Boarding
It is with great pleasure I write to celebrate the Boarding House as one this week. We have welcomed all of our international boarders back into the House. Last night all 77 boarders were together for dinner celebrating our first day as an entire College together.
I would like to thank all those who have been involved in caring for our boarders during these past two weeks, in particular Associate Principal, Operations, Neil MacLean; MOD Justin Corbidge; International liaisons, Abbie and Tim Cameron; our chef Alfonso Cano; Assistant to the Principal Linda Archer; Matrons Elizabeth Munro and Rachel Vallance; Deputy Principal Senior Years and Wellbeing, Kristen Waldron, and of course I wish to thank all of our parents of boarders for their understanding, empathy and compassion during these unforeseen and challenging times.
Remarkable Character by Justin Corbidge (MOD)
I am sure there's a quote out there about pressure situations and how it can bring out the best in people, but, after two weeks of caring for our International Boarders I have certainly been witness to some remarkable character. For me the students have exhibited such emotional fitness with the impact of the n-corona virus which was to abruptly change their living arrangements on returning to school. To see them support one another across all year levels, both boys and girls, has been a great opportunity to observe. To see the natural leadership of our boarders be revealed when we needed their help in a given moment made me proud as a parent and that it can happen at any age.
That their movement was reduced to three areas and friends could only be heard and not seen, they took it all in their stride. Not once did l hear complaining or infighting, their ability to adapt and have the patience to simply get on with what was required until the 14 days is over is a testament to their parents. The College is very lucky to have such a group of mature young people who possess remarkable character, resilience and support for one another.
A word from our House Mothers
What a wonderful start it has been to the position of House Mother in the Speirs and MacDonald households. How fortunate are we to have the opportunity to spend such quality time with the Year 7 & 8s. Mind you, this is accentuated by the fact that we have such well-mannered and respectful young individuals entrusted in our care. We recognize that this is a significant step for not only our Year 7 & 8 boarders but also their families; therefore, it is our intent that every conceivable effort be made in providing consistent communication back home so that they remain connected and involved in all aspects of their child’s time within the boarding house.
It is our aspiration that each of our Year 7 & 8’s (Harry, William, Luke, Eli, Arabella, Abigail and Olivia) will individually and collectively embrace this unique life skills program, therefore allowing them to flourish within the boarding house and enhance their overall boarding experience.
Lise Lowe & Liz Anagnostou
Casual boarding
Have you ever considered casual boarding? With our after-school programs in full-swing and our day school students taking these opportunities with determination our Boarding Houses can offer a comfortable place for an evening or two. When a casual boarder finishes their after-school commitment they are able to be picked up by our driver and brought back to the Boarding House. Here they enjoy dinner, academic assistance, super supper (on a Wednesday), a warm and comfortable bed for the night with breakfast and lunch the following day. Casual boarding is becoming a popular choice for families and their children of all ages, and I encourage any family to consider this option for their son or daughter.
If you would like to trial boarding, experience the benefits of casual boarding or simply enquire about boarding in general please do not hesitate in contacting Susie Holcombe (holcombes@hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au) or myself (amonk@hamiltoncollege.vic.edu.au or 0407 052 214).
Andrew Monk
Director of Boarding