From the Director of Boarding - Nick Byron
The highlight of the past two weeks has undoubtedly been the Boarding Mothers' Luncheon last Friday. It was a wonderful afternoon, and I certainly enjoyed the opportunity to catch up with as many mothers as I could. It was special afternoon, in particular the Year 12 mothers who had a flower presented to them by their son. This was an initiative of our BPSG President, Kym Wright, and I thank her for all that she did to make the luncheon the success it was. The opportunity for boarding mothers to catch up, and share a few drinks and a few stories, is just another example of how important these functions, facilitated by our Boarding Parents' Support Group, are.
The luncheon was followed on the Saturday by the important O’Callaghan Cup fixture between Grammar and Downlands College. Aside from the chilling wind, it was another exciting day that provided plenty of entertainment for players and spectators alike. It was a pleasure to see so many boarding families there supporting their sons. I particularly want to thank the families that travelled interstate from the Territory and South Australia as well as Mr Nehemaiah Naris who travelled all the way from Papua New Guinea to watch his sons play on the day!
Another important event that involved parents was our Technology Policy consultation that occurred on Wednesday, 16 August, and I do apologise that there were some technical difficulties that meant parents could not join the Teams meeting. I trust that the review of the discussion sent out earlier this week has informed all those who missed out on the chance to join. There will be some student consultation in the next few weeks to understand their desires. This will also provide an opportunity to inform them of our two main concerns about the distractions and dangers of their phones.
In this past two weeks I have also been working with Chartwells to alter the Dining Hall menu for the last few weeks of the term. I am very aware that the boys do get very tired in Term 3 and having meals they enjoy is really important in finishing the term strongly. I thank all of the food committee for their feedback as their list of meals was inspiration for the menu.
I hope that parents have also had the opportunity to discuss the Activities Program with their sons. The fishing trip was popular and there will be more in Term 4. Indeed, with the absence of sporting options for the Saturday, there is an opportunity to develop some life skills and gain some qualifications that will help the boys either gain employment over the holidays or just generally help with family commitments.
As this busy Term 3 begins to draw to a close, I do encourage parents to consider their end of term plans, particularly those parents who use our airport shuttle service or the bus to Gundi and Moree. This is also a reminder that the return airport shuttle must be booked separately.
Finally, if you or your son have a concern, please communicate this to me or your son's Head of House as soon as practicable. It is our desire that the boys are supported throughout their time with us.
