Young women of character from across the region have been inducted to begin their leadership roles at PLC Armidale’s commencement assembly last week.
The rigorous process involved nominees writing manifestos, delivering speeches, and participating in interviews with Principal Mrs Nicola Taylor and Head of Senior School Mrs Kate Clynch, before students and staff cast their votes.
Mrs Taylor said the calibre of candidates was outstanding.
“Just by nominating, these girls proved themselves as leaders,” she said. “Each showed courage, initiative and a genuine desire to serve.”
The 2026 leadership team comprises Head Prefect Molly Chard and Deputy Head Prefect Jessica MacMahon, alongside prefects for Creative Arts, Sport, International, Boarding, and the four Guilds: Lovell, Hamlin, Dixon, and Wilkie. Spiritual Leaders for 2026 were also named.
Mrs Taylor said Molly is a thoughtful and exceptionally kind student who contributes to the College community with quiet determination and dedication.
“Molly’s leadership and co-curricular involvement are extensive, including her roles as both 2025 Dance and Athletics Captain, participation in multiple sports teams, and a role in our 2025 production of Mary Poppins, the musical.
Molly’s achievements in 2025, including being named Age Champion at the Athletics Carnival, reflect her determination and strong work ethic. She said she feels excited about being given the leadership position.
“I think it’s an honour to have been chosen as one of the voices for the school,” she said. “I can’t wait to listen to everyone’s ideas and bring those ideas forward to the Executive of PLC Armidale”.
Molly said that overall, the election process was what she expected.
“I do feel for the girls who weren’t as fortunate as I was, but I know that they would have all done a fantastic job and will represent the cohort of Year 12 really well,” she said.
“I’d like to thank PLC Armidale for this opportunity as well as my parents, who always support me.”
Mrs Clynch said the new leaders will play an important role in shaping College life next year.
“Our girls showed passion and maturity throughout the process. We’re proud of the example they set,” she said.
The students will be officially inducted at a College service later this year.
2026 PLC Armidale Student Leadership Team
- Head Prefect: Molly Chard (Glen Innes)
- Deputy Head Prefect: Jessica MacMahon (Armidale)
- Creative Arts Prefect: Navita Maher (Armidale)
- Sports Prefect: Ella Jenkins (Walcha)
- International Prefect: Venus Poon (Hong Kong)
- Boarding Prefect: Chloe Younghusband (Baradine)
House Captains
- Dixon: Captain Rachel Mungall (Armidale), Deputy – Natasha North (Tamworth)
- Hamlin: Captain Jade Foster (Armidale), Deputy Sophie Bailey (Armidale)
- Lovell: Captain Ashley Sharpe (Walgett), Deputy Emily Adams (Armidale)
- Wilkie: Captain Kate Ward (Guyra), Isabelle Carlon (Salisbury Plains)
Spiritual Leaders: Jessica MacMahon, Jade Foster, Kimberley Blake (Walcha)
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