Breaksea House News
Year Twelve Farewell Dinner
In Week Eight, Breaksea came together for a very special occasion, our Year Twelve Farewell Dinner. It was a night filled with laughter, gratitude, and a few tears as we celebrated the incredible group of young people who have been such amazing role models in our community.
Chef Nick Harvey and Chef James McNeil pulled out all the stops with the menu, and the food was nothing short of outstanding. From soft bao buns to spicy fried chicken, handmade ravioli, and Caesar salad, every dish was a crowd pleaser. And just when we thought we couldn’t fit in another bite, the dessert bar opened. With ice cream, endless topping and homemade honeycomb, it was an absolute highlight of the evening.
After the meal, we gathered to share words of thanks and admiration for our Year Twelves. Each message was heartfelt and genuine, with a recurring theme: how much we value their wisdom, guidance, and tireless work ethic. Their example has set a standard for the younger boarders to follow, and their legacy will remain in Breaksea long after they leave.
Students were then presented, thoughtfully organised and contributed to by both staff and students. A special mention must go to Mrs Franzinelli, whose homemade roses were an absolute showstopper and quickly became a crowd favourite. The night would not have run so smoothly without the behind-the-scenes help of Axelle Sommier and Amy van der Merwe, who worked hard to set up and pack away. Thank you for your efforts in making the evening such a success.
Adding to the sense of occasion this term, we also began a new tradition for our Year Twelves. Each student had the chance to choose their own “last supper” meal, and our epic dining team made every single one a reality over the past few weeks. From family favourites to comfort foods, it was a heartfelt way to honour their journey and send them off with full hearts and full stomachs!
Congratulations to Matilda (Tilly) Norrish and Esther Barrett-Lennard!
A huge congratulations to Tilly on being elected as Boarding Captain – a role she is absolutely perfect for! Her leadership, kindness, and strong sense of community will no doubt make a lasting impact in the boarding house.
Equally, a big well done to Esther, who has been appointed Camfield House Captain. Her dedication and positive spirit make her a wonderful choice for the role.
Both of you are incredibly deserving of these leadership positions. Wishing you every success in your new responsibilities, your peers are lucky to have you leading the way.
Griffins Sporting Stars
It’s been a huge week on the sporting front, with our hockey and netball girls returning from their Griffins wind-ups following both finals and grand finals. Not only did the teams finish their seasons on a high, but our Breaksea girls stood out on the awards front too.
• Tilly Norrish and Jessica Harries were recognised with the Coach’s Award for their commitment and positive spirit in their hockey teams.
• Poppy Ford received Best and Fairest for Hockey.
• Evita Rumble, Fenella O'Neill and Katelyn Ferry were recognised as Best and Fairest for their respective Netball teams.
. Emmeline Cunningham took home the prestigious Adam Scott Trophy for the Best and Fairest for the Griffins club — a phenomenal achievement!
And here’s something truly incredible: every single Breaksea boarder who competed in a grand final last weekend came away with the win! This remarkable clean sweep showcases just how talented, dedicated, and competitive our boarders are when they step onto the field or court.
We are so proud of these athletes and the way they represent Breaksea. Their talent, dedication, and teamwork truly embody the spirit of our boarding house.
Farewells & Celebrations
This week we also said some bittersweet goodbyes. Lexie Kershaw and Poppy Ford will be leaving Breaksea, and their presence will be deeply missed in our community. Both girls have contributed so much to life in the house, and while we are sad to see them go, we are excited for what lies ahead for them. We wish them all the very best as they step into their next chapters.
Amidst the farewells, we also had a reason to celebrate! We celebrated Lucy and Grace Bailey’s birthdays. Lily Hall and Esther Barrett-Lennard also celebrated their birthdays at the beginning of the month.
Looking Ahead
This week, our Year Twelves begin their exams, a final challenge before they close this chapter of their school journey. We wish them all the best as they tackle this important milestone.
And as the term draws to a close, we also wish every student and staff member a safe, restful, and well-deserved holiday. After such a full and vibrant term, it’s time to recharge and return ready for the adventures and sunshine ahead!
Ms Liz Stewart | Head of Breaksea House