Methodist Ladies' College vs Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne

	M Methodist Ladies' College Melbourne, Australia	P Presbyterian Ladies' College Melbourne Melbourne, Australia
Snapshot	Snapshot
Fees / year	Fees / year A$26,970 - 61,335	Fees / year A$27,960 - 43,420
Age range	Age range 0 - 18 years	Age range 0 - 18 years
Type	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding), Co-educational	Type Girls School, Girls School (boarding)
Curriculum	Curriculum Australian Curriculum, IB (DP)	Curriculum IB (DP), Australian Curriculum
Pupils	Pupils 2,200	Pupils 1,550
Typical class size	Typical class size 22	Typical class size —
Instruction language	Instruction language English	Instruction language English
Opened	Opened 1882	Opened 1875
Bus service	Bus service No	Bus service No
Essentials	Essentials
Location	Location 207 Barkers Road, Kew, Victoria 3101, Australia. The campus is in the leafy suburb of Kew, about seven kilometres from Melbourne CBD. It is easily accessible by tram and train, with route 16 tram stops directly outside MLC and Glenferrie Railway Station within a 10-minute walk.	Location 141 Burwood Highway, Burwood, Victoria 3125, Australia
Stages	Stages Early Learning (MLC Kindle) to Year 12; Early Learning, Junior School, Junior Secondary School, Middle School and Senior School.	Stages Early Learning to Year 12
School type	School type Day and boarding school for girls	School type Independent day and boarding school for girls
Pupil nationality mix	Pupil nationality mix —	Pupil nationality mix —
Additional learning support	Additional learning support Deaf Education Program; English as an Additional Language (EAL) program; Learning Diversity with Learning Support and Enrichment and targeted intervention options across year levels.	Additional learning support —
Country affiliation	Country affiliation Australia	Country affiliation Australia
Religious affiliation	Religious affiliation Non-denominational	Religious affiliation Presbyterian (Christian)
School day structure	School day structure —	School day structure —
Bus service details	Bus service details Panorama Coaches provides four routes offering secure, dedicated bus services for Kew-based independent schools; Public Transport Victoria school buses are operated by Kinetic Melbourne with most drop-off/pick-up points near campus.	Bus service details —
Fees	Fees
Fee details	Fee details Application and Enrolment Fees - Application fee: AUD 100 per application (non-refundable). - Enrolment fee (payable on acceptance and return of the signed Enrolment Agreement): First student AUD 1,250; each subsequent sibling AUD 1,000. These enrolment fees are non-refundable and non-transferable except as specified in the International Student Additional Terms and Conditions. Tuition Fees — Local (per annum and per term) Fees are shown per year (annual). Tuition, Boarding and Technology Levy are billed in three equal instalments; the per-term amounts below show the annual fee divided into three equal instalments. - Prep: AUD 26,970 per year — AUD 8,990.00 per term. - Year 1: AUD 27,915 per year — AUD 9,305.00 per term. - Year 2: AUD 28,965 per year — AUD 9,655.00 per term. - Year 3: AUD 32,700 per year — AUD 10,900.00 per term. - Year 4: AUD 33,990 per year — AUD 11,330.00 per term. - Year 5: AUD 37,440 per year — AUD 12,480.00 per term. - Year 6: AUD 38,670 per year — AUD 12,890.00 per term. - Year 7: AUD 40,395 per year — AUD 13,465.00 per term. - Year 8: AUD 40,875 per year — AUD 13,625.00 per term. - Year 9: AUD 41,280 per year — AUD 13,760.00 per term. - Year 10: AUD 43,080 per year — AUD 14,360.00 per term. - Year 11: AUD 43,785 per year — AUD 14,595.00 per term. - Year 12: AUD 43,785 per year — AUD 14,595.00 per term. Tuition Fees — International full-fee students (per annum and per term) - Prep to Year 9: AUD 56,730 per year — AUD 18,910.00 per term. - Years 10–12: AUD 61,335 per year — AUD 20,445.00 per term. (International student fee includes Technology Levy where noted.) Tuition Fees in Advance - Tuition Fees in Advance: AUD 3,500 per student, payable approximately 18 months prior to commencement (credited against the second invoice for the student commencing at the start of Term 1). Boarding Fees (Tiddeman House) - Years 7–12 Full Boarding: AUD 39,765 per year — AUD 13,255.00 per term. - Years 7–12 Weekly Boarding: AUD 31,500 per year — AUD 10,500.00 per term. Weekly boarders must depart by 6:00 pm Friday and check in from 4:00 pm Sunday; a daily rate of AUD 175 is payable if not signed out by 6:00 pm Friday. Boarders do not pay an additional Marshmead fee for Year 9 outdoor education where noted. Technology Levy and Course Levies - Technology Levy (per year): Prep–Year 2 AUD 405 (AUD 135.00 per term); Years 3–6 AUD 1,065 (AUD 355.00 per term); Years 7–12 AUD 1,365 (AUD 455.00 per term). Variable annual software/online resource costs for Years 7–12 are billed in the February invoice. - IB Diploma (International Baccalaureate students): AUD 2,130 per annum. VCAA VCE charges for international students vary by subject. Education Outdoors and Kindle (ELC) Charges - Education Outdoors (per annum): Year 5 MLC Banksia AUD 745; Year 6 MLC Banksia AUD 815; Year 7 MLC Banksia AUD 950; Year 8 MLC Banksia AUD 950; Year 9 MLC Marshmead AUD 6,775. (Boarders do not pay an additional Marshmead fee where applicable.) - Kindle (ELC) fees (annual examples): Infant and Toddler options 2 days AUD 21,240; 3 days AUD 31,860; 5 days full time AUD 53,100. Three-year-old and four-year-old session and full-time options are listed with corresponding fees; sessional four-year-old Kindergarten is AUD 25,395. Late pick-up charges apply: AUD 26 for first 10 minutes (or part), AUD 54 for second 10 minutes (or part), AUD 80 for third 10 minutes (or part). Other Costs and Optional Charges - Optional co-curricular charges, voluntary tax-deductible donation to the MLC Building Fund, and a voluntary Parents' Association levy may appear on instalment invoices. Additional charges for co-curricular activities and other miscellaneous items may be billed in February or when advised. Debt recovery fees apply where a debt is sent for recovery. - Uniforms and uniform shop purchases are additional to fees and are available from the MLC Uniform Shop, Bob Stewart in Kew, or online; secondhand uniform options are available at the MLC Uniform Shop. Uniform costs are not listed in the tuition schedule and are payable separately. Billing Schedule and Payment Terms - Tuition Fees, Boarding Fees and Technology Levy are billed in three equal instalments. For the 2026 billing cycle the instalment issue months and due dates are: October 2025 (Instalment 1) due Friday, 31 October 2025; February 2026 (Instalment 2) due Friday, 27 February 2026; June 2026 (Instalment 3) due Tuesday, 30 June 2026. Additional charges are billed in February or when advised. A 1.5% discount is available on full pre-payment of tuition, boarding and Technology Levy if payment clears into the MLC account by 5:00 pm Friday, 31 October 2025 (terms apply). Payment Methods and Surcharges - Accepted payment methods: BPAY (preferred for current families), credit or debit card via the myMLCfamily online payment gateway, and direct deposit (bank transfer). Cash is not accepted. Cheques in AUD from Australian banks are accepted by mail. All payments are accepted in Australian dollars (AUD) only. - BPAY Biller code: 242164 (current families only). No credit card surcharge applies to BPAY fee payments. - Credit/debit card surcharges (applied when paying via online gateway): Mastercard, Visa and American Express 1.08%. Payments on international credit cards may attract additional charges from the card issuer. Application and enrolment fees are collected via the online payment gateway using debit or credit card. All bank charges for direct deposits (including international charges) must be paid by the payer. SWIFT for international transfers: WPACAU2S (Westpac). Refund Information (International students and related conditions) - Application and enrolment fees are non-refundable. For International students, refunds of unspent fees are provided in specified circumstances under the International Student Refund Policy. In the event of a student Visa refusal, the College will refund any unspent fees within four weeks of written notice, minus the lesser of 5% of the tuition fees received or AUD 500, subject to provision of the refusal evidence. A maximum of one term's tuition fees and one term's boarding fees may be retained where enrolment is cancelled for specified student defaults; unspent pro-rata fees are refunded within three months. Provider default and other refund provisions are set out in the International Student Refund Policy and related Terms & Conditions. Refund requests must be made in writing and follow the College's specified procedure. Notes on Discounts and Special Charges - A 1.5% discount is available for full pre-payment of tuition, boarding and Technology Levy if paid by the specified pre-payment deadline for the billing year. Debt recovery fees are charged if accounts are sent for recovery. Some subject- or program-specific charges (for example IB or VCE subject charges for international students) are additional to the annual tuition and are billed as advised. Administrative and Contact Details for Payments - For billing enquiries and account-specific questions, MLC Family Accounts can be contacted by email at familyaccounts@mlc.vic.edu.au and the College telephone line is +61 3 9274 6333. Account numbers and references must be used on payments as instructed on statements.	Fee details Application & enrolment fees - Application fee (Prep to Year 12 and international applications): AUD 150 (non‑refundable). - Acceptance / Enrolment fee payable on acceptance of an offer: AUD 1,500 (non‑refundable and non‑transferable). A holding deposit is charged one year prior to commencement for Prep, Year 5 and Year 7; the holding deposit is credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the year the student commences. Early Learning Centre (ELC) — tuition - ELC School Term Program (2026 rates): - 5 days: AUD 29,908 per annum. - 4 days: AUD 23,926 per annum. - 3 days: AUD 17,945 per annum. - 48‑week program rates: Per day (part‑time) AUD 191; Per week AUD 917. - ELC invoicing: fees are billed every two weeks, payable on receipt of the invoice; direct debit or credit card preferred; BPAY also accepted. Child Care Subsidy is available to eligible Australian residents who register with Centrelink. Tuition fees by Year level (per term and per annum, 2026 domestic student schedule) - Prep: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 1: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 2: Tuition per term AUD 6,243 / per annum AUD 24,972. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 6,990 / per annum AUD 27,960. - Year 3: Tuition per term AUD 6,812 / per annum AUD 27,248. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 7,559 / per annum AUD 30,236. - Year 4: Tuition per term AUD 7,593 / per annum AUD 30,372. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 8,340 / per annum AUD 33,360. - Year 5: Tuition per term AUD 8,274 / per annum AUD 33,096. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 9,021 / per annum AUD 36,084. - Year 6: Tuition per term AUD 8,274 / per annum AUD 33,096. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 747 / per annum AUD 2,988. Total per term AUD 9,021 / per annum AUD 36,084. - Year 7: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 8: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 9: Tuition per term AUD 9,065 / per annum AUD 36,260. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 1,039 / per annum AUD 4,156. Total per term AUD 10,104 / per annum AUD 40,416. - Year 10: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Year 11: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Year 12: Tuition per term AUD 10,000 / per annum AUD 40,000. Consolidated Levy per term AUD 855 / per annum AUD 3,420. Total per term AUD 10,855 / per annum AUD 43,420. - Boarding (where applicable): Boarding fees per term AUD 9,197 / per annum AUD 36,788. - Note: the Consolidated Levy varies by year level, reflects resources/programs (including Outdoor Education) and payroll tax contributions, and is non‑refundable. Tuition, Consolidated Levy and Boarding Fees are charged one term in advance (ELC invoicing follows its separate schedule). Billing schedule & payment terms - Standard billing: Tuition, Consolidated Levy and Boarding Fees are invoiced one term in advance; ELC is invoiced fortnightly (after service) and payment is due on receipt of each invoice. - 2026 example billing dates (approximate): - Term 1 fees issued Fri 10 Oct 2025; due Fri 31 Oct 2025. - Term 2 fees issued Fri 13 Feb 2026; due Fri 6 Mar 2026. - Term 3 fees issued Fri 1 May 2026; due Fri 22 May 2026. - Term 4 fees issued Fri 24 Jul 2026; due Fri 14 Aug 2026. Fees are due within 21 days of receiving the account. A late fee of AUD 125 applies to accounts unpaid after 21 days. If fees are not paid within 62 days of issue, the student cannot continue at the College under the Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. Boarding fees & what is included - Boarding fees (per term AUD 9,197 / per annum AUD 36,788). Boarding fees cover accommodation and meals during term time, two home visits each year by the College (additional visits incur extra cost), and staying in the Boarding House during mid‑term breaks. GST is included on some items within the Boarding Fees. Other compulsory and common additional costs - Consolidated Levy (listed above) is compulsory and non‑refundable; it covers programs and resources including most Outdoor Education costs that the College pays upfront. - School bus charges (per term, 2026 zones): - Zone A: Part time AUD 483 / Full time AUD 852. - Zone B: Part time AUD 543 / Full time AUD 938. - Zone C: Part time AUD 616 / Full time AUD 987. - Casual trips: AUD 12.50 each. - Music program charges (per semester, sample items): - Instrumental lessons 30 minutes: AUD 940; 40 minutes: AUD 1,220; 50 minutes: AUD 1,525. - Shared lessons: AUD 550; Instrument hire: AUD 180; Music theory and speech lesson fees also apply. - Uniform and associated costs: the PLC Uniform and Stationery Shop supplies uniform items, bags and crested goods; example price ranges (indicative) include dresses AUD ~55–62, jumpers AUD ~63–68, blazers AUD ~160–180, polo/house shirts AUD ~25–38, track tops AUD ~55–60, and other items sold or available second‑hand. Families should budget separately for full uniform purchase, seasonal replacements and footwear. - Other possible additional costs: optional co‑curricular activities, excursions beyond those covered by the Consolidated Levy, some external examinations, special camps or extra home‑visit costs for boarding beyond the two included visits, and any individual tuition or charges (e.g., extra music lessons, instrument hire). These charges appear as separate line items on student accounts. Refunds & non‑refundable items - The Consolidated Levy is not refundable. The Acceptance / Enrolment fee (AUD 1,500) is non‑refundable and non‑transferable. Holding deposits for specified intake years are credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the student's commencement year. Specific refund entitlements and conditions are governed by the College's Terms and Conditions of Enrolment. Fee concessions & sibling discount - A 10% sibling discount is applied to the basic annual tuition fee for younger sisters while an older sister attends PLC, subject to conditions (the discount does not apply if any student in the family is already receiving another fee discount or scholarship, and it does not apply to children attending the ELC). Accepted payment methods and surcharges - Preferred payment method: BPAY (PLC biller code 58800; unique BPAY reference provided on fee notices). WYSE is used for accessing fee statements and payments. Direct debit and credit card payments are accepted; MasterCard, Visa and American Express are accepted. Cash is not accepted for fee payments. Credit or debit card payments incur a surcharge that equals PLC's transaction cost. When paying through WYSE, credit card details are handled securely by National Australia Bank. Important final notes on timing and changes - The College reserves the right to amend fees and terms; parents are given one term's notice of any changes to Terms and Conditions or fees. Council sets ELC and future year fees at specified times (for example, ELC 2027 fees are set in October 2026). Families are invoiced according to the published billing schedule for each year.
Diving deeper	Diving deeper
Boarding arrangements	Boarding arrangements The school has an on‑campus boarding house, Tiddeman House, which houses boarders from Year 7 to Year 12. Boarders have access to in‑house facilities including common rooms, a kitchen, study spaces and an in‑house gym, with around 100 students in residence. Students sign in and out at Reception; boarders in Years 7–11 share bedrooms while Year 12 boarders have their own bedrooms; the boarding house is about seven kilometres from Melbourne's CBD and is linked to the campus by walking and local transport. Boarders dine together on Thursday nights in six ‘Tiddeman Families' and Lunch for day students is collected from the Star Café onsite during the day. A dedicated boarding nurse provides health support alongside the MLC Health Centre, and external medical resources are nearby.	Boarding arrangements Boarding is provided in Koorinya, PLC's Boarding House on the Burwood campus, housing up to 90 girls in Years 7 to 12. Boarders have access to campus facilities and dedicated study spaces, with staff available around the clock. Years 7–9 boarders may share rooms; Years 10–12 have individual bedrooms. Meals are prepared on site in the Boarding House kitchen with options reflecting Western and Asian cuisines, and dietary requirements are catered for.
Uniform requirement	Uniform requirement The uniform is worn by students and features the MLC crest with a dark emerald green colour scheme. The current uniform, introduced in 2002, includes warm and cool weather options and separate PE/sport uniforms; uniforms are available from the on‑campus Uniform Shop, Bob Stewart in Kew, or online, with secondhand uniforms also available. The uniform collection accommodates different age groups and activities, with guidance and accessories available from the Uniform Shop staff.	Uniform requirement The PLC Uniform Shop offers uniforms, school bags, accessories, stationery and crested goods. A new uniform collection was launched in 2023.
Food options	Food options The Terrace Restaurant and Krome Eats Café provide on‑site dining experiences: the Terrace Restaurant is open to the public on select Thursdays for lunch, and Krome Eats Café offers takeaway and dine‑in options on select Fridays. Boarding students collect their lunch from the Star Café onsite and eat in the boarding dining areas, while daily dinners feature a variety of hot dishes. The onsite catering team also accommodates dietary requirements, and menu offerings change daily across dining spaces within the campus.	Food options Meals are prepared on site in the Boarding House kitchen, reflecting Western and Asian cuisines. The main evening meal typically includes two meat dishes, a vegetarian option, vegetables and salads and a dessert; breakfast includes cereals, toast, yoghurt, fruit juice and a hot option; morning tea and lunch offer a range of choices with dietary requirements catered for.
House system	House system MLC operates a House system that coordinates activities across a wide range of areas, including cheerleading, athletics, performing arts, debating, cross country, music, swimming, chess and drama. Houses foster unity by connecting older and younger students and promoting a strong sense of pride and belonging through ongoing House events and competitions.	House system Junior School has four houses: Hethersett (blue), Koorinya (silver), Woollahra (yellow) and Wyselaskie (pink). Senior School uses a separate house system; the House system was introduced in 1929 and the houses are named after Scottish castles.
Governance and ownership	Governance and ownership The College is governed by a Board of Directors, with the Principal reporting to the Board and working with the College Leadership Team to oversee all aspects of the College. The Constitution was updated in 2015 and amended in 2020. A Relationship Agreement with the Uniting Church recognises the College's heritage, and MLC is a member of the International Coalition of Girls' Schools.	Governance and ownership PLC Melbourne is a not-for-profit public company limited by guarantee, operating under its Constitution in connection with the Presbyterian Church of Victoria as a charity with educational purposes. The PLC Council has seventeen voluntary members and oversees the College's strategic direction and financial stewardship, with the Principal as an ex officio non-voting member.
Academics	Academics
Curriculum details	Curriculum details MLC offers a P-12 curriculum with four stages: Junior School, Junior Secondary (Years 7–8), Middle School (Years 9–10) and Senior School (Years 11–12). More than 60 subjects are available across VCE, VCE VET and IB, with diverse pathways and a sequenced approach that builds knowledge across learning areas. Education Outdoors operates at two remote campuses, Banksia and Marshmead, focusing on personal sustainability, environmental learning and outdoor experiences. The Arts and Design area is extensive, offering Art, Photography, Fashion, Product Design and Technology and Visual Communication Design, supported by 13 specialist studios and a dedicated technology studio, with opportunities such as an Italy study tour for Years 11–12. English, EAL, English Language and Literature are provided within a broad English pathway, alongside Digital Technology, Civics and Commerce, Dramatic Arts, Humanities and other disciplines to form a cohesive secondary program.	Curriculum details The school provides a connected learning journey from Early Learning Centre to Year 12 on a single-site campus. Across every age and stage, the curriculum balances academic excellence with creativity, character and care. Focused learning is delivered through explicit teaching, with individual learning pathways and structured progression that guide increasing independence and leadership. Cross-age connections are fostered through a House system, student-led clubs and cross-year mentoring, complemented by integrated wellbeing programs such as Empowered Changemakers, Wellness in Motion and Faith in Life. The school prepares girls for life after school through a holistic approach, with graduate outcomes defined as Scholar, Thinker, Citizen, Advocate and Leader.
Student teacher ratio	Student teacher ratio MLC has one of the lowest student-to-staff ratios among Victorian all-girls schools, supporting personalised learning and strong student–teacher relationships.	Student teacher ratio —
Exam results	Exam results MLC holds one of the highest VCE and IB rankings in Victoria, with students consistently achieving within the top 1% of ATAR scores. The College highlights strong VCE, IB and NAPLAN results and ranks among Victoria's top private schools for both primary and secondary education. Year 12 results are presented as part of its academic profile and are frequently cited in performance summaries.	Exam results —
Higher education progression	Higher education progression —	Higher education progression The school offers both the Victorian Certificate of Education (VCE) and International Baccalaureate (IB) pathways and publishes results for these programs. Graduate outcomes are defined as Scholar, Thinker, Citizen, Advocate and Leader. The College maintains relationships with tertiary institutions, notably Melbourne and Monash Universities, and provides Higher Education Studies (University Extension) for academically gifted students.
Gifted and talented	Gifted and talented MLC offers Learning Diversity, which supports both gifted students and those needing additional help. The program includes subject-specific extension, targeted programs (such as math mentoring with gifted MLC alumnae and participation in the Da Vinci Decathlon), and withdrawal groups, all designed to challenge high-ability learners beyond the differentiated classroom.	Gifted and talented Programs for academically gifted students are offered throughout PLC, with opportunities to explore interests and talents beyond the curriculum through extension studies and co-curricular activities. Extension programs include competitions and activities such as da Vinci Decathlon, Tournament of Minds, and Future Problem Solving.
Academic calendar	Academic calendar —	Academic calendar —
Wellbeing & support	Wellbeing & support
Social & emotional learning	Social & emotional learning The school has an integrated wellbeing approach guided by PROSPER (Positivity, Relationships, Outcomes, Strengths, Purpose, Engagement, Resilience). Wellbeing programs are age-appropriate and delivered by the MLC Wellbeing team, in partnership with evidenced-based organisations. In Junior School, Learning Diversity specialists support learning and social–emotional needs; in Secondary, every student has a dedicated Mentor with regular one-on-one meetings and group wellbeing check-ins. The Counselling Team provides short-term counselling for social, emotional and wellbeing needs, delivered by qualified mental health professionals. The Health Centre offers nurse-led health services from 8 am to 4:15 pm with beds for short-term recovery, and Chaplains support spiritual wellbeing and inclusion, including leading events and an open, inclusive religious education curriculum.	Social & emotional learning The school has a pastoral program embedded across the College. The pastoral program includes age-appropriate education and information sessions for students to understand, identify, discuss and report child safety matters, and to develop resilience, self-identity, leadership and healthy relationships. Assemblies promote student voice and leadership, with committees giving students a say in school life. The College has a zero tolerance for bullying and harassment and runs policies and programs to mitigate these behaviours, including online safety guidance and consent education delivered from Years 5 to 12. The College is committed to diversity and equity, supporting Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students, students with a disability, students from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, and LGBTQIA+ students through inclusive practices.
Special educational needs (SEN)	Special educational needs (SEN) The school has Learning Diversity that supports all students, including those who need additional support and those who are gifted. In Junior School, every classroom is supported by Learning Diversity teachers with specialist qualifications who review progress and implement a differentiated curriculum. In secondary years, Year 7–10 students with higher learning support needs participate in the Language and Learning program to develop reading, writing and study skills, and an organisational repertoire is built to suit individual needs. The Deaf Education Program provides regular review meetings, in-class and withdrawal support with a Teacher of the Deaf, and supports communication through sign language, speech and listening, with interpreters and audiology services (Australian Hearing) and access to speech therapy.	Special educational needs (SEN) —
English as an additional language	English as an additional language Through the English as an Additional Language (EAL) program, English skills are taught to linguistically and culturally diverse students to access the curriculum and understand the College and wider community. EAL provides a structured framework and varied language support options to help students develop proficiency. International students may take EAL as a VCE subject if they meet Victorian Curriculum and Assessment Authority (VCAA) eligibility requirements.	English as an additional language The school teaches English As An Additional Language as an English subject option in the VCE and IB programs. The Learning Enhancement Department provides EAL support for Years 7–12, offering communicative and academic language skills, study skills and cultural transition. The Learning Enhancement Department assists in identifying learning needs and shares this information with teachers. An EAL course of study is available for students who qualify or are recommended for EAL status, with small group classes and curriculum modifications carried out in collaboration with subject teachers. Students may self-refer or be referred by teachers or wellbeing staff for EAL support.
Mental wellbeing	Mental wellbeing Counselling is provided by a qualified team of mental health professionals to address students' social, emotional and wellbeing needs. The Health Centre is staffed by registered nurses and provides health information sessions and private care, with beds for short-term recovery. Chaplains support spiritual wellbeing and foster inclusive practices and events, contributing to a supportive wellbeing ecosystem across the College.	Mental wellbeing The school has a Counselling Department staffed by qualified, registered psychologists and mental health professionals who provide short-term counselling and support services to all students and their families. They identify areas of student need and collaborate with staff to support and address social, emotional, educational and psychological needs, and work with staff in developing Wellbeing programs. The school runs a Wellness in Motion wellbeing program to help students balance academic success with personal wellbeing. Pastoral care and wellbeing are embedded across the year levels, with support structures in place to promote healthy development.
Safeguarding	Safeguarding The College has a Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy (MLC Child Safe Program) that applies to all adults in the MLC Community, aligned with Victorian Child Safe Standards. Procedures for Responding to and Reporting Child Safety Incidents or Concerns are in place to guide staff and the College community in safeguarding practices.	Safeguarding The school has a comprehensive Child Safety and Wellbeing Policy that consolidates policies to provide a safe environment and protect the emotional, psychological and physical wellbeing of students. The policy commits zero tolerance for child abuse and aims to promote a child safe culture across the College, including the Boarding environment. The College appoints a Senior Child Safety Officer and several Child Safety Officers, with contact details provided for reporting concerns. Staff, volunteers and external providers undergo induction and mandatory training on child safety and protection, including Working With Children Checks and annual training. The policy sets clear reporting procedures for allegations of abuse, including reporting to the Department of Families, Fairness and Housing (DFFH) or the Police, and it supports student safety through governance, pastoral programs, and family involvement in safety matters.
Safeguarding policy	Safeguarding policy —	Safeguarding policy —
Facilities	Facilities
Facilities overview	Facilities overview The Kew campus is purpose-built and located seven kilometres from Melbourne. It combines heritage-listed and contemporary buildings with secure gardens and recreational spaces. Four dedicated learning communities—Junior School, Junior Secondary School, Middle School, and Senior School—each have age-appropriate facilities and flexible learning spaces, plus shared facilities such as a multi-sport Physical Education Centre and a purpose-built Music School. On-campus spaces span science laboratories, theatre, sports fields, a swimming pool, music studios, art rooms, and libraries for Junior and Secondary years. The campus also houses two Education Outdoors campuses in regional Victoria for Years 5 to 9 and a range of other specialist spaces including a Health Centre and Home Economics Demonstration Kitchens and a Commercial Training Restaurant.	Facilities overview PLC is set within expansive, park-like grounds on a single-site campus. The campus blends heritage spaces with new, state-of-the-art facilities to support learning inside and beyond the classroom. The campus fosters a culture of connection and belonging, providing smooth transitions for students at every stage of their learning journey. The Joan Montgomery Centre provides sport, aquatic and fitness facilities, while the Performing Arts Centre houses drama, music studios and a 550-seat auditorium. The Learning Resource Centre offers a modern library with AV and IT labs and café-style break-out zones.
Sports facilities	Sports facilities Shared facilities include a multi-sport Physical Education Centre. There is a Sports Oval (Multi-Sport) for outdoor athletics. Tennis Courts are available for court-based sport. Fitness Studios support conditioning and PE programs. The Gymnasium (competition standard) provides an indoor athletic space. The Swimming Lap and Diving Pool offers aquatic facilities.	Sports facilities The Joan Montgomery Centre features three full-sized sports courts configurable for basketball, badminton, netball and volleyball, plus a 50 metre, eight-lane swimming pool with a learn-to-swim pool, 1, 3 and 5 metre platform diving towers and seating for 400 spectators. There is a dedicated gymnastics arena, a strength and conditioning room with cardio equipment, and multipurpose spaces for aerobics, dance and mindfulness. An underground carpark supports campus access. The Fortis Hub and the Kinetic Studio form part of the strength and conditioning and performance spaces.
Academic facilities	Academic facilities Art House and Specialist Studios, including Ceramic Studio and Kiln, support visual arts education. Science Laboratories support science teaching, and Home Economics Demonstration Kitchens and a Commercial Training Restaurant support culinary studies. Language Centre and Libraries (Secondary School and Junior School) cater to language learning and research, while a Computing Centre and a 3D Computer Room support ICT and design. The Nicholas Learning Centre (Year 7–8) provides a dedicated Junior Secondary home with 24 configurable spaces and a rooftop garden, Dr Wood Learning Centre (Year 9) offers flexible learning spaces and an adjacent amphitheatre, and Nevile Wing was refurbished to provide a contemporary Year 10 hub in 2022.	Academic facilities The Learning Resource Centre spans two levels and includes a modern library, fully equipped AV and IT labs and dedicated teaching spaces. Quiet study nooks, flexible group areas and café-style break-out zones support independent and collaborative work. PLC's campus contains cutting-edge STEM classrooms to support science, technology, engineering and maths learning.
Extra curricular facilities	Extra curricular facilities Sport, Music, Dramatic Arts, Global Learning Programs, Community Service, and Student Clubs form the core of co-curricular offerings. Education Outdoors is delivered across two remote campuses, MLC Banksia and MLC Marshmead, for Years 5–9. Community sport and performance spaces support gymnastics, dance, swimming, theatre and other activities. Music ensembles and dramatic arts programs are available across ages, providing opportunities for creative and leadership experiences.	Extra curricular facilities PLC offers a diverse co-curricular program including music, sport, performing arts and clubs & activities. The program supports leadership opportunities, student-led clubs and House events to enrich the learning experience and foster teamwork.
Parent experience	Parent experience
History	History MLC is one of Melbourne's oldest all-girls schools. It opened on 14 February 1882 after founding Principal Rev. Dr. William Henry Fitchett and a committee convinced the Australian Methodist Church to establish a girls' school alongside the boys' Wesley College. From its inception, MLC attracted boarders from across the country, and the Gothic Revival building known as Tiddeman House has long housed the boarding community. The college has been led by a series of principals, including Rev. Dr. Fitchett (1882–1928) and later lay and female leaders, with the current Principal appointed in 2023. Although founded by the Wesleyan Methodists, the college welcomes students and families of all faiths and backgrounds today.	History Opened in Albert Street, East Melbourne in 1875 with 60 pupils. In 1938 PLC purchased a 33-acre farm in Burwood to become the new campus; the Junior School moved to Burwood in 1939 and the Senior School followed in 1958, with the East Melbourne campus later sold. PLC celebrated 150 years of education in 2025. The campus blends heritage with modern facilities, including cutting-edge STEM classrooms and a Performing Arts Centre opened in 2017, and a new Joan Montgomery Centre for sport and aquatic facilities opened in 2025. It remains rooted in Christian faith and aims to empower girls to lead, serve and shape the future.
Community	Community The school's community includes Alumnae, Old Collegians' Club, and MLC Archives, as well as a on-campus Terrace Restaurant and a Parents' Association. The Alumni network and Old Collegians' Club connect past students with the College, while MLC Archives preserve College history. Community Sport offerings include Gymnastics, Dance, and Swimming, reinforcing campus life for students from Early Learning to Year 12.	Community Wellbeing is woven into every aspect of school life, with a holistic approach that nurtures spiritual, physical, mental, social and emotional development. As a Christian school, PLC is guided by values of integrity, empathy, courage, delight and service, lived out daily in how we learn, lead and care for one another. The Boarding House provides a vibrant, supportive community where girls in Years 7 to 12 live, learn and grow together. Beyond the classroom, co-curricular programs in sport, music, performing arts, service and enrichment activities inspire leadership, teamwork and growth beyond the classroom.
Parent teacher association	Parent teacher association The MLC Parents' Association provides year-round opportunities for parents to engage with the College through a wide range of events and special interest groups. All MLC parents automatically become members and may attend meetings, which take place once or twice a term, and attend events throughout the year. The Association connects parents across year levels from ELC to Year 12 and supports the College through a network of Sub Committees. Sub Committees include the Junior School Parent Committee, Boards' Parents Committee, Community Care Group, Friends of Art, Friends of Music, Friends of Snow Sports, International Parents' Group, Kayak Club, Deaf Integration Support, Lost Property Volunteers, Silver Star Rowing Club, and Year Level Liaisons.	Parent teacher association PLC has an active parent community organized through PLC Parent Groups, including Friends of Senior School, Friends of Junior School, Friends of Music, Friends of Rowing, PLC Prayer Community and Boarding Parents. Parents volunteer and participate in events such as Mother's and Father's Day breakfasts, House concerts, student dinners, sports carnivals and music events to support the College. Lampas Society is a separate, no-cost social group for past PLC parents, grandparents, former staff and friends to maintain an ongoing connection with the College, formed in 2004. PLC Foundation invites parents and the broader PLC community to join and support PLC through donations, scholarships and gifts, with programs including the Foundation, 150 Circle and donor recognition. Parent Groups provide social and fundraising activities across year levels and welcome involvement from all families.
Extra-curricular	Extra-curricular
Academic & intellectual	Academic & intellectual MLC offers a broad range of co-curricular opportunities that extend academic learning beyond the classroom. Students can join Coding, Chess and Book Bugs clubs, and language clubs for Auslan, Japanese and French, along with a Languages & Culture Club. The program also includes Science Club and Writer's Workshop to support inquiry, critical thinking and written communication. Participation in co-curricular activities is encouraged to complement academic learning and broaden educational aspirations.	Academic & intellectual The school runs clubs and activities that build intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Senior School clubs include Debating, Drama Club, Public Speaking, Philosophy Club, Computer Club/Cyber Security Club, STEM Club, and Maths Committee, with Studysquids supporting study skills.
Arts & creative	Arts & creative MLC's Dramatic Arts program features a wide range of productions and opportunities. Students participate in Year 10 and 12 Plays, the Year 8 Scotch/MLC Play, and school-level performing arts festivals and musicals, with Drama Club performances and events. The Independent Student Theatre Company provides Years 9–12 with student-led production experiences, while Speech and Drama lessons (AMEB) support performance and communication. Junior School and Junior Secondary Drama Clubs, Theatre Sports, and theatre visits provide additional avenues to develop drama skills.	Arts & creative The performing arts program builds confidence, creativity and teamwork through music, theatre and dance. Music offers extensive ensembles in Junior and Senior Schools, including choirs, orchestras, bands, and composition. Senior productions, house concerts, and student-led clubs such as Drama Club, Script Club and Tech Crew/Club showcase creativity.
Cultural & language	Cultural & language Global Learning Programs connect students with international experiences and world languages through Sister School Study Tours and Culture/Service Tours. These include Red Earth Cultural and Service Learning Tour (Year 8) and the Hong Kong Sister School Partnership Tour, with other Curriculum-based Tours such as Italy Art, UK Dramatic Arts, US Society and Culture, and European Choir tours. Language and Cultural Programs connect with sister schools in France, Japan, Hong Kong, Spain, Chile and the UK.	Cultural & language Overseas travel and study tours are offered, including language tours to Germany, Japan, China, France, and the United States. International Week Committee and Jindi Worabak contribute to cultural activities. Language tours translate classroom learning into real-world experiences.
Social & hobbies	Social & hobbies Most students participate in MLC's extensive array of student-led clubs and action groups. Clubs extend learning beyond the classroom and include Chess Club, Coding Club, Craft Club and Animanga Society, along with groups such as The Green Team, Connecting to Country and Rainbow Alliance. At the start of each year, students sign up for clubs at the Senior Student-led Club Carnival and are encouraged to form new clubs with staff support.	Social & hobbies A broad after-school club program includes Art Club, Book Club, Chess Club, Dressmaking, Knitting, Patchwork, Magpies Literature Club, and Debating. Junior School and Senior School offer sports and recreational groups such as Huff n Puff Fitness Group and Running Groups.
Community & service	Community & service MLC runs Service Learning through the Community Service program to involve students in local, national and international communities. The Social Service Program involves class groups, Houses, student leadership groups and whole-school activities, with students self-determining who they would like to support. Sub-schools support international communities such as Cambodia Rural Students Trust, Long Hai in Vietnam, The School of St Jude in Tanzania, and Ban Tharn Namchai Children's Home in Thailand. Past projects include Year 7 pasta drives for FareShare, Year 8 cheese sandwiches for Eat Up, Year 9–10 birthing kits for Africa, Year 12 succulents for isolated seniors, and laptops donated to Ukraine refugees.	Community & service Service learning is integrated through Kids in Philanthropy; Year 12 and other students participate in community service programs. Duke of Edinburgh's Award participation and a relationship with Neno Girls' School in Malawi are part of the program.
Leadership & professional	Leadership & professional MLC's Senior Student Leaders program inducts a large cohort of Year 11 students into official leadership roles; the 2025 Executive includes a Senior Prefect, Deputy Senior Prefects and a SRC Prefect team. The leadership group strengthens connections within the MLC community, leads by example, and guides the student body and wider Prefect team. Their focus areas include fostering inclusivity, driving community service, promoting sustainability and encouraging co-curricular participation.	Leadership & professional Leadership opportunities include Year 12 leadership roles elected by the student body, and junior school Class Captain and Student Council Representative roles. There are elected representations at House, co-curricular, year and whole-school levels, with involvement in committees such as the Social Action Committee and Patchwork Committee.
Lifestyle & wellbeing	Lifestyle & wellbeing MLC offers more than 30 sports, including swimming, rowing, AFL, netball, athletics and gymnastics, with College House competitions and before-school training, plus opportunities to compete at state and international levels. A Health and Fitness program emphasizes mental and physical health, offering Pilates, Yoga and Spin as part of a holistic wellbeing approach. Sport is an extension of the Physical Education curriculum and is supported by elite coaching and facilities to suit all levels of experience.	Lifestyle & wellbeing Outdoor Education runs from Year 3 to Year 11, fostering confidence, independence and resilience. The House system and a broad sports program—Junior and Senior School, including Athletics, Netball, Soccer, Swimming and more—support wellbeing and physical activity.
Language provision	Language provision
Language provision	Language provision Junior School languages: Japanese (Prep–Year 4) and French (Years 5–6). Secondary offerings include French, French (Partial Immersion), Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish (from Year 9 onwards). Languages form part of the core program from Year 7 to Year 10, with students choosing two languages in Year 7 and continuing one through Year 10; IB Ab initio courses are available, and English as an Additional Language (EAL) support is provided.	Language provision Languages taught include Chinese Second Language, Chinese Second Language Advanced, French, German, Indonesian Second Language, Japanese Second Language, and Latin. In the IB, Group 1 Language A Literature offers English and Chinese; Group 2 Language B Language Acquisition offers English, Japanese, Indonesian, French, Mandarin, Latin, and German.
Bilingual teaching	Bilingual teaching The school offers a French Partial Immersion program in Years 7–9, with History, Geography and Science taught in French alongside French language classes. The program includes Year 9 advanced French and DELF B1 preparation, enabling progression to VCE French in Year 10. In Junior School, Japanese is taught Prep–Year 4 and French is taught Years 5–6 to provide early language exposure. The languages offered in secondary include French, French (Partial Immersion), Chinese, Japanese, and Spanish (from Year 9 onwards).	Bilingual teaching —
Immersion programs	Immersion programs French Partial Immersion is a three-year learning program commencing in Year 7, with History, Geography and Science taught in French alongside French language classes. The program continues into Year 9 with an advanced French class and DELF B1 preparation, preparing students to take VCE French in Year 10.	Immersion programs —
Reputation	Reputation
Awards	Awards null	Awards —
Accreditations	Accreditations null	Accreditations —
Admissions	Admissions
Admissions	Admissions 1. Main intake points are Prep, Year 5 and Year 7, with a minor intake in Year 3. Places may be available at other year levels from time to time. Enrolment begins when an online application is completed and the $100 application fee is received. 2. Apply online via the Application Portal; the process is straightforward and takes about 5–10 minutes. After submission, the student is placed on the waiting list. 3. Applications submitted fewer than three years before entry require contact with Admissions to discuss the enrolment timeline and options. 4. Approximately three years before the nominated entry year, the College contacts families to confirm intention to enrol and to collect additional information such as school reports and an official Immunisation History Statement if entering ELC or Junior School. 5. A formal offer of enrolment may be made; offers must be accepted by the due date or may be passed to other applicants. 6. Acceptance requires signing the Enrolment Agreement and paying the non-refundable Enrolment Fee. The first child is charged $1,250 and $1,000 for each additional child. 7. A Pre-commencement meeting with the relevant School leader supports the transition; every Year 7 entrant sits a General Ability Test (GAT) one to two years before entry. Approximately 18 months before commencement, a Tuition Fee in Advance of $3,500 per student is payable and credited against the second invoice. 8. Welcome and Orientation Day occurs before the first day, with accompanying parent information sessions. 9. For non-intake entry years, the process is the same but Admissions will be in touch one year before commencement to start enrolment; there is an informal interview with the relevant Head of School before a formal offer is made. 10. Kindle (ELC) entry: 2027 Entry Applications have closed; Kindle Applications close each December, 13 months prior to commencement. If applying for both Kindle and College, select Day Student (Kindle) to enable selection. The Toddler Room (18 months to 3 years) is not an intake year.	Admissions Step 1: Apply. For ELC applications, complete the ELC online application. For Prep to Year 12 applications, complete a Prep to Year 12 online application and pay AU$150 non-refundable application fee. Applicants will be advised of the documents required during the application process; these typically include copies of the applicant's birth certificate, passport and most recent school report, and NAPLAN report if applicable. The boarding enrolment process follows the same steps as the standard enrolment process; boarding applications are accepted for students entering Year 7 to Year 12 and applicants can indicate boarding in the online application, with the rest of the process remaining the same. Step 2: Application confirmation. You will receive a confirmation email upon successful completion of the online application. At this stage, your daughter will be placed on a waiting list. Step 3: Offer. A formal letter of offer will be sent via email if a place is available for the specified intake year. PLC commences offering places according to the timings below: Prep – three years prior to the planned commencement year; Year 5 and Year 7 – two to three years prior to the planned commencement year; Years 9 to 11 – 18 months prior to the planned commencement year. Offers are made at non-intake years as places become available. If you submit an application for a non-intake year, your daughter will automatically be added to the waiting list and the Admissions Team will contact you directly should a place become available. Step 4: Acceptance and confirmation of enrolment. Complete the Acceptance of Place Offer by the due date outlined in the letter of offer and pay a non-refundable enrolment fee of AU$1,500. Step 5: Holding deposit. A holding deposit is charged one year prior to commencement to confirm enrolment for Prep, Year 5 and Year 7. The holding deposit is credited back to school fees in Term 2 of the year a student commences. Step 6: Pre-commencement meeting. In the year prior to enrolment, students entering the Junior School will be invited with their families to a meeting with a member of the Junior School Leadership Team. Students in Years 7 to 11 will be invited to an online meeting. The aim of these meetings is to understand your daughter's interests, talents and needs to support her successful transition to PLC.
Scholarships	Scholarships The College offers scholarships in six categories: Academic, Music, Sports, Indigenous, Science, and Boarding. Scholarships are competitive and merit-based, assessed on the strength of the scholarship application, school reports, a scholarship test, and an interview. Some scholarships are means-tested, determined by financial need, with eligibility assessed on household income, assets and expenses. Named scholarships include Principal's Scholarship, Dr Wood Scholarship, The Christian and Jinah Johnston / Goldman Sachs Gives Scholarship, and the Thomas Henry Scholarship (Science). Scholarships are available for various year levels as listed in each category (e.g., Academic scholarships for Years 5, 7, 9 and 11; Boarding and Indigenous scholarships with respective year ranges).	Scholarships Types of scholarships: academic scholarships, general excellence scholarships, music scholarships, boarding scholarships, and means-tested scholarships; Old Collegian/Helen Hailes Memorial Scholarship is also offered. Eligibility: current PLC Year 6 students are eligible to apply for entry into Year 7; students currently attending PLC Senior School are not eligible to apply for Years 8–11; candidates must be Australian citizens or hold a Permanent Resident visa; late applications are not accepted. Value: PLC scholarships may cover up to 50% of the basic annual tuition fees; boarding scholarships cover up to 50% of the boarding fees to the end of Year 12; means-tested scholarships are awarded based on financial need. Scholarship process: Academic and General Excellence scholarships rely on ACER exams and consideration of the most recent school report and, in some cases, an interview; Music scholarships may include an audition; Boarding scholarships involve ACER exam and, in some cases, an interview; Helen Hailes Memorial Scholarship is for daughters or granddaughters of Old Collegians and is not offered every year. Entry for 2028: Scholarship Exam Date is TBA (Term 4, 2026). For more information, contact PLC Admissions at +61 3 9808 5811 or admissions@plc.vic.edu.au.
Waitlist	Waitlist Yes, there is a waiting list for all applicants until enrolment begins. Applicants are placed on the waiting list based on the date the completed Application for Admission is received. Enrolments are processed three years before commencement for intake years (Prep, Year 5 and Year 7), and offers are made in order of application date. A family connection to the College gives students a two-year advantage on the waiting list (one year for Kindle applications).	Waitlist Applicants who complete the online enrolment application are placed on the waiting list. PLC commences offering places when places become available. For intakes, Prep is offered three years before commencement; Year 5 and Year 7 are offered two to three years before commencement; Years 9 to 11 are offered about 18 months prior. If applying for a non-intake year, the daughter will be automatically added to the waiting list and the Admissions Team will contact you directly should a place become available.
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