Boarding
One of the highlights of the term is our Principal's Dinner, an important tradition in Kambala Boarding. On the second Monday of term, Mrs Danvers joined us, along with Ms Gooch and Ms Gedling, to formally welcome our new Boarding Prefects into their leadership roles and thank our outgoing prefects for their service to the boarding community.
During the evening, Mrs Danvers reflected on the rich history of boarding at Kambala and the important role formal dinners have played in bringing generations of boarders together. It was a fitting reminder of the traditions that continue to shape life in the Boarding House today.
Alongside the appointment of our Boarding Prefects, we were also delighted to recognise Eva Heckendolf, who has been appointed Sports Prefect. Leadership within the Boarding House extends well beyond titles. It is demonstrated through the everyday example our senior students set for those around them, helping to build a positive, supportive and respectful culture. Having three prefects from the one boarding cohort is a wonderful achievement and something we are very proud of.
Our Year 12 IB and HSC students are in the midst of their mock and trial examinations. It is a demanding time, and we are proud of the commitment and resilience they have shown throughout their preparation. The Boarding House has been focused on providing a supportive environment, ensuring the girls have the routines, encouragement and quiet spaces they need to do their best. We wish each of them every success over the coming weeks as they near the end of their high school journey.
With a busy but rewarding remainder of the term ahead, our focus will continue to be on fostering strong routines, supporting academic success and making the most of the opportunities that Term 3 brings.
Mrs Joanna Andrew
Head of Boarding
Weekend Rec Activities
Manly Craft and Soul
A mix of junior and senior boarders enjoyed a wonderful day out in Manly, travelling by ferry on a beautiful sunny day for a creative recreation activity. The girls visited Craft & Soul, where they each chose their own hands-on workshop, including air-dry clay, friendship bracelet making, textured painting, lino printing, and candle making. It was a fantastic opportunity to relax, get creative, and spend quality time together, with everyone returning proudly carrying their unique handmade creations and plenty of smiles.
Kambala 2 Surf: A Day of Fun, Fitness and Community
The Kambala Boarders recently joined more than 90,000 participants in the world's largest fun run, the iconic City2Surf. While some tackled the course at a run, others enjoyed a more leisurely walk, taking in the incredible atmosphere along the way. Kambala Boarders enjoyed the modified version of the race, which saw them making the journey from Kambala to Bondi Beach. From live music and dancing to the colourful costumes and creative outfits worn by participants, there was never a dull moment.
The girls loved being part of such a vibrant community event, cheering on fellow participants and soaking up the energy that makes City2Surf so special. After the event, the girls enjoyed some shopping and, of course, a well-earned visit to Yo-Chi at Bondi Junction before heading back to the Boarding House. It was a fantastic day of fun and fitness, and an opportunity for the girls to experience one of Sydney's most celebrated events together. The enthusiasm was so high that training starts tomorrow for those already planning to take on the full course next year!
Staff Update/ Staff Profile
Leah Downard
Where are you from, and what’s something special about your hometown?
I am from Ontario, Canada, and have lived there my whole life. It's got beautiful winters, it gets super cold and snowy for about 5 months of the year! This means Winter activities are super popular, I particularly love skating on the Rideau Canal.
What made you decide to take a gap year in Australia?
I really wanted to get some work experience in education, and the weather here was a massive draw for me, as it's so different to back home. Also, being able to experience a different culture and have the opportunity to explore a different part of the world.
What did you study in school and what do you hope to study in the future?
I focused a lot on biology and physics as well as taking a variety of leadership and outdoor education classes. My passion for these subjects led me to study a Bachelor of Education in behavioural sciences at Trent University in Peterborough, Ontario, next year.
Do you have any hobbies or sports you enjoy?
Playing sports has always been a massive part of my life. I’ve played ringette for 15 years, it's very similar to ice hockey and is known as the fastest game on ice. I also played competitive lacrosse for 3 years and was captain of my league's team. Outside of that, I have also enjoyed spending my time teaching skating classes and coaching minor lacrosse teams.
What has surprised you the most about Australian life?
The food is really really good with great variety. Everyone is also super welcoming and I love the accents!
What’s something you’d like to learn or try while you're here in Australia?
I really want to learn how to surf and go to a rugby game.
Key Dates
Term 3:
Tuesday 22 September - Y12 Boarder parents dinner
Friday 25 September - End of term
Saturday 26 September - Boarding House closes at 10am
Term 4:
Monday 12 October - Boarding House opens at noon
Tuesday 13 October - First day of school
Tuesday 1 December - Term 4 Concludes at 3.20pm
Wednesday 2 December - Speech Day (Yr 3-12) Transport provided for Boarders to and from Speech Day
Wednesday 2 December - The Boarding House will close at 3pm