Boarding 

This week we were fortunate to welcome two new MOD staff to the boarding team. Albeit a little delayed, last Wednesday evening, Jarran Cook and Frances O’Brien were in their element and walked into their new roles with ease. Frances’ motivation to be involved in boarding was based on wanting to be around young people and caring for them. Frances’ children have graduated from College and are now undertaking University degrees which means more time to still give to young people. After her first night in the role Frances commented the best part was saying good night and good morning to the boarders.

Jarran is a Business Management and Geography teacher who has a great relationship with all students. Jarran’s first evening in the House gave him an opportunity to invest time with our Year 11 and 12s whilst also investing a little time in some personal fitness; Jarran has started an afterschool Lake Hamilton running group. Jarran’s motivation to be a part of the boarding community is fundamentally aligned to his strengths, that is, continuing to build upon the positive relationship he has with students. After his first evening in Speirs House Jarran commented the most enjoyable aspect of the role was being in a social setting and speaking face to face with the boarders rather than through a digital device.

Returning to the House (Andrew Fuller)

Many of our boarders from Year 7 to 10 will be returning to the House next week. We are expecting approximately 50 boarders to be in the House next week and cannot wait for the energy and excitement from our younger ones to return. In preparing for their return on Monday the 8th of June, I have been able to source some wonderful advice from adolescent psychologist Andrew Fuller. In transitioning back to school and for us in the boarding house, I have summarised advice from Andrew in recommending the following prior to returning:

1. Returning to a sleep cycle to sync with the school day. This includes getting into the habit of going to bed (no devices for an hour before bed), and waking up at the time you would need to get ready for school. For the boarding house, practise when you would be required to be up and at breakfast (7am).
2. Catch up. Make sure you catch up with your fellow boarders, including your old roommate. If you haven’t been in the zoom House meeting on a Wednesday night, now is the time to reengage with boarders and be social.
3. Be safe. Listen to the advice of the teachers, the school, and the boarding house. Take precautions with your hygiene and be in the habit of practising hand washing.
4. Restart. Be prepared to ‘restart’ you school year. You will need to be organised with your school work and up to date with the expectations from your teachers. Be prepared to learn in new ways and take responsibility with your homework in the House each evening.
5. Less is more. You may have noticed recently that your wellbeing has improved as you have not been cramming in as much as possible into your day. Take this approach into your new year. Allow time in the boarding house to relax, chat, read, listen to music, and exercise at your pace. It is important to take it slow and make life fun, as you have endured enormous change already.

Cabin living!

With the changes implemented in the boarding house recently we have been able to provide an opportunity for some older boarders to reside in the cabins. The opportunity to be in single rooms in a cabin is one our boarders relish. It is a test of their independence, responsibility, and self-control. Four Year 11 boarders have already proven they are able to step up and demonstrate the qualities of future leaders in the school as they reside in one of our cabins. Below is a small reflection from Connor Hunter.

After a few years, and after a few good men were lost (to inner city boarding schools) and a few good men were added (from rural south Australia) we have finally secured our spot in a cabin. It took some time to mature and learn how to defend for ourselves in the big bad world, but we are finally granted the honour to reside in the long awaited cabin. I must admit it did take a bit of time, a few pot plants, posters, and other amenities until it felt less like “the boardo” and more like a bit of a home away from home. If you were to step into our castle you will likely be greeted by the punk rock, rap or classic Aussie sing alongs (depending on who has control of the speaker); The smell of a freshly brewed cup of tea; the viewing of Star Wars, cartoons or a drama series; the watering of our pot plant (which really brings the room together) or even if you’re lucky a bit of study. After our time apart during quarantine I can well and truly say that the bond is strong, and we are flourishing in the cabin. 

Connor, Ned, Fergus, Jake (Year 11)

Andrew Monk