I am writing to you from a very special place in the world. I am lucky enough to be spending valuable time with family in Nantucket, Massachusetts. An old whaling town similar to Albany. As jet lag sets in, it provides an interesting moment to reflect and step back from Eclipse House.

Looking from above, Semester One comes to a close and there is a great sense of camaraderie and connection in house; connection between other boarders, staff and guests. Eclipse House is a boarding family within a great community. It is a family made up of shining stars, interesting personalities, kindness, love, passionate endeavours and joy. It is a unique family that consistently brings joy and surprise to our Eclipse staff. As Boarding Supervisors we are proud to be able to share a space and work closely with all boarders.

In Week Nine, I was provided the opportunity to complete a Wilderness First Aid Certificate in preparation for the Bibblumun Track expeditions. Whilst away, I was provided with great feedback on the students in house. They demonstrated great maturity and worked as a team. In Dwellingup I also was able to share GSG boarding with Scotch College boarding staff members. It provided great clarity and perspective around best practice and all the wonderful options we have in Albany.

Birthdays

Best wishes to Darcy Roberts and Ryan Hams this month, both turning 15. Happy birthday also to Mitchell Hawley, the last of our Year Twelve group to turn 17, good luck on your upcoming driving test.

Over the next few Buzz articles, I will be placing a supervisor in the “staff spotlight”. In this Buzz article we hear from Mr Samuel Forward. I hope you enjoy hearing from our dedicated and interesting supervisors.

Mr Taylor Colton | Head of Eclipse House

Staff Spotlight

What brings you joy in your role as supervisor?

I enjoy many aspects of being a Supervisor at GSG, but the thing I enjoy most is when the students invite me in to participate in whatever is going on for them. Whether that be a kick of the football, an interesting debate over world issues, working on someone’s car, playing some video games or table tennis or participating in a rec activity. This gives me a chance to get to know the students, offer advice and build a positive professional relationship.

What personal passions do you enjoy sharing with Eclipse boarders?

I enjoy sharing my passion for music, guitar and keyboard as well as my passion for the outdoors, particularly getting the students into the surf!

What is one strength you witness daily in the boarding house?

I witness the strength of “HUMOUR” during every shift “liking to laugh, bring smiles to other people, seeing the light side, making jokes”. Humour is very important in boarding to create a relaxed, cheerful learning environment. The students have plenty of it, as I find myself chuckling quite often.

Mr Samuel Forward | Boarding Supervisor

Dates to Remember

Week One, Term Three

Week Two, Term Three