Breaksea House News

"When it comes to life the critical thing is whether you take things for granted or take them with gratitude." ― G.K. Chesterton

Throughout 2020, we have all been given the opportunity to reconsider what we take for granted and instead focus upon what we can be grateful for. We have just completed our first full term of schooling in 2020. Who would have thought it would be Term Three before we completed a full term?

So, what has been learnt amongst the Breaksea girls during Term Three? I hope we have learnt to focus on what we can be grateful for, to acknowledge we can’t always have everything we expect, but be oh so thankful for what we have. We were finally able to enjoy a dinner at Due South with giant pizzas, spicy chicken wings and many laughs. This was a dinner we had booked in Term One but had to cancel and we were so grateful when we could finally enjoy this dinner together. 

We have celebrated and been grateful for all the amazing sporting opportunities the girls have enjoyed all term. The netball girls have fought hard, trained consistently and coached younger girls towards success. We have had girls endure the freezing early mornings at the hockey turf of ALAC and the many weekend games. Also, there were those who enjoyed the indoor success of playing volleyball, attending gym sessions or competing in soccer and those who played two sports simultaneously, ensuring every minute of the week was full of sporting fun.

The Year Ten students from both Eclipse and Breaksea had the opportunity to focus on the study skills they will need for their senior studies.  We discussed: organisation, time management, procrastination, learning strategies and the importance of sleep.  We look forward to seeing these skills put into action over the next month.

Last Sunday night the girls wholeheartedly embraced the new format of Boarding’s Got Talent. Amended to respect COVID restrictions, the evening became a wander among the nations, as each boarding house embraced a nation, their food and created a challenge for the other houses to complete. Breaksea was resplendent in red, green and white, establishing a strong Italian presence. The girls gave of their time to create amazing decorations, cook spaghetti bolognaise and create mini pizzas. They even provided green cordial, red cordial and water to ensure our drinks were Italian-themed. The fun with each house competing in a Wii Just Dance routine ensured much laughter. 

As a house, we are grateful for our Year Twelve girls, as they come to the end of their time here in boarding. We look forward to celebrating them further next term and acknowledging their contribution to the life of boarding.

I hope you all have a restful and peaceful break and return refreshed and grateful for Term Four and all it will bring. 

Ms Vanessa Bromhead | Head of Breaksea House

Year Twelve Reflections

During my time in boarding, I was fortunate enough to learn many useful and helpful skills that will always aid me in my life experiences. Boarding is a very open and friendly place, and to have spent five years, with people who are practically family, is such a privilege. I will always look back on these memories and be grateful for the experience provided by my parents, as it has helped to shape me into who I am today. Thank you to everyone who made boarding the experience it was. 

Amberley Daw | Year Twelve

I started in boarding six years ago in Flinders House. As a little Year Seven I never imagined how much I would change and grow in boarding. I’ve cherished the years spent here and the memories I’ve made will last with me forever. Bike rides to the beach in Year Seven, sleepovers in each other’s rooms, staying up late to watch movies; all these memories have made boarding such a special experience. I’m going to miss being able to come home to a group of girls who are all so lovely and kind. Sitting on the couch and watching tv won’t be the same without 30 other girls to commentate on it.

I would like to say thank you to all my Heads of House over the years, and all the Supervisors and Gap Assistants. Thank you all for the role you have played in shaping my boarding experience. Without your encouragement and support, boarding would not have been as enjoyable as it has. To the younger boarders, cherish it. It's not until now that I’ve realised how important boarding has been, so don’t wish it all away too soon.

Jessica Dolan | Year Twelve

Boarding has been my home away from home for the past six years. I have made so many memories that I will forever treasure. I’m going to miss boarding, as well as the close relationships I have made with friends and the supervisors, a great deal next year. I honestly can’t believe my time in boarding has come to an end. From starting in Flinders House in Year Seven to Breaksea House for my final three years, I have enjoyed every moment. The moments I treasure most in boarding would be the late-night chats with the other girls, running around the boarding house making lots of noise, and sitting on the couch watching reality tv. I thank all my house parents, the boarders, my parents and in particular the girls in my year, who made my boarding experience all the better.

Amy Gillam | Year Twelve

I am so grateful that I was given the opportunity to board at GSG. Throughout the past five years, I have gained some lifelong friendships, great memories and many skills that will help me in the future. I’d love to thank all the staff who have cared for me over the past five years, as every one of them has made GSG feel like a second home to me. 

Kayla Peacock | Year Twelve