In Year 7, Ellie and classmate and friend Stamatia Galanos won the National Sleek Geeks Science competition where they made a short film named ‘Fish Fiasco’, looking at the effects of plastics in our oceans. They interview scientific experts, visit a wastewater treatment plant and even study fish stomach contents to uncover how society's use of plastic impacts the environment. The Sleek Geeks Science Eureka Prize is presented by the University of Sydney.
There are many individual benefits to students who are awarded a scholarship or bursary - it may be a life changing experience that presents personal, academic and future opportunities.
At its core, a scholarship and bursary program opens the doors of opportunity for students who might otherwise be unable to access a quality education.
PLC Sydney’s rigorous curricula, including Cambridge subjects, experienced teachers and exceptional resources, nurtures critical thinking and academic excellence. While our extensive co-curricular offering allows students to participate in activities, clubs and sports, exploring and developing their interests.
However, our scholarship and bursary program also enriches our educational environment, fostering numerous benefits for both the College and our students. Scholarships and bursaries attract high-achieving students who may not have otherwise considered a PLC Sydney education. This diversity of talents can elevate academic and artistic standards, benefiting all students.
Year 11 student, Ellie Cole, is a student of many talents.
Current scholarship student, Ellie Cole (Year 11), is a student of many talents. Beneath her friendly and outgoing personality is a quietly determined and very disciplined athlete and student.
In Year 9, Ellie suffered from a debilitating stress fracture in her back, which took her out of diving for a few years, further demonstrating her strength of character and resilience as she watched her fellow diving competitors winning competitions.
Ellie spent that rehabilitation time focussing on her studies and during this time took out first place in the Young Scientist awards in Year 10. Ellie was finally able to make her comeback to diving just in time to help PLC Sydney take out the 2023 IGSA championships.
"Ellie’s passion and dedication to both her academic studies and her diving is very commendable"
Dr Paul Burgis, PLC Sydney Principal."Our scholarships are offered to both benefit individual students and, by doing so, assist other students, Dr Burgis says. The only moral reason I think a school can offer scholarships is so that the scholarship student can help to 'lift all boats', so that all the other girls can see and be inspired by their depth of commitment to learning and their talent in particular subject areas, be that Science, Music or Sport”.
Ellie studies Extension Mathematics, Extension English, Physics and Chemistry and hopes to go on to study Physics at university. She is currently also a member of the National 2832 Dream Squad (athletes with talent, integrity, high skill set, dedication, commitment and ultimately the potential to achieve excellence at the 2028 and/or 2032 Olympic Games) and in May Ellie represented Australia competing in the Bergen Open held in Norway where she came 2nd in the Elite A (16-18 years) Platform and 2nd in the Open Platform (All age).
Congratulations Ellie, a tremendous achievement!
Rising Star Ellie Cole with her NSWIS coach, Chava Sobrino.
PLC Sydney’s scholarship and bursary program extends beyond financial assistance, acting as a catalyst for academic excellence, diversity, and lifelong connections. Its impact is felt through the entire school, enhancing the educational journey for all involved.