dare to be more

MLC School
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Welcome to "dare to be more," the podcast that explores the transformative power of girls' education. In each episode, we tap into the deep expertise and forward-thinking perspectives of the educators, leaders, and professionals who shape the learning environment at MLC School in Burwood. Through thoughtful conversations, we uncover the philosophies, innovations, and practices that empower girls to thrive—academically, creatively, and personally. Whether you're an educator, a parent, a student, a past student, or simply passionate about the future of girls education, join us as we celebrate the ideas and people that inspire our girls to ‘dare to be more’.

  1. 5d ago

    Preparing Your Daughter for Kindergarten Success | dare to be more podcast with Joanne Sharpe

    In this episode of "Dare to Be More," we explore the vital steps families can take to prepare young girls for the transition into kindergarten. Joanne Sharpe, Deputy in the Junior School, shares her expertise on building social and emotional wellbeing, fostering independence, and the importance of establishing predictable routines to ensure a smooth start to school life. In This Episode, You'll Discover: • Why social and emotional readiness is more important than academic preparation for new students. • How building familiarity with the school environment through tours and orientations reduces anxiety. • What practical steps parents can take at home to foster independence in their daughters. • Why establishing a consistent sleep and morning routine is critical for a successful first term. • How the partnership between home and school supports the individual growth of every girl. Key Topics Discussed: • The transition from pre-kindergarten to kindergarten and the benefits of shared environments. • Strategies for managing the emotional milestone of the first day of school for both parents and children. • The role of buddies in helping new students navigate unfamiliar routines and spaces. • Using visual schedules to reduce the cognitive load on young learners. • Encouraging girls to embrace new opportunities and dare to be more from an early age. Notable Quotes: I think there's plenty of things that parents can do and that we set up as a school in terms of our orientation programme. Joanne Sharpe "Your child will get the best out of their school time when we are really cohesive and working as a team." -Joanne Sharpe "Daring to be more than they thought they could be." - Joanne Sharpe Connect with MLC School: WebsiteFacebook Instagram LinkedIn  Host:  Anthony Perl Production: Podcasts Done For You. For more information about podcast production services, visit podcastsdoneforyou.com.au. #KindergartenReady #EarlyLearning #SydneyEducation #DareToBeMore #GirlsEducation #ParentingSupport

    Preparing Your Daughter for Kindergarten Success | dare to be more podcast with Joanne Sharpe

  2. Jul 15

    Unlocking High Potential with James Adams

    In this episode of Dare to Be More, we explore the evolving landscape of high-potential learning with James Adams, the High Potential Learning Leader at MLC School. We discuss how the school moves beyond traditional definitions of giftedness to support students across academic, creative, and physical domains. In This Episode, You'll Discover: • Why high potential is a flexible term that can manifest at different stages of a student's career • How MLC School uses a holistic approach to identify students who need qualitatively different learning support • What the concept of imagined academic futures means for young women entering the workforce • Why deep learning within the classroom is more impactful than a reliance on external competitions • How flexible ability grouping creates a culture of excellence and peer motivation Key Topics Discussed: • The difference between high potential and traditional gifted education • Overcoming social-emotional barriers like perfectionism and imposter syndrome in high-achieving girls • The role of academic self-efficacy in student success • Balancing acceleration with genuine curriculum differentiation • The importance of an all-girls environment for fostering academic ambition Chapters 0:00 — Introduction & Meet James Adams 1:12 — Defining "High Potential" 3:55 — Identifying High-Potential Students 6:13 — Building Effective High-Potential Programs 8:43 — Benefits of an All-Girls Learning Environment 10:10 — Streaming & Flexible Ability Grouping 11:01 — Acceleration vs. Enrichment 13:41 — Avoiding Underperformance & Building Self-Efficacy 16:16 — Supporting Teachers in the Classroom 17:32 — Advice for Parents & Looking Ahead Connect with MLC School: WebsiteFacebook Instagram LinkedIn  Host:  Anthony Perl Production: Podcasts Done For You. For more information about podcast production services, visit podcastsdoneforyou.com.au.

    Unlocking High Potential with James Adams

  3. Jul 2

    Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Jane Noake

    In this special episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Jane Noake, a proud MLC School alumnae who graduated in 1974 and has maintained a deep connection with the school across three generations. Jane is a pharmacist, a Masters swimming champion, a former state and national president, and a passionate advocate for community sport — all values she traces back to her time at MLC School. Jane's story is a beautiful example of how the values instilled at school — participation, service, and giving back — can shape an entire life. From nearly drowning at the school swimming carnival to becoming a national leader in Masters swimming, Jane's journey is both humbling and inspiring. Featured Guest: Jane Noake, MLC Alumnae (Class of 1974), Pharmacist and Masters Swimming Leader In This Episode, You'll Discover: How Jane's MLC School education shaped her values of service and community contributionHer unexpected journey from reluctant swimmer to national Masters swimming presidentWhat it means to have a three-generation connection to MLC SchoolThe importance of giving back to the sports and communities that enrich our livesHow MLC School's values have been passed down through her daughter and granddaughter Key Topics Discussed: The lasting impact of a girls' school education on values and characterMasters swimming as a community and a vehicle for serviceThree generations of MLC School connection — and what that meansPhilanthropic contribution and the joy of giving backSeeing MLC School's values reflected in the next generation 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You' Hashtags: #MLCAlumnae #DareToBeMore #WomenInSport #MastersSwimming #GivingBack #MLCSchool #GirlsEducation

    Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Jane Noake

  4. Jun 19

    Navigating the Tween Years | dare to be more podcast with Joanne Sharpe

    In this warm and practical episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Joanne Sharpe, Deputy Head of Junior School at MLC School, about the tween years — that in-between stage from approximately ages nine to twelve when girls are no longer little children but not yet teenagers. Joanne draws on her extensive experience in girls' education and wellbeing to explain what's really happening for girls during this stage, and offers parents and teachers a wealth of practical strategies to support them through it. Featured Guest: Joanne Sharpe, Deputy Head of Junior School (Wellbeing) at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: What the tween years really are — and why they're such a significant developmental stageHow to recognise and support changing friendship dynamics without jumping in to fix everythingThe "You Are Strong" program MLC School uses to teach healthy friendship skillsWhy being the "coach on the side" is more effective than solving problems for your daughterHow MLC School tracks social and emotional competencies from the earliest years through to senior school Key Topics Discussed: Physical, emotional, and social development during the tween yearsFriendship changes and how to navigate them with compassionThe "You Are Strong" wellbeing programmeDevice use, social media pressure, and setting healthy boundariesHow teachers use surveys and pastoral care programmes to support tween girlsPreparing for the teenage years through strong foundations 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Hashtags: #TweenYears #ParentingGirls #MLCSchool #GirlsWellbeing #FriendshipSkills #StudentWellbeing #DareToBeMore

    Navigating the Tween Years | dare to be more podcast with Joanne Sharpe

  5. Jun 3

    Learning for the Future | dare to be more podcast with Lisa Moloney & Dani Rodrigues

    In this compelling episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl is joined by Principal Lisa Moloney and the former Head of HSIE Dani Rodrigues, who recorded this conversation before taking on a new role as Director of Students, Year 11 to Year 12, for a rich conversation about what learning for the future truly looks like at MLC School. From a student who used AI-generated voices in her podcast assessment to Year 9 girls designing climate health books for Sydney University, this episode is full of inspiring examples of education at its most innovative. Lisa and Dani explore how MLC School is embracing AI not by banning it, but by teaching students to use it ethically, creatively, and critically — and how real-world partnerships are transforming what's possible in the classroom. Featured Guests: Lisa Moloney, Principal at MLC School Dani Rodrigues, Director of Studies (Year 11 & 12) at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How MLC's HISE faculty uses provocation-based learning to spark genuine curiosity and critical thinkingA real example of a student using AI-generated voices in a podcast assessment — and the ethical conversation it sparkedHow MLC's partnership with Sydney Science Park brings real-world problem solving into the classroomWhy MLC chose to embrace AI rather than ban it — and what that looks like in practiceHow the future of learning is about collaboration, agility, and comfort with uncertainty Key Topics Discussed: Project-based and provocation-based learning in HISEEthical use of AI in student assessmentsThe Sydney Science Park partnership and real-world problem solvingPreparing girls for careers and challenges that don't yet existThe role of educators as co-learners alongside their students 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'Hashtags: #FutureReadyEducation #AIinEducation #ProjectBasedLearning #MLCSchool #GirlsEducation #InnovativeLearning #DareToBeMore

    Learning for the Future | dare to be more podcast with Lisa Moloney & Dani Rodrigues

  6. May 20

    Digital Learning and Wellbeing | dare to be more podcast with Marianna Carlino

    In this forward-thinking episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Marianna Carlino, Director of e-Learning at MLC School, about how technology is woven into every aspect of school life — and how MLC is leading the way in preparing girls to use it responsibly, creatively, and confidently. Marianna covers everything from touch typing in Year 2 to AI ethics in Year 12, and shares how MLC's triangular approach — connecting students, staff, and parents — ensures everyone is on the same page when it comes to digital citizenship. Featured Guest: Marianna Carlino, Director of e-Learning at MLC School In This Episode, You'll Discover: How MLC integrates technology from Pre-K through to Year 12 in age-appropriate waysWhy MLC is one of the first independent schools in NSW to hold a full Microsoft Copilot licenceHow the school teaches AI ethics, academic integrity, and responsible use of technologyPractical strategies for parents to set healthy device boundaries at homeThe importance of balancing screen time with human connection and social interaction Key Topics Discussed: Technology integration across all year levels and facultiesAI in education — opportunities, ethics, and academic integrityCyber safety, digital footprint, and online reputationSocial media, the new age restrictions, and their impact on studentsThe school-home partnership in managing device useMitigating teacher burnout through smart use of technology 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You' Hashtags: #DigitalLearning #CyberSafety #MLCSchool #AIinEducation #GirlsEducation #DigitalCitizenship #DareToBeMore

    Digital Learning and Wellbeing | dare to be more podcast with Marianna Carlino

  7. May 6

    Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Ani Satchcroft

    In this inspiring episode of "Dare to Be More," host Anthony Perl speaks with Ani Satchcroft, a distinguished MLC alumnae who graduated in 1998 and has gone on to build a remarkable career in global finance. Now Co-Head of Asia Pacific at Macquarie Asset Management, Ani reflects on how her MLC education — particularly her involvement in debating, public speaking, and Tournament of Minds — laid the foundation for everything that followed. Ani's story is a powerful testament to the lasting impact of a girls' school education, and her message for current students is both clear and compelling: if you work hard and apply yourself, nothing should be impossible. Featured Guest: Ani Satchcroft, MLC Alumnae (Class of 1998), Co-Head of Asia Pacific, Macquarie Asset Management In This Episode, You'll Discover: How MLC's emphasis on communication, debating, and public speaking shaped Ani's career in global financeWhy attending a girls' school meant that gender was never a barrier to ambitionHow Ani navigated a male-dominated industry with the confidence instilled at MLCWhat it's like to send her own daughter to MLC — and what she hopes she'll gainAni's definition of "dare to be more": not having a ceiling on your potential Key Topics Discussed: The value of extracurricular activities — debating, public speaking, Tournament of MindsHow a girls' school education builds confidence and removes gender-based limitationsCareer journey across the UK, Dubai, Paris, Boston, and SydneyThe importance of adaptability, open learning, and international experienceSending her daughter to MLC — and the sense of community that bringsWhat dare to be more means: feeling empowered to change the world 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Hashtags: #MLCAlumnae #WomenInFinance #DareToBeMore #GirlsSchoolEducation #WomenLeaders #MLCSchool #EmpoweringGirls

    Inspiring Journeys of Alumnae Award Winners | dare to be more podcast with Ani Satchcroft

  8. Apr 22

    Preparing for Pre-Kindergarten | dare to be more podcast with Natalie Hird and Daniel Sandral

    In this episode of 'dare to be more', host Anthony Perl speaks with Daniel Sandral, Head of Junior School, and Natalie Hird, Deputy Head of Junior School for Operations, about preparing young girls for the important milestone of starting Pre-Kindergarten at MLC School. Daniel emphasises that the early years of learning are absolutely foundational for schooling right through to Year 12 and beyond, explaining how his role ensures every girl in Pre-K has the very best learning environment possible. He describes how MLC School reaches out to families about two years before girls commence, creating opportunities to get to know parents and their daughters whilst discussing what to expect and how to prepare. Natalie explains the significant advantages of having Pre-Kindergarten on the School campus, particularly for preparing girls for Kindergarten. She describes how girls become familiar with the spaces, routines, teachers, and even the Kindergarten classrooms themselves, making the transition much smoother for both students and parents. The conversation addresses common parent concerns about preparation, with Daniel reassuring families that it's not a competition and every child is different. He shares practical advice including ensuring girls can toilet themselves, carry their own bags, and open lunchboxes, whilst emphasising that the best preparation is simply doing what parents already do well - taking children to playgrounds, letting them play in sandpits and baths, and most importantly, reading books together. Natalie discusses the importance of early learning centre experience, noting that girls who have attended childcare or preschool generally find the transition easier, particularly around separation from parents. She emphasises the value of oral language development through everyday activities like cooking, gardening, and shopping, alongside fine motor skill development and social-emotional growth through play dates. Daniel shares insights about siblings' influence, explaining that whilst girls with older siblings may be more familiar with the School, every child's experience is unique and MLC School's strong orientation program ensures all girls have opportunities to visit and spend time at the School before commencing. The episode addresses parent preparation, with Natalie emphasising the importance of consistent routines, particularly around drop-off and pick-up, and resisting the urge to return for 'one more goodbye'. She acknowledges that the first day can be more challenging for parents than children. Daniel discusses supporting families where English is not the first language, explaining how all children come with rich language foundations and how MLC School's unique language program supports girls in becoming proficient English speakers whilst encouraging families to maintain their cultural languages at home. The conversation concludes with reflections on 'dare to be more' - Natalie describing the joy of watching girls who started in Pre-K now thriving in upper primary, having truly lived the School's philosophy, whilst Daniel shares a touching story about a Pre-K student who challenged him about the lack of a swing in the new playground, demonstrating how even the youngest students embody the spirit of respectfully challenging themselves and others to be more. 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.auInstagram: @mlcsydneyFacebook: @MLCSchoolSydneyLinkedIn: MLC School Co-host: Anthony Perl Produced by: 'Podcasts Done for You'

    Preparing for Pre-Kindergarten | dare to be more podcast with Natalie Hird and Daniel Sandral
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About

Welcome to "dare to be more," the podcast that explores the transformative power of girls' education. In each episode, we tap into the deep expertise and forward-thinking perspectives of the educators, leaders, and professionals who shape the learning environment at MLC School in Burwood. Through thoughtful conversations, we uncover the philosophies, innovations, and practices that empower girls to thrive—academically, creatively, and personally. Whether you're an educator, a parent, a student, a past student, or simply passionate about the future of girls education, join us as we celebrate the ideas and people that inspire our girls to ‘dare to be more’.

Information

  • Creator
    MLC School
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 MLC School
  • Show Website
    dare to be more

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