
Episode #21
Preparing for School (Year 7 entry) | dare to be more podcast with Joanna Graffen and Alistair Roland
In this essential episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Alistair Roland, Head of Students for Years 7–9, and Joanna Graffen, Head of Senior School, about one of the most significant milestones in a young girl's education — the transition to Year 7. Alistair and Joanna share the practical steps MLC School takes to prepare students for Senior School, from Excitement Days and orientation programmes to the luminary pastoral care system. They also offer candid advice for parents on how to support their daughters' growing independence — including the importance of letting them make (and learn from) their own mistakes. Featured Guests: Alistair Roland, Head of Students (Years 7–9) at MLC School Joanna Graffen, Head of Senior School at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: When and how MLC School begins preparing students for the Year 7 transition What the luminary pastoral care system is and why it matters Why letting your daughter forget her sports uniform might be the best thing you can do How MLC School supports students joining from external schools — not just from within the MLC community Why getting involved in co-curricular activities is one of the most important things a Year 7 student can do Key Topics Discussed: The Year 7 transition — what changes and what stays the same MLC School's orientation programme, Excitement Days, and Commencement Day The luminary (tutor) system and pastoral care structure Building independence and resilience in Year 7 students Advice for parents — trusting the process and working as a team with the school Co-curricular activities and the importance of belonging to a community About MLC School: MLC School is a leading independent girls' school in Sydney, committed to empowering young women through academic excellence, character development, and innovative education. Our mission is to inspire girls to dare to be more. Connect With Us: Website: mlcsyd.nsw.edu.au Instagram: @mlcsydney Facebook: @MLCSchoolSydney LinkedIn: MLC School Hashtags: #Year7Transition #StartingHighSchool #MLCSchool #GirlsEducation #SchoolReadiness #ParentingTips #DareToBeMore






