Presbyterian Ladies’ College (PLC) Armidale has further strengthened its position as a national leader in international education, hosting the inaugural Pathways Education Solutions (PES) Global Education Symposium on Friday, 20 June, at its campus in Armidale.
Held in the College’s Astra Arts Centre, the event brought together 24 influential leaders in international education, including principals from Independent Schools across Australia, representatives and education agents from China, Vietnam and India, along with the Director of Investment NSW (Study NSW).
The symposium showcased the impact and growing global reach of PLC Armidale’s Pathways program, delivered in partnership with Pathways Education Solutions.
In welcoming guests, PLC Armidale Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor said the symposium reflected the College’s strong commitment to global opportunity and collaboration.
“As a regional girls’ school, PLC Armidale proudly delivers high-quality, future-focused learning while fostering strong values and a supportive community,” Mrs Taylor said.
“Through PLC Pathways, we prepare international students—many from non-English-speaking backgrounds—for academic and cultural success in Australia. We are committed to ensuring these students thrive, not only in the NSW HSC but in life beyond school.”
Founded in 2021, Pathways Education Solutions is an initiative of PLC Armidale and Sydney College Council, originally established to support the delivery of the NSW HSC in China. Since then, PES has expanded its mission, now supporting new partnerships in Vietnam and across Asia, with ambitious plans to extend into Taiwan, Japan and South Korea.
PES Chairman Mr Tim Catterall praised PLC Armidale as a driving force in international education.
“None of this would be possible without the vision and foundational work of PLC Armidale,” Mr Catterall said.
“The College’s leadership in establishing and delivering a school-based English immersion program has enabled international students to truly integrate into the life of Australian schools.”
“We’re not simply preparing students to speak English—we’re preparing them to belong, contribute and excel. This symposium is a key step in growing trusted global partnerships that benefit students, schools and the broader educational ecosystem.”
During the symposium, guests participated in strategic discussions on cross-border collaboration, HSC offshore delivery, immersive study tours, and the future of international school partnerships. Presentations included insights into PES’s newest initiatives in China and Vietnam, and the launch of a digital learning engagement platform in 2026 through collaboration with Vivedus.
Keynote speaker Toshi Kawaguchi, the Director of Investment NSW (Study NSW) also discussed growth opportunities in emerging markets.
The College then shared the success of its International Study Tours, which provide short-term, immersive school experiences hosted at PLC Armidale. Students wear the uniform, attend classes alongside Australian peers, and participate in cultural, co-curricular and outdoor education experiences—helping them build confidence and connection before transitioning into full-time Australian schooling.
“Our aim is not only to educate—but to inspire, to connect, and to build pathways for students that lead to bright futures in Australia and beyond,” Mrs Taylor said.
“Through PLC Pathways and PES, we are shaping the future of international education from regional NSW.”
The event was widely regarded by attendees as a milestone moment in the future of international schooling partnerships, and the first of many such gatherings to come.
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