Deputy Head of College News

Boarders Give Their Time in the Kitchen

There are so many initiatives and activities here at Marist that make me smile, and which are genuinely wholesome and heart-warming to see. One such activity is the Tukka Project, led by our Year 11 Boarding students. Each Wednesday evening, groups of Year 11 Boarders take turns working in the kitchen to make lunches for students in neighbouring schools who would otherwise go hungry. Earlier this term I watched in awe, as a group of our students worked seamlessly together as a team to create 123 lunch packs with a variety of items to ensure some younger children in the broader community had something to eat. Our students not only worked efficiently and effectively as a team, but did so with genuine joy, positivity and humility. Whether they were making rolls for the lunches, chopping cheese to make cheese and cracker recess packs, or doing the dishes and clean up, they were all smiling while they gave up some of their own time to help others. True Marist spirit in action!

In addition to seeing our Boarders shine in the kitchen, I also had the privilege of joining them for singing practice in the Chapel on Thursday night. Watching our senior Boarders lead their cohort in rehearsing songs for their next Mass was truly a joyous occasion. As a music teacher myself, it’s not often I hear liturgical music sung with such gusto by a group as large as ours. Teenagers are notoriously reluctant to sing (especially in church!) but the boys were enthusiastic, committed and sung with joy as they joined together to practice. Nothing beats the Sub Tuum being sung by such a large number of students at such volume - the pride was palpable!

I’ve been so impressed by our Boarders, not only for their generosity in the kitchen and enthusiastic singing in the chapel, but for the genuine Marist welcome they have extended to me throughout my first month at Marist College Ashgrove.