Queen of Tonga Visits MLC School to Mark Education Partnership

Her Majesty Queen Nanasipauʻu Tukuʻaho of Tonga has visited MLC school in Burwood to celebrate a significant education partnership between the Pacific nation and Australia.

The new collaboration between MLC School and Queen Salote College in Tonga aims to enhance educational and learning opportunities for its students and teachers.

Joining the Queen on her visit was Moderator of the Uniting Church Synod of NSW and ACT, Rev. Faaimata Havea Hilau and President of the Uniting Church, Rev. Charissa Suli who delivered a sermon.

Guests enjoyed a luncheon and a performance by local Tongan dancers to celebrate the royal occasion. The Queen also enjoyed a tour of the school.

At the heart of the collaboration is the introduction of the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA) curriculum at Queen Salote College. This initiative provides Tongan girls with access to high-quality education that meets rigorous academic standards, preparing them for the NSW Higher School Certificate and creating new pathways to university studies.

The partnership officially took shape in 2024 when a delegation from MLC school, including members of the School Council, the Principal, and the Deputy Principal, visited Tonga.

Another key component of the partnership is a mentoring program, in which MLC schools teaching staff support and collaborate with their counterparts at Queen Salote College. This initiative helps facilitate the integration of the NESA curriculum while fostering professional growth and knowledge exchange among educators.

“We were delighted to embark on this journey with Queen Salote College,” said Lisa Moloney, Principal of MLC School.

 “This partnership aligned with our commitment to global education, cultural exchange, and empowering young women through learning. We looked forward to the many opportunities this collaboration would bring for our students and staff.”

The bond between MLC school and the Kingdom of Tonga dates back to 1935 when Her Majesty Queen Salote Tupou III visited MLC school and addressed its students. Since then, numerous Tongan students have attended the school, later making significant contributions to their communities in Tonga.

Both MLC school and Queen Salote College shared deep-rooted connections with the Uniting Church, a guiding force in shaping their educational philosophies and values.