Boarding
Welcome back to the start of Term 2. I hope all our boarders and their families enjoyed a relaxing and restorative Easter break and had the chance to spend some quality time together. It is always lovely to see the Boarding House come back to life after the holidays, and there has been a real sense of energy and enthusiasm as everyone has returned.
We’ve had a busy first week, setting the tone for what promises to be another full and rewarding term. One of the highlights was our In Weekend, which gave students the chance to reconnect and enjoy some time together outside of the school routine. On Saturday evening, we ventured out to Bondi for dinner, always a favourite with the Boarders, and followed on Sunday with a memorable outing to a Sydney Swans game. Experiences like these are such an important part of boarding life, helping to build friendships and create lasting memories.
We concluded the weekend with our Sunday Chapel service at St Michael’s, led beautifully by our Year 12 students.
Exeat Weekend:
- Boarding House closes: Friday, 6 June at 9:30am
- Boarding House reopens: Monday, 9 June at 2:30pm
We ask families to ensure travel arrangements are made accordingly. Thank you for your support in helping this run smoothly.
There is plenty to look forward to in the coming weeks and we are excited to support each student as they settle into the rhythm of Term 2.
Mrs Joanna Andrew
Head of Boarding
Weekend Recreational Activities
Kambala In Weekend – Saturday Bondi RSL Dinner and Spotlight Sing-Along
This past weekend, the Kambala Boarders enjoyed a very special In Weekend – a much-loved tradition that gives the girls time to relax, connect, and have fun within the boarding community. With no weekend leave, it was a wonderful opportunity to focus on friendship, laughter, and creating shared memories.
On Saturday afternoon and evening the girls ventured out to the North Bondi RSL Club for a dinner with a view. Nestled right by the ocean, the venue offered stunning panoramic views of Bondi Beach, with the waves rolling in just as the sun began to set – the perfect backdrop to a fantastic meal. The girls enjoyed a delicious array of classic favourites: chicken schnitzels, burgers, fish and chips, and pizzas, along with refreshing soft drinks. The atmosphere was relaxed and filled with chatter and laughter, as the girls soaked in the coastal views and enjoyed being off campus in such a beautiful setting.
After dinner, it was back to Fernbank for a sweet treat and some light-hearted fun. The girls indulged in ice creams, followed by a Spotlight sing-along in the common room. With everyone gathered together, the evening was filled with music, singing, and plenty of laughter – a simple yet special way to wrap up a memorable day. Whether belting out their favourite songs or enjoying the company of friends, the girls embraced the night with warmth and joy.
These weekends are an essential part of boarding life at Kambala – building community, strengthening friendships, and offering moments of fun and relaxation amidst busy school routines. A big thank you to the boarding staff for organising and supervising such a fantastic experience.
We look forward to many more weekends like this one, where the spirit of boarding shines through in every smile, song, and sunset.
Boarders Enjoy a Day Out at the Footy – Sydney Swans vs GWS
As part of the Kambala In-Weekend activities, the boarders wrapped up their weekend in style with an exciting Sunday excursion to Sydney Cricket Ground to watch the highly anticipated Sydney Swans vs GWS Giants AFL match. Spirits were high as the girls donned their red and white, proudly supporting the Swans and diving into the full experience of one of Australia’s most iconic sporting codes.
The day began with a classic Kambala Sunday Brunch, where the girls fuelled up on a delicious spread before heading off to the stadium. Energy was high and the excitement was contagious as they boarded the bus for the afternoon ahead.
On arrival at the SCG, the girls were thrilled to receive some official Swans merchandise – hats all round! It didn’t take long before the sea of Kambala red and white blended right in with the cheering home crowd. The atmosphere at the stadium was electric, and the girls quickly became immersed in the game – clapping, cheering, and soaking up every moment of fast-paced AFL action.
The match itself didn’t disappoint. With brilliant athleticism on display and a close contest between two Sydney rivals. For some, it was their first live AFL experience, and it was a wonderful introduction to the energy and community spirit that surrounds the game.
This Sunday outing offered more than just sport – it was a chance for the girls to unwind, bond as a group, and enjoy a taste of Sydney's vibrant sporting culture. A big thank you to the boarding staff for organising such a memorable experience.
The In-Weekend concluded on a high, and the Boarders returned to Fernbank tired but happy, with plenty of memories (and Swans gear!) to carry them into the term ahead.
Boarder Birthdays
Birthday Fun in Fernbank
We have had a run of birthdays over the past month.
Lilly (Year 10) turned 16 on April 8th and is ready to get her car licence.
Bella (Year 7) celebrated her birthday on April 17th. She was welcomed back with her birthday poster when we all returned to the boarding house.
Poppy (Year 12) marked a big milestone – her 18th on May 1st. A very special day filled with presents, flowers, a Geography excursion in the Hunter Valley and topped off by a special dinner with her parents. Happy birthday Poppy!
Sonya (Year 7) had a fun Saturday morning party with her friends on May 3rd.
Charlotte (Year 9) wrapped up the birthday streak with her celebration on May 4th during our In Weekend. We shared her birthday cake for pudding on Sunday evening as a whole house.
Happy Birthday to all – we enjoyed celebrating with you!
Saturday Sport
Sport's Back for Term 2
Kambala sport kicked off in Week 1 with Hockey, Basketball, Netball and Soccer.
The Hockey 1 team had a few players out and went down in their first game, but no doubt they’ll bounce back stronger next week!
Netball was in full force at Heffron Park on Saturday with lots of games and mixed results across the board.
Layla (Year 10) had a great start to the term with a Soccer win, and Micaela (Year 9) made the trip to Frensham in Mittagong – and also came back with a win.
It is great to see the Boarding students back out in the sunshine, getting active and enjoying sport again and to see the Year 7s experience their new Kambala teams.
Eve (Year 10) summed it up perfectly: “Even though we lost, I was just happy to be back and playing again.”
Events
Year 7 Camp – A Big Adventure at Vision Valley
The energy and excitement of our youngest cohort were in full force last week as Year 7 headed off to Vision Valley for their first Senior School camp – and what a fantastic few days it was!
Spending three nights in cabins, the students quickly settled into camp life. Between action-packed days and late-night noodle chats in the cabins, it was a memorable way to kick off their high school journey, strengthen friendships, and build confidence through adventure.
Each day was jam-packed with fun, challenge, and teamwork. Students enthusiastically threw themselves into a huge variety of activities designed to encourage them to take risks, support one another, and have a whole lot of fun. These included: Rock Climbing and Abseiling, The Sugar Glider and Power Fan, Crate Stack and Vertical Play Pen, Lily Pads, Mountain Biking through scenic trails, Canoeing and Boat Racing on the lake.
Each student found a favourite, but the mix of water, heights, and team-based challenges meant there was something for everyone to enjoy and conquer.
The food at Vision Valley did not disappoint! Mealtimes were a highlight, with delicious offerings such as nachos, pancakes, French toast, chicken schnitzel, pasta, burgers, and wraps keeping everyone fuelled and happy.
Camp was about more than just the activities – it was a time for personal growth, making new friends, and stepping outside comfort zones. It was wonderful to see Year 7 students encourage one another, celebrate small wins, and bond as a year group.
Year 8 Camp Adventure – South Park Experience
Last week, our Year 8 students embarked on a memorable and adventurous three-night camp at South Park, diving headfirst into the great outdoors and embracing all the challenges and excitement that came with it. From setting up tents to cooking their own meals and conquering outdoor activities, the camp was a fantastic opportunity for students to build resilience, independence, and friendships.
The students lived the true camp experience, spending three nights in tents surrounded by the stunning natural landscape of South Park. For many, this was a first-time experience – learning how to stay warm, dry, and organised in their own camping set-up. Despite the cooler evenings, the energy and camaraderie remained high.
The days were packed with a wide range of thrilling activities, each designed to push comfort zones and encourage teamwork. Some of the highlights included bike riding along rugged bush trails, rock climbing natural rock faces, canoeing through calm waters, developing skills in navigation and cooperation and Hiking through bushland and appreciating nature.
The Flying Fox across the river was undoubtedly a standout moment for many. With cheers from the riverbanks and wide grins mid-flight, the sense of achievement and exhilaration was unforgettable.
When it came to meals, Year 8 students rolled up their sleeves and got creative around the campfire. Under the guidance of instructors, they cooked magic rice, gnocchi, and built their own delicious nachos and burritos. This hands-on cooking experience added to the sense of accomplishment and was a highlight of the camp for many.
Year 8 Camp at South Park was more than just a few days away – it was an opportunity for personal growth, teamwork, and making memories that will last well beyond the school year. A huge thank you to the staff who made the camp possible and to the students for their energy, enthusiasm, and positive attitudes throughout.
Prep
Prep commenced this week with strong support from our dedicated A Team Tutors and Boarding staff. Year 10 students are already getting ahead with an upcoming History essay, demonstrating a great start to the term. With a packed academic calendar ahead, we'll be maintaining a strong focus on assignments and academic progress throughout the term.
Key Dates
Term 2
Exeat Weekend
Boarding house closes Friday 6 June 9:30am
Boarding house opens Monday 9 June 2:30pm
Friday 26 June - Boarders’ travel day
Term 3
Monday 21 July - Boarders’ return
Saturday 26 July from 4pm - Sunday 27 July all day - Boarders In Weekend
Monday 22 September - 6pm Y12 Leavers Dinner in Boarding
Friday 26 September - Boarders’ travel day
Term 4
Monday 13 October - Boarders’ return
Wednesday 10 December - Speech Day, boarding house closes at 4pm
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