Breaksea House News
The start of Term Three is always one of my favourite times of the year. It was lovely to welcome the girls back to Breaksea after the holidays. The house quickly filled with excited squeals, laughter and plenty of time spent catching up in each other’s rooms. I always love hearing the girls debrief about their holidays and seeing how excited they are to be back together.
This term we were also excited to welcome two new Year Nine students to Breaksea. Dakota Bielby, from Newdegate, and Charlie Mackay, from Denmark, have settled in really well and we’re so happy to have them as part of our community. We also welcomed Josie Western to the Breaksea team as a new boarding supervisor.
One thing that has really stood out to me recently is the growing sense of self many of the girls are developing. On Sunday evenings before roll call, we spend a few minutes reflecting on the week ahead, sharing our intentions and talking about what we value. It’s always interesting hearing the girls’ different perspectives and what’s important to them. We’ve also been chatting about ways to recalibrate when life feels stressed or overwhelming. Everyone is different, but whether it’s going for a walk with a friend, getting off campus for a while, or playing or watching sport, it’s important that the girls have strategies that work for them. Living and going to school in the same place can be a lot at times, so making space to reset is really important.
Our Year Ten girls have been having some great conversations around subject selection and work experience as they start thinking about what comes next. Our large Year Eleven cohort has also reached an exciting stage, with many working towards getting their learner’s licences; while our Year Twelves are sitting their driving tests. Not everyone passes the first time, but I’ve been really impressed with the resilience they’ve shown when things haven’t gone their way. Even better has been seeing the support they give each other, with plenty of “Third time’s the charm!” and words of encouragement after a disappointing result.
Our Year Eleven students are also in the process of applying for leadership positions. I’d encourage every girl to have a go. Regardless of the outcome, the application process is a great opportunity to reflect on who they are, what they value and the strengths they can bring to the role.
As the girls get older, life certainly doesn’t slow down. More girls than ever are balancing part-time jobs alongside school, sporting commitments, rehearsals for the school musical and everything else that comes with being a busy teenager. It’s been great to see them learning how to juggle these commitments while continuing to support one another along the way.
Boarding life is always full of highs and lows. Some girls are navigating new friendships and relationships, while others are dealing with break-ups and heartache. Through it all, they continue to show up each day and do the best they can, and that’s something I really admire.
This term we also celebrated the birthdays of Katelyn Ferry, Fenella O’Neill and Jodie Macpherson with a Breaksea favourite, an ice cream station, which was a hit with everyone!
With students from Year Eight to Year Twelve, no two days in Breaksea are ever the same. I’m incredibly grateful for our amazing Breaksea boarding staff and for Jodi, our Gap Assistant, who continue to support, encourage and care for our girls every day. I’m also very grateful for the support of Mr Brodie Sarre, who is always encouraging me in my role and willing to lend a hand whenever it’s needed. It certainly takes a team to create a positive boarding environment, and I feel fortunate to work alongside such dedicated people.
Ms Liz Stewart | Head of Breaksea House