Tara Anglican School for Girls

Learning science by DOING science 🔬

This term, our Year 12 Chemistry and Biology students have had the opportunity to extend their learning beyond the classroom through hands-on experiences at leading Australian universities.

🧪 Chemistry students participated in the Kickstart Chemistry Program at the University of Sydney, exploring spectroscopy and using advanced analytical techniques such as infrared spectroscopy, mass spectrometry and nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) to identify organic compounds.

🧬 Biology students stepped into the role of geneticists at Macquarie University, extracting and analysing DNA from shark tissue samples as part of a real-world conservation investigation. Through techniques including gel electrophoresis and PCR, students applied their understanding of genetics while learning from scientists working in the field.

As our Year 12 students prepare for their final examinations, opportunities like these are invaluable. They deepen subject knowledge, strengthen practical skills and allow students to experience firsthand how the concepts they study are applied in university research and industry settings.

At Tara, we are committed to providing authentic learning experiences that challenge students, inspire curiosity and prepare them for future study and careers in STEM.

🧱🌿 Less screen time, more play, creativity and discovery.

On International Day of Play, we celebrate the experiences that help children learn, grow and make sense of the world around them.

From Kindergarten students designing and constructing play equipment using recycled materials to Year 4 girls exploring the natural wonders of Parramatta Lake, play at Tara takes many forms. 💜

Open-ended experiences that encourage building, creating and imagining help develop problem-solving skills, resilience and confidence. They also provide valuable opportunities for girls to strengthen spatial reasoning and explore pathways that can inspire a lifelong interest in STEM.

As Maria Montessori wisely observed, "Play is the work of the child." At Tara, we know that play isn't simply recreation - it is essential.

Future Problem Solving World Champions 🌏🏆

Tara students have achieved outstanding success at the Future Problem Solving International Conference, competing against some of the world's most talented young thinkers and problem-solvers.

This year’s competition centered around the theme of forestry, with students analysing a scenario of complex biodiversity management in Slovenia. While our senior team developed a solution that focused on using nanotechnology in the mycorrhizal network, our middle team posited using CRISPR to genetically modify goats. Other students competed as individuals and as part of MAGIC, where groups, who have never met each other and come from different countries, are formed on the day.

Congratulations to:
🏆 Isabel, Agatha, Eden, Ella and Nicole – World Champions, Senior Action Plan Presentation
🥉 Sienna – 3rd Place, Senior Multi-Affiliate Global Issues Competition
🌏 Agatha, Eden, Nicole and Ella – 5th Place, Global Issues Problem Solving

These exceptional results reflect not only the dedication of our students and coaches, but also the power of an IB education that encourages students to think globally, embrace complexity and develop innovative solutions for the future.

Big imaginations, creative storytelling and beautiful illustrations on display 📚

✨Illuminate✨ Tara's Festival for Writers and Illustrators is now open, showcasing the incredible writing and artistic talents of our Junior School students.

From original stories and poetry to imaginative book cover designs, the exhibition celebrates the creativity, courage and craftsmanship of our young writers and illustrators.

Parents and carers were invited to visit the displays in the Junior School Library and take the opportunity to explore the wonderful work our students have created throughout the term.

💙We are so proud of the way our girls have embraced opportunities such as WriteOn, the Dorothea Mackellar Poetry Awards and Tara's own Picture This! competition, sharing their ideas with an authentic audience and developing their confidence as communicators and creators.

Exploring the industries and ideas that shape our world 🌏🎬

Our Future Problem Solving International Conference team have landed in LA and are already getting some amazing opportunities - exploring the creativity, innovation and storytelling behind the film industry.

From iconic costumes and movie memorabilia at the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures to stepping behind the scenes at Warner Bros. Studios, students gained a unique insight into the people, ideas and processes that bring stories to life on screen.

A highlight of the day? Sitting on the famous Friends couch, of course! ☕️

✨ We looking forward to following their journey as they prepare to represent Australia at the Future Problem Solving International Conference from 11 to 14 June. ✨

👀STAY TUNED as we keep you updated with their adventure!

🏆 GRAND FINAL BOUND! 🏆

Congratulations to our Senior Chinese Debating Team on their outstanding semi-final victory over St Catherine’s School in the 2026 NSW High School Chinese Debating League.

Tara secured a hard-fought 5-4 win, demonstrating remarkable resilience, composure and determination under pressure.

This achievement sees the team advance to next week’s Grand Final!

💙 加油，Tara！

❤️A Sea of Hands for Reconciliation Week

Tara was All In today as students from ELC to Year 12 decorated and planted our Sea of Hands - a powerful symbol of our collective commitment to reconciliation.

This was the culmination of our observance of National Reconciliation Week, which has been recognised across Tara with students and staff intentionally learning more about Australia's history and First Nation's cultures through activities such as, Dharug Word of the Day, a Staff Yarning Circle, Reconciliation Chapels, and students sharing their knowledge of past and ongoing injustices. 🌱

As a community, we want to work and pray for respect, healing, and hope as we seek to walk softly on Burramattagal land.

Last weekend, Amy and Chloe made the trip to Coonabarabran to compete at the North West Equestrian Expo and they were brilliant.

It's always a joy to see our girls pursuing the things they love through the school! At Tara, our students are into everything — equestrian, performing arts, sport, community work — and moments like this are a good reminder of just how much they bring to the world beyond the classroom.

Amy and Chloe, we're so proud of you both! 🐴

Looking for family events in Sydney this winter? 💙

Join us for Winterfest 2026 at Tara Anglican School for Girls on Saturday 20 June from 2–7pm for an afternoon filled with food, entertainment and community fun.

Enjoy student performances, games, market stalls, raffles, sweet treats, fireworks and activities for all ages as our school community comes together for one of the biggest events on the Tara calendar.

📍 Tara Anglican School for Girls, North Parramatta
🗓 Saturday 20 June | 2–7pm

Bring your family and friends and experience the community spirit of Winterfest 2026.