Breaksea House News
It’s often said that cold weather brings people closer together and I feel that’s been true in Breaksea House the last fortnight. There’s been a lot of layers, super powered heaters and most importantly, excited chatter about the upcoming holidays. Whilst many are escaping North to savour some warmth for the upcoming winter holidays, others are heading home to help out with muelsing or even deciding to stay in the city to enjoy the hustle and bustle for a week or two. Whatever it is that you’re choosing to do, I hope you all enjoy some quality family time and manage to recharge and refresh before heading into Term Three. Whilst it’s been a fairly quiet week here in Breaksea, there’s always positive news to share about boarding life.
Country Week Hype
On Sunday morning, our Country Week team members were up and about nice and early and simply buzzing with hype about the week ahead. The house was a flurry of hockey bags, strapping tape and tracksuits. I had a bit of a giggle about the iconic socks and sandals trend the Country Week teams seem to have set. I had the pleasure of driving the Country Week boarders over to the gym to see them off. The sense of excitement and fun was contagious, and it was such a bright and energetic way to start the day. By contrast, when I returned to the house, it was quiet and still. With only a few students left in house, the sense of calm has been welcomed and enjoyed by many. It’s been a lovely way for those remaining to wind down, as the term comes to an end.
Bubble Tea and Beach Walks
In regard to rec activities this term, we’ve been focussing on accommodating student requests and allowing as much flexibility as we can. This approach seems to suit the Breaksea House boarders best, particularly given weekends can be so full already with sport, music, work, study and friends. Our supervisors often check in with those in house to find the best time and activity to suit the mood of the weekend. As a result, we’ve had quite a few beach walks (not swims!) and bubble tea trips this term. These classic favourites have seen us through many chilly weekends and have helped to build a sense of relaxation to the hectic lives of our busy teenagers.
With many boarders away from Breaksea this week and the term winding down, Dannielle Frost and Rif McNeil-Hanna decided to take a trip to the movies to watch Spiderman Across the Spiderverse. They really got into the spirit with their dress ups and had a great time.
Year Twelve Final Chapter
Our Year Twelves are approaching their last full term in boarding. It’s an honour to share this milestone with them, as they spread their wings ready for life beyond high school. Behind the scenes, the Year Eleven boarders have been working with myself and Mrs Dianne Franzinelli to plan a range of special gifts and events to make our Year Twelve farewells a special time, filled with gratitude. A genuine thank you to the Year Eleven boarders who have been so willing to help out and to Dianne for her support. I’m hoping all our Year Twelves can finish their boarding journey on an uplifting note and reminisce about their time fondly.
Birthdays
A very happy birthday goes to Kobie Featherstone earlier this month and Ava Smith this week. Both are enjoying a week away at Country Week.
I wish you all a lovely holiday and as always thank for your support and teamwork in caring for the unique and valuable boarders of Breaksea House.
Mrs Teliah Turrill | Head of Breaksea House