Boarding

ABSA Boarding Week – 'connections'

Connections or relationships are absolutely key in boarding. I would go as far as to say that the positive relationships developed between students, and with their teachers are the key stone of any successful school. College purposefully goes about building strong relationships between students through the House activities, sporting program, drama and music ensembles, and of course in Boarding. 

This year, 120 students have been involved in boarding whether this be as a full-time or casual boarder. The caring and kind tone in the House's is tangible, especially during dinner, and after prep! Which can be quite loud, but it is a ‘good loud’ if there is such a term. It is the chatter, laughter, and story telling that is loud. When you hear the buzz of the Boardo flow in such a positive way, you can’t hep be touched that these young adolescents are in safe hands and are essentially, happy kids. 

When I asked boarders after school this week to write something about another boarder or tell a story, it was no hassle at all – they had plenty to say. Kindness was palpable as they wrote their note, pinned it up in the Common Room for all to see, and then walk off with a genuine smile. National Boarding Week has been an amazing week of building connections and strengthening relationships between each other. What a privilege to work and live with such a great group of adolescents. 

Boarder of the Week: Henrietta Russell

Henrietta is our Boarding House Co-Captain, leading the Macdonald House. As a successful Year 12 student, she balances the demands of academic work and leadership day in and day out. With her sights set on university and residential college next year, Henrietta is well on her way to achieving her goals and pursuing a career in either the legal or medical profession.

Well done, Henrietta, and thank you for your hard work.

New Chef

It is a warm welcome to our new chef. Joel is a local who has many years experience as a head chef at a local restaurant and hotel. His experience in creating dishes that relate to the palate of our boarders needs is very welcome. Thank you and welcome Joel. Your passion for delivering meals that our boarders love is very much welcomed. 

Orah weekend leave

Our pastoral system, Orah, allows the family, boarders and staff to know the whereabouts of the son or daughter. This system also allows for good planning and smooth operations. As you can imagine, with over 120 boarders, full-time and casual, the operation of boarding can be quite complex, particularly staffing, travel, meals, and planning activities. I have requested boarders to complete their forthcoming weekend leave by Wednesday evening (House meeting and supper time). If families can work this schedule, that would be very much appreciated.