Boarding
Mr Andrew Monk, Director of Boarding

Boarding
Mr Andrew Monk, Director of Boarding
I would like to begin by echoing Dr Horne's words about Alex. He was a valued and loved member of the boarding community, and we are incredibly sad about his passing.
Alex will be remembered as a kind, knowledgeable and infectious personality that bought a smile to everyone that crossed his path.
We are here to support all boarders and have a number of support channels in place. Parents - if you have any concerns or would like to chat about your child, please don't hesitate to contact us.
It was lovely to welcome new and returning boarders into the Boarding House on Sunday, and the family afternoon tea is always a special way to start the year. It is a day filled with excitement and anticipation. Beds are made, clothes popped away, and individual touches made up around new rooms. New friends, new roommates, and a new boarding year begins.
I am particular proud of the leadership our Boarding Captains have shown as they begin their final year of secondary schooling. In their welcome speech, they highlighted kindness, compassion, respect and friendship as key values for in both Houses.
I look forward to seeing you again soon, possibly at the College Welcome Drinks on Friday, or College sporting events taking place in the next few weeks.
I have included an excerpt below from their welcome speech at the Family Afternoon Tea.
Finn and I (Pepper) as your 2026 Mac and Speirs House Captains are excited to see many familiar faces as well as all the new ones arriving to the Boarding House. Whether you have boarded or not, the Boarding House is a supportive community for growth, academics, sporting and more. You will make friendships like no other, learn independence and make memories that will last a lifetime.
To our parents, we understand that this day is significant for you too. You are leaving your children in the trusty hands of the Boarding House and coming into my fifth year, I can tell you it is worth it, and it will go in the blink of an eye.
I am so excited to lead Mac House as I know it is a great group of girls who are supportive and kind and I can’t wait to include all new ones into our home.
Speirs House is a place to be with your mates every day, like the longest sleepover you have been to, but you can still find time to be alone and do work. You’ll learn that boarders are overall better than day students! And that Speirs House is supportive and always will be. If you need help, related to school, the Boarding House, or anything that pops up, I’ll (Finn) be available for you. I’m excited to have fun this year and run the Speirs House so it will take the House Cup for the first time.
Welcome to new boarders and their families and welcome back to those who are returning.
The first night was an opportunity to dive directly into some interactive games. These games are designed to integrate the boarders between Houses and year levels, and this is exactly what the first House games night achieved.







