Empowering the Next Generation of Girls in Science and Technology

For many years, MLC School has proudly championed the role of girls in Science.

From pioneering robotics programs that nurture curiosity in the younger years to offering advanced opportunities in the Senior School, MLC School has built a strong tradition of encouraging girls to explore, question, and lead in the sciences.

That legacy continues today with new pathways and possibilities. The introduction of a Year 9 Engineering Technology elective has been met with remarkable enthusiasm, with two full classes of students eager to take on design challenges, problem solving, and innovation in 2026. The number of girls enrolling in Chemistry, Physics, Science Extension, and Biology has also risen significantly for both the IB and HSC programs in 2026 and 2027.

In 2025, MLC School introduced acceleration opportunities for Senior School students working beyond grade-level expectations. The first group of Mathematics accelerants will complete their HSC as Year 11 students next year which is an inspiring milestone. From Year 9 onwards, more than 25 girls are participating in Mathematics acceleration programs, gaining early exposure to advanced problem-solving and preparing for future STEM careers and competitive tertiary pathways. Additional acceleration pathways are being offered in the HSC in other subjects.

Looking ahead, 2026 will see the introduction of flexible, ability-grouped classes in Science, Mathematics, and English. This structure will allow teachers to more precisely target the needs of all learners, providing appropriate challenge and support for every student. A key strategic focus will be professional learning in differentiation – ensuring every teacher is equipped to extend and engage students at all levels of readiness.

MLC School is proud to have two leading experts in High Potential Learning on staff, whose knowledge and mentoring are helping shape this professional learning approach. Their expertise ensures that every classroom is a place where curiosity, creativity, and challenge thrive.

The Junior School is equally alive with innovation. STEM learning is woven through the curriculum, beginning with play-based, curiosity-driven experiences in Pre-Kindergarten that spark wonder about the world. From these early explorations, students progress to design thinking and engineering design challenges that extend through Year 6.

Beyond the classroom, the Junior STEM Academy offers engaging after-school programs in robotics, coding, and 3D modelling. Students also shine in competitions like RoboCup Junior NSW, while events such as National Science Week bring the whole community together in celebration of discovery and innovation.

Encouraging girls in STEM isn’t just about balancing the scales, it’s about unlocking innovation. Through our commitment to excellence and opportunity in STEM, MLC School is nurturing the next generation of thinkers, leaders, and changemakers.

– Melissa McMahon
Head of Learning and Teaching