtesy tram.
- Outdoor garden café with delicious homemade treats.
- Over 30 market stalls with incredible local-made art, jewellery, cakes, succulents and more on sale.
- Live music and entertainment by PLC music students.
- Performance by Perth Opera singer, Emma Pettemerides.
- Free parking.
Event DetailsDate: Friday 26 October 2018
Time: 10.00 am - 2.00 pm
Cost: $25 per person / $15 Pension Card Holders (must show valid card)
Donate Lemons and BooksWe are once again looking for donations of fresh lemons for our homemade lemonade stall and pre-loved books for the Market stall. Lemons Please drop off your lemons to the Food Room in the View Street Senior School building, below reception. Any donations are much appreciated. Books Please drop off any pre-loved books to Minora (old PLC Maintenance Department), 10 View Street.
Books only; no magazines, videos or DVDs please. Register to VolunteerParent Volunteers are an essential part of Open Garden Day. There are various roles and shifts available. Register to Volunteer now.
We have great pleasure in inviting students in Years 11 and 12 (2019) with a passion for Visual Art and/or Textiles on a tour of four cities of Italy, in the July holiday break, 2019. The tour will take place from 4 - 19 July with the girls having an extra week of holidays upon return.
Student AchievementsSonya Frossine (Year 12), Lucy Jarrett (Year 11), Charlotte Pope (Year 12), Ping Yap (Year 12), Ashlee Wearne (Year 12), Renya Golestani (Year 12), Brooke Gifford (Year 12) and Annabelle Muir (Year 12) have been selected for inclusion in this year’s edition of Primo Lux 2018, the state’s only poetry journal for Western Australian students. Bryzlyn Sin (Year 8) competed in the Associate in Music (AMus.A) Diploma section for the South Suburban Music Society and was
awarded first prize in the Romantic piano section. During the holidays, Ruby Bell (Year 5) competed in the Western Australian State Junior Swimming Championships. Ruby won two bronze, two silver and one gold medal! Ruby was also part of the medley relay team that broke the State Record and Western Australian All-Comers Records, anchoring the team in the freestyle leg. Poppy Bell (Year 8) has come equal first place in the National Australian Geography Competition Exam. Congratulations, girls.
Boarding House NewsAt the start of the new term, the boarders are happy and ready to have some fun! Read more in Boarding House News.
Principal's Assembly Date: Friday 12 October
Time: 8.35 am
Location: Hugh Baird Sports Centre Year 12 BreakfastDate: Tuesday 16 October
Time: 7.15 am
Location: Senior School Quad Valedictory Service and Dinner Date: Friday 19 October
Time: 4.00 pm (Service)
6.00 pm (Dinner) Location: Junior School Sport and Recreation Centre (Service)
Hugh Baird Sports Centre (Dinner) Year 9 Outdoor Education ProgrammeDate: Monday 29 October - Friday 2 November
Location: Various regions in the South-West Year 8 Parent Drinks Date: Friday 9 November
Time: 7.00 pm – 10.00 pm
Location: Stewart Residence, Nedlands
Booking: Click here Parent-daughter Caving and Abseiling Weekend Date: Saturday 17 November and Sunday 18 November
Location: Margaret River Year 12 Parents End of Year Drinks Evening Date: Saturday 17 November
Book: Click here
PLC Old Collegians’ Association BursariesApplications close Tuesday 16 October! Every year, the PLC Old Collegians’ Association Inc. awards three bursaries. - The Olive Cusack Bursary: This bursary recognises a boarding daughter or grand daughter of an Old Collegian currently in Year 9 for Year
10.
- The Dr Vera Summers Bursary: This bursary is awarded to a daughter or grand daughter of an Old Collegian currently in Year 10 for Year 11.
- The Heather Barr Memorial Bursary: This bursary is open to all current Year 11 students and recognises participation and contribution to PLC.
Each award recipient will receive $5,000 towards tuition fees in 2019. Applications close: Tuesday 16 October at 2.00 pm. Click here for more information.
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